https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-01-13.pdf f17dae9f7a6f6e4c439445e9ec555b6f PDF Text Text f f I < f / I z ! z / I t / 9 ! I > / I A 4 I ' I I» t A r I r t I r r t t I ! 9 t I t I t J ! f f » ♦ r I > * i « f 9 f f M J f / 1 « r 4 1 r t > t « I I I f -ir dff, ■ W< aa ■^giiT..»^ • >Aa> V k > V — V * X A njei^S^^ ' I w ▼ Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville No. 2/ January 13, 2024 an(d Cale(donia Areas Published by J-Ad Graphics. Inc. . 1351 N. M-43 Highway. Hastings, Ml 49058 - * I M a. V-. ** 11 ua « I* A-. Abi* ^.. A . I .’ V ** *• 1 * * U •' & 7i I* A .’s ' I 1'^ J f > // r JI I'' * c 1 sr V I I f’ s > <4- * i — I .*4^ * A ** ? * 1 /■ >4 1 r >»v’ V ( < b J ilT- ►’a 4A < e A. J J r k * I 1 4 <• ** 4* 4 i I -3 * I*5 x r s.^ r .4^ .1 r S L < P;’ I .•it » .•«!>. ?r • ♦V 9 •r 7^. e<* •’h f Ti" 4 < - Members of the Caledonia Area and Gaines chambers of commerce teamed up with Justin Buiter and Gim Lee, owners of Dutton-based Railtown Brewing Co., to celebrate the opening of their latest venture, Good Mooed Cafe. HOLY COW: Railtown Brewing owners open coffee shop in original brewpub space ( I ( i J I east of the original location, in July 2018. But it was the COVID-19 pandemic two years later that set the wheels in motion for the owners to repurpose the original site, Buiter said. “We had this space. We were required to hold this space for the parking. So we got into the pandemic and said, ‘hey, we’ve got this space, we might as well do something with it,” Buiter said. “We’re thinking, what else do we have that brings peo pie together that would fit in this space? Coffee was the first thing that came to mind, and it’s been a work in progress since then,” Buiter added. Greg Chandler Staff Writer Ten years after Justin Buiter and Gim Lee opened Railtown Brewing Co. in a strip mall on 68± Street in Dutton, they have turned the original brewery space into a coffee shop. A ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday marked the offi cial opening for Good Mooed Cafe. Members of the Caledonia Area and Gaines chambers of commerce joined the owners for the ceremony. held indoors because of the snowy condi­ tions. Railtown Brewing both constructed and then moved into its current location at 3595 68th St. SE, just to the * > } 1 «* Getty steps down as TAPRC chair; New board members appointed 4 * IM 146th year .^A' .. ’•S i I I “■x V\ •i T 1 i J I 1 r 1 JI * * > Greg Chandler Writer Significant changes are taking place at the Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission as the new year begins. The most notable change involves Catherine Getty, who said at Monday’s Thornapple Township Board meeting that she has stepped down as chairper­ son of the nine-member TAPRC board and will leave its board entirely at the end of this year. “My term ends at the end of 2024, and at this point I am not going to seek another term,” Getty said. “I think I’ve been involved in TAPRC, either as a board member or program direc­ tor, for 23 years. “So, (it’s) time to pass the baton on. The organiza­ tion does a lot of really important work - a lot of it you don’t see here. But there’s himdreds of kids out there enjoying sports because of what the entities put into that organization. as well as our five-year (recreation) plan that quali fied us for our (Paul Henry Thomapple) Trail extension It’s an oi^anization that is near and dear to my heart.” Also leaving the board is Emily Dock, who is also a former TAPRC program director. Dock was appoint­ ed to the board in 2019, then served as program director from 2021 until last year, then came back to the board again after step­ ping down as program 9VB 1 • • II ’ ■r 31 J'* •>» » • • 1,^ i e. I r* « I / .4 -- *4^- n>. < 4 tr* □ill Good Mooed Cafe, which occupies space in a strip mall along 68th Street in Dutton, maintains a cow theme throughout the establishment. The cafe opened its doors this week. “We’re trying to keep the connection between Railtown and here,” he said. “One of The name for the cafe was inspired by one of the craft beers that is served at Railtown Brewing, Buiter said. director. TAPRC is a partnership of Thomapple Township, the village of Middleville and Thomapple Kellogg Schools. Each entity has three representatives on the TAPRC board. At Wednesday night’s TAPRC board meeting, Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer was elected as the new chairperson. This came two nights after the Township Board reappointed Schaefer to a three-year term on the board as one of the township’s representa­ tives. Getty said that she would work with the new chair and “get him through that transition year.” “There’s a lot of knowl­ edge that has to be passed, but there’s nobody better to do it than you,” Schaefer said to Getty. Three new members have joined the TAPRC board, and the Thomapple Kellogg school board is expected to appoint a fourth at next week’s board meeting. Derek Dean was appointed Monday to a three-year as a township Village representative. Council Trustee Makenzi Peters has been appointed as a village representative, and Damon Cove was appointed as a TK repre­ sentative in December. At Wednesday’s TAPRC board meeting. Cove was appointed secretary and Tom Hamilton was reappointed treasurer. The elec­ tion of a vice chairperson See GETTY, page 3 See GOOD MOOED, page 2 I I ! 1 11^ Thornapple Kellogg board appoints former member to fill vacancy YS board hires company to help with short-term rental enforcement • Gun Lake Idol contest kicks off as Winterfest looms I » ^*4 -V appoint Dickman to the 11-month position ending Nov. 5, citing his previous experience on the board as a great asset for the short-term position. A full term in the seat will be up for grabs in November during the general election. Hunter McLaren Staff Writer The Thomapple Kellogg school board appointed for­ mer member Jeff Dickman to temporarily fill a vacant seat. Board members inter­ viewed Dickman and five other candidates during a special meeting Tuesday night. Members voted to I » See DICKMAN, page 3 t I iZ.. I (OK? • c« ___ * I V' • ♦ *. •» « - 1 •»: |l^^ JI Tit t ’1 tBw rSBIlJE * Former Thornapple Kellogg board member Jeff Dickman is interviewed by current board members Tuesday night. Dickman was appointed to fill a vacant seat Tuesday night. (Photo by Hunter McLaren) • Gaines Township movie theater to be renovated • CHS wrestlers enthusiastic winning trophy in Hastings • TK girls’ undefeated start ends with seven wins against GRCC I •4 �Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024 GOOD MOOED, continued from page 1 our mainstay beers, one of our most well-known beers, is called the Good Mooed. 9 cofTee shop's theme, its walls are adorned with various pieces of art, all depicting cows. For now, Buiter is using current Railtown employees to staff the shop. “The timing of the open worked out really well, because it's our slow season in the restaurant business, so we’re actually able to lake the hours I’ve got freed up because we’re a little slow next door and assign those over here,” he said. Good Mooed Cafe offers a variety of brewed coffees as well as lattes, mochas and hot chocolate, as well as baked goods. The coffee shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m, to 4 p.m. It is closed Sunday and Monday. It's a milk stout, so thus the name.” And consistent with the 4* t S . * jw fl Er:», r. I gl I z >W*»- .4> « ill * * PI f r 1 ( •*s I ! 4 L / J 4 < s < 1 I; ''•'X ♦V 4 From left to right Gim Lee (owner; Railtown Brewing Co.), Shana Spinney (executive director; Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce), Barb Nauta (Gaines Chamber of Commerce) and Justin Buiter (owner; Railtown Brewing Co.) Thornapple Township board OKs fire department hiring policy change V < Greg Chandler last month.” The Emergency Services Committee consists of Schaefer and township trustees Sandy Rairigh and Ross DeMaagd, while the Personnel Committee is comprised of Schaefer, Township Clerk Cindy Ordway and Township Trustee Curt Campbell. “Vacancies regularly occur in the EMS Department which requires the hiring of new members to assure and maintain adequate staffing levels,” Stajf fVriler The Thornapple Township Fire Department will no longer need approv al of the full Township Board to fill openings with­ in the department. The board Monday unan­ imously approved a policy change that will allow Chief Bill Richardson to hire fire­ fighters and paramedics to fill openings in the depart­ ment as long as they have been approved beforehand by the Emergency Services Committee and/or the Personnel Committee. Richardson had asked the board last month for the (lexibility to fill openings without having to wait for the board to grant approval for hiring firefighters. The board held off on a decision at that time, then came back Monday with a new proposal that had been recommended by the Emergency Services Committee. This has been completely rewritten. Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer said. “It’s a lot different than (what was discussed) Schaefer said. “Allowing the fire chief to begin the hiring process with final approval of the hire delegated to the EMS Committee or the Personnel Committee will speed up the process, thereby assuring the ability to timely hire.” Before the board approved the policy change Monday, it approved a request from Richardson to hire a full-time firefighter/ paramedic and one parttime firefighter/emergency 4^ medical technician. We’ve been without one of our full-time members 44 ✓ ir X 1 Bill Richardson Yankee Springs heal'd hires company to assist in shoi't-term rental enforcement, raises fees Greg Chandler ♦♦ V Staff fVriter The Yankee Springs Townsliip Board Thursday appro\ ed a pair ordinance. ITie five-member board voted unanimously to approve a with one-year agreement Granicus, a private company that helps municipalities enforce ordinances on short-term rent­ als, to conduct ongoing moni­ toring of vacation rental web­ sites such as Vrbo and Airbnb to find out what properties in the towTiship are being made available to rent. The township will pay the company $4,275 under the agreement. To help cover the cost of contracting w'ith Granicus, and also address other administra­ tive expenses incurred by the township in regulating STRs, the board also approved a fivefold increase in the annual permit fee for an STR, from $100 to $500. Township planning com­ missioners recommended pas­ sage of the proposals at a special meeting on Tuesday night, just two nights before the board vote. They had been submitted by an eight-member subcommittee that had been assigned to look at changes to the STR ordinance in the wake of resident complaints about noise late at night, drunk and disorderly conduct, illegal parking and littering, particularly near Gun Lake. that’s resulted in others working overtime to pick up the slack “w'hich isn’t the best for them when they’re in paramedic school,” he said. “I’d like to at least hire Rob Heethuis said. Township Zoning Administrator Joe Shea said the permit fee increase will allow the township to better cover the costs of administer­ ing the ordinance, which was enacted in March 2021. He estimates the township’s in-office expenses alone are $166 per application. But then we incur a lot of uu • • researching researching this this issue, issue, trying trying to to Both of the bir.nal hiring enforce STRs, (as well as) Brad motions passed unanimousWilliams, our enforcement ly. officer’s time,” Shea said. 4 Your local agent insures your PLAN rocp NEXT QUILT: Grads, \Vcddings, Showers Birthdays & More .y z r «■ Busin J FARM BUREAU INSURANCE* i 4 ..w 1 r Silky Minky 60 " & 90 " Hulst Cleaners Pick-Uo Station JO QUESTIONS: ASK US... Jasem Parks • 121 e: Main Street Downtown Middleville • a.’ti t * 9 • (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.coin FarmBureaulnsurance.com . » « 4 ■ I « < « fl 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; r WMH •.-.X ■•■■ K :*i.. Saturday 9 ani-3 pm Hb.. r .7ww -1 * #• ■; t - 'X : /• * :riii 1 bb V '-»w r A «• ** L * . 4 lA $ X I n-| ^fl flM (* Yankee Springs Supervisor Rob Heethuis said that tighter enforcement of a short-term rental ordinance is “a very important step to protecting our lakeside resi dents’ value of their homes.” (Photo by Greg Chandler) * Harvey, who will put them in the form of ordinance text lan­ guage that will come before commissioners next month. A public hearing has been sched­ uled for Tuesday, Feb. 6 at the Township Hall for commission­ ers to hear from residents on the proposed changes. Shea said. Shea also said that the con­ tract with Granicus will make it possible for lakeside resi­ dents to call in complaints about problems at short-term rental properties to be investigated. This includes the 24/7 hotline. It’s a call center that he said. Granicus has. “People can call this hotline to complain about activity at an STR. They can also do it by text, they can submit photos, videos. It’s a way for us (to monitor what’s going on). Granicus keeps a record of all that. It will come in very use­ fill if we have to go to court and need (to present) some kind of documentary evidence in our enforcement efforts.” The Yankee Springs Board last October approved a sixmonth moratorium on new STR permit registrations while the township reviewed the ordinance. The moratorium only addresses new permit applications and does not affect properties that already have such a permit. The township had 32 properties registered as 4^ 5^ In other business Thursday: — The board approved a development agreement with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for upcom­ ing improvements to the Township Park. The township was approved for a $131,200 grant through the DNR’s Recreation Passport Grant Program last month that will be used to build four new pickle­ ball courts and convert the existing pickleball courts into a full-length basketball court, as well as add a handicap-accessi­ ble path between the courts. The township will pay a $43,800 local match plus any potential cost overruns should the project go over budget. “Signing the agreement as soon as possible is important to start­ ing and finishing the project in 2024,” Heethuis said. — The board approved the spending of $370,000 as the first payment on the new short-term rentals last year. The ordinance was originally passed in response to the increased popularity of cottage rentals among vacationers, driven by the growth of online services such as Airbnb. The ordinance language states that township fire truck, but the township won’t cut the check until it has been confirmed that it has passed inspection and has been delivered to Spencer Manufacturing of South Haven to be outfitted. The truck chassis is being built by Spartan Emergency Response, based in Charlotte, and will then be delivered to Spencer. Yankee Springs “wishes to pre­ serve and retain the residential community character of the township” and says the intent of the measure is to “make the STR activity permitted by this ordinance resemble the exist- ing and traditional residential uses made by resident owners and lessees.” Meanwhile, planning com- — The board approved a four-year plan for the Barry County Road Commission to improve township roads and missioners Tuesday poured New Cotton Collections J* Flannel Prints & Solids t.-:- ■A ’T • ’ ■ ’ Lp ’• J*! 4 t is" Toweling $6.49/yd. & up / <• • J ofmeasures it hopes will improv e enl'orcement of an ordinance reg­ ulating sliort-tenn rental properties, e\ en as the towreJiip considers significant clianges in that for seven months (That person) was working through some personal items. We were anticipating he might be able to work those items out, and unfor­ “I think it’s a very important tunately, he was unable to. step to protecting our lakeside and he has completely sepa- I residents residents’’ value value of of their their rated from the department,” | homes,” Township Supervisor Richardson said. Richardson said that three of his regular part-tim­ ers are not available two days out of the week, and A over a possible ordinance change that would ban so-called “commercial short term rentals” from areas of the township that are zoned for single-family residential use. It would allow owner-occupied short-term rentals, which would be defined as a “traditional short-term rental,” in residential-zoned districts. Planning Commission Chairwoman Shana Bush has turned over the proposed amendments to township planning ‘ ddnsultant 'Rebecca JUS' sitSl!®'' jJlii!® teiStfi feaofl jilta CtlitaM siiillie)'’ Ktlkiliii Kin Hi, J . nt'reii iijiecliner at our Cel iri iK(lnraiS i !)■ tEcliners. ' Irtofseats, i IM ftl Wdfa ifc & i Hill ^USttsl I ^«iap 1I committed spending $125,000 this year on road projects, up from $100,000 a year under previous township road improvement plans. —^Township Clerk Mike Cunningham reported that the c township website update could be completed in time to go live by the end of this month. — The board approved set­ ting a special joint meeting of Planning the board, Commission and Zoning Board ofAppeals for 6 p.ni. on Jan. 24 itth6 Tdwilship' Hdlf. s 'iP s ■Il �t DICKMAN, continued from page 1 A p •»»Ss \ * ■’ll s Dickman previously served on the board from 2015 to 2022, alongside sev­ eral of the board’s current members including Matthew Powers, David Smith and Krissy Hooson. Dickman said he wasn’t necessarily looking to rejoin the board when the position became available, but thought his experience could prove use­ ful to the board until they gain a long-term member in November. “When this opportunity came up again, it wasn’t nec­ essarily on my radar but I remember being in your role. When (a board member leaves the board during the school year), all of a sudden there’s change and it’s a transition time. Dickman The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024/ Page 3 said. “It’s a disruption, for a lack of a better word, in the middle of the school year at the beginning of the second could do to possibly help out. Dickman is the father of two TK graduates and has ongoing challenge he sees the district facing, as well as a decline in parental involvement. Partisan politics surrounding cultural issues in schools is one of the biggest issues facing public educa­ tion as a whole, he said. I think there’s extreme political polarization on either side of the aisle, and that s taken away from the intent of education,” Dickman said. “I think this caused distraction and caused people to lose focus on what’s important, and that is educating all students.” Board President Matthew Powers said Dickman’s previous experience on the board, as well as his perspective on public education made him his number one I think there’s extreme political polarization on either side of the aisle, and that’s taken away from the intent of education. I think this caused distraction and caused people to lose focus on what’s important, and that is educating all students.” — Jeff Dickman, newly-appointed Thornapple Kellogg School Board member semester. I thought with some of the experience I have and my familiarity with the district and the process in the role, this is something I another student currently in the district. Dickman cited adapting to changing demo­ graphics and a growing Middleville community as an I I choice for the position. “I truly value veteran experience a lot. I’ve served with Jeff, and he’s every­ thing that he described tonight,” Powers said. “I really appreciated how he sees the bigger picture, (especially) his comment about politics and understanding people at the government level getting (involved) in politics and losing sight of education.” Each board member ranked their top two candi­ dates to decide who would fill the position, with first rank picks scoring two points and second picks scoring one. Dickman scored eight points, while candidate Nick Damico scored seven points. Damico, principal of Delton ’ tDS- *A‘' v< % ll«bL k UJ s .1 • ; I 1115 i I Celebration Cinema South renovation to include luxury recliners, expanded food menu James Gemmell Contributing Writer Studio C has announced major upgrades will be com­ ing to the ' Celebration Cinema South 10-screen theater in Gaines Charter Township. The 19-year-old multiplex is located just north of M-6, off Kalamazoo Avenue. The address is 1506 Eastport Drive SE. Emily Locks is the director of Public Relations and Community Affairs for Celebration Cinema. She said they will be installing new kickback seats. “The community might notice most, at first, the fact that we’re installing the lux­ ury recliners that we’ve had at our Celebration Cinema North and Studio Park loca­ tions,” Locks said. “These are (Irwin Seating Co.) luxu­ ry recliners. We’ve tested a lot of seats, and these are our favorites.” Other renovations include a full kitchen to support expanded food and beverage offerings. “You will be able to get beer on draft. You’ll also be able to get sliders, pizza and nachos, wraps and quesadil­ las. And a lot of the menu options that have been available at some of our other A ^05 ’ll Wits S; ssagpriiiij 1^ faa fei lit \ I M ai fi’ Kent County Sheriff’s Office investigates fatai crash in Gaines Township An accident in Dutton on Sunday, Jan. 7 claimed the life of a pedestrian. Shortly after 9:30 p.m. that night, the Kent County SherifFs Office, along with the Dutton Fire Department and Life EMS, responded to the 5900 block of Dutton Ave SE for a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. A white Ford F-150 struck a 53-year-old man from Gaines Township, who was pronounced deceased at * 1 A- I ‘I 1 c B -'•r ‘U' i» ( ?? it ill 4 >* *rrnr''?’r*s ____ — z A I * M .4 la 11 •' ___ • iA t f •g"' 'A 4 ■ 11 ing a movie at Celebration Cinema South. Movie theaters make most of their revenue from concession sales. “There’s just nothing like the communal experience of a great movie on a giant screen in a dark auditorium. And now, people will be able to do that kicking back in the comfort of these recliners,” Locks said. : J z ! / I* J t and committee assignments have been tabled until the next board meeting in February. “While almost half of our board will be new, four of nine members, I am very encouraged by the talented, hard-working folks now sit­ ting around the table,” Getty wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “I know TAPRC will continue to offer the high7qqa)ijy - yQuth r -spQrts w I t $ I tr* -K *«ir. 4 . .1.. »• 9 f <1 i ■ aEBtec.'— I • k •■.’•WP 6 * jr •‘'Z z^v •- J / i iffl • I' 4 r V A f'* ■J * V 4' .r. 5 I .1 r I j I 1 31 I I ir I { 1 V r > ' 1 I I 4 *» y • I* 1 .A 4 r. n I k A . 4 b a < j.A-w .•is -.w-lsA I 1 k s V /J 4 J LOW & SLOW, WQQi s. 1 * 3 r - , I .Mb*.' I II i J •5 I.: Ui r t nv B a « . ’’ *■' g fl .4*:^ f r• 'iBS* A ¥. VERJ7 ! A community has depended on for almost 25 years.” Registration for the new TAPRC youth baseball and softball season begins Jan. r• * , , 19 and ends on March 15. J Registration is $80 for 8-and-under to 14-and-under and $70 for T-ball. A late fee of $ 15 will be assessed after March 15. Scholarships are available for those who are on free and reduced lunch progr^s, Getty said. > « - b I 0 1 J > 10KED BBQ TE EVENT A I I *' w > t i’W B IA -.A V 1 SONS ?v A-® 4> s to. 5^'4 'a rr A site for ■A k 'and more « t It k 1 ■3. '■ ''9 M ngS -^-’1 Vj! lewsi opt bl«1 * I J’ <?• • '!■ i b -I' a A'® •I a s • L. ^1^ f J'S J; f * »•« 1 tcI t ^3 lsocial.com 4 ’» (5* \ • < I 4 « * L V * 4 A r 'f t ; t I 4 S'-« iwr**. M '4 / Ave CsVs z / ’1 tT fry/. / z I f« .J» 1 J t Ur J A I » * 1 / ’r J « V S' •V V -• I I A ' i > tin * f. J jr I I - rt hi I J ♦ • HMi .'1 I M ' I 4 y SOCIAL^ 4. 1 Hr - I. * t «> A#* .V .... •«, Z ! f. A"#/,V * \ I A2 •K' --------- • —« z s If A 4 4 rI / / T -- < Celebration Cinema South will soon have luxury recliners, an expanded food menu and other amenities. (File photo by James Gemmell) r programming and parks and recreation leadership the Atto V •i t s * V *, GETIY, continued from page 1 the scene. KCSO’s prelimi­ nary investigation found the 19-year-old man from the City of Wyoming was driv­ ing the Ford pickup north­ bound on Dutton Ave SE when the pedestrian walked out in front of him. The Ford pickup was not able to stop in time and struck the pedestrian. The driver of the F-150 was uninjured. This crash remains under investigation by the KCSO Traffic and Safety Unit. ail * I * theaters with kitchens,” Locks said. Other renovations will include an auditorium at Celebration South. “We have some news forthcoming in the next month or so that I will tease right now, in that we are going to be having a premi­ um viewing experience the­ ater with some more details that we will be announcing soon,” Locks said. Movie theaters were hit especially hard economically during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order on March 16, 2020, closing indoor dining and entertainment venues. Celebration Cinema closed most of its theater doors for about six months. Celebration South was one of the last two multiplexes in the Celebration movie-theater chain to reopen. It was closed for 14 months. In May 2021, the Gaines Township Board adopted an amendment to the township’s ordinance, liquor-control allowing theaters with 10 or more screens to serve alcohoi to movie-goers, for the first time, adult customers were able to buy a glass or wine or a beer while watch- Kellogg High School and partner to TK ASD teacher Victoria Damico, was com­ mended by board members for his confident demeanor, involvement in education and familiarity with the TK community and staff. Powers echoed other board members’ sentiments that the board was fortunate to have such a healthy pool of candidates, both at Tuesday’s meeting and during elections. “We had a wonderful sup­ ply for the political race, and we had another new supply (tonight) and it is wonderful,” he said. This is why TK is such a great place to be. We have all these people willing to serve, spend time and make things better. I �I Page 4/The Sun and News. Saturday, January 13, 2024 New event series focused on connecting growing senior popuiation with locai resources Is * < I nm Jayson Bussa Editor Organizations that provide seniors for resources throughout the county will be collaborating to launch a new event series that kicks oft on Jan. 18. Coordinated through the Barry County Commission on Aging, the event series will bring in members of the senior care industry to answer questions and con­ cerns that seniors or their families might have. In addi­ tion to the information, the Commission on Aging will also be serving a free dinner. The events, which will be held monthly throughout the year, will discuss topics that cater to residents 50 years of age or older and their fami­ lies. The inaugural event, held on Jan. 18 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. will be an introduction of sorts and set the agenda for future events. The meeting will feature representatives from organizations that offer services like senior living options, in-home assistance, financial planning, hospice care and veterans affairs. A buffet dinner of baked spa­ ghetti, salad and garlic bread will also be served. “The COA is the resource we are connectconneclor ing people to the resources,” Aging on Commission Executive Director Courtney Ziny said. “We were thinking, how could we be better facilitators? This was one of those ideas.” mg, iiuw wu.u wv MV i7v.iv. Ziny and members of her board sat down with Makenzi Peters of Middleville-based Carveth Village and Allison Wakeman of Hastings-based Woodlawn Meadows to lay the groundwork for the series. “We want to think as a com­ munity that is looking to take care of seniors and our aging BY THE NUMBERS One out of every four residents (25 per­ cent) in Barry County is over the age of 60 right now. By 2030, that number is expect­ ed to climb to 29 percent .1'fjp SiA* c . * * ’.u ^^lif sa Y y. l a ki- A L }.i J'?: f 1 4 >• : f « •? erf Makenzi Peters V /I b .-!• rV Tt r- •1 1 It! * V fc5 , I .I -X 4 i1 ' J* *.^^-**]p . t 4 Ja \ • fieat li.'* J V* • 5 3 ■>.% 2-4 • -5* Courtney Ziny, executive director for the Barry County Commission on Aging (left), provides information on the organization’s plans for a new taci un g meeting in late 2023. This month, the COA will kick off a series of free d'nnem that help to connect seniors and their families with resources they might need. (Photo provided) population and making sure the resources are available and well known,” Ziny said. The event series also heals a rift that had developed between county’s the Commission on Aging and some of the private assisted living homes in Barry County. Earlier this year, a group of assisted living home directors spoke out against the COA’s plans to build a new home facility and attach it to Harvest Pointe assisted living center, which is operated by county-run Thomapple Manor. The group argued that seniors will naturally gravitate to and Thomapple Manor Harvest Pointe for services while they will be left in the dark. The initial outcry sparked conversations between Ziny and directors at independent homes, leading to outcomes such as the upcoming series. “At the end of the day, the Commission on Aging is merging a building with Harvest Pointe and there is nothing that can be done,” Peters said. “What we can control is our relationship with the COA. They extend­ ed that olive branch; they reached out to say ‘Hey, we can’t change course with the building but how can we address concerns with favor­ itism and conflict of interest and things like that? On paper, a resource like events upcoming these should be in high demand. Data provided by the COA showed that one out of every four Barry County residents is over the age of 60, and another 15 percent fall into the 50 to 59 age range. By 2030, the county’s Baby Boomer generation will be well in their 60s and it is expected that 29 percent of Barry County residents will be over the age of 60. “I do feel, especially after the pandemic, that we have seen a growing need for senior services - not just assisted living but at-home senior services,” Peters said. We are seeing a higher demand, but my only con­ cern is that we also need to be looking at low-income options. That’s my concern. I don’t think people are look­ ing or preparing enough.” At Carveth Village, Peters said her facility doesn’t cap the number of Medicaid beds and they also have two or three discounted rooms for low-income residents. Still, this is a problem Peters said the entire industry needs to start facing head-on. “I think that is something the industry needs to look at more because I see more people that don’t plan to live until they’re 90 and they don’t plan for it.” 4^ J? J is#®''* Kill*' pjslbw alaska 7240 68*^ Street SE Oledonia, Ml 49316 616-698-8104 www.alaskabaptist.org baptist jchurch Sunday’s Ministries Worship Service Fellowship Time Sunday Schoo! Youth Gathering Adult Bible Study 9:30 AM 10:45 AM 11:00 AM 5:00 PM 6.00 PM Our mission is to worship God and disciple committed folk)w^ of Jesus Christ. who Wil/ reach the world with the Gospel- Michael L Myers. Senior Pastor cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham FIRST BAPTIST Sunday Service 10:30 AM ■ Good Shepherd Lutheran Church <x co Middleville 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) .. 1 'i 1. vi bl I cornerstonemi.org/weekend Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdJcms.googlepages .com Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 OURNEY CHURCH •XPEACE aI ■ • 5t. Taiif£ut^^n C/iurc/i ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: 1664 M-37 LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com 616-217-2161 @thejchurch PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee (269) 795-2391 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. IF s CALEDONIA: 9:30 a.m. X 1 III to It 51 Rev. Christine Beaudoin UffliB Join us for our traditional yet casual worship a® 10]® idibil service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist Serving - Strengthening EitiEiiiii Connecting Ik .tt Sunday Worship 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Caledonia United Methodist Church i4 * A Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 ta Cm HOLY FAMILY 11J/CATHOLIC CHURCH ooi'Uiiili ► l»ra.Lotil 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. craft 0 ?'l isMlj'pO . fch l’:5 Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. • .. 7* THORNAPPLE VALLEY fi. I I I :'6 s' I e CHURCH .r■ I .. '7 ■ MIDDLEVILLE I I 9 SERVICE TIMES; Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville. Ml / www.tvcweb.com _________ www.stpaulcaledonia.org t Whitneyville .w Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM M47fc/7 our services from our website (see above) IFQ^ ! Fellowship Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52^^ & 48^^ Yankee Springs Bible ChurcH It! - IS 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 A W 0 Praising God through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music Worship Services Sunday ioam&6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org "Shining Forth God’s Light" Sunday Morning Worship....................... 10:00 a.m. Community Group 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org A A X X I L SU d X r �J The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024/ Page 5 To the editor: k I wish to address the val­ ued members of this community. I am a dedicated resident in the TK school district and a community member who cares for, and wants to serve, the wonderful people in our community. I have spoken with many residents and I cherish those conversations. I’d like to share a per­ spective regarding the recent board member appointment to replace Anne Hamming following her resignation. As some of you may already know, I have been involved with, and am pas­ sionate about, what happens in our community. I truly PT 4 1 ’V 4 s a aJ LM % t : s,'I' t veying the message that Jeff that interviewed for the interDickman was not someone im TK School Board posithey wished to see serve tion. Jeff Dickman was another term because he did appointed by the existing TK not get the community’s vote School Board members as to continue as a school board their choice. member. Is the easy way out the There were five other can- best? didates on the ballot, he Jeff Dickman has experi­ received 1,767 votes, which ence, having been on the is at least 600 votes less than school board, however. the two candidates that the shouldn’t our TK School community voted to see on Board members reflect the TK School Board and thou- voices of our community sands less from his original first and foremost? Why not election. With Dr. Noah allow someone new to be on jumping out of that race in the board? Stats show that 2020, Jeff Dickman placed being on the school board last by the votes in our com- will help to run as an incum­ munity. Tuesday, Jan. 9, bent for the next election. there were six candidates Not only that, but what ulti- mately matters are the foun­ dational values and morals when decisions are made as a school board member. Our TK School Board members’ decisions should reflect the entire community, not the minority, when it comes to improving our students’ edu­ cation. The decisions they will make are what matters most for our students. We know how our commu­ nity votes. One can win an election simply by being on the ballot as a Republican. Being Republican isn’t about the title — it’s about core values shown through deci­ sions and votes from our elected board members. Without those core values, the party line means nothing. During Jeff Dickman interview he stated “political polarization” as a predicted challenge to come for our school board. Our TK School Board members should stand by and reflect the core values of the community, regardless of what someone predicts, it should be seen as something to embrace and allow positive progress. We are hopeful that this 2024 election outcome will resemble the communi­ ty’s true colors, as it should. Katie Stanton TK School Board candi­ date for 2024 election I I I I I Barry County board discusses conundrum with renewable energy projects in closed-door session V Ml. 4e Jayson Bussa Editor A large majority of the county board’s business was conducted behind closed doors on Tuesday morning as it consulted with an attorney in a session not open to the public. While no specific informa­ tion from the closed session was shared, the topic of the discussions focused on the recently-adopted legislation that gives the state permitting powers when it comes to solar and wind farm projects. In late 2023, a Democratcontrolled state government passed a package of bills that allows the state to override local governments when it comes to permitting wind and solar farms, like one that is being planned by Consiuners Energy in southern Barry Coimty. The Michigan Public Service Commission will now hold ultimate permitting power. Local governments can craft ordinances and attempt to have a say, but those local governments will be mostly powerless. This has proven to be a hot-button topic around the •I 111 1 * k’,(. V iolistJ: fefisjg I illite r I .r.-i believe that the board memhers’ decisions for our chil­ dren should reflect what the community wants. Without intent to speak with residents outside of board members’ inner circle of ffiends/family, that s impossible. However, there is a way, and that way can be seen by how people in the community have voted. In 2016, Jeff Dickman ran to be on the TK School Board receiving 4,620 votes, winning his seat, with one other candidate running against him at that time. In 2022, Dickman ran as an incum­ bent for the TK School Board position. The community spoke through voting. con- 4 I state, especially in rural coun­ ties where sprawling farm­ land is being considered by utility companies for these renewable energy projects. In its closed-door session, the county board consulted with Bradley A. Fowler of Grand Rapids-based law firm Mika Meyers and the session also included Barry County Planning and Zoning and McManus, Administrator Jim McManus. Before adjourning to the closed-door session, Commissioner Mark Doster wanted to make certain that public policy wouldn’t be dis­ cussed out of sight from the public. “It has always been my viewpoint (that) going into closed session should be used sparingly and I think that’s kind of the opinion of this board. I just wanted to make sure this isn’t a public policy discussion we’re going to have.” County Administrator Michael Brown assured Doster that, if those conversa­ tions proved to be about pub­ lic policy, he could request that the matter be moved to public session. The group met behind closed doors for over an hour and a half. Upon returning. Chairman Dave Jackson set the table for a deeper dive into the matter, which would involve the public. ‘‘I want to thank our guests for sticking with us today and I appreciate Mr. McManus and Brad from Mika Meyers for sharing with us some of their expertise under attorney-client privilege for some of the things we see challenging us in 2024 for the county, especially as it pertains to wind and solar. “We’ll have a discussion on on this this inin the the future, future, but but my my recommendation or thought is that we schedule some type of a workshop to get everybody on the same page so all voices can be heard. So all information is consistent among everyone. That’s my suggestion. I’ll work with Michael (Brown) as far as scheduling something and bring it before the board for approval in the future.” Heading into 2024, Jackson said that dealing with the fall­ out of the recently-adopted renewable energy project leg­ islation would be a key agen- I I I 1 4 t x.< 1 k ?»Sl_ j -> . ''A.' . 4 *V. I ..Vte v A * -A I 4 r/.; z F ••• _ I * * 1*1 ’ -BL J L 'I ■ •• L I | **<^^*? I*. J* •f r .a /I i. A?. ) 3 ' "I *4^ | F r 4 I fi ; I A K (I * J I JiI B ______ The Barry County Board of Commissioners met in a public session for only about 20 minutes on Tuesday morning before moving to a closed-door session for nearly two hours. In that session, the board consulted with an attorney and Planning and Zoning Administrator Jim McManus concerning the permitting of renewable energy projects, which is power that was recently absorbed by the state government. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) da item for the board. “Unfortunately, or fortunately, southern Barry Coimty is in the bullseye,” Jackson said in that interview. “We need to take in all resourc- es possible because it is not going away this year or next year. There is a plan for the next 20 years (for the state) to pile into solar and wind and green energy sources and we Join US for a special worship service on Sunday, January 21 need to lay out a process that is thoughtful and very specif­ ic on how we’re going to navigate this that best suits the rural culture of Barry County.” 5100-6:00 pm Caledonia Christian Reformed Church 9957 Cherry Valley Ave. SE | Caledonia, Ml 49316 —I*- •• I I r I t I r 1 i 5 F - cornerstonechurch < - '»• helping people know Jesus and make Him known 1 I * I rJk* 1 * 5 fa a 'I » - 3 s I*,'" 1 Ml 1 fc'., . I /cornerstonemi t .1 .V 1 (£10 * - 01 (^cornerstonemi A J s it I I cornerstonemi.org <D > < O o N A L I 1 E I rc C3 We gather to celebrate the value of each and every human life and remember the loss of more than 62 million unborn children since 1973. 84th St. Campus 84th Street SE 1 we’re casual, come as you are. Sponsored by Caledonia! Middleville Area Right to Life www.calmidrtl.com �* ; ' T t ** (IK < K. t -.Ao* • * I Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13,2024 Caledonia village manager, council, debate flex time pay you out multiple times,” Greg Chandler Lindsey said. “We did that Staff Writer Caledonia Village Manager with Roger and it did not Jeff Thornton and some work well for the village. members of the Village That is my concern with you Council are debating whether tracking your hours, because Thornton can continue to use if something was happening, flex time - taking an equal you’d say, ‘I have all these amount of time off* in a pay hours that you have to pay me period equal to hours he for’ — I don’t think that’s worked in that same pay peri­ beneficial for the village. Thornton said that his od beyond a typical 40-hour employment with the village work week. The council Monday night is a different arrangement went back-and-forth with than the one Loring had. “I am a salaried exempt Thornton over the issue, which was prompted by an employee. Roger, at one time, we can’t find out email from attorney Kathryn was told Stegink of Mika Meyers, the where he was told that he was village’s legal counsel, over salaried exempt, but he was options the village has to deal actually a salaried non-exempt with the matter. Thornton said (employee). When Ryan at the meeting he hadn’t had a Cotton (who served as interim village manager prior to chance to read the email yet. “The village is not required Thornton’s hiring in 2019) to continue to allow the village sent the question to Mika manager to use flex time,” Meyers, they said they looked Village President Jennifer at his position and what he did, Lindsey said, citing Stegink’s and they found he should be non-exempt hourly email. “The village manager is an employed at will, and the vil­ employee because of the defi­ lage can change the terms and nition. It is very clear that I am conditions of his employment, a salaried exempt employee.” Thornton said he typically The village can take away flex time altogether.” comes into work at 6 a.m. But Thornton says that he Monday through Thursday has an agreement with the and is at the office until 4 village for the flex time, and p.m., when the last village has been using it throughout staff member goes home for his four-and-a-half years as the day. He will come into the manager. office on Fridays for a couple “Your agreement was an of hours or a half-day, he said. employee offer. We don’t Village President Pro have to continue to offer flex Tempore Cheryl Miller spoke time,” Lindsey said. of her husband’s salaried “It was offered and accept­ position, which often requires ed,” Thornton said. him to work up to 60 hours in “We don’t have to continue a week, and said he doesn’t the things that are in your get flex time for those extra offer. We can change the hours beyond a 40-hour terms of your employment week. because you’re an at-will “When you’re salaried, employee,” Lindsey respond­ you’re basically being paid a ed. little bit more than an hourly The debate went off into person, because your hours possible reasons for the con­ are not set,” Miller said. “You flict. being paid to work until The problem with you the job is done. If a job takes tracking your hours, that I 50 hours (a week), then a job see, is we’ve been getting to takes 50 hours. If the job next the situation that we did with week takes 35, then the job Roger (Loring, former takes 35. You work until the Department of Public Works job is done.” manager), where we have to Attorney James Scales, The Big One is Back! Grand Rapids CAMPER. TRAVEL /& A RV SHOW p 1 JAN 18-21, 2024 PeVos Place • Over 300 RV's - Motorhomes, Sth wheels, Travel Trailers, Toy Haulers, Ultralites & Camper Vons • Over 70 booths of Compgrounds, vacation destinations & RV Services • Alaska RV Travel and RV Solar seminars sponsored by Rimewal 1 Sat Jan 20,10am-9 pm Sun, Jan 21,11 am-5 pm GrandRapidsRVShow.com I 9 J I * .If -=a I J J (aifl .►-SA-' t 4^ t - J? I *1 * A* * I jmeBt & Ju*' J r ’X- r ■ i) ir L I 9^ iff' ‘■J ■ u tS ' ’ ex __ Brody Woodwyk speaks during the “Honoring Our Heroes” basketball game at Caledonia on Tuesday night, which doubled as a fundraiser to establish a veterans memorial at the high school. (Photos by Pat Moll) •* n 1^ r o'* itedfrit k XJ 9; iJ isfciia r** I® ifeaia * I rst V r J * •1 . 1 'i i □ I 1 r- A ■Ml J A ' *'( I 1 1 liisiiii Mfflihv. ikt e <1 r^ k*-'’ sr- t lb —■ 1b •. US'; JR. , ahMjipeice e, I f • mfato h’fteDepaiti hw I w, SSI a f liewsi —— The American Legion Post 305 color guard _ was featured during the singing of the national anthem during the “Honoring Our Heroes” basketball dou­ ble-header on Tuesday night. Canpsites Stale Put Pffllmct 3’ iV*”. Middleville TOPS 546 The first meeting of 2024 was held on Jan. 8. The meeting opened with the roll call Maryellen led a discussion on “Sleep’s Healing Powers.” Scott Bloom, O.D. DATES & TIMES the Medal of Honor. McCloughan, a retired teacher, was Lukas’ medic that day. Additional fundraising events are planned toward the veterans memorial proj ect, while Woodwyk con tinues to work with school administrators on such details as what the memorial will look like and where in the school it will be located. I • Saturday 9:30 pancoke breakfast & kids activities. • Buy your tickets at GrondRapidsRVShow.com or use the QR code below I I 1 -M Quality Family Eye Care Since 1929 ■ 4 Thur, Jan 18,3-9 pm Fri, Jan 19, noon-9 pm amount. I don’t understand the whole flex time for you, per se, but I do imderstand it for hourly employees.” Scales said he would ask Stegink to come up with a policy, if the village would allow for flexible scheduling. The council referred the mat­ ter to its Finance Committee, which is comprised of Lindsey, Schuler and Trustee Dan Erskine. The council went into closed session at the close of Monday s meeting to conduct an evaluation of Thornton’s job performance. American Legion Post 305 provided the color guard for the singing of the national anthem prior to each game. At halftime of both games, Congressional Medal of Honor recipient Jim McCloughan spoke about his friend, 1966 CHS graduate Jerome Lukas, who was killed in action in the Battle of Tam Ky/Nui Yon Hill in May 1968, where McCloughan earned Greg Chandler Staff Writer Efforts by a Caledonia High School senior to establish a veterans memo­ rial at the high school are gaining momentum. On Tuesday night, the school hosted an “Honoring Our Heroes” basketball doubleheader pitting the Fighting Scots’ boys and girls varsity teams against Hudsonville High School. The event, put together by Brody senior CHS Woodwyk, raised about Heather said $5,000, Tomes, a social studies teacher who is assisting Woodwyk in the campaign. Woodwyk designed a special T-shirt where stu­ dents who bought the shirt and came to the game got in for free. Sales of the T-shirt and donations from the game amounted to about $1,500, Tomes said. The veterans memorial project has also received a $2,500 donation from a community member, and a $1,000 donation from a CHS graduate who is a local business person in the community, putting the project at the $5,000 mark. Tomes said. * Golf Cart Center sponsored by US Golf Cars. ‘wndereen HKiriMWI also of Mika Meyers, was asked by Coimcil Trustee Gerrianne Schuler whether the flex time question needs to be put in the job descrip­ tion. “Or some kind of a policy,” Scales responded. “Generally, people that are on salary don’t get to use what you would think about as flex time in the same way an hourly employ­ ee does. You may deal with a flexible schedule, but where you work the however many hours you need to work, it’s not necessarily 9-to-5. Flex time is kind of inconsistent with a salary.” Council Trustee Karen Hahn sees a potential option to continue to provide Thornton with flex time. I’m saying that if he (works) over 50 hours a week, then we can discuss flex time then,” Hahn said. “He has to keep track of his hours, and (Lindsey) has to keep track of his hours. I know you don’t want to do that. I’m sorry, but I think for 50 hours a week, that would be reasonable.” “I’m good with a flexible schedule. Call it what you want,” Thornton said. “Last week, I worked four days from 6 o’clock to at least 4 o’clock, and on Friday, I was here till 2 o’clock in the afternoon. It was just because I had things I wanted to get done. It’s not something that had to be done, but it was things I wanted to knock out,” he added. Lindsey said she does not want to do away with flex time entirely for village employees. “I think we need to define it for our hourly employees,” she said. “As a salaried employee, I really don’t understand flex time because if you work 40 hours, you get paid. If you work less than 40 hours, you get paid the same Caledonia basketball game raises money to establish veterans memorial V OPTOMETRIST ~ 2 LOCATIONS — • HASTINGS- 1510 N. Broadway - 269-945-2192 • WAYLAND; 216 N. Main - 269-792-0515 MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED Sleep is important as it regu­ lates temperature, blood pres­ sure, hormones, genes and the immune system. Sleep keeps away the risk of mood prob­ lems, keeps us more positive and helps us handle emotions better. It keeps appetites in check. Sleep deprivation leads to irritability and diffi­ culty focusing and remember­ ing. It also affects the immune system. Getting the right amount of sleep improves our quality of life. It is a powerful ally to health, happiness, and success. George won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss sup­ port group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-9088036, or Maryellen, 616318-3545. The first meeting is free. I lu'* 1*^1* .w_ A I I 1 I 1 i . 4 » r ba. i J < ^■'1* k r -S J e 1 t t T f �i i f • I I* t-. w J r I / “*" 1 I p t r p X X I ♦•-Kb’rf -* • < ( I J f r f * r t I >«♦^•p♦ , / 4 I d r t 1 b p t r X r* y t I » KT ♦ •• />-s:i’ . .J- * ** p s J A, »r 4 W I II 'I-. r^i’ J. * £. «<* « at - s J- if IS r ■ 4.. -- f -3 b * *I I 4 V l^s’ >5 •*. J p * w. •( w*. ' •* € < •V irr"-w««i I ? ♦ s H-nir4^ *7U *—■• > '•3^ > r- VT < >♦ ><i9).. •«>* X ’^- >74 X .•* ... .^' i 4* 1 .*fr .i- » •<M" ’ b • M* • '•« £i_i_ Me--.,! •; *< «o coXX~°s7;h:.or® Michigan’s state park camping reservations are open and fiiiing up quickiy i.. * £ sj Ift r b s » <♦ b > s 31 Calejjj, Janelle D. James Bridge Michigan One in three available campsites across Michigan’s state parks are already booked for 2024, while some of the most popular camp­ grounds have only 40 per­ cent or fewer of their camp­ site inventory remaining, as campers look to make reser­ vations for the year. As hopeful campers make their plans, they’ll find inventory missing as some campgrounds will delay opening or even remain closed for the year for need­ ed infrastructure repairs through The Building Michigan Together Plan. Michiganders can reserve campgrounds at state parks six months in advance. As of Monday, there are 178,378 bookings through July about 35 percent of available state park campsites according to data provided by the Department of Natural Resources. That number is consistent with the last two years. The most popular ‘ parks are filling up even quicker. Campsites at Ludington State Park are already 80 percent booked through July, while Holland and Grand Haven are both 60 percent filled. Inventory is updated daily and reservations can be made online anytime or by phone starting at 8 a.m. on week­ days and 9 a.m. on week­ ends. Campers seeking summer reservations may find . that amenities - including campsites - are unavailable for the 2024 season, part of a $250 million dollar investment in state parks through the Building Michigan Together Plan. That includes popular Port Crescent State Park, off Lake Huron at the tip of the state’s Thumb. The campground is closed for the year while the beach house is set to reopen by Memorial Day as the park undergoes $4.95 million in repairs. Residents can still visit The park’s day-use area during construction and Port Austin State Harbor remains open for the year. “We have been continuing to be on an upward trend for reservations at our parks,” said Kristen Bennett, devel­ opment unit manager for the DNR. “If anything, it’s just a little bit harder to get that ideal spot, but we still have a s I1 t* I I H I V..« w UI __ » V a t «« /4,«- .'X t: f II ) tfi .1 «-*■ I I I’.X r •• « |i>*' t' '1 t * I « / •/ •» • lot of different campgrounds that people are starting to discover.” Popular Interlochen State Park, just south of Traverse City, is also undergoing upgrades resulting in some campsite closures. The north loop of the park is closed for 2024 while the south loop will be closed until Labor day. The day-use area and access to the boating site will also be closed for the spring and summer. While the rustic campground is still open, sanitation areas are closed. “To be frank, it brings us no joy to close our facilities,” said Kasey Cline, Cadillac district supervisor for the Parks and Recreation division of the DNR. “We really are trying to navigate a successful construction season with visitor access but health and human safety has got to be our number one priority.” The state plans to replace water and sewer systems. repaving roads, replacing toilet and shower buildings and updating electrical systems. among many other things, at 43 state parks over the next three years. Last year, 13 projects were completed. Amelia, Evelyn/Everly, Lyla, Aria, Bailey and Luna round­ ing out the other top girl names of the year. Graham, boys. For Cash/Kashton, Jackson, Liam and Luca/Luke were all popular names this year. Many area parents opted for more traditional names, with William, Amos and Lincoln all making the list. Of the babies bom this year at Corewell Health Pennock Hospital’s Family Birthing Center, Miles/Milo and Adaleigh/Adalyn took the top spots for most popu­ lar names for boys and girls. Tied for second place for girl names were Ava and Avery. Variations of the name Kinsley took third place for the girls, with Wrenley, r* 1 I f Greg Chandler Staff Writer Thomapple Township has canceled the purchase of a new ambulance that was to have been delivered by the end of next year. The Township Board Monday approved a recommendation by Chief Bill Richardson to cancel the order for a new Braun ambulance. The township had ordered the ambulance in December 2022 and was projected to take delivery of the vehicle in December 2025. “In reviewing what (the) departmental needs are and the timeline that we’re going to need ... We’re really going to be missing our mark by pur­ chasing the one that we had ordered,” Richardson said. It was determined after an evaluation of the current town­ ship ambulance fleet that a new ambulance was needed sooner than the December I J «E Antenno Mert • > kt- I k «a w ■ 5 * rV 'S. — .I rVF' ■ VHP radio system. BCCD Director Stephanie Lehman told the village’s Zoning Board of Appeals last sum­ mer that meant there is no cross-communication between police and fire in emergency situations. The ZBA approved a height variance in August to 2025 delivery date for the Braun ambulance. “The price of the ambu­ lance that we ordered is sig­ nificantly more than some of the other options that we have out there,” Richardson said. The cost of the Braun ambulance was $345,584, of which the township had put down a 10 percent down pay­ ment. The cost will be redi­ rected to other ambulance projects in the department, Richardson said. “We’ll be (refurbishing) one of our (other) ambulances. A 1 I I I 1 ♦ * iI t I We’re going to buy a stock unit and refurb, and we’ll be able to get two ambulances for the price we’re gonna pay for one,” the chief said. “We’ve got two ambulances that really are going to be replaced in the time that it’s going to take to get that (Braun) ambulance to delivery in ‘25 or early ‘26. Richardson has not yet received quotes on the stock unit, the chief wrote in an email to the Sun and News. The motion by Trustee Sandy Rairigh passed unani­ mously. -^T T- # t I I I 1I if / I ( I FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 2 I * I PARTI-GRAS ’a> * <4 1 •I 1 t I II » * * ,1 ■P a* V . I I BRET MICHAELS k":b 'I® I k I Ki ..a. I THE HOTTEST STARS Antenna'Mil ' allow central dispatch to build the tower. The tower itself is already up, but the associated equipment, light­ ing and shelter have not yet been installed, Lehman wrote in an email to the Sun and News., BCCD is also erecting a new tower in the city of Hastings at Bliss Riverfront Park at 1037 E. State St. The Hastings tower is about four weeks behind the Middleville tower, so con­ struction has not started yet, Lehman wrote in her e-mail. Both towers are antici­ pated to be completed and connected to the 911 system by the end of the year, Lehman wrote. The Middleville tower is being built at a cost of $2.93 million while the Hastings tower has a price tag of $2.78 million, Lehman wrote. The new towers are being paid for out of an American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant and a $3 million allo­ cation from the state’s bud­ get surplus that was award­ ed to BCCD last year. transmitted off a 700/800MHz tower in Castleton Township, near the village of Nashville, while fire and EMS rely on an antiquated 5* 4 Si 4 ■ j( ( II t ELTON JOHN I BILLY JOEL TRIBUTE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17 . j I LOVE THE 9O'S TOUR • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! A' ctA;n cclJW) SIGN^ fixed,” Hamilton said. Attorneys from the village and BCCD reviewed the change before bringing it back to the council for final action. Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said. The 300-foot-high tower at 607 Sheridan St. is one of two new 700/800-megahertz towers that are being added as Barry County moves all of its police, fire and emergency response communications to a single system. Currently, all law enforcement communications in the county are n G* www.cellsignalpros.com 1 i 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com I It I FRIDAY, MARCH 8 Tickets available now at the FireKeepers Box Office or FireKeepersCasino.com. GET YOUR Vftiliv ON rw 1 »I I I I I Firekeepers ) i CASINO « HOTEL BATTLE CREEK 1-94 to Exit 104 I 11177 Michigan Avenue I Battle Creek, Ml 49014 Must be 21 or older. Tickets based on availability. Schedule subject to change. I > s, L X r J Thornapple Township cancels ambulance order, will pursue other options Corewell Health Pennock announces top baby names of 2023 4 > J»«« ’•t b Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Middleville has finalized an agreement with Barry County Central Dispatch for a new 911 emergency communications tower near the vil­ lage’s wastewater treatment plant. The Village Council unanimously approved a lease agreement with central dispatch Tuesday night. The lease will be in effect for the next five years and gives BCCD the ability to renew the agreement for four addi­ tional five-year terms. The council had delayed a decision in December when. Trustee Richard Hamilton saw that the initial agreement didn’t include a reference to any removal of the tower within the lease or who would be responsible for the cost of removal should it ever occur. Hamilton asked to include the word “removal” in the indemnification section of the agreement. I’ve read this, and the area I had a concern with is ±i j' 5- ♦ *r > t i.rjL^:*. ■n ] 3 S^' '>* .'d. ^J’4- >- 1" :. • i «* d. 1 •fcr- bf <9 ^7 '' •* • 4 I . -:uv,’ IVliddleville council approves lease for 911 tower ► ilk "•;.F. • • . I -> • s I »»W >: I* a» > 1 r X b J uk The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024/ Page 7 •i - - - iimmn J I p "• ^"^ I I t J 4 <♦ . -^’W ot p* > . * 4 * A R ■ ■-; 1 I I * 1 p 1 ♦C' �V t r I « P3Q6 8/ThG Sun 3nd Ngws, S3turcl3y, J3nu3ry ”13,2024 I HH ■■ m HELP WANTED: Organizers mobilize for annual Gun Lake Winterfest: Gun Lake Idol underway Winterfest Lake Gun Karen Turko-Ebright Chairman, Monte Baker, pre­ Contributing Writer With the Gun Lake sented the chosen charity. Winterfest less than six Family Promise, with a weeks away, organizers need $4,000 check at a presenta­ more help. The event is slat­ tion ceremony. Dykema-Halloran said she ed for Feb. 17, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. is looking forward to 17 at Yankee Springs State Winterfest 2024 and is Park, located at 2104 S pleased with how the Landmans have guided the Briggs Rd. in Middleville. Brad and Stacey Landman ship thus far. “They are doing awesome are in their first year chairing the annual Gun Lake and I am excited about what Winterfest. After long-time they have planned,” DykemaChair Monte Baker retired Halloran said. The Landmans have years from the position last year, the Landmans stepped up to of event planning experience under their belts. Brad grew take the reins. Tammy Dykema-Halloran up in Gun Lake and said he is the secretary this year for has always loved going to the Gun Lake Business Winterfest. He and Stacey Association, which puts on have been married for 20 years and moved to Gun the event. Each year the Gun Lake Lake in the fall of 2020. Before Brad became a real Winterfest chooses a charita­ ble organization to receive a estate agent, he was an portion of the proceeds raised award-winning beer brewer at the event. This year the in Denver. Stacey is a full­ Community time corporate event planner Orangeville Outreach was chosen as the with 11 years of experience and said she has plaimed charity. “The Gun Lake Business events for over 4,000 people Association and the in cities across the coimtry Winterfest chairpeople dis­ Along with committee cuss what charity most aligns members, the Landmans with the event,” explained started planning for Brad Landman. “Some of the Winterfest 2024 after Labor criteria are that the charity is Day. “Now we’re in full local and primarily helps force,” Brad Landman said. people in our community.” “We are just starting to get A check presentation cere­ voltmteers and always need mony for the Orangeville more.” Community Outreach pro Volunteers can sign up at gram will be scheduled gunlakewinterfest.com. sometime following While many volunteers Winterfest. still need to sign up to help “After the event, we can with activities, most need to crunch the numbers to see set up and tear down the how much we are able to event. give to the charity,” Brad “We need about 8 to 10 Landman said. “Our goal people for both setup and here is to ... give as much as tear down to make the job - go possible while setting enough smoothly and quickly,” said aside to make sure we do not Gun Lake Winterfest planhinder next year’s event.” ning committee member Last year, in May, former Susie Marsh. “I had such a w Bruce's Frame end Ali Full Service Body Shop • • • • Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com I i * '«“***' -. .>inhC.~ • J'lW.r 11 r I 1 >, ■ >• kA b t i % 0 f A A A i 'C 'iz ~-ja J I ♦ 5 ■A a c JR* H t* -5- ■■ r - > ■I - •-‘T > ,j ^4« » J I 4 . f-a I 9 Every year, the annual Gun Lake Winterfest draws in big crowds. Come rain or shine and ice or no ice; the Polar Dip always has a lineup of dippers waiting to jump in the water. A rescue team of firefighters stays near. (Photo provided) / 'k. great time volunteering on the committee last year, that it was an easy yes for me to be involved again this year.” Elizabeth Maxwell is in charge of the Gun Lake Idol karaoke contest and advertis­ ing while Marsh and Eric Redstone are heading up the setup and tear down of the event. Theresa Paiz has taken the lead in apparel and vendor marketing. Katie Niemchick is taking care of this year’s annual Polar Dip and Suzanne Waldo will manage the kids’ area. “We have been working to update the Winterfest website since last July,” Brad Landman said. “It has been overhauled and we are still getting everything dialed in.” Stacey Landman said she enjoys working with the planning committee because it is a positive group. “It has been a great experience,” she said. “The committee is full of talented and community-minded people who want it to be the best year every year.” One of those talented peopie is, Paiz who is a long time Winterfest volunteer sitting on the plaiming com­ mittee. She owns Shelbyville based RT Stitchcrafts Embroidery & Screen Printing. She is in charge of apparel and vendor market­ ing for the festival. We recently decided on the logo winner for 2024 and as soon as the final details are finalized with the com■V Mk mittee, I will begin printing and embroidering items that will be offered for sale,” Paiz explained. “I will announce on my business Facebook page and have it on the Winterfest Facebook page for pre-orders that will be made available before the event and for pick up the day of the event.” Paiz said her husband. Rich, is in charge of the Gun Lake Winterfest Pancake Breakfast again this year at SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church. Although some events are scheduled the week before Winterfest, most will take place on the day of the festival Saturday, Feb. 17. A total of six venues will host qualifying roimds for this year’s Gun Lake Idol, a solo singing karaoke compe­ tition. “Many thanks to Elizabeth Maxwell, Brad Landman said. “She did a great job getting the Gun Lake Idol venues signed up.” Maxwell is in her second year on the Gun Lake Winterfest committee I was responsible for securing the six quarter-final venues which was a lot easi er this year since I already had some contacts and relationships with the businesses that participate,” Maxwell said. “We actually had to decline a venue this year, which was very difficult, but with such a small committee who volunteer after working ^hornapple eyecare 4624 N. M-37 Hwy. Ste E, Middleville, Ml thornappleeyecnre com • 269-213-8108 « V I “Building Community Through Excellent Care” 4152nd • Middleville ...*■• T - ® I fcrtk A, SOO^ I ) 4t KJ » I 2024 Logo Contest Winner: - e • * Maiden Otis f • .Ml Wayland Middle School I 4 !• t I j if W Kt I I % s'’ . J 4■ s t * r• ..I -f I T4 « s- Liar*::!.* * V? a 1 .k ^OZM I t .f 19 I — -4 1 T'a • t♦ ♦ •• • ? TFb 202*1 20Z'i * f ij «T * •f -’jfF WB IF * • s Jr*. ■if *> V «[ V 201*1 1 ft |j*Ws ft* C-? •!>»< 1 *. f r-f I siCii This year’s Gun Lake Winterfest logo, as created by Maiden Otis of Wayland Middle School. (Photo provided) site Ie full-time, we couldn’t attend more than six quarter-final Idol nights.” Gun Lake Idol qualifying rounds run Jan. 12 to Feb. 10. There is no entry fee. After qualifying rounds, the top three winners from each venue will compete in the semifinals on Feb. 13 at the Gun Lake Casino’s 131 Sportsbar & Lounge. The top 10 performers from the semifinals will move on to the final competition held iisshss I at the Winterfest main stage on Feb. 17. They will all be vying for a cash prize awarded to the top three winners: First place receives $750; second place prize is $500; and the thirdplace winner takes home $250. The first qualifying round was scheduled for Jan. 12 at the Wayland Hotel. Another one is slated to begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 26, at Red’s Sports Bar & Grill in Middleville. Red’s will also host a warm-up night on Friday, Jan. 19. Singers get another shot at a qualifying round at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 27 at the new Thirsty Buddy on M-179 next to Curley Cone in the Yankee . Springs area. The fun continues with the fourth qualifying round at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 2, at Tantrick Brewery Co. in Allegan. Two warm-up nights at Tantrick are sched­ uled on Jan. 19 and 24. Moving on to round five, competitors can try out at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 9, at One More Grill in Dorr. The Family Tavern in Caledonia will host two Gun Lake Idol warm-up nights on Jan. 27 and Feb. 3 plus the final qualifying roimd at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10. Semifinals are on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the Gun Lake Casino in the 131 Sportsbar & Lounge, with the top three winners from each venue competing for the top 10 spots. More details to come will be posted on gunlakewinter­ fest, com/event/gun-lakeidol/ “We have been blessed that local bars who host kara­ oke nights wanted to partici­ pate in our charity event,” Maxwell said. “Maybe in the future, if we get more volun­ teers, we could expand the Idol quarter-finals' to more venues. We are always open to more help.” o O' r •>' ' w-« . I I ' r Kims I Mstm 4 idoiie -1 * ikidf ■Mil ( * • i •r.V. • 1I r t S3 �w I rs I A J I Gaines Township Board makes 7. - I A I 1 I I 1 poll worker salaries. Changes to the election process, such as the early voting mles, have added an extra burden on election clerks and their staffs in municipalities. We dramatically increased the wages for elections. We dramatically increased mailing^ becTuse increased mailings, because there ’ s all th c there s all this additional stuff (publicationsHhat’s^X to go out ’ Tolsh" establishing an election coor­ dinator who would work in a separate department from the clerk’s office. “I think in 2024, that’s a fantastic idea. In 2025, I think it’s a horrible idea,” Weersing responded. “Michael (Brew) and I have had this discussion. for"" I am all coordinator/ assistant/(accounts each municipality in the state Manager Rod Weersing saiff must set up a place for nine One example of an extra days of early voting, which cost for the township are begins Feb.\ 17. All nine of updated brochures that would Gaines Township’s polling be oe maned mailed to residents precincts will conduct their explaining the early voting early voting at the township process process and where to vote vote. hall, 8555 Kalamazoo Ave. The board also said it The board also said it Township Clerk Michael wants to ensure there is an wants to ensure there is an Brew said the responsibili- appropriate work-life bal appropriate work-life balties ofthe clerk's department ance for the clerical sttff, so ance for the clerical staff, so have almost doubled in they don't bum out on the they don’t bum out on the recent years. job dealine with thp avh-o job dealing with the extra workload. “At this point, I just want the board to know that elec­ “We may need to add tions are going to be very. some additional staff if we very expensive because of fall behind. If they can’t keep . I * up. We can’t keep asking for I all the additional equipment more more and and more more overtime, overtime,”” that we have to buy ..., " he Supervisor DeWard Supervisor Rob Rob DeWard said. And these these elections said., ““And elections The average hourly pay aren t going to get anv betaren ’ any for a poll worker in Michigan ter.” 9 b James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Gaines Township Board voted 6-0 at its meet­ ing Monday night to approve the establishment of an early voting polling location at the township hall for the Michigan presidential prima­ ry election on Feb. 27. One board member was absent. Under Proposal 1 approved by Michigan voters i^2022, I hine I Of •Ofc. I, I is $22.45 per hour. According to Zip Recmiter, Michigan ranks 21st out of50 states for f some personnel decisions specific thoughts yet as to what such a position might encompass. Meanwhile, DeWard noted iiuicu that mat the township board has discussed in the past the possibility of launch- I I 1 i r t t I I I I I •< 1 ing a finance department. “If we were to start that process, you could be relieved of (processing) accounts payable,” he said to Brew. And then, that person or department could start handling some of that stuff. And free you up to do more of that other stuff other responsibilities.” I think we are getting to a place where an election director - probably in some form - is a wise idea ” RrA? said ’ With itc rr.., • • u commented thl’J^ Tr. i,Games ee dei/^t employyears to stncflrXb^' on years to strictly ma"er working" S election-rS on election-related .k______ _ atters. He r„d “IZ ana the impact on the employees’ work-life bal(6 be discussed in the - town-----chip’s Personnel Committee. ----------- matters, In other_ -personnel Gaines Township last year ‘'’v S12-hour nrr™ , ' Kent County Sheriff s Office patrol shift. “'ill be assigned to that patrol cruiser has not been identi­ fied publicly yet. The township board also voted 6-0 to approve a Dutton Fire Committee rac­ ommendation to turn the part-time fire inspector position a ance has become a legitimate concern. non-election years the election director could be kept busy with duties in the clerk’s office or wherever needed in ♦ u* ad^nLlfion the township” Treasurer Treasurer Laurie Laurie Lemke Lemke asked if it might be worth exploring the possibility of The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024/ Page 9 Brew said he was iust was making a very general stote The Position, $29.50. One-half of the total employee cost will come ment at this point, with no i i I I J i 1 I ! j A crowd listens i from the township’s Building Department, which helps with fire suppression plans. Current Fire Inspector Holtnes' will'te stepping down from that position once a new inspector is hired. He also works as a full-time Kent County Sheriffs patrol officer. So, he was burning the candle at both ends. Weersing said. If needed, the fire inspec­ tor also assists in fighting fires in the township while on duty. In another move, the town­ ship has hired a new deputy treasurer to replace Jenna Pilkington, who resigned recently after nearly a dozen years on the job. She was being paid $26.63 per hour and was due to receive $27.82 in 2024, had she remained on the job. The new deputy trea­ surer is Chris Holwerda, who most recently worked for Byron Township. On a 6-0 vote, the township board approved a starting wage of $26 per hour. When we began the hiring process for the deputy treasurer, the treasurer (Laurie Lemke) asked me to set a wage range, which was set from $22 to $26 per hour. The treasurer was able to find a deputy with expertence,” Weersing said. ur Hom^MbM£Performing Arts brings Fiddler on the Roof to Caledonia S’ n ’' I u. I Unite ea hl I ^•1 t b 1 MtcGdi* L. » •T I’-' 1 0 I j:. a* I r z I* / < 4 ' f,- ■ J 4 Jayson Bussa Editor Brad Gamaat looks back fondly at his time at Caledonia High School, where he per­ formed with the Choralaires. In fact, throughout high school and college, he participated in a variety of productions and choirs. These days, Gamaat is pro­ viding that same experience to homeschool kids around West Michigan in his role as execufive director and founder of Homeschool Performing Arts. This was an endeavor that Gamaat founded back in 1997 upon graduating with a music education degree from Cornerstone University. He used the organization to put together small, one-act shows with participating homeschool students, but it wasn’t until 2002 that he started to launch full-scale stage productions. These days, Gamaat and his small staff at HPA have productions slated for the Grand Rapids (Caledonia), Lansing and Kalamazoo areas this year. “I was getting my music degree at Cornerstone and had an opportunity to direct a little thing for a group and discov­ ered that I really like that,” said Gamaat, who was a homeschool student before eventually graduating from Caledonia in 1991. “I started building small, one-act productions and it kept expanding and I had kids that had done several of them so they needed something bigger.” “I had a great student teach­ ing experience; there was nothing that I didn’t like about (a traditional teaching) job, but I definitely sensed God leading me in this direction instead of getting a job in a school,” Gamaat added. Homeschool Performing Arts is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that generates revenue in several ways. Not only do participants pay a small tuition, but the group also sells sponsorships and generates revenue from I ticket sales. But, just because these are high school-level productions, doesn’t mean they’re not worth the price of admission. “We’re aiming high,” Gamaat said. “It is a high school production, so we know that the expectations are going to be a little different from if you were going to Broadway to see a show. But, we tiy to have the mindset of doing it top-notch knowing we don’t quite have the same resources.” The HPA has brought on a cast of over 80 actors and actresses for Fiddler on the Roof, which was slated to start this weekend, but per­ formances were cancelled due to weather. Shows will now be held on Jan. 18, 20, 26 and 27 at Gamaat’s old stomping grounds of the Caledonia High School Fine Arts Center. The production draws kids from all over including Caledonia, Alto, Middleville and Byron Center. The lead role of Tevye was awarded to senior Johnny Vriesman of I 1^' - Presented by Homeschool Performing Arts Jan. 18, 20, 26 and 27 Caledonia High School Fine Arts Center 9050 Kraft Ave. SE, Caledonia i I I I t I ( ( 1 1 I I .'I I Residential & Commercial. f t k 1 J* ft I I r— ■y I Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers -Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers Brad Garnaat -■33' t r' r s 1' .r I' . L t I I s - ftK -'t* f • r I r » nODLER ON THE ROOF R-’-v I r t Vriesman. “I am really excited for him. I’m for people to see the show with him bringing Tevye to life.” Tickets for Fiddler on the Roof can be purchased online at hpami.oig. WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS 5^^ V' Caledonia. He has appeared in previous HPA productions. “He’s fantastic. He has jumped in and embraced the work of it and discovering who Tevye is and how to bring him to life,” Gamaat said of .•r.t-, - * 'X * ** A I . Ik I Wl *- I I h Ji I 1 I I 1 r ■ • Sit 4 1 I I I 1 fl4 |« * ro a* a J I k k I i tti J**- •< K I ' s Jr. I 1 .,4 ' j t « I '7. *.T. ■ i ■ I I 3T 5A 9 1 I 4 b • 1 I * t -A'* ‘J L 4 1 ss I r y Homeschool Performing Arts brings Fiddler on the Roof to the Caledonia High I ■ School Fine Arts Center this, weekend and next. (Photo provided). DeWeerd (S8) HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 Sim e I9SS w I I I LENNOX I f I I A+ X I I ACCREOITEO BUSINESS * i I I t « 1 I I I ( t I f r I J I I ’! I, z �r Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024 ■■ BCSO Middleville unit calls steady for 2023; Council trustee concerned about calls in township About 23 percent of the village’s general fund budget for this year — $507,750 — has been budgeted toward paying salaries and benefits for the three officers that work out of the Middleville unit, as well as purchasing a new patrol vehicle and fuel­ ing up all the unit’s patrol cars. The Middleville unit responded to 1,035 calls within the village for the year. Ware said. That’s com­ pared to 1,034 calls from 2022 and 1,033 in 2021, according to department records. “Hastings is the highest call volume for the county, per central dispatch statistics ... that’s both fire and police. Thomapple Township (and) Middleville combined is almost equal, if not higher Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Middleville unit of the Barry County SherifTs Office saw virtually no change in the number of calls it responded to within the village last year compared to 2022. But a Village Council member is concerned about deputies from the unit assist­ ing on calls outside the vil­ lage in Thomapple Township, and is questioning whether the township should share in the cost of supporting the unit. Trustee Makenzi Peters raised the concern at Tuesday’s Village Council meeting, shortly after Sgt. Scott Ware presented his year-end report on activity by the Middleville BCSO unit to the council. than Hastings,” Ware told the council. “Our officers here, yes, we’re designated to the vil­ lage, but most of those calls in the township, we’re assist­ ing on. So these numbers don’t even reflect a lot of the stuff that we’re going to.” As an entire department, BCSO handled about 9,000 calls last year, of which calls in the village represented about 11 percent. That’s not even 24/7 coverage (for us), where (the rest of the Sheriff’s Department is) 24/7 coverage, three to four people per shift. It’s a big chunk of our business, as well as the county as a whole,” Ware said. Peters expressed her con­ cern at that point, admitting that she was “going to open a can of worms,” by raising the vehicle crashes for the year, including nine personal injuaccidents. That ’ s up from ry 70 crashes and five injury accidents in 2022, depart­ ment records show. Among criminal com plaints, the most significant increases were for incidents of larceny and fraud - up from 33 cases in 2022 to 56 last year. Cases of domestic violence and assault dropped from 49 to 37. Criminal sex­ ual conduct cases increased slightly from 12 to 14, while incidents of operating while intoxicated remained stable at 10 cases and incidents of obstructing justice remained at 17. Complaints of mali­ cious destruction of property fell from 24 to 16, and breakin complaints dropped from six to two, according to department records. the Patterson (Road) corriCounty Allegan dor, (Sheriff’s Department) is coming over to help us. That’s just the policing nature that we have. We help each other out.” The Middleville unit responded to significant increases in criminal com­ plaints for the second year in a row, and made more than twice as many traffic stops as the year before. Criminal complaints rose roughly 30 percent from 225 in 2022 to 292 last year, department records show. Meanwhile, deputies from the unit made 523 traffic stops and wrote up 134 cita­ tions - compared to 240 traf­ fic stops and 78 citations in 2022, according to depart­ ment records. The unit responded to 75 issue of calls in the township. “Village residents pay (for emergency services), but the township residents don’t pay into the Middleville law enforcement costs, Peters said. “That would be a good conversation to have with (the) township, especially if we’re spending a lot of time in the township ... It is bur­ densome when it’s the vil­ lage taxpayers that are pay­ ing 100 percent of the police contract.” Ware says it’s common practice for law enforcement to back each other up on calls. “If we have something going on that’s big, and it’s just outside of the city of Hastings, the city of Hastings (Police Department) is com­ ing out to help us,” Ware said. “If we’re over here in ence quad in Middleville Wednesday evening. The Wildcats edged the TK team 36-33 and the Red Hawks scored a ^1-Tl win over the TK team. In the dual with the Red Hawks, the TK team got pins from Christien Miller at 113 pounds, Jayce Curtis at 175 •4 Jb fg» 1 < L * I C'^- * 3X w sz hr f 8 3 i 1 ir ■? I T A i* > > 1-.3 r r 4« 1 1 1 J f Wi b I? 1 9’1 1 ry- ' •*« t «■ ■Pf *:***•.* 1 <4 ... I I 1 • ■ •• : > * > I '4MU < f x> * »>• { ■Kjnddo y. * J I •w I) STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS State & I-CAR Certified Technicians Area students named to KCC honor lists Kellogg Community College officials are proud to present the president’s list and dean’s list of all students, ftilland part-time, who have earned high or highest honors for the Fall 2023 semester. Frame Repair Alyssa Degood. Business Services CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, e- 4ia!£i?o 616.891.0150 www.edsbody.com w Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner 110 Johnson St., Caledonia GOLD CLASS \ Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-8385937. faJNFIB OPEN; M thru F 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Delton - Kelly Anderson, >4 k President’s list The president’s list recog­ nizes degree-seeking stu­ dents who have earned a 4.0 GPA for the semester. Area students who qualified for the president’s list include: Delton Bradley Knobloch, Lillian Lester, Rebecca Pruess, Carley Webb. Freeport Zellie Sweeney. Middleville Mckenna Bazan, Doug Schrader. Shelbyville Isabella Morey. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Paying Premiums for GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPS $500.00. Call 269- Breanna Chandler, Kiersyn Cowles, Dayna Curtis, Ashley Elkins, Kiersten Moore, Halle Tull, Jasmine Zeits. Hickory Corners Rosalie Elms. Middleville The dean’s list recognizes students who have earned a semester grade point average of 3.50 to 3.99. Local stu­ dents on the dean’s list include: Caledonia TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System - k K<£2. ■ilCate CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN IVatef Bourne System I I f Dean’s list r II Thornapple Kellogg’s Dylan Pauline holds his opponent from Wayland on his back during their bout Wednesday evening in Middleville. ED’S BODY SHOP Lesonal I I *J* 1 The Thornapple Kellogg wrestling team celebrates senior night during its OK Gold Conference Quad in Middleville Wednesday. s » I .rf^^*^*** ?r^ : • •• 9 k ► It I. ** * 4 ■g-- XT. f «*** .. -- J WMBA B* 1 * I ■■''Yr : > J 'e i' A I • « ► ri P z*. 1 «• £ V♦ I I J I A -.224 Z »•' A • k r w * ii X »I ■ I 4^ > -J. f.- «t **1 A ' fa 25 A- «. I £?! f I I s ll i I PIBlHl I 9^ mF bl <1 '.-V' i ■>* I % ?* 4 s, te.. tei ' A t Invitational, but that meet was postponed. TK was supposed to be a part of today’s Rockford The Trojan team celebrat­ ed its seniors Wednesday. ^•d« SK 1 r, *1 and Blake Bossenberger at 165 pounds. Camden Peter got TK’s first points of the dual, three bouts in, by outscoring Cedar Springs 144-pounder Deegan Pike 8-6. The TK team’s other points came thanks to a forfeit win for Jimmy Manne at 285 pounds. '' I. TK grapplers bested by pair of tough Gold teams Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans knew this was going to be a year to grow. The growing pains arrived Wednesday as the TK varsity wrestling team fell to 1-2 in the OK Gold Conference with losses to Wayland and Cedar Springs in a confer- 1 Katryna Barnes, Wayde Barry, Taylor Johnson, Kailani Larson, Heather Pitsch, Corrin Replogle. Shelbyville Olivia Gosset, Clarissa Hentschel, Brian Schrier, Kathryn Sipes. Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Pop­ lar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, hability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. MATT ENDSLEY FAB­ RICATION and repair, PcAv custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269804-7506. DOG GROOMING. QUAL ITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. * 331-1788 ’W* I t ( ( I Help Wanted BARN HELP WANTED Must have experience with horses. Full and part time positions available with competitive pay. Please call 269-207-4218 or email at zlpowell@yahoo.com if in­ terested. 1 s �I Me CHS boys top Wildcats for first OK Red victory % They got three shots at it in in seven seven days days and and the the Caledonia varsity boys’’basmanaged its first OK Red Conference victory of the season Thursday. Fighting The Scots knocked off visiting Jenison 57-44 to move to 1-2 in the conference this season. Jaiden Googins had 19 points to lead the way for the Scots and Ky VanderWoude chipped in 12 points. t I? u tn 0 J**) 5^ Chris VanSlambrouck led Jenison with 17 points, The Caledonia boys go to Grand Haven Tuesday and then will be on the road at Grandville Friday in the week ahead. ' •: t . i X V t * •• i r ‘Ar* ♦ • IBS r4. (4 ■ He liked how his girls matched Gortmaker’s intensi­ ty and fed off it, and covered for her when she had to deal with a bit of foul trouble in the ■i c F* »-^4l J? A I* ' ?5 s %sr I liked the start We . i second half. Sophomore Jolie King ScS?924T:2a fe “"tlribcame off ±e bench to contribX Ute six points and six 1 he ballgame with Jemson rebounds, —’------ » and coach . .Bloemers _was bumped from Friday to was pretty pleased with her Thursday this week due to the effort defensively too. Senior predicted winter weather head Mackenzie DeVries added towards the area. eight points. Jumor center A pair of free throws were Lakely Bottum affected the the only points for the bailgame in a number of ways Wldcats in the first quarter finishing with five rebouncL Thursday. The Wildcats didn’t five blocked shots and three quit though. The Scots turned steals. the ball over eight times in ±e Coach Bloemers said the third quarter and Jenison group ofBottum, King, Teresa inched to within 34-23 by the Abraham and Addie Roe Start of the fourth quarter. worked defensively in the Coach Bloemers was paint to keep the Wildcats impressed with the way his from getting close to the rim girls shook off those turnover to make plays. and a rough shooting third The Caledonia coach felt ‘‘Tr ?“I ““o Wildcats like his girls learned a little Lily Gortmaker got hot and the Fighting Scots fed the hot hand Thursday. Gortmaker had 25 points as the Caledonia varsity girls’ basketball team scored a scored 48-37 win over over visiting Jenison Thursday for its first OK Red Conference win of the season. Gortmaker had 14 points in the first half and hit a couple of in-rhythm threes according to head coach Todd Bloemers that allowed the Scots to 28-10 lead at the half. Things went well, Bloemers said. , , . put together just a high-energy, high-effbrt evening. W^e were rewarded for it. I am excited for the team.” The Fighting Scots are now 4-5 overall this season and 1 -2 in the OK Red Conference. The defending state champs from Rockford bested the r 3 v: “inference opener Sports Editor Ardrace Morris added added nine points for the Scots and Corbin Raffler had six. JXs-iif I Gortmaker scores 25 and teammates clog paint Caledonia Caledonia tnnL took .off in the second quarter to lead 3118 at the half, limiting the Wildcats to three points in that second quarter. r ______________________________ __________ The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13,2024/ Page 11 ■ p*' J four minutes, and hL l-^t Ihe end of the fct. We gave & up a three right at the end. Things spiraled from there, “Rockford takes you out of what you want to do and you feel like you have to be perfeet defensively, because you know you’re going to struggle to score against their changing defenses.” The Scots were down 12 at the half Tuesday against Hudsonville, and they were looking to shave that down heading towards the fourth quarter to make things com­ petitive in the end. The Scots hit two early threes in the second half to trim that Eagle lead down to six, but Hudsonville rallied to push the lead close to 20. something about the mental and physical toughness they need to have in the first two conference ballgames. Rockford is the number one team for a reason,” Bloemers said. “They can hurt you from every position. Bloemers said his girls were a little too emotionally up and down Tuesday, and he was pleased with the way they never wavered in the win Thursday against Jenison. ft -.sa 9 I .'h I BttI 'i J - .-4 IT A. I 1 •vri I r 1 * J TWT* J* < :> .Ml ft £ 1 'J. *£ < J Fl n A 1 I I I -t >. i 9B3SH WF y 4 4^ s fA « 4r I J Ilf jif ! ' ‘WifM 1 .. ' I * ■ .1 T» 4 s ♦**1 / r 1 :‘k c r ^4* R *• UQT 9 ■5. 4- lC s’ a. 4*. ,k ' 4*. jit;- J 't » • • .1 AM ' \ I r « I I' F A I f •T . “ ■ • r 5^-- Ik *• f I 4 - *\ii > c c* I L T t L tvX*' I -VJ, I Wsdoote Caledonia senior guard Ardrace Morris (0) cuts through the lane and floats one over Rockford junior Michael Dekuiper (3) during their Friday night OK Red contest, Jan. 5, at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 4 b'iiiSK y i-ii&SJ- % I I ! 91^. ifSjrijU ■1 * e.^- if ? is sit: - Brf? ijiu li®' X' I Vm ^<V l!r I << » J. 'I*. J I ■ I L . z* I 1 X 9 r s -T'* .Kia® •I - T I' »s k A r .■ -J - w I » 1 w 1 • •L I’ll Mteb' I* «* I I 4 1 « •» I .T-,\ ".»« '.'^1 I 1 [e «> II H '1 t • y Vi 7; •1 : 1* I*. ' k 4^ k 1 r i; k b 1 5^ nr i c 1 . A JI ■41 L — r * v • .f 4 Ul- * A. fl’ •• *** 8"' % I •r- ' *' L * ;3it' 5 9 * L The Fighting Scots’ Lual Abiel (1) attacks the rim past Rockford Ram Drake Irwin (12) during the sec­ ond half of their contest Friday, Jan. 5, at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 2 4 i J f •.-'V Fighting Scot captain McKenzie Devries (21) drives baseline and puts one off the glass during the Friday night contest with Rockford, Jan. 5. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Synopsis Irving Township 12/19/2023, 6:30 PM 3425 Wing Rd Hastings Ml 49058 Board Meeting Called to order at 6:30pm. Five members were present and 10 members of the public. Items Approved: 1 .Agenda 2.Minutes from November 21, 2023 3.Accept the Birch contract change billing formula of 1.25 mills of protected taxable value. 4.$2,000.00 contingency fund to be managed by Sokolowski and Buehler for the first floor project. S.The purchase of two cem­ etery signs from A n D Signs, LLC for $1,380 each. 6.Appointment of a deputy supervisor for the purpose of cemetery management. /.Payment of bills subject to the Supervisor’s review and approval in the amount of $13,142.22. S .Adjourned 7:49 PM. 9.Upcoming Dates: January 16, 2024 - Township Board Meeting 6:30pm Budget workshop date January 23, 2024, at 6:30 PM . at Township Hall. Full minutes are available at lrvingtownship.org or at 3425 Wing Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058. Prepared by Clerk, Sharon Ol­ son. Attested to by Supervisor, Jamie Knight. K The Fighting Scots’ Teresa Abraham (24) ele­ vates in the paint past Rockford’s Sienna Wolfe (3) in the first half of contest with Rockford Friday, Jan. 5. (Photo by Perry Hardin) 4* Ji 1 ( 211060 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN *« PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on February 5, 2024 at 7:00 p.m., at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. The public hearing is to receive comments regarding the application of Mister Car Wash for a drive thru car wash facility at the corner of 68‘^ and M-37, east of Taco John’s. The parcel is part of the overall Meijer Gas Station site and will subsequently be divided as a 2-acre parcel or remained leased. Parcel number: 41-23-06-426-007 PART OF SE 1/4 COM AT SE COR OF SEC TH N 89D 16M 19S W ALONG S SEC LINE 669.08 FT TH N OD 43M 41S E 50.0 FT TH N 15D 25M 58S E 313.92 FT TH S 89D 38M 03S W 106.76 FT TH NWLY 106.65 FT ALONG A 100.50 FT RAD CURVE TO RT /LONG CHORD BEARS N 59D 57M 53S W 101.72 FT/ TH N 29D 33M 46S W 93.82 FT TH NWLY 10.09 FT ALONG A 49.51 FT RAD CURVE TO LT /LONG CHORD BEARS N 35D 24M 15S W 10.08 FT/ TH S 60D 26M 19S W 156.93 FT TO ELY LINE OF BROADMOOR AVE TH N 29D 33M 49S W ALONG SD ELY LINE 728.71 FT TH N OD 16M 54S ALONG W LINE OF E 111 SE 1/4 1318.42 FT TH N 89D 43M 12S E 422.01 FT TH S 31D 37M OOS E 242.95 FT TH S 44M 48M OOS E 316.0 FT TH S 89D 16M 24S E 366.90 FT TH S OD 23M 48S E 240.0 FT TH S 89D 16M 24S E 182.0 FT TO E SEC LINE TH S OD 23M 48S E ALONG SD E LINE 1700.0 FT TO BEG * SEC 6 T5N RIOW All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed special land use. Written comments concerning the request may be submitted to the Township office, at the above-stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Dated: January 8, 2024 PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA I * �h *. V .^h **------- *• ■•.I t I I < ♦ » h 1 «Aft* Page 12ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024 Things end well for Trojans in dual with Soutn *7 k. I } I Brett Bremer Sports Editor The girls won fairly handily and the boys rallied for a tie as the Thomapple Kellogg varsity bowling South hosted teams Christian at Hastings Bowl Monday. Landen England capped off the afternoon for the TK boys’ team by rolling a 183 that earned a team point for his head-to-head match-up with the Sailors’ Justin Miedema and helped the TK boys to a 660-627 in that second regular game. TK took seven of the nine possible points in that second regular game after trailing 11-8 heading in to that final game. TK also got individual points from Colten Wiest thanks to a 113 in that last regular game and a point from the duo of Myles Travis and Chambers Grabemeyer that scored a 113. Matthew Jore didn’t get an individual point in that second game, but put up a solid score of 148. Travis Sholty rolled a 108 and Dylan Lawrence a 140 to earn individual points in the first regular game, one the 689-620. won Sailors England rolled a 140 in that one, but couldn’t overcome Miedema’s 168 in their head-to-head match-up. Kruesie Bulthuis had a big first game for the South Christian boys with a 162 and Austin Hineline led the way for the Sailors in the second game with a 159. The two teams split the Baker games with TK boys winning the first 128-113 and the Sailors taking the second 95-91. The TK boys moved their record to 1-3-1 in the conference with the 15-15 draw. England and Shulty are the lone returning high school bowlers for the TK II 1 i' .e « z.. > * I ♦1 >• f f J f fe’S. vl » r r Ad* 13 A I >* .1 r® t t .■ v^.5 £ IZ / •<r I* • * I / •I* I ! ) » I* AI’, J*. ’ , I r J ■ >47 I . V* J ) I >1' .,1' 1^* •u *w ’M: / * rVn 'k* —■< < I 4 •Cb t, I •% •l & d> >> e / r. S- I f / -I . a .•l •%* .V ’•7 .P .-.1^ s 1 ". > F 4. I ••/J 3 ’ i*. « A r t 4 4. > J iV ( ■> 4 e ‘<“T IrJ >‘^-r s / J? 1 '.K ' I fr ----- •/ •• * 2(^ • «• s n r ♦ .* • •' ,,..t»ll»>w ’*^•5 J J b*-' • I J- . * 4- • «b* 'V’“ I Ls ■w -SI > f: 'fl "-^“iia^w: rT !* A Sp ’ -.Tjt* .1 4 > X .» ' ■-------- -- —> U-^> A I '•"J Thornapple Kellogg’s Matthew Jore gets set to unleash a ball down the lane during the Trojans’ OK Gold Conference contest with South Christian at Hastings Bowl Monday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ■V* rr ■ ■ 'k ,3* «*' 4^ 1s * A V ■ c. 'V ‘ WJ *« aw« J2 ;iv r t£?.- * < J eI 1 • -IL ■ -»r I* : •• **tk •j: 4 nSSE £ fl ' TKs Ashleigh Norman fires a shot down the lane at Hastings Bowl Monday during her team’s OK Gold Conference win over visiting South Christian. (Photo by Brett Bremer) boys’ team this winter. “Considering everything, they’re doing well,” TK head coach Cheryl Cooper said of her guys. “They’re getting the hang of it. Everybody is still learning, and it is a lot different than just bowling for fun. They’re doing well. “I think they’re all pick­ ing it up. They’re all getting their own equipment. so most of them are adjusting to the new equipment they got for Christmas. That is a big thing. As they get their own equipment, they’re going to get better using their own stuff. They’re working together as a team pretty well. That’s a big thing. Both the boys and girls are working really well as a team ... they’re good doing what they need to for the team.” The TK girls improved to 3-2 with their 21-9 win over the Sailors. A sweep of the Baker games got the TK ladies off to a good start Monday. The outscored the Tr oj an s Sailors 95-75 and 107-89 in those two games. The Sailors won the first regular game 532-518, but the TK ladies bounced back for a 560-472 win in game two. Ashleigh Norman was a big part of the improvement in game two. She rolled a 115 in the first regular game, earning a team point, and then picked up a second team point with a 151 in the 4 Thornapple Kellogg’s Jenna Robinett sends her ball speeding down the lane at Hastings Bowl Monday afternoon during the Trojans’ OK Gold Conference win over visiting South Christian. (Photo by Brett Bremer) c,1 A I iJ’' ®' Dyer took two team points second regular game. Coach Cooper said ; with games of 131 and 110 Norman, a senior, relaxed for TK. Jenna Robinett was over 100 in both games, in the second game. “A lot of the girls just rolling a 109 and a 101, but need to relax a little bit,” couldn’t quite keep pace coach Cooper said. “They with the Sailors’ leader settle in eventually, but Annika Hendrickson who sometimes they try too put up totals of 134 and 124 hard. Ashleigh was throw­ to finish with the day’s best ing a really good ball, and it series. was just coming into the “They all coming along,” pocket. It was all on her. I Cooper said. “I look for­ wish I could take credit. ward to how the season is She has been doing really going to end really, because well. She is coming right they’re making good along. improvements.” Aubrie Hooten also had a The TK teams are sched­ good jump in the second uled to be home again game rolling a 118 to earn a Monday, Jan. 15, taking on team point. Kenzie Chapin- Kenowa Hills. -.'{f V623 1 r 11101 . iv > ” 1*- JF’ -1 I *♦ 4-V I 1 jll tt’IS I I s I /I * f ff- w & * J > « <• X2» f ' ''a 211059 PUBLIC N O T I C E - CORRECTION Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan 7^* .•U' '.V k «m4 IT 1 I, ? r- 'J_V J'' * [ Hw 'Z*-® 1 J' a—' I t. 4 .i A meeting of the Election Commission, a sub-committee of the Charter Township of Caledonia Board of Trustees will take place on _ Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at the Township Hall beginning at 6:30 p.m. The previously published time of 6:00 p.m. was incorrect The Township Hall is located at 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. The purpose of the meeting is to appoint the election inspectors for the February 27, 2024 Presidential Primary; to set the date for the Public Accuracy Test to demonstrate that the computer program used to tabulate the votes cast at the election meet the require ­ requirements of the law; approve the use of an absentee voting counting board for the February 27, 2024 Presidential Primary; and to dis­ cuss a potential temporary precinct and absentee ballot counting board change for the May 7, 2024 Election. Joni Henry, Clerk 4 1* 14 1 ' s 't'i Rjxv’ I f■ •' 1 J 4 1 Uto**'*' V Thornapple Kellogg ’ s Landen poiH England lets his ball fly during the Trojans’ OK Monday. I« • r I I •- 'A ' i I r’ It fi t < 1 4 !5 n �I. r f I t ft > I I ) TK gets first win over FHE in six years The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024/ Page 13 Brett Bremer from the 2020-21 camSports Editor paign. The Thomapple Kellogg The senior VanHaitsma varsity boys’ basketball did what he could to lead team finally clipped its los­ vocally, even shouting ► out ing streak against the Forest from the high post time and M ’ /v j Hills Eastern Hawks Friday again to get the offense ▼ J set night in Middleville. even when he wasn’t the The Trojans won the first one directing things with 4 rHr meeting between the two the ball in his hands, and schools as OK Gold was a steady presence on Conference foes back in the floor when Forest Hills January of 2017 and then Eastern was doing its best dropped 13 straight to the to try and make things hec­ Hawks before a 48-44 win tic for the TK offense. \ 1 Friday. He said he is working Senior guard/forward himself to be a more posiKyle VanHaitsma and five communicator on the ft junior guard Brody Wiersma floor and is trying to get his TRDJAK; proved an outstanding teammates to do the same. ‘a• ♦ inside-out combo for the I m just giving them Trojans both finishing with wisdom I wish I had when I 13 points. Sophomore for- was younger,” VanHaitsma ward Trey Hilton chipped said. 3 /i in eight points and senior Coach Garber thought ■'» - •“■‘Kba >. guard Tyler Gavette fin­ the bailgame was a bit per­ ished with five. 1: sonal for VanHaitsma who I! “It feels really good to was charged with a techniF kind of turn the program cal foul that assisted a (I around,” said VanHaitsma. Hawks’ comeback bid in an “I really like that, just kind FHE win over the Trojans a ■J.j of building a legacy for year ago. t these younger guys. It “He is a captain. That is means a lot to know I am why he’s a captain, I see leaving with a better record that in him Tyler [Gavette] already than what we’ve and Ethan [Bonnema],” TK senior Kyle VanHaitsma beats everybody to the had previously. I haven’t Garber said. “When the , , two points during the Trojans ’ win over visitina won games like this since orn, gets rough he calms Forest Hills Eastern Friday, Jan. 5, to open the OK freshman/sophomore year. that down, and it was nice Gold Conference uie cjrx season in Middleville. (Photo by It feels really good to turn it today.” Brett Bremer) around and do it for these Gavette hit a three in the younger guys.” final half minute of the first first six and a half minutes FHE forced a few Trojan The TK boys’ varsity quarter to put TK in front of the second quarter. TK turnovers and eventually won a total of three game 13-10 and it was the start of led 28-20 at the half and evened the ballgame at combined the past two sea­ a 9-2 run for TK. The Trojan had a 37-27 advantage 42-42 with 1:45 to go on a sons, and now has five this defense held the Hawks to heading into the fourth triple by senior guard Drew winter matching the total just one field goal in the quarter. Patten. Gavette answered with quick charge to the basket at the other end for two points. VanHaitsma then forced a jump ball on the 4 defensive end that got the ball back for TK, leading to a bucket by Wiersma on a long pass over the FHE pressure. A steal that led to a lay-up for Wiersma upped J.7»Z4’ i TK’s lead back to six points in less than half a minute at 48-42. A steal by Ethan Bonnema, who had a fine a night taking care of the K • ’ a“ basketball for the Trojans 1 himself, finally sealed the I 1 -^2 win. . -.aa'. TK did a great job on the offensive glass in the early ■going to build its little lead. The Trojans needed to be good on the glass to 4’jh; ■”4 make up for some shooting woes inside. Garber said t his team counted close to 20 missed opportunities L near the basket. He was pleased with the way VanHaitsma, sophomore Lucas Ploeg and sophomore Trey Hilton worked t I i I I ft I 1 7 ft I I * I A I I 1. A 'O A . . «■^=' i Ifi ^1. « * rw?> * -ft I ft a F 1 •t r I • < x->i- M L A I ft - .I*-' ■ I, 5 » •» I r J 2^ «lft ' % ' 9 z I I « / 1 1, * ♦e^ * ;■■ V -■ t •'Hft ■i 'S t A « ft bt* •s* * sr* * 'r •• I r f r J I 4 /I t . r s A ▼ 1! • ft / 'll A « IV 1 I •k H '» ■ C a k •i '■ 4 1 ?J * 1) t I I ' 5 ' ft 4 £ ! '■1^ 1 < .r* V / * a ss ■A * (♦ ’iJr* * "1 * B^N*' f ailWfc A IW’llKSilSaE * %. * I t •. I I a' h«. k bffl! k I!, ibfl V '5^ 1 ♦ i 1 4U’ X vg : r3 -*r- • \ I' c s ■ ‘A I' ' ■T; syg V..I *4=' i . Sfe 1 .•-.A*"I'. l*SU4 I f i * 'il- * . "l-r . ' I '■ ■ .1. ' 4.* 4 ’- X I »•*« 01' •} 1.1 ■S’ V JL;!! I 1 it - f A I r .1 f 4 “-i • I'. VV f A A• Ki J—t ' '' . } 'jS 1 .1 ' 4^ i’’’ ■>* r *s 1 k '.Ji 1 ' ai* a . l^ I • sTV r ** •3 I I y-.*J A T \ ■- 1 1 • * ’ H -1 r 1 i J » I t. I f * 1 ~i9* 1 t .J I :iinr«T: FJ 4 Thornapple Kellogg senior guard Ethan Bonnema attacks the basket during the first half against visiting ^^stern in Middleville Friday, Jan. 5. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I boards especially. Hilton stepped up well when called up with Ploeg in some foul trouble. “We got physical with them, which is what we have kind of been struggling with in previous games,” VanHaitsma said. “I am glad they put me in the middle now and I can go grab some rebounds and kick it out to those fast guys and go make a play. I like playing like that.” “The defense looked a lot better,” Garber said. “That’s what won that game for us in the end.” The Trojans had a bit of a boost in the lane Friday with Hawk senior Adam Hardy unavailable to play. VanHaitsma said part of the idea of getting him into the middle defensively was to try and slow down Hardy. Garber said his guys got a shot of confidence from a six-point loss against a good Caledonia team before the break. The TK boys are are now 5-6 overall this season and 1-2 in the OK Gold Conference. Grand Rapids Catholic Central evened the TK boys’ record with a 68-48 win in Middleville Tuesday and then the the 0^ fJl£& COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES I * V > i ■jaiftwnv X I'*** (1(13^ r' Jan. 5, in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) t I I Trojans were bested 66-47 at Ottawa Hills Thursday evening in bailgame that was pushed up a day to avoid this weekend’s predieted winter weather. The Trojans will look to right the ship Tuesday when they go on the road again to take on South Christian. f r . f I 7 I < THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP BOARD 200 E. MAIN ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml 49333 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING MINUTES Monday, January 8, 2024 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p .m. with seven members present. Items approved: 1. Printed Agenda approved as presented. 2. Consent Agenda approved as amended with a correction to the EMS Millage allocation listed in the Special meeting Minutes of 12/28/2023. The allocation is 70% to Fire Department, 10 % to the Ambulance Services, and 20% to Capital improvement. 3. Approved motion to appoint Derek Dean to fill the township’s open position and reappoint Eric Schaefer to the entity representa­ tive position on TAPRC. 4. Approved motion to cancel the Braun ambulance. 5. Approved motion to hire one full-time firefighter/paramedic. 6. Approved motion to hire one part-time firefighter/EMT. 7. Approved motion to allow the EMS Committee and/or Per­ sonnel Committee to approve the hiring of replacement members as needed upon recommendation of the Fire Chief. Meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m. i 5 r J e I J I 4 I i<H « • -*■ * i. <5^ •* A w •A • ,4 {■5**1 *».... I, t V<t»l Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Trey Hilton puts a shot up in the crowded lane during his team’s OK Gold Conference win over visiting Forest Hills Eastern Friday, 5'0^ 1’ p..f II lOciBMtJin- tl • » *• ' ■ r 'iiiifc'sljj 4' 1 * • ■' TJ I 9k » ll -f- 3 » * i A Hi 4 B * *** t . 5 f j I A I• , i The minutes of the December 12, 2023 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on January 9, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villaQeofmiddleville.org. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Amy Brown. Approved by Township Supervisor, Eric Schaefer. Copies of the meeting minutes are available upon request from the Township Clerk or by visit­ ing our website at https://thornapple-twp.org/meeting-minutes/ Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. * * 2$1(»7 I A �1 I I p Page 14/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024 at Lamb tourney Scots score runner-up trophy b I I I overtime period, Turk managed a take down to win their conso­ lation final 11 -9. Turk got off the mat and 1 five wi± head coach sla Shawn Veitch in the comer, before Veitch grabbed him in a hug. After the handshakes, Turk’s teammates engulfed him. Turk got to the consolation final by pinning teammate Sean Sorrell who was wrestling for the Caledonia “Gold” team on the day. The Caledonia “Gold” took the runner-up trophy at the tournament with just one champion, Cayden Nostrant who took the 175-pound weight class. He went six minUtes to score all three of his victories, including a 10-3 decision over Ionia’s Landen Steffen in the championship round. He took a major deci­ sion, 12-4, over the host Saxons’ Matthew Shults in the semifinals following a 5-1 win over Otsego’s Vonte Boyce to start the day. The Saxon “Gold” team made it three L.H. Lamb Tournament championships in a row, since the funky Covidinfluenced 2020-21 season. Brett Bremer Sports Editor In Ann Arbor, the National Michigan Champion Wolverine football program > calls It an “enthusiasm unknown to mankind.” The Fighting Scots contin­ ue to grow that in Caledonia. The Caledonia varsity wrestling team finished in the runner-up spot at Hastings High School’s annual L.H. Lamb Tournament Saturday, Jan 6. Muhameed Turk wasn’t even competing for the Fighting Scot varsity team that earned a runner-up finish. He was competing for a Caledonia “Purple” B-team at the tourna­ ment. That didn’t keep the Fighting Scots from doing their best to carry him off the mat in celebration when he secured a third-place finish in the 165-pound weight class. Turk trailed Hastings’ Tyce Richardson 5-0 after the first period and was behind 9-4 in the third period before scoring a reversal and putting Richardson on his back late in the third period to even the bout at 9-9. Midway through a one-minute I » 1^ r. / r f > rM t J^* > * -■?» Ilk k fi .) I I *< * ■P I * ‘ , t:f fi- J T 1 ) / 0 T *0* iSg. if f nI k I f I ' ir'-^ ' 1 I I > ■? 1 I •WAI c / . 1 VflESTLW .i •4 c I b I 1 J I •;k ^Xbsi^ — t I r I •l 1 r S->’ I, I; •^1* I The Caledonia varsity wrestling team celebrates its Gold team’s runner-up finish Saturday, Jan. 6, a the annual L.H. Lamb Tournament at Hastings High School. There were eight Fighting Scot medalists overall from Caledonia “Gold” and “Purple” teams that competed. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 1 I t I with junior Troy Hokanson at 106 pounds, sophomore Colten Denton at 132, sophomore Aden Armstrong at 165 and junior Isaac Friddle at 215 finishing as individual champions. The Saxon team also had Colton Smith second at 138 <iW T r ■2 aT'f*- - V, 'Si 'j S J* r -.J I Ft< J >•z ^•<s I—». . . *1 ? If I • ,/VRESTlr • If- ; 4^. t 1 .-i' I?* J I', z w * > <rI . >♦1^ m } i : % . J? •v*!-,;;:. ■ — * f J- 1 i I ,■— 411 *- i I Ji i * r * * p • -»L A* fl «« *7^ E La ^2^ & > \ '■ CT. • A >i- * ♦Z* pounds, Keegan Sutfin second at 144 and Haiden Simmet second at 150. Quintin Schnere at 126 pounds, Ben Furrow at 157, Shults at 175, Kyle Echtinaw at 190 and Diego Coipel at 285 placed third, and Jordan Humphrey was fourth at 113 pounds. The Hastings “Blue” team also had three medalists on the day. Shults beat out teammate Reese Hammond to win the third place match at 175 pounds and Hammond’s “Blue” teammate Tyce Richardson also placed fourth. Preston Humphrey from the Blue” team was third at 150 pounds. The Hastings team won the tournament with 298 points ahead of Caledonia 165, Otsego 156.5, Ionia 150 Hastings “Blue” 90, Montabella 85.5, Bellevue 83.5, Forest Hills Eastern 75, Oscoda 73, Farwell 61, Caledonia “Purple” 49, Maple Valley 33.5, Kalkaska 19 and Morenci 12. All four Saxon champions pinned every opponent they faced. Coach Slaughter is happy with how things are coming together. The Saxons have only been beaten twice this season. Hokanson has settled into his 106 spot after being up a weight class early on and Coipel returned to the line-up at the opposite end (285) to strengthen the squad Saturday. Reeder had a similar path to his runner-up medal. He pinned two foes in the 157pound bracket before he was stuck by Farwell’s Kylar Mcaulay in the finals. Grace earned third with an 11-4 win over Bellevue’s LJ Pierman in the consolation match at 106 pounds. Ethan Carr, Dereck Sturman, Sorrell, Sam DeVries and Luke Kowatch all also had wins for the Fighting Scots at the tournament. The Fighting Scots had two other guys in the finals, Ethan Berends was second at 120 pounds and Koleson Reeder second at 157. Josh Grace placed third at 106, and James Carrow at 138 pounds, Ben Moss at 144 and Grady Nelson at 285 all placed fourth. Berends had two pins in the first period to open his day, but eventually was pinned himself by Oscoda’s Jhonas Williams in the third period of the 120pound final. V; / L I 1 I t I . 1 ’7k 4 __ J ■jfoappli i Per Bhatdi iWoli C jiJaa.S. < 4 '1 .I V 9 2 • •> • Sa J ♦V bt ^w..* J '.fl Caledonia’s Cayden Nostrant works on top of Ionia’s Landen Steffen during their 175-pound championship match Saturday at the L.H. Lamb Tournament hosted by Hastings High School. Nostrant scored a 10-3 win to take the flight championship. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 11058 M POSITION OPEN (2) ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) members attend meetings as scheduled, review meeting packets from the Village Zoning Administrator prior to each meeting, consider and act on variance and appeal applications, and interpret zoning ordinance text. ZBA meets on the third Thursday of January and July, and other times throughout the year on an as-needed basis. ZBA operates under the Zoning Enabling Act and the Open Meetings Act. A member of the ZBA must become familiar with these laws. Attendance at a training seminar can be paid for by the Village. For more information regarding Zoning Board of Appeals member duties and responsi­ bilities p ease contact the Village Manager at 269-795-3385 or stolsonburgciaviHageormiddleyilleorg. A Zoning Board of Appeals member must reside within the Village limits. ° There are currently TWO open positions: One position is a regular member with term expiring 04/30/2025 One position is an alternate member with term expiring 10/01/2026 (the alternate member attends meeting when a regular member is unable) 9" i < hl 3 v ’X 1 ■ r '.jj ’ lb'j ^i3 r-iC faa 1 “ I* B **^*««w» f B; t I t ■ I.« am^ r Bees '' T= > I « I i ,«•... j ^<1 BLif.-- . r ' I' I Caledonia 138-pounder James Carrow fights to keep control of Bellevue’s Jack Terpening during their 138-pound consolation final Saturday at Hastings’ annual L.H. Lamb Tournament. (Photo by Brett Bremer) •«« u •—J— 'J II I r* ■S •£ f• Cz' V -S-- - rT. if / AT J t •. * Qualifying individuals should submit a completed board application to: Craig Stolsonburg, Village Manager, Village of Middleville, PO Box 69, Middleville, MI 49333 9 i < •*ir i e ' I*«* • A ' A J ■<*■<’ t X f io.' https://www.villageofmiddlevill e. o r Ml iContent/uploads/2021/06/Applicati o n - fo r Boards-and-Commissions-fillable-2.pdf 1 * A57 The Fighting Scots’ Muhameed Turk holds Hastings’ Tvce Robin«inn on hie during the thW period of their 165.pound consolXn t^ Lamb Tournament at Hastings High School Saturday. Turk rallied , regulation and,then,won the third place medal in overtime. (Photo by Brett Bferaer" �/ I I * I 4 ■ JL Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024/Page 15 TK Streak hits seven before first defeat Brett Bremer streak to start the 2023-24 Sports Editor season rolling with a 52-37 Sophomore guard Teaiy win over visiting Forest Cross bellowed three Hills Eastern — a least for words as the Trojans one more night. Grand walked, and maybe skipped Rapids Catholic Central a little, back to their bench handed the TK ladies their following their OK Gold first defeat of the season in Conference opener in Grand Rapids Tuesday, Middleville Friday night, where the Cougars took a Jan. 5. 55-36 win. “Seven and O!” Cross hit a three-pointer The Thornapple Kellogg with 3:19 to go in the first varsity girls’ basketball quarter in Friday’s contest team kept its undefeated with Forest Hills Eastern '"n, £* .1^ I .tfp' * ft L 3fli I k s r* i'.IhB ( A 4 < IT. .1 JR s •V 9 * •A 1C 1 . * k t B Ik' L.' '■* I *( J I ” wJ**! |i« X % o •• u FA ST^ 51’5 r* J < ai I * k 4? 4 J . * *. V, ■' *•» * 9'41 T--..'-' V.'. f ■ '4 * 4* « V. 1 I »/ « A ■ -s I ^VA I F 0 I 1 I t J —< -5 • I* • <4 1 T u 5 a-- r> 11 I 'r • s s ■7. r •*Mk X. V **>« * M«&. • * » •• J ? • A Thornapple Kellogg guard Lydia Schilthroat works her way around Forest Hills Eastern’s Hannah Bhatnagar with the basketball during their OK Gold Conference opener in Middleville Friday, Jan. 5. (Photo by.Brett Bremer) J r i liKA/^ I i ' 1. J OS ■s 4 it SI '■? i r- W' -J .1 A’ f I IBiFi t * J •t v *■* a F .... I •Ji ...I '^14 41 . *? s •-I 1 >1 ,'k .' 1(« Ml iwfiji'tst J •4 * k. V* I '• ABB ;r*»' Ll a((W -I f.l SI S’* I. HlMNM’fvn' X ! a .:f ? 4 -u J' .A •• 1 r* « r; > it T )• ■ I' Ji , r r I i' a .1 ••J B I •" • I' ■4 “ .'B*" I * • —I Bw*. kF'*- 1 ' r 4 i Ji •k' ■ ’ • SbM r u < A ' 7-1 • Hannah Bhatnagar and senior forward Catherine IS.?’ Gi ■Jr Doherty each drilled two threes in the third quarter '.r?' Sr.* 4T‘ to spark the Hawks’ come­ Thornapple Kellogg’s Marlee Shuford (10) and back, after FHE didn’t hit a Emma Dykhouse (right) team up to try and take a shot more than three feet rebound away from Forest Hills Eastern’s Lily from the basket, other than Gleason during the Trojans’ 52-37 win over the a free throw, in the entire Hawks in the OK Gold Conference opener in first half. “They didn’t really take Middleville Friday night, Jan. 5. (Photo by Brett 1 ' Brerher) * ' c . »। > r. y i . • » * tnahy threfe^ in' thd first ‘ Wm ) ' •1 k' *' -d fc* 4 It* 5 I ■ •'“K .*».• I I t k I' s:' ■l .' •I !• ' >• . ^'5 1 I- J 1 f I I / »»u. r i ■ k »d 15(0’’®'’ I • -J X <* 'V • »•• 4 • J <• "A- *> 1 V* f k r ► • • 4* 7 Is* K'J' ftr i .4- - 'A .4* . *4- ■AJ ■ ■ > b4 J •v^ .A*' f: 4. '.1 #«' ■* i • • • .* Wr I t f, It 1 1 >'V 5* 9 *1 •4 Jt' cvSLr I- J a k' J I 4 Ib I 4 * ■^ f I t S A % > rk A .T J ff-l* 1 *' I 4 '4: ) •t •T • I 1, r •i- s> • ‘fn- ■ ? •5 <* •Sr 1. i-' i J *k < t 1 « 4 .5 1 Wk *r . I a: / I % > 34t / • *1 •'<1 , H r J ■ / ■ ws k ♦ 11 JL >■ E V . • *1 >• !• *'4; * 4 h. nkA* I . “A iSf//1 O'-l ft' 1 ir w r* V? t.' >...' 5 < I A* V ^09i*w.w X-. i 1 ■•-i» £ c < :;ss^ * n .Aktf-, > '--.isL r<_s)A --k .2*4 Thornapple Kellogg guard Jordan Pranger gets a shot over Forest Hills Easterns Lily Gleason (20) and Catherine Doherty (31) during the Trojans’ OK Gold Conference win over the visiting Hawks Friday, Jan. 5. (Photo by Brett Bremer) half. I knew that [Doherty] and [Bhatnagar] were their shooters,” James said. “We still talked about them at halftime and said that they could get hot. I’ve played against them for years, and that little point guard she’s left-handed, I knew she could, but she wasn’t. We were focused on Gleason . she was just getting too much work down at the basket, but we just had to protect the paint, know where she is at, communi­ cate it through, but don’t give her too much attention. Contest, but don’t over-extend to those threes. Obviously, in that second half they made some, but we weathered that storm. That percentage that they were shooting them couldn’t stay where it was.” The Trojans’ pressure defense created turnovers throughout the night and the TK ladies more than • f matched the Hawks’ physi- Bengals in Middleville cality. While the Trojans Thursday night, Jan. 11, in a are undefeated, the 0-7 ballgame moved up a day to Hawks are still working for avoid this weekend’s pretheir first win of the season. dieted winter storm. The Catholic Central The Trojans will play Cougars got off to a 2-4 again at home Tuesday, start to the season in Jan. 16, against South December, but three of Christian. those losses were against teams ranked in the top five in the state in Division 2 in the first BCAM rankings of the season (Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard, ■41 Chelsea and West Catholic) and the fourth was against a tjs kee# MD Igi 5-1 East Kentwood team. date until thej The win over TK Tuesday moved the nf&w edit te Cougars’ to 2-0 in the OK Gold. They opened conferIS Brintejj ence play with a 50-40 win at South Christian last Friday while the TK girls were knocking off FHE. The Trojans are now 8-1 overall this season and 2-1 in the OK Gold Conference 1 thanks to a bounce-back win over the Ottawa Hills Air w : Wfesrttr •w* * • h; VT H t > 4 1 1 4A ** ■ .'* « * ■ I *4 I 8 4eA.... I “ •> < 211057 PUBLIC NOTICE - SPECIAL PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF CALEDONIA A Special Public Hearing will be held for the Village of Caledonia Village Council on Monday, January 22, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Village of Caledonia Hall located at 250 S. Maple St. SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. I** Gi. 1^1 J. * .. b" . WwV-' .iw- iii- ru 4 I ’•-•jit A r *• j 99 jl. I*'’’’5 ? • 1 to put the TK ladies in front 7-4 over the Hawks, and then used her speed in transition and occasionally in the half-court sets to finish with a game-high 21 points. She is so fast, and she IS smart. She communi­ cates through. She is a very good leader,” TK head coach Brandi James said of Cross. She understands what I am asking her to do, and her basketball IQ is very high. She makes good decisions. She’ll miss a couple bunnies because she is going too fast, and things like that, but she doesn’t get in her own head. She is mentally tough and she knows what I am asking. She knows what I am asking not only of her, but of other people. She is a good vocal leader to kind of hold her teammates accountable. The TK ladies led by 15 points at the half, saw their lead whittled down to three points in the sec­ ond half as the Hawks momentarily found their outside shooting touch, and then pushed their lead back up to 15 by the end of the evening. Junior guard Lydia Schilthroat attacked the basket for nine points for TK and junior guard Emma Geukes finished with eight points. The defense of freshman Reece Ritsema and sophomore McKenna Hoebeke was key in the paint in the second half against FHE junior center Lily Gleason, who led her team with 14 points. Gleason scored in the paint early in the fourth quarter to cut the TK lead to 38-35, but TK answered with a three from Geukes and the two Trojan under­ classmen worked to keep a body on Gleason the rest of the night in a diamondand-one defense. “Reece, as a freshman. did a fantastic job,” coach James said. and so did McKenna Hoebeke. I was just trying to keep them fresh and keep them clean. I know that Gleason is a very physical player, and we were going to have to play clean and not let that get in our head.” In the end, the TK coach was I very impressed with her girls’ poise and perfor­ mance there in the paint. Senior point guard < . I I I J r • / < U l ft. I t * I I k I I The purpose of the public hearing will be to give members of the community an opportunity to express opinions, ask questions and discuss all aspects of the Village of Caledonia & Caledonia Township 2024-2028 Five Year Park & Recreation Plan. Interested persons may attend the public hearing. Written comments prior to this meeting may be addressed to Jeffrey D. Thornton, Village Manager, at the address as noted above. Jeffrey P, .Tliornton, Vil eClerli. i t t i . i »* • i 4 t 4 t 4 9 . t • « < I f .4 9 r I I I t I I I �Page 16/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 13, 2024 Growing CLS team gets first MISCA cut of year r Brett Bremer Sports Editor The fingers are crossed. The Calcdonia/Lowell/ South Christian varsity boys’ swimming and diving team is hoping construction goes well and it will be able to practice and compete in the new Caledonia Community Schools pool next winter. If the program takes another leap between now and then like the one it is taking at the moment, the Vikings will be in great shape. The CLS boys opened the OK Red Conference season Thursday at Grandville High School with a 195-102 loss to the host Bulldogs. But at this point, the Vikings are still chasing the clock more than they’re chasing opponenls according to head coach Todd DeJong who is in his second season leading the program. Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to who they are today. DeJong said Thursday night, “They are living up to it every single meet. Almost every kid improves their time every meet. To me, that is what we’re looking for. We want the improvement. I am working them hard, and so if they’re improving with that it is a good sign.” I i « I I 1 4 I 4 I I I I I I f The CLS team met a Interscholastic Michigan Coaches Swimming Association meet qualifying time for the first time this season as senior Luke DeJager won the 100-yard butterfly in the meet with the Bulldogs. He won that race in 58.50 seconds. DeJager also placed third in the 100-yard backstroke with a time of I minute 3.39 seconds and was a part of teams that took the first place points in the 200-yard medley relay and the 400-yard freestyle relay for the CLS team. Freshmen Brett DeJager, Nolan Fitzgerald and Noah Miller teamed with Luke to take the first place spot in the 400-yard freestyle with a time of 4:06.39. Doug Gaylord teamed with Fitzgerald, and Luke and Brett DeJager to place first in the 200-yard medley relay in 2:01.65. The Bulldogs did have fast exhibition teams in those two relay races, and the Grandville team of Jacob Light, Isaac Renkema, James Parker Jr., and Ty VanderWall won the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:44.79. “Last year we had seven swimmers returning. This year we have 18 swimmers,” DeJong said. “If we can •a 12 J-*' * . I - •. *^..41 1 7 T I ■ ■i^“ **► > X* r. ' >3aSi I* <> iA-* .V Mr*. '4 ft a. I* i:L •r •> '’•r 1 ■4 * •T* 3^ 4 it . !-•••: s-* .JEW & .ft* K »A *•< ♦ 4 ■I 4 I r *x» * •? T e^ > f Fs:. ’ I I Ar > s . • 4 -4 •^s> ■1^“ «u ''iiT * w k 1 .•i’ 1 *to w 4* 'ft.-;’^**i* ' •• ft «• e ■» ' < •s A 1 L^r^- I « . A A I '’.*!■ I* AA «! JF" «, I » V *^h> L. **' > * ii » w «* AJ 4 i A I A" b-. JV 4^ - ■ -4^ ■ . - . ft 11* ■; It* f* » > _____ » — J >• 'VW h^“ I I ^e X* I ><" h* I . b* e I % •rs *1- = •.. M > < .at 4j e4* »<• *•. -*-■ f7 % t.t I Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian senior Luke DeJager races to a victory in the 100-yard butterfly with a MISCA qualifying time of 58.50 seconds at Grandville High School Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) increase by that much next year, we’ll be in a good posi­ tion. Our hope is to keep growing every year. I look at Grandville, and I think they’re a good program to watch. 37 swimmers, that sets the standard for us to say that is what we’re going for. Next year my goal is 30 swimmers, and after that we’ll be next to them.” The Viking team didn’t have a diver last winter, so that 500 freestyle for the Vikings. Gaylord cut his PR by about a minute to place sixth in that race. Other guys scoring in indi­ vidual races for the Vikings were Coen Crocker, Mason Morrell, Ruben Baker, Parmeet Kahlon, Sam Lusaya and Jonah Riordan. The CLS team also com­ peted Tuesday, falling 10672 in a non-conference dual with Forest Hills Central. at the end of the night. With limited numbers, those back-to-back swims happen here and there for the Vikings. Brett DeJager. had a big swim for the CLS team in the 100-yard freestyle, placing third in 55.99. Sophomore Anders Foerch led the CLS team in the 500-yard free­ style with a third-place time of 6:14.70 and Doug Gaylord had a big improvement in coach DeJong was happy to welcome Miller. Miller was fourth behind three Grandville divers with a score of 125.10. Fitzgerald had a couple big individual races for the CLS team. He was second in the 200-yard individual med­ ley with a time of 2:23.47 and fourth in the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:14.93. He followed that breaststroke up with a quick 100 as part of the 400-yard freestyle relay -i* z 1 ft •l » •*. Al •: r XIJ •r Sbu’#* s * 4 it' t* fl*: 1. *-«k/ j r jS_ I— I. •l ’• J* 4S’"-, *• *♦ 1 >: *4* a • / ’•AjJ 7*- 0‘ ■ Av . I 1 1 I Dr. Joshua Koenig, Primary Care *3------ •'1 ^4*’ . •v’’ ' A* 'c & f. ? s’V > • * I J. 2ft’'. •< q* 9 rA«u‘ * -I*"" /. -ft- ..fe*' ? A* n ^4* 1 I A' J • |T P *■ I ft b M- I • r- f r ♦ ,1 w** L ? ■41' •< r 9 r4^ ’ ’a f I < i ’ A JI •*. k_ « V«I ?= I <- •• •• • J ft. ■v; > I I 4 ♦1 4 7«4r J * • * • W. >< 4<;* > Jz *« l4 " ' .4 < I •:r*M t > • t > t I I* ? . Xi': •b • M •? t, ■ 'n* s .7^ .1 ! I I —-V V r t 5<L-.. 1 •< 4 ft - •i Al* •. i^d e I > i - Primary care appointments available in Caledonia I * * 'ft ----- • « «« sw ft::. p/i------ I L > > ■s, *■ . — ; . T—-—e — J in ♦ S,— ^9*— i •i-n * 7k< >«■ O Trinity Health Medical Group Viking freshman Nolan Fitzgerald works his way to a fourth-place finish in the 100-yard breaststroke Thursday during his team’s OK Red Conference dual at Grandville High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 4 « Good health starts with the right relationship. When it's time to plan your annual physical, or when there's a health issue you didn t plan for, Trinity Health primary care providers are here for you with convenient care close to home. I J ■I M Al Ri J >r vC V t ______________ w — T»s ■' r 74 ^■B0TV_^= fl 5^ . . J ■J * ft* * fe 4 I - V > Ki . r 'Jr; ,v £ I r* Mr* r I 7" •. I 4*. -- 9 • •i -. u W' I > SCHEDULE ONLINE .< - = III f •. * kT «»;■ $ > ■ ■^4 •i >• -’4; f « J ■A^'^-r’ - J •■-v r s ■•#1 T: r; . J' x** •-b k t 1 s I ____ :__ _ «. <■ I ; 1*“' '.’T •“J*r '• •» -Iter ;• ' . I ■ •< »** ft r I rp“ W* '&* ‘g. ‘i rF. _ .’7i^ '’Ty” I —-r. u * 4Mb I h ,k 1 t r-* srf? ■ ■> ' I 1 • t 1 * * ’ I . “s. >» I. • I I V. * .•s_^ . . B** • 4 V *w I .-Mtir We See All of You™ < ** J A*' -4^ I . t' h >1 ft* >.. . '^**4 * .^o-ch Grandville Bulldogs a, Grandville High School Thu'rSaMPhotoTy bX^’ '4*1 H ■4I foJ I'. 4 5 I J � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-01-20.pdf a4fb1b9e7f2c18ff80e1e3b63e68dff0 PDF Text Text I * » 4 / A J I > * »**• I I I Vs 4I V ?• 4 - Hastings Public USa^ _ 4 . ■• > >>• 1- Street 9053 • A •i ? •.T < > r a I A 1 A ana News t 1 I I 4 i I t I rtefib tu J ■—— ^1 I Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville No. 3/ January 20, 2024 I I i I and Caledonia Areas I I I I Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. ♦ 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 I 146th year - r* 1 *s I 1 McCarthy earns u h igh ly effective ” rating from TK school board t < II ma. •............ - ■__ a_ A < F > I » 7» ■ ft ♦ ’S ** * / ' Wb- r ■t . . .S k >*-1 ..A r •S ■''£i' I kV» <4 4 FTsA- • ?. f ♦ ■^wr- I •sf 1 i k I I I I ir r ‘ I I > '.a • ri**?’ .•ti I 4 K > 4 • •• B •V u r A.-i^ fibs.'';*. L .K■ . > V M* J * s A* T * —y ' X I TH.- I I > i J' h A I 4 fiFn » 4.. < t .1 . n ih ■ I n Large snow piles are found throughout the main An artificial snowman made out of tires that sits drag of the Village of Caledonia after a recent winter along Main Street in Caledonia looked a little more Storm. authentic this week as a recent winter storm dumped roughly a foot of snow on the local area throughout several days. (Photos by Jayson Bussa) SNOWED IN; Disruptive winter storm subsides as warm-up heads this way Jayson Bussa Editor Local residents spent much of this week digging out from a winter storm that dumped double-digit snow accumulations throughout much of West Michigan. After back-to-back. pounding snow storms last weekend, ±e storm ushered in sub-zero temperatures and heavy winds that caused power outages throughout the Middleville and Caledonia areas. The storm was enough to cancel classes at Thomapple Kellogg schools for nearly a whole week as the district called off school last Friday to brace for the storm and then kept its doors closed Monday trough Wednesday of this week. Caledonia Community Schools also had multiple snow days. But, a warm-up is on the way with forecasts calling for temperatures that will creep near 40 degrees next week. According to climatologi­ cal data collected by a regional National Weather Service location in Hastings, the immediate area received about 10 inches of snow over 48 hours of the storm, as con­ tinued flurries added to the total in the ensuing days. Greg Chandler Staff Writer Two years into his tenure as of superintendent Thornapple Kellogg Schools, Craig McCarthy is getting high marks for his performance from the dis­ trict’s Board of Education. McCarthy received a rat­ ing of “highly effective” from the board in his per­ formance evaluation, which was released publicly this week. He received an aver­ age score of 3.79 on a fourpoint scale from the sev­ en-member school board. The board met in closed session Dec. 13 to review McCarthy’s performance. “The Thomapple Kellogg Board of Education respects how Mr. McCarthy inspires his staff in leading by exam­ ple,” President Matt Powers said at Monday’s school board meeting. “We deeply appreciate the organizational structure that Mr. McCarthy has established at TK schools. He is a mas­ ter of learning from the past, living in the present, and looking forward to the future. The Thomapple Kellogg Board of Education enjoys working with Mr. McCarthy and his team of educators for the benefit of our students and communi­ ty” McCarthy became TK superintendent in January 2022 after serving in an interim capacity for four months following the resignation of previous Superintendent Dan Remenap. Prior to taking the interim superintendent role, McCarthy had served as assistant superintendent at TK for three years. McCarthy’s evaluation took into account student growth data, as well other factors such as governance I I I i 1 1 i 1 I I I i t 1 r > i I I 1 I I I I 1 I I I I I I 1 I • I I 1 f I I See MCCARTHY, pa^ 3 I I t i I 1 See STORM, page 2 I k I I Caledonia Twp. to continue to seek back taxes from company that closed local facility Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Township isn’t changing its mind on col­ lecting back taxes from a company that received tax breaks with the promise of creating jobs, only to have the company leave town less than five years later. The township board Wednesday voted unani­ mously to continue to pur­ sue what’s called a “claw­ back” procedure against which Inc., Function received two industrial facilities tax abatements in December 2018 for its facil­ ity at 6610 Patterson Ave. SE, but then closed its doors lasfiSiimmer to consolidate in operations its Pennsylvania. about issue is At $150,000 in back taxes the township says Function Inc. owes that was under two an IFT tax breaks 11-year, 50 percent abate­ ment on real property taxes and an eight-year, 50 per­ cent break on personal property taxes, both of which date back to 2019. The company offered to pay back 10 percent of the amount it owed. Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison said. Function Inc. is a beauty supply company that operan of out ated 185,000-square-foot builj- ing it leased at the Patterson Avenue location. When the company came before the township to request the tax break in 2018, it promised to create 240 jobs within Townsljip, two , years. » itf I 71 ib .----------- -- ... ' *MTTV<W ir e r I '« T It 4 k. I I » t ) I I k 1 I * •» I I 3 • TK school board approves security upgrades « I ) • Caledonia Township board updates master plan I .it « • Justin Amash considers a bid for United States Senate 4 s • Caledonia Twp. discusses water system connection with Grand Rapids • Caledonia grapplers earn narrow O-K Red victory over Panthers • • I < 1 » t I 1 t h k I 4 f A I » 1* < I I / I k ( r i 1 » 1 I I k • I f 4 * I I t 1 ' I r ‘ ( 1 I.' I » 1 € * I ( •‘I >• i I V ( I I I I I I t |. ■ • 1 I i I T k I I ISBWE IN V 4 I 4 ;i See BACK TAXES, page 2 » rr 4 W.II ■■irtw—f Thornapple Kellogg Schools Board of Education President Matt Powers (left) discusses the board’s evaluation of TK Superintendent Craig McCarthy (right) at Monday night’s board meeting. (Photo by Greg Chandler) Trustee Greg Zoller said at in meeting board a September of last year. The company had only 68 employees at the local facil- * i I I I ( ,» f 4 I I (4 1 4 J 4 4 I 1 I I I I 4 They made promises. We had an agreement, and they didn’t keep their end. I believe it’s appropriate for the clawback. We’ve been very generous. We give these (abatements), historically they’re there for the asking. But I do think in return for that, we want them to keep their promise, and that didn’t occur here.” — Bryan Harrison, Supervisor, Caledonia Township « I A’ I » I �< I 1 < 5 t ♦ 1 i Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20,2024 STORM, continued from page 1 reported that the village Director Jake Welch wrote county roa s. u Almost all of that snow used about 150 tons of road in an e-mail to the San and just clearing e sn Sun — a wet, heavy variety — salt and logged 75 hours of News on Tuesday. th® roads that c^ws fell on Friday, Jan. 12 and overtime during the storm “ We have run crews deal with from chalSaturday, Jan. 13 before frigid temperatures moved in order to keep up. every One of t e more every day day since since Friday Friday and and in and hovered over the “ chai-­ currently currently are are placing placing aa lenging issues we “It It was was aa bit bit of of aa chal in the area for most of the week. lenging lenging event event based based on on the the heavier sand mix with a were down trees The storm kept local and rain-snow mix late last small amount of of saltsalt to give small amount to give roadway due to t e county road crews busy week leading into the event traction traction for for drivers drivers on on the the winds and previous y w ; , , 1 . - / . ____ .n nr^ndifions.” Wclch WTOtC. forecasted conditions, ......... until the- -------... over last weekend and into and the storm beginning roads with warmer temps and wet slight warm-up near the end “ Our crews are responsi e this week. for moving them out of the Alec Belson, director of heavy snow late in the day of the week.” public works for the Village on Friday and then transiWelch wrote in his email traveled portion o t eroa of Middleville said that he tioning to lighter blowy that expected Thursday and way. Those crews are t e and his crews didn’t run snow by the end of the Friday that BCRC crews same crews that plow t e snow by the end of the into any specific issues event, ” Barry County Road would be able to bum the roads, so it became a litt e event,” Barry County Road within the village. He Commission ** --------------------HtFnrnlt tn off manaee with to manage e agency Managing remainder of the snow difficult early plowing start times, a skeleton night plow crew and then tree calls which especially Friday night kept a few crew members up most of the night.” Welch went on to say that everything went well and that “we kept everyone as rested as possible.” As of Tuesday morning of this week, the road com­ mission had put in 897.75 snow into man-hours removal and 57.5 man­ hours into tree removal. had used 1,092.6 cubic yards of varying mixes of sand to salt and used 5,996.2 gallons of fuel, Welch wrote in the email. “I’m impressed __ not surprised at how efficient and effective our field crews worked through the event and how clutch our mechanics were keeping all of our trucks and equipment on the road and running,” Welch wrote. writer Staff Qreg Chandler contributed to Z/z/5 story I I / 2 r .I* BACK MXES, continued from page 1 - TK school board approves security upgrades, parking lot improvements Greg Chandler Staff Writer Thornapple Kellogg Schools are taking steps to upgrade the security of their buildings and classrooms within each building. The district’s Board of Education Monday approved replacing its access control systems across the entire district, approving a contract with Moss Telecommunications in the amount of $292,410. “The access control system is central to many of our physical security protection measures at TK as it allows us to schedule locking and unlocking of doors, provides us with secured vestibules for each building, and controls the lockdowns in each building, (such as) locking doors, sending alerts,” TK Technology Director John Dombrowski wrote in a memo to the .♦ - t V - A' V / 4k rt" s r Pl spsr' ' .49 .1 V' ti. * J• J♦ I- "W * A w A I* 4^ 941 k.’ r school An updated photo of the Thornapple school board, including (front row, left to right) David Smith, Brenda Hess (secretary), Krissy Hooson (vice president), (back row, left to right) Tyler Wenger, Jeff Dickman, Derrick Brock (treasur­ er) and Matt Powers (president). (Photo provided) Thomapple Kellogg High School and later the middle school. Because bids for the proj­ ect came in well under bud­ get, the district was able to add more work to the con­ tract, most notably construction of a parking lot by the termis courts, LaHaie said. “It’ll be useful for base­ ball games, softball games, even football games. You guys see all the parking that takes place on the grass ... It won’t be able to relieve all of (the congestion), but it’ll at least be a nice addition out there,” he said. Black Gold Transport of Dorr was awarded the contract for the asphalt work after submitting the low bid of $1,722,280. Top Grade Site Management of Hamilton will perform earthwork and milling after being awarded that contract at $517,170. X-Treme Demolition of Grand Rapids bid $72,400 for the demolition of the Learning Center, LaHaie said. The district had $3,711,127 of funds remain­ ing from the $42.8 million bond issue before the con tracts on the bid package were approved, LaHaie said. ““This This has has been been a crazy ing of parking lots as well as the demolition of the district’s oldest building, the former Learning Center that used to house the district’s preschool and child care programs. The total cost of the three bids came in at $3,208,075, LaHaie said. “We’re going to touch the parking lots of every building this coming summer,” LaHaie told the board. “It’s going to be extremely busy. time. If you think about ___________ on a A » L .. ... Funding for the new access control system will come out from a state grant program known as Section 97 that provides funding for school districts to upgrade their safety and security sys­ tems. TK received $368,375 in grant funds through Section 97 last year. Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie said. Remaining Section 97 grant funds will be used for security camera upgrades and door door boots boots for for class class-­ and rooms, said. LaHaie said. rooms, LaHaie Moss TelecommuniMoss Telecommunications’’ bid bid for for the the contract contract cations came in more than $80,000 under underaabid bidfrom fromaacompelcompet­ ing ingcontractor, contractor,LaHaie LaHaiesaid. said. In Inother otherbusiness businessMonday, Monday, the school board approved the the final final major major bid bid package package from the November 2019 bond issue - involving pav- school board. The district’s current access control system was installed in 2008, and has been added to, upgraded and expanded since then. Dombrowski wrote in the memo. “The goal of this project is to improve the physical security posture at TK by migrating to more user-friendly software. upgrading all of our door hardware, centralizing all wiringand anddoor doorpower powersupsupwiring plies, installing door contract closure alarms on all external doors, upgrading the secured vestibules in every everybuilding, building,and andintegralintegrat­ ing ing our our security security cameras, cameras, public address systems and access control,” Dombrowski wrote. “We are also taking this opportunity to add access control card readers to various internal and external doors.” confident that we j— . d all the fluctuations and supply chain (issues) and costs, we really have done what is can get the work done." The former Learning Center dates back to 1938. It is part of what was once promised (with the bond issue),” he said. f?'.1 « Alterations I / f ckmrts I a i a» A I 1 I . I r t I > 1 ♦ I 269-381-2300 ) I 'Cfl •k .6 1 ;■» .T ► 1 —al I » I ‘ < r I 1 V « I I it, I' t I BSEDraRTS 9.t * USEB TIRES i 9 i J ftZO I J? 3*^e**” 4 J ■t < ;'V 4 * f 1 •k •a ( 1 W7V k .T AL'J even ma e a decision on iQrgiying a portion of the 4 2 « •J’ _ : -_z. k' « I * A 1 I.-’ ‘s' t J k a' 8SEB PMTS • nCK UPS • ME TMS. VANS * SWrs > JEEPS * M4S .i 269-945-5259 « i Full SERVICE & YOU PUll IT Alterations^ Zippers, Repairs Hems ”•S.: V 1 J V. Middleville areas r ** I ’■Ji' LIGHT Serving Hastings and V ft - By Karen •A tr * * * te < * k I 1 9 I 1 ity when it closed down. An attorney representing Function Inc., Jared Belka from the Grand Rapids office of Warner Norcross & Judd, appealed to the board to reconsider the clawback procedure, saying economic conditions led to the decision to close the Caledonia Township facili­ ty, and that the company did everything in its power to help displaced employees find new jobs. “They were forced to shut down their manufac­ turing operations here in the township, and they were forced to consolidate them at a facility that they own in Pennsylvania,” Belka told the board. “It was not an easy decision for them. They love the community, they love the workforce. In a perfect world, they’d still be operating in that facili­ ty.” Function Inc. hosted two Michigan WORKS job fair events for displaced employees, and all but one employee found immediate replacement employment. with the one remaining employee choosing to retire. Ten employees still work for the company locally, but are doing so remotely, Belka said. “They also provided gen­ erous compensation pack­ ages to their employees, severance packages any­ where from four to six weeks, depending on the positions,” Belka said. No one from Function Inc. was present for Wednesday’s meeting. But Harrison wac was unmoved by Belka’s appeal, saying “a deal is a deal.” “They made promises. We had an agreement, and they didn’t keep their end. I believe it’s appropriate for the clawback,” Harrison said. ‘‘We’ve been very generous. We give these (abatements), historically they’re there for the asking. But I do think in return for that, we want them to keep . . . promise, and that 1 n t occur here. p. Township Treasurer tchard Robertson onesquesHoned whether the whether Township Board should « A R 4 • . I I t « • I ( I 4 « back taxes without input from Caledonia Community Schools and other taxing entities, such as Kent County. “Is it really up to us to say, ‘we’ll give you relief’ without having a conversa­ tion with the other taxing entities?” Robertson said. “We may say, ‘we’re not giving up much, we’re fine with it,’ but maybe the county or somebody else (says) ‘wait a minute. you’re giving back money,’ so do we have to engage with these people and say ‘this is what we’re intend­ ing to do, would you care to comment on that?’ especial­ ly if we’re going to dis­ count it a lot.” “The thing about IFTs that startles me is we’re the lowest man on the (tax rev­ enue) totem pole, but yet we get to decide, we don’t even have to ask the others, ‘are you okay with this?’ We just do it,” Robertson added. For the 2022 tax year. Function Inc. paid $117,901 in property taxes to the township, but avoided paying additional taxes of $92,248 as a result of the two tax abatements, accord­ ing to a memo from Henry to the board last fall. Those amoimts include taxes to all taxing entities, including Caledonia schools and Kent County. An invoice seeking the back taxes was sent to the company in November of last year, Township year, Manager Alison Nugent said. jije township will ask the school district and county to assist with pay ing legal fees in connec­ tion with pursuing the procedure, clawback Harrison said, The remainder of the Function Inc. abatements have been transferred to Action Packaging, doing business as Opus Packaging — West Michigan. The board approved the transfer Sept. 6 of last year, with the company promising to employ 150 workers and invest $9 million into the Patterson Avenue facility. The abatement will remain in effect through the end of 2030. , A • t 1 V I I * t * r* , I M •( « I ■ 1 4 j J i 1I & Av® 9 I j ' bisi'lb j lilJjK i Ptweis b 'cnedsiin Grt| j BiilKj ! [tastia b VB « » I 1 I teferHie math tmsai) ’f£4cai( a 4® Ml yl' eiva ««> "Oil �IS, Jis s S’. I. Board approves Caledonia Twp. master plan update Greg Chandler I. •'1I Hjll. b. I h I - Belt 4 *? 0 ► alt. * s' "111 i 'ees that called for future redevel­ farmer’s door and saying, ‘hey, Staff Writer opment into a mix of land uses I could put a strip mall up here The Caledonia Township that included single family and and you can still farm the back Board Wednesday unanimous- multi-family residential, com­ forty (acres).’ 1 think taking that ly approved an updated docu­ mercial and green space. away, it provides some level of ment designed to plan future However, that concept relief from the tension of devel­ development and land use in received considerable pushopment pressure on our current the township. back at that open house, which and active farms.” Acting upon the recommen­ led planning commissioners to Some of the guiding princi­ dation of the Township scale back the plan to preserve ples for the subarea, according Planning Commission, the the land south of 92nd Street to the master plan document, board approved the updated as farmland. include: township master plan and “Unlike factories, if we said — The township recognizes future land use map. The plan growing industrial is our priorthe importance of the rural was last updated in 2018. ity, we can decide where facto- character along the east side of The document went through ries go,” Township Supervisor M-37, south of Cherry considerable changes before Biyan Harrison said. But Meadows Drive. adoption, most notably an farms we can say we want — As the Grand Rapids update to what is referred to as the farms to be out on metro area continues to grow, the “M-37 subarea” a 790 Whitneyville Avenue, but our growth along the M-37 corri­ acre area of farmland on the farmers have decided they’re dor is inevitable. east side of M-37 between on (M-37). — The township wishes to Cherry Meadow Business “So at least for the time be proactive instead of reac­ Park and 100th Avenue. The being, if we want to preserve tive to development proposals township held an open house farming, I think taking the along the corridor. last spring to invite residents commercial zoning off, it takes — The township prefers to to give their input on a concept off a developer knocking on the guide growth where there are public water and sanitary sewer systems in place. The updated master plan includes the idea of future “neighboring commercial” zoning districts that could develop, scattered around the township. It also removed ref­ erences to light industrial uses, such as equipment rentals and storage units, along the area designed as “corridor com­ mercial” along M-37 that also includes Kraft Avenue and 84th Street. The master plan update went through a required 42-day public comment period where the document was sent to neighboring municipalities, utility companies and Gerald R. Ford International Airport. No comments were received during that period and no com­ ments were received on the plan during a recent Planning Commission public hearing. to ac- TK board picks officers, sets committee assignments ■ m ere eu ■ The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20, 2024/ Page 3 MCCARTHY, continued from page 1 and community relations, staff relations, business and finance, instructional leadership and progress toward district-wide goals. Student growth data deter­ mined 40 percent McCarthy's evaluation score and the other factors the remaining 60 percent, the board said in a state­ ment emailed to the Sun and News. In the evaluation, board members praised McCarthy for making “a marked effort to increase his presence in the community” through visiting schools to meet with staff and students, attending school events and attending local government meetings. They also cited McCarthy’s work in collab­ orating with school admin­ istrators to bring in inter­ ventionists to support learn­ ing and dedicating time to develop professional learn­ ing communities among staff. “The Board was impressed with Mr. McCarthy’s devel­ opment and support of future educators,” the board said in a statement. ill I- 5 WjUj. aifal fir tr. * fmciwkjs;. I iipiag tomif b iif Jii: Staff Writer The Thomapple Kellogg Board of Education has cho­ sen to keep its president and vice president on board for a third consecutive year. The board on Monday night voted to retain Matthew Powers as president and Krissy Hooson as vice presi­ dent, roles that they have held since January 2022. Powers has been on the school board since January 2019 while Hooson has served since July 2021. The board filled out its slate of officers for the year by choosing Derrick Brock to serve as treasurer and Brenda Hess to serve as sec­ retary. Both were elected to the school board in November 2022. The board also finalized its committee assignments at its meeting Monday night. Tyler Wenger will chair the Construction Committee, where he’ll be joined by Hooson and Brock with newly-appointed board member Jeff Dickman serving as the alternate. Brock will chair the Finance Committee, with Dickman and David Smith also serving on the commit­ tee. Hess will be the alter­ nate. The Personnel Committee will be chaired by Hooson, joined by Powers and Hess with Brock as the alternate. Hess will chair the Policy Committee, while Smith and Dickman will serve with her. Hooson is the alternate. Powers will chair the Legislative/Advocacy Committee, where he will be The student growth por­ tion of McCarthy’s evalua­ tion was based on the dis­ trict's performance on stan­ dardized tests such as the Scholastic Aptitude Test/ Preliminary SAT, the Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP) and Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) during the 202223 school year, according to the board. Before coming to TK, McCarthy spent 14 years as a business service technologies teacher at the Kent Career Technical Center, nine years as assistant superintendent at Northview Public Schools in suburban Grand Rapids and director of operations for Cadillac Area Schools. He holds an associate’s degree from Grand Rapids Community College, a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Michigan State University, secondary teaching and vocational teaching certifi­ cates from Aquinas College and a master’s degree from Western Michigan University. » 5 I I II I I -ThornapplecOOH E Y E C A R E I Greg Chandler I joined by Wenger and Dickman. Smith will be the alternate. Wenger will be the board representative on the Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission. Hess and Smith will serve as the board’s representatives on the district’s School Improvement Committee with Wenger as the alternate. Powers and Hooson will be the board reps on the district’s Reproductive Health Committee, with Powers chairing that group. Brock will be an alternate. ! I 1 “Building Community Through Excellent Core” 4624 N. M-37 Hwy. Ste E, Middleville, Ml thornaDPleevecare.com • 269-213-8108 1 I J I ALTO AMERICAN LEGION post 52s' I I I Friday, Jan. 26 5:00-7:30 p.m. I k I STEAK public r DINNER \Ne\co’^® * ) 1 k r' 4 ** *11 1 1 V Potato, veggie and roll 4 iHtnitasi No Sunday Breakfast njtiiffia ihMs TKHS eyes adding plant science course I 6056 LINFIELD. ALTO, MICHIGAN • 868-6490 I I I 1I niut otiB: Cb. V Greg Chandler 111 Atinsss ctlffinf djhif I r 1 fH •' I ilyloisS' mil ft I Iflui#' , r ion M Pfl!^ 51 iS’- I A ir I J Staff Writer Thomapple Kellogg High School is looking to add a plant science class to its agri­ science curriculum. Alyssa Hamlin, who took over as the school’s agricul­ ture, food and natural resourc­ es teacher as well as coordina­ tor for the school’s FFA pro­ gram at the start of the school year, outlined the proposed course at Monday’s TK Board of Education meeting. “We ideally want a four-year pathway for students to travel through, as they progress through the program,” Hamlin told the board. “Currently, we have (agricultural biology) as their starting piece, and then right now we have animal sci­ ence in the second year. So I started to ... think about what I could add for next year to con­ tinue that growth.” Hamlin pitched the plant science course idea to an advisoiy committee and was encouraged to pursue getting the course added. Finding the right instructional material proved to be a little challeng­ ing. But then Hamlin found the CASE (Curriculum for Science Agricultural Education) program. Hamlin applied for a schol­ arship and was accepted at an institute in Montana, where she will introduced to the CASE curriculum this sum­ mer so that she, in turn, will be able to teach the course mate­ rial to her students. “With the training and all the pieces that the curriculum offer, I feel like this is a very strong movement in the right direction,” she said. “It gives me a lot of ground to work with, and a lot of exciting opportunities. I really like CASE because it’s inqui­ ry-based, a lot of experiments, everything that they set up for the labs is very hands-on.” The plant science course would ' indiude the study of I 1 Bruce s Frome and Alignment I I •u I I 1 I I » 1I i I I -fl-.' plant anatomy and physiology, us going,” she said. Hamlin is working to build classification and the funda­ mentals of production and har- connections in the local agri­ TK Curriculum culture community to help vesting, Director Kim Chausow wrote promote the TKHS agriscience in a memo to the school board. curriculum, and some of her There is a cost for the students have gone into the implementing the CASE cur­ middle school to promote riculum. Hamlin has proposed FFA. “She has been working very a $20,000 investment, but said there is flexibility in the pro­ hard to add to the curriculum gram where that price tag she already has, and then look, , ing^at the nex( series 0^ co^urscould be reduced. t ' es,* ’ Ciiaxisow said". That number is there to get brucesframe.com SFHMEIl 1 f I 415 2nd • Middleville » ••• ■I 1 (I J 1 ) J 1 1 I I I 1 r w •t • r. 't ' '1 i 1 I l> / r I » ( <•1 I 1 ( i 9 1 I I Over 40 years experience ( » I Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted • • • • Thornapple Kellogg High School agriculture teach­ er Alyssa Hamlin talks about her proposal for aciding a plant science class to the school’s agriscience cur­ riculum Monday night. (Photo by Greg Chandler) 4 » I I Full Service Body Shop { I I I • I I \ t • I I t I I f 'I �Page 4ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, January 20, 2024 Middleville TOPS 546 Caledonia. Jim’s home in Florida was a regular stop for many “barking buddies” excit­ ed to get their daily, sometimes multiple daily, '"treat . Jim was preceded in death ^9 fames IK Tobias by his parents and brothers, Harold and Bernard. He is survived by his wife, Frances Bailey; sister, Nancy Adgate (late Richard Adgate); brother, Richard (Donna); sister-in-law, Carlota Tobias (late James (Jim) Wilbur Tobias age, 87, of Hastings, MI, passed away on January 13, 2024, in Leesburg, FL sur­ rounded by his family. Jim was bom on November 6, i 1936, in Hastings, MI, the son of Wilbur and Mary (Cheney) Tobias. Jim was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and later super­ intendent of Public Works for Fashioned at Happy Hour. Jim was well known and the city of Hastings, retiring in 1992. Jim later had a very suc­ highly regarded as a dear cessful used car business, J&S friend in his retirement com­ Auto Sales, in Hastings. He munity in Florida as well as had a true passion for winter­ with his neighbors and friends ing in Florida, golf, and an Old at his summer home in .•’W 6 > * J I jumped out. Virginia led a discussion on what help, encouragement or support could be needed by any of the group’s mem- pledge. TOPS, a weight loss sup­ port group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-9088036, or Maryellen, 616318-3545. The first meeting is free. . Bernard Tobias); sons, Steven (JoanieX Bryan (Kelly); their Sanders Louise mother, VanNocker; grandchildren, Corwin, Timothy, Samantha, Rachael, and several great grandchildren. A Celebration of Life ser­ vice for Jim will be held in the Caledonia area in the late 1 . .V Spring or early Summer. Kathleen Ann (Myers) MacLeod Kathleen Ann (Myers) Mac Leod passed away peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023 with her daughter, Teresa; son, son-in-law, Christopher; James and fiance Mickey Jo by her side. Kathleen was bom December 6,1942 in Hastings, MI to Samuel and Doris (White) Myers. Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents, Doris Catherine Myers Apsey, Samuel F. Myers, and Arthur Apsey; husband, Douglas R. MacLeod; daughter-in-law, Teri (Jeff) Sherk, son-in-law, Butch Dunkley; granddaughters, Salana Dunklee, Taylor bers. Virginia won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS The Jan. 15 meeting opened with the secretary s report and roll call. One new fish joined the fishbowl. and one fish I (Terry) Morgan, Sharon (Kenneth) Schondelmeyer. Kathleen in lived Middleville for most of her life and from graduated Thomapple Kellogg High School. She worked 16 years at Hastings manufacturing and was an outstanding member of the Moose Lodge. Kathleen enjoyed sewing, stitchery, scrapbooking, and socializing with friends and family. Per Kathleen’s wishes no services will be held at this time. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Kathleen’s family. * • t Clark. She is survived by her chil­ dren, Teresa (James) Struble, Jeffrey A. Henning, Annette (Butch) Dunklee, and Christopher J. Hartke; nine grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; sisters, Linda Local students earn deanis list honors MIAMI UNIVERSITY LAWRENCE TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY Several area students were named to the dean’s list at Lawrence Technological University. Area students on the list include: Hannah Caledonia Huebner Logan Middleville Caruso MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY Hayden Nething of Alto has been named to the dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester at in Marquette University Wisconsin. To make the dean’s list, students must have earned at least 12 credits for the fall 2023 semester and have no disqualifying grades. For the of school’s College Communications, of which Nething is a student of, the GPA requirement for the dean’s list is a minimum of 3.5. of Pietenpol Ella Caledonia was named to Miami University’s fall 2023 dean’s list. To earn the honor, students must be ranked in the top 20 percent. SAINT MARY’S COLLEGE average between 3.5 and 3.699 for the fall 2023 semester while maintaining full-time status. Local students on the list, by hometown, included: Caledonia Megan i Dyson Wayland - Meghan Smit Area students were named to the dean’s list at Saint Maiy’s College in Indiana. To qualify, students earned a grade point average of 3.6 or higher for the fall 2023 semester with a mini­ mum of 12 graded credit hours, no incompletes and no grades lower than a C. Local students on the list, by hometown, included: Middleville - Ava Hess SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY Several area students were named to the dean’s list at Southern New Hampshire University. To qualify, stu­ dents earned a grade point In addition, the president’s list includes students who earned at least a 3.7 GPA while maintaining full-time status. Local students on the president’s list are; Caledonia Ramiza all*' Ryan I*’* Nurkic-DiPonio Freeport tiSl ILM l> Vansiclen TRINE UNIVERSITY Piopa’)’ Several area students were named to the dean’s list at Trine University. To qualify, students earned a grade point average between 3.5 and 3.749 for the fall 2023 semester while completing a 201!. It i ma® meet®® legal!)’la jiiijS® i *” See HONORS, page 5 aanit W'n Caledonia United Methodist Church baptist Ichurch alaska 7240 68^ Street SE Caledonia, MI 49316 616-698-8104 www.alaskabaptist.org Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship 9:30 AM 10:45 AM 11.00 AM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM FIRST cornerstonechurch f I 250 Vine Street Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham Middleville - cornerstonemi.org/weekend co % Sunday Worship rtf t A ih ’Ya » M* S«7 ^1* Livestream: facebook-com/firstbaptistmiddleville OURNEY hfl^PEACE Church: r <1 Cliurc/i 5f. .1' I I CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch tasnijjfc,' Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.in. A|i PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee h alia list iitUe Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. (269) 795-2391 jJLIlVt Lu ilk r il! HC H U R C H ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS 9:30 a.m. http://goodshepherdJcms.googlepages .com I FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET-5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 *■eg [aalsCK 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Pastor; Rev. Peter Berg 1 ft ■ -Ti -^l■a HOLY FAMILY il J CATHOLIC CHURCH 4 t- Vv ’ n I. V ■ ’ fk I Seeing '- Strengthening - Connecting Good Shepherd ? Lutheran Church I 9 ^<43 Livestream: Facebook.conr'CaledoniaUnitedMethodist 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) ■_s 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 xCkfe. 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.ora * Sunday Service 10:30 AM BAPTIST life 411 service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. Our mission is to worship God and disciple committed followers of Jesus Christ. who win reach the worid with the Gospel. Michael L Myers, Senior Pastor ' --—I aeittfc I Sunday's Ministries Worship Service Fellowship Time Sunday School Youth Gathering Adult Bible Study ll» ; Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH an MiDDLEViLLE @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool ’®5S11eo: SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9;30ani & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 ________ WWW.stpaulcaledoni a .org Mt !V Whitneyville Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org 10:30 AM Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 (HTCftNA Watch our services from our website (see above) * I I Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org ‘'k* Bit! th- 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 “ 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"^^ & 48^^ Praising Cod through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School.. .9:30 AM Sunday Worship Fellowship Church Yankee Springs Bible Church 4 "Shining Forth God's Light" I Sunday Morning Worship....................... Community Groun fames L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Xi :i!i org « I « 1 t I I I I I « I I G. I t 4 I t I �I I I ♦ 4 I ( I I t I I Caledonia village pursuing rental Draining session registration, inspection ordinance yieids dozens of The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20, 2024/ Page 5 V', X; 1 1 Greg Chandler . The Caledonia Village Council may soon require landlords to register their homes or apartments with the village and to have them inspected. On a 6-1 vote at the council’s Jan. 8 meeting, the coun­ cil directed Village Manager Jeff Thornton to pursue having an ordinance drawn up that would regulate rental properties in the village and » U Vi s • I I I 1 Sk Of ^5 in require them to be inspected before they are allowed to be occupied. The vote followed a presentation to the council by Lance Gates, the village’s zoning administrator, who does rental inspections in Sev­ eral West Michigan communities, most notably the city of Cedar Springs. Gates shared with the council the Cedar Springs ordinance that requires landlords to have their rental properties inspected. He said it is based on the International Property Maintenance Code that the village adopted in 2018. It sets forth requirements that a landlord must meet in order to be able to legally rent out a home or apartment, addressing every­ thing from the size of bed­ rooms to whether smoke detectors are working. “I don’t want to throw all landlords under the bus, because there’s a lot of good ones out there. There’s also a lot of terrible ones out there, in my experience,” Gates told the council. “They will do anything they can to classify something as a three-bedroom when it really should be a two-bedroom, so they can 4 I a S IG I. ?» %• t '«? \ S t *4ie a *V t SfiUjJ »a W’H^I s .ik '•■I*' I Is s 1 “s Jdoilij !r; **4. Wsttlx I 3' / 7 J i r‘\r. ■i** r * » •7 V I. .t •» .. I •• * t ' 4.% T '4 A ’.ii - ■.« • I ( EaVai® Ik J ; MMfi iA' f M’lL aV'i*’ •9& < w •« ■ • I I f % & rf’ A *5, .1^ « • « r f’ .V ‘ * 11 •I X • (fl _ 1 A' i r. iVt •i.v:n I 1 4 V* I. I t 4 t { I J •• * • • • J 4 9 * ‘i « •• • * I •. ft . • 14 .1 Cd V <p ■ 4** r I k C. 'C J, * ’V > I ’ z V p > y’M - ...j / f 1 i-tnuHfit. » -t * -H » TS •?»'. I <9 'T UJ— command more money that way.” The primary reason for having a rental inspection program is for the safety of tenants who rent their residences. Gates said. “What you’re looking for is safety of your people, the citizens that are living in your village,” he said. based on (the fact) they passed the first time,” Gates said. Attorney James Scales of the firm Mika Meyers, the village’s legal counsel, said such a rental registration and inspection ordinance would be more easily enforceable than other ordinances that may require a peace officer or police officer to stop someone and ask for identification, “You’re looking to make sure that there is a human element to what they’re living such as the village’s recent­ ly-amended golf cart ordi- in, it is in a safe condition, and landlords aren’t taking advantage of people and mak- nance. He also said such an ordinance would protect tenants and help “ensure a better quality of rental housing, which can be good for the neighbors that are owner-occupied.” “If you identify a property that is a rental and they don’t register it, then that would be mg It unsafe.” With the Cedar Springs rental inspection program, a property that passes inspec­ tion the first time gets a fiveyear certification of rental occupancy. If a property fails inspection the first time, they are required to fix the prob­ lem, after which the property receives a three-year certifi­ cate of occupancy. “It gives the landlord incentive to fix things, get things correct, get things right the first time, because then they get an extra two years rS b f- I » •le a violation of your ordinance,” Scales said. “You could issue a civil infraction ticket, take it in front of the judge, get a fine and also get an order of compliance that could even require that they not rent the property out any­ more until they’ve got their or more graded credit hours. •7 II Several area students were named to the dean’s list at the University of Olivet. To qualify, students earned a grade point average between ■e t* «<I 3 registration and until they’ve got their certificate of rental occupancy. Thornton said he has run into a couple of situations with difficult landlords, one of which eventually sold his property to a different land­ lord rather than address prob­ lems within the residence. Council Trustee Karen Hahn said an ordinance would give the village “some legal teeth in order to take care of bad landlords.” “With the trash around some of the places - I know there’s at least two or three in the village that are owned by people that they’re paying taxes and everything, but they don’t want to clean up their property for some reason,” Hahn said. “I think we have an obligation to our neighbors in our village to get that done and make it a clean, friendly village.” Trustee JeffNiles made the motion to direct Thornton to pursue a rental registration program. Trustee Dan Erskine cast the lone vote against the motion. WESTMINSTER COLLEGE « I 1 I f 1 I ! I I ► I I I j 1 1 i I 1 I I > I i I 1 I I ' 1 » I I » • I I I I 4 I 4 I 1I * I I 1 f Business Services Pets ' MATT ENDSLEY FABRICATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269804-7506. I 4 I SIBERIAN HUSKY PUPPIES. Beautiful blue eyes and great colors. Up to date on shots and deworming. $250. 517-852-3007. I I J I J I r II DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Paying Premi­ ums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy sin­ gle Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. I I I GOLDEN RETRIEVER PUPS Call 517-852-1556. » I I i I GERMAN SHEPHERD PUPS $500.00. Call 269-331-1788 k Help Wanted CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-8385937. i i BARN HELP WANTED Must have experience with horses. Full and part time positions available with competitive pay. Please caU 269-207-4218 or email at zlpowell@yahoo.com if interested. I cornerstonechurch • I I I helping people know Jesus and make Him known ') « J GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one. I I /cornerstonemi > h 1 . *1 I I I I V At a Grief Share group, you'll find understanding, guidance, relief, and a safe place to navigate the challenges of grief. Come join us! QI @cornerstonemi I O O N 03 I < i i I I 84th St. Campus fU 1 84th Street SE we’re casual, come as you are. 9 I * r « fe < I I a r r I I • r • « W > T * « V I V J t I *« V • ' > r r '' j < » 1 I ■ ) I f a ) 1 » 9 t (I r I i I t I I 1 I t I } I ’ t I I 1 I ! I • « I I I L E fa I t » f Ir cornerstonemi.org > . < 6950 Cherry Valley Rd. Middleville, Ml 49333 Contact Steve 507.840.0773 1 t * 1 ’’.■i Tuesdays 7:00 - 8:30 PM January 30 - April 22 PEACE CHURCH I 1 k I ..y I I i Grief4>Share ( » I 1 ( I I I I f I I ( < « ■i* r***- I a • • I AT PEACE CHURCH Maggie Harmens of Middleville has earned the honor of placement on the dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester at the University of Kentucky. This accomplish­ ment requires a GPA of 3.6 or higher, while also earning 12 « Zachary Burghgraef of Caledonia was among 397 students named to the Westminster College’s dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester. To qualify. Burghgraef earned a 3.6 GPA or higher. needed this year with three federal and state elections on the horizon the Michigan presidential pri­ mary on Feb. 27; the gener­ al primary election on Aug. 6; and the general election on Nov. 5, which is when the next President of the United States will be select­ ed. All three of the elections require nine days of early voting thanks to the Michigan Proposal 2, Voting Policies in Constitution Amendment, which was passed by voters in 2022. The proposal issues sev­ eral changes to the election process, but the most sig nificant is the fact that townships must staff their polling location for nine whole days leading up to the election. A minimum of three inspectors must be present for all operating hours. Some townships have consolidated with others, which is permitted under the law, while others have opted not to. I I UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY I 3.5 and 3.999 for the fall 2023 semester. Local students on the list, by hometown, included: Wayland Madalynn Terry UNIVERSITY OF OLIVET Marisa Helsten ofCaledonia was named to University of the Cumberlands’s dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester. To earn the honor, students must be enrolled in at least 12 cred­ its and maintain a GPA of 3.5 for the semester. £1^ Jayson Bussa Editor Barry County has 76 newly minted election inspectors after an all-day round of training sessions last Thursday. On Jan. 11 at the Tyden Center in Hastings, vot­ ing equipment provider Electionsource provided training for potential election inspectors, Successful training earned each of the 76 par­ ticipants the certification needed to serve as an election inspector for the next two years. Barry County Clerk Cindy White said she thought the event went well. “I received a lot of posi­ tive feedback from the attendees,” White told the Sun and News. “Everyone completed an Election Inspector Application and were instructed to provide that to their township clerk indicating their desire to serve as an election inspec­ tor.” More inspectors will be 1 UNIVERSITY OF THE CUMBERLANDS I -•*1 1 3 minimum of 12 credit hours. Local students on the list, by hometown, included; Caledonia Cadence Bommarito, Halle Overmire In addition, the president’s list includes students who earned at least a 3.75 GPA while completing a minimum of 12 credit hours. Local stu­ dents on the president’s list are: Middleville Ellie Essenberg, Troy Saylor 1 •1 HONORS, continued from page 4 OK I I I new Barry County eiection inspectors /. ' i J i .V- ■ it-'- ’'Eh' I 9 * I �I 4 I t Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20, 2024 Caledonia Twp. begins talks with Grand Rapids on water system connection Greg Chandler Slaff iVriter Caledonia Township offi­ cials have begun discussions with the city of Grand Rapids regarding a possible connec­ tion to the city’s water sys­ tem. The topic came up as a at issue discussion Township Wednesday’s Board meeting. Township Engineer Todd Boerman shared a written report with the board on the status of the talks. “Caledonia is in need of quality and quantity of improvements,” water Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison said. “One of the areas we’ve looked at is connecting to the city of Grand Rapids water system. Doing so would require substantial investment to accomplish that, so that’s being explored, in agreement with the city. “We’re looking at some grant funding potentially to support this, but whatever cost is involved will be charged back to users of the system. We do anticipate a substantial increase in rates, but to some extent we would have to, at some point, look at additional sources for water as well, whether that’s new wells and new infra­ structure to build out to sup­ port those wells.” The Grand Rapids system uses water entirely from Lake Michigan, which goes through a filtration plant located in Ottawa County’s Grand Haven Township. Harrison says connecting with the system should improve water quality in the township. “You don’t have the need for softeners. You don’t have your appliances wearing out as quickly, from a water quality standpoint,” Harrison said. “There is a user benefit, but there is a cost. Buying but there is a cost. Buying water water from from aa neighbor neighbor costs costs more more than than pulling pulling itit out out of of the ground ourselves.” The township has looked into other water connection options in the past, but noth­ ing came to fhiition. “Originally, we were thinking of going through Gaines (Township) and connecting to Wyoming water but it didn’t work. We couldn’t do it,” Township Treasurer Richard Robertson said. “So then the option became how about a connecCascade through tion (Township) to the city of Grand Rapids, and then costs became prohibitive.” “I think rates will increase substantially (if the connec­ tion to Grand Rapids is built). The good part of it is they’re feeling that there will be less need to soften (water. It’ll be) easier on water heaters and dishwashers and things • • ♦ like that,” Robertson added, Township anager iso Nugent has een p o discussions on the water sys tern connection. She says property has been found on the north side of M-6 off of 60th Street, where a pump station could be installed. “There’s two phases to the the first would be project building the pump station and then filtering (the water) in,” Nugent said. “They’re still deciding what the best connection point would be, and that’s how the water would get to our residents, is through the existing infrastructure. Then eventually, the idea is to build the Kraft down trunkline (Avenue) so we can stabilize both water towers so we don’t have any issues with not having enough water. “It’s a two-part project. They’re still in the beginning phases of getting plans together. There’s a lot of meetings about it, but it is an exciting project,” Nugent added. Nugent went on to say that there aren’t any issues with the current water quality in the township. “It’s perfectly safe. It’s an aesthetic issue, it’s the taste. it’s the water-softening issue,” she said. Township Trustee Greg Zoller raised a concern about the water quality, calling it “corrosive without the soft­ ener.” “I’m the only one on the board that has hard water. I’m not even getting six years out of (my) hot water heater,” Zoller said. The township’s south water system was installed in 1994, and the north water system went online in December 2002. The two systems were interconnected along M-37 in the spring of '6z 2004. A private company, Infrastructure Alternatives, operates the water system under contract with the town­ ship. It has a rated capacity of 2.3 million gallons per day, according to township records. The water system set an annual production record in 2022 with 248.7 million gal­ lons of water produced, an increase of 7.4 percent from the year before. The system set a record maximum daily output on June 19 of last year with 1.995 million gallons being produced, according to a memo from Infrastructure Alternatives to the township. It’s not yet known how much it will cost township water customers to connect to the Grand Rapids system. “At some point, we will come forward with permis­ sion to proceed (with the connection) and other actions toward this,” Harrison said. 5I I** all?' Middleville DDA and its consultant will work to renew tax-increment financing program X '••III 1 J rA X ■ Greg Chandler in the downtown are retained Staff Writer by the authority to be used The Middleville for downtown promotion and Downtown Development activities, since 2001. The Authority will retain a con­ current TIF plan must be sultant to work with the orga­ renewed by the end of next nization on renewing its year to continue, DDA tax-increment financing pro­ Director Gretchen James gram. wrote in a memo to the The DDA board Tuesday board. approved spending up to Williams & Works, which $20,500 to have Williams & already serves as a planning Works assist DDA in the pro­ consultant to the village, will cess. incorporate public input in The DDA has been sup- the renewal process, although ported by tax-increment the exact way it will seek it is financing, where a portion of still to be determined. tax revenues from properties “TIP is usually something that most people don’t under­ stand, especially if you have business owners that you want involved, to invite them to the kickoff meeting,” Williams & Works senior planner Nathan Mehmed told the board. Under the plan that was reviewed Tuesday, Williams & Works would work with DDA in reviewing the existing TIF plan to identify whether any changes in the plan should be considered. They would also review the > Jiri i a ll ns Oil I J *1 I * *• 1 S * •• ’.S •kS ♦ * I ,1 I < I ticb dWayl A 1 I, I |rio;bi)' I, =5^ 1 1 • 4 1, i ts Uh IC k lie 1 iklKdiD (Stfe fclfR I f if1^ . X* I ’ A uz* I .J' i «It fWf 9 1 r Mr -*1 * * Ad • tiinijd!!; See TAX-INCREMENT, next page TA I* -'-5* Join us for a special worship service on Sunday, January 21 'z ‘ *1 5:00-6:00 pm ■■ ' ‘2. ' The Middleville DDA decided to scale back the Riverbank Music Series at the amphitheater from 12 weeks to seven this year, from June 7 through July 26 with the exception of no concert on July 5. (Courtesy photo) Caledonia Christian Reformed Church 9957 Cherry Valley Ave. SE | Caledonia, Ml 49316 211435 gather to celebrate the value of each and every human life and remember the loss of more than 62 million unborn children since 1973. CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF GAINES KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN p EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY BUILDING DEPARTMENT ASSISTANT kfi "‘’Jia t Department Assistant. This is This is IlOUT* * IJio nocit"! j-x-j-. *11 a starting wage of Building DeninTmpnt i ®administrative as administrative support within the ing phones. ’ include data input, scanning, filing, and answer?oart^i™ I Interested -- parties VIVO should oiiuuiu submit buomir a completed job application and resume no later than 5:00 PM, Friday, January 26 • 2024. T7 “ip Application for ^mestownshjp.org/employment or contact Kim ----------------- t Triplett, Executive Assistant at: Sponsored by Caledonia / Middleville Area Right to Life 616-504-4332 or kim.tri www.calmidrtLcnm » • be i tt ,SI ainestownship.nr T • > 1 I t» 1' I ’ <' r i ♦ iW 6 I r A « X If" • 1 » > 1 € 4 4 I I >1 * I < * I * 5 '4 i t I > 1 * 4 I I V I I I t 9 1 4 4 I J % 4 4 * 4 r 1 I I J < I t 4 I 1 4 1 ! I I r 4 X I 1 9 A -r- k I I V 1 V I 4 9 - < > « Ji < <z 4 4 I I * s �TAX-INCREMENT, continued from prevloi^ page village master plan to “ensure that common themes and projects are carried through to the Development Plan and Tax Increment Financing Plan,” Mehmed wrote in a memo to James james dated oaieu Jan. 10. i U. The consultant would then If « I 1 Sfli "nil > memo. An updated TIF plan would then be drafted based on the public input that would include an explanation of why the plan should continue, as well as budget uroiectinn^ nnd to taxing jurisdictions meet with DDA and possibly the Village Council to over the existing plan, and get feedback on potential changes, according to the memo. Mehmed outlined several different options DDA could pursue in engaging the public, including a community brain­ storming session, a pop-up event tied to a “well-attended community event,” or a meet­ ing of business owners in the community, according to the The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20, 2024/ Page 7 one option would be the best for us moving forward,” James said. “This XXXK, (proposal) vyivpvjxxi; gives gives US the ability and flexibility to do any and all of those options.” The Middleville DDA TIE P was last updated in 2016, Village Council would hold a public hearing before a final decision on renewing the TIE is made, made, according according to to the the memo • - ■ Tuesday, the board set a portion of the village’s events schedule for the Riverbank Music Series at the ade on the format for a pubhe mput session, but will likely come at a future DDA board meeting, James said. 46 A P.’’®' cess, we can continue having conversations with (Williams & Works), as well as the board, and discuss what multiple or DDA amphitheater has been reduced, . from 12 weeks to seven — this Jyear, from nviii June 7 July 26 with the exception of no concert on July 5. “When I went to the (Michigan Downtown Association) conference in Birmingham a few months ago, hosted over the last several there was a lot of conversation years, James said. about events and DDAs and “Reflecting on last summer how events are beneficial for and the cost of hosting it and bringing foot traffic downtown having those services as well and bringing newcomers (in), as the time and hours it takes but I think downsizing some of to do the setup and having the the current programs we have movie, versus the actual public and making them great when engagement that we received, we have them would be benefi­ I think that at least attempting cial, James said. “It’s also more for this next summer to go in line with what other commu- without (is the direction to go nities and DDAs are doing in),” James said. “If there’s We’re still giving that opportu­ public feedback that it’s some­ nity to die community, we’re thing that is missed, then it’s hosting great events, but we’re something we can always talk also using our resources in other about.:. later (in the) year.” programs and aspects that the The DDA board has not setDDA can offer.” tied on a date for Heritage Days. There are no plans at this Typically it is held the third tune to resume the outdoor Saturday in August, but the • ♦ • movie nights that DDA has board is considering moving the I event up one week to Aug. 10 this year. The DDA event sched­ ule must still be presented to the Village Council. The Middleville Market will be held on Fridays at the Sesquicentennial Pavilion starting May 31 and continu ing through Aug. 16, with the exception of July 5. The mar­ ket could be extended for a couple of additional weeks, DDA board chairwoman Kim Jachim said. The board also elected its officers for the year. Jachim will remain board chairwoman, while Thomapple Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer will serve as vice chairman and Andrew Beck will serve as secretary. J * •1 % in A- I restaurant owner and former chair of the American Arab Chamber ot Congress. of Beydoun describes himself as a political moderate and civil rights advocate. He is the son of a Lebanese immigrant who found his footing in Michigan as a UAW member, according to Beydoun’s campaign. Zack Bums: An attorney from Ann Arbor, Bums entered the race in April with a promise to focus on affordable housing, health care, educa- Bridge Michigan LANSING More than three years after he quit the Republican Party, former Michigan U.S. Rep. Justin Amash is considering a GOP bid for the U.S. Senate being vacated by retiring Democrat Debbie Stabenow. Amash represented the Grand Rapids area in the U.S. House for a decade through 2020, when he opted against seeking re-election after leaving the GOP and declaring then-President Donald Trump had committed impeachable ■Jenses. Amash flirted with a 2020 presidential run on the Libertarian but ticket announced Thursday he is foiming and exploratory committee as he contemplates another Republican run. “I’ve been humbled in recent weeks by the many people who have urged me to run for Senate in Michigan and to do so by joining the Republican primary,” he wrote on X, the social riiedia site formerly known as Twitter. “They see what I see; con­ tenders for the seat who are uninspired, unserious and unprepared to tackle the chief impediment to liberty and economic prosperity an overgrown and abusive govern­ ment that strives to centralize power and snuff out individu­ alism. The people of Michigan and our country deserve bet­ ter.” -J J I : I 5 n tlbcie 0 I V p 10# SU SI0 f 4 * k i£l>P f I, 'a mined he was among five candidates who had submitted fraudulent signatures on nommaimg mating pennons. petitions. Craig Craig rehred retired from from the the Detroit Detroit Police Police Department in 2021 and is running as a law-and-order doctors, Harper was bom in lowa Iowa and moved to Detroit in 2016. He is a graduate of Harvard University. A cancer survivor. survivor, Harper in 2012 was appointed to a cancer panel by then-President Barack Obama. Republican. Michael Hoover; A businessman who previously worked at Dow Chemical, Hoover lives in Laingsburg in Shiawassee County and is a in dom-loving patriot” and wants a Parent’s Bill of Florida, is a former FBI special agent and chaired the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. Nikki Snyder; A registered nurse from Dexter, Snyder has served on the Michigan State Board of Education since 2016, when she was the second-highest vote getter in ed office but ran for Congress last year, losing to incumbent U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg in a Sth District GOP primary. Sandy Pensler; The Grosse Pointe Park businessman •i 1 •k 4 1 1 I II 1 I t I* Rights to ensure they have a strong role in their children’s education. Alexandria Taylor; A for­ mer Democrat from Romulus, Taylor is an attorney who last year worked on a failed Republican lawsuit that sought to invalidate all mail-in ballots from Detroit. She holds degrees from Michigan State, Eastern Michigan and Detroit Mercy universities, according to her campaign, which says she is focused on “family, faith and freedom.” J.D. Wilson; A political newcomer, Wilson is a busi­ nessman from the Houghton Lake area in Roscommon County who describes him­ self as a “constitutional con­ servative.” On his campaign website, Wilson says that in the U.S. Senate he would work to cut taxes, put the federal government on “a diet” and fight inflation. I i I I I I • I I 4 I I 1 < 1 I i I I I I I 0 1 1 I 4 1 V b 1 1 I • I I I I f J ( I 1 ~ i I 1 I I * I J ft I 4 I I ) which he calls a “war on middle class families.” bill OHKfl 5 * 1 i g AntcfinoMen I* • -0 .•'v L ■< 1 WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS I I r » .•’w - fl L_ J ■« ' .4. 1 4 a Antenna Men A' . ir ill * * itfSureCaB **•1 vMxa VM* 41 I t A? Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems 4 I I Give us a call! 269-967-8241 C€L-FI n cell(W) sign/^ Residential & Commercial G* J I I 1 www.theantennamen.com I I I antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpros.coni 4 ’^4 Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers ^,a; ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ if •t r • PLAN YOUR NEXT QUILT: 1 J - ai ft *• I* Grads, Weddings^ Showers f Birthdays & More r Jw 4: % / -.it I ’ I 72’ <• New Cotton Collections (\ 11 - -.TaM j't- 'I I' J I I? 'Us=s .. f ’-1 4* ♦ ft '4^. 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F. 1 ft sr >• Flannel Prints & Solids • Silky Minky 60 & 90 " C**' t 1 * ■ 1 4 4 I MR i • ft it I r* *n» t I •44 - I - Tk' ■' •» Nasser Beydoun; The - Dearborn/ businessman is a 1 America America ““is is burning burning”” so so itit’’ss time time to to ““take take responsibility responsibility figfit like hell.” Pensler, who founded a private invest- “medical freedom” and opposes a “government takeover of healthcare,” among other things, according to her website. She has never held elect­ I * r I gover^ent accountability, according to his campaign. Peter Meijer; A former U.S. Representative, the Grand Rapids Republican in 2022 lost his bid for a second term in Congress after voting to impeach former President Donald Trump for inciting Capitol riots. Meijer is a veteran who conducted intelligence operations in Iraq. He attended West Point before transfernng to and graduating from Columbia University, and is a ^^^chigan’s Sth Congressional District in the U.S. House through 2014. In annoimcing his campaign, Rogers said he thought he had { i the general election. Snyder describes herself as a “free- of his own money. Mike Rogers; The Mike Livingston County Republican I • announced announced his his campaign campaign in in December, declaring that ment firm that has operated manufacturing plants attempt­ ed to challenge Stabenow in 2018 but lost in the GOP primaiy after spending $5 million 1 I I 1 ^ucational freedom, middle-class prospenty and member of the Meijer family that owns the Michigan-based superstore chain. “put politics behind me” but Sherry O’Donnell: A physi- was inspired to run for U.S. cian, pastor and author from Senate because “something is Stevensville, in Stevensville, Berrien broken.” He recently moved County, Countv.O O’Donnell ’Donnellchampions ehamninn^: back to Michigan from first-time candidate for politi­ cal office. His focus is on strong families, fiscal respon- Elissa Slotkin; The current U.S. representative for succeed Stabenow, who has held the seat since 2001 after unseating incumbent Republican Spencer Abraham. As of January, four Democrats and nine Republicans have declared for the August primary. Candidates can still join or leave — the race by the spring filing deadline. But here’s who’s in so far; 1 James Craig; The former Detroit police chief, Craig was a front-runner for the GOP nomination for governor last year but failed to make the ballot after the state deter- to his campaign. Hill Harper; An actor known for his roles on “The ivwciui ’ aiiu i,” Good Doctor" and “voi; CSI; NY, Harper Harper isis also also an an attorney, attorney, single father, author and coffee shop shop owner. owner. The The son son of of two two Amash did not give a time­ line for when he will decide whether to launch a formal campaign. If he runs, he would join a crowded field vying to DEMOCRATS REPUBLICANS tion and training. He holds degrees from the University of Oxford and The University of California, Irvine, according -V 4 Michigan’s 7th District, Slotkin has served in Congress since 2019 and currently lives in Lansing. She previously worked as a Department of Defense official and analyst for the Central Intelligence Agency. Bom in New York but raised in Oakland County, Slotkin has degrees from Cornell and Columbia universities. I I Who’s running for U.S. Senate in Michigan: Justin Amash considers bid Jonathan Oosting I « « I 4 “I > �4 ► ♦ I « Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20,2024 20, 2024 _ Information workshop on Barry County wind and solar projects slated for next month the hands of local governments so that they cannot block such Editor Next month, the Barry projects or dictate many paramof eters for wind and solar farms. Board County As the new law kicks in, the Commissioners will be hold­ ing an informational work­ county board has done its due shop of sorts to dig into the diligence to learn more about hot-button topics of wind and the impact the legislation will have here at home and what solar energy projects. The topic has been one of they might be able to do to concern for many leaders and push back. Last w eek, the county board residents within Barry County went into a closed-door session after the Democrat-con trolled state government passed a with Barry County Planning package of bills late last year and Zoning Administrator Jim that handed permitting powers McManus and attorney Bradley for such projects over to the A. Fowler to discuss the topic. Michigan Public Service The upcoming workshop Commission. This removes will be an opportunity for res­ decision-making power from idents to also learn more about .fayson Bussa the new laws. The workshop is planned for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 13 at the Hastings Performing Arts Center. McManus and the county’s attorney will be present in addition to members of the county board. We just continue to learn about this,” Chairman Dave Jackson said. “This will be all the open to the public townships, we’d like as much citizen participation as we can. There will be an opportunity for public comment. But I think it’s important that we all get on the same page.” “It’s detailed,’’ Jackson 4^ added. “I think it will be helpful to hear it right from the attorney as far as what our options are and what we can do going for­ ward. It’s also important to hear public input as far as what’s happening in those districts.” While Johnstown Township leaders and residents are espe­ cially alert to this issue as Consumers Eneigy plans to install a solar energy farm there, Jackson said that has office McManus’s received calls of concern from 14 of the 16 townships in Barry County, highlighting that it is seen as an important issue throughout the county. “It’s not just Johnstown (^1 ■J# K • H .X t.'. * S r* .T, ' .V t 1 a K z The Barry County Board of Commissioners will hold an informational workshop concerning wind and solar farms on Tuesday, Feb. 13 at the Hastings Performing Arts Center. IS! 4»i ''<fS Jf “We’re protecting farmland in the entire county.” Township issue that we’re addressing,” Jackson said. I . » Barry County board to create personnel human services committee * a-• * Jayson Bussa Editor Members of the Barry County Board of Commissioners plan to form a committee that will be tasked with recruiting, inter­ viewing and vetting potential county employees and department board members, among other responsibilities. After seeing the departure PUBLIC NOTICE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS January 08, 2024 * The Gaines Charter Township Board held a regular meeting on Monday, January 08, 2024 and took the following actions. 1. Reviewed the Consent Agenda. 2. Approved the Meeting Agenda 3. Heard from 3 township res­ idents on the private road waiver for Loretta View 4. Approved the Consent Agenda 5. Tabled the Loretta View Pri­ vate Road Waiver 6. Sent the R3 Zoning Text Amendment back to the Planning Commission as requested by the Community Development Direc­ tor 7. Approved an early start re­ quest for Orion Construction KIAesolution to establish an early voting polling location at 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE - Gaines Township Hall lower level 9. Established the Deputy Treasurer’s wage 10. Approved hiring full-time Fire Inspector for Gaines Charter Township 11. Discussed a MAMC memo about additional responsibilities and costs on the Clerk’s De­ partment due to election related legislation, Rod Weersing’s year review, the large pothole in the parking lot, and The Kent Coun­ ty Sheriff Department preliminary work on an additional officer for Gaines Township. 12. Adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 8:54 pm A complete copy of the min­ utes of these meetings and any resolutions or ordinances adopt­ ed at the meeting are on file and available for review at the Gaines Charter Township office, 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledo­ nia. Michigan 49316. Ordinanc­ es, meeting schedules, meeting I minutes, and other Township I information are also available at I www.gainestownshiD.org I Michael Brew Gaines Charter Township Clerk I I I I I of some long-time employees and elected officials, with more on the way, board members said they hoped this avenue would allow it to dig deeper into the county’s human resources needs. The board is looking to establish what will be called the Personnel and Human Services Committee. During Tuesday morning’s Committee of the Whole commissioners meeting. nailed down some, but not all, of the details associated with the new committee. “This gives us an opportu­ nity to look more granularly at situations in the county with hiring and with the peopie we appoint on boards,” Chairman Dave Jackson said. “Just a number of different things.” The move is a fairly proac­ tive one as two long-time employees, in particular, are set to retire: County Administrator Michael Brown and County Treasurer Sue VandeCar will not be seeking re-election. Both have logged over 30 years of service to the county. Last year. County Clerk Pam Palmer retired after two decades of service to the county and longtime Information Technology Director David Shinavier also retired. In addition to the decades of institutional knowledge that has either left or will soon leave, the county board is always tasked with appoint­ ing new members to various department boards. These interviews are conducted during Committee of the Whole sessions and are often quite brief. The Personnel and Human Services Committee would dig into this work, creating a group that is solely focused on soliciting applicants and closely vetting them to make recommendations for some of these pivotal positions. All of the committee’s recommen­ dations would then move to the Committee of the Whole for further discussion. This new committee would absorb the duties of a lit­ tle-known committee called the Grievance Committee. When a county employee cannot resolve a grievance at the department head level, the issue comes in fi-ont of the Grievance Committee. Now, those matters will be diverted to the Personnel and Human Services Committee instead. Because the new committee is absorbing the Grievance committee, Committee, it it will will be be comcomprised of the three current members of the Grievance Committee: Jackson, Mike Your local agent insures your Cl? ops FARM BUREAU INSURANCE* 4 A y .3^ JI * - ^Bl Compaq - Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 jparks®tDinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com % -I <1 *? 'r .? / f 'X * * — I J ■ ‘XT .* __ > I 1 —J ■ -.3 ■>11. ’*•* . ........ ■ ' s A* * * I A TV Members of the Barry County Committee of the Whole on Tuesday morning discussed the formation of a new, standing committee that would focus on find­ ing and vetting qualified candidates for vacant roles in county government and on various department boards. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) 'sffl . <1 Callton and Catherine Getty. David Hatfield, who serves as vice chair of the county board, will be added to the Personnel and Human Services Committee as its chair. The personnel committee is a standing committee. which is different from an ad hoc committee that is formed for a purpose and then auto­ matically dissolved once that purpose has been fulfilled. A permanent standing committee is subject to the Open Meetings Act, which means it must be open to the public, and a schedule must be publicly posted as does an agenda and meeting minutes. Ad hoc committees are not required to do any of that. The board has not yet determined on what day or tifne the new committee will meet as the resolution to adopt it heads to the Board of Commissioners for final approval on Tuesday. The concept of creating specialized committees to take a granular look at a cer­ tain facet of county govern­ ment harkens back to the way that the board operated in the early 2000s. Back then, instead of the Committee of the Whole, county board members were spread throughout five different standing committees; finance, I * “ I I V t ft/ I I personnel, central services, county development and facilities/property. Callton, who has previous experience on the county board and in the Michigan State House of Representatives, served in Barry County while that format was intact. He inteijected that he preferred multiple committees instead of just one for personnel. I respectfully disagree with this,” Callton said of the proposal to form the personnel committee. “About 12 little dramatic,” Jackson said. Hatfield echoed that senti­ ment. “I generally support what Commissioner Callton is saying but I also recognize that we have to get to work on some significant issues that would become the responsibility of this personnel committee,” he said. “Therefore, I really think that what (Jackson) said makes a lot of sense. We can come back to look at the broader issue.” Commissioner Mark Doster has been a clear supporter of the committee struc- ture he floated the suggestion at the first meeting of his to the full-scale committee structure, it’s a start. I’m perfectly willing to accept this as an intermediary step,” Doster said. “I think this is a good start. The next committee might be the ‘'The reason we started with personnel is because we we see the challenges in personnel and a need to have some focus on human resources resources and personnel at this time,” Jackson said. “There has been .. a discussion of going back to finance or property (committees).” All commissioners but Callton voted to move the resolution to the Board of Commissioners a committee s^cture at some approval. I I » • t I ♦ 11 . for -.V.V » « * 4 I I I 1 I t ( I 'SIB term last year. Doster said that, while this isn’t a return ty- I 1 I’m not opposed to “To completely change the structure (of county govemment right now) would be a years ago, when I was chair, we had standing committees. Sometimes there was a sub­ ject everyone wanted in on and that’s when we did more of an ad hoc committee of the whole.” Jackson was not closed to the idea of bringing back the committee structure to replace the Committee of the Whole, but he said that this is the first and more crucial step, given the concerns facing the coun­ f AV? * rrr point. that.” 1 Ait final • t I » t,. • 4 r. I 1 I 1 i �MiThi J*'" scholarship opportunities for more Michigan students, lowering tuition costs The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20, 2024/ Page 9 LANSING - A new version the U.S. Department 's' J 9♦ I F= 1 ■I I *'■ * I I 1, i i re ® of as the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, which provides eligible students up to $27,500 for college. The Michigan Achievement Scholarship provides scholar­ Lnts ^h^ stuschoorfo Hint Michigan with a nletiT^ certificate of com- of the federal financial aid Education. application known as the “National research indicates FAFSA will open scholarship that one of the most common and grant opportunities for barriers to filling out the more Michigan students and FAFSA is that many people make it easier for them to assume they’re .t-not ..<,1 eligible .for apply. Some of the recent financial aid, and that’fsimpN changes made include expand- not the case,” said Michelle ing eligibility for financial aid Richard, acting director of for low- and middle-income MiLEAP. “The Michigan students, cuts the number of Achievement Scholarshin is a questions on the FAFSA form real game chan.er ! real game changer. Eveiyone complete the FAFSA to financial information. learn if they are eligible for it In Michigan, nearly 20,000 or other scholarships, grants or more students are expected to assistance.” gain eligibility for a Pell Grant the new changes, it and over 3 8,000 more students takes most applicants less than are expected to receive the an hour to complete the award, FAFSA and learn if they’re maximum grant according to data released by eligible for scholarships such ^^h^’^uivalency certificate in 2023 or after. Students must be attending an eligible Michigan postsecondary insti­ tution and demonstrate financial need when they complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To help lower the cost of college and get the state closer to achieving its Sixty by 30 goal, Governor Whitmer cre­ ated the ated Michigan Achievement Scholarship, which is available to gradualing high school seniors and this year’s incoming fi-eshman class. Students may be awarded up to; $2,750 if they attend ^*8^ Michigan communitycollege, per year, up to three years. — $4,000 if they attend a Michigan private college or “Applying for financial university, per year, up to five aid can be an extremely com­ years. plicated and overwhelming — $5,500 if they attend a process,” said Ryan FewinsMichigan public university or Bliss, executive director of are enrolled in a baccalaureate the Michigan College Access degree program at a Michigan Network. “The new and bet­ community college, per year, ter FAFSA, the Michigan up to five years. Achievement Scholarship t FAFSA Free Application for Federal student Aid I i 1t and the Michigan Reconnect program are all laudable ini­ tiatives that have combined to create an easier pathway to an affordable college edu­ cation.” Students and families can complete the FAFSA by visit­ ing studentaid.gov. CHS cheer team places sixth at Northview invite Brett Bremer A Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity com­ petitive cheer team was sixth in a field of ten varsity teams at the Northview Wildcat Cheer Invite in Grand Rapids Thursday evening. The Fighting Scots got a look .Y’if 1 IB I J t at a pair of OK Red Conference foes, Jenison and Rockford, who finished just ahead of them at the top of the standings. Rockford took the day’s victoly with an overall score of752.76 ahead of Jenison 744.3, Byron Center 737.62, Muskegon 711.32, Northview 698.78, ¥ Caledonia 666.34, Allendale 630.3, ^^yoming 530.34 and Kelloggsville 473.32. The Caledonia girls opened the meet with a score of 208.4 in round one and then scored 194.54 points in round two. The Scots closed the day with a score of263.4 in round three. a score dinged by an eight­ point deduction. Rockford had the highest score of the day in each of the first two rounds, a 232.2 in round one and 226.46 in round two. The Rams closed the 211371 * 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 Q ledwiA < TWNSHIP meet with a 294.1 in round three. Byron Center had the top round three score at 311.1. There were two competitions on the day, a D1 contest won by the Rams and a D2/3 contest which the Muskegon girls won. The OK Reed Conference Midseason competition is planned for Wednesday at Grand Haven. The Scots go to Byron Center Saturday, Jan. 27, for an LMCCOA Scholarship Invitational. FINANCIAL FOCUS Provided by Andrew McFadden ’.1 Us T *** Ik 1 I and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones . .... „ I PUBLIC NOTICE Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan *ii®W (»f MB)'jura- Consider family meeting to discuss estate plans NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Public Accuracy Test for the February 27, 2024 Presidential Primary has been scheduled for Wednesday, February 7, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Caledonia Township Hall located at 8196 Broadmoor Ave, Caledonia, Michigan. At some point, you’ll want to share your estate plans with your loved ones — and the first step in this process may be to hold a family meeting. The best time to hold this meeting is when you’re still in good mental and physical shape, and the enactment of your estate plans may well be years away. But what topics should you cover? Consider these main areas: • Your wishes — and those of your family. Use this meeting to introduce your estate plans and, in a basic sense, what you hope to accomplish with them — leave money to your family, support charitable groups and so on. You’ll want to emphasize that you want to be equitable in what you leave behind, but there may be issues that affect this deci­ sion, such as disparities in income between grown children or an allowance for a special-needs child. But you’ll also want to listen to what your family members want — and you might be surprised at what they tell you. Consider this: More than 80% of the millennial generation would rather know their parents are financially secure throughout their retirement, even if this means that their parents will pass on less money to them, according to an Edward Jones/Age Wave study. The Public Accuracy Test is conducted to demonstrate that the computer program used to tabulate the votes cast at the election meet the requirements of the law. dechiwfibsm Joni Henry Clerk, Charter Township of Caledonia d'Sfiiili iCitassilit fl. J ilso rectgK to jgaiorat® De it IB!® ED’S BODY SHOP ad WbI t iW ill cone Indu ^'isss’ ler Mart CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN laclasv STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS dllieaS? . State & I-CAR Certified Technicians st'ta®®" j TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System art Frame Repair r jiiiii It y ([CUI®'' 616.891.0150 WMBA www.edsbody.com bCNFIB Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner OPEN: M thru F 7:30 am - i)5:00 pm T ffO'i joajiof ! k 110 Johnson St., Caledonia w Bourne System jjjl .‘I'' Lesonal k 1 I r 1 [ , I I t _B . r 9 k -y a I '4; •*1: • / I I f I ■ I. r ' ' t 5 t 1 I i > f t F I t V < * ** " •^,.1 [GOUS CLASS «w f I * I L I s 1 ll' I I I I 'I need to name people to act as your power of attorney for health care and finances. Choosing the right people for these roles involves thought and sensitivity. Obviously, you want individuals who are competent and reliable, but you also need to be aware that some family members could feel slighted if others are assigned roles they feel they could do. By being aware of these possible con­ flicts, you can be better pre­ pared to address them. Here’s one more sugges­ tion; Let your family know that this initial meeting doesn’t mean the end of communications about your estate plans. Encourage your loved ones to contact you with questions whenever they want. You may need to hold additional family meet­ ings in the future, but by laying the initial ground­ work, you will have taken a big first step in establishing the legacy you’d like to leave. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC. Edward Jones, its employ­ ees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situa­ tion. t / b V ■ t • Estate planning documerits — At the time of your family meeting, you may or may not have already created your estate planning docu­ ments, but in either case, this would be a good time to dis­ cuss them. These documents may include a will, a living trust, financial power of attorney, health care power of attorney and possibly oth­ er arrangements. At a mini­ mum, you’d like to give a general overview of what these documents mean, but at an initial family meeting, you don’t necessarily have to get too detailed. For exampie, you might not want to talk about specific inheri­ tances. This is also an opportunity to inform your loved ones of the professionals involved in your estate plans, such as your attorney and your tax advisor. Roles of everyone involved - Not only does a comprehensive estate plan involve moving parts, such as the necessary documents, but it also includes actual human beings who may need to take on different roles. You will need an executor for your will and, if you have a living trust, you’ll need a trustee. Even if you choose to serve as the initial trustee. you’ll still need to identify one or more successor trust­ ees to take your place if you become incapacitated, or upon your death. Plus, you’ll 9 1 b I I �% Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20,2024 DNR launches Deer Management Initiative to tackle challenges . 9- s • <4* W I k ■ >. - ■4*. * * The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, in col­ laboration with the Michigan Resources Natural Commission, is initiating a comprehensive Deer Management Initiative aimed at evaluating and responding to present-day deer management challenges. The initiative seeks to develop recommendations to address these chailenges and ensure the sustainable and healthy management of deer populations and their habitats across the state. In the Lower Peninsula, the DNR faces significant hurdles in managing deer populations due to declining hunter num­ bers and how that affects traditional management. Continued changes in land-use patterns with a high percentage of pri­ vately owned land, which can limit access to hunting lands further exacerbate these chal•^1 lenges. Additionally, bovine tuberculosis and chronic wast­ ing disease are established and affecting deer populations in some areas of the region. In the Upper Peninsula, habitat concerns, changing weather patterns and a diverse array array of ofpredators predators present present difdif­ ferent ferentchallenges challengesfrom fromthose thoseinin the the Lower Lower Peninsula. Peninsula. These These combinations combinations of of factors factors have have not not been been experienced experienced in in deer deer management in recent years. A comprehensive and inclusive approach is critical. The DNR will actively engage with stakeholders from various natural resources organizations as well as tribal part­ ners to develop recommendations that acknowledge these challenges and work toward improved deer management in the state. The DNR is also seeking to involve unaffiliated individuals who share con- cems about deer management to encourage a far-reaching, representative discussion. “The Deer Management Initiative process is poised to guide recommendations and lay a framework for future deer management changes. We are looking forward to working with our traditional stakeholder organizations and partners, while also welcoming creative, new voices. It’s important that none of us are tethered to a single idea, that we are all willing to explore novel and diverse solutions to enhance our deer herd and effectively address the challenges ahead,” said DNR deer management specialist Chad Stewart. “We’ll be developing two separate groups, one for each peninsula, since the challenges in each area are unique,” Stewart said. “Our focus with each group will be to pull p 'Z z * T k___ J Ik 2 •• * • M f. A (ij * M J'9 w ■A < t 'S 1 J Z f • ' ■•e* i The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, in collaboration with the Michigan Natural Resources Commission, is initiating a comprehensive Deer Management Initiative aimed at evaluating and responding to present-day deer management challenges. Those interested in participating are invited to submit their applications online by Jan. 31. 4 together people with different perspectives and experiences but a common passion for improving Michigan’s deer herd for future generations.” Those interested in partici­ pating in this vital initiative are invited to submit their applica­ tions online. Those can be found on the Michigan DNR website. The application peri­ od will remain open through Jan. 31, and successful appli­ cants will be notified shortly thereafter. Thornapple Kellogg boys fall in a trip to ‘Old South Brett Bremer Sports Editor South Christian took a 64-30 victory over the Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team in an OK Gold Conference ball- game played at the Sailors’ former home on 68th Street in Grand Rapids Tuesday. Special Olympics Michigan moved into the Sailors’ former high school building once the new South Christian High School campus was complete on Kalamazoo Avenue near 84th Street. The bailgame Tuesday was a fundraiser for the Special Olympics. The Sailors led the special 211431 Taakee Sprii^ Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 ! FAX 269-795-2388 YANKE E SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS; PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Planning Commission of Yankee Springs Township will conduct a public hearing concerning the following matters on Thursday, February 6, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, in the Township. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include the following: 1. 2. Zoning Ordinance text amendments to Article X - Short Term Rentals. Specifically, the amendment of Section 10.4 - Definitions so as to modily/add definitions of ‘short term rental’, ‘traditional short term rental’, ‘commercial short term rental’ and ‘nonconforming short term rental’; the amendment of Section 10.5 - Short Term Rental Standards so as to add standards for ‘traditional’ and ‘commercial’ short term rentals; the amendment of Sections 10.7 - Short Term Rental Permit and 10.8 — Violations and Administrative Penalties regarding permit revocation and violation penalties; and, the addition of Section 10.9 so as to establish standards for ‘nonconforming short term rentals’ Such other and further business as may properly come before the Planning Commission at said hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the proposed zoning ordinance amendments can be reviewed at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular business days and will also be available at the hearing. ballgame by ten points at the half and then pulled away with a hot-shooting second half. Jake Vermaas led the Sailors with 21 points. It was a rough shooting night for the TK boys accord­ ing to head coach Phil Garber, and finding consis­ tent offense has been one of the team’s biggest bugaboos this winter according to the coach. He had plans to put some new strategies in place this week as the Trojans prepped for a Jan. 19 ball­ game with Wayland. The first half we came out really good,” Garber said of Tuesday’s contest. “We played them as well as you could play them.” The Trojans’ defensive efforts took a hit when senior guard Ethan Bonnema was lost to an injury. Missing Bonnema made playing man-to-man defense tougher for the TK guys. Coach Garber was pleased with the team effort in slowing down Sailor star Carson Vis a bit. He finished with 11 points. Jude Webster led TK with eight points. Jake Kelley and Kyle VanHaitsma finished with six points apiece for TK and Isaac Ruth had five points. “South is tough,” Garber said. “They’re right there at I I iit¥ I’M I iMii :iaaals it 11 St alt Sailors even TK girls’ Gold record with win at TKHS 'I Ab (GS iS id 2i Brett Bremer Sports Editor South Christian went 3-for-3 from the three-point line in the opening moments and built a quick 15-0 advan­ tage in Middleville Tuesday night. In the end, that was most of the difference between the Sailors and the Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ basket­ ball team. The Sailors took a 56-35 OK Gold Conference win over the Trojans to even both teams’ conference record at 2-2. TK falls to 8-2 overall PUBLIC NOTICE PLEASE FURTHER NOTICE that the Yankee Springs Township Planning Commission and Township Board reserve the right to make changes in the proposed zoning ordinance amendment at or fol owing the public hearing. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place. The Planning Commission of the Village of Caledonia will be considering a site plan approval submitted the Township of Caledonia, for the construction of a maintenance building at the Community Green, located at 6260 92nd St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316. Yankee Springs Towship will provide necessary reasonable services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days’ notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals requiring services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION By: Mike Cunningham, Township Clerk Yankee Springs Township 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 » « » « •1 ••... • « I I ’Siiltsii PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that written comments will be taken from any interested person concerning the proposed text amendments at the office of the Township Clerk at the address set forth below, at any time during regular business hours up to 4:00 p.m. on the date of the hearing and will further be received by the Planning Commission at the hearing. > the top of the conference with Catholic. I knew that. It is the toughest stretch of the year. We had to play Catholic and go on the road against Ottawa Hills and South Christian.” The Trojans are on the road two times in the week ahead too visiting Kenowa Hills Jan. 23 and Cedar Springs Jan. 26. The TK boys went into last night’s home contest with Wayland with a 5-7 overall record and a 1 -3 mark in the OK Gold Conference. South Christian upped its record to 8-3 overall and 3-1 in the conference with the win over TK. This meeting will occur at 7:00p.m. on Thursday, January 25th at the Village Hall, located at 250 S Maple St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316. Materials for the meeting can be viewed at www.villageofcaledonia.org » * k '» t "1 I 7 ft - 2 with the loss while the Sailors upped their overall record to 5-4. South Christian quickly pushed its lead as large as 18-2 in that opening quarter and led 32-15 at the half. TK had a little trouble with the Sailors’ pressure and harried shots. The Trojans settled in a bit in the second half and battled to cut the Sailor lead down to nine points late in the third quarter, but the Sailors took away that momentum quickly with a three-point play that had them in front 44-32 at the start of the fourth quarter. The Trojans were set to host Wayland Friday night, Jan. 19. They return to action at home against Kenowa Hills Tuesday and then will visit Cedar Springs to finish off the first half of the * conference season f ( // Friday, Jan; 26.‘ > s^isiCie i '^Sstkk, I If ai Si «e s s 'l 5 1! 11 ?* * s'? �! CHS squad starts first season at Crystal Mountain The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20, 2024/ Page 11 J f I e •rf-- I I I k J, . !*- f A h V H'’ ii > r I I I •ikS* ’ * I, Kyleigh Thompson was the fastest Fighting Scot in the slalom at the first Lake Michigan Sk, Conference race Wednesday at Crystal Mountain placing fifth in the event. (File photo) «ffe X. !» a ^5 iffl ij( ht contest »i 1W Imdallni I'lq MWfi®. iSas iipped it uwlltufll A KiiJiils d to mrf iiliii litifirf jetilaliiis^ Jtplay t-* ll^ IjUJllff' seiB cere I'jjf letum (0 ,S(* 0500 III' Brett Bremer Sports Editor If it wasn’t clear looking out the window, ski season is here. The Caledonia varsity ski , , , J ,. , teams both placed third at their first Lake Michigan Ski Conference competition in the frigid temperatures at Crystal Mountain Ski Resort Wednesday. Caledonia head coach Duane Petrosky said the slopes and teams are great in the new conference, and should really help his skiers prepare for regionals at the end of the season. The Fighting Scot girls’ team was second in the sla­ lom competition and third in the giant slalom (GS), placing third overall. Onekema won both events to finish with a total of just 46 points. Benzie was sec ond with 67 points ahead of Caledonia 81.5 and Glen Lake 126. “We are extremely happy with how the team skied,” coach Petrsokey said. “Although we have skied a lot this winter, the snow depths have not allowed us to train for slalom or GS. We knew the girls were ski­ ing well and are very happy with how it translated in racing. Our team was led by a mix of our returning ski ers and some newcomers. Senior Kyleigh Thompson had the top fin­ ish of any of the CHS girls placing fifth in the slalom with runs of 37.26 seconds and 27.09. Those runs ranked sixth in each of the two trips down the hill. Liz Hilton was ninth, Erin Peckham 11 th and Slo­ venian exchange student Tamara Sarkoeziova placed 13th in the slalom. I £ the slalom and third in the GS, Glen Lake’s Willia Murray was second in the GS and third in the slalom, French exchange student Vicky Brousee led the CHS girls in the OS with an an eighth-place finish. She had runs of 27.51 seconds and 27.09 seconds. The Caledonia girls also had Hilton tenth, freshman Madison Reynolds 12th and Polish exchange student Zosia Skrzypek and Erin Peckham tied for 13th. Onekema’s Aleah Blackmore flew ahead of the field at the meet win­ ning both the slalom and the GS with the two fastest runs in each event. She took the GS with runs of 22.00 and 21.59. In the slalorn she raced to times of 29.86 and 30.53 in her two tries. Benzie was led by Lilly Wolfe who was second in Onekema also won the boys’ competition too with 51 points ahead of Glen Lake 54, Caledonia 97 and Benzie NTS. “Our guys did a great job and we learned a lot at the race.,” Petrosky said. “My returning starters from last year really stepped up and led the team.” Senior Brayden Smith led the Fighting Scots in the slalom with a tenth-place finish and scored a I2th-place GS finish. Ben Diegel was 11th in the slalorn and 15th in the GS and Cohen Broomfield placed 13th in the slalom and 13th in the GS. 4^ •SY'!. 1 k »■ V IM r PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of Ordinance No.Ol-11-2024 which was adopted by the Yankee Springs Township Board at a regular meeting held on January 11, 2024. ft* Department of Public Works (DPW) Equipment Operator SECTION I The Village Public Works Department is seeking to expand its team! We are looking for a qualified applicant to fill the position of DPW Equipment Operator. Specific areas of duty include maintaining water and waste water systems, streets, sidewalks, parks, equipment, refuse, and other areas as assigned. SECTION II SEVERABILITY. Ordinance are severable. SECTION IV EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall take effect eight days after publication after adoption. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of the Ordinance has been posted in the Office of the Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that a copy of the Ordinance may be pur­ chased or inspected at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular working days following the date of this publi­ cation. i f . I I 4 4 » t > » f • « f I f ♦ A I « k • < « A 4 > 4 f i I I 1 / ,1 1 I YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP Michael Cunningham, Clerk 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, MI 49333 (269) 795-9091 z I z The provisions of this SECTION III REPEAL, All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. Interested applicants must submit a resume, cover letter and completed Village of Middleville employment application in a sealed envelope to Alec Belson, DPW Director, 100 E. Main Street, PO Box 69, Middleville, MI 49333. Applications and a job description are also available at the Village office, 100 East Main Street, Middleville, Michigan 49333, or on the Village website: www.villageofmiddleville.org. ♦ REZONING OF PROPERTY The Township zoning map is amended to rezone 2671 Russell Drive from RLF, Residential Lakefront Zoning District to RSF, Residential Single Family Zoning District. The tax parcel number is 16-030-00600. A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required. Minimum qualifications include a CDL or ability to obtain the license within ninety days of hire, one to two years of experience in a maintenance environment, knowledge of standard construction practices, a solid mechanical aptitude, and a clean driving record. The position requires residence within a thirty-minute recall time, and it pays $22.91-$23.41 per hour -depending on qualifications. The selected candidate must pass a pre-employment physical, including a drug screen. The position will be open until filled. / ■ ■■■ • DJ Potgeter had the top Monday, Jan. 22. the slalom with runs of inidivudal finish for the Onekema’s Braydon 26.55 and 27.18. Those Scots placing fifth in the Sorenson, Benzie’s Ben were the best time of all slalom. He had runs of Stoops and Glen Lake’s four of the evening’s runs. 31.31 and 32.14 in that Colin Kasben went 1-2-3 in Coach Petrosky was also competition. both the GS and the slalom. pleased with how his JV James Diegel added an Sorenson won the GS with boys and girls performed 18th-place scoring finish in runs of 20.38 and 20.21 and Wednesday. the GS for Caledonia. “My guys skied hard, we 211193 were a little cautious on our •HzWk first runs and also had equipment failures, but Taiihee Sprii^ Township overall it was a great race 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 and gives us things to work 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 on before the Benzie NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION Invitational.” TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS The Scots’ next race is BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN the Benzie Invitational at Crystal Mountain on TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE HELP WANTED I I ^® 11426 t ( was second on Sk' Conference race of the sea- I®". TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS; r f the son W«rln«d«, J ' son Wednesday. (File photo) I t k k « » M k �»r J * « I * Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 20, 2024 1^1 riG OUil dilU KagG ^OLUiMay* vaiiwai j fcWf _ Scots hold on to finish a point above Panthers 4/ I I led 4-0 going into the third period. Turk started round there in If at first you don’t succeed, the bottom position, and had a throw, throw again. That was Ethan Carr’s atti­ bit of a scary moment early as tude as he entered his 138- Burgo-Woodfork worked to pound bout with West Ottawa’s pin an arm behind his back, Juelz Carrasco-Silva in the but Turk managed to break middle of the Fighting Scots’ free and eventually get to his OK Red Conference dual with feet. That is what it is about, a the visiting Panthers. The first time he got ahold good team win,” Veitch said. of Carrasco-Silva, the two ‘‘about everybody doing their stumbled out of bounds. The individual job for the team.” The Fighting Scots are now next time, Carrasco-Silva 1-3 in OK Red Conference managed to turn the throw attempt into a take down of his duals this season. own. Carrasco-Silva went into Both teams won seven the third period with a 7-2 lead flights in the dual. Caledonia over Carr in a key swing match got quick pins from Cayden on the night at Caledonia High Nostrant at 175 pounds and School. Conor Sebel at 190 to open the Finally, midway through contest. Grady Nelson picked the third period Carr caught up a big 7-4 win for the Scots Carrasco-Silva in a headlock over Jayden Rattanasamay in and took him down to his the 285-pound bout. back. Carr earned the pin wi± “[Nostrant] is a freshman 30 seconds to go on the clock, and he is on fire,” Veitch said. putting the Caledonia varsity “To set the tone getting a pin wrestling team in front 30-20 right out of the gate - awe at the time. some. Conor Sebel has had “I was proud of him,” two big pins in a row you Caledonia head coach Shawn look at Grady Nelson there Veitch said of Carr, “because getting a win. This is his first at the start of the year, mainly varsity conference meet there my fault for conditioning, we at heavyweight. You can just weren’t there yet. He would keep going through. Carter have gotten pinned at the start Berrends, first ever conference of the second period instead of win at 126. So, I think this was keeping fighting and giving more of a program win and himself a chance to make it these kids are believing. They happen.” are working hard up in the The Scots needed points room and it is little by little to eveiy which way they could get it done.” get them, and eveiy which Caledonia got decisions way they could avoid giving from Berrends at 126 pounds them up, in what eventually and Will Sheely at 150. turned into a 33-32 Caledonia Berrends bested the victory. Panthers’ Victor Salazar 3-1, Muhammed Turk clinched powered by a first period take the victory for the Fighting down. Sheely got his key Scot team in a defeat in the points late in a 7-5 overtime 165-pound weight class, win. Caledonia led 33-29 heading Sheely had a 5-3 lead thanks into that final bout, meaning in part to take downs in each Turk needed to just keep of the first two periods before things close. Cam’ron Burgo- West Ottawa’s Alexzandir Woodfork got a take down late Kladder tied their bout with a in the first period to go up 2-09 take down with just five sec­ in the match and eventually onds left on the clock in the Brett Bremer Sports Editor I I I f J I I I r I I t t I I J I I i ! J 1 I i I II f f I » i 1 [I I I i I I r I I i I f I ► f *I r I ■ -Mi. A 1 ------- WMMfcl J- •l 9^ » r. S’ ’•'a 1 ?♦ r ♦< •• 4 E V. • k* 9^ w 1*!- -V 1: t'-. .'■r *s J T* X ’A J r; .V ■ ra I 4 b r •Vl < if.- k •s • J * 4 si X 1 > 4 V « rl 11 k 9 •I '' •W' .5? A 51' a Vb > 9 - •iS b. •C' •C * •. i MiOaMHam Mi •LU” •y. •K- LTi* ♦I 1 . vrWi 1 >.bnw • —. *: •• —U<&.- /•L I The Fighting Scots’ Will Sheely (front) drives into West Ottawa’s Alexzandir Kladder during their 150-pound OK Red Conference match Wednesday at Caledonia. Sheely earned a 7-5 overtime win to help the CHS team to a 33-32 victory over the visiting Panthers. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 9 third period. It only took Sheely about 15 seconds of the one minute overtime period to score the take down that earned him the win. Caledonia’s other six points in ±e dual came thanks to a forfeit win for Owen Roimds at 113 pounds. West Ottawa got pins from Kendrick Bronkhorst at 215 pounds. Brayion Cates at 120 and James Foster at 144 pounds. Sheely’s overtime win had the Scots in front 33-26 with two bouts to go. Logan Hill took a 10-6 decision for the Panthers over the Scots’ Koleson Reeder at 157 pounds to give his teammate Burgos-Woodfork the opportunity to overtake the Scots in the end. West Ottawa also had a pair of major decisions in the dual, a 13-4 win from Marcus Delgado at 106 pounds and a 10-2 win by Anthony Jaramillo at 132 pounds. There were key a four-point major decision. Coach Veitch said he was as little greedy trying to score the wins at 132 and 138, sliding Carrow down to 132 to wrestle Jaramillo. “When James [Carrow] lost, I told [Ethan] Carr, I put you here for a reason: to get six. I don’t care if it happens in swings in both of those bouts. The Scots’ Josh Grace narrow­ ly managed to fight off his back in the second period against Delgado in the 106pound match. Jaramillo man­ aged a last second take down of the Scots’ James Carrow at 132 pounds to up his victory from a three-point decision to 30 seconds or five minutes and 59 seconds, but you keep wrestling and he made it hap­ pen. I am proud of him,” Veitch said. Caledonia is set to be a part of the Kalamazoo Central tournament today, Jan. 20 and will head to Jenison for an OK Red Corrference Quad. f 9 K I rp I• & A w • ‘ » I =r M- 7 !/ / > .• 4 f ■ >< - ^’<6 -S k .» " SQCIAL^g^ 4. r/ A.\ r-< I 'V' A* r A V J ' "t- *. rw?M: 5; I I *1 I <* fr. X 4 L’ ♦ •: t 4 .sw ! 4 A U I I A » r / t I I 1 ■.‘r/t, 9 k. r The Fighting Scots’ James Carrow (right) fights off West Ottawa’s Anthony Jaramillo during the opening period of their 138-pound bout Wednesday at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) LOW 8 SI I u «-Cc . < » « ■r. « t'' SPACEjfTtftAELBfeERS // ■ LI k- I 4- « 9 % J r _ J 4 ' *y .•* < 9 \ i 1 0VEIL17 I i l’^ > t r.>'* * I ' ■KVWKlB*.• > 11 f /A I 1 « 5 Mk v--* r • i* 4 ‘ I c I •< 9 ail I ijBite for 'a nd more 5 J ■'’’4 t.* ww < 4 L * •» --Ik> ■« h I. I 4 b • •• - ♦- ’.V • >• 1 < Si ■>5 I * p < t. f S'; 'ft. t * f I i V it: }s Fl k * t 'b I I i 4 2 SONS M < 4 A. 4 4 icy ■<X':iJ. X • Ill—am&r»» » A •f .'A .-JW .« -Til I-*■ ... K t J • J.■ify > > AV ■T. * k. s'’ STS VL* hr-?'’ k 4 IPK'MI t I * £4 — 4 4 . ■■ ■ »- ‘r ■/A Z / • J I f < MM .4 I r r s r s 11 h. HA JnH Scots’ Carter Berrends (left) works for a takedovZdininqthefS period of his match with West Ottawa’s Victor Salazar in their 1 Wednesday at Caledonia High School. (Photo bX« Semer)’ t b £\ r I / •• I 8 I t « 1 I « J < « 4 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-01-27.pdf 3370c1b5528756030c065950d73a2b91 PDF Text Text t Z: i J s. . * • hr 7: •V ■ - I •V ■ •l T\ ♦ ! He Sun and N&w. rr ..5* 7' > I . . Wi •W^ ♦> « * ■■I I * A JI’ J tfW^ < 1 Your Hometown Newspaper ServinTMiddlevIiie No. 4/ January 27, 2024 Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. \. 4^ I k and Caledonia Areas *1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 146th year Cal schools ready to close on land acquisition to expand CalPlex, will pay fees / i I 4 *2-* 4 4 Greg Chandler Writer After months of discusSion, only a few signatures on the dotted line remain - before Caledonia 4 <1^7 =2. • 4-Community Schools take r possession of a 20-acre par­ HI ■■tMB cel at 100th Street and Kraft Avenue for the expansion of the CalPlex youth sports and recreation complex. The district’s Board of Education Monday gave * Superintendent Dirk Students at Thornapple Kellogg High School Weeldreyer the go-ahead to under a brief shelter in place order on Wednesday morning after the school received an anonymous threat of a firearm on school execute the agreement to ------ u. ex i.rearm on scnooi property. (Courtesy photo) complete the acquisition of the land, which will be added to the current 36-acre CalPlex property, from Caledonia Township. The township had purchased the Jayson Bussa property in 2008 at a cost of Sheriff’s Office is investi­ the shelter in place was lift­ went on to say. “In an abun­ $250,000, at the same time Editor gating an anonymous tip ed.” dance of caution to keep all The Barry the district acquired the curCounty received by Thornapple The investigation was still students and staff safe. we SherifFs Office continues to Kellogg Schools. The tip rent CalPlex property for ongoing at the time of print. treat all threats as if they are $450,000. investigate an anonymous indicated a student had Thornapple Kellogg serious. ” threat that led to a brief dis­ brought We should be all set, ” a gun to Schools Superintendent A follow-up email came Weeldreyer said in a Zoom ruption in the school day on Thornapple Kellogg High Craig McCarthy sent out a shortly after providing clarity interview with the Sun and Wednesday at Thomappl e School and threatened to couple of emails to parents on the situation. I News Thursday night. Kellogg High School. “fight up” the school,” the anu guaruians or nigh school “ Earlier this morning we and guardians of high school The school board had The BCSO issued a state­ statement from the students on Wednesday received an anonymous an ment shortly after students Sheriff’s Office said. morning, keeping them threat of a firearm on school at the school were instruct“The school was immedi- updated on the fluid situa­ property, ” McCarthy wrote ed to shelter in place on ately placed into a shelter in tion. in this email. “ Local law Wednesday morning. a place while law enforcement “At this time, there is no enforcement, along with practice that allows stu­ and school staff investigated immediate threat to student’s fk r Tn, !-• school personnel, have foldents to continue their nor­ the lip. The Michigan State safety,” McCarthy wrote in lowed safety protocols and iS wrote in mal day of learning in one Police assisted with search- the through an extensive process the first firstmessage of the classroom as opposed to mg the bui Iding with a fire- morning. detemtined this was not a morning. vmi ETK "’’al moving from one to anoth- arms detection dog. No guns “Office staff immediately credible threat. At this time. 1 IM US er. were located at the school. At responded with appropriate we are resuming normal The Barry County the conclusion of the search, safety protocols,” the email school activities.” nn approved a resolution Nov, 20 of last year to execute the purchase agreement. where CCS would pay the township one dollar for the land on the condition that the district would use it to expand CalPlex. nut But on Dec. 6, the Township Board approved a change in the agreement that shifted all responsibility for paying closing costs and attorney fees to the 1:*.^ R 1 I r •> if I I I I I I * 5 ft' ****-^ •?* ^"•k**^* *4* I |> I kki F' < ■ R / I 1 J ♦ A* schools, necessitating the school board discussion on Monday, _fc^« •■, ■ • - —• (4 We didn’t need to take any additional action (as a school district),” Weeldreyer said. I just wanted to inform (the board) that they wouldn’t be doing it for one dollar, they would be doing it for one dollar plus the attorney’s fees.” The agreement originally called for the district and township to split closing costs and for the township to pay its portion of attorney Anonymous report of threat briefly disrupts TKHS; Sheriff’s office investigating I I I I I I I I See CALPLEX, page 2 t I I I I » % f a •> V, I 5 I t -f '1. > .a I k * I J •• • W t - f *«•* A. ■ISAV CT 4 1 * I 49 * ■ /‘’if JiJk r* >1 s 9 I ^9 ^^K**«* rea schools burn through allotted snow days with plenty of winter still left A Jayson Bussa Editor Inclement winter weather turned a two-week winter break into a nearly month- J I I long affair for some school districts and now administra­ tors are keeping a close eye on the number of snow days at their disposal. SNOW DAY RULES ▼ Each district is allotted six snow days or other types of cancellations ▼ After six cancellations, a district can petition the state for three more ▼ After those nine cancellations, each additional snow day will require a district to add a school day to the end of the year A storm that struck just kids to school throughout the after winter break forced area dicey weather and the district schools to cancel several has only logged four snow times, burning through the days so far. number of forgivable cancel­ The general rule is that, lations that are doled out by once a district has exceeded the state. After an icy morning its number of allotted snow forced the closure of days or cancellations they Thomapple Kellogg Schools must add days to the end of on Tuesday, the district is now the year, taking a small up to six cancellations this chomp out of summer vacayear, which is on par with tion. However, a few other other schools in Barry County, safeguards are in place. Six is also the number of When a school district snow days that districts are reaches the six snow days initially allotted by the state. allowed by the state, as TK Caledonia Community Schools managed to summon See SNOIV DAYS, page 3 Caledonia Community Schools is set to pur­ chase a 20-acre parcel of land used to expand the CalPlex youth sports and recreation complex. (File photo by Jayson Bussa) 11^ ISBWi I 1k • Former Middleville council member sentenced for impaired driving • Cal schools see a mid-year revenue boost • Caledonia village planners approve Community Green maintenance^ building II I I J, I • Cal girls hoops enter brutal stretch of conference schedule • TK ski team finally has snow to compete on 1 ! I i I I 1 » I bl I I ! I I I I f ■ i . �1 Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27, 2024 CALPLEX, continued fiont page 1 fees and any transfer taxes. The attorney fees are expect­ ed to run about $4,500, while the closing costs have not yet been determined, Weeldreyer said. hear that the schools were moving forward with com­ pleting the acquisition. “It’s going to be a huge asset for this community,” she said. Former Middleville President Pro-Tempore gets probation for impaired driving 1 z’ ■ ri * / We didn’t need to take any additional action (as a school district). I just wanted to inform (the board) that they wouldn’t be doing it for one dollar; they would be doing it for one dollar plus the attorney’s fees.” — Dirk Weeldreyer, Superintendent, Caledonia Community Schools The closing will allow CCS to begin the planning process on developing the 100th and Kraft site with the Caledonia Youth Sport Association, using funds from the $61 million bond issue that voters approved in May of last year. About $3 million from the bond issue will be used for the CalPlex expansion. Weeldreyer said he spoke with Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison earlier in the day on Thursday. “We are moving forward. He’s going to have Alison (Nugent, township manager) send in the final (documents) to sign off, so we should be set,” the superintendent said. Nugent said Thursday night that she was “happy” to In a police report obtained by the Banner through a Freedom of Information Act request, an officer with the Barry County Sheriff’s Office was notified that a vehicle identified as the Left Field Coffee Company van had done a burnout into the parking lot of village hall, losing a hubcap in the process. Another witness, per the report, said he saw the van crash into the vehi­ cle it parked next to before the driver exited the vehicle and went into the village hall. DeMaagd was late arriv­ ing but did participate in the meeting that night. He initially denied both driving or having anything December of last year fol­ lowing an early October incident that eventually led to him resigning from his post with the village. originally was He charged with misdemeanor counts of operating while intoxicated and failure to stop after a collision but pled guilty to the lesser charge and the two original charges were dismissed. impaired driving The charge carried a maximum of 93 days in jail. DeMaagd’s charges orig­ inated from an Oct. 3 inci­ dent where he drove a Left Field Coffee Company van — a business he owns — while under the influence of alcohol. Jayson Bussa Editor A former member of the Middleville Village Council received 12 months of pro­ bation and was ordered to pay court fees after pleading guilty to impaired driving. Johnny DeMaagd, who formerly served as President Pro-Tempore for the Village of Middleville, learned his fate in a Barry County courtroom on Monday morning in front of Judge Michael Schipper. In addition to his year of probation, the 27-year-old DeMaagd was ordered to pay fines, costs and fees totaling $1,240. DeMaagd pled guilty to impaired driving in * 9k «. t* *' J A Wr I Johnny DeMaagd to drink but later admitted to both, according to the report. When DeMaagd parked the van, his vehicle rested on a silver Honda Civic, causing minor damage. DeMaagd submitted his resignation to the board while the investigation was still ongoing. Caledonia village planners approve changes to Community Green maintenance building project Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Township can move ahead with plans to build a maintenance building that will serve the Community Green park, as well as other recreational facilities in the township such as non-motorized paths. The Village of Caledonia Planning Commission Thursday night approved an amendment to the site plan for the project it originally approved in April 2022, allowing for a slightly larger building to be constructed at the end of Higley Drive. “It IS similar in construetion to the last time we approved it, but it has increased in size. It has been over a year since we approved it, so we (needed) to take a look at it again,” Planning Commission Chairwoman Amanda Crozier said. The maintenance building will be 2,304 square feet 48 feet square an increase of about 15 percent from the original design that called for a 2,000-square-foot building — 50 feet by 40 feet. The amendment was approved on a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Gayle Ott casting the lone no vote. While Community Green was built by the township and is a township-owned facility, it is located within the village limits of Caledonia, necessitating the village Planning Commission review. Township Manager Alison Nugent presented two options to the Planning Commission for how the building could be built, one using a stick-built founda­ tion, the other being a postframe construction model similar to that found on pole bams. “The board basically Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser Help us support veterans and community functions. wanted to see what was cheaper, either post-frame or foundation. So they allowed the bidders to choose either one. The board has not decid­ ed on which one to consider. We believe we will go with the first scenario, which is ... the stick-frame construetion,” Nugent said. The Township Board is expected to make a decision on which building option to pursue as well as awarding the contract for the project when it meets on Feb. 7, Nugent said. Some commissioners wondered why the township didn’t decide on one con- The building itself is the same in either construction — it’s just the way the foun­ dation is built that is differ­ ent.” Currently, there is no space for township staff to store equipment to provide upkeep on Community Green. The township has been contracting with a land­ scaping company with main­ tenance of the park, Nugent said. “There’s this push to move forward with it and get it done by this summer, so that we have a place to store our equipment,” she said. Earlier efforts to build the maintenance building were derailed by higher-than-expected construction costs. Ott felt the decision on approval should have been tabled because commissioners didn’t receive the updated plans until the day before Thursday’s meeting. She said the village typically requires the submission of planning documents 20 business days before commissioners are to consider a plan. Nugent said struction type before coming to the Planning Commission. “Why are we getting it before it’s finalized?” Commission Vice Chairwoman Kimberly Peters asked. “Because we want to move on the project. We don’t want it to be hung up getting approval here,” Nugent said. We d like to get approval so we can move forward (with construction) once they approve the bid. 1 JlBK Jie ® ' ^0 fimii? ft! 0^^ I jjiitH I 4 ’•e I 4 I 3^ 1 1 t r Or w 9 w A * i . if ► '-J Lu .Kai)’!' ‘ .4^1 B w itipi IsiMiW > ***•; • * ■* • • I'l & T / z 9 k 5 fe Ip'll 7^ * V- 4 4 II 4 k JS‘- hem in V he iinaed Caledonia Township Manager Alison Nugent shows plans for the Community Green maintenance building to Commissioner Gayle Ott. (Photo by Greg Chandler) mitted in November. Commissioners had not met since September. But other commissioners said that because the only significant change in the project involved the size of the building, that they were willing to approve the amended plan. “Let’s get this done,” Commissioner Monique Brennan said. “I respect the (commissioners) that did this in 2022. The work was done.” The approval of the site the updated plans were sub- lie leiitlT ie Agricalt Readeniial. Ihepn^ 4 plan is contingent on a num­ ber of factors, including approval of the landscaping plan by the village planner, as well as proof that the proj­ ect has approval from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) before a building permit is issued. The building can only be used for maintenance. addressing concerns that were raised two years ago that the township might use the building for community events. cial leahot b tee [ Liiiiy 'icts coa Saturday, February 3,2024 and the First Saturday of each month Serving 8 a.m. to 10:00 a.ni. £gg5, bacon, sausage links or patties, potatoes, biscuits and sausage gravy, pancakes, milk, OJ, coffee. If Menu subject to change Adults $13.00 • Children 10 d* under $5,00 For more information call the Post at 616-891-1882 >. Coffee Donated by COFFEE Caledonia Memorial Legion Post 305 9548 Cherry Valley, Caledonia, MI LUNCH M-TH 11 AM-8 PM: FRf 11 AM-2PM • FRI BUILD A BURGER 4-8 PM s * t i lit 1 V' F IB ; I fi t nccidental shooting in Gaines Township sends man to hospital James Gemmell Contributing Writer A 22-year-old Tennessee man is recovenng from an accidental gunshot wound suffered Thursday morning in Gaines Charter Township. It happened just before noon near Eastern Avenue and Woodfield Drive. That is just south of 60th Street, which is the border with the City of Kentwood. The Kent County Sheriffis Office says the man was struck by a bullet and was taken by someone to a hospi­ tal shortly after noon. His name was not released. No information had been released at the time of this or how it happened. “It was just an accidental shooting and there was no foul play suspected,” Sgt. Kailey Gilbert said. Gilbert recently was named the KCSO Public Information Officer, replac­ ing Eric Brunner, who was promoted from sergeant to lieutenant. report as to who fired the gun I $4 1 « z / t ( t f I s. ,,.^1 . , « r 9 I J r 4 I I 1 » i I t I t I I « �< 1 The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27,2024/ Page 3 SNOW DAY, continued from page 1 has, administrators can then submit a written letter to the State Superintendent Michael F. Rice to request a maxi­ mum of three additional snow days, which is normal­ ly granted. This gives each district nine snow days or cancellations, meaning sum­ mer vacations are still fully intact, but some local schools getting to be on thin ice (pun intended). Even beyond the potential for nine snow days, a far less utilized scenario can come into play: state intervention. t X, 1 JJ John lb Area superintendents were quick to point to the winter of 2019 as an example of how one widespread weather event can force the state government to step in and bend the snow day rules for districts. That was the year of the Polar Vortex, a prolonged winter storm that saw arctic air come barreling through the area in late January and February, early reoruary, even prompting Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to declare a state of emergency. That year. schools canceled classes for an entire week and beyond, Many districts recorded over a dozen snow days that winter. State legislators stepped in to introduce a bill that forgave even more snow days for districts so that they wouldn’t have to go to school longer, “Those things also come into play when you talk about really weird things that happen and impact a lot of districts,” said Matt Goebel System, which has logged six snow days. “(State inter­ vention) doesn’t happen every year, but also something like the Polar Vortex doesn’t happen every year, either.” The recent winter storm could certainly be classified as not your typical weather event, dumping over a foot of snow on most areas of West Michigan before ushering in subzero w'iMchills for issues persisted as a rain and snowy mix iced over the roads. Craig McCarthy, superintendent of of Thornapple Kellogg Schools, said he hopes that, if inclement weather like this persists, state lawmakers would be open to similar measures as in 2019. “That year, the state pro­ vided additional days,” he said. “If we continue to have these widespread storms that cause multiple districts to cancel, I hope the state will nearly an entire week. This week offered warmer temperatures but travel superintendent for neighbor­ ing Hastings Area School Gaines planners approve preliminary review for Caledonia Meadows PUD flit *liei kJ> I 4 James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Gaines Township Planning Commission voted 7-0 Thursday night to approve a preliminary review for a planned unit develop­ ment-open space preserva­ tion (PUD-OSP) process. That includes a prelimi­ nary site plan and PUD rezoning for a proposed resi­ dential condominium development called Caledonia Meadows. Several more steps must be completed before a final PUD plan and rezoning can be considered for approval by the township board. Among other things. that would entail a public hearing. The development would be situated on 83 acres at 3805 92nd St., at East Paris Avenue. The property is cur rently designated as Agricultural/Rural Residential. The project applicants are DHS Holdings LLC, DAS Holdings LLC and commer­ cial realtor Duke Suwyn. They have proposed 34 resi­ dential lots, with each home lot to be served by a private well. There are no existing on-site water and sewer ser­ vices connected. Sanitary sewer service would be r7. ' Alison b M maik (Photo 1,^' UteffllJI! facloB, fi oflkfe kiiks proofosa: Dill hl V I * A 1,1 ff [)([« Mllitf iijaif r DIMS, cooce® u* delivered through a commu­ nity on-site Septic Tank Effluent Pumping (STEP) system and onsite sewer (soil dispersal facility). Permits would be required to install wells for the individual hous­ es. The developer would cover the costs. “So, every single house has its own cistern (septic tank with a pump) for the sewage as it gets flushed,” Township Planner Dan Wells explained. “And then, they pump it to where it gets dispersed in the sand. Then, the biological processes happen to break it up.” If the STEP system were to fail, the township would have the right to establish a special assessment district to fund repairs and maintenance of it long term. Planning staff noted the application meets require­ ments in the township’s mas­ ter plan and zoning ordi­ nance. They also recom­ mended the township attor­ ney review any legal instru­ ments related to the open space and the special assess­ ment district. An article in the master deed grants the township authority to create the S.A.D. Staff also recommended that planners require side- walks on both sides of the road because it’s a dense urban development. “In terms of density, the proposed development’s more akin to a suburban resi­ dential land use under the master plan definitions, but it is balanced with the conser­ vation of open space, as well, on that single parcel,” Wells said. About 48 acres would be set aside for agricultural use outside of the development area. A small playground would be at the north end, adjacent to the community soil-dispersal facility. A five- have a sidewalk along the eastern side of the road that will go to a common area, the playground area. And it will be looped with the trail system and the open space ... so, the entire loop would be well over a mile,” Henderson said. An on-site stormwater col­ lection and management sys­ tem would be provided, as well. There are about four acres of open space at the north end of the proposed development which has about 2.5 acres of woods and fields. There would be a private road entrance from 92nd Street. Attorney Steve Tjapkes with the Foster Swift law firm addressed the planning commission on behalf of the project applicants. He said a trail would be located somewhere between open space and a paved surface. The developer’s trying to create a space that will, in fact, be used by the residents for jogging and walking and just enjoying nature while. at the same time, not incur­ ring a lot of costs to create that, which would drive up the cost per lot. And the overall affordability of the housing,” Tjapkes said. foot-wide walking path would be built around the agricultural field for public use. “The lots are all pushed to the west end ... to create as much contiguous open space as possible. That open space is currently being farmed and it’s proposed to continue as an agricultural space,” Paul Henderson said. He was representing the surveying and civil engineering firm Roosien & Associates. “We are proposing a trail around the entire open space that will connect one end of the road to the other, essentially creating a loop. We’ll Planning Commission member Brad Waayenberg said he has a concern with the stormwater system. “If you have a detention system, it still needs to slowly disperse, And there’s nowhere to disperse it in that ground, in that area,” he said. Two road access points would be required by the Dutton Fire Department. Planning Commission Secretary Lani Thomas said she wanted to make sure that the development will include II .1 a k 4 yV I J '■ J ll V . I. »".I■ t J I 4 0 H' * It «. ,1 ■ ? I 4-4 3’ k % 11 FARM BUREAli WSURMCE* Cotttpa^ w i 1 Jason Parks F (269) 795-8827 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville jparRs@tbinsnii.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com I i Al! 1 Bruce's Frame and H Full Service Body Shop • • • • i I I . I I • I . 1 t 4 1 r J 11 » t e.-. 'J } I I If 1 I » I ias-i > VJWI J I r I I I I 1 1 sidewalks on both sides, plus two access points for emergency vehicles. Commissioner Talimma Billips concurred about having two sidewalks. Commissioner Tim Haagsma said he likes the development’s layout, with the open space in one area. “I have concerns about the sewer, but if we put in the master deed that the town­ ship can implement a special assessment, then the fears could be alleviated,’’ he said. Your local agent insures your II • F----- - V'i '1 I again provide the additional days.” While parents may not have been thrilled to have their kids stuck at home for prolonged periods over the last two weeks, McCarthy vocalized the top priority for any district. 1 want students in school every scheduled day, but safety comes first,” he said. “If weather conditions are unsafe and it’s dangerous for our buses and young drivers to be on the road, we will call for additional snow days.” < I Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCar(d Accepted Over 40 years experience w- * « «. f A J k. • • - JI >4 brucesframe.com I w ?« I r J / Fa '..-I T- Jr ■r 1 I .1 2- r 1 ♦J Al r I (iWi I I II I J 1« w Vj I » 1 I I K J The Gaines Township Planning Commission discusses a proposed development at its meeting Thursday night at the township hall. (Photo by James Gemmell) I 415 2nd • Middleville I 1 4 1 i » j I I 1 r �Page 4/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27,2024 I Developer returns to Gaines Township planners to rezone vacant lot i •1 loK •1 a I ■■Ito I I IM I ,u HK is the boundary line with Byron Township. The township adopted a new master plan last year. It states that the intent of the neighborhood commercial category is to integrate the commercial development with the surrounding neigh­ borhood. “Not to mix the uses in a checkerboard, but to allow low-intensity commercial activity to village residential (medium density) use,” it reads. “Pedestrian access between the two should be well-integrated with sidewalks and pleasantly landscaped to promote a walkable connection.” The township’s master plan provides some flexibility for that property. But planning commissioners in December voted 6-1 to recommend the township board deny an application for general commercial rezoning. So, DeSmit withdrew the application and re-submitted for the neigh­ borhood commercial zoning designation, instead. The developer would eventually divide the parcel. Some commissioners were concerned that zoning it gen­ eral commercial would have potentially allowed a business such as a gas station or .lames Gemmell ('rmirihuting Writer A developer's request to rczonc a partially vacant lot on one of the gateway interGaines sections into Township must go to the township board for further review. Planning commissioners voted unanimously Thursday night to approve a prelimi­ nary request to rewne the 2.3-acre property al 7610 S. Division Avc. from a heavy industrial (1-2) designation to neighborhood commercial (NC). They also asked planning staff to set a public hearing for that. Staff had recommended approval. The property is partially developed with a self-storage facility on site, but the appli­ cation is focused on the vacant section of property. The project applicant is Brian DeSmit of Apex Realty, on behalf of the Jon & Sandra Good Trust. DeSmit did not attend the planning commission meet­ ing. The site at the southeast comer of 76th Street and Division Avenue is surround­ ed by general commercial property on the north side and industrial on the east and south sides. Division Avenue I 7V,- r I ■T ■ I 1 ..=i'. -/ * fl 4 .1 ?H I 1 • tx" ■ /I i ‘ I V I ■ i s & £ “1 -ssi Lu* K ''i 1 • 9 > X -s I *s* I t fl * * w< * iff ♦ I J V ’K-i t <5 •z A ». 4. W I • I Wi k- k ’• I flb i Ci.’’’ i Si ip ■ « ‘di ri 1 ' •-^is I k' •w r It * ^4 F t ■ '.-v t • -1 1® t « ’>5 I b . I.. * 4 < /9 Ml $^•5 L k/ •A* •4 •. ks r r p i I ^6 ll r ** IJ I r- f 'J & ♦ Z4M. * -w f This overhead shot shows the 2.3-acre property at 76th Street and Division Avenue, which is vacant clos est to the intersection and occupied by a self-storage facility in the eastern section. (Image provided by Gaines Township) * ry combining the neighbor­ hood commercial with medi­ um-density residential. The area is served by all the utili­ ties needed for commercial use. The township board will do a first reading and hold a public hearing on the propos­ al in the near future. “I don’t know exactly what their timeline is for development of it, though,” Wells said in a post-meeting interview. “So, they’re just kind of setting the table for what they’re going to do.” drive-thru restaurant to open there. So, the applicant is inter ested in pursuing (the projCommunity ect),” Development Director Dan Wells told the planning commission. “They feel confi­ dent that they’ll be able to find a final user. They don’t have a user defined yet, so this is kind of a rezoning in anticipation of build-to-suit.” TTie township’s future land use plan has designated the area as residential/retail, which is a mixed-use catego* A memo that planning staff prepared for the plan­ ning commission said devel­ opment of the lot at 76th Street and Division Avenue would be an ‘‘improvement to the comer and a signal of reinvestment in the Division corridor.” This stretch of Division has seen very little reinvest­ ment over the last decade. However, the Brewer Park Apartments a mile to the south were recently approved and are anticipated to be built over the next two to three 4^ years,” the memo reads. “I’m amazed that we’ve got a parcel on that comer sitting empty there,” Planning Commission Chairwoman Connie Giarmo said. “I think it might improve the look of that area quite a bit.” The Brewer Park project to the south that the memo referred to is a planned mixed-use development on a 16-acre property at 8190 S. Division Ave. It is just north of 84th Street and adjacent to Earl Brewer Park. cefl ’1’*' c ,t) Joes (I P (IKI «IS»« (jiJaiiei 4 ^10011'J 0 jib4® ; jitiri*"^ jflpeDW' ,is 1 sinflo alaska 7240 68* Street SE Caledonia. Ml 49316 616-698-8104 www.alaskabapti5t.org baptist |church Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am FIRST BAPTIST Worship Service Fellowship Time Sunday School Youth Gathering Adult Bible Study 9:30 AM 10;45 AM 11:00 AM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM ^ii/-/7 Sunday Service 10:30 AM ^4 \ Middleville Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdicms.googlepages .com 4 III J ^1 ■ Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddlevilie Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 c; 9:30 a.m. JI cornerstonemi.org/weekend OURNEY CHURCH <apea si Taui^t^ 4 f (269) 795-2391 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. 6 CHURCH Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. F Z- CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 (®thejchurch 4 PEACECHURCH.ee ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 peacechurch.ee V6U& Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto Sunday School.. . 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM Whitneyville / Fellowship Church iMTCi«Ar»4iQ| loin us for our traditional yet casual worship hisofpir service, in person or online, at 9;00 am. taesctol 250 Vine Street DMOfflliHi 616-891-8669 CaledoniaLIMC.org tiitfclopi Liveslream; Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMelhodist Serx’ing Strengthening^ taw, it Connecting toffiiffi < ; 1 1 HOLY FAMILY If CATHOLIC CHURCH bfaU ilBKOfl tttaiigij 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 UptWii www.holyfamilycaledonia.org ; MWiiiiia teisfflei Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? 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The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27,2024/ Page 5 9 J r "J I > *•* (* Gaines Township Pianning Commission reappoints officers -■■. ,Mi ■ W.; T2ir . -I Proposed homeschooling restrictions an affront to liberty, fail to protect kids I I f &, I •* I ’• % h.>1 11 9 . . ' •’ft ‘1 '’(h rtpab* 4e 'nub s K' II Sail 'Wa rCnnr 'Ml OK JJ ‘ ’1 11’ [caldmifc . . iff;: . HI f J % ,1*. I did nothing to protect them. why is this legislation being dated to try to homeschool Furthermore, it’s illegal to pushed? It’s clear that regisgiven the hurdles in place homeschool foster children tering homeschool families there, and the price tag of a in Michigan, yet all of the will not prevent abuse in private school education is rules in place did not protect any form, so is the end goal too high for many families these children. Lastly, there biannual check-ins? Are to pay. This essentially Dear Editor, was a story featured in the homeschooling families in leaves children trapped in Recently, a new push in Washington Post about a litMichigan going to be the Democrat-controlled tie boy who was severely expected to forgo their the public school system. and it makes public school legislature began. They are and horrifically abused at Fourth Amendment rights officials brazen in their looking to add more over- the hands of his step-mom, against unlawful searches? beliefs that they will decide sight and restrictions to and we are told Michigan’s The American justice sys- what children in California homeschool families in lax homeschool laws facili­ tern is predicated about the will be taught. Michigan. What this will tated the abuse. However, presumption of innocence This IS what happens look like exactly is hard to this mis lamiiy proven guiltv family moved to until when the public education guess, though we know it California prior to this little Requiring homeschool famsystem believes parents will include a requirement boy’s death. California has ilies to submit to check-ins have no other options. They to register as a homeschool some of the strictest homeshomes­ removes this presumption begin to believe that the chool regulations in the of innocence. We will be u ii In 2015, a bill was intro­ country — yet the family presumed guilty of abuse public schools are the ulti­ mate authority over the chil­ duced by a Democrat repre, to move there despite until we “check-in” and dren and what they will sentative (Stephanie Chang) these restrictions whilst prove our innocence. This is learn. We ’ ve already seen that would have also man- they continued the abuse of affront to freedom and clashes over questionable dated biannual “check-ins” the little boy. If restricting liberty that cannot be tolermaterials in Michigan pub­ with certain designated homeschooling is meant to ated. lic schools — this will only authority figures. Will this protect children, why would The next question then get worse if homeschooling new bill include a similar this family have moved would be, but why does this becomes difficult and cumrequirement? At this point. from a state with fewer matter for non-homeschool bersome to undertake. we don’t know. restrictions to one with families? It matters for sevMichigan ’ s attorney genSo the question looming many restrictions? eral reasons. First, Michigan eral, Dana Nessel, has is, why does this matter? Or, The simple, sad fact is schools rank in the bottom proudly declared she why does it concern all that child abuse will some- half of the country. They are believes there should be a Michigan parents? The times occur. Even the rated at 27 overall, and 43 drag queen in every classshort answer is, any attack Washington Post’s article when it comes to fourth OB room this could become on fundamental parental stated that in 2014, a group grade reading reading levels. reality if public schools rights to guide and control of pediatricians published a Shouldn’t our legislature believe parents have no the education of children is study of more than two worry more about figuring other option but to entrust an attack on everyone’s dozen tortured children out how to improve the pub­ their children to the public parental rights. Comparisons treated at medical centers in lic education system that school system. to Nazi Germany are often Virginia, Texas, Wisconsin, they are supposed to have Supporting homeschooloverused, but it is worth Utah and Washington. Of oversight of? The parents of ing in Michigan will mean noting that the first step to the 17 victims old enough to public school students that your local public school perpetrating the Holocaust attend school, eight were should be outraged that will be far more likely to was a simple registration of homeschooled. What this more isn’t being done to listen and respond to your names. study shows is that these protect students in public input as parents. If the pub­ Why is this push coming? cases are extremely rare and schools and to ensure that lie school system knows There have been a few, ter- that over half of them they are receiving a good that ignoring the concerns rible and tragic instances of occurred in children who education. Instead, the leg­ of parents will result in chil­ abuse that did occur at the attended attended public nublic schools. sehnnls islature wants to waste time dren being pulled out to be hands of parents claiming to There is an ideology that and energy (and money) to homeschooled, they know homeschool. So, the would have people believe extend their oversight to a they must listen and respect Democrats want to use these that having children in community that by and the opinions of parents, tragedies to pass legislation. school where they can be large produces well-educat- Private schooling is unafHowever, the legislation seen keeps them safe, ed ed students. students. More More imporimpor- fordable for many families. they are seeking to pass These statistics would prove tantly, the more restrictive If homeschooling, which wouldn’t protect any child otherwise. and difficult it becomes to can be done quite successfrom abuse. How is having Not only do children who homeschool, the less the fully at a fraction of the cost the names of homeschooled attend public schools some- public schools consider of private school, becomes children in a database going times suffer abuse at home input from parents. difficult to do, public to protect any child from that goes unchecked, they Again, take California as schools will charge ahead abuse? Having a list of often face abuse at school. an example. In California, with whatever agenda they names is meaningless unless The Department of parents must create their wish. there is an end-goal to uti­ Education’s own findings own home school and regisParents in Michigan lize that list for other pur­ show that 9.6 percent of ter it if they want to educate should band together to stop poses. At this point, we students are targets of edu­ their children at home. That this unnecessary push to don’t know how this list cator sexual misconduct is a very intimidating begin regulating homeswould be used, but yet we sometime during their restriction to overcome for chool families. Protecting are told it’s vitally import school career. There have many people. Meanwhile, the rights of families to ant that this list exists. been many stories of educa­ in their public schools, AB guide and determine their The cases utilized to push tor abuse, both sexual and 329 requires all students to children’s education such legislation have little physical, over the last two complete a “comprehensive shouldn’t be a divisive to do with homeschooling. decades. This doesn’t sexual health education and issue. One case involves a mother include the verbal abuse HIV prevention” program Ultimately, all parents whose children were many young people experi- and makes it very difficult want to have the authority enrolled in public school ence at the hands of their for parents to opt their chil- to determine their child’s when she murdered them. teachers as well. But dren out of the curriculum educational path regardless When people asked where beyond the abuse children (if they’re even informed it (of) which path they choose. her children were, she may experience at the hands is being taught at all — Please contact your state deflected by claiming she of educators, there is also which, often, they are not). senator and representative was homeschooling them. abuse and violence perpe­ Technically parents can opt to let them know that their All of the abuse they suf- trated by fellow classmates. their children out, if they priority should be to fered, including their tragic According to an article on request to do so in writing, improve the educational murders, happened whilst Michigan.gov, one in 14 but many school districts outlet they do have over­ they were enrolled and Michigan high school stu- have interpreted the law to sight of - public schools attending public school. dents were threatened or mean that this is not possi- and that they should not Another case involved a injured with a weapon on ble because of the wording infringe on the parental of anyone family that was fostering school property during the of the bill, resulting in sev- rights in children, and the father previous 12-month period eral legal battles. The Michigan. worked for CPS! Their before the survey was California public school system knows that most Christina Kimble names were already in a taken. So, the question remains. parents will be too intimiDorr computer database — yet it James Gemmell first planning commission meeting on Thursday night. Swan is a graduate of Grand Valley State University, where she stud­ ied urban planning. She will assist Dan Wells on the planning staff. He is the township planner, with a formal title of Community Development Director. Swan replaces former Assistant Planner Natalie Davenport, who left the township in October to take a position with the Michigan Strategic Fund board at the Michigan Economic Development Corp. Contributing Writer The Gaines Township Planning Commission has reappointed its three offi­ cers to their same positions on the seven-member panel. Its members recently voted unanimously to retain Connie Giarmo as the chairperson; Ronnie Rober as the vice chair; and Lani Thomas as the secretary. In another personnel move, Dakota Swan was hired as the township’ s new assistant planner. She came to the township in late December and attended her 1 •z » « ✓ I mT * I / r i J * ' *I I t • • .* * r 7 P V J ;| . * * A •*! I I Illi is, 1 I - f* If I 1 I 4 A ■ d -. 7 r. J 4 - A * * * k ■ ♦ .. I 4 .rf. 1' 4 t 4 I K' 4 * I* •r I '4 fc. - • i • II I ft I 1 «C'%X ▼ * '■•V* * r I ar> ^-1 I r-'r‘ I > It* t yr «■ 4 1 I Gaines Township’s new assistant planner, Dakota Swan. (Photo by James Gemmell) 4 r I I I 4 I ,1 I 1 <4 7 1 fi HEJlCTcWW HBqnN© BILL t .Vj 1 ll. i •I I 11 a t .02^ 1 > 1 F Strawberry Lemonaid by MODA® 5 • PLAN YOUR NEXT QUILT: Grads, Weddings, Showers, < Birthdays & More ■? I ( I * I I 4 I New Cotton Collections I >• Flannel Prints & Solids f I I 's. I Silky Minky 60 " & 90 " >>• 1 Hulst Cleaners Pick-Up Station I I QUESTIONS; ASK US... I I 1^-—-« ■ - t 218 E. State St.. Hastings • 945-9673 OPEN; Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Rsr •w Saturday 9 am-3 pm k I 1 f ■ I . �f Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27,2024 Barry County GOP to host forum Cal Schools see for loaded U.S. Senate race revenue boost midway through school year Greg Chandler Staff Writer The fiscal picture for Community Caledonia Schools has brightened considerably, thanks in large part to a boost in rev­ enues from property taxes as well a.s various grants. Chief Financial Officer Sara DeVries updated the CCS Board of Education Monday night on the dis­ trict’s 2023-24 budget. She reported that the district has taken in more than $3.57 million in revenues that had been projected when the school board adopted the budget last June, reducing the expected shortfall for the year from $1,757,812 to $424,727. The district’s expected spending for the fiscal year increased. from also $69,854,877 to $72,096,035, while revenues from rose $68,0097,065 to $71,671,308, DeVries said. The reduction in the pro­ jected shortfall now means the district is expected to end the fiscal year with $9,952,617 in general fund reserves, down from $10,377,344 at the end of the 2022-23 school year. The new fund balance fig­ ure represents 13.8 percent of the district’s spending. B It siIt ess Services GERMAN SHEPHERD PUP­ PIES. 8 weeks old. Call 269331-1788 CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-8385937. Coiiimtiiiity Sotiee NOTICE OF SELF-STOR­ AGE Sale: Please notice Red Dot Storage 195- Caledonia located at 5590 68th Street SE., Caledonia, MI 49316 intends to hold an auction of the storage unit in default of payment. This sale will oc­ cur online via www.storageTreasures.com on 2/13/2024 at 9:30 AM. Unless stated Otherwise, the contents are household goods, furnish­ ings, boxes, and general equipment. Unit numbers are as follows: #115; #116; #254. All property is being stored at the above self-stor­ age facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time with­ out notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. See manager for details. MATT ENDSLEY FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. In­ sured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Pets DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. r** f ,» Antehha Men 9 4< Mi/ V • ♦J,I A/vtewAA Mefi 1 r .-7 « fl which is within the dis­ trict’s stated goals for fiscal DeVries responsibility, said. The district received additional revenue as a result of a slight enrollment increase - 10 students from a year ago. DeVries had projected flat enrollment for the 2023-24 school year. The district also benefitted from an expansion of its shared-time program­ ming to students who do Caledonia attend not schools to include kinder­ garten students, DeVries said. CCS also received sever­ al grants that were not included in the budget when it was passed, most notably a state grant known as Section 31 aa, which pro­ vides funding to support mental health initiatives and school safety programs. In addition, the district reported an increase of $ 1,096,020 in accrued unfunded liability obliga­ tions, which are required to be reported as both revenue.s and expenditures in each school district’s finan­ cial reports. The amended budgeted for this fiscal year now reflects an accrued unfunded liability expense and offset revenue at $6,206,908, DeVries said. I • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! 269-967-8241 1 wS www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpros.com I I t I < I A l( •fc % James Craig Peter Meijer chapter of the GOP will be busy, not only backing can­ didates in local, state and federal races but also tack­ ling important issues, such as Second Amendment rights and the power for local governments to permit projects energy green instead of yielding that power to the state. “If you’re a taxpayer, you should be concerned,” Case said of the current climate of the state and federal gov­ ernments. The forum is designed to let candidates speak on how they plan to address these, and other, issues if they are elected. “Any time you can get candidates together like this is great,” Barry County GOP Chairman Phillip Joseph said. “It allows us to compare them side-by-side and also give direct access to everyday people. It’s one thing to see their campaign through advertising and lit­ erature. It’s another thing to have a conversation and ask questions that are important to you.” Tickets for the event can be purchased through the Barry County Republican Party. Information is available at BarryCounty Republican, org. W 1 frofli ffluniuee U.S. Senate Republican Candidate Forum A J a ’■ Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Middleville will pursue an extension of its single-hauler waste contract with Republic Services. The Village Council Tuesday unanimously voted to direct Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg to work work with Republic repre­ sentatives on a new fiveyear contract for the com­ pany to be the sole hauler of f^sh and recyclables in the village. Republic has had a contract with the village since October 2012, with the current agreement expiring in April. Under the proposed renewal, monthly waste rates will increase to $15.95 for residents with 65-gallon carts and $16 for those with 95-gallon carts to receive weekly pickup, and to $6 for recycling pickup, which will take place every four I 5 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 3 Barry County Expo Center 1350 M-37, Hastings, Ml 49058 Tickets $40 weeks. Republic Municipal Services Manager Jack Brown wrote in a letter to Stolsonburg dated Jan. 8. Additional annual increases are built into the contract, with monthly rates reaching $20.14 for those with 65-gallon containers, $20.20 for those with 95-gallon containers and $7.57 for recycling service in the final year of the agreement. Brown wrote in the letter. Those numbers haven’t changed dramatically since Republic was picked as the service of choice many years ago,” Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith said. The current Republic rates in the village are $12.79 per month for 95-gallon containers, $10.67 per month for 65 gallons and $4.59 per month for recycling, Stolsonburg wrote in an email to the Sun • 1 1 r « I I - 4 I V 1 and News. Overall, customers with 95-gallon carts will pay $38.52 more during the first year of the new contract. while customers with 65-gallon carts will see their trash hauling bill increase by a total of $63.48 during the first year of the new agreement. Brown wrote in the letter. Village President Mike Cramer spoke with someone who lives outside the village whose waste-haul­ ing bill is 40-45 percent higher than what Cramer pays. “We are getting a substantial price break to have the single-hauler contract,” Cramer said. About 800 Republic customers in the village use 95-gallon carts while anoth­ er 200 use the 65-gallon carts, according to Brown’s letter. The village plans to con• • ♦ k I It T I jwsGfi CddiWij ( /Bi’eiiJb li'iiilaltfte Middleville council seeks renewal of Republic waste hauling contract t s k I 4 ( Jayson Bussa Editor The field of Republicans vying for a soon-to-be-vacant United States Senate seat is about as crowded as it can be. That’s one of the primary reasons that the Barry County Republican Party has organized a U.S. Senate candidate forum slated for Saturday, Feb. 3 at the Barry County Expo Center. “It’s very important that we speak with these candi­ dates, we listen to these candidates and know exactly who we need to put our money and our votes behind,” said Kelli Case, a member of the Barry County OOP’s executive board and one of the orga­ nizers for the event. “That, to me, is huge. If we can get everyone gathered in one room to listen to exactly what they have to say and what their goals are and what their achievements are going into this race, then absolutely (it’s worth havmg)” large pool of The Republican candidates competing for a seat that will soon become vacant after the retirement of Democrat Debbie Stabenow has ebbed and flowed. The upcoming forum will host all 15 candidates who are currently in the race. Last week, a recogniz­ able face in former United States Representative Justin Amash announced that he would launch an explorato­ ry committee to see if it was viable for him to enter the race as a Republican (he is a political Independent) but he has not decided one way or another and is not scheduled to appear at the upcoming event in Hastings. Two of the higher profile names currently in the race, who will also appear at the forum, include Peter Meijer and James Craig. Meijer, like Amash, is a former States United Representative, who was unable to win his reelection bid. His popularity within the party was hampered by his decision to vote in favor of impeaching then-President Donald Trump. Craig is the former Detroit police chief and was a favorite to receive the Republican nomination in 2022’s race for governor before discrepancies in his nominating petitions disqualifred him. The Barry County GOP is building a full-scale event and fundraiser on top of the Senate forum. The night, dubbed “For the Love of Country” will also feature dinner, drinks, des­ sert and dancing. The event runs from 5 to 10 p.m. on Feb. 3. Tickets to the event cost $40. “Unfortunately, we need money to put these candi­ dates in position,” Case said. “That’s our goal at the GOP, is to help them.” The event will begin the ramp-up to a busy election season for both parties. Case said that the local I ) bi ten iumitid IWmiliip iiibiialy tinue its annual spring cleanup this year but will work with Republic on a future solution that could replace that cleanup going forward. In other business Tuesday, the council reap­ pointed Eldon Newmyer to a three-year term on the Zoning Board of Appeals and Judy Kruse to a threeyear term as an alternate on the ZBA. That leaves one opening still available on that board. No one else applied for the ZBA appointments. The council also appoint ed Peter Kattula to a fouryear term on the Local Finance Development Authority. Kattula is senior vice president and general manager at Bradford White Corporation. The appoint­ ment comes as the LDFA discusses its future. The authority is scheduled to sunset next year. (®plited on (^Rapids i I ' Wild I Im I r'l 4* 1 i V' J I 4 r I 1 �r' I 1 The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27,2024/Page 7 Sheriff to present findings of election fraud investigation to county board next month * 1 t Jayson Bussa during its regularly sched­ Editor uled meeting on Feb. 13. Barry County Sheriff Dar Because the county board Leaf intends to publicly pres wields no law enforcement ent some of the findings power, the Sun and News uncovered throughout a asked Leaf why he chose to years-long investigation into bring his findings to that voter fraud. venue and he said that counLeaf has long leveraged ty board members requested resources in his department, that he do so. During the in addition to working along course of the investigation. side unaflfiliated individuals Leaf had also said he would spread throughout the coun- present his findings upon tiy, to investigate the poten­ conclusion. tial for fraud and impropriety Leaf, who briefly appeared in the United States election , r n • , Board of system following the 2020 Commissioners at its meeting on Tuesday morning, said that he plans to bring in Trumn „ n a representative from the 1 tion investiga- grassroots group Election tion. Leaf has frequently said Integrity Force to join him that investigators have col on Feb. 13 and report to lected binders full of infor­ commissioners what she has mation, and now he will lay found during her efforts out some of those findings in investigating potential elecfront of members of the tion fraud. Barry County Board of At a later date. Leaf said Commissioners. that he hopes to bring in for­ Leaf armounced that he mer Michigan State Senator would be making a presenta­ Pat Colbeck, who has also tion the first of potentially been outspoken and at the multiple presentations — in forefront of a statewide front of the county’s movement calling into ques­ Committee of the Whole tion the credibility of the I I * s I 111 A ’It f 4 current election process. to vote,” Leaf said. “Whether Commissioner Catherine or not you think corruption Getty asked Leaf if he would is there, the reality is that be presenting information the more people that show from his investigation within up, the harder it is to fudge Barry County and Leaf said the numbers to where you he would. lose an election. Everyone “Yes - (the fellow inves- needs to get out. It’s your tigators that planned to join duty, him) are involved in that. We Leaf s ardent investigation will make it Barry County into county-. state- and specific and move out,” Leaf nationwide election fraud said m response. has made him somewhat of a Leaf also said that he lightning rod for conflict and would make preliminary nearly put him in hot legal information available to both water with the state. commissioners and the gen­ State eral public so that they can ask questions. questions. as an individual to potentialIn speaking with the Sun ly face criminal charses fnr and News, Leaf said that he his alleged role in wht they does not intend to draw any labeled a conspiracy to conclusions for those who obtain and test voting equip­ partake in the presentation. ment. One of the machines rather, he will present his in question came from the findings and allow them to Irving Township Hall, which draw their ovwi. was also raided by Michigan “The only thing I’d ask is State Police during the that people leave their ‘R’s state’s investigation into the and their ‘D’s at the door,” matter. Leaf told the Sun and News, A handful of individuals, referring to political parti- including an attorney that sanship. Leaf had used for several “My final statement will legal matters, were arrested be that everyone has a duty and currently face charges. ■i* *' t’ »> /■a ar IT i*"* ■ f * Ip 5iit n .* V 4 . % ^"1 r** a *-• 55 <1^ • * / t 4B ». Ik ' L r A I I ■ ■ t ’-•Hr • •t 3 A 5^ I * * V. I I J* -*r-* ‘I 4 J4 & --to ■y I I "SA 1' '•'W * Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf speaks briefly in front of the Barry County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday morning. (Photo by Barry County) Leaf was not charged. Even before that. Leaf proactively sued the Attorney General and members of the Michigan State Police for impeding his ongoing inves­ tigation. That lawsuit was thrown out. Leaf has, at times, clashed with the coimty’s govern­ ment over the matter, as well. Last year, the coimty board scrutinized how Leaf’s department was utilizing its detectives after Leaf admit­ ted that one detective was spending his full workload on the election fraud investi­ gation. The board eliminated ftmding for one detective position as a result, but the employee remained with the department. Leaf is up for re-election this year but has not con­ firmed to the Sun and News whether or not he plans to run again. e 1 I 1 1 / More upgrades coming to Celebration Cinema South movie complex in Gaines Township bl,'I I. I 1 I I *4 .4 >- wa IB m iiIsk; ,4 I 1 r I I r A f •L 1 liii" i I*. I Janies Gemmell * Contributing Writer A new movie-going expe­ rience will be unveiled soon at Celebration Cinema South in Gaines Charter Township, It’s called “C Premium.” It will be installed in an auditorium that is part of a $4 million renovation of the 19-year-old multiplex theater that began in early January. It is Celebration’s first major theater project since work was completed on its Studio Park complex in downtown Grand Rapids in 2019. Celebration Cinema’s direc­ tor of Public Relations and Community Affairs, Emily Locks, said the C Premium theater will include Dolby are our favorites,” Locks said. Atmos sound. The Dolby Atmos and 4K “Which is completely laser projection will be immersive. I think there are exclusive to the C Premium 30 or 40 speakers in and auditorium. throughout the ceiling, and “For film lovers, this is surroimding the auditorium. going to be a fantastic way to There’s also a 4K laser pro- just be swept away and com­ jector, which is incredibly pletely immersed in a movie. bright, crisp and clear. And It’s going to be a really spec­ then, we have the heated tacular experience,” Locks recliners,” she said. said. At the start of the new The renovation is being year. Celebration Cinema done in phases, so that it announced that the luxury allows Celebration Cinema recliners would be installed South to remain open during in all 10 of the theaters inside the building. Studio C, which the multiplex. owns and operates the “These are (Irwin Seating Celebration Cinemas movie Co.) luxury recliners. We’ve theater chain, hopes that the tested a lot of seats, and these work will be done by the end of April. The things that folks are most excited about are the heated recliners. Also, the installation of a full kitchen, which enables us to serve an I r 'F/jUd expanded food and beverage J menu, ” Locks said. “ And then, I an overall refresh to the whole □ building, with paint and wall­ paper. All of the things that are just going to make it feel like a brand new space.” From the full kitchen, movie-goers will be able to buy food items such as slid­ ers, pizza, wraps, nachos and quesadillas, as well as staples, like soda, popcorn and candy. Beer will also be available Celebration Cinema South will soon have a theater on draft. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer with Dolby Atmos sound and a 4K laser projector. signed an executive order on (File photo by James Gemmell) March 16, 2020, closing indoor dining and entertain­ ment venues. Celebration South was one of the last two multiplexes in the Celebration movie-theater chain to reopen. It was closed for 14 months. Recognizing the importance of giving the movie complex a boost, Gaines Township trustees adopted an amendment to the township’s liquor control ordinance in May 2021, allowing theaters with ten or more screens to serve alco­ hol to movie-goers. That allowed adult customers to buy beer or wine. “We have a liquor license for Celebration Cinema South. So, folks have been able to enjoy a cocktail or a beer the past few years. But we’re expanding on that with the full kitchen and the full menu of options,” Locks said. For nearly two decades. Celebration South has been a movie-lovers’ hub for Gaines Township and surrounding communities like Caledonia Township, Byron Township, Kentwood and Wyoming. “It has a great community of people who have gathered there for 19 years, so we’re excited to invest in it,” Locks said. I I I T k I I I » 4 J A I 1 I I ) I I ED’S BODY SHOP I CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN •f.’ 4 I 1 ...z. ! 4 STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS r 7 < L V' i f I ( t t'-. t IV -hh State & I-CAR Certified Technicians I I •V TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System ■VS'in A f- t .< at ^5^ I t Ji 'V 1 1 ? ✓ •z II 1 .A t V' rZ > I Frame Repair I I J < I ** WMBA 616.891.0150 www.edsbody.com t I I TOW) J fl Lesonal Water Bourne System Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner 110 Johnson St., Caledonia I [GOLD class] ^NFIB 1 I I I OPEN: M thru F 7:30 am 5:oo pm I 1 I I I » �—a * w Ui “••• —b« I J. b L. & Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27, 2024 4^ Whitmer State of the State 2024: More money for housing, coiiege, chiidcare X B >.l * < i< r ■b » ^-' f > i I • * ▼ T c A 4 J -^U, 4 f <4 99 referencing Wednesday, Gavin California Gov. Newsom, who like Whitmer has generated buzz about future presidential ambitions. California spent billions on affordable housing in recent years but reportedly built less than projected because of unexpectedly high costs, Nesbitt noted. This is the challenge,” he said. “Instead of motivating the private sector... they’re trying to pick winners and losers. BACK BRINGING GOOD JOBS As she continues to try to stimulate job creation. Whitmer is backing plans to bring back and expand the “Good Jobs for Michigan” business incentive program started by her predecessor. Gov. Rick Republican Snyder. Renamed the High-wage Incentive for Regional Employment program, or HIRE, the plan would allow businesses to “capture” some of the income taxes paid by employees in newly created jobs. Legislation introduced last year but not yet voted on by the Michigan Senate would provide an income tax capture for businesses that cre­ ate at least 50 new jobs with annual wages exceeding 175 percent of the regional medi­ an. The state would be allowed to commit up to $100 million in tax capture revenue to quahfying businesses each year, up to a total of $1.3 bilhon through 2038, making it richer than the Snyder era program that was limited to $200 million total. Nesbitt, the Republican Senate leader, dismissed the legislation introduced last year as an attempt to reward woke corporations” and every little favored left­ wing Democratic interest group. 99 1 i. V « s I comerstonechurch c* ! helping people know Jesus and make Him known LMI r /cornerstonemi I**.. ■1 r ,1 * @1 ^cornerstonemi > < o o N rj r~ C c k I cornerstonemi.org 84th St. Campus 84th Street SE we’re casual, come as you are. J I I I r I X* z .* $ t T t r f. - ■ I 1 J f r TSI.. 1: ? _ I n « ) • • a) > f f I < ’ i 1 J 4 * I A’ Ql B* « C" I -'CTTfi'« ■ 4 MB I JI I i ri’--- t <>.■ •• i I I j .z 34 •l k. I;. R fl . .,<4- 4' 1 I I 1 i a* I Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed sending more state dollars to childcare, community college costs and rebates on new vehicles. (Photo by Lauren Gibbons) step of the way, and we’ll save you 10 grand on your child’s education.” Even if the Legislature provides funding for all stu­ dents to attend pre-K, pro­ viders may stiU face troubles with finding enough staff. In the most recent educa­ tion budget, the Legislature boosted pre-K funding with an additional $90.9 milUon to increase the amount per student, expand student eligi bility based on household income, allow programs to expand the days and weeks of programming and increase ' student transportation. The legislature also deposited $200 million into a new reserve fund that can be used if costs exceed initial appro­ priation. The Michigan Department of Education previously oversaw the Great Start Readiness Program. Whitmer moved the pro­ gram to her new education agency called the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential. $5,000 FAMILY CAREGIVER TAX CREDIT Whitmer also confirmed plans for what she is calling the “Caring for MI Family Tax Credit, which would provide up to $5,000 in tax relief for families paying for care like counseling, trans­ portation and nursing or respite services. The governor said the goal is to lift a burden off of unpaid caregivers, who often spend significant sums outof-pocket to pay for their loved ones. ELECTRIC VEHICLE REBATES Among other things, the legislation would prioritize tax captures for companies diversity. that advance equity and inclusivity” in the state, utilize clean energy sources and honor worker decisions to form unions. Nesbitt opposed Snyder’s Good Jobs for Michigan program when he served in the House — and still does, he told reporters Wednesday. I’ve been pretty consistent on that. The governor also pitched a new “innovation fund” to support start-up firms, and she backed a Houseapproved plan to bring back a research and development tax credit program for busi­ nesses. FREE COMMUNITY COLLEGE Whitmer confirmed Wednesday that she wants to make the first two years of community college tuition free for high school gradu­ ates in Michigan. It’s unclear how much that would cost. The Whitmer administration has worked with both Republican- and Democratled Legislatures to approve earlier measures that expand­ ed college affordability. In recent years. the Michigan Reconnect pro­ gram has provided funds to help adults 25 and old attend community college tuition-free. Last summer, lead­ ers approved a temporary expansion of the program for people aged 21 to 24. The state has also launched a new scholarship program to help high school graduates attend a career training program, community college, private or pubhc 4-year col­ lege or university. FREE PRE-K FOR ALL Whitmer previously called for free preschool in the state by the end of her second term but accelerated that plan Wednesday, proposing to fund pre-K for every single 4-year-old in Michigan, two years ahead of schedule.” Let this be a message to parents in other states: Come to Michigan,” Whitmer said. “We got your back every 46 99 '4 < -X 99 In her speech, Whitmer urged lawmakers to pass her Michigan Vehicle Rebate plan, a $25 milhon program that would offer up to $2,500 in rebates for drivers buying a new car; $1,000 for any vehicle, $2,000 for electric vehicles and an extra $500 if the vehicles were unionmade. “We want our autoworkers and our auto industry to thrive ripht hpro right here Michigan,” Whitmer said. With the MI Vehicle Rebate / > A I f > J '1 * ’r: *« B 'I h f I I V • r. • r • • *• I ' I , k • *• attracting, and it’s aging fast­ Lauren Gibbons er than its neighbors, a realiBridge Michigan Michigan ty that poses significant chal­ LANSING Gov. Gretchen Whitmer used lenges for pohcymakers, the her sixth annual State of the council concluded. The Michigan Education State Address on Wednesday to call for new spending on Association called Whitmer’s affordable housing, business twin proposals for universal incentives, universal pre­ pre-school and free commu­ school and free community nity college a “game changlegislative and er. college. The speech to a joint ses- Democrats said they were sion of the state Legislature excited to get to work on the reflected scaled-back expec- agenda. But Republicans criticized 2024, as for tations Democrats start the legisla­ Whitmer’s speech as a greatest hits’’ compilation tive session without the House majority that helped that lacked concrete ideas to Whitmer enact sweeping fix vexing problems. Rep. Phil Green, changes in 2023. Whitmer outlined rough­ R-Millington, said he feared ly 10 proposals - matching the governor’s plans would take us back to the 80s. the number of classic rock “She talked more about references she made in a speech themed around what the Detroit Lions than she she called the “big hair and did about a real plan to fix bold leather jackets” of the the road or a plan to solve ...our education scores,” said 1980s. Still, the governor’s plan House Minority Leader Matt to spend $1.4 billion on HaU, R-Richland Township. affordable housing would be All of Whitmer’s propos“the largest investment” of als would have to be funded its kind “in Michigan histo­ and approved by the ry,” she said. Legislature. Her plans for Other proposals would 2024 include: “make life more affordable” AFFORDABLE in a time of high inflation. HOUSING “No matter who you are or Whitmer wants to spend where you come from, if you nearly $1.4 billion to build or work hard, you should be rehabilitate 10,000 housing able to provide for your fam­ units across the state. ily and have a fair shot at a The rent is too damn better future,” Whitmer said. high, and we don’t have Whitmer’s address came enough damn housing,” she amid mixed reviews of the said. “Our response will be Michigan economy, which simple: build, baby, build!” appears “strong and stable” It’s not immediately clear compared to recent pandem- where wnere the money would ic years, according to econo- come from, but Whitmer mists and state officials. spokesperson Stacey But Michigan is lagging in LaRouche told Bridge median income and educa- Michigan that the state govtional outcomes while falling emment “has the funding to behind on infrastructure, build 10,000 new homes.” community well-being and Repubhcans were skeptijob opportunities, according cal, however. to a recent report by the govThe plan is all about emor’s population growth growtn keeping Keeping up with the council. Newsoms,” Senate Minority The state is losing more Leader Aric Nesbitt, R-Porter young people than it is Township, argued earlier I 4 V 4 < I * t f we can lower costs and sup­ port the ongoing transition to an all-electric, union-made future.” It’s the third time Whitmer has proposed a rebate or tax break to encourage electric vehicle sales, but past efforts did not gain traction and have never received needed funding. The incentive proposal comes as the price gap is narrowing between electric and conventional cars; The average transaction price for EVs in July was $53,469 compared to $48,334 for gas-powered vehicles, according to Cox Automotive. , “This proposal makes you wonder if Gov. 'Whitmer even knows what the cost of a new car is,” Mary Drabik, a spokesperson for the conser­ vative Michigan Freedom Fund said in a statement $1,000 for a gas car and $2,500 for an EV doesn’t even cover the cost of the interest on the loan.” FINISH SPENDING ROAD MONEY Whitmer used her sixth annual address to hearken back to her 2019 campaign promise to “fix the damn roads. But she stopped short of announcing any new plans. Instead, the governor called on the Michigan Department of Transportation to autho­ rize the final $700 milhon of her $3.5 billion road bonding plan that began 2020, in order to cover projects on Interstate 94, Interstate 696 and others. Last year’s budget boost­ ed total state transportation funding by about $500 mil­ lion, but $118 million of that was to pay off debt from the bonding and program, Whitmer’s own population council later reported that the state needs another $3.9 bil­ lion each year to really fix the problem. The has governor expressed interest in — but not yet committed to — more aggressive ideas to overhaul the state’s road funding scheme, such as moving to a miles-driven tax or turning some highways into toll roads. z ■tScotih 'tee JJ• Z 99 I I AJ t I I j i 5 s « J A, �Sun and News, Saturday, January 27, 2024/ Page 9 ‘•'emsevles against OK Red leaders ® and West Ottawa fell to the Sports Editor West Catholic, back in It’s a quirk of the sched­ December. East Kentwood ule, but it’s also life in the came into this week ranked OK Red Conference. third in the state in Division Caledonia is in the middle 1, Rockford fourth. Grand of a four-game conference Haven sixth and the West stretch against foes that Ottawa girls are among the headed into this weekend’s honorable mention teams in action with a combined 40-7 the state rankings. record in East Kentwood, This tough stretch for the West Ottawa, Grand Haven Caledonia varsity girls’ basand Rockford. ketball team opened with a Of those seven losses, ^^"22 loss at East Kentwood only two came against teams High School Tuesday. The outside that OK Red four­ Scots were scheduled to host some. The East Kentwood West Ottawa Friday night, girls were bested by two and are slated to go to Grand points against Lowell head­ Haven Monday and then ing into the holiday break travel to Rockford Friday, 3 ''»J9 >■ . V T .*1 *4* 4 J 9 * f (i ) I rW He n * lit ) !i^ in -A *“n> ♦* f I. I' Wi, in 9*5^' fl a I I '4 > y tyy I- *-1 •*- • Mhii'; ■ 9 f V’ 1 TO tf II Fighting Scot junior guard Kathryn Langenburg sets up the offense during the first half of her team’s OK Red Conference bailgame at East Kentwood Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) testabfai’ M SI! mn 71 7 * V 1 I I —IP A* r I I 1 lb Siwa'l!! iJ iiistB : ft Ua “There was a let down in focus and energy against Grandville,” Bloemers said, That was the most fnistrating game we have had as a team, but we’re working on holding ourselves to a higher Standers. East Kentwood is an excellent team they are good at a lot of the things we have struggled with this season with the pressures 1 - Caledonia senior guard Mackenzie Myers works the ball up the court against pressure from East Kentwood’s Aries Branch during the second half of their OK Red Conference game in Kentwood Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) that they run and the athleti­ cism they have got. They have been causing everybody that they play prob_ , . lems. Our goals tonight were to be great in defensive transition, and unfortunately that was the one area where I feel like we’ve got improvements to make, but credit to their athleticism and stuff like that to create those opportunities. I thought we rebounded really hard. There were multiple times where our kids came out of a timeout or out of a J- « i. I .w r i5-' I -4r J MEWf J’ ♦ «•* / iSjl®! < t rui ItiJ j ■V ■3 k r* X .j’.’r t 7; >»■ t .* y ■ •A Ji •s. de * I ■ r 11,1^ ; *»• . 3!. r T• w* * 4. ’V' • s- ft v* *s r-^l I • Wk 1 t 1 .7 1^^ silisS’-^ » 4 4 » .I * '■-TL V ii 1 ..1 Ih ..J 1 • alb.’ IKU'iltl .i I 1^'' I n r? 1^ r (4 ’ieWik, 'W Feb. 2. The stretch will also included a ballgame against non-conference rival South Christian Tuesday night, Jan. 30. “Right now, we’re focused on what does success mean as we enter this stretch. * Caledonia head coach Todd Bloemers said after the loss to the Falcons Tuesday. Obviously, we want to compete, we want to play as hard as we can and try to win, but we also need to get better. I thought today, from a focus, energy and effort standpoint, we got better. We’re is still not shooting the ball from the free throw line well, or from the field. Early, I thought that there were a few really nice possessions where we got the ball to the post, got the ball to the basket and just didn t finish. We do those things early and maybe it is a more competitive game for longer. “I told the girls, I can be proud of tonight’s effort and we just have to build on it. East Kentwood improved to 11-1 overall this season with the win and 5-0 in the OK Red Conference. The Scots saw their record fall to 4-7 overall and 1-4 in confer­ ence play with the loss. The third loss of the conference season was one that grinded on coach Bloemers. The Caledonia ladies fell 36-21 at . Grandville last Friday, Jan. quarter break and we exe­ cuted what we wanted to do.” “I thought our kids competed like crazy,” he added. The Falcons outscored the Scots 19-2 in the opening quarter having some success with their full-court pressure and routinely beating the Caledonia girls in transition. It was 37-11 at the half. Senior forward Santana Eubanks led the Falcons with 13 points on the night. Senior guard Sophia Wozniak fmished with ten points. Harmonic Belton and Makayla Porter, two more seniors, had nine points apiece. Junior guard Kathryn Langenburg led the Fighting Scots on the scoreboard with nine points. Senior Addie Roe finished with four points and junior Brecken Bloemers had three points. Senior for­ ward Teresa Abraham and junior center Lakely Bottum were tough on the boards along with the help of their guards. Senior guard Mckenzie Devries, junior Lily Gortmaker and Langenburg did their best to work through the Falcons’ full-court pres­ sure. Devries and Gortmaker had experienced that before atEKHS. It was Langenburg’s first time as a varsity ball­ player. “Kathryn is such a com­ petitive kid. She is like an energizer bunny. She is so much fun. With her, we are just working on locking in and focusing on the moment and just being present and making sure as a ball-handling point guard that she is ready to lead and be that extension of a coach on the floor. I was proud of her fight. She dove on the floor. She ripped the ball out of that big strong [Porter’s] hands a couple times. Those are the gritty plays she is going to bring, and that brings energy to our team. “It is all about trying not to make one mistake turn into two. They say be a Goldfish. That is what we want from the girls. I loved Kathryn’s effort and focus tonight. She did a great job knocking down some shots, and she battled through some mistakes with a next-play mentality, and that is what it is going to be about for these kids. “The OK Red is a grind right now.” II I J I t I t I I I I i I ft I ) I i I ! I I A •w 1 I JI* I w* 191 s> ••to A 1 > i > I * Mk* fc. sii^* • **» ? .* 4 I Si I-; 1 r tf' 1 i r J V a » •t •dll STr? I i I <^ATlO ' I.**. .1 _ I i 4 1 me 4 •*.•7.1^ V I I I Fighting Scot junior guard Lily Gortmaker attacks the basket to put a shot up around East Kentwood’s Kanyla Tyler during the second half of their OK Red Conference match-up in Kentwood Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) .■T3* Caledonia senior forward Teresa Abraham battles for a rebound with East Kentwood’s Logan Richardson during their OK Red Conference contest in Kentwood Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) RIVER CRUISE VACATIONS T I Experience the beauty and history of the St. Lawrence & Ottawa Rivers on a classic Canadian riverboat. Request our free travel brochure. I 1 -800-267-7868 www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com I • I I • 1 I . 1 I �_----------1 Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27, 2024 Michigan’s individual income tax filing season officially begins Jan. 29 BPA students bring home regional honors for TK State and federal Individual Income tax return deadline Is April 15,2024 The LANSING Michigan Department of Treasury announced this week that Monday, Jan. 29, will be the official start date of the 2024 tax season when the agency will begin pro­ cessing individual income tax returns. Individuals can file their state income tax return online, with a tax professional or by mailing in paper forms and documentation, All state of Michigan income tax returns and payment of any taxes owed must be received by April 15, 2024. For the convenience of taxpayers, the state’s individ­ ual income tax deadline is the same date set by the Internal Revenue Service. “The individual income tax season is rapidly approaching,” said Deputy State Treasurer Kavita Kale, who oversees Treasury’s Revenue Services program Michigan “The areas. Department of Treasxuy will be ready to process your return when the filing season begins later this month. We will work as fast as practical to process your return and issue refunds, especially with some of the recent changes to state law regarding the Michigan Earned Income Michigan EITC. “RETIREMENT TAX” ROLLBACK The Lowering MI Costs Plan provides taxpayers with more options so they can choose the best taxing situa­ tion for their retirement ben­ efits for the 2023 tax year. Over a four-year phase-in, this new law restores the pre2012 retirement and pension subtraction for most taxpay­ ers in Michigan begiiming in 2026. The change will benefit more retirees in Michigan while ensuring taxpayers in unique circumstances are not harmed. Retirees can file and take advantage of the expanded retirement and pension sub­ traction options at the start of tax season, which saves tax­ payers time and eliminates the need or expense of filing an amended return after the law takes effect. For that rea­ son, eligible retirees should not delay in filing their tax year 2023 return and claiming the most advantageous pension and retirement benefit subtraction. Treasury will work on impacted returns as they are received and prepare them for release as soon as the law takes effect on Feb. 13, 2024. year 2023 return and claim­ ing the expanded credit. Treasury will work on impacted returns as they are received and prepare them for release as soon as the law takes effect. 2022 YEAR TAX EITC MICHIGAN SUPPLEMENTAL CHECKS On Feb. 13, 2024, the Michigan Department of Treasury will begin issuing supplemental check paypay­ ments over a 5-to-6 ’Week 5-to-6-week period to provide eligible taxpayers with the remaining 24 percent portion of the Michigan ETIC for the 2022 tax year. These paper check pay­ ments will be issued to the most recent address on file with Treasiuy. Treasury routinely updates taxpayer address records based on current tax filings, so your address should be up to date. However, if you have moved frequently or recently and have concerns about your address accuracy, you can manually update it through IIT eService at etreas.michigan.gov/iit/home. Do not file an amended 2022 individual income tax return to change your address or claim the increased Tax Credit for Working Families and the Retirement Tax rollback.” All employers are required to mail previous year income record forms - W-2s and 1099s - to their employees by Jan. 31. End-of-the-year pay stubs should not be used when filing a state income tax return because they are typically not an accurate reflection of all income received. received. Taxpayers who rush to file without all the necessary paperwork will need to file an amended return later. State income tax returns filed without the required paper­ work will be placed on hold for future processing and review. MICHIGAN EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT WORKING FOR FAMILIES Michigan’s 2023 tax return, forms and instructions reflect the expansion of Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for Working Families from 6 percent to 30 percent under the Lowering MI Costs Plan. Although the law will not take effect until Feb. 13, 2024, taxpayers eligible for the Michigan EITC should not delay in filing their tax •/ I* I ! 'J '1 ; J ■ • .V • , I, f £ z ■' J» J * i I : .i * I Wii^ a; T Sharon L Lett mga 1 Auditorium 4 1 IJ I ■ s 7 L3 e t •t •• * 4^ r * > * a J W 1 I & I I* 1 ' I J I •T • •i * *» ? I r ■ I Fl & I • > I » J > < Thornapple Kellogg High School students competed in the regional Business Professionals of America contest last weekend. Of the 10 stu­ dents competing, nine have qualified to move on to the state competition. BPA advisor Keith Hamming said he was very proud of how the team performed with seven of the members competing for the first time. That didn’t stop the team from bringing home eight first place awards and sweeping the top three places in both Fundamental Accounting and Basic Office Systems. The team also took the top two places in Prepared Speech and first, second, fourth and fifth in Fundamental Word Processing. (Photo provided) 4 fi*' B 4^ I T 1 ' 0 I ■ 3L' .. .w* 10 TK paraprofessional retires after 31 years on the job, reflects on past memories Cathy Moore can tell stories for days about her students and her career as a special education paraprofessional for TK Schools. After 31 years at TK she laughed and cried off and on as she recalled students and memories some funny. some sweet, some difficult. Moore officially retired this past week, but she has a strong feeling she will be back often as a substitute or finding other ways to help. For the last 17 years she worked alongside teacher Miranda Baranek. “It’s going to be hard with­ out her. She is amazing. She can put out fires before they have a chance to start and han­ dle three tasks at once. She knows exactly what to do,” said Baranek. “She’s a hard working, amazing person.” Moore is a 1977 TK graduate and she has worked with hundreds of children during her years at TK as a special education paraprofessional and at the TK daycare. “It’s always felt like family here. It’s such a great place and I’ve loved working here,” she said. It’s not a job she was neces­ sarily looking for but one she says, “I just kind of fell into. It was a good fall. I started as a sub and then it turned into full time when my kids were in school. I’ve loved it ever since. It’s been the best job ever.” She has worked in each of the schools in the district at some point. She has also worked at the TK daycare in the mornings and afternoons. The best part of her job, she said, are the snuggles, hugs WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Residential & Commercial Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers -Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers I 'S r V E-‘ ■ »• I •X I .A a jP. '■*.1 M t i'j 72 I I t ... '4 J f S I*.* r I h .1:1 I I li DeWeerd ___ HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. I Jk.'. I (68 Since 1955 A t LENIWXy V --------------- 1 r I BBB. J* il-: ■ ACCREDITED BUSINESS '- ■s-, < z J I I : .'jT.u 269-792-2234 ■-? • •7SL<. r ’ *< 1 a 47' •• r, In retirement she plans to spend more time with her three grandchildren, continue gardening, take walks and care for her two dogs. Other than that, she has no plans, but she’s sure she will be busy. I’ll fall into something again,” she said. Sarah Hammer, director of special education, said Moore will certainly be missed. “You made a difference,” Hammer said. “Not everybody can do this job. You will always have a home and a family here.” t & r I [ I * I I* k * ' 1 I ■ 2^3 a « ’t I I I IJ I 4 —I ar* J 9 B •( - ■SU J i *«•- ar *• A. •* tA 'A. * I t... ab-*- I ■ v ft I % « ^■L 1' '4^ ►- - ' 'TH . . F* ■ r 11 W r I V \ » J <1 Longtime Thornapple Kellogg special education sa d’ dd M J"*’:”paraprofessional Cathy Moore (center) said the best •>* i°‘’ -s the snuggles, hugs Lnd smii:s she done the job of two people with got from the young students. (Photo provided) B • 1 I 1 * ! J i * 1 I I I 4 t- and smiles she gets from the young students. She also enjoys watching them meet their milestones and celebrate their accomplishments. Baranek said it is not a job everyone could handle. “ You have to have a tremenJ dous amount of patience, lots of love, and some stubborn- I I i ’3 A 1 DEWEERDHTG.COM I ▼ ■ ’• k- > energy, patience and empathy. The two joke that they are always able to lift each other up on those difficult days. “We’ve just worked so well together over the years. We don’t have to tell each other what we need, we just know. She’s become my right-hand person. It’s going to be different coming to school without her,” said Baranek. Moore couldn’t hide her tears as she shared some of her memories. “It’s all happy tears,” she assured everyone. 1^- Khff ) ’c I K s �______ B "The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27, 2024/Page 11 ■ scots Keep gaming speed n their new conference Brett Bremer Sports Editor Both Caledonia teams placed fourth as the Lake Michigan Ski Conference competed for the second time at Crystal Mountain Wednesday. Clare High School made a guest appearance with the conference and wound up with the best score in the girls’ meet finishing with just 48 points. Onekama was sec­ ond with 80 points ahead of Benzie 108, Caledonia 112 and Glen Lake 134. The top two Fighting Scot performances came in the girls’meet with Mya Baldwin fifth in the giant slalom (GS) and Kyleigh Thompson eighth in the slalom. “Our girls skied well r ■ .•♦f t * .’TK r .5? i l( ‘?S ’kesit, "’P two places f J Leading the league on Wednesday was Onekama’ s Aleah Blackmore. She had the two fastest runs in both the GS and the slalom. He won the GS with times of 24.07 seconds and 23.76. In the slalom she put together times of 28.32 and 23.32. The top finish for the Caledonia'boys came from DJ Potgeter who was ninth in the slalom. He had runs of 30.75 and 31.93 in that race. The CHS team also had Cohen Broomfield 13th Aidan Brown 15th and Ben Diegel 18th in the slalom. In the GS, the freshman d , j , -------t e way for the Scots with a 12th-place per­ formance. Diegel was 17th, Hiegel 18th and Gavin Dean scored a 24th-place finish. It is nice to have three races under our belt this season,” Petrosky said, “despite the slow start to winter followed by last week’s big storm and now a big warm up. The move north has real­ ly paid off in skiing, training and racing opportunities for our athletes. This week’s warm weather and rain has a lot of resorts shut down, but Crystal Mountain had great conditions for our for race tonight.” “Tonight we saw a lot lol of great skiing from onr guys and the skiers from out opponents, which makes being at a ski race a ton of fun. The snow was very fast and it provided for some exciting extremely hard but struggled to make it down the of slopes, she was expenenc^ tonight,” Caledonia head coach Duane Petrosky said. “We are learning a lot as we compete with some great teams on a much more challenging slope than what used to ski on in south western Michigan. The move to Crystal Mountain has been great but it has provided some new challenges on the slopes that my skiers are adjusting too. The speeds and steepness of the race area are something the kids are doing a great job with and we are extremely proud of their efforts.” Baldwin and Thompson scored in both races for the Scots. Baldwin was 11th in the slalom and Thompson ^hooi < placed 16th in the GS. The Caledonia team also had Zosia Skrzypek place 21 st in the GS and 18th in the slalorn. Vicky Brousse added a 14th-place slalom finish for the Scots and Liz Hilton was 19th in the GS. Coach Petrosky said one of the most exciting moments of the evening came in the girls JV competition though. Leah VanHall, a junior who joined the team last year, completed her first GS race of her career tonight. That doesn’t sound like much until you know how much she has overcome as a skier. Last vear whpn dhr. joined the team, she worked ing a mental block that would cause her to freeze up. Leah was determined to overcome this and took extra lessons all season last year, plus she would drive to Clarkston once a week to practice on a high tech ski simulator fi-om Skytech. “Over time her form improved and this season she really made great improve­ ments in her skiing. Tonight, she not only finished both of her runs in GS but her secnnrt rQ • u • ond Md GS run IW was ninth nmth in m the JV race. \Ve oRen ptaise the kids that lead the team m sconng and I want to say that 1 am extremely proud of Leah and her accomplish­ ment at this race.” — j W'*’ • b * I « i » A end er * ORTM FACE -'J' QACKVAao *5^ r < y f J to'c; A I 4 • r > I f* 4 7* I r p R • r A. L I * •* - . . . ’ s 1. a B tn ‘-I ’ .. ft w . k¥ r ▼ 1 *•-.1 ’r • . JU 4 I 4 1 <• ♦ Caledonia’s DJ Potgeter and Kyleigh Thompson celebrate their medal winning performances at Benzie’s Bryan Groenevelt Memorial Invitational at Crystal Mountain Monday. runs and some spectacular crashes.” The top boys’ runs all came from Onekama’s Braydon Sorenson. He won the GS with runs of 21.93 and 22.26. He took the sla­ lom with runs of 26.19 and 27.23. The Caledonia teams were also in action at Crystal Mountain Monday during Benzie’s Bryan Groenevelt Memorial Invitational “We faced an extremely tough field of teams, some are ranked and some would be if they were in different regions I was impressed with how well our girls competed at the race, we showed a lot of improvement from last week’s race,” Petrosky said. Thompson earned a medal with a 14th-place slalom per­ formance and also placed 24th in the GS. The CHS girls, who were seventh as a team, also had Brousse 19th in the GS, Hilton 29th in the slalom and 27th in the GS, Skrzypek 32nd in the GS, Madison Reynolds 33rd in the GS, Kayli Price 35th in the sla­ lom and Erin Peckham 41st in the slalom. Petrosky said the boys showed improvement Monday too. “We were able to get some quality practice time in this weekend and the reps in courses really showed up in the race. You could see the confidence level of our racers go up each run. Potgeter joined Thompson as a medalist. He was 12th in the slalom and 15th in the GS in what was a field of nine teams. Diegel added a 25th-place slalom perfor­ mance for the Scots. Brown was 33rd in the slalom. James Diegel scored his first varsity points finishing in a tie for 37th in the slalom. Brayden Smith tied for 18th in the GS, Derick Prichard was 23rd in the GS and Cohen Broomfield placed 24th in the GS. CHS relay team earns MISCA spot in tough conference dual usiegliii) tiKib I'int * ilKObib sdlste t I'M Brett Bremer Sports Editor Chasing the West Ottawa boys in the 200-yard free­ style relay, the Caledonia/ LowelFSouth Christian guys met a goal. The CLS foursome of Anders Foerch, Brett Tuinstra, Ethan Elms and Reese Jungblut in the race. The Panther squad finished in 1:36.24. That relay win helped the perermial conference champion Panthers on their way to a 171 -112 OK Red Conference win over the visiting Vikings. DeJager, Sam Jones and Luke DeJager met the MISCA Meet qualifying time with a runner-up time of 1 minute 36.41 seconds in Holland Thursday. They were just behind the West Ottawa foursome of Landon Kipker, Liam CLS teams were the runners-up in all three relays, The 200-yard medley relay team of Sam Jones, Nolan Fitzgerald, Luke DeJager and Brett DeJager was second in 1:53.58. In the 400yard freestyle relay, the CLS team of Noah Miller, Mason Morrell, Doug Gaylord and "J Fitzgerald earned the second I place points with a time of 4:18.45. * Luke DeJager added a t * 1 third-place time in the 100X’ yard backstroke for the CLS I team with a time of 1:07.28. The Vikings had new per■Is -n2 I sonal best times up and n' down pool. There were per­ %■ ^1. sonal best from Jones, Miller I Bi and Gaylord in that backstroke race alone. J Ruben Baker earned his best time of 1:17.11 to place IJ third in the 100-yard breast­ stroke for the Vikings. I CLS also got a third-place time of6:38.15 from Morrell in the 5 00-yard freestyle and .e a third-place time of 1:08.6 t V 2 from Coen Crocker in the 1 00-yard freestyle. 7? I Fitzgerald had one of the i top performances for the A*’* I I CLS team in the 100-yard I butterfly, earning the run­ Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian teammates Anders Foerch, Sam Jones, ner-up points with a time of Brett DeJager and Luke DeJager celebrated their MISCA qualifying time in the 1:03.34. He was also third in 200-yard freestyle relay during their OK Red Conference dual with West Ottawa the 200-yard freestyle with a Thursday. time of 2:08.14. n 1 I lil I V f, V I u iffifeitfil r t i 1 1 J T J < ) i r I IfiBii a k 4 I « I * ' I * 4 \ k k • L 1 • •I 1 i • K I J . « * t 'MiiajM « & I * I - - • 1 V • I . I I ' 1.4 Il . I ft ? A V 4 3 1 I i .ft - *. * I I V -A W < >5? • 4. ’’lA 1* V' ' Sir I '.I., 1 IP <« 'J1 s» •• II'?'’*’ f. .k I t • I J 14 I'fr' >1 1 I *. f •J e» s fl » If a .t 0 "st I' • • •. • c I k I •4 1 I .I i w** ?' 1 3 f - J I •I ft I I 9 a I t r I ft w « I •B « I f * If L. I 11 nr i ’ I 9 W * t 1 It was the second of two tough OK Red Conference duals this week for the CLS boys. The Rockford Rams bested the visiting Vikings 143-107 Tuesday. Luke DeJager had a coupie pretty great contests. He was second to the Rams’ Hudson VanOstenberg in the 100-yard backstroke with the Rams’ leader touching the wall in 1:02.13. DeJager touched the wall in 1:02.31. That followed up a 50-yard freestyle race that was nearly as close with the Rams’ Evan Blasky winning in 23.42 and DeJager second in 23.91. The team of Miller, Baker, Gaylord and Fitzgerald got the first place points for the Vikings in the 400-yard freestyle relay with a time of 4:31.54. It was another night full of personal best times for the Vikings. CLS is scheduled to head to Hamilton for a dual Tuesday and then return to OK Red Conference action for a dual at Grand Haven Thursday in the week ahead. ’ft'. ♦ A 0 ■ IS I . p 5a / I k Ip ll Cif ^tjgi until tjij nw edition LSj luinlgii E a i I <*. 1 1^ 4 I / p ’ t. o ! JI I V. ipMr» 1 * 4 r - I I I s i { I Quality Family Eye Care Since 1929 < k F’’ k r 1 I 1 1 I I ft blF r <1'*^ j •F- ft • > I •V I s ■1 . k I I I \ t ( 1 f I k k k e* L k > » ■ \ k * I 1 k 4 -s? - k i«^H v"'’ k I OPTOMETRIST I k k A Scott Bloom, O.D. •k V k I V k ( r.’ I ft ft .1 L-<"^ t I k ft * I I . i k 1 k V V X’ I 1 J • A r* - . 4 0 — 2 LOCATIONS — I • HASTINGS: 1510 N. Broadway - 269-945-2192 • WAYLAND: 216 N. Main - 269-792-0515 MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED > A �I Page 12/ThG Sun and News, Saturday, January 27,2024 X ■■■ East Kentwood extends lead in second half with Scots 9 I J >1 •7^. F i ■i I k' t 1 h Zk 1 1 .A f S-- > 2*/ '■it I ♦I / » b *1 • .•v ■ r♦ V.. k KI . 1 4 I » d X f b I * n 's^ •s 2 I > xJ ' i, V r A 1 A /5' I ’^■4 b <r/ **?*• /’ « A < r 'J / •*> '} , J' Ti •** •l / • 1 — .7 X V 9 r •b •. As k5. I ■** V ’•Tft ,1 4 y "■ /,s'^ F*k •t rZ: I .•*KI'M e •l f sIwC^ Caledonia senior forward Jaiden Googins attacks the basket with the Falcons’ Christian Humphrey trying to slow him down during their OK Red Conference bailgame at East Kentwood High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Fighting Scots were up one late in the first quar­ ter, down just one at the end of the first, within five early in the second half and were outscored by just two points the entire fourth quarter. Somehow, it all added up to w "p a 68-46 loss at the home of OK Red Conference foe East Kentwood Tuesday night. The loss evens the Fighting Scots’ record overall at 6-6 and moves their OK Red Conference mark to 1-4. They were slated to host West Ottawa last night Trojan swim co-op solid in freestyle races against GRCC z f. 9 •d t I b-> 4 •*T *• • • • «, and will visit Grand Haven Forest Hills Monday, Northern Tuesday and ^^^aaB c Rockford Friday in the t»T y week ahead. sit .'4 , i * ®rJunior guard Jah Hatchett -3€ "" '' led the Falcons with 15 r S’^i points including a 9-of-9 performance at the free Caledonia freshman Bryce Backus works to fight his way out of the double throw line Tuesday. He was team of East Kentwood’s Clarence CJ Reynolds (left) and Darryl Thompkins Jr. in one of six Falcons with at the backcourt during the first half of their OK Red Conference ballgame in least seven points. Junior Kentwood Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) guard Darryl Thompkins Jr. had ten points and 6-8 needs to shoot better than shooting more free throws ... etc. junior forward Christian the 4-of-12 it was at the than his in practice though The Fighting Scots’ Humphrey finished with 14 free throw line Tuesday. He - taking turns shooting points. said there can’t be teams them, hot, cold, rested, tired See SCOTS, page 13 Senior guard Ky 7 VanderWoude led the Fighting Scots with 18 points and senior forward ■^4 J Jaiden Googins had 13, but 1 1 the Caledonia team is still —fts. 'T® » TS hunting for consistent scor­ If, ing beyond those two guys.. Senior guard Ardrace S i M Morris had 11 points, but nobody else on the Scots’ had more than one bucket. IS r » ■. It is the same old story, we can’t put 32 minutes together.” Caledonia head ■r r la^- • coach Lamar Chapman said. We get stops, we miss lay-ups, we miss free t throws, and then we start giving up second and third ! I chances and it just com­ pounds things. We’ll play 22 or 25 minutes of good basketball, and there is always this drought during one segment. When you miss your free throws and you miss your lay-ups, it is like body blows. They dis- T courage you and then they r. get one, or an and-one, or a kid who is struggling shoot ing threes he starts to make them. We’re still trying to put together 32 minutes.” Chapman is pleased wit the work his guys are put­ ting in though. He thought they were well-prepared heading into the contest with the now 7-4 Falcons. The win for EK moved it to 4-1 in the OK Red so far this winter. The Caledonia coach said Caledonia junior Arvn Tavlor floats a shnt there is work to be done Randy Chapman In the lane during their OK Red Conference'tellg^e at East mishing and his team Kentwood High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) b > L ww b • • I « J - ^v>b i-r > t. » ■MMWT ,J • Iv w .*4a 3 r ** •9 4 i-.' 4 r > eA V. I. ?- r f4d b i .t F 9/ V * « • /M 0^: 1 ^s ! I f <*• I -5 * U * !v *• J B. ‘ f -S .4 /•.fe j A •I II 4 f « B ? IT. J ^¥5 x« r uX t < k' jiiitf >- vr> 1 <* > —*■ / r* -A** J iipstk t L'A i a ' 'W F •«* • « X I ■ 1?. »:es P •.MT * * • T I • I •* . t a I Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg/ Unity Christian/Hopkins/ West Catliolic varsity boys swimming and diving team was bested by Grand Rapids Catholic Central in an OK Rainbow Tier n Conference dual at the downtown YMCA in Grand Rapids Jan. 16. 9 The TK co-op team will host its next conference dual, against Wayland, Thursday at Grandville High School. The host Cougars scored a 94-47 win over the TK team. Junior Nolan Send had the top individual perfor mance for the TK team with a time of 6 minutes 2.98 seconds tliat won him the 500-yard freestyle. Send also had a runner-up time of 2:09.87 in the 200-yard free­ style. WP I" Junior Hunter Tietz had a tliird-place time of 25.11 seconds in the 50-yard freestyle for the TK team and a runner-up time of 56.62 in the 100-yard freestyle. Send was one of two TK swimmers to score in the 200-yard freestyle. Teammate Haiden Vruggink placed fifrh in that race in 2:31.43. Vmggink took tlie second place points in the 550-yard freestyle with a time of 6:58.01. Ethan Magnuson had a third-place score of 125.55 for die TK team in the diving competition. In the 100-yard backstroke the TK team’s Johnathan Looks had a run­ ner-up time of 1:24.27. The TK team of Tietz, Magnuson, Vruggink and Send took die first place points in the 200-yard free- • r .e •>* . rtAkWh *<; d A 4* r • p h&. f «. • rilb....p »S^ A —M r L .' r. 4 t r'-*J •~L •<’^Tn*^r J ■ ?—-V' V L^hS- * 'At, «> . 4A -5.. Fa '1 •1^ |A y ?» J . I I n •'' ■p." J: R’>. S- ' •S I I . •p •5 . 9 a > 4 I * ** p •*»> V 3^ « 'V .A > k' •.S: t ■U' 4 t » A •^' <1 f *11 ''53® a i J r I' <‘ ■f l, i j: '■"’5’3 Ui '»Sll 1^ *^h.: 1 axl K 5 * •w .2:9. > I c 4 V..... * r tvi * ' 0 4 r .M 1 5t< < '■ ,. 4 «■ ■ • JMw; • •-S J’ ’< .r* •• • I. .*• .ii( / 7 t I 5^ • I I 1 ■ f i ■ ■' • ' ■* style relay witli a time of 1:54.25. I . * - 5 I I HOC. / .S' MA' I 9 J,' IKa I • •• ” ••k » CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes The minutes for the December 6, 2023 Township Board of Trustees Meeting which were approved on January 17, 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at www.caledoniatownship.org. - 1 I, I t// ■de ? p' N c*’ A*- . s )* > I 1 �Scot fend off Rochester rally In third 1 < -■ » 'J t XV 'i) * a •s 1 is?' 1 4 1 LJ V. 4t J i I I I I I I 18 Brett Bremer Sports Editor Tony Kauffman had two goals and an assist as the Caledonia varsity hockey team traded goals and penal­ ty minutes with the Rochester United guys at Kentwood Ice Arena Saturday, Jan. 20. Kauffman, a junior center, put the Fighting Scots up 1-0 with a blast in the opening period and then put another shot by the Rochester United keeper on a power play four minutes into the third period to make it 2-0 in favor of the hosts. The Scots went on to a 3-2 non-conference victoiy. The two teams went back and forth from there in the third period. Rochester pulled within a goal' 'by Daniel Kabel with 4:39 to go in the third period, a short-handed goal. The two teams had corn­ bined for six minutes over the course of the 17-minute second period, a scoreless second period, routinely losihg the final moments of a man advantage to a new pen­ alty. It was only about a minute after Kabel’s goal that the Scots nudged back in front by two in the third period. Sophomore forward Harmon X • r* • *7 ; At . . •l * i . X .. I ... <<=? i 11 k The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27,2024/ Page 13 SCOTS, continued from pagie 12 — youngsters continued to get Still, the Caledonia boys acclimated to varsity bas­ were within striking disketball in the OK Red tance at the half down 31 -24 Conference. Bryce Backus thanks to a buzzer-beater and Benjamin Geerdes both from Geerdes. got a start on Tuesday. A bucket by Bryce and Ben, they’re VanderWoude after a wellgoing to do all the dirty played possession to start work on the floor, but at the second half had the EK some point they have to lead down to five. But from give us something offen­ there the Falcons went on a sively - a lay-up and 8 to run that pushed their lead to 10-footer, get to the line or double figures. Ten points something,” Chapman said. was as close as the Scots It was a solid start for would be at any point in the the Scots Tuesday. A three final 12 minutes. The by VanderWoude had the Falcons went into the fourth bailgame tied at 7-7 with quarter down 55-35. three and a half minutes to Googins had eight go in the opening quarter. rebounds in the loss, Morris hit a jumper and got VanderWoude had five a steal and a bucket to put rebounds and two assists. the Scots up 11-9 as the The Scots had just five clock ticked under three assists as a team all night. minutes. They did do a decent job of Thompkins sparked the taking care of the basket­ Falcons attacking the bas­ ball against the Falcon ket a couple times in the pressure, turning it over final minute of the period to nine times. put his team up 13-12 after The Scots fell 59-49 in a one quarter. conference ballgame at The Scots managed just Grandville last Friday, Jan. one field goal in the first 19. five minutes of the second The Bulldogs got a lot of quarter though. A couple work done on the glass to good looks didn’t fall and oust the Scots. the Falcons were a little VanderWoude had 13 quicker to try and give points and Googins ten in some help to its defenders the loss. Senior guards Lual trying to slow down Abiel and Corbin Raffler Googins in the paint. had nine points apiece. kb *4 f * t & 1 t i. * i ■ f Fighting Scot junior Tony Kauffman fires a shot at the Rochester United net during his two-goal performance Saturday at Kentwood ice Arena. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ik . r r <5 .1 .J 1 % * ✓ Esch scored what proved to be the game-winner with assists going to Kauffman and fellow sophomore Ty Lewandowski. Rnphpc. :b . Fighting Scot goalkeeper Finn White knocks down a Rochester United shot during his team’s 3-2 win at Kentwood Ice Arena Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) V Rochester made things interesting scoring again itself with 2:47 to play, Griffin Nikolic put the puck by CHS keeper Finn White, with an assist from teammate Ashton Bissell. The Caledonia team is on the road at the Chelsea Showcase this weekend. The Scots will be back on their home ice Monday afternoon taking on East Kentwood at 3 p.m. Jenison comes to Kentwood to face the Scots Friday, Feb. 2, at 8 p.m. Scots manage highlights on tough night Brett Bremer Ute period. Zachary Steinebach at 150 a pair of pins in her four Sports Editor Grace took an 18-5 major pounds. matches in the girls’ 105It was a great start, but decision in his 106-pound The Caledonia program pound weight class. another tough night in the match with the Bulldogs’ sent a contingent to last Carrow pinned his first OK Red Conference for the Leona Keuvelaar. Saturday’s Ron Russo two opponents to get to the Caledonia varsity wrestling Berrends continues to Classic hosted by Kalamazoo semifinals at 138 pounds team. impress his coach with his Central and placed eighth in where he was pinned himself The Fighting Scots fell to growth this season. He took a field of 28 teams. It was a by Jackson’s Caden Bayer in 1-5 in conference duals with an 11-7 win over Zac tournament where Paw Paw a tough match. Carrow ral­ losses to Grandville and Grifhorst from Grandville in outscored Mattawan 147.5 to lied for a pin in the consola­ Hudsonville. the 126-pound match. 146.5 at the top of the stand- tion semifinals and then Grandville took a 56-16 Grandville managed eight ings. Brother Rice was a defeated Spring Lake’s win over the Fighting Scots pins of the the close third with 139.5 points Chase Seegar 7-4 for third pins in in the the dual. dual. One One of at Jenison High School to best effort and Kalamazoo Central place, best battles battles in in aa losing losing effort open the night. Opening for the Scots came from placed fourth with 120 Sebel was pinned in his though dual though was Koleson 157 points. Koleson Reeder Reeder at at 157 first match, in the quarterfi­ Conor Sebel with a pin for pounds who was edged by Carrow, Sebel and Halle nals at 190 pounds, then ral­ Caledonia in the 190-pound the Bulldogs’ Brady Olson Stout all scored third place lied for four consecutive first match. 9-4. finishes in their respective period pins of his own to Fighting Scot head coach The Scots’points in a 65-9 weight classes for the place third. He finished his Shawn Veitch was really loss to Hudsonville came Scots. day by sticking Paw Paw’s came pleased with the way that thanks Coach Veitch saidStout Anthony Hudson; the guy thanks to to aa pin pin by by James James win sparked the Scots in the Carrow she Carrow in in the the 138-DOund 138-poundwas as little tentative as who pinned him in the first dual, even if the final score match and a 6-4 win by works back from an injury match, 1:16 into the match didn t turn out the way the Sheely over the Eagles’ early on, but rallied to score for third. Caledonia team would have really liked. The Scots also got wins from Josh Grace at 106 pounds. Carter Berrends at 126 and Will Sheely at 150 pounds. Veitch said that he and Sheely are really starting to see eye-to-eye. He is learn­ ing what kind of coaching Sheely needs and Sheely is soaking things in and putting it to use on the mat. All the J work he has put in so far this season helped him to a 2-1 win in the 150-pound bout with Grandville’s Hunter Grifhorst. The CHS coach said it was the first time all Caledonia’s Will Sheely holds down Kalamazoo Central’s Aiden Hegelmann season that Sheely has been able to work on top of an during their opening round match at the tournament hosted by Hegelmann’s opponent for a full two-min- Maroon Giants Saturday. I s w* < i V J ft I kI t. J » V. J.V^*** •4 9 t9t Vh ’•jy. <P » i A/ ) .•.i£ •9’ t I 1’ I •k 4 1 • r; .V •'•r ’** I til ‘J - < f. . r3* b' r. I ft <5 - -? 1 Caledonia senior guard Lual Abiel finishes off a two-handed, breakaway dunk during the second half of the Fighting Scots’ OK Red Conference bailgame at East Kentwood High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) J ■ '1 ■ I*—. • . *'T ia • « ■iv ■ I I Vcffitge/ o(^ .hAieUtllvvililtjb A i R: COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES AJi;9 •kO»rM. . BW /J '•v; ■ ■ 4 * 1 The minutes of the January 9, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on January 23, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villageofmiddleville.org. I I 9 �J Jiia qiLl. I I • r I I I 4 t I R Page 14Zrhe Sun and News, Saturday, January 27, 2024 _ Going gets tough for TK ladies in conference play r ► • < « K I I (i k “There is a bit of a chip on the second. Brett Bremer Things were never any bur shoulder and that is a Sports Editor good thing,” TK head coach closer than that. Wayland The adversity has arrived. The Thomapple Kellogg Brandi James said after the scored the first ten points of varsity girls’ basketball team loss to the Wildcats Friday, the second quarter, holding got off to a 7-0 start to the “We needed to take a couple TK scoreless for another five season, but has dropped four losses 1 think to learn a little minutes, and went into the ft Uh half up 29-15. of six ballgames since the more. It’s okay. Practice is as Three-pointers by junior start of the OK Gold little more intense and we’re Conference season and is kind of realizing we have guards Lydia Schilthroat and Emma Geukes pulled TK more to work on.” now 8-4 overall. Wayland went on a 10-0 within 11 points of the Wayland took a 50-39 win 4^ Wildcats in the third quarter run in the final there minutes in Trojans over the Middleville Friday night, and of the first quarter, a streak a couple of times, but that I J was as close as the Trojans hindered only by a buzzer the TK ladies weren’t able to ^fioMns bounce back against visiting beater from TK sophomore would get. “That was a tough one,” Kenowa Hills Tuesday in a guard Jordan Pranger that > 45-27 defeat against the nudged her team back to James said. The difference is they within 17-10 at the start of Knights. knocked down their big shots and we didn ’ t, which is r uncharacteristic for us, ” T James added. “Those are 4 5» * shots that we make eight out of ten of those normally, and t f r 11 :X' L. ** III we’re making one out of ten. .IS It is a big difference.” I Sophomore guard Tealy 1 I *’3 -W • 4ft Cross led TK with nine ■■C 'Hg points. Geukes finished with w ■T *6^^ • “ 4 eight points, sophomore 1McKenna Hoebeke had six ’ points and Pranger and junior Emma Dykhouse finished i2^'t'9&S£iSS with four each. r Wayland was led by 14 Thornapple Kellogg freshman Reece Ritsema keeps a close eye on Wayland 9 points from freshman guard junior Harmony Laker (33) at the top of the key during the first half of their OK Gold i i Marissa Ainsworth. Junior Conference bailgame in Middleville Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I guard Izzy Johnson and I / sophomore guard Laney Wolf had nine points each - mt: and senior forward Reese Coughlin finished with eight SA'. points. A Both coaches had moments M of frustration with their rt teams’ efforts on the glass at times. Wayland head coach Wes Hudson had his girls 'g- '■ over at the bench early on as Trojan senior forward Eva Corson attacks the bas­ TK opened with a plethora of ket during the first half of her team’s OK Gold offensive rebounds. The Conference contest against visiting Wayland Friday, Wildcats had flurry of their ■ 'i '4. Jan. 19, in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) own midway through that li^ W rr 1 -■w rP V < A . * VlB 4 » X I E ✓ z I I *« •J'. * f 'I 1 I A .J, 7 4 h ■. F i • .4 I «—i------ s 4 * a* Z (4 < • F a •< •s: ?*» I i.A. *• I 1 * w i mg a e al • f r. '•f - - g-- - V* .* I - w .. IJTmTZa . * <; r II I '^1 A k ► ’ g"* '—A • >1’* frt -.—J!•i- « < TV L 1 I I »•. ’fc < ■ 1* Ti— >1 I E 4 4i w< ■ 4 * 4 «• ’ X. r < I “ ’ M r 7 * ’r •*»» r < V I • I |r ■a I ■ . Br ,<• I - ^4 - '"i '5 r i I E p/ E L • « • «*«• 4* 'r.- 2^ ;. •' .•J . z r Cs<l a A« ■«v •5 V* -- At I 4* ..d * *1* • I A F A <1 .V I 5 ‘-■r ♦ * •• ft $•- 5 r u : ** * •l *1 k % •I 5( . ' *T ■r si . I WEimi 11 1 I b w F='n o4 E 4^r 5 .. n I f •I t f 1 I r- ’iu ♦A’ V - ir?r. I —— 7 Pr * «iv «♦ ■ -1*^ •i 4 f i*- •u '..3£L t .F» h I si * 4 •A J i ■* ♦ I •J IJ u 3 a .1 4^ I’i J * A 11481 I I 'A * « iT a*.v .1 TRO 4 ^r.' ' J .. J ••') 13^ Jl I 1 - .tV c • g: «> It'*’ J 1 ■ w s' "•a . vlA VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN A »> I I r **«**-. { i«' ■r‘z- NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECTS THEREOF 1 J ■‘I .1 « .5" S..I I • ’ *.-u . k I » * PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Village Council of the Village of Middleville (the “Village”) has adopted Village Ordinance No. 2136 (the Ordinance ). The principal provisions of the Ordinance are summarized as follows; Section 1 of Ordinance No. 2136 declares certain real property in the vicinity of (or referred to as) as 213 W. Main Street located within the Village (the “Property”) as “surplus property” and approves the sale of the Property in accordance with the Ordinance and further authorizes Village officials te exe­ cute and deliver necessary closing documents for the conveyance of the property to the purchaser thereof. Section 2 of the Ordinance provides for the severability of the Ordi­ nance in the event a portion of the Ordinance is determined to be unenforceable. Section 3 of the Ordinance provides for the publication and effective date of the Ordinance. Village Ordinance ------- -----------yAwyivxiivv No. nv. 2136 z, 1 jv will Will become ucvuiiic effective eneciive upon Its publication or upon the publication of a summary of its provisions in a local newspaper of general circulation in the Village. A copy of the foregoing Ordinance, Ordinance No. 2136, may be exammed or purchased at the Village offices, 100 East Main Street, within the Vil lage, during Village office hours. ♦ J — Dated: January 27, 2024 X • - A V « AA T Uz I1 WZVUA VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE M, F n “ ‘7 tf » K«^:' ir> Thornapple Kellogg junior guard Emma Geukes puts a shot up in between Wayland defenders Reese Coughlin (22) and Harmony Laker (33) during the sec­ ond half of their OK Gold Conference contest in Middleville Friday, Jan. 19. (Photo by Brett Bremer) * second quarter pulling down one missed jumper after another before knocking a last rebound off the Trojans out of bounds and then get­ ting a Laker bucket on the ensuing inbounds play. The Wildcats hit seven threes in the bailgame and were 11-of-19 at the free throw line. TK was just 4-of-lO at the line. James was pleased with the defensive effort against the Wildcats’ big junior guard Harmony Laker who finished with just four points. I The Trojans extended their pressure a bit as the fourth quarter began, but it didn’t change much on the score­ board as the Wildcats mostly found their way through. They’re a very good passing team and we have watched film on them and they have passed through defenses similar to ours, and they run defenses similar to ours,” James said. “So, I wanted to kind of switch it up and they did a good job of switching up our defense, and it was doing a good job for a while, but they knocked i down shots and found rota­ tional things, gaps in our defense, and they knocked down those shots where we didn’t.” Wayland heads into the weekend 7-5 overall and 4-1 in the OK Gold Conference. Kenowa Hills moved to 8-3 overall and 3-2 with its win over the TK ladies in Middleville Tuesday. The Trojans were set to face a 10-2 Cedar Springs team on the road in the OK Gold last night, Jan. 26. They return to action at Forest Hills Eastern Friday, Feb. 2. a 1 1 '*’7 <1 I J A �TK has three in top two at invite Brett Bremer the TK team. She pinned Sports Editor Allegan’s Miya Carter in Constantine put together the championship match a dominant performance to after scoring three pins and win the Hopkins Invitational a forfeit win on her way to Saturday. that final. The Falcons took the In girls’ brackets, TK day’s championship with also had Giovana Daher an overall score of 455 fourth at 130 pounds, Rylee points, finishing well Alberts second at 130 and ahead of runner-up Otsego. Kayleigh Brown third in the The Bulldogs had 332.5 140-150-pound competipoints at the 15-team tour­ tion. nament. The Trojan varsity team Thornapple Kellogg’s split a pair of duals Jayce Curtis and Christien Wednesday at the Byron Miller both scored run- Center quad. ner-up finishes with Miller The TK team fell 56-16 earning his lOO^h varsity to the host Bulldog s and victory at the tournament. took a 72-8 win over the Miller in the 113-pound Grand Rapids Christian bracket had three pins and a Eagles. technical fall on his way to Briella Dykstra, Thomas the finals where he was Lorach, Griffin Grummet, bested by a point, 2-1, by Camden Peter, Blake Hopkins’ Maximus Pigeon. Bossenberger, Curtis and Curtis had four pins to Jimmy Manne had pins in get to the 175-pound the win over the Grand championship, including a Rapids Christian team for pin of teammate Adam the Trojans. Lozada. Dathan Smith Jackson Smith opened from Constantine out- the dual with Bulldogs by scored Curtis 7-6 in the pinning Caden Meyering 175-pound championship midway through the third match. period of their 157-pound Hopkins placed third in match. TK then moved to a the day’s team standings short-lived 10-0 lead thanks with 329.5 points ahead of to a 12-4 major decision for South Haven 307, Wayland Curtis in his 165-pound ™ ,, , . 302, Thornapple Kellogg bout against Hudson against 286.5, .Shelby 184.5, . Pulawski. 183, Delton Whitehall Dylan Pauline also had a Kellogg 163 and Mendon forfeit win inthe dual for 159.5 in the top ten. TK. Lozada went on to a The most comnetitive competitive third-place finish at 175 bout of the night came at pounds for TK. the 138-pound weight class Emma Gibson took a where the Bulldogs’ championship in the girls’ Branden Branden Coller edged 115-125-pound bracket for Grummet 2-0. f * 1 I J 1 I J J I I 1 > J •» I •5s - ' ’Si* 4’. r •% •l I 1 i 1 ?■ V 4 • I A- VA X1J I I *. I * R '•■vS Si?'” * 1 * -5 *• J .’•ff ’1 I r*. >M4 ’-s! .t'b ‘ 1 < ft '•i t' ItM BH?! ♦ < I Jt b* r f I. I I '■'Yi,' «*' ► I ? f j’x -W J ; I ■! 1 * * » t I .1 '■.1 I f I ’’4 k ’.•.*** ’S r’ * It ■A X * .t /- * .t fl . /T.. -V, 5 * ,:p «• »*• ’-t'r ' •• *4 ■T 't'-? 1 .b . V. ** /J •r nt TK ladies have top D2 score at Paw Paw I The Trojans were third overall and had the top Division 2 score of the day at the Paw Paw Red Wolves Cheer Invitational Saturday. A pair of Division 3 teams had the day’s highest scores. Paw Paw was at the top with an overall score of 752.4. Onsted was second with a mark of 741.86. In the day’s overall standings TK was next with a score of 721.32 ahead of Kalamazoo Central 674.94, Lawton 657.44, Wayland 618.6, or. J Schoolcraft 589.6 and Comstock 514. The TK ladies put together . scores of 218 in round one, 205.72 in round two and 297.6 in round three. Paw Paw took control of the meet in round two with a score of 224.1. The Red Wolves were a tenth of a point ahead of Onsted after < T I .< > ’ r s X • -I. • T * i jp’ 9 R C 5 « 5s -r V hi* ■M^ W.z f , » ■T^ I ,■ 15**. . 9 J* 4‘, I f * /■ J l^tfisec' ,*1 • *» » i T Ill If ** •4 wfl A* 1 .1 I* f, ij -- T 0 I I ' L , ^..49 I ♦ w *? ‘.y* i r»Ft I N S H I •-. » I K? ■A A’. I t 1 d IB 1 * •. 'I rJ ri V ".*1 I 4 A V * •« 4 • <* c * jeytedti J '■ - J * I 9 * 4 .• ** "w <1 « •S.' 't I iyy ■- -I i s s » p.-' 1 I I <r .I I ■y 4 :.'f f •i 1 I I* I, i i > z *9 •. ry, ... .I » < ... » I 4 » >— k 4 / t 'i .1 * rr 4 •» 1^' Artd VI & >* r r 11 t Bl ^1 f tV •4 I ?■ .r set*’ 5 •^1 ■ . ■ * ................ ... round one 227.2-227.1. Paw Paw closed out its day with a score of 301.1 in round three. Onsted scored a 210.26 in round one and had the day’s best round three score at 304.5. TK followed up its perfor- mance Saturday by winning the first OK Gold Conference jamboree of the season Wednesday at Wayland. The Trojans’ home conference competition was postponed due to the weather the previ­ ous week. Plainwell/TK 207, Hinton 34th. Hudsonville 210 and South Mattawan/PP had girls Haven 255. place 1-2-3-4 in the slalom The top performance for led by Ann Roethlisberger’s the Trojan team came in the total time of 43.64. Addison girls’ slalom where the Bell and Roethlisberger were Plainwell/TK ladies were the fastest girls down the hill fifth overall. Lillian Wamez in the slalom. Roethlisberger led the way in that competi­ had a run of 21.77 followed tion for her team with runs of by 21.87. Bell was even faster 29.52 seconds and 29.22 sec­ the first time down earning a onds that put her in 19th mark of 21.74 and then fin­ individually. ished her second run 22.00. The Trojan team also had In the GS the Mattawan/ Kaitlyn Hodges 23rd, Amelia PP girls were first, second, Wynalda 26th and Alivia fourth and fifth in the scor­ Raak 28th in the slalom. ing. Anna Hoogerhyde was Raak had a solid jump cut­ the team’s top performer ting almost three and a half with runs of 11.11 and 17.58. seconds from her first run Roethlisberger was second time on her second run. with a couple of runs under In the giant slalom (GS), 18 seconds of her own. the Trojan team was sixth Mattawan/PP won the overall with Hodges once boys’ meet with 46 total again leading the way. She points ahead of Kalamazoo was 22nd with runs of 24.25 United 76, Portage 105, and 24.15. Hackett/Vicksburg 130.5, Raak placed 27th in the Hudsonville 159.5, GS, Wynalda 28th and Laine Plainwell/TK 193 and South » CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF GAINES KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN • V rSp* •I j Michael Alex Brew Gaines Township Clerk Thomapple Kellogg’s Christien Miller celebrates his 100th varsity victory during the Hopkins Invitational Saturday. i I I ■ 4 The Thornapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer ' -------------------- 163111 SllOWS Off ItS fib bons and trophy after winning the Red Wolves Competitive Cheer Invitational hosted by Paw Paw High School Saturday. The Public Accuracy test is conducted to demonstrate that the program and computers that will be used to tabulate the results of the election have been prepared in accordance with law. A , *• 1 .V j ftili Is ■1 I 10 * J p NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Public Accuracy test for the February 27, 2024 Election will be conducted on Monday, February 5, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Gaines Township Community Room, lower level, located at 8555 Kalamazoo Ave SE., Gaines Township, Michigan ♦ • I * i £ I I I"' - 4 a iL;-. \ ' t V * Public Notice 1 • ll . 1 I ] >/« * S.1^' * 7 I > t e > r r % * I * » V . A . The Trojans will be back in action at the LMCCOA Scholarship Invitational hosted by Byron Center Saturday and then will head to Kenowa Hills Wednesday, Jan. 31, for an OK Gold jamboree. Trojan ski team finally starts its season at Timber Ridge II « -» ffl * 4 w > -------------------------------------------- - -------------------------------- -------------------------- News, Saturday, January 27, 2024/ Page 15 Brett Bremer Sports Editor Mother Nature finally pro8®°*^ conditions for ski racing, even it was as bit of a delayed start for the for Southwestern Michigan High School Ski Racing Conference The SWMSC opened the 2023-24 season Monday at Timber Ridge Resort in Gobles where the Plainwell/ Thomapple Kellogg Trojan ski team took a fifth-place finish in the overall girls’ standings and a sixth-place J finish in the boys’ meet. I The Mattawan/PawPaw I boys and girls took team vic1 tories in fairly dominant per1 formances. The Mattawan/ I PP girls finished the evening I with just 22 points overall, I scoring just ten in the slalom and only 12 in the GS. Hackett/Vicksburg was second in the girls’ meet with . 63 points ahead of Portage 98, Kalamazoo United 119, • I t 4 f Haven 256. Liam Troutner was the Trojan team’s leader in both events. He was sixth overall in the GS with runs of 18.51 and 18.04. In the slalom he placed tenth overall with runs of 23.55 and 24.32. In the GS the Trojan team had Robby jones 23rd over­ all, Samuel Bacon 29th and Loehn Luckett 34th. In the slalom the final three scorers for the Trojans were Bacon in 28th, Luckett in 31st and Colin Gritter in 32nd. Kalamazoo United’s Sam Overlee was the fastest guy overall Monday. He had the top time in each of the runs in the slalom with times of 20.64 and 21.10. In the GS he won with runs of 17.62 and 17.57. PUBLIC NOTICE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS January 22, 2024 The Gaines Charter Township Board held a regular meeting on Monday. January 22, 2024 and took the following actions. 1. Reviewed the proposed Agenda adding a tabled item. 2. Approved the Meeting Agenda 3. Approved the SWITCH Pri­ vate Road Waiver request 5. Removed the Loretta View Private Road Waiver from the table and re-placed the request on the table for the February 12, 2024 regular township meeting 6. Adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 5:46 pm A complete copy of the min­ utes of these meetings and any resolutions or ordinances adopt­ ed at the meeting are on file and available for review at the Gaines Charter Township office, 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledo­ nia, Michigan 49316. Ordinanc­ es, meeting schedules, meeting minutes, and other Township information are also available at www.gainestownship.org. Michael Brew Gaines Charter Township Clerk 211689 » - �i Page 16/The Sun and News, Saturday, January 27, 2024 f k takes ownership of another OK Gold ‘w 1 the Trojans after the Wildcats clawed their way out of a 10-2 hole to start the ballgame. A bucket by senior Hayden Chapman with a second and a half to play in the first half gave TK a 22-20 lead at the half. Wayland opened the sec­ ond half with a put-back by senior guard Andrew Lyon, which Kelley answered with a bucket inside on the other end. That Kelley bucket was the start of an 11 -0 run for TK. Wayland was never closer than seven points the rest of the way. TK led 43-30 at the start of the fourth quarter and quickly extended its lead with a three-pointer from senior guard Kyle VanHaitsma and a steal and a bucket by junior guard Brice Lloyd. At the end of the night ten different guys had scored for Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans keep ticking haven't since" goals off their hsl. The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team snapped a four-game skid against the Wayland boys with a 66-41 win over the visiting Wildcats Friday night getting their first win over the Wildcats since early in the 2020-21 season. Contributions came from up and down the roster for the Trojans as they went back and forth a bit with the Wildcats over the first two and a half quarters and then eventually closed out a double-digit win. The ballgame was nearly a quarter and a half old before any Trojan had two field goals. An offensive put-back by junior center Jake Kelley tied the bailgame at 15-15 for 4 I 1 I i I I I f I I j J t 1 iA 4* ’ •T I, I, *1 % -• . to V 4 J I V I I » 1 A I Ji’. ''K A* * • ■u b I r I I f I r 4 I K. < t I •V si t I 1 / i c. Thornapple Kellogg junior guard Jude Webster fires up a corner three during the first half of his team’s 25-point win over the visiting Wildcats in Middleville Friday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) V the Trojans led by 11 points each from VanHaitsma and junior guard Brody Wiersma and ten points from sophomore forward Lucas Ploeg. Kelley and sophomore for­ ward Trey Hilton had si.x points apiece and Lloyd fin­ ished with five. It was a team effort,” TK head coach Phil Garber said. I thought we definitely stepped up in the second half on defense. It was 22-20 at half, a close game. We ran zone most of the time, the 2-3 and the 1-3-1, and they got a lot of stuff on that back side. So, 1 said hey you’re just going to have to lock them down. That second half turned it around and it was turnover, turnover, turnover and that was really our offense at the end - lay-up, lay-up. Garber liked the way his team played unselfish basket­ ball as it closed out the ball­ game trading good shots for what he felt like were great ones. Senior forward Warren Smith paced Wayland with 11 points and senior forward Ethan Cree finished with seven points. It was a rough night for both teams at the free throw line. The Wildcats were just 7-of-20 at the line. TK wasn’t a lot better at 7-of-16. The Wildcats’ biggest lead at any point in the bailgame was two points. A put-back by Kelley wiped out a 15-13 Wildcat lead three minutes into the second quarter, and a couple minuets later a free throw by senior guard Ethan Bonnema and a triple from Wiersma erased the final Wildcat lead of the ballgame putting TK in front 19-17. That three from Wiersma came on a solid offensive possession for TK in which it worked the ball inside to Kelley and then he found the Trojans’ sniper Wiersma back out beyond the arc. •*5b K (4 / e , I 9 / i I J A. r- ’n * W' r b. TK sophomore forward Lucas Ploeg is hit by Wayland’s Peyton Moore (10) and Brady Cassini (0) as he tries to get a shot up in the paint during the first half of the Trojans’ OK Gold Conference win over the visiting Wildcats in Middleville Friday, Jan. 19. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Wayland missed its first 13 free throws of the bailgame before Cree knocked down one to tie things up at 20-20 late in the first half. Those struggles included a l-of-8 mark at the line in the final 2:01 of the first half. Offensively, the Trojans mostly handled the Wildcats’ chaotic pressure limiting their own turnovers. TK went into this weekend 6-8 overall this season and 2-4 in the OK Gold Conference. Wayland saw its record sit at 2-10 overall and 1-4 in the OK Gold. While TK ended strong Friday night, the Trojans couldn’t keep the momentum going through the weekend. They were bested 45-27 in a conference contest at Kenowa Hills Tuesday night. Sophomore Brody Willick led the Knights with 20 points. Derek Chapin chipped in 12 points and eight rebounds for the hosts. Kenowa Hills moves to 4-2 in the conference and 6-7 overall with the victory. TK was scheduled for another OK Gold Conference road trip Friday, to Cedar Springs, and then will be at Forest Hills Eastern next Friday, Feb. 2. 3^ < 4 w V f 9 .<.*r t-feli ■ « 7-^ I 4 A * X i A ;^OClA.I A t 1 6? ;> I -^-7 r> rv .1 4 > *5■Si1 Si SV I Mt 4A. •• t > Zl K * .« IJ 7.4 * •'•A .. s, > •• J..* a*. 51 *. ‘ I I I « I ■: J t I ,( * w I * f ' ’1’ j'V' * « . ■s' Slit FOMOKED BBQ 1 “M"1I I A .64 Il i ii !lr > t ** u ft * BV I4 I I ... IVAte event r 'I I I 111 9''^ A I •*X' k 7-«l 4 • I Sb -K r « I * r. .. s’ V .'•T'- S'W AV’» » 1 f t 1* J J » IbU I 51 H : liCO • ■ ISlPjl I » • I ■1^ I il • T' I ?• - *s ^*^k’ f* 4^ if!. I s ■ S i S’ ' 1 L * 1.^ Cs2< V..? r5'> a -ft. j4- L?? •> 2 4’ V I ) . f .V.J ._ , u\*’ »• * -*7 •4^ I J * .r*i b * «’ % 4 t r4!J' MH t * •:k ’V. 4 3. 4:-’ ih.: S-* ' ' I I*. -=7 • V j‘ s4>2 irr:: « I.' f^ite for st a « more *• t id. ww J 4 t* 1 tAi.. > * xlW. * ■ a I'/' i. 9 rA" H fiV V 4 f i k i* If I Xi** A t * 1 1 -r b r. 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A f A 4< <1 tt 146th year 1 I 4.’ ■ 4 I X r f 1 « t. . < t » * ■ /?«»&*> I* t I I ' •-> r I 1 I I I >** I f >• 4M i r .> . 0^' ' » « 4. 11 1 A T .Ah' and Caledonia Areas * 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 ) t -•^z w i* b IS i 1 * 1 cufl asti I* ..)l < '■ '5■_ > I s» t * 1 9 1 - -»• <>• A *** J I 4 1 > i t ! FX'-K- *^1 . 1 J 1 * 1 r 1 * ’* 4 * 1 4 •■’T i . 54.1^. Mhv< •A. - > f ^Eb 9 i’ r: t’ IPI ♦ H. K < ifrJ Tfcl v. X •**•*** u «'' — r f' Tf r* * I" »« u The Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce officially welcomed Fit Body Boot Camp to the business community last Saturday with a rib­ bon-cutting ceremony. (Photos by Greg Chandler) I.-ST' 5^, t. . I*’’ f • Je. J << % ♦ /W* X .♦. . Afc J r Celebrity chef Robert Irvine (center) poses for a photo with the staff of the Sand Bar and GrHIonGunSe Uaun^/Phnt ® establishment for carrying his line of liquor. (Photos provided by the Sand Bar and Grill) Gun Lake area restaurant receives visit from ceiebrity chef I Jayson Bussa Irvine has been a fixture Editor on television for decades The Sand Bar and Grill on with many hosting gigs and Gun Lake hosted a special appearances on Food guest on Wednesday a Network shows. recognizable one, too. He’s known by many as the W“He’s one of my idols,” host of a show called Dinner: Kyle Graham, owner of the Impossible, where Irvine was Gun Lake area establishment provided with several chalsaid. “I’ve been following lenging situations in which he him for 20 years. He’s a mil­ had to prepare a meal. itary guy, too.” Irvine has also been seen on Celebrity chef Robert shows that include Restaurant: Irvine paid a visit to the small Impossible (a spin-off from I ; bar and grill on Wednesday, his previous show). Worst ni taking time to chat with Cooks In America and The restaurant staff and its Next Iron Chef. During his visit, Chef Robert Irvine visited with patrons in addition to snap­ guests at the Sand Bar and Grill and gave a little ping plenty of photos. See IRVINE, page 2 speech. 9 ■< A. •<b t A*' * I .*** 9' 7^^ «*< I. 5^ Developer seeks change in agreement to buy portion of new Dutton School property Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Community Schools are considering an agreement to sell a portion of the property where the new Dutton Elementary School is being built. However, the interested developer is now requesting a change in the terms of the sales agreement. The district’s school board IS poring over a proposed , figreeippnt for JTB Homes to A ’ ' I ' t 1 h \ b purchase a 27.6-acre portion of the property, south of where the new school is being built along Patterson Avenue south of 76th Street. The developer is proposing a planned unit development for the property that would have 42 single-family homes, according to a letter from JTB to district officials. The initial agreement called for the schools to sell the property to JTB at a base cost of $750,00,0, plu^ an • I additional $ 10,000 per home over 30 homes that are built on the site. But a condition from Caledonia Township for the development of the site is leading the developer to seek a change in the agreement. Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer said at a Jan. 22 board meeting. “Part of their ability to build those 42 homes is con­ tingent on the extension of a sewer line to serve that southern piece ofJ the proper- ty,” the superintendent said at the meeting. “However, Caledonia Township at this point is saying as a condition for extending that sewer line that they want JTB to pay for the (non-motorized) path we have provided a right-ofway across our Dutton prop­ erty, on the northern end of that property. JTB would have to pay for that bike path to have the sewer extension.” Numbers guy” opens Fit Body Boot Camp franchise in Caledonia Greg Chandler Staff Writer Zach Roys describes himself as “a numbers guy.” Roys worked as a finan­ cial analyst for a West Michigan healthcare orga­ nization for 12 years. But the COVID-19 pan­ demic four years ago awak­ ened a desire to recommit his life to fitness, and to help others achieve their fitness goals. Not going to the gym, not having a place to work out, really impacted me mentally, physically, all that,” Roys said. Six months ago, Roys opened a Fit Body Boot Camp franchise in the Caledonia Village Center at 9367 Cherry Valley Ave. SE. Last Saturday, the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce held a rib­ bon-cutting ceremony to officially welcome the new business to the community. “I love the combination of the small-town feel that’s growing, but also growing businesses,” said Roys, who grew up in Dorr and graduated from Wayland Union High School in 2012. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from nearby Davenport University and recently earned a master’s in busi­ ness administration from Western Michigan University. The Fit Body Boot Camp franchise features 30-minUte workouts or to see it described on its website, “fat loss boot camps” — that combine high-intensity interval training (HUT) and workouts that activate one set of muscles while other muscle groups rest, known as “active rest,” a model it says produces faster and more sustainable weight loss. “I really like the way they approach working with clients, that kind of I I 1 IN > . b—>*“ A I I I I See BOOT C^Mf’ page 2 1 Sll SWER ! f Wi i I • Officers remain unchanged for Caledonia school board I I • Road weight, speed restrictions now in effect • Alto resident wraps up 48-year career in microbiology I j I I i • TK cheer uses “almost perfect round to claim OK Gold win • New Grand Rapids Gars gaining experience in the pool 1 See DUTJON^ page 3 I I 1 f* 1 I < I 1 ► ( I 1 k I I I I « b I I !■ I t < ■ ' I ' • t I f > I ♦ i k 1 I I I I ' I I • I I I 1 ‘ 1 I r r I t I I I t A. . t I i �1• I I t 9 r • B Page 2ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, February 3, 2024 BOOT CAMP, continued from page 1 IRVINE, continued from page 1------Aside from his work on all,” Graham said. “For me, television, Irvine maintains I just wanted to invite my a dizzying number of other regulars. We couldn’t invite ventures, such as owning them all because we have a restaurants, maintaining a small restaurant so I packed charitable foundation to the house with 90 people, benefit members of the mil­ all our regulars.” Irvine gave a speech to itary and owning a whole the packed house and also portfolio of other brands. In fact, it was one of prompted Graham to do the those many ventures that same. For Graham, the visit Irvine is brought him to the Sand was special someone that he had fol­ Bar and Grill this week. At the end of last sum­ lowed and essentially idol­ mer, Graham, who owns ized for years. the Sand Bar with his wife. “There are not a lot of Kenna, was approached to times where you meet a carry Irvine’s lines of spir- famous person and they’re its, which include vodka exactly who you envisioned and gin, which is marketed they were,” Graham said. as Irvine’s own. “He was so kind and “All the liquor proceeds respectful and honest in a go to helping his founda­ good •way." tion,” Graham explained. That even meant his “When they approached sometimes loud and brash me, it was a no-brainer.” persona seen on TV also “What I did is, I took my translated to real life. drink menu, the whole “If you’ve seen his show, drink menu was only he’s the same way. He’s in (incorporating) his liquor,” your face, he talks loud, he Graham said. “Apparently swears a lot,” Graham said. he saw that and started to Graham and his wife took follow Sand Bar on social the reins of the Sand Bar media. They started talking back in May, as they close about us at their meetings in on their first complete down in Florida. And then year of ownership. He said he just put us on a list (to that it has gone well so far visit) because of the sup­ — the biggest learning port we showed him.” curve with operating a busi­ The Sand Bar was the ness in that area is learning only stop that Irvine made to dance in step with the in the immediate area on very seasonal market. Wednesday before hitting “We walked in during some locations in Grand the summer we were Rapids during his stay. making money left and For the occasion, right,” Graham said. “But, Graham packed the Sand it drops off fast and it drops Bar to welcome in the guest off a lot (in the winter). It’s of honor. definitely a learning curve “A lot of the places he but you have to learn the went was sort of a free-foK hard way.” % el ’k 0 V <“ 1 4 IIGHT TRUCK PARTS ^5 c »S£B num •«(»BPS •8NE TONS •WINS • SWTS • JEEPS*4HS 1 FULL SERVICE & YOU PilU IT 269-381-231 'a^ W > '4./^ * 'J? 9 *1 4S I f 1. 3 vsHmiis ',1 w •rw. ' 7.,T r ■t V I .’3' «■ D TIRES I;1 T a r 1i HY4 1 IB A-,.c' • .i' «< Your local agent insures your Hfime FARM BUREAU • INSURANCE* fftsuroMX. CoMfxu^ Jason Parks (269) 795-8827 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville ( 0 I I i jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com 11 1 9 I I I I «•«* - ■ ■ ■ »• I t *•’ /• 41? T I Li I J '4* N 1 4 ✓ J '* . z v' ■J** I f « w * A i Wi 'J I* * t : <------- - t ) J/ ] X ( I T I t I 1 f s * r.’ « ^99 * -rX*- ' J I I •I :^.jrYu»>iwwr Fit Body Boot Camp franchise owner Zach Roys poses with Caledonia Village President Jennifer Lindsey, Jennifer Lindsey was among those welcoming the new business to the village on Saturday. “When a new business opens, they’re saying they believe in the community,” Lindsey said as she read a proclamation welcoming Fit Body. Roys and his wife. Tori, a dental hygienist who is also a Fit Body Boot Camp coach, were married in November and are expecting their first child, a girl, this summer. The Fit Body Boot Camp center is open Mondays through Fridays from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 4:15 p.m. to 7 p.m. except for Fridays when it will close at 6 p.m. Saturday hours are 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. 08*5 50^ ' all 51 I , James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Gaines Township Planning Commission has given a positive recommen­ dation for the township board to approve a preliminary site plan for the Cooks Crossing Enclave project on 76th Street. The township board will take it up this month. No public hearing is required for site condomini­ ums. Planning commissioners voted 7-0 to give a thumbs up for the site plan review for the proposed development at 1160, 1188 and 1190 76th St., which is east of Eastern Avenue and adjacent to the •; , current Cooks Crossing PUD (planned unit development). It would consist of... 25 sinunits on . a. 12-acre development site just to the northeast of the existing PUD, off Greendale Dr. They would be detached homes. This has been approved as a single parcel,” Community Development Director Dan Wells said at the planning commission’s Jan. 25 meeting at the town­ ship hall. Mike McGraw, an execu­ tive with Signature Land Development Corp, is the project applicant. He also is a senior vice president with Eastbrook Homes. “It will be the biggest home sites we’ve ever done that are connected to Cooks Crossing,” McGraw told the commission. “They will pay into the master (homeown­ ers’) association because they will travel over the same entrances. But there will be proportionate contributions to the master HOA and all that stuff. It will be bigger than every other lot phase we’ve developed in there.” Like every other home in the Cooks Crossing project site, the condominium units also will be within the Byron J"-" Center Public Schools dis, “We’re excited about it. Obviously, the (existing) project has gone well,” McGraw said. The site condominium request is similar to a plat. Under state law, n it’s a by-right request from the developer that must be approved by the township , so long as certain basic legal requirements are met. Those include the correct parcel and Size and appropriate road-frontage spacing. “These will all be individ- ALTO AMERICAN LEGION.J I H- Friday, Feb. I W f » puW'C Nelcor 9 5:00-7:30 p.m. PORK STEAK DINNER .___ Potato, veggie and roll No Sunday Breakfast • 868-6490 I ually lotted with some common areas,” Wells said, “There will be a homeown­ ers’ association master deed for this.” In a site condo, general common areas such as open space, entrance areas and storm drainage systems are owned by condominium unit owners. In a platted subdivi­ sion, legal title to the com­ mon area is owned by a homeowner association. In both forms of development, the HOA administers the common areas for the benefit of all homeowners. A 20-foot easement for a water main in the Cooks Crossing Enclave would allow for potential pnvuiiai future luiuic water into the water service service Everett Everett ’s Landscape Management parcel on 76th Street north of Greendale Drive, even though Everett’s has told the township it plans to never sell the property. A 20-foot wide easement for storm sewer is also included. The proposed public utility work in the 76th Street right-of-way will require the review and approval of the Kent County Road Kent County Commission, according to a Jan. 14 letter township’engineer Jeff Gritter sent Wells. Gritter also works for the Vriesman & Komhom civil engineering firm. So, there is potential for water wcvv. service to lo get looped through there. It’s not wide enough for a road to cut t rough. So, that won t be an entrance/exit point, but there is a water service that can loop into that. We’re think­ ing long-term, just in case,” Wells said. If. the township board approves the preliminary site plan for the project, the developer would have two years to complete the final site condominium design plans. It would also have the option of requesting a oneyear extension if there is any unforeseen delay. “During that time, they will do a full-blown review of all the utilities necessary for the site plan,” Wells said. The Single Family Residential (RL-14) zoning district is intended to pre­ serve single-family neigh­ borhoods. It permits detached single-family dwellings. “(The developers) will do a variety of house models. We wc don uuii ’tI have nave specific specinc ones right now, but they can provide that at the second (township) approval. I think, in general, Eastbrook does a pretty good job of having variety in their neighbor- -- (b4«5I Gaines Twp. planners give recommendation for approval of Cooks Crossing Enclave plan V6056 LINFIELD. ALTO. MICHIGAN p I client-focused approach. Fitness is more of a spectrum ... (people) can do (fitness) at their own level,” Roys said. And with that kind of focus on clients, workouts can be tailored toward spe­ cific fitness goals. “It’s not always about weight loss,” Roys said. “Sometimes it’s about (peo­ ple who say) ‘I want to be able to do walks without get­ ting winded. I want to be able to play with my grand­ kids. Gyms and other fitness destinations have grown in popularity in recent years. and Roys says two types of people get into ownership in the industry. “They’re trainers that become gym owners, or ±ey’re people with a business background that have a pas­ sion for fitness that become owners,” he said. Caledonia Village President 7’ : Ir.l i -Th? I i j itfliii® fejfct nd ft I j Uta’ i lOgll 1 sir« Ik impfl ci {fl Klkili liejniHn ILL I'tf’ 1 iniik3 ®Sii! iwsji 1 - .y. hoods. I don’t think they have any interest in making everything look the same, either. I think that’s one of the things that they do pretty well,” Wells said. Sidewalks will be installed on both sides of the private street throughout the devel­ opment. Public utilities will be provided through the extension of municipal water and sanitary sewer lines. A storm drain will be installed. And a street-light assessment district must be created before the developer can apply for building permits. Plannina Qtnff recomPlanning staff mended approval for the pre­ liminary site condominium plan with a condition that the four-house models proposed meet the township require­ ments for the developipent,. •>» • s ■<3i' 1r • K'Si. < « .« :v 1 tu •* -1 , s, * ** <4^ K s Z'- A I *• B It X1 I L K • * « 71 N X �S’ I The Sun and News, Saturday, February 3,2024/ Page 3 DUIIuN^ continued from previous page Cal schools retain slate of officers from 2023 9 f• I Greg Chandler iVriter r J <b r-t'. fl V* The slate of officers for the Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education remains unchanged from one year ago. The board at its Jan. 22 meeting reappointed Marey White as its president. Over my three-year tenure on the board. I’ve just observed Marcy to be in every situation, every time, operating with integrity, respect for others, honesty and courage, courage, ” said Board Vice President Brittany Barber Garcia, who nominated White for reappointment. “I think that ±ese traits are not only important for us as a board, but they’re really criti­ cal in our board leader. I really appreciate the way you always keep us focused V I I J I ( '■:K , V J ‘*1 A A Crews continue to ramp up construction at the future site of Dutton Elementary School in Caledonia. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) f-, 6 I 1 tut on our mission, and you put service of the kids and the district and the public at the top of your mind.” White is the senior member of the Caledonia board, having been a board member since 2010 and serving as president December as Martin’s perma­ nent replacement. Barber Garcia was elected to the school board in November 2020. Jason Saidoo nominated her to be reappointed as vice president. “In her first three years as a board member, she has shown growth, thoughtfulness and grace. Her presence as vice president last year has demon­ strated that she is a more than capable leader,” Saidoo said of Barber Garcia. Katie Isic, who was also elected to the board in the 2020 election, will retain the role of board secretary, while Saidoo will stay on as treasurer. Saidoo was elected to the school board in November 2018. White and Saidoo’s seats come up for re-election this year. since 2017. I look forward to continuing to lead and woik with all of you,” White said. “I really appreciate the last year in all the transitions we had as a district, eveiybody getting involved e e e We have a big year in front of us to look forward to.” Last year saw the district go through a change in the superintendent’s office, with the departure of Dedrick Martin and the hiring of Dirk Weeldreyer, first as interim superintendent, and then in I I I t I So JTB is asking the path issue or entitlement pro­ ate that, and I also share that school board to strike from cess evolves,” Hehrer wrote. concern. The safety of all of the agreement the provision “It improves confidence that our buildings should be taken of paying the district the no further extensions to the into account when putting extra $10,000 per home if purchase agreement will be these (paths) through or more than 30 homes are built needed, and the likelihood allowing any kind of easeon the site. that we will close on the land ment for that. I’m not sure They have a period where in a timely manner.” what the right answer to any they’re able to analyze the CCS Director of of this is.” economics of it and decide Op erat io ns and White also raised an issue whether it makes sense for Transportation Matt Hess about the maintenance of any them. I wanted to bring it to told the board that the townfite W. paths that might be built near 4B5 your attention this month,” ship’s master plan for trails the school, citing the current I it LlW-illlJ ' 9^ i h 9 Weeldreyer said. calls for trails connecting trails within the township. t i A ■ In a letter to Weeldreyer across 76th Street and down 7 They’re not maintained 4 dated Dec. 20, JTB Homes Patterson Avenue to the Paul well, they’re not maintained r 4>v-» ■IB land development manager Henry Thomapple Trail, as in the winter. At what point JGHft Howard Hehrer wrote that well as down Kraft Avenue. in time does it become our / the township “maintains its “At the moment, they have liability?” White asked, .it _ ■ V position that either Caledonia nothing in place (that’s been Board Treasurer Jason Community Schools or the built), but that is the future 1^. * Saidoo made no secret of his T developer must pay for the township’s trail plan, much fnistration with the town­ i I installation of 1,800 (feet) of like the trail that they just put ship. f 8-(foot-wide) bike path in “It’s frustrating, and it’s • in on on Whitneyville Whitneyville Road, Road, across Dutton Elementary along where Kettle Lake driving me nuts, the hold that property before it will con- (Elementary School) is ... the township wants to have sider extending sanitary it’s kind of a trail to nowhere on all these projects, and ) i sewer service to the property. at the moment,” Hess said, frankly delay any sort of The property currently lies But in the master plan, for progress in the community. Caledonia High School honors the achievements of its students each month. In outside of the sanitary sewer years ahead, they do have a It’s ridiculous,” Saidoo said. November, school staff turned its attention to those who eml led the core value district and sanitary sewer is connection at 76th Street Weeldreyer said he wasn’t of leadership within the school. In December, it focused on community. Handpicked critical to the development of going across.” ready to make a recommen- by their teachers, these individuals exemplified the qualities that define Caledonia the property.” Board member John dation yet on what the dis­ Pride. (Back row, L-R): Jaxson Higgins, Hayden Paggeot, Victor Robonson II, Tucker Hehrer went on to write Brandow expressed concern trict’s direction should be on Dion, Alysse Harper, Skilar Placer, Dakota Parriott, Kenzie Popma, (middle row, L-R) about the request to elimi- about security issues tied to JTB’s request. The schools Jessica Huisjen, Nadine Bochantin, Elizabeth Musk, Andrew Oldfield, Sam Baker; nate the additional $10,000 paths near schools, citing the and developers have until (front row, L-R) Brody Woodwyk, TJ Platschore, Bryce Younce. Not Pictured: Kaleb per home offer above 30 Whitneyville path that was Aug. 30 to finalize the agree- Walker, Andrew Swift, Ben Diegel. (Photo provided) homes as part of the final built last year. ment. purchase price. “That’s a security risk. I They’ve got a few more Cl “The entitlement process see that over on Whitneyville months yet to consider. I 1 •k' V is capital intensive, and we and it drives me nuts every think it behooves us to take t fli_dt will spend dollars on per­ time I drive by there. I think the time to consider it and * mits, review fees, engineer­ we really need to watch think it through rather than I ing, soil borings and environ­ that,” Brandow said. ask for a quick response,” r t J 4.-^^2 mental studies throughout its Board President Marcy Weeldreyer said. duration,” Hehrer wrote. “It White raised a similar con­ Construction on the new is important that a reasonable cern about security and 60,000-square-foot Dutton I f. r path forward be established addressed the question of building got underway last •e before we proceed with a paths that go near current fall, made possible by voter submittal.” CCS buildings. approval of a $61 million In addition to the bike “The trails that we talk bond issue in May of last •asg’’* path, the developer would about, if you want to call year. The school is sched­ I I pay for the extension of a them trails, or the connecting uled to be ready to open in .« S’ 12-inch water main required sidewalks that go between time for the 2025-26 school V.* ? •*Vr* Jiti! by the township along the Kraft (Meadows Intermediate year. 4 ATM C 4 4i property’s 1,300 feet of School), the high school and The township has not i • u I p-’ 11 ;N?-< frontage along Patterson, Emmons (Lake Elementary received any plans for the 4<> r. S Hehrer wrote. School), those have nothing development of the property j i I “The proposed, third to do with the township or that JTB is looking to purfr s I: « M ✓ ^':samendment to the purchase the Kent County trail system. chase, Township Planner c > ’ r iet is Lynee Wells wrote in an I • , agreement will mitigate risk Those are for the use of ... 1J K. v< Caledonia Community e-mail to the Sun and News. to both the developer and I i: 9 V. ... « Schools,” White said. Discussions are expected | school by putting the side •B “I realize anytime you put to continue at the committee J walk issue to rest, allowing ! <I the project to start the entitle­ in anything, certainly you level over the next couple of X. . ’■'a;7eyAve"catei°^'" invite the fact that people can weeks, with possible action ments process, and by lock­ JBi ing in a price for the land come from other places. I get at the board’s February meetf 9 1^7.f x all of that. But I do appreciing. A* • *1 52v* ' regardless of how the.bike Caledonia High School shines spotlight on Students of the Month I I I 4 i CWfl—i.ir. I I T \i2 AM I II ♦ A —s ’ Wl A *' * -.u I I €4 cMNi I . 1 ..t y k I > r* .• •'♦••Ui*- i t M> 1 « * 4 I 'lili X • • 0 ««« Jr. i r 4. I*' 2 ■ I .'P - ' .T • c ■ >- •> '4 •-t? I 1.7 '<e ■ / I i: .7 I 4 t X ? ft. r ■1 T A* - > in I 4 * * • i' Mi 4 r w If M I y.ii; g 1 1 ON t0[^ milsiiiifdM wlliiji ]per5iiiii sficificis ikyap "’fe I I K. V. tUt F nni' a i I II .Ji* X'- soc^sa -■ 5 4 r V•« 1 i' V■ s I f J' • ' '1 .J 1 :ii If# iiBlj tJin^ v^aix.. 1 t -M*!* V A'l t LOW 1 T.' 5. 1 OKED BBQ PBIVATE EVENT f J r 'r . •» » I I ♦ -f J f I < « lit; if®; J. 1 1175 BOBONS .CS- II k 44 * r’l (P. J* I* 9 tx s i A. 1 1 I < wjSite for r f »• • -^4 tea S!'i> ** 1 .1 9^. ux 4 4 .>7 I I / I i » 1 I I » more < k I I I 1 I * ri •> 'f i « M tt€£!^H>10b^isocial.com » 4 ■ f » C J 41 > \\ J. ! p TV 4 > 4 s J ff ■ I' t jjz + ' ■ IV\ is u 3% Qi L* 4 7^’ t I •» ''f • I ’T,'- I I I I I I z 1 9. i I V. f* I * I ✓ ( I I •t T’l •* 1 I ■ I + I > I. k ( ) ‘ L*' < • I I < I 1 ■ •; R*. !I f I I ( i *w * (;■ I & I •< 4^ a 1 I I I i n t 1 I 1 V * 1 r I ’ .( t » I 1 < I ■ , I \ < I 1 I 4 I I r-f • ( I - f 1 ** I ■ £ 1 I k I A I • T ■ ■ k �Page 4/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 3,2024 _ ■ ■ __ CHS releases first semester honor roil ■ ■■ Caledonia High School has released its honor roll for the first semester of the 2023-24 academic year. Students earning a grade point aver­ age of 4.000 or above are recognized as Laude. Summa Cum Those with a GPA of 3.500 to 3.999 as Magna Cum Laude, and those with a 3.300 to 3.499 GPA as Cum Laude. Students quali­ fying include: Alyson Minton, Landen Moore, Grant Morrell, Madelyn Mulder, Connor Myers, Hayden Paggeot, Jacob Paoletti, Connor Connor Parlin, Nola Pearson, Pearson, Mackenzie Popma, Sophia Price, James Prichard, James Jackson Pugh, Abigayle Trompen, Kate Trusevich, James Visser. Magna Cum Laude Aibree Akers, Jackson Almy, Addison Atheam, Serina Backus, Bryce Baughman, Cameron Beach, Josiah Blain, Alister Brew, Ainsley Bridges, Kayla Briseno, Bria Brower, Aidan Brown, Justin Brown, Kobe Buchan, Kiara Cogswell, Aaron Collins, Scott Coulter, Elizabeth Crankson, Hunter Creguer, Trey Curnow, Akaela Daman, Addison Dana, Brecken Daniero, 9TH GRADE Ada DeBlecourt, Cole Summa Cum Lauda Layla Decker, Ian DeHaan, Emery Sarah Berger, Bouwens, Jagger Bumes, DeRosia, William Dickey, Adan Col Isem, Elliott Davis, Levi Levi Dorband, Dorband, Cora Cora Draft, Draft, Trevor Dorman, Allison Josie Endres, Sarah Evans, Dryburgh, Liam Dykhouse, Vivian Fink, Walker Freese, Grant Feldpausch, Estella Benjamin Geerdes, Chase Finkbeiner, Ayla Gerken, Geister, Justin Golembeske, Grasman Khloe Aseel Ghannam, Grace Luke Groendyke, Lauiyn Hager, Greenlee, Emmett Haan, Olivia Handley, Sean Harney, Dylan Hilaski, Tzila Leah Hileman, Thomas Hawkins, Gabriella Henney, Hodgson, Braden Hofstee, Anna Homrich, Evelyn Claire Huttenga, Isaac Judd, Riley Maria Homrich, Emilia James, Nimrat Kaur, Zachary Kalacanic, Keson, Mackenzie Krentz, Kaszynska, Ava Kennedy, Ty Madison Lockwood, Keira Kimbrell, Luke Kowatch, LaBine, Rosalyn Poe, Ava Paalman, Abby Sonja Benjamin Rewa, Madison Langworthy, Kelsey Lazarevic, Natalie Le, Olivia Reynolds, Roszkowski, Vanessa Le-Tran, Jack LeBoeuf, Schram, Aveiy Seif, Lincoln Vanness Lin, Nicolas Long, Senti, Evelyn Smith, Tyler Benjamin Lusaya, Made Smith, Emma Sokolovic, Mai, Owen McCormick, Taylor Sowles, Sui Tial, Jackson McNew, Kayleigh Katie Tran, M adi son Miersen, Noah Miller, 9 Putnam, Quentin Raffler, Ava Rairigh, Katherine Reoch, Ella Rigley, Gabriela Rissley, Bryant Rosales, Willa Rose, Alexis Saidoo, Scheid, Ayden Lauren Schwartz, Nicholas Seif, Lily Smith, Mason Smith, Lincoln Snow, Harrison Solum, Ethan Sova, Reese Stafford, Lucas Swartz, William Szyperski, Sophia Teelander, Madelyn Terryn, Jazmyn Thompson, Margaret Thunder Hawk, Brock Tidey, Presley Tidey, Avonlea Tufts, Niklas VanderArk, Gretchen Jayden VanderEide, VanderSyde, Anna VanderWal, Olivia VanLaan, Addison Veldt, Meghan Venhuizen, Emily Walbeck, Ethan Abigail Wilkes, Wright, Julia Zenn. Cum Laude Makayla Banning, Ryder Bom, Liliana Brandner, Burke Brodock, Caelyn Crocker, Tessa DeYoung, Ethan Durkee, Mason Gardner, Landon Hall, Arbor Haimink, Tessa Jones, Ellie Kadzban, Margaret Koopman, Chi Lwi, Gavin ----------. _ *K:„„;iv.rR,.ra Eli Velting, Abigail VerBurg, Maya White, Elliot Winger, Rydik Wrnhel. Elliott Wrubel, Corinne Montanino, Nordlund, Koleson Reeder, Draven Reid, Aubrey Reynolds, Sophia Root, Averi Rosted, Mateus Santos, Jennifer Schiefla, Isla Sheely, Lydia Shoesmith, Shelyn TUomac-Ferrell. Emma Thomas-Ferrell, Thome, Hannah Twork, Mya Gavin VanderZwaag, Ziegler. Magna Cum Laude Joelyn Abraham, Alivia Baareman, Hannah Backhus, Andrew Barnum, Lillian Bender, Hannah Bennett, Madison Bergs, Elliot Clark, Tana Coates, Julia Cooley, Peyton DeHom, Hudsen Samantha Derengowski, Dunham, Audrey Duong, Anders Foerch, Anna Garcia, Eliana Grinstead, Gage Helinski, Kaedence Herr, Samuel Hoag, Katherine Honhart, Jonas Howell, Brady Humbarger, Zoey Hunter, Kay Hurst, Raymond Huynh, Katelyn Jaquish, Paityn John, Av Jordan, Jolie King, Hellen Komera, Circe Langeweg, Molly Liggett, Parker Avarey Lippert, Lipsman, Marian Listen, Adelae Lucas, Addison Luxford, Keira Marshall, Jocelyn Martin, Colin Martinez, Easton Miller, Zoe Moore, Liam Miller, Christian Moorlag, Benjamin Moss, Kortney Muller, Cole Nyman, Addyson Olin, Rebecca Parlin, Caleb Pezzato, Sophia Phillips, Zachary Pirozzo, Nathan Purvis, Camden Quigley, David Robinson, Savannah Robinson, Abigail Schnurstein, Ella Schultetus, Colton Sheely, Luke Smith, VanMeter, Emma Wilson. lOTH GRADE Sumina Cum Lauda Mackenzi Anes, Madelyn Anes, Brooke Bender, Skye Bradley, Brecken Byrd, Wade Cawson, Addison Cook, Gavin Gavin DeFields, Baylee DeVries, Sebastian DeZeeuw, Charlie Doan, Maxwell Doll, Brennan Donnelly, Sophia Douglass, Larissa Dudicz, Garrett Fales, Sophia Fata, Katelyn Ferris, Yasmeen Ghannam, Landry Hammond, Alysse Harper, Caleb Harrison, Haynes, Ayden Adam Hoisington, Noah Kaplan, Ian Kimbrell, Parker Knoop, Kohen Lapekes, Gabrielle Linker, Allison Malone, Noah Jayden McCoy, Moberly, Mitchell Moelker, Angel Par, Derick Prichard, Ashia Isaac Robinson, Robotham, Gavin Sermeker, Abigail Skibinski, Evelynn Slomp, Ethan Snapper, Nina Stiver, Chelsea Tran, Helena Truong, Brooklynn VanArtsen, Kaden VanRyn, baptist fchurch alaska 7240 68’*’ Street SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Sunday’s Ministries Worship Service Fellowship Time Sunday School Youth Gathering Adult Bible Study 616-698-8104 www,alaskabaptisLorg 9; 30 AM 10:45 AM 11:00 AM 5:00 PM 6:00 PM Our mtssion is to worship God and disciple committed folfo^^ws of Jesus Christ, who win reach the worid with the Goepet. Michael L Myers, Senior Pastor cornerstonechurch * ‘"■r # > ♦ -I A *I |V ■ Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham FIRST BAPTIST Sunday Service 10:30 AM Middleville Good Shepherd Lutheran Church <x -f. 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship........... 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend UI wxv A Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg J J J http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleviUe Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 w I I A OURNEY CHURCH 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE LEARN MORE! AKpeace Sunday Worship; 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. z- ■r CHURCH thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE; 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch lbw « 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., MiddlevUle, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee V. nr Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org . 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM I £—Z 01 Mid I* J Cum Laude Erica Angell, Samuel Baker, Cassidy Collins, Nolan Ed, Broderick Fanco, Gillian Guzman, Hazel Homing, Benjamin James, Lyla Keller, Cody Meyers, Ella Kay Miller, Codie Okrangley, Aaron Pyper, Miguel Rodas-Reyes, Adam Smith, Ryan Snider, Madelyn Stauffer, Halle Stout, Shaden Thomas, Andrew VanderKolk, Payton Walker, Luke Witvoet. I Kcl®> ✓ Hi#’ IITH GRADE Summa Cum Lauda Madelyn Abraham, Sophia Anderson, Luke Atheam, Michael Berger, Greta Betz, Ethan Buer, Malia Burke, Gabrielle Bums, Rory Cobb, William Cook, Nathen Cox, Adysen Daman, Noah DeRosia, Evan DeYoung, Drew Diebolt, Hannah Dupuis, Aidan Edgar, Alexa Elliot, Landon Fleming, Sophia Gauthier, Jennifer (ji* W I I .in JIjSsS to 83 i See HONOR, next page Caledonia United Metho dist Church • ft 1 Sob Di!®! Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship ftWC ■ tat service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Ese J" Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist tasafi Serving ~ Strengthening — Connecting EkFili HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfaniilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass; 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. lib & t I diih 01IM Ifcl B Jfai i Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 _________www.stpaulcaledonia .org THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH * • ; ^ISt' MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com *1-. <1 Whitneyville Yankee Springs Bible Cburch Fellowship Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52”^ & 48^^ 4 1 • Praising God through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music I "Shining Forth God's Light" I • I PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School.. 1 PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel Evan Standley, Summer Tague, Hailey Thayer, Claire Timmerman, Rosalyn VanStrien, Brayion Walma, Samuel Walma, Ella Wickens, Yelena Wilks, Anna Windsor, Dakota Winters, Ryne Wysocki, Keagan Yenna, Bryce Younce. 11 T CALEDONIA; (269) 795-2391 Bradyn Snow, Austin Soper, ^4 p ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS . . . 9:30 a.m. V Worship Services Sunday ioam&6 pm Watch our services from our vyebsite (see above) I Prayer Meeting & Bible Study r Wednesday 6;^o nm a k, J Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhltneyvilleFellowship.org Morning Worship Community Group....... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org ' J I » I 1 < �HONOR, ContinuGd from previous pd^ ‘ bJ 8 % a 1 ' V N' 5 George, Silas Haan, Alexandra Heaton, Pai pc Heninn Paige Fii^ok tk U I Demon, £»« Noah Kathleen Johnson, Rachel J ' 'i. S ’ SV J b 11 I s'?' Jessica Maier, Hailey Markwat, '■ ' Tyler McAllister, Samantha McCormick, Brennan McVey, Fink, Cyndi Fisher, Nathaniel Sawyer Mertz, Samuel Gue, Presley Gyorki, Brogan Miersen, Elise Miller, Nathan Hacht, Alexandra Hance, Montross, Andrew Moore, Aliya Hemden, Simon Hilton,’ Claire Musk, Cameron Myers, Carter Johnson, Samuel Jones, Alivia Neubauer-Keyes, Lily Keech, Landon Koster, Copelin Okrangley, Peter Myah Lapekes, . . Abagail Paarlberg, Erin Peckham, Layton, Gabrielle Levack, Owen Petersen, Ada Petersen, Vincent Maunello, Tucker Pike, Nolan Thomas Murray, Crew Paalman Platschorre, Allie Poe, Kayli Alaina Palmer, Alaina Lukas Price, Joshua Raboum, Finn Palmitier, Alana Radtke, Logan Reimbold, Rian RagazPiromari,ElJpSr Restau, Sebastian Rissley, Addison Russell, Meghan Ruthven, s a L * 01^ fits ** ♦ Ryder. Juliana Addison Saidoo, Nicholas San-er, Ranveer Singh, Taylor Sorsen, Olivia Staufier, Owen Straight, Andrew Tava, ClaireA Teunessen, Justin 1 -r Irees, Adela Turpin, Kenna VanLente, Susanna Vire, Emily Vu, Cameron Weibel, Isabella Wierzbicki. Magna Cum Laude Drfii- -A I *• * WC<Ub9[i Venhuizen, rive Generations Brown ? -'*• , - Kyan Owen r; Joseph A James Carrow, Jenna Clapper, Luke Cole, Jack Collett,’ Campbell Yay I^Me Day, Ston DeWolC Daltfn 1 1 Taylor 7 4 Ava Acton, Isabelle Anderson, Samir Begovic, Madison Bernal, Brecken Bloemers, Kiley Bommarito, Keira Bommarito, Joseph Briseno, Keegan Broomfield, Josie Bums, Brooklyn Bykerk, Parker Chapp, Teagan Chu, Lauren Collett, Carson Conroy, Nolan Cook, Remy Cortez, Samantha Daley-Fell, Kaylee Dekkinga-Weller, Mary Depetro, Ella DeRuyter, Kara DeVault, Cody DeVries, Tristan Devrou, Christian DeYoung, Madison Doroff, Taylor Doss, Easton Ellens, Amber Fairchild, Francesca Fanco, Noah Fennell, Back left: Dad, Ryan Harmon; Grandpa, Byrne Harmon; Front left: Great great grandma, Vivian Brown; Great grandma, Shari(Brown) Harmon. Front: Willa Mae Harmon, bom 8/8/23 f £-■■= 1“ S5 ?I Q Cum Laude Cum Laude Ashleigh Adams, Sophia Bartuch, Brody Benjamin, Mya Burgess, Kaylin Bums^ SIH V r . VanArtsen, VanderWoude az a k Taw 1 s ivvtu vuHcier irevnr waitf^r Reed Vogeler, Trevor Walter, IzacI urT Joslynn Wilcox, Leah Williams, sr Kayden Woods, Cameron Wright. The Sun and News, Saturday, February 3, 2024/ Page 5 I ”= » L -*. * ?. A • Be^amin, SiA T Bonter, Peyton Brenner, Vicky Brousse, Maya Brower, Cali Brown, Tamia Bulger, Ella Canup, Andrew Cherpes, Saige Cooper, Mayari Coriano-Lahiff, Brayden Cramer, Adrielle Crothers, Jasmine DeLanoy, Austin DeVries, Lillian De Winter, Sydney Dochstader, Stephanie Dryburgh, Ayden Duffin, Blowers, Cadence Isabelle Bravata, I I I I Local road agencies enforce seasonal weight and speed restrictions As of this week, seasonal weight and speed restrictions are in effect and will be enforced by road commissions damage. Enacting seasonal restric­ tions is based on multiple fac­ tors including solid fi-ost depths, pavement and air tem­ peratures, visual signs of pave­ ment bleeding, pavement dis­ tress, saturation levels of road­ beds, and the ten-day forecast. Neighboring cities and coun­ ties work closely together to discuss these factors and align enforcement when possible. Our top priority is to protect the structural integrity of our roads, especially during this critical period when frost is leaving the ground. This challenge is compounded by the rainfall and snowmelt we are currently experiencing,” said Steve Roon, Kent County Road Commission’s director of maintenance and local roads. “By acting proactively, we aim to minimize damage to in both Bany and Kent coun- Durkee, Hanna Powers, Allye Risner’ Sm Dykstra, FMrir Jaxson ”l Engelberg, Farstvedt, Leah Felker, 's to protect the tntegrity of the Anthony RoszkowsW Alaini John AllisonXbr™ Allison Felt, Jennifer Ferranti, Russell, Willtam Sh/e^ S M when ftost is coming out Sela Fitzell, Ricardo Garcia, Henty Simon Cerys Smi K Tabitha c sr Q^in Stace/Et^a s“m Tabitha ' '' Marianna restrictions, normal Gove, Grandchamps, Suzannah legal loads must be reduced by Colton Timmerman, Green, Sadie Grimes, Owen approximately 35 percent and Muhammed Turk, Aiden Hager, Amaya Hawkins, truck vehicle speeds reduced VanDeWeert, Christina Adrian Heiser, Alique Henlin, to 35 miles per hour. Waldmiller, Addison Whisler, Anastasia Herbst, Lilly Hess, With the onset of warmer Ella Wierenga, Alani Xiong. Lydia Hilton, Elizabeth weather, more thawing is Honhart, Audrey Howell, occurring beneath the road’s 12TH GRADE Gracie Jackman, Catherine surface. This creates a saturat­ Summa Cum Lauda Jeffers, Aidan Johnson, ed roadbed, with water trapped Teresa Abraham, Tyler Camden Johnson, Alex between the pavement and the Johnson, Ambrose, Peter Andruhs, Klingensmith, Summer Kopec, remaining ice layer below. Zachary Balak, Kyle Barthel, Abigail Kramer, Ava Krebill, Heavy trucks and equipment Kala Bisterfeldt, Carter Bom, Kelsey LaValley, Emerseri traveling over inadequately Aidan Bozym, Grace Bryant, Lippert, Maria Maunu, Kendall supported road surfaces can Alyssa Bursch, Megan Bushart, Maynard, Sydney Miller, result in permanent cracks and Alisha Bykerk, Thomas Clarey, Carter Moorlag, Micah Nagel Riley Collins, Noah Creguer, Hudson Nichols, Zoe None; Jazlynn Dana, Alyssa DeFields, Alexis Alexis Otto, Christopher Kiersten DeHaan, Mackenzie Paoletti, Daniel Parker, Derek DeVries, Benjamin Diegel, Pennington, Mason Peters, Tucker Dion, Kaylee Catalina Peterson, Hailey Dunwoody, Abigail Duong, Popma, Collin Pyper, Ethan Courtney Dyer, Katherine Rea, Cadon Reynolds, Natalie Eardley, Julia Engel Hernandes, Richardson, Addison Roe, Isabel Fata, Ian Fedewa, Rishi Keelie Rosted, Ethan Royce^ Isabel Fata, Ian Fedewa, Rishi Garigipati, Reese Geister, Ali Salih, Kirsten Schutte^ Reese Geister, Whitney Graham, Sydnie Nicklas Slater, Hailey Smith’ the pavement’s surface and preserve the longevity of our road infrastructure.” Those with truck-related questions may contact the Michigan Center for Truck Safety at 1 -800-MTA- 4MTA. These seasonal weight and speed restrictions are also being enforced by: Calhoun County Road Department; Ionia County Road Department; Road Commission of Kalamazoo County; Kent County Road Commission; Mason County Road Commission; Montcalm County Road Commission; Muskegon County Road Commission; Newaygo County Road Commission; Oceana County Road Commission; Ottawa County Road Commission; City of Grandville; City of Kentwood; City of Walker. 1 I I I 9 9 4. (I 9 A At’*- «• J t t” Mr ■■ Vjo M Tz» evt T I bk A k k iW V. ♦ I, 4 I I * z I * L I <V f/. t / >. i * f J 1 • < « % DW KB ’ JJ :feC riii'i' k Ml® I J J 4 3i is C4i rj .. Ml I ' I' k Ethan Fisher, Kaeler Fox, Alaina Franklin, Cambria Gaier, Aiden Gieseler, Sydney Gonyon, Lily Gortmaker, Leigha Hall, Edwin Hanson, Neal Hargrave, Leyla Hazel, Alexis Henney, Brady Hilaski, Claire Hoop, Ellie Hudson, Micah Jacobson, Kaelin Kalacanic, Anthony Kauffinan, Mason Kern, Eden Korb, Elena LaFranca, West Larson, Addyson Lash, Lauren Lauver, Isabella Leason, Austin Licari, Elleiy Lienesch, Molly Lieske, Samuel Lusaya, Joshua Maier, Shaun Milanowski, Cole Morgan, Mason Morrell, Dinh Nguyen, Josie Noble, Andrew Oldfield, Sakura Otto, Emerson Pattock, Eliza Pehrson, Allison Pellerito, Georgia Pennington, Ethan Petz, Bailey Postema, David Potgeter, Noah Prior, Kahana Reynolds, Jensen Rivera, Garrett Ruehle, Madison Savin, Kasen Savoy, Payton Seelye, Jacob Sensing, Brody Siler, Johanna Sproul, Ayden Taylor, Filip Taylor, Alexis Tell, Kort Thompson, Hailey Hers, Ryleigh Isabella Treib, VanderBerg, Annika Patrick VanderEide, Addysen VanderKolk, VanderLaan, Leah VanHall, Luke Veldman, Levi VerBurg, « > t > t w • A Greene, Rylyn Groeneveld, Chloe Groves, Richard Harms, Angela Harney, James Heath, Jaxson Higgins, Jaiden Higgins, Charles Hoag, Cassandra Honsbeiger, Jenna Huizenga, Reagan Hurst, Kerstin Johnson, Eliana Karadsheh, Kloe Kimbrell, Sarah Kirk, Kylee Kirkbride, William Knipping, Marisa Kohn, Bedi Komera, Lauren Kosiorowski, Jackson Kozak, Katherine Langejans, Haden Lienesch, Vittoria Locarno, Nathan Maas, Isabella Mazzarelli, Cameron Mealey, Zachary Miller, Levi Moss, Paige Mulder, Mackenzie Myers, Ella Norbeig, Isabella Nunes Augusto Norberto, Mason Osterhouse, Alexa Pearson, Allison Perna, Langley Peterson, Jared Porter, Emerson Powers, Samuel Pugh, Corbin Raffler, Addison Rapa, Emeiy Emery Rewa, Alicia Rice, Claudia Rissley, Anthony Russo, Sarkoeziova, Tamara Alexandria Sensing, Grace Siekman, Zofia Skrzypek, Emily Sorstokke, Andrew Sprague, Joshua Sova, Christopher Streit, Owen Sufoma, Keira Sundstrom, Fabio Swartz, Brayion Tedeschi, Sheldon Thomas, t % > I 4 Brayden Smith, Hunter Soyka, t t Matthew Stoner, Asher Straw, Maeson Strzyzewski, Madison Suttorp, Daniel Swartz, Isabella Teelander, Tyler Tell, Kyleigh Thompson, Cade Tidey, Dakota Tomac, Nina Trupiano, .» ♦» I 1 « t > • _s* *»* t •* I I I I t 1 Carter Tufts, Kamrin Van’tHof, Lily VanDeraa, Barbara VanderMaas, Brenden VanGessel, Addison VanOost, Gisele Vazquez, Ryan Walbeck, Dharius Walker, Emma Whitman, Joni Young. kJ i '•A K9 I 41 i 4 f F •***-i^ * * .1 * 9 I A I » f I I 5- . t ‘jF -A A A FT?** t. •J t * t -M. I I . / S I I v. I • » JOIN US FOR OUR NEW SERIES IN 1J0HN AND SEE THAT THERE Is A REAL JESUS WHO PROVIDES REAL FORGIVENESS FROM REAL SIN REAL LOVE. REAL CHANGE IN LIFE. REAL ASSURANCE b. 1 “ * I P r **- SUNDAY Al :r Mill •Wn L * r 10:30 L ' A' ,3 I'-.V.'S',! 1 V 4 ■, * • • I f I I A I I •w >• 1 1 b ft'. I MY* t ) k 4 » I T '■ X - ■. - A- ! » I I I 4 I —ir'i- 4 r- * • ■ • I 4 • BAPTIST 1 , -A I Middleville 1 I i FBCMIDOLEVILLE NET • J .• I I 4 I I . I I . I s 1 I « t 1 < t 1 I V 1 } i s < ’ b s / < • c r , A ’ • Y t > I I ( > » c I I » . * • I 1 ) J •t 4 T I C I I 1 t 'I U I r I I k I i > r T 1 i I 5 { A I « I r, I I « '.Tw-- •• • 1 Matthew Blanch, Nicholas DeBoer, Brayden Dickerson, Annabelle Fraher-Matuszynski, Jaden Grace, Alicia Gutierrez, Ryan Helmholdt, Caleb Hofetee, Sarah Huebner, Allen Johnson, Pheonix King, Jack Lange, Madison Lieckfield, Logan Martinelli, Gavin Mayrand, Pennelope McGarvey, Gabriel Melo Bezerra, Sydney Niswander, Jake Parent, Trinity Perez-F emer. McKenzie Purman, Pierson Reifter, Korin Rider-Gray, McKenzie Ross, Smith, Clara Michael Staskiewicz, Jacob Stoezynski, Ryan Tafelsky, Sierra Tague, Lucas VanderArk, Lucas Vincent, Adia Whisler, Finneas White, Analis Wilks, Molly Winger. it I I .1' • Cum Laude * • & * I I I I r b I I b p I �11 I I Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 3,2024 — Co-workers celebrate Alto man’s 48 years of dedication to Coreweii Heaith In today’s professional climate, few people stick around in the same company for very long. But, few people are Kim Smith. Smith, a resident of Alto, has recently wrapped up nearly five decades of service to Spectrum Health, now Corewell Health, where he worked in the microbiology department. There, he had a front row seat for the many evolutions that took place in the field of medical technol­ ogy — and even helped to move that evolution forward himself. Smith was a dedicated employee of Corewell Health for the past 48 years in the microbiology department. From working as a phlebotomist, to helping implement the in vitro fertilization pro­ gram, to helping develop a new computer system, he was an asset to the hospital and his coworkers. Smith attended Michigan Technological University in Houghton, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology, Fresh out of college, he start­ ed working as an intern at the Blodgett Hospital near his hometown of of Kentwood. Initially, he worked there as a phlebotomist. After fin fin-­ ishing his student year there, his supervisor asked him to stay on as a lab technologist without even an application or interview. Eventually, Smith got his certification as a medical technologist in 1976 from the American Clinical of Society of Pathologists Board Registry and 48 years later he is retiring from Corewell Health with a fruitful career behind him. Smith saw many changes during his 48 years with the hospital. One big change was the merger of the labs for the Blodgett and Butterworth usiness Ser\ 'ices DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. MATT ENDSLEY FABRICATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets. bale spears, etc. Call 269 804-7506. GERMAN SHEPHERD PUP­ PIES. 8 weeks old. Call 269331-1788 CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-8385937. Community Notice NOTICE OF SELF-STOR­ AGE Sale: Please notice Red Dot Storage 195- Caledonia located at 5590 68th Street SE., Caledonia, MI 49316 intends to hold an auction of the storage unit in default of payment. This sale will occur online via www.storageTreasures. com on 2/13/2024 at 9:30 AM. Unless stated otherwise, the contents are household goods, furnishings, boxes, and general equipment. Unit numbers are as follows: #115; #116; #254. All property is being stored at the above self-storage facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. See manager for details. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Paying Premiurns for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy sin­ gle Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. PAYING TOP DOLLAR FOR SCRAP VEHICLES 7 DAYS A WEEK. 269-9675744 Hospitals in 2004. After the merge, the labs remained at separate locations but were encouraged to collaborate so that they could get processes and systems standardized between the two campuses. Smith was a significant force during this time because he made barcodes to help speed up test results. He spent an increasing amount of time making the lab processes run more smoothly and getting lab information computerized. Also during this time. the hospital acquired more locations such as Gerber, Zeeland, Mecosta and Peimock. Kim was also instrumental in getting the computer microbiology module working. It was sep­ arate from the main hospital computer system. On Sept. 24, 2011, a new lab called the Spectrum Health Regional Lab was built on 35 Michigan Street in downtown Grand Rapids. All microbiology med techs were moved to that lab. This was another opportunity for everyone there new spaces, new machines, new peo­ ple, and new challenges came with this time. Karen Haveman was a previous co-worker who worked with Smith from 1975 until the move to the Spectrum Health Regional Lab. “Kim started his clinical rotations on July 1, 1975, and only took 12 months to do it with just two weeks of time off,” Haveman recalled. “He definitely showed dedi­ cation to the job. He started when the lab was on the first floor of the Blodgett Hospital, right down the hall from the emergency room. Back then, doctors had to walk to the lab to pick up patient lab results. Med techs hand-wTote lab results and 3 J J Mi WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS I, f c HI* •1 If. Residential & Commercial T r JU Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps ? -^Nater Heaters I- -Humidifiers j ■f I r** t Sbh lA % •» t r MSB taped them onto patient charts.” Haveman went on to say that Smith saw many chang­ es throughout the time that he worked in the lab. “Eventually the lab grew so big that they had to build a new one on the second floor,” she said. “There were also many changes to the equipment they used over the years. They changed from using mouth pipettes to automatic ones, and from handwritten reports to digi­ tal interfaced reports. Using computers to house and ana­ lyze data was a change as well. New processes had to be developed to identify 1^ I 6 / 5^' A young Kim Smith is seen here as a lab tech at Blodgett Hospital in 1984 studying a flask. Smith, an Alto resident, retired from what is now Corewell Health after 48 years of employment. (Photos pro- I*"' j I vidGd) V- 1. I- • b* J f I I »• i I i**<*i^ J [ I ^.3 -J •J * \ • * Si Ji I t A V J M > f (iS®S I I, r I 4 ft •r I I * w* « ’ < Mb.. I « * V * s V - I •Nf* * J I ■r •4 A ■'f:. . z* 1 I r . * 9 f r tt I r* >•--1 V r 6r. L f s i *• r •> s 9 ;tfi ’’X V I * *, I I *• I .u* I » H- J T > Li I' K j«nji sIrsh atm * ilpbi Wo inis 4 • ♦ Kim Smith is pictured with his wife and six kids in a family photo from the 1990s. « r new diseases like Legionnaires Disease and Chlamydia. The use of DNA testing became routine for many diseases.” Another past co-worker, Tammi Frick, shared how Smith had an impact on her career, as well. Smith trained her on some of the microbiology benches. She said he was always very helpful and knowledgeable. When they switched computer systems to Cemer, he was the lab expert on it. “If you had a computer or technical problem he was the one you’d go to for help to fix it,” Frick said. “He was someone that would sit with you patiently and help you through the issue even when he had his own work­ station to finish. Of the many people that Smith impacted on the job for nearly five decades, Pamela King was another who remembered her time with him fondly. She mentioned how he was a funny, helpful, and dependable person to work with. King worked with Smith from July 1976 to the fall of 1999 in Microbiology at Blodgett. She also took grad­ uate classes at Grand Valley State University with Smith. They used to all carpool together to go to their classes and stop somewhere for din­ ner on the way back. Two places they frequented were Mr. Burger and Shawmut Inn. “That was a good time,” King recalled. Smith has six kids, rang­ ing in ages from 29 to 44 and has been married to his wife Deborah since 1991. Smith’s life in retirement seems relatively simple: Read for knowledge and lei sure, help his community and spend more time with his grandchildren. aaiiJif ? fVfi •la iJWDj I is tK® lihlBanj It! *•4 ''kSnl « , > J- Jits ■ Middleville TOPS 546 A ' i' Vac I t /'A' ■Ml J *•'11* I IX ' * DeWeerd _ ( 681 a I HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING. INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 A 4 I f 1 I I ! r I I t I ( I « / -5 I I I > !• ! I r > > « 1 Since I9S5 4 ■I UENNDX I ; r •1 A+ 1 BBB. ACCnSDiTEO business [ The Jan. 29 meeting opened with the roll call. One new fish is in the fishbowl. Maryellen talked about the new challenges TOPS is giv­ ing to all chapters. The club decided to begin in February. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., r k. ’ I followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-9088036, or Maryellen, 616318-3545. The first meeting is free. I T r 4 « I u A ‘ » -A <^8 I I I . V �** ••• t » MW •' • t tl J X b'M -i, r lert system partnership between Barry Connl^Centrai Dispatch and^oa^ommission generates interest A t\ Hunter McLaren Staff Writer Barry County residents can now receive road closure alerts directly to their phones via text message. The Barry County Road Commission and Barry County Central Dispatch are collaborating on a centralized alert system for residents. The system utilizes a ser­ vice called Smart911, which pushes local emergency infor•X • * X *> ■ , ■if . ? - 9 TA’rt s-* +1- na v.^ I L I 1 service, (File photo) 4- email. It s a service that Barry County Central Dispatch has been usmg for almost 10 years, Now, users who sign up for Barry County alerts will receive information about road closures and conditions alongside BCCD emergency notifications. Those who would like to receive notifica- Ii •'9' The Barry County Road Commission is partnering with Barry County Central Dispatch to provide text mes^ge updates on road conditions to usere who ™ *» “7 »ho opt-in via omnil -1 ■ -n- ' tions can sign up directly through the Smart911 website. Jacob Welch, Bany County Road Commission managing director, said the collaborative initiative was recommended following the road commission’s completion of an exter­ nal communications report. “The quicker we are able to get real-time information to drivers to avoid construction areas, road closures, et cetera, the better,” Welch said. “New ways to communicate with drivers is always a priority for us.” Following the recommen- dation, the road commission began exploring different avenues of communication, Welch approached Stephanie Lehman, BCCD director, and the two began looking into how the two offices could work together. While BCCD has texting capabilities, some of those capabilities are tied to its fimction as an emergen­ cy communications provider. “Citizens can text 911 here in Barry County. We can accept and initiate inbound and outbound text. That platform that’s available to us is solely on the network that delivers our 911 calls,” Lehman said. “So if you’re not a 911 center, that’s not an option for you. It’s not a ven­ dor that the road commission could go and pattern with, and have people opt-in (to receive messages).” Smart911 is another service utilized by BCCD that allows users to opt-in to emergency alerts. While BCRC could partner with Smart911 directly, the road commission wouldn’t receive the same pricing incentives that BCCD receives as a public safety organization. To save costs and reach more users, BCRC will be piggybacking on BCCD’s Smart911 alert system. The two departments have agreed to a six-month trial period to see if the partnership is a good fit. If it’s a good match, the road commission has offered to help cover the costs of the Smart911 service in the future. “We’ve entered into this kind of temporary phase. where we’re going to do this until the end of June. Then 1 we’re going to get back togeth­ er and decide, if we are going to put this in motion perma­ nently or not,” Lehman said. “Right now, my guess is we probably will.” Lehman said the initiative has already been a huge success. While the BCCD Smart911 alert system typical­ ly sees somewhere between two and 10 new users each month, Lehman said 85 new users had opted-in to the ser­ vice only one week after the collaboration was announced on Jan. 17. “Really, it’s a win-win,” Lehman said. “It’s a way for us to help the road commis­ sion to reach a larger percent­ age of our population. But it’s also getting the Smart911 plat­ form a little more exposure in our community, which is great.” I I I I I I I 1 I i I ► * Ml Barry County board members hope for local insight out of Sheriff’s election fraud presentation I Jk Jayson Bussa “We had been hearing about lenges were for Barry County.” Editor this for three years, maybe During Leafs time address­ Some members ofthe Bany longer, so it’s kind of over- ing the Board ofCommissioners County Board of due,” Barry County Board of last Tuesday morning, Commissioners hope that an Commissioners Chairman Commissioner Catherine Getty upcoming presentation made Dave Jackson said. “But by asked him once again if he by Sheriff Dar Leaf will bring the same token what I guess planned on presenting informaclosure to an issue that* has*^ —reason it’s importaiit is to tiondiat pertains to elections in hovered over the county for hear what were the findings Bany County. Leaf said that he years. for Barry County?” would, followed by zooming Last week, Bany County “Really, that should be the out to get a larger picture. Sheriff Dar Leaf announced main gist of what we’re trying “I am anxious to hear a that the board’s committee of to accomplish here. We’ve detailed accounting of Sheriff the whole agreed to add him to the agenda for the Feb. 13 are not necessarily interested in what meeting. Leaf intends to use ^jpened in Pennsylvania, Georgia or the rest his time to provide informa­ of the country. It’s our local sheriff with an tion that he and fellow investi­ election investigation; we want to know what gators have uncovered when looking into voter fi^ud, both the challenges were for Barry County.” in Barry County and through — Dave Jackson, chairman, out the rest of the country. Barry County Board of Commissioners Leaf is a member of the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association, a been talking about this for Leafs investigation into the group that vows to protect its years, we feel confident in the 2020 election results,” Getty citizens from overreach by fact that Barry County has very told the Sun and News. “I am the federal government. As good clerks and very secure hopeful he will focus his report part of that effort. Leaf has elections. If there is something to the commissioners solely on long been persistent in his you’re going to present to the the results of Detective Erb efforts to investigate potential board that says differently, then and Detective Noteboom’s voter fi-aud following the we need some detailed, specific work in Barry County over the 2020 presidential election information on what that is and last several years.” when then-President Donald why that is.” Leaf indicated that, at the Trump lost his bid for reelecIn previous interviews with Feb. 13 presentation he tion to Joe Biden, which the Sun and News, Leaf has planned to bring in a represenignited cries of voter fraud contended that, despite what he tative from a group called the fi'om various pockets through­ sees as inaccuracies in the pro- Election Integrity Force. He out the countiy. cess, he has not blamed local also told the Sun and News His efforts have gained clerks or election inspectors. that he hoped he could provide Leaf notoriety amongst con­ Because of the nationwide a follow-up presentation as the scope of Leafs investigation, information collected over the servative circles nationwide, where he has made several commissioners are concerned years has proven voluminous. Leaf emphasized to the Sun appearances for interviews that the presentation coidd be rife with information that per­ and News that he plans to pres­ and speaking engagements. But when Leaf presents the tains to general issues or data ent the information in a findings of his years-Iong associated with elections on a non-partisan fashion, saying that both parties should be coninvestigation — which has uti- larger scale. “We are not necessarily cemed about election fi^ud. lized taxpayer-funded resourc“The only thing I’d ask is es in his office commis- interested in what happened in that people leave their ‘R’s and sioners are hoping that he Pennsylvania, Georgia or the zeros in on any impropriety rest of the countiy,” Jackson their ‘D’s at the door, Leaf that was committed locally said. “It’s our local sheriff with told the Sun and News referwith hopes it could be an an election election investigation; investigation; we we ring to political partisanship. The, Feb. 13 committee of addressed if needed. want to kno.w what, the chaU 1 A ’A 1 t alaniiytlttb 4 Diet’ri til r « » Hl pIxtsiijaB » • N< ^4 I « 'I11^0 .. A ■{ i’ 1 > .«• I 1 » 9" I « 1 1.^ > f . -9* 1 z ) ,9 f • * * ’ F ! f I > t I b , I I t r 1 / / I I I t 1 f ! ♦ f '!■ ■ * r ( I 1 I J 4 1 I I I I I I i I t < t I f t ( f the whole meeting is slated to be held at the usual meeting spot the mezzanine of the Barry Coimty Courthouse. However, Jackson said that, if the board receives an indication that the meeting will attract a crowd larger than the mezza­ nine could facilitate, there is a chance it might be rescheduled and moved to a larger venue. “There is obvious interest in I I I it from the community and there is interest on the part of the board of commissioners, so we’re really trying to get to through this and get to a better place,” Jackson said. I WIB M .. ii* if-! t I ,.n ■ * I r 4 Jt.I 4 b I. . — I 1 > u* A Dr. Joshua Koenig, Primary Care £ 1 >. . J ? .J* f J « ♦ I * -i- f i ’ I 1 •I • J? Primary care appointments available in Caledonia 4. 1 Trinity Health Medical Group I > i I Good health starts with the right relationship. When it's tinne to plan your annual physical, or when there's a health issue you didn't plan for, Trinity Health primary care providers are here for you with convenient care close to home. T I I i 1 i J t z ■ b », 5. • < SCHEDULE ONLINE I I I I I I II a I I We See All of You’“ J r �Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 3, 2024 Cal school board changing committee structure Local students earn dean’s list honors Carthage College Area students were named to the dean’s list at Carthage College in Wisconsin. To qualify, students earned a grade point average of 3.5 or higher for the fall 2023 semester with a minimum of 12 graded credit hours. Local students on the list, by hometown, included: Caledonia - Zane Schrader Shelbyville - Lynsey Jager Cedarville University I I I p I * University of Alabama Geneva College Kaminski of Anna Middleville was named to Geneva College’s dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester. To earn the honor, students must be enrolled in at least 12 credits and maintain a GPA of 3.6 for the semester. Iowa State University Jonah Hilton of Caledonia has been named to the dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester at Iowa State University. To make the dean’s list, students must have earned 12 credits for the fall 2023 semester while main­ taining at least a 3.5 GPA. Area students were named to the dean’s list at Cedarville University in Ohio. To qualify, students earned a grade point average of 3.5 or higher for the fall 2023 semester with a minimum of 12 grad­ Kettering University ed credit hours. Several area students were Local students on the list, named to the dean’s list at by hometown, included: Caledonia - Daniel Battey Kettering University. Dean’s list students must have a min­ In addition, some local stu dents were named to imum term grade point averCedarville’s dean’s honor list. age of3.5, no grades below B To qualify, students earned a and a minimum of 16 earned grade point average of 3.75 or credits for the term. higher for the fall 2023 semes­ Area students on the list ter with a minimum of 12 include: graded credit hours. Caledonia - Joel Tenhaaf i I Local students named to the dean’s honor list include: Caledonia - Isaac Clark Several area students were named to the dean’s list at the University ofAlabama. To qualify, students earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 during the fall 2023 semester while maintaining full-time status. Local students on the list, by hometown, included: Wesley Caledonia Knipping Trenton Wayland Hoaglin In addition, the president’s list includes students who earned a 4.0 GPA while maintaining full-time status. Local students on the presi­ dent’s list are: Middleville - Emily Drew University of Delaware Mcfee of Katherine Hickory Comers was named to University of Delaware’s dean’s list for the fall 2023 semester. To earn the honor, students must be enrolled full-time and maintain a GPA of 3.5 for the semester. •V'. . if w l1 FINANCIAL FOCUS K Provided by Andrew McFadden II I I V I I 1 1 % V. and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones I I How can business owners plaii for an exit? If you’re a business owner, you always have a lot to do and a lot to think about. But have you put much thought into how you’ll c^ntually leave it all behind? Even if you’re a few years away from that day, it’s a good idea to create an exit strategy. If you’re like most other owners, most of your net worth may well be tied up in your business so how you exit that business can have a big impact on your finances and your retirement. As you begin the exit strat­ egy process, you’ll need to examine some basic ques­ tions, such as how much you want for your business and how much it’s worth. But you’ll especially need to plan for the mechanics of your exit that is, just how you’re going to sell or trans­ fer ownership of it. Essentially, you have three main options: • Internal sale or transfer — You could sell or transfer your business to someone affiliated with the company. such as a family member, business partner or ‘ even a group of employees. The advantages of this method are that you’ll have greater control over the timing of your exit, and you’ll be able to provide greater continuity for your employees, clients 1 < « I f < k t i * . « < « I and suppliers. One potential disadvantage is that your net sales proceeds may be less than what you’d get from selling the business to an unrelated third party. • External sale or transfer - The biggest benefit of sell­ ing or transferring your busi­ ness to an unrelated third party is that you can poten­ tially maximize your net sales proceeds. But you’ll need to consider some tradeoffs, too. For one thing, a sale to an outside person or business usually requires a long and possibly expensive due diligence process. Also, you’ll have less control over the timing of your exit than you would if you sold the business to an internal source. • Liquidation - If you liq­ uidated your business by sell­ ing all your assets and shut­ ting down operations, you could end up with far fewer net proceeds than if you sold the business to an internal or external source. However, you could raise cash pretty quickly. But if you chose to liquidate or dissolve your your business, it could potentially be disruptive for your employees, clients and suppliers. Because everyone’s situation is different, there’s no clear-cut formula for decid- ing which of these exit t." * T ft ■ Greg Chandler Staff Writer Logan Middleville Greshak options is right for you. And it isn’t simply a matter of numbers, either, because you’ll need to consider some intangible factors, too. How will your family be affected by your choice? How would you feel if your business was in someone else’s hands, or no longer existed? You’ll need to work out these issues, along with the financial ones, before you decide on your business exit strategy. Fortunately, you don’t have to go it alone. You may want to consult your finan­ cial, legal and tax advisors, and possibly work with a commercial banker and a business evaluation expert, By drawing on several sourc- The Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education is scrapping its committee struc­ ture in favor of meeting as a committee of the whole to deal with emerging district issues. At a workshop Wednesday night, the board agreed to tiy the committee of the whole structure for the remainder of the school year, and then eval­ uate it to see whether it should continue into the 2024-25 school year. Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer said in an interview with the Sim and News. “I think there’s an effort to improve (work) flows (among board members),” Weeldreyer said of the new structure. Over the past few years, the board’s two major committees have been the Teaching and Learning Committee, which has focused on issues such as student assessment, introduc­ tion of new textbooks and pro­ fessional development of teachers, and the Finance and Operations Committee, which has reviewed the district’s budget, projects resulting from recent bond issues and pur­ chases such as new school buses and a recently-approved transportation software system that will allow parents to know the location of their child’s buses in real time. The chairs of those commit­ tees - Brittany Barber Garcia for Teaching and Learning and Jason Saidoo for Finance and Operations - have-presented verbal reports from those meetings during the board’s regular meetings, sometimes reporting items that had just been discussed by the full This week, economic devel opment firm The Right Place, Inc., and project partners Franklin Partners and Lowell Charter Township announced they have received $17.5 mil­ lion from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) new Strategic Site Readiness Program (SSRP) to help pre­ pare the 237-acre Covenant Business Park in Lowell Township for industrial and commercial use. The Lowell site is one of 18 statewide projects announced as recipients of the funds at this week’s Michigan Strategic Fund board meeting. The SSRP provides finan- cial incentives to eligible applicants to conduct activities on or related to strategic sites in Michigan to create a statewide inventory of investment-ready sites that will attract and promote invest­ ment in the state. The program provides access to grants, loans and other economic assistance. In its announcement to the project team, the MEDC noted that the Lowell site is strategic for the region and that the funds will help make progress on preparing the property to become a premier site. The award letter also noted that the property will become a critical offering and help MEDC build Bruce'S Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop • • • • Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience » <*' ' brucesframe.com This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC t I- » * J « • < b 9 i I FNKt r F 415 2nd • Middleville t I t ♦ b I .1 ff •' I • r . r rt.i i . » r « » , . . • I. « t • ; ft r P I* 9 .r < I / .. Iz & K RS ?=?• f 9 d I I I a I I a strong pipeline of sites across the state The funds awarded repre­ sent 50 percent of the $35 million needed to get the site “shovel-ready” for develop­ ment. Most work will center on irUfrastructure efforts, pri­ marily sewer extension and connection. The parcel, which is zoned PUD for industrial and commercial use, is located at the 1 win J. I Ml J I J* VMM southwest comer of Cascade Road and Alden Nash, just ;; I a3 A north of 1-96; with proximity to a major highway and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Travis Alden, senior direc­ tor of community develop­ ment at The Right Place and the project’s lead, formally submitted the request last October. The site owner and developer, Franklin Partners, and real estate broker Advantage Commercial Real Estate are also assisting with the project. The team’s application received written support from Michael Bums, Lowell’s City Manager; Jerry Hale, Lowell Charter Township’s Supervisor; and state represen­ tatives Rep. Joe Tate, Rep. Angela Witwer, Rep. Gina Johnsen, and Rep. Phil Skaggs. The project team has planned three community open houses to help area res­ idents and interested parties learn more about the site. All J S5l 4'. >1( % p.m.; Thursday, Feb. 1, 5-8 p.m.; Wednesday, Feb. 7, 9 a.m.-12p.m . a* • J-t-J- J f, , a J » ! 1 i « » c tv w. I I ; 1 .4/.4 J * a I V I ! I I I rtf events will be held at the Lowell Township Hall, 2910 Alden Nash Avenue SE. The dates and times are: Wednesday, Jan. 31, 5-8 9 ♦ A ( state awards $17.5 million grant to prepare Lowell Township’s Covenant Business Park for development es of expertise, you can feel more confident that you’ll make a decision that’s appro­ priate for your needs. One final suggestion: Don’t wait too long before you begin putting together your exit strategy. Time goes fast and when the time comes for you to say goodbye to your business, you’ll want to be prepared r • 9 board earlier in the meeting. “There was a feeling there was a lot of repetition (in those reports),” Weeldreyer said. No dates have been deter­ mined yet for when the com­ mittee of the whole sessions will take place, Weeldreyer said. The board Wednesday also welcomed representatives from the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids for a discussion on the operations arrangement between the school district and YMCA for the new Caledonia Community Center that is The under construction. YMCA would handle pro­ gramming responsibilities for the new building, which is expected to be completed in the fall of this year. The center will also include a competitive pool for the district’s swim teams. J** 7 « I I �I ► The Sun and News, Saturday, February 3,2024/ Page 9 CHS skaters make it four consecutive victories %/’>e Brett Bremer Kauffman also tallied an assist on a goal by teammate Rylan Bultema six and a half minutes into the second period that put the Scots up 5-0 at the time. Kauffman scored the game s first two goals. Five minutes in he took a pass from sophomore teammate Ty Lewandowski, put a little Sports Editor The Fighting Scots are on a roll. The Caledonia varsity hockey team took its second win of the east over East Kentwood, outscoring the Falcons 8-0 at Kentwood Ice Arena Monday afternoon to make it four straight wins and five of six for the Scots. move on Falcon keeper Will center Junior Tony Hammonds and fired the Kauffman notched a hat-trick puck into the net. in what was the second 8-0 The Falcons fought off the win of the season for the Scots until the final four Scots over the Falcons. minutes of that first period “^5 I A » •* t * r. 1^. ^’1, I I X' A k, ^4^ * ' * *‘S> i *9 r ▼ mC .^Ib^ • * <1 .*> ( I - It * I A •f « • e *c* * Ik 0 'i ’’HU 'A ♦ I < f I 1 V ► * 2^^ t L’ The Fighting Scots’ Ty Lewandowski looks to unleash a shot towards East Kentwood goalkeeper Will Hammond’s net during their contest at Kentwood Ice Arena Monday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) igie- A when KaufiBnan fired a shot od to make it 4-0 Scots - getinto the net from just inside ting assists from McNabnay the blue line. Lucas and Lewandowski. McNabnay and Lewandowski had assictc nn that 1 McNabnay finished the nad assists on that goal. contest with four assists. It was 3-0 after one period Lewandowski had three. thanks to a Caledonia goal Rylan Bultema, Caleb by Harmon Esch with 2:58 to Summerhays and Kauffman play in the period. He raced each scored once in the in up the left side and then third period as the Scots cut to the center, putting a closed out the shortened little deke on Hammond victory. before putting the puck in the Caledonia was scheduled net. Logan Himes was credit­ to return to action last night ed with an assist on Esch’s at home against Jenison. The goal. Scots will play host to Senior forward Emersen Reeths-Puffer this afternoon Lippert tipped the puck into at 3:30 at Kentwood Ice the net on a power play 59 Arena and then will be back seconds into the second peri- in action at Kenowa Hills Wednesday and at West Ottawa Friday in the week ahead. rraser comes Fraser Kentwood to face the Scots Caledonia opened its weekend Friday, Jan. 26, outscoring Utica Eisenhower 5-1. They took a 7-1 win over Dexter Saturday. Eisenhower took a 1-0 til IDBl Uioaaiiie Ulfr rs k LLI ^aldt (dfauni lliill awfamit'dnlDpsbV Ite mi itmiBial ifjPutffi, sale Wit Senior guard Tyler Gavette wasn’t far behind with 12 points. Coach Garber said he had his best game of the season on offense - something he challenged his senior guard to do heading into the bailgame. He started just shooting,” Garber said. told him before the game, you have to get four shots a game. Right away first basket for us was a Tyler Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team closed oirt the first half of the OK Gold Conference season with a 3-4 record thanks to a 51-44 win at Cedar Springs Friday, Jan. 26. Junior guard Brice Lloyd led the Trojans on the score­ board for the second straight game with 16 points. TK head coach Phil Garber said Lloyd was the leading scorer for his junior varsity team last season averaging over 20 points per game, and that he finally sees his confi­ dence growing as a scorer at the varsity level. three-pointer, and I’m like here we go.” The Trojan coach said Gavette has penetrated to the hoop well all season. He can use his strength to score at times, but his height can make it tough to score around the rim at times. Coach Garber said III Gavette and fellow senior Kyle VanHaitsma are two of the best mid-range shooters around, and while he would rather have good looks at three or shots around the rim, he’d like to see Gavette and VanHaitsma use their mid-range game as more of a weapon as the season pro­ gresses. VanHaitsma finished with seven points and junior guard Brody Wiersma had five for TK. The key for the Trojan though was their early defense, Coach Garber was especially pleased with the way Ethan Bonnema locked down on Cedar Spring point guard Konor Shotko. Shotko didn’t ,R Correction: There was an error in this weekend’s Sun and News story on the TK varsity boys’ basketball team’s Jan. 19 win over Wayland. Junior guard Brice Lloyd led TK. on the scoreboard in the win with 12 points. Lloyd hit two threes including one that bumped the Trojans’ lead to 20 points midway through the fourth quarter. TK went on to a 66-41 win. TK also got 11 points each from senior Kyle VanHaitsma and junior guard Brody Wiersma and ten points from sophomore forward Lucas Ploeg. Junior cen­ ter Jake Kelley and sophomore forward Trey Hilton had six points apiece and Jude Webster finished with five. "ill taj, Brett Bremer lead in the opening period Friday, but the Scots rallied for two goals in the second period and then three in the third for the lopsided win. Kaufiman had a hat-trick in that match, adding an assist too. Lewandoski scored two goals. Sova, Bultema and Brayden Cramer had one assist each. Julian Gojcaj scored the lone goal for Utica Eisenhower. next Saturday, Feb. 10. Last weekend, the Fighting Scots scored wins over Utica Eisenhower and Dexter at the Chelsea Showcase. TK finds scoring touch at Cedar Springs 1 J « i 1 IS ’'’aiffifflji; 0 > >• ’ * score in the first half, had just one free throw in the third quarter and finished with seven points. Marek Oleneack led the Red Hawks with 26 points. The Trojans had a 38-29 lead going into the fourth quar­ ter with the lead as many as 14 points during the second half. The Trojans moved their overall record to 7-8 with the win. They were set to open the second half of the conference season at Forest Hills Eastern last night. The Trojans will head to Grand Rapids Catholic Central Tuesday and then play host to Ottawa Hills Friday in the week ahead. •• ’I • I ,1 I r I •?<*' r s % « I ! 1**0/ s ■9.4 % I PTS *K- J 1 A < I 1 r 4 -Hl H M M I 991 I », 4 * RIVER CRUISE VACATIONS Experience the beauty and history of the St. Lawrence & Ottawa Rivers on a classic Canadian riverboat. Request our tree travel brochure. 1 -800-267-7868 www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com asgslis^'i 211915 V * f I V t ipiiliciiioa sappatft® Ci5’ 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 CaledojiA TOTOSHIP cornerstonechurch f f. ( helping people know Jesus and make Him known PUBLIC NOTICE Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan offBship s lift ftp' G® iiiW ' a® hji I . I areaifS" J parties 'SiK.All 111 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 < SE> art l>* l>« ,v J h 4 I /cornerstonemi I Notice is hereby given by resolution of the Charter Township of Caledonia Board of Trustees under authority granted in Public Act 81 of 2023, that the location of the early voting site for all federal and statewide election dates will be the following: Charter To wnship of Caledonia 8196 Broadmoor Avenue SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 For the February 27’^ Presidential Primary, the Early Voting Center will be open February 17, 2024 through February 25, 2024 from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Joni Henry, Clerk a • a t ■r » * 4 ? I t ) r 1 I f I ,1 It > I 1 I i I * I f I f t I ■i I 1 I I f > @1 @cornerstonemi J I > < o o N fD I cornerstonemi.org L 84th St. Campus fU fU 84th Street SE 1 J we’re casual, come as you are. �Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 3, 2024 TK refocuses on round three for another Gold win I I than once or twice,” Lula added, “and we watched it several times over and over and over and analyzed our body positions, hand grips, how we were standing. By the end of practice Monday, for the first time all season, every single stunt hit all three tries.” She called the round three performance at Kenowa Hills an “almost perfect round.” It wasn’t just the disappointment of Saturday’s per­ formance that the Trojans were trying to overcome on Wednesday. Coach Lula said there was also the challenge of keeping the energy up overall as one of the team’s leaders, senior all-stater Mali Holland, cheered through an injury. Holland is front and center in each round for the Trojans. “Normally, she is someone you can 100 percent count restoring their round three prowess after a fourth-place finish in the 12-team Division 2 standings at last LMCCOA Saturday’s Scholarship Invitational at Byron Center High School, TK had an eight point deduction in round three at Byron Center and finished with a score of just 269.6 in the round. Cedar Springs was third in Saturday’s Division 2 standings more than 20 points ahead of the Trojans. Plainwell and Mason fin­ ished first and second respec­ tively at that competition. “We went out there and the whole round kind of snowballed and they let it get the best of them,” TK head coach Madelynn Lula said. “When we came off the mat last Saturday the girls were like, ‘coach I never, ever want to do that again.’” “We hardly ever watch round three on film more Brett Bremer Sports Editor Sometimes a cheerleader needs somebody to pick her up. The lifts and motions were better than any other time this season for the Thomapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team at the second OK Gold Conference jamboree of the season, Wednesday at Kenowa Hills High School. The Trojans took their sec­ ond conference win putting up a score of 753.26 points, beating runner-up Cedar Springs by a little over seven points. The were about seven points behind the Cedar Springs girls heading into round three then outscored the Red Hawks 309.9 to 295.5 in that final round. TK will host the final con­ ference jamboree of the sea­ son in Middleville Thursday, Feb. 8. TK went into this week with a special emphasis on Vikings split their duals in Hamilton High School pool Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia/Lowell/ South Christian varsity boys’ swimming and div­ ing team split a pair of non-conference duals at Hamilton High School Tuesday. The Vikings outscored Shores/ the Mona Muskegon squad 99-83 while falling 133-53 to the host Hawkeyes. The Hamilton boys were 2-0 for the day outscoring Mona Shores/Muskegon 130-49. Hamilton swimmers won every event on the evening except the 100yard breaststroke which went to the Muskegon co-op team. The Viking team had a handful of runner-up performances including two from freshman Nolan Fitzgerald. He finished the 200-yard individual medley in second place with a time of 2 minutes 19.71 seconds and added a runner-up time of 1:03.37 in the 100-yard butterfly. It was his best See CHEERLEADER, page 11 » -r • T< <- & ‘■-I*—« 1 r « __ fl |rz * VA time yet in the 200 IM, and the Vikings’ had about ten other personal performances best Tuesday. Senior Luke DeJager and sophomore Anders Foerch went 2-3 in the 50-yard freestyle for the Vikings. DeJager touched the wall in 23.55 and Foerch in 25.11 Foerch swam to a run­ ner-up time of 5:59.65 in the 500-yard freestyle his best time of the season in the race. Brett DeJager scored a runner-up time of 56.71 in the 100-yard freestyle for the CLS team. Those overall runner-up finishes were all good for the first-place points in the Vikings’ dual with the Mona Shores/Muskegon team. The CLS team was back in action at Grand Haven Thursday and fell 161 -129 to the Buccaneers in their OK Red Conference dual. Fitzgerald added a new best time in the 100-yard breaststroke at the meet winning in 1:12.58. The 100-yard butterfly was one of the top races of the day for the Vikings. Luke DeJager won the race with a season best of 57.38 time and Fitzgerald recorded a new personal best of 1:10.13 to place second. The CLS 200-yard free­ style relay team of Luke DeJager, Sam Jones, Brett De Jager and Foerch won its race in 1:38.34 and the Vikings took the first place points in the 400yard freestyle relay in 4:01.30 with the team of Foerch, Doug Gaylord, Fitzgerald and Austin Tufts. Luke DeJager also added a runner-up time of 1:03.72 in the 100-yard backstroke. Jones was second in the 100-yard freestyle in 54.65. In the diving com­ petition, CLS had Andrew Barnum second and Tufts third. The Vikings head to East Kentwood for anoth­ er OK Red Conference dual Thursday, Feb. 8. I I S'- / I >14 r A it* z J J ..ir Ik « I . *9 I I I I ( I I / I * r vz I* L 9^ ( , * t 1^. A? I • J " t a A. f. I r . I ■ 0* 'T' p I ■ * k < ’J .V v-.. ^* I • r fj’ '5: I I 4 F K Scots hold lead throughout second half for win at FHN < ^5 I r.. 1 V <9 < J* / hl 1 1 a -i/r •9* The Thornapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team celebrates its second OK Gold Conference win of the season Wednesday at Kenowa Hills High School. The Trojans will look to close out an undefeated conference season when they play host to the league Thursday in Middleville. ED’S BODY SHOP CftLEDONIA, MICHIGAN Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ basketball team nudged its record back over .500 with a 64-61 non-conference win at Forest Hills Northern Tuesday. It was the second game in two nights for the Fighting Scots, who fell by ten in an OK Red Conference ballgame at Grand Haven Monday. The Fighting Scots sported an 8-7 record heading into Friday night’s OK Red Conference ballgame at Rockford. Senior forward Jaiden Googins had 23 points and four rebounds for the Scots in the win. STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS Lual Abiel added 15 points, six rebounds and five steals. Ky VanderWoude had 11 points and four rebounds. Aryn Taylor chipped in six points and two rebounds and Corbin Raffler added four points and four assists. A couple late threes kept the Huskies’ hopes alive in the fourth quarter, and the Huskies were within three points with 11 seconds to go. The Scots were good enough at the free throw line, and just good enough against the Huskies’ pres­ sure, to fend off their hosts. A bucket in the paint by Googins and a VanderWoude three -pointT A k- sAnmud r 7,. State & I-CAR Certified Technicians jl’ February Sale I * off Fabrics 1 TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System ’ (excludes sale items) Frame Repair Ends 2-29-24 * .1Z Sr 'I fl It 616.891.0150 www.edsbody.com TOW) Lesunal s • Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station A WMBA Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner k H'sfef Bourne System 110 Johnson St., Caledonia ■* 'i •. I 1GOU3 CLASS 1 ^NFIB QUESTIONS: ASK US... J 1 (? •4 OPEN; M thru F 7:30 am - 5:00 pm IP* , ,?.ir 3 218 E. State St.. Hastings • 945-9673 FAI A .Jt OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; V A /, If V ?1‘ z * I I k I Saturday 9 am-3 pm 4 •A J ♦ 1 ( I « « . r • / * * iiia! } I r i< f J k. • (4 e K 4• 1 2* J er with four and a half minutes to play in the first half put the Scots in front 21-18 and they never trailed again. A spinning bucket in the paint, with an and-one finish at the free throw line by Googins upped the Scots lead to eight points, but the Huskies’ got a triple to stay within striking distance at 31-26 at the half. The Scots led 47-42 going into the fourth quar­ ter, holding a lead of about that size throughout the second half. VanderWoude had 22 points and Googins 17 in the loss at Grand Haven Monday. They had six rebounds each. That loss to the Buccaneers dropped the Scots to 2-5 in the OK Red Conference this season. Caledonia got its sec ond win on the conference season last Friday against visiting West Ottawa, 82-50. There were four Scots in double figures led by Googins’ 24 points and 11 rebounds. Abiel had 18 points, VanderWoude 11 and Ben Geerdes finished with ten points. Raffler chipped in six points, three rebounds, four assists and three steals in the win. ■:2 a I •9* ; -X i ’I** * L:J • t a i -.at J A ■ bit! I • « , I '* . *<( ,• 'S 4 X. X « ,* I A �I I*M A Sun and News, Saturday, February 3, 2024/Page 11 SCOTS get shortened league ski race in during warm-up 5111 hl ' t'’’! •W %\ J*! 1 te K? lit L 135 *' Nt* ■Ilie \ I eda Um? ’lit Brett Bremer “Conditions were . tonieht hpaxM strong skiers if not the class of Sports Editor onignt, heavy wet snow that the conference, helped propel The weather turned quicker allowed big ruts to form and the boys in purple and gold to than a GS racer, but the piles to surround the course a runner-up finish on the day. Fighting Scots made the most but but our our guys came out and Onekama won the boys ’ skied very well,” Caledonia ______ _ meet with 48 points. Caledonia Michigan Ski Conference at head coach Duane Crystal Mountain Tuesday said followin^T^^y^^ was second with 78 and Glen Lake third with 92 points. evening. He was also really pleased Benzie did not earn a team Skiers completed just one with the grit his girls showed score. giant slalom and one slalom in attacking the courses, The Caledonia team was run on the wet, warm hill What the Fighting Scot led by Tuesday and Wednesday’s head coach likes to call the “ We have struggled get ­ race was postponed. Caledonia clump” a bunch of ting all of our top skiers to finish this season, but tonight they did and their consistent skiing really helped put a lit­ tle separation between the teams.” Petrosky said. “In GS we scored eight, nine, ten and 11, but the rest of our varsity placed 15, 16, 17, and 19 and our skiing pushed back the skiers on the other teams. We scored the same way in slalom. Brayden Smith led the way for the Scots placing eighth in the GS and ninth in the slalom. DJ Potgeter was seventh in the slalom and tenth in the GS. Aidan Brown ♦z added a tenth-place slalom performance and an 1 Ith-place finish in the GS. The Scots’ scoring group also included a ninth-place finish for Gohen GS Broomfield and a 14th-place slalom finish from Ben Diegel. Liz Hilton Benzie won the girls’ meet ' / f 1 10 foi Hftij » I I make staying engaged on the defensive end of the court tough. “And then we’re worried about mistakes instead of excited to make plays,” Bloemers said. “When it is hard to put the ball in the basket, it is really hard to stay engaged on defense, on Confidence comes from putput­ ting the hoop hoop or or ting itit through through the getting multiple stops in a row.”” row. He did like the urgency his girls played with in the end. The The Scots Scots were were within within two two noints points of of the the Sailors Sailors after after aa couple of free throws from senior guard Mckenzie Devries late in the fourth quarter. Devries had 12 points on the night. Junior guard Lily Gortmaker had a team-high 13 1 points to go with six rebounds < 4 W It' I i; eventually those issues start to Ji r Ben Diegel with 51 points ahead of Onekama 52, Caledonia 93 and Glen Lake NTS. Kyleigh Thompson led the way for the CHS ladies placing sixth in the slalom and eighth in the GS. [Thompson] has been consistently one of our top skiers for the past two years and is really skiing well as we get ready for our final stretch of races leading up to Regionals,” Petrosky said. Our girls skied in a nice clump of times that really the (4 and three assists for the Scots. Senior forward Addie Roe chipped in six points. Sophia Prins led the Sailors in the win with 12 points. It was the second game in two nights for the Fighting Scots who fell to 4-10 overall with with the the non-conference defeat. defeat. Grand Grand Haven Haven scored scored aa 54 54 -35 -35 win win over over the the visiting visiting Scots Scots in in OK OK Red Red Conference Conference play Monday. Gortmaker had nine points, Devries eight points and senior guard Mackenzie Myers added added six six points. points. Sophomore Sophomore forward forward Jolie Inlie KinoKing had had aa teamteamhigh seven rebounds. “This was a game too where we struggled a little bit offensively in the first half, down 15, and did a nice job in the fourth quarter of finally starting to play a little loose and free,” Bloemers said. “Grand Haven is a really solid team. They’re well coached and they are very steady. They take advantage of your mistakes. but they don’t make mistakes themselves.” The Scots again picked things up after the slow starts scoring 22 points in the second half after 13 in the first. “They extended some zone pressure that created an opportunity for them to get out on the break and get some early scores which put us in a hole early,” Bloemers said. The Caledonia girls were set to face a 13-1 Rockford team Friday night in Rockford. The loss to Grand Haven dropped the CHS girls to 1 -6 in the OK Red. The Scots are on the road at Hudsonville Tuesday and Jenison Friday in the week ahead in the OK Red. 1 iroppfii it' i .nW 1 CHEERLEADER, continued from page 10 J sfJiOl on,” Lula said. “She didn’t make a mistake or anything at all. She worked through mt iis s«- j coiW'* I r showed consistency of the team. We took third, but real­ ly pushed ourselves in the courses and are showing improvement.” Vicky Brousse and Liz Hilton both scored in both events for the Scots. Brousse was 12th in the GS and 13 th in the slalom. Hilton placed 14th in the slalom and 15th in the GS. Mya Baldwin added a tenth-place GS performance for the Scots and Tamara Sarkoezoiva was 15th in the GS. thjg) <5iiii lraGeko.Qk te keep up <a t e until t h .^ new edition. is printed^ I 'M Scots fall behind Sailors early Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Fighting Scots outscored South Christian 19-8 in Io play Ilk fa ' the fourth quarter Tuesday ilttaiib night. am) lifj KU The Sailors outscored the ail Caledonia varsity girls ’ basmjWtiiiik ketball team for the night h an aid-® fa though in a 37-33 South fctbiliKiyf Christian victory at Caledonia upped it Sail! Hi^ School. “I always like to give credit to our opponent. South Christian bto toe II plays hard,” Caledonia head Iflulf, coach Todd Bloemers said. “ I db Id M y p. Ii do dofeel teelright nghtnow nowwe wehave haveto toget get altjJofita ' offtot off to better ’etter starts. We have realliroiielioiil 11' i struggled in the first quarter ! recently, since the new year really, and that puts a lot of presmik ill)" ( sure on us.” Joo®II® I The Caledonia head coach said there have been struggles 1'1 ’ on the offensive end, and kl i *« ■■■ Wil# --------------------------------- ----------------------------- ® opened the conference jambo­ Forest Hills Northern’s back to Byron Center next ree with a score of 226 in Northstar Invite on the sched­ Saturday, Feb. 10, for the round one and then added a ule for today, Feb. 3. They go Byron Center Invitational. 217.36 in round two. Those were the second-best scores of the day in each of s those rounds. Cedar Springs scored a 228.5 in round one and 221.94 in round two. • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink installs • Towers Kenowa Hills was third in • Cellular Enhancement Systems the day’s overall standings with a score of 703.7 ahead of Give us a call! Forest Hills Eastern 643.5, 269-967-8241 RG* J Wayland 615.6 and Grand www.theantGnnamen.com antennamen@gmdil.com Rapids Catholic Central 532.7. www.c^ltigf^pi^jCom , yhe Tr^ans haye^ q drip 1 jjy Sjaillil the injuiy like a saint.” Lula said Holland’s friends and teammates. seniors , Scots i I Kenady Smith and Anna Smith, stepped up with her not ajii It ■ <5 « . quite at 100 percent. “They’re also good team ■(Hle leaders,” Lula said. “I saw a completely different side of them Wednesday. They lit up iflS« j and made sure everyone was hyped up and ready.” The prepared, Trojans .i t 0"* V I > - ■ Consignment Auction 9790 Cherry Valley Ave Caledonia. 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Hire M37AMCt!onoom to do that for you." * ▼ * T I h * t A AotenAa Men M37Auction.com J I I 4 I 1 i I II » 9 I I 4 I J i k -.1 I I ( I t ) I 1 a I ( I �Pt i I Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, February rage i z/1 ne oun ana news, oaluruay, r«?ui «<«3, 2024 j **» « New team of Gars gaining experience in pool 4 ' I weeks. It’s really just treating Brett Bremer it like it is swim lessons, get­ Sports Editor Thomapple Kellogg junior ting them caught up to Nolan Send spent part of his speed.” J’”*The Gars do keep gaining 2023 summer vacation help­ ing coach youngsters in the speed. He was especially Hammerheads Swim Club in happy to see his 200-yard e Hastings and taught some freestyle relay team with a swim lessons for those just Send, Ethan Magnuson, Caden Bliek and Tietz turn in getting started in the water. J p 1 Send’s first varsity season a time of 1 minute 46.80 sec­ » with the new Thomapple onds, which cut about two Kellogg/Unity Christian/ seconds off its previous best F West Catholic/Hopkins var­ time in the race. The Gars Lsity boys’ swimming and took the first-place points in diving team has send and his that race. Tietz and Send had the fellow TK junior Hunter Wr Tietz in a little bit of a teach- first wins of the meet for the 4: ing role as they try and get Gars. Tietz won the 50-yard freestyle in 24.49 seconds faster too. ft The team, known as the and Send won the 100-yard Grand Rapids Gars, had nine freestyle in 55.92. Coach Cochran mixed guys competing in its OK Grand Rapids Gars’ junior Nolan Send races to a winning time of 55.92 seconds in the 100-yard freestyle Rainbow Tier II Conference things up in his line-up a bit dual in its “home” pool at Thursday. Send is typically during his team’s OK Rainbow Tier II Conference dual with Wayland at Grandville High School Thursday. Grandville High School racing in distance events and (Photo by Brett Bremer) against visiting Wayland the butterfly. He swam the Thursday. Tietz and Send, backstroke in the meet and “We’re all kind of making and not gathering together Wildcats in 2:04.93. Justin for the Wildcats in 1:16.69. both formerly a part of the took the first place points in an effort at making our turns for bus rides, there haven’t VanDyke took the 200-yard The Wildcat team also had former Barry County that that 100-yard race with a better,” Send said. “Even my been a ton of chances to individual medley in 2:27.34. the foursome of VanDyke, Barracuda co-op with Delton time of 1:09.13. Tietz took a turns at the beginning of the build relationships yet. Carson Lown won the diving Alex Hubbard, Evan Barnaby Kellogg and Has tings, are race turn in the 100-yard year sucked.” The first day we stood in competition with a total of and Henry Oudbier win the the only two guys on the ros­ breaststroke and earned the While Send enjoys men- a circle and kind of intro­ 167.90 points. Jackson Byers 400-yard freestyle relay in ter with varsity racing expe­ first place points with a time toring where he can, he said duced ourselves, got to know took the 100-yard butterfly 3:58.36. rience. of 1:17.70. Tietz is the guy to take everybody a little bit,” Send It has been a little bit of That 200-yard freestyle things over and help make said. Then we did ‘social an effort, but we’re getting relay team for the Gars is sure things are running kicks’ - grab a kick-board there,” Send said. “We don’t powered in part by smoothly. He said Tietz is and kick slowly while talking have numbers to keep up Magnuson, the team’s lone the guy who will lead the to each other. That is always with people [on the score­ diver, who coach Cochran sets in warm-ups and that fiin. That is how you get to board], and they’re still said he found could swim a type of thing. Coach know people! learning. Every meet they’re solid 50-yard freestyle. Cochran said he is pretty “I liked that. That was getting faster.” Vruggink, the freshman happy with the way both interesting. It is definitely The Wayland boys took a with some club experience guys have been leaders. interesting, because I have 91-65 win over the Gars, for the Gars, took the first Being juniors Send and always been at a public keeping the co-op winless in place points in the 500-yard Tietz will just be pool-side to school and they’re all from the conference so far. freestyle freestylefor forthe theGars Garswith withaa offer support Saturday, Feb. private schools. You get to One is a freshman time of 6:41.73. 3, as the Gars compete in a learn all about their lunches [Haiden Vruggink] with Johnathan Looks, David freshman/sophomore invita- and stuff and how they’re some club experience, but Ammon, Austin Ysasi and tional hosted by the different - they get way bet­ the rest of my team is new- Ben Wholford all also con- Grandville program, that has ter food,” he added with a bies we taught everything tributed point-scoring perfor so kindly shared its pool with smile. they know in the last month mances throughout the eve­ the new co-op. The Gars will see Wayland and a half,” said Gars’ head ning for the Gars. One of the Send said he is looking again when the OK Rainbow coach DJ Cochran, who pre­ things Send said he was most forward to a little team-build- Tier II Conference gathers viously spent a couple sea­ excited to see in the meet ing at dinner after the for its conference championsons leading the Barracuda was Wholford performing Saturday meet. With the ath- ship meet at Byron Center co-op in Hastings. his flip turn at every opportu- letes coming from four dif- High School Feb. 23-24. “It was just starting with nity in the 100-yard freestyle ferent schools all around the ft Wayland opened the meet the basics the first couple race. greater Grand Rapids area Thursday with the team of 4 Sfte r I I " X I Sa^ ■ <• A “i. R f "ST e«’ I 4* 'J iS^ f ■ A T ♦ ••*4- 11* • * •' I-.? f •^4 * > 4 fel. • I * J« ,1 • *41 --------- I A .-■rL t-T- « ,S F 1. 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Eddie Oudbier won the 200-yard freestyle for the “t' ■** s The Gars’ Ethan Magnuson holds his tuck during a dive at Grandville High School Thursday as his team takes on Wayland in an OK Rainbow Tier II Conference dual. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ■ * >r2i mn'Jr.-■A. w ■A “ '-t w.rr IC'. 1 ■ T ' J ft f S??’f '••V- Expires 3-81-24 4 < '.V > • 1 /I 1 '' FRONTIER HEATING 8 COOLING I I I I I I I I * •s .IV nWANCING' 210 East Main Street, Caledonia eimi •TiTiTf L J .X J available No monthly interest if paid wifhin18mo. ar 7’/ze company built by referrals —If • I" • *1 ir r*. w.* s ' I. ST' .K* •-r It sr’ )B I I ' I I r * 4, • 4 I I 'i. **1 U s* rS*' I >■ At Ar Wft.. . M4 ■ -R I V-n □r* •• 4*- •Ti • -vH T JU— • ,1-X’ * -jW •. ««•* M J •l I V 4 f. ft 1 • ( 1' I b i t I • I I ;. i 4 1 ft 4 n » • f I I. 6' J** M I I I I t 1 ■> I f . ''C. t ft* 4 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-02-10.pdf 2e14dfce3e7fb9029a69457b835ac179 PDF Text Text 1 k • • I I I 3nd'Nevi^ A it I I I *%l^^^rr:riA ^L .ziK^Lw-s Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville and Caledonia Areas I No. 6/ February 10, 2024 ■OM|MB|jb|fl^B|yaP||UJ^^^Ej^|MfeLfflg->-^r^~^A-^?wi Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. ^1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 t 146th year 'T •y ■3 1 .5^ * IB t •X Caledonia Township sued over billboard ban 4.^ •X.. t ibSmL^ , -V- e 'f.‘ 1 V5 h d ** * > * J J* * 'R. J * lA .1 4< f i 1 I > iF I V SBk •*_ j r 4 »R 4 CVK 1 fi t «l r k* *** 1 ' W-: I r ■= 1 1 . A r ■ IB,* » > I M ' 2t «k Aku A* 1 « « » Pnior draws in big crowds. Come rain or shine and ice or no ice; the Polar Dip always has a lineup of dippers waiting to jump in the water. (File photo provided)° Gun Lake area comes alive with annual Winterfest next weekend Greg Chandler Staff Writer A Detroit-area media company is suing Caledonia Township over a provision in the township’s sign ordi­ nance that bans the erection of new billboards or other off premises signage. The Township Board Wednesday discussed in closed session the suit that was filed in July of last year by Royal Oak-based Prime-Site Media LLC in U.S. District Court in Grand Rapids. The suit contends that the ban is an infringement on the First and 14th amendments to the U.S. Constitution, as well as the Civil Rights Act. Billboard advertising is a form of speech protected under the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution,” the suit states. Prime-Site Media wants to erect “at least one billboard” in the township. The proposed location of the billboard or billboards is ^4 Karen Itirko-Ebright Contributing Writer Gun Lake Winterfest might have new faces at the helm, but its poised to be the same old event that winter enthusiasts have come to know and love. Brad and Stacey Landman are the new chairs of Gun Lake Winterfest. After month^of planning, they are ready for the big event on Feb. 17 after the previous chair of seven years, Monte Baker, retired from the posi­ tion. The chosen charity to ben­ efit from this year’s event is the Orangeville Community Outreach program. The organization is committed to Gun Lake Winterfest All day; Saturday, Feb. 17 Most activities held at Yankee Springs State Park Visit gunlakewinterfest.com for full schedule of events improving the quality of life for Orangeville Township and Southwest Barry County residents. “We are extremely excited for the day to get here,” Brad said. “We have a great com­ mittee with many years of Gun Lake Winterfest experience, which has us feeling great about this year’s event. Of course, we have the usual butterflies that come before organizing any large event.” The Landmans are excited to chair Gun Lake Winterfest. But more importantly, they love being involved and giv­ ing back to their community. Stacey said she and Brad bring different strengths to the team, and that’s why chairing the event together makes sense. They have been married for 20 years and live on Gun Lake, but that has not always been the case. Before becoming a real estate agent. Brad was an award-wirming beer brewer in Denver. He is now a real­ tor and currently helps with the Grand Rapids Community College brewing program. Brad was an on-site event staff for corporate events and business meetings worldwide from 2000 to 2010. During that time, he met his bride. Stacey did the on-site staff­ ing for about seven years, then switched to full-time not identified in the suit, nor does the suit say what messages would appear on those billboards. Section 19.1 of the sign ordinance defines a bill­ board or off premises sign as “a sign which contains a message or advertises an establishment, product, service, space or activity not available on the lot on which the sign is located, New billboard or off premises signs shall be expressly prohibited.” But Prime-Site Media contends that the township allows certain types of off premises signage, in con­ flict with the ordinance, court records show. “The sign ordinance dis­ tinguishes between differ­ ent types of off-premises signs ‘based on topic, subject matter, or viewpoint’ displayed on the sign,” the company alleges in the suit. “Some categories of off-premises speech are prohibited under the broad 1 I { I I I I t I 1 I I I I I f I See BILLBOARD, page 3 I . * % i • -« A . - 9 Hiiie * h . A z: 1 J :a X 4 I *• -4 See WINTERFEST, page 2 Caledonia firefighter honored for 30 years of service * ■■ ,3 f <f p» Caledonia Township is facing a lawsuit filed by Royal Oak-based Prime-Site Media LLC over the township’s ordinance that bans new billboards. Existing billboards in the township have been grandfathered in and are allowed. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) w Greg Chandler worked as an emergency Staff Writer medical technician for an Keith Johnson was ambulance service two years inspired to become a fire­ before becoming a firefight­ fighter and paramedic after er. watching the 1970s TV show On Wednesday, Johnson was honored during the “Emergency!” His favorite character on Township Board meeting for the show was paramedic his 30 years as a firefighter, Johimy Gage, portrayed by along with other department firefighters who received ser actor Randolph Mantooth. For the past five years, vice awards. Johnson, who Johnson has been a part-time also received a five-year firefighter for the Caledonia department service award, is Township Fire Department, retiring from the department. but before that, he was a part- effective immediately. Fire time firefighter in the Chief Scott Siler said. “Not many people stick Muskegon County village of .. Fruitport since 1994. He, also through the odds and ends ■V I 1 ■ I Ab 40* 11^ IWWB I I 1 1 « I I 36 YB*M or CCSAflTteXr TOCOMBfiJxnr I L I I L I 1 Caledonia Township Fire Chief Scott Siler displays a custom-made ax with the department logo and Keith Johnson’s name. The ax was a gift to Johnson for his three decades of services. (Photos provided) for 30 years,” Siler said of Johnson. praised The chief Johnson’s willingness to • Caledonia woman’s business helps to address human trafficking I serve and take the initiative when situations arise. • Yankee Springs board OKs chickens in residential areas I • Caledonia Township board awards contract for maintenance building I i I • TK cheer shares OK Gold title » I I '* • Cal, TK grapplers fall in districts I I I f il’T* See FIREFIGHTER, page 2 I •• I ) r » I J 4 �s I Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 10, 2024 WINTERFEST, continued from page t I - v ft % corporate event planning around 2013 and is still at it today. The couple moved to Gun Lake in 2020. Brad’s father, Rocky Landman, owned a boat store on Gun Lake for over 30 years. We are ready. We have an amazing team and are excit­ ed to welcome the community to this year’s Winterfest, Stacey said. “Volunteers for the day of the event to set up and tear down are needed.” Anyone interested in vol­ unteering their time at the Gun Lake Winterfest can sign up online. A BUSY WEEKEND The Gun Lake Business on Association puts Winterfest. This annual event always draws a big crowd to Yankee Springs State Park. The week leading up to the main day of the event, Feb. 17, is packed full of activities and events. Every year, pro­ ceeds from the event go to a chosen charity. Deb Timmerman, presi­ dent and treasurer of the Gun Lake Business Association, joined the GLBA first as a member, then as an appoint­ ed trustee, treasurer for two years, and now president — and Eric Redstone are head­ ing up the setup and tear down of the event, while Theresa Pais takes the lead in apparel and vendor market­ ing. Katie Niemchick is tak­ ing care of this year’s annual Polar Dip and Suzanne Waldo will manage the kids’ area< There’s still time to catch the last few auditions of Gun Lake Idol, a singing competi­ tion akin to the popular American Idol. The competition contin­ ues at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, at the Family in Caledonia. Tavern Semifinals are on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the Gun Lake Casino in the 131 Sports Bar, with the top three win­ ners from each venue. The event concludes with finals on Saturday, Feb. 17 at the Winterfest main stage. where the top 10 winners will compete for the grand prize. The lineup for Gun Lake Winterfest is jam-packed with activities for the whole family. Kids can have a blast making furry friends at Mary’s Country Critters petting zoo. Alan Kazam, the magician, will entertain families. all in a span of about five years. Timmerman will volun­ teer at the GLW and have a booth at the winter market. She is also in charge of beer tent ticket sales on the day of the event and lends her time in an advisory capacity on the Winterfest commit­ tee. It’s a wonderful family event with a host of activities for every age group. We have beautiful natural resources around Gun Lake. Winterfest celebrates those resources and brings together community members for a day of good old-fashioned outdoor fun,” Timmerman said. “The Landmans and their entire committee have done an excellent job of putting this event together, and it’s sure to be an enjoyable day for all.” The Landmans said their mission is to bring the community together for fun activities while promoting local businesses and to raise funds for the OCO. This year’s Gun Lake Winterfest Committee mem­ bers include Elizabeth Maxwell, who is in charge of Gun Lake Idol and Advertising; Susie Marsh * ■ 1 #h--“ ^4 I I I ■RF. £1 * A J A « **• I I e ^^^V^ft 1 2 r -1^- G * 4 r* I iFcUKLAKE 'if *4* » t *• ft |^>|YANKEE SPRINGS j recreation area gun lake unit 4 111 FEBRUAR^ c* A ff V I V a* I* -f . ^4 a. "•T J J Al SI as!'' c» ofli'*': til Ite!! Kt^' *1 b "3 A' 1 5** ***. t. * •» I9 V V4 6'S' ’C - «><» To > Wi ft >*• ft r 49^ st ► i9 0 / V tb > 9 • • 1.* M 4 > A ----------- kV f *“*fc f - 'A e : .L..^ 1 w bl * '.“ak . «« >» f J lb tez** 11 r- / 1b > • •n 4 f. W_* ft \ i.- A >< 3*«k t 4 •iJ<w aW -S' k| < J#’ J • « t * w, .* • I 1*:^ •k' ..’X t A r (am > s - ** ({oil!’’) 4 >* 5 < * < e 1-^ S-; > ll»tf W. The Gun Lake area is buzzing as the annual Gun Lake Winterfest approaches. One pass through the area and you’re likely to see multiple signs advertising the big event. (Photo by Karen Turko-Ebright) Gun Lake Winterfest web­ site at gunlakewinterfest, com. The general public is also welcome to join Trivia Night from 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 12, at One More Grill in Dorr. The cost is $10 per person. The Landmans are looking forward to a busy Winterfest, The day includes vendor tents. Gun Lake Idol, a pan­ cake breakfast and the famous Polar Dip at 4 p.m. Registration starts at 2:30 p.m. More events include a com hole tournament, the Birdie Blizzard Disc Golf, a Euchre tournament, and much more. All the activi­ ties and events are on the {fill®''' Io»1isl# .14^ “We are extremely grate­ ful to all our sponsors, com­ mittee members and volun­ teers. Without them, this event would not happen,” Stacey said. “Throughout the plarming, we have been con­ stantly reminded of what a special area we are in and how generous our neighbors are.” jtli J.)®-"" rf!!’ shofoW^ Jott 01 li" liiiieif® FIREFIGHTER, continued from page 1 “(He’d ask), ‘What do you family members, including need from me. Chief?”’ Siler his wife and two sons, for the said. “That was always the award presentation. words that came out of his “It’s been an honor and mouth.” privilege to work with you Siler presented Johnson guys,” he said. with a custom-made ax with Other firefighters receivthe department logo and his ing service awards on name, a gift that is often Wednesday included: given to longtime firefight­ — Tim Holland, who has ers when they retire. A spe- been a part-time firefighter cial message thanking since 2008. Holland received Johnson for his service also a custom wall plaque with went out from Kent County his name and the department Central Dispatch and was logo in recognition of 15 broadcast during the presen years of service on the tation. department. “He’s been a great asset to — Capt. Brad Bender, us, for sure,” Siler said. who joined the department Johnson was joined by on a part-time basis in 2018 'he i jul®®’' fejfi’S after serving 12 years in Thornapple Township. Bender was promoted to fulltime status in 2019 when Caledonia first began to use full-time firefighters, and became the township fire Caledonia as a part-time fire fighter in 2018 and went to full-time in 2019. Huggler, who came to Caledonia from Cascade Township, is now the A-shift captain for the department. He received a 5-year “serving since” pen­ dant attached to his name bar. — James Fitzsimmons, a part-time firefighter who has been with the Caledonia department since 2018. He inspector in 2021. Bender received a 5-year award, with a “serving since” pen­ dant attached to his name bar. — Capt. Caleb Huggler, who like Bender, came to «•« 4* ... * J l' ■ h. VrF • I CALEDONIA TO IP ft- - »- k..' -A • .1 I ’*5 1 also received a 5-year “serv­ ing since” pendant attached to his name bar. “We all know it’s a gruel­ ing type job,” Siler said about the importance of rec­ ognizing firefighters who hit certain longevity milestones. “We go out all hours of the night, all days of the week, holidays, you name it. I think it’s important that we recog­ nize people as they stayed in this.” i Iflwasli J ■ ww i thibl I 1 MS ! , 'I’ortiM w * ilamrts * > I •l Mpllil * * J *• vV Ir •-*1. -35** tori I* i c. IK£. * I« I A ar* 1 V I in • >— ... .. . * ■ •? 'A * ' S liBi* ■9 *•»« * J •T. I «» I e.* J 1 L '•f ’-—••• *5 £ «R . 4 —WW—I - LIIMI—^T Ijumil—I fcjs it ti - * k >b* I * Bruce's Frame ond I I I I « k r I I I k I k 1 I Ai: I s ■X- ■I • I 9 »S_V' f Keith Johnson, who was honored for 30 years of service as a firefighter and paramedic, poses with his family on Wednesday evening. Full Service Body Shop • • • • I .V-. 4 » r. § a*.*' •1 ' •4"- ¥» i I ■»' J*. I 1 • -«b 4 THE HOTTEST STARS Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted I Caledonia Township Fire Chief Scott Siler and part-time firefighter Keith Johnson embrace. -• Li-wi- 1 —* 9^ * » I. 3-^“^^- ^aiiM f ‘—.■4 aSM* — ■s& « ' Over 40 years experience r-i •f I ri •7’ b • brucesframe.com *1 KENNY METCALF’S . 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I k I 1 I I 3 I I I I I �* i 1 I I t Lb’ V i »! • M. • YS deputy chief honored for 50 years of fire service I « I' i 5* Greg Chandler I Staff Writer UllR % B i I I — > t In December of 1974, F Dan Miller joined the f Wayland Fire Department e < as a volunteer firefighter. Miller was already work­ ing for the city as a police officer, having been hired there the year before. His brother, Joe, was the fire chief at that time. “I got paid per call. I think back then it was five (dollars) for the first hour, four for every hour after that,” he recalled. It was the beginning of a long run of service for Miller, who is now deputy fire chief in Yankee Springs r* Township, which contracts with Wayland for fire ser** ii vice in the township. The Yankee Springs Township Deputy Fire Chief Dan Miller y uepuiy rire unieT Dan Miller (center) poses with 72-year-old Miller is begin­ department after Thursday night’s Township Board meeting honning his 50th year of ser­ Bster a firefighter. From left are Yankee Springs firefighter Cody vice as a firefighter, and Eister, Lt. Al Bouma, Miller, Lt. Dan Grzegorski and firefighter Doug Katsma. shows no signs of slowing (Photo by Greg Chandler) down. On Thursday night. the ambulance service that Station (on South Payne training each firefighter Miller was honored by the was operated by ArcherLake Road) like he owns goes through. Yankee Springs board for Hampel Funeral Home in it,” Township Clerk Mike “ I don ’ t know how some his service to the communi­ Wayland. “Back in the day, Cunningham said. “He of the smaller agencies ... ty. He was joined by family the funeral homes ran the cares about it, he takes care keep up with the training members as well as some of ambulance,” he said. of it. 1 couldn’t ask for a (requirements),” he said. his fellow firefighters for When the funeral home better person I’d like to Miller has also seen a the recognition. dropped the ambulance ser- make a motion he’s gotta reduction in the number of “I really owe it to my vice in the early 1970s and stay another 50 years, but I people willing to serve as family, friends and faith. Wayland Area EMS came don’t think it’s legal. part-paid firefighters. a especially my wife (Shawn) into existence. Miller went Township Trustee Dave common problem facing when she gets up at three in there. VanHouten has worked fire departments in small the morning when the And this was on top of with Miller as a member of communities nationwide. pager goes off, she wakes his “regular job” in law the township Fire “I remember at one point. up too,” Miller said. enforcement, first with the Committee the last three we had 35 people in Township Supervisor Allegan County Sheriff’s years. Wayland’s department. Rob Heethuis read a quote Department and then with “The leadership (you Now we’re down to like 20, that has become synony- Wayland Police. Miller provide) is special. 1 think 22. There isn’t the people mous with Miller; served two different stints you’ve got a very good fol- there to draw from,” he “Working together and as Wayland’s police chief, lowing. You set the bar said. “I say all agencies sharing resources, we can retiring in August 2013. high. It’s been a pleasure right now are hurting (for accomplish great things In April 2007, he was working with you,” new members).” through communication, tapped to be the deputy fire VanHouten said. Miller isn’t ready to turn cooperation and coordina­ chief in Yankee Springs, a Miller says the biggest in his uniform or turnout tion.” role he continues to hold change he has seen in his gear yet. He plans to con­ Before joining the fire today. years as a firefighter is in tinue with the department department. Miller ran with “He works on that fire the increased amount of as long as he can. i if Hl I.?;. ir ■ 4 4 1 4 a Ml » * aJ . / 1 la* ft b t A./ V ) I-*' 9 * • / * * ’.‘i? t I C. • k I hEir * 1 WB ■'r 1 J 1 • Vw -■ "S JI A 's. . si 'H{ i r 1 A I z I a 3S-W • I'** 5 1 ^HinJed 01 n,' *11 . -1^’ •< kaJ 9 • • • * * lut al (B® j i (lays ol^ 'OllIlBds Mbits easfesR: . < 1 ♦ The Sun and News, Saturday, February 10, 2024/ Page 3 End Gun Violence Michigan holds conference to outline changes in law James Gemmell Contributing Writer LANSING — Michigan's new gun safety laws are tak­ ing effect this month (Feb I3). Among other things, they require safe storage, univer­ sal background checks, and a gun ban for people con­ victed of domestic violence. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the legislation last fall. The gun \ iolence prex ention laws ban people who have been convicted of domestic violence twm buying, owning or transporting firearms for eight years after they are sentenced. Ryan Bates is the execu­ tive director of End Gun Violence Michigan, a statewide coalition that held a virtual news conference on Wednesday to explain the new laws. The Sun and News sat in on the conference. Bates said the measures have been needed for a long time. “For years, these trage­ dies would happen and our leaders in Lansing would shrug their shoulders, and offer only their thoughts and prayers. As a result, firearms are now the leading cause of death for children in our state,” Bates said. The gun safety coalition includes various students, teachers, faith and commu­ nity leaders. These were the bills that were approved by the Michigan Legislature and signed by Gov. Whitmer in November: House Bill 4945: Updated the sentencing guidelines to prohibit domestic violence convicts Ifom buying or owning a gun or ammuni­ tion for eight years. Senate Bill 471: Pn^hibits the possession or use of fire­ arms and ammunition by* people convicted of a misde­ meanor involving domestic violence. Senate Bill 528: I>fines additional domestic-violence offenses that result in disqualification for ownership. Another person who spoke at the news conference was longtime firearms instructor Jon Gold, who also is a member of Giffords Gun Owners for Safety. He said the safe-storage law is greatly needed. “I have personally had conversations with people who thought that leaving their loaded weapon on their bed stand or in a bedroom drawer — loaded was perfectly secure,” he said. Jennifer Crumbley, the mother of the teenager who fatally shot four people in 2021 at Oxford High School, was convicted of involun­ tary manslaughter earlier this week. “Kids and unsecured fire­ arms don’t mix,” Gold said. “There’s always curious little hands getting into everything,” gun owner Ken Whittaker said. “You can bet that means I keep my fire­ arms locked up. If some­ thing were to happen to my grandbabies because of my guns, 1 wouldn’t be able to live with myself” Feb. 14 will mark the oneyear anniversary of the mass shooting on the Michigan State University campus that left three students dead and five people injured. V I f I I I BILLBOARD, continued from page 1 II ‘off-premises sign’ prohibi­ tion, while other favored categories of off-premises speech is permitted to be displayed.” Prime-Site Media cites, for example, a provision in the ordinance that allows politi­ cal signs in all zoning districts without having to get a permit from the township. “A local gas station owner may display a sign at his business that states ‘Vote for Trump’ or ‘Vote for Biden,’ because it conveys a political message, but may never display a sign that states ‘Go The lawsuit also contends that the sign ordinance “does any governmental interest to be advanced by the restrictions on speech,” court records show. The ordinance generally requires most signage to receive a permit from the township zoning administra­ tor before it can be erected. Exceptions include signs “erected by or on behalf of or pursuant to the authorization of a government body, including legal notices, informa­ tional signs, directional, or regulatory signs” and “flags. pennants or insignia of any governmental or nonprofit organization when not dis­ played in cormection with a commercial promotion or as a mean(s) of advertising.” It also provides an excep­ tion for “integral decorative or architectural features of buildings or works of art, so not contain a statement of purpose, nor'does it assert long as such features or works do not contain letters. I I I J ► MSU!’ or ‘Go U of Ml’ because it ‘contains a message’ unrelated to ‘the lot which the sign is located, the suit con151 tends. i«’ r trademarks, copyrighted material, products orservices offered for sale on the prem­ ises, moving parts, or lights,” the ordinance language says. Violators of the sign ordi­ nance can be fined up to $500 for a first offense and up to $1,000 for subsequent violations, and each day in which a violation occurs is considered separate a offense, according to the ordinance language. “PSM is refraining from erecting its proposed bill­ board, and therefore, from engaging in protected speech, because of the credible threat of civil penalties and fines,” the suit reads. Township Manager Alison Nugent declined to comment on the lawsuit in an e-mail message to the Sun and News. An early settlement con­ ference in the case has been scheduled for Feb. 23 before Magistrate Judge Sally Berens in U.S. District Court. NT FOR 2 BED, 2 BATH, 1,200 SQ FT HOUSE *4 A 4-, * ■ ts-- . ,*T Please Call Attached garage, central air, Gun Lake accessible. Lawn care included. Utilities separate. No pets. $ 2, OOO/month 269-672-4413 I r A • w * € A • . V . . I ■ -Cfar-r f •• * V r % c« Caledonia American Legion #305 I Er-y^ys I Every Friday During Lent t t) FisH Friday, February 16th, 2024 thru Friday, March 29, 2024 5-7 p.m. or until gone $14 Adults (3 pieces of fish) & $8 Children 12 and under (2 pieces of fish) Dinner Includes: 3 pieces (adults) 2 pieces (children) Battered Fresh Pollock Loins prepared, Tarter Sauce, French Fries, Coleslaw & Homemade Bread & Butter Coffee & Lemonade J « i 1 No Other Food Menu Available For those who do not want fish dinner, outside food may be brought in. I I Open to the Public • All Are Welcome 9548 Cher -0^ •># ** •r’ •I I I I I Valley, Caledonia, Ml . ./* * I * I I I 4k 99 �Page <ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, February 10, 2024 __ J h Thornapple Kellogg High School releases first I semester honor roll Simon; Logan Snelling; Kenna Van Elst; Holly Velting; Julee Walkinshaw; Taylor Wiers. Rickert; Sydney Robertson; Shelby Robinett; Brittney Roodvoets; Whitney Ruger; Sabrina Schellinger; Amelia Schultz; Elizabeth Shrontz; Aurora Sisto; Drake Snyder; Jaelyn Temple; David Thomas; Samuel Trudell; Lucy Van Duine; Lucas Van Meter; Kyle VanHaitsma. The following is a list of Thomapple Kellogg High School students who were honored for their academic achievements during the first semester of the 2023-24 school year. SENIORS Highest Honors (GPA of 3.98 and above) Anderson; TMaStUPFLC KELLOGG high school BarreraMadalynne Wilder; Andrew Beckering; Martine Christensen; Aaliya Curtiss; Blake Dykstra; Brandon Hembree; Mali Jahnke; Ava Holland; Matthew Jore; Oliver Klerk; Emilie Landry; Clayton Mohr; Claire Norris; Olivia O’Riley; Owen Petrak; Allen Brianna Sharp; Petrak; Kenady Smith; Declan Smith; Hayden Stanard. Cameryn Ames; Daniel Adam IJailey; Travis Barton; Tyler Beckering; Katelyn Bentley; Ethan Bonnema; Boguslawski; Madita Boppel; Tyne Bufka; Comeau; Eva Corson; Leyla Holly Carpenter; Tristan Cruz; Fernando De Santiago Chambers; Hayden Chatman; Salazar; Riley Dressander; Kendra Coe; Landon Conroy; Nina Durikova; Bailey Eden; Sahara Coston; Joselyn Logan Garrett; Tyler Gavette; DeBoer; Jessie Drenten; Marian Gielincki; Justin Hailey Dudik; Seth Fabiano; Goggins; Adam Gunnink; Sara Hanson; Abraham Figuereo Reyes; Andrew Jones; Emily Fliearman; Mallory Johnson; Austin Hagemann; Mariella Hagen; Madelyn La Belle; Dylan Kenzie Kaden Hamming; Kyan Lawrence; Haywood; Alexander Hess; Linderman; Tom Lorach; Seth Mahler; Astrid Cade Hicswa; Laine Hinton; Kira Holzhausen; Trent Mendoza; Kira Miller; Huebner; Keagan Jarvie; Mollie Moore; Sydney Isaac Kimbel; Nathan Myers; Ashton Nichols; Koester; Benjamin Koster; Ashleigh Norman; Megan Sophia Marcukaitis; Norman; Taylor Olds; Grady Elizabeth Middleton; Grant Palazzolo; Madeline Pauline; Middleton; Hannah Lilly Pease; Colton Rabley; Middleton; Ava Myers; Brooke Reurink; Lou-Elise Charlotte Nelson; Noah Savary; Emma Schut; Newland; Darby Nutt; Alexandra Segoviano; Ainsley Parsons; Katherine Braden Sharrar; Madison Powers; Alivia Raak; Emilia Shattuck; Jaxan Sias; Brenen Noah I Honors (3.5-3.69) High Honors (3.7-3.97) Dylan C V .t Ci/’ THeC Ik .•J r I Ik* JB I 2*. HUM f > 11^ h .. t kaHC Boinl * I I ■■1 •WT wit IJS f iT * fl VI ; < I ■t, —M I aS i>:'' e W • r-'* - I, enii I Gabriel Rose; Erik Ruiz; Isabelle Ruiz; Andres Schilthroat; Benjamin Scott; Ryan Seguin; Rylee Skidmore; Gary Skiles; Alyssa Spurgeon; Nathan Tamez; Valerie Starin; Hudson Thomas; Hunter Tietz; Lukas Walters; Clyde Watson. JUNIORS Highest Honors (GPA of 3.98 and above) Madilyn Chivis; Chiya Mari Collantes; Josalyn Cramer; Ava Crews; Kaitlyn Cuison; Jayce Curtis; Jacob Draaisma; Aidan Dudik; Emma Dykhouse; Charlotte Dykstra; Owen Forbes; Ryan Frizzell; Faylene Guy; Blake Hardy; Cohen Hautau; Aubrey Hawks; Kylee Hoebeke; Connor Kennedy; Noleigh Lampton; Ailana Leos; Evan Liu; Lucas McNabnay; William Nathan; Kameron Nichols; Cole Novak; Lance Ogden; Kylan Pratt; Aiden Robbins; Brooke Kimbel; Kennedy Kimmel; Tyler Lauri; Kyra Monroe; Wraith Rehfeldt; Audrey Rose; James Seaben; Caleb Smith; Gabriella Summerhays; Zander Tagle; Camie West. Brooklyn Snyder; Hannah Starr; James Walker; Elizabeth Wieringa. Honors (3.5-3.69) Paige Abshagen; Elizabeth Baranek; Devon Barnhill; Zarah Bierenga; Natalie Borrink; Mackenzie ChapinDyer; Elise DeBoer; Noah Donker; Alexander Frizzell; Trygg Hicswa; Mia Hilton; McKenna Hoebeke; Kenzie Jarvie; Madison Kietzman; Makenzee Knight; Kei la LeClaire; Adam Lozada; Charlie Manrose; Jacob I Sophomores Highest Honors (GPA of 3.98 and above) Jacob Babcock; Raini Braska; Natalie Culver; Skylyr Davis-Dunn; Case Dykhouse; Sophia Etterman; Kaylee Green; Jalyn Grimes; Claire Holmes; Jo’nique Brady Laven; Johnson; Seth Mahler; Autumn McColley; Lilly McKeown; Zachary Merva; Michael Sager-Wissner; Wakefield Sandborn; Lydia Schilthroat; Chloe Shaver; Hunter Smith; High Honors (3.7-3.97) Raeann Borrink; Jayce Brummel; Kyra Casteel; Dawson Paul Clous; Compton; Mackenzie Coppess; Owen Comer; Tanah Danh; Sarah Douglas; Abigail Dumond; Emma Geukes; Brooklyn Harmon; Kaymn Hiemstra; Addyson Hoffman; Evan Johnson; cost : I wens’ jeaily W ?W- pul!' ilSf® See HONOR, next page Caledonia United Methodist Church 1 ■ Comnun jmllij Rex’. Christine Beaudoin iilociieJ Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist I hk 1(1 for 1 Bifti Serving -- Strengthening - Connecting I 5 cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9;30 & Ham FIRST BAPTIST Middleville Sunday Service 10:30 AM Good Shepherd Lutheran Church CO 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) A Sunday Worship 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia. Ml 49316 '+f I I cornerstonemi.org/weekend * w* .1 * . Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com -- —I •iy. . 1 Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleviUe Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 OURNEY sc H U R C H WB •rPEACE (269) 795-2391 1 5r« 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel thejchurch.com 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch peacechurch.ee '^Church 8655 Whitne)<ville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Sunday Worship . 9:30 AM 10:30 AM @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 IFCffi tffljmes s Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH M eWWW I Uis ' ^8, MIDDLEVILLE Io 'Un SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com I r « Yankee Springs Bible Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"d & 48*’’ Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm Vi^tchour services from our website (see above) I Fellowship Church Praising God through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School.. Whitneyville I hIbsiIii www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. www.stpaulcaledonia.or i 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. PEACECHURCH.ee CALEDONIA: LEARN MORE! rifdp Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. r ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS toiilmii'oi -V CHURCH f iTI HOLY FAMILY ^/CATHOLIC CHURCH *J • t lit 9:30 a.m. stkUI S 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 Si. "Shining Forth God's Light" ^0, •In Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankecspringsbiblechurch.org I I I I I f . 1 I r I I I » (IN �I 1 I The Sun and News, Saturday, February 10, 2024/ Page 5 Community Green maintenance buiiding contract awarded Newland; Thomas Poll; Emma Reaser; Gage Reynhout; Jeruia Robinett; Lillian Rubert; Loren Saba; Israel Sherk; Megan VanDenBrink; Franklin Wilkinson. Greg Chandler Staff Writer After more than two I years of debate, construe- I tion will soon get under- I way on a new maintenance I building at the Caledonia I 4^ Community Green park. I The Caledonia Township I Board Wednesday unani- P mously approved award­ ing the contract for the 2,304-square-foot building to be constructed at the end of Higley Drive to Wyoming-based Vander Community Green Park in Caledonia. (Courtesy Kodde Construction, at a photo) cost of $432,105. The project will be paid for for the project by the Jan. The board authorized with funds from the 16 deadline, and the stickNugent to manage the con­ American Rescue Plan Act built option came in as less struction process, includ­ (ARPA), supplemented by expensive than the post­ ing addressing decisions funding from the township frame option, Nugent said around paint color, selec­ fund budget, general Vander Kodde actually tion of shingles “and other Township Manager Alison submitted aa bid of aesthetic details. bid Nugent said. $446,580 for the project, The village’s approval The board ’ s action came , bid price was ui i„c sue of the site pian plan was connearly two weeks after the reduced bv $14,000 tingent on several facby Village of Caledonia because of the use of tors, including approval Planning Commission asphalt around the build- of the landscaping plan approved a change in the ing site. by the village planner, as project site plan that had “Township staff, archi- well as proof that the originally been approved tect, and engineer will project has approval from in April 2022, allowing for work with contractors on the Michigan Department a 15 percent increase in value engineering to seek of Environment, Great the building size. The additional cost savings,” Lakes and Energy original design called for a Nugent wrote in a memo (EGLE) before a building 2,000-square-foot build­ to the Township Board. permit is issued. The ing. The village needed to The new building will building can only be used approve the amendment be used to store equipment for maintenance, addressbecause even though for the upkeep of ing concerns that were Community Green is Community Green. Past raised two years ago that owned by the township, it proposals for the building the township might use is located within the vil- were derailed by high- the building for commulage limits. er-than-expected construeconstruc- nity events. The township sought tion costs. In June 2022, The board also put in a bids for the maintenance the board rejected bids for performance bond stipulabuilding with two building the building when they tion, rather than go with a options one with a came in $79,000 higher contingency to address stick-built foundation, the than the $400,000 that had potential cost overruns other using a post-frame been budgeted. The board “just to ensure if it’s not construction commonly also debated whether the completed to our satisfac used for pole bams or building should abide by a tion, we can go with other other similar projects. Six set of township architec­ contractors, to get it fin­ companies submitted bids tural standards. ished,” Nugent said. its I HONOR, continued from previous V Addison Aardema; Luke Archer; Shaelyne Bermett; Katilyn Calkins; Kaylie Cross; Lynn Cross; Grace Alexa Eden; I 5 ♦ J I •At f i (7 1 14 • I * tV • J • I Sl«r s s • li? s ■'•ki I A nil Oils ■CllE » .CiUb r 1 I High Honors (3.7-3.97) Molly Alden; Rian Allen; Dylan Bremer; Raegen Chapman; Katelyn Chase; Katelynn Cruz; Micah Dock’ Kyle Dombkowski; Madelyn Eitel; Alexander Evans; Elijah Frazer; Grady Galaviz; Grififin Grummet; Austin Hansford; Vivian Hansson; Ellie Harmon; Adalyn Henry; Alexander Hildabrand; Adelaide Holderman; Emma Johnson; Isaac Kil; Milo McCormick; Callie Middleton; Loganne Norton; Camden Peter; Addison Petersen; Raylee Preston; I I I I 1 I I Ethan Strait; Alaina Voss; Zayne Whitmore; Shawna Workman. Honors (3.5-3.69) 3-- Leyna Barnes; Bowerman; Avery BushmanMason Chivis; Jeremiah Cramer; Parker Dahley; Abram Dutcher; Travis Grabemeyer; Brody Hammer; Addyson Lambert; Tanner Larson; Kaleb Mello; Michael Mullin; Elliott NefT; Eric Olivarez-Rodriguez; Eric Reece Ritsema; Anthony Sager-Wissner; Albert Sanchez; Paige Sheely; Elektra Sholty; Audrey Stanard; Gage Tobias; Charles VanDuine; Mylie Vos; Emma Weeber; Colten Wiest. I k 1 I I I II i ✓ I » 1 4 I II 1 1 Christopher Lee Ayers Christopher “2 Oaks” Lee Ayers, a cherished son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Februaiy 8, 2024, in Battle Creek, ML 2 Oaks was bom July 9, 1971, in Hastings, Michigan, the son of Otis “Sam” and Carol (Park) Ayers. 1 Oaks attended Thomapple Kellogg High School. After high school, he served his country in the United States Army. Upon returning to civilian life, 2 Gaks found his calling as a truck driver for Maverick Transportation. 2 Oaks’s zest for life was evident in his many interests and hobbies. He was an avid member of the Avengers Motorcycle Club for 24 years, where he found broth­ erhood and joy in the rumble Community Breakfast to be held Feb. 14 Miller-Busson earned an family farm just outside of associate of arts degree in Hastings with her husband early childhood education and two sons. and a bachelor’s degree in The quarterly child development and Community Breakfast sesfamily studies. She started sions are the result of a her career teaching at collaborative effort of sev­ Head Start and moved into eral agencies including administrative positions CASA for Kids, Inc., both at Head Start and at a Barry County Courts, preschool. She MDHHS, Great Start local enjoys active community Collaborative, the Family has Support Center of Barry and engagement served as the Policy County and Community Council Chairperson for Action. interested in Those Head Start for the past three years as well as on attending are asked to the Community Action RSVP to linda@familysupBoard. A lifelong resident portbarry.com or by calling Miller- Family Support Center at Hastings, of Busson now lives on her 269-945-5439. «* - Isabelle Piering; ibdoene riering, Jordan Price; Carmen Reynolds; Marissa Rowley; Violet Sandborn; Katelyn Scobey; Meghan-Jane Skidmore; Lily Stanard; Emily Stevens; Cole Thompson; Isla fillema; Brandan Velting; Alexis Watson; Chloe Yates; Alyvia Zolinski; Parker Zube. T T —. -____ _____ M This quarter’s Community Breakfast will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 14 from 8 to 9 a.m. The breakfast will be held at the Barry Community Enrichment Center’s Leason Sharpe Hall, 231 S. Broadway in Hastings. Speakers from the Great Start Collaborative organi­ zation, LeeAnn Busson and Geneva Walsh, will present information on their ser­ vices. Great Start Collaborative Coordinator LeeAnn Miller-Busson has been involved in the field of early childhood and family education since 2001. J Alexa Hoeksma; Jacob Koster; Leighton Leslie; Alaina McCrumb; Adam p:e,?,T Emalyn Cartwright; Myles Chambers; Kaylee Clarke; Tealy Cross; Briella Dykstra; Ella Fischer; Tanner Gauthier; Mark Gielincki; Hannah Gunnink; Avery Hagemann; Claira Kovich; . ..... Iff •' •» Honors (3.5-3.69) 5^ ,1’’ Caleb Chatman; Hayden Clement; Saige Clous; Mark Cuison; Jalen DeVore; Fockler; Xander Hamilton; Joseph Krystyniak; Abigail LaJoye; James Manne; “ ““ Andrew Pitsch; Benjamin Postma; Jordan Pranger; Kaiden Rosales; Kaitlyn Rose; Emilia Sanborn; Nathan Shoemaker; Travis Sholty; Jersey Sias; Kara Smith; Cami Stahl; Luciana Teunnessen; Aaron VanderWulp; Ava Zellmer. J_____ tt M I 'if » —1^ i Freshmen Highest Honors (GPA of 3.98 and above) High Honors (3.7-3.97) > A =1 Tai Le; Oliver Lietz; Ethan Magnuson; Miranda OvaAyala; Aaralyn Pruis; Khi Robirds; Jacob Welch; Scarlett Yarrington. I I I I r . *A • I• ‘fat I > I i I * 27 5 I of engines and the wind on his face. His love for his Harley motorcycle was more than a pastime; it was a cen­ tral part of his identity. 2 Oaks also enjoyed shooting pool. His love for the outdoors was expressed through fishing and hunting. Golfing was another of 2 Oaks’s pleasures, a game that challenged him and offered opportunities for laughter and camaraderie on the greens. 2 Oaks was preceded in death by his father, Otis “Sam” Ayers; his grandpar­ ents, Maynard and Ardyth Park, Coy and Nell Ayers, and his aunts, Pam (Doug) Cook and Joyce (Howard) Cooper. His legacy and memoiy are carried forward by his loving mother, Carol Ayers; his sister, Amanda Ayers; his niece and nephew, Emerson and Paisley Schmidt; his Aunt Judy (Jerry) Jackiewicz; his cousin, Patrick Stamm; and the. many cousins and brothers at the Avengers Motorcycle Club who will miss him dearly. A graveside service with military honors at Ft. Custer National Cemetery is being planned. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. For updates or to leave an online condo­ lence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. i 1 1 1I I 1 I I 1 I I 1 I 7 J I I fI i I I I I * I I II t I I I SNYDER MONUMENTS, LLC I I J I I Respectful, Quality Memorials 1 I I F A '.-.A' 1 -A,, Vrt 1 r f * • if f . ri J I* 1 ■s t "*1. l« fstfH L.r if IR* 9 ► Sr- ‘T * Z I 4 I -I .■ 1 . .'I 4 r 1 It Ji .'‘-I b*. ' *1: ' '1' * *t Si* b IM e t Order NOW for a Memorial Day delivery. i I 1 iI I I ) t I I i » I li Caledonia, MI • 616-291-2425 • snydermonuments.net 4 -•t I .4 -F* a. r ( I I �I f I J Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 10,2024 Caledonia woman creates business with a social conscience sales, it was natural that she would continue on that path. While she loved fashion and jewelry, she had no experience or training on how to start a fashion company, and it proved to be “.. .a different story to actual­ ly manufacture and start a business making clothing,” she said. After a few months, VanderWal realized that she needed to combine the business with a cause. Crowned Free is, “ a for-profit with the heartbeat of a non-profit,” she said. “The first thing I thought of was human traf­ ficking. That’s when that business model started to get cemented and that we would be a give-back, for-profit company.” Crowned Free gives 15 percent of its net profits to different organizations to fight human traffick ing. They also have survivors both here in West Michigan and around the world who make many of the sold. products VanderWal said. “On average, around 35 to 40 percent of our products are made by survivors.” Shari Harris Contributing Writer A Caledonia woman recently won an award for a business she has spent years building. of VanderWal Heidi Caledonia was given the Warrior Award for Business of the Year by Grand RapidsSacred ministry based Beginnings. Both Sacred Beginnings and VanderWal’s company. Crowned Free, strive to help put an end to human traffick­ ing. VanderWal attended a local church about 15 years ago where she first heard a survivor of human traffick­ ing share her story. horrific,” was “It VanderWal said. “That was the first time that I really learned about human trafficking and that it’s not just overseas, that it actually hap­ pens right here in our own communities. I feel like that’s where the Lord planted a seed.” As VanderWal prayed about how she could help, she felt that the Lord gave her an idea for a business of her own. With a background of over 20 years in direct t • • With the business model solidified, Crowned Free first launched clothing items in January 2015 online and in a couple of local stores. sales They now have reps in most states,” said Vander Wal. “We’re still very small but that has helped us get the word out there. That’s why we love the business model of direct sales just because it’s empowering for people to share the story, and it’s resonating with customers across the country. It’s a social justice issue that anybody can get behind.” Another unique part of the company is that while they operate with direct sales, they also sell wholesale. “Our sales reps can sell to stores or any store can reach out to us and carry our products,” VanderWal said. Some local places that carry Crowned Free products include Eastern Floral, Millbrook Tackle and the Amway Grand Plaza gift shop. VanderWal also empha­ sized that all of their prod­ ucts are ethically made. This means that those who make the products in various coun• • • tries around the world are being paid a fair wage, have a clean and safe work environment, are well cared for, and that there is no child labor. When VanderWal first heard the story of a human trafficking survivor, she wanted to find a way to help but wasn’t sure what to do. She said many people feel the same way. “One thing we have found,” she stated, “is when people hear about human trafficking it is overwhelm­ ing, or maybe it would be emotionally very challeng­ ing or difficult to do. But I can purchase a cute T-shirt or a pair of earrings or a candle. I could gift Crowned Free and be a part of the solution through purchasing.” The company also partWedgwood ners with Christian Services through their Employment Training Program, which helps survivors and at-risk teens ages 13 to 17 learn how to interview for, and work at, a job. Jackie Brewster, who runs the pro­ gram began by teaching the teens how to sew and they started making pillows for / s. z Mi* PM (5 I V. - I, I * V. 4 I belo* f * 1 ■ 11 fC : <4 1 & it 4 *; I 1 I * 1- •4 i J I £ -►a--. eJtis’s 1 1 ,1 T 'Ulis Heidi VanderWal of Caledonia is the owner and creator of Crowned Free, a fashion and jewelry com­ pany that donates profits to combat human traffick­ ing. (Courtesy photo) suit®!’ 31 me. It’s happening in our schools, it’s happening in our malls, even private Christian schools. It’s everywhere. People want to be a part of the solution and this is just a simple, easy way for anyone to get involved.” For more information, visit crownedffee.com. New products are launched every couple of months. Crowned Free. The program has also expanded and now includes candle making, woodworking and jewelry making. VanderWal said, “Here in our community alone there are an average of over 2,500 people being trafficked in West Michigan on any one given day. That number sta­ tistic was so horrifying to •bat*' siaBesfl ■ ScbbfH jsofiiioi Hit Yankee Springs board OKs allowing chickens in all residential areas as special exception .'tt lorai I T Greg Chandler Staff Writer It took two votes, but the Yankee Springs Township Board Thursday narrowly approved changes to the township zoning ordinance regulat­ ing the keeping of chickens in residential backyards. On a 3-2 vote, the board approved an ordinance change that allows chickens to be kept in all residential zone districts as a special exception use, provided the parcel meets certain size requirements. The amend­ ment also puts a cap on how many chickens may be kept on a parcel. Township Supervisor Rob cultural-zoned areas already. Heethuis, Trustee Larry Township Zoning Knowles and Treasurer Deb Administrator Joe Shea said Mousseau voted to pass the the existing ordinance was change, while Clerk Mike “way too restrictive” and Cunningham and Trustee “not enforceable.” Dave VanHouten voted no. That’s why this whole The Township Planning effort has been going on - to Commission had recom- give us something that we can mended adoption of the work with, something that’s change on Tuesday night, enforceable, Shea said. “At Up until now, the town- least we’ll have some rules ship zoning ordinance now, because as it was, we allowed chickens to be kept wouldn’t be able to enforce as a special exception use any rules. People would have only in areas zoned rural res- roosters, they’d have 20 birds idential or suburban residen- on a little backyard patch. tial, provided the property We’d have to take them to was at least one acre in size. court and we’d lose.” Chickens are allowed in agri­ Under the new rules, an I comerstonechurch helping people know Jesus and make Him known L owner or occupant of a sin­ gle-family or two-family home can keep up to four chickens on a lot or parcel of 20,000 square feet or more in area, plus an additional four chickens for each additional 10,000 square feet of the lot or parcel. The parcel must have a minimum width of 75 feet if served by public sewer and 100 feet if served by a septic system. No roosters, are allowed, according to the ordinance language. Chickens must be kept within the coop or an adjoining run a fenced enclosure — at all times. The coop and run must be located in the backyard, no closer than 10 feet from any property line and no closer than 80 feet from any residential dwelling on an adjacent property. The coop and run must be built “in feta Ito 4 e - • I a • k 7 4 I 5 Lake P'Mi.: 31 (©cornerstonemi ••4 I. IT I * 2** OR. W. a workmanlike manner,” with the use of tarps, fabric or cardboard prohibited, according to the ordinance language. The ordinance change also says the keeping of chickens “shall be done on a noncom­ mercial basis” and be used exclusively “by the people occupying the property as a locally grown food source for the consumption of eggs 11 I* e FARM BUREAU INSURANCE* fnsiuvMX, CoiKpa^ 84th St. Campus fC 84th Street SE Jason Parks we’re casual, come as you are. < I I I * t J I » I f 4 1 4 4 f 1 * ( I / I < 1 > 1 t > / t t I I - I (V (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com or meat.” Before the vote to approve the ordinance change. VanHouten introduced a motion to reject it. “I know the deep dive the Planning Commission does. I have a lot of respect for what they do,” VanHouten said. “They gave this a lot of thought. I just didn’t think that it accomplished what they were trying to accom­ plish ... it really doesn’t do a lot for us. The “yes means no” vote on VanHouten’s motion pro­ duced a brief moment of confusion. Mousseau initial­ ly voted “yes” thinking it was a vote in favor of the ordinance, until she realized it was a vote against it, and changed her mind. “I am voting for what the Planning Commission pro­ posed,” Mousseau said. The ordinance change will take effect eight days after it is published in the Sun and News. , ! > « 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville 2ii * • V .* #ssa r cornerstonemi.org * J • > < o o N ID £ Misai * * •• < I a Uc I « ?!* I S i Your local agent insures your ■IP !• hopoiWKii casessiH % /cornerstonemi *' * - •to'4^ I r I I ' I k S I �I J I an*! News, Saturday, February 10, 2024/Page 7 s Micnigan winters vanish, researchers study snow for clues about what’s next I Kelly House “Measuring every morn­ enough to work through the ing the Great Lakes t Bridge Michigan ecosysing is important, but there’s a winter. c tern. PELLSTON — It’s lot that happens within a But when a winter thaw February Climatologists in expect northern 24-hour window,” said exposes the bare ground, the growing zones to move Michigan, a time typically Aimee Classen, director of soil is prone to freezes that north, imperiling boreal tree -a marked by deep snow and a the Biological Station and a halt microbial activity, microbial species that thrive in the deeper freeze. in professor LF-M’s Melting snow and rain wash cold. Pests such as ticks are Normally, this time of Department of Ecology and away soil nutrients, leaving also migrating into regions year. temperatures stay Evolutionary Biology. less available to nurture that were previously too cold IH below freezing and snow is The efforts come amid a plants in the spring, for them to survive the win16 inches deep. But this broader push to ramp up “If you don’t have nutriup ter. And declining ice cover week, the day was warm as winter research in recent eiits, you can ’ t grow plants, ” in the Great Lakes could Adam Schubel hiked to a years. Researchers across the Adam Schubel measures the snow depth at the Classen said. mean trouble for whitefish, a University of Michigan Biological Station near clearing in the forest where Great Lakes, for instance, e researchers plan to opcvics mai spawns on species that University of Michigan sci­ launched an initiative in Pellston. As of Sunday, there were 5 inches left from pair the hourly snowpack ice-covered reefs. entists have tracked the snow 2022 to start collecting more the January snowstorm that dumped about 21 data with rain and soil nutriinches The changes to winters for four decades. in the area. (Bridge photos by Kelly House) winter data. And the National This winter has been Oceanic and Atmospheric striking,” said Schubel, resi­ Administration plans to dent biologist at the 10,000- increase monitoring of water acre LF-M Biological Station temperatures in the depths of at Douglas Lake, 15 miles the Great Lakes, in recognisouth of the Mackinac lion that even that constantBridge. “I’ve been here eight ly-frigid water is getting years, and this is the first warmer. winter in my experience “We didn’t really worry where we don’t have any ice about snow for a long time,” b shanties on the lake.” said Kann Rand, a researcher As if to demonstrate, and lab manager in Classen’s Schubel pushed a yardstick lab who is using the biologi<-”r *, through the snow to measure cal station’s new hourly what remains: 5 inches from snowpack data to research a storm that just a few weeks how warm winters affect ago dumped about 21 inches plant growth. in the area. That’s in part because sci­ This has been one of the entists formerly believed lit^4 warmest winters in tie of importance happened Michigan’s modem history, during the winter, when A ,r' J and temperatures Thursday many plants and animals go » and Friday were expected to dormant. :s:' T.S I «t approach records, climbing “We need to be more criti­ i i I sT-' toward 60 in southern cal about what we’re getting 'I .. -Ji ’ T * V Michigan and near 50 in from these ecosystems and Pellston. I understand that it’s all con­ That means Schubel’s nected, Rand said. “The parts Douglas Lake looks frozen solid from a distance, but the ice has thinned amid a recent winter thaw, creat­ daily task of measuring that we can’t see might be ing unsafe conditions and deterring ice fishers. snowpacks has taken on new having a bigger impact than importance. as climate the parts that we can see.” ent records to understand can be hard to notice, because days have been getting rarer. suring bare ground soon. change grips the globe and Rand is concerned that whether those trends are hap- snowfall in Michigan has Annual precipitation is “On the one hand, it’s causes shorter, milder win­ midwinter thaws may inter­ pening in the forest near always been erratic. increasing, Schubel said, but sad,” he said. “On the other ters. rupt the nutrient cycle that Douglas Lake. “It’ll swing like 2 feet, more of it is coming down as hand, it really kind of brings Researchers are on a mis­ keeps plants healthy. It all If the experiment goes from year to year,” Schubel rain. home a reality that has been sion to get more wintertime starts with microscopic well, they hope to expand the said. This winter follows the predicted for a long time, data to understand how undergroimd organisms like network of snovqjack senBut the biological station’s trend. With temperatures that I haven’t wanted to face. Michigan’s disappearing bacteria and fungi. sors throughout the Midwest, long-term records reveal that expected to stay above freez­ And that I think maybe many winters affect the broader These microbes play an The data is public, so other winter temperatures have ing for the next several days, of us haven’t really wanted ecosystem. endangering important role in the food climate scientists and the been warming, and snowy Schubel will likely be mea- to face.” some species and potentially web, breaking down dead public can use it for their____ making it harder for plants to matter and releasing nutri­ own research. grow in spring. This winter. ents that fertilize plants. Changes to the nutrient U-M researchers installed an Snowpack aids in this pro- cycle are among a growing automated snowpack sensor cess by insulating the soil. list of concerns about how for hourly measurements.” keeping microbes warm warming winters are harm( >• L 9 I *1. f » <1 L I i7 I I I I r, 4 I I u k ' ‘ <*• f’ ♦4 ( I i I I u .sr. aM. I I I I iI 1 II J •\ VJ I ^3. £ I' i.% *♦ 4 I► I i • <1, r B 1 s •*1 1 r I -r.. • •I « 4 1 I I I i ! • r ' Ii 5 h B I •. « r I 1 *• ( X I 01 4 I k T’: I ' I -•*7**» I “L* I 5 « a I I i r- •* 4 ■V M* '* * 4^ ^1* * I f I - • ■' c* a 4 r* I I r ' ». I 3I i .1 « ? Ik I r f. •r I . MT- L ! I b«. .1 ft I A' IT I r.. i t b I •i. f 4 ! 1 vw. 1 - 4 1 • .• a I 1 I ’V *r -• > .u . D JIa’ y t' I t 7 < » t. V i**. 11^ - J ► 'r-< WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS A lii’Gic®' I ■ 0■ 7* Hal H aI Hal Hal it)'41’^^ 4 e I I.V tv tl.s” k » • V. 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I I* J 1 t Ml s I I I '• 72- I « i 7 M I I ■« . 1 I I • tt • i r I «*« J _:iu I • Igsg If ■ ( 4 • I .« a I w ■V" F' A 1 JC*'» , I I ! q *'4 4 I -> I t i <4 ■ 'Ti.-- I J 'I c A J A new snow-monitoring device at the U-M Biological Station measures snow­ pack at an hourly rate, giving scientists better data as they scramble to understand how the region’s warming winters are affecting the broader ecosystem. 1 if DeWeerd fesis I HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. , DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 Since 1955 t LENNOiC 'I I i *• 3 -« ----- y ^BBB. •k W.i r*4^ ACCREDITED BUSINESS 1?" 111 < I r' I I I I I ■ r f 1 I I t I « �V Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 10, 2024 j I Red Hawks and Trojans share Gold cheer title I senior Anna Jo Smith said. “I am really, really proud of my team and I am really, really proud of them as well because everyone works so hard al the same goal. We have been at it for so many years that I am so proud of them and I am so proud of us, and I really want everyone to remember this day. I’m happy still. The crowd celebrated the Trojans and the Red Hawks with chants of “Orange. Black and Red! Orange, Black and Red!” as the two teams inter­ mingled on the middle of the mat with the conference championship trophy. First-year Trojan head coach Madelynn Lula certain­ ly would have preferred her team would not have had to share the conference title, but she was pleased to see a bit of the bitterness taken out of what has been a bit of a bitter rivalry between the two teams who have been so competitive with each other for so many years now. Coach is the best coach 1 have ever had in my entire 14 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans finished off a run to an OK (/old Conference championship on the Red Hawks' mat at Cedar Springs High School in 2023. The Red Hawks returned the favor ITiursday, stealing a share of the 2024 OK Gold Cnnference title on the Trojans’ mat at Thomapplc Kellogg High School in Middleville with a victory in (he OK Ciold Conference Championship meet. TK won the first two jamborees of the conference season, a pair of meets that make up half the final standings with the other half coming from Thursday’s championship competition. Cedar Springs put together a nearly flawles.s round three that clinched the win as the Trojans waited in the wings to perform for their rowdy home crowd one last time this season. “It is a little disappointing, but we work so hard and we had to persevere through some­ thing that not a lot of people have to persevere through,” TK pl. A’ if ' J I, I fd^ «Bft l»" * r s 4» '0 '^1 9 BH > s J. J \ A'. ’* 1 •*1, 9 f r c t* /I 3 / * 1* l(‘ / - ■T'Ij * / • 4 * I f/ ;X J) ... \ j'*.- =w _ _ -JI «s cheer teams hold up the 2024 OK The Thornapple Kellogg (right) and Cedar Springs varsity competitive . j u «*1. *-*1 •■ • Gold Conference Championship trophy together after the Red Hawks earned a share of the title by winning the conference championship meet in Middleville Thursday. TK won the first two conference jamborees of the season to earn its share of the title. (Photo by Brett Bremer) years of being a cheerleader,” Smith said. “She literally told US, ‘if I believe in you guys she chose to you can do it,’ believe in us and it makes my heart so full.” ♦ OS 44 X' ize. f ?1 It'* w .. * •xl <• -Ji” 19 f. We have always been neck and neck and neck and neck and neck. I think for a long time that created a ‘we’re not even going to support you’ type of environment, because both teams are so talented . To see them take a picture together at the end of all of this was refreshing, ft was refreshing. “We’re not happy about it, but refreshing, she added with a wink. The Trojans spent the time between the competition and the awards ceremony honor­ ing a group of seniors that includes Martine Christensen, Nina Durikova, Madita Boppel, Aurora Sisto, Emilie Landry, Anna Jo Smith, Ava Jahnke, Mali Holland and Kenady Smith. It was an especially big The Red Hawks took Thursday’s meet with an over­ all score of 762.82 points. TK earned a score of 729.26 ahead of Kenowa Hills 683.62, Forest Hills Eastern 657.72, Wayland 646.6 and Catholic Central 549.6, TK had the top round one of the day at 227.7 points, then added a 213.66 in round two and a score of 287.9 in round three. The Red Hawks tallied scores of 226.4 in round one, 219.52 in round two and 316.9 in round three. Would we have liked to sweep the whole thing? Absolutely, but I feel fortunate that my girls won two of the three and we’re still going out on top,” Lula said. “It was a good way to end an evil rivaliy. 44 T> b* -Ifoti night for a couple of those “senior” TK foreign exchange students. Durikova and Christensen competed in a varsity cheer meet for the first time helping to fill the void left by the absence on the mat of junior teammate Olivia Bouchard who suffered a shoulder injury during the Trojans’ competition at Forest Hills Northern last Saturday. Bouchard has been a key com­ ponent of all three rounds all season long, and her loss was certainly felt on the mat Thursday. Sophomore team­ mate Sienna Schalk stepped up to fill Bouchard’s spot in round two, competing in all three rounds herself for the first time on the varsity. .4 4« I ' ■ji.’ilfi r b' lirii.ii’ * i See TROJANS, page 12 1 t. } *3 .^- > *>a *. Z4 4 J? '4 T • 3^ • 4 V M 5^^ I f * I i’ •^4;. • ’ 3 V*’ •f* •V.. 4 •1 4. * ft I*" sPe* 4 L 14 V t *I I '7^ 'V I i Jb The Thornapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team puts a cap on its round one routine at the OK Gold Conference Championship Thursday at TKHS. (Photo by Brett Bremer) s I (J « ,1 .... c^v M 05 I ’to*' . sC ) ;r. 9^ ,u A & 1 • •• « 4 •4 a J * 'A-» f ,*e jV« ** Jto^> a? -.1 * •iibbDI "^^4' ’ 1 / & iMA • ( •» 4 •4 < « A?. 1 4 I IJ ■> 1 A’ fi 1 r 1 *« * fll pS '^Ai ffs .A II lUSS: AEIBEERS mT ?A\\ •? S' ■’«' ■ ?r A ■fe»A s Jre J ■r**. .J' % ** »r--* ** f ,V •'?' (K K’ •. € 4 i 1 I 0 ?■ A*.. ■> t •I f . \r-^. • r » V > i^ite for more k. 4 j i A* Il 1 . « I 11 . A it, I Y, •V. r .Si f 'i s 4 ’S r: rV * < to- A £ V I *• z* -s*. -X ■ 4 I * V 4 r r A p / .A• 1 ' i ' /1 to", J Sto«* L* « l^**»'**' « I 9 « I^^KJ wulR V I f *■ ►€ » ' # < r 'si •i 9’' Z aid Claira Kovich are held up by their stunt groups during round three of the OK Gold TKHS Thursday in Mihhio ii /ou Conference Championship meet at I nursday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) -i.^ < < to , * I I * •ft »• ♦ k X « .tor' t t. 4 I f 4 J I I 1 I 4 i • I V J J . ( • > ’J. « I I I ■ f I ft * i I J A « I 4 • I 1 s r r « • 1 I s A.. :3 % J / I to > nr* J Ti • ; f I ,-4 *1*. .4 I’ • Jc. ww • « A 4^ A * J ®ftS^ i iV <1 1r 1 » jL IP ■ *1’ • >< •’4 '1 ‘A 1* .to t X I '• V t*. .-4 'M 4 4. “a?’ ■ nfiih: bons^ I 'X Fiitt ' f I tp.' 1• ' M P .ft '*; I a li I 4 t 9 .1 I A Tl’ r i .J i<1 ! < --oillMto^ . : .4 f . * ■< J .'•1 A i? <1 I Olt^MOKED BBQ • 11 i >4 m' u J •tr-'..'* Lfe55 ! 11,1 •, 1 ! • ; iJV 0 L »< II 4 0 i 755^ AZ* 1 I I '4 .w* I * *1 .4 r t3 A *'• 1 :s r ' to rl r. r I t Z A * ’ J e I 0^ < 4 I I �— — ■ABB A The Sun and News, Saturday, February 10,2024/ Page 9 _ Scots put up their top point total at Red finale Brett Bremer Formations changed, peoSports Editor pie’s parts changed, and the Better than before! girls were really able to It’s a common refrain on come back and bring it a high school competitive together today. The vocals cheer mat. The Fightings were the best we have ever Scots were certainly that at seen them today in round Grandville High School one. As a whole they looked Friday, Feb. 2, at the OK really together in round Red Conference Final. one. It was a really impres­ The Fighting Scot varsity sive round one today.” competitive cheer team tal­ The Caledonia girls tailied its highest score of the lied a score of 213.3 im season, sparked by an out­ round one. standing round one routine, The changes that the to place seventh in the field Scots made to round one for of the top high school cheer the OK Red Conference teams in the Grand Rapids Final were made to help area. make space for gymnast Grandville captured the Ella Wickens to join the conference championship round three routine. The with an overall score of 788 number of student-athletes points. Hudsonville was competing in rounds one second at 769.92 ahead of and three are supposed to Grand Haven 769.1, match. Rockford ISl.'il, East Caledonia followed that Kentwood 755.18, West up with a score of 186.34 in Ottawa 706.16, Caledonia round two, which Hermenet 667.04 and Grand Haven said has been the most chai 627.4. lenging round for her team Caledonia head coach throughout the year. The Lauren Hermenet said her Scots finished their day girls are leaps and bounds with a score of 267.4 in ahead of where they were a round three. year ago. That round three routine We tied for our highest was off to a pretty great round one of the season start. There were a few today,” Hermenet said. ”We wobbles at the end that took also made a lot of changes off a few points, but the Monday. We added in a girl. CHS coach was pleased. 1^,' . I'I 4 7 JT 1 4 J! r I »«su “’A H *1^ A 4 V k ' I A s *s: *C' 4, ’A.s ’41) 's,: iS., A 4^1 ■' -^wfei hj it' Cl 1^’ I p h wJ z *ai' u T •> M4- * *• •A ♦ 1 X •J >rs < k 4 • H| F %> re % •u f f *4: 6*= J 4< ♦ •5 r •i 4: LV • V ■ ka .f *<«w 1 I, rJ ♦r -to " * I .V 'V»I during round .wo along with teammates Grandville High School Feb. 2. (Photo by Brett Bmmer “Stunts are improving,” Hermenet said. We’re working really hard on the execution of our stunts, so not necessarily going in and putting in the toughest stunts that we have, but -------- ^77^-.^------------ --------------------- I L w-'*- *> .M* < .** ( •’•’it - *75 « Bpv n2'^ '-•W Il fl i”-» ■1 I ■ •-* «U. t 4 -w » r^’V Pa tVA :'awj 1 See SCOTS, page 12 .V -14 p. >» (r*V •• 4** > • “• »< 'J* L*? fV •< k ^.c r. *?c5 /S I *i iSS v.. 9 5a«*y!X 4V A*w rTL-=4J 1^-____ ’T J* b •I K f * •*v 'H 14 I > •^5 I ?* J ctiipiij . t • * fj5 Ik * :.^ar • ••< '3 1 •f -i- Avb kiir >* 1 II 9 I .a s * > • 5* « I I ijlll u ■5.ii C » *45i t l4 » f J I k.S -<i*5 tt pS * jr r 1^ 4*1 V A fVP* s J •w- t I 4 r • * »* ■ I i; i K 1 17,___ I • - *r- ♦ b’ par-rTBys— A ■7' z i ‘* I* ’.1!^ t 1. •4. . . k ? Z' X. b ;r * I ,•5 » • *"• I i •* ► .A •^^7? T/ k' 4 'frr ' A'^X iWr -5^ s-l * 9 TT7 * 1 4 1^ •I* If . Ifl Hjng — • *1- V’ ■ ••w —I— A 'I k 1 I 7F^ ' I V-dfl » I I k T J b k I• •a ’J rr ’'•a: ’ I I .1 *«L_____ I Zt ?« J p- I 1 . 1 r« 1. —TT L ' ' 1 Sli*~ I \ Az ?V1L- * .4 ■i 4. I » P» S A h- 1 ?11 « *1 I 1 V* I I 1 Ip a T* I T - *1 n IA ^*r I t I . <* i4 •t h J I .V'V'" ■ .ivJ « -W -7^ V>’- I 11 I r > V V I - 'fc. ■ -Hl •... •.»' ^-iL- I 1 i«A r.' \ t I I. 1. I I iitW' I ‘■r; I I I ''i J* 1 I I z k -TT" >> ,1 2? r 4^ 1 I »• I * I' • I : 1 t X ja^<- I ?■ ■' j; I I 1 Fighting Scot flyer Mariah Peterson is held up by bases Jocelyn Martinez and Emma Hansen and backspot Sydnie Greene during round three at the OK Red Conference Final hosted by Grandville High School Feb. 2. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 3 I I . 1 1 I /4vr ? f I A (a* >- v ‘•’JI’l •k *<« JIA ■ r f --S J. A r r* . I «pi IM • ▼ «• p 1 ,' ««^ rr I .:a 1 ,* .-■ I’Jlr V t: ♦X • . .' 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J >1 r I* Learn More at rtAPRC.ORG or Scan the N u u;-. >1, I .r* I Ll » • •- - *. 'Ki’A ,r f JEMmJ p* ' V s A^i4i I QR Code t 4 .'I, T •I * x. < « * M' V «;■ »•»> >\S ‘-•W’ Al:. ?;r\ i.V .s;. a ! » •/ r Flyer Mary Depetro, bases Madison Bernal and Brooke Bundschuh, and back spot Zoey McLeod work together during round three at Grandville High School Feb; 2 during the OK Red Conference Final.'{Photo by Brett Bremer) A ^v- * b *• J w. _>W* )6n*t miss out! , Registration closes March I f’ * -T \if A I I iw< 4 Ki1 I» "4 ( • I i I • I •? } ! I fAr * , . .' 'I' » ; 'rI; ‘ • 1.. .J’ yi-* <i* b ‘i. «kx A f 1 ■» .:i I » I A ) { I I ( I A �9 Page 10/Tbe Sun and News, Saturday, February 10, 2024 Who’s on Michigan’s 2024 primary ballot? li’iimp, Biden have competition Funding and logistics for election changes coming into focus ^5^ Jayson Bussa I * Editor When major changes to stale and federal election proapproved by cesses Michigan voters and handed down by stale lawmakers, fears of an unfunded mandate and confusion over the format changes crept in. Now, with just over a week left bcfiire the first round of early voting lakes place, those fears are beginning to dissipate. Barry f ounty Cltrk Cindy While, who raved about the hard-working township clerks around the county, said she is looking forward to putting into motion the plans that election officials have been putting together for months. f)n Feb. 17, the nine-day early voting period for the Feb. 27 presidential primary election will kick off. I’m kind of excited to see it all come together,” White said. .Still, it took a while for many to muster that sort of enthusiasm. As late as just a few months ago, significant questions persisted. ThenBarry County Clerk Pam Palmer, followed by White, who took over, had few answers. One major question on the minds of county residents was who would be funding the purchase of new equipment required for each early voting IcKation. Barry County has a total of 10 of them. White said that, while she was a little nervous about the technology arriving by the deadline, all of the necessary components has e come in and the equipment was covered through grants from the state. “Il was just a matter of everything coming together,” White said. “It cut the deadline close but they all were here. Everything is here. I feel for all the vendors trying to get (equipment) out to 83 counties once they finally got the word from the state.” That’s not to say that town­ ships and the county will not absorb any additional costs, While townships were able to sidestep the tens of thousands of dollars that would be required to purchase the equipment, they’ll still need to buy supplies, like the properly weighted paper for on-demand ballot printing. Staffing expenses were also a major concern, as each poll­ ing location is required to staff a minimum of three election inspectors for eight hours each day in the nine days leading up to the election. White said that the state will be assisting with those expenses as well, refunding the county and townships up to $15 per hour. Most election workers in tovmships around Barry County make more than that, though, leaving a tab for the cost overruns. While working to over-com­ municate the logistical specif­ ics of state and federal elec­ tions, White said there is bound to be some confusion. r u •.!>> .-•r 7 ft 1 I I who have already dropped out of the race, including two who have instead endorsed former President Donald Trump. The Democratic side of Jonathan Oosting Bridge Michigan LANSING — Michigan's Feb. 27 presi­ dential primary ballot will feature four Republicans ¥ —- h Barry County Clerk Cindy White is working with her staff and town­ ship clerks to prepare the county’s first stretch of early voting. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) ■.5- t • 4* S’ •r A ft. S' * f .t Scott Bloom, O.D. OPTOMItTRIST l»’ l«* A' During the nine-day early voting period, there will be 10 early voting locations some townships opted to consolidate their early voting togethDonald Trump and Joe Biden are two of the 10 er. But, on election day, all candidates who will appear on Michigan’s 2024 voting is conducted at each See BALLOT, next pa^e presidential primary ballot. (Image provided) individual township. Similarly, if an individual wants to register to vote during the early voting period, they must do so at their local town­ ship hall, even though that may not be where early voting is taking place. February is sort of our trial run at this we need to see it,” White said. “It’s like riding a bike, you’re going to fell down a few times. We’re just going to i .J# get up (and refine the process).” asrjr-i,T F Consolidated early voting 5 A locations include: « 1 ¥ 1 ?*■ 1 1 Baltimore Township Hall: I r o < •S’® •J*. I'S * Baltimore, Assyria and Maple kWj I Grove townships A 1 |r •9. Barry Township Hall: ad 4.; Barry and Prairieville townships f' J Carlton Township Hall: <**•5 Carlton, Castleton and > J ? 5 1 Woodland townships ■bV. Rutland Charter Township • I Hall: Rutland, Hope and Hastings Charter townships Hastings Community and r' I *> Rec Center (CERC): All four wards for the city of Hastings On Saturday, Feb. 3, the CHS Choirs sent 19 events to the MSVMA District All other townships will be Solo and Ensemble Festival. Sixteen events earned a first division rating with the holding their own early voting invitation to advance to the State Festival. leading up to election day. Pictured are (back row, left to right) Alyssa Bursch, Allison Malone, Evie Slomp, 1 I Caledonia choir students shine on state level I r • I> 1. <• ’ * • 4 1 & A I 4 n * I * i J > ■ 1 I r * i I 1 »• I 1I ' •- * 4 ♦ * •r*» • I 9 _^***’-J 1 'r Quality Family Eye Care Since 1929 the ballot, meanwhile, will feature three candidates even though incumbent President Joe Biden is expected to run away with the party’s nomination. That's the reality of an evolving presidential field that has continued to shift long after Michigan ballots were finalized in December and absentee ballots began last hitting mailboxes month. State of Secretary Jocelyn Benson prepared a presidential primary candi­ date list in November. Both major political parties then had a chance to submit any other names they wanted to V .ALIB I J 4> . t • f I J • < 1^ ■ ■i . 41 - V pI z still * I» — 2 LOCATIONS — • HAST! U 1510 N. Broadway - 269-945-2192 • WAYLAND; 216 N. Main - 269-792-0515 MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED 4 I I s « < It’-L r la 5,. i - , '•'» «> friba iWsi Danny Parker, Christian Moorlag, Landon Fleming, (front row, left to right) Katelyn Ferris, Alexis Saidoo, Lydia Shoesmith, Ayden Taylor, Rylyn Groeneveld, Adeline Wolters, Stephanie Dryburgh. Not pictured: Dalton Ed, Emery Rewa, Morgan Vredevoogd, Meghan Ruthven, Gabrielle Linker, Connor Parlin, Addison Cook. ED’S BODY SHOP fit to aiifw imiaij) I I J d**l FT I f * ■ t. CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN ■ •' ■ • .1 .4r ' >4 • H ’Sih 1 t K a I 7 < J t 4. 1 )j 4 '4 » • j V' '1 ■' r ? •r •* ’■’Hi, Jjl V J 1 State & I-CAR Certified Technicians ’I'ijii IK } V v .* TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System I Lie T STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS l« s Vf A * in•sibsi, 1 « J I V1 —h 9 *4 Frame Repair oAaue ’jsijwa ’’•'ill ■ Caplid (piin. (jteAlcCc nefrcUn4.! I** a. i I. A*** * ML WMBA 616.891.0150 • GOLD CLASS J f i V 'A A ffsO) Lesonal Bourne System www.edsbody.com Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner 110 Johnson St., Caledonia z rf bCNFIB Sixteen students from Caledonia High School v^aieuonia nign bchool performed with thP ivi<5\/ma a e Honors Choir at the Michigan Music Conference in January. Nine of th^e OPEN; M thru F 7.30 am - 5:00 pm ®'"9 With the Michigan All-State Choir in May. They include (back row, left to right) Cerys Smith, James Heath, Christina Waldmiller Alyssa Bursch, Derick Prichard, (front row, left to right) Susanna Vire Dryburgh and Grace Siekman. Not pictured: Emery Rewa Stephanie s, I r I t »■ ( I » • . -• I “..nV * ..... a �I BALLCfT, continued from previous pe^ it include. The Michigan GOP asked Benson to include Ryan Binkley, a little known Texas businessman. He is one of three Republican candidates on the ballot who remained in the race as of Feb. 5. The Michigan Democratic Party made it clear they want­ ed only one candidate on the ballot: President Joe Biden. But Benson had already included two others based on state law, which required her to identify individuals generally advocated by the national news media to be potential presidential candidates. Michigan doesn’t require 66 »1(1 VS Sec ^9 Ji ’’'hl I !l“1 The Sun and News, Saturday, February 10, 2024/ Page 11 voters to register by political and Republican candidates Marianne Williamson: The party, but you’ll only be able you’ll find on Michigan’s self-help author, a Californian to vote on either the presidential primary ballot: who previously led a Democratic or Republican DEMOCRATIC PARTY Michigan church, ran unsuc ­ side of the presidential primaJoe Biden: The Democratic cessfully for president in ry ballot, whether you vote president, who was bom in 2020 and is running again. As absentee or cast your in-per- Pennsylvania and long repre­ of Feb. 5, she remained an son on Feb. 27. sented Delaware in the U.S. active candidate for the The Michigan primary will Senate, is seeking re-election. Democratic nomination. help decide the Republican As of Feb. 5, he remained an REPUBLICAN PARTY and Democratic presidential active candidate for the Chns Christie: The former noimnees who will compete Democratic presidential nom« New Jersey governor, who m the Nov. 5 general election. ination. campaigned as a vocal Trump Independent candidates Uean Phillips: Dean The critic, ended his presidential can separately collect voter Minnesota Democrat currentbid on Jan. 10 and is no lon­ signatures to qualify for the ly serves in the U.S. House of ger seeking the GOP nomina­ general election ballot in Representatives and is camtion. Michigan, and third parties P^gning for the Democratic Ron DeSantis: The Florida will select their nominees at presidential nomination. As governor was endorsed by conventions later in the year. of Feb. 5, he remained an several Michigan Republicans Here are the Democratic active candidate. but dropped out of the race on Jan. 21 and endorsed Trump instead. He is no longer seek­ ing the GOP nomination. Nikki Haley: The former South Carolina governor served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations in 2017 and 2018. As of Feb. 5, she continued to campaign for the presidential nomination. Asa Hutchinson: The for­ mer Arkansas governor ended his presidential campaign on Jan, 16 and is no longer seek­ ing the GOP nomination. He endorsed Haley instead. Vivek Ramaswamy: The Ohio businessman dropped out of the presidential race on Jan. 15 and endorsed Donald Trump. He is no longer seek- ing the GOP nomination. Donald Trump: The former president, a businessman who now lives in Florida, is seek­ ing to return to the White House while facing a series of unresolved criminal charges stemming from his attempt to overturn his 2020 loss. As of Feb. 5, he was an active can­ didate for the GOP presiden­ tial nomination. Ryan Binkley: The Texas businessman is not well known nationally but was put on the presidential primary ballot at the request of the Michigan GOP. As of Feb. 5, he remained an active candi­ date for the Republican nom­ ination. 11 I? CENTURY MARK: McFall One game, 1.5 billion Elementary students mark chicken wings — Inside the the 100th day of school 'Big Game’ Sunday menu 11 yer ! ejSjt; Day OoC" I * iTi .• ' < *«' * • * 4 r ? • !/ - 1 fe 2 I 5 16 Si 4 * ♦ 4 1 — •t* 3 . « 5sa • »1 n TO -. rl * Pt MOE J i "j J Ik If t: i ■ « ■ -4iW 4'» ! rc9tfi B M > 1 r‘ t 1 I > A w. •I DAY i !»?* i J i 1 -r 4 I 1 9 I< x • u. r-'ri I r L \ 4 t |> 1 J H L % t • '14' b V i A. I t 5^ . ( A f 1 Al H J ' > * JI •i. *• jn fl 21 Some students at McFall Elementary embraced the spirit of 1 mi: th Day by dressing up like they were 100 years old. (Courtesy photo) MSWMtt ifaSnjwDittie le, Ewe Stop, 11^1^ eveW, tffie IwMop nCook k 1'6 ( r ► 5. ifthes« pey llRlW pfiani® Wearing crowns with 100 stickers, sparkles and feathers, McFall students celebrated their 100th day of school Feb 8. Although the milestone day was pushed back by several days due to January’s onslaught of winter snow days, it didn’t put a damper on the celebration today. In each classroom students engaged in a variety of special activities to celebrate the day. Stacking 100 plastic cups was a favorite challenge. Others put together 100-piece puzzles, threaded 100-bead necklaces and even built structures using 100 toothpicks and marshmal­ lows. They skipped, sang. jumped, bounced and enjoyed counting to 100 along the way. Students also brought in 100 items to show exactly what 100 pieces of cereal, toothpicks, cotton balls, candy pieces or seeds look like when grouped together. Some students dressed up for the day pretending to be 100 years old. Donning glasses, gray or white wigs, and suspenders they used canes to make their are “100 Days Smarter,” “ 100 Days Brighter,” or “I Made it to 100 Day” with the “F’ made out of two googly eyes. In one class, students created a picture of what they may look like when they are 100 years old and wrote about what they JR R • *• ■ r I © rr . 3 I 1 r 'f n - e.’ 1 ■Ml. kZ . '.''4 < I 1 i"-. V . I ■ ■ ■ Jn D 7*1 •»« w* I' 4 SOPER 8c»i t “ft ■ ’I*r • wl I • ' V. Mr. a, flB '.-J i J ■t 1 i 1 i/- T >• 5!t' |c .“rI 4 ll ■ — . - I I tfi JJU ' •*_** iff * ♦ ■I V i < ifrDi* V-*, '1 IR I j •h Give us a call! 269-967-8241 ▼ L I L J L J J L J ▼ ▼ 1 The company built by referrals ” J www.cellsignalpros.com I t sp 1 > . s ?Ti. 1 flS IW b* I «• 1 % FWANCING ' 1 210 East Main Street, Caledonia antennamen@gmail.com I Must present this coupon. Expires 3-21-24 HEATING 8 COOLING www.theantennamen.com SIG •r jift k • Digital TV Antennas • Startink installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems El ill®' I 5 I *S|<».- r. 3S! 11 f I rAntennaMen f •J cetdW) S" •. V' 1^ - J fe^tfSS res r I I s 1 * /. tf * il - >0 400 OFF '-*.****?*rw t Aztienno Men bill. As we all enjoy this year’s big game, we encourage lawmakers to pass a new farm bill and score a major win for every family in America.” I I ( 1 J* -> “We continue to have one of the most affordable and abundant food supplies in the world, and it’s made possible by hardworking farm families and supported by strong agri­ cultural policies in the farm «v s. lR -r^gss will enjoy this Sunday, and eveiy other day of the year,” said Michigan Farm Bureau Lead Economist Loren Koeman. FURNACE ' ' ‘'uJIRhI t programs. That’s more than the size of California and New York combined, “Farmers are proud to grow the food America’s families i; I 'Z I J .1 .1 ■‘Xv E <1iV A rua I • 2 t • ^*1 . k HI *' / .*1 A ’-1 « !l FftWIClSCO 'tV-dk t-' * High Efficiency .5 • fc— €■' * RUUD s. 1 way to classrooms. Others made special T-shirts to wear for the day proudly proclaiming they will be doing then. One student wrote, “One day I will be 100 years old! My favorite food will be soup. When I go out with my friends, we will go to dinner. I will live in my grandkids home and spend my free time with my grandkids.” Even though the Detroit Where does the crust come Lions didn’t make it to the big from? Farmers plant almost game, your football party will 50 million acres of wheat still be a winner this Sunday every year, which is also used thanks to a team of 2 million in breads, cookies, pretzels farm families working on and cakes. your behalf. — America’s families purPro football championship chase more than 25 million Sunday ranks among the top pounds of cheese for the big days of the year for food con- game, according to estimates sumption in the United States, by Dairy Farmers Farmers of and as you watch your favor- Wisconsin. Wisconsin. Dairy Dairy cows cows propro­ Ite team and eat your favorite duce duce more more than than 226 226 billion billion snacks, here are some facts pounds of milk every year, about how that food makes it — Veggie trays are the to your home. lowest calorie snack among — Almost 1.5 billion the favorites, with tomatoes chicken wings are consumed often featured. The average during the big game, accord­ person in America consumes ing to the National Chicken 31.4 pounds of tomatoes per Council. More than 164,000 year. It’s the second-most farms raise chickens and eggs. consumed vegetable, behind More than 8 million potatoes. pounds of com tortilla chips — Farmers are meeting the will be eaten during the game, food needs of America’s famfam­ The U.S. is the world’s largest ilies while continually com producer, at more than improving the land and water 15 billion bushels a year. for future generations. They — Pizza ranks in the top have voluntarily enrolled 140 three of all game day snacks. million acres in conservation * 1 A * available No monthly interest if paid . within 18 mo. .. > �Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 10,2024 SCOTS, continued from page 9 doesn’t want to make any more changes to the three routines in the coming weeks. She thinks some consistency will strike a chord with her girls. The Caledonia girls are scheduled to be a part of the MHSAA Division 1 District Tournament at Hudsonville High School next Saturday, Feb. 17. That district tournament will be another one with tough competition as it includes the entire OK Red going in and making sure that our stunts are clean. and safe and look good, That has been a big one for us. “Today, we fell apart a little bit at the end, but up until that point it was probably the most clean, steady, consistent round three we have had this season.” Consistency is the key thing Hermenet said she is looking to provide, and get from her girls, in the final weeks of the season. She I I I I * ¥ ■ *■ Li y lb k rTI I ( 1* -flh..' .I > . 1, •51 II. I 'i; *, ; V' i h r 1 9 I ty i: ' 5 A j.i' I ? < '• .1 t r- I BS^*^**”*^* * •< 1 I -1 TMniwMghm^' 9» »• Caledonia’s Katherine Eardley (front) and Emma Hansen shout out to the crowd during round two at the OK Red Conference Final hosted by Grandville High School Friday, Feb. 2. (Photo by Brett Bremer) i **• V** February Sale • 20% off Fabrics t. 1 It c i s I 1 (excludes sale items) F When the Trojans got back to practice without Bouchard able to compete this week, Lula immediately told her girls that everyone was going to have to rise to the challenge. The routines were remaining as planned. She wasn’t going to dumb down any skills or take one of the team’s stunt groups off the mat in round three. “She has such a strong ener­ gy and is such a strong person for our team,” Anna Jo Smith said of Bouchard. “She is in all three rounds, like most of us ’ Ends 2-29-24 a 9 ♦ • Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station 1 r^K-' t ’O’ I z 1 M* QUESTIONS: ASK US 999 T 945-9673 218 E. state St.. Hastings • OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; IC •u , 1 I Saturday 9 am-3 pm V/S4 Vf-? M0viif\g Tip 0^ ^^***’^ w loi ] 1 1 V • 4 t* J .V re* id.&a to sow^t of your oefore you wove. Hire M3 7Auction.cotn to do tkat for you." 0 k.* team. The Trojans were set to host Ottawa Hills Friday night, Feb. 9, and will be home against South Christian Tuesday night. The Bengals were 7-2 in the conference so far and the Sailors 8-2 head­ ing into the weekend. The Trojans started the gauntlet Tuesday night in Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids Catholic Central ran its OK Gold Conference record to 9-0 with a 60-45 win over the visiting Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball I i 'J J The Trojans fell to 3-6 in the conference and 7-10 overall with the loss at Catholic Central. Forest Hills Eastern avenged an early season loss to the Trojans last Friday, Feb. 2, outscoring the TK team 56-42 in Ada. '4^ / ,41 • .a' Knights earn split in season series with Caledonia skaters Kenowa Hills avenged a January loss to the Fighting Scots by scoring a 6-3 win over visiting Caledonia at Walker Ice and Fitness Center Wednesday. It was the third consecu­ tive defeat for the Caledonia varsity hockey team. The two teams were back and forth throughout a sev­ en-goal first period, but the Knights shut down the Scots the rest of the way. Kenowa Hills had a 4-1 lead with 3:10 to play in that opening period before goals by Ty Lewandowski and Harmon Esch got the Scots’ back in contention with goals two minutes apart. The Knights had a 2-0 lead in the game after goals by TROJANS, continued from pa, o4nmud 7 Conference and a handful of other teams from the west side of the state here. Grandville has been a part of the MHSAA Division 1 State Finals each of the past three seasons finishing fourth a year ago. The Bulldogs had the top score in each of the three rounds on their home mat Friday with a score of 236.8 in round one, 230.7 in round two and 320.5 in round runner-up three. The Hudsonville team had the second best score in each of the first two rounds, and then held on for the second place spot as the Jenison girls outscored them 313310.5 in round three. Climbing the OK Red Conference standings was never going to be easy for the Fighting Scots, but they keep working. “Katie Eardley is a senior this year. She is a really great leader,” Hermenet said. “She is an athlete that can get in her head a little bit, but the second you pull her aside and talk her down she is like, yep ready to go fire her team up. She is an incredible leader and an incredible athlete.” Eardley is as back spot in round one. Flyer Aylssa Jernigan, a sophomore, has been one of the Scots’ top performers throughout the winter too. Coach Hermenet said Jernigan was a stand-out athlete on the varsity as a freshman and has “just taken it up ten notches.” TK guys face string of games against OK Gold’s top teams Jack Jeffreys and Noah Partridge. Caledonia answered with a goal by Lucas McNabnay, helped by assists form Quigley and Camden Lewandowski, eight minutes into the period. The Scots were only with­ in a goal for 23 seconds and Trace Delcarmen scored for the Knights to make if 3 -1. Jeffreys’ second goal of the game bumped the hosts’ lead to 4-1 before the Scots’ late flurry. Henry Simon and Esch assisted on Lewandowski’s power play goal with 2:33 to play in the first period. Simon and Logan Himes had assists on Esch’s goal. Partridge scored a short-handed goal for the ?' Knights late in the second period and finished off his hat-trick with 5:55 to go in the third period. Kenowa Hills goalkeeper Jared Lang made 47 saves to keep the Scots at bay. Caledonia fell in a pair of games at Kentwood Ice Arena last weekend, 8-6 to Jenison Feb. 2 and 6-3 to Reeths-Puffer Feb. 4. Simon, Jack VanEss and Kauffman had goals for Caledonia in the loss to the Reeths-Puffer Rockets Saturday. The Rockets ral­ lied from a 3-0 deficit or the win. Emersen Lippert had three goals for the Scots in the loss to Jenison, and VanEss, Kauffinan and Lewandowski each scored once. P! 9 ' u 'jjjjltt* nii c I I ...life' ^■55' .k' !^6s 1 ' .sea it 8 are, and it was really hard to lose someone like her, because she is very loud, she is very passionate, and she is very sweet. She always brings it when no one else can. She always picks me up when I can’t seem to pick myself up. She is just a really strong teammate. Not a lot of us can get that, so it was really hard. But her cheering on the side­ lines is just as good as her being right there with US. “We had to put in a couple of exchange students, which is really scary for them, but we all believed in them of course, but I am just really proud of everyone - for persevering through something like this because it is really hard.” Bouchard will work on heal­ ing as best she can over the next week and the rest of the Trojans will continue to refine their rounds as they prep for the state tournament. That’s one championship down for TK. Their ultimate goal is to get at least two more championships during the state tournament - at districts and regionals. Anna Jo Smith said that the biggest strides this group of girls have made this season have been in just coming together as a team with the youngsters, experienced cheerleaders and exchange students taking a little bit of i * • I **54 • * a**' J ^h» • ” .1 J % IZ’ * f. 1 **» I ' 4 ■4 V- I * ■W » '>4* a* >w * aS i '... '4 ) * > * iV I V 3?: i.* »—S' I I I V >- 5' f Sit- t ‘*1 r’-? i I , ,■ • I I • ss 1 HI' If. ' ■L :< V 4 J ’5-1.’ 0^.1 * 1 •1 ■■ •A 2C! . '.I * — • f ••• » TK senior Mali Holland and her teammates per form front walkovers in round two of the OK Gold Conference Championship at Thornapple Kellogg High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) t * time to turn fi-om separate groups into one. “Now, I can honestly say we are all a big family,” Anna Jo Smith said. The Trojans head to Gull Lake High School for their MHSAA Division 2 Distnct * * Tournament Friday, Feb. 16. They have a pair of postseason warm-ups before that heading to the Byron Center Invitational this Saturday, Feb. 10, and then getting a feel for the Gull Lake gym Monday at the Gull Lake Invitational. • • • • — A * -iiii I I. » e I I I �The Sun and News, Saturday, February 10, 2024/ Page 13 Scots manage to finish first ski season up north Brett Bremer girls’ squad, and the CHS girls * W Caberfae Peaks on Monday. ” *A Sports Editor egend had five performances that The Caledonia boys ?*TH race outIt took some finagaling of earned medals in the afternoon a •*c«v*ne scored the Onekama boys p the schedule, but the Fighting championship races for their □ 24-26 in the slalom event in Scots and the Lake Michigan top ten finishes. * the championship R race Ski Conference did it. Baldwin and Brousse were Wednesday afternoon. They got five races in top ten in both the slalom and The Scots’ DJ Potgeter, L before regionals, crowned the GS events. Baldwin placed Brayden Smith, Cohen champions and passed out fourth in the GS and sixth i the dalnm rj Broomfield, Aidan Brown and all-conference medals finc tne slalom. Brousse was ninth Ben Diegel earned all-conferPi ishing on a week in early in the slalom and tenth in the ’’b V o ence honors. February where temperatures GS. The CHS girls also got a All eight scoring perforback home in Caledonia hov- seventh-place finish from mances for the Caledoia boys ered around 50 degrees at Thompson in the GS. in the championship races in times. Thompson scored in both the afternoon were good for The Caledonia varsity boys’ events for the Scots adding a A top ten, medal winning finish­ 4^ ski team placed second and the '" ‘ 15th-place performance in the es. Potgeter was fourth iin the girls’ third in their first season slalom. Caledonia also had slalom and sixth in the GS. competing in the LMSC at Tamara Sarkoeziova 14th in Smith placed fifth in goth Ciystal Mountain. The confer­ the slalom and Liz Hilton 14th ***** all-conference honors and top ten conference bents. Broofield added a sixth­ ence got in a morning jambo­ in the GS. aft^thfKz't *<«***a» Crystal Mountain Wednesday evening place performnace in the sla­ St nid « X S'" Conference finished its season with a morning jamboree and an afternoon conferThe Onekama girls won the lom and Diegel was ninth in ence championship race championship race Wednesday an afternoon championship meet on the same day. The group of Fighting the slalom. In the GS the Scots . Brousse. DJ Pntneto, Wednesday to finish oflF the afternoon with 52 points, had Brown eighd, and Peter BreySe'n sSi» Mdan^ Thoa-Paon. Mya Baldwin. Vicky Vicky Brousse, DJ Potgeter, conference slate. Brown, Cohen Broomfield, Aidan Brown and Ben Diegel. Benzie was second With 73 Calhonn ninth omirn, Aidan Calhoun ninth. It’s the first time Caledoina points ahead of Caledonia 79 In what was the league ’ s n. wucu was me leagues morning too. The Onekama varsity ski coach Duane IS and then clinched the victory both the boys’ and girls’ com­ and Glen Lake 80. fourth jamboree Wednesday girls took the win with 44 Petrosky can remember ever with her time of 23.66 the sec- petitions. The Onekama boys took a morning, the Caledonia boys’ points ahead of Benzie 68, ond time down. Blackmore getting in five conference victory too with 43 points Grayling took the boys’ team had Potgeter eighth in Caledonia 84 and Glen Lake finished her first GS races before regionals. run in championship, outscoring the ahead of Caledonia 52, Glen the slalom and ninth in the GS, 90. “The move north has been Lake 120 and Benzie 134.5. 23.29 and then had the fastest LMSC champs from Onekama Smith ninth in the slalom and In the boys’ meet, Onekama second run time at 23.53. great, even in a terrible winter “Our skiers are really build­ 12th in the GS, Brown 11th in 92-111 at the top of the stand­ won with 42 points ahead of [for skiing],” Petrosky said. That second GS run was the ings. The host Clare girls won ing momentum, every run the GS and 14th in the slalom, Benzie 71, Caledonia 89 and only run Murray was bested “The morning races had seems to bring out an even their competition by beating and also had Broomfield 12th Glen Lake 98. softening snow as the morning better run to follow it and it is on in the championship meet. out Grayling 63-106 at the top. in the slalom and Derick ” Vats In the championship meet She had times of 32.10 and progressed and the afternoon fun to watch,” Petrosky said, Pritchard 14th in the GS. The CHS boys got a ninth­ in the afternoon, Onekama ’ s 33.41 to win the slalom too. was raced on chemically hard- “We are seeing the guys realplace finish from Potgeter in The CHS girls team had Braydon Sorenson had the two ened snow, which didn’t hold ize how fast they can be and Baldwin sixth in the GS and The Caledonia teams were the GS and the Trojans’ Liam fastest runs in both events. He also in action on the Face at Troutner placed tenth in the up as well as the coaches had seventh in the slalom, won the slalom with times of Schuss Mountin for the Clare h ,1» D t. V, -,1 hoped, Petrosky said. Our ski team is enjoying the excite- Thompson sixth in the slalom GS. Those two also led their 30.78 seconeds and 30.53 sec- Invitational Monday. girls put down a bunch of ment. Wednesday had a lot of teams in the slalom event. J 11 th in the GS and Brouse onds and took the GS with Coach Petrosky siad it was great runs and we were able to challenges brought on by the tenth in the GS and 14th in the The Caledonia girls were . ,, , ... . , . ., ----------------times of 22.49 and 22 54 an 11 -team meet featuring led by Baldwin who was tenth conlmnce ’ temperatures and softslalom in the morning races. Glen Lake ’ s Willa ’ Murray warm soft­ slalom in the morning races. som egreat teams from around in the slalom -and scored a ? r h -n, K. Reynolds added a beat out Onekama ’ s Aleah ening snow but our skiers pre- Madison Madison Reynolds added a the state. 13th-place performance in the Kyleigh ^ompson, Mya vailed. We won our first event 15th-place slalom perforBlackmore for the top spot in 15th-place slalom perfor­ The Caledonia boys were GS. Lillian Wamez led the Baldwin ^d French exchange min the conference, I am so mance and Sarkoeziova was the girls ’ GS as they traded the conference, I mance and Sarkoeziova was fifth and the girls sixth on the Trojans with a 32nd-place fin­ student Vteky Brousse all proud of how hard evetyone is 15th in the GS. ISthintheGS. first and second place finishes day. The Plainweimornapple ish in the GS and Kaitlyn earned spots on the all-confer­ working and know that they Onekama won won both both the the in the two runs. Murray had Kellogg Trojan Ski team was Onekama Hodges who was 34th in the ence team from the Caledonia are ready for Regionals at boys’ and girls’ events in the the fastest first run at 23.14 in action too, placing 11th in slalom. 9 4: ft * > - I-** 1 k * C ■■ I 1 f. * le Fv'* bi 1 I ft r* V ‘A?' i1 y.. ft Li I I I i' * r t’ » * * 4> I A to Sil » Scots close the gap with OK Red leaders a little bit Eagles and Rams score their second wins over the Scots t lA Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ basketball team finally ends a stretch of five consecutive road games on Tuesday when it plays host to Grand Haven. The Buccaneers snagged an eight-point win when the two teams met at the start of this road stretch for the Fighting Scots, Jan. 29. The Scots were set to go on the road to face Jenison in the OK Red Conference last night. Caledonia held a 2-7 conference mark and an 8-9 overall record head­ ing into that contest with the Wildcats. Rockford best out the Scots by ten last Feb. 2, 56-46, at Rockford High School, and the Scots were downed 62-45 at I I ■a I r i } 1 IE GoW EeW I) Feb. stseas® (eoier Tuesday Hudsonville night. ielfr Ky Vanderwoude had 1 f J I 22 points and 11 rebounds in the loss to the Eagles Tuesday night to pace the Scots. Jaiden Googins chipped in ten points and five rebounds. Breylan McPhaul led the Eagles with 16 points and Brayden Szamrej added 13. Hudsonville shot out to a 16- 6 lead in the first quarter and upped the advantage to 30-17 at the half. Caledonia cut the Eagle lead down to nine points in the second half before their best push came to a close. In the loss at Rockford last Friday, the Fighting Scots were led by 21 points and seven rebounds from Googins and 14 points and six boards from Vanderwoude. The Scots follow up the Buccaneers Tuesday by playing host to Grandville Friday, Feb. 16. 9 f The Fighting Scots were a bit closer to the Eagles and the Rams the second time around than the first. The Rockford varsity girls’ basketball team took a 65-31 win over the Caledonia girls in their second confer­ ence match-up of the season last Friday, Feb. 3, at Rockford High School. The Scots managed just 19 points in the first meeting between the tow teams, in the first game back from the holiday break. The Rams remain on top of the conference standings heading into this weekend’s action with a 16-1 overall mark and an 8-1 OK Red record. East Kentwood is right behind the Rams at 13-2 overall and 7-1 in the confer­ ence. The Falcons are the only girls with a win over the Rams this winter. Caledonia fell to 1-8 in the OK Red with a 48-37 loss at Hudsonville Tuesday, which was a much tighter bailgame than the first meeting between those two teams too. I J I »-• I I The Fighting Scots were scheduled to visit Jenison last night, Feb. 9. They will be back in action at home against Grand Haven Tuesday and then at home against Grandville next Friday, Feb. 16. •] Business Services IA • •I 7/ CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roof­ ing, Siding, Pole Bams & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. TH ■ -RnR HAO, ■ ♦ * —A*: * i 5^* * -T- I I I b Sf A Ik ■W •r I. « C-4T1O lV *'^r| Je * Liit •1 Ie ..MMOriia o' I ' 'JI, - - * MATT ENDSLEY FABRI­ CATION and repair, custom trailers, buckets, bale spears, etc. Call 269-804-7506. RIVER CRUISE VACATIONS Experience the beauty and history of the St. Lawrence & Ottawa Rivers on a classic Canadian riverboat. Request our free travel brochure. 1-800-267-7868 www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com BUYD'JG ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. 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Thomapple Kellogg got by Godwin Heights in the opening round of its MHSAA Division 2 Team District Tournament with a 65-15 victory over the Wolverines. Wayland took a 73-6 opening round win over Grand Rapids Christian to get to the final. Griffin Grummet got the TK team its first points in the dual with Godwin Heights, outscoring DJ Mata 15-0. The rest of the TK wins came by pin or forfeit - ten of them in all. Peter, Bossenberger, Curtis, Tanner Buxton, Tom Bewersdorf, Collin Mann and Miller had pins for TK. Micah Dock, Raini Braska and Caleb Miller took forfeit victories against voids in the Wolverine line-up. The TK wrestlers will head to Lowell for their MHSAA Division 2 Individual District Brett Bremer R. .•l <- Sports Editor Wayland widened the gap between itself and the Thomapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team Thursday night. The Wildcats took a threepoint win in their OK Gold Conference dual this season, on their way to a conference championship, but stretched the difference to 5-19 as they outscored the Trojans in the MHSAA Division 2 Team District Final at Wayland Union High School Thursday. TK opened the conference dual between the two teams with wins at 126 pounds, 132, 138 and 144. The Wildcats won all four of those weight classes to book­ end their district win. The Wildcats won ten of the 14 weight classes. The Trojans got pins from Blake Bossenberger at 175 pounds and Jayce Curtis at 1 90 pounds in the middle of the dual, and they added a 5-09 win by Jimmy Manne over Zephan Shafer in the 285pound bout and a 14-3 major decision by Christien Miller over Ryan Kious at 113 pounds. Wayland won the first four bouts of the final. Danny Kenna knocked off TK’s Griffin Grummet 14-6 at 138 pounds and his teammate CJ Nesbit followed up with an Tournament Saturday. Wayland had a few close duals, but a one-point win over Cedar Springs this sea­ son was enough to get the Wildcats a share of the 2024 OK Gold Conference cham­ pionship when coupled with a runner-up finish to the Red Hawks at the conference tournament last Friday, Feb. 2, in Middleville. Cedar Springs won the conference tournament with 205 points ahead of Wayland 160.5, Kenowa Hills 142, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 123.5, TK 96, Forest Hills Eastern 39 and Ottawa Hills 0. Christien Miller and Curtis took individual conference titles for TK, and the Trojans also had Manne third at 285 pounds, Buxton third at 190 and Bossenberger third at 165. Jackson Smith placed fourth at 157 pounds for TK and Grummet was fourth at 138. Christien Miller pinned Kenowa Hills’ Chael Gowell 23 seconds into their 113 pound semifinal match and then stuck Wayland’s’ Kious 14 seconds into the third period of their championship round match. Curtis won the 175-pound weight class with pins of Cedar Springs’ Dakota Winchel and Kenowa Hills’ Giles Ansmits. * I f ,S .•3 4 * _ * fl war 4 I r •• J '1 ♦ 1 1 ^5 V * * A I 1 > 4 N- t r - «» w litH® Thornapple Kellogg 138-pounder Griffin Grummet scores nearfall points in his technical fall victory over Godwin Heights’ DJ Mata Thursday in the MHSAA Division 2 Team District Semifinal at Wayland Union High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) pound championship. Button the 150-pound title and Lane Sikkema won at 190 for the Wayland team. Wayland had a dozen top-four finishers. De Weese at 215, Tyler Parmeter at 157, Quinten Cassiday at 138 and Luke Egans at 132. Miles Nesbit took the 120- Cedar Springs had grappiers in the top four in all 14 weight classes and got championships from Wyatt Cooper at 285 pounds, David 16® /as® ' 0084 i4(W y list c®« 212068 tl®.« F* .1 I 4 1 'Al a* z T 0 W N S H I P 1 ' 5 2024 MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE r 4 4^ lA- t A r-: I p'MIa F 5 Charter Township of Gaines, County of Kent, MI • W: •I . i .f *1 I I 1 .. T * ‘ rs *».. I I - -« .ar-*- I 4^ FC ** trv * '.'211(11 ff .J The Gaines Charter Township Board of Review for March 2024 will be held at the Township Office, located at 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, MI to hear appeals regarding 2024 assessments. t • X * f • . «'JW.' ** I * . V- f li. * f. I • > ...‘r I The Gaines Charter Township board of Review will meet on the following dates: I 3? 1w *(• I < - ' - > *> •AZI*?, ' JisT 4 I i i J S ./Jill. w** * ft- ■u / • X 5 A J- TK 175-pounder Jayce Curtis works to try and turn Godwin Heights’ Patrick Knight onto his back during the opening period of their match in the MHSAA Division 2 Team District Semifinal at Wayland Union High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Tuesday, March 5, 2024, 9:00AM: Organizational Meeting Tuesday, March 12,2024,1:30PM to 7:30PM: Appeals Hearings Wednesday, March 13, 2024 , 1:30PM to 7:30PM: Appeals Hearings .1 w The Board of Review will meet as many more days as necessary to hear protests and equalize the 2024 assessments. By Board resolution, taxpay­ ers may protest by letter sent to 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, MI 49316 or by email to jim.zenas(5)gainestownship.org. provided the protest IS received before 5:00PM Wednesday, March 13, 2024. A r Tr X « t r 1 > V r t a-:-.. ( II 4 The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2024 are as follows: « E*' F ‘ 4 >T7 x ’H • - j| 'T t Agricultural 7 46.48 Residential 44.17 Industrial 47.75 1.0757 44.18 1.1317 “ "ai ..1^* Developmental 1.0471 I 4 ^*5 •’d 7,^ I Commercial 1.1320 I A NC Personal Property •‘ V ,4^ V<> NC 50.00 « I . tA w % i .'T A- IS la* t . '•PM- . **Cs ’ ■ ■4W''” \ • “V V '>*W| I tr t It 1.000 ;r' -. t •> r vW I I c M I '..I J *0* A a.' r —’•M I tx - i! - Er i’. . rA'*? ! « I LI •1 ■ i 1' Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Notice The Township will provide necessary reasonable services to individuals with disabilities at the Board of Review meetings upon seven (7) days’ notice. Contact Kim Triplett at 616-504-4332. .1 if 4 . 4 **’**«< 9 z. •.f’- J ’51 I - *4 rf ■ » M* I a -- * * r; V I k • 'J '■ J.*' ► 4 * A I 3 ■u.. Peter fights to hold down Godwin Heists’ DJ Mata dunng their 144-pound bout in the MHSAA Division 2 Team Distrir, i at Wayland Union High School Thursday. (Photo by Bmtt Brnme^ i 4 t ■' -N* ■ ■' •'-V/v.' .* ■ • * » ’ i 4 4 1 I 't** • 1 - I .*• * -- A i r. »A '-■■w - » Jtev- ** ’ f * - t r • w «L r * •» •A.a’ 9 •- T 3 r •» ■ 1 ' 4 • ■<— •« t �f Byron Center starts district run be=.«ng ~~ ir >1 • X 9^ «• •* " -i p t •^4, I 5-: hT• l->? >4:^ *>» b* * A : I J >*’ HL<f:» ■ ■» • 3 » 4s if A .-s' * !•• I .V •••As z s» h •i 7 M k ' '-it JI . . .1^ < f AM ’ < ’1j£7 AfR'*’ « J > -f • J ^i:dag^,- I w* 4^ 9 -V •! c • Ik u ♦9 .1 p F* r ♦ ? >. 7 < •• p J ^4* • •* F i. A. ♦J '.?<Z' . V I Mb zf- s ♦ K A < 1» ’r ?t « *>• •■K -.-J" ri --t; - *:• r» I* 9 •♦ K V.’. • < • -< g. TH . I »I :;r 9 -=^ * A 4-*te • • / 5^''' W and Byron CenWs Au^in ^enran bod, ,ooK ,or an opening dudng Ibeir 1 bout in the MHSAA Division 1 Team District Semifinal at Caledonia High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) s' Brett Bremer Sports Editor James Carrow prevented the shutout. Byron Center bounced the Caledonia varsity wrestling team from the MHSAA Division 1 Team State Tournament with a 69-6 win over the host Fighting Scots in the district semifinals Wednesday afternoon. pinned Carrow the Bulldogs’ Harper Cheng midway through the second peri­ od of their 13 8-pound match to close out the dual winning the lone six points for the young Fighting Scot team. Byron Center went on to knock off another OK Red Conference squad in the dis­ trict final, Grandville, by the score of 38-33. The Bulldogs scored pins in nine of the 14 flights in the I ^CiSB a? Sd ’"’tH 13 Hi ii Jilt I M / f 9 i r*- T 'I semifinal match with the Fighting Scots. Caledonia had three guys make it at least six minutes on the mat. Will Sheely was the first, and he went more than six minutes. The Bulldogs’ Austin Coleman took a 4-3 win in their 150-pound bout in a tie-breaker period. Coleman went into the third period with a 1-0 lead over Sheely. Sheely managed a I 1 t t ;« position to take a 4-3 lead, and then was able to hold down Sheely for half a minute in the second half of the tie-breaker to earn the win. Those three points had the Bulldogs up 8-0 at the time after they opened the dual with Branden Coller scoring a technical fall against the Scots’ Ben Moss at 144 pounds Koleson Reeder made it six minutes for the Scots at 157 pounds too, but was bested 13-2 by the Bulldogs’ Ethan Parker. Byron Center followed up those wins with pins from Hudson Pulawski at 165 pounds, Blake Ottow at 175, Brad Winkel at 190, Zachary Ryan at 215 and Brodin Hurley at 285. The final decision of the dual came at 106 pounds quick escape and then a take down with about a minute to go that had in holding a 3-1 lead. That advantage only last­ ed about half a minute before Coleman scored a reversal that tied the match at 3-3. The two guys wrestled through a scoreless minute of overtime on their feet and then went into a tie-breaking peri­ od. Coleman got an escape after starting in the bottom f J k * /. —.s BkT t" s r 1 K• .5?^ I 4 s A •«/»- *• * •• •1 Mb/' I . . «« J ■ •ft' I . ii ■ I *’1 « ? a ri * v 2 I ..k I Sri where the Bulldogs’ Parker Kietzman pulled out an 8-3, win over the Scots Josh Grace. Byron Center capped off its win with Brayion Taylor at 113 pounds, Zavier Radle at 120, Daniel Emmitt at 132 and Hunter Pulawski at 126 scoring pins. The district final had a bit of back and forth. The Byron Center Bulldogs built a 26-6 lead in the first seven bouts starting at 150 pounds. Grandville rallied to pull within 26-21 with four bouts to go, but pins from Pulawski at 126 and Emmitt at 132 clinched the match for Byron Center. Caledonia placed eighth last Saturday, Feb. 3, at the Red OK Conference Tournament hosted by East Kentwood High School. Rockford won the conference championship with a total score of 220.5 points on the day. Hudsonville was sec­ ond with 173.5 points ahead of Grandville 172, Grand Haven 117.5, East Kentwood 68, Jenison 62, West Ottawa c. ■ Caledonia varsity wrestling coach Shawn Veitch directs the action on the mat during his team’s MHSAA Division 1 Team District Semifinal match against Byron Center at Caledonia High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ' 38 and Caledonia 29. fell 2-0 to Hudsonville’s Brady Sheely had the top finish Lester in the match for third. for the Scots finishing as the Cayden Nostrant had the runner-up at 150 pounds. He Scots’ other win at the tourna­ was pinned by Rockford’s ment. James Diel midway through Rockford won the title with the second period of their eight wrestlers in the finals. championship match. Sheely Diel had the victory at 150 wrested well to open the day pounds and the Rams also had with a 2-0 win over Layne Martin win the 106Grandville’s Hunter Grifhorst pound weight class, Ryan and a 4-1 win over Grand Ahem win at 215, Logan Haven’s Dustin Golden. Hammingh win at 175 and Carrow was the Scots’ only Louis Bosscher win at 165. other medalist. He placed Caledonia is back in action fourth in the 13 8-pound today at Grand Haven High weight class. He had pins of School for its MHSAA his opponents from Grandville Division 1 Individual District and Jenison on ±e day, and Tournament. ___________________ CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes The minutes for the January 17, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting which were approved on February 7, 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at www.caledoniatownship.org. 'X- gills'Patt “1^ s f* h - •»? > I 12168 5 ♦ I r isiia(. (Photo <• J t 1 I T *■ ■ ■ 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 1 Uli-''' A •. I , ■1 p i 1 TOW’NSHiP 4W. T.fAMICV pTW r I 4 nr ; ii^'^ 1 kA. I Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County - Michigan 2024 March Board of Review ft ,1 .1 s «n". p 1 I 1 I ' a I y| V*'*' "I 1 •Jr* CaledcwiA I 1' Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 o Tuesday: I March Sth, 2024 Org. Meeting - 8:00AM J,Ji it Xs ' ■J * A' s r?'i I .V 1 A- * Appeal dates: Monday: March 11th, 2024 9:00AM-3:00PM Tuesday: 3:00PM -9:00PM 1 4 * r A * *.I^B 9_t J r . » * X ’ jS. ’ ' r * - 1" March 12th, 2024 •3, 'll/Six r s 1 rp I. All reviews will be heard by appointment only ; •» /1 I ■ For appointments call:(616) 891-0070 1* M a A ■ ' W. I * I f 4 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia Ml 49316 Written appeals must be in the Twp. office by Thursday, March 7, 2024 ' 1 *) 4 1 •..t " •^f I I ' >3 4' r Ik r..I A ’ -I The 2024 equalization tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for the Charter Township of Caledonia will be as follows: . ’ ‘••S * f„ / 1 z 4 I . r.. I " '<1 >** r J WV' 11 .w ■> z V * 9 7-< 41' A' "T • f: 1 '■vierfr; >' w I ' 1 I. . 'I ■ir ■> •I i I •e * 1 *r lb.' UJ aghtS Scf I I 1 ..S', rL 'SU Xc 1 >4 • t. . 'H lt£ 7 S' The Fighting Scots’ Koleson Reeder (front) works to try and escape the grasp of Byron Center’s Ethan Parker during their 157-pound bout Wednesday in the MHSAA Division 1 Team District Final hosted by Caledonia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) • . V ' r< I X * •' I • 1 ’ 1 ( f • « ( • Agricultural: Commercial: Industrial: Residential: Personal: Tentative Ratio 42.41 43.89 48.02 44.53 50.00 Supervisor: Bryan Harrison Assessor: Laura Stob / « 1 I J I t Estimated multiplier 1.1790 1.1392 1.0412 1.1228 1.0000 I �J Page 16/Tbe Sun and Newt, Saturday, February 10, 2024 Cougars win at TK to stay perfect in OK Gold I •4 I I A r Grace Junior points. McKinney finished with six points. The Trojans spent time in a •z diamond-and-one defense contain working to VanTimmeren in the paint, but also played their fair share of man-to-man defense as the •>'» I IL .1 Cougars were on fire from behind the three-point line. “1 w as proud of our man-toman,” James said. “We have been w orking on having a bet­ ter man-to-man defense, so 1 was proud of that. We had a lot * * of offensive rebounds, we just could not buy a basket. Some of the things we focused on went really well, but some of the things we focused didn’t f go very well at all - like tumovers. We had 38 turnovers the first time we played them.” “This is a tough, tough team. They all hustle to every­ thing. They’re all very fast. Thornapple Kellogg senior guard Katie Comeau flips a shot up at the rim in a They have 15 players, and hole in the middle of the Catholic Central defense during the second half Tuesday they play 10 players deep, night in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) They can play fast, and we struggle at that speed. They It happens.” with passes. When we see double figures for the rest of play fast for us. We’re young. That turnover total seemed each other, and we communi­ the night. likely similar to Tuesday’s cate well, and we occupy the “We came out more calm number. TK struggled with middle we can break through and level-headed [than in the the Cougars’ full-court pres­ things, because we’re also first meeting], and the first few sure leading to some easy fast, but we do it with dribbles shots we had were good looks buckets for Catholic Central. and then we get ourselves in that we just didn’t hit,” James “We have to break things trouble because then we have said. “On that stretch where through the middle,” James to pick it up eventually.” they hit 6-for-7 from the threesaid of facing the Cougars’ The Cougars had the lead point line, that’s just tough to pressure. “They were directed early on scoring the first nine overcome. Then, we start to to break them anywhere but points in the games first two hang our heads down and outside the volleyball court and a half minutes. The that’s tough to overcome.” [lines in the center of the bas­ Catholic Central lead hit dou­ Sophomore Marlee ketball court]. That press is ble figures for the first time Shuford had a team-high designed to push us outside, on a three by senior Emma seven for points TK. and we let it push us outside Picarazzi in transition, as the Sophomore Tealy Cross and and across and we’d go into clock ticked under four min- freshman Reece Ritsema had traps. We have to break things Utes to play, and the lead was six points apiece. James said Tuesday. “We have to learn. We’re on a revenge tour we’re calling it. because we have Ottawa Hills, who we beat the first time, then we have South and Wayland, who we could have beat both of them last time we just let it slip away in the end parts of those games. We’ll come for them.” The TK ladies were set to travel to Ottawa Hills last night looking for a second win over the Bengals and will travel to South Christian Feb. 13 and Wayland Feb. 16 in the week ahead. Catholic Central junior Emily VanTimmeren was the only girl for either side in double figures Tuesday night in Middleville. She finished with ten points as the Cougars rolled girls in and out all eve­ ning. Junior Lauren Meerman had nine points for the Cougars, senior Claire Marosi and sophomore Hailey Ourland had eight points apiece and sophomore Lily Engstrom chipped in seven Brett Bremer Sports Editor TTiomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball coach Brandi James said her team is calling it the revenge tour as her team kxAs to improve its 2-5 record from the first half of the OK Gold Conference schedule in the second half of the conference season. So far though, the results have played out the same way they did on the first run through. TK opened the sec­ ond half of the conference slate with a win over Forest Hills Eastern Feb. 2 and then fell for the second time to Rapids Catholic (jrand Central as the Cougars visited Thomapple Kellogg High School in Middleville Tuesday night. Catholic Central has matched its conference per­ formance in the second half of the conference slate too improving to 9-0 in confer­ ence play with its 58-31 win over the TK ladies. “We’ll dissect this film,” \ c .1 it I* • X it (i. e •f ► > ♦< A! L 1 H / *? Hi r b f I 4»* ■ r V 9 •«- s L 4 lit. V F ■ - A - 7 I * < A * I - A 4 .*1 * 5* b' I ? *.l •V- M.’ •• 1. ► J 4 I. PRir » • VS* ** 'T S J*. I * ■T— I' 1 TK teammates Tealy Cross (right) and Reece Ritsema have fun cheering on their teammates late in an OK Gold Conference loss to league-leading Catholic Central in Middleville Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I r * -- w T*;z. -r"- k I I I L . ZZF _.'i - •’jr. ll 5 ** If*. 0 I F Caledonia American Legion 1 L > T'-.-'y I POLISH MEAL FAT TUESDAY, FEB. 13 • $15.00 4k 4 ■ * FRESH KIELBASA I 4 •> A * KAPUSTA (Sauerkraut) * # 5 & ■ ^-1 GOtAMPKI (Cabbage b* J 1 w •I r“ :<• t ’■f . J I ■J Roll) L * » *. « b 1 s It I 1 1 X*. . <. 1 •.; A , *s A I >-s ' 1 k. . •' r “■ « "T 4 RYE BREAD 1 t I ™ I I '1^ f • I b.. f m f f * I____ A' ■ F* 41 * ■J 4' -<■ PIEROGIES (Potato & t *S”*' — i ■ 4 *v X .J V M Cheese Dumplings) s k- JI •• '. •.'JW 'I': k' i I SERVING NOON - TPM fOr Gone) DINE IN OR TAKE OUT L L, . I* r** X" * •a* ♦J j : l■WiBri■■ lie * '1 t I ’ I *• I 4 iX • * iJ I I I •l REGULAR KITCHEN MENU NOT AVAILABLE THIS DAY t K ' ’1*“* A * 9548 Cherry Valley Ave. SE, Caledonia • 891-1882 I a.' I . t Thornapple Kellogg junior guard Emma Rapids cXlirCeXrs I . > 1 T V 4 I 1 d 'a 1 '• *» 4 4 ' f I J! <• Conference bailgame in Middleville Tuesday. (pVo bvlrett of their OK Gold by Brett Bremer} . < \ •s I I I 4 < f i T’.'V s >4 4 » < I 1 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-02-17.pdf c173adeb8635d1f5e0ee325e1dda493a PDF Text Text i £ 4 ML •J ^4 u M V k -c < v- J **-. . . ? ’> s'* Ir I i 1 A ’,av9- I« j I I ▼ * a I sn .WB i 1 *-u I' 5 4 •»K tr- • ” I *I J • 1 >H za Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville and Caledonia Areas No. 7/ February 17, 2024 1 r 1 I ^9 Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. * 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 V I j I 146th year ••• •> I J *( t I s < -5.. 1 A ' V I •»* f «. /A I » 'T'Jk t; » PFr***^* * 3 •i'. < 3;> 1 Sr I r. k* ’d *3 i r , ••’L' f, >■ a - Tariri” *-77-■ •1 .♦n y I •>. X. * r 'I Jr gr^ iiT 9* <4- S* **’***.. * * " ** <1 The Barry County Board of Commissioners’ committee of the whole hosted a workshop on solar and alternative energy on Tuesday evening at the Hastings Performing Arts Center. The event was designed to provide extensive information about renewable energy projects and how they will be permitted under a new state law that will take effect in November. (Photos by Jayson Bussa) Barry County huddles to discuss info, strategy for renewable energy projects Jayson Bussa Editor Barry County commis­ sioners assembled a panel of subject matter experts on Tuesday evening to provide both themselves and the general public, with a com­ prehensive look at renew­ able energy projects and how the laws associated with permitting them have changed. The event, which was 1 I i 1 I «3G it i f 'f Man arrested in Gaines Township after stolen car found in store parking lot classified as a workshop put on by the county’s commit­ tee of the whole, was a response to new legislation signed into law late last year that will strip local government of the full right and discretion to permit large-scale solar and wind projects. Instead, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) would See RENEWABLE ENERGY, page 3 James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Kent County Sheriff’s Office is investi­ gating a stolen car com­ plaint out of the Detroit area and some related thefts in southern Kent County. A vehicle reported stolen from Waterford Township was found Wednesday evening in the parking lot of the Meijer store on Marketplace Drive in Gaines Township. A 26-year-old Detroit man was arrested on charges of possessing a sto len vehicle. Police say more charges are being sought because more than $550 worth of merchandise was stolen in some related thefts. “The male was also found to have committed several retail frauds throughout Lansing and the Grand Rapids area,” KCSO SherifiTs Sgt. Kailey Gilbert * I e *1 . •* av5 kt I ^^Ay^’g J (- i I I 1 I said. Gilbert added that it is important to notify local police, if a license plate has been removed from a vehi­ cle. ‘‘We’ve noticed in Gaines and Byron townships that, if your vehicle is parked in your driveway, a lot of license plates are being removed. And people don’t always call because they think it might not be a big deal. But it is, because those plates are being swapped on cars that have been stolen from other areas,” Gilbert said. I I I I I I I i I II J 1 Thornapple 1Wp. board approves Second Amendment resolution as new gun control measures take effect 1 c ♦ I Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Thornapple Township Board Monday passed a resolution support­ ing the Second Amendment I • •i .1 rights of its residents to keep and bear arms. On a 6-1 vote, the board approved the resolution saying “it declares its sup­ port for the Constitution, S I ’ww •< 9 I * ** * -■’o f > .1 V Cb. 5. "KI iS I srA. : *1 I*. 1 — !i, I* I c ch_* 27; I* •5 C -- •J* I •J r. BT * 1'^ «*<• 1 including the Second Amendment rights of all Barry County citizens as protected by the United States Constitution” and “will defend the Constitutional rights of the citizens of Thornapple Township from all infringe­ ments.” The board adopted the resolution one day before a series of new gun control signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, include measures requiring gun owners to securely store their firearms and establish ing universal background checks for gun purchases. They also include a so-called “red flag” law designed to prevent people who pose a risk to them­ selves or others from pos­ sessing a gun, and another laws led the executive com­ mittee of the Barry County Republican Party to craft a resolution calling for the county to be declared a “Second Amendment Sanctuary County,” saying the new laws infringe on the constitutional right to bear arms. The party called for the county board to pass the GOP resolution, but the board to date has not passed it. An alternative resolution was drafted that was more broad, pledging to follow the Constitution, but never came up for a vote. That has since led party leadership to seek support from local townships for resolutions in support of the Second Amendment. I I I I I J I 1 I I See RESOLUTION, page 2 I 1 • T* ’.V-? 4^ •v < £ * r u .. :»• ' -7—' We really don’t have any teeth to enforce anything regarding the Second Amendment, but I do like to make that statement that I do support the Second Amendment. I’d like to make the statement even though all it is, is a » Statement. — Ross DeMaagd, Trustee, Thornapple Township J Thornapple Township Kim Selleck cast the only ‘no’ vote on a resolution supporting the Second Amendment, but only because he didn’t feel it was necessary to single just one amendment out. “I support all the constitutional amendments, all the Bill of Rights, all 27 amendments,” he said. (Photos by Greg Chandler) laws went into effect in Michigan. The laws, which were approved by the Democrat-controlled Legislature last year and law keeping people con­ victed of domestic violence from owning guns for eight years after their conviction. The passage of those 11^ r I I I M an 1 I I • Some landlords push back on Caledonia rental ordinance • Two new members appointed to Middleville DDA in tense meeting • TK boys hoops scores conference win from free throw line • Trojans hit slopes for regional runs, hope for more competition • Cai girls hoops edged out by Jenison 3 4 I I 1 I I i » f t I I I i i 1 I II 1 k I J” « . f —i * CL: ._5 �Page 2ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, February 17,2024 RESOLUTION, continued from pago 1 Constitution, but my oath I have taken is to support the Constitution, regardless of my opinions. I will say I do. sup­ port the Second Amendment, and I’ve also taken that oath to support it.” Township Trustee Kim Selleck cast the only no vote. He opposed the idea of separating the Second Amendment from all other constitutional Township Clerk Cindy Ordway spoke out about the oath of office she took when “Our State’s lawmakers have demonstrated their intent to pass legislation that would infringe upon the rights of the people,” a portion of the town­ ship resolution reads. John Lake of Irving Township, one of the key backers of the effort to get local governmental units to pass Second Amendment res­ olutions, thanked the board for their action. We understand that it doesn’t have any legal weight, but what we’re doing is we’re standing for something,” Lake said. “As you know what’s going on right now ... (the state) is coming after every­ thing. What we’re doing is we’re saying, yes, we support this. Because without the Second (Amendment), we don’t have the First, we don’t she was appointed to the clerk’s position last year, u I which included an oath to sup­ port the Constitution. “When I took that oath, I meant it. The Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the state of Michigan include the Second Amendment right of every amendments. “I support all the constituperson to keep and bear arms for the defense of himself and tional amendments, all the of the state and of the country, Bill of Rights, all 27 amend­ Regardless of whether I am in ments,” Selleck said, going favor or not of the Second on to describe in detail some Amendment or any other of the other amendments. amendment, I promised on such as freedom of speech. that day to fully support these freedom of religion and freeconstitutions of the country dom against unreasonable and the state,” Ordway said. “I search and seizure. “(Tuesday was) the one-year may or may not agree with all amendments to the anniversary of four students i f . 4A Township Clerk Cindy Ordway (pictured) spoke out about the oath of office she took when she was appointed to the clerk’s position last year, which included an oath to support the Constitution. 46 have the Third, we don’t have the Fourth, we don’t have the Ninth, 10th. They’re coming after it.” neys “had blessed it.” Trustee Ross DeMaagd called the resolution language “strictly symbolic.” “We really don’t have any teeth to enforce anything the regarding Second Amendment, but I do like to make that statement that I do the support Second Amendment. I’d like to make the statement even though all it is, is a statement,” DeMaagd said. Treasurer Laura Bouchard saw the resolution as a reaffir­ mation of the oath she and other board members have already taken. “We’ve all taken our oath already for the Constitution. It’s just redoing it again and just spelling out one specific item. I agree to all of it,” Bouchard said. being murdered at Michigan State. (Sunday) in Texas there was a woman who took a long gun into a church, Joel Osteen’s church. There has been 25 mass killings in our country since Jan. 1, and there were 350 school shootings in 2023. Sixty percent of the American people said gun violence is out of con­ trol. So I can’t support one amendment above all the rest, and when I get (asked), ‘how are we gonna defend it, ’ I think we need to defend all of it, the entire Constitution,” Selleck added. Trustee Curt Campbell Eric Supervisor asked Schaefer whether he had shared the resolution language with the township’s legal counsel before bringing it before the board. Schaefer said that he had and that the attor- ing courses for both law enforcement and members of the military. “He’s a go-to guy for law enforcement,” Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf said. “... He’s a former Army Ranger and has his PhD in psycholo­ gy. That’s his specialty, figur­ ing out why people want to go out and kill each other.” In addition to Grossman’s keynote talk, the event fea tures a variety of breakout The all-day event, which is designed to provide informa­ tion on how to maintain a safer church environment, will feature Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, who is billed as one of the nation’s foremost experts in human aggression and in tracing the roots of human violence. Grossman is a former psychology profes­ sor at West Point and operates Grossman Academy, where he provides a variety of train- sessions, dealing with such topics as responding to active violence, issuing first aid and the laws associated with self-defense and deadly force. The conference kicks off at 8:30 a.ni. and concludes at 5 p.m. Lunch will be provided. The event is free to attend, but registering ahead of time is encouraged to meet food demands and ensure that classes don’t fill up beyond capacity. Donations will be accepted to defray the cost of this year’s event and develop a budget for future events. Registration can be com­ pleted online at barrychurchsafety.org. This will mark the sixth installment of the chmeh safety conference. It began eight years ago but was paused during the COVID-19 pandemic. 0ill p |Op''f 10 evety fli«‘ ion””’ till that ecisas' ainbitit goals' Orel* I > jlieiily ' First Baptist Church of Middleviile to host church safety conference later this month Jayson Bussa Editor The Barry County Sheriff’s Office plans to bring in a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the United States Army to serve as keynote speaker for its annual Larry Jackson Memorial Church Safety Conference. The event is slated for Saturday, Feb. 24 at First Baptist Church ofMiddleville, 5215 M-37 Highway. (|Vf 2* . & -S' itiiat 1* !lli * •l . o^... *■ ' kiiM .^55. tSJ W rfff J® J faaa5' « ‘ Lt. Col. Dave Grossman fjA Some landlords push back on proposed Caledonia rental ordinance Greg Chandler Staff Writer A proposal to require land­ lords in the village of Caledonia to register their homes or apartments with the village and have them inspect­ ed before they are allowed to be occupied is drawing some opposition in the community. Several people, including two landlords, objected to the proposed ordinance at Monday’s Village Council meeting, with one calling it an example of government over­ reach. “To me, if you’re going to similar ordinance that is in do an inspection on rental place now in the city of Cedar property, why not do an Springs. Gates said the prima­ inspection on everyone’s ry reason for having a rental property?” resident and land­ inspection program is to lord Sharon Hast said. assure the safety of tenants. The council last month But Hast sees the proposed directed Village Manager Jeff ordinance as an intrusion and Thornton to pursue having an a case of overreach. She ordinance drawn up that pointed to the Pledge of would regulate rental proper- Allegiance that was recited ties in the village and require only a few minutes before them to be inspected. Its she got up to speak. action followed a presenta­ “Liberty is not government tion by Lance Gates, the vil­ coming in and looking at lage’s zoning administrator, everything you own. We who shared examples of a already pay exceptional taxes, additional taxes on our properties,” Hast said. “It’s just 5 wrong. Where’s the safety issue? Where are the complaints?” 11 < ' r 'J Haley McNeil-Chapman is part of an ownership group that recently purchased the t • 1/2 Mile East of Ionia Road on Nashville Highmay ‘ building where the former ?.l 51 NASHVILLE HIGHUJAV; VERMONTVILLE^ Vault Bakery was in business at 203 E. Main St. The build­ ing has four upstairs apart­ ments. She expressed similar objections. “You have to have a war­ rant as a police officer to come into somebody’s house,” said McNeil-Chapman, who owns the Sugar Momma’s Bakery in Cascade Township and plans to open a second location for that business in the former Vault later this year. “So how can a government official come in and say, ‘Oh, I’m going to inspect your apartment’? Who are they to come into your personal belongings and look through your stuff?” But resident Chuck Swift pointed out a recent example where a neighboring property let trash accumulate for a year before being hauled away as 1 RIVERSIDE OAK JI tr •* ! . A ’T I FURNITURE 4 ’ I B ‘ra I S/NCL ▼ ^5 i il 4 ' 4". \ t r A Oak • Mople • Cherry • Elm I > .1 1, r 4 • I r.twr-** 1/4 Sown (Uhife ' • U Oak fl.-* hi 19 TC2 ft « L ¥ MIGHT Truck parts ‘'I it '.r ft ’ I 1 1 I I Bedroom Furniture h 4 ’ rr ; s £4 FULL SERVICE ft YOU PULL IT ,2 r I S’ rs 4 W 'f’ 1 1 J____ Ti il I fiving^Ropm Furniture'f *• 269-381-2300 V St J. 1 «•» • •v ■R) >• ■. s>; I* ■ ' 3 A e '-1 F « J a USED PARTS • PICK OPS • ONE TONS • VANS • SOTS • JEEPS • 4X4S Dining! Furniture * h 4 *. .r <r « 5/' 9 « si Il an example of the need for such an ordinance. “I think we want to protect people renting a house, to make sure they’re in a safe environment,” Swift said. “Also, I think it’s important that the neighbors (to a rental property) are safe.” In his presentation. Gates said the Cedar Springs rental inspection ordinance is based on the International Property Maintenance Code, a docu­ ment Caledonia adopted in 2018. It sets forth require­ ments that a landlord must meet in order to be able to legally rent out a home or apartment, addressing every­ thing from the size of bed­ receives a three-year certifi­ cate of occupancy. Gates told the council during last month’s discussion. Village President Jennifer Lindsey said no decisions have been made yet on an ordinance. “We are just in the begin­ ning phases of looking at what other communities do,” Lindsey said. “We’re not committed to anything except doing our research.” While the village is not under legal obligation under Michigan village general law to hold a public hearing on any potential ordinance, Thornton said the council could certain­ ly schedule a hearing or even an open house in the future to get feedback from residents and landlords. “We’ve got some awesome landlords and we have some that are not so awesome,” Thornton said. “I think the council is trying to figure out how to deal fairly (with land­ lords). They want to be consis­ tent.” rooms to whether smoke detectors are working. Under the Cedar Springs ordinance, a property that passes inspection the first time gets a five-year certifi­ cation of rental occupancy. If a property fails inspection the first time, they are required to fix the problem. after which the property K J w *4 -I '1 I t *A II it jLarge Selection!, L HOURS: (. 9 Mon.-Fri, 9a.in. - 5p.m. Fi US on .§91■ 3p.m. • Store * 517-61 S^^OO k JI .t J * * USEU PARTS r USEU TIBES 1811 LAKES KAlAMAZi II a t * I ' e I,,, *“ •J ■ Mho mi sin 1 earn the M taofi creitng Im V oiliei n prajecB. ta'i i JOBDOth scilf.'clar Ibu fK iijt 3® it 1 !5 ,»1 Ij » *r * r. B * ____ lliaii , WT' UI _ll ’‘TTi * - .4^ 1[ 1 • I-'*"*— * ri < 1 RIVER CRUISE VACATIONS Experience the beauty and history of the St. Lawrence & Ottawa Rivers on a classic Canadian riverboat. Request our free travel brochure. ■I Ri® wft I. V ' tess ® ■-1“- . b Poly Furniture i( t -- ' I *6 » ''.<4 9 r \■ p Wffi F2* ♦ I issii s 1 -800-267-7868 www.SILawrenceCruiseLines.coni 4kjf * �t T I I I kt renewable energy, continued from page 1 > I I The Sun and News, Saturday, February 17, 2024/ Page 3 *4 ; II 5 A', V M ** V A t - * 1L> H * ♦ « 4 > 7? I il*; r'l J• . .4 oversee that process. While renewable energy projects are a hot-button topic in the southern por­ tion of the county, where a lyge solar farm is being planned, the county’s zoning and planning office has „ , , received calls from concemed citizens in nearly every township of the countyThe new law, which will take effect Nov. 29 of this year, has sparked an outcry m many rural communities, including Barry County, whose residents are fearful that their rural landscape will soon become overrun with these large-scale proj­ ects as utilities rush to meet ambitious green energy goals set forth by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and her administration. While many residents already had a high-level knowledge of this new law, Tuesday was reserved to dig into the matter along with touching on other top­ ics, such as dual uses for solar farms and a growing movement that aims to bring this matter to the ballot for the upcoming elec- J J it to pay grant money to each affected unit of gov­ ernment up to $75,000, which can be used to chailenge or otherwise participate in the process. f I —- r I - I J i < w* It I r > V A I When utilities go through the state, they also must pay $2,000 per megawatt of capacity to each affected ; 1 local unit of government, which can be used for anything from police and fire to infrastructure. When a local government rnainiains maintains a compatible ordinance and manages the permitting process them­ r selves, they don’t get any of L * .» that money. The rub, however, is that a local government cannot adopt a more restrictive ordinance than the state, so despite having its own ordinance, local governments are still fairly powerless. Gould of the MSU Extension offered a presen­ Shelly Lake of Irving Township experts ih^served as auX" ’ ..T. '^l,<='®Phon6, asking a question to a panei of subjeot matter tation on dual uses for solar g Sts at Tuesday evening s solar and alternative energy workshop. energy farms and how farmers can marry together age and has proven to be a solar energy production and viable solar energy producagriculture. This included er already. growing crops, planting Finally, Martis of pollinators and using the Citizens for Local Choice, space for animal grazing who proved to be a favorite while solar panels are in amongst the crowd, spoke place. about his coalition’s moveGould pointed to a type ment to get this issue on the of solar panel that can be ballot for the upcoming adjusted vertically when election so that voters could f needed, giving ample room decide. Martis is a commisfor both farmers and anisioner in agriculture-heavy ani mals to maneuver. Lenawee County and also “What I’m suggesting served as Deerfield Zoning here is that we can do this,” Township Gould said. “If there is a Administrator. •Ci'i’llr*/:-':... solar project and we want to Martis, who announced put ag on it, it can be done. that the Michigan Farm We need a willing farmer, Bureau had joined the coa­ we need zoning ordinances lition earlier that day, is that assist us and help us looking to get 550,000 valid understand where and how signatures to get the issue that can happen. We certain- on the ballot. The group has ly have the markets here.” * set a May 29 deadline for Gould also dispelled some those signatures. R of the most commonly cited Martis stressed several grievances with solar farms. times that this coalition is including glare, the presence not necessarily for or of PFAS, panel breakage against renewable energy. and the lack of sun. rather, the power to permit County Chairman Dave these projects should reside M. Charles Gould (center), a bioenergy educator with MSU Extension, fields a Jackson and the crowd with the local municipali- question from the crowd during Tuesday’s solar and alternative energy workshop. pushed back on whether ties in which the projects Michigan, which is notori- are installed. age projects,” he added. with a Q&A from the cem and outright opposiously cloudy and gray “This is very much a “That’s our only purpose.” crowd, many of whom used tion to renewable energy during the winter and parts bipartisan issue,” Martis The event concluded the time to voice their con- projects. of other seasons, is even a said. viable option for energy “We are committed to producers. only one cause — our group Gould contended that is committed to the resto­ Michigan does meet the ration of local regulation of threshold for sun on aver- wind, solar and energy stor2 I I k ■ 11 —- I ! I —• A - L:r • 1 »* % < I JT- > 7 A fc.* -W- _|j----- :—_• i ♦ • * 7^ I 1 1 1 I I J ! MM* »> V Mi - I I I S 3 tfcf-?? / 1 1 ■ J ifaii I said DO ig; inatK- I onunuiiisei: said-I i*. auiE jsai' it lib;: r lofeli 4 iniKlto iitJtiii:® llBDSU « I. I IR I' 0 County commissioners were joined by Barry County Planning and Director Zoning Jim McManus, attorney Bradley Fowler, MSU Extension educator M. Charles Gould and Kevon Martis, who represents a coalition called Citizens for Local Choice. McManus provided the basics on how ordinances are crafted and what they do. He also highlighted how the new state law has ham­ strung both his department and planning and zoning bodies in townships across the county by stripping them of much discretion in creating ordinances for large-scale wind, solar and Other renewable energy projects. Barry County currently does not have an ordinance in place for large or smallscale solar farms. They had one drafted but it has been tabled because of the chang­ ing law. That led to Fowler, an attorney with Mika Meyers PLC that represents the county, who walked through the new law, showing how local units of government can still create an ordinance for such projects, but it must be compatible with I the state’s existing criteria for approval. Local govern ments also have an avenue to challenge projects that are approved by the state. A central theme that arose from Fowler’s talk is how the state, through the provisions of the new law, has disincentivized local governments from creating ordinances of their own. When a utility company seeks a permit through MPSC, the state will require t ,1- * 1 V ’4 A Jr * t 7' 1 ^1’- - -fc. .1 I * * •( • * k * 9^ . <V .y • «•» - * d • •K •«> r — « * f « r I• ‘if V ^7 I . ’i I fT-i-uV I >•1 ''I t ♦* I * r -' > .• ..4^ ♦. . ••• * * V M-* ’I \ WK? •• * • 1 J I 5’"V k, k i 1 1 I I I I Your local agent insures your / r t «• •» I I i I ( .i* jH FARM BUREAU MSURARCE* S-:J- - —Ig I J ; t ^'aS *■ 5 kt' 3 •• 1 4H «: "*** f; to Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville f (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com 'Yom have peace, of mii/ui when you hire M37Auctioti.com to sell your parents' treasures." i *r ' I I 9- •• �1 1 I I Page 4/Tbe Sun and News, Saturday, February 17, 2024 Finkbeiner, Char Mello, Deb grandchildren, Schollaart; Jake Finkbeiner, Don (MandyBrian deceased) Mello, (Heather) Mello, Amanda (Jason) Reed, Katrina (Matt) Lafferty, Adam (Brittany) Schollaart, Courtney (BrianII Appel; deceased) I one great-grandchildren, great-great grandson; sister. Helen Crawford; several lov­ ing nieces and nephews; and f cherished friends. Maggie was preceded in death by her parents; hus­ band’s Edwin Rich and Keith Pointe in Grand Rapids, MI Adams; brother, John Cundiff; son. Bill (Linda) Rich; special until Keith’s death in 2020. Maggie then lived with daugh­ friends, Loraine Kenyon and ter Sue until care necessitated Irene Verburg. Maeeie has been cremated moving into assisted living and then a nursing home after a fall. and a memorial service is Maggie was a ray of sun- planned for May 10, 2024 at shine that brightened every­ Beeler-Gores Funeral Home in one’s day. She was a good Middleville, MI. Visitation is friend to many and enjoyed at 10 a.m. and memorial serplaying cards, BINGO, scrab- vice at 11 a,m. Lunch to follow ble, bowling, puzzles, reading at Holy Family Church at 9669 books, dancing, snowmobil- Kraft Ave SE, Caledonia, MI. Maggie and Keith’s cre­ ing, cooking, baking, knitting mains will be interred at and grandkids. in Cemetery Maggie’s passion in life Lakeside was playing and watching Caledonia, ML In lieu of flowers, Keith and babies/children of neighbors, friends, grandkids, and strang­ Maggie’s wishes are for dona­ ers. Every child brought joy to tions to be made for their her day her entire life. great-grandson, Deaken, care Maggie worked as a billing expenses. Please send in care of clerk at Interstate Motor Char Mello, 6724 Gracepoint Freight and drove school bus Dr SE, Caledonia, MI 49316. for 18 years at ThomapplePlease visit www.beelerKellogg in Middleville until goresfuneral.com to share a retirement. memory or to leave a condo­ Maggie is survived by lence message for Maggie’s daughters. Sue (Dan) family. Margaret Ann Adams Margaret Ann (Cundiff) Adams, bom April 1, 1925, passed away February 6,2024, age 98, at Mission Point of (Jrandville of natural causes. Mainde was bom in Peoria, IL, but lived most of her life in Wesi Michigan. She was the daughter of John and Mina (Pufler) Cundi ff, both deceased. Maggie married Edwin Rich in 1947 and had two children, Susan and William. Edwin passed away in 1963 and later married Keith Adams in 1965. Maggie and Keith lived on Parmalee Rd in Middleville, Ml for 52 years. Prior to retirement, Maggie and Keith enjoyed many years of camping with family and friends as well as their getaway place in Irons, ML They enjoyed snowmobiling and 9 I 4 I Fl 4 « 1.^ playing cards with friends and family. After retirement Maggie and Keith enjoyed traveling and eventually landed in North Fort Myers, FL for the winters. For 22 years, Maggie and Keith found a community of new friends at Raintree. Here is where they enjoyed life to its fullest with friends that are like family. In 2017, after traveling became more difficult, Maggie and Keith moved into a retirement community at Sentinel Randal Lee Whittemore Randal Lee Whittemore, age 67, of Allegan, ML passed on Tuesday, Feb. 13, away 2024. Randy was bom on September 10, 1956, in Grand Rapids, to Ciordon and Joyce (Van Komen) Whittemore. from graduated He Kelloggsville High School and joined the Army, serving for three years before he was hon­ orably discharged. Randy was employed as a painter at Steelcase for 38 years. He loved going on canoe trips and downhill skiing. He was very proud of his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. He rarely missed a sporting event, birthday party, or any other family event His unwav­ ering support for his family will be missed. Randal was preceded in 61^ Brian Whittemore; as well as many other family and friends. A memorial service will take place at noon on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, at Ofield Funeral Home, 4500 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Kentwood. A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of service at the funer­ al home. There will be a lun­ cheon to follow. Burial at Fort Custer National Cemetery will take place at a later date. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to St. Arm’s Home for all of their compassion and support for Randy throughout his stay there. They would also like to thank Emmanuel Hospice for the love and care that they showed to him and to all of his family and friends throughout this difficult time. 'J J i? * »• p * * death by his father, Gordon Whittemore. He will be greatly missed Joyce mom, his by children. Whittemore; Monica (Dyana) WhittemoreBeek and Kevin (Kelly) Whittemore; grandchildren, Justin, Jaden, and Bryanna Whittemore; great grandchil­ dren, Asher and PaisLee Whittemore; siblings, Gordon (Marcia) Whittemore, Steve (Barbara) Whittemore, and Consumers Energy executes planned outage in Caledonia Greg Chandler Staff Writer Some Consumers Energy customers in the Caledonia area were without power Monday night as the utility made repairs it said would make its service more reli­ able. The outage was planned. A total of 1,411 custom- ers were without power starting at 10 p.m. and con­ tinued for 93 minutes. Consumers spokeswoman Kristen Van Kley said. The area affected by the outage was bordered by 84th Street, the Thomapple River, 108th Street and Patterson Road, Van Kley said. .ft »■ J t' je*'” U I, ; !«« I b I Villas' Cl ) i (jiaii ' year III ' Ite®'*'’, i ‘ jkjaoci®*® I * - • Al iiJilf SL faiffl I jtency^ 1 i WP I (imiitiwl*'’ Consumers Energy Count on Us* “We do not anticipate any additional outages as all scheduled reliability work requiring an outage has been completed,” Van Kley said in a state­ ment. - Caledonia United Methodist Church ■ I » I I »i fci ■■ I M »» lit DepJ 1^ aa Iffiftfotll Sli Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship I 4 * service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. ; t' 1 J e 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUniiedMethodist Serving ~ Strengthening Connecting I cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9;3O & Ham 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend FIRST CO 10:30 AM BAPTIST Middleville C?’ 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) JI Aj Sunday Worship BC H U R C H Ill ■Ji Livestream; tacebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville . ^11 ■ Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: AKpeace w * Tauf '45» . 1 CHURCH CALEDONIA; 9185 Cheny Valley Ave SE LEARN MORE! rd*- 1 thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee Whitneyville 7. A—! 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School.. Sunday Worship . 9:30 AM 10:30 AM IK® Watch our services from our website (see above) Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFelIowship.org Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. if 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 _________www.stpaulcaledonia.org iTl HOLY FAMILY J/CATHOLIC CHURCH *1 *4 M 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 X I Ki www.holyfamilycaledonia.org f i Saturday Evening Mass L5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. f Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. I i I THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH I ) £ MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Mr Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"^ & 48*^ Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool Fellowship Church Praising God through Hymns • Reading God's Word • Special Music fl (269) 795-2391 Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel *» CM i ON^HURCH - J\NO LOCATIONS 9:30 a.m. I* I FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 OURNEY Good Shepherd Lutheran Church b. "Shining Forth God's Light" ( 1 Sunday Morning Worship Community Group............ 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L, Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org 4 4.1 f ¥ �wk' * * Middleville council replaces two DDA board Greg Chandler rI 'T V'l 5 4 I '.r ’’vS 9. i* * Xu.'’: I 1 appointments. “ Last time we had DDA Writer Under Public Act 57 of appomtments, there was a By a narrow 4-3 margin, 2018 which regulates down­ committee that was put togeththe Middleville Village town development authori­ er... where each applicant was Council Tuesday appointed ties in Michigan, a majority mterviewed, and then a rectwo new members to the vil- of DDA board members must ommendation was presented lage’s Downtown be individuals with an own­ by Gretchen (James, DDA Development Authority ership or business interest in director) to the board, the board in a contentious vote property in the downtown board approved it, and they that included a verbal clash district. The municipality’s came to us,” Peters said. “I’m 1 • between the village president " ™ “hy « and DDA board chairwoman. one resident must also sit on ollow that process this time. Village President Mike the board as well. Cramer, who sits on the Cramer cast the deciding While the vote involved th,. • t . r village ’ s vote approving the appoint- the appointment of new chief executive officer, said ment of Kortney Lull to a board members, .. it ___ also he was following the law. four-year term on the DDA seemed to reflect conflicting uTL 11 ----The legal way to do it, board, expiring in Feb. 2028, views on what the role of the per the letter of the act, is and Derek Dean to a three- DDA should be. Cramer, that the chief executive offi­ year term expiring in March who made the appointments cer of the municipality makes 2027. The council passed on with with council’s consent, the appointments and the reappointing two DDA board expressed the viewpoint that board approves them ” members whose terms in Its current form, the DDA Cramer said. expired this month, Joe isn’t doing enough to encourUnder Michigan’s general Mancini and Andrew Beck. age development in the law village act, which dates Lull is owner of The Hive downtown area. back to 1895, the village Mercantile at 218 W. Main “This IS an investment of president is defined as the St. while Dean owns the taxpayer money, for the sole chief executive officer for Farm Bureau Insurance purpose of development in the village. agency at 121 W. Main. the downtown district,” Peters pushed back, point­ Voting in favor of the Cramer said. “The intention ing out the contributions appointments were Cramer here is to move the needle on Beck and Mancini have th TVTV A K J and council trustees Richard the taxable value in that dis- mndp made to the DDA board Hamilton, Robert Bishop and tnct, and we haven’t moved during their tenure and Steve Baldry. President Pro It in 1U years. should be reappointed. Tempore Kevin Smith and Peters questioned why “ Andrew does all the T • LX trustees Makenzi Peters and Cramer made the appoint­ Lions (Club) fireworks stuff, Ann Williams opposed the ments in the first place. Joe does so much for the tr, * 4, r- “'laili,, t. members in DDA when it comes to festival organization as well as helping with the Riverbank (Music) Series. I feel that would be more appropriate,” Peters said. Cramer said the DDA has spent more than $2 million over the last decade, and sddcd that the DDA lAct sigh, of ,u original goal, emphasizing events I handled by the Planning Commission; that should have been handled by the DDA. They were invited and they chose not to participate.” Cramer’s comments led to a sharp exchange with DDA board Chairwoman Kim Jachim. “You can’t stand keep making these here and accusations and not let me defend (what we’re doing),” Jachim said. “We were part of that (RRC) process. I can tell you over development. “When we were going ' through the Redevelopment Ready ^uiiununiiy Community process, they were invited to partici, , . pate, and declined,” Cramer said. “That is our single greatest tool for development that we’ve had in the past 50 Katherine Schmidt (former DDA director) worked on that. I can tell you that Gretchen has been talking with Doug (Powers, planning zoning administrator) about it.” years. We got a boatload of money to help redevelop 101 E. Main (across the street from the Village Hall) and put that back on the tax roll. “We have gotten three conceptual designs to help us encourage development in the community, one of which we’re receiving bids on right Cramer cut off Jachim’s comments. “Ms. Jachim, I sat on that Redevelopment Ready Board, and you guys were not present, through the entire process,” he said. “We have put in a pavil­ ion, we have redone the train dcpot,” Jachim responded, Smith proposed a structure where James could work under the auspices of the planning department. “I’m looking for ways not to preserve a board, but more (on) but the market fell through, and another one where they might be developdeveloper hadn’t passed. That’s development. That shouldn’t have been I vote I I I I II I just the talent that we have in Gretchen, and I think having a very experienced oversight board that more that is com­ mitted to the specific task of growing and developing our community, it might fall better under the planning committee,” Smith said. “I know that’s a big move and there’s some serious shifts in how we’d structure it, and I think it’s worth exploring. I 1 I 1 I I I i I I In her application letter, Lull said she would like to see new developments downtown to increase foot traffic for local businesses, and to see events be better promoted. Dean, a former school teach­ er, wrote in his application that he felt it was important to help “with planning and deci­ sion-making that helps bring the community together. The appointments of Lull and Dean leave two openings on the nine-member DDA board. The board is accept­ ing applications for a busi­ ness person opening on the board created when Jacob Bennett resigned last week, as well as for a long-standing opening for a resident who lives in the DDA district to serve, James said. ^5 I I I I I I J I I I I Thornapple Twp. announces firefighter awards Greg Chandler ialjjt it CW The Sun and News, Saturday, February 17,2024/ Page 5 Staff Writer The Thomapple Township Fire Department has announced its firefighter awards for 2023. Lloyd Skiba, a five-year department veteran. was named the township’s Firefighter of the Year at Monday’s Township Board meeting. “He’s one of our dedicat­ ed members of the organiza- tion, a very strong firefighter,” Fire Chief Bill Richardson said. “Members come and look to him for advice. He’s one of our mentors to our recruits. He’s just a guy that’s always will- r r I 1 V . ’It V i** ing to help out (he 11 eration of her family to serve enough perspective he gets respond to a call at) 2 as a lot of respect from the asaafirefighter. firefighter. o’clock in the morning, has Preslar is currently going ranks,” Richardson said, meetings the next day, ’s ’s through through paramedic paramedic training training day,hehe Shelby England was honstill coming in. He’s an after and ored as Rookie Firefighter of after completing completing fire fire and incredible man. EMS school. the Year. A part-paid fireSkiba was out of town and Collin the fighter, England just comCollin Chrenka, unable to attend Monday’s department’s newest officer, pleted his “black helmet presentation. received the Fire Officer of firefighter training and is McKenna Preslar the Year Award. now in the paramedic proreceived the Top Gun “His tenure has given him gram. Award for responding to the most runs in the depart­ ment for the year, going on B 97 calls, representing 39 percent of the department’s total paid on-call runs for • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers the year. • Cellular Enhancement Systems “(She comes in) day or night, with a smile on her Give us a call! face, especially at night. She CEl<FI 269-967-8241 really likes coming in at n G* J cell(W) www.theantennamen.com 3^ ay SIG night,” Richardson said of antennamen@gmail.com vvww.cellsignalpros.com Preslar, who is the third gen -------------- I I II I I Tj I Aoienno Men Antenna Men 1. ft' [» I w hI .QledBi s r* -•A* A r > I A * ♦ l'«S" I I !■! I 4 Via I s t a ..» 1 .. I 1 >1 I iW - t* I t /• L« 4 I 4W •li­ lt 1 k|K 1 cornerstonechurch I helping people know Jesus and make Him known llllli Left to right, Thornapple Township Firefighters Collin Chrenka, Shelby England and McKenna Preslar display their awards for outstanding service to the fire depart merit on Monday night. no i Mast Meat Processing ii /cornerstonemi 1 I, 1 69 @cornerstonemi i 1 I 1 I 0 t i 517-231 -3883 Hours: Monday - Friday 8-5 § 1 1121 Anderson Hwy., Vermontville, Ml 49096 f di > < o o N E BEEF AVAILABLE Quarters and Halves Lloyd Skiba tI t ^4 I :.S OFFERING CUSTOM SLAUGHTERING AND PROCESSING Call today for an appointment ^1 It I I ! cornerstonemi.org I i 84th St. Campus I I OJ I (D 84th Street SE fc___ we’re casual, come as you are. �J 4 t Pag* e/Th» DZTh* Sun and Nawa, NmM, Saturday, SMurday, Fabruary FMxuary 17,2024 17, Gaines Township trustees voice frustration over spike in pubiic safety caiis to Pine Rest campus & begin this spring. The pedi­ atric facility will occupy Contributing fVriter Gaines Charter Township 74,000 square feet of that trustees are expressing frus­ space and house 66 beds. tration with what they say is Pine Rest said medical oftican increasing number of es will make up the remainJ public safety calls to the ing 61,000 square feet. A '« Pine Rest Christian Mental parking lot, truck docks, I utility services and land­ Health Services campus. V.9 Public concern was first scaping will be included in expressed by township offi­ the project. f J rl f r The primary concerns cials to Pine Rest executives at a Sept. 28, 2023, planning brought to the attention of commission meeting. That the planning commission was the night the planning back in September were commission tabled consider­ from neighbors who live ation of a site plan for Pine near the site where the Rest’s future $86 million 1 35,000-square-foot Pediatric Behavioral Health Pediatric Center will be Center near the comer of built. They expressed wor­ 72nd Street and Madison ries about aesthetics, park­ ing, traffic and wildlife Avenue in Cutlerville. The planning commission impacts. Kent County Sheriff’s community policing deputy Jason VanderMolen discusses public safety calls to Pine Nederveld & Associates later voted 6-0 at its Oct. 26 meeting to approve the site — the project’s land-devel- Rest at Monday’s Gaines Township Board meeting. (Photo by James Gemmell) sub­ plan, which would have opment consultants been allowed by right under mitted a revised site-plan answer to every single brought up at the September Officer Jason VanderMolen Other service calls come from the township’s zoning ordi­ proposal to the township in alarm.” planning commission meet­ said that, from Jan. 1 to Feb. Pine Rest’s InterActions nance, anyway. The Pine October to address some of One reason cited was ing. 6 this year, there were 52 Residential Treatment pro­ Rest campus falls under the the visual and physical patients pulling fire alarm “What’s really out of requests to the KCSO for gram, which has a secured Office-Service (0-S) zoning aspects of the development. switches, triggering false hand right now is the amount service in Gaines Township. facility for adults with chron­ designation, so it is an The site plan includes the calls for service. of calls to Pine Rest,” As a reference point, he ic mental illness. The other allowed use. elimination of some originalPine Rest Facilities Township Supervisor Rob noted that there were only calls come from the Lotus At Monday night’s town- ly proposed parking spaces Manager Mary Wiersma Deward said Monday night. 14 calls for service during Program for adolescents. ship board meeting, con­ and provides more trees and said at the September com- “We had a riot at one of the that same 37-day stretch in VanderMolen said many cerns were raised again after other plantings to increase 2022, and 19 calls for ser­ of the Pine Rest calls for trustees heard a report from visual screening from the vice in 2023. service are made by hospital the Kent County Sheriff’s neighborhood immediately “We’ve had over 154 offi­ staff. Occasionally, the sher­ Miink they’re not being good neighbors. Office chronicling a marked east of Pine Rest. cers assigned to the 52 calls iff’s office will receive a call .^^They’re getting paid to take care of spike in the number of ser Another concern was (in 2024), ” VanderMolen from AMR Ambulance of, these people. They need to invest in their vice calls to Pine Rest that raised by Planning said. “ The average number less often, from a patient. infrastructure, instead of zapping all of ours. deputies have responded to Commission Vice of officers assigned per call “ I know the vast majority It ’ s ridiculous. lately. Chairwoman Ronnie Rober is 2.97. Seven calls had more of the time there, they have — Dan Fryling, trustee, The Pediatric Center will at the September commis than five (officers), and the one security officer on be built on the south side of si on meeting pertaining to Gaines Township most that we saw was 10.” (duty),” he said. Pine Rest’s main campus, security at the fiiture facility. KCSO statistics show that The KCSO ’ s South which is at 300 68th St. SE. Commissioners noted that the total call time period, Precinct lieutenant was The private psychiatric hos­ Cutlerville firefighters have mission meeting that only units there. All of the depu­ which covers the time from scheduled to meet with Pine pital is one of the nation’s had to respond to more fire hospital staff will have ties in south Kent County when a call is dispatched Rest officials in mid-Februfive-largest behavioral calls at Pine Rest recently access to the fire alarm pull were pulled over there at the until the officers clear a ary. health providers. It is situat- than any other location in the stations in the the patient patient areas areas same time. That means stations in scene, was 76.6 hours during “ The lieutenant has a teg ­ e on 220 acres immediately township. of ofthe thenew newPediatric PediatricCenter. Center. Byron, Gaines, Caledonia that 37-day stretch. ular meeting with staff there. “As I understand it, it. Some trustees at Monday The district cars were all “So, if we’re talking man discussing these situations,” I he Pediatnc Center will there there’s’s an an inordinate inordinate amount amount night night’s’s township board over there to deal with this. hours, you can take that Township Manager Rod encompass 25 of those acres of calls there that are false meeting were not aware that Meanwhile, there’s a car number and probably triple Weersing said. “I have asked W5.' Constmcttn 'la"' “And, Ibirsfferca^ T"""" tb- it, quadruple it. Therein lies may was ’ y P 5 one to respond to the the concern concern with with the the growth growth can start diving deeper into that because they’re all over that they’re going to be doing what this is really doing on at Pine Rest. with with this this new new building building (at (at the township side ... I want to DeWard said township Pine Rest),” VanderMolen tell them, from the township talked to Pine Rest offi- said. ^*It “It is a little bit scary. perspective, that they are cials several years ago about Coming from our standpoint, using more than their fair what he said was a lack of we don’t know what that’s share of resources, and somesecurity. He said the Kent going to do for the calls for thing needs to be done about County Sheriff’s Office service.” that.” (KCSO) offered to help train He added that some of the Pine Rest Communications the Pine Rest security team calls are coming from the Manager Matt Hiskes Matt CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN at that time. Psychiatric Urgent Care responded to an email request “We’ve added this extra Center that opened in April from the Sun & News for a police coverage, to the tune comment. The hospital’s of over $400,000, but all of Just in the last couple scheduled meeting with the James Gemmell * >T *• I • , < ItJC’ 1: % c * > I Rii*’ '•s. ■1 •*1“ fk A « * k 10 L*. ma Jines’ je*.^ — I -► a plak’* I iJjIef’ I I I Ptirkk iiiSfleliti Hi ft if i»A tfllJlWlH I ceasntBon I tmitallii ijsmhIiH (jtfBtW'S * if low bl 1 ij Mk Wwrb L [fflflllifS Sul fn ikf project lit pujttl, UlqdiD liUit, Cl Ilin, fifin U (lift nil sj 1 tikiit I •II® 1 ifei •wk siJe of ths I win Mwliili T 4’ ED’S BODY SHOP ®kill ill) M causing a •b 10 5 STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS State & I-CAR Certified Technicians TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System Frame Repair our resources seem to be getting used over there (at Pine Rest),” De Ward said. Community Policing FOR ? V^A 616.891.0150 GOLD CLASS J I^NFIB Lesonal Bourne Systan Ed Pawlpski Jr., Owner 110 Johnson St., Caledonia bath, 1,200 SQ FT HOUSE *- www.edsbody.com A days we’ve had three visits, I believe, to their E.R. por­ tion,” VanderMolen said. He mentioned that some ■ ij* ■ Sr 3 ■_ -JF;' 4^ OPEN: M thru F 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Please Call Attached garage, central air. Gun Lake accessible. Lawn care included. Utilities separate. No pets. $ 1800/month 2^-672-4413 sheriff’s lieutenant had not taken place yet at the time of this report. “Pine Rest has not yet seen the most recent data on emergency calls,” he wrote. “We meet on a regular basis with the Kent County Sheriff’s Office and other emergency service person nel to both review emergen cy call statistics and actively collaborate to ensure the highest level of safety and security for patients, visiSee PUBl/C SAFETY, next page stttio •I I i r t OK I r I I �The Sun and News, Saturday, February 17,2024/ Page Middleville council approves renewal of Republic waste contract Greg Chandler monthly waste rates will Stolsonburg wrote in a 65-gallon carts, according Staff Writer increase to $15.95 for res­ recent email to the Sun The to Brown’s letter. Middleville idents with 65-gallon carts Village Council Tuesday and $16 for those with proposed that Additional annual 6 the village’s annual spring gave final approval to a 95-gallon carts to receive five-year extension of its weekly pickup, and to $6 percent increases are built cleanup be held on March into the contract, with 23, Stolsonburg told the single-hauler waste con- for recycling pickup, monthly rates reaching council. tract with Republic which will take place $20.14 for those with I reached back out to Services. every four weeks, accord- 65-gallon ■ containers, them and suggested that The council unanimous- ing to Republic Municipal $20.20 for those with might be a little early in ly approved the agreement Services Manager Jack 95-gallon containers and the spring,” Stolsonburg for Republic to continue Brown. $7.57 for recycling said. “ That was the day to be the village’s lone The current Republic vice in the final year of the they could get most peo * hauler of trash and recy- rates in the village are agreement, Brown wrote pie here to do all the work clables, continuing a part­ $12.79 per month for in a letter to the village that npa/io __ ,7 that needs to be done. nership that has been in 95-gallon containers, last month. After this year, the vil­ place since October 2012. $10.67 per month for 65 About 800 Republic lage and Republic will The new contract takes gallons and $4.59 per customers in the village look at alternatives to the effect April 1. month for recycling, recycling. use 95-gallon carts while annual spring cleanun annual Under the new contract, Village Manager Craig another 200 .he StolsonburTsaM. ’’ 200 use I L 46 Middleville council passes up low bidder on Dearborn Street construction award odier Si Greg Chandler Staff Writer Dearborn Street in Middleville will undergo a complete reconstruction this summer. The Village Council Tuesday night approved the awarding of the proj­ ect contract to Georgetown Construction of Jenison, even though the company was not the low bidder. Georgetown’s bid was $637,519, compared to the low bid of $593,778 by Martin-based USA Earthworks LLC. Three companies submitted bids for the project. The project, which is slated to get underway in mid-June, calls for rebuilding the street foundation, replacing an out­ dated water main, replac­ ing a culvert under the road, curb and gutter, and adding a sidewalk on the south side of the street. The water main on Dearborn had a signifi­ cant break in the fall of Business Services 2022, causing about a BUYING ALL HARD 100-foot section of the WOODS: Paying Premiums for road to buckle. Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Pop­ lar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single s Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. 'w I secBiiy dg. rhe ail M lituiiig. Wioffijji officiiliiig iebtt leflntiie ship fe. insiffllte V iIikk:;, liiisfe: tebsia I Department of Public Works Director Alec Belson wrote in a memo to the council. “Now that the road is buckled, a large section would have to be rebuilt,” Belson wrote in his memo. “If the village only repairs that section of road, the village would still have a water main that is 50+ years old that has already had a significant break and is in poor soil (condition).” The village’s engineer ing consultant, Williams &. Works, recommended the village retain Georgetown for the project over a couple of issues involving USA Earthworks - one, a discrepancy on how the com pany bid on the water mainportion of the Dearborn project, the other being unresolved items tied to its work on the construction of Third I I *** * *1 ' * issn I**’ ' - »’ Ik* qn, I^G,e,kQ,Ql![< W keep up u nM the*'Zl nweditim i ii^|EiEitg£| gjsl' t •/ I Pets GERMAN SHEPHERD PUP­ PIES. 8 weeks old. Call 269- 331-1788 DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer ,^40 r- at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. Friday, Feb. 23 5:00-7:30 p.m. Ml- I L *• . STEAK DINNER public ’■ > . i 1I I I J I I I 4 I i “They’re getting paid to take care of these people. They need to invest in their infrastructure, instead of zapping all of ours. It’s ridiculous,” he said. “They pay no (special assessment) taxes. I talked to somebody who lives a block from there, and they’re seriously thinking of putting their house for sale because they’re concerned about 1 I ' I I I I I their safety and Pine Rest’s lack of security.” Trustee Tim Haagsma suggested that the township might want to seek some i “Significant personnel will be hired for both safety and security,” Pine Rest vice president and Chief and Operating Officer Robert Nykamp said at the said September planning commission meeting. “We know that certain populations that we treat at Pine Rest have, at times, caused additional security issues requiring the (Kent County) Sheriff’s Department’s response.” He said that Pine Rest closed a residential program that was causing a majority of the calls for public safety response. As for the Pediatric Center, he noted that there are almost no calls for service for the type of acute inpatient care that will be provided in a large “three f I form of compensation for services rendered at Pine Rest He suggested a hypothetical question that could be posed to hospital officials “Is there some way you can help fimd some of the township’s operations, operations, because we send these guys here, we send those guys there all the time?” Haagsma said. I like the idea of payment in lieu (of services), that would be one way to do it,” De Ward said. “Or we go back to saying, ‘We’re going to start billing you every time we send somebody over there’ if it’s an issue that could’ve been resolved with having qualified, trained security people on hand.” fingers” wing of the facility De Ward said the problem that faces the neighborhood, 66 I I I 1 6056 LINFIELD, ALTO, MICHIGAN • 868-6490 , z 'l . 'J. A « I1 j •; .• J«.J yt 4. J .•a •A. 5 I I I 1 i I1 *• * 72r i - I i 4 1 ¥ I I . » i 9^ I *> ** I 1 1 51’ egg I ■5*1 u i I .w * DeWeerd Potato, veggie and roll No Sunday Breakfast a 66 Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers r I with spreading public safety resources thin also may apply to fire service calls to Pine Rest. “If our (fire trucks) are engaged over there, and we have a fire over here, now they have to seek a mutual aid (from another jurisdic­ tion) or whatever it is to get somebody to respond because they’re tied up,” he said, “I think they’re not being good neighbors, Trustee Dan Fryling said, adding that the number of security personnel at Pine Rest is inadequate. Residential & Commercial ALTO AMERICAN LEGION PosTsisI ^1 I ! I I I ing, Siding, Pole Bams & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. z tors, staff and our neighboring community.” DeWard pointed out that the KCSO is not complaining about the call volume to Pine Rest so much as asking the township whether it wants such a high percent­ age of its public safety calls being dedicated to one loca­ tion. Or whether the resources should be spread out more evenly to other locations in the township. “I do think we’re at a point where we need to take some action,” De Ward said. Pine Rest has been there forever (since 1910). They provide a very much-needed service.” But he added that the number of requests for publie safety service will only increase once the Pediatric Center opens, unless there are some major changes. “I think it’s going to continue to just be status quo unless we intervene,” DeWard said. “And that’s why I m bringing it to the 1 I I WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roof­ .*1 PUBLIC SAFETY, continued from previous page----------------------- — I I I i -I J * •'I'‘JI I!!®!'’' Street that began late last timeframe of the job, year. Belson said. “We do have some open Village Manager Craig items that have been out­ Stolsonburg said that standing on Third Street under normal circumstanc­ from USA Earthworks that es, a project of this type we have yet to. until would have come up (Tuesday), hear back from before the council at a the engineer who has been committee of the whole trying to get a hold of them meeting, which would for the last two months,” have been held on Feb. 6. Belson told council mem­ That meeting wascanceled bers Tuesday. “It was due to a lack of agenda minor stuff, just more items. paperwork kind of things, “It was not ready in but it’s taken two months time to still hold the com­ to get a hold of them.” mittee of the whole (meet­ In a letter to the village. ing), which would have Williams &. Works recom- been the only item on the mended that the Third agenda at the time,” Street project should be Stolsonburg said. “As “satisfactorily closed out” soon as we had it, we got before another project be it out to you.” awarded to awarded USA The project will be paid Earthworks. for using funds from the Staff does realize it s a village’s local street and $43,000 additional cost water funds, according to (compared to the USA Belson’s memo. Earthworks bid), but we’re looking at the qual_ ity of the job and the 7 b j HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. 1 DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 31 I A Since f9SS - 1 LENNOX I I * ACCREOfTEO BUSINESS I ♦' - '****<• I I •s �Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 17, 2024 II* I ■ Jenison earns split with CHS girls with late rally .r f ;W^ r A 1 J IS< A * 4: Vj*« . <X« 4 V-- > I X * ■. iS- - A I w I ;V a <4 / 9 ■ •• 1 ■r « 2 I X p L i » T t * c. % ri' > <■ < if 4 « «v I 1 %< »• f iC /" rit U I * » A r :r «'K ij^- 9 > .a 1 % I 4« ' % > «e iC i.. hB I 2 1 f A \ .. Ik.* L% :• .n I 1 X* I ri B"’ ■ . I* ^1 I ■ w 9 7ir k a*; Wfl »A r 1 ^4 J k*r- * ^^5 !< * j I - * . .-•-I*' s i • * s J 4 Caledonia freshman guard Kayla Briseno works to drib­ ble by Jenison’s Brynn Butler during the first half at Jenison High School Friday, Feb. 9. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I . V• I • » ir, I Caledonia’s Mckenzie Devries (left) and teammate Mackenzie Myers try and get the ball out of the grasp of Jenison’s Rudy Maynard late in the fourth quarter Friday, Feb. 9, at Jenison High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I Brett Bremer Sports Editor Jenison nudged ahead of the Caledonia girls in the OK Red Conference standings with a 49-42 win over the visiting Fighting Scots Friday. Both teams played with the intensity that comes with knowing the opportunities for victories can be sporadic with state ranked teams pop­ ulating the top of the conference standings each winter. Caledonia got its lone conference win of the season so far when the two teams met at Caledonia High School last month. The Scots are now 1 -10 in conference play. The Wildcats got their secCaledonia junior center Lakely Bottum flips a ond conference win of the reverse lay-up towards the rim in between Jenison’s season Fridav and are nnw season Friday and are now Jessie Stickler (front) and Lia Duch (back) during the 2-9 in the OK Red. first half Friday, Feb. 9, at Jenison High School. It was a long evening in (Photo by Brett Bremer) Jenison with the girls’ game I I I I I I •Il I I I ft 11 I % k UUD t!lJs I X High Efficiency FURNACE I' I k F A t k > ■ I I 1 V• * 2 ■1 if ** W* '1 (I i’' A* r. »» > -'M Mft>a I• ’ I"* I 1 TV- ■ •*'■2 A *1 1 i. It a* * f fl ri' '4- A T* Full Service Body Shop '■I * 4 « ■J i T1=:^ M* ?} A- 400 OFF * Must present this coupon. 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Jenison went 7-of-lO at the free throw line the rest of the quarter and got a late bucket from sophomore guard Jessie Stickler to get back within 33-32 by the end of the third quarter. Wildcat freshman forward Brynn Butler hit three shots all night, but they were big ones - all threes. The first tied the contest at 17-17 late in the first half, and then she hit a pair of threes in the fourth quarter. The first one of the fourth, half a minute rz3 J ’ a i following the boys’ varsity contest, which the CHS boys won, and the Wildcats’ senior night ceremonies for the boys and girls. A total of 47 foul calls in the girls’ contest didn’t help move things along any. Things got away from the Scots as the second half wore on. They put together a 7-0 spurt in the middle of the third quarter with a three by junior guard Kathryn Langenburg, a bucket thanks to a hard drive to the basket by junior guard Lily Gortmaker, and one of their finest offensive possessions of the night on which Langenburg found a cutting junior guard Brecken Bloemers for a basket, That run had the Scots Within 18 mo. M 415 2nd • Middleville ( 4 I I in, gave her team a 35-32 lead and the second with two and a half minute to go helped seal the Scots’ fate. Caledonia had a four-min­ ute scoreless stretch in the middle of the fourth quarter where things turned from a 36-35 Caledonia lead to a 44-36 Wildcat advantage. Gortmaker fouled out during that stretch, getting whistled for an offensive foul while attacking the basket with 3:20 to play. Coach Todd Bloemers led the officials know soon after that he felt their stretch of calls over a few minutes was unacceptable, and he was whistled for a technical. Junior guard Rudy Maynard hit one of the two technical free throws for the Wildcats and then Butler’s third three of the ballgame came on the ensuing possession. Maynard led the Wildcats with 12 points on the night. Sophomore guard Jessie Stickler had eight and sopho­ more guard Reese Stedman matched Butler’s nine points. Devries led Caledonia with 15 points. Gortmaker finished with nine points and junior center Lakely Bottum added seven. Langenburg hit a late three to cut into the Wildcat margin and finished with six points. Both teams could have made things easier on them­ selves with an improved per­ formance at the free throw line, and there were many opportunities. The Scots were just 13-of-25 at the line and the Wildcats just 17-of-32. Caledonia headed into a home game with Grandville Friday night sporting a 4-14 overall record. Grand Haven finished off a sweep of its OK Red set with the Scots this season by scoring a 60-37 win in Caledonia Tuesday night. liCS^ .< jifWS i» iitits f 443511 iissjflW sulf'l'lfe I lib tins illtUKOfl' liflM tel 1 » is Blklinn I'aiil ft» .»iai w ? Si. Ss �Potgeter slaloms his way to D2 Ski StatT^^« Brett Bremer Matuwau 98, Wes, Catholic I6.h.place finish. ............................ ............................ Sports Editor 110, Cadillac 153, Grand added a 26th-place GSPotgeter hard and have overcome chal» perfcx- longing situations while being Caledonia is sending its Rapids Christian 192, Forest first skier to the MHSAA Hills Central 196.5, Caledonia mance to his slalom finish. there for their team.” Diegel scored with a 34th-place State finals since 2020. Baldwin was 32nd in the 210.5, Hackett Catholic Prep slalom finish. Freshman Aidan slalom and 36^ in the GS. DJ Potgeter qualified for 309, Lowell 323, Spring Lake Brown scored in both races for the MHSAA Division 2 Ski 324 5 Plainwell/TK Plair.«,»ii/Tiz 367, Thompson had times that 324.5, the Scots, placing 32nd in the Finals that will be held South Havpn earned her 37th-place in the Haven 401 and GS and tying for 32nd in the slalom and a tie for 49^ in Monday, Feb. 26, at Nubs Northview 493. Snow L__ 4 )rought hundred the GS. Nob by placing tenth in the “Our guys came out and Our guys came out and o the Cadillac enthur slalom a, ,hc MHSAA skied really well" PeUo^ T Vicky Brousse and junior celebr£> -'Oenlng of Cab< Division 2 Regional a, said. "We were han^ »^^ e«er on h.s fire, ™ a, d,e Liz Hilton both also scored in said. “We were happy with --'berfae, wh' Janu?' Caberfae Peaks Monday. ,heir perfonnances a, ,he loVcore forh" both events for the Scots. their performances at the i Jlc word CC s "11 has a big ye,u for race, bu, ,he fasles, learns second run. His tphmes of Brousse, one of the Scots' trio < race, but the fastest teams iolnt pr our learn, Caledonia head were were a bil faster Ihan we were ihe GS for r,l.7 of talented foreiOT exchange a bit faster than we were ce, the students, was 34^ in the sla1 '““'y-E™'hough we we aren aren'l ’t 20.16 and 21 66 :c). the f lorn and 41 st in the GS. Hilton We have had a lot to be happy moving on to the state fin.ic Sophomore finals . ce -ai Derick placed 49^^ about with the move north, these guys have proven race p •, , , , rated Pntchard also competed for 50 ‘h in the slalom. 50*^ % and DJ Potgeter qualifying for after race they are a hard y th. the Caledonia boys Monday. i a The CHS team also had the State Finals is one more working and determined I exist t 1 The Caledonia girls were . 9 exchange students Zosia thing to add to the list.” bunch that always give their ninth in their DubJi competition at Skrzypek “DJ is a talented skier. a best efforts. and Tamara Caledonia’s DJ Potgeter celebrates with his too the regional. hard worker and everything Sarkoeziova and freshman ten slalom medal at the MHSAA Division 2 Ski “My seniors have really Cadillac won the girls’ paid off for him Monday.” been a joy to coach over the ®------------------------------------------------------------------------------- earned regional title with 44 points the finah Potgeter will get to com­ years and it was fun to watch ® State finals with his finish in the event. ahead of Mattawan 60, East “PPtrclassmen and pete in the slalom and GS them push themselves to ee toTd “kaordrmi ” r Grand SL Rapids 101, Grand how fas, they could become. BO events at the state finals. The have on our team and we are Rapids Hannah Darooge was Rapids Christian 130, Forest gus.wholfeel very going to miss them when they Caledonia boys were seventh The have all had great careers Hills Central Igg’crand r^ right behind Wallis on that first Hills Central 188, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 193. XT'rcX’^sI^" We as a team in the 13-team an,> accomphshed a lot." head back to Europe at the run in 24.50 and tlien tcxik the Rapids Catholic Central 198, regional. end of our season. The CHS seniors this win- Hackett Catholic Pren 7i i « n u slalom victory with a time of Hackett Catholic Prep 211, The top three teams and ter on the boys’side included Spring Lake 286, Caledonia student exchange Cadillac's Onalee Wallis 25.03 on the second run. or two but we have was a fall on the second run of top ten individuals all quali­ Brayden Smith, a four-time Wallis won the GS with 330.5, Lowell 418, Northview never had three and certainly fied for the MHSAA Division all-conference skier, as well the slalom from sweeping the runs of 20.41 and 18.55. Her 436, Plainwell/TK 438 and have not had three that have 2 Ski Finals. The top four as Ben Diegel and Cohen two girls’ races. She had the teammate Avery Meyer was South Haven 531. impacted our team with their individuals not on the state Broomfield. top time of24.46 the first time second with times of 20.87 Our girls came out and put scoring. Vicky Brousse, Zosia down in the slalom, but finqualifying teams in both the “Ben Diegel has been a down some great runs and 18.64. Darooge placed at the Skrzypek and Tamara ished 40th with a second run third in the GS with runs of slalom and GS also earned two-year starter and has been race, but there were some of Sarkoeziova were a joy to time of 43.06. East Grand 21.22 and 19.25. spots in the state finals wheth- an outstanding skier that the fastest teams in the state at er or not they managed a top always comes through with this meet,” Petrosky said. ten finish. the run when we need it most “Cadillac’s girls are favored to East Grand Rapids’ Quinn and Cohen Broomfield has „ . „ ... the state championship A Erwin was the fastest skier m really turned into a fast skier this year and they set the pace .X Provided by Andrew McFadden each of the four guys ’ runs of who can be as fast as any of Mya Baldwin and Kyleigh 3 the day. He was the slalom our guys and has been doing Thompson lead our team at and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones • champion with runs of 22.70 It when we need him most regionals, just as they have all seconds and 23.55. That first this year, Petrosky said. season. These two have started run down was 1.77 seconds Broomfield scored in both for me since they were a fresh­ faster than any other guy. He events Monday with 30th-place man and a sophomore and Investing for your future down and then sell them 500. But this companson was also the GS champion finishes in both the slalom and their leadership has really is important but it can be when the price has risen may not be that useful. The thanks to runs of 18.00 and GS. Smith was the fastest Scot shown through the past two challenging. How can you significantly, you’d always S&P 500 only measures the 20.05. in the GS event with a seasons.They have worked navigate the complexities of make some tidy profits. The stock prices of the leading Potgeter was 16^^ after one the financial markets and main drawback to this tech­ publicly traded U.S. comparun on the slalom course in make the right decisions for nique, though, is that it’s nies by market capitalization which he had a time of 27.44. your situation? virtually impossible to fol ­ — but your investment port­ He cut that down to 26.57 on Fortunately, you don’t low, especially for individu­ folio, if properly diversified, his second time down, a mark COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES have to go it alone. A finan­ al investors. Nobody, not will include investments good for the eighth best time The minutes of the January 23, 2024 Regular Council cial advisor can help you in even professional money other than U.S. stocks, such of the second run. Meeting, which were approved on February 13, 2024, are these key areas; managers, can really predict as bonds, government secuErwin and the Pioneer won posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the • Developing a personal with any accuracy when rities, international stocks website at www.villageofmiddleville.org. the boys’ regional title with financial strategy - Many stock prices have reached and more. Consequently, the just 50 points ahead of factors go into creating a high or low points. Conse- pierformance of your portfolong-term financial strategy, quently, those who try to Iio won’t track that of the What is your risk tolerance? make these guesses could S&P 500 or any other single When would you like to miss out on opportunities. index, either. Your financial retire? What sort of retire­ For example, investors who advisor can help you employ ment lifestyle have you are determined to buy low more meaningful bench­ envisioned? What are your might not want to purchase marks, such as whether your other important goals? A investments when the mar­ portfolio’s progress is on Notice is hereby given that the proposed budget of Irving Township for FY 2024-2025 financial advisor will ask ket is up but this practice track toward helping you will be submitted for consideration at a public hearing on February 28, 2024 at 6:00 pm, these and other questions in could lead to taking a “time meet your financial goals. with regular board meeting to follow at 6:30 pm to consider adoption of the FY 2024- i getting to know you, your out” from investing just Also, a financial advisor will 2025 budget and other business that may come before the board. The proposed budget family situation and your when the market is in the review your portfolio and will be available during regular office hours from 9:00 to noon on Mondays and hopes for the future. By tak­ midst of a rally. But a finan- investment strategy regularWednesdays. ing this type of holistic cial advisor can steer clients ly to determine what changapproach, a financial advisor toward a more disciplined es, if any, need to be made, can help you create financial approach, such as buying either in response to the mar­ THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO and investment strategies quality invaestments and kets or to events in your life. SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS appropriate for your needs. holding them for the long MEETING. Investing for your future • Avoiding mistakes - A term, regardless of the ups can be exciting and reward­ financial advisor can help and downs of the market. This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1076 as amended (Open Meetings ing and you can feel more you avoid costly investment Act) MCLA 41.72A (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). • Checking progress confident in your decisions mistakes. One such mistake toward your goals - If you when you have someone is attempting to “time” the were to invest without any helping you along the way. The Irving Township board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services market. Investors pursue guidance, you might not be to individuals with disabilities upon seven (7) days notice to the Irving Township Board. market timing when they try looking at your investments’ This article was written by to “buy low” and “sell high.” performance with the proper Edward Jones for use by Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the clerk In theory, of course, this is a perspective. For example. your local Edward Jones at 3425 Wing Rd Hastings, MI. Phone (269) 948-0633 z great idea if you could some investors simply com­ Financial Advisor. consistently buy invest- pare their portfolio returns Edward Jones, Member ments — stocks, in particu- against a widely used mar­ SIPC Submitted by when their price is lar — ket index, such as the S&P Sharon Olson, clerk 212414 \E SKI RES CA I Aiy <‘3 >5 < I I > • I « I i 1 ] I I * I ulll]® i ■WllUljL J’* f - J 1 I I 1 1 I I FINANCIAL FOCUS * I 4 A* ■> dfeiit ill MUtkiilj lopliy, achTodd Bi®, fficisk tnon sjuj K felt to js averafwEBt, stable, ai j, led Id 1 Hi ' {ri Dita e of lit Inti nUli oWHl haliguMcsi; nl Id it Hl 3poisB(tW nore bIi 'WfljiiiilJ ' Wiliffi!# IBtfc'iBI* fs Id ti* iatiS’ itali**' dint It' Ji ;.i^ 1 )( Why see a financial advisor? 1 I I f i I L I I I f t NOTICE TO IRVING TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS I• t t i a I 1 r I I I 1 h I . ( �I Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 17,2024 Bfl• _ Pair of linemen headed from CHS to Davenport w* 1 t * I A I adtdas t tiit Vj_ 1 4 M 'b. 7 •1 4 r I 4 f h J r ■'* A • U f t • le A p < _ _ y J ■ ■ 4 p- r t w IJ Utt' IJ I > f \/ I I r - . ■ *■ *-w* ■ r»ji •. f 4 ♦ U!t.‘. ♦ y > K t t J. I 1 r'' kJ uI . r i^S adidas f 1,1 1 • •l r ,« X M 'b ’ •*. 14* VT r / 4'^ I .AL .‘i I : Caledonia senior center Cade Tidey is joined by family as he signs his National Letter of Intent to join the Davenport University Football program at Caledonia High School Feb. 7. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor The purple and gold crowd from Ralph E. Myers Stadium was all red and black inside the lower forum room Wednesday, Feb. 7. Fighting Scot senior defen­ sive lineman Jaxon Engelberg and offensive lineman Cade Tidey signed their National Letters of Intent at Caledonia High School to play football up M-37 at Davenport University next season. Tidey started at center and Engelberg at defensive tackle for the Fighting Scots as they won their way to a runner-up finish in the state in Division 1 as juniors and continued to help the Scots be one ofthe top teams in the state their senior season. The two never spent too much time going up against each other in practice, with Engelberg working with the first team offense as well. Engelberg won the Scots’ Andrew DeVries Award this season and was a three-year starter for the Scots. Tidey spent two years as the Scots’ center. “I am just really excited for both of them,” Caledonia var sity football coach Derek Pennington said. “It really says a lot about the experience they had here. I think we’re around 15 kids that are in college football during the three years that we have what does it say been here that all those kids wanted to go on and play college football because they loved their expe­ rience here. And, I am proud to say this -1 don’t think any of them have left. A lot of times kids go to play college football and they don’t last ten minutes because it is too hard or they just don’t want to do it anymore ... but they have all stuck it out, which tells me that we are pre­ paring kids by working them hard here and giving them a true look at what preparing for college football is because we haven’t had one kid drop out of college football. I am really proud of that I think that these two have a good chance to be 212068 0 W N S H P 2024 MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE Charter Township of Gaines, County of Kent, MI The Gaines Charter Township Board of Review for March 2024 will be held at the Township Office, located at 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, MI to hear appeals regarding 2024 assessments. The Gaines Charter Township board of Review will meet on the following dates: f. Caledonia senior defensive lineman Jaxon Engelberg is joined by farnily after signing his National Letter of Intent to join the Davenport University Football pro­ gram at Caledonia High School Feb. 7. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ^Jl Ifl R I really successful at Davenport Cade didn’t get a ton of playand it is cool to get to go watch ing time that year, being a second string offensive line­ kids play.” Engelberg said he thinks man he got to face off against that the recent Scots have like- the best of the best from the ly had such a good success defensive side of the ball. “Going against Andrew rate in sticking in college programs is that guys will get DeVries [now at Ferris State weeded out in high school if University] was not comfortthey’re not ready for that kind able at all. He was a force. Honestly, I wouldn’t even say of commitment. “With Coach P’s program I felt comfortable until midand coach [Whitney] Bell, and way through my junior year,” all the coaches. We definitely Cade said. “The first game my work here. It feels like college junior year, I was sitting on the sometimes,” bench, coach walked by and practice he goes, ‘oh, no,’ because I Engelberg said. Coach Pennington joked that was sitting there by myself maybe the Scots didn’t even while everyone else was in the realize just how good Tidey was locker room listening to music. at center until they had to play I was just freakin’ out.” He found his mojo halfway without him for a little while due to an injury last fall. through the Scots 2022 season Cade’s father Kevin Tidey in which the team finished secis the head baseball coach at ond in the OK Red, won district Davenport University, so Cade and regional championships and is already very familiar with won its way all the way to the the school and its athletic MHSAA Division 1 State Final department. at Ford Field where they were “I really like the coaching ultimately bested by the defendstaff and the atmosphere that ing slate champs from Belleville. they’re trying to build there. It He is expecting to play cen­ is just a great fit for me,” Cade ter at DU. He was tasked with said. calling out fronts in the middle He said he just developed a of the Caledonia line, but reallove for football that really ly he said making sure snaps took off when coach were good and making sure Pennington called him up to his coach was happy were his the varsity as a sophomore. most important tasks on the football field for the Scots. Cade is looking forward to studying towards an account­ ing degree at DU. “I think that’s great,” Cade said of getting to play with Engelberg, “just knowing somebody that I can go into it with and somebody that I have been working out with the past four years. It’s just great to have somebody there and somebody to room with.” Engelberg was excited by the DU coaching staff and also the academic campus. He is looking forward to working towards a degree in business and sports management. He split time between nose guard and tackle on defense and played right tackle on the offensive line. “I got all that experience in knowing what the offense does and what the defense does, which has been great for learning what to do. “I love defensive line. Offense practice seems repeti­ tive. You’re always working on your stance and move­ ments. On the defensive line, you have to learn to read the offensive line, you’ve got to know the plays, you have to react, follow the ball and hold your gap. I like the challenge more of the defensive line.” ■ J 1 I ✓ i* J! .» k ♦, 1 • Ik! ? <«* 0^’ J* ■ ' I i • i J .rr I M 12483 Tuesday, March 5, 2024, 9:00AM: Organizational Meeting 1 Tuesday, March 12, 2024,1:30PM to 7:30PM: Appeals Hearings ' *' 1 Cl I I 1^* Wednesday, March 13, 2024 , 1:30PM to 7:30PM; Appeals Hearings The Board of Review will meet as many more days as necessary to hear protests and equalize the 2024 assessments. By Board resolution, taxpay­ ers may protest by letter sent to 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, MI 49316 or by email to jim.zenas @ gainestownship.org. provided the protest is received before 5:00PM Wednesday, March 13, 2024. The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2024 are as follows: ___ Agricultural 46.48 1.0757 Commercial Residential 44.17 1.1320 Developmental Industrial 47.75 1.0471 Personal Property 44.18 1.1317 NC NC 50.00 1.000 R. Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Notice The Township will provide necessary reasonable services to individuals with disabilities at the Board of Review meetings upon seven (7) days’ notice. Contact Kim Triplett at 616-504-4332. t VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE POSITION OPEN PLANNING COMMISSION The members of the Planning Commission attend monthly meetings,, review meeting packets from the Village Planner prior to each meeting, consider and act on zoning ordinance text amendments, special land uses, site plans, and requests to change property zoning. The Commission operates under the Michigan Planning and Zoning Enabling Acts. .A. member of the Planning Commission must become familiar with these laws, Annual attendance at a training seminar is required and paid for by the Village. K 1 s X X •X X •» For more information regarding Commission member duties and responsibilities, please contact the Planner/Zoning Administrator at 269-795-3385 or powersd^villaReofmiddleville.ore. The term of the Planning Commission service .®ricl swearing-in of the member and run until April 30, A Planning Commission member must reside within the Village limits. *•» * ■s s Qualifying individuals should submit an application and a letter of interest to: .. I ■■ V Mike Cramer, Village President Village of Middleville PO Box 69/100 E. Main Street Middleville, Ml 49333-0069 A' « •X 1ft Application can be found on our website at httns: ■ ■www.villaeeofmiddlevi 11 e. o r wp-content/uploads/2021/06/APDlicat i o n -fo rBoards-and-Commissions-fillable-2.pdf V'U. 1' 9 <4 �1 ■ r Th© Sun and News, Saturday, February oautmay, reoruary 17,17,2024/ Page 11 ■ ■ $550 checks in Homeschool academy uses handMichigan: Who’s made goods to benefit kids in Haiti I getting them I who isn’t? 1 c •• I- I . Jl Bv I Shari Harris I handmade goods including Contributing Writer earrings, leather goods, wood Raising $5,000 in one day is toys, hooded towels, baked a daunting task, but the stugoods, candy, bookmarks, dents at EPIC Homeschool bracelets, lip balm, honey, r * Academy have done it before [and] keychains.” and hope to do it again on Between food, treats, trin­ Monday with an event called kets and more, there is likely EPIC Marketplace. ♦ // to be something for everyone. The community is invited to “I think it is a really special S-'a* attend and help raise the funds event that brings our commu­ through purchasing goods. nity together and is very “One of our core values at rewarding to know what an EPIC is service,” said Karen impact you can make globally Miedema, service project coor- from everyone’s collective EPIC Homeschool Academy in Middleville will dinator at the Middleville­ effort,” said Stacey Woodall, host its EPIC Marketplace on Monday, Feb. 19 from based academy. “We have an EPIC parent whose chil- 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Photos provided) quarterly service projects that dren have participated in the reach out locally and globally.” event for the past four years is a seller who has enjoyed the Miedema said. EPIC Marketplace is an “Each of my kids have someexperience. A group of volunteers from event that the school hosts at thing unique that they are good ‘ T spend a lot of time brain ­ EPIC that recently served at Peace Church where students at, and it’s neat to see them storming ideas about what to Sus Manos Gleaners were able create homemade goods to sell, come up with ideas of what to make. I love crafting, and it ’ s to package 16 tubs of food. which is similar to a craft show. sell knowing that they are part fun to think about how my According to an email from Miedema said, “About half of a bigger purpose.” time and effort will help add to Jennifer Spica, an administra­ the students craft and create Woodall’s daughter, Alexa, the funds used to support a tor at EPIC, the tubs contain, ministiy,” she said. “...thousands of servings of The funds raised this year dehydrated fruits and vegeta­ ¥ will go toward Sus Manos bles headed to feed special / Gleaners located in Jenison. needs children in Haiti.’’ The organization packages Those interested in attend­ dehydrated food to be sent to £ ing and purchasing goods may .-Jr those in need in various parts shop in the worship center at « © . of the world. Miedema said, Peace Church, located at 6950 A * “Sus Manos Gleaners takes Cherry Valley, on Monday, 4 excess food from local farms Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. « and turns it into nutritious Only cash or check will be .. F"' means for a hungry world. accepted. Sus Manos Gleaners e.— J *•47Fruits and veggies are dehy ­ * will receive 100 percent of the A r, P*. drated and packaged to be sent i \ '/?■ frmds raised. J 1 • internationally.” THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP For EPIC’S part, they are v' BOARD y focusing on the country' of 200 E. MAIN ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Haiti. Though they aren’t just Ml 49333 ^^1 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING 1 raising funds, the students and MINUTES r parents are also packaging the Monday, February 12, 2024 t f a food that will be sent. Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. with seven members pres ­ “The goods EPIC processes ent. and ships will be sent to Haiti A 4 Items approved: f and given to children who 1. Printed Agenda approved as have special needs and are amended with two items added (8. Reserve Time: Awards and especially marginalized,” 12. New Business - G. Barry f' f * 1 I • :A i 'J : I* I *4* r-* I T.... Sk. I Janelle D. Janies federal EITC and is adjust­ ed yearly based on inflation. Individuals who were eligible for the Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit and claimed it when they filed for 2022 already received a 6 percent credit. The checks mailed this week will supplement the remaining 24 percent of the tax credit. The average check is expected to be $550. Bridge Michigan I This week the state I began sending tax credit refund checks to roughly Ilv 700,000 low-income Michigan residents. The checks, averaging about $550, are for those who qualified for the Earned Income Tax Credit in 2022. The checks come after a state law was passed last 117 March that expanded Michigan’s Earned Income WHEN SHOULD I Tax Credit from 6 percent EXPECT TO RECEIVE to 30 percent of the federal MY CHECK? tax credit. The Michigan WHO WILL GET A Department of Treasury CHECK? Lil 5 will send the supplement Recipients will be tax­ checks on a rolling basis sen iX' payers who qualified for over the next five-to-six Ur ft ' I the Earned Income Tax weeks by mail, beginning Credit in 2022, designed to this week. ,1 Jlj benefit residents who have DO I NEED TO DO iy 1-a job but don’t make much ANYTHING TO money. The size of the RECEIVE MY CHECK? credit depends on house! . The paper checks will hold income and dependent automatically be sent to elini children. gible taxpayers, without . For the 2022 tax year, a having to take additional kmarried couple with three steps. The Michigan The ®^WfcaiiW... . I kids qualified if they earned Department of Treasury t r I s»S >4 I !■■■■ 5^ :•■***. fc.- r, h, T > •4 4 A w > I 4* V * *2* 4 4 a it ■ - «r 4*^ . K I ‘*S ‘^ >11 5 T t.- life I I ‘w il . "I ’ta 4( il® I• less than’ $59,187 combined. Individuals without children could qualify if they earned less than $16,480. HOW MUCH MONEY MIGHT I GET? R ddbaiT 1®, fWKSffiiipj The maximum Michigan Eire is 30 percent of the 1 will confirm who is eligible to receive a check based on workers who submitted their 2022 tax return. Individuals who have moved can update their address to ensure that the check is sent to the right place. •> •W- - $ -s . 5 id 1 ’fl;.. >. 4 ■ J r f r© i Ik a ilceaiB ' Wfeii: I m 01 Ei it ' ekn^iat epl^yiiktt) ‘ I .Ikiletts (IJS,* plans. S'** .(Wins it to.’ r ’A Sen. Albert schedu les Feb. 23 office hours State Sen. Thomas Albert has scheduled in-district office hours to meet with residents at two locations on Friday, Feb. 23. The times and locations for the office hours are; — 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Hastings City Hall, Council Chambers, 201 E. State St. in Hastings. — 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Biggby Coffee, 1114 W. Superior St. in Wayland. Office hours are open to district residents to talk about issues related to state government or to request assistance with a state issue. Priority will be given to constituents seeking to dis­ cuss issues that require pri­ vacy. No appointment is neces­ sary, but space may be limit­ ed at some locations. Local office hours in other parts of the 18th Senate District will be scheduled at a later date. V I I I J I The EPIC Marketplace will raise money for Sus Manos Gleaners, located in Jenison. The organization packages dehydrated food to be sent to those in need throughout various parts of the world. Thornapple Township 2024 BOARD OF REVIEW d I. «st' "1^ 1 ♦ 7'I 'f ft 's' 1 tr r,’'- • I Notice to all township taxpayers; The 2024 Board of Review ior the Townshap of Thomappie will meet at the Township Hall, 200 E. Main St., Middleville, Michigan on these dates: I << ttRkt March 5, 2024 - Organizational Day ♦ ♦♦ I I 9am ¥ r Monday, March 11, 2024 J 9 a m to 12 Noon, 1 to 4.00 p.m. 9 Thursday, March 14, 2024 8am to 12 Noon; 6 to 8pm state Sen. Thomas Albert The I Sth District includes Barry County and portions of Allegan, Calhoun, Kalamazoo, Kent and Ionia counties. Residents unable to attend office hours may contact Albert’s Senate office via email at SenTAlbert@senate.michigan.gov, by calling 517-373-1734 or by calling toll-free at 855-347-8018. information More at found be can SenatorThomasAlbert.com. CALL 269-795-7202 To make appointment with the Board of Review (Written appeals accepted until March 14, 2024) The tentative recommended equalization ratios and estimated multipliers (factors) necessary to compute individual state equalized values of real property in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County: AGRICULTURAL COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL PERSONAL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENTAL TIMBER-CUTOVER RATIQ(%) 52.80% 47.27% 49.12% 44.72% 50,00% MULTIPLIER 0.9470 1.0578 1.0179 1.1181 1.0000 None in Class None in Class Eric Schaefer, Thornapple Township Supervisor 21235471 J Irving Township Board Meeting Synopsis January 23, 2024, 3425 WING RD HASTINGS Ml 49058 Meeting Called to order at 6:30 PM with the Pledge of Allegiance. Doug Sokolowski, Jamie Knight, Mike Buehler and Sharon Olson present. Dean Bass was absent. 20 members of the public were pres­ ent. Motions passed: 1. approve agenda with the addition of the Thornapple trails maintenance agreement 2. approve Minutes from De­ cember 19, 2023. 3. pay Birch Fire Depart­ ment contract in the amount of $52,338.00. roll call. 4. approve the use of the park­ ing lot by the Wish-A -Mile bicycle tour July 26, 2024. 5. fund the maintenance of the 2-miIe section of the Paul Henry Trail that runs through Irving Township for $1250.00 for this year. Roll call. 6. to pay bills $22,496.24. Roll call. 7. to adjourn at 7:46. Upcoming dates: January 23. 2024- Election Commission and budget workshop 6:30 PM February 20, 2024, Budget hearing 6:00 PM and Township Board Meeting 6:30 PM Full minutes are available at Irvingtownship.org or at 3425 Wing Rd. Hastings. Ml 49058. Prepared by Clerk, Sharon Olson. Attested to by Supervisor, Jamie Knight. 212415 County Fair Booth.) 2. Consent Agenda approved as amended with a correction to b. Minutes of the Election Com­ mission Committee of January 25, 2024 (Laura Bouchard with Anita Janose rather than Pat Col­ lins on the Receiving Board.) 3. Approved motion to adopt Resolution 1-2024 Support for Residents Constitutional Rights. 4. Approved motion to adopt Resolution 2-2024 Poverty Guidelines. 5. Approved motion to adopt the Ambulance Replacement Plan. 6. Approved motion to replace the township hall furnace and A/C unit for a cost of $9,870 and to purchase and install a Nest ther­ mostat for a cost NTE $260. 7. Approved motion to adopt the Village of Middleville Trail Maintenance Agreement for a cost of $1,900 for 2024. 8. Approved motion to install a new flagpole at Mt. Hope Cemelery for a cost NTE $1,500. The flagpole is being donated by the Middleville Veterans Memorial Committee. 9. Approved motion to share a booth at the Barry County Fair with the City of Hastings and the village of Middleville at a cost of $146.67. Meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Amy Brown. Approved by Township Supervisor, Eric Schaefer. Copies of the meeting minutes are available upon request from the Township Clerk or by visiting our website at https://thomapple-twp.org/meeting-minutes/ Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. > �1 * •fI t Page 12ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, February 17,2024 runs in, hope for final league rac^ Trojans get regional i .. X r I V to. JPl I U * * •Sc 9• J W*.. - I I .•I* Z .^pgs; « f " A- i . it, .*q S --V ’ • 'to* I J*'!/.*-* •■ *«*>«0W** » 4 I 7 •-K r . .A 4 i .w Ik i< • 'ii t . 4. H J * I f , * I -A**- 7ii r* » s r > .V t 4 •«' Jr li*' s I . , > ■ Ji.. * ♦ *' • I Plainwell/TK’s Liam Troutner works his way down the hill during the MHSAA Division 2 Regional at Caberfae Peaks Monday. He had the top slalom perfor­ mance of the meet for the Trojan Ski team. (Photo by Eric Hodges) Brett Bremer in the final team standings on Sports Editor the day. It has been hit or miss on Liam Troutner had the top the slopes this winter, but the individual finish of the day Plainwell/Thorn apple for the Trojan team with a Kellogg Trojan Ski team got 28th-place performance in in its runs at the MHSAA his slalom competition. He Division 2 Regional hosted had runs of 28.78 seconds by Caberfae Peaks Monday. and 29.26. The Plainwell/TK boys The Plainwell/TK boys placed 11 th and the girls 12th also had Robby Jones place 212420 I Yankee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD ■ MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 2024 MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE Yankee Springs Township Barry County The Yankee Springs Township Board of Review for March 2024 will meet at the Yankee Springs Township Office at 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333. Plainwell/TK’s Amelia Wynalda races around the gates during the MHSAA Division 2 Regional at Caberfae Peaks Monday. Wynalda scored for the Trojan Ski club in both the slalom and GS events. (Photo by Eric Hodges) 39th, Sam Bacon 48th and Colin Gritter 49th in the sla­ lom. In the giant slalom, Jones led the way for the Trojan Ski team with a 45th-place finish. He had runs of 22.31 and 24.39. Bacon placed 50th, Gritter 52nd and Gerrit Taber 56th. Troutner had a second run of 22.21, the fastest slalom run of the day for the Trojans, but couldn’t make up for a mishap the first time down. “Robby Jones has been getting better each time out and saved his best for the competition,” regional Trojan assistant coach Rhys Vandemark said. “On a day when a lot of racers were struggling, he laid down four very solid runs.” East Grand Rapids’ Quinn Erwin was the fastest skier in each of the four guys’ runs of the day. He was the slalom champion with runs of 22.70 and 23.55. That first run down was 1.77 seconds faster than any other guy. He was also the GS champion thanks to runs of 18.00 and 20.05. The top three teams and top ten individuals all qualify for the MHSAA Division 2 Ski Finals, which will be held at Nubs Nob Feb. 26. The top four individuals not on the state qualifying teams in in both both the the slalom slalom and and GS GS also also earned earned spots spots in in the the state state finals finals whether whether or not they managed a top ten finish. Both the Mattawan boys’ and girls’ teamsd qualified for the state finals with run­ ner-up finishes. The Wildcats will certainly be the favorites as the Southwest Michigan Ski Conference enters an extended final week to the season. The SWMSC will get together for meets Monday and Wednesday at Timber Ridge. Erwin and the Pioneers won the boys’ regional title with just 50 points ahead of Mattawan 98, West Catholic 110, Cadillac 153, Grand Rapids Christian 192, Forest Hills Central 196.5, Caledonia 210.5, Hackett Catholic Prep 309, Lowell 323, Spring Lake 324.5, Plainwell/TK 367, South 212417 The Yankee Springs Township March card of Review will meet on the following dates: Appeals are by appointment. Please call 269-795-9091 to schedule an appointment. I a: to 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN TO: The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests, and to equalize the 2024 assessments. By board resolution, taxpayers are able to protest in person, by letter sent to Dan Scheuerman at Yankee Springs Township, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, Ml 49333, or email d.anscheuerman@vankeesDrinQstwD.org provided protest is received prior to 4 PM on March 14, 2024. The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2024 are as follows ‘Agricultural .49.88% 1.00241 ‘Commercial .48.67% 1.02733 ‘Industrial.... .46.11% 1.08436 ‘Residential.. 44.02%. 1.13585 ‘Personal Property...50.00% 1.00000 Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Notice Persons with disabilities that need special assistance, please contact Mike Cunningham, Clerk, at 269-795-9091. Rob Heethuis, Supervisor Dan Scheuerman, Assessor * Yankee Springs Township • Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 1:30 PM- Organizational Meeting • Wednesday, March 13, 2024, 1-4 PM and 6-9 PM - Appeal Hearing • Thursday, March 14, 2024, 9 AM - Noon and 1:30-4:30 PM Appeal Hearing JSproperty owners OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: adopted hv the Vivi's!^ following is a,summary of Ordinance No.02-08-2024 1 which was p y the Yankee Springs Township Board at a regular meeting held on 2/8/2024. RDINANCE 02-08-2024 1 - DINANCE TO RF/ E PROPERTY IN LAND SlCTl 16 SECTION 1 REZONING OF PROPERTY IN LAND SECTION 16 The zoning map is amended to show approximately 6.16 acre parcel located on Willson Drive in Willson’s Plat of Turner Lake, being rezoned from RA, Rural Agricultural zoning district to RR, Rural Residential Single Family zoning district. The tax parcel number is 16-240-027-00. SECTION 11 severability. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION III SECTION IV « REPEAL, All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall take effect ei eight days after publication after adoption. please take FURTHER NOTICE that the foil text of the Ordinance has been posted in the Office of the Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that Michael Cunningham, Clerk 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 (269) 795-9091 Haven 401 and Northview 493. Lillian Wamez led the Plainwell/TK girls in both events. In the GS, she was 53rd overall with runs of 26.46 and 25.21. Amelia Wynalda placed 55 th, Kaitlyn Hodges 58th and Marian Gielincki 62nd. In the girls’ slalom. Wamez had times of 35.93 and 36.54 to place 45th over­ all. Wynalda had the fastest slalom run for the Plainwell/ TK girls getting down the hill in 35.77 on the first run. She added a 37.11 second run to place 46th. Alivia Raak was 57th and Laine Hinton 62nd for the Trojans. Cadillac’s Onalee Wallis was a fall on the second run of the slalom from sweeping the two girls’ races. She had the top time of24.46 the first time down in the slalom, but fin­ ished 40th with a second run time of 43.06. East Grand Rapids’ Hannah Darooge was right behind Wallis on that first run in 24.50 and then took the slalom victoiy with a time of 25.03 on the second run. Wallis won the GS with runs of 20.41 and 18.55. Her teammate Avery Meyer was second with times of 20.87 and 18.64. Darooge placed third in the GS with runs of 21.22 and 19.25. Cadillac won the girls’ regional title with 44 points ahead of Mattawan 60, East Grand Rapids 101, Grand Rapids Christian 130, Forest Hills Central 188, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 198, Hackett Catholic Prep 21L Spring Lake 286, Caledonia 330.5, Lowell 418, Northview 436, Plainwell/ TK 438 and South Haven 531. * . 'U.' 1 . ati I - .-.J. 4 umii <tic s * •l' * ‘ii 4 I k, M/ k* ■ < s �7^ • h r•r *• J » The Sun and News, Saturday, February 17, 2024/ Page 13 TK ladies on top at their final CLS boys score well in regu lar season cheer meets freestyle at Hudsonville * « I K' T •li A sr- a * A E •l The Caledonia/LxjwellZ Sam Jones got the the first South Christian varsity boys’ win of the dual for the swimming and diving team Vikings. He took the 200OK closed the Red yard freestyle in 2 minutes Conference duals with a 168- 5.69 seconds. In the 50-yard 124 loss at Hudsonville freestyle, DeJager raced to a Tuesday evening. winning time of 23.65. Jones It was a pretty great day in was also just behind DeJager the freestyle races for the and Dykema with a thirdSenior Vikings. Luke place time of 56.31 in that DeJager set his personal best 100-yard freestyle. time in the 100-yard freestyle The CLS team also had with a time of 52.45 seconds DeJager and Jones team with as he chased Hudsonville’s Brett DeJager and Anders Landon Dykema. Dykema Foerch to win the 200-yard won the race in 49.67. freestyle relay in 1:39.34. CLS s Noah Miller scored a runner-up time of 1:12.84 in the 100-yard backstroke and Foerch was the runner-up in the 500-yard freestyle with a time of 6:00.60. Foerch, Miller, Nolan Fitzgerald and Jones had a runner-up time of 3:54.13 for the CLS team in the 400-yard fitestyle to close out the day. The CLS boys will head back to Hudsonville for the OK Red Conference Finals that are slated for next week­ end, Feb. 23-24. I "I Scot cheer at Hudsonville today for DI district tourney 2^ •Hk Caledonia vanity competitive cheer team heads to Hudsonville High School today, Feb. 17, for its MHSAA Division 1 District Tournament. The top four teams in the district qualify for next week­ end’s regional round of the state tournament. The Fighting Scots finished off the regular season with a third-place finish at the Cedar Springs Red Hawk Invitational last Friday, Feb. 9. The host Red Hawks, who earned a share of the OK Gold S! Ik I lllkiAt iL'i •t * a. H Championship round one. added 185.80 in earlier in the week, took the day’s championship with an overall score of 760.50. Cedar Springs had the top score in each of the three rounds. Bay City Western finished second with an overall score of 682.16 ahead of Caledonia 672.00, Coopersville 617.70 and Muskegon Oakridge 486.40. The Caledonia girls were third behind the Cedar Springs and Bay City Western girls in each round. ,The Scots earned a score of 216.10 points in round two and then finished the competition with a score of 270.1 in round three. The Red Hawks took the vic tory with a score of 227.10 in round one, 225.00 in round two and then 308.4 in round three. They took control early with a performance that was nearly 35 points better than the Western girls in round two. Bay City Western had sores of222.40 in round one, 190.26 in round two and 277.5 in round three. Conference Brett Bremer Sports Editor What the Trojans were hop­ ing was step one of the state postseason wa.s set to happen Friday night at Gull Lake High School as the OK Gold Conference champion Thomapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team was set to take part in its MHS?\A Division 2 District Tournament. The top four teams from the district head to the MHSAA Division 2 Regional Tournament at Kenowa Hills High School Saturday, Feb. 24. They had a pair of postsea­ son warm-ups before that par­ ticipating in the Byron Center Invitational Saturday, Feb. 10, and then at at the Gull Lake Open Monday. TK won the D2 competition al the Gull Lake Open Monday uTth an werall score of 723.2 There were 12 teams total com­ peting across all divisions. Portage Central won the DI title viith a score of 718J that uas second overall to the Trojans. The TK team put up scores of 215.7 in round one, 206.1 in round two and 301.4 in round three. The Trojans had the highest round h^ o score of the day. Charlotte was the only other team to surpass the 200point mark in round two. Portage Central was the top round one team of the evening with a 218.6 in the round and the Gull Lake girls were just better than TK in that round two with a score of 218.3. The top round three perfor­ mance also came from Portage Central, a score of 3O4.Q, The Mustangs had a score of 194.8 in round two. Charlotte was the top D3 team with an overall score of 706.94 and Delton Kellogg wx)n the D4 competition with 639.44 points. At the Byron Center Bulldog Invitational Saturday, the Trojans won the D2 com­ petition with an overall score of 736.36. Zeeland West was second at 712.9 and Forest Hills Central third at 510.4. The meet’s top scores came from Division winner Hudsonville which had an overall score of 759.1. t -I •I TKHS ladies make it ten wins so far by beating Bengals The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team hit double-digit wins for the season last Friday, Feb. 9, with a 51 -34 victory over the Ottawa Hills girls in Grand Rapids. TK headed into its Coaches vs. Cancer ballgame at Wayland Union High School last night, Feb. 16, with a 10-7 overall record and a 4-7 OK Gold Conference mark. That contest at Ottawa Hills was the first of four straight tough OK Gold Conference ballgames on the road for TK. South Christian scored a 52-35 win over the visiting Trojans Tuesday night. TK follows up the Wayland bailgame with a trip to Kenowa Hills Tuesday, Feb. 20. The Knights just handed conference leading Grand Rapids Catholic Central its first defeat of the OK Gold season last Friday, outscoring the Cougars 40-33 at Kenowa Hills High Schixil. The Cougars went into this weekend’s action with a 10-1 conference mark, a step above 8-2 Wayland and Cedar Spring squads at the top ofthe standings. z » L I * • ' i i I I I 2124I6 )!4 Hi I I Caledonia hockey starts state postseason in Holland Idesday i # sI.I.Wi bJ tines of us Upblibi,. Illa lai Ik tash alnikPliiroj {ttiiif bi ii The state hockey postsea­ son is here. Caledonia will open the MHSAA Division 1 state tour­ nament with a regional opener against Jenison at GrifTs Ice House West in Holland Tuesday at 5 p.m. The winner of that contest advanced to the Thursday regional semifinal <1 a nil iSMl lace ft lb 1574 ml lit iJfelklroaii s Onate lb ilkoliiiKf nn SH-eqiig (he »She lai it i.tfi(bli( slata,tafcthasecondnii East Grand against Forest Hills Central back in Holland. West Ottawa takes on East Kentwood in the second region­ al opener of the tournament Tuesday evening with the win­ ner of that contest facing the Forest Hills Eastern-Northern team in the semifinals. The region’s championship game is scheduled for Feb. 28. The Fighting Scots were set to close the regular season with contests at Grand Haven Friday, Feb. 16, and today against the Mid-Michigan Raptors at Kentwood Ice Arena. The pucks is set to drop on that Saturday night regular season finale at 8 p.m. 12593 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 I Taakee Springs Township • NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of Ordinance 02-08-2024 2 amending the Yankee Springs Township Zoning Ordinance to modify definitions for the keeping of chickens; to modify and add requirements for the keeping of chickens; to maintain the keeping of chickens as a special exemption use requiring a permit; to add keeping of chickens as a special exemption use requiring a permit in certain districts within the Township; to provide an effective date; and to repeal all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith. dj Meyer«« QDKS rf 3W’ srodff pl*®* OiLEIX^iA WNSHIP^ Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 Charter Township of Caledonia Request for Bids The Charter Township of Caledonia is seeking bids for approximately 1,550 sq. yd. of pavement removal and replacement with 4 inches of asphalt at four public utility facilities within the Charter Township of Caledonia. ; itiii I® t I. iibcgifb’ ; Contract documents may be examined at the offices of: Charter Township of Caledonia, 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 VK Civil, 7885 Byron Center Avenue SW, Suite A, Byron Center, Ml, 49315 Builders Exchange, 678 Front Ave NW Suite 330, Grand Rapids, Ml 49504 101,0'®^ 11 forts' i 188, ; Prep JI*’ ! i ! plain"''*' 1 *»” I i 1 f I f I « r I I Project Name: Pavement Removal and Replacement at the Charter Township of Caledonia Utility Facilities {Mil® Q 4e CS jm) iS.fS' I 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 TOWN.SHIP OF YANKEE SPRING.S BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN Ordinance No.02-08-2024 2 X. t * if Daw®'® kllisoollialfe nlteitoofilie (ulaWal I •I Interested parties should contact VK Civil at (616) 277-2185 for bidding details. Sealed bids are due in person or by mail at 10:00 a.m. on February 28, 2024, at 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. At that time, the bids will be public­ ly opened and read aloud. Charter Township of Caledonia 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia Mi 49316 Attn: Alison Nugent, Township Manager Phone (616) 891-0070 Email; anugent@caledoniatownship.org ’ t SECTION 1. AMENDMENTS TO ARTICLE 3. This Section amendments Article 3, titled “Zoning Districts,” of the Township Zoning Ordinance to add “Keeping of Chickens” as a special exemption use in the following zoning districts; SR Suburban Residential; RMF Residential Multi­ Family; RSF Residential Single-Family; RLF Residential Lake Front District; and GLRLF Gun Lake Residential Lake Front District. SECTION 2. AMENDMENT TO SECTION 4.5(V), This Section amendments Article 4, Section 4.5(V) of the Township Zoning Ordinance to modify and add requirements for the keeping of chickens, including: clarifying definitions; providing limits on the number of chickens which can be kept; prohibiting the keeping of roosters; requiring chickens be kept in a coop or fenced enclosure; requiring secured and protected containers for feed and care items; subjecting enclosed areas where chickens are held to all Township ordinances pertaining to noise, odor, dust, fumes, sanitation, health, and the like; prohibiting the outdoor slaughter of chickens; and requiring the keeping of chickens be non-commercial. SECTION 3. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of the Ordinance are severable. r 9 SECTION 4. REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORPINANCESZEFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall take effect 8 days after publication, after adoption. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP Mike Cunningham, Clerk 284 N Briggs Rd. Middleville, MI 49333 269-795-9091 www.yankeespringstwp.org I I J « f I . �I Page 14/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 17,2024 Sheely scores runner-up finish to reach DI regional rounu wrestling team’s lone medal­ ist at the district. He earned the right to wrestle again today, Feb. 17, in the 1 Division MHSAA Individual Regional at Holt High School. “He wrestled good enough to win and adance on,” Caledonia head coach Shawn Veitch said. “That’s the key right now - just find a way to get a medal and advance on. I know he still has another level in the tank I have seen in the practice room that still has to get transferred out onto that mat, especially with his take downs.” Sheely is very good right now and coach Veitch sees him pushing towards becom­ ing great once his confidence grows just a little more on Brett Bremer Sports Editor It took more than five of the six minutes in the 150pound semifinal match between Caeldonia junior Will Sheely and Rockford’s Logan Haglund for one of them to finally find a real advantage and Sheely seized it. Sheely scored a take down that put him into a 3-1 lead and he held on over the final 45 seconds for a 3-2 victory at the MHSAA Division 1 District Individual Tournament hosted by Grand Haven High School to clinch his spot in the regional round of the state tournament. Sheely placed second in the weight class to finish as the Fighting Scot varsity the mat - especially on his feet on the attack. “He has a pheonmal shot, a great single-leg, a good double-leg. Sometimes in matches you think it has to be perfect to take that shot. It’s never going to be perfect, espeically against good com­ petition,” Veitch said. Sheely started his day in the quarterfinals with a 10-4 win over Reeths-Puffer’s Andrew Corradin. Byron Center’s Austin Coleman took a 6-1 win over Sheely in the 150-pound championship match at the end of the day. James Carrow, another junior, was the only other Fighting Scot to get within one win of advancing - but it was a heart-breaking finish in the blood round (the con- match and [Carrow] won that match. He got a take down the last ten seconds to win that match there to put him in a good position to place,” Veitch said. Coach Veitch was also pretty pleased with the way ffeshmn Cayden Nostrant copmeted in the 175-poim d weight class. He took a 2-0 overtime win over Jake Bakker from Grand Haven in his opening round match before being bested in his next two bouts. “I was happy with his overall mindset,” Veitch said. “He really gets the wrestling, gets the positioning, and once he hits that weigth room and gets a little strong and a little bit quicker he is going to be tough.” breaker thanks to scoring the initial points of the match and an unfortimate locked hands penalty against Carrow gave the win to Cage. Carrow took an opening roimd win over Wyoming’s Salvador Bernal, by a score of 8-0, then pulled out 6-5 to West Ottawa’s Anthony Jaramillo in the quarterfinals. from Vasquez Josh Grandville pinned Carrow in their semifinal match - send­ ing Carrow to the blood round. The win over Jaramillo was a big one for Carrow who had fallen to the OK Red Conference foe from West Ottawa 10-2 in their first meeting this season. “We really worked on a good game plan for that solation semifinals) for Shores’ Moan Carrow. Anthony Cage took a 4-3 win in an ultimate tiebreaker to clinch a spot on the medal stand in the blood round. Cage took a 2-0 lead with a reversal early in the second period of his bout with Carrow. Escape points by Carrow lare in the second period and early in the third period tied the score at 2-2, and it stayed tied there into overtime. Neither guy was able to score in the initial one-minute overtime period, and then both got an escape point from the bottom posi­ tion during the two 30-second havles of the second overtime period. Cage got the choice to start on the bot­ tom during the ultimate tie- '' 1 ‘ Ml / I (. i‘ L t ' 1 V I VF r I I / 1 ,1 f. 1 J' I .Ci I Pair of Trojans get through to individual regional - Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team head­ ed to Lowell for their MHSAA Division 2 Individual District ♦ S/ 4 • K ' Tournament Saturday and Christien Miller and Jayce Curtis earned spots in the regional round of the individual state tournament with their top four medal winning performances. • ff s « 2^2 -«e«e* - I r' I LV) -■■■•> It , .■ I ; < r •CfQ V a J* m-«wmic w X ***-.**^ ft • - 99! r.•X Uk * I •% A-**’ -4 ft p * *» w ■H— «i< •• • 4’ A ".M I €- B55555rF I* t ■w ft JS b ' >1 w ri 19^ •« 1 r JMr*% TK junior Christien Miller smiles on the medal stand after placing third in the 106-pound weight cIhss at tha MHSAA Division 2 Individual District hosted by Lowell Saturday, Feb. 10. Curtis won the 165-pound weight class. He pinned Lowell’s Seth Harvey in the championship match at their flight after sticking each of his first three foes too. Curtis needed less than a minute to pin Will Vanden Berg from Grand Rapids Christian and Troy Postema from Zeeland West in his first two matches. He pinned Hamilton’s Tyler Block with 31 seconds left on the clock in the third period of their semifi­ nal bout. Miller placed third in the 113-pound weight class. Miller was pinned by Holland’s Aiden Segovia in the third period of their quar­ terfinal match to start the day and then wrestled all the way through the consolation brack­ et to advance. Miller pulled out a 9-7 win over Ionia’s Chad Campell in the first round of consolation and then pinned Hamilton’s Ethan Goodwin in the blood round, the consolation semifi- Phone: 616.891.0070 CTWNSHIP aledmA Fax: 616.891.0430 r- Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County - Michigan 2024 March Board of Review Tuesday: March Sth, 2024 9:00AM - 3:00PM Tuesday: 3:00PM -9:00PM All reviews will be heard by appointment only For appointments call:(616) 891-0070 8196 Broadrnoor Ave. SE Caledonia Ml 49316 Written appeals must be in the Twp. office by Thursday, March 7, 2024 The 2024 equalization tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for the Charter Township of Caledonia will be as follows: Agricultural: Commercial: Industrial: Residential: Personal: >r £ I f I V •d ♦♦ Tentative Ratio 42.41 43.89 48.02 44.53 50.00 I "-------Wi li Jw * • J •9 .J r tre n S’ I’ r* Butiin u 2 92 3 FM fUXALLY) I I =5^ I J * FoHMMMMOTMBi s - 19 _ vftRT I r ' ,11’ ’^1 1 1 .i r :S4 I fw I. WS--.- " • *< >> X •• *4 J 1* 1' r' I I ’x • efc. ♦ ' «f ‘ r t . a t 5 Kt ^■4 « r Si •H. I J icm I I I I 9 • I* A 5i •A t I I «. V" ? i A *4 J I I I’lKShPJME -s I ••%. ♦'. -i'*7«- I I ■ * t ■'» ■: • I 1 X t Thornapple Kellogg junior Jayce Curtis looks out from the top of the medal stand after winning the 165-pound weight class at the MHSAA Division 2 Individual District hosted by Lowell Saturday. Lowell’s Seth Harvey finished second, and Hamilton teammates Ray Lopez and Tyler Block finished in third and fourth place in the weight class. Segovia in the match for third place and took an 8-6 win. Thomapple Kellogg 215-pounder Abram Dutcher and 165-pounder Blake Bossenberger both reached ±e imated multiplier 1.1790 1.1392 1.0412 1.1228 1.0000 blood round before bowing out of the state tournament. Miller and Curtis are in Allendale today, Feb. 17, for their MHSAA Division 2 Individual Wrestling Regional. The top four at each weight class at the regional Saturday advance to the MHSAA Individual State Finals that will be held at Ford Field in Detroit the weekend of March 2-3. 1A I 212422 1 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 QTOWNSHIP ledoniA Org. Meeting - 8:00AM Appeal dates: Monday: March 11th, 2024 March 12th, 2024 I I nals. Miller got another shot at 12168 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 •lb PUB Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 I' 1 IC NO Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan « A rneeting of the Election Commission, a sub-committee of the Charter Township of Caledonia Board of Trustees will take place on Monday, February 19, 2024 at the Township Hall beginning at 10:15 a.m. The Township Hall is located at 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. The purpose of the meeting is to consider the adoption of - -r , --------- a resolution to consoli date the Charter Township of Caledonia's Precinct 4 Thornapple Kellogg School District registered voters into a Bowne Township precinct for the May 7, 2024 Election - Thornapple Kellogg School Millage. A S Joni R. Henry, Clerk Supervisor: Bryan Harrison Assessor: Laura Stob I 1 Posted: February 13, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. 1 « * * < « . ‘v �CHS boys get first back-to-back OK Red’^jrtS'” Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ basketball team won four in a row to close out the 2023 portion of the 2023-24 schedule and now it has its first back-to-back the OK Red Conference slate started in 2024. Caledonia took its sec­ ond win of the season over the Wildcats, in Jenison, Friday night and then followed that up with a win Qygj. visiting Grand Haven at Caledonia High School Tuesday. lead for the first time in the The Fighting Scots second half at 30-29. fought back after being in Buckets by freshman for­ an eight-point hole in the p„M ’ik ward Bryce Backus and first half at Jenison Feb. 9 Googins early in the fourth to score a 52-46 victory. Pib I. quarter upped a 37-35 Caledonia trailed by Caledonia lead to 41-35 and three, 26-23 at the half, the Fighting Scots held a and limited the Wildcats to slim lead throughout all of just a three from senior the fourth quarter. forward Cameron VanElst Jenison was within one in the first five minutes of following a three by the the second half. A nice Wildcats’ Charlie North feed from senior guard with 2:26 to play. *( Lual Abiel to Jaiden Caledonia managed to ’' aa k Googins in the post with fight off the Wildcats ‘ailitii., JW, by 4:14 to play in the third ill going 7-of-8 from the free quarter gave the Scots the throw line in the final two •J minutes at the end of what had been a rough night at the line. The Scots were just 9-of-15 to start the game at the line. The Scots shared the scoring load with . Abiel I leading the way with 12 I points. Ky VanderWoude ■ J had ten and Googins nine. I The Scots also got six ft 4 points each from senior t. guard Corbin Raffier, junior J forward Aryn Taylor and freshman guard Aaron S=i 3 Collins. •7^ Googins had ten I ''is rebounds, Abiel seven and ♦ VanderWoude six. Googins added three steals and Abiel had four assists on the night. One of those Googins t3F steals led to a buzzer-beat­ I ing floater at the end of the first half. That bucket fol­ lowed up a three from Collins. Combined, those two buckets trimmed an Fighting Scot senior guard Corbin Raffler (center) eight-point Jenison lead to chases Jenison guard Pierce Ginzer (left) around a three in a hurry. screen from the Wildcats’ Connor Householder (34) VanElst hit three three’s during their OK Red Conference contest at Jenison and had 13 points for the High School Friday, Feb. 9. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Wildcats. Chris I V r*i?, 1F e : 4 '■ I A .1 ’***^ •t •-* ‘r h ♦4 I SA I< i. £ 1— —. > -4 I, ’..•i ft Sb /••J , -sft A •9 ■ ft a w VanSlambrouck led Jenison with 15 points. The Wildcats went into this weekend’s action with an 1-10 OK Red Conference record. In the Scots’ 57-52 home win over Grand Haven Tuesday Abiel led the way with 17 points, seven rebounds and two assists, VanderWoude had 13 points and seven rebounds and Raffler poured in 16 points to go with two steals. Freshman Bryce Backus had had eight eight rebounds rebounds to to go with two points for the Scot including five offensive rebounds. The win pulls the Scots even with the Buccaneers at 4-7 in the OK Red Conference this season. The two teams were tied in fifth place in the conference standings heading into this weekend’s action. The Scots 10-9 overall going into their home ballgame with Grandville Friday night. East Kentwood visits Caledonia Tuesday and then the Scots close the reg­ ular season at West Ottawa Friday, Feb. 23. * I fi 33 •l •■’TT » ft 4 . > I r • • meije' £ Mm z ▼ k f I ^kJ^^ 5 r A V: t ■ Z’ J ''5.1 1 4 I * ' Ev i V. I i -WHub - 1 ** «lk* 4 I J >AC M t 0 • I '■'=J ►* • I. 11 ft. -I V rv* « I *<« **« 4 .. .*4 i .1 «•: 4- I * f 1 ' •A ll 4« * ft .... z t \NQTQ 79 * c fr. k •Sr* ’^5’' IS-. ♦ > W'Ml AT 5 I J410!!4 X±.r **>*.' < ?5 i>r a Caledonia freshman Benjamin Geerdes works the ball at the top of the key as he’s watched by Jenison’s Charlie Norton (3) during the second half of their OK Red Conference ballgame in Jenison Friday, Feb. 9. (Photo by Brett Bremer) •> ** * 212419 r . J A I eV —A f 2C1 'Z. I t I 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Caledonia TWNSHIP , / Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 . A I’k I •*r— % CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA I r r* I COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN I Si X lopolM monlhiiiii ihedsmliiP i. t CM:. I I 4 i'4 k 1 4^ fc k Bl Foils tfieHiiftW r •f *1 e. i 1 '^45!!r U--. A k € r > • I \V 1*'........... ' t A 1 . iAWiae X i A ■ I •J * •A (BtftW ijtfW r I \r s ■4 4?>' -b. i V It ■ I r •** f ? - r V I i" M' , I K. I I r J I A ' «* 1 * 4 9 N ■S’ r Sr V ' ’ p .J ’K » — .1 r»; ' . « I 1 5,202431 D V * •a V- s> t s * * 4* I I I I a <»t“ > >. ft 1 X iR L f77 r'Mkxvtai k ' 6 A *' ■ ; ■* r k 'k FV •’U a J?';! 5^‘A.. '«iV» t —• 4, ,•> ■ .•£tJS /•I 7 t ■*’A> rll f I I “T I 4 I ^3“«j .‘i k 4 1 1n I A 1 4“ V 'A t PT^ * V •. "k T'. IS > 1 I I y* iSW'-.* Fighting Scot senior forward Jaiden Googins (right) fights to try and keep Jenison senior center Gage Chatfield out of the paint during the second half of Caledonia’s win at Jenison High School Friday, Feb. 9. (Photo by Brett Bremer) t f Dated: 2024 •ri r U-- f .v- • -iv.' r. .s '■I., \ . I* • t i t 'k t I d V 1 PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the of the Caledonia Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on March 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, Caledonia, Michigan, to consider an amendment to the text of the Zoning Ordinance. Some of the proposed changes include: Purpose and Intent. Section 19.0 would be added to the Zoning Ordinance to describe the purpose of the sign regulations, which include protecting the public health and safety, promoting uniformity in the size, number and placement of signs balanced with the rights of businesses and residents , to advertise, convey information, and express viewpoints using signs. Definitions. Definitions of terms used in Chapter 19 of the Ordinance would be revised, and definitions added to Section 19.1. General Provisions. Section 19.2, which contains provisions applicable to all signs, would be revised. Requirements are included for digital signage installed within permitted signs. Requirements for proof of insurance for sign owners and sign installers would be deleted. Regulations For All Districts. Sections 19.6 and 19.7 pertaining to allowed and prohibited signs in all districts would be revised. Signs in all districts which serve a directional or traffic control purpose, and defined small signs would be permitted subject to size, number, and time of display regulations. Agriculture/Residential Districts. Some provisions of Section 19.9 with respect to signs in the Agriculture and Residential District would be revised as to size, height, and location of signage. Commercial and Industrial Districts. Some provisions of Sections 19.10 and 19.11 for signs in the Commercial and Industrial Districts would be revised as to type, size, height, and location of signage. Planned Unit Developments/Cherry Valley Overlay District. Sections 19.12 would be revised to limit the maximum sign area in any PUD to 200 square feet. Provisions for signage in the Broadmoor/Cherry Valley Corridor Overlay District would be relocated from Chapter 27 to Chapter 19, and some of the regulations for size, height and location of signs would be revised. Billboards. No new sign exceeding 200 square feet in area would be permitted. Provisions for the continuation, maintenance and alteration of existing billboards are included in Section 19.15. . All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed amending ordinance. Written comments concerning it may be submitted to the Township, at the address above, up to the time of and during the public hearing. The proposed amending ordinance is on file at the Township Hall and may be reviewed, or a copy obtained, during Township office hours. PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA *^- �I I I » I I I II" 11 Page 16/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 17,2024 I Ploeg free throw clinches TK win over Ottawa Hills Tuesday to give the TK varsity boys a 61 -60 victory over vis­ iting Ottawa Hills in OK Gold Conference action. TK turned the ball over trying to get it to senior guard Kyle VanHaitsma in the high post as the clock ticked down to five seconds remaining and the score tied al 60-60. Craig Hureskin swiped the pass and raced the other way for the Bengals with VanHaitsma hot on his heels, and the TK senior was able to do just enough to make it a tough lay-up attempt at the olher end. The rebound came down in a crowd and Ploeg was fouled Brett Bremer Sports Editor The roaring gym died down just a.s Trojan sophomore Lucas Ploeg bent his knees alone al the free throw line staring up at the rim. He let the ball go and then things got loud in the Thomapple Kellogg High School gymnasium again. I^loeg didn't need a second shot. Senior guard PLthan Bonnema was the first one of the bench to chest bump Ploeg before the rest of the Trojans arrived to celebrate. Ploeg hit a free throw with no time left on the clock f as time expired, and he was sent to the other end of the gym in front of the home bench with two chances to hit a free throw to prevent overtime and give the Trojans the win. Il would have been one that got away if Hureskin, who had a game-high 24 points, would have been able to get that final lay-up attempt to fall. The Trojans held an 11-point lead with just over five minutes to play. A pair of turnovers in the back-court against full-court pressure from Ottawa Hills turned into quick lay-ups for the Bengals that suddenly had •i 't' •.I* Jr Ar ** r- • I > ?• * I 4 T* ♦ « .’J * •* -it' -.Ii k Tk f K •t 1 .5 <9 1 I 1 i 5 I J I J' I J " T / ■w I i f r X *1. I I 7k fthi r I 4 I '3 :? ' * J I - ' I K A • I f K * ■ I I t I I A Thornapple Kellogg senior guard Kyle VanHaitsma crashes into South Christian’s Caleb Pleune (right) and Nolan Fackler as he puts a shot up in transi tion during the first half of their OK Gold Conference contest in Middleville Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ai 1 r- ► ;V 4 •f f 4 4 t it cl i 5 r. **5'0 * 4 jr J» tl }« A A f' •>. > / ■ 1 4 * I LOW 6 aWOOttShOKED BBO' EVENT «]■ * I SV f > t •* > ii •r shi' iKl tl •Sfd : dc*J S’ r ‘V . I B 11 3 >• F r XiBt rt-7' « ; I I1Z4 4 17 I ♦r > III bons t .b ' f 1 \1 r r ■ •J r .1. ■■ • c' t* * «I I* 4 'k«. •0W r Ii'if d » .*A vA - f ■* t; .J op <4 •i * J ww r tc It, IS n • J » Al I -z.» 1 ' ’J .r.. . » /A. I * s Wbw -9 B >W i » oetal.cQzn \ '.-s, ■' »• 1 ) t > S;«-‘ '■ X| •«« 1 .-"6 * b f ’.tel I •1 ft k It-* * ■h.' .T ’)£ •/ •4, vl - 9 4 A ! ■ '<4 S- t «• ■/ d. V I A - k 1^5' K w rd Thornapple Kellogg sophomore forward Trey Hilton rises over South Christian’s Isaac Schrotenboer to get a shot off in the paint during the first half of their OK Gold Conference bailgame in Middleville Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Senior guard Jake Vermaas added 14 points for South Christian. The Sailors moved to 9-2 in the conference with the win trailing only the Catholic the ball around and that is what got us open shots. I told them, you can’t do one pass and shoot. That is not going to get us very far. Pass, pass, pass and then as soon as they start­ ed swinging the ball around, and got ball movement, that’s when we started doing some­ thing. It was a battle.” TK got as close as 32-25 on a three by Gavette with 2:50 to go in the third quarter, but South Christian answered with a quick three-pointer of its own and Kemper had a put- j back and a three of his own as i the third-quarter clock ticked j Central Cougars who are off to an 11-0 conference start. “I thought we’d pick it up, and we did,” coach Garber said. ‘‘We settled down, we were more patient swinging .A. • • •• 4> 9 •%! ■^z down to make it an 8-0 run to close the quarter for the Sailors. Their lead was back to 15 points to start the fourth quarter and it never went below double figures again. South Christian settled its • offense down and worked the basketball a bit better than it had been as the fourth quarter wound down against the Trojan zone to keep its advan­ tage intact. •5 t 1 "li* - OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; 5r >< f T z ft Mh ex 1 I Saturday 9 am-3 pm '9* r ’ Hu •, k. 2) I « t A I 1 I 1 1 I >aii-.. 218 E. State St.. Hastings • 945-9673 ^4 I • 4 jr^ : S 1— QUESTIONS: ASK US... r >. J 4 M' ■ z t; -5 4J • Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station 4 1 I » i• • ♦ ■J '* lb » H*’ 1 Thornapple Kellogg senior guard Tyler Gavette goes up between South Christian’s Jake Vermaas (left) and Nolan Fackler to get a shot up during the second quarter of their OK Gold Conference ball­ game at TKHS Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) -V I : 1 f 5 *' ♦ ! > ."I,' fI MU A I ■ ft V A 1I' ■ A (excludes sale items) Ends 2^29-24 * J t 1 M 1^.F^flK i k « J r a «■ > I > Si b •• u r. P2 4,' - -MJlfl '•/» I** I'J V- .> i^ite for hd more - j8 4 «r V V. r .-5 •A '-'r '« * 1\ 'X ' 11 4s February Sale • 20% off Fabrics X t •L 1 V ic I s t i L .1 I** .J, , •' I 4 1 ■< ft 4^ « 1 •t I I V 'S’ X < n A bl I •I % 14 I » * • I 'll ;?1 5 / -t. 1 ?2 4 *“• a o4nnual 4^ 3zsX .V L« I ■ 5-^ . •w z_ d I 1 ii» 0 • A * ■ ■1 d fis^ .WT Ottawa Hills within seven points. Another Trojan turn­ over led to a lay-up that had the Bengals within 56-52 with three minutes to go. The Trojans and Bengals mostly went back and forth between the free throw lines over the final five minutes. The Bengals were just 8-of-17 at the free throw line in the fourth quarter and just 15-of28 for the game. Hureskin was 7-of-12 at the line in the fourth quarter and had 14 of his 24 points in the fourth quarter. Willie Duke finished with ten points and Alphonse Sanders added 11 points. TK was a little better at the line going 20-of-31 and 6-of12 in the fourth quarter. Senior guard Tyler Gavette was lO-of-15 at the line for the night and had a team-high 17 points. Vanl laiisma finished with 14 points. The Trojans also got ten points from Jude Webster and nine from Bonnema. Ottawa Hills beat the Trojans by 19 points when the two teams met in Grand Rapids earlier this season. TK head coach Phil Garber said playing man-to-man defense ±is time around was a big boost after the Bengals found too many open outside shots against the Trojan zone in the first meeting. “It was a crazy, crazy game. That was a good win,” Garber said. Ottawa Hills went into this weekend’s action with a 10-8 overall record and an 8-3 mark in the OK Gold. TK headed to Wayland Friday with an 8-11 overall mark this season and a 4-7 record in the OK Gold Conference. The Trojans weren’t able to make it two in a row as they fell 57-43 to visiting South Christian in conference action in Middleville Tuesday. TK kept pace with the 14-5 Sailors after falling in a 15-0 hole in the first five minutes of the ballgame Tuesday. VanHaitsma and Brody Wiersma had ten points each for TK and Ploeg finished with nine in the loss to the Sailors. South Christian was led by 19 points from 6-foot-7 junior center Davis Kemper who used his size to score inside, distribute the basketball and drain a few three-pointers over the TK defense. ( � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-02-24.pdf c3742df55151174f80574c64e669f03c PDF Text Text p V ? I % Bastings Public Library 227 E State Street HsstiQpsjyii^gass ** * :**^*f. ' - *1^ r* : 9 . j*'«. ^.I'j.-J ■ * •— A " •* % > •le St" f < - in cF 1^ S'*) i 7 • f I ’ r 3 w k. s ■ Xr<5 V. I ,1 ^7 J 1 7 - i A, l«.^ T ■ 4 A-Sr^ 1 < I* » • « 1^ Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville No, 8/ February 24, 2024 Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. k -Z and Caledonia Areas J J ’ f. •1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 A 146th year Frigid temperatures and massive crowds Baby Bliss facility descend on this yearns Gun Lake Winterfest Karen Turko-Ebright Contributing Writer Freezing temperatures didn’t deter a massive crowd from coming out to this year’s Gun Lake Winterfest. In fact, for a festival that celebrates the frigid elements of winter, those types of con­ ditions are encouraged. Over 4,000 festival goers entered through the gates for the event on Saturday at Yankee Springs Recreation Area. Unit Manager Joseph Jandernoa from the Department of Natural Resources said the number of visitors fluctuated throughout the day. “Attendance counters tracked attendance at approx­ imately 4,383 visitors with peak times at noon and 4 p.m.,” Jandernoa said. Brad and Stacey Landman headed up the Gun Lake Winterfest Committee for the / first time this year as the new chairpeople. “It’s great to see every­ body out here talking to peo­ ple that have been coming out here for years,” Brad Landman said during the event on Saturday. “They liked the beer; the vendors and the Gun Lake Idol contestants were fantastic. It’s a great time.” Thirty vendors stayed warm inside the white tents while a steady crowd flowed 1 comes down as village officials wait for redevelopment plans I I 1 t I I L,_ 'A ' Li*.; ^*4 r yt '1^ 11** AHIMAI Jo »< Vapr t A*; I. / ■ f 4 I I • * •• .•/ • L i i * 4 1 9^ r S',' ' A. .r-' J i I & .9 r-r . *r i- b. *c;=s«'7<^ * : - T f. .* — 4 a 0 I I t• r *1 4* « * 3 5 nr. A*, ' X Ii ' ML.*: *■ I ■ ^r ♦> / snb^' s A' y.;.vr A T"- f : •X r>^ . I 5*4 » .- j Xt’ ■ .1 J '» , '■~r^ ' • --W. w 1 £4 I 2^ * i r A .>• ■ li 7^ 4 W ' ; .-Hr-* • * » r; •7 ' V. 1 •• if' V 4 < I > r • < 9 A » t * » V r. '•V < t I I •9 w A A group of participants head out into the freezing cold waters of Gun Lake during last week’s Gun Lake Winterfest. (Photos by Karen Turko-Ebright) in and out, buying merchan­ dise. The Gun Lake Business Association puts on the annual Gun Lake Winterfest. GLBA President and Treasurer Deb Timmerman operated a booth at the Winterfest winter market. She also took charge of beer tent ticket sales on the event day. Timmerman lends her time in an advisory capacity on the Winterfest committee. She said she’s not surprised by the large number of visi­ tors at this year’s Winterfest. “Wow, it sure was cold, but so many people come out to experience the sense of commimity that Winterfest provides for the whole fami­ ly,” Timmerman said. Winterfest offers a host of activities for every age group. Some of those activities included comhole, a kid’s craft area, shopping inside the vendor tent, entertain­ ment from Gun Lake Idol finalists, and the famous Polar Dip. While the crowds enjoyed Greg Chandler Writer Demolition work continned this week on the site of the former Baby Bliss factory in downtown Middleville. Several buildings on the property at 120 W. Main St. have been tom down. The current property owner. River Run Flats LLC, has been working with the Barry County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority on the demolition. The redevelopment authority last year received $200,000 for brownfield cleanup and remediation, and all of that money has been tar­ geted toward demolition and cleanup work at the long-vacant Baby Bliss site, which has nearly 300 feet of frontage on the Thomapple River. “At this time there hav­ en’t been any approved plans to redevelop the site, nor have we been recently approached by any developers to do so,” Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg wrote in an email to the Sun and Ne\vs. In the village’s 2021 master plan update, the Baby Bliss site is envi­ sioned to be redeveloped into a combination of high-density residential and mixed-use develop­ ment that would be “ideal for a brew pub or restau­ rant.” The 0.81-acre site is currently zoned as a com­ bination of medium-den­ sity residential and central business district, the latter of which is the zoning designation for just about all of the commercial property in the downtown area. Baby Bliss once manu­ factured children’s cloth­ ing as well as clothes for American Girl dolls. The 120 W. Main prop­ erty is currently listed for sale, village Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers wrote in an email to the Sun and News. 1k I * I I I I J I f I filk''' See GUN LAKE, page 2 1 ♦ I Xt4 J. Bleacher, track replacement at CHS stadium put on hold Greg Chandler Staff Writer Plans to replace the bleachers and track at Caledonia’s Ralph E. Meyers Football Stadium have been put on hold for a year. Caledonia Community Schools Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer broke the news of the delay to the district’s Board of Education on Wednesday night at its first committee of the whole meeting since the board decided last month to change its committee structure. Weeldreyer also presented what he termed “very prelim­ inary'' and “conceptual plans for additional improve­ ments to the 6,100-seat stadi­ um. “We have been working >5 ? I H/ II 1 I 4 LI #r / ) J, A I I. I The lights at the stadiiun toward a summer 2024 time­ the summer of 2025, will also be replaced in con­ line (for replacement of the Weeldreyer said. “We’d rather do it right junction with the bleacher bleachers and track), but this rushed,” than fast,” the superintendent too became See CHS GlAm, page 3 Weeldreyer told the board. said. “There were too many things that we felt pushed on to mention, not the least of which was would the bleach­ er units actually be available — all the aluminum and fab,V ai would we rication of that I■ ' X IFIIXh ■ be able to get those things in time and get them in place so that they’d be ready for foot­ ball season?” The district will make repairs to the existing bleach both on the home and ers so that they visitors sides Weeldreyer shows Caledonia superintendent Dirk will be ready for use in the fall, and then replace the the school board’s committee of the whole a portion of the “ very preliminary ” plans for upgrading the footbleachers and track, as well the stadium press box, in ball stadium. (Photo by Greg Chandler) as Crews worked at the site of the former Baby Bliss factory in downtown Middleville this week, demolishing some of the structures that occupied the land. The riverfront property is expected to eventually be redeveloped. ( I I I I I I _ (J A> t •« 1. ra^ -51- I« Ai .".OkT *a* Vw •2 '^1 VX yi t t * ( » s V. 1 4 jf IN I FR RR RR I l| • Pine Rest nets $5 million donation for construction project I I I I 1 J V’T I if? . ».*1 J • Early voting attracts sparse crowds I. 'J *♦ I- 1 II • Late bucket lifts TK boys in OK Gold win over Knights I J • Trojan cheer team chasing D2 regional championship today • CHS girls win second go-round with Grandville on senior night t I I i I 1 1 1 1 A R �I Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24, 2024 I 4^ GUN LAKE, continued from page 1 Community Outreach pro­ gram will benefit from this year’s event. The OCO is committed to improving the "J I 7 II quality of life for Orangeville < > •_ 4 IrTownship and Southwest Barry County citizens. That’s why the OCO set up an infor­ mation booth at this year’s festival to demonstrate all 4 B* their programs and give local and out-of-towTi visitors a broad scope of all the OCO offers to those in need in their community. ! ( J “Orangeville Community I Outreach, the charity that we M partnered has been amaz­ -Ting,” Stacey Landman said. 9 “They were super helpful t with their information booth. Al They put the word out. 5 TTiey’re a great organization P 4^^ to work with, and I hope to From left to right, Hastings High School Seniors Madison Roberts and Ellie do more with them, even on ,44 Smith sell soy candles with a unique glass stained jar at the Gun Lake Winterfest a personal level.” * I r s -4 market. Mark Paradowski founded As usual, the Polar Dip was one of the marquee the OCO almost two decades ago and continues his role as events at this year’s Gun Lake Winterfest. This is the Chief where brave souls take a quick dip in a frigid Gun nonprofit’s V Executive Officer. He said he Lake. is grateful to be this year’s chosen charity for GLW. OCO is very rewarding. Roberts added. '‘The Orangeville “When somebody needs Smith enjoyed talking to Community Outreach started food and they are in tears the customers and meeting in 2006 and has been going asking, but once they receive new people at the candle strong ever since. Our motto it, you see that thankfulness booth. 4 I is that you cannot change the in their eyes. That fills my “It’s been pretty entertainworld but can change the heart,” said Kloth. ing very cold. It was honworld around you.” Paradowski is grateful for estly pretty fun. I’m looking 4 Paradowski said. “We do a the volunteers who helped to forward to the Gun Lake little bit at a time by provid­ keep the OCO running Summerfest,” said Smith. I ing food, fresh food, pantry smoothly. “It’s been a steady flow all food, a clothing drive twice a “You get to a certain point day then towards the middle year and we do Smiles for in life you are supposed to of the day it got pretty busy.” Christmas.” give back,” Paradowski said. According to United Bank OCO Program Director “That’s why God put us on Manager Katie Niemchick Becky Kloth joined the orga­ this earth to take our and her team, who sponsored I nization seven years ago. skills and do good with the Polar Dip, 30 signed up Kloth has her hands in all them.” this year to take the plunge. u to, 5 the services offered by the Thirty vendors put their Tickets cost $25 and includOCO, including the food dis­ sales skills into action at the ed a T-shirt. tribution, the spring and fall Winterfest Market inside the “We are thinking of tweak­ clothing drives, and the holi * white tents while a steady ing that price a little bit to day can drive for Christmas. crowd flowed in and out. Orangeville Community make it more affordable and ........ ........... UI Illy Outreach viuireacn was was the me chosen cnosen charity charity to to be presented with On top of that, she is part of buying merchandise. find a way to make sure we a check from the Gun Lake Winterfest committee chairpersons, Brad and Stacey the Smiles for Christmas Hastings High School are still raising money for the Landman. The OCO was at this year ’ s WintArfA<5t oYniaininn ihAir ml*, in thr. rV®®’’WiRterfest, explaining their Organization’s program, which provides Seniors Madison Roberts charity,” said Niemchick CEO MA^rk Australian Shepherd Agog; Deb Paradowski, gifts to needy children. Last and Ellie Smith are entrepre- on-site at Winterfest. This is CEO Mark Paradowski; volunteer Lisa Heflin; volunteer David Heflin; Program year, the OCO reached a neurs. Director Becky Kloth; and Media Representative Dennis the first year the United Bank Kloth. (Photo by Karen record-high of giving gifts to Turko-Ebrlght) Roberts started making in Gun Lake has sponsored 83 kids. candles at the start of the Polar Dip.” “That’s the most we had COVID. “I volunteered for it last since I’ve been here since “I paint the jars with glue year and thought it was so 2017,” said Kloth. and food coloring. Then I great; I brought it to my team OCO organizers said any- bake them to have a stainedat corporate and said, ‘ Hey, one who wants to give to glass look," explained how look,” can we be more those ,n need in Orangeville Roberts. Roberts. ““They They are 100 perinvolved are 100 per ­ A IS l¥ r . k she added. 't' Township and Southwest cent soy with essential nil c ’ u• sr. cent soy with essential oil Barry County is encouraged scents Sponsorship increased this scents.” -X to visit the organization’s “My mom used to sell o" “'"P”®'* «Ij *■'”* S BBQ ij “My mom used to sell website, ocoforthepeople. them to her co wo L companies and orgaocoforthepeople. them to her org. A ■ \ co-workers co-workers nizations sponsored the GLW LI VE|jlISic7i EVENT during the pandemic. She is a Kloth said her role in the " 2024 Timmennan said last respiratory nerapist, year there were 33 sponsors. :>SP 'B’S //, The Gun Lake Casino also A' I B J 11 sponsored this year’s 1 B Your local agent insures your IBONS Winterfest. Casino BLx * *I Spokesman James Nye said <* * . '' •. • I it ’ s essential to support the X* community. a I ?>r it “ Supporting local busi ­ F* Sil» Ask about our annuities and IRAs U-'. nesses is important because V ,to >1 it helps our community grow 1 2? ww . c tc 4 and keeps it special. When isocial.com FAttItt BUKEAL z we support local businesses, V 7 insurance* < we help create and support S*’ the local workforce and com­ u ^9, munities,” Nye said. “Many $ * -.>rlocal businesses may have O Ave CaleA° Jason Parks i been impacted by external (269) 795-8827 121 E. Main Street conditions and by showing jparks@fbinsmi.com Downtown Middleville FarmBureaulnsurance.com support, we can help them sustain.” Committee and the Gun Lake Business Association choose a local charity to receive a the festival and all it offers. they supported a charity. Every year, the GLW percentage of the proceeds from Winterfest. Orangeville The 1 * I V 1 * r I A \ <•» f u *1 i, •» •••> 4 I'D .y all } '5(' Bfr 4 o < 41 ’ I . 4 I 4 r Illi** a • BikX. *1 ■ S 1 ■ 4^ • • * 1 / • • + P'. * ♦» r*. -If i • ■ J *I r •I .4 • •W* J »«R - r* J ■ ■T- •s I 'X 9 « t* * •l 5.: ' 4 M I 8^ * I, 8 « li * 4 A ■r ■« I I I A I i > 9^ ’ * V - * • I I * «« I I I t I I 1 t 8 ■■to «I I 8 *8 balitoi EJIffiJ* •. i^»-. • - 'I t *« A 5 r * ^4 ’ I •*' i Asofrai KI 01 Mi tajjilei IJ Ite ifa I ‘ ImidjCIal ! wteb Ii I “Evsiyiig' ' n I'dee Spti j xmtiiglol j tte Cunij DMofiidayj i fast Mots al ' M, Cunniigiia 4 r l« 4 4 «k 4< •''S 1 I •S’ J- / BlpH)', *• t t *‘ t 6 Caledoni ‘ J Clat i A iMiisli^liadygj V ♦ > JUT b ■f-tt I zp» OftSiliWl- * 1'^.k-»* I V*. ) <5 J •<•1 i’ 1 Itv r .;r. k . ’J p AJ J V' 'ih I * ■ - it - .>u> »I « ■A I* L »11 k A Retfirement *8 w •C J* 8>k ^ite for and more t 4« s A V P issues. ‘It fiiDveij' «>*• TX ‘ created i ® Nova VO «.K n .T I . , I - ■ 4 4 k. A' 44-* b « <- -n4 Kb a V r I to u>.T / 4 -394 .<e .> >v 1« 4 ^1 ‘‘**^>1* it,JJ >■ iih s * « A B Z" • I I 8J 3 A' % ••-A. 1 J* • V ■to f *V / ii !l ft '5111 M & t » b 1 > «♦ 4 « b I '*0 Its 25 * �CHS STADIUM, continued from pago 1__ The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24, 2024/ Page 3 f W^JiZ^Jlid. 4--.at V ( I J 1. I ( . K 'r Weeldreyer project, Meanwhile, Weeldreyer has been going through a design review with CCS Executive Director of Operations and Transportation Matt Hess and high school athletic director Fred Townsend on additional improvements to the stadium. The superintendent noted that CCS’ enrollment has grown by about 50 percent since the stadium, in its present form, was completed in the late 1990s. Our facilities are showing their age, and showing somewhat of their inadequacy. If you ve been at a football game and you’re standing there, sometimes the concession line stretches all the way back to and sho. put, Weeldreyer said. What we’re looking at is to provide more options for (the track team) to utilize, both in practice and then if we do end up hosting a bigger event, that we’ve got more space to han­ dle it,” Weeldreyer said. Funding for the stadium improvements would come 2020 and 2023 bond issues, Hess said. said. We want to be doing some things to improve the whole experience for people when they come (for a game).” Among the improvements under discussion include expanded restroom facilities and concession stands on the south end of the stadium, hniij^utuium, a new S iTi, that would house a team store as well as cold storage and a new building on the north side that would include a team room ,jpace for training staflF and officials, Weeldreyer said. A baseball field and a grassy area north of the stadium and east of the Paul Henry trail would be redeveloped to serve field events at track meets, such as the pole vault, discus The scope of the project is being refined before the district goes out for bids, which is expected later this spring. A cost estimate has not yet been determined. Contracts would likely be approved this summer with construction to begin after the conclusion of the 2024 football season, Weeldreyer said. ------- BCL * r <1 I ■c A .V w E7 .. r .S *nca»«pem B Jb I r » -1,1, Wv ■ml' <1 1 - sA I 4 *‘5 ^3 X. 'X , ? r. s •Tf tl -.•VS 1 * - A ■ fl •i, ■•ZJ ---------- — r ^4* • / > s«, *«»/ ,tL'’'’pl' J * 3b ' KIN « Jarflj b «liiii^ ife •ifaii; jy 10 mi Ji 4 I said iWaili euBa alolniipg Kp.’ aeeredfen J Il iiyi: w' tillisiil: »! k i' iifilliffi: wdds? KjaS' 1'. s 1 1 ■F _ £236 s "Ifc. b 1 Ralph E. Meyers Football Stadium will see a delay in plans to replace bleachers and the track. (Courtesy photo) Light turnout, no major problems reported in local early voting Greg Chandler V. ■ IV I B T Staff Writer Local election officials are reporting a light turnout and no major problems in the early voting period leading up to Tuesday’s Michigan presiden­ tial primary. As of noon Friday, 88 people had cast ballots early at the Thomapple Township Hall, covering both the township and the village of Middleville, Township Clerk Cindy Ordway says there have been no issues at all with the voting equipment. “Everything’s functioning” at Yankee Springs Township, according to Tovmship Clerk Mike Cunningham. As of noon Friday, 57 voters had cast ballots at the Township Hall, Cunningham said. At Caledonia Township, Township Clerk Joni Henty reported that 82 people in the township had voted as of noon Friday. Like the other town­ ships, Henry is reporting no major issues. “It has run veiy smoothly so far,” Henry said. The early voting period was created in November 2022 when Michigan voters passed a constitutional amendment giving voters the right to vote early and in person at early voting sites prior to state and federal elections. The early voting, which takes place for a minimum of nine consecutive days up until the Sunday before an election, will be available for the general election this November. Early voting sites must be open for at least eight hours each day during the early voting period. ■ Barry County Clerk Cindy White echoed the account of a smooth launch of early voting but a sparse turnout so far. “It will be interesting to see what happens,” White said. “If n it ai at an all aiieviaies, alleviates, say on Election Day when you’re always hammered (by voters waiting to vote), then great. But I think this is built more for the bigger metropolitan areas.” White said that the biggest learning curve for township clerks and their teams of elec tion inspectors was navigating the new equipment, most notably how to pause tabulators for a night before picking back up the next day. All results will be compiled on Election Day right now, the machines are simply storing the data from early voting. Costs associated with this early voting process has been a hot button issue for some. The state has leveraged tax payer dollars to help townships out by purchasing the new equip­ ment and then chipping in up to $15 per hour for staff, but townships will still have to pick up the tab for some things. For example, most election inspec­ tors make well north of $ 15 per hour and the townships will have to cover that difference. White also heard from equipment vendors on the eve of the early voting period that the state will not cover the costs associated with any tech support that might be needed over the course of the early voting period. After the county’s maiden voyage through early voting, it can choose to make some changes to scale back resources. For instance, some counties in Michigan have opted to conduct county-wide voting, where there is one early voting poll location for all county residents. Editor Jayson Bussa con­ tributed to this story I liffS' r L. I I I I . ( * Bl. • • z ’ ■ I I I t James Gemmell is Celebration Cinema’s first major construction project since work was completed on its Studio Park complex in dowmown Grand Rapids Contributing Writer The media will get to see the first screening of a movie inside Celebration Cinema South’s new “C Premium” auditorium on Feb. 28. The first public shows will be the following day. The screening of the original (2021) Dune movie at the theater in Gaines Township is part of a larger renovation project that is underway at the 19-year-old old multiplex theater at 1506 Eastport Dr. That is just west of Kalamazoo Avenue and just north of M-6. The first public showings will be aligned with the scheduled release of the new movie, Dune: IL” Tickets are available at celebrationcinema.com. I think that’s a great film for this format, in that it’s such an immersive, such a spectacularly beautiful film,” Emily Locks said. She is Celebration Cinema’s Public Relations & Community Affairs Director. The C Premium auditori­ um will have about three dozen speakers to provide surround sound. The facelift at the South complex in Gaines Township * J eiy' right to your theater seat. The Gaines Township Board of Trustees adopted an amendment to the township's liquorA'niroi 'oid'i" nance in May 2021, allow­ ing theaters with 10 or more screens to serve alcohol to movie-goers. You will be able to get beer on draft. You'll also be able to gel sliders, pizza and nachos, wraps and quesadillas. And a lot of the menu options that have been avail­ able at some of our other theaters with kitchens,” she said. The movie theater indus­ try in Michigan is trying to make a bounceback following restrictions that were More than 7.5 million people have visited Celebration Cinema South since it opened in 2003. The touch-up includes some new paint and other changes to the theater’s aesthetics. The $4 million renova­ tion is being done in phases so that the lO-screen theater can remain open while con­ struction continues. The four-month-long project is at the midway point. The estimated completion date is iin April. All of the Celebration South auditoriurns will get heated luxury Irwin Seating Companybuilt recliner seats Only the C Premium auditorium will feature Dolby Atmos sound and 4K laser projection, though. One of the most exciting benchmarks is the opening I I I I I I imposed during the COVID19 pandemic. Indoor dining and entertainment venues were closed across the stale in March 2020 due to an executive order signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Celebration Cinema South was closed for 14 months. ^4 Being able to see the new Dune movie in the C Premium format is going to be just exceptional,” Loeks said. The completion of the ren­ ovation project at Celebration South will be marked by a grand reopening event at the end of April. of the C Premium auditorium. It’s just going to be a tremendously great movie-going experience,” Loeks said. Other renovations include a full kitchen to support an expanded food and beverage menu. That includes deliv- ■ T nx At I f I I 1 r/) I I •‘4’ f V ’ A * i •W '2 3T| 1 I •kic 1 •• 1 I 4- 6 A •« -V * 1 ? II I f 4M. * r • ak J •* • A. < 54 S a*.* 4 t ^1 I ► * «I $ Celebration Cinema South is undergoing a $4 million renovation in Gaines Charter Township. (File photo by James Gemmell) I* ? •H’ _eigt .■M- .’J J -A. -V ■> I I. I fc.' T . — 3' •■ pV A I 4 1 *? HU' TBALL $ I ✓ •* . 1^ .J I I f I 4 - ’Ji Mast Meat Processing I I I 4/ i.iTAPRC oz ' A ‘•UPS i A. 0 I I a. Ur I I OFFERING CUSTOM SLAUGHTERING AND PROCESSING Call today for an appointment I 517-231 -3883 Celebration Cinema South to first public showings in new C Premium auditorium on Feb. 29 0 r I k REGISTRATION IS OPEN! i ■ p V 4 ! Teams for youth ages 5-14 1 Hours: Monday - Friday 8-5 1121 Anderson Hwy., Vermontville, Ml 49096 Learn More at TAPRC.OR(5 or Scan the QR Codef . -J a: B ■i Don t miss out! Registration closes Marc A X Quarters and Halves Ba>*% ' .-M— -s -• * « . .*4 9 •4 BEEF AVAILABLE II 1 * I II I , . “8 • I 4 I 1 I I « �Page 4/The Sun and News, Saturday, Fetxuary 24, 2024 W■■ r A — I ZZML W Thornapple Kellogg to present musical hick cvenasM^ family who finds a magical spring and, after drinking the water, become immortal. A young girl becomes fnends with one of the family’s sons and is soon offered the choice to drink from the magical spring as well and become immortal. The decision is not she has to decide if easy she wants to join her new friend in immortality or if she would like to live out a normal life. This is a timeless story of family, loss, friendship and at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium. “Tuck Everlasting” is a musical adaptation of the children’s novel by Natalie Babbitt. The story is of a Kellogg Thornapple High School will present three performances of the “Tuck musical 29, Feb. Everlasting” March 1-2. All shows start r? I V*T» J • •l *1 f * 1 •• * w «• « - Students act out a scene in “Tuck Everlasting” where Winnie Foster, played by Emilia Rickert and Jesse Tuck, played by Jonas Grumme, sit atop the town’s water tower. ft I I. lb 4 1 r f V f / AT I f I I L I I 4 a ft i •:.4 I • a T I r 1 & f. 1 3 ilH I • I r r 'i: I It r • The cast finishes a song on stage. I /. 1 I e ... T 'j! 1? 4i I * .* I I 1 * * *< 1 * >* ■’'‘C r a .'f j M A k J (B w- I T n •-It * I i * I J 4^ r * iflr ’V 7 J -Vlll The Thornapple Kellogg High School cast of “Tuck Everlasting.” (Courtesy photos) love. Abby junior TKHS Dumond describes the musi­ cal. “Tuck Everlasting is a show unlike any other,” she said. “Catchy music and a beautiful message come together to get you crying, laughing and everything in between. It reminds us, in the words of Angus Tuck, ‘You 3? <• don’t have to live forever, you just have to live.’” Senior Megan Norman said she is excited for the performances. “We have put a lot of work into this musical and would love to have you in Treegap, New Hampshire,” Norman said. “Come enjoy the breathtaking vocals, choreography and massive sets.” “From the costuming to the music to the dancing and acting, many people have worked so hard to make this production possible. This exceptionally talented cast is sure to entertain,” said soph­ omore Avery Hagemann. Seniors Emilia Rickert and Jonas Grummet lead the cast as Winne Foster and Jesse Tuck. Other main char­ acters include Michael Sager Wissner as Miles Tuck, Emily Fliearman as Mae Tuck and Lukas Walters as Angus Tuck. Abby Dumond plays the role of the woman in the yellow suit, Alex Evans portrays Hugo, Megan Norman is Betsy Foster, Avery Hagemann is Nana and Anthony Sager Wissner is Constable Joe. A cast of singers, dancers and actors join as the onstage band members, lead dancers, band singers, and ensemble members. Onstage band singers are Logan Flynn, Adam Gentz, Terrince Alyssa McLaughlin, Spurgeon. Lead Dancers and band singers are Ellie Baranek, Reese Chiya Collantes, Lehman and Valerie Tamez. Ensemble members MI 11? f?LTfl^ include Evalyn Archambault, Mist Barnes, Cayla Brouwer, Bayleigh Bruce, Lucas Eggers, Emma Johnson, Lily Jordan, Lizabeth Lopez, Ainsley Parsons, Addison Petersen and Lilly Stora. Several students are part of the stage crew, too. Those members are Molly Alden, Zarah Bieranga, Raegan Chapman, Dawson Clous, Hannah Gunnink, Lucas Eggers, Mallory Hagemann, Graycelin Meany, Av a Myers, Darby Nutt, Carmen Reynolds, Charlotte Riffle Gabriel Rose, Hudson Thomas, James Walker, Maliah Westmaas. Tickets can be purchased at the door each night of the show as available. Tickets are $5 for students and senior citizens and $7 for adults. * itf )< (tuF aiiiitoW Caledonia United Methodist Church stall VIIV iRI Rev. Christine Beaudoin Jte, find Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street I 616-891-8669 CaiedoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist Serving -- Strengthening - Connecting cornerstonechurch • v: <5* I Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend FIRST BAPTIST Middleville Sunday Service 10:30 AM 1. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church ex co 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship Wil I Ill t 1. I iU Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdJcms.googlepages .com Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Church; FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 17137 - as OURNEY CHURCH MPEACE Ted & CHURCH 4 i 9 .t• PEACECHURCH.ee ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch 9:30 a.m. Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee ■ X (269) 795-2391 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 ^Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School .9:30 AM Sunday Wo^p 10:30 AM "1^ IFQ^ iWygtHATI^B ' -'WB Watch our services from our website (see above) I Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org I Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9;00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH ^Chaii MIDDLEVILLE *6. SERVICE TIMES: T’. Sunday at 9:30am & 1l;00am 20 State Street. Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com ) f ' I < I Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"^ 8t 48^^ Worship Services Sunday ioam&6 pm www.holyfamilycaledonia.org LT Fellowship Church Praising Cod through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 . I _________ www.stpauicaledoniax)rg Whitneyville ri HOLY FAMILY j/CATHOLIC CHURCH I I "Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship................. Community Groiin 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org I 4T �•• I I stabenow receives national award for conservation excellence I ♦ 3 I. J I 1 < TENN. Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow was awarded the National Wild Turkey Federation’s Government Partner Award during the NWTF’s 48th annual Convention and Sport Show, sponsored by Mossy Oak. “For more a Uluic than uidu 50 DU years, the National Wild Turkey Federation has been a leader in conservation, expand­ ing wildlife habitat and improving access to outdoor recreation across the country, ” Stabenow said. “ I o U .™ Partner in nrnfpnt wild in our our effort effort tn to protect spaces for future generaeenerations, and I am honored to receive this award.” i" 1 I. ki S' s I,' The NWTF’s work at the federal and legislative levels ensures funding and authorities are available to its biggest government partners, including the USDA Forest Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Bureau Bureau of Land Managem ent and others. The Government Partner Award recognizes a govern­ ment employee at the federal or state level, elected officials or policy profes, , , Sionals who demonstrate outstanding achievement in facilitating habitat. conserconservation, furthering hunting heritage, effective partnership formation or conserva- A. tion policy influence. Stabenow was first elect­ ed as a county commission­ er in Michigan, then elected and served 11 years in the Michigan House of Representatives. She was elected to the Michigan Senate for a term, then ran and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and began serving on the Agriculture Committee, which she now leads in the Senate today. Stabenow also ---- serves on the Senate Committee on Environment and Public __ rUbllC Works and on the Senate Subcommittee on FisLies, The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24, 2024/ Page 5 extensive contributions to our natural resources is far-reaching and has greatly enhanced our ability to deliver our mission,” NWTF co-CEO Kurt Dyroff said. From tackling issues that benefit the NWTF’s Four Shared Values (clean water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities and robust recreational opportunities) to directly impacting wild turkey habitat through Farm Bill funded programs. Senator Stabenow has been a staunch supporter of con­ servation. We are proud to honor her efforts with our Government Partner Award.” Water and Wildlife. ‘Senator Stabenow’s •■h •k •x f. In.. Ik Caledonia to be represented at VEX Robotics World Championship V f I me icteis Samantha Richardson and Noah Soper met that challenge and have received an invitation to the final event in Dallas on April 28-30, after securing third place in skills. Their score is now ranked among the top 8 per­ cent of teams in the world. They qualified for States having been named toumament finalists in the West Michigan Mega League last fall. They also secured the Create Award at frratidvillf^ Grandville’cs Holiday Tournament in December. Forty-eight middle school teams were in attendance at the Grandville Robotics Competition Center last Friday and Saturday for the 2024 VEX Robotics Middle School State Championship. Competitors from around Michigan battled against each other for top honors and the right to represent the state in the VEX Robotics World Championship, including two teams from Caledonia. Robotics Caledonia Robotics ’ “Champion Pirates” Philip Metz, Xander Osborn, s f ' hstCb “waaiu, Also in attendance at the state tournament were Caledonia Robotics’ Destroyers,” comprised of Benjamin Robinson, Carson Tucker and Edmund Van Meter. This team advanced to states as tournament final­ ists at Granville’s Middle School event in January. The Champion Pirates” and “Destroyers” chose to be alliance partners in the tournament rounds on Saturday, where they made it to the quarterfinals, losing a close match to the eventual touma66 •sSisSe iisbtaiisi I *V 4 .I I •■as? v 1 .1 s fl I J- w •< i..c■w "’B A. . . 'V. I .1 s ft.' ' ■akiJffiiJ! f ft , 1 E- « i I 1 ? T«k- 9 .*?• - ’fV«, U CK' > t V'l ft*-*. •J s . I % kV i V ! 4 .1 * ti'P k J I s * ,1 w I • tls *00*. * I* .1 J 1 1 t 4 ‘i 1 r r. 1 'Z -J ' *4j s '5 •I t e V T>’. 4 s ... s •c .• •< i -k. 5’ ft < I 5. w • l'^ ♦k. eM«*****^*****r I r Mt •• s aC a r ■r B b A I f P ' k .1 51. r V 4* r . .J % LVr ■ J .1 ♦ \ I •* * I * P.l «. a . • • kkk t f') Ik I' I . . u 4 I»' • ■7'' ', -kp- J ftW»**«* z 9k I 5i p *1 •« s I« ♦••1 4 4 //* *• 1 l.'J Q£CW .WW'-'-ffi « « d______________ •• *. .Y I I S4 S .•k fcriofm /'Mm ) ,k ) T. ment champs. Caledonia Robotics had seven teams in the middle school program this year. The students have been working since August, designing, building, pro­ gramming, testing and com­ peting with their robots at local and regional competi­ tions. Other notable perfor­ mances this season were by Gavin Grysen, Owen Marshall, Nicholai Nonhof and Logan Workman of team “Three Greens and A Blue” for receiving the Build Award in Allendale last December and by Grayson Bloem, Jaxson Bloem, Erik Knight and Aidan May of “We Dislike Legos” for receiving the Amaze Award at Grandville’s Holiday Tournament. The next task for the “Champion Pirates” will be raising funds to get them to Dallas, which average $1,800 per team member. Anyone interested in supporting the cause can visit the Caledonia EnrichED website at calschools.org/enriched. Lee students raise over $27,000 in Kids Heart Challenge Lee Elementary School students jumped into another record year, raismg $27,621 for the American Heart Association through their Kids Heart allenge — formerly called Jump Rope for Heart. The event took place on Feb. 14. Since 1996, Lee Elementary students have participated in the chalenge that teaches them about living a healthy life­ style as well as keeping their hearts strong. During those years, they’ve raised more than $575,000 to help save lives. “We talk in class about keeping our hearts healthy and how we do that,” Lee physical education teacher Samuel Thaler said. "This is just a great way to remind them there are lots of things they can do to keep their hearts healthy.” Students get donations from fi’iends and family members. Second-grader Emma Wilcox was the top donator this year, raising $1,057. Thaler said he’s always overwhelmed by the amount of funds raised. “It’s incredible. Every year, we get this kind of support. This community is incredible,” he said. Thaler said the sad truth is that almost everyone I » I 1 I i I knows or will know in their lifetime someone affected by heart disease. The dedication heart wall is an important part of the day, greeting each class and each visitor as they enter the gym. The huge heart is filled with student-signed hearts with names of someone they know who has suffered from heart disease. Classes take turns jumping rope throughout the day. Students eagerly jump up when it’s their turn to twirl the jump rope. Some see how fast they can do the basic skip, others pre­ fer the side swing, the two-footed jump, or even jumping backward. Parents and teachers picked up ropes themselves to join in the fun. With lively music play­ ing and the sounds of excited students filling the gymnasium, Thaler said it’s a day he loves. “I hope that the students get a couple of things from all this. I hope that they learn about living a healthy lifestyle and the impor­ tance of staying active,” he said. “I also think it’s a great opportunity for them to think outside themselves and to think of others. This is a way to help others and serve as a reminder to all of us to stay active and healthy.” I I I 1I f I I 1 I I I T 1^ Ant«rinfl Men BntennaMen i ■/.. w• ft * ■ J A A , . *♦ • Digital TV Antennas • Stariink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! * cet-n 1 13 ©♦ i ir «>> 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpros.com '1' .•k ,k k . a. ffilf • I, X k1 k I I I J f, ... ^■yk.b.y-W k' % t .1.’ 4. 0 1 The Champion Pirates, which is comprised of (left to right) Coach Dan Osborn, Samantha Richardson, Phillip Metz, Xander Osborn, Noah Soper, Coach Matt Metz. (Courtesy photos) cornerstonechurch helping people know Jesus and make Him known k Hili' I I ll r? I, i J^. ’■**^*h« « *‘ w.. & L r- . . » HID? I I Hi H I . <■ ■ "a . f AS I * k ' k I '' I k 'T'? 7*7 ‘ U S if .1 * _ <ni intwRia. St li 1 I I I I ! I k k » ,1' /cornerstonemi ! I I 1 vy 'jn U’ { . I lb k I k C k .dfk'.i, •.'■1 sM-.kOl I J ^1’ MV 1 J; 1; I I •'■x ' L.X I H s I 1 I ? 4 k k I 1 k I its 5•t I k z @1 @cornerstonemi .yk.ji V 1 1 r r ■ ',1 r*C t k. I I TOURNAMENT FINALIST rj i .’J 5 f I Ids 'ta * I 1 *« T , rjfo 'rr— I I h ■-T*: •7^ » « *n i 1 k I IbLC 1 I Jf it <D > < O o N OJ £ ro fO cornerstonemi.org I 84th St. Campus 1 84th Street SE ik / i The Destroyers, featuring Benjamin Robinson, Edmund Van Meter, Carson Tucker. we’re casual, come as you are. 4 « I I I I I 1 4 �Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24, 2024 I yX Pine Rest receives $5M donation to support construction of Pediatric Center of Behavioral ea th r James Gemmell Contrihufin^ fVriter A $5 million chunk of a donation landmark announced by the DeVos Family on Feb. 19 will help pay for the construction of an Pediatric million S86 Behavioral Health Center on the Pine Rest campus m ( utlervillc. The estimated cost of con­ struction has risen by several million dollars since the project was first announced nearly two years ago. The 74,000-square-foot facility will house 66 inpatient beds once it opens in the spring of 2026 on the south side of Pine Rest’s campus in Gaines Charter Township. The leaders from Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, Corewell Health Bed Free Mary and Rehabilitation participated in an announcement ceremony last Monday at Helen De Vos Children’s Hospital. The overall $50 million gift from the De Vos Family Foundation will help advance children’s medical, rehabilitative and mental health care provided by the three healthcare orga nizations. The timing of the announcement is ideal for Pine Rest. The demand for pediatric behavioral health care has greatly exceeded available services since the onset of the COVID-19 pan­ demic in 2020. The new pediatric center will expand access to inpatient and partial hospitalization, outpa­ tient care, and behavioral health testing services for children and teens through­ out the state. Dr. Heide Rollings is the medical director for the Pediatric Behavioral Health Center that will be built near 72nd Street and Madison Avenue by Holland-based * EV Construction. The archi­ tectural firm is BWBR. Nederveld & Associates is the land-development con­ sultant. “It’s a pediatric-focused center, so we’re going to be treating kids and teens, and obviously families, too,” Dr. Rollings said. “That’s a real­ ly important piece of it. So, we’re going to have all of our acute or inpatient and crisis services on the first floor. That will include our inpatient beds and our urgent care center, which we’re going to be opening new for kids in that center. And we’re going to have a family lounge there, as well. And a nice welcoming space that’s real­ ly great for families and kids. “On our second floor, we’re going to have more of our outpatient and partial hospitalization, or what we call ‘day-treatment program­ ming’ throughout the second floor,” she said. There will be 66 inpatient beds and 10 of them will be for children and teenagers who have Autism Spectrum Disorder. There also will be some specialty services to improve the care that is provided for those with autism-spectrum issues or an intellectual disability disor­ der. Pediatricians and families sometimes want to have options other than sending kids to the emergency room. Pine Rest plans to expand its partial hospitalization programming. It already serves a lot of adolescents in that program, and now it will be doubling its capacity. Rollings said it was a “magical moment” when Pine Rest officials found out the De Vos Family would be donating $5 million toward the project’s construction, construction. The facility will have spinoff * “’B . •* r h •i i •ft "P •r c®* « J 3 T >■ - u <lk ▼ A ’Mir* *— tho iflnri«icaDina that will buffer the pediatric center at Pine A street view rendenng from Madison Avenue of the lanos p 9 Rest from the neighborriood just to the east. (Source: Nederveld & Associates) ■ ------------- 7 ■ ' benefits for those in the com­ munity. These resources will be immensely helpful to create the (treatment) teams that I itMtrftTi* ■'in”*. 4 provide excellent care,” she < Mitt said. “We see opportunities k J to have care navigation, I V 09 where specialized clinicians ' ll ".J, > are supporting kids and fam■*-*<^*r ilies as they transition from I one program to another. Whether it be at our center or some of our partner sites in «... the community.” AT'* 4 'a Pine Rest is the largest behavioral health provider of rendering of the future Pediatric Behavioral Center on Pine Rest’s main cam­ its kind in Michigan and one of the five largest in the pus in Gaines Township. (Source: GainesTownship.org) United States. The main campus opened in 1910 on much paramount to the developing innovative treat­ imit. Funding for the Center ment models and continuing for Nursing 68th Street at Division building process.” Career Another design goal is to our commitment to the com- Development will recruit and Avenue. The Pediatric Center will sit on 25 of the campus’s make the pediatric center mimity Pine Rest has served retain nurses at all levels of 220 acres. Medical offices feel welcoming and warm. for over 110 years,” Rollings certification. will cover 61,000 square To address that. Pine Rest said. Mary Free Bed is receiv­ feet, and a parking lot, truck architects solicited input As for the other healthcare ing $5 million to help build docks, utility services and from families. organizations that are receiv­ the Joan Secchia Children’s landscaping will be included “I think it’s been really ing a portion of the $50 mil­ Rehabilitation Hospital, a in the project. cool to have kids and fami­ lion overall donation, Helen joint venture between Mary Rollings was asked about lies speak into the design De Vos Children’s Hospital is Free Bed and Helen DeVos how the building will look, process about what would getting a $40 million gift. It Children’s Hospital. from a design standpoint. help them feel more com­ will be used to expand the It will be completed in “Safety is our top design fortable in this type of space, Comprehensive Care 2026 and serve 2,000 to and clinical principle,” she and things that we should Program and Pediatric 2,500 children annually, and replied. “The materials that avoid, as well,” Rollings Intensive Care Unit there. It increase capacity for outpa­ we are using are veiy inten- said. will provide complex care to tient visits by 20 percent. tional to be safe for our She described the $5 mil­ children without having to Mary Free Bed president/ patients, as they navigate lion gift from the DeVos transfer them far from their CEO Kent Riddle said it will from challenging behavior- Family as “transformation­ homes. be built across Wealthy al-health crises, or maybe al.” The gift also will benefit • Street from the main rehabileven “It will truly change lives even dealing dealing with with suicidal suicidal patients at the new 12-bed itation hospital and be conthinking. So, safety is very by expanding access to care. inpatient medical psychiatry nected by a skywalk. '•** •A / • / *A # J -A •fr 1,^ )r I 9 * r V* ri* ^3 I I 1 » w* 1■ 1 h u < . * r e t. I 1 fi- • I L I s, p I s I J if A r V' y. t •» I J it, I J 1 I i." f 1 53 I J L I ( V 7 ■ R I 1 I i t 1 i I T I <I I If { t I Jn fii Ik MM ibi i Woman killed in US-131 WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND traffic accident COOLING NEEDS __. •I*; s . . nr' >cs *1 Greg Chandler Residential & Commercial I B -< r» r J Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers -Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters I -Humidifiers r- I •V* A* *4 - s • ' . « . Xi 4 L t', •i. J- i .»• a • **’ I. A Staff Writer A 72-year-old Grand Rapids woman was killed Thursday night when she was struck by a vehicle on northbound U.S 131 in Allegan County’s Leighton Township, north of Wayland and near the Barry County line. According to investigators from the Wayland Post of Michigan State Police, the victim had pulled her vehicle onto the shoulder of the free­ way shortly before 8 p.m. after one of its tires became disabled. She got out of her car and was then struck by a I'I •z o > •rr t - f . K. I I •i <1 I’ 4 .•t ... ; RIVER CRUISING >'’1 <a 'I* * I ’“VTTl T 4 ••V II — Me UI ■■iSfSS!! i**' ■ • RIVER CRUISE VACATIONS HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM * ^269-792-2234 : ■A+IL S/m f 1955 A * * * bbb. ACCREDITED BUSINESS Experience the beauty and history of the St. Lawrence & Ottawa Rivers a classic Canadian riverboat. Request our free travel brochure 1-800-267-7868 www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com «r * * ! * 4 4 « 4 white Buick LaCrosse that was traveling northbound on U.S. 131, driven by a 44-year-old Kalamazoo man. The initial MSP investigation showed the victim was in the lane of traffic when she was struck.. The victim’s name was not released. The other driver was wearing a seatbelt and was not injured. It is not known at this time if drugs or alcohol were factors in the accident. which remains under investigation by MSP. Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Allegan County Sheriff’s Department, Wayland Police, Wayland and Dorr Township fire departments and Wayland Area EMS. < !•> r N4 I 1. bldnll hi Sae ® filsbi Qap&niM Bffl -'fetijajioj] ^18(1, '’<44 ” Bijj u.: 0! co ^icfiiti »>* « S's �3 •Jr*?.a push b • 9 > 4^ t I I I Editor A statewide coalition is working to get a hot-button issue associated with renewable energy projects onto the ballot this November and it is finding some help in Barry County. Citizens for Local Choice is a grassroots movement that was formed in response to legislation adopted late last year, which largely stripped local units of gov­ ernment of the power to permit large-scale solar and wind energy projects. The law, which will go * 7 this year, would allow utili­ ties to go straight to the Michigan Public Service Commission to seek a certificate to develop a project instead of working with local governments and nav­ igating their potentially restrictive ordinances. Since the adoption of the law, there has been signifi cant pushback, especially in rural parts of the state, like Barry County. Citizens for Local Choice has now positioned itself on the front lines of this battle as it hopes to collect enough 1 I ’ 4 TZ*'' r K i I •c I. s,x 7 • I' .A: ... V ’sN"* • 1. * J ■ a* *<• I V*.; I r I ■ • - « k *5? I z I .4. I 7^ ft 9 . T .. 19^ 2s-'; I V L-.-K B IK t-r 6 ft MUM ‘^7'7 I .J 1 — - If 4 Kevon Martis of the coalition Citizens for Local Choice speaks at an informational forum at the Hastings Performing Arts Center last week. (File photo) IW signatures to bring this mat ter to voters in November, believing that voters will soundly reject what they consider to be an unfavor­ able law. Kevon Martis of Citizens for Local Choice was pres­ ent at last week’s wind and solar energy information forum at the Hastings Performing Arts Center, which was put on by the Barry County committee of the whole. Martis is a commissioner in agriculture-heavy Lenawee County and also Township^^ ^Zo^nin? AdmiaX,. Zoning <1 Martis, who announced that the Michigan Farm Bureau has joined the coali­ tion, said the group is look­ ing to get 550,000 valid sig­ natures to get the issue on the ballot. The group has set a May 29 deadline for those signatures. In Barry County, Kelli Case of the county’s GOP is serving as captain for the petition effort. Case has been part of the coalition as it stemmed from a grassroots Facebook page called One Voice, One Home. She is spearheading efforts to get signatures in Barry County and has had some luck. getting signatures really easily,” Case said. “I just mailed in this morning 120 signatures today from people who were like ‘My 1 sheets are full’ so I mailed those in for them,” said Case, who will be holding a petition drive at Red’s Sports Bar in Middleville on Monday. “I’m pretty optimistic, to be honest with you,” Case continued. We’re pushing it really hard. We’re at every function we can be at and have people sign. I hope that people are aware.” As Martis stressed during his visit to Hastings, Citizens for Local Choice is designed to be both non-partisan and is not necessarily renewable The coali,,o„-s goal IS to reel in local control back to local municipalities. However, some argue that the new law does not completely strip decision-making power away from local governments. At the same information forum in Hastings, the county’s attorney walked through ways that local governments can participate in the pro­ cess or even adopt and enforce ordinances of their own, as long as they are not more restrictive than the state’s criteria. Solar or wind energy is more complex than the county/municipality or the state or the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) making the decision about siting,” said Chris Bush, who leads the Barry County Democrats. “While Citizens for Local DI i , 'iHl Ui mi abb; 4 i I 'V •• I I I ■ I / t / s t Owner of building company accused of stiffing clients declares bankruptcy Jayson Bussa It appeared that Bay to Editor Bay might get its license The owner of a building back after the Residential company that has been the Builders’ and Maintenance target of numerous lawsuits and Alteration Contractors’ has declared bankruptcy. Board approved an agree­ Jerold Saeman, who is ment between Bay to Bay, listed as a current resident Saeman and LARA to pay in Caledonia, filed for $109,391 in restitution and Chapter 13 bankruptcy with a $10,000 fine. Saeman and the U.S. Bankruptcy Court the business never upheld for the Western District of their end of the agreement Michigan on Feb. 19. and the license remains susSaeman owns 100 per- pended. cent of Hastings-based Bay Bay to Bay no longer to Bay Building Concepts maintains an office in LLC, which has faced legal Hastings, where the compaactions against a growing ny is registered, and appears list of clients that allege to be permanently closed. In the 127-page bank the company took their money and never followed ruptcy filing, Saeman outthrough with the promised lines $258,799 in assets work or completed the which fall far short of his work partially or in shoddy $911,857.45 in liabilities. Of that amount, $203,473 fashion. In July of last year, the of his liabilities are secured Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA)"suspended the company’s license, for bidding it from doing busi­ ness in Michigan. debt, including $125,000 to Adventure Credit Union for two vehicles. Eikenhout Inc., a provider of building supplies with 10 locations throughout the state, claims it is owed nearly $360,000 in unse cured debt. Various clients of Bay to Bay are amongst the long list of liabilities. Only a few of them specified an amount they are owed and Saeman claims in the filing that he believe he has no liability for those claims. Investigators from multi­ ple counties have been passing information on Bay to Bay and their alleged wrongdoing to the Michigan Attorney General’s office, which would not comment on the status of an investi­ gation. They only encouraged anyone who feels they were defrauded by the com­ pany to report it. Saeman is being repre­ sented in the bankruptcy proceedings by James R. Oppenhuizen of Grand Rapids-based Oppenhuizen Law Firm PLC. Also in the filing, Saeman identifies his employer as SRT Roofs LLC, where, he Choice may want to make sure local control is not stripped away, it does not appear that local govemments would be dismissed or ignored in the deci­ sion-making process. Nor would the residents of a community being consid­ ered for solar or wind siting be excluded, since public meetings would take local citizens’ concerns into consideration.” Jon Rocha, an officer with the state GOP and former state representative candidate, said in an era of hyper-partisanship, keeping decision-making power local is one issue that both sides can agree on — at least in concept. “I think it’s a red flag anywhere when the state says we’re going to make you do something,” Rocha said. “I think Americans have been known to push back on anyone that says we’re going to make you do something. That’s just the American ethos. You’re not going to make us do any­ thing.” As someone who has been involved with both successful and failed peti­ tion efforts, Rocha said that the petition currently circu­ lating for Citizens for Local Choice does seem promis­ ing. “They are not easy endeavors,” Rocha said of petition campaigns. “It’s not easy to get it on the ballot —just the enormous amount of energy required to get signatures and through the process and get people. It requires a lot of money and volunteers. But what I’ve seen on the ground level with Kelli Case and what she has been advocating for months now, I see a lot of positivity and I really feel this has a chance to get on the ballot.” Business Services Coinitninily Notice I 1 I i j I I 4 i i I k ( I I CONSTRUCTION; ADDI TIONS, REMODELING, Roof­ ing, Siding, Pole Bams & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. NOTICE OF SELF-STOR­ AGE SALE: Please notice Red Dot Storage 195- Cale­ donia located at 5590 68th Street SE., Caledonia, MI 49316 intends to hold an BUYING ALL HARD­ auction of the storage unit WOODS: Paying Premiums for in default of payment. This Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Pop­ sale will occur online via lar with a 2ft diameter or larger. www.storageTreasures.com Call for pricing. Will buy single on 3/12/2024 at 9:30 AM. Walnut trees. Insured, liability Unless stated otherwise, & workman's comp. Fetterley the contents are household Logging, (269)818-7793. goods, furnishings, boxes. and general equipment. Unit numbers are as follows: #263; #440; #441. All property is GERMAN SHEPHERD PUP­ being stored at the above PIES. Looking for their for­ self-storage facility. This sale ever home and family. Call may be withdrawn at any 269-331-1788 time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ See manager for details. ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. i Quality Family Eye Care Since 1929 Scott Bloom, O.D. OPTOMETRIST has been employed for a month in sales, showing that, despite claims of mal­ feasance, he continues to operate in the roofing industry, potentially in other states. r — 2 LOCATIONS — • HASTINGS: 1510 N. Broadway - 269-945-2192 • WAYLAND: 216 N. Main - 269-792-0515 MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED * fi - 5 am d if a I 1 I .br 1 I I dsf'nk we art t&kir\g 41 /rfctfe ttio wiuck wffek you to tke senior tivrng coiituitwnity. Let's drop sont^e off at M37Auction.cowi and get you so»ne nwney!*’ ' I- !» I 1 I» ♦ �Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24, 2024 Sheely, lone Scot at regional, falls Scots perforin well one win from state finals their Division 1 Cheer District Grandville won the region­ al championship with a score of 786.04 points. Hudsonville was second at 775.5, Jenison third at 771.30 and Rockford fourth with 768.66 points. Grandville had the top score in each of the first two rounds. The Bulldogs had 237.(X) points after round one and added a round two score of 231.84. Grandville closed things out with a score of 317.20. Hudsonville had the top round three score at 319.40 after scores of230.80 in round one and 225.34 in round two. Behind the top four Mona Shores placed fifth with 763.72 points ahead of East Kentwood 754.66, Byron Center 742.40, West Ottawa 732.94, Grand Ledge 715.92, Holt Caledonia 695.54, 655.40 and Grand Haven 649.94. It was an outstanding finish for the Fighting Scot varsity competitive cheer team at its MHSAA Division 1 District Tournament at Hudsonville High School Saturday. f)K Red Conference teams took the top four spots at the district to earn places in the regional round of the state tournament this weekend. The Caledonia girls were tenth in their 12-team district, but it was their best perfor­ mance ofthe season. They were nearly 30 points better than they were only two weeks before at the OK Gold Conference Postseason competition. ft was an especially out­ standing start with the Scots tallying a total of 222.70 points. They added a score of 193.94 points in round two and then closed things out with a round three score of 278.90. RIVERSIDE OAK I fUBN TURE SlNC[ Brett Bremer 199^ * t1 I A I )f * ^Oak Oak •* Maple •* Cherry •* Elm Eim ' t/4 Sown UJhIle Ook 2 - -nmrr-'Mrtr* < .. V r Al Ur 4-: I* . k h 1-4 u Q* . z •r V 4 4 I 1* 1 Bedroom Furniture 'iJ' L- > 4 Tyrnitur^ 1-^ A u I ♦ ♦ * w t tlV.LrifliRopm Furniture; Il —- 4 f IM- .i L' ___ ■ ** a L -w t tt t *.' I 4p j ■ c. f / ' b r 3.: . 3; r- -• A --Ak a; ' '' _ __ “'I . A'.-'-rr ■ , 1 ;A 1. >• VI • 9 ’J • It •* Y4 f ♦ Large'^Seleciion!, ■ow t I HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9a.m. - 5p.m 1 ■' US on a I Sat. <9a.m. 3p.m. Ibfis < I I ) * >4^ 28-15 overall recorxl. He was 1-2 al the regional. He was pinned by Everett’s Antonio Williams 31 seconds into his opening round match. He kept his tournament run alive a little longer by pulling out a 10-9 win over Forest Hills Northern’s Andrew Yeah in the opening round of consolation. Veitch said Sheely and Walbum were tied 3-3 in the third period of their blood round match. In the blood round, the consolation semifinals, the winner is guaranteed improvements already. “The biggest thing we have to do is he has to have a better shot,” Veitch said. “He has to have a No. 1 shot that he can take anyone down with.” “He did a great job this year on shot defense,” Veitch said, “but we need to be able to go get our shot on anyone. That is going to be our main focus.” Caledonia still has a couple to advance to the state finals / alive in the state tourna­ ment. Sophomores Maddie Hayden and Halle Stout both qualified for the Individual State Finals at Ford Field with top four, medal winning finishes at their regional at Gull Lake Sunday. Veitch said he is happy to with the progress the program made this season, and pleased to still have 15-20 student-ath­ letes in practice this week as Hayden and Stout both prep for the finals. “I really feel like we have mentally made a great transi­ tion, that we’re not going to just wrestle to wrestle, we’re going to wrestle to compete to win some championships,” Veitch said of the program as a whole. I 4 I r b4 [Kill s*' r y pelts’ o* .r 0 Ch . Hi ¥ 1 0® I (11911 I 44 ■ •H . I 9151 .NASHVILLE HICHUJAY, VERMONTVILLEV ■ . ■ * ■4,’ ♦’ * ’ ** -•’ r ■ • ’ ‘i 4 to his back. Coach Veitch said he and Sheely processed eveiything after the tournament and start­ ed putting together a plan for 1 i 1/2 Mlle East of Ionia Poad on Nashyllle Highujay .V Holt High School Saturday. Sheely ends the season with a CHS girls earn split in set with Grandville on senior night < I i * Northern’s Austin Walbum in the blood round of the 150-pound bracket at the regional hosted by Brett Bremer Sporfs Editor There are steps to the state tournament according to coach Shawn Veitch. The Caledonia varsity wresting head coach said sure, there are guys who can win their way through the state tournament the first season they show up, but said he thinks most have to make strides year to year. Fighting Scots junior Will Sheely took a step this winter winning his way to the region­ al round of the MHSAA Division 1 Individual State Tournament, Sheely couldn’t break through to the state finals this time though. Sheely was pinned by Portage while their opponent sees their to an end. Just a season come moment of leaving his h^d down allowed Walbum the space he needed to put Sheely J '• t4''4.- . Lorry Coblentz 269-578-6346 • Store * 517-61 5-5000 Sports Editor It was a tough loss the first time around at Grandville. The Fighting Scots got their revenge on the Bulldogs Friday, Feb. 16. The Caledonia varsity girls’ basketball team celebrated senior night wi± seniors Mckenzie Devries, Teresa Abraham Addie Rapa, Sarah KM, Addie Roe and Mackenzie Myers and co. knocking off the visiting Grandville girls 33-29. That CHS win has the Scots tied with Jenison and Grandville at 2-11 for sixth in the confer­ ence standings with one night of the conference season yet to play this weekend. The Caledonia girls were scheduled to be at West Ottawa last night, Feb. 22. The Rockford Rams, who were 20-1 overall heading into the weekend, held a 12-1 record at the top of the conference standings headed to Jenison last night East Kentwood was half a game back of the Rams at 11 -2 with a conference finale against Grand Haven yesterday. That East Kentwood team fell 62-54 in its best shot to catch the Rams last Friday in Rockford. East Kentwood bounced back from that one by outscor­ ing the Caledonia girls 64-36 at Caledonia High School Tuesday. The Fighting Scots are sched­ uled to close ±e 2023-24 regu- k. • r ▼ .1 < . I « 'I*; r .1/ J 1^ f Tl r > -- !i«t« nia&t its St, itstas aa'W 4 I9 ' A ■a Ji ; J MyD Uoi Uail' - Caledonia junior Lakely Bottum (34) elevates in the paint over Grandville junior Mia DeVries (44) and junior Emma Perez (11) during last Friday’s OK Red Conference contest at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) lar season at home against DeWitt Tuesday, Feb. 27. Stif al ililniiili Ik® ^- I I I I I I I I I I High Efficiency r A r SUUD Fuil N AC E b sat'jh ,r < r e Ik I -) h4 * D J' « ■9 J > 4 4 b « I Ei' V 4 F'» A .1 f'. A* I 1 1 ’• I e ?. f L.j ?z. *<• » .4 r t 4 4 4 k’ f H s « 1 I J * < 1! I 1 «U ( is> ’I 1 400 OFF 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 i'kihiu * •t <J> < ____ A R SiajH VIM' ?• l-.^ • -gg^ \ • * - I Sofi ( h M* h “k., •'* % s AVAILABIiE No monthly interest it paid within 18 mo. a 77?e company built by referrals I » I I I I I I I. : * Must presant this coupon. I Ebqpiros 3-21-24 FRONTIER HEATING 8 COOLING I I i *« » ^lui "u't ■Wp The Fighting Scots' Lily Gortmaker (15) attacks the rim between Grandville Bulldogs Gracie Rakosky (3), Emma quarter Friday at Caledonia “Sf "* (Photo by Perry Hardin) C*5. ’i �I The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24, 2024/ Page 9 SWMSC manages to get i n >.. final few runs < I i f > S' k I 4 I /t' I I e-«.. 4-. >• ■ f I I .A 4 II I . y I it* er •s to.% '(3 Plainwell/Thornapple Kellogg seniors Marion Gielincki (from left) Venus Appel, Sam Bacon and Kaitlyn Hodges take turns for photos after being honored during the senior night ceremony at Timber Ridge Monday midway throuoh the second Southwestern Michigan Ski Conference meet of the season. (Photo by Brett Bremer) J> n Wf‘ Brett Bremer Sports Editor races. for their team r placing Tuesday and beat the ---- aiiu ucai me unsea ‘r 25tii m the slalom with runs of sonably warm temperatures. Only about 20 yards from 27.37 and 26.54 and 29th in The Mattawan/Paw Paw the finish line the icy snow the GS with runs of 20.57 and ''“"I’ »>’® hill during teams both clinched confer- thp ondXlS^Sr J , T.T afternoon at the sec pack made an abrupt transition 18.87. ence championships. The end SWMSC meet of the season. (Photo by Brett Bremer) to mud and grass at Timber Liam Troutner skied the sla- Mattawan/Paw Paw girls finRidge Ski Resort Monday lorn for the Trojans and placed ished the day with an overall afternoon. 14th overall with times of score of 24 points ahead of The Southwest Michigan 22.80 and 24.51. Hackett/Vicksburg 61, Ski Conference managed to The Mattawan/Paw Paw Kalamazoo United 111, get a second race in and quick- girls held firmly to their league Portage 119, Plainwell/TK ly plan a third, for this Tuesday lead scoring just 20 points 215, Hudsonville 257 and afternoon in hopes of getting total on the day — 10 in each South Haven 259. four more runs down the hills event. Hackett Catholic Prep/ Roethlisberger was third in before the snow melted com- Vicksburg was second with 62 the slalom and second in the pletely. The Monday event points ahead of Kalamazoo GS to claim the conference’s gave the conference the chance United 113, Portage 165, overall individual girls’ cham­ to celebrate its seniors before Plainwell/TK 175, pionship. the boys and girls transitioned Hudsonville 186 and South The Plainwell/TK girls from the slalom to GS courses Haven 235. were led by Wamez who was and vfce’sSnsa. Mattawan/Paw Raw earned 24th in the slalom and 26th in The Plainwell/Thornapple its perfect score with the top the GS. Hodges placed 28th in Kellogg Trojan ski team was four four finishers finishers in in each each event, event. the GS. Wynalda was 24th in last among the teams to cele- Senior stand-out Senior stand-out Anna the GS Gielincki added runs brate its seniors as the setting Roethlisberger won the slalom that placed her 31 st in the sla­ sun reddened the sky behind competition with runs of 19.93 lom and 35th in the GS. the hill. The group of seniors and 20.11 and was second to The Mattawan/Paw Paw in attendance for the Trojan teammate Anna Hoogerheide boys won Tuesday’s meet with team included Venus Appel, in the GS. Hoogerheide put nut a final score of 46 points ahead Kaitlyn Hodges, Marion together runs of 15.92 and of Portage 97, Kalamazoo Gielincki and Samuel Bacon. 15,91 intheGS. Roethlisberger United 130, Hackett/ Hodges had the top finish had the fastest girls’ GS run Vicksburg 135, Hudsonville among any of those senior the first time down at 15.85 196, Plainwell/TK 162 and Plainwell/Thornapple Kellogg’s Colin Gritter takes a run down the giant slalom ^Is. She was 16th m the girls’ and then added a 16.16 to South Haven 233. course course the Southwestern Michigan Ski Conference meet at Timber Ridge GS with runs of20.58 seconds place second. Oberlee finished as the Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) and 20.56. Gielincki was third Eve Soury Lavergne and boys’ champ with a win in the for the Trojan team in both Addison Bell were the other slalom and a runner-up finish Oberlee in an event this sea­ TK team. Colin Gritter had the slalom and 34th in the GS. events placing 24th in the GS two girls in the top four in both in the GS. Portage’s Olin son. runs that earned him 23rd in Bacon placed 31st in the GS. with times of 23.99 and 24.05 events for the Mattawan/Paw' Rhorstaff was second to Troutner led the Trojan and 23rd in the slalom adding Paw team. Oberlee in the slalom and GS team with an eighth-place sla­ runs of 31.57 and 32.69. AIS The boys’ standings saw Monday and second in the lom finish Tuesday and a sevi Lillian Wamez led the Mattawan/Paw Paw take its slalom Tuesday while getting ehth-place GS finish. Jones Trojan girls’ in both events second conference win of the a win in the GS - the only time was 18th in the slalom and placing 15 th in the GS with season in two tries there too. anyone in the conference beat 25th in the GS for the Plainwell times of 20.59 and 20.25 and Mattawan/Paw Paw closed the 13th in the slalom with runs of day of racing with 63 points. 26.79 and 27.40. Portage was second with 67 Kiera Callahan was the points ahead of Kalamazoo fourth scorer in both events for United 78, Hudsonville 138, • Wheel Alignments the Trojan girls placing 29th in Hackett/Vicksburg 141, • Auto Glass Installation the GS adding times of 35.69 Plainwell/TK 203 and South • Insurance Work Welcome and 37.46 and 33rd in the sla­ Haven 221. • Visa & MasterCard Accepted lom with runs of 47.65 and Kalamazoo United’s Sam 46.45. Oberlee won the boys’ slalom Over 40 years experience Bacon scored in both events with runs of 18.79 and 18.4. * for the Trojan boys. He was Portage’s Olin RhorstafiF was brucesframe.com 22nd in the slalom with runs the only other guy to even put 7 A 1 of 27.37 and 26.54. He placed together two runs under 20 •* * ■J 28th in the GS with times of seconds. RhorstafiF was second I adding times of 19.55 and 20.10 and 19.02. h Robby Jones had the fastest 19.7. Those two went 1-2 in the two runs in the GS for the Plainwell/TK boys. He was GS too. Oberlee won with Attached garage, central air, Gun Lake accessible. 20th overall with runs of 17.63 combined runs of 15.37 and Washer and dryer in unit, and full basement. f 15.63. RhorstafiF had times of and 18.10. Jones was second Lawn care and snow removal included. 15.73 and 15.61 to earn the on the team in the slalom with Utilities separate. No pets. Rent: $1600.00 times of 25.08 and 25.02 that runner-up spot. fl JR The SWMSC bumped its put him in 18th overall. Colin Please Call Gntter also scored in both plarmed Wednesday meet to ♦ * • *4 I k I c J •. B I I« 1 1 •f I I 1 4. I 1 A I* _! < i? a IS aS Fi(t)U nsliitb* Bruce's Frame and Full Service Body Shop FOR RENT I 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH, 1,200 SQ. FT. HOUSE 3 I I 1 I I t •l .1' * ■ .V 4 * II » ... r* -X yi| •** • J -I.-, s 1- -c? ■ t 1 n 1 3 "A* * -1? r ♦; » —x:* f •k* ■ II V n A •9 I 1 79M596 J T r ■ J I I z I * f ' 269-672-4412 i.l e' I » I 415 2nd • Middleville r » I I I I �I I Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24,2024 B _ Scots hosting district tourney, open action in semirinais I 4* The Caledonia varsity boys’ basketball team will face either Lowell or East Grand Rapids in its MHSAA District Division Semifinal mat at Caledonia High School Wednesday. The Red Arrows and Pioneers meet in one of the district tournament’s two opening round ballgames Thornapple Monday. Kellogg visits Ottawa Hills in the other, with the win­ ner of that ballgame play­ ing in the first district semiCaledonia at final Wednesday beginning at 5:30 p.m. The Fighting Scots are set to tip off around 7 p.m. Caledonia was set to close out the regular season at West Ottawa Friday. The Caledonia boys were 10-11 overall and 4-9 in the OK Red Conference heading into that match-up with the Panthers. After winning back-toback conference ballgames. Ihe Scots dropped back-toback conference games heading into that finale. East Kentwood look a 75-56 win al Caledonia High School Tuesday. Last Friday, Grandville edged the Scots 43-39 on senior night at CHS. guard Senior Ky VanderWoude had a leamhigh 17 poinls in the loss to the Bulldogs last Friday, Feb. 16, and added six rebounds. Fellow senior Jaiden Googins had six points and ten rebounds to go with three assists and four steals. Lual Abiel, a senior guard, had six points, four rebounds, two steals and two blocked shots. Senior guard Corbin Raffler had 17 points in the loss to East Kentwood Tuesday for Caledonia. Googins had ten points and and rebounds six VanderWoude finished with nine points. * T k A r St.. I t. ‘I* * '0^ ■ ' A *• r? * Sports Editor Senior guard Kyle VanHaitsma had eight of his game-high 18 points in the fourth quarter, including the game-winner, as Thomapple Kellogg took a 51-49 win over Kenowa Hills in Middleville Tuesday. The win moves the Trojans to 9-12 overall this season and Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ bas­ ketball head coach Phil Garber said he and his guys were excited to chase as tenth victory Friday night, Feb. 23, in their regular sea­ son finale against Cedar Springs. Thornapple Kellogg will open the state postseason Monday taking on Ottawa Hills in the opening round of their MHSAA Division 1 s* I I I I L L .J '^•«ir / V f Ik" sJ*> % .4 ' < M. ^4 Zi I sen •’V « A Li » > 5^ riti! nc « I t *- kA 9 t r t I J sevrs I* € t J Aitf ■ ■ [lin M; r i! f Fighting Scot senior guard Ky VanderWoude (3) pulls up at the free-throw-line for a shot over Grandville Bulldog forward Cameron Regnerus (12) in the first quarter of the Scots’ senior night contest at Caledonia High School Friday, Feb. 16. (Photo by Perry Hardin) District Tournament at Ottawa Hills High School. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m. The Trojans fell to both Ottawa Hills and Kenowa Hills the first time through the OK Gold Conference schedule this season, and beat both teams the second time around. TK was 5-8 in the Gold heading into the contest with Cedar Springs. 4 NOTICE OF CLOSEOUT PUBLIC HEARING FOR MICHIGAN DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING FOR WHIPPOORWILL/GREENWOOD ST SANITARY SEWER & WM IMPROVEMENTS AND VILLAGE-WIDE SANITARY SEWER CIPP PROJECT VanHaitsma hit a fade away jumper along the baseline from about 15 feet away to put the Trojans up by three late in the game with the Knights’ Tuesday. It was the kind of shot that Garber had him shouting “Nooooo” from the bench, but VanHaitsma turned and said, “I got you,” to his coach as he hustled back on defense. The Knights managed a game-tying three-pointer moments later. The Trojans set up a play for senior guard Tyler Gavette to find an opening for a mid-range jump shot during a timeout with a little less than half a minute to play Tuesday. Gavette was doubled as he tried to attack the basket though and found an open- Caledonia freshman forward Bryce Backus (15) works in the post to get a shot over Grandville senior forward Corbin Heckman (23) during the second half Friday, Feb. 16, at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Ejjiii ing to get the ball to VanHaitsma outside the three-point arc. VanHaitsma attacked to get to the freethrow-line for a pull-up jumper to go ahead. Brice Lloyd had nine points and Gavette ten in the win for TK. Lucas Ploeg chipped in six points and Brody Wiersma had five. Senior guard Ethan Bonnema had a key three-pointer during the fourth quarter too. Juliusz Andino led the Knights with 12 points. He hit a pair of three-pointers in the fourth quarter to keep his team’s hopes alive. Things came down to the end at Wayland for the TK boys last Friday too, Feb. 16. The host Wildcats held on for a 52-51 win during I lihiR I /jfi the team’s Coaches vs. Cancer event. Jude Webster led TK with 17 points and VanHaitsma had 14. VanHaitsma scored a dozen of those in the sec­ ond half. Garber said his guys had a few crucial turnovers down the stretch and allowed the Wildcats too many open looks a three-point shots. The Wildcats banked in a three to cut a six-point TK lead in half late. Malachi Veldman hit five threes for the Wildcats and finished with 17 points. Kaharrie Pureifoy had ten points and Peyton Moore had 11. VanHaitsma had a buzz­ er-beating look to win it against the Wildcats too, but it didn’t find its mark. !)( /I Ai ttli I sBHieti, I ’ Mims. [ifJtiSJ) 'hitdra ■ .al Ikj'k a BODYSHOP The Village of Middleville will conduct a closeout public hearing on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at 7:00 pm at Council Chambers of the Village Hall, 100 E. Main Street, Middleville, Ml 49333, for the purpose of affording citizens an opportu­ nity to submit comments and receive a final report on the completion of the 2022 Whippoorwill/Greenwood St Sanitary Sewer & WM Improvements and Village- Wide Sanitary Sewer CIPP Project CDBG grant. J I A i 12856 J t< & TKHS boys open postseason Monday night at Ottawa Hiiis Brett Bremer LA I < J 1> f ^bifil I'ltaffli I CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN The CDBG grant provided funding to assist in improvements to the sanitary sewer system and CIPP project at Whippoorwill/Greenwood Street. The CDBG project benefitted at least 51% low to moderate income persons; zero persons were displaced as a result of the project. n* NII STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS State & I-CAR Certified Technicians Interested parties are invited to comment on the project in person at the pub­ lic hearing or in writing through Tuesday, March 12, 2024, 2:00 pm and addressed to Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg, PO Box 69, Middleville, Ml 49333, or via email at stolsonburgc@villageofmiddleville.org, or via phone at 269-795-3385. TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System Mi Frame Repair •I Citizen views and comments on the CDBG project are welcome. Handicapped persons needing assistance or aid should contact the Village Clerk during regular hours, forty-eight hours prior to the meeting. wc 616.891.0150 WMBA Rhonda Van Polen www.edsbody.com TOO) Village Clerk - ff— « 02/23/2024 Lesonal bkNFIB Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner L Wafer Bourne System I GOLD class! I? OPEN: M thru F 7:30 am - 5:00 pm 110 Johnson St., Caledonia « t I I I * * I �Commission on Aging building project heads"into“n«t7h^ T. I Sa Jayson Bussa ect, which will create a new Editor home for the COA at the A steering committee comer of McKeown Road guiding a transformational and M-79 Highway. The building project for the Commission on Aging pro­ Barry County Commission vides a variety of services on Aging will move forward for the county’s growing into the next phase of plan­ senior population and is ning. currently headquartered at At Tuesday’s meeting of 320 W. Woodlawn Ave. in the Barry County Committee Hastings, where its facility of the Whole, Commission is both undersized and in on Aging (COA) Executive various states of disrepair. M Director Courtney Ziny Current plans for the new asked commissioners to COA building clock in at I adopt a Standard Form of 16,500 square feet in size. I Agreement with which is a significant 1 Kalamazoo-based architec­ increase from the nearly ture firm Eckert Wordell 10,000 square feet of space LLC. that the COA utilizes right The firm will be responsi­ now on Woodlawn Avenue. I ble for a comprehensive list The project also includes of planning responsibilities, including site evaluation space that is shared between and planning, building the COA and Harvest information model manage- Pointe, an assisted living ment, civil engineering, facility operated by counId d ■ ’■ ' landscape design, interior ty-run Thomapple Manor. High Sctioo^ design, conformed docuThe COA’s current proj­ Piloto hy ments for construction and ect that it is working toward as-designed record draw- only includes the 16,500 ings. The services come square feet of COA facility with a price tag of $352,920 and the adjoining space will and will eventually lead into be treated as a separate proj­ the construction phase of ect. the project. The new COA building Payment for Eckert would also provide more 8a Wordell will be taken out of flexibility in that space the COA’s building fund, with expandable walls in which started with a rough­ the activity room — along ly $450,000 balance. with room for growth. The move ushers in in lit Kt. To fund the project, the another chapter of this proj- COA will utilize the $3 mil1 r s. 1 5* 4 H T 1 . . I I % ■ p- 8 1 • iC * b - » r-u * I • ' i' .. > **> ■ 5-. . •m ! i * •> / .I *v... *>r ■ ► j 'S b b" ' J * ■ -*2 < r .'•sr. '■ *• I .T\’ *1 ■ jZ’ J K 4 . ♦ p ■fti- ( Hastings. The COA services seniors throughout all of Barry County. (Courtesy rendering) I lion provided by the county along with adding the $450,000 out of its own building fund. After that, the COA will be left to raise $2.5 million. Ziny said that the organization is in the “silent phase” of fundraising and has opened a special project fund with the Barry Community Foundation. “We’ve begun having conversations with local philanthropy and corporate sponsors,” Ziny said. “While we are not ready to announce those dollar a '''I’ ®l fcil 111 1stn W (fa ft. trtWiii J «itli II pi e Wjj'Wte ftjlM h ta WIV' : Mitui 111 its Eli item (amounts) that we have committed, the COA board is confident to proceed with the next phase of planning, Ziny added. Ziny and the steering committee, which includes representatives from the COA, Thornapple Manor and the Barry County Board of Commissioners, spent October and November of 2023 holding informational sessions where the public could come and learn more about the project and pro­ vide feedback. Ziny held these sessions in Delton, Nashville, Woodland, Middleville and two in Hastings. Eckert Wordell should know the lay of the land already as the firm has conducted past work for Thornapple Manor and Harvest Pointe. “We’ve previously done pretty much all the work out at Thomapple and Harvest Pointe,’’ company represen­ tative Curtis Penny said. “We did the Harvest Pointe project so we have a good history out there and know the site very well and know the utilities. I feel like it’s a great fit for our company.” Commissioners voiced their pleasure at seeing the high-profile project contin­ ue to plod forward. (I’m) so impressed with the work that your board has done, Commissioner Catherine Getty said to Ziny. “We say collaboration a lot and it’s not easy some­ times working with that many people and you’ve just done a great job to build a facility that will serve, really, the next gen­ eration. 5^ Skunk spray season has arrived in Michigan. And that stinks Janelle D. James Bridge Michigan While Valentine’s Day has passed, male skunks will be looking for love for a few more weeks, and that could mean trouble for dogs or out­ door pets. Experts say skunks are more likely to spray during mating season, which started this month and usually lasts through the end of March. After spending winter underground, they’re hungry and looking for food to replenish energy. While skunks are more likely to run away than spray, they’ll do so if they feel like they’ve been snuck up on by a pet or a predator. Dog owners should think twice before letting their pet outside on their own, even if continued cold weather makes that tempting, said Alexander Strauch, staff veterinarian for the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association. “Having a non-retractable leash is preferred because of the pet owners’ ability to manage the distance to which their dog is away from them more easily,” Strauch said. “Retractable leashes can allow your dog to get farther away from you than desired if your reaction time isn’t quick enough to stop the lengthening of the leash.” Owners should check their surroundings before letting their furry friend out for a bathroom break, especially when it is dark, Strauch said. Instead, pets should be super­ vised at all times to ensure that they are not being too friendly with skunks, or the other way around. Be wary of rabies, too: Overly friendly behavior by skunks could be a sign they have the viral disease. That means it’s “also important that dogs are kept up to date on their core vaccinations, especially rabies seeing as there’s a possibility that a skunk and dog interac­ tion could transfer rabies,” Strauch said. What to do if your dog gets sprayed If a dog happens to get sprayed. Strauch recommends that pet owners immediately wash their dog with lukewarm water — outside. if possible, to avoid home contamination. “Special attention should be taken to care for the eyes,” he said. “Luke warm or tap water temperature water can be poured over the dog’s eyes if the dog’s head is held.” You can buy special skunk spray shampoo, but you can also make your own skunk odor treatment by mixing hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and dish detergent. Learn how here. Why skunks spray Skunks are usually hesi­ tant to spray because of how draining it is on their bodies, but that all changes in breed­ ing season, said Rachel Lincoln, a wildlife outreach coordinator for the Wildlife Division of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. If a pet runs into a skunk in the backyard during mat- ing season, “it’s immediate­ ly going to spray,” she said. “And so that’s why we tend to smell skunks much more frequently this time of year.” Before a skunk sprays, it will stand its ground by rais­ ing its tail. Then it will stomp on its forelegs in a handstand as if dancing to scare off predators. “It is very expensive on I b. the skunk’s nutrient and energy levels for it to spray because it takes a lot of resources to build up that kind of liquid in its body,” Lincoln said. “Then to eject it is really hard on the skunk’s body.” How to keep skunks away Areas under decks, porch­ es, and sheds make good homes for skunks, which typically look for areas with food and protection from the elements. They may also shelter under brush piles and sticks so they can feed on insects. Removing any piles of leaves or sticks from your yard could deter skunks from settling there. Homeowners should also consider putting a barricade around their porch or deck, such as lat­ tice. Removing bird feeders and pet food from outside, which can be food sources for skunks, will also help keep skunks away, along with predators like coyotes and foxes. If a homeowner discovers a skunk den, they should call their local animal control agency to remove it. LIVE PUBLIC * AUCTION I i * .1 (' la IT Saturday, March 2 • 10 am It’s mating season for skunks which lasts through March. During this time of year, the striped animal is more likely to spray so pet owners should take extra precautions. (Courtesy of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources) J r. I •. L-r r 1 Standing Timber Buyer, Tree Trimming and Removal. Land/Lot Clearing I i a imVRIDK Storm Clean Up Dalton Bekins Danny Sturman having sold his home will sell the following at public aution: New Holland TC30 tractor with loader, 2009 quality dump trailer, snowmobiles, firearms, Husqvarna zero turn mower, tools, horse tack, sporting goods, furniture, farm equipment & attachments, garage and yard items, household. See our website for photos and information WWW.VKauctions.com TREE SERVICES LLC I 930 noth Ave., Plainwell, Ml i Owner 616-799-0534 •*1 . *. . I 4 b ■ Fully Licenced & Insured Scott Vander Kolk Jr. www.VKauctiQns.com AUCTION C APPRAISAL C616> 437-1047 �► ► I Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24,2024 _ I Other Troians win district, TK set to rally at regional I 1 15 I I 7 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The message from coach Madelynn Lula to her girls, most of whom were a little more disappointed in finish­ ing second than they were enthused about advancing to the next round at the state tournament, was a fairly sim­ ple one: The regional trophy is big­ ger next week and they are good enough to win it. The Thomapple Kellogg Trojans were very, very good Friday at the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Distriet at Gull Lake High School. The Plainwell Trojans were just a little bet­ ter. A near flawless round three routine wasn’t quite enough to vault the orange and black TK Trojan varsity over the Plainwell girls into first place. Plainwell had the top score in each of the first two rounds and held off a charge from TK in round three to win the regional championship. The Plainwell girls finished with an overall score of 16^2^ ahead of TK 756.24, Mattawan 732.04 and Sturgis 725.58. “I think it is 75 percent mad about not beating every­ one and the other 25 percent is just want to win the bigger trophy,” TK senior Mali Holland said. “That is what coach said. She said next week there is a bigger trophy on the line, so that is what we’re going for.” Those top four teams from the district will compete in the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Regional hosted by Kenowa Hills High School today, Feb. 24, where the top four teams earn spots in the March 2 MHSAA Competitive Cheer Finals at Central Michigan University. Round three has been a point-getter for years for the Thomapple Kellogg ladies and their first-year head coach Lula came into the winter planning to push scores even further upward. Plainwell held a 448.82440.34 lead over the Thomapple Kellogg girls heading into round three after tallying the top score in each of the first two rounds. TK scored 315.9 points in that final round, a score that had them ahead of everyone until Plainwell took the mat for the penultimate performance of the meet. Plainwell nearly matched TK with a score of 312.00 in round three that was enough to keep those blue and white Trojans in the lead. “In round three, they exuded so much passion, and so much energy, and so much • 1 SMi- •i ?v/-- S H I J ' .*. ^2 < s « t.' :k J I h 4 i V i.’/ •w- r < ♦ > ■> A b>.. 1^; / r* << a »« J V •Av’ 1 ■w, > *• .•n • <• A 4 ? 4- •s. .X. fei i1 •< ,1 .■k ’••'it.. 4 a;-*’” I I ■ ’ r ■b- I J I J 5<^ « f i^iil The Trojan stunt groups shout out to the crowd during their round three performance Friday, Feb. 16, at the MHSAA Division 2 District hosted by Gull Lake High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) .. excitement,” Lula said. “I think that is what is missing in round one and round two I was saying them, ‘you get so mad at me when I am hard on you and I tell you, be like you are - electric in round three. Be the fireworks show, but start that in round one. Don’t wait ‘til round three to start that. I need the fireworks show to start in the begirming. The Trojans didn’t have their best round three at their OK Gold Conference final. • 4 ♦ P 2024 MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE Charter Township of Gaines, County of Kent, MI The Gaines Charter Township Board of Review for March 2024 will be held at the Township Office, located at 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, MI to hear appeals regarding 2024 assessments. finishing as co-champions in the conference with Cedar There were Springs. improvements in that round Friday. “Better today,” Lula said. That was a good round, up there with the top dogs in the state of Michigan. We got our girl back, [Olivia] Bouchard is back in when she is in not only is she a talented kid but she brings so much energy and so much morale. Having her in just brings so much confidence to everyone.” Bouchard missed the OK Gold Conference final with an injury. Holland said Bouchard killed round three in her return, but she knows that she and her teammates all have another level they can reach. “As a team, I just think that we need to be more excited and less worried «* * z T I t w ‘d’T^T 'firr J® ^in« rr _____ J? . -. I “SIS*— '4 II • • •• ----- I w (6 I ’T t I 1 '.fi 1 > .5. r fA •r J • X .r~ 1 f = 9^ . •. I' jr I ' f. I . '*3 iSH 1 i J • ♦ Thornapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer coach Madelynn Lula gets fired up with the Trojan cheering section before the start of her team’s round one routine Feb. 16 at Gull Lake High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) See DISTRICT, next page jlsaioi * • I The Gaines Charter Township board of Review will meet on the following dates: *< — I Tuesday, March 5, 2024, 9:00AM: Organizational Meeting . ... 51' * I** ♦1 •J 6 »^"*' Tuesday, March 12,2024,1:30PM to 7:30PM: Appeals Hearings «i 5 ?z Wednesday, March 13, 2024 , 1:30PM to 7:30PM: Appeals Hearings 1 I 1 .... h '^9 1 \ak *1 a « The Board of Review will meet as many more days as necessary to hear protests and equalize the 2024 assessments. By Board resolution, taxpay­ ers may protest by letter sent to 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, MI 49316 or by email to iim.zenas(S gainestownship,ore. provided the protest is received before 5:00PM Wednesday, March 13, 2024. ;' ■ lib 'Hl II 1 .a I’’ 4“-. 1 » II . ‘-rj. •• t. .1 > ’iV -if 'll ' st •' "'•’JI * I L’* ft 1“' f’ “ The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2024 are as follows: F .Mt *r Sift . • n xr t 1 4^ • •1 I k w •T - T •>» -r 1 1 “I— Agricultural Residential Industrial 46.48 44.17 47.75 1.0757 1.1320 1.0471 4# » I N I. ■ 212068 0 W I?: ■ Commercial 'Ml 44.18 1.1317 -------- » •4 .••l V■ •f Acii' NC NC ■p *.* 1*1 .im 50.00 1.000 Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Notice The Township will provide necessary reasonable services to individuals with disabilities at the Board of Review meetings upon seven (7) days’ notice. Contact Kim Triplett at 616-504-4332. n f =s' ... r ■t vB'^ V U • 1 4. IT Personal Property * ik A < Developmental v r • 1 ll I, 4 t. « . IT r ft., ‘K .0^ l' Fol I i ,■ n -- V * Ai ■> The four Thornapple Kellogg stunt groups hold up flyers Claft^<oZ4^wo Jahnke, Mia Hilton and Kaylee Clark during round three ’ of the MHSAA Division 2 SbX'Burner* ” in H-hland. �DISTRICT, contlnuQd from previous while we’re performing,” Holland said. “I feel like we get so in our heads when we’re actually on the mat and obviously that is not translating. We know we’re i good, and sometimes I think we think we’re too good.” Still, it is the highest over{ all score of the season for the TK ladies. “We could have been a I little higher in rounds one ; and two, but that round three F was amazing,” Lula said. “It I IS up there with the good 1I teams on the east side. Like , high. Like high, high.” In a judged sport scores can vary a bit from perfor­ mance to performance, but the TK ladies had a score I more than 16 points higher than the one that won them a district championship in 2023. Thomapple Kellogg '’h beat out Plainwell by less than nine points a year ago to win a district title in Middleville TK u/<»nt TK -IK went on from there to eventually place fifth at the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Finals matching the program’s best state finals finish ever. Holland said she thinks her team’s tucks have been more consistent in round two this season and round three has certainly improved. She said that the 2023 state finals’ squad might have cheered with a bit more excitement but in her opinion this team IS more technically sound Excitement is , . certainly something the TK ladies can work to improve in the week between districts and region­ als. Plainwell topped TK 228.1 to 225.4 injound one Friday night and then followed that up by bettering the TK ladies p •5 7* lei) 5^ r v' r 1 J ■■ 1 I L Ik L. J I "J A (I* f I { * I Ai'. U' 4 •>* f 1 F r, -pane J i a f? ♦ ( pJ I Mpeweto p A te Iiojan tola's iwiii I K’ ^SctallMj page ----------------- TK senior Anna Jo Smith cheers with her teammates during round one of the MHSAA Division 2 District at Gull Lake High School in Richland Friday, Feb. 16. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I TK’s Curtis gets 1-0 blood round win at regionals to 214.94 in round two. v TTiose scores were about three to four points lower in each round than what the TK ladies were expecting and had been putting up lately. TK traded out their front walkovers for back hand­ springs in round two Friday and Lula was pleased with how that change went, even if scores weren’t quite as high as her girls really would have liked in rounds one and two. Mattawan, Sturgis, Hastings and Gull Lake were the top contenders for the final two regional qualifying positions positions all all evening, evening, with with no other teams over the 400point mark heading into round three. Mattawan and Sturgis both put together strong round three routines Brett Bremer Seth Harvey 1-0 in the Sports Editor blood round and then Jayce Curtis will be the pinned Greenville’s Casey lone guy representing Eberspeaker 4:44 into Thomapple Kellogg at their match for third place. Ford Field in Detroit the The Trojan 165-pounder first weekend of March. managed a quick escape to Curtis won his way to a start the second period and spot in the MHSAA it was the only point of the Division 2 Individual match as the two battled Wrestling Finals at the on their feet through the home of the Detroit Lions rest of the period and by placing second in the Curtis held Harxey down 165-pound weight class at for the entire two-minute the MHSAA Division 2 third period. Individual Regional in Curtis started his day Allendale Saturday. with a 4-0 win over Curtis defeated Lowell’s Coopersville’s Trevor VanOffelen. Eberspeaker’s Greenville teammate Naythan Dobson bumped Curtis to the blood round, the consolation semifinals, by outscoring him 12-4 in their semifinal match. Curtis was one of two TK regional qualifiers this season. Christien Miller did not compete Saturday. The MHSAA Division 2 Individual Wrestling Finals will be held March 1-2 at Ford Field in down­ town Detroit. to hold on to the leads they had over the Blue Devils and Saxons. Hastings finished the day with an overall score of 719.00. Gull Lake was the only other team among the 13 competing to finish with over 700 points. The Blue Devils put together a score of 700.86. The Saxons were just 6.58 points behind that fourth-place Sturgis team. Edwardsburg was seventh in the day’s final standings with a score of 672.74 points ahead of Wayland 657.10, Hamilton 655.96, Vicksburg 637.20, Harper Creek I I J ► ?*ai«r A. ( V vS ’n t r J! home •> ^outs • • X' * . > .A • £ • r / ’ J 4 t ■- CT 3r / A 9 4* 4« I • -ii* <‘V s w A. ' r» it I I r. I a’ * ( *«»• <1- I t » E' r I b Stevensville Lakeshore 630.02 and St. Joseph 617.30. Lula said she told her girls, “we can not rest on our laurels. We have to get back in the gym and we have to work hard, because you are in contention just for a spot at the state finals, but you’re in contention for that region­ al mitten [shaped trophy]. So, go into practice Monday and work for it. Don’t be sad. There are 12 other teams out here that want to be in your place. Don’t be sad. Be better.” b f ♦ , 634.40, 1 > The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24, 2024/ Page 13 •’(xsue •AM • hiI £ {• Thornapple Kellogg junior Jayce Curtis (second from right) celebrates his third-place finish in the 165-pound weight class at the MHSAA Division 2 Individual Regional at Allendale High School Saturday, Feb 17 alongside fellow medalists Allendale’s Harrison Meekhof, Naythan Dobson and Casey Eberspekaer. The top four at each weight class class Saturday earned spots in the March 1-2 MHSAA Individual Wrestling Finals. p IRVING TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW The 2024 Board of Review for Irving Township will meet as follows: t > • 12168 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 r: I *I Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax; 616.891.0430 CTOWNSHIP aledonia ly /•1 •' • E Tuesday, March 5th at 11:00am - Organizational Meeting Monday, March 11th from 3;00pm-9:00pm Tuesday, March 12th from 9;00am-3:00pm f I I I I >ft I Written appeals will be accepted by March 12, 2024. — 3:: Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County - Michigan 2024 March Board of Review ..a The tentative equalization ratios for computation of SEV of real property are as follows: t t « Classification Of Real Property Irving 2024 Ratios and Multipliers Ratio _______ Real Property_________ * Multiplier * f I b I Tuesday; •I 1 r1 r 9, 4 k March Sth, 2024 Org. Meeting - 8:00AM Appeal dates: Monday; March 11th, 2024 9;00AM - 3:00PM Tuesday: 3:00PM -9:00PM March 12th, 2024 All reviews will be heard by appointment only For appointments call:(616) 891-0070 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia Ml 49316 Written appeals must be in the Twp. office by Thursday, March 7, 2024 .••Si I / r I ( I The 2024 equalization tentative ratios and estimated multipliers for the Charter Township of Caledonia will be as follows: Agricultural: Commercial: Industrial; Residential: Personal: 4* Tentative Ratio 42.41 43.89 48.02 44.53 50.00 Estimated multiplier 1.1790 1.1392 1.0412 1.1228 1.0000 Supervisor: Bryan Harrison Assessor: Laura Stob L ich^' I Agricultural Residential Commercial Industrial Timber-Cutover Developmental 54.25% 43.36% 47.37% 33.85% None in Class None in Class 0.92166 1.15314 1.05552 1.47710 PERSONAL PROPERTY Commercial Industrial Utility 50.00% 50.00% 50.00% 1.000 1.000 1.000 r * u F e 1 I. I I This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1076 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA 41.72A (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). I The Irving Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities upon seven (7) day notice to the Irving Township Board, such as signer for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials to be presented at the meeting. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the clerk at (269) 948-0633. Jamie R. Knight Supervisor, Irving Township 212410 *I u ’I i ■t i.' « K I « �f Page 14ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, February 24, 2024 Tl^ojans a bit better in second swing through Gola s the now 14-6 Wildcats who are still chasing Grand Rapids Catholic Central at the top of the OK Gold Conference standings. Wayland managed to eke in front 29-28 at the half and then took off with a 19-7 third quar­ ter run, eventually earning a 63-43 win. The Wildcats went into this weekend’s action with a 10-2 record in the OK Gold Conference while TK went into last night’s action 4-9 in ±e conference and 10-9 overall. Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans haven’t played any better basketbal 1 than they played in the first half of their Coaches vs. Cancer ballgame against OK Gold Conference foe Wayland at Wayland Union High School Friday. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team took care of the basketball, played solid defense, and led throughout a large chunk of the first two quarters against * b I ^^^'.‘•^^‘‘r^r^ s K R<v' • «4kL •• ». :• A< • "A Uk 7A<’ .•^ * w*-* \ O; aM • • V I'iW * < 5f.V, «’s •A*’ tf •^‘ liSs- t l: ■* ♦> rjr A« I h z • <. K A* ■ < A * (v cy r •x (• iV« * t* (■ s A» * h. * A ’ ‘i f <; T> ir'.'*. lt : 3 d s‘1^ .T*J . I l1 J .19 r1 f fl I 1 ••l* bl-. « »• X* » I R iZ 1^ I •1 •> I I I j I I iii wv ' V r • .tf / X /• > ■V ' A < *• i- <• IK* ,1 > »• r. F' p< / *» 9^ - I ;s^ I J Thornapple Kellogg freshman forward Reece Ritsema gets a shot up in transition In front of Wayland’s Addi Sikorski (21) during the fourth quarter Friday night at Wayland Union High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 212420 Ml ■ ivFW ?<n •Tfc . > *>v^ Yankee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 2024 MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE Yankee Springs Township Barry County The Yankee Springs Township Board of Review for March 2024 will meet at the Yankee Springs Township Office at 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333. The Yankee Springs Township March Board of Review wiii meet on the following dates: Appeals are by appointment. Please call 269-795-9091 to schedule an appointment. • Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 1:30 PM- Organizational Meeting • Wednesday, March 13. 2024, 1-4 PM and 6-9 PM - Appeal Hearing • Thursday, March 14, 2024, 9 AM - Noon and 1:30-4:30 PM Appeal Hearing t «■ The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests, and to equalize the 2024 assessments. By board resolution, taxpayers are able to protest in person, by letter sent to Dan Scheuerman at Yankee Springs Township, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, Ml 49333, or email danscheuerman@yankeesDringstwD.org provided protest is received prior to 4 PM on March 14, 2024. “20 points is not indicative of how hard they had to play to beat us,” TK head coach Brandi James said. “We played a fantastic three out of four quarters. We were down one at halftime. We put up way more of a fight than they expected us to put up. We were definitely the underdogs. I mean, they’re a really, really good team. I was really proud.” Junior guard Emma Geukes hit four three-pointers to lead TK with 12 points. Sophomore guards Tealy Cross and Jordan Pranger had eight points apiece and freshman forward Reece Ritsema chipped in seven points. In building an early lead, the TK coach liked how her girls dealt with Wayland’s pressure defense. “We really relaxed with the basketball. We talked a lot this week in practice about not dribbling right away when you catch it,” James said. “Catch, keep your dribble in your back pocket, assess, and make a plan before you dribble. They were doing that, because Wayland plays off of you until you start to dribble, then they close out on you really hard. You pick it up and they are really heavy in your face. So, if we can just catch and assess we were slicing through with passes really well. “Then in the second half for some reason we were deciding to drive into the shot blockers that were in the middle of the paint, and that is not the battle we’re going to win. We were winning the battle of passing through. It is what it is. I was proud of them though.” Coach James was pretty pleased with her team’s defen­ sive effort throughout the night. It was breakdowns on offense and against the Wildcats’ pres­ sure that limited her team’s scoring ability in the third quar­ ter and gave the Wildcats’ a few extra easy buckets. Having Cross missing some time didn’t help things any offensively for the Trojans. Ritsema had another great all-around game for the Trojans. “Reece Ritsema has become so solid for us, as a freshman,” James said. “She had that one double-double and the beast that I knew was inside of her has started to come out. She played nearly every minute of this • l’ i>aK* <1 1 •4 •f r I ♦ k I T* MOI r A 1 J— I Lil If • !i’. a fk 'li* ’S •1 > .-(/* z I * ♦ >4 J 'or. • > fl V. •i < r z J. f. 4» R 8. c/' M I -^t ‘4 I *- * * .. * -A :4 J' f « A ■ » «•»* * *4 •* • M t; r* « f z» p c. < X-* * I 1. * 1 I* * V A» * •sY I•• .1 § T ;■ V ft. * .^1 •M, •&, I •A 'Mm* . I. - a *5 I I 1 r. 1 ■^^"* N r 9 •tti 1 i. I •-iarr r “*1 • I* i5£A'.' •4! ,r •t. J Thornapple Kellogg’s Emma Dykhouse (34) and Jordan Pranger (24) team up to try and rip a rebound away from Wayland’s Reese Coughlin during the fourth quarter of their OK Gold Conference ballgame at Wayland Union High School Friday, Feb. 16. (Photo by Brett Bremer) V b-ti b. t >• p "*' • I 11 i -^Zj*** k J* > < * A 'isid^ f .K’, A f": Ai’S •t b II . ■i C'. 5 5.* i liaW J p 3 *> I ’I ij R SAi^‘ "• < b ■xk * flxx / * •’A .. .>3 , ssi^ *< 4 fs * > . I I b % { SJ,. •,1 A> LX'b' t H F i I t: 1 II <♦ • I« S' 6 Ito iilj I 4 •<r M J' w 3 I •••! ' I I« • i^s iB 5 . I I r r «* Ka I ' a; a tv I 3^ ■ ’lO j*.- ♦ 1 er «• * F ;to’ ZL I ♦ »« a K» 4 '.fl 2^. r I*' A'' si St '4 1 r 1 t -*l . I ^ia - ? > > **« * .W K J I 1 ■^Bi <1 ««iv Jst < 5 } r .a TO? '•jF •R r if- Thornapple Kellogg senior Eva Corson looks to move the basketball from the top of the key as she is defended by Wayland’s Laney Wolf during the fourth quarter Friday, Feb. 16, at Wayland Union High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) game, ripped a ton of rebounds and was a huge defensive pres­ ence,” James said. That double-double the TK coach mentioned included 15 cdnnual t1 •■■IT t • Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station 47 Jesus J^(EEes QUESTIONS: ASK us... 218 E. State St.. Hastings • 945-9673 h-J iaaiaeiis 1 r / , 4 OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Rob Heethuis, Supervisor Dan Scheuerman, Assessor Ji - i < NEW Collection On The Bright > Side by MODA® '.V Persons with disabilities that need special assistance, please contact Mike Cunningham, Clerk, at 269-795-9091. r ^rwjS ^(excludes sale items) Ends 2-29-24 Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Notice I -J 1 V. >• 20% off Fabrics The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2024 are as follows ‘Agricultural .49.88% ..1.00241 ‘Commercial .48.67% ..1.02733 ‘Industrial.... .46.11% ...1.08436 ‘Residential., 44.02%. ...1.13585 ‘Personal Property...50.00% ...1.00000 •X ♦ • ■■ *p M" • *1 rr 1 '■•ife SR- | > February Sale I » .fV. ■' .'a 7 r^t J J I Saturday 9 am-3 pm r V e 3 points and 23 rebounds in a losing effort against Gsiting Kenowa Hills late last month. That rebound tally left her just three shy of the single-game Trojan record held by James. Wayland sophomore Addi Sikorski really kept her team in the bailgame early on. She had six of her team’s 13 points in the first quarter and finished with a game-high 21 points. Junior Harmony Laker was a big part of the third-quarter push for the Wildcats. She had seven of her 15 points in that third quarter. James said she couldn’t help but be a little proud for Sikorski, who she coached during the last AAU season. The Wildcats also got ten points from senior Reese Coughlin. ! The Trojan girls got their second shot at the Kenowa Hills Knights, who just handed Grand Rapids Catholic Central its only OK Gold Conference defeat of the season so far, on Tuesday at Kenowa Hills High School and didn’t quite get the revenge they were looking for there either. The Knights took a 47-44 win over the visiting Trojans. It was a big flip from the first meeting in Middleville thought when the Knights took an 18-point win. The TK ladies were set to close the conference season at home against Cedar Springs last night, Feb. 23, and then go on the road for two non-conference ballgames to close ±e regular season. They will be at Grandville Tuesday and at Lakewood next Thursday, Feb. 29. ► • 'M • I •' J I ’ 4' a*. j s T I I 1 h. I t 1 I I I ' •t • •, s I I . * • t ?> 1 * J » ’ 'I 1 I �"xi*VT I ■r- l w 4> J I & The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24, 2024/ Page 15 Trojans get three girls through 3 to Finals 1 ** i T UH • ! Scot hockey falls in overtime F 0 JI J’ Brett Bremer Thornapple Kellogg Sports Editor 130-pounder Giovana Daher Thomapple Kellogg sent and 170-pounder Adelaide ' its first girl, Kayleigh Brown, Holderman both won one to the inaugural MHSAA match during the tournament. J flW i Girls Individual Wrestling -1 ! Finals in 2022. Thornapple Kellogg’s I j Emma Gibson qualified in Briella Dvkstra and Dykstra iifr'2023. Fennville’s Elia Ruiz battle ' X’- . . There were be a few TK for an advantage during the .Mfe •S girls at the MHSAA Girls first period of their 110Hltfis; Individual Wrestling Finals pound opening round for the first time in 2024. match Sunday at the Gibson will return to Ford MHSAA Giris’ Red Regional i Field for the second time at Gull Lake High School. R* . . Ji after beating teammate Rylee (Photo by Brett Bremer) Alberts 9-1 in the 125-pound championship match Sunday B at the MHSAA Girls Red Regional at Gull Lake High I r. School. Thomapple Kellogg got three of its six competitors through the tournament thanks to top four finishes at regional. Raini Braska placed fourth at 115 pounds. < ra The state finals will be held March 1-2 at Ford Field ■J k* in Detroit. Gibson, Alberts -Jgae^'" and Braska will be joined there by teammate Jayce Curtis who medaled at his individual regional tourna­ ment in Allendale Saturday. Thornapple Kellogg’s Raini Braska pins Ashley Bacallao from Kenowa Hills Gibson reached her cham­ during their opening round match in the 115-pound weight class at the MHSAA pionship match by pinning Girls’ Red Regional hosted by Gull Lake High School Sunday. Braska placed Delton Kellogg’s Olivia Post fourth at the weight class to earn a spot in the March 1-2 MHSAA Individual in their quarterfinal match Wrestling Finals. (Photo by Brett Bremer) and then pinning Marcellus’ Madison Harrison in the 7; ' semifinal round. I Alberts worked her way to I 3 ?ti7' • her final with Gibson with I * *. pins of Watervliet’s Sophie I Wigent and Grand Haven’s J* Hargaret Young to start the day. s. ••• In the 115-pound weight «>• Gk iA class TK’s Braska fell to Grand Haven’s Gracey Barry * .<1 in the semifinals and then bounced back with a quick pin of Otsego’s Bailey fT?^ Mcillwain in the blood round to earn her spot in the conso­ lation final and a guaranteed spot at Ford Field. She fell Thornapple Kellogg 125-pounder Rylee Alberts works to pin Grand Haven’s 4-2 to Loy Norrix’s Jessica Margaret Young during their semifinal match at the MHSAA Girls’ Red Regional host White in the match for third ed by Gull Lake Saturday. Alberts earned a spot in the state finals with her runner-up at their weight class. finish to teammate Emma Gibson at their weight class. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 4-- r I ft . If 1 Ik ri s 16! »•. L i I iV- r * I J A V F I• * n th f « J f k i i- 1 'S'^ 1 I L t .1 4 i V r* s yr-’.,! i; J- ’ 1 J‘2 4A' I 4 i ■1 »• I I I j I 4* *d I Sa V I jt 1 'J- «• ft r f f■ ar* s -z 1 •5:T’. □b f I I W’W^ -A “4r /• ♦i ft 1 1*1 ss*?* S’*!: ' 1 After nearly an hour of scoreless ice time, Forest Hills Central’s Drew Wright ended the Caledonia varsity hockey season Thursday. Forest Hills Central took a 2-1 overtime win over the Fighting Scots in the MHSAA Division 1 Regional Semifinal at Griff’s Ice House West in Holland. Benny Mielock had an assist on Wright’s game-winner. Mielock also had an assist on the goal six minutes into the first period scored by teammate Mike Timmer. Hayden Tanner also added an assist on the Timmer goal. The Fighting Scots and Rangers played through the final 10:59 of the first period, and 17-minute second and third periods without finding the net again. Caledonia scored the 'll game’s opening goal five minutes and 15 seconds in. Caledonia opened the state tournament with a 4-2 win over Jenison in Holland Tuesday. Ethan Sova had two goals and an assist for the Scots in the win over the Wildcats. Harmon Esch had a goal and an assist and Tony Kauffman also scored for Caledonia. Lucas McNabnay tailied two assists and Andrew Sova had one. Hayden Bilk scored both Jenison goals. Forest Hills Central will face Forest Hills Northern/Eastern in the MHSAA Division 1 Regional Final at Griff’s Ice House West Wednesday, Feb. 28. The Forest Hills Norther/ Eastern skaters took a 2-1 win in their regional semifinal against West Ottawa Thursday. ft TT^.?=r.- I % «l * SF; .’I Thornapple Township 2024 BOARD OF REVIEW Notice to all township taxpayers; The 2024 Board of Review ior the Townshap of Thomapple will meet at the Township Hall, 200 E. Main St., Middleville, Michigan on these dates: March 5, 2024 - Organizational Day 9am -■kt- . < Monday, March 11, 2024 I I 4i ii,? J I 9 a m to 12 Noon, 1 to 4.00 p.m. I •I* 1 V Thursday, March 14, 2024 —*■ .A * 8am to 12 Noon; 6 to 8pm CALL 269-795-7202 <1. • .I h '.S- * 4 To make appointment with the Board of Review (Written appeals accepted until March 14, 2024) k •« I V < J) (• u 4 1/ It ’ AK IV . I ■ k 1 * I Sj .-ft. » * J • I. t'.'i •.*> I' I C4 ■1 S kt .. ' ■*' b "■1' •J 1 ■ ■ ■ I- •%? fj' • LiSc*' ri ■ Sft^'at 5 » ‘'I Ik ftvrv *1 J * rX* J- .’t •I . 1 t 'll • >• •! 4 ftl I *V’. J|4 An *« LVK ' ( .V •'r *••1 2 b. l1 *■ r I '-I * V. ; » A>'‘ t I •• 1 J r T 'I. 'r V l«> t - f, . a; 5*-V 1 -.1 > J .« I 1'' 'r .1 1 *^A I I •5 > S' J ' aT- J r" I Afsai I ti • J' > 11 fJtFi I p' 'I ,-^A L J I I II p I .'.t « 1 • jWtaite inj Die fort The tentative recommended equalization ratios and estimated multipliers (factors) necessary to compute individual state equalized values of real property in the Township of Thornapple, Barry County: CLASS AGRICULTURAL COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL PERSONAL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENTAL TIMBER-CUTOVER ft ft BATIO(%) 52.80% 47.27% 49.12% . 44.72% 50.00% MULTIPLIER 0.9470 1.0578 1.0179 1.1181 1.0000 None in Class None in Class OT gffisjtfito efiflcwsB ilaiidtaii Carirt Eric Schaefer, Thornapple Township Supervisor 212354k 1 4 f k I 41 ■ S'. ' . ■ .1 12807 J £ . I.'.I 7'. . (. i- 4^ * 11^1 ■! .. *«■ 44 . Ift I. I •*3 I' , ’C fe’>• I k .k , '•* '’1 ■ ’■'» < fL'ti * 4- ' J ’•*1 V* i’- .r?' I A ? *' iS t* * ;(irt4 9 I 1 J- k u ■iCk I I V 4 t e '* il 1 r. ' 9 ! fl I . Ftf I 2 ir II - I* 1 fl k acate 111 f, 'J fl *W •i I it s’ 5 i ./k iV •• ft .I I4 r I ^r£2 V i_A i I '• I ■J Bill: 2 < 5? j» I 47 ■. 'i The Thornapple Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed Township Budget for fiscal year 2024-2025 at the Township Hall, 200 E. Main St., Middleville I nt *1 % f '2 * 4 I? 1 « »• liiaa-rr fl w ' '' ■'? ir it I - THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING i V, *31* «- J *55® I. S\ s k 5”.”; - On Monday, March 11, 2024 At 7:00 p.m. • . v» 0 I . •i » fl I. I ^iij; tlic W s «i«hr " -Ji-*—— .i 1 /, I I 4 1 r The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be the subject of this hearing. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at the Township office. i ft X .k • t * I fl k' J. *1* • ... *- r ■rt 1 A'fiftt. 5bee ■ ft --u/ il “ r £ I 11 * k<« 7U Thornapple Kellogg 125-pounder Emma Gibson nears a pins of Delton Kellogg’s Olivia Post during their quarterfinal match at the MHSAA Girls’ Red Regional at Gull Lake High School Sunday. Gibson won the 125-pound regional title to qualify for the state finals for the second year in a row. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Americans with Disabilities Notice The township will provide necessary reasonable services to individuals with disabilities at this public meeting upon 6 days notice to the Township Clerk. Cindy Ordway Thornapple Township Clerk I * r 4 » t * .1 / « * ( « I I V 4 �J I I I t I 4 Page 16/The Sun and News, Saturday, February 24,2024 m■ j ■ ^9 r • Scots Hayden and Stout score spots at Ford Field I II M. 5^ / I t I s I* j I I < J % I * I % 1 •»—■ V I fl ’V • I • ••• hLs T •> < * r •. •i* L ■ I* ..rt^ 4 t F t •fr’’ • mI i ^•3 •• &I * A'h^. •l ♦t; I •• J a > 4 I ]I j (r J. i • <%♦ vz 'ir »I :k .? I •1 J f ::V I .». s. *!• I ><?>• 1 ‘; .*5 r * T .J Caledonia senior Kiersten DeHaan is held down by Sturgis’ Gracie Clark during the first period of their 155-pound opener at the MHSAA Girls Red Regional host­ ed by Gull Lake Sunday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Ford Field for the MHSAA Girls Individual Wrestling Finals the weekend of March 1-2 along with sophomore Fighting Scot teammate Halle Stout who also quali­ fied for the finals with her top four finish at Gull Lake Sunday. Stout placed second in the 105-pound weight class. Hayden stuck Allendale’s MacKenzie Maka 25 sec­ onds into her championship match at 155 pounds. She Brandywine’s pinned Hannah Kubisiak 26 seconds Brett Bremer Sports Editor It took just a little over two and a half minutes of wres­ tling for the defending state champion to win her second regional championship. sophomore Caledonia Maddie Hayden moved her record to 7-0 on the season by pinning all three of her. opponents in the 155-pound weight class at the MHSAA Girls Red Regional hosted by Gull Lake High School in Richland Sunday. She will make a return to 1 I i I I i I J I I I into the quarterfinal round and then pinned Hastings’ Naomi Grummet after 1:47 in the semifinals. Making quick work of her opponents meant that she didn’t have to worry about her conditioning a bit which has been hindered by injuries this winter. She went into the regional Sunday with a sore shoulder she injured in prac­ tice in the lead-up to the state tournament and the fingers on her right hand all taped up. Not to mention, getting over the flu according to her coach. I / 4 l~ * I *1* f- I 1 ■r. 1 ..a "» t —F«Jr • « > 3.1 • •l / .4 Zl V *»• r Pr. Joshua Koenig, Primary Care V'l >* ■ ;.'i_ .1^ Zl X StiL .L'. w >.£S^ •rS « * .dM * w4 :«Sv 4 A I .IC 9^ 4^' * A I J«— *«<( A Si * .. ^2 f’ ’ I - • !• L _^. > * I < 4 ‘•r* . sW, I Primary care appointments available in Caledonia - .jS’ I Trinity Health » I I I I . ' V I 1 u *I k I B. .> s’ I z’ ; >. • rjt art J Caledonia sophomore Maddie Hayden works to take down Hastings’ Naomi Grummet during their 155-pound semifinal match Saturday at the MHSAA Girls Red Regional at Gull Lake High School Sunday in Richland. Hayden, the defend­ ing state champion at the weight class, earned a return trip to the state finals by winning a regional title at the tournament, “She was about as worn down as possible and still went out there and won,” Caledonia varsity wrestling coach Shawn Veitch said. “That is only the fifth, sixth and seventh time I have ever watched her wrestle. She is impressive. She is really dominant on her feet. I was super impressed with her inside out trips. What I was most impressed with was her mindset.” “Some days you’re not going to feel at your best, but how do you perform when you’re not at your best,” Veitch said. Stout moved her season record to 12-4 on the season. She pinned Kenowa Hills’ Tate Schmit and Schoolcraft’s Allyson Burgardt to start the day. In the finals she battled into overtime against Plainwell’s Aurora Wanamaker before falling 7-5. “I was so happy for her,” Veitch said. “I just love her little spirit. Any time, any place she is willing to go out there and brawl. That was the best I have seen her wrestle all year.” Veitch said she got caught and gave up take downs an Wanamaker in the final ±at they’ll work to avoid as they prep for Ford Field. Stout led that finals match 5-2 going into the third period. Midway through the third period Wanamaker earned an escape to get within two points and she got the tying take down with 12 seconds to go. Wanamaker scored her winning take down midway through the one-minute sudden victory overtime period. Still, Stout was very pleased to have already earned a spot in the finals with her semifinal victory. “You would have thought she won the match,” Veitch said. “She came off with a huge smile.” One other Fighting Scot competed Sunday, senior Kiersten DeHaan who was piimed in her opening round match at 155 pounds. Even with that loss ending her high school wrestling career, Veitch was happy with how she bounced back. “Joel Reeder, my top assistant coach, let Kiersten sit in the comer and coach Maddie for her three match­ es,” Veitch said. “She has been Maddie’s practice part­ ner. I think that went a long way for Kiersten with her dreams as an individual done. She is 3-0 as a coach. I told her she has a better record than me.” . 2* Medical Group I I s I I I r I • ( •5 4 » I ? i '•i J / . 1’* I s 5 Good health starts with the right relationship. When it's time to plan your annual physical, or when there's a health issue you didn t plan for, Trinity Health primary care providers are here for you with convenient care close to home. jtl I 1 < II ff .4 I ■k^ ^,1 I 4 I. V" k I > I I J 2 F A I SCHEDULE ONLINE £ I, f I. ’ l1-’ I r. I ir* I c .I J I ’.:4 I r i s •i I I ■ kkr. Lf t T < I I > I « I I . » I We See All of You™ Caledonia sophomore Halle Stout holds down Kenowa Hilk’ L Kenowa Hills’ Tate Schmit during their quarterfinal match in the 105-pound weight class at the MH<;aa r• 1 1 Red Regional hosted by Gull Lake High SchooNn ’ Richland Sunday. (Photo by j Brett Bremer) � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-03-02.pdf 8efee4e6a85daf1cbbf4abe02b288bc2 PDF Text Text • :£i. * «• s * . / < * a 4- > i ▼ nd Ne* I I I A Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleviiie No. 9/ March 2, 2024 Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. > ancJ Caledonia Areas • 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 Caledonia schools not interested in changing sales agreement for portion of Dutton school property 146th year Primary election voting goes smoothly in Gaines Township I F' w < •l ♦ r > I •I * I 4 I X n ■ iZeNTAHr SCHOOt r • :*• • • h * *tiii I ■ - ■ -' CO-MING 2025 , H 1 I I. •s E * I" A. b •>* T SZL I w ;J I * . A'. . 4 t A* s._ r ? *”V J. r -*>7’ I > ) . I '*’*5SKe * *w« iT 4'V «LV? I I & f *21 w- Ww A •> .5> I * •arr' *^1 I •‘I . 4r:. I !• > ■ I ii > •t r« ' f . < An absentee ballot information table at a Gaines Township polling location. The township’s clerk, Michael Brew, reported a smooth presidential pri­ mary election, which concluded this week. (Photos by James Gemmell) •>1 •A I I r I L I 1 1 I 1> Crews are in full swing working at the site of the future Dutton Elementary School. (File photo) I ► I I * L ■ 7 E Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Community Schools officials are show­ ing no interest in changing the terms of a sales agree- ment for a developer to buy more than 27 acres of prop­ erty near where the new Dutton Elementary School is being built. JTB Homes had asked for a change in the terms of the agreement for the developer to purchase the property south of where the new school is being built along Patterson Avenue, south of 76th Street. The district’s Board of Education dis­ cussed JTB’s request at a committee of the whole See DUrrON SCHOOL, page 2 Literacy festival planned at Duncan Lake Early Childhood Center Greg Chandler Staff Writer It’s been close to 20 years since some teachers at Caledonia’s Duncan Lake Early Childhood Center developed a vision for a school festival focused on promoting early childhood literacy. This year, the school that is home to Caledonia Community Schools’ pre­ school classes, as well as Young Fives, the Great Start Readiness Program and YMCA child care pro­ gram, will hold its annual literacy event in March to coincide with National Reading Month. The event, which is free, will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. March 14 at the early childhood center, 9751 Duncan Lake Ave. SE. “The purpose of this event is to open up our building to the community, to give them an opportunity to learn about literacy, learn b* * about us (as a school) and ► ’ have fun,” said Robin I Trocinski, a preschool teacher who has taught at Duncan Lake for 12 years. Trocinski and fellow pre­ school teacher Jodi Barthel, » who has been at the school 1:^ for 20 years, are among the a. event organizers. “We wanted a family event that wasn’t like a tra­ ditional carnival. We wanted something that fit. because March is (National) Reading Month, we wanted it to be a literacy-based, fun event for our families to attend,” Barthel said. <p rThis year’s festival theme centers around sports. “Each of the classrooms has an activity that they’ll be doing, and each classroom has chosen a sport (as Caledonia’s Duncan Lake Early Childhood Center their focus),” Trocinski welcomes children in the community to join it for a literacy event to mark National Reading Month. The said. event is slated for 6 to 7:30 p.m. on March 14. (Photos See LITERACY ^TIVAL, pag/e 3 provided) * 1 ■ -I* 'J t ,.ZI A. •i ifjfl f -M. *?*• • ■ 1 James Gemmell Contributing Writer Michigan’s presidential primary election voting ran smoothly in Gaines Charter Township, accord­ ing to Clerk Michael Brew. The election was held Feb. 27, but for the first time registered voters in Michigan got to cast their ballots early. The passage of Proposal 2 in November 2022 now allows for nine days of early voting ahead of any state or federal election. “We did not have a large turnout for early voting (123 ballots were cast) ... but those who came out were very pleased that it was available,” Brew wrote in an email response to the Sun and News. “For instance. many were leaving for trips that took them out of town for Election Day,” he said. “The ability to vote their own ballot into the machine made them feel more secure than relying on an election worker through the absentee counting board. Many expressed they like the feeling of releasing the ballot themselves. Also they knew that the lines would be shorter than on Election Day.” According to the web­ site ElectionReporting. com, there are 513,504 registered voters in Kent County, and 22,292 in Gaines Township. The unofficial numbers from the Democratic ballots in Gaines show that 1,121 voted for President Joe Biden, 52 for Dean Phillips, 67 for Marianne Williamson, and 145 voted for “Uncommitted.” There r .1 1 I I ? I I i £ I t I t See VOTING, page 3 .•n J 1 S' * . l> I « I Y IN 1 e J 9r. SIISBUIEil I f I# < r I «r is w , -ra w- ■: * tiw ■ ------- AX « '4 • Middleville DDA launches Small Business Week • Attorney General warns of scheme involving Pine Rest • Caledonia High School veterans memorial a go • TK cheer places second at D2 regional • Caledonia’s Potgeter tackles tough finals ski course s. » » 9 t t r �Page 2/Tbe Sun and News, Saturday, March 2, 2024 DUTTON SCHOOL continued from page 1 meeting Feb. 21, but took no action on the request at its regular meeting Monday, “There was no motion (made to approve an amendment), so nothing has changed, which means the original agreement still stands,” Board President Marcy White wrote in an email to the Sun and News Tuesday. The district and JTB had reached original agreement on the sale of the property in September 2022, and the agreement was amended in May and December 2023, according to district docu­ ments. In its present form, the agreement called for JTB to buy the land from the school district at a base cost of $750,000, plus an addi­ tional $10,000 per home over 30 homes that were to J “ The entitlement process be built on the site. JTB had Township that either JTB or is capital intensive, and we proposed a planned unit the schools must pay for a will spend dollars on per­ non-motorized path across development zoning desigmits, review fees, engineerthe school property in order nation for the property that for the township to extend a ing, soil borings and enviwould have allowed for 42 the ronmental studies throughsewer line to serve homes, single-family out its duration,” JTB land manager development Howard Hehrer wrote in a I^d around here isn’t going to get cheaper. letter to Weeldreyer dated It s not going to lose value. So if this particular Dec. 20. “It is important that a reasonable path for­ agreement doesn’t work out, I don’t think the ward be established before district is out anything. we proceed with a submit­ — Dirk Weeldreyer, tal.” Superintendent, Caledonia Community Schools In addition to the bike path, the developer would for the extension of a pay according to a letter from property. JTB asked the 12-inch water main required the developer to the district. schools to strike from the by the township along the But CCS Superintendent agreement the provision of property’s 1,300 feet of Dirk Weeldreyer received a paying the district the extra frontage along Patterson, request from JTB to change $10,000 per home if more Hehrer wrote. board members the agreement in December than 30 homes are built on But 2023 after the developer the site, basically reducing showed no interest in mak­ was presented with a condi- the purchase price by ing any changes to the agreement, and Weeldreyer Caledonia $120,000. tion from thrown on them, but out first and foremost responsi­ bility, in my opinion, is to the district and to all of our taxpayers, and therefore, our students that are going to benefit from the resourcthat es we have,” Weeldreyer added. A final decision on whether the purchase will go through is expected by this summer. The Sun and News called JTB Homes seeking com­ ment on the district’s deci­ sion to stand pat, and did not receive a call back. Construction on the new 60;000-square-foot Dutton building got underway last fall, made possible by voter approval of a $61 million bond issue in May 2023. The school is scheduled to be ready to open in time fori the 2025-26 school year. said at the committee of the whole meeting that he didn’t feel “pushed” to accept the change. “A purchase agreement was made, and financial decisions were made based on the idea that the south­ ern half of the property was going to be able to recoup costs for the district,” Weeldreyer said at the committee of the whole meeting. “Land around here isn’t going to get cheaper. It’s not going to lose value. So if this agreement particular doesn’t work out, I don’t think the district is out anything. A development area right next door to a school is always going to be highly attractive to a developer.” “I feel for the developer, the things that are being iK s V, I a t k 4 p I 1 »**** JI J V, V’ ’I A A r r. I 1 ? I r <■ a Middleville DDA hosting Small Business Week i A. *1// Greg Chandler Writer Downtown businesses in I the village of Middleville are looking for a spark to get *r Sv. visitors to their shops. Sixteen local businesses are taking part in the Downtown 5H Development Authority’s Small Business Week celebra­ tion, which began Feb. 28 and will run through March 5. jT' Small Business Week -X CtNOI comes at a time where there’s 1 M?» a typical lull for most small s businesses between the holi­ days and summer months, Middleville DDA Director Gretchen James said. « “It’s just to encourage the community to get out and sup­ \1 I port their local businesses — at least check them out, see the new things that maybe they haven’t seen,” James said. Apothecary on Main is one of 16 local businesses participating in the The DDA has put in a fun Middleville Downtown Development Authority’s Small Business Week event, Middleville-based establishments like Grimsby way to get area residents and (Courtesy photos) Hollow Meadery look to drum up business during a visitors alike to visit as many traditionally slow time through the DDA’s Small shops as they can during the James said. trict down here.” Bridal, My Sister’s Closet Business Week event. week. Visitors can pick up a One of the participating Williams says she loves Thrift, The Hive Mercantile, punch card with a list of the businesses in Small Business the collaborative nature of Apothecary on Main, participating businesses Week is the Apothecary on the business commimity in Riverdog Tavern, Opus “Patrons can visit the busi­ Main. Owner Ann Williams Middleville. Artisan Boutique, Kindred nesses on the punch card, says the event is a great way “We all work together to Shop & Studio, Thomapple receive their punch or stick­ for businesses to get know encourage each other’s suc­ Eyecare, Grimsby Hollow er, and then at the end of the more of their customers. cess. I love that,” she said. Meadery, Pixel Perfect Video week they have to turn in the “We need more awareness James expressed optimism Games, Thomapple Credit card s with it filled out as of downtown. The DDA is that business activity will Union, Studio 37 Salon, much as they can, to one of amazing at trying to help small pick up downtown during the White Oak Counseling and the participating businesses,” businesses bring awareness,” week. • Wheel Alignments Recovery (formerly James said. said Williams, who is also a “Everyone’s doing okay, Hoxworth • Auto Glass Installation Counseling A drawing will then take trustee on the Middleville and they’re just excited to Services), NTA Property • Insurance Work Welcome place among all punch cards Village Council. “I think of keep working and keep Management—Redhill Farm that are turned in for a gift one of our biggest (challeng­ • Visa & MasterCard Accepted growing and serving the and Highpoint Community basket containing merchan es), besides being small, being community,” she said. Bank. They can also be found Over 40 years experience dise, gift cards and donations ott M-37 ... (people) just off M-37 Punch cards for Small at sponsors Carveth Village, from participating businesses drive past. They don’t even Business Week are available RainMakers Carwash and as well as event sponsors, know there’s a downtown disbrucesframe.com at the following shops; Dearly POUND Rockout Workout. 3. VATl r Si ' -4. 4 4 e 4. ^1 'T. > ‘- t '. I I. »** ■ J ■■ « r ■ -..w**^* I / «' » I I nr; r* V .I* • I I*, •E^r*** / ** * k A * f f 4 Hlk*' * -* T ■ r-------- y ■ ^i^ r ^1 V 4 -'X * ( I W SfljiKjEffJI I Li 4^ 4 I • f '*• 1 * s ,XM >. * 1 A < k a » * T 7 L J « ’i' iiiMi II > 4 e J '■ i Mt 4 '1 «* I * 1 r ! f * > '.'4 4 • g> * as^, ■ ^^*%*^**<^ T i £ I g e ♦ t ------------------ ■ ■ I I 4 * fl 1^’ •M . • I t; 4 t k I r * rj I I J u bWBi I> ■■W ■» — {jotiblii ■!> ikW — .1 Kitiiita t .7 il?*' -1 * ( I k I ' > - 'V 1 < * * I *r * Utl Cfc,' . I I Bm's Frame end Alignment Full Service Body Shop ■■ t %v-- Standing Timber Buyer, Tree Trimming and Removal, r aJ +. FMKt '' I I r I L I Land/Lot Clearing J ). Tj I. I Storm Clean Up ;b. 4 L< CORRECTION: 1 TROPHY RIDGE Earlier this month, the Sun and News reported on two individuals who were voted on as new members of the Middleville Downtown Development Authority. This included Derek Dean, who we identified as the owner of the Farm Bureau Insurance Agency in Middleville. This TREE SERVICES LLC II Dalton Bekins n . < Owner ! I' I iV 415 2nd • Middleville I I* ♦ >*■ S •i’i.-. IBA: .Sr--' oaMc Twi r 616-799-0534 - ^3^ —I*. I 4 S> A f It ' B 5 ‘i ?• I* Fully Licenced & Insured f incorrect. Jason Parks is the owner of that agency, not Dean. We apologize for the error. ■ I. X 9 f i 1 t b I 4. I 1 k I I I b I E * 1 r I a I I 1 tp « «*!■ I J I I < ♦ t I I b I 5 I t I k 4 I I J I < •’ll �IL ie S, r I t/TERACy FESTIVAL, continued from pag/e 1 J'S' 0 4 The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2, 2024/ Page 3 VOTING, continued from page 1 <»• * 1 0^ I 4 .B • 3r^ 1, > 4^ * ...A’rr'. i f % I\' 'ij’L *<S'S 'nX ' ' 7 1'^' S' ♦ ' * 'W ?<* r r < •>T -r «■ 4. ±;su '3 51 a 9 ? J .T x-'»n t 1 5^ ■ 'f "J* --- s i ^7« • ------ iWX .Am J J -i^g BakJB • •t * ( * A' I »4» » J -V !♦ J ■1^ t > "Ul • r 5-^ 1 - <•*>*. •4 I V I-/ s A I M SB.* ■'.•*-«•' ■ ■ . <i e* a* 1 > .T' ■ar. ? /■ 'k-s % 1^: -V ’«rr LV. .A' Li i 4 2 ■ also were seven write-in votes cast. As for the Republican ballots cast in Gaines Township, 2,382 votes were for former President Donald Trump, 1,054 for Nikki Haley, 82 for Ron DeSantis, 20 for Chris Christie, 11 for Ryan L. Binkley, eight for Vivek Ramaswamy and two for Asa Hutchinson. And 144 people voted for Uncommitted. There were six write-in votes. In Kent County, the total Democratic votes were 34,339 for Biden, 1,283 for Phillips, U563 for Williamson, 5,972 for Uncommitted, and 140 total write-ins. On the Republican side, the coun­ ty vote totals were 44,125 for Trump, 25,648 for Haley, 1,266 for DeSantis, 394 for Christie, 286 for Ramaswamy, 211 for « > V • Zi tf-*-* .“C f * I 9 .A A *■«——t I } J c 4 ’i r2 J »: it- '■ i.r4V '•-•sr.;. . J- 4 V I Binkley, 94 for Hutchinson. There were 2,571 uncom­ mitted votes and 82 writeins. The Kentwood Public Schools’ sinking fund millage proposal received a thumbs-up from 1,262 vot­ ers in Gaines Township and a thumbs-down from 1,025. Overall in Kent County, the proposal garnered 5,288 yes votes and 3,761 no votes. As election workers, we were glad to have a ‘trial run,’ knowing the August primary and November general elections will be much busier, Brew said. He thanked the commu­ nity for its support during the voting period, includ­ ing Providence Church, Hillside Community Church, Heritage Baptist Church, Ada Bible Church and the Gaines branch of the Kent District Library. They all opened their buildings to host the township’s nine polling precincts. This saves the taxpayers money not having to rent community facilities and allows polling precincts to be near the voters' homes. And we are verj’ grateful for our election workers, who work hard. long hours with accuracy, Brew said. He also expressed grati­ tude to local restaurants that delivered meals to election workers. The next primary elec­ tion will be Aug. 6. The general election is Nov. 5. A special election will take place May 7 in Kent County for various municipal and school elections, but they won’t be voted upon in Gaines Township. 5^ I ..i. I S* f •» I 1 fc" /.. 4 4 * •T i . 4 • «i » » “t-T**—.-v i'. *r w J 5 •i > A s I-* 1,. J r»f'' *' r - A ' al‘ 4 4 >:<e4 I . <• ' *> .« I K ■' *•— ♦ 'A ( 51^ [ r I • z ♦. 4 . I I 4 -t Lsf rs \\v\ J A I I ♦. 4' _ ’X % "••.vC*- • * ft 4? e ' » KvV •I Pictured here are organizers Candi Harper (left) and Jodi Barthel (right) as they work in the book prize room during a previous year’s event. J Me* < < 'L-' X J 5< EkV : 4>;<' I 1k k >• ?< K With 12 classrooms involved between the vari­ ous programs offered at the early childhood center, that has led to a wide range of sports that will be covered at the festival, ranging from more traditional sports like basketball and football, to sports like ice fishing and sled dog racing. “Each classroom picks their sport, then they plan a ( I f I fI I ) I Scipafngji literacy-based activity to incorporate into that theme,” Barthel said. Students who attend the event will each receive a passport when they arrive. They they are expected to make the rounds, trying to hit as many different activi­ ty areas as possible. “As they go from room to room and complete an activity, they get a stamp on ssWsf V ( 1 w ^4 9^* I "5^ ' V' k » ^■ A IjSffiif' tfefe 1 V I *? i. •- 2 T > Vin t 9 .I B < r 15’ 135 4> V * ’ t 4 fai jffllinfc 1r .t ,1 * V S5j{o> (fltlsS Pailtfs ‘j Ar7 > V -» t < • I r 1 I IW* A’ i* *i A 1 : ■■J ’ 1 *1 1 ■ 1 M I ?*< '*1 ^1. A ,4 . 1 i ' I. •f, .«'i V J' f . (19 ■V G "g- their passport. Once they’ve earned five'stamps, then they can come to the book raffle area and choose a book,” said Barthel, who is in charge of book raffle area. In addition to the book raffle area, a Scholastic Book Fair will be held for students who would like to purchase a book to read. Guest readers will be appearing through the building, reading to stu­ dents, and representatives from the Kent District Library Caledonia branch will also be present. There will also be a snack room set up for visitors, Trocinski said. The best advice for those who want to go? Get there right when the event starts at 6. “if they want to get to every classroom,” Trocinski said. ’ •*» 1 •V* * I s 1 /S' 4 I •< . « |4 J t * L ♦L 1 51^ i '\'f J 1 * B .** 5i * J'.- ■? / -» ‘r I • / .-•Li I 1 J 1 f I In this file photo, Gaines Township Clerk Michael Brew (center) speaks at a township board of trustees meeting. RV*' I I I I I I • ? 1 I r f I -ThornappI I I I I I I Xl'. '<y, I IS 3^"“ .*• •» > Al k r • r* r_».:4'.' f:r V b' t L>»* h 'r BI|b 1'.^ ^r.5 V IT c* r JihHM J 4 ■J ..' *•« £ ^■*1 ,C^s’ [t>«^ V r am i^4e.lwtk t@) UB w tiDitM tge^ V, 9nr M » * ilP'.4 I NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ... CALL TODAY! Please visit our website for more information thornappleevecare.com iBiB*^ I L * 6 •« t• (Next to Harding's Market) 4. h ’r ' * ft^.l ?•" 4624 N. M-37 Hwy. Ste E, Middleville, Ml ■ J 41 V I > 4. I ' • ••w ..IT ■ The long-running literacy festival is focused on promoting early childhood literacy in the community. I vW ... ♦ '■'■ .1 . If e rj' . <» ' 3 * Bfewc? 3 f. - I < r •M I I 1%; I I • { •Ik-. SU E 269-213-8108 �Page 4/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2, 2024 Phillip Arthur Scobey Phillip Arthur Scobey, age 83, passed away unex­ pectedly on February 26, 2024. Phil was a long-time resi­ dent of Middleville where he lived with his wife, Vicki. He worked for the Hastings Postal service for 40 years until his retirement. He had many hobbies throughout his life that included motorcycle riding and bowling. But, his great­ est passion was the sacred game of golf that he enjoyed 47 i .4 S-. watching and playing throughout his retirement. Phil was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas Scobey; sister, and Anderson Phyllis daughter, Carol ScobeyDennis. Phil is survived by his wife of 36 years, Vicki; daughter, Lenora Scobey and partner Craig Schiman; son, Jason (Christen) Scobey; step daughters, Cyndi (Brian) Hulst, Kym Ball and partner grandchildren. Brian.; Nicolas (Linnea) Scobey, Jon (Trerryn) Scobey, Nathan Scobe, Casey (Ron) Bristol.; great-grandchildren, Olivia Scobey, Rae Ann, Isabella, Elise Bristol. A Celebration of Life will be planned as soon as the golf course opens. Barbara fean Bergy Barbara Jean Bergy, age 98, of Caledonia, MI, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024. She will be lovingly remembered by her hus­ band of 78 years, Keith; children, Bob and Cheryl Bergy and Betty Caskey; seven grandchildren and their spouses; 15 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Jean was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Norm Caskey; great grandsons, Isaac and Luke VanRegenmorter; siblings, Howard and Betty McRoberts, Olive and Don Collier, Marie and Duane * i J A I • •4 1 A It Al. Deardorff, Roy Jr. and Vera McRoberts, Daniel J. McRoberts. Jean loved and cherished spending time with her fami- ly. In her spare time, she loved to quilt and sew and was a part of the Hope Church Quilters. A funeral service was held Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024 at Caledonia CRC, 9957 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, with Rev. Kyle Fennell offi­ ciating. Burial was held at Lakeside Cemeteiy. Relatives and friends met the family one hour prior to the service at chiu-ch. Those who wish may make memorial contribu­ tions to a charity of one’s choosing. Condolences may be sent online at www.mkdfuneralhome.com. WBma Arlene Sheehan Wilma Arlene Sheehan, age 89, of Caledonia, MI passed in the arms of Jesus on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024 at Jennings Terrace in Aurora, IL. She spent her last days surrounded by her family and the melodies of her favorite hymns. Wilma was bom in Clarksville, MI on April 23, 1934 to the late Bert and Mildred (Hess) Mesecar. She was the youngest of 12 chil­ dren and attended a oneroom schoolhouse called Brown School, later graduat­ ing from Freeport High School. Wilma was united in mar­ riage on December 7, 1957 to James Sheehan and they spent the next 66 happy years together. Wilma was a loving mother to her four children and enjoyed her work as a homemaker. She loved tend­ ing to her garden and was an expert in canning and pre­ serving the food she grew for her family. Her strawberry jam was a favorite with her grandchi 1 dren. She was regarded by her sisters to be the best cook among them - / I A. I I . A f'. 3 r. f .1 J* I r Al 2.^ I 4? * c 4, her Christmas fudge knew no rival - and she passed her love of baking and cooking down to her children and grandchildren. Wilma enjoyed traveling all over the United States with her family when her children were young and later visited many coimtries in Europe and Australia with her husband after his retire­ ment. Wilma had a playful sense of humor and although dementia kept her from remembering in her later years, she never lost her sharp wit and quick retorts that kept her family laugh­ ing. She also never lost her love of hymns, and could sing along with her favorite songs until the end. Wilma was a committed follower of Christ and knowing that her trust lay solely in His work for her salvation, her family looks forward to the day they are reunited with her in Heaven. She was deeply loved her family and will be greatly missed by those who knew her. Wilma is survived by her husband, James Sheehan of Caledonia, MI; her children, Cynthia (Rick) Younce of Yorkville, IL, Douglas (Ruth) Sheehan of Middleville, MI, Jeffrey Sheehan of Chicago, IL, and Sarah (Chris) Fulk of Marion, lA; her eight grandchildren; her five great grandchildren; her sister Martha Timm of Niles, MI; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bert and Mildred Mesecar; and ten siblings. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. II’ ’ll ' /'l I st* s »0*‘ lod f' kelp. fl IS Pi V f J Il ’ j All Amash announces run for U.S. Senate .fl I J Former U.S. Justin Representative Amash announced this week that he will seek the Republican nomination for open U.S. Michigan’s Senate seat. Amash is a for­ mer five-term congressman who represented West 3rd Michigan’s Congressional District from 2011 to 2021. He launched an exploratory committee in mid-January to consider running for the seat. Caledonia United Methodist Church 5^' 4 1 .J c 'r Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street IctaJ 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebopk.cora/CaledoniaUniiedMethodist Sef‘\nng ~ Strengthening Connecting ■ ‘ A cornerstonechurch Join US in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham FIRST BAPTIST Middleville 10:30 AM I ^14 Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com I III • .A SU k. Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Church: FBO/IIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 KB •^2 A ;®«i 9^^ I OURNEY <KPEACE >1^ 11^ I Cfiurcfi * A, CHURCH CHURCH I p PEACECHURCH.ee ONE CHURCH - J\/\/O LOCATIONS 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: 1664 M-37 thejchurch.com 616-217-2161 @thejchurch m Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee / Church 8655 Whitne)A<ille Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitne)<villebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School.. Sunday Worship r Whitneyville I ■ Praising Cod through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music I Worship Services Sunday ioam&6 pm .9:30 AM 10:30 AM Watch our services from our website (see above).. I I Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org tJ ftllli ,1 THORNAPPLE VALLEY Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 ______ www.stpaulcaledonia.org isp Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. Guji f (269) 795-2391 @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 1 ts.r CHURCH I ^>83, MIDDLEVILLE 1:11 SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9;30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.o •111 Util ; ^In Yankee Springs Bible Church Fellowship Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"'* & 48*^' Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. 2 c CALEDONIA: LEARN MORE! 9:30 a.m. •* * t 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend o HOLY FAMILY 31 CATHOLIC CHURCH Good Shepherd Lutheran Church I t •<^1’ 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 I Ml "Shining Forth God's Light” Sunday Morning Worship.............. Community Groun 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. '’’pij James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org ’h'eil A’ I ♦- < A, i �Middleville UMC to host Barry County Cares bM^fifconS * s ’ Greg Chandler V, ' \. r 1 lift, of the pantry for the last 10 ply of food. The pantry is years. open weekdays by appointIt’s a resource in the Clients who come to the ment, Petersen said. Middleville community that pantry are interviewed by “ I (have clients) start some folks might not be Barry County Cares, based . with (canned) vegetables aware of. in Hastings, which serves and fruits, and they work Tucked in the basement as the intake resource for their way around (the panof Middleville United the Middleville pantry and try). They choose the food Methodist Church, the tour other pantries around they want. I don’t choose Middleville Community Barry County. any food (for them). The Food Pantry serves about They are the clearing­ mor/TharioJ'^rr “ "^ house for-theTlIem;';:; representing house for the clients that anyf ven month h L ^nd while the shelves come in here. They do the are ihem make • '"‘ervew ... They ge, the well-stocked at the pantry. sure they have information, and then that there are a few things that enough to eat. infnrmatirin ,’c r.;,„np information is given to might not be available, and And pantry director of the volunteers that come to cover that, Petersen Jeanne Petersen says with in, Petersen said. hands clients $10 gift cards j g o costs, she s seemrougn to Harding Friendly Once clients gu go through to Harding’’ss g increased requests for the interview process and Market of Middleville to are approved by Barry fill in those gaps is L7;»'‘77'J”,'Abou, 25 volunteers help they can h T U ‘‘v come■"in onetime timea amonth month staff and stock the pantry who has been the director and and choose five a.„. thankful to ha7e choose five days’ sup- I 4 > I 4 I *4. I i; M. S Si' ?r ■ H r* \ \ ” ■■ T 9 •« bar* 4 I 7 3 ^■T *-* I *- • *•/ IF A ’-Tsi? ^1 I c • *•* J “'.S • > f 1 I ■IJJ /o'.' Y i -J- r 4 ft f II i1 I t ft f .■ ■ ■ -1 I U i ’ i* 4 BO n? I. t 'S3 1 I I .Jv ft * L ■ .1 I K r I I f' . I «9 kowJ5^ f -1 LZ ■ • 1 *t V 1 fit . I H*** I wli I y*- - 4 kL' »’ 1 . \r » ;A' J'* 9* V 1 »T»-'5r. i»*• . I ft I a . w f A 1*^ f I M K I I r ♦ •Jr •b If? F r I I * .R> «« Kz 11 lA I J B (4 ^ilma f If I 4 •> r* - .‘V* - fi- I - •£ ... * 7' * 4*“1 >» 5? ■- J S3^ 5 4:^ r «*% I • t;0 ■ -M7 * 4i» fw , I I '..-.•sS 1 bl 4 I > 4^ * a F 1 r I r fl| -*5** I, u • ft •r 4 A. *A k * \ I •*« r A look inside the Middleville Community Food Pantry, located in the Middleville United Methodist Church. (Photo by Greg Chandler) •I < •c V ( iU K Witt ililKii it-’J- - - s .MIM. *4 A Z •f 4 9 L* z. --"-•I t I r V I i I ♦ \ ri.99 ,>/ s- * < - ,w T" .1^ > *« ♦ .93 I .. M.49 ■»■ 0« • •» ••w I i *•9 * •• 1 R 4 » J >*•, I« T hi .J ’m;’ k «F** V A' i > f t . L«*<t * h < A \ 1 Ar r*" MW 1 ■•V ' b* t 1 »• !• J » V —— kt£n4i J » 4** ■ 5 a \ 1 ■3 f •—iV. / 'J VT' V i ’"V t’2.99 **afc ■ c • 190 4** I »1 *. / '2.99 •V ir ft A 4 \ ) '♦'^ • • .1 t •A> i,"- '"*•« w4 laessiotiit • «|0 • T I .4^ r « ft I. A" .A •*“-«»* a«4 -b 41^^^ r 1 • 4^ .1 ( K ?•- * . I4.A: -1 '‘eift < A f '4,99 set X lY ■ X ■■ A RT -Vz i.ti • 1 J U« •M. I I i ■1’4.99 * J s f ft • • ( r 4' r s V •• I t ■ 1 .< -rr •.'tk • 4 ’r‘ . ) • •• > •- t. WCi-*** I . SI •1 • .k / 9 , 4 r «l * . > n *:'a r. Wr flLM' k MfU c • .r • ^7 k*? fa CId^ Z^. ’ /• « ft “gfoithe K 1* «• r .S' V e •X * }. ft 4. 1 'J*. r • > ».-* tv • * £ .» I I t t- b st K.. ■ A >/*■■ ■ a % ru^ V J .•S'? 1 •• £ .4 w.k. »» Y*' A '3 A V. 1 f :J ^.’ A. J.'* ■■ f ..1 Sf* n A check was recently presented to Middleville Community Food Pantry Director Jeanne Petersen by Nate Costello, store manager for the Harding’s Friendly Market in Middleville for $3,500. The store recently did a “round-up” fundraiser to support the pantry. (Photo courtesy Jeanne Petersen) « ,l4j the support of the Methodist church for the use of the space, which helps the pantry put all of the donations it receives into acquiring food. “Because they are gener­ ous enough to allow us this space, we don’t have to pay heat and rent and garbage disposal and insurance and all that stuff,” she said. The pantry recently received a check of more than $3,500 from Harding’s through a “round-up” fundraising campaign where shoppers could round up their grocery bill to the next dollar with the additional contribution going to the pantry. Store director Nate Costello presented the check to Petersen. The church will host a benefit dinner and concert to support Barry County Cares on March 8, featuring music from the Langford Lads, three area musicians that specialize in Irish, old-time and folk music. The dinner will be served from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. with the concert at 7 p.m., Petersen said. The dinner will consist of meatloaf, a baked potato bar, salad bar and dessert. The meal is $15 per person, with children 6-12 at $10 and kids 5 and under eating free. All proceeds will go to benefit Barry County Cares. Petersen notes that BCC does not receive any federal funding and strictly relies on pri­ vate and business dona­ tions to serve the commu­ nity, and that the organiza­ tion does not receive finan­ cial support from the food pantries. «« I I I I ■> i iwuec.-uf^ rT=sr. 'ASTj Middleville council fixes rezoning gaffe on State Street property t.Cilato , » u m(is^ iHi® «t ir 0 jl Milt£S I / If Greg Chandler Staff Writer : When the village of Middleville approved the rezoning of more than 20 properties on West Main Street and four more on State Street to two newly-created zoning categories late last year, one property on State that was supposed to be part of the change was inadver­ tently left out. The Village Council fixed the mistake Tuesday, unani­ mously approving rezoning the property at 36 State St. into the new “transitional industrial” zone district, join­ ing the other State Street properties. The property had been included in notices of public hearings on the rezon­ ing but was not included in the original ordinance lan­ guage when the council approved rezoning the State and West Main properties. “This is a corrective action, as it was omitted from the ordinance (approv­ ing the rezoning) ... All due notice was given to members of the public and all consideration whether or not this should be adopted was done as well,” Village Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers said. “This was the way we could correct that discrepancy.” The village passed an ordinance in 2022 creating the TI and “transitional mixed use,” or TMU dis­ tricts, one year after the new categories had been recom­ mended for inclusion in the village master plan. The 36 State St. property. which is owned by the village, has been marketed as a Redevelopment Ready site. “A (request for proposals) was sent out to see if there were people interested in developing the site,” Powers said. “We’ve had some interest (in the property).” Responses to the RFP are expected to be discussed by the council either later this month or at the council’s com­ mittee of the whole meeting in early April, Powers said. On a related matter Tuesday, the council approved spending up to $8,000 from the village’s reserves to help temporarily cover the cost of relocating overhead power lines near the 36 State St. site, from the middle of the property to the property line next to Thomapple Valley Church. The Local Development Finance Authority had approved $50,000 for the proj­ ect, but a proposal from Consumers Energy to relocate ±e lines came in at $57,410, nearly $ 14,000 higher than the utility had been quoted for the project last November. “(The LDFA doesn’t) meet until April, so I’d like to get a jump start on this before the prices increase again,” Village Manager Craig II I • ‘p.*’ ‘ - ' • iI •*• J c Antenna Men I I Tue > » lUiZ" Antenna Men 44 ?? i 3 1 r I « • • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems <•' Stolsonburg said. Stolsonburg will ask the LDFA to reimburse the vil­ lage for the overage when it meets April 18. Give us a call! t^fSureCatt Cfl-FI 1 cell(W) signZ^ a <ftW*»w ' K G* sr i 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com ! » www.cellsignalpros.com i I 1 ."is i I* :i I •1 •2'5 f 1 i I. •> •t rrvS.’. I I f.. I I I b & -r _■ - - • L.' *1 tL JL «ir 4 •i#! .1 I A' 4k .z 5 I z s 4. I I < Jr « >•1 / •>' . I a* .^ft .if. «»« ’A SASTSR s at cornerstonechurch . .1* 84™ ST. CAMPUS SSRVICS TIMSS Saturday, March 30: 6pm | Sunday, March 31; 9:30 & 11am Experience Holy Week With Us! Find Out More: cornerstonemi.org/Easter I ▼ I �I I Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2,2024 Local students earn dean’s list honors Mttorney General warns of scheme against some patients seeking services from PineRe^ Attorney Michigan Nessel Dana General warned those seeking treat­ ment for substance abuse disorder that the contact phone number for Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services they find online may not actually connect them to that facility. An attorney for Pine Rest has notified the Department of Attorney General that patients have been improp­ erly diverted to out-of-state contacts facilities by reached at phone numbers purported online to be for Pine Rest. Pine Rest has issued its own press release alerting the public to the ruse, as well. Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services is a mental health care service provider located in West Michigan, The facility provides an array of mental health services, including outpatient counsel­ ing, inpatient mental health care and inpatient detoxifica­ tion services. Administrators at Pine Rest believe third-party patient brokers and/or other mental health care service providers, either separately or in conspiracy with each other, have created fi-audulent internet web advertisements that falsely identify themselves as Pine Rest Ml L t t 9 A z * • *' 1 A * « • f I V k. If" •t A 1 * 5 A M A- • L *5 1 f 1 ■f. 1 r> • 4*' 4. 4b ► .7 I 9* I « z 4 5- ' •. •- f 4 A * * * Si z > t 9 ffi 4 ♦ I ' Vf tir. si* * > • ?Wi z c. . * Christian Menta! Health Services 1 PINE REST < e 1 .< A K c. IS • V.* &« '1. < •» » -i S 4 ^>4 * 4 •* ig / 2 J V ‘•1 A t • VA? u I I I 4< Bi t 4 I A A r I I ^'4 It. Sr k. A i •* r- L-< >1 ’3M>»-g,ra^. > %w 1 1 4 ’Ct I * * * iB*:?*'** - ■ v * ^<11^ sr*’’. w r < * •e* I z>*> ' >* f*- Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services is a mental health care service provider headquartered in Gaines Township. (Courtesy photo) with a non-Pine Rest teleWhen phone number. patients or prospective patients search the internet for Pine Rest, usually on their cell phones, the fake advertisement appears in the search results. The prospec­ tive patients call the associated number and instead make contact with a patient broker. The brokers on the other end of the line falsely identify themselves as being affiliated with Pine Rest, declare that Pine Rest has no beds or appointments available, and then attempt to divert the patients to another mental health service provider, often out-of-state and sometimes as far as California, to receive services. Department of The Attomey General is investi­ gating the situation. “This appears to be a cruel scheme targeting those suffering from substance abuse disorder, strik ing treatment-seeking vic­ tims in a moment of cour­ age, when they’ve finally sought professional help,” said Nessel in a staterhent. “This scam heaps fake hur­ dles to mental health assis­ tance upon already vulnera­ ble individuals and could further burden them with significant and unnecessary costs if they can afford to get the recommended out- of-state help. For those who could afford treatment close to home but not expensive out-of-state options, they maybe deterred from treat­ ment permanently. That is especially egregious and cruel when the treatment they seek is potentially life­ saving substance abuse ser­ vices. My office will inves­ tigate these allegations thoroughly and bring all appropriate charges if laws have been broken.” The real Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services contact phone number is 800-678-5500. More information about Pine Rest’s services can be foimd on its website. Middleville council to pursue parking restrictions in Misty Ridge, Rolling Oaks Greg Chandler Staff Writer Parking restrictions will soon likely be put in place in a couple of subdivisions in the village of Middleville. The Village Council unan­ imously Tuesday voted to authorize its legal team to draft an ordinance or resolu­ tion prohibiting on-street parking on the south side of the street in the Misty Ridge subdivision, and within the public right-of-way in front of houses with odd-num- bered addresses in the Rolling Oaks subdivision. Thomapple Township Fire Chief Bill Richardson had late last year called for park­ ing limitations allowing on-street parking on only one side of subdivision streets, with no parking allowed on the side of the street that has a fire hydrant. “In November, emergency management services responded to a call in Misty Ridge where first responders were not able to their vehi- Your local agent insures your Busin cles to the address needing service,” Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers said. Any new ordinance would have to go through a public hearing process with the Planning Commission before it is adopted. Powers told the council that it’s possible the Department of Public Works may have to come back to coimcil at a later date after an ordinance is drafted for approval of signage connect­ ed to the new restrictions. Village President Mike Cramer made the motion to authorize legal counsel to draft an ordinance or resolu­ tion in the targeted subdivi­ sions, as well as address “any concerns brought forth by the Bany County SherifFs Department Middleville unit” regarding enforcement. “Every second counts when you need to get there,” Cramer said. No timeline has been determined for when an ordinance might take effect. Mast Meat Processing OFFERING CUSTOM SLAUGHTERING _______ and PROCESSING Call today for an appointment FARM BUREAU INSURANCE^ fttsurtutoe. Con(f><ut^ I• S’ 517-231 -3883 ^1 Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 Jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com 0 1 Hours: Monday - Friday 8 - 5 7727 Anderson Hwy., Vermontville, Ml 49096 * BEEF AVAILABLE Quarters and Halves I 1 1 « ALBION COLLEGE Several area students were named to the dean s list at Albion College. To qualify, students earned a grade point average of 3.5 or better while taking four graded courses. Local students include: Paige Caledonia Williamson, William Smith Anderson University of Bowers Dillyn Middleville was named to the fall 2023 dean’s list at Anderson University in South Carolina. To be named to the dean’s list, students must maintain a 3.5 GPA or higher for the semester. TRINITY CHRISTIAN COLLEGE Several area students were named to the dean’s list at Trinity Christian College for the fall 2023 semester. Students who achieve a semester GPA of 3.5 or better in 12 or more credits are named to the list. I Local students on the list, by hometown, includ­ ed: Caledonia Aubrie Vredevoogd Shelbyville - Brendan Covell Saginaw Valley State University Several area students were named to the dean’s list at Saginaw Valley State University. To qualify, stu­ dents earned a grade point average of 3.4 or above for the fall semester. Local students on the list, by hometown, includ­ ed: Caledonia Mason McKenzie Middleville - Conroy Stolsonburg In addition, the presi­ dent’s list includes students who earned a 4.0 GPA while taking at least 12 credits. Local students on the president’s list are: Middleville Emelia MacDonald di z fll® Ji >iie, St ft fl kl) jitrt''’ Jas ,? jajolit® 0^" CHS veterans memorial a go, organizers say kW ^oiB ISltf« zaiedai jsMi Greg Chandler Staff Writer A proposed veterans memorial inside Caledonia High School has received the green light from district administrators. Organizers of the project, led by CHS senior Brody Woodwyk, recently confirmed that the memorial will be installed outside the Peter V. DeLille Fine Arts Center in the high school’s north campus, possibly as soon as this spring. “The project is coming along and after meeting with the district administration I am very excited to start to see things roll,” said Woodwyk, who has spearheaded the campaign to honor CHS graduates who have served their country in the military. “We have met with district administration on next steps - which are to meet with an interior designer to work out the layout and design in the place that has been chosen to put the memorial and quotes for materials and labor are in the works and/or are completed,” CHS history and government teacher Heather Tomes wrote in a recent email to the Sun and News, The campaign to build the memorial has raised $5,000 through T-shirt fundraisers and donations from the community. Caledonia Community Schools admin- 1 I I I 1 istrators have taken over the construction of the project, and have estimated the cost of the memorial at about $20,000-$25,000, Tomes wrote in her email. The high school’s Parent Student Teacher Organization (PSTO) will host a fundraiser on March 23 at Butcher Block Social, 9900 Cherry Valley Ave. SE, to raise additional funds for the memorial. The event, which will run from 5 to 11 p.m., will feature live music from the Michigan Mafia String Band and a silent auction, event organizer Crystal Saidoo said. “The PSTO is still the pri­ mary partner (for the proj­ ect),” Tomes wrote in her email. “The goal is to start construction and hopefully get as far as we can before Brody graduates this spring so that he can see his vision come to life.” Any funds raised at the March 23 event above the cost for materials and instal­ lation of the permanent vet­ erans memorial project will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. Woodwyk plans to attend Michigan State University after graduation. going through the university’s Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) pro­ gram, and then joining the Air Force as a commissioned officer after earning his degree from MSU. isssaaf IKH » * M'ta i I lEsifer I taij' ( r tifw \iMe.sa mill Krfe [IMi 1 I LJ I fl �DEMO DAY: Former Baby Bliss building comes down to open up Michigan Dems aim to ban prime real estate in Middleville guns at voting locations The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2, 2024/ Page 7 Jayson Bussa Editor xV tir The main drag of the Village of Middleville looks b a bit different after crews iJD spent this week demolishing < e the former Baby Bliss factory downtown. V This stage of the process • I followed on the heels of ini­ tial demolition work last week, which took down additional buildings on the site, located at 120 W. Main St. The current property I owner. River Run Flats LLC, r has been working with the Barry County Brownfield i Redevelopment Authority on the demolition. The redevelopment authority last year received a $220,000 blight elimination grant, and all of that money has been targeted toward V / demolition and cleanup work at the long-vacant Baby Bliss site, which has nearly 300 { . ’ feet of frontage on the a Thomapple River. In the village’s 2021 mas­ ter plan update, the Baby i Bliss site is envisioned to be s redeveloped into a combina­ tion of high-density residen­ tial and mixed-use develop- buildings serves as a major ment that Would be “ideal for step in that process. a brew pub/restaurant.” The ‘^We have already had a 0.81-acre site is currently meeting with the Realtor that zoned as a combination of has the property listed and medium-density residential now that all the buildings and central business district, will be down, he’s eager to the latter of which is the zon­ get developers on the site to ing designation for just about all of the commercial proper­ ty in the downtown area. Jennifer Heinzman, r President and CEO of Barty A County Chamber and Economic Development I Alliance, said that her orga­ nization will work alongside the village to aggressively promote the property. Eliminating the old, blighted 1 % ''I, i < £A S'**’, t J r*. ;» *4 I’ 4^ ; I t 1 I I x s’ ■ 41 rl r f 4 7-4 ss i. T i 4.- ■! .W i.T? • w* c • - j: •X st * 1 > > 4 • 1, ’J r 3 vP t C 'ii n Jordyn Herman! Bridge Michigan LANSING, MI — A plan to ban openly carried guns at Michigan voting loca­ tions passed the state Senate Thursday, but a House split means the bills likely won’t reach Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s desk anytime soon. Democrats approved the two-bill package in par­ ty-line votes, calling it the , latest step in their effort to protect the democratic pro­ cess. We have to make sure that this process to partici­ pate in fair and free elec­ tions is not obstructed by people who intentionally want to cause intimidation, fear and distress — and have a tool like a fire­ arm to utilize it,” said Senate Elections Committee Chair Jeremy Moss, D-Southfield. Republicans opposed the bills en masse, however. Sen. Ruth Johnson, R-Groveland Township, I*-' 1’ \1 ■r’ _ ^-4^ • T I ^9, A %>■ % L 1 f 4 ! .2^1 4 .r >’U / 1 TJ t 44 ij 1 J 4 t ♦r I ^^1 4 1 HR* 4^ r ....... I r<3 y\ I 1 f Wy,. I 4 i.z I V If *» < t *1 !» /I 11 Ik J s • • • f; 4 *4 i •i Lr 4 la f frf.l r 1 1 ■ I 11 • J k I 4. 4 .1 is 2,' ► J •X -rK- * * »* -- i 1 .4.1 * j ♦he ? I iS' •) A 9 44 44 -S , o h. 4^ two Democrats resigned from their roles in late 2023. As a result, the legislation is unlikely to advance until April, when Democrats are expected to regain their majority through special elections. Even if the House and Whitmer eventually give final approval, the gun ban would not be implemented until after Michigan’s 2024 presidential election. Senate Republicans on Thursday denied both bills “immedi­ ate effect,” meaning they would not be operational until 90 days after the Legislature adjourns for the year, which usually happens in December. Democrats have attempt­ ed to ban guns at polling locations since at least 2020, when Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson tried to do so on her own. She was quickly sued by gun rights groups who argued she was violating their Second Amendment rights. 4 * * . > . A lA ^7? 9%^ it •V-W said the bills would only to restrict the rights of law-abiding citizens in our state. She took issue with the idea that a person openly carrying within 100feet of a ballot drop box could be inadvertently charged with a crime. At that Moss laughed, pointing to other Republican-led states like Texas, Ohio and Mississippi, which have some form of a gun ban at polling locations. I heard rhetoric that this is unconstitutional, that this strips people of their rights, he said. “I don’t think that somebody can make that case when Texas does it.” Senators made some changes to the bills before approving them. That means the legislation will need to return to the House for final votes before getting Whitmer’s signature. The House, however, is stuck at a 54-54 partisan split, and has been since the beginning of the year after *• 5* t- I be ejittij iheffiuriii W,: siite It '4 t MlA * 1» see it,” Heinzman said. “It provides a better picture now of what it could be.” Baby Bliss once manufac­ tured children’s clothing as well as clothes for American Girl dolls. Photos by Greg Chandler ‘Ui r I J JZ A' Li-: * ZV k I I 44 •• « k.t * » eureniidjE 4 S I UliiU 1 I I -Rs. ■iryiii. r I V* I *• t I♦ I ■| 7 ■'I’*!,’** •• .S^tisk sinac tshrirfi- I fl-* V 7. I •' • A ' 1' SI 11 .1 I ^1 •. - * tf-k .<-f . t kt' 1 . 'tu. y I f, •y” U J s ;r#.: (ULSiiE c bH I jitinias : <I 4 High Efficiency FURNACE I I t f AV«h« I fl I f.• ISiS^ I 'r11 i* 1®* n A f iJ A« 400 OFF < .MT « V*.' I jtt' I ri (1 % I I k'.u I r LA I I tf- I L k « I t •li f J F fl S*"' I a i 1' * Must present this coupon. Empires 3-21-24 I t• * z J ^£5' ijir I 1? I i 1 HEATING 8 COOLING r • 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 5 The company built by referrals . L / 4 L J L J L J X J ★ It- « Provided by Andrew McFadden and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones ■r 'wrfWT"'^S5fc^ I I! H If I I 1 I 1 V ? i J Avoid tapping into retirement savings early WtJ ’ 4 1 FINANCIAL FOCUS s FINANCING' AVAILABLE No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. I I I I I If you want to make a big • Tax penalties - If you purchase, such as a new car take money out of a 401 (k) or a piece of property, or or traditional IRA before you were faced with a large, you turn 5916, you could unexpected expense, such face a 10% tax penalty, as a major home or auto although some exceptions repair, would you have the exist. Penalty-free with­ funds readily available? If drawals can be made for not, you might look at what several reasons, including may be your biggest pool of for education and medical money — your 401(k) or expenses, first-time pur­ IRA. But should you tap chase of a home (up to into these accounts well $10,000), after the birth or before you retire? adoption of a child (up to Maybe not — and here’s $5,000) and more (see irs. why: gov/taxtopics/tc557). With • Less money in retire­ a Roth IRA, which is fund­ ment - The more money ed with after-tax dollars, you invest in your retire­ you can withdraw contribu­ ment accounts, and the lon­ tions — but not earnings ger you keep it invested, the — at any time, for any pur­ more you’ll probably have pose, without incurring when you need it most — penalties. when you’re retired. Conse­ Given these issues, how quently, taking out sizable can you avoid dipping into amounts from these your retirement accounts accounts before you retire when you’re faced with a could be costly, as it would financial need? disrupt the benefits of com­ One possibility is to take pounding that can be out a loan from your 401 (k). achieved by holding invest­ Unlike a 401 (k) withdraw­ ments for the long term. al, a loan is neither taxable • Possible bump into nor subject to tax penalties. higher tax bracket - The Also, the interest you pay money you take out from on a 401 (k) loan goes back your traditional IRA and into your account. Still, a 401 (k) is taxable in the year 401(k) loan has its draw­ of withdrawal. So, if you backs. If you leave your withdraw a significant job, you’ll likely have to amount of money at once repay the loan in a short from your traditional IRA period of time and if you or 401(k), you could be don’t have all the money to pushed into a higher tax repay it, the loan will be bracket, at least for one considered in default, so you’ll owe taxes and the year. 10% penalty if you’re younger than 59’/i. But even if you don’t leave your job and you do repay the loan, you’ll still have taken away money that could have potentially kept growing within your tax-deferred account. As mentioned above, as your money com­ pounds, you’ll want to min­ imize disruptions. Building an emergency fund is another way to gain access to cash. Such a fund should contain at least six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. It can take time to build a fund of this size, so it’s never too soon to start putting away money for it. To avoid the temptation of dipping into your emergen­ cy fund, you’d ideally keep this fund separate from your daily spending accounts. Explore all your options before tapping into your IRA or 401 (k) early. Keep­ ing these accounts intact as long as possible is one of the best moves you can make to help build your future retirement income. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SlPC J «»- I % 1 1 > i I �11 ) Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2,2024 I _ TK second at D2 regional, headed back to CMU J r 'a * > ir^ ■ ■ * .ft b r Lr « / ■ *“* X' .A V Vf »q0b* 4^ ’TT’ • 1 b . --■9* - / k 1 4b fW *1 9-^ 5. . A 1 i rn 1 r M* - Kt A / V b kA V R-- > 0• ■ t 1 V ft k fj < % iV * I ■7* 1 1 h r & i: 1 *. 1 ft bi L % s i r » •r • 1 kN 4 i ^1^ • % 3 L. f z I /I 9 The Thornapple Kellogg fan section gets fired up for the start of the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Regional at Kenowa Hills High School Saturday morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) iKl Cedar Springs won the regional with a score of 159.1^ points. TK finished at 759.52. “1 told them to shoot for the stars and maybe you’ll land on the moon, meaning always gun for first place and hopefully you’ll be somewhere in the top four,” TK head coach Madleynn Lula said. “Ultimately the goal was to go back to the state finals.” The TK ladies were seeded fourth based on top scores going into the regional, but proved they were capable of besting the Cedar Springs girls during the OK Gold Conference season and also knew they were capable of outscoring the Plainwell team that beat them for a district title the weekend previous. The Red Hawks were half a point ahead of TK after round one and then outscored TK by 2.26 points in round two. TK made up 2.5 points of the difference in round three with a score of 312.4, which was the best of the day in the round. They didn’t know where Brett Bremer Sports Editor A step, a clap, a shout, a blink, a twitch. A moment that small is the difference between a regional championship trophy going home with the Cedar Springs Red Hawks instead of the Thomapple Kellogg Trojans. TK head coach Madelynn Lula and her girls were even more specific. A pointed toe or a hip check proved the difference. The OK Gold Conference co-champions finished 1 -2 at the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Regional hosted by Kenowa Hills High School Saturday with the Cedar Springs girls 26 hundredths of a point better than the Trojans on the score­ sheet in the end. Both teams did earn the chance to cheer again today. March 2, at the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Finals at Central Michigan University‘s McGuirk Arena in Mt. Pleasant along with the Plainwell and Reeths-Puflfer teams that placed third and fourth at the 12-team region­ al. • they stood during the entire competition,” Lula said of her girls. “They had no idea that Plainwell had just fallen Thornapple Kellogg’s Mali Holland and Kenady Smith shout out during round and that Cedar was only three points ahead of them. one at the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Regional at Kenowa Hills High All I kept telling them was School Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the door is wide open. Chase The Trojans stuck their your goals.” The Trojans had tallies of jumps, toe touches and her"—■h 227 in round one and 220.12 kies, and their big gymnasin round two. That was their tics skills - the back walk­ TK ladies’ first time surpass­ overs, back handsprings and ing the 220-point mark in back tucks. Plainwell, the team that round two. “Round three was great, bested Thomapple Kellogg but round two our goal has for a district title the previbeen to break the 220 thresh- OUS Friday in Richland, old, and we hadn’t broken placed third at Kenowa Hills the 218.5 threshold and we with an overall score of broke the 220 threshold at 755.32. The TK girls passed regionals and that was a giant those Trojans on the score­ accomplishment,” Lula said. board in round three. Reeths1 “All season that was what Puffer earned the fourth and was holding our score back final state finals spot with a at great instead of exception score of 729.18. al. Breaking that 220 thresh Zeeland West was a little ii‘•CI * • old at regionals was excep­ ways back in fifth place with V; K : •> tional. a score of 722.14 ahead of “They finally spent the Northview 719.44, Mason > fl entire last week, we call it 714.56, Forest Hills Northern sticky feet, sticking your feet 712.14, DeWitt 708.76, St. to the ground after every sin- Johns 706.90, Sturgis 704.72 Thornapple Kellogg teammates Claira Kovich gle skill and not moving and and Mattawan 688.0. (front) and Kella LeClaire punch in unison during their standing up like, ‘heck yeah. The Troj an team had its team’s round one performance at the MHSAA Division I just did that. best ever state finals finish a 2 Competitive Cheer Regional hosted by Kenowa year ago, placing fourth at Hills High School Saturday. The Trojans finished as the Division 2 Finals. This r.\ the regional runners-up to qualify for today’s MHSAA A’ ? season’s D2 competition is Division 2 Competitive Cheer Finals at Central ■-« s-' slated to begin at 4 p.m. Michigan University. (Photo by Brett Bremer) > V C t-: J.n-r -• > 4 ■ (hU «> ^Iff® w- «• >1 a *0 fvr'-' 3il0l» J ^cib •/ ^Js. J 't, ' HI I S’ 1 .v4 4 I A J I I ;r -i; j’ c I ■J-*' •l' h 4’ V| >4«.- t .5-J^ / ? ♦ * I Ja b t • I 1*^ ■■'•a ••'.‘I <r aV • •A r 1 > UI ■ ji.v i- 5* 4 ?.* jTnniL'“’-rir^ >-3L !»iei *1 iisics siifflp 9 >9 iir • > ‘A ft. IQ .p ’lilS I' V 1 » * ■•F'- •a • 5^ f « M * * I < 1 <( 4 M*’’ r •v—•K'-' r I / I V k ' s I it * J '■ T 1 • 1 r .4 1 : 1 f?, ') ■ •Vir’ '1 I I t I >» 'j < U' fe z: s A. t 4 .i 1. I I "“f » 4 L I . iiL. n II c i/ o. 1^ It ■« » I OKED BBQ Mb |terE EVENT / k 1 I’’ i f 4-* •-e* » 1 •<4 1 MT i » X5S I VE •< J V ■ * *•. 4- % «4 * I 8 * OM t 4 I t. *,l R4 1 1 : I I I I 4 U4.4-U I* x- * 1 ■L < t: ‘I -ivX 'sy; 4 ■L nrA 5 w Ai .V ■ I .•» a* I 1 < 'M > . «. 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I I r » I i’S I I �■ lZilCiH^4 fOlMl ivff ■’^e Sun and News, Saturday, March 2,2024/Page 9 viKings rend off Thtjans in regular season finale mb T <7; •** 7 -?* 4. < •"r A 4 4 Zj S Lv r L L k ?FV- J 4 4- W- • I ♦ 4 ■r- ♦ Sb 1 1r • I ib L-i p K Wa*. I t I . «B • *1 * a r J'.'••-•SK’':: r* I* B I B B M > y«rt J&. Thornapple Kellogg sophomore guard Marlee Shuford (right) chases Lakewood senior Autumn Williams in the back-court during their ' regular season finale at Lakewood High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) L=HB< •^^A 4. s > 4 Brett Bremer Sports Editor And that’s a wrap on the 2023-24 varsity girls’ basket­ ball regular season. Viking seniors Cadence Poll, Alivia Everitt, Joee Harton and Audrey Hillard took their turns kissing the logo at center court in the Lakewood High School gym. in the district’s other semifinal match Wednesday. Everitt’s late triple made her the Vikings’ leading scorer for the night. She finished with 11 points. Poll had ten points to go with 15 rebounds and Hillard finished with ten points too. Williams had seven points and Teff two. Freshman Mariana Grant was the They couldn’t be in the bench in foul trouble, so I thought they played a smart game. Cadence, this is probably the most composed she has been all season so I am proud of her for that.” Lakewood honored its seniors a few ballgames ago. but that didn’t stop pregame handshakes and high fives the Vddn^^hfeg wfth Thmsday ThTballXe 8.2 seconds left in their non-conference ballgame with points. visiting Thomapple Kellogg The Vikings controlled the Thursday. glass, played wisely against e oor and Teff replaced -JChe Lakewood varsity girls ’ the Trojans’ full-court presHarton after a few trips up and ■toketball team had a lead as sure, and maybe most impor down the floor, and Lakewood Wge as* 13 points late in the tantfy to Meints mostly played shot out to a 13-1 lead going ■dticd quarter trimmed down to with composure when things into the second quarter. one point with 1:53 to go in got a little chippy between the Thomapple Kellogg got to the fourth quarter. Hillard * two squads from time to time. within 20-11 by the half, but scored to bump her team’s “Tuesday night [at East wasn’t much closer than that lead back to three points as the Lansing] we struggled with until junior guard Emma clock went under a minute and rebounding,” Meints said, “so Geukes drilled a three-pointer a half to play, and Poll rejected we talked about coming into half a minute into the fourth « * a TK three-point attempt lead- this game to make sure we quarter. TK was within 33-28 ing to a triple by Everitt at the were dominating and getting after a steal and a lay-up from other end of the floor. into the paint and getting those sophomore guard Tealy Cross. Lakewood held on from boards while being clean Lakewood’s only points in there for a 45-38 victory mov­ about it. We knew [Poll and the first six and a half minutes ing its season record to 11-11. Everitt] had to be in the game. of the fourth quarter came at The 2023-24 Viking squad had six seniors as the four who pressed their lips to the Viking logo were joined by class­ mates Autumn Williams and Sydney Teff. “Six seniors, and five of them have been playing together since they were prob ably in fourth grade,” Lakewood head coach Kelly Meints said. “Kind of a mem­ res orable moment for them. I am F glad we were able to hold some composure there at the end and actually nail down some free throws.” » . . MB s Ti< rSta The Vikings have as many more ballgames together as they can win. They travel to Portland Monday to face Hastings in the opening round of their MHSAA Division 2 District Tournament. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. The Vikings scored six points in the final five seconds to take a one-point win over the Saxons in Hastings earlier this season. The winner of Monday’s ballgame faces 19th-ranked Lansing Catholic Wednesday TK head coach Brandi James talks things over in the district semifinal back in with her girls during a break in the action during the Portland. second half at Lakewood High School Thursday. Portland and Charlotte meet (Photo by Brett Bremer) •> I *1- f. « •ft V, n • •»; Thornapple Kellogg sophomore guard Tealy Cross finds a little gap in the lane to attack the basket during her team’s loss at Lakewood High School Thursday to I tate to'! iiinta •4 T 1 9 Milk HOMtl, -J' RNk j tItW 1 ns J 5 .5^ ■MB V I including a tough 61-26 contest at East Lansing Tuesday. Ionia bested the Vikings 55-45 seniors on the roster joined by classmates Katie Comeau and Brittney Roodvoets. in Ionia last Friday, Feb. 23, to close the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division season. The Vikings finished their return to the CAAC-White with a 7-7 record finishing fourth in the conference. Thomapple Kellogg didn’t shoot the ball particularly well Thursday, and at times got too deep into the teeth of the Viking defense. Poll and Everitt did an excellent job of contesting the Trojans’ at the rim. Cross finished with a gamehigh 15 points. Geukes and Schilthroat had eight points each. While Lakewood is a senior-heavy squad, the Trojan team is still a young one, Eva Corson was the only senior to see court time for TK Thursday and she is just one of three The Trojans close the regular season at 10-12 having dropped their last six ballgames. Grandville took a 40-34 win over the visiting TK ladies Tuesday night and Cedar Springs bested the Trojans in the OK Gold Conference finale 51-46 in Middleville last Friday, Feb. 23. The TK ladies were 4-10 in the OK Gold this winter. TK will host a 7-14 Forest Hills Central team to start their MHSAA Division 1 District Tournament Monday. The winner of that game heads to Lowell to face the Red Arrows in the district semifinals Wednesday. Caledonia and Ottawa Hills meet in that district’s other opening round game Monday with the winner heading to Lowell to face East Grand Rapids in the other district semifinal Wednesday. I k I i I. V I I I r ) I I I I I I I I t I I ) I I I 9 I n I c A f. \ .1 1' t . J*- I, 6 b •7*F 7; rr 'B% ‘ t?— .1* r A J Th" Vikings were 6-of-8 during that stretch, which was just enough to stay in front, Back-to-back three-pointers by Cross and TK guard Lydia Schilthroat took a 39-32 Lakewood lead down to 39-38 before Lakewood was able to stretch its lead in the end with TK’s shooters once again going cold behind the arc. “We were prepared for their press. We talked about making sure we were looking up and seeing the floor before coming into the trap,” Meints said. “They have been experiencing that all season, and we have had games where we have walked right into that and thrown the ball away. Tonight, they were mentally ready I think. They really wanted to walk off feeling victorious tonight and they took a little better care of the basketball.” Lakewood had lost four in a row heading into the bailgame I t i * ♦ * fl I* ir M f I. bT. * •I F B 5*. ., J - " I F ir SW.V.MB.V "/fs true that or^e persoil's trash is arother^s treasure. Have M'svA.uctfor^.covA seii your treasures for you!*' I »• �Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2,2024 — —, Despite Michigan primary wins, signs of tioubie for Tkump and Biden ture that for many signaled Jonathan Oosting their opposition to Biden ’ s Bridge Michigan handling of the ongoing Democrats LANSING Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. who moved up Michigan’s By raw numbers, it was an • presidential primary this year I impressive feat for the to make the state more rele­ “ Listen to Michigan ” cam ­ vant succeeded in drawing paign, which aimed to show more national attention, but Biden that war critics could . A.; it was not the kind of nation­ potentially jeopardize his al attention many were hop­ re-election bid if he doesn ’ t ing for. do more to stop Palestinian Instead of a victory lap for deaths. President Joe Biden, who Biden beat Trump by had requested the calendar 154,188 votes in Michigan change, Michigan’s unusualfour years ago, while Trump ly early primary proved to be won the state by 10,704 votes a showcase for the “uncom­ in 2016. mitted” protest vote against So 100,000 uncommitted the incumbent Democrat. votes is significant. And by While the uncommitted topping 15 percent in two vote failed to crack 15 perDonald Trump won Michigan ’ s presJoe Biden and former President President congressional districts, the cent statewide, national idential primaries on Tuesday, but it wasn ’ t all good news for either. uncommitted campaign will media flooded Michigan, likely send at least some particularly Arab American with Republicans in those SUBURBS STILL A unbound Michigan delegates mitted” was not hugely conareas like Dearborn that counties. They ’ ve done noth ­ PROBLEM FOR to the national Democratic sequential by historic stanbecame the focal point of ing to mitigate what cost TRUMP dards in Michigan, where it convention in August. opposition to Biden’s sup­ them the election in 2020. ” Trump also won every “ Our movement emerged has been a relatively popular UNCOMMITTED port for Israel in the Gaza Campaign visits point to county in the state on option in past elections too. victorious tonight and mas ­ SENDS A MESSAGE war. the importance of both Point in case: 2012, when Tuesday. He topped 75 persively surpassed our expectaBiden handily won every “Michiganders loved to regions. Trump recently held cent of the GOP primary vote Barack coimty in Michigan, which tions, ” Listen to Michigan then-President deliver messages in their his first Michigan rally of the in more than a third of them, Obama (and then-Vice organizers said on social wasn ’ t surprising because no presidential primaries,” said pollster Richard Czuba. top-tier Democrat dared media. “Tens of thousands of President Biden) ran unop- including Macomb County, year in Oakland County. in campaigned “This was probably not the challenge him in the primary. Michigan Democrats, many posed for the Democratic which has historically been a Haley loudest message we’ve seen But the contest was perhaps of whom voted for Biden in nomination. That year, about bellwether for statewide and Oakland on Simday and in Kent Coimty on Monday. historically, but it was one of most notable for the number 2020, are uncommitted to his 11 % of Democratic primary national elections. The results show Trump of voters who did not back re-election due to the war in voters cast uncommitted bal­ the messages.” MOST GOP DELE­ remains especially popular lots. Gaza.” Voters in Kent, Ottawa him. GATES AT STAKE IN Obama went on to win the with Republicans in rural than More 100,000 and Oakland counties THE MESSAGE general election by nearly 10 Michigan. He won two coun­ SATURDAY CAUCUSES which “for decades had been Michiganders voted “uncomBecause she topped a 12.5 WASN’T MASSIVE percentage points over ties in the Upper Peninsula the breadbasket of mitted” in the Democratic Baraga and Luce with percent threshold required by Republican votes” - also primary, according to unoffi­ But at just over 13 percent Republican nominee Mitt sent a loud message to for- cial results, a symbolic ges- of the primary vote, “uncom- Romney. more than 80 percent of the state party rules, Haley stands to walk away from In 2008, 40 percent of vote.213084 Democratic primary voters His worst performance Michigan with at least three — 238,168 people overall was in the heavily Democratic delegates to the Republican — cast uncommitted bal- Washtenaw County, where Party’s national nominating lots, largely to show their Trump got 50 percent of the convention in July. support for Obama, who vote compared to 45 percent While results are unoffi­ wasn’t on the Michigan for Haley. cial, Trump will likely win as ballot but won the nomina­ But the real warning signs many as 13 Michigan dele­ tion. for Trump came in vote-rich gates because of his primary Organizers of this year’s Kent and Oakland coimties, win. uncommitted campaign did a which were key to Biden’s But many more delegates The Village of Middleville is soliciting sealed proposals for the High Street good job on the public rela­ 2020 win because suburban will be at stake this weekend. Reconstruction Project. The work includes the reconstruction of High Street tions fi-ont, but their actual voters there fled Trump in when the Michigan with utility replacement including storm sewer improvements, lining of sanitary turnout “ was a failure, ” said large numbers, said Czuba, Republican Party convenes sewer, watermain abandonment and replacement, water service replacement, Democratic strategist Adrian the pollster. for a series of congressional and restoration of all disturbed areas. Hemond, founder of Haley ended up at 34 per­ district caucus meetings. Grassroots Midwest in cent in Kent and 33 percent There, party activists will Sealed proposals will be received by the Village of Middleville at the Village Hall; Lansing. in Oakland, topping her allocate a total of 39 presi­ located at 100 E. Main Street, Middleville, Michigan 49333 until 2:00 p.m. local “They barely got more statewide percentage of 27 dential nominating delegates, time, Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at which time they will be publicly opened and percentage-wise than they percent. Trump still won a format experts predict will read aloud. did in 2012.” both handily he got 59 heavily favor Trump. Still, Biden allies say thepercent in Kent and 62 per­ The Michigan GOP adopt Contract Documents may be obtained at www.williams-works.com. the offices of president will strive to win cent in Oakland — but his ed the hybrid delegate plan to Williams and Works, 549 Ottawa NW, Grand Rapids, Ml 49503, (616) 224-1500. back uncommitted voters by victory margins were not as avoid a delegate penalty after Contract Documents are also available at www.mitn.info. the fall. They’ll try to do so wide as in many parts of the the state’s Democratic-led by highlighting what Gov. state. Legislature voted to move up In order for your bid to be recognized and opened, your company must be Gretchen Whitmer this week Trump “lost 2020 Because the primary from early March, registered as a Planholder of Record for this project by completing the registration called a “stark choice” of Oakland and Kent,” Czuba in violation of Republican form contained on the project website, (see link below) between Biden and Trump said. “And here he is again, National Committee rules. on other issues. with the exact same problem Kent County Judge J. The registration form and PDF versions of the Contract Documents may be Joseph Rossi on Tuesday obtained only at: 5’; appeared to settle a bitter dispute over who will over­ http.7/williams-works.com/#bids see the Michigan GOP cau­ cus convention and where it Contact Williams & Works at 616-224-1500 if you have trouble accessing the will be held. He ruled Contract Documents or using the online registration form. Knstina Karamo was proper­ ly removed as state party chair last month, meaning Each proposal shall be accompanied by a certified check or bid bond by a recog • Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station Pete Hoekstra now officially nized surety in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total of the bid orice price. leads the Michigan GOP. Linus Project Drop Off ^:JI Hoekstra plans to hold the After the time of opening, no bid may be withdrawn for a period of Sixty (60) days. caucuses on Saturday in QUESTIONS: ASK US... Grand Rapids at the Amway The Village of Middleville reserves the right to accept any bid, reject any or all bids, Grand Plaza Hotel and has 218 E. state St.. Hastings • 945-9673 to waive informalities and make the award in any manner deemed in the best cautioned activists against OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; interest of the Village of Middleville. Saturday 9 am-3 pm attending a separate Deroit 0 convention Karamo had k I * called. I mer President Donald Trump, Czuba said. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley won more than 30 percent of the GOP primary vote in each of those counties, showing Trump could again struggle with college-educated voters that cost him the 2020 election, Czuba said. Republicans, For Democrats’ decision to move the Michigan primary from early March to late February forced state officials to adopt a hybrid caucus system to avoid delegate penalties from the national party. That’s likely good news for Trump, who is expected to dominate Saturday cau­ cuses that will actually be more important than the primary results for the GOP nomination. —-Win •• ( ’'j ■-Z' r* 1 A ■■ z ' r » / 4 ' f' 'J <r % ^2 ADVERTISEMENT FOR HIGH STREET RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE IVs time to start Grad Quilts f r & 'jjidli 'taA? n ' I •. II '.Tl,’ •aj I iaiil p SSjl r 5 * aoi *11ID^lll '’I <!6!i ‘jl*. 433 ! ‘ 24 ..XL’ » • New Collections x. 'a. * 1 ’C -1^ u I r, ■» Hu ’*1 " J 1 A I I '•IS X a* b J .. ik >1 I * �FEATURED FILM: Celebration Cinema1“*— opens ‘C Premium’ auditorium with first public screening hl iMciiiorY IN LOVING MEMORY Dykstra •♦ ♦ J X James Gemmell Contributing Writer The public has gotten its first glimpse of the new ‘C Premium’ auditorium at , Celebration Cinema South in That has got to be the Gaines Charter Township. most perfect movie to open The 19-year-old, 10-screen this auditorium to. It is a true multiplex theater is located masterpiece. It’s a at 1506 Eastport Dr., which world-building film. It is just north of M-6 and west deserves to be seen on a big of Kalamazoo Avenue. screen with all of the best of The media got to see the projection, sight and sound,” first non-test show in the C Emily Locks said. She is Premium auditorium on Feb. Celebration Cinema’s Public 28, a replay of the original Relations & Community “Dune” science-fiction Affairs Director. K I I ‘4^ movie. The first flick viewed . ., ... , was on f .1 opening of the followup film, “Dune: Dune: loill. The C Premium auditorifeatures 38 speakers pumping out Dolby Atmos surround sound, 4K laser rr / f Paul "Spike" son, brother, dad, uncle one year ago March 7, 2023 Paul L., husband, dad and grandpa four years ago April 3, 2020. I f, ;r J' I launch this brand,” Locks said. It’s part of a $4 million renovation at Celebration Cinema South that began in January and will culminate with a grand reopening in r S'* ****? » . y •«n J IV :* li- i i f 9. '"'^1 « I 9 t. < caiBpai y w in T T8 44 I IB A* f The Irwin reclining seats featured in the new C Premium auditorium vibrate during sound effects and include a lower back-warming button. w Renovation work will continue at Celebration South until late April. Gaines trustees to take up requested rezone for a gateway intersection >1 lew ® 4* w Sadly missed. Sheila, Austin, Brenda, Carl Blough and families. late April. Other renovations include a full kitchen to support an A JU expanded food xw« and aiiu beverage ucvcidgc menu. That includes delivery to your theater seat. Locks was asked if the seats are so comfortable that people might fall asleep in them. “I don’t think they’ll fall asleep during Dune, because It’s a mesmerizing film. But I have heard that some folks come to our Flicks Family Films, which are free for kids (12 and younger), because it’s the best nap ever while you’re watching a movie with kids,” she said. r 7 1 \ The rooftop marquee for Celebration Cinema, a 19-year-old, 10-screen multiplex in Gaines Township. (All photos by Steve Katerberg) ■ ; f r projection and reclining seats that vibrate during action sequences in the movie and have an option lower«back lower-nack warmer. All of the auditoriums in the Celebration South complex will have the reclining seats soon. But only the C Premium auditorium features the high-tech sound and light-projection system. “We’re really excited to Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still love, still missed, still very dear. f J. L? ®'®l Miiiiatiij James Gemmell nxishlf, ^aretino®. Contributing Writer : The Gaines Township Planning Commission is rec­ ommending that the town­ ship board approve a rezon­ ; ing request for the southeast comer of the 76th Street/ Division Avenue intersec­ tion. Township planners have described it as a “gateway” intersection into Gaines Township, which shares Division as a boundary with Byron Township. Following a public hearing, the planning commis­ sion roll-call voted 5-0 at its Feb. 22 meeting to recom­ mend that township trustees approve a rezone of one acre of a 2.3-acre property at 7610 S. Division Ave. from a Heavy Industrial (1-2) desig­ nation to Neighborhood Commercial (NC). Half of the single parcel adjacent to the intersection is vacant, and the other half immedi­ ately to the east is occupied by a self-storage operation. As a condition of the prop­ erty’s rezoning, the parcel would have to be divided between commercial and industrial within 60 days of the rezoning approval. Planners said it would have been difficult to fit a modem industrial development into that size of a split parcel, and residential use would not be appropriate with all the busi­ nesses along that stretch of Division Avenue. Two planning commisI 13 ttp (tif. Hothisprimajj' more totals toe this lie Jttfaa ■ Pal)' m« soffiipul » Klitji. IF sclitils rf DlalofjPftta'■I! toes, pals polKt «i ilraip. Jetaiijhii jt Pinal)'ito Dittianc-lfii lltlW'il? )f Jiepiitta lit nite h'W M rt' cSle a * In nil 11 bGOP* uteeil ^11 state gl fiflf' ; ) 1 I a at*® i 1 ! I -b.T: sioners were absent from the meeting. The planning commission had approved a preliminary request on Jan. 25 from project applicant Brian DeSmit of Apex Realty, on behalf of the land owner, the Jon & Sandra Good Trust. In December, the commission recommended the township board reject an initial application for General Commercial rezoning. That prompted DeSmit to withdraw that application and submit a new one requesting the Neighborhood Commercial designation, instead. That allayed planning com­ missioners’ earlier concern that giving it a General Commercial designation might pave the way for a stop­ and-go type business to set up at that intersection, such as a gas station or drive-thru restaurant. Utilities required for commercial use are already in place in that area. “They’re going to be rezon­ ing it in order to develop it with a Neighborhood Commercial business. We don’t know exactly what that * ■ * .I . ► -4 a « « £ «« w .4* • I • 3*'f s UJI 1» s s 3< < “ * b * • -1^. .1'. AI S') I ■ »* F t* J * • J. « i « This aerial view shows where Gaines planning commissioners are requesting a rezoning of a vacant parcel at a prime intersection at the southeast corner Of Division Avenue and 76th Street. (Source: GainesTownship.org) “We’d love to see some investment in that area, so this BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Pop­ lar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley (269)818-7793. Pets DOG GROOMING. QUALI­ TY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. Communitv Notice would be a good develop­ ment,” Wells said. f •ix p. Zt M 4 f f J •1 .5 I « r, I '.1 r a T I*- WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS r h • V— ff r I -•V'- I I J I I. A Residential & Commercial < -'••L * 1 s : . VL )* •- Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers « r e' /•' V e 9' .-J i < £ » V ■M 1\ ' « I * ' ' ■ M 1 J * k • I A'? it Ai • 11. i_*<. I ?* I c ; 10^ r. ? 'A- «* ' ■ 1 t 40 will be yet,” Community Development Director Dan Wells told the planning com­ mission. Some township trustees and planning commissioners were surprised at how many decades the southeast comer of that intersection has been vacant. Wells described the property as a “build to suit” location. although the developer has not determined what type of business it might attract for the site. “He is very confident, with that being a busy comer, that he will be able to find a user for that location,” Wells said. “We assume that it will be utilized for some kind of residential neighborhood retail and services.” The township’s Future Land Use Plan designates the location as suitable for a medium-density residcntial/retail mixed use. Planning staff have said that development of the vacant lot at 76th Street/Division Avenue would be “a signal of reinvest ment of the Division corridor’ in Cutlerville. CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Rooting, Siding Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-8385937. NOTICE OF SELF-STOR­ AGE SALE: Please notice Red Dot Storage 195- Caledonia located at 5590 68th Street SE., Caledonia, Ml 49316 intends to hold an auction of the storage unit in default of payment. This sale will occur online via www.storageTreasures. com on 3/12/2024 at 9:30 AM. Unless stated otherwise, the contents are household goods, furnishings, boxes, and general equipment. Unit numbers are as follows: #263; #440; #441. All property is being stored at the above self-storage facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. See manager for details. : II r « Busitiess Services . S’. 'M A <w* >5 •t* '1 a : 12-•• r % » V' •W * '4 t J A I «r Ct t* -» I 'i «> r I* '■§ Ji 4 r' 1^.. ;»s \ »• 1 It A* a a DeWeerd (68) • Experience the beauty and history of the St. Lawrence & Ottawa Rivers on a classic Canadian riverboat. Request our free travet brochure. J HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 1 -800-267-7868 www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.Gom .9 I'w 4 A i RIVER CRUISE VACATIONS . Since 19SS tJENNOjCy 4 •/ JiA+ .jhh l BBB ri ACCREDITED ' BUSINESS •V” * �1 Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2, 2024 TO INFINITY AND BEYOND: Space exploration calls to TK alum____ ? i, Jason Morley hopes to find himself blasting off into space someday. If he does, it could very well be in a rocket he’s had a hand in designing and build­ ing. The 2006 Thomapple i Kellogg High School gradu­ ate is a manufacturing engi­ 1 neer focused on designing 46 and building of space crafts and propulsion processes. His boss, Jeff Bezos, has been in the news a lot about his dream Thornapple Kellogg alum Jason Morley (left) works of creating a road to space encouraging future genera­ for aerospace company Blue Origin. (Photo provided) tions to establish a million own, so you know how they people living and working in become limited.” Morley was one of the work as a whole,” he said. space at Blue Origin. Morley said his father Morley currently spends early employees hired at Blue most of his time supporting Origin and it’s obvious from would never be upset when propulsion for the New Glenn talking to him to know how he had something tom apart rocket but has worked across much he loves what he’s but didn’t know how to get it back together. several areas at Blue Origin doing. He was the most patient “I love the thought that including making direct con­ tributions toward the launch Earth is this beautiful blue dot father, amazing role model of the New Shepard Rocket in the middle of our galaxy. and hero I’ve ever had,” he carrying Bezos above the Exploring and seeing what said. His father also introduced else is out there, for me, is the Karman line and into space. “I like the idea of building most incredible part because him to space. He and I would take blansomething that encourages we only really have what we and helps others achieve a can see or experience here on kets and pillows to the flat roof of my childhood home to permanent presence in space. Earth,” he said. I think that’s a cool mark to He’s also excited about the watch for meteor showers and leave, especially for the history-making potential of other phenomena and talk future,” Morley said. his job. about the amazing planets Morley is excited about the “Our goal is to launch and constellations,” Morley growth at Blue Origin and the rockets successfully and land said. “He was also a helicoppotential careers for anyone them so the rockets can be ter pilot and would take me to interested in the space indus- used over again. It’s one thing work or other aerospace tiy. to launch a rocket, it’s some­ events which intrigued me “We need more minds, thing else to get it back, and every time.” more Einstein’s, more people reuse it,” he said. Morley moved to exploring creative ways to Morley has always had an Thomapple Kellogg Schools make space travel easier, inquisitive mind. It led him to when he was in middle more capable and more a manufacturing engineering school. He gives his middle affordable,” he said. “I want degree from Western and high school teachers to motivate others to explore, Michigan University. He also credit for really cultivating enjoy the unknown, find the credits his father for support­ his passion for engineering joy in looking into things that ing, encouraging him and and helping him see what he are not discovered and then introducing him to space. wanted to do as a career. find ways to tap what they “My father encouraged me “I think I always kind of find to create or reinvent the to learn about how things knew I wanted to do somewheel. If we don’t discover a work, tearing things apart, thing with space, but it wasn’t way to make space travel pos­ breaking them down to their until I was in high school that sible now, it will only get most basic parts and under- my teachers really helped me more difficult to achieve in standing fundamentally, how realize what I could do,” he the future as resources components work on their said. A 5^ s - Voters approve operating millage renewal for Barry County Central Dispatch /<•* •i Au * u / lifetime, have reached an all-time high,” Lehman said following the suc­ cessful campaign. “So, everything is con­ tinuing to cost more and costs continue to rise and even though the differ­ ence between the Headlee (override) and the full mill was not a huge amount of money, it is some.” The increase will cost the average property owner an additional $5 or $6. Of the 12,756 voters who weighed in on the topic, 8,166 voted yes (64 per­ cent). “In a time and age where everybody is strug­ gling and every house­ hold is making some sort of concession with today’s inflation, and just the cost of life in today’s market, we are incredibly fortu­ nate to do the work that we do in a community that continues to support their 9-1-1 center,” Lehman said. “Not every community is that fortu­ nate.” toration of the 0.0584 mills to generate an addiassumtional $164,860 ing all taxes are collected — for the department, which would ideally be used to hire two addition­ al dispatchers for a department that has seen its utilization steadily grow over time but is not fully staffed. The department also faces persistent techno­ logical needs to keep infrastructure up to indus­ try standards. While Central Dispatch has routinely passed pre­ vious operating millages in the past, Lehman admitted she was a little nervous to see how voters would respond to this year’s request, as it came with a small increase with the Headlee override. “I was pretty nervous about it because it is an increase in cost to the res­ idents of Barry County, and we’re living in a soci­ ety and a climate right now where the inflation rates and things, in my Jayson Bussa Editor Barry County Central Dispatch will see a slight bump in funding after presidential Tuesday’s primary election. In the election, which concluded Tuesday, vot­ ers also passed a renewal of an operating millage for Barry County Central Dispatch that included the restoration of 0.0584 mills that had been slowly lost over the years due to the Headlee Amendment, which requires a local unit of government to reduce its millage when annual growth on existing property is greater than the rate of inflation. With the approval of the operating millage, Barry County Central Dispatch will again levy 1.000 mill. an amount that was originally approved back in 1992. Stephanie Lehman, director for the depart­ ment, said in the days leading up to the election that she expected the res­ •y' Ji / I? J* 1* , ^51 .im) 6 jiw jill' r It* /•il i Farmer recognized for outstanding wheat yield "glift' -1 Sill 3500 1 idaii fe sbli 'A• I » LP'H'. ssl'i |k »** 4^- •’ii 'd'i >- »A i • ED’S BODY SHOP 'I <1 t Sail!, 'r- n 1 r > 1 w «> I .1 t. ■Hid . J 'A T ‘S 1 -> ? ■ l' ’I 9 '' IL AW •' f - I* "■? •' « XV' CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN K * a A' . « •Ji •i J 'f —• •r A ' * ■ .. STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS 4 * ■' I 5’ » K i 1 t )• I* »y ■^ '4r * >• , I i' f I If .V ■ 1 State & I-CAR Certified Technicians f: ><■ TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System .V ■ < IIR H ■ i Frame Repair & WMBA 616.891.0150 www.edsbody^^om Lesonal Water Bourne System Ed Pawioski Jr., Owner no Johnson St., Caledonia [GOLD class! ^NFIB OPEN: M thru F 7:30 am-5:00 pm A local farmer brought home two awards at the 2023 National Wheat Yield Awyds reception this week. Wayland-based farmer Nick Suwyn (center) was pre­ sented a trophy for second place in the Winter Wheat Irrigated division by NWF Executive Director Chandler Goule (left) and Bernard Perterson (right) at the reception held Feb. 28 during the 2024 Commodity Classic ♦ • All ------- '-'“""a uic ziuziH v.zommoaiTy Classic event. Suwvn. who farms\ n A He gan and Barry County, won the award with his yield of a ^asured 171.71 bushels per acre with his DF Seeds DF-131 variety. Suwyn attributed his high yield to being able to apply extra irrigation when needed in the spring dry months in the Bany and Allegan County areas. He also applied Nitrogen fertilizer as needed determined by tissue testing of wheat plant leafs ~................ uoouc le&iirig OT wneat plant leafs durina the orowinn ® national second-place qualit^ award in the Soft Winter Wheat category for which he received an additional cash award. (Photo by George Hubka/MG News Service) * •« f' I I , w k. » V �W I Caledonia senior duo qualifies for spots in DI Bowling Finals •Uve ' Baffin “JS sue. 'S.'» L*** C* ,'s * * *’ ‘“It s i, /> 11 u 1 'NS..'** «» ■< < p»- S'ssb. bii(. iBi ;***« D *‘*1 l-I 6a I “ h ft I I, News, Saturday, March 2, 2024/ Page 13 1■ NO. 7 DeWitt bests Scots in regular season finale Brett Bremer Sports Editor The moments were there when the Fighting Scots did everything right except put the ball through the rim Tuesday night in a tough sea­ son finale. Early in the second half the Fighting Scots worked the offense, got the ball inside got good looks for junior center Lakely Bottum in the lane for decent looks that just didn’t drop. Sophomore guard Baylee Devries attacked the basket for a good look at the hoop. Teammates Mackenzie Myers and DeVries both hit a couple back-to-back late threes in the third quarter. The Scots would have really had to be on fire to knock off seventh-ranked DeWitt though. The visiting Panthers improved to 20-2 overall with a 60-35 win over the Caledonia varsity girls basketball team at Caledonia High School. There were also times where the Scots turned the ball over a little too often too though. The Panthers more than their fair share of break­ away lay-ups in the contest. The Scots had an early 6-5 lead, but DeWitt closed the first quarter on a 10-2 run and never looked back. CHS junior guard Kathryn Langenburg banked in a Brett Bremer and 175 among her six. Sports Editor Scot sophomore Addison Caledonia seniors Kala Luxford was 22nd, junior Bisterfeldt and Emma Kaelin Kalacanic 28th, Whitman are at the MHSAA freshman Riley Kalacanic Division 1 Individual 41st and junior Josie Bums Bowling Finals today, 56th overall for the day. March 2, after rolling their Sophomore Brady way through to spots in the Humbarger led the top seven at the regional Caledonia boys during the tournament last week in day’s competition placing Kalamazoo. 22nd. He had high games of Bisterfeldt placed fifth 207, 191 and 181. Senior and Whitman seventh in the Wade Cawson rolled a high MHSAA Division 1 game of 201 at the end of Individual Bowling the day and finished 26th. Regional Friday, Feb. 23, at The CHS boys’ team also Revel N Roll West. The top had senior Noah Crueger seven from the regional 42nd, senior Jack Thornton qualified for today’s state 47th and senior Cam Elmore finals which are being held 49th. Crueger had a high at Thunderbowl Lanes in game of 219 and Thornton Allen Park. had a high of 205 to. close Whitman was two pins their varsity bowling behind Grandville freshman careers. Elmore had a top Daniela Atkins heading into tally of 175 in his opening the last of their six games in game of the tournament. the competition. Whitman Portage Central’s Matt rolled a 169 in that last Sprau was the individual game to wind up 34 pins regional champion in the ahead of Atkins, who placed boys’ meet with a total pineighth in the end. fall of 1,279. He had high Zeeland East senior Rylee games of 256, 238 and 224. Smith won the individual Zeeland East junior Noah regional title on the girls’ Vandervelde was the runside with an overall pinfall ner-up with an overall score of 1,258 capped off by a of 1,224. perfect 300-game in her last The team regional comcontest of the day. That 300 petitions were held gave her a safe cushion over Thursday. The CHS girls Grandville junior Paiton were fifth and the boys ninth Thompson who was second overal 1. overall with 1,130. Zeeland East took the Thompson is the only one boys’ regional title with an of the seven state qualifiers overall score of 2,764 and from the girls’ regional in Hudsonville also qualified Kalamazoo who is not a for the team state finals with senior. The other state qual­ a score of 2,660. Grandville ifiers included Zeeland was third in the 11-team East’s Brianna Fortney, East meet with a score of 2644. Kentwood’s Kamaria Grandville won the girls’ Stewart and Portage meet with a score of 3,378 Central’s Miranda and Hudsonville finished as Gunthorpe. the runner-up with a score Bisterfeldt ended her day of 3,298. Zeeland East with her top score of the placed third in the 12-team tournament too, a 197. She girls’ meet .with an overall had other high games of 171 score of 3,185. The team and 178 and was steady regionals consisted of eight throughout the day. Whitman Baker games and two regu had high games of 189, 188 lar games for each team. 1 three a minute and a half into the second quarter and a coupie free throws from fellow junior Brecken Bloemers kept the Scots in striking r =94 » * I A -Z» • w* I di distance for a bit. A bucket by freshman guard Kayla Briseno had Caledonia with­ in 23-15 midway through the quarter. DeWitt closed strong again though. This time it was a 14-3 ruixto close the > quarter. DeWitt led 37-17 at the half. The Panthers’ lead never dipped below 20 points the rest of the way. Langenburg finished with a team-high seven points on the night. Mackenzie Myers had six points and Bloemers finished with five. DeWitt had three girls in double figures, led by 15 ^*4 points from junior guard Tara <-<r' Kumcz. Sophomore forward Carly Dennis had 14 points and junior guard Madi Uyl finished with 12 points for the Panthers. Caledonia guard Lily Gortmaker attacks the basket The Scots end the regular during her team’s non-conference bailgame against season with a 5-17 overall visiting DeWitt Tuesday night. (Photo by Brett Bremer) record. They were 2-12 this season in the OK Red Tournament Monday at 6 East Grand Rapids in the Conference.West Ottawa p.m. The winner of that ball­ district semifinals bested the Caledonia girls game heads to Lowell to face Wednesday. 65-27 in the conference fina­ le last Friday, Feb. 23, in Holland. Caledonia is scheduled to 4^ 4 host Ottawa Hills in the opening round of its MHSAA Division 1 District 5 -rr*- • >=5 rw A < TV %' A • A 4 4 4 I t J ’ —**4^ .4^ a. J L^gKr^nC • ;» ♦ . J. 'w SY: t i- < I iO^ ♦1 i • ? > it • 1 L * 4 > i 1 4, i .r I -« •3 ' r .■'a. ... lu r t r >=. * ---------- 'i: w 'f4 2 i r I F ■ *0 4 r S. 1 A • J ■ d J 3 .■r Al 4 < I I ,-v tV J V I . tet ■i. 1 J- ? » * 4 i-- - .4 G p -J I J I 3 ' tiwr-: s - *•>“ < 4 l( 1. . 1^ / 4 A t r S'* - J"’" ’f P: A •4 7 ;.l I * .•XJ J * .V' I f- k' . i.fQ 4 .-V i .w * *' »>* '«KB 1 V* • r*'** 9^ ■M Av .1.** L *> * Caledonia junior guard Kathryn Langenburg works to flip a shot around DeWitt’s Emmalee Wolfe-Plain in the paint during their non-conference ballgame at Caledonia High School Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) / < -•7 •i Fighting Scot senior Mckenzie DeVries celebrates a teammates late three-pointer during their loss to visiting DeWitt Tuesday night at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 4 k r 1#3SP'^ v Ml .k i MT !• t M. * '' / 4 k. s •4« w; Rdl 1/ r O w '! M * 5.”... ...... M c *. 4.. O’ •t IH II . •ft ''y Caledonia seniors Kala Bisterfeldt (right) and Emma Whitman celebrate qualifying for the singles competition at the MHSAA Division 1 Bowling Finals with their top seven finishes at their regional tournament in Kalamazoo Feb. 23. i:\if -t £2^ t 1 ?■ public (Neico”'. Friday, March 8 1 * « « * ’ir r f » » * 7 V J F' » * 9 ■-’it USED PARTS p USED TIRES j - ▼ E * “i No Sunday Breakfast 6056 LINFIELD, ALTO, MICHIGAN • 868-6490 -H' 1811 LAKE ST., KALAMAZOO t • * V *' 269-381-2300 PORK STEAK DINNER Potato, veggie and roll « <1 4 FUU SERVICE a YOU PIIIL IT 5:00-7:30 p.m •r < l^<«. isasu'®'* •'4. * • - 4 ' USED MRTS * nCK BPS«ONE TONS * VANS«SOTS * JEEPS * 4K4S * w «w 11)31®^ f 1 X.*'- 1 ALTO AMERICAN LEGION POST 528 7 * ‘ '-J* 5-W * LIGHT TRUCK PARTS > u • * ..... r.y I iSKV i. ■ z* r • S z 1 '■ 4« 1 <7 z f ■w A UKr J 1 4 I;" • T �Page 14/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2,2024 _ —■ »I ■ ■ Scots knock off Pioneers to earn shot at district tropny Brett Bremer Ky VanderWoude had six points, ten boards and three assists and freshman Bryce Backus added six points, ten rebounds, three assists and three blocked shots. Caledonia upped its over­ A * all record to 12-11 with the win, putting back-to-back wins together to close out i the reguiar season and start the postseason. The Scots defeated West Ottawa 68-45 in the regular season finale in Holland last Friday, Feb. 23. That win moved the Scots to 5-9 in the OK Red Conference this season. Abiel had 18 points, seven rebounds and five ♦*? steals. Vanderwoude fin­ ished with 13 points. Googins chipped in nine Fighting Scots senior guard Lual Abiel flies above the and freshman Ben Geerdes had 11 points. Backus rim to throw down a transition dunk during the district added ten rebounds, seven semifinal contest with East Grand Rapids at Caledonia High School Wednesday. (Photo by Peny Hardin) points and four assists. -r.i Sports Editor The Fighting Scots earned their rematch. The Caledonia varsity team basketball boys’ knocked off East Grand in the Rapids 49-43 MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinals at Caledonia High School Wednesday to earn another shot at Forest Hills Central. The Rangers took a three-point win over the in back way Scots December. The Rangers earned their spot in last night’s district final with a 68-59 win over Ottawa Hills in their semifinal match Wednesday. Senior forward Jaiden Googins led the Scots with 17 points and 11 rebounds in the win over the Pioneers. Senior guard Lual Abiel added ten points. two rebounds and three assists. { ■ r.. 4 t I w A 9 1 • » Jr r Jb. J % I *0 tJ -i < p I ■. 4. A *1* Ai: * a. ■ ei scan a ?' i I I J % • I r % lY tl? :1 >• « J. J *0 J 4>' * ** * f « V ■v*-. <* * € I 4 >»-O ■S 4 X. ri .V J* ’V 1 0 a...*:, a. .A*’ « f Ml 1 *.5 Caledonia junior Aryn Taylor (21) launches a threepoint shot over East Grand Rapids senior Peter Heintz during the first half of their MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinal at Caledonia High school Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) A jidl' ' ■: iS! 'i • ifli Ikojans take one-point OT win in reguiar season finaie Brett Bremer the momentum from two exciting wins to close the regular season into the state tour- Sports Editor The Trojans tried to carry nament, but couldn’t make it happen. OK Gold Conference foe 213088 Taakee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: TO: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on March 21, 2024, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hail, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville Mi, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commission's consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (ioeshea@vankeesprinestwp.orel. Letters and emails are due one week before the hearing date; or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. SEU 24-02-01: Parcel ID 16-155-057-00,1864 Parker Drive, Wayland, Ml 49348. A request by Doug and Julie Ybema, the property owners, for a Special Exception Use Permit to allow location of a storage shed near the shoreline of their property, which is zoned GLRLF, Gun lake Residential Lakefront, pursuant to the Yankee Springs Township Zoning Ordinance, Article IVSpecial Exception Uses. 2. ZOC 24-02-02: Parcel ID 16-018-001-10,559 Payne Lake Road, Wayland, Ml 49348. A request by the Gun Lake Sewer and Water Authority, the property owner, to re-zone this vacant parcel from RA (Rural Agricultural) to RR (Rural Residential) pursuant to Yankee Springs Township Zoning Ordinance, Article XIX Amendments to Zoning Ordinance and Official Zoning Map. 3. SEU 24-02-03: Parcel ID 16-080-025-00, 3889 England Drive, Shelbyville, Ml 49344. A request by James and Cathleen Campbell, the property owners, for a Special Exception Use Permit for construction of an outbuilding on vacant lot #45 on the England Point Plat which is zoned RSF, Residential Single Family, pursuant to the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance, Article IV Special Exception Uses, 4. Such other business as may properly come before the Planning Commission. Anyone interested in reviewing the application materia! may do so at the township hall. AH interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days' prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION By: Shana Bush, Chairperson Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 er, a 47-46 overtime victory over Cedar Springs in Middleville last Friday, Feb. 23. The Trojans held a onepoint lead for most of the final two and a half minutes of regidation at 37-36. Jude Webster hit a pair of free throws with 21.1 seconds to go to push the TK lead to 39-36, but the Red Hawks banked in a long buzzer-beating three-pointer to force overtime tied 39-39. In overtime it was the Trojans’ turn for the late heroics. The Red Hawks hit a free throw to go up 43-42 with 1:06 to play and eventually three more to lead 46-42 with half a minute to go. Webster was fouled with 27.9 seconds to play and hit a pair of free throws for TK to close the gap to 46-44. The Red Hawks threw the inbounds pass away, giving TK the ball right back, and the Trojans took advantage. TK got the ball into Lucas Ploeg for a quick tying bucket with 23 seconds to go in overtime. The game was decided at the free throw line after that. The Red Hawks missed a pair and then Webster stepped up with 14.6 to go and hit the first of two to give TK its 47-46 lead. A Cedar Springs jumper came up short and the Trojans fired the ball long away from trouble. Senior Kyle VanHaitsma collected the ball in front of the TK bench, and thought about just running out the clock and then changed plans to run in for a dunk that was ruled to be just after the clock had expired - but the court-storming TK fans didn’t seem to mind. Webster finished with a team-high 16 points. Brice Lloyd had 11 for TK and VanHaitsma finished with seven. Senior guard Tyler Gavette had five points including a big overtime three-pointer. test Wednesday. Despite the early exit from the postseason this was still one of the most successful seasons for the Trojans in recent years. The Trojans won their final two OK Gold Conference ballgames to close the conference season at 6-8 tied for fourth in the final conference standings with Forest Hills Eastern and Kenowa Hills. The Trojans were 10-13 overall. Win number ten was a thrill­ Ottawa Hills scored a 57-49 win over the visiting Trojans in Grand Rapids Monday to open their MHSAA Division 1 District Tournament. The Bengals fell 68-59 to Forest Hills Central in their district semifinal at Caledonia High School Wednesday, and the Rangers were set to take on district host Caledonia in the district final last night. The Fighting Scots knocked off East Grand Rapids 49-43 in their district semifinal con- A I T’r * 212420 'J 9K PS* ■:TW I 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 2024 MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW MEETING SCHEDULE Yankee Springs Township Barry County The Yankee Springs Township Board of Review for March 2024 will meet at the Yankee Springs Township Office at 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333. The Yankee Springs Township March Board of Review will meet on the following dates: Appeals are by appointment. Please call 269-795-9091 to schedule an appointment. • Tuesday, March 5. 2024, at 1:30 PM- Organizational Meeting • Wednesday, March 13, 2024, 1-4 PM and 6-9 PM - Appeal Hearing • Thursday, March 14, 2024, 9 AM - Noon and 1:30-4;30 PM Appeal Hearing The Board of Review will meet as many more days as deemed necessary to hear questions, protests, and to equalize the 2024 assessments. By board resolution, taxpayers are able to protest in person, by letter sent to Dan Scheuerman at Yankee Springs Township, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, Ml 49333, or email danscheuerman@vankeespringstwp.org., provided protest is received prior to 4 PM on March 14, 2024. The tentative ratios and the estimated multipliers for each class of real property and personal property for 2024 are as follows * Agricultural ....49.88% 1.00241 ‘Commercial ....48.67% 1.02733 ‘Industrial.;.. ....46.11% .1.08436 ‘Residential. ...44.02%, 1.13585 ‘Personal Property...50.00% 1 -00000 Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Notice Persons with disabilities that need special assistance, please contact Mike Cunningham, Clerk, at 269-795-9091. Rob Heethuis, Supervisor Dan Scheuerman, Assessor t 1 I I ! I 1 v •• <ise V ?lib I igfflOW s w I tt ; • iW 4* Sift r.. '-saikf liita I I r 3)25 Dm ft •« '-'ai I * 1 I J * A •• Iu - • Sig I I * , s Its % �I■M A ion 1% ■ The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2, 2024/ Page 15 wojan Howling season ends at D2 regional meet 1 b e i.5. f I 4 ’ j-X *1 •• f a 1 JS? •K r* . • fl rTb A !ir A * •* t * 1 ! b '»S V IL 7 f V < I f I F iU » A '. 7 I * 1 V. s * 5 xM .* ns c I *75 V. ♦ k< >< I --_C . ( > i .1 $ b wA I 4 4, ^1. ?«iS> onia He,) 1^ '^•Rs 'll ■bjsjj iStfcljttaK lay andaartj I® 10 JO. failed siSi etasHt ^bO1k :lb'llieiiiU and the fa tage. K wa )ii(ivaiffi. usbUtili: jssedjpiiiii (iibfclrf aiitStj® jgansj’fe® nior J)* IjdiiiilieM KbaiA®! stiiBiiiif'*'* ii5i ate hJ , (l7JoilB f Ei d„ JnnGrabemeyer gets a high-five after a shot ® tbe MHSAA Division 2 Team Regional at Spectrum Lanes in Wyoming Thursday, Feb. 22. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I ♦* .-^r S’* i-<■5 '’r!^’ • ^1 Brett Bremer The Saxon girls broke Blouw had a high single Sports Editor out with a 708 in that sec­ game of 210 early on in the The Thomapple Kellogg ond regular game to secure competition. Her senior varsity boys’ and girls’ their mnner-up spot. Otsego teammate Jennifer Mohr bowling teams saw their rolled a 616 and Wayland a also had a high-game of season come to an end last 616 to finish third and 210. Those were the only Thursday and Friday, Feb. fourth respectively. The four games of 200 or better 22-23, at Spectrum Lanes. Hastings girls had an over- in the whole competition. The Hastings girls, who all score of 2,507 ahead of Blouw had an overall share home lanes with the Otsego 2,437 and Wayland score of 1,045 ahead of Trojans at Hastings Bowl, 2,424. Herder 1,031, Mohr. 998 picked a great time to fire The boys’ regional title and Unity Christian senior the second best game of the went to the Forest Hills Nat Mercer who rolled a afternoon Thursday during Eastern guys who had a 949. The top seven state the team regional competi­ total pin-fall of 3,278 for qualifiers also included tion. the day. Unity Christian Lowell junior Cadence The Saxon varsity girls’ was second at 3,084 with Dewit, Forest Hills Eastern bowling team scored a 708 Wayland third at 2,944. The junior Emilee Nowicki and score in the last of two reg­ Hastings boys were seventh Wayland junior Haven ular team games at the on the day and the Baker. MHSAA Division 2 Team Thornapple Kellogg boys The The Saxons Saxons’’ Simmet Simmet was was Regional at Spectrum Lanes tenth in a field of 13 teams. the top girl on the outside in Wyoming Thursday to Back at Spectrum Friday, looking in. She placed jumpWayland and Otsego the Saxons’ Herder scored eighth with an overall score in the standings a qualify another finish, of 911, a mark 27 pins shy another runner-up runner-up finish. for a spot in this weekend’s Only Unity Christian soph- ot ofBaker Baker’s’s final final total total inin the the MHSAA Division 2 Team omore Jaydan Blouw was seventh-place seventh-place spot. spot. Bowling Finals at Centuiy better than Herder in the The The top top finish finish for for the the Bowl in Waterford. individual contest - besting Thomapple Kellogg girls Hastings also had senior Herder by just 14 pins over came came from sophomore Ally Herder from the girls’ the course of six regular Jenna Jenna Robinett Robinett who who was team and Hunter Pennington games. Herder made things 33rd. Robinett rolled her and Miles Lipsey from the interesting by closing out best game of the day in her boys’ team qualify for the her day with scores of 200 first game - a 164. state finals with their top and 202 in the fifth and TK senior Ashleigh seven finishes in the sixth games. Norman placed 44th with a MHSAA Division 2 Individual Bowling Regional back at Spectrum Lanes last Friday. In the team competition Notice to all township taxpayers; The 2024 Board of Review Thursday, the top two teams ior the Townshap of Thomapple will meet at the Township through eight Baker and Hall, 200 E. Main St., Middleville, Michigan on these dates: two regular games qualified for the state finals. The March 5, 2024 - Organizational Day 9am Unity Christian girls won Monday, March 11, 2024 the regional title with an 9 a m to 12 Noon, 1 to 4.00 p.m. overall score of 2,668 pins. Those Crusaders basically Thursday, March 14, 2024 8am to 12 Noon; 6 to 8pm sealed their championship with a score of 777 in the CALL 269-795-7202 To make appointment with the Board of Review first regular game which (Written appeals accepted until March 14, 2024) was 69 pins better than any other girls’ team managed The tentative recommended equalization ratios and estimated in a regular game at the multipliers (factors) necessary to compute individual state equalized values of real property in the Township of Thornapple, competition. Barry County: Thornapple Kellogg placed ninth in the girls’ RATIO(%) MULTIPLIER CLASS team standings. 52.80% 0.9470 AGRICULTURAL 47.27% 1.0578 COMMERCIAL The Hastings girls rolled 1.0179 49.12% INDUSTRIAL a 658 in their first regular 1.1181 44.72% RESIDENTIAL game to bump their total for 1.0000 50.00% PERSONAL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENTAL the day to that point to None in Class TIMBER-CUTOVER 1,799 pins. Wayland entered None in Class the final regular game with Eric Schaefer, Thornapple Township Supervisor a score of 1,850 and Otsego 212354n sat at 1,821 at that point. Thornapple Township 2024 BOARD OF REVIEW f * I r-., 41 J ’A • < i I. ^.1. 3’ ■A Thornapple Kellogg senior Ashleigh Norman preps for a shot during her team’s appearance in the MHSAA Division 2 Team Regional at Spectraum Lanes in Wyoming Thursday, Feb. 22. (Photo by Brett Bremer) high single game of 133 to close her day. The TK team also had sophomore Kenzie Chapin-Dyer 46th, sophomore Casey Phillips 50th and sophomores Sidney Ripley and Aubrie Hooten in 69th and 70th overall, In the boys’ individual competition, the Saxon juniors Pennington and Lipsey placed third and fourth respectively, fourth Pennington had high games of 220, 213 and 209 among his six. Lipsey had top tallies of 210, 194 and 191. Lipsey is now a two-time state qualifier, Grand Rapids Christian Thomapple Kellogg was senior Zeke Heerema was led by sophomore Landen the individual regional England who placed 49th champion with an overall overall. He had a high single score of 1,360 ahead of game of 152 on the day. Forest Hills Central senior Senior Matthew lore was Weston Baldwin who had a 57th overall for TK. He had a tally of 1,180.. Pennington high single game of 166, the was just behind the regional best by a TK guy on the day. runner-up with a score of Freshman Colten Wiest was 1,176 and Lipsey had a right behind his teammate score of 1,119. lore in 58th place with a top The other three state single game among his six of qualifiers from the region 157. were Forest Hills Eastern The TK boys also had freshman Evan Nowicki, freshman Travis Grabemeyer Lowell senior Caden 63rd, sophomore Myles Dennie and Wayland junior Chambers 70th and freshman Kyle Vaness. Chase Butler 73rd. IRVING TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW The 2024 Board of Review for Irving Township will meet as follows: • Tuesday, March 5th at 11:00am - Organizational Meeting Monday, March 11th from 3:00pm-9:00pm Tuesday, March 12th from 9:00am-3:00pm Written appeals will be accepted by March 12, 2024. The tentative equalization ratios for computation of SEV of real property are as follows: Classification Of Real Property Irving 2024 Ratios and Multipliers Ratio _______ Real Property_________ Multiplier Agricultural Residential Commercial Industrial Timber-Cutover Developmental 54.25% 43.36% 47.37% 33.85% None in Class None in Class 0.92166 1.15314 1.05552 1.47710 PERSONAL PROPERTY Commercial Industrial Utility 50.00% 50.00% 50.00% 1.000 1.000 1.000 This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1076 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA 41.72A (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Irving Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities upon seven (7) day notice to the Irving Township Board, such as signer for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials to be presented at the meeting. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the clerk, at (269) 948-0633. Jamie R. Knight Supervisor, Irving Township 212410 I t I » I 1 �Page 16/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 2,2024 _ ___ Scots’ Potgeter takes on tough finals ski course Brett Bremer A lenging slalom course that I I have seen in my years of Sports Editor I Caledonia’s DJ Potgeter coaching and DJ really skied it placed 49th in a group of 80 hard. Ski racing is one of the skiers in the giant slalom at the most unforgiving sports, one * w. W •» MHSAA Division 2 Ski Finals centimeter oft* on a line and - ‘S you can lose a ski to hit the at Nub’s Nob Monday. _ That was his top finish of the wrong area of the line on a day despite earning his state course with no way to redo or finals’ spot for his tenth-place recover. I was impressed by how DJ handled the loss of his slalom finish at regionals. We are extremely proud of ski and his immediate focus on DJ,” Caledonia head coach what to do so he can return to Duane Petrosky said. “He has the finals, with his team next really worked hard and year. He is the kind of athlete focused on improving his skill that coaches want on their set all season. DJ is the first team to lead the way for their Caledonia skier to compete in team’s improvement.” Potgeter had a time of 36.82 the state finals since 2020, and he really skied hard on some his first run down the hill in Caledonia’s DJ Potgeter is joined by coaches Matt Hilton and Duane Petrosky at the top of the slalom of Michigan’s most challeng- the slalom. He wasn’t the only guy not to get two times in the course at Nub’s Nob Monday, Feb. 26, during the MHSAA Division 2 Ski Finals. ing courses. coach event. Keaton Abraham from According to MHSAA Gaylord had the lead after one events. She took the slalom 91 points ahead of Mattawan/ medal winning performances Skrzypek, Tamara Sarkoevia, Petrosky, the changed the qualification pro- run at 31.53 seconds but didn’t with runs of 35.02 and 37.17. Paw Paw 107, Marian 168, on the boys’ side from Aidan and Vicky Brousse are all cess a couple years ago to finish his second run. In the GS she turned in runs of Norway 171, Rochester Adams Brown who was 11th in the incredible young women and 177, East Grand Rapids 199, GS and Brayden Smith who we are going to miss off of allow a skier that qualified in Creighton Studt of Notre 26.79 and 24.38 - the fastest them next year. This is the one discipline to compete in Dame Prep was in second with first run and the second fastest Bloomfield Hills 211 and Great was 12th in the GS. Smith added a 17th-place largest group of senior girls both at the finals, which was a time of 31.75 and was dis- second run of the competition. North Alpine 215. not the case the last time qualified his second time Cadillac’s Onalee Wallis was The team season ended for slalom performance. Brown that we have had on the Caledonia had a skier there. right behind her with a run one the Fighting Scots last Friday was 25th in the slalom. Other Caledonia ski team in years.” down. Coach Petrosky said getting Gavin Galbraith ofPetsokey time of 27.36 and a run two as they hosted their own scoring finishes for the CHS Baldwin earned a medal in spots in flights 4.5 for the sla­ ended up earning the individu­ time of 24.31 which was the Caledonia Invitational at boys came thanks to Derick both events. She was 12th in lom and 6.5 for the GS were al title in the slalom with runs fastest any girl went down the Crystal Mountain. Pritchard tying for 28th in the the GS and 15th in the slalom. tough spots. of 31.95 and 36.58 seconds. course all day. Wallis was also “Friday may have had the GS, Cohen Broomfield plac­ Thompson placed 18th in the Both are challenging He trailed only Abraham and the runner-up in the slalom. best conditions we have seen ing 33rd in the GS and Ben GS and 21st in the slalom. placements, since the snow Studt after the first run and The Petoskey boys won the all season,” Petrosky said. “It Diegel 24th in the slalom. Hilton was 30th in the GS and can change and ruts can form then turned in the fastest time state championship with an helped our Invitational run The Grand Rapids Christian 31st in the slalom for the as more and more racers run of that tough second run. overall score of 68 points, well smoothly and even a little girls and Onekama boys took Scots. Skrzypek was 28th in the course,” Petrosky said. Onekama’s Braydon Sorenson ahead of second-place Orchard ahead of schedule. Crystal championships on the day. the GS and 32nd in the slalom. Potgeter skied well putting finished as the runner-up with Lake St. Mary’s which fin­ Mountain has really supported The Caledonia boys’ and girls’ JV teams competed along­ together runs of 30.77 seconds runs of 31.12 and 36.95. ished with 102 points. Notre ski racing and help our team teams finished in fifth place. side the varsity squads. and then 26.31 seconds in the Houghton’s Eli Heathman Dame Prep was third with 134 have an incredible season. We “Mya Baldwin, Kyleigh Sarkoeziova led the Caledonia morning in the GS. won the boys’ GS champion- points ahead of Great North are very happy with the move Thompson and Adia Whisler girls with a 24th-place GS “In the afternoon, his first ship with runs of 26.58 and Alpine 140, Harbor Springs north and are excited about the have been a part of the team finish and a 27th-place slalom slalom run had him in 32nd 23.51. 23.51.He Hewas wasone oneof offive fiveguys guys 155, East Grand Rapids 185, future of our team at Crystal since middle school,” coach finish. Peter Calhoun had the place going into his second with withaatotal totaltime timeunder under51 51 secsec­ Mattawan/PawPaw 219, Mountain.” Petrosky said of his girls. top performance from two run,” Petrosky said. “The sec- onds onds for for the the two two runs. runs. Rochester Adams 228 and Potgeter earned a medal for “Elizabeth Honhart joined the Caledonia boys’ JV squads. ond run was an extremely Cadillac his 1 Ith-place slalomfinish, Cadillac’s’s Brady Brady Koenig Koenig was was Grand Rapids West Catholic/ team as a junior and our He placed in a tie for 28th in steep and tight set and he skied second with runs of 27.54 and Catholic Central 258. The Caledonia teamalso had exchange students Zosia the GS and 36th in the slalom. the top half very well, as he 23.20, ahead of Galbraight, Cadillac won the girls’ sla­ was skiing over the steep tran- Abraham and Studt in third. lom and GS with 36 points sition area his ski hit a gate and fourth and fifth respectively. each to clinch its state champipopped off ending his run. Marley Spence from onship with a total of 72 points. “This was the most chal- Petoskey won both girls’ Harbor Spring was second with Sv * t ; -i * .V •» < ^7 5 1 *! A I' 5 I •• Ui*’ I e X 44 QB SCARFAC^ «? ' J.. .* 4 n > i a J- 44 NISHIHAWK 6B1LE & Jtaufki ll^ • J* 40^^ Year Family Tradition!! 1 •V St. Patricks Day Dinner 4 Saturday, March 16, starts at 3:00pm CORNED BEEF DINNER $15.95 Dinner includes corned beef, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, & roils IRISH BEEF STEW with bread >• $12.95 Sandra Wanzer Nighthawk Grille, Bar & Catering Cell: 616.299.6222 OUR WEBSITE HAS CHANGED Nighthawkfoodcatering.com The Fighting Scots’ Tamara Sarkoeziovia runs the giant slalom during the Caledonia Invitational at Crystal Mountain Friday, Feb. 23. f I >1 J fl It 4 IP ! Find us on Facebook 6950 WHITNEYVILLE RD. ALTO • 868-6336 s 9 Caledonia’s Aidan Brown makes his way around a gate in the slalom during the Caledonia Invitational Friday, Feb. 23, at Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville. 4 I J 1 J i I 1 I I I t i t 1 f r 1 I 4 ’ � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-03-09.pdf e8e8b5057e54a0ba9ca026923b75494f PDF Text Text I 1 4 I 1♦ s •l I I t I I 6 I.C ’'f. * * I ?. * Ka t 7^- I I F ks <.<k .* I i •fc I L . 4 1 * I* < A c k^ } 4 H 1 Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville No. 10/ March 9, 2024 Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. and Caledonia Areas * 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 Dutton Elementary recognized by business group for promoting literacy 4 - V . ♦y I, I •I \ Middleville council reviews draft ORV ordinance language X > -5 • J r. — *1 By •i > I r’e . . 9 « % > 4 if* J - ? ■f X t.- I ->W I > ia>: w-*‘A ■■ A lM A. r •I X I I , * ..A li 1 1*^ t •f l*'^ u& <t* 5. <« I I ■> ! I t II -a .-CW "* r ^<1 '.ri? V*: i i <• 55 • <_ > I I ,1 Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Middleville Village Council Tuesday got its first look at ordinance lan­ guage that would allow off-road vehicles to operate on most village streets. Village Attorney Mark Nettleton crafted the draft ordinance language, which draws largely from an existing ordinance that allows the use of ORVs on most Barry County roads, The proposal would allow ORVs to be operated on the far right side of most village streets, with the flow of traffic, at speeds of no more than 25 mph. It would not require vehicles to be insured. Middleville’s current ordinance, which has been in existence since 2001, only allows ORV use on private property, unless the vehicles have proper regis­ tration or insurance. The Village Council last 1 t *4 .1 I* * >/| I R ’ rf ' *<• •*' r .* J 1 4 . < I k A V 1. 4 V 1 '*** t ■ T- w Ci ■Um * * t J ( §<31 * * ’ Otalen ^first « * « * > * 1 5 4 I 4 J vy t V I " — ■» •■ r > f *t * - J A •J 1000. f 00 j — —- 4 ? A “*--Lfecy,Le«erAw«nJ 4 p* J 1 'Iw d 9 * •T fa « I -( 1 ’•.JS • * •■■*-*** •^4 J 11 9M •.r 4' 5 • » r V ■ V f i '.^ai 5 '49 .1 ? tJ •■5-*'. CT ' •’ >>!*** Er 1“ • I ■• r: I p • A V4 Dutton Elementary is one of five West Michigan schools to receive the Literacy Leader Award from TalentFirst, an alliance of West Michigan chief executive officers. (Photos provided) Greg Chandler Staff Writer Dutton Elementary School in the Caledonia school dis­ trict is getting recognition from a West Michigan busi­ ness consortium for its com­ mitment to encouraging its students to read. Dutton is one of five West Michigan schools to receive the Literacy Leader Award from TalentFirst, an alliance of West Michigan chief executive officers. The school on 68th Street received the award and a I V- V’ A I • k lai • I . s 'A* ^9 146th year $1,000 check from the alli­ ’V ance at a ceremony, attend­ ed by Dutton third-andMew’^ «m *A fourth graders, Monday afternoon. The award is based on IHttminaie <ak the performance of Dutton’s third-grade students on the * reading portion of the '4 : Michigan Student Test of Ir Educational Progress L ----- iT iV Evatuste M k (M-STEP), in which the school far outperformed the statewide average during Dutton Elementary Principal Shawn Veitch speaks the 2022-23 school year, as during a ceremony on Monday afternoon, where the * *^^*^*^**®«'A 2l t ft *»' s>’ > November voted 4-2 to direct its legal counsel to draw up ordinance lan­ guage that would legalize ORV use on local streets, as long as the operator is at least 16 years of age and holds a driver’s license. More than 50 business owners signed a petition in February 2023 calling for the village to legalize the use of ORVs on village streets. Supporters of the change say the current ordinance is unenforce­ able. Among the issues debated at Tuesday’s committee of the whole meeting is whether parking should be addressed in the new ordi­ nance language. Council Trustee Makenzi Peters said that businesses should have the right to allow ORVs in their lots, wheth­ er they’re insured or not. “If they choose to bring •> • I I I I I I f l'" I I I i I I See ORV, page 2 I < i i Sfc- J.* I -7\ > • r t 5? 'W* ll» I i ^9 J k s .1 tj « 4 L S’ >1 \ I j; f J f lO f I V feSS’ ’{ .-tr» *- « ■^ < V. if. t' i.'tt"' -1 *7 ifiy=!W^. I > t \v K Li 1 4 W" f :i iff r- I • **-*^. I «• 4 •. • r Wi! bjTj'^^ .V I 4- f *• MM * '-^''sr;xy .p* I J » < 1 school was honored for its commitment to encouragSee DUTTON SCHOOL, page 2 ing students to read. *i I <1 9F/ I I ♦ iitiTr <* Veteran commissioner won’t seek re-election to Kent County board Greg Chandler Staff Writer A Kent County commis­ sioner who has represented Gaines Township for nearly a decade has decided not to I’ £ 7 'ir <• I J Emily Post Brieve seek re-election. Emily Post Brieve, who represents the 10th District on the county board, repre­ senting the entirely of Gaines Township, announced Wednesday that she would not seek another term in office. She said in a press release that it has been an honor to serve the residents of the township on the board. “ft has been a privilege to work alongside my fellow commissioners and commu­ nity members to address the important issues facing our said. Brieve county,” “However, after careful con­ sideration, I have decided not to seek re-election so that I may dedicate more time to support the extracur ricular activities and busy social lives of my teenage sons. I also look forward to focusing on the continued growth of my family’s con­ struction supply business. FastoolNow.com. I am grateful for the unwavering support of my husband and our family.” Brieve was first elected to the Kent County board in 2014. In 2022, she fended off a Republican primary chal­ lenge from former County Commissioner Bill Hirsch, 2,733 votes to 2,194 votes. w She then defeated Democrat Julie Humphreys in the gen­ eral election, 5,259 to 2,920. Brieve currently serves as chairwoman of the county board’s Finance & Physical Resources Committee and chairwoman of the Board of Public Works. She’s also a member of the West Michigan Sports Commission and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Board. Brieve also served as vice chairwoman of the coimty board and chairwoman of the Legislative & Human Resources Committee. Brieve’s term will end on Dec. 31,2024. I I V. ur- < awni »} a. V. Doug Powers, planning and zoning adminis trator for the Village of Middleville, shows a map of which streets in the village would allow for ORV traffic if the proposed changes go through. M f I I I I I I t » ■ <. 4« •. I RI 1 ■• ••**2 r I ISBQIE Planners in Caledonia Twp. propose changes to sign ordinance I . I I I k i 1 I i I r• •4 • Site plan for new Caledonia allergist i office approved • Scots’ Hayden pins her way to second state championship ' «I k r K I ' I 1 • Last one, best one for TK cheer team at Division 2 State Finals • FHC beats Caledonia at buzzer in boys’ DI District Championship « ■I II I ! I k I, / V i!t < z .1 I V I I I » • V I r �Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 9,2024 DUTTON SCHOOL, continued from page 1 well as the practices the school has taken to improve literacy among its students. The alliance compared Dutton to other schools with similar economic backgrounds. “They’ve analyzed the data, they talked about the systems and the structures that we have here at Dutton Elementary, to help incorpo­ rate our early literacy skills, to help make sure that you kiddos have the best skills possible to be great read­ ers,” Dutton Principal Shawn Veitch said at the ceremony. While 40.9 percent of third-graders Michigan scored at a “proficient” or “advanced” level for reading on the 2022-23 M-STEP, 66.7 percent of Dutton third-graders achieved a level of “proficient” or “advanced” on the assess­ ment. That’s an increase from the 2021-22 M-STEP, when 64.6 percent of Dutton third-graders scored at a proficient” or “advanced” level, according to mischooldata.org, which provides information on academic performance of students across the state. I We’ve supported educators over the years, advocating for increased funding for stu­ dents, for implementing best practices, evidence-based strategies, things that work,” Among Dutton third-grad­ ers from economically chal­ lenged backgrounds, 43.9 percent achieved a level of “proficient” or “advanced” on the 2022-23 M-STEP, an I K r • I if a , {‘X }- w «< € Jr ..r*" ' 11 / a A f Fy We’re celebrating Dutton Elementary and all of ’J/ your hard work, the work that has been poured I 5 it r into all of you as readers, so that other schools ' I and other students follow in your footsteps and ] 1 become outstanding readers like you.” 1 .* — Kevin Stotts, President, TalentFirst I IK Ml ' 5 Z w Stotts added. The awards program is sponsored by TalentFirst members Autocam Medical, AMDG Architects, 42 North Metal Flow Partners, Lorin Corporation, Industries, MKO Holdings, Key Bank and Meijer. Metal Flow Chairwoman Leslie Brown said schools around West Michigan can learn from Dutton’s example. “When we prepare children to read proficiently by third grade, we are setting the stage for their academic and lifelong success,” Brown said. “That’s how we ensure a strong and vibrant future for West Michigan.” increase from 31.5 percent on the 2021-22 M-STEP, according to data from TalentFirst. celebrating “We’re Dutton Elementary and all of your hard work, the work that has been poured into all of you as readers, so that other schools and other students follow in your foot steps and become outstand­ ing readers like you,” TalentFirst President Kevin Stotts said. “We care deeply about lit­ eracy, because of what it means for the long-term suecess of students. A quality West Michigan starts with kids learning how to read. * a -• Dutton Elementary received a $1,000 check to go with its Literacy Leader Award. State Rep. Angela Rigas, R-Alto, presented an award to the school from the state recognizing Dutton’s accomplishments. “When we see people doing things well, we always want to reward success, and we also want to reward hard work,” Rigas said. Other recipients of TalentFirst’s Literacy Leader Awards include Washington Street Elementary School in Otsego; Riverview Elementary School in Big Rapids; Meadow Ridge in School Elementary Lincoln and Rockford Heights Elementary School in Greenville. The Dutton award is the latest in a series of awards the school has received over the years. The school was named a Reward School by the Michigan Department of Education in the 2018-19 school year and was named a National Blue Ribbon the U.S. School by Department of Education in September 2021 for being Exemplary an High Performing School. Construction is underway on a new Dutton Elementary building at the southeast cor ner of 76th Street and Patterson Avenue. The 60,000-square-foot building, which is being made possible by voter approval of a $61 million bond issue by Caledonia voters in May of last year, is expected to open in time for the 2025-26 school year. It’ t 1 1^’ I Ie * o« li gLt&® I 10S* 4 i5et« Township board approves temporary trail closure during M-37 construction Greg Chandler to look at different ways to ed, the township had to take Staff Writer maintain all types of traffic action on the trail issue to With plans to widen M-37 ... In this particular case, allow MDOT to continue to through the Caledonia com- it’s cost-prohibitive to find a work on the project design. munity continuing to be temporary trail during the “If we don’t approve this, developed, the non-motor- construction period,” said then the project is on hold ized trail that runs along the Township Trustee Tim until it is approved,” Nugent highway to the east will Bradshaw, who presided said. have to be temporarily shut over Wednesday’s board The trail will be closed down while construction meeting in the absence of only during the construction takes place. Supervisor Bryan Harrison. period,, not before or after, The Caledonia Township “They’ve looked at poten- Nugent said. board Wednesday voted 5-0 tial alternatives, and we “I believe they have to approved a request from the agree that there’s really no reconstruct it on the site Michigan Department of way to maintain the trail because of the expansion. Transportation to close during the construction Once it’s done, it will be down the trail while the phase of the project.” open to the public again,” project is in progress. Township Manager she said. “As part of the project. Alison Nugent said because The $40 million project to MDOT is federally required the project is federally fund- widen M-37 from its present two-lane configmation to a four-lane boulevard from AIS just north of 76th Street to 1 just south of 92nd Street was to have started next year, but is now more likely to take place in 2026. “I continue to press them as the design comes a little further along,” Bradshaw said. “I’m personally uncom­ fortable that they can do the whole project in one year. I think that they may need to do some work in the fall of 2025, but they haven’t really been far enough along in the design process to know that for sure yet. As they continue to figure out those details, we’re going to want to tighten that understanding of what the true (construction) schedule is and ensure that it does all get done. because there is a hard deadline to the funding.” The M-37 project is slated to include median crossovers for left turns at 76th, 84th and 92nd streets, While MDOT officials say the project will significantly reduce traffic congestion Bruce'S frame and Full Service Body Shop • • • • their ORVs or ATVs down to visit their loved ones (at Carveth Village), I’m not prohibiting them,” said Peters, who is administrator of the assisted living facili­ ty. “I don’t think any pri­ vate business owner should Over 40 years experience A' brucesframe.com not have that choice.” But Village President Mike Cramer, who has opposed any change to the current ordinance, said in Its current form, ORVs aren’t allowed in parking lots, whether they’re public i * t Standing Timber Buyer, Tree Trimming and Removal, l" L J k J fHKi 4 TROPHY RiOBE TREE SERVICES LLC Land/Lot Clearing Storm Clean Up rt Dalton Bekins Owner I III eviiie 61^799-0534 I B■ lb ' I A I T f It jjiii 1 X « e •a.- * '*^2 1 1S» > I n 4 Ji''. 5.- si jilted... a * I e. i ' -1 » .• * .M .r-j 1 * t 1 1 si A non-motorized trail that runs along M-37 Highway will be shut down during an upcoming trans­ formational construction project on the road between 76th and 92nd streets. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) and crashes on M-37, some critics in the community say the project will only push the problem of congestion and traffic backups further Street. south to 100th « s y The project is part of a $4.8 billion infrastructure bill known as the Building Michigan Together Plan that was signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in March 2022. ORV, continued from page 1 Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted 415 2n t X I, I I* .L-r.. ■ Fully Licenced & Insured er privately-owned. “They’re not licensed and insured. If you’re in the parking lot ------ o —, you’re in traffic,” Cramer said. The Village Council in June 2021 passed an ordi- nance change that requires any ORV operators who wish to drive on village streets to have proof of no-fault insurance, property installation of safety equip­ ment, a valid Michigan reg­ istration and a license plate. Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers proposed that any changes dealing with parking be addressed separately from the ordinance language, but rather addressed in the vil lage’s parking regulations. It was recommended that Crane Road, from M-37 to Grand Rapids Street, be struck from the proposed map where ORVs could operate because it has bike lanes on the road surface. Also proposed is requiring child restraints in ORVs, as well as specifications for what qualifies as an approved roof for ORVs. The council voted 6-0 to seek attorney input on changes to the draft ordi­ nance language. The new ordinance would have to go through a public hearing before it is adopted. esbl I T 4 �Planners propose changes to Caledonia Twp. sign ordinance 1 s I r L 5 Greg Chandler kJ I i t < Av, rwVJ ,v, J I !o 4 ' ikX’' b.' a* r J* Fll •A Va’ s I ) 1 1 ordinance limited the square footage of wall signs, no matter how many tenants were in a building,” Wells said. “So we would have a commercial building with multiple tenants or an industrial building like we’re seeing on Patterson (Avenue) and 68th (Street) with multiple tenants, and they were limited So we put in place some rules related to the ability to have 30 ouuuy lu nave JU squarefoot (signs) for each tenant in Staff Writer The Caledonia Township Planning Commission is rec­ ommending the township board approve changes to the township’s sign ordinance. However, one board member is raising questions about one particular change that’s been recommended by commissioners. Commissioners Monday voted 6-0 to send to the board proposed amendments a bmldmg, so that’s going to to the sign ordinance. Two be helpful for those businessnights later, the township es.” board had a first reading on But at Wednesday’s board the changes. meeting, Township Treasurer We frequently get asked Richard Robertson raised a by developers and property concern about a proposed owners about sign provi­ limit on signage in windows. sions, and through the years The measure would limit sig­ we’ve noticed different nage in windows so that a Ie inconsistencies and opportu­ certain percentage of the win­ nities where we had to make dow would be unobscured, some calls in terms of inter­ which some see as a security pretation,” Township Planner issue. But the proposed perLynee Wells said. “We want­ centage was never discussed ed to make sure we clarified at Monday’s Planning those areas of the ordinance Commission meeting. where we’ve seen some dis­ They never talked about crepancies.” (filling in) the blank. It never One of the major changes came up,” Robertson said. proposed in the ordinance But when the board deals with signage on build­ received its packet for ings with multiple tenants. Wednesday’s meeting, the “Historically, our sign blank was filled in to indicate Planning commissioners approve ENT, allergy clinic office that 90 percent of the window had to remain unobscured by signage, Robertson said. Where did ±e 90 percent come from between Monday night and Wednesday morn­ ing?” Robertson asked. Township Trustee Tim Bradshaw, who is the board’s liaison to the planning com­ mission, didn’t have a good answer to Robertson’s ques­ tion. “I can’t answer how that changed,” said Bradshaw who was presiding over Wednesday’s meeting since Supervisor Biyan Harrison was absent. Robertson questioned what he saw as a “lack of process” in how that percent­ age was determined. He made a motion to have the window signage section be deleted from the rest of the ordinance so it could be reviewed, then possibly brought back later as a separate amendment that could be added back on to the ordinance. But Robertson’s motion died for lack of a sec­ ond. The township board will hold a second and final reading on the sign ordinance changes when it meets again at 7 p.m. on March 20. • AM 9 t t re 4 1 'MARKET 15 rite l 1 f*-- pharmacy I , jns k ’LTO- 4 nTBOBYBOOTCAMp J; - lANXkNG SAI nh* p/zz/1 SMOKE SHOP t:- -F* CALEDONIA I nutrition 9 f I llfflfe I i •*1 ? •• .1 JII II f t J k3 f Iks ' p t-S' t gcieito f.. ••A » L* $ tX The Caledonia Township Planning Commission has recommended chang­ es to the township’s sign ordinance. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) 4h Mb • ► J' ft 3^ f'n: ■1> •1 $ • New Collections • Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station • Linus Project Drop Off * ‘A / •f ( 1'' » A •l c I I* • fl* ’ t • '••1 I *• - .-A r' I I I 1 J i 1 M-Planning Commission approved a sft^la^r AJIergy for a 5,160-square-foot medical office in the Cherry Meadow Business Park. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) Greg Chandler Writer A West Michigan-based car, nose, throat and allergy clinic will soon open a new office in Caledonia Township. Planning commissioners Monday approved a site plan for Michigan ENT & Allergy to build a 5,160-square-foot medical office on a triangu­ lar-shaped 1.2-acre parcel at 6470 Cherry Meadow Dr. SE, east of AutoZone in the Cherry Meadow Business Park. The plan was approved on a 6-0 vote. The primary issue commissioners discussed dealt with the number of parking spaces the clinic will have. Project developers asked for more parking than what the town­ ship typically allows for buildings of similar size - 55 spaces versus the 41 that would be required by the tovmship. “In our zoning ordinance, we state that there shall be seven (parking) spaces for every 1,000 (square) feet of gross floor area,” Township Planner Lynee Wells told commissioners. Wells said the township could vary on the parking requirement by 10 percent, adding four more spaces to the lot, but more discussion was needed to have the addi­ tional spaces approved. Jeff Brinks of Venture Engineering PLLC, repre­ senting the developer, said the nature of the clinic’s business with regard to serv­ ing allergy patients necessi- Your local agent insures your CjTOpS * FARM BUREAU INSURANCE* I? Praj/ for - I I I I Am 'X IVs time to start Grad Quilts I f V . i-,.. ' • I 5.- t: (4 < 7' The Sun and News, Saturday, March 9,2024/ Page 3 ■ ■^1 tated the request for the addi­ tional parking space. “If you’ve ever had allergy shots at an allergist, you go in and get your shot and you go out,” Brinks said. “The turnover for that type of patient is a lot higher than it would be than if you were just going to see your (general practitioner) for a 20-minute-to-half-hour visit. They tend to have a higher need for parking because people are coming in at very short intervals. If someone’s coming in, they get their shot, (then) they leave, but in the time that they’re in there. somebody else is coming in and looking for a (parking) spot because they’re next.” Brinks said the request was based on Michigan ENT & Allergy’s experience with parking at some of its other clinics. clinics. Tim Tim Anema Anema of of T2 T2 Construction Construction Management Management added added that that some some patients patients might have a little longer time at a clinic after receiving their shot. “When people get allergy shots, they sometimes have to sit there for 10 or 15 min­ utes and be monitored,” 1 •w • I I I Anema said. “While there is a quick turnover going on, at the same time there’s some people waiting in a sub-wait area that are being monitored for their shots for a certain period of time, in order to make sure there’s not a reaction.” We’ve added parking in certain areas to facilitate peopie, keep them from parking on the street. We’re just trying to be proactive, so we don’t end up with that same situa­ tion here,” Anema added. Commissioner Tim Bradshaw, who made the motion to approve the site plan, requested that the planner review architectural components of the office construction as part of its approval. The clinic is expected to have 10 to 12 employees, Wells said. Michigan ENT & Allergy has six locations around West Michigan, with its main office in Holland. The clinic also has locations in Hastings, Grand Rapids, Grandville, Allegan and Grand Haven, according to its website. / I » I I I 1 I I I I ( I i I I I I 1 I I i I J I I II ■rrjn I I rI I Caledonia American Legion #305 I I I e FisK I I I II I I 4 I I I 1 Every Friday During Lent I i i I I ) II Friday, February 16th, 2024 thru Friday, March 29, 2024 5-7 p.m. or until gone I I I I I I I I I $14 Adults (3 pieces offish) & $8 Children 12 and under (2 pieces offish) Dinner Includes: 3 pieces (adults) 2 pieces (children) Battered Fresh Pollock Loins prepared, Tarter Sauce, French Fries, Coleslaw & Homemade Bread & Butter Coffee & Lemonade I • I V<. I -- r* 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 »• 9 t SI IT * .< OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; MH IMMM* f No Other Food Menu Available For those who do not want fish dinner, outside food may be brought in. 1 J QUESTIONS: ASK US... Saturday 9 am*3 pm Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville I (269) 795-8827 jparkststDinsmi.com FarinBureaulnsurance.com I1 4 u Open to the Public •AllAre Welcome 9548 Cherry Valley, Caledonia, Ml » I I t II I I ! I« I '' ri ri < I I 4 * I I I �Thomapple Wind Band performing Irish melodies March 17 Page 4/The Sun and Newt. Saturday, March 9, 2024 EPIC Homeschool A cademy market raises over $4,500 to feed people in need f, f J ♦ 4* K ■k «L St ? -J. .V s is “S' '• ** / 4 1 4 X • •V * T r - I jKH >T 1 v> flO r } if I * Shari Harris Contrihutin^ H'riler Approximately 500 peo­ ple shopped at the EPIC Homeschool Academy marketplace event to close Eebruary. According to Jennifer Spica, an admin­ istrator at the Middleville academy, this included “ students, staff members. and families friends, neighbors fwhoj were all pleased with the variety of wares.” Even though the $5,000 goal was a little out of reach, the students were able to raise a total of $4,590. All funds raised will be going to Sus Manos Gleaners, an orga­ nization that helps feed people in need around the world. Thousands of servings of dehydrated food pack­ aged by EPIC and other volunteers will be shipped • < • EPIC Homeschool Academy in Middleville held to Haiti in the coming weeks,” said Spica. its annual marketplace event, where students, staff. Even more, when West friends and family could purchase handmade items Michigan Lumber heard to go to a worthy cause. (Photos by Shari Harris) about the fundraiser, they wanted to help. The com­ pany has donated the cost of the fuel for the shipmerit, which is around T r 9 «. 1 ? »r $1,200. Along with the typical like items handmade soap, jewelry and baby towels, a few students offered hot dogs and nachos for lunch which the shoppers enjoyed. There were also many treats available for those with a sweet tooth. [ Spica said, “The greatest L 1 r ' MB 1 / ■^1 r.. I' * « < * i 0' r ! rti 9 ’ll V s J. 9 b The Thornapple Wind Band will perform “A Wee Bit of Irish: An Afternoon of Irish Melodies” on Sunday, March 17. l«. « J < * 4 V.X- < joys of the day were almost | certainly the dozens of I wooden swords purchased by many adventurers, the freeze-dried skittles, and a culminating event with a raffle for two metal knight Items available for purchase at the marketplace helmets.” ranged from wooden swords to freeze-dried Skittles. , ft r ' I ' (• .4^ ' The Thomapple Wind Band will perform “A Wee Bit of Irish: An Afternoon of Irish Melodies” on Sunday, March 17. The concert will take place at 3 p.m. at the Hastings Performing Arts Center. The wind band will per­ form a mix of Irish favorites including “Down by the Salley Gardens,” “March of the Irish Guard” and “An Irish Interlude.” Attendees are invited to dress in green in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. The Thomapple Wind Band is open to all adult musicians regardless of abil­ ity. Anyone interested in more information on joining the band is invited to speak with current members after the concert. All Thornapple Wind Band concerts are free. The band will happily accept donations to help pay for new music. I .4 <• s qLE* RaeeMOQ keep 1112, date. Motil new< edition. Is. p^Ki rated! I saswii- lsi#tP 1 4 hinaitii Caledonia United Methodist Church Oaffllii!! Wpff il Rev. Christine Beaudoin tMcoin/i Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9;00 am. 250 Vine Street Qbnilie 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org .to 11)11 Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMelhodist Serving - Strengthening cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am FIRST Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Sunday Service 10:30 AM BAPTIST Middleville 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) A .4 Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. 1675 84th St. SE r -v Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend gOURNEY * 'S Ill Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg /goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com 1 Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 Church: < <I^PEACE CHURCH ft CALEDONIA: LEARN MORE! 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch IB peacechurch.ee J * Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 wvm.whitneyvillebible.org PisforJonathan DeCou Sunday School Sunday Worship ? 9:30 AM 10:30AM iBrceBin MWt our services from our website (see above) 5 PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 tR Whitneyville I Fellowship Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"** & 48^^ Praising God through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music Worship Services Sunday ioam&6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm&/pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: VVhitneyvllleFellowshlp.org bVB HOLY FAMILY ^^CATHOLIC CHURCH ■> U'if l.ili bta Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Smlanfie Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Mlj A'' Jord®, Mil) ftsstn THORN APPLE VALLEY CHURCH Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 6I6-89I-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 Ont www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool m; 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. CHURCH ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS (269) 795-2391 Connecting I MIDDLEVILLE D( SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml i www.tvcweb.com _________ www.stpaulcaledonia.org Yankee Springs Bible Church 13 % 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4 S,- "Shilling Forth God's Light” Sunday Morning Worship..................... Community Group................ 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. iV James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankccspringsbiblcchurch ■org Jiijjj Si X fer ‘ V - A ? ■T O'f'* * > ' I 4 ’it* I C'‘'^ r .’.v ) �I I f The Sun and News, Saturday, March 9,2024/ Page 5 Middleville planners Caledonia TWp. planners consider ordinance change sign off on revised plans to cancel meetings for 60th Street townhouses Greg Chandler I ing at least once a month. _ , But the Michigan 1Planning laiuuug Enabling Act only requires municipal planning bodies Staff Writer J Middleville „ P anning commissioners are looking to change a requirement in the village code, . , giving them the option to cancel their monthly meetings if they don’t have any action items on their agenda. Commissioners discussed the proposed change Tuesday night at a meeting that lasted about 20 minutes. Section 46-37 of the village code of ordmances currently require the planning commission to hold a meet­ Powers said he would verify whether whether a public veniy hearing would be needprl to meet four times a year, village Planning and Zoning .... Administrator Doug Powers said. Commissioners are also consider changing the duties of the office of planning commission secretary. “A lot of those duties have been conducted by staff, and it may be unrealistic for the secretary of the board to be expected to conduct those ' Staff Writer The Caledonia High School Players will conclude its spring musical presentation of “Cinderella” with two perfor­ mances today. A matinee performance will take place at 2 p.m., followed by an evening show at 7 p.m. at the Peter V. DeLille Fine Arts Center, located inside the high school at 9050 Kraft Ave. SE. General admission tickets are $10.50 per person and can be purchased online at vancoevents.com/us/events/land ing/39731. Emery Rewa is portraying Ella in the production, wi± Ayden Taylor playing the role of Topher. Other cast members are as follows: Grace Bryant, Cody Winters, Susanna Vire, Stephanie Diybuigh, Meghan Ruthven, James Heath, Landon Fleming, Riley Collins, Greta Betz, Evie Slomp, Johanna Sproul, Katelyn Ferris, MyaRose Slosser, Kara DeVault, Sam Temple, Connor Parlin, Alister Brew, Justin Brown, Suzarmah Green, Alyssa Bursch, Lydia Shoesmith, Audrey Scott, Sophia Bartuch, Av Jordan, Rian Restau, Rosalyn Longworthy, Nola Pearson, Abbey Wilkes, Rosalyn VanStrien, Charlie Scott, Suz Green, Judah Dorband, Patrick Stewart, Benji Rewa, Maggie Koopman, Sydney Dochstader, Sarah Huebner, Rain Restau, Ella Ley, Sophia Price, Gabby Linker, Kat Jaquish, Sophia Teelander and Claire James. Ren Kosiorowski is the stage manager, assisted by Lily VanDeraa and Phe Anderson. The light board operator is Vincent Mauriello, while the sound assistant is Claudia Rissley. Props manag­ er is Skye Bradley, while cos­ tume managers are Makayla fislQr r* : * w c® ..Caliib L 'I' Bt HI I I : ■'I" Banning and Rebecca Homacek. The choir captain is Alyssa Bursch. Kayli Price eMs J i “ opening and other elements to meet our ordinance stan­ dards,” she said. Skyline Townhomes will consist of eight buildings, each with six units, with each unit having a two-stall garage. The I I 1 (J,/ n O"- aore. with a minim, an J A i units per acre, with a minimum of 6,000 square feet per unit. Commissioners put in as a condition of approval having the internal sidewalk system that will serve the townhomes connect to the Davenport cam­ pus and to an 8-foot-wide pathway along 60th. The Kent County Road Commission has requested that a center leftturn lane be extended both east and west on 60th to match the turn lanes for adjacent devel­ opments, township engineer Todd Boerman wrote in a memo to Wells. (cq) Development LLC will they’re close. They’re prettv be built on 6.15 Iacres east of much right where Patterson the POrt View Townhomes and Place (a townhouse project west of Panther Ridge under construction at the Apartments. The site is zoned northeast comer of 76th Street for high density residential and Patterson Avenue) was in development. terms of percentages,” Commissioners had pushed Township Planner Lynee back on the initial plans for the Wells said. townhouse complex in The developer has also December over the develop­ added windows on the side er’s proposed use of vinyl sid- and rear-facing facades of the mg as the primary exterior townhomes, as well as added building material. The town- accent material and trim, dorship’s architectural standards mers and stone veneer, Wells call for at least 75 percent of said. r *?-; They’ve taken our stan­ dards to heart, and I appreciate personally personally the the work work they they^ve done to add those window I CHS Players to present musical “Cinderella” today Greg Chandler (4 I k bUat I 1 the buildings (on the site) are gone,” he said. duties,” Powers said. the building material on all four sides to be masonry. Since then, though, uivu^i^ the inc developer has changed the building material, expressing willingness to use hardie board, a wood composite material, rather than vinyl on the outside of the building. Developer Jack Hoedeman called the change Writer A developer and Caledonia Township planning commissioners have worked out their differences over a townhouse project near Davenport University, and the project is now a go. Commissioners approved a site plan Monday night for SkvHn? T u prior to the adoption of the proposed changes since it involves an amendment to a village ordinance. The village council would have to give final approval to chang­ es. Powers also updated commissioners Tuesday on the status of the Baby Bliss demolition that has been going on over the past con­ pie of weeks “All fou/of ML I Slllsir Greg Chandler k I I I I i I I k r is '3 r-SdH 1 Ji a> 11 11 SI fl • •1 • u-.-; ' I*-* ' . ’-C ft « r>-'- 4I ■^5 .V Rodgew, * -f *1 •s J •t r- 1 1^ v. ' fl J A RELLA b * > sr 1 I r 1 £ * I lb -r- I d: f s 4 am •J • i « * a ,-'J -I I* as 1 I ♦ Kei*-'’’ JnI 4 I 4 '♦ A I /• i >'N' -r» I 1 r B s "CT Si *“1 L and Morgan Vredevoogd are in charge of spots, while Erin Peckham is in charge or rails. Members of the stage crew include AJ Rife, Jonathan Kellogg, Makayla Banning, Kayli Price, Erica Angell, Tayla Bell, Circe Langeweg, Danielle Le-Tran, Morgan Wnuk, Skye Bradley, Andrew Vanderkolk, Rebecca Homacek, Emliee Deimer, Ella Rounds, Ana Herbst, Arma Dunlop, Elizabeth Hilton, Jenna Clapper, Kayla DeGraaf, Erin Peckham, 1 1*1 J 4 I I •? s I _ _a . J I b 1 .-'W 4^' * I Ur* I . I* • 4 .. 1 >. b it' HAMMf PvSTf IN’S -*7 - f I X. 1 » *1 -Sk- I I Analise Kaminski, Tyler I */ */ / Ambrose, Gavin Senneker, -jr Adam Sorstokke, Morgan Vredevoogd, Allison Malone, -.iff Barbara VanderMaas and “1 u ** Nolan Gross. The play is directed by Kate ■ JI Bauer. Judy Pellerito is the •A"♦ vocal director, Mark Ramsey is the pit director, Jeanette Ruthven and Kari Upham are in charge of costumes. Rebecca Jantzen is the choreographer. Scott VanDeraa is in charge of Developers Jack Hoedeman and Katie Lovley discuss their revised plans for sets, and technical directors are the Skyline Townhomes project with the Caledonia Township Planning Commission Jeff Jenkins and Mat Zoet. Monday night. (Photo by Greg Chandler) •-•■Miuu I I I k ( ] I. f *» A t « ^4 t fe- 7* I *«Bi. i 1 I I *% f I £ !• r ..1 / -J fl 1 ' / ■ '•■iJ IB it *• s t 5 I. « i ' p J I I' r I k i •% ,c, H » 4 1 ' »• ^4------- ’*^1 Sir *A, I I Vto . x-- - - ESTAT SALE^ LOGi HOME&2 I I 1 I I I i I I I ■■r> *■ I .B • *4 . I l> I I I I I ■ft 9 C & lift) :zr j_M -I ~r * .w I I I 4 T J I I I r / A --i- i I J."!* •* V % I J i A 1 T *r k « " ' .1 g './.rr.j-i k t I • V? •A * .V k I ,,_v. 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Call (704) 602-3035 ask for Accounting Dept. I t - 5 > r. 1 ■ I *1 i I V 1- t > I 1 I * �Pag* «ZThe Sun and Nawa, Saturday, March B, 2024 Caledonia robotics teams compete in VEX IQ state finals CHS robotics teams advance to state finals Three teams from Caledonia High School competed in the 2024 VEX Robotics High School Slate Championships at Kettenng University in Flint the week­ end of Feb. 23-24. The tournament, which featured 80 teams, is one of Michigan’s biggest STI M events each year and a great experience f(jr students inlercslcd in technical fields. Caledonia Robotics students have been working since August, designing, building, programming, testing and competing with their robots at local and regional compctitiores. “RightCaledonia’s minded,” a team made up of lefties Jackson Bernal, Hailey Laprath, Vincent Nola and Mauriello Pearson, as well as the team a Wanted “We Hamcthrower" comprised of juniors Kaeler Fox, Lukas Keson, Josh Maier and Logan Reimbold, both advanced to states due to their outstanding skills scores. These scores were obtained by a combination of autonomous program­ ming and driving sessions at each event. TTic teams finished in 1 Sth and 21 st in their division respectively, and chose to work as alii ance partners in the toumamcnl rounds. Also in attendance was Caledonia's senior team, the “Over Under Achievers,” consisting ofTy ler Ambrose, Broomfield, Cohen Benjamin Diegel, Chloe Groves and Bryson Van Ryn. They, loo, were invited to states due to their impres­ sive skills score. They fin­ ished off their reign with a 4-4 record against some lough competition, advancing them to the tournament rounds as well. Caledonia Robotics had six teams in the high school program this year. “Out of Ideas” also qualified for the event, but was unable to attend. from teams Three Caledonia’s robotics pro gram were among 60 teams, comprising nearly 250 stu dents, who competed in the 2024 VEX IO Robotics state championships March 1-2 at Monroe County Community College. The VEX IO Robotics program is for students in fourth through sixth grades. Caledonia is in its third year a.s part of the VEX IO program. The all-girls team, “The Perfect Mix,” were the first to qualify for the event having secured both the second place team award and the Design Award at Allendale’s Full Volume Tournament in November members Team 2023. Kennedy Collins, Emma D’amico, Mae Flodin, Leah Marshall and Laela Nonhof, were said to have demonstrated an organized and professional approach to the design progress, while capitalizing on logic. * time management and team organization. “The Scot Bots," comprised of Will Angus, Marijke Dykhouse, Mason Pittman, Mia Pittman and Brendan Sharp, also earned their invite after receiving the Design Award; this time Grandville’s Alpha at League Championship in February. They were ranked 28th in regular play at the state event, which qualified them for the finals, where they finished 11th. Jackson Gifford, Harrison Krebill, Bradley Keson, Micah Vink and Ehly Watson of the “Kool Aid Jammers” advanced to the state competition where they finished 48th, after receiving the second place in the Award Skills Grandville Zeta League. This award was based on obtained skills scores during a combination of autonomous coding match­ es and driving skills match­ es, offered at each event. If * 2? * ■Mil M I • A ^E« A V r t 1 f < k < 9 •3S. V AcOr r 1 9 f ✓ . 0^ t * 1 rW * S Li fA IIS' I Students that represented Caledonia’s robotics program at the 2024 VEX IQ Robotics state champi­ onships include: (top row; from L to R) Kennedy Collins, Emma D’amico, Leah Marshall, Mia Pittman, Marijke Dykhouse, Mason Pittman, Will Angus, (bot­ tom row; from L to R) Laela Nonhof, Ehly Watson, Jackson Gifford, Brendan Sharp and Micah Vink. (Photo provided) EnrichED, Caledonia which oversees the robot­ ics program, will host its annual informational night and open house on April 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Meadows Kraft Intermediate School. The ✓ Caledonia Robotics and Caledonia RAD Drone pro­ grams will also hold information sessions and demonstrations. Follow Caledonia Robotics on Facebook for more infor­ mation. H i(ll« bl lik I TKHS students present dangers of tobacco and nicotine use Fourth graders scrunched Tobacco Use (TATU) tried to up their noses and let out an make an impression on the “ewww” as they felt the fourth graders about the danblackened pig lung used to gerous effects tobacco and demonstrate effects of tobac nicotine from smoking or co on the lungs. They didn’t vaping have on a body and to like how it looked or how it dissuade students from ever felt and that is just the rcac- trying these harmful prod­ lion high school demonstra ucts. tors were hoping to see. “I don’t use tobacco or Using a variety of differ­ nicotine because I’m a senior ent hands-on activities and and I want to keep my brain demonstrations, members of in good shape for when I go the Thomapple Kellogg High to college next year,” said School Teens Against Charlotte Nelson, * Others said they are ath­ letes who want to keep their bodies healthy so they can continue to compete, or sing­ ers or band members who want to have good lungs so they can keep making music. Students hear about the dangers of tobacco and nico­ tine use from advertisements, parents, and other adults. Recently, they heard it from some of their older TK High School peers hoping their discussions with fourth grad- IRVING TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW The 2024 Board of Review for Irving Township will meet as follows: • • ers will help students choose healthy lifestyles. Each year TATU members are trained through the Barry County Substance Abuse Prevention Services on les­ son plans and presentation skills to help younger stu­ dents understand the dangers of tobacco and nicotine use. The demonstrations, like the pig lung, grab attention, are interactive and leave an impression. Hearing from older students also resonates with younger students. “These are kids the young­ er kids watch playing basket­ ball or volleyball. They see these kids at the fair and in different places. It’s not the same as an adult talking to them. These are students too,” said Liz Lenz, Coordinator of the Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force. Lenz said the program started in 2001 with the first classroom presentation likely taking place in 2002. “It’s become a legacy program now. We do it every year and it’s worth it if we help even just one student avoid tobac­ co or nicotine use.” High school students also benefit from teaching these valuable lessons. “Teaching these high school kids to give these pre­ sentations empowers them to Tuesday, March 5th at 11:00am - Organizational Meeting Monday, March 11th from 3:00pm-9:00pm Tuesday, March 12th from 9:00am-3:00pm be leaders and examples for others. It’s empowering them to be positive role models,” said Lenz. Students were reminded that it’s best to never start smoking or vaping, remind­ ing students that nicotine can become addictive and hard to quit once started. They also showed students how the body begins to heal itself once nicotine and tobacco are eliminated. They discussed the many harmful types of chemicals that can be found in ciga­ rettes, vapes or both, filling a large cardboard cigarette and vaping device with the harm­ fill ingredients. I I w tw ■ smite IkIsiM UsiD ttjii [ Tiewj 'b monloii lU aijiijiil IjipH k0 Written appeals will be accepted by March 12, 2024. The tentative equalization ratios for computation of SEV of real property are as follows: Classification Of Real Prope Irving 2024 Ratios and Multipliers Ratio Real Pro Agricultural Residential Commercial Industrial Timber-Cutover Developmental PERSONAL PROPERTY Commercial Industrial Utility 54.25% 43.36% 47.37% 33.85% None in Class None in Class 50.00% 50.00% 50.00% Multiplier ED’S BODY SHOP 0.92166 1.15314 1.05552 1.47710 I CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN ill 4 v« 'Imai STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS State & I-CAR Certified Technicians 1.000 1.000 1.000 TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System Frame Repair This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1076 as amended (Open Meetings Act) MCLA 41.72A (2) (3) and the Americans with DisabilTties Act (ADA^ necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals wrth disabilities upon seven (7) day notice to the Irving Townshio Board, Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the clerk, at (269) 948-0633. Jamie R. Knight Supervisor, Irving Township Siiij V^BA 616.891.0150 GOLD CLASS i t**- www.edsbody.com fSHCS a k Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner 110 Johnson St., Caledonia s I^NFIB u Lesonal 212410 *<« lL>. ■21 OPEN: M thru F 7:30 am - 5:00 pm JS IV �IJ I The March 9, 2024/ Page 7 Tne Sun and News, Saturday, Si I “"y County making a divot in housing Shortage, per county chairman i st « vM V . c I I I k t1 4s• i I % s I I k 1 » ■1 & 1 1 %i VJ Molly Macleod Copy Editor Barry County Board of Commissioners Chair David Jackson gave a “State of the County” address at Monday’ s Hastings Rotary Club meeting, detailing the county’s recent accomplishments, accompjisnments. projects and challenges looming in the future. a Jackson, Delton Rotarian, began by highlight­ ing Barry County’s consistent AA credit rating. He credited much of the county’s accomplishments and smooth operations to the work of County Administrator Michael Brown, who is retiring later this year. ‘The only reason we can’t have a AAA credit rating is because we’re a small county,” Brown explained. We have had a AA credit rating as long as I can remember, as long as I’ve been a commissioner. A lot of that’s because of the lead66 s I aaioiL ’ PWhi lolj sit nr ership of (County Administrator) Michael Brown. That (rating) basical­ ly says that you are stable, you are a good credit risk.” Financially, we’re in a very good position, said Jackson. In 2023, the county made headway on several key on issues. Jackson highlighted some of these accomplish­ 46 ments, including the sale of a Barry County Mental Health Authority building to the YMCA of Barry County, the current construction of Tyden Lofts and . progress being made toward aa new new Commission on Aging building. Originally, Jackson said, county officials were consid­ ering the Mental Health Authority building as a potential location for a new COA building. While the site was deemed not to be a fit for the COA, the YMCA expressed interest in the property. “(We) started the conver­ sation with Jon Sporer and the YMCA and talked about all of the programs benefitting the youth, benefiting childcare, which is one of the boxes we were trying to check in the county. That was a big win for the county in our minds,” said Jackson. One large accomplishment highlighted was the number of housing units planned in Barry County. Currently, 704 units throughout the county are either planned or in development. This, Jackson said, will help put a dent in Barry County’s need a 46 I te: • k L J. I. iCC I 1 w « z Tw • * Mt A t. 1 . Mw I K 1 > * / V. 1 * . I I * • g I I really appreciate the fact that we have people in our community, a lot of them like you, who are willing to stand up and help out and lead in different places. And we continue to need those voices to help us,” he said. Looking forward into 2024, large-scale solar and wind energy projects will be a hot-button issue for the county. State legislators passed a series of bills in November 2023 that take away regulat­ ing control over large-scale renewable energy projects from local municipalities. The ic^uiaung regulating control now lies in the hands of the state Already, parts of Barry County are being targeted for large-scale solar projects. In the southern end of the county. Consumers Energy is planning a roughly 1,000acre large-scale solar energy system in Johnstown Township. “We’re looking hard at for housing. ® The county received roughly $1.4 million in grants in the past year. These ^ants will be used for things like rural business development and environmental assessments. Jackson credited the many volunteers throughout Barry County who are involved with local government. >’ b I". 1) 4 *1^ r (P -t *1 J ■ <1 1 I 1 4 i •* . UI-:'. 1. I .V jl •l 1 J > I V •x X i T »* I I I .1i < J Barry County Board of Commissioners Chair David Jackson gives his “State of the County” address at _ Monday’s Hastings Rotary Club meeting. (Photo by Molly Macleod) what we can do to control that, especially where it concems prime farmland, hous­ ing, real estate, things that are important to us because our rural culture is important. We want to keep that the best we can,” said Jackson. J state Treasury providing tax relief Barry County due to federal disaster declaration board cancels its Taxpayers In Ionia, Eaton and Kent counties can request additional time to file tax returns, pay state tax bills k A _• I 1 I c I ai1 I LANSING With the Internal Revenue Service granting tax relief on Feb. 15 after President Biden approved a federal disaster declaration for nine Michigan counties. the Michigan Department of Treasury is providing an opportunity for disaster sur­ vivors to obtain state tax relief. Individual and business taxpayers who reside in Ionia, Eaton, Kent, Ingham, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties can request additional time to file state tax returns and pay state tax bills, with penalties and interest waived. These areas were affected by severe storms. tornadoes and flooding from Aug. 24-26, 2023. “A natural disaster can be devastating both person­ ally and financially,” State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks said. “By providing tax relief, disaster survivors will have more time to focus on recovering and getting their lives back to a sense of normalcy. Taxpayers should reach out to us to learn more about the process for obtaining this relief.” Individuals unable to meet filing or payment deadlines due to this disaster should contact Treasury at 517-636- 4486. Businesses are asked to call 517-6366925. In addition, affected tax­ payers may write to Treasury to request disas­ ter-related tax relief. When writing, the following must be included in the corre­ spondence: — Name and account number of the individual or business taxpayer. Reason for the relief request. — Taxpayer address within one disaster area or address of the tax preparer located in the disaster area. Taxpayers should send the completed correspon­ dence to the following address: Michigan Department of Treasury; Attn; Disaster Tax Relief; Lansing, Michigan 48922 weekly meeti ng The Barry County Board of Commissioners canceled its Tuesday morning committee of the whole meeting due to a lack of agenda items. County business has seemingly slowed down a bit with Tuesday’s cancelation being the sec­ ond COW meeting that has been called off in 2024 due to a lack of agenda items. Meanwhile, a pending presentation by Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf to Some taxpayers may receive a preliminary assessment notice before a tax relief request is formal­ ly received by Treasury. Taxpayers within the disas­ ter area who receive these notices should contact Treasury by phone to resolve. To learn more about Michigan’s tax system, go to michigan.gov/taxes. I lay out the findings of his long-standing voter fraud investigation continues to hang in the balance. Leaf was originally slated to present his findings to the Board of Commissioners on Feb. 13, but it was post­ poned in order to secure a larger venue. Leaf told the Sun and News this week that he is working on lock­ ing in a date this month. but it has not yet been finalized. I I I t I I ) I I I I I 1 I II J I I I I I I . i II I I S' For Sale FREEZER BEEF ANGUS Cross. Grain and hay fed. Half and wholes. $3/lb hanging weight plus processing, (616)262-6822 usiness Services CONSTRUCTION: ADDI TIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838 5937. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Paying Premiurns for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy singi^ Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pres­ sure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 Pets DOG GROOMING. 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Please call 269-207-4218 or email at zlpowell@yahoo.com if interested. I t nNANGlNG^ available HEATING G COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia r L J L J L A J L T J r 1 T J JL. I “The company built by referrals ” * I a t No monthly interest if paid . within 18 mo. I * ■ V I t 1 'if I I r I * r �Page 8/Tbe Sun and News, Saturday, March 9, 2024 her w3y to sGCond stet^titls Scots’ Hayden pins I it. .i five minutes and 29 seconds through her first six postsea­ son bouts to get to the Girls’ 155-pound championship final. Campbell was just able to push her over the six-minUte mark of action for the postseason. None of that was a fluke. “That was absolute the plan,” Hayden said. ‘Tn and out as fast as I could was the plan.” An inside trip took down more than one foe for Hayden this postseason, and she pulled off the move again in the championship match with Campbell - who had an outstanding season of her own wrestling to a record of 30-7. Caledonia varsity wrestling coach Shawn Veitch said Hayden and the coach­ ing staff came up with second and third plans should Campbell come to the mat prepared to thwart what had become Hayden’s go-to iT J I don’t need my arms for it.” “My bread and butter is the under hook, and everything works off that,” Hayden added. “A lot of girls in high school in the state, a lot of the girls tend to back up 1 feel like. They just get really uncomfortable in that posi­ tion. They tend to back up and then when they do back up it’s one foot and then the next. It is usually the same with every person. They kind move of the tournament. Campbell retreated a couple times as they grappled on their feet for some control. and Veitch said he was really pleased to see Hayden not back off her best move too soon. “I was so happy when I saw her elbow hanging up, and I was like ‘oh, my,’ Hayden said. “ I feel like that [inside trip] is just about the only thing I’ve been hitting lately, which is nice because V 4b 1' - -jF i iiaa .1 - 'W 4 s. 4^ a Ri I s> Or \ r9 »? f 1 1 f ’‘''A •! IV •jOCIALBn, / t J > ' -X 'J « 4 •- J r ■. * * Lj» i f Ui t f LO I J ' 4 1 t t L’ PRIVATE EVENT AFIBEERS e mtiw ^•74 ad </ - r 41 •l a' Caledonia sophomore Maddie Hayden has her arm raised after pinning Manton’s Makayla Gowell in in her semifinal match at the MHSAA Individual Wrestling Finals Friday, March 1. Hayden followed u ................... match by pinning Holts Brynn Campbell in the Girls’ 155-pound championship final Saturday back at Ford Field in Detroit for her second straight state champi onship. (Photo by Brett Bremer) V X - ♦ (I 1/ vt T I I ( , - J-'?- ....« V L^.9- I 4 I : i E : I * -V * kM A • X t '*4 s > XV. kWvi.l i>fe4 4 •A’hFC 1’.. Visit I 1 I 5^^ I 4 4 4 >4 .X- I . 1 I •T i. 's ^itefor^ eAv ►ptioiny^a^d more V I V * «* ’l • I • Ir t \ J k e * I 'M* V i F-- ;jk t* AO ! « I r ;zr ; ■ g Al 4 I 1. A? Bj ty ww mt 4 ri'* ■' f rh 1 I V* t » ■ ♦ IlAJ 4 4 < s'’ A r L k Iv i \ Ht ■ , - ® * ■ •• .d -‘l C'J ^^‘ey Ave Caledo, I e • a I I w .- RIVER CRUISE VACATIONS 0* the St. Lawrence & Ottawa Rivers classic Canadian riverboat. Request our free travel brochure * ■,s'A /A y t JTT ** ; y -- •S"” L A * •«*> 'J &. . «l !«* PT''”’ * F-^ f t. -*£41? * 4 < mm •i-*- V s rife* f • "A t < i • ’V I I 'I A 1 I I »I 7 1 / > • ■ ♦. ✓ S(S^ r control early on in her match with Iron Mountain’s Shayna Hruska to open action in the Girls’ 105-pound weight class at the MHSAA Individual Wrestling Finals at Ford Field in Detroit Friday, March 1. Stout was bested in her two matches in her first appearance in the state finals. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ‘J I 7 4< ■■ Caledonia sophomore Halle Stout (left) works for /i ) r ! A I I b *1 H f I ri 4 e r t- ,’r 4F a •K a a I Ik * I .A * 4 I • 'j ■J f '** t. <I 'i 4 I I 4- 1 * ► *J I wrestle than I was nervous to 1 wrestle. 1 was just really excited to go out and see how good I would be again, because I have been off for a couple months.” Her only real meaningful action for the CHS varsity this season prior to the state postseason was a run to the championship in the girls’ 155-pound weight class at r the Kent County Classic in Kentwood back in December. Hayden broke a finger on her f L.’*. right hand in early January and then her first week back on the mat in February she inured her right elbow in a practice in the lead-up to regionals. } felt like going into state, L. .*pretty much with one arm, gave me another thing to prove I guess, just to prove I could get past that too,” Caledonia sophomore Maddie Hayden calmly pins East Lansing’s Mya Terranova during the first period of Hayden said. A regulation wrestling their 155-pound girls’ division opener at the MHSAA Individual Wrestling Finals at Ford Field in Detroit Friday, match is six minutes long. March 1. Hayden went on to pin all four of her state finals foes in the first period to win her second state Hayden had wrestled only championship. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor It took 48 seconds. Maddie Hayden is a twotime MHSAA fjirls’ 155pound state champion. The ( aledonia sophomore pinned Holt senior Brynn Campbell less than a minute into their championship match at the MHSAA Individual State I inals Saturday afternoon at Ford Field in downtown IX'troit. No one scored a point on Hayden this season in what was a shortened season due to injury. She was 11-0 this winter. She pinned all seven of her postseason foes in the first period. Hayden said this second championship was a little less nerve-wracking than her first, mostly due to her own state of mind. “I feel like I was a little more confident this year,” Hayden said, “and since I was out injured for a little while I was more excited to 4IE; I >5* * k 1-800-267-7868 www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.coni of step back the same way. All I have to do is peek out and see the timing of their feet. As soon as I see the timing line up, it’s right there.” Hayden doesn’t only watch for opportunities, she creates them. She continues to work to hopefully be a four-time state champion and has bigger goals beyond that in wrestling. She’s looking forward to the chance to compete for a spot on the USA World Team at the 2024 U.S. Marine Corps Women’s National Championship in Spokane, Wash, next month. She’s not flawless. Traveling around the country to wrestle much of the year she does take the occasional defeat. Hayden said one of her biggest areas of growth in the past year has been her mentality after a loss. She’s getting better at putting the defeats behind her, or at least off to the side, to process once a tournament is through. The kind of girls who have been able to best Hayden . recently are ones like Tennessee wrestler Piper Fowler who got the best of her while she was competing for the Michigan Blue team at the 2023 Junior National Duals in Tulsa, Okla., last June. Hayden helped Michigan Blue to a runner-up finish at the 32-team event. Fowler capped her summer by winning the 73 kg divi- sion at the U17 World Championships in Istanbul, Turkey, in August. World Champion is a title Hayden would love to earn some day. Hayden also won her way to the finals of the 2023 US Marine Corps 16U Nationals at 152 pounds last July, knocking off the defending champion Sarah Henckel from Connecticut in the quarterfinals on her way to a See CHAMP, next page I •t , I.'•••A— - * f II’ C\ ♦r I I • ( 1 L.J s X 'w I J (4 ). I i « , p ft' r r f J J i .9 4 J I i 1 I rft n* 1 3 T I s �! I ♦ Rangers beat buzzer to beat Scots in district finai I ■V" . * Brett Bremer Sports Editor I 1 'adtf A 01 «!k.b t.. a 9 3% « r •i « is. >• * •A •. ,'r ■t * iC I b 3^ I* . 5 ♦ r •.V •-R A Al.. . t'4 /- I “x* Ift 4l I >5^- > <) K*' — F-w r *« £<?< • •X* s I* Ift^ 1^.,. ar A• 'A. I .-li A Aft:. ■?& r ab .fljM & w<i"b •V* B, i 4# ♦ •J •^ K* • •^•-1^... "■■W I I J .— n 1” A ♦c VanderWoude looks Forest Hills Central’s Jonas Friday, March 1. (Photo by Perry Hardin) have reached double-digit wins. The defeat was even more of a gut-punch due to the fact that the Fighting Scots had a I .V < c ¥5 r*-- •• 16-point lead with four minUtes to play. The Rangers closed the game on a 20-2 run. FHC stole a Caledonia pass at mid-court and went in for the tying lay-up with less than a minute to play, and then a Fighting Scot travel on their next possession gave FHC the Kall kaz.1. *1, ball back w,* the opportunity a-' t A < f ' ’"3 >'J 5 ' ’ rT- . J 3K 4 .J • 1 * u 7 o c. 7 f** -* •* J i I. fl 1 ,-w* . G A .J i — “w-' •“ •• Ib. T JU j, « -J** SCSTS • .’L I •> AA ' 1 ■ k-x I J “isle BE jj, e£fii)ibai I’igSSBil I. f .n 4. L r. hl I xnii r I. . 9 .1 X- e Z 1 A 'i i•F •If S 4#' A• tpasjalij J $ 4 I kr-o. 1 r Bdiihu51l| 4 ft c >1 5 X. «« * «x Auu r ft fl * K r i •g ft '».5 ■* I« .V rJ r r> *4 1 * ♦ *4:1 ! rT RIF fl W|*- * TABI I > -r I " I-Z if }r^ *<. * 1 .1 (* « :e ft , J «««» .T » . *L t f I •"'.Ai,4 I' I > 5 K 1; • •r 99 A J W". <^1 -4- 4 7 >• - ■ -“is I 1 w:—-. J♦ “ssicie- I** ' r fSrr Mt- •n hU..**.* % * ' I -’l1 'f 9** ’.L'J s t - "W- iiweb ** •f I •J M ’’ - • • •• 7* .S- *'3 a 1 - xcS-.-' •I Or I I 5 «B* •« • .i 3 • J J 4 ' • » V A- fi r A i? it- r •T 5 k, ^5 r I s n. I ?} :i 1 I % t » a < *4i ■ .l, .*• -JPs • •.'fe?- Semor guard Dual Abiel and semor forward Jaiden Googins had 14 points, five rebounds, two steals and one block each for the Scots. Googins had a team-high four assists and Abiel had three in ±eir last hoops action for CHS. Senior guard Corbin Raffler had 11 pomts and two steals, senior and guard Ky VanderWoude capped his career with six points and nine rebounds on what was a tough shooting night for him. Freshman Bryce Backus had two points and a team-high 13 rebounds, including eight on the offensive end, and two blocked shots too. As a team the Scots were just 4-of-ll from behind the three-point line and just 8-of17 at the free throw line. They shot a little under 50 percent from the floor inside the arc too. f «-*x t runner-up finish behind Mya Bethel from Florida. “Wrestling has always just been really, really fun for me,” Hayden said of wrestling for the Caledonia program. Obviously, I have this God-given ability I have ben blessed with. Being able to actually use that has been really cool and just because wrestling is so fun. Being able to put a lot of effort and a lot of determination into a sport that will always give love back to me, it is just like ‘how can I not take up that opportunity.” Hayden was joined at the state finals last weekend by sophomore teammate Halle Stout, just in her second year of wrestling. Stout was a regional runner-up and was bested in her two matches in the 105-pound weight class. I’m proud of her and happy for her for making it to state this year,” Hayden said. “It was kind of a bummer that she wasn’t able to get a win. Placing second at regionals this year. The improvement there is crazy. I am really really happy for her that she got to experience Ford ‘ ----------------Field this Field this year. year.”” Coach Veitch was pretty pleased with Stout too. He said wrestlers typically need to take steps through­ out their high school years - and that for most it can be tough to jump more than one in a season. Stout had her first competitive wrestling season as a freshman and qualified qualified for the state state finals for the first time as as aa sophomore. Now she’ll go to work on seeing if she can join Hayden on the state medal stand next year. With Veitch newly back leading the program this winter and a big group of inexperienced wrestlers overall, Hayden said things were a lot different in the Caledonia wrestling room. Everything slowed down a bit as much of the season was spent with the team overall focusing on the basics. The state champ said it took her some time to adapt. I definitely got caught for my attitude a couple times,” she said. Eventually, she realized it was for the good of the program and that the whole experience taught her some patience. It also taught her to look back now and then at the basics herself. Shawn’s father. Hall of Fame wrestling coach Bob Veitch, helped out through­ out much of the year. She can still hear Bob’s voice shouting “Don’t cut short. Don’t cut me short! Those shouts came work­ ing on getting deeper shots, something Hayden said she hadn’t spent too much time worrying about lately while training hard on her best moves. Usually if I can get to a leg I am going to finish, but if it could take six seconds then why am I taking 30 I 55 I I ! I I I 1 1 seconds to do it? I was not always getting a deep enough penetration shot. not stepping in deep enough. I’m glad that kind of flipped in my head.” While Hayden is always working to improve, coach Shawn Veitch said Stout has a plan to get bigger. faster, stronger in the wrestling offseason too and there will be a lot of work for the girls in the Caledonia program, as well as the guys, this summer. Stout was pinned by Iron Mountain’s Shayna Hruska in her opening round match and then fell 14-2 to Hudson’s Grace Miller in the first round of consola- I I I (I J I I I k 1 I I J tion - meaning she was on the mat longer than all of Hayden’s foes combined. Hayden pinned East Lansing’s Mya Terranova 36 seconds into her opening round match. Adalyn match. 1 I Holmes fought to stay alive for most of the first period before Hayden stuck her at the 1:49 mark of their quar­ terfinal bout. In the semifi­ nals Friday afternoon. Hayden pinned Manton’s Makayla Gowell in 26 seconds. I I > I I I I I 1 I I I ' a- -r •.T r.'— ** V « t • *• ( * ** 4ft ’ srt.' y 1 CHAMP, continued from premusp^ - • 'V >■ ••91^ a, »? 1 f * < r F 4 I The Sun and News, Saturday, March 9, 2024/ Page 9 -r .-1 • t ** A. A. Raffler along the right side of season with an 18-8 record the lane and tossed up a Caledonia Caledonia closes closes its its season right-handed scoop as his with a record of 12-12 under momentum carried him under its new head coach Lamar the basket. The ball banked off Chapman. It is the third time the glass softly then did most in the past four seasons that of a 360 around the rim with a the Caledonia varsity boys 1■ a? trio of Scots and a couple Rangers desperately waiting for It to come down in the paint. None of them could corral it there and it popped up along the right baseline where Godley was falling away from the play. He , snagged the offensive rebound, caught his balance wi± one little hop and floated up the game-winner as time expired. It is ±e first district championship for the Rangers since 2015. They knocked off East Kentwood in the MHSAA Division 11 Regional Semifinals Tuesday, but were bounced from the state toumament by Zeeland West in the Regional Final at East to make Kentwood High School VanriZ'rW^. .Ju ,o e„. Attempt number one touched nearly all of the rim before it rolled off. But the ball made that revolution fast enough that there was time for one more shot. A buzzer-beating put back by Forest Hills Central senior Owen Godley gave his Rangers a 52-50 win over the Caledonia varsity boys’ bas­ ketball team in the MHSAA Division 1 District Final at Caledonia High School Friday, March 1. The Rangers’ senior Brady Miller started his team’s final attempt at a game-winner in the closing seconds with the dribble at the top of the key. He got just enough space to .e. by Ca.ed„.a Co*, I g I rI I I •VAxJ.4Ti,\X 's w I I s gfS I r I I I 4' I J Beer « ’.V- ' . b . .4 ' ji I I i I I I w* S' •» J If 11 r * I s, I I t. ..-J Caledonia head coach Lamar Chapman strategizes how to beat Forrest Hills Central full-court press late in the fourth quarter of the MHSZ\A Division 1 District Final at Caledonia High School Friday, March 1. Forest Hills Central complet­ ed a double digit comeback with a buzzer beater to win te first district title since 2009. (Photo by Perry Hardin) i.r - I Sports Memorabilia I !* I I Coiir^ I r', r/. > I",*., — fiA* r' Quality Family Eye Care Since 1929 0 H Scott Bloom, O.D Tools s ■ OPTOMETRIST Hurtiny <5ezir Tackle, I I • i Ceintury Moderi^ Stuff i I «I t. I — 2 LOCATIONS — ♦ • HASTINGS: 1510 N. Broadway - 269-945-2192 s •9^ • WAYLAND: 216 N. Main - 269-792-0515 MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED Ua' AJ ' S.A'FZ.A,' < * .-4^ I "My dad ard I sav'ed all these thirds. VJe are cor^tactiif^ M37Auctior.,com to make some motley!" 1 I I I I 7 > t ) 1 < I V �b r p Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 9,2024 H M W> Grand Rapids Public Museum offering sensory friendly days I 1 < GRAND RAPIDS - The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) is introducing Sensory Sundays, an initia­ tive designed to support visi­ tors on the autism spectrum, and individuals with other sensory processing needs. Starting Sunday, March 10, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and continuing on the second Sunday of April, July, and December, the museum will offer a tailored experience to ensure an inclusive and acces­ sible environment for all. Sensory Sundays, set for March 10, April 14, July 14, and December 8, will feature adjusted sound and lighting within current exhibits to comfortable, a create low-sensory experience. These adaptations aim to minimize anxiety and pro­ vide a more enjoyable visit for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Additionally, visitors can experience a planetarium low-sensory Chaffee the in show Planetarium, and explore the museum’s current exhibits. including Mandela: The Official Exhibition, Building Buddies, and the GRPM original exhibit Fashion + Nature. All are welcome to attend these inclusive museum events, regardless of whether they benefit from the reduced sensory input. with partnership In KultureCity, the museum offers a limited number of sensory bags available for checkout at the front desk. These bags, equipped with fidget tools, noise-canceling other and headphones, resources, are designed to improve the museum experi­ ence for guests with diverse sensory needs. “The GRPM is committed to offering an inclusive experience that caters to both physical and cognitive acces­ sibility,” said Dale Robertson, President & CEO of the 1 J I ' I,/ ''' II .1? • f • . * * I L / I 1 M I - *1 I s f X r » •* A rs « / i ■- fl -I “J / f r ‘X * r 4 * 1 r ( The Grand Rapids Public Museum will debut Sensory Sundays, an initiative designed to support visitors on the autism spectrum and those with other sensory processing needs, on Sunday, March 10. The museum will have three other sensory-friendly dates scheduled throughout the year. (Photos provided) museum. “Collaborating with KultureCity allows us to welcome families to explore the museum in a low-sensory environment and integrate sensory-friend­ ly interactions across our programming.” This initiative reflects the museum’s dedication to con- f The Grand Rapids Public Museum is offering a limited number of sensory bags on its Sensory Sundays. The bags, equipped with fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones, and other resources, are designed to improve the museum experience for guests with diverse sensory needs. I Autism celebrate to Awareness Month in April following the Hope Network Bridge Walk for Autism, on Thursday, April 25. Join hun­ dreds of community mem­ bers for a walk that cele­ brates inclusiveness, neuro­ diversity, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to be included. Visitors must pre-register for both events. To register for the Bridge Walk, visit hopenetwork.org. tinuous improvement and engagement with the com­ munity. Visitors are invited to follow the museiun on social media or join the GRPM mailing list for updates on future inclusive activities. To plan your trip, visit grpm.org/accessibility for more information. In addition to the Sensory Sundays, the GRPM will host a low-sensory evening nt*' I •J Barry Community Foundation to hold indoor market, gauge public interest ■liilJIf'' J V* I $ I * i I < 1 . • ff Jayson Bussa Editor With a lull in craft shows, January and February tend to be a slower time for business for Rayann Wilcox, owner of RC’s Bees. That’s why she is so excit­ ed and optimistic over a new concept being launched by because of not many craft shows,” Wilcox said. “This would be an awesome oppor­ tunity just for the fact that it’s local and it could be con­ sistent every other weekend I’m hoping it takes off.” Wilcox was one of the over 25 local farmers and artisans who signed up to participate in a new indoor market being coordinated by the Barry Community Foundation. Essentially a carbon copy of the Hastings Farmers Market, which occurs downtown on Wednesdays and Saturdays during the warmer months the Barry Community Foundation, which gives customers a chance to find Wilcox with her booth of raw honey and honey products before the warmer temperatures of spring and summer move in. “Typically, January and February are my slow months « • • BARRY INDOOR MARKET Saturday March 9 and April 13 10 a,m. to 2p.m. At Barry Community Enrichment Center 231 South Broadway in Hastings the indoor market will be ■ r held inside on both today B UH; (March 9) and April 13 from ’ 9^ L 41 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Barry □ "JICommunity Enrichment I ja Center. There, shoppers can find local products from small businesses in the com­ ®®per munity. lj"a'-'n-Rem oval Wilcox is a regular at the outdoor farmers market and, as a result, is giving this new Just as she does at numerous craft shows and concept a try. She said that markets throughout the year, Hastings-based honey many consumers who buy producer Rayann Wilcox of RC’s Bees will set up her products forget that she shop at this weekend’s Barry Indoor Market to sell also sells out of her home, her raw honey and honey products. therefore it is crucial to be in the public eye with her raw enced a lot of the European that and about how we will honey. indoor markets. She came have the farms and artisans She is not necessarily back and pitched it to XiS and here to support our local alone in that plight, either, we thought it would be a economy.” which is why the Barry great thing for our farmers,” The indoor market will Community Foundation is said Annie Halle, COO of feature products that include dipping a toe in the water to the Barry Community oven-ffesh bread, jams and see if an indoor market might Foundation. jelly, maple syrup, mush­ be in demand and viable for Extending an invite to out­ rooms, goat milk products, future years. door market vendors first, eggs, meats and jewelry, This year’s installment the inaugural indoor market among other things. will include just two days. didn’t have any problems There is no cost to enter S arid each day will feature attracting people to sell. the indoor market and park­ 9 dozens of local vendors and “We sold all of the spaces ing is available next to, and artisans, some of which, like within a day,” Halle said. around, the Barry Enrichment Wilcox, will be familiar “But we want to make sure Center. faces from the outdoor mar­ that we have patrons for If it’s successful, then res­ ket. those individuals. It’s a new idents can expect a local, “We had a co-worker that concept for our area. We’re indoor shopping experience went to Europe and experi- getting the word out about next year, Hup ■a F % & •1) 9 s^. s « -r.V-t' I r I * • » « « s ♦ - r» I I 1 it i • .* - — -. ■*.“***w • -a *• ■ ? I ies9! ,ai« X * 1» > . •* •• 4 k * ‘2? * • •4 • • 9 *r,' WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS r, ■J Residential & Commercial ‘• •4 ^5^ f if I < A 11 c •w *• 7^” 5 T. tv r «* 72' r.r-.s-Tf- 111 ( 0* I a n rr, J ,1 3 * t »• 1 \ 3 Li > k ■** •5 n -X /JU •»« • * •t f’.-' Aofenno Men t > I> . » ■ ** I * S • i *c* 941 ■■ I f 0 '•Aw *•0. Sts: 5 * .-i: ’IL 1 .1 ( s. J .M 9 I I I I I I•A* • * r if I (68,1 LENNOX AI A+l Since 19S5 I BBB. f. ■ • -St Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! •K 1 ACCREDITED BUSINESS ! I I I I Bl G* • >> S I 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.celtsi9naipr0s.com » 4 V’ s’ T; A, “Our goal is to have a win­ ter market next year and bring farm fresh local food and wares to our communi­ ty,” said Tammy Hayes, Barry Community Foundation coordinator for the Hastings Farmers Market program. “This is the first time we’ve offered this pro­ gram and we hope to gauge community interest in the winter market.” '■ A n—7 V HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC DEWEERDHTG.COM 2«9-792-2234 1 . 1 . - MVSsB K •. DeWeerd x 1'^5s* »» Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers - * A A t X, s. s ■ -s. V « A H 4 H k » I X' k , 1’ I •I » �a; r / JP < Daylight saving time 2024 arrives thirweetend " I J I j I Janelle D. James Bridge Michigan It’s that time of year when clocks must “spring for' ward for daylight saving time — meaning we gain more time in the sunshine but lose - ____- « an hour of sleep. The time change occurs at 2 a.m. Sunday morning. Cell vWWV%WllW clocks and watches will need to physically change them. The ongoing cycle of changing the clocks from standard time to daylight saving and back is some­ thing that most people have gotten used to It dates back to a federal law passed in 1918 but Michigan lawmakers have made several efforts to end it once and for all. The latest attempt is by state senators Thomas Albert, R-Lowell, and Joseph Bellino, R-Monroe. They introduced a bill Thursday that would ask Michigan voters to decide whether to eliminate day­ light saving time. They pro­ pose putting the question on the Nov. 5 general election ballot. computers and other digital devices should devices update the time automatically but people with manual I I r L c JJ J ¥• Sr I -J •J fT I* . * a 4 . A, J • F*** > * > * •< r ■ i I A - 4. >3 > . J. ?* •r •K f? * A Y A ) celeb i I Xe ■I;' % r • > • *1* * Michiganders will prepare to “spring forward” an „ S«n> I saving time eariy Sunday I morning. (Stock photo) Hoitenga, R-Manton, intro­ duced a bill to get rid of the biannual time switch and stick with either day­ . light saving or standard time. Hoitenga said Michigan last year that she personally prefers standard time, but her bill would allow the other year-round - so long lone as the U.S. Congress amends federal law to allow it. Under her proposal, a per­ manent switch to daylight s^mg would only go into effect if Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania did the same thing. While efforts like these have been attempted before, bills like Hoitenga’s, which was referred to the Committee on Government Operations, have never Last year. Sen. Michele si made it to the governor’s desk. A medical perspective Some doctors agree that . changing the clocks is bad for one’s health. Studies show that when people lose an hour of sleep, it can dis­ rupt their circadian rhythm. which is the body’s natural "O'K"The health consequenees Shelgikar said standard time should be permanent because it is more aligned with the body’s internal clock and it makes it easier to maintain a sleeping schedule. that can come from spring­ ing forward include cardiovascular disease, so higher risk of abnormal heart rhythm, for example,” said Dr. Anita Shelgikar, neurologist and sleep medicine specialist at U-M Health in an email. “Metabolic irregularity, SO impaired glucose regulation, tion. sleep deprivation which can influence our attention and our cognition. academic performance, “I do hear a lot of people in the community say that the loss of one hour of sleep is really hard, particularly on that Monday morning but for some people even in the subsequent week or weeks that follow,” she said. Shelgikar recommends exposing yourself to natural sunlight as soon as you wake up and dimming the lights before bedtime to help regulate your sleep schedule. scholastic performance, driving safety. So, there are so many ways in which springing forward negative­ ly impacts our health.” Michigan has nine months to figure out new energy law * 11 i KellyHouse House Kellv to decide whether to allow Bridge Michigan renewable energy projects. I A new law takes efiect in They have sometimes «l L less than nine months giving blocked developments alto.... IB- s Michigan power to approve gether, prompting fears O: or deny large wind and solar from environmentalists and r-3 J projects, and state regulators utilities that Michigan will I 55^. face the hefty task of figur­ fall short of its goal to get IB- S ing out how to enforce it. off fossil fuels by mid-cen­ r H I During the first in a series tury, worsening the climate ITT 1 of meetings Thursday to crisis. 1 ]■] gather feedback, experts. The new law instead advocates and citizens listed establishes statewide Stan« J Jr I i a host of unanswered ques­ dards for instance, spellu I'J WsO IB tions. Time is of the essence, ing out how far develop­ 1 ll I 5 as local governments hurry ments must be set back from r B "i iIs to write ordinances before neighboring homes fill’ 2 ! k and 1 K the law takes effect on Nov. generally requires local com­ I J 29. J’.*-' , munities to approve projects, “As a municipal attorney, that meet those standards. .u we’d like to start moving Local governments can J right now, hopefully with retain power to approve or more guidance from the reject proposed facilities if lU* "•iiiiiMr/iiiitWat J (state),” said attorney they have a renewable enerCatherine Kaufman, one of gy ordinance that aligns with Michigan lawmakers in November 2023 created a new statewide permitting system for large wind and solar three experts invited to speak state standards. projects, an end-run around local governments that have repeatedly blocked the projects. (Bridqe photo bv Thursday to staffers of the v arIf they fail to write an Dale Young) Michigan Public Service ordinance, or write one that Commission. doesn’t align with the state policies and need a few with its approval?” said sition. “ matters in the long haul. ” ' The meeting stems from standards. permitting months to approve ordinanc- Kaufman. “I’m cognizant that you’re The commission has more Public Act 233, one of sever- becomes the Public Service es, time is slipping away, Mills warned that if com­ not going to please every­ meetings planned to gather al laws passed in November Commission’s job. Kaufman said. munities feel railroaded by one,” said Mills, but how feedback on March 19, April to facilitate Michigan’s ener­ “Time is rapidly ticking Others on Thursday said state regulators, the new per people feel about the approv­ 5 and 26, and May 17. A rec­ gy transition. The law aims away for municipalities to it’s still unclear how mitting system could back­ al process for renewable ommendation on rules is to speed deployment of identify which venue they Michigan’s new siting law fire and slow the energy tran- projects in their community likely by June 21. renewable energy by shifting want to follow,” Kaufman will function. ultimate permitting authority said Thursday. For instance, the law lim­ 213326 GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP from local governments to Hundreds of localities its how much noise wind and the commission, which over­ across Michigan have devel- solar developments can emit. sees utilities. oped local ordinances about where they can be located Democratic lawmakers wind and solar development. and how they must be built. The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to pushed for the change, which consider the following request: Few would comply with But the law doesn’t specify applies to solar and energy the new law, said University who will enforce limits or Summary of Request: Special Use Permit to allow for 3410 square feet of residential storage projects of at least 50 of Michigan researcher identify who will train local accessory buildings. megawatts, and wind proj- Sarah Mills, who directs the emergency crews for potenProperty Address: 9889 East Paris Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 ects of at least 100 mega- Center for Empowering tial disasters. Parcel Number: 41-22-26-400-009 watts, in hopes of circum- Communities at the Graham “Who’s going to do the Applicant: Steven & Judy Redmond venting local resistance that Sustainability Institute. day-to-day monitoring of has tanked large energy proj­ Date and Time of Hearing: March 28th, 2024 at 7:00 pm Because many municipali- the project and making sure ects across the state. ties hire consultants to write it’s staying in compliance Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room The move is controver­ 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 sial, and an effort is under­ Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA way to repeal the law request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department BOARD OF TRUSTEES window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this through a ballot initiative. request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org . To be Opponents contend the law entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5 00 PM on undercuts Michigan’s long March 28th, 2024. The minutes for the February 7,2024 Township Board of Trustees tradition of local control Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) Meeting which were approved on February 21,2024, are posted at over land use. the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. In the past, local govern at www.caledoniatownship.org. nients had broad authority ^11 to --------- ------------------------ A' f I i I I .I 5 I E I I I 1 I I <1-. .. • 'C I • 5T •A -----st I I J t X £ ¥ J. I I. i 1 «I 9 r I • I 1 V **p <4 A r 4 • '.□LJ 1*9 ■ I .I I V V* I r ! 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' w r. vx I.. ■ • * *"% I pMv f. t *« * 1 • • A* V I )e u* ki.- 4 ■• 9 I s * nsstotoei D .3k. fl j: avj» V X RiwAa ■.T-’ -4 W W* r w ’fZ I ** a Mate! Io si fialDiitris ' U’. Il k » i » J, t I »•. i’/i; r 1 j •l I R jal '2225. « ItfT. gij a F jn£®^ bi sta II’. S)® i ' .»f ■ > r wild I >« I ' JI it!l I NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Meeting Minutes * I » * f , �Page 12/Tbe Sun and News, Saturday, March 9,2024 Comeback comes up just short ffot Scotsin district I*’ >^1 I -4R / Brett Bremer Sports Editor Caledonia senior Mackenzie IXvries knew what she had to do, but she clearly didn't want to. She pounced to try and pry the basketball away from East Grand Rapids* Bree ken Grashuis and the whistle blew. Devries clasped her hands on top of her head and made it a few .steps towards the bench before the emotion of the moment really hit her face. The hand at the scorer’s table held up all five fingers as Devries stood in the arms of her head coach Todd Bloemers with 42.8 seconds left and her Caledonia varsity girls’ bas­ ketball team trailing East Grand Rapids by four. Her varsity basketball time was through. Grashuis hit her two free throws and the Scots didn’t score again as the Pioneers earned a spot in Friday’s MHSAA Division 1 District Final back in Lowell with a 39-31 win. Devries had six points. Junior guard Lily Gortmaker had a team-high ten points in the loss, with eight of those coming in the fourth quarter, Kayla Briseno and Kathryn Langenburg added five points apiece for the Scots. East Grand Rapids was led by center Sienna Gills’ 15-point performance, and her team was 17-of-22 at the free throw line for the night. The Pioneers made more free throws than the Scots shot. Fouling at the end to keep hope alive was only necessary because of all the hard work the Caledonia girls did to dig out of a 17-3 hole they created I* ♦ f •l*. ar 4' ! I . A '4 --------- * - < k- 1 ■ r t ' K J A Z ■ r iu *7 ,z A 7 « * . A? . * 1 . t--*. '' k < ..l< I L ' *■ FL T A r * f. JC I p T k ' V 1 i A' 4i» 1 ft kJ Wk * ? » lv\ •*“ it z 4 I ■f* 1 Ik 6 I 1 ■z J r < ( J tia?- 9 1* • 1 * 9 A ' » 1 * { < t1 r s Caledonia junior guard Lily Gortmaker (15) elevates in the paint over Ottawa Hills’ Semaj’ Robertson (10) and Gianna Ladomato-Fisher(11) in the first round of the MHSAA Division 1 state tournament at Caledonia High School Monday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Scots’ Lakely The Bottum(34) goes up strong to the basket between defenders Bengals Jadelyn Cooke-Towsel(5) and Gianna LadomatoFisher (11 )during their dis­ trict opener at Caledonia High School Monday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Briseno snagged the rebound. Devries had a good chance inside, but it wouldn’t fall and things just didn’t play out in favor of the Scots the rest of the way. East Grand Rapids put together a 6-0 spurt and went 9-of-10 at the free throw line in the last five minutes to seal it. “I was so proud of the way the kids responded,” Bloemers said. “We have six seniors on this roster, and whether they have been in the starting line­ up or kids that don’t receive very much playing to, they’re just all so special to the pro­ gram and to us as coaches. I just really wanted to go out there and finish the season strong and get this win for them and for our program. “I thought the way we played in quarters two through four, we played like winners. Our effort. Our attitude. Our focus was phenomenal and I am just kind of sad that we didn’t have a little more than 32 minutes to play tonight, because it would have been nice to see what we could have done.” Those six Caledonia seniors include Devries, Mackenzie Myers, Teresa Abraham, Addie Rapa, Sarah Kirk, Addie Roe and Teresa Abraham. Caledonia ends the season with a 6-18 record. Caledonia got to the district semifinal with a 56-36 win over Ottawa Hills in the first round of the state tournament Monday at Caledonia High School. f i r *1 ^sitshi^s tnc«^!t^ts»»S > .J J I I t I Caledonia senior Mackenzie Devries gets a hug from head coach Todd Bloemers after fouling out in the fourth quarter of her team’s district loss to East Grand Rapids at Lowell High School Wednesday, (Photo by Brett Bremer) for themselves in the opening quarter. “Call it the jitters, call it whatever. It is not the first time it has happened to us,” Caledonia head coach Todd Bloemers said. “One of my fears as a coach was that we might be a little bit nervous. We might struggle a little bit just to settle in early. East Grand Rapids does play at a pace that is very high in transition and then they’re going to come around and pressure you. 1 was just hoping that we would take two or three possessions to kind of adjust to that style, and unfortunately it took us the majority of the first quarter.” With an 8-0 run in the middie of the third quarter the Scots had the Pioneer lead down to 23-19. They got as close as three points a few times in the fourth quarter, even with the ball in their hands and a chance to get closer. Freshman Kayla Briseno provided a spark. She had a steal and a bucket that got the Pioneer lead down to single digits for the first time in the second half, and she knocked down a three-pointer with two minutes to go in that third quarter which was the basket that put the scoreboard at 23-19. East Grand Rapids managed to score just four points against the Caledonia defense in the third quarter. Grashuis hit a couple free throws early in the quarter and managed to score her team’s only field goal of the quarter as the clock ticked under a minute to go in the third. The Scots had the deficit at 25-19 going into the fourth quarter. Sophomore workout warrior Jolie King battled for an offensive rebound after a missed free throw, the CHS defense forced a ten-second call against the Pioneers and Gortmaker hit a three off a nice feed from junior center Lakely Bottum to get the Scots within 26-23 with just under six minutes to play. Bottum also led a Caledonia defense in the paint in the second half that proved veiy adept at blocking shots. Bottum got an and-one opportunity with 5:12 to go, scoring inside to make it a 28-25 ballgame. Her free throw was off its mark, but 0 « I xZ 9 I 4 jlf) (1 f > / Ml* ■if! /9 ^^405 3 4 yussi® I I ItioH aiw CHS senior pair cioses year bowiing in DI State Finais .jSilfc Brett Bremer Sports Editor Caledonia seniors Kala Bisterfeldt and Emma Whitman finished off their varsity bowling time at the MHSAA Division 1 Girls’ Singles Finals Saturday at Thunderbowl Lanes in Allen Park. Bisterfeldt placed 22nd in qualifying, just 42 pins behind the last of the 16 match play qualifiers after the six games. Whitman was just a little bit back in 45^^ place. Bisterfeldt had a high game of 245, a total surpassed by only four of the top 16 during the qualifying. She also had high games of 184 and 196 to close out her day with an overall total pinfall of 1,103. Whitman had a total pinfall of 988 with high games of 202 and 186. L’Anse Creuse North senior Haley Streatmans was the last of the match play qualifiers from the group of 56 girls at the finals. She had a final pinfall of 1,155. Rockford freshman Sofia DeLuccia was at the top of the qualifying list. She outscored Flushing senior Hannah Reid 226-214 in the last of the qualifying games to move to the to with an overall pinfall of 1,338. Reid was right behind at 1,333. The 16 bowlers in match play each rolled two games in each round to determine a head to head wiimer. Reid rolled her way into the finals where she was bested by just three pins by Holt sophomore Emma Cadwell. Reid took a 216-158 lead in the first game ofthe final round, but Cadwell rallied to win the state cham­ pionship by outscoring Reid 204-143 in game two. Utica Eisenhower junior Dylan Hamden beat out Grand Haven junior Ben Prokopoek in the finals of the boys’ DI Singles Finals Saturday. The day before, Friday, March 1, Zeeland East won the DI Girls’ Team Bowling Championship and the Grandville boys’ team rolled its way to a state title. ■litA ill 1 V 9 GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP I 213329 GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Stoneco 2023 Annual Review Property Address: 1856 100th Street SE Parcel Number: 41-22-33-100-022 Applicant: Garrett Singer, Stoneco Date and Time of Hearing: March 28th, 2024 at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. 213328 I NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Use Permit to allow for a 4,040 square foot accessory building in the Agricultural/Rural Residential (A-R) zoning district. Property Address: 8808 Eastern Avenue SE, Byron Center, Ml 49315 Parcel Number: 41 -22-20-300-050 Applicant: Matthew VanNoord Date and Time of Hearing: March 28th, 2024 at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planninq Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information .u- ......... ■wvaik.u III me kjaiiics vriaricr lownsnip unices. For information relat­ ed to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.orq. entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5 00 PM on March 28th, 2024. sf Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request rnay be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planninq Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to thk request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or ’ ormaiion related to this or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments ■ must be received by 5:00 PM on March 28th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should ------1 , opcuiai duuurrimoaaTions snould contact Kim Triolett at 69M640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any otheZLSni ’ (5 i 5 �I I k' It District host Loweii knocks TK from tournament 2024/ Page 13 Brett Bremer i/- free throw line. The Arrows ■ T™—--------------------- K Sports Editor also got 15 points from Piper Lowell watched Caledonia Risdon. k 111 rally out of a 17-3 hole in the Baker proved nearly imposr* 2 fl first quarter to make a game of sible to contain in the half­ it in the end against East Grand court, but the Red Arrows did a Rapids in the first MHSAA lot of scoring in transition too. 4 Division 1 District Semifinal “ Slow Braxcynn down, ” SI contest at the home of the Red was the game plan according Arrows Wednesday. to James. “She is averaging The Red Arrows didn’t let 24.6 points per game. We that happen when they took wanted to keep her 15 I or their turn against the below. She got 25. The little Thomapple Kellogg varsity mental lapses. We knew that file girls’ basketball team. The she wanted to pound it twice Arrows the do her spin move and go to the Red put Sto, Ik Thomapple Kellogg girls in middle. We saw that coming, an early hole, but never but its hard to stop, and hard to relented in a 55-20 win. mimic when we don’t have Lowell built a 17-3 lead in that in practice.” the first quarter and then upped The plan was to keep the its lead to 26-6 by the end of Red Arrows from hitting too that first eight minutes. many threes too, but the Lowell “That is a really good girls were able to penetrate well team,” Thomapple Kellogg enough and get to the basket head coach Brandi James said. Jha, a,ey didn’t need ,o attentp, “That is the team that I see us too many deep shots. being in the future. That was TK did most of its scoring four girls out of their five start­ from behind the three-point ers have been on varsity since line. Openings on the offen­ ill Ofajii they were freshmen, they’re sive end were few and far all going to go play collegiate between inside against the big­ basketball next year. They re a ger and more experienced Red really, really good team. We Arrows. The Trojans’ first 12 knew that. I had a page and a points of the game came on e half of notes, but there is only threes, three by junior guard so much you can do. They’re Emma Geukes and one from really good. We’re really Lydia Schilthroat. young. That was a rough way While certainly not any ffits «iil to end, but it was a really great easier in the long run than a 'Sa season.” close loss, the Trojans ’ senior • ml Braxcynn Baker powered moments at the end were a the Red Arrows putting in 25 little more celebratory with points. She was 8-of-8 at the the sideline rooting for guard r »I !• 9 1-/ W .*W ♦ A*’ ■ V * rib I s 1 1 II WA s~ • Mr •' 5 I w 1 S* . ► s Or 9 f t • k-‘ I »I *ss.. 4 * t 4 * A tf IF £1 *<,. i I iSfc f * 1 w • L > 4 4 A ? ^ii5 fl 511, ^11 L r * r * ” I J I G r I i ' .« I . A, I "if IF’ P I 11 ♦ 1 i g jifeM 7 I / V * A * — - ’ k A I* Ml i- -iF-- Ellie Harmon goes up with a shot during the fourth quarter of the Trojans’ loss to host Ao^" ^ the _. . . uweii in me MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinals Wednesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Katie Comeau to put the ball in the basket at every opportumty as she worked in the fourth quarter to close out the game with classmates Eva Corson and Brittney Roodvotes. A handful of TK youngsters got some late var­ sity action too. “Even though they didn’t get much time, they have very high basketball I.Q.,” James said of her seniors. “Brittney dissected film on Lowell and was directing them during practice yesterday. She knew what this team was going to do. She really contributed as much as she could, even from the bench. Katie, the same thing, high basketball I.Q., and positive all the time. “Eva played really hard all the time, and she didn’t really complain when her playing time started to diminish in the end. They led with positivity and with good leadership. They did what good leaders do, which is sacrifice their TK senior guard Katie Comeau attacks the basket during the second half of the Trojans’ district semifi­ nal ballgame at Lowell Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) own wants for what the team needed.” Geukes finished with 12 points for TK. No one else for the Trojans made more than one basket. TK ends the season with an 11-13 record. The 15-8 East Grand Rapids Pioneers and 16-7 Red Arrows were scheduled to tip-off their MHSAA Division 1 District Final back at Lowell High School Friday night, March 8. The winner advances to the regional tournament being hosted by Hudsonville next week. East Grand Rapids took a 60-49 win in Lowell the first time the two teams met this season in OK White play, and the Red Arrows answered with a 53-30 win at East Grand Rapids High School two weeks ago. Lowell was sec­ ond and East Grand Rapids third in the conference this winter behind the Byron Center Bulldogs. First season of Gars’ swim ends with two aii-ieague guys 1^11 I Ulaid ta )■ h iiiiiitUA I u rdi y Mk ft ZkW&ibi Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thomapple Kellogg juniors Hunter Tietz and Nolan Send swam their way to all-confer­ ence honors competing for the Grand Rapids Gars at the 2024 OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Championship Feb. 23-24 at Byron Center High School. Tietz took the conference championship in the 100yard backstroke swimming a lis'taWi slip ai k personal best time of 58.29 seconds Saturday, Feb. 24. That was about two seconds faster than his runner-up time in the prelim’s the day before. Tietz was also the fifthplace medalist in the confer­ ence in the 200-yard individu­ al medley, combining his backstroke with the breast stroke, butterfly and freestyle he swam to a time of 2 min­ utes 15.36 seconds. Send placed fourth in that W»''!Ss.*»| ‘ p «.. 4 A ’KT s O'? ■» . t J* WL. 'T-; > « " » •WWW"*'*” ' -V ^1 .1 J f .1 I 1 r 1 I I I 0” gor « 4■ I * 4 r' w .I • . . * ' ••I F ’« •< jigljsWl .1. I d <4 I ? 2 ■ <1 A b .-ri 9.' I • *1 • r -^4 • * .♦ ;> •> ft* w s T ** .*• ' I> ----- «r. .I®’ ' •• F »- ■P * 1 I «' * F* •« • .M.. 1 8^: • "Tik. •» * ■*. < * I/- • 41^ r I af(61® I laflce. * J * Juniors Nolan Send (left) and Hunter Tietz (right) are joined by their Grand Rapids Gars head coach DJ Cochrane as they celebrate their all-conference per- formances at the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Meet at Byron Center High School Saturday, Feb. 24. 100-yard backstroke race with a time of 1:02.80 and also was fourth in the 500-yard free­ style with a time of 5:41.64. The Gar foursome of Send, Tietz, Ethan Magnuson and Caden Bliek placed fifth in the 200-yard freestyle relay as well with a time of 1:42.41. The Gars, the co-op with TK, Hopkins, Unity Christian and West Catholic, finished fifth in the day’s five-team standings. Ottawa Hills took the conference championship on the day with an overall score of 449 points ahead of Wayland 413, Grand Rapids Union 402, Grand Rapids Catholic Central 348 and the Grand Rapids Gars 158. The Gars also had TJ Myers place seventh in the weekend’s diving competition and Magnuson place tenth. Catholic Central senior Will Schwallier won the con­ ference championship in the diving with an overall sore of 530.35 points, finishing more than 200 points ahead of Union sophomore Major Vance who was the run­ ner-up. Ottawa Hills finished off its championship meet victory by beating out the Union four­ some in the 400-yard freestyle relay for first with a time of 3:25.04. The Bengal team of Ryan Yon, Wyatt Jacques, Matias Rizkalla and Juan Huner got that win. Send and everyone else were chasing a pair of Bengals in the 500-yard freestyle. Bengal freshman Jacques won the race in 5:13.15 and junior teammate Elias Morgan was the runner-up in 5:31.14. Their senior teammate Dominik Lamberts won ±e 100-yard breaststroke in 1:09.16. Wayland won the meets other two relay titles, the 200yard medley relay and the 200-yard freestyle relay. Union senior Caileb Austin won the 200-yard individual medley in 2:06.66 and the 100yard butterfly championship in 54.75. His senior teammate Wyatt Dixon won the 50-yard freestyle title in the conference with a time of 22.14. Wayland senior Henry Oudbier outdid Dixon in the 100-yard freestyle with a time of 48.76. Dixon fm- ished that race in 50.51 in the runner-up spot. The Gars’ team also got scoring performances at the conference championship in ‘B’ Final races from Haiden Bruggink, Bliek and Ben Wohlford. COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the February 13, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on February 28, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villaqeofmiddleville.orq. GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP 213327 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Use Permit to allow for operation of a landscape business in the Agricultural/Rural Residential (A-R) zoning district. Property Address: 8808 Eastern Avenue SE, Byron Center, Ml 49315 Parcel Number: 41-22-20-300-050 Applicant: Matthew Van Noord Date and Time of Hearing: March 28th, 2024 at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5 00 PM on March 28th, 2024. r Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. * 4 / I 1 t ’ I I > �Page 14/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 9, 2024 Last one, best one for TK at Cheer Finals V A Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans took their one last chance to make their mark on the 2023-24 varsity competitive cheer season and made it count. Senior Kenady Smith said the Thomapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team is a superstitious bunch. The Trojans take to singing a bit of ‘Now or Never’ before the start of round three each competi­ tion. “The line is, ‘history will know who we are, Smith said. “We always just belt that out. It is always so big. We are singing, dancing, high energy, like we want to be here. And we’re here.” “Here” was McGuirk Arena on the campus of Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant for the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Finals Saturday afternoon, and the TK ladies left their mark by putting up their highest score of the 2023-24 sea­ son, 769.00 points, which put them in sixth place overall at the finals. They were almost seven points better than they were at the 2022-23 finals when they placed fifth, and they were just eight hundredths of a point behind their 5^^ PUBLIC NOTICE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS February 12,2024 The Gaines Charter Township Board held a regular meeting on Monday, February 12, 2024 and took the following actions. 1. Reviewed the Consent Agenda. 2. Approved the Meeting Agenda 3. Approved the Consent Agenda 4. Approved the Road Closure Request for the 2024 Diemer 5K 5. Extended the Metro Act contract to 2029 6. Approved the utility bill re­ lief request for 1024 Harvester in the amount of $550.55 7. Approved the utility bill re­ lief request for 1359 Penncross in the amount of $613.47 8. Approved the private road waiver request for 933 76’'^ Street 9. Approved the platted parcel division for 559 68*^ Street 10. Accepted the recommendation of the Planning Com­ mission and approve the Cooks Crossing Enclave Site Condo­ minium preliminary site plan with conditions noted 11. Accepted the 2023 Plan­ ning Department Annual Report as submitted 12. Discussed the increase in Kent County Sheriff Department calls to Pine Rest Christian Men­ tal Health Services. 13. Adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 8:13 pm A complete copy of the min­ utes of these meetings and any resolutions or ordinances adopt­ ed at the meeting are on file and available for review at the Gaines Charter Township office, 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledo­ nia, Michigan 49316. Ordinanc­ es, meeting schedules, meeting minutes, and other Township information are also available at www.gainestownship.org. Michael Brew ' Gaines Charter Township Clerk co-champions in the OK Gold Conference from Cedar Springs who man­ aged a final tally of 769.08 to finish fifth. “We always peak, at dis­ tricts or at regionals and then we come and swallowed up in this big arena and get swallowed up by these big huge teams and whatever. They didn’t do that,” TK head coach Madelynn Lula said. “They went out there and they peaked at the state finals. They went out there and did exactly what I asked them to do. They did exactly what I asked them to do. They went out there and got the highest scores of the season.” The Trojans tallied their top round one and round two scores and their top overall score too. Round three was less than half a point off their best score of the year, and coach Lula was thrilled to see scores of 9.9 and 10 from judges for their overall impression in that final round. Their final round three score was 315.40. “Unbelievable,” Lula said. In round three. the Trojans outscored the team from Carleton Airport that won the state runner-up tro phy. They outscored the defending state champions from Gibraltar-Carlson. They outscored all three of the competitors from their west side regional - Cedar * 1 ^5* •w TK . A •5 * \ t 4 'I 'T JV > F 1• C #* 4 r/ 5 r •t. <■ w w r i 1 L * ip- T: t t , * I t > I ;.1 . .J k ’ ♦ 1 f 1 > I •4 t .t 4 S. k »• y J H I hl 1V * 1 I I J n * It a: *1 b hF. * '■y-r *\ ’J 9i. t J J A J I.? M* a. i •v ,-a ■M J r bl . A ♦ .4 a*"? r L I V. Y, •K * * -.<§ ■ I r The Thornapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team is welcomed to the mat at the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Finals inside Central Michigan University’s McGuirk Arena in Mt. Pleasant Saturday, March 2. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Springs, Reeths-Puffer and Plainwell. Only the state champions from Allen Park and the Dearborn Divine Child girls that placed third overall were better than TK in round three. “That is exciting to me. Little wins,” Lula said. “We knew we weren’t coming to win the mitten. Of course, we would love to, but we knew where we stood. We had to go out there and perform, and have our best day, and our best rounds, '■4* J. I wRMne 4 »• w’ - I * PA _ s g 9. .• li TO* *»•» I •er z "4 5* KiiB> w "m- • V I 1 I 213331 1 9 fl) eOOA •ewOMWI HAS m wm w r»A rtom T NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MONDAY, MARCH 25, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. Please be advised the Thornapple Township Planning Commission will hold public hearings on March 25, at 7pm or as soon thereafter as pos­ sible. The public hearings will take place in the Township Hall, 200 E. Main St., Middleville. The public hearings will address the following; Thornapple Kellogg senior Kenady Smith looks on from he background and applauds as the Allen Park varsity competitive cheer team celebrates its state championship at the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Finals inside Central Michigan University’s McGuirk Arena in Mt. Pleasant Saturday, March 2. (Photo by Brett Bremer) and our best feeling, and we did all of that.” Gibraltar Carlson and Allen Park have won the past 17 MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer champi­ onships, with one school or the other finishing second nine times during that stretch. Gibraltar Carlson has won the title 11 times in those 17 seasons and Allen Park girls made it six cham­ pionships in that span of dominance since 2008. Allen Park won with an overall score of 793.34. Carleton Airport took the 1) Special Use #167 — Applicant Keri Case wishes to start a homebased business for raising/selling feed­ er insects. The residence is located at 4573 Bender Rd, Middleville, Ml (parcel 08-14-021-014-20) per Thornapple Township Zoning Ordinance 5.3 (j). Any interested person may attend the public hearings to learn about the extent and location of Special Use requests to offer comments to the Planning Com­ mission. A copy of the application noted above may be examined in the Township offices at the address noted above during regular business hours. Monday - Thursday 9am- 4pm Written comments regarding these applications may be addressed to: Secretary Sandy Rairigh, Thornapple Township Planning Commission, P.O. Box 459, Middleville, Ml 49333, or submitted via email to: zoning-administrator@thornapple-twp.org Americans with Disabilities Notice Persons with special access needs should contact the Township Clerk at 269-795-7202 no less than 72 hours before the hearings. Cindy Ordway, Thornapole Township dark • 4* NOTHIN’ BUT A GOOD TIME (6 'A lou 4 K ri MONTELL JORDAN, ALL 4 ONE, C&C MUSIC FACTORY & COLOR ME BADD FRIDAY, MARCH 8 BIG & RICH SATURDAY, MARCH 16 RODNEY CARRINGTON FRIDAY, APRIL 5 Tickets available now at the RreKeepers Box Office or FireKeepersCasino.com. iWfc firekeepebs 11^ ’W JV CASINOtHOTEL BATTLE BATTLE GET YOUR viSfiFON TW CBEEK CMEEK 1-94 to Exit 104 1 11177 Michigan Avenue | Battle Creek, Ml 49014 runner-up spot with 779.92 points ahead of Dearborn Divine Child 779.84, Gibraltar Carlson 778.10, Cedar Springs 769.08, TK 769.00, Plainwell 762.06 and Reeths-Puffer 745.02. “It is crazy, and I am so happy that we peaked and got our highest at state,” Smith said. The TK ladies didn’t just close strong. They started strong and had a great mid­ dle portion too. Coach Lula was looking for performance, punch and pas­ sion in round one, and she got it from her girls who earned a score of 230.90. “They looked like they loved what they were doing and that was the difference,” Lula said. “In round two, I made it a point to say, ‘listen you have to go out there and stick your skills. If you do that you will be undeniably above 220, you will.’ They did that. They went out there and they drilled their feet into the ground and they spread those Must be 21 or older. Tickets based on availability. Schedule subject to change. See CHEER, next page *V * » « *' I’X s 5 A 4 4 I ' I 1 « . H■ * s a.' �CHEER, continued from previous 1 f I k s', ff j >1 fl page toes to make sure they didn’t formance, that played a big move, and they did their job. part in the day’s final standThat is all I can ask for as a mgs. Gibraltar Carlson was coach. Today was exception­ in second place, .54 behind al. I am so proud of my ath­ Allen Park heading into letes.” round three, but a stunt group The TK ladies had a score came crashing down during of 222.70 in round two. their .^^^u round three routine Smith said she felt like she forcing an eight-point deducwas much more present men­ tion that really hurt null Carlson van son ’ s tally at this year s finals. The chances of keeping pace with excitement and adrenaline Allen Park. left her barely remembering The other biggie was the what had happened at the round two score for the end of the 2023 finals. Cedar Springs girls - 228.68. There were two stunning TK ladies were pretty scores, aside from TK’s per- happy to boost their round two score from regionals by a httle over two points. The Red Hawks upped their game to improve on their round two score from regionals by more than six points. T roj an senior Mali HollAnd got up out of the circle of her teammates as the Red Hawks’ final tally was read with all the teams gathered on the mat and then plopped down laying on her back as the numbers sank in. Finishing .08 behind the Red Hawks was just about the —-V - The Sun and News, Saturday, March 9, 2024/ Page 15 only thing for the Trojans to feel any kind of disappoint­ ment in all day long. The only other thing to feel bittersweet about was the meet being the last for a group of Trojan seniors who have been a part of a few of the best competitive cheer seasons, if not the best, ever at TK “They are so ruthless, in a good way,’’ Lula said of her seniors. “They are ruthless. and they are gritty, and they have been so dedicated from the veiy beginning ... 1 almost feel like they created •*s •’X. * III r* •T-. ■ -A I * f . .T s.* ^5’ * I •i • d' 1 & 4 ■» ■■ I « J I • 1 jm * *. 56 ♦ *4 L I i ----I -S>' I ** « « f. TT '€ *■ 5" * * j I K,. ¥ ■c < ."5, I /f r S'* p •^i= iSS '^4-^2 . •1 1 • **rwqi* 5a: i-. >' •s? I e; d* • a. ft. •A f’ Biomapple Kellogg flyers Claira Kovich and Ava Jahnke are held up by their bases (from lefQ Ella LeClaire, Madita Boppel, Emilie Landry and Keiryn Merrill as they all shout out to the crowd during round three of the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Finals at Central Michigan University’s McGu irk Arena Saturday, March 2. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 7 fg r I• & 4 a *4^ r * tackground teestestai! 4 ■K \ -• n»; a -A*. •. * 4 i J(O 9 J M.t. rt2.(bi) I 4 r 4 V. * • 4? J - •t* *1 Spot mil 7?W ad of W«t!i flili IM, farta M Igi Mil limtll M IfiG jjaflas) ijpedtiliiii Ml! Kil 11 stilt' fcft'ljm L J V !*- 7 4 r 13451 V. • r i $ I k’ • s I ' As I 1 1 MIDDLEVILLE VILLAGE RESIDENTS 11 The Annual Spring Cleanup is Saturday, March 23, 2024. You can start placing items at the curb beginning March 16. This is for Village residents only. iwl Ti I* Q West Ottawa won the two freestyle relay races at the end of the meet, the 200-yard race and the 400-yard race, but it was the Grandville Bulldogs who opened the meet with a victory in the 200-yard medley relay thanks to a time of 1:36.28 from Jackson Merkel, Ty Vanderwall, Oliver Ottenwess and Tanner Koster that beat out the Panther foursome in the race by a little over half a second. Merkel won two individual events too taking the 100yard backstroke in 50.98 and the 100-yard butterfly in 51.58. Rockford’s Will Cheney was the meet’s top sprinter winning the 50-yard free­ style in 20.94 and the 100yard freestyle in 46.69. West Ottawa’s Joseph Engle won the 200-yard freestyle in 1:42.30 and the 500-yard freestyle in 4:38.43. Engle, Luke Catton, Reese Jungblut and Brody and Menghini won the 400-yard freestyle relay for West Ottawa in 3:10.58. The team of Jungblut, Catton, Menghini and Owen Carlson won the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:26.99. Carlson and Menghini had opened the meet with a 1-2 finish in the 200-yard individual medley. Carlson won that race in 1:58.65 and Menghini finished in 1:59.58. Rockford senior Julian Cardenas took the diving competition with a score of 5 14.05 points. Carter VanSprange from Hudsonville was the runner-up nearly 50 points back. 1 I ♦ k •» eafiri liieit®’* Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian’s Luke DeJager met the DI state qualify ing50 time with a swim of 22.59 seconds in the 50-yard freestyle at the OK Red Conference Championship Meet hosted by Hudsonville the weekend of Feb. 22-24 and is in Auburn Hills this weekend for the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Boys’ Swimming and Diving Finals at Oakland University. DeJager had the Uvo top eight finishes for the CLS team against the biggest swim squads in the Grand Rapids Area that last week­ end of Februaiy. He turned that preliminary time into a fifth-place finish in the finals. He swam to a time of 22.68 in the championship race Feb. 24. DeJager also placed seventh in the 100-yard butterfly at the conference meet with a time of 55.41 seconds. The CLS team had a coupie other guys reach B Finals. Sam Jones placed 16th in the 200-yard fi-eestyle with his time of 1 minute 58.79 seconds. Nolan Fitzgerald was 16th in the 100-yard butterfly in 59.92 seconds, Teammate Anders Foerch placed 16th in the 500-yard fi'eestyle in 5:33.44. CLS also had foursomes place eighth in all three relay races. State powerhouse West Ottawa once again claimed the conference championship with an overall score of 455 points. Rockford was second with 302 points ahead of Grandville 287, Grand Haven 256, Hudsonville k 1 s« • • t lileW Sports Editor 249, Jenison 246.5, East Kenhvood 219.5 and CLS 94. VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN v'c ■ aslA*'’ jiijjfpi- Brett Bremer 13411 Thornapple Kellogg senior Mali Holland and sophomore Payton Gater perform during round one of the MHSAA Division 2 Competitive Cheer Finals at Central Michigan University’s McGuirk Arena Saturday, March 2. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I t? jtflUill- 4* mini next generations of themselves. They have total­ ly, 100 percent taken them under their wing and not only athletically. They know how to lead kids and what is expected of our program. My seniors are exceptional.” The Trojan senior group includes Kenady Smith, Holland, Ana Jo Smith, Ava Jahnke and Emilie Landry, as well as exchange students Madita Boppel, Martine Christensen, Nina Durikova and Aurora Sisto. With a big sophomore group and some talented juniors, coach Lula sees her program remaining strong for years to come. The state champs will likely be strong for years to come too. Allen Park had scores of 238.40 in round one and 232.54 in round two. Those were the top scores in each of those rounds. They finished off with the top round three tally too at 322.40. The runner-up Carleton Airport team had scores of 235.00 in round one, 229.82 in round two and 315.10 in round two. The Cedar Springs girls added scores of 229.70 in round one and 310.70 to their big round two score. The TK girls will have to find a new conference rival next winter as the Red Hawks are exiting the OK Conference for the River City Alliance. DeJager medals in 100-fly and 50-free at conference meet Visit our Facebook page or website at www.villageofmiddleville. org for more information regarding items that are allowed and not allowed. Notice of Adoption of Village Ordinance and Summary of the Regulatory Effect Thereof PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on February 28, 2024, the Village Council of the Village of Middleville adopted Ordinance No. 2137 (the “Ordinance”), amending Section 78.04 thereof, the Village Zoning Map, to rezone the following described lands within the Village. The principal provisions of the amending ordinance are as follows: Section 1. Rezoning of Lands. Section 1 of the Ordinance rezones a parcel commonly referred to as 36 State Street (Parcel No. from the I-l Light Industrial District to Transitional Industrial (TI) District). Section 2. Effective Date. The amending ordinance will become effective on March 16, 2024. A copy of the ordinance may be examined or purchased at the offices of the Middleville Village Clerk, 100 East Main Street, Middleville, Michigan, during Village office hours. Dated: February 28, 2024 VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE f I I I f t I I I I J • I I r �I I. 4 * ( I I I Page 16/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 9, 2024 . /■ ■ ■■ ■ TK can’t quite reach second day of state wrestling finals < I I i .'M.’P 1 f I •l 4 • r t / ■ Vf . n * a? I r 1 •5 I 3 •3%. * b L"^ jS^a. * .jFJ •i-. A ( 1 p.'. ♦z % ?? I • .z ".I r 1 k *U r I If « A I F X •l» .R^ . ♦ vV x> I t I ♦ > >e; > ♦r r’ ♦ «** I* iw ' R < r I Al -r' 7/ > ) $• ? .V, • . s r ' I, V,' I <1 I c Je V k X . I I •l 1 «< * I f/ k- » 4 ih I k \kZ V, 4 firC _V; M .1 d t I ♦K* Wl J c* >» a 4w ^•9 ' I J I.. 1 I k.*- * .f irr S| •A r 4^ f X«'« . 4, I K^: *4 <:b I A 4* * k u ‘tit- '■ >■ fp 5^; p 4*. lb’> '♦.i; *1 >■ 4 d ? /d k r Thornapple Kellogg freshman Rylee Alberts works to pin Warren Mott’s Makayla Perdue-Daniels during their opener in the Girls’ 125-pound weight class Friday, March 1, at the MHSAA Individual Wrestling Finals hosted by Ford Field in Detroit. (Photo by Brett Bremer) hll lA. •/ A > h. l-s • » 17^3^ 4. .• V i i. /t • y A I r I j f I 1 I I ) - • I I 4 I I -I Thornapple Kellogg junior Jayce Curtis looks for an opening against Southgate Anderson’s Lavelle Hughes during their opening round match in Division 2’s 165-pound weight class at the MHSAA Individual Wrestling Finals hosted by Ford Field in downtown Detroit Friday, March 1. Curtis earned a pin in the third period of their bout, but fell in his next two matches the finals. (Photo by Brett Bremer) > Sa >1*1 their first state finals com­ It was the final win of the petition, as was junior weekend for Curtis who fell teammate Raini Braska in to Fenton senior Ben Triola the Girls’ 115-pound weight in their quarterfinal match, class. TK junior Emma 7-1. Triola went on to evenGibson, making her second tually place third at their state finals appearance, was weight class. also competing in the 125Curtis went on to the pound Girls’ bracket with blood round, the second Alberts. round of consolation where Twice Curtis turned the winners guarantee Southgate Anderson’s themselves a state medal Lavelle Hughes onto his and their opponents see back in the second period their season come to an of their 165-pound opener. end. De La Salle Collegiate He got six nearfall points senior Joseph Montiall took for those two turns, and a 12-3 win over Curtis in then got Hughes on his that blood round match. back again in the third Curtis ends the season period and pinned him this with a 40-10 record. time. Greenville senior Naythan Dobson won the I weight class, outscoring I Allendale senior Harrison I Meekhof 5-4 in their cham* I pionship bout Saturday I 4t*.I afternoon. Triola bested Brett Bremer Sports Editor The lone member of the Thomapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team competing in the MHSAA Division 2 Individual State Finals over the weekend at Ford Field in Detroit bowed out in the blood round and that sec­ ond round of consolation was unkind to a pair of TK ladies too. Trojan junior Jayce Curtis got off to a good start in his 165-pound weight class, and TK fresh­ man Rylee Alberts won her first match too in the Girls’ 125-pound weight class. Both were competing in » * ** • • < •-A til k 5 .k. B .1 kj sf ♦ A b > ■ I ■•-r— 1. '•t' 4- • ■ f •.r * SI i I'.• -v: f «) •v .V f •• -1 I' J b ’ >r k k; > ■ifr 9 ■ ■f*'* ' V• I 1 ' t. 4 •> J hii i. ■ r FIRST BAPTIST miDDLEVILLE f £ BOT BATTLES I r ■ t- Complete Family Practice Services • On-Site Lab Services • On-Site Physical Therapy Sunday, March 17 5:30 PM Doors Open «» 6:30 Event Starts - 7:30 End 9 I I I ■ ..4.’ k • Medication Management Service t I > .*■ .3 A «» F- I I f’ ( I I » I bl Thomas M. Hoffman, M.D. 1 9" n:: Practicingfamily medicine for over 35 years ‘~^b• I 4 * •• ^5 w. It- ■I. • Grand Valley State University Preceptor Award • Governor’s Award of Excellence recipient s k * .. I I .-w I Al —s **Wm. -•r ■ Il' .'•-I.' ■ ■y J '■~^l V 4 -e, * « k I 1 1 I Della Hughes-Carter, DNP, RN, BC-GNP I Nurse Practitioner I • Focusing on Adult Medicine. Diabetes and w 1 I < e J ^1*3 .M. I « I « % Y-v* iv I .1* I .’V j«*-’ r b' I bX£ C ■ -J 'T’’ Come and watch modified remote control vehicles battle it out on our 16 X 16 ARMED BATTLE ARENA! All Ages ■ No Cost • Free Snacks • You Are Invited! Location: First Baptist Church's Willis Center gymnasium Menopause Management 9 • Board Certified Geriatric Nurse Practitioner Our reason for being here is to provide the _ _____ best personalized service / I / ■■ * i I t lV Ik (1 I -. 7 * — ' f I 1 • » Ml* I* I I I 4 J? (♦•rsar •t 1.: »* w I •h V• '4 > tp J < r i ; z. ? *( A If ’V 4 s ^l»l >> > * •4 j’ Tti •" .•r rA t I' s •l . r / •h. ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS 1 i > X * -■ ■ A Call today for registration information (269)945-3401 s .\I37 11\\ V, Suilc Ilastiims. Ml ^1^ •, FIRST z BAPTIST I tlioffniaiimd.com FBCMIDDLEV1LLE.NET | FACEBOOK.COM/FIRSTBAPTISTMIDDLEVILLE Thornapple Kellogg junior Emma Gibson fights to try and break free from Whittemore-Prescott’s Serenity Hayes during their blood round match in the Girls’ 125-pound weight class at the MHSAA Individual Wrestling Finals hosted by Ford Field in downtown Detroit Friday, March 1. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Freeland senior Gibson Shepard 4-3 in their conso­ lation final for third place Saturday. Montilla closed the weekend sixth at their weight class. Like Curtis, Alberts and Gibson both finished the weekend with one win. Alberts was bested by DeWitt’s Jamie Cook in the quarterfinals and then got beat out 14-5 by Millington’s Emmaleigh Peters in the blood round. Gibson was pinned by Warren Mott’s Megan Melnyk in her first match, then bounced back to pin Pinconning’s Kennedy Cloutier in the first round of consolation. WhittemorePrescott’s Serenity Hayes outscored Gibson 9-3 in the blood round. Braska fell to Springport’s Kylee Grimmett and Holt’s Olivia Root in her two bouts. Lowell was once against the big winner in Division 2 at the state finals. The Red Arrows followed up their team state championship from the weekend before by having all 11 of their guys medal at the finals. Lowell’s Carter Cichocki at 120 pounds, Jarrett Smith at 106, Owen Segorski at 144 and Jackson Blum all won individual state titles. The Red Arrows also had Veronica Tapia place fourth in her girls’ 100-pound competition. % I I a « � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-03-16.pdf da9f1f1492d3eef33486667091016a12 PDF Text Text I I r * z 1 9 a 4 ■^. I * p • F Ji I.’ S• b -4 >» * * > **? I lx-:* J. “ X • '"g 1 1.* 3 f - $ t * z> •8/ z ’s’*l • /?* 4 * .* • * .t « * IJ = 4 * • . k 4 - ■ I * ■^. flfan 1~' a * ••J WB Li ►• .4 I I J <• T W f I A 1 1 f - L* ▼ w i-1 r<* ±:cflBKS i Ci i y 41 s bJ t w 4 I 1 4 ■w Z* an >1 Y ' s .Ci • > I State Street Hastings Ml 49058 J. . J Z r* r- * r I -’I • 1 Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville and Caledonia Areas No. 11/ March 16, 2024 Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. • 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 Cutlerville Fire Department to get name change ahead of pending split between Gaines and Byron townships I, Vehicies broken into 9 stoien in Middleviiie crime spree Greg Chandler Staff Writer At least 30 vehicles in four residential neighbor­ hoods in the village of Middleville were broken into, with four vehicles being stolen, during a crime spree Monday night, according to the Middleville unit of the Barry County Sheriff’s Office. That has one local resi­ dent calling for a greater police presence in the vil­ lage. Sgt. Scott Ware of the sheriff’s office Middleville unit told the Village 4 .1^ I I 4 1 ■ 146th year t t I bigger crime ring,” Ware said. The investigation is ongoing and we will be sending everything to the Prosecutor’s Office next week for review, Ware wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Ware said that one dep­ uty works in the village at night, and was on patrol in a different part of the vil lage from the subdivisions when the incidents occurred. These guys were in and out in all those neigh­ borhoods in less than an hour ... If it wasn’t for I I I I I -h I don’t think we’ve ever had four (cars) at once stolen, I don’t we’ve ever had this many houses affected. Typically they hit one neighborhood, Cutlerville/Dutton Fire Chief Ken Van Hall (right) announces service recognition awards for two recently retired firefighters on Monday. At left is one of them, Brett Holmes (Photo by James Gemmell) James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Cutlerville Fire Department will get a new name after the partnership between Byron and Gaines townships ends later this year. ; The Gaines Charter Township Board on Monday night voted 7-0 to change the name of the Cutlerville Fire Department to the Gaines I Charter Township Fire Department. Township Manager Rod Weersing said the hope is that the name change will take effect by Jan. 1, 2025. That is a poten tial date by which the part­ nership’s dissolution might be finalized. The Byron Township Board voted in July 2023 to sever the 73-year-old contact with Gaines in mutually operating the Cutlerville Fire Department. Under an intergovernmental operating agreement, the partnership must begin to officially dis­ solve within one year, by July 2024. Gaines officials said they were stunned last summer when they heard that the Byron board had voted to end the partnership. Some felt they were not given ade- w quate advance notice that Byron officials were consid­ ering it. Gaines Township Supervisor Rob DeWaard said it was “disrespectful. But Byron Township Supervisor Donald (Amos) Tillema said his township wants to have its otvn fire station in Cutlerville because Byron is one of the fast- See FIRE DEPARTMElVr, page 3 Sheriff asked to hand over voter fraud investigation fiies to speciai prosecutor, says he won’t Jayson Bussa Editor When a special prosecutor deemed there was insufficient evidence to charge Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf with a crime in August, Leaf told the Sun and News he was likely to receive a subpoena to testify in cases against those who were charged. That hunch came to frui­ tion last week when Leaf one received a subpoena that he is fighting back against. Muskegon County Prosecutor D.J. Hilson, who is acting as a special prosecu­ tor for the state in cases against three individuals accused of illegally obtaining and testing voting equip­ ment, issued a subpoena to Leaf on on Thursday, March —a,; 4. 'VCS| r ■ 'w .<• - x i*. » 'I « rsTT' 4A. “W ’ ' .J a — ?■ e I 4* S' Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf appeared in front of the Barry County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday morning sporting the department’s new black uniforms, which are a departure from the long-recog nized brown uniforms. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) IO I I 7, requesting that Leaf appear the next day and also turn over files he has compiled during his years-long investi­ gation into voter fraud. One of the individuals being charged is Stefanie Lambert, who has served as legal counsel for Leaf throughout his investigation into voter fraud, which jumpstarted following the 2020 presidential election. The subpoena Leaf received was part of the People of Stefanie Michigan vs. Lambert Former Michigan State Representative Daire Rendon and former Republican can­ didate for state Attorney General Matt DePemo are also being charged. I F t f — Scott Ware, Sergeant, Barry County Sheriffs Office I Council Tuesday night that the incidents occurred in the Seneca Ridge, Rolling Oaks, Towne Center and Misty Ridge subdivisions. “One car was recovered close by home, due to it being a non-drivable vehi­ cle, yet they managed to get it started down the road a little bit • • • One vehicle was recovered after a pursuit,” Ware said. Five subjects were iden­ tified as a result of the pursuit but no arrests have been made so far. They are from outside the Middleville area, and are said to be part of “a much 11^ ■B ■■ somebody waking up and hearing them steal their car, they would have been long gone, the pursuit would never have hap­ pened and we never would have caught somebody. When a neighborhood can help, it helps us,” Ware said. The department received video footage that was captured by at least 10 Ring home securi­ ty cameras, helping inves­ tigators identify those responsible. Ware said. Ware noted a common theme with the break-ins. See CRIME, page 2 ISBI9EM • Caledonia plans open house for proposed rental inspection program • New addition to Yankee Springs Township Hall already damaged • Prep work begins at site of Pine Rest Pediatric Center • YS board bans comrnercial short­ term rentals in residential areas • TK grad Vanstee tabt|^ as GLIAC’s top sub 1 I I t they’re in and out. This is by far the worst I’ve seen.” See LEAF, page 3 1 ♦ 1 �» t I I ( Page 2/Tbe Sun and News. Saturday, March 16, 2024 I Village of Caledonia to hold open house on proposed rental inspection program CRIME, continued from page 1 “All these were unlocked be determined by the sheriff’s vehicles and vehicles appropriate with keys (inside),” he department lieutenant and the sergeant for the said. Ware said that this is Middleville unit. It was the first update to the third time in his two years in charge of the the village’s contractual Middleville unit that his arrangement with the department has faced sherifTs department since cases of people entering 1999, when the initial cars and stealing them. contract between the two I don’t think we’ve entities was approved. ever had four (cars) at Village President Mike once stolen, 1 don’t we’ve Cramer said the village ever had this many houses needs to review the con­ affected,” he said. tract and is hopeful anoth­ Typically they hit one er deputy can be added to neighborhood, they’re in the Middleville unit in the and out. This is by far the future. “Even though we’re in worst I’ve seen.” One Misty Ridge resi- a relatively safe communi­ dent, David Sklarin, ty, take those precau­ called for an increased tions,” Cramer said. “Take police presence in the vil­ the keys inside, hide your lage in the wake of the valuables, lock your cars. crimes. Do the best you can.” “As Middleville has On a related note grown, the police pres- Tuesday, the council ence has not grown pro- approved the purchase of portionally with it. I’m a new 2024 Chevrolet here asking for your help Tahoe patrol vehicle for on behalf of our neighbor­ the sheriff’s office hood and the other Allen Middleville unit and out­ Edwin (Homes neighbor­ fitting the vehicle at a cost hoods) because we’re not to exceed $80,000. right ofrM-37. They come The village had budgeted in, they come out. We $60,000 for a new vehicle need more police, we need but rising costs made the more patrols,” Sklarin increased investment nec­ said. essary. The Village Council in “This is to give us three May 2022 approved an working patrol vehicles,” amended contract with Ware said. “The old (Ford) the sheriff’s office that Explorer that I currently called for the addition of drive, the 2015, will still another deputy to the two be owned by the village. It deputies and sergeant will become that spare/ that served the village at reserve vehicle.” that time. A new deputy The only equipment joined the department that would be salvageable earlier this year. Village from the Explorer is the Craig radar unit. Ware said. Manager Stolsonburg said. The village’s capital The agreement also improvement plan calls calls for at least 18 hours for the purchase of a new of coverage in the village patrol vehicle every two five days a week and at years and rotating older least eight hours the two vehicles out of service remaining days of the every six years, week, with the schedule to Stolsonburg said. * r Greg Chandler Staff Writer of village The Caledonia will hold an open house next month to hear comments from resi­ dents about a proposal to require landlords to reg­ ister their homes or apart­ ments with the village and have them inspected before they are allowed to be occupied. The open house has been tentatively scheduled for Monday, April 22 at 7 p.m. at the Village Hall, 250 S. Maple St. SE. “I think we’re just figuring out if this is the direc­ tion we want to go in,” Village President Jennifer Lindsey said. The council earlier this year directed Village Manager Jeff Thornton to pursue having an ordinance drawn up that would regu­ late rentals and require their inspection. Its action came after a presentation by zoning administrator Lance Gates, who shared exam­ ples of a similar ordinance now in place in the city of Cedar Springs in northern Kent County. Gates said in his presentation that the pri­ mary reason for having a rental inspection program is to assure the safety of ten­ ants. .> A '*4: .. “r SA* * w * 4 k 1 1 I ( * k I 1/ I <s I I !r K k- 4. IB 1 -p *^ar 4 4 # •V '■TT k 'j J t • r * 8^^ I * lords, we have not-so-great landlords,” Thornton said. “The problem we have is how can we be consistent holding landlords (in accountable for their prop erties).” In his presentation earlier this year. Gates said the Cedar Springs rental inspec­ tion ordinance is based on the International Property Maintenance Code, a docu­ ment Caledonia adopted in 2018. It sets forth require­ ments that a landlord must meet in order to be able to legally rent out a home or apartment. addressing everything from the size of But some landlords have spoken out against the pro­ posal, seeing it as a case of government intrusion and overreach. Thornton said the topic of rentals has come up on several occasions over the last few years, most famously in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandem­ ic, when the council held an outdoor meeting on the steps of Village Hall to allow for social distancing. Some residents complained at that meeting about noise and trash connected to rent­ al properties in the village. “We’ve got great land- STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS “It took me about a week and a half to two weeks to get the contractor out there to originally look at it. Now, it’s taken me about another week and a half to get some type of quote out of him,” Belson Belson said. said. ““II want want to to give give them the green light as soon as I possibly can because I am down to one pump in that lift station. One pump is working fine and every­ thing’s working great, until it (doesn’t).” The Grand Rapids Street lift station, which has been in operation since 1998, ser­ vices the north end of Grand Rapids Street, Crane Road and the Bryanwood development. The station pumps about 100,000 gallons of sewage a day to the wastewater treatment plant, Belson wrote in a memo to the Village Council, Meanwhile, at the Misty Ridge lift station, repairs are * t." .•7* f , . ‘ J -‘r “fc- -1^ IB— t A •4 •r / w>c 9 1 < * ■It I AT 111 > ■ 616.891.0150 www.edsbody.com K. y GOLD CLASS •rf' vNFIB .. L ■ Lesonal Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner J■ ^4 — - -1 A 0 Johnson St., Caledonia RIVER CRUISE VACATIONS Experience the beauty and history of the St. Lawrence & Ottawa on a classic Canadian riverboat. Request our free travel bmclwre^^ OPEN: M thru F 7:30 am - 5:00 pm 1 -800-267-7868 www.StLawrenceCruiseLines.com I I 1 * f I / I ( I I i 4 L « 4 9 I I 4 * « » t I' I 1 I 4 A 1 * < A < I ws 2 bedrooms to whether smoke detectors are working. Under the Cedar Springs ordinance, a property that passes inspection the first time gets a five-year certifi­ cation of rental occupancy. If a property fails inspec­ tion the first time, they are required to fix the problem, after which the property receives a three-year certif­ icate of occupancy, Gates said. Potential speakers at the open house may include Gates, as well as Fire Inspector Brad Bender of the Caledonia Township fire Department. pill \ I 4 r f I 4 » 9 k 4 » < < * I T » t r r affl mix JU aBfte? sniie Io serious M2R to." leaf also SI investigation In danming ende an individual n Haldeman, al science tetaity aloteilso expert vfitnes o! te Io Ik affita b Haifa help Dfflniiii needed to a pump that was installed in 2010. That pump was installed to address con­ stant clogging issues with the original pumps that had plagued the lift station since it opened in 1999. A second pump was upgraded in 2020. “What happens occasion ally is you have a seal that fails and allows liquid to get ... into the bearings and the shaft. Once the liquid gets in there for a little bit, it tends to take out the seals,” Belson said. * tfaujie Imp (J |{j lofag his ele a 'iifati) I® i«ii 11 ^hed as,, The bearings and the upper and lower seals will need to be replaced as part of the project. The motor in the pump was not affected by the leak, Belson said. Belson told the council he had a quote for slightly less than $7,500 to repair the pump, compared to a $ 16,200 cost for purchasing and installing a new one. ftdfot Mi •I’file si ^-’®*Oasdl ?!^iSi '*1 nd d The Misty Ridge lift sta­ tion serves the entire Misty Ridge subdivision, the south­ ern part of Broadway Street and the Thomapple Kellogg Schools Early Childhood Center. It pu^ps about 35,000 gallons of sewage a day, Belson wrote in a memo to the council. Both projects will be paid for out of the village’s sewer fund. Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said. I J'** 115 11, I I I I t 4 I I t I I I «}■ ii VJ ’’Willi ■.luuiiey] 1 5 t t ( Ui 0aD riniltlf Middleville council approves lift station repairs Frame Repair ft’ k* ED’S BODY SHOP « 1 X . 1 WMBA 1 *• Greg Chandler ing at the village’s lift station Staff Writer on Grand Rapids Street and The Middleville Village up to $8,500 more for repairs Council approved a pair of to a pump at the Misty Ridge repair projects at lift stations lift station on the village’s that funnel sewage to the west side. village’s wastewater treat­ Department of Public ment plan on Tuesday. Works Director Alec The council approved Belson told the council that spending up to $10,000 for one of the pipes at the repairing the force main pip- Grand Rapids Street lift station was found to be leaking several weeks ago. and the village got a con­ tractor in to take a look at the problem. It was discov­ ered that the leak was com­ ing from a joint where two pipes meet, and the section of pipe that needed to be replaced is underground. CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN Belson said. Belson had not yet received any quotes for the Grand Rapids Street project but said that it was important State & I-CAR Certified Technicians for the village to get the repair done as soon as possiTOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System ble. • 1 I 1 �I The Sun and News, Saturday, March 16, 2024/ Page 3 continued from page 1 I I I J a 1 1 k I They face multiple felo­ serious investigation,” Leaf waste any money on this ny charges that are punish­ continued. there is a lot going on here.” able by up to four or five Leaf told the Sun and In August 2022, the attor­ years in prison. The charges News that, since issuing the ney general’s office identiwere authorized by a grand affidavit, he has not heard fied Leaf as one of nine jury. anything back. individuals suspected of In response to the sub­ “I haven’t had any dia- participating in a conspirapoena, Leaf issued an affi- logue with them at all,” ■ cy to obtain and test voting davit, and echoed his stance Leaf said. tabulators. At that time. in an interview with the Sun Leaf has been investigat Attorney General Nessel and News, that he is not ing voter fraud since on the released a petition for the willing to turn over those heels of the 2020 election appointment of a special files. when then-President prosecutor to consider a In it, he also provided a Donald Trump lost to cur­ variety of criminal charges glimpse of the scope of his rent President Joe Biden against the group, including investigation, specifically and pockets of concerned conspiracy, using a comput­ highlighting Dominion voters primarily Trump er to commit a crime and Voting Systems, a company supporters• J ^*86 willfully damaging a voting with headquarters in country cried foul play. machine machine. Toronto and Denver that Leaf said he has investiThe petition said the provides voting software gated the issue locally in group conspired to unlawand hardware for U.S. elec- Barry County but also has fully obtain voting tabula ­ tions. tors to conduct “My depart­ tests following Attorney Lambert has been working for me ment is in pos­ the 2020 elec­ session of senand my office since December of 2020 and I tion. sitive docu­ believe the subpoena is an attempt to obstruct According to ments that are the petition, and delay my very serious investigation. part of an the group was ongoing inves­ — Dar Leaf, Barry County Sheriff, able to get their tigation involv­ via an affidavit hands on five ing Dominion different tabu­ employees,” lators and conLeaf wrote in his affidavit. gathered information on a ducted tests on them at “These Dominion employ­ nationwide and even hotel rooms and short-term ees directed and tasked international - scale. On rentals in the Detroit area. Serbian foreign nationals to Tuesday, he said he The petition alleged that remotely access the received yet another cache DePemo was there for the Michigan election system. I of what he might consider testing. am not willing to compro­ evidence. Those tabulators includ­ mise my investigation by “Today we got a bunch ed a machine from Irving providing my entire file. I more - you have to sort out Township, which the attoram attaching to this affida­ the good stuff and the bad ney general’s office said vit several emails to demon­ stuff,” he said. Leaf convinced Olson to strate to this honorable When asked the origins turn over as part of an court that this is a very of the investigative materi­ investigation. serious ongoing investiga­ al, Leaf said “it comes from Leaf denies having tion.” all around. Sometimes coerced Olson. Leaf also said that his cybersecurity experts. NessePs office was investigation has turned up ^ike a clerk or tipped off to the alleged damning evidence against something like that. It varvar- activity in February 2022 an individual named J. Alex when Secretary of State Halderman, who is a comLast month, Leaf was was Jocelyn Benson sent a puter science professor at scheduled to make aa prepre­ request to the AG’s office the University of Michigan sentation sentation to to county county comcom­ and the Michigan State who has also served as an missioners. to investigate missioners, oiitlinina outlining snmp some Police to expert witness for Secretary of the findings of his inves- third-party access to voting of State Jocelyn Benson, tigation, which has, has. at tabulators. In the month The affidavit. Leaf claims times, expended a signifi- after that, Michigan State that Halderman offered to cant amount of his own Police raided Irving help Dominion employees time and resources at the Township Hall as part of by rebutting statements and sheriff’s office. the investigation. claims made by President The presentation was Upon MSP’s raid. Leaf Trump on television fol- postponed in order to secure worked through Lambert to lowing his election loss in a larger facility that could file a lawsuit against vari2020. accommodate more mem­ OUS state officials, includ­ “I intend to file a motion bers of the public. ing the Attorney General to quash the subpoena The presentation has yet and Secretary of State, sayattached as well as a civil to be re-scheduled, and in ing they were meddling in lawsuit against the Muskegon light of the recent develop- his independent voter fraud County Prosecutor D.J. ments, Leaf was skeptical investigation. Hilson for attempting to whethe.r or not it would However, a Michigan usurp my investigation,” happen any time soon. Court of Claims judge dis­ Leaf wrote in the affidavit. “I hate to do that to the missed the lawsuit, finding “Attorney Lambert has public but more and more that Leaf did not sign the been working for me and stuff coming in...we’re try­ affidavit and that Leaf and my office since December ing to bring some really his legal team did not of 2020 and I believe the high-powered people in respond to summary subpoena is an attempt to here so you get an under­ motions for disposition obstruct and delay my very standing that we didn’t filed by state attorneys. FIRE DEPARTMENT, continued from page 1 i est-growing communities in West Michigan. ’ — Tillema said fire services will be enhanced in Cutlerville in the future with the eventual presence of two fire depart­ ments: one run by Gaines Township and the other by Byron Township. Under the terms of the operating agreement. Gaines has the option of buying off" the remaining equity portion of the Cutlerville Fire Station at 11 68th St SW and continu• . g to use the building to provide fire services for the Gaines Township side of Cutlerville. The fire station is on Byron Township prop­ erty, just west of Division Avenue, which is the Gaines/Byron boundary. In October, the Gaines Township Board created a Cutlerville Fire Committee to provide recommendations on how the township should handle the split with Byron Township. In November, the board voted to authorize Weersing to negotiate the financial aspects of the sepa­ ration between the two townships. That included not only the fire station building but the major pieces of equip­ ment inside it. In an interview after Monday night’s meeting, Weersing said Gaines Charter Township will retain ownership of the building. “We’re going to buy out (Byron Township’s) half of the equity and operate from there for the time being,” he said. “The goal will be to build a station in Gaines at some point down the road. I’d like that to be three to five years, but who knows what the future holds.” Weersing said the Cutlerville Fire Station property was appraised at $1.88 million. So, Gaines Township would pay about $940,000 to buy out Byron * r I * • i i • K 0 Sjttj * • I • *1 1 ’fethe M, [Je prtjp,; iree I I cat I ^cy, w Ju j w I I J isSBuii pi bls inatt ubil I BSO®- [ffiattls ► 1 saJ’- 'I I 1 I I I r• u 9' i Township’s equity share J s? .J 1 However, Byron may build its owner fire station in Cutlerville shortly. Weersing said Gaines Township needed aa workwork­ ine name name for fnr the the newly ing named fire department, allocated a specific amount which will include both the of pandemic-relief funding. Cutlerville and Dutton fire based on its respective pop­ stations under the Gaines ulation size. The funding Charter Township Fire can only be used for certain Department moniker. designated uses, such as ‘‘All we did tonight was infrastructure upgrades. pick our new name. There Two retired are some hoops we have to Cutlerville Fire jump through with the difDepartment leaders ferent agencies. So, we need receive honor a name to work with as we At Monday’s township start setting up just the board meeting, Cutlerville/ Gaines portion of that ser­ Dutton Fire Chief Ken Van vice area,” Weersing said. Hall announced Service Township Treasurer Recognition awards for two Laurie Lemke asked firefighters who have Weersing if the names on recently retired. The town­ all the fire trucks in ship board voted unaniCutlerville and Dutton mously to approve resoluwould be changed. He tions that were read aloud answered that the changes in their honor. will take place gradually. Lt./Fire Inspector Brett “We’re not going to rush Holmes was recognized for to change everything, but as his 11 years of dedicated needed. As uniforms come fire and medical service as up for renewal, we’ll start a member of the Dutton changing things over. And at Fire Department. Captain some somepoint, point,we we’’llllwork workin inthe the William (Randy) Foreman apparatus,” Weersing said. was recognized for eight Gaines Board allo­ years of distinguished ser­ cates $1.2M in ARPA vice with the Cutlerville dollars for new plat Fire Department. form fire truck “When I think of dedica­ In unrelated action, the tion, I think of Brett,” Van Gaines Township Board Hall said. “He always put voted 7-0 to allocate $1.2 the department above him­ million in American Rescue self and above his family.” Plan Act (ARPA) funding Foreman was not in attentoward the $1.7 million dance at the meeting. In 2022, cost of a new platform fire he received a Cutlerville Fire truck. Life Saving award. f I ** '■Mx { , t The village of Caledonia will host a community Easter egg hunt next Saturday. The hunt will take place at 11 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Parish, 9669 Kraft Ave. SE. Kids age 10 and under are invited. The event will take place rain or shine. The Easter bunny will be there for kids to have their pictures taken with. I 1 I ! 1 I -k I I 1 i i I I I I I I J I I I I I 1 I r I r i- I I I I I I * 1 1 1 Sr I ASOCIAi.^ 4 * / ♦1 I - J T J •Ny, • 1 i . A ■’I I I * 1 1 a I 4 r* « .’to 1 > f JAW a s 4 3^ / A tttw 8 OT, wqiltt^_ OKED _ _ _BBQ_ _ r A 1 toi' ■ IT • fl I ■ *a < « 4 I 9a g’l’.; .*s^ 17 I k: A . I I it; B .V V. <* a I •I VJV »• 4 ... u . 1*1 I' 5^ TV • V, 1 ! for id more • ft* Mir T, IS SU . r til Al I■1 ■S'- / it tt-; V II' DONS A ’J » buildings in the township from a platform. Gaines Township was allocated about $2.7 million in ARPA funding from the federal government in 2022. Every municipality ^he United States was Township after their partnership becomes official, .t / k rA 9 k i - QH; FaGeb,OQk keep up date until the* new edition is printed! J I -^5 Easter egg hunt set in Caledonia I If t 1 1 ( jd The 100-foot aerial ladder truck is scheduled to be delivered to the township from Appleton, Wisc.-based Pierce Manufacturing Inc. in August 2025. It will replace a fire truck that is more than two decades old. The new truck will enable firefighters to access the tops of laiger It s a five-year buyout. So it would start at the end of July of this year, and then we would have five years. We have to make at least 20-percent payments over the five years,” he said. Gaines Township may uua me service lo tsyron offer fire service to Byron H Ki? I I 1 4 * 1 • cu*-* -flBf o t 1 * r V lS S3 A % t ’ S Al .. I . f a A f XMMHlJ $ 4 • «• t I t » . 9 «■- I •• •»* 1 1 l.C J 9 i- i 3 4 f AA I* R. r <<••• t 'A r .fl .’.A kV. 4 W-Ti J - B * a• *4- f f '11 'Zy Zz- K I f I,*. I I 4 ! f • I I > r 4 I ¥ » I A I U r s 7 4 1 s t iW « 1 { & •t 1 1 I 1 I 1 �Page 4/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 16, 2024 Christine A. Keyes years of lake living, includ­ ing fishing, pontoon boat rides, and turtle hunting with the grandchildren. Helen is survived by her sisters, Evelyn Huenink and Betty (Tim) Jackes; brother. Bill (Christy) Visser and sis­ ter-in-law, Dorothy VerHey; her loving children, Beverly John Middleton, (Bob) David Nobel, (Cathy) (Kimberly) Nobel; grandchil­ dren, Jennifer Middleton, Bob (Sarah) Middleton, Tracie (Jason) Makowski, Angela (Kurt) Nobel, Tyler Nobel, and Zach Nobel; great-grand­ children, Erikka, Everest, Madison, I Ava, Korben, Mitchell, Lizzie, Callie, on, and played a pump Brian, Alexxandria, and organ. She was also the Liam. She was preceded in death go-to Avon lady in the by her beloved husband, neighborhood! Then in 1985 Helen and Bernie; parents, Ruth and Bernie moved to Florida and Tony Visser; baby, Bernie Jr.; lived in a 42 ft fifth wheel brother Arthur and sister, for five years. A few years Jean. will family Helen’s later they bought a house trailer in LaBelle, FL and receive friends on Saturday, property in the Florida March 16, 2024 from 2-3 Everglades. They dynamited p.m. at the Beeler-Gores a pond on the property and Funeral Home, where her added a house trailer; living funeral service will be conoff grid using solar panels ducted at 3 p.m. Private and a generator for power. burial will take place next to Then in 2006, when her beloved husband in Bernie and Helen sold the Coman Cemetery. Everglade property, they In lieu of flowers please moved to Fort Denaud, FL, consider a donation to St. where they lived for 10 Jude Children’s Hospital, years. In 2016 they moved Please visit www.goresfiito Cobb Lake, in Wayland, neralservice.com to share a MI to be closer to their fam- memory or leave a condoily. They then enjoyed many lence message. Christine A. Keyes, age 56, of Middleville, Ml, passed away unexpectedly on March 11, 2024. Bom on March 3, 1968, in Hudson, MI, Christine was a beacon of kindness and compassion throughout her life. During her 25-year tenure at Southpoint Dental Care, Christine’s warm smile and thoughtfulness brightened the days of both colleagues and patients. Her love for life was evi­ dent in her passion for the outdoors, where she found joy in the simple pleasure of boat rides around Barlow Lake. A friend to all crea­ tures, her Chocolate Labs held a special place in her Helen Rose Nobe! *I Rose (Visser) Helen Nobel passed away March 13, 2024, nine days shy of her 91st birthday. Helen was bom in South Dakota to Tony and Ruth Visser. She married the love of her life, Bernie Nobel, on August 24, 1951 at her parents’ home in Hawarden, Iowa. In 1953, Helen and Bernie started their family in Iowa where they lived for a year before they moved to Grand Rapids, MI in 1954 because Bernie didn’t want to be a fanner. He ended up working in construction and later became a union ironworker. In 1966 they built a house on Duncan Lake in Caledonia, Michigan and enjoyed many years on the lake. Weekends were filled with square dancing and hanging with family and friends. Helen was a very talented woman, she made all of her clothes and her daughters’ clothes with a pedal sewing machine. She even made her square-dancing dresses with the full slip on that machine! Helen later bought an elec­ tric sewing machine and continued sewing. She also would make things from resin molds, cards from pressed flowers, taught her­ self how to play the accordi- r- « 1 •V a » z • ' * -31 1 ■ r • f Melanie (Dan) Stob, and Debbie (Dave) Evink; broth­ er-in-law, Scott Keyes; as well as her parents-in-law, Mike and Linda Keyes. Christine’s family received friends on Friday, March 15, 2024 at BeelerGores Funeral Home, where her funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 11 a.m. Burial will at take place Coman Cemetery. Memorial contributions Barry County Humane Society will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condo­ lence message for Christine’s family. e t ■*^■1 'I « r S-' t ■r*. « ■ f ■ ( -A A A 4 heart, and visits to the zoo were among her cherished moments. Christine will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 20 years. Bill Keyes; her mother, Bonnie Ames, and stepdad, Dennis Ames; her sisters, Judy (Kevin) Derr, J '1 filp si - IW ' J* Turning the big 52 A >'4 r A / «. .J I r jxZ < •• « XJR A I ■f • ! t 4 * f i IB ** •» > ./I ** ) X fl a •» « i Pictured are the four trustees on the Thornapple Township Board. They all turn 70 years old in the next month or so. From left to right are Ross DeMaagd (birthday March 17), Kim Selleck (April 26), Sandy Rairigh (March 15) and Curt Campbell (March 14). The four were honored after Monday’s board meeting, complete with a birthday cake. (Photo by Greg Chandler) »!* i I I C/?f St^ fifties' teislis II” Caledonia United Methodist Church i .ttijtesiii: (bit’i' Rev. Christine Beaudoin I Join us for our traditional yet casual worship ; Iw. service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street a'?'-.') 616-891-8669 CalcdoniaLJMC.org ftiW Livestream: Facebook.corrb'CaledoniaUniledMethodist Sening Sunday Service . 10:30 AM BAPTIST Middleville Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & nam ( 4 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend Good Shepherd Lutheran Church k. L 'Aroc k k 1 GO ^4 N Sunday Worship YV- < ♦ r- T fh * 'I - I w ' Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - »iTi, I® if .1® pa^ofj Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. la nib Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. (269) 795-2391 •APEACE PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel thejchurch.com 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch peacechurch.ee CHURCH Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. IM 1 THORNAPPLE VALLEY Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. «ar CHURCH LEARN MORE! kJ), Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. •s I 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE teiiiii " r Mr?' ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS H 4’' r r ! CALEDONIA: iitilK 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg h^P^^/goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Livestream; tacebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville OURNEY gc H U R C H V ' Cw^feiw HOLY FAMILY /CATHOLIC CHURCH 9:30 a.m. bic: <• t;? 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) 4U V Connecting ■tsi) FIRST cornerstone ch u rch Strengthening j friiinii W{(ll MIDDLEVILLE @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool “bl SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30ani & li Warn 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 mi wwWeStpaiilcaledonia .org J VeUe' Church 8655 Whitne)<ville Avenue, Alto Whitneyville I Fellowship Church Yankee Springs Bible Church IJ' 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"^ & 48^^ 4 ii’i 5- 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Praising Cod through Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School.. .9:30 AM Sunday Wonhip tR Worsh/p Services Sunday ioam&6 pm 10:30 AM Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Watch our services from our website (see above) ermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org I • "ShiningForth God's Light" ■ 'i 1 j Sunday Morning Worship....................... Community Group...................... ! Ik I 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Im 'iti % «i| % James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. Ofg I 1 t 1 J i t J 1 I f 1 I f I 4 4 I I I 1 I I I I 4 I ) I 1 1 4 4 4 I 1 * r I ’ I I ! 1 I I 1 r 1 I » I I s I r 4 I ■ I 1 •.'.*8 T» I I I 4 1 I. I 4 9 .I i I » t r- I 4 s 4 1 » I f 4 I < & « I 1 « 1 > A 9*^ > 1 1 I I I t 4 .f 4 T u I «(• a I > ■I J'l 7 �I I » 9 Yankee Springs Township Haii addFti^n damaged when struck by runaway car J March 16,2024/ Page 5 • I ► V' %S‘'it. V' S «f/' 'V ■ 1 I itees ’ « t ^3pple Toth VI 4 1 I. I Greg Chandler Staff Writer A little more than a year after construction was com­ pleted on a 1,700-squarefoot addition to the Yankee Springs Township Hall, some cracks have been dis­ covered in the addition’s north wall as well as the drywall inside the building. But township officials say It s not because of poor workmanship or shoddy materials. They recently discovered the building was struck by a car that had been left running and was not in park after the driver got out of the vehicle to use the recy­ cling bins at the north end of the hall property. “We had the construction company and the engineering company come out, and they looked at it, and it looked like it was impact (damage),” Township Clerk Mike Cunningham said at Thursday’s Township Board meeting. ‘‘We had no knowledge of anything hit­ ting the wall.” The cracks were discovered in late February, Cunningham said. Cunningham found security video footage that pro­ v..vu the u.c answers to the vided mystery. Video footage taken on Jan. 1 showed a car stopping about 50 feet from the north wall of the addition after using the recycling system, and the woman who was driving got out of the vehicle “with with the intent to put something in the garbage can.” However, the car was apparently left running and was not in park. Cunningham said. “The car moved away under power towards the building with the driver in pursuit. The driver fell, the car went over the curb, down the slope and hit the building with enough force to cause drywall cracking inside and brick and mortar cracking in about a 15-foot-wide section of the exterior wall,” Cunningham said. The driver involved in the incident came forward about an hour before Thursday night's nteeting vehicle and was able to drive back up the slope and go home before she was taken to the hospital for treatment of her injuries, Cunningham said. The accident has been reported to the Barry County Sheriff’s Office and a claim was filed with the township’s insurance carri­ er, with a claim estimated in the $5,000 to $10,000* range. Mugen Construction, the contractor that did the work on the addition and renova­ tion of the township hall, says it has enough brick left over from the project to repair the brick damage, with the repair expected to take two days to complete. The wall framing will be inspected when the wall is opened up for drywall repair, possibly next week. Cunningham said. and spoke to Cunningham about what happened. The woman suffered a broken leg when she fell trying to ■ get back in the car and the wheels ran over her leg. Cunningham said. “We know who did it. There’s no damage to that car. That person didn’t know there was damage (to the building),” he said. The driver got back in the ri» * t I I I f 1 *** * * * r jc .* “V J *A ^5 I* . f ♦ -u V * 4 V 'ri’. 4^ •T I 4 * * r 1 --3» ri’* * I. 1 r ** * J 1 .1 b ’ .1-*. acsks rio 4I ri » 4 4 i . fl - —• f • M X *4. • I •T kJ 4 ' •lb ' ».. flri A u 1 I < • I4 I 1 ; 'T. '4 I 2 <'■ L 1 * I 1.' I I ' i ♦ V. *• • - ««£ V msia*:* t V J M le**. fl * >» .-1 •n A* . J/ '* •" V '.'•A •» 5;* Cracks were discovered in the north wall of the new 1,700-square-foot addition of the Yankee Springs Township Hall. The damage was caused by a vehicle colliding with the wall. (Photo by Greg Chandler) “We don’t know if there’s any significant framing damage, but I’m guessing not,” Cunningham said. The township moved into the expanded office space in January 2023, allowing Mugen Construction to then begin work on renovating the original township space, including the meeting room where the board meets. I I I 1 I I r I ! I I I “S’ lb ’5 . 4 , * h, S»> 5 “IjyGiegOp Yankee Springs board declines to vote on revised Second Amendment resolution Greg Chandler Staff Writer For the second time in three months, the Yankee Springs Township Board declined to pass a resolution supporting the Second Amendment rights of its res­ idents to keep and bear arms. This time, the matter didn’t even come to a vote. The board Thursday dis­ cussed a revised resolution proposed by the executive committee of the Barry County Republican Party that states “the Second Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America affirms that it is the natural, Godgiven rights of the people to keep and bear arms, and protects Americans against BtQlii I » ■« Uu I® kIkI!r jiLifc Cite’ any infringement of this right.” e^gce However, no one on the board made a motion to approve the resolution, so it was never voted on. “I think that this motion ... this resolution, was cre­ ated by a local political party, and I feel that’s where it belongs,” Township Clerk Mike Cunningham said. “I do think it’s appropri­ ate for a political party to be taking up (such a resolu­ tion), but I don’t think it is for the board. It’s appropriate for individuals on the III: iip r I n i ! I I board, too, if they wanted to do whatever to support it,” Cunningham added. I I Township Trustee Dave VanHouten said he could see problems with passing a resolution of this type. “We, as a people, we can ' I vote and put the right people in office to make the right choices and what we feel are the right choices. We have the courts,” VanHouten said. “As a township, I. would hate to think that every time we didn’t agree with some laws that we are going to have to (pass) resolutions against them ... I think it’s pretty obvious we’ve sworn an oath to the Constitution, that’s not going to change.” The executive committee of the Barry County GOP has been calling on the county Board of Commissioners and local townships to adopt resolutions supporting the Second Amendment in the wake of new state gun control laws that went into effect last month. The laws, which were approved last year by the Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, include measures requiring gun owners to securely store their firearms and establishing universal background checks for gun purchases. They also include a so-called “red flag” law designed to prevent people who pose a risk to them selves or others from pos­ sessing a gun, and another law keeping people convicted of domestic violence from owning guns for eight years after their conviction. “Our state’s governor and Legislature have demonstrated their intent to pass legislation that would infnnge upon the rights of the said people,” Dave Laansma, a GOP precinct delegate from Yankee Springs who recently filed to run for a county board seat, reading from the reso­ lution language. The Yankee Springs board in December 2023 voted 5-0 not to adopt the original Second Amendment resolu­ tion offered by the county GOP executive committee with some on the board calling the resolution “symbolic.” “I told you we’d be back,” GOP precinct delegate Jim Hooker said. “We weren’t going to give up, we were going to re-word (the resolution).” The township’s legal counsel, the law firm of Bauckham, Sparks, Thall, Seeber & Kaufman, cau­ tioned the board prior to the December vote about adopt­ ing the resolution. While acknowledging that the Second Amendment does apply in the township, it wrote in an opinion that the township has no jurisdiction over gun legislation. “The township should be hesitant to be seen as attempting to interfere with lawful actions carried out by state and federal authorities with regards to gun legisla­ tion,” the attorneys wrote in their opinion. Eight Barry County town­ ships have passed Second Amendment resolutions, either in its original form or the revised version Irving, Thornapple, Baltimore, Prairieville, Assyria, Castleton, Maple Grove and Johnstown, Laansma said. “We feel strongly that all these townships getting on board with this would be a strong encouragement to (the I .. I county board) to complete their job,” Laansma said. FIRST or-kr-'I BAPTIST miDDLEVILLE r-in=>i to I 11 iiuUL-t VIUL.t f I I •» I f BOT BATT^ I i f I I I Sunday, March 17 I 1 Doors Open: 5:30 PM - Event: 6:00 - 7:30 PM A . 4 *t J * ■I Ifl'.r •4 •. •ri’* ri »s -99 4** b . .XT * « -•** r. • * fii;- I t A I • .4 J IA**T ri * ri*. -4- 1 V.. 4. ■ A ■ . .MW « * "b I ■m. I 1 Come and watch modified RC cars battle on our 16X16 ARMED BATTLE ARENA! All Ages-No Cost You Are Invited! FBC’s Willis Center J *I I i I I I I i I I i r I I I I .7 y. I •V' I FREE KID CLOTHING EXCHANGE MAR. 23 AM -1 PM Bring in your outgrown kids clothing and exchange them for the next size up. Clothing must be unstained with no rips or holes. Sizes: newborn to 16. Now including maternity clothes! After 12:30 remaining clothes will be given away without exchange 5215 N. M-37 FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET _________ A 4 . /a I *• ■ wnii™ tf ' - FIRST BAPTIST Middleville ri I r 5^ I I 1 ► •l « ! i ( t I t t �Pape 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 16,2024 Township acquires iand for Paul Henry Tkailtrailhead a half-mile gap between the two acquired properties to complete the 42-mile Paul Henry Thomapple Trail, between Grand Rapids in Kent to use the trail along the river,” Township Trustee Kim Selleck said. JTie township has been looking to fill in gaps to complete the Paul Henry Thomapple Trail for some time. In January 2023, the township acquired two parcels of land — one extending south from Stimson Road, Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Thomapple Township board Monday approved the purchase of 2.5 acres of vacant property along the Thomapple Rjver to serve the Paul Henry Thomapple Trail. The board unanimously approved a resolution to County and Vermontville m Eaton County. The trail rough­ ly follows the original route of the Grand River Valley Railroad, which was built in the late 1860s and operated acquire the land at 9450 Garbow Rd. from Patrick north of Parmalee Road, to through 1983. Commissioner County Hyesuk Guy for Garbow, the other extending and Catherine Getty praised the about a half-mile north from $ 150,000. “This would be a potential Crane Road, along the river’s board for making the purchase trailhead (for the trail),” eastern edge at the border of “for the foresight of the trust­ Township Supervisor Eric the village of Middleville. ees and your willingness to Schaefer said. “Also, it has Those purchases were made take advantage of those opporriver access, and would be a possible in large part by tunities when they come up place for emergency services $153,000 in grant funding because they don’t come up Michigan very often. It’s just something the through to draft from if need be.” “The property is adjacent to Department of Natural to be celebrated and recognized, because if you would the trail. It would be a place Resources. Those purchases left about have let that pass, it may have for people to park if they want been generations, or never, that you would have gotten another opportunity like that. “With the trail work, you just get what you can get when * you can get it. In the last cou pie of years, it’s been a huge step forward in connecting the trail. We still have a bit of a , piece to go, but weve had good relationships with prop­ erty owners, and 1 really see that it’s going to connect,” Getty added. The purchase of the Guy property is subject to a 90-<iay due diligence period, accord­ ing to the sale agreement doc­ ument. “We have surveys and inspections, that sort of thing (that must be completed),” Township Clerk Cindy Ordway said. 5 ’f* 'I ' t 29 -Vill ‘4 L 13 I J r■ ( « ^4 5 1 I#! X ’2^ I ) I t * I >- I r I I I I !: if ,r < s: / X •f 1tl I -f J*. 4 ,7 * in I • I I T I" ♦ * t w 1 e Thornapple Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer explains the acquisition of property on Garbow Road for a possible trailhead for the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail on Monday night. (Photo by Greg Chandler) c CHS mock trial team to compete in state finals I the state championship meet, hosted by the Michigan Center of Civic Education and the State Bar of Michigan, next Saturday at Veterans Memorial Courthouse in Lansing. They are the only team from Kent, Barry and Ottawa counties competing in the meet. Students prepared for the meet earlier this week by prac­ ticing their arguments before U.S. District Judge Robert Greg Chandler Staff Writer While some students com­ pete for state championships in various athletic events, a group of students from Caledonia High School are competing for a state champi­ onship of a different kind next weekend. CHS students who take part in the school’s Mock Trial program will be competing in ' . .5 time to start ■ Cirad Quilts | It rI A T' a 4 Jonker, who served as chief judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan from 2015 to 2022. “Students take on the roles of attorneys and witnesses and compete against each other in real courtrooms in front of real judges and lawyers,’ said Jenny Jonkman, a CHS social studies teacher who advises the school’s Mock Trial program. “Students interpret legal doc­ uments, witness statements, and take on roles and simulate 4 a trial in real life and real­ time. Participants adjust to the strategies employed by the opposing side. Mock trials draw upon historical events, trials of contemporary inter­ est, school or classroom situations, or hypothetical and entertaining fact patterns to inspire students to think critically and creatively about the law.” Caledonia High sent four teams to compete in two regional tournaments this year. A total of 43 schools competed in the regional tournament with 12 advancing to the state championship. The team of Alyssa Bursch, Emery Rewa, Grace Bryant, Alexander Hochwarth, Alexa Pearson, Sebastian Rissley, Allison Malone, Meghan Ruthven and Maria Maunu competed in the Oakland County regional and qualified for state, marking the first time Caledonia had a 1 • New Collections > ■u* Tra I •I *■« 1 3 or our Count 9 QUESTIONS: ASK US... 9 n 218 E. State St.. Hastings • n 945-9673 OPEN; Monday-Friday 8 am-S.ao pm; w Saturday 9 am-3 pm Hu k A 1 IIS Bruce's Frame and H i Full Service Body Shop • • • • Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience Greg Chandler Writer Repair work will take place later this year on several streets in the village of Caledonia, most notably Main Street. The Village Council Monday voted unanimously to move ahead with plans for FNii I <1? 4l52nd • iddleville t » I f J « k ' V'I « 1 » J 1 I J 1 J » 9 I 9 1 t I t * J 1 i 1 * I 1 f I 4 I » I 1 f • T »' *1 I r I ■ ► 1^^ I r •a f zM.UJOM A llK .tl SU IOOI i I ► ► Lj^ * I VC A I’LOl l > Mf 11 MOCK IPIAI scnooi. V J* 1i iI I 1 4 * n J Si r I ■V 1 4." i2 -4 k i I w t J h. M- • r T k-.' 4 J tl J t Ju nt X(1 I The Caledonia High School mock trial program will compete in the state championship meet at Veterans Memorial Courthouse in Lansing. (Photo provided) team qualify for state since 2017, Jonkman said. Mock Trial cases alternate between civil and criminal cases each year, Jonkman said. “This year the case is civil and is a negligence case. Last year, the case was a first-de­ gree murder case,” Jonkman said. “The students this year have been focusing on negli­ gence. Students have been learning about the burden of proof in a civil case and how to prove or disprove based on preponderance of evidence rather than beyond a reasonable doubt. Students last year learned about the elements needed to prove a first-degree murder and how that differed from other degrees of murder and they learned about the burden of proof in a criminal trial.” Caledonia began Mock Trial as an after school club in 2011, with local attorney Elizabeth Yard of the firm Tanis Shultz PLLC and Jonkman coaching the pro­ gram. After a few years of running the program as a club, Jonkman and Yard discussed the idea of developing a Foundations of Law class, tak­ ing knowledge about court­ room trial law and applying it to the annual case released by the Michigan Center for Civic Education. Jonkman created a proposal for a 12-week introductory course and with the guidance of Yard and other attorneys, presented a 12-week elective course proposal to the princi­ pal, curriculum director and the Board of Education. The elective course was approved and has been an option for students to take in high school. Among the skills students develop from participating in Mock Trial includes critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, creativity, and public speaking, Jonkman said. At the state championships, each team is guaranteed two trials - one in which it will argue the side of the plaintiff, the other where it will argue the side of the defense. The scoring judges, consisting of attorneys and judges, will score each trial on legal merit and creativity, and narrow the field of teams to a final four that will compete for the championship, Jonkman said. sb R «< liijt Mini Village Council OKs chip-seal work on Main Street in Caledonia brucesframe.com I r st 1 • Linus Project Drop Off ► J i 4 ; • • Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station LJ SI < i I 1 4 4 f I 9 . I 1 < I t 5 • 1 » » t ■ ’ l' r I * » i I V ♦ f r 1 1 1 < I 1 ? i: f ’tcort decides whether to take on the project or hires an outside con­ tractor to do the work. The council authorized the spending of up to $82,000 for the chip-sealing work. No time schedule for when the work will take place has been ....................................... determined, Village Manager Jeff Thornton said. I I 1 4 spot-milling and asphalt replacement work done on Main in preparation for this year’s project. Village officials have met with the Road Commission to get pricing estimates, which range from $60,000 to $82,000. A final price tag will be determined when the Road Commission 1 f I 4 t chip-sealing work on the full length of Main Street, as well as on Johnson Street from Duncan Lake Avenue to Kinsey Street and on School Street between Johnson and Main. The village is partnering with the Kent Coimty Road Commission for the project. Last year, the village had lite, I k I <1 I I k 1 ( % J I I < t I 1 1 I t I 4 I t- » ■ I f I I 4 < r 1 I f I • k I 1 1 » I J I ' ■ \ I 1 J 4 I 1 I, I L �The Sun and News, Saturday, March 16, 2024/ Page 7 •i?' Caledonia EnrichED’s RAD Drone program con­ tinues to soar. The program set the bar high in its first two seasons and remain a top contender in the region, qualifying five teams for the 2024 North Central Aerial Drone Championship. The event will be held on May 17 and 18 at Kettering University. The competition season launched in January with a two-day event in Flint. Caledonia’s Calvin & Hobbes made up of Jackson Bernal and Hailey LaPrath were named I Champion on day one, and received both the Think "III. ............ I ‘’’**'•11 , I'!''........... ' , • ‘ ill I .. y r Award and the Teamwork Champion Award on day two, advancing them to the championship. The Dronebones, P M . featuring Grant Feldpausch and Grant Morrell received the Think Award on day one, and due tbeir skills score, were also invited to the champi onship. * The program’s success continued at^ the 2nd Annual West Michigan Aerial Drone Competition in Fennville on March 9, where Caledonia took home seven of the 10 awards. The Fly Guys, with Gavin Grysen, Owen K4 u .. . Nicholai Nonhoff, qualified for the championship after secur- 4*. at the event: Teamwork Champion, Middle School Skills Champion and Middle School Excell ence. Calvin & Hobbes once again prospered, receiving the Excellence Award and being named Skills Champion. Liam Langeweg and Liam Ryan’s Team Team received the event’s Think Award as well as the Teamwork ’ Champion Award, qualifying them for the championship. Due to multiple double qualifications, Landyn Bennett and Owen Williams of the Nightrunners were also invited to the championship, having one of the top skills scores in the state. Hm *41 L 4 Hr-*** *2 fl Kettering Kettering J- I7* Kcu 1 X I * He X ' .•> j •* I * a e T- -J J « ' t. / f . Ket 1 fl K 4 I*4' ). . * .1- ."f. ■ n -I •• ■ •* A n. . n I ’n' •1/. s •I ..flB PhotOfUJiti From left to right, Liam Langeweg, Liam Ryan, Gavin Grysen, Nicholai Nonhoff and Owen Marshall, who belong to the teams Fly Guys and Team Team. llifi ilil «Hi.' stoobiksa ♦ kt ij® Ti sb 2 I rill CrAa bIbsiS' if 1' f FL I > K .K K J J • .v by by the the board board durmg during a public hearing that took place before the budget was adopted. Also proAlso in in the the budget budget is is proposed spending of $722,050 in the fire fund, $ 1,069,600 in the ambulance fund, $228,100 rhondkr Greg Chandler 2163S!' iijsiii? Dronebones and Calvin & Hobbes, two teams that compete with the Caledonia EnrichED’s RAD Drone pro­ gram, are pictured here. They include, from left to right, Grant Feldpausch, Grant Morrell, Jackson Bernal and Hailey LaPrath. (Photos provided) Thornapple Twp. board approves 2024-25 budget It prfa Greg Chandler ing three awards I tc . ,• board boardin inmotions motionsseparate separatefrom from the budget resolution. Schaefer’s salary for his statutory duties as supervisor 5/0(7’ Writer Thomapple Township plans to dip into its savings by more than $117,000 in the general will increase from $38,633 to fund portion of its budget $40,000, while Ordway’s saladuring the new fiscal year that ry will rise from $37,612 to begins on April 1. for sewer and $170,000 for $40,000. Both salary resoluThe Township Board on capital improvements in tions passed on 6-0 votes, with Monday approved the budget emergency services, accord- Schaefer abstaining from the for the 2024-25 fiscal year. ing to the budget resolution vote on his increase and Taking in all funds, the town­ document. Ordway abstaining from the ship plans to take in The new budget includes vote on her raise. The board $3,374,950 in revenues while increased salaries for also voted to keep the salary spending $3,394,620, accord­ Supervisor Eric Schaefer and for Treasurer Laura Bouchard ing to the budget resolution Clerk Cindy Ordway, both of at $47,082 from the 2023document. which were passed by the 2024 fiscal year. The general fund portion of the budget, the one most i impacted by property taxes, has the township taking in $1,087,200 in revenues while spending $1,204,870, resulting • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers in the use of $117,670 in fund Cellular Enhancement Systems balance. The township has about $1.9 million in reserves Give us a call! in the general fund, according CEKI 269-967-8241 1 to the budget resolution docu­ RIG J www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com ment. www.cellsignalpro8.com No comments were received October approved a sixmonth moratorium on new STR permit registrations while the township reviewed Staff Writer The Yankee Springs Yankee Township Board Thursday passed an ordinance that bans the ordinance that was origi­ so-called “commercial short- nally passed in March 2021. term rentals” from areas of The moratorium only affected the township that are zoned new permit applications but for single-family residential did not affect properties that use and requires anyone look­ already have such a permit. ing to rent out a property they The township had 32 proper­ own to get a permit from the ties registered as short-term township zoning administra- rentals last year. tor beforehand. The new ordinance would The ordinance, which require each owner of a shortpassed on a 4-1 vote, will go term rental to designate a local mto effect on March 24. It will contact person “who has allow owner-occupied short­ access and authority to assume term rentals, which would be management of the unit and defined as a “traditional short­ take remedial measures.” That term rental,” in all residen- person must be available 24 tial-zoned districts in the hours a day during the rental township, including those period and must be within 45 around Gun Lake. minutes of travel time of the Commercial short-term property being used for the rentals would be banned as a rental, according to the ordispecial exception use in the nance language. suburban residential, resiIn addition, the township dential single-family, resi­ will provide the phone num dential lakefront and Gun ber of the local contact to all Lake residential lakefront neighbors within a 200-foot zoning districts. They would radius of the rental property be allowed in all other zon­ boundaries. All parking asso­ ing districts, according to the ciated with a short-term rental ordinance language. must be out of the roadway “Everything we do in our and entirely on-site. No more zoning says residential areas than three vehicles may be don’t have commercial use,” parked at a rental at any one Township Clerk Mike time during the rental period, Cunningham said. This is according to the ordinance certainly, undeniably. com- language. mercial use. To me, it doesn’t Trustee Dave VanHouten belong in a neighborhood.” was the lone no-vote on the Cunningham was joined in ordinance. He suggested support of the ordinance by having better enforcement of Supervisor Rob Heethuis, noise, parking and safety regTreasurer Deb Mousseau and ulations would be a better Trustee Larry Knowles. way way to to address address the the concerns concerns The ordinance had been some residents have residents recommended for approval by expressed. the township Planning ““It It’’ss going going to to result result in in quite quite Commission in February. An aa loss loss of of sales sales at at local local busibusi­ eight-member subcommittee nesses nesses (that (that rely rely on on vacationers vacationers had proposed changes to the renting cottages during the township’s short-term rental summer),” ’VanHouten said. “I ordinance in the wake of com- think think it’it goingtotohurt hurtentreentres ’sgoing plamts residents about preneurs, andthat really hurts noise late at night, drunk and me because that’s how I got disorderly conduct, illegal my start... I had five rentals. I parking and littering^ particutook care of my rentals, and it larly near Gun Lake. ’ got me off into business. This The Township Board last is really going to cut down on really nice rentals (on) lake­ front properties.” John Cremer of Jenison, who owns and operates three short-term rental properties in the Gun Lake area, expressed similar disappointment with the vote. He raised a particular concern about the township providing neighbors within the 200-foot radius of an STR with the phone number of a property contact. “If I got that letter, and I lived next door, I may freak out, too, because it’s a freakout letter,” Cremer said. ‘It scares me to think that there’s going to be scary stuff, here’s the person to call if something scary happens. I get that it’s going to happen. But the per­ spective that people have coming into this, a lot of times, is from the 1969 (party) thing.” J . I . kli 'f* A i •IQ® * .V s I ii'* 5^- 11’ A^r.'ffOO Mon I » <I c • '> ,4 ■r Antenna Meri I I 1 I I t I 1 I I I f. f t • I J 1 '4 at cornerstonechurch 1 84™ ST. CAMPUS SSRMCS TIM©S Saturday, March 30: 6pm | Sunday, March 31: 9:30 & 11am Experience Holy Week With Us! Find Out More: cornerstonemi.org/Easter 1 I 8 t « ! I J t I f I t t r I I I 5 » •) ( r > * 1 * I t I f I 4 » » I » I > 4 I » I I I .1 > I I * •<4 I I /'J 4 A?" I I 4 f $100 to $500, to help cover the cost of contracting with Granicus and address other administrative expenses tied to regulating STRs. /’I . « s 1 ■p I I St »• ft 1 I The board also approved a fivefold increasein the annual permit fee for an STR, from « r . I/ I 1 << J i I 1 *1 Siui*' 1' * n I I r nances, to conduct ongoing monitoring of vacation rental websites such as Vrbo and Airbnb to find out what properties in the townships are being made available to rent The contract will make it possible for lakeside residents to call in complaints about prob­ lems at short-term rentals to be investigated. ■« 1 X have a list of rules (they have to follow),” he said. The Yankee Springs board earlier this year approved a one-year agreement with Granicus, a private company that helps municipalities enforce short-term rental ordi- L - i weekend when they learned he was was renting out his property and they got one of those advisory letters. “These are just regular families (who rent my properties), They take good care of it, we i I i I i J 1 1 I I I f. * 1 « I £ V I Cremer said he ran into resistance from some of his neighbors last Memorial Day Is V;. I i I At At I Caledonia Drone program Yankee Springs board approves ban on commercial short-term qualifies five teams for rentals in residential areas championship event K ft. 1 �) f 4 Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 16, 2024 Prep work begins for Pine Rest Caledonia Pediatric Center amidst concern Women’s Club over spike in public safety calls hears from local businesses . BlE 07 ' ^1'^ L Contributing Writer Site preparation has begun for the construction of the Pediatric Behavioral Health Center on the Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services campus. Pine Rest is located at 300 68th St. SE in the Cutlerville area of Gaines Charter Township. It is one of the five largest behavioral health pro­ viders in the United States. The 74,000-square-foot Pediatric Center will be built on the southeast comer of the sprawling 220-acre campus, near Madison Avenue and 72nd Street. It will occupy 25 acres, with 66 inpatient beds and medical offices comprising another 61,000 square feet, The $86 million facility is scheduled to open in ±e spring of 2026, but some neighbors have expressed concerns about the visual and wildlife impact of the project, as well as traffic and parking. However, the Gaines Township Planning Commission voted last October to approve the project’s site plan, which would have been allowed by right under the township’s zoning ordinance anyway because the Pine Rest property is zoned under the Office-Service (O-S) designation. It conforms with the township’s master plan. Residents Tim and Jan Olexa sent the Sun & News an email saying several trees had been cut down near their home that they thought would be left standing. “As it stands, we are now able to see the likes of buildings on Pine Rest property which are 500 feet away that had not been visible for at least the last 25 years,” the couple said. The planning commission granted approval for the con­ struction of the Pediatric Center on the condition that the visual impact on the adja­ cent neighborhood would be '• r J t 4 ■ <— * r J. -..C' 4£« 1 p: Members of the Caledonia Women’s Club gath­ ered last week at the Caledonia Resource Center for their first meeting in 2024. The club listened to a presentation from Diana Diemer, a nurse practitioner from Proper EU Medical and Aesthetic Center in Caledonia. She explained the services Proper EU offers, including microdermabrasion, laser hair removal, facials and massages. The club says they have lots planned for 2024. The next meeting will be held on Monday, April 8 at 10 a.m. at the Caledonia Resource Center. All are welcome to attend. V For Sale FREEZER BEEF ANGUS Cross. Grain and hay fed. Half and wholes. $3/lb hang­ ing weight plus processing. 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Please call 269-207-4218 or email at zlpowell@yahoo.com if interested. JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice Concrete Construction. Now Hiring. Full Time, Competi­ tive Wages, Insurance, 401K, Paid Vacations. No experience needed. Call 616-693-2123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. GERMAN SHEPHERD PUP­ PIES. Looking for their forever home and family. Call 269-331-1788 ar .<4 4. t ** ■ i » I > r t f t » t ! 1 ( f / I I ( » t «• ! I ( < I T t r I r f \ f ** « e I p * vr .4 sis / \ • > Ifi Si Ft‘J « I . ' t 'I i- * • • A £ •JT b k .r l L/. 1. 1 <*■ -M—* .* X* <• 121 E. Mam Street Downtown Middleville jparks@tbinsmi.com FannBureaulnsurance.com « ♦ V 4 I » « I I I 4* * f *» < I '4 k. jj i I J 3 A _•* ' r I 7' - « t I * 4 *1 4 » « ' i . J I •ly J X *':r • •1 s'il r* t \T A a: I - ( if IK >h♦ a* 4 . *«b T r To k/t:{s mg to just throw out alf stuff. M37Auctiot^coi^ catt sell __ _________ abtv\.ost attythi^!» -> < 5 .'X.’ 4 All *• r ' I I 1 4; *1. p w. .. ■ ■■ r I • Q I 7*^ S-. 1. =5* J reduced by buffering with trees and shrubs along the roadway. Project consulting company Nederveld & Associates sub­ mitted a revised site plan to eliminate some of the visual t concerns about the develop­ ment. More trees and other ; ■ -ar.plantings were added and some srv*;,;.-., .originally proposed parldng spaces were eliminated. ’ " ’ 'fir V Still to be addressed, however, are concerns about Site preparation work has begun for construction mounting public safety calls to the Pine Rest campus. In of the future Pediatric Behavioral Health Center on February, Kent County the Pine Rest campus. (Photos by James Gemmell) Deputy Jason Sheriff’s VanderMolen read a report documenting a dramatic increase in the number of ser­ vice calls to Pine Rest that deputies and firefighters have had to respond to recently. ‘‘Therein lies the concern with the growth ±at they’re going to be doing with this new building (at Pine Rest),” •s*.- ’Aw.. VanderMolen said. “It is a lit­ * tle bit scary. Coming from our }‘ standpoint, we don’t know what that’s going to do for the calls for service.” “We’ve added this extra The 74,000-square-foot Pediatric Center will be police coverage, to the tune of built on the southeast corner of the sprawling 220over $400,000, but all of our acre campus, near Madison Avenue and 72nd Street. resources seem to be getting used over there (at Pine Rest),” before it gets better unless they cem is that, if public safety Township Supervisor Rob take action,” DeWard said at services are tied up at Pine DeWard said in February. this past week’s meeting. Rest, police officers or fire­ At the township board’s “We don’t have any lever- fighters may not be able to March 11 meeting, age?” trustee Dan Fryling respond adequately to an VanderMolen said the number asked. urgent call at other locations. of public safety calls to Pine “Not much,” Deward He said recently that there was Rest has not abated. Township replied. “We’re billing (Pine a riot at one of the Pine Rest Manager Rod Weersing said Rest) for fire department calls units. he has not met yet with hospi- when they exceed, I think, 10 “All of the deputies in south tal officials. KCSO’s South calls I do think we have to Kent County were pulled over Precinct lieutenant met with revisit the amount we bill there at the same time,” he Pine Rest executives in them.” said. Februaiy. He said the township also The solution may be to get Last month. Pine Rest has the authority to bill Pine township and Pine Rest offi­ Communications Manager Rest for “an abundance” of cials to hold a meeting to dis­ Matt Hiskes said Pine Rest calls for service from the sher­ cuss solutions to the problem of officials had not yet reviewed iff’s office. increasing public safety calls the most recent data on emerIn September, Pine Rest for police and fire services. gency calls. He said they meet Facilities Manager Mary “I tried to do this seven with the sheriff’s office regu- Wiersma told the planning years ago. You have to sit larly to review statistics and commission that steps would everyone down in one room collaborate to ensure the high­ be taken to make sure there are and come to an agreement on est level of safety and security not a lot of public safety calls how we’re going to proceed on campus. to the new Pediatric Center. with this. Because we take one “I don’t know what it’s For example, she said only step forward and two steps going to take. The wheels are hospital staff will have access back,” DeWard said. turning really slowly. We’re to the fire alarm pull stations “An important thing to keep looking at a huge addition in the patient areas. in mind as part of this discus­ there it’s going to get worse DeWard said that the con sion is the sheriffs department will let Pine Rest know that they are here to offer service. Your local agent insures your They are not interested in charging. So, it will be up to this board to make that deci­ sion, if charges are to be lev­ ied,” Weersing said. Weersing said the township compensates the Kent County Sheriffs Office for public fARM BUREAU safety service, so the township INSURANCE* has the right to offset the cost fiteiir<ute» CoHtfnm^ it is incurring from the exces­ sive calls for service to Pine X/ Rest. James Gemmell TT^ ../l I “We’ll keep plugging away. This is going to be something we’ll need to deal with sooner I, (han lat^,”^peWard said. 1 1 4 I 4 I 1 I ( i I •f' / 1 A I < I « G I I t I 1 -5 issi^ 1 r I ■ sr< 1 V b « 1 1 V 4 T-* Ma® �I I Barry County in line for $1.4 million j— settlement funds, probes needs Jayson Bussa Sr’aC.I? actions taken against a list of opioid producers, distributors and companies that have mar­ keted and sold these highly-addictive drugs. These parties have been accused of downplaying the addictive nature of opioids. which allowed for widespread use of them across the counhy, ^d in turn led to overdoses, deaths, addiction and subse- k A A 1 I*' a'f' I J ‘ ''-'A' f } A I. ■ P • . WJ % T in, but the monev money i<! is sitting in the county’s bank account until ^022 the SATF conducted an Opioid Settlement Fund needs assessment and the board of commissioners also elected the SATF to serve as stewards of Barry County's take of the settlement The SATF has coordinated with Dolinky since last fall and into the winter and plans to join a community substance the Substance Abuse Task Force (SATF) can identify how and where to allocate it. Lenz and Amy Dol inky, ' ’ who ,s the Opioid Settlement Fund Fund Technical Technical Advisor Advisor for for the Michigan Association of Counties, Counties, stressed stressed that that these these funds funds are are not not structured structured like like aa erant, grant, where where an an even even anannn, amount needs assessment conducted by Michigan State University this spring. “That will take a look at a couple of areas and be heavily concentrated on people with lived experience and people whose loved ones have lived experience because they’re the people who have been impact­ ed,” Lenz said about the upcoming needs assessment. The Substance Abuse Task Force also organized and formed an opioid fatality review team — the 16th county in the state to do so and has launched a Barry County opioid settlement funds web­ site that residents can use as a hub for all updated informa­ tion on this issue. That website is located at barrycountysatf. com/opioid-settlement.html. Lenz said the SATF is look­ ing to raise awareness for the website and the information it contains. Meanwhile, the MSU community needs assessment will help to shine a light on a .. I 1 < J* -a * * <* •^1 M^T I *■ M : I JV < 1 Liz Lenz, coordinator for the Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force, spoke to the Barry County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday morning about opioid settlement funds that will be making their way to Barry County throughout the next couple of decades. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) potential path fon\ ard on how to allocate the funds. Once the SATF identifies needs, it will develop an opi­ oid settlement fund request process and start doling out the money. “We’ll be promoting this web page — we’re starting with you today,” Lenz told commissioners. “You’re going to start to see this every day. We’re moving. It’s not going to be a cheetali’s pace, nor do you want it to be. We’re trying to be faster than a snail or tor­ toise but we want to be careful with how we spend these dol­ lars. It’s not a lot of money right now and it can be very easy to enter into some quick decisions just to make it look like we’re spending that money and I don’t think any of us want to do that. We want to do what is sound. Five TK BPA students qualify for national finals I ('Wer quent crime. of money will flow in on a Editor TTie settlement spread yearly basis. Each Barry County will receive throughout the whole country company has some flexibility to decide somewhere in the neighbor- was to the tune of billions of when and how much it can hood of $1.4 million as part of dollars. Michigan itself is in pay each year. National the Opioid line for $1.6 billion, which is i an The Substance Abuse Task Settlement. amount that could continue to Force will provide advice on On Tuesday morning, Liz grow as more cases are settled. how to spend these dollars, but Lenz, coordinator of the Barry The terms of most of these Lenz said the SATF will not County Substance Abuse Task settlements mean that 50 per­ move on those plans until it Force, which will provide over­ cent of the funds go directly to gets the go-ahead from county sight for these funds, spoke to the state and 50 percent of the commissioners. the Barry County Board of funds go directly to townships, At Tuesday’s meeting, Lenz Commissioners to give a snap- cities and counties. highlighted to commissioners shot of what needs to happen For Barty County, that what work had already been before the money is allocated. means roughly $1.4 million The National Opioid over the next 17 veare Some '^hat is up next over the next 17 years. Some Settlement is the result of legal payments have already come these dol?^^^ allocating t I ■Li 3 I To say the Thomapple Kellogg High School Business Professionals of America team members had a successful out­ ing at the state competition this weekend would be a bit of an understatement. Nine students qualified for the state contests. wi, Sprau ilog a M Io jj six earned state honors and five students will advance to the national competition on May 10-14 in Chicago. Team advisor Keith Hamming said he has been extremely proud of all the students at the state competition, eight had never been there before and seven of them are first-year BPA students. “We had a very exciting awards ceremony as six difTerent students were called on stage and placed in their respec- team members. Of the nine five events,” said Hamming. Students advancing to the national finals are: — Kaden Hamming: First in Fundamental Accounting; First in Digital Media Production; First in Digital Marketing Concepts. (Qualified for nationals. — Ryan Skidmore: First in Basic Office Systems and Procedures. Qualified for nationals. — Evan Liu; Fourth in Fundamental Word Processing. “Vr.-’ * JI « JiofctaiiK 4T r niiytiisifew I Lfl -Z i HU loffefcte ft (Icji Jtiesinsoufli 4 wpulledw » V r C" t J f .* •• K ' -s * £ 7 I A H ■wAl » I J 5-^ t 0* 11^ «»K £J r •r ▼ * k k te > ... . I "1.1 > DteetoeV to (iisifejrotoof 1 b • I* s’* :j Nine students qualified for state contests this year for the Thornapple Kellogg High School Business Professionals of America. (Photo provided) :senK. Qualified for nationals. — Raegen Chapman: Sixth in Fundamental Word Processing; Seventh in Basic Office Systems and Procedures. Qualified for nationals. — Carmen Reynolds: Sixth in Business Law and Ethics. Qualified for nationals. — Katelyn Chase: Fourth in Prepared Speech. Other team members com­ peting at the state level were Molly Alden, Tyne Bufka and Oliver Klerk. 213759 I IB , Tazikee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of Ordinance No. 03-14-2024 which was adopted by the Yankee Springs Township Board at a regular meeting held on March 14, 2024. * * u < ofcseiai 7^ • L W. T J tailosil V WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS I iimmi jffiWl® ioprtceeii SECTION 1 AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE X, SECTION 10.4. This section amends Section 10.4 of the Zoning Ordinance, re short term rental definitions. SECTION 2 AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE X, SECTION 10.5. This section amends Section 10.5 of the Zoning Ordinance, re short term rental standards. SECTION 3 AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE X. SECTION 10.7. This section amends Section 10.7 of the Zoning Ordinance, re short term rental permits. SECTION 4 AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE X, SECTION 10.8. This section amends Section 10.8 of the Zoning Ordinance, re violations and penalties for violating the short term rental ordinance. SECTION 5 SAVINGS CLAUSE. Any repeal herein will not affect the prosecution of any violation committed or done prior to the effective date of the Ordinance SECTION 6 SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION 7 REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES/EFFECTIVE DATE. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. This Ordinance shall take effect eight days after publication after adoption. *•1 4 iitBl’f® mostfps 1. lottep V llH I . <«« c lisfas- ■' 1 Residential & Commercial lepaiWl ^9 * 4 ux, t t.' • ..•A •s’- « [Stnicf. r. kc iSdiii' lenflo JialltoDbelP’- (liieK'' Gas Furnaces -Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers 1 I * Thv- « V' * -Z , t V. C t 1 ■: ■ I •i* » Aa k. Hl 4 I r * ( ^1 t ’I' « > 72 r t r I t. 5;^ 30 PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of the Ordinance has been posted in the Office of the Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that a copy of the Ordinance may be purchased or inspected at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of reg­ ular working days following the date of this publication. Zac Si nan ^3 ) ar,.* DeWeerd (68) UTINC & AIR AIR rnNDITIONING. HEATING CONDITIONING, INC. 269-792-2234 DEWEERDHTG.COM ( S' Man s ' 5 Sjnc<- J 955 •• 1 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP Michael Cunningham, Clerk 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, MI 49333 (269) 795-9091 LENNOX^ s A+L« BBB. ACCREDITED BUSINESS I r I F ,1 'I • I. / 1 A- u ) t . I I « ( ? •f >> » f 4 / "■ 1 1 I I k �! f f’ I I I I* t t J I f ( I I r Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 16, 2024 TK alumnus, Wilkinson, wins Indoor high jump at GLh St. Patrick’s Day hike today on traii in Middieviile 4 •X s Wilkinson Claudia cleared the bar in the high jump at 5 feet 2 inches a few times in high school, includ ing in a runner-up performance at the 2019 MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Track and Field Finals. She has added a few then. since inches Wilkinson, now jumping as a senior for the Ferris State Bulldogs, University cleared 1.63 meters (about 5 feet 4 inches) to win the women’s high jump cham­ pionship at the 2024 Great Intercollegiate Lakes Athletic Conference Indoor Championships the week­ end of Feb. 24-25. Wilkinson was the run­ ner-up at the GLIAC Indoor Championships in the high jump at the end of her fresh­ man and junior campaigns and has been in the top eight at the GLIC Outdoor Championships in each of her three collegiate seasons so far. She set her outdoor per­ sonal record at the 2023 Noonday Chapter has along its section of trail in the com­ ing weeks. There will be a trail clean-up day in Battle Creek March 23 beginning at 10 a.m. Volunteers are asked to bring gloves and/or grab­ bers to collect trash. Trash bags will be provided. Workers should near Brady Road and Dickman Road near trail mile 1079.5 watch for signs.. The NCTA ChiefNoonday Chapter will also be hosting a solar eclipse viewing event in connection with the National Park Service on the trail in Augusta for volun­ teers and their families. Organizers are expecting about 96 percent coverage of the sun by the moon in that area. The eclipse begins at 1:55 p.m. and ends at 4:24 p.m. with the maximum eclipse to occur at 3:11 p.m. Everyone is reminded to utilize safe viewing practices to prevent eye injuries during the eclipse. Hikers can join members ofthe ChiefNoonday Chapter of the North Country Trail today, Saturday, March 16 for a St. Patrick’s Day hike. The guided hike will begin at 9:30 a.m. and will explore the Paul Henry Trail. Participants are asked to meet at the gazebo in Middleville. Hikers can park at the Middleville Village Hall, 100 E. Main St. There, restrooms will be available as well. Hikers can choose between a short, four-mile hike and a longer, 11-mile hike. Both hikes are out-andback participants can turn around at any time. They are encouraged to wear green if they’d like. The hike can also contrib­ ute toward the 100 Mile Challenge. There will be an optional post-hike lunch at Riverdog Tavern in Middleville, 117 W. Main St. It is one of a handful of events the NCTA Chief Rapids. She was also a state finalist in the 300-meter low hurdles and in the <- * J fl ■ t { A. ri 11 i 31 ‘ if’ ’ *1 • > A • 'I r i » 1 I 4 I .« r * euni I f .eunCi f 9 *< i z 4M * 4 >1' f ■ la * i « MHft I 1 9 I / ..I * IJ C l€ { / a A 0 T rS“ 4 ■ i 1 J A wt BLMC J ■J '■ y* I ’I Z V fr-'.—.-nij I hr 1 I .* fr IFr- k 11 1 ,3 Ferris State University senior Claudia Wilkinson accepts her medal for winning the women’s high jump at the 2024 GLIAC Indoor Track and Field Championships the final week of February. IRe ; I * 3 I United Way seeking Voiunteer Awards nominations The Barry County United Way & Volunteer Center has aimoxmced nominations are now being accepted for the 2024 Volunteer Awards. The Volunteer Awards recognize, honor and celebrate residents within Barry County who have given their time and talent for the benefit of the community. This event will celebrate volimteers who work in a variety of areas. Nominations are being accepted for the following awards: Volunteer of the Year, Youth Volunteer of the Year, Outstanding Mentor Award, Continuing Service Award, Corporate t' s b <• t. ■l S Si ’'r • MT** • v p U— • 1' i' d ' it rf I I f - s •X VL b* r> T 7i • u b 4 k * Li d* k The Barry County United Way & Volunteer Center has announced nominations are now being accepted for the 2024 Volunteer Awards. Pictured are Mia Dickman (left) and Morgan Johnson at last year’s awards. (Photo provided) o(j MMleyMc COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the February 28, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on March 12 2024 are are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villageofmiddleville.org I i I « t I I /• r Service Award and Group Volunteer Award. Nominations must be post­ marked by Friday, April 5, 2024, to be considered. Nomination packets can be found on the United Way’s website at bcunitedway.org. Any organization that uti­ lizes volunteers in Barry County is eligible to submit nominations. This includes nonprofit agencies, service clubs and organizations, churches and businesses that are involved in employee volunteering. Winners will receive personalized awards and all nominees will receive a certificate of appreciation. The recognition event is hosted each year and centered around National Volunteer Week. This weeklong effort is about taking action and encouraging indi­ viduals and their respective communities to be at the cen­ ter of social change - discov­ ering and actively demon­ strating their collective power to make a difference. The Volunteer Awards will take place on Tuesday, April 23, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Barry Community Enrichment Center, 231 S. Broadway in Hastings. Attendees are required to register in advance. Sponsorships are also being sought for the awards. ■ ’ ' I 4 / 1 » s 1 ' znai • ’ A < i.<- J *•.. J •’ • •-b I * * I s., a b I, - { I I 1. 1 t 4 i I I I i c ’7 4 k ✓ •* J f t •j >. 1. I I Tb .1S ’ * 1 4 •.I* I « • 4 ‘ b. •'9- ^5 I 6Lh » savings account to your stu­ interest. If you pay online, dent loan provider. In addi­ you should have an option tion to staying current on to apply extra payments to your loan, you might earn a the principal. Your loan ser­ .25 percent rate reduction, vicer could also provide which is offered by many you with other ways of pay­ lenders and loan services to ing more toward principal. those who enroll in autopay. • Choose a payoff strate­ • Refinance your loan. gy. If you have multiple With a steady income, a student loans, and you can reasonably good credit make more than the mini­ score and a manageable mum payments, you may number of other debts, you want to be strategic in how might be able to refinance you pay off your loans. You your student loan and could choose the “snow­ reduce your interest rate. ball” method by getting rid which will enable more of of the smallest loans first your monthly payments to — a technique that can give go toward the principal. you feelings of momentum • Look, for employer ben- and satisfaction. Or you efits, Some employers — could take the “avalanche typically the larger ones — approach by first going offer student loan repay­ after the loans with the ment help to employees, so highest interest rates. Either check with your human route could save you more resources department. money in the long run. • Make extra payments. If It can certainly be chal­ you feel strapped just mak­ lenging to deal with student ing your regular student loan debt. But with patience loan payments, you may not and diligence, and by be able to make extra ones. exploring all your repay­ But if you can afford to add ment options, you may be to your payments consis­ able to help yourself make tently, you could pay off progress toward putting your loan earlier than you these loans to rest. had thought. But just because you make an extra payment, the money doesn’t This article was written necessarily go toward by Edward Jones for use by reducing your principal — your local Edward Jones student loan services gener­ Financial Advisor. ally apply payments first to Edward Jones, Member late fees and then to accrued SIPC I r f How can you manage student loan payments? If you have student loans, you likely received a “pay­ ment vacation” over the past few years, due to legis­ lation related to COVID-19. But if you’re like millions of other borrowers, you may have recently been required to resume your payments. How will this affect your overall financial situation? Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is the effect on your monthly cash flow. But the amount of pressure you feel will depend on your income and the size of the required pay­ ments. If these payments do represent a real challenge, you may need to adjust your budget and spending habits as best you can. However, there might be other steps you can take to help ease the burden or pos­ sibly reduce the repayment time. Here are a few suggestions to consider: • Sign up for autopay. Falling behind on your student loan payments can lead to late fees, and if you were to become truly delin­ quent, you could face even bigger troubles, such as wage garnishment. To avoid these problems, you can enroll in autopay, in which you move money automati­ cally from a checking or A « fl ^-4 and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones I l I m'/V '■4 niUNCIAL FOCUS Provided by Andrew McFadden I. ♦I (i' L ’ I ’fir 1 A/ //■ r 3^ r r •' I isr r’’ • *• u .’I ..*1 ri-^’ f I ✓ •r •.i 4 4x400-meter relay for the Trojans during her three varsity seasons in Middleville. She was a part of the 2020 class which lost its senior spring of high competition to school Covid. Valley State University. Wilkinson has also com­ peted in hurdle events and relay races for the Bulldogs during her first years in Big Outdoor GLIAC Championships clearing the bar at 1.62 meters. Her indoor PR came two weeks before the 2024 Indoor Championships when she cleared 1.65 meters at the Big Meet hosted by Grand >1' I �■'J’e Sun and News, Saturday, March 16,2024/Page 11 AA uejager matches PR m 50 free at DI Swim Finals 245 points and the Detroit Sports Editor Catholic Central boys were Caledonia/Lowell/South right behind in third with Christian senior Luke 243.5 points. ^ille ?5s Dejager qualified for the Northville placed fourth MHSAA Lower Peninsula ahead of Zeeland 136 136 Division 1 Boys’ Swimming West Ottawa 125, Rochester 107 '>1 Su'« and Diving Finals with a Stoney Creek Creek to time of 22.59 seconds in the Rochester 95.5, Brighton prelim’s of 50-yard free- 88 and Grandville 77 in the style at the OK Red top ten. The OK Red Conference Championship. Conference had two teams He matched that top time in the top ten and two just in the prelim’s at the finals outside of it with It Friday, March 8, at the Hudsonville in 11th place Oakland University and rockford in 13th. Natatorium. Dejager’s time Rockford got first-place of 22.59 put in him a tie for points from senior diver 32nd-place in the qualify­ Julian Cardenas who won ing. The top 16 swimmers that competition with an t in the race advanced to overall score of 531,95 Saturday ’ s championship points, setting a new A heats. MHSAA L.P. Division 1 j Dejager was the lone record with that score. state qualifier for the CLS Turowski and Szuba team this winter, and also teamed with junior Adyn the Ione senior on the young Stoddard and senior Luke Viking squad. Mychalowych to get a b Dejager was a little over championship for the «*e half a second behind the Detroit Catholic Central last of the finals qualifiers team in the 200-yard freein the prelim’s Grand Haven style relay with a time of 1 junior Tracen Johnson fin­ minute 24.61 seconds. ished his preliminary heat That Catholic Central in 22.04 to claim the 16th team also had the foursome spot in the finals. of Turowski, Mychalowych, Northville senior Phillip junior Roshi Turner and Zhavoronkov won the 50 senior Paddy Gerzema win freestyle at the DI Finals the 200-yard medley relay with a time of 20.65. in 1:32,61. Detroit Catholic Central The OK RedfConference W freshman Camren Turowski champions from West was the runner-up in 20.83 Ottawa closed out the and Ann Arbor Pioneer state finals with the team sophomore Henry of sophomore Luke Baumhover was third in Catton, senior Joseph 20.95. Pioneer and Detroit Engle, senior Reese Catholic Central both had Jungblut and senior Brody two guys finish in the top Menghini winning the ml ndlbf five in that race. Atal, Catholic Central junior THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP ■ kpsBOARD Jack Szuba was fourth in nlaj; Apti i 200 E. MAIN ST. MIDDLEVILLE, 21.15 and Pioneer senior Ml 49333 t miJri Christopher Leuciuc fifth in SYNOPSIS OF MEETING Kbs ta t« MINUTES 21.18. Senior Will Cheney W Bi Monday, March 11, 2024 from Rockford, out of the Meeting called to order at 7:00 • V OK Red, placed sixth in p.m. with seven members pres­ aliffllteitent. 21.22. Items approved: 35 in Bant The points picked up by 1. Printed Agenda approved as Mdosihi Baumhover and Leuciuc presented. lisincliife 2. Consent Agenda approved helped their Ann Arbor as presented. MM Pioneer team to another 3. Approved motion to pur­ jaiiziiiB, state championship. chase a new laptop for the Plan­ inesses itul ning and Zoning Administrator at Pioneer took its fourth a cost NTE$1450. aufbj'ii straight MHSAA Lower 4. Approved motion to apply for Bffi d Peninsula Division 1 Boys’ a state license at a cost of $2,000 i (jsia/ii for each tone; NTE $4,000 total. Swimming and Diving (BOOmHz system) Sawf Championship with a total 5. Approved motion to adopt xiatioD' of 275 points despite not the attached fee schedule for cost event is recovery. winning any single event. 6. Approved motion to adopt mdcenSaline was second with Resolution 3-2024, “General Ap­ s’s —----------- — - Brett Bremer 1 t e ** V ,•«- I •* rj ! 4“ • 1*^ 4b Wf a >00| E*Ki«' J * 1 1 <1^ *-i 2 w * «2» 1 ! —u -«• «--■* f fl »f * » 1 V <iS >? j t A l— * / -t V r r-’g 0 » is neet' .f V. . .A ' IB jtaliiie tfigiflli' :Stoit & News * 1 b iliec® •liiSi)''’ ii®t £ •tf OS' Mnillli tte [ Q£U» eSMlt erflicf' nullify N ?• 31S- , ^5 •i >.>4 a I i ,ajc£' t£< i .1A «£ u u •r: M- 1 »a> J 0 *a 3.W : w kx ^r* • > uBft. att^ '.xMi < 9i»aaaa- *«B «■ Cft ’ .. i — I ■* w- -s aiaa r '-«■ MB ''J - ■* ■■I L 4 » -M- M ’ MB «■ I V I > >>« z*w*v r7j Il 'V ?r* fu* T^. ' ‘s aB / > »I » * rW- f: i:. i 1 *> ■ • k < * -I 7 I I .■ -i. ’» • • r ' «.A '-J •*r J; » Hr I '•^ - * > W'.’i * * * t « & > < . * W-? *- •»tr I» > ->r\ .T ' . I •’k 4 •A .'k' c - iM - J : I •' < /e. s' J 4 i rf I ' -a ! K- N. .38K .1 •-V •? t I A I * *« / -J ne an* • 4 ! 1. » k ; 1 , r » r. > e- - SI > I V "I- r J A A ■ .X - > * . T I *■ . - • rzi:' - I 55 l' h M » - E*..-.-if is < •• I*- w r. 1 V. to a tJ 1^ ?T^1W| •f 1 # ■ ;T:«; i 4. t 1 3 ? I ' . * i !. s .P. t 1 * » a •> 4l » * 5 J to« 1.1 tf 001 ? 4 t r « 2 Xx" 4*^ Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian senior Luke Dejager qualified for the MHSAA Lok/ver Peninsula Division 1 Boys’ Swimming and Diving Finals with his perforwith his perforfreestyle at the OK Red Conference Championship last month and raced to a 32nd-place finish in the event at the finals last Friday at J Oakland University, i*T-b A propriations Act.” 7. Approved motion to adopt Resolution 4-2024, “Supervisor’s Salary.” 8. Approved motion to adopt Resolution 5-2024, “Clerk’s Sal­ ary.” 9. Approved motion to adopt Resolution 6-2024, ‘Treasurer’s Salary.” 10. Approved motion to adopt the Irving Township Fire and Am­ bulance Contract. 11. Motion to adopt Resolution 7-2024, “Land Acquisition.” Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Amy Brown. Approved by Township Supervisor, Eric Schaefer. Copies of the meeting minutes are available upon request from the Township Clerk or by visiting our website at https://thornaDple-twp.org/meetinq-minutes/ Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. , Monday through Thursday. SuVkt. -y X - * (iatioiial BTctfs, A «K^' •2 M * All f 4T >s*’ 1) ^<1 400-yard freestyle relay in 3:08.65., preventing a sweep of the relays by the Detroit Catholic Central boys who were second in that race right behind the Panthers with a time of 3:09.09. Mychalowych was the 200-yard freestyle champi­ on early in the day with a time of 1:37.98. Zeeland junior Owen Stevens won the 200-yard individual medley in 1:49.68 and later took the 500-yard freestyle in 4:27.48 - besting his state championship times in those races from a year ago. Oxford senior Olin Charnstrom won the 100yard freestyle in 45.03 and the lOO-yard backStroke in 48.10, also repeating as a champion in that event. Rochester senior Lucas Hosch won the lOO-yard butterfly in 49.80 and Brighton senior Luke Newcomb won the 100yard backstroke in 54.56 to repeat as champion in that race, just outdoing Mychalowych who finished second in 55.15. » I M A 1.^1 I S. > ?.!_ I I I •; I t t t; t.' f I I I I I V.' * ■ A E 'Vitlac I 1 oma f r ( I f 1 I I 1 1 ?> r I I____ __ I » 2 r t r -tfl ir 13 A I 'WAT’ Easter * I Si > • ♦dk fr EGG HUNT e -I • T t * V f ■fixJ ' - J 4 9 pi- •?> 4 J-'* • if ?• r * A t !ZI ¥ 1U 4 I This year we are hosting the Caledonia Area; . t Community Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 23^. , r 11am at Holy Family. This event will be held rain or j shineLAII kids 10 and under are Invited to join us. t A* R I * a* I1 1 z V K V. *.' .*11 4 . ’•y-. t r* » ' . V* iz .—•’*** L .. . r* ♦ ‘ 14*1 . L \ ' • I I I 4 k J A * b I .V T i»K ■I Don‘1: forget to get your photo Bi a? 4< .T B.■'X t r ** ’ I •t > -ff ."lb t" b tw.n'R I .1 z . ♦? 4^** . V t * t t J . * t •• taken with the bunny! t :b i 1 I* . 1 '■ -s**6ek«- . r • » .1*: 1^1 4 I • «•> SATURDAYTMARCH 23 . 11AM —J ' I.’ .^rI ft F-.. 4 ' 1 Holy Family Parish 9669 Kraft Ave. Caledonia, Ml 49316 u* * « •k , •*^-4 V i'L J UI L II *•» I •b * . • I I Il .1 I-*. I (■ .e' i; iV I 1I ?rt Jr k . >< .f V%' Ilf 1 V’ 1 !."■ r * A( 1 f », £ k I, 1 •k '-"I kk s •*T. •> k * *?- -3 >5’ I 1 t'-l if V r .'i i CahA S> * Jfi kOl .J *, u I >.x %. I k s .• k I* r 33 ( kiii fx »-C- ft; a i" ,_A !> J !a IS V 4 > ’r^ t r « s J k o ' ''4^ k *T r ■1 k. 1 a ~V- . '• .* » -• 'I 1*'' • -r« « 11 \ 1 »* *4 k r’' K c 111 I !■ I Hl r.'C V, T V "* ."k <4 .k T*r • »< «l I I r “ •' I k '. ' I 4-« - I*Z t k 'V ' vj; r;: « -• , ' I ',1 , k' ,1 11 «k k , (> ■ *. ‘V I. BW : 1-' ^.k ••V i t I ■A Bk «■ k .T -J I 3 —» . "".r1 ■ ''C . . .1 Zb -B 4 -■ I n » ..t Tl*W , k i T r J, ‘.1 I*' • Z"? '1 *V.: ’k i. W' A* -■’T ■ 'k 1. '' < .• *1 « > *>« *;• ) f- k■ '.I bl a k’r ' bl V * y r. 'f I k ■ .•.I tJihdMI A '. I . .’•• »I ? I I ' I’ t .2. 1*34^4 I A**: ¥ s .V * .1 'k • 1 • V -v fr ; > *1 ‘A > t II w • ' A !/.t •.V.i 1 \ 1 A MB VI 11 I k • k k k . I I .giiZ-T k T 1 1 T ean » r* Ia 9 1 Ik* ( M- .K- 1 e . ??Sk. *2 >b 48*!:- I t' - * 5 I .'■•kn* 5 k tv . hk «i ■ ajTwi ” - Mvf r •‘Vjiy's b l1 I' -«v< •I I TJI l[:WManp: ■ 1 i •! . 5i V I) T. w 1 k Uf- IRVING TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS FEBRUARY 20, 2024 Meeting called to order at 6:35 PM AT 3425 Wing Rd. Hastings, Michigan 49058 Roll call; Doug Sokolowski, Dean Bass, Jamie Knight, Mike Buehler, and Sharon Olson present. members of the public in atten­ dance. Motions passed; 1. Agenda approved. 2. January 16, 2024, Minutes , approved. 3. Approve Welton's Heating to repair the system for $1701.54. Roll call 4. Purchase 2 desks $1038.78: Roll call 5. Meeting dates for 2024-2025 April 16, 2024, May 21. 2024, June 18, 2024, July 16, 2024, Au­ gust 20. 2024, September 17, 2024, October 15, 2024, November 19, 2024, December 17, 2024, Janu­ ary 21,2025, February 18, 2025, March 18, 2025. 6. Pay bills $10,721.08. Roll Call 7. Adjourn 7:38 PM Resolutions passed by roll call: 1. Resolution #2024-1 Poverty Exemption Income Guidelines and Asset Test .2. Resolution #2024-2 Property Transfer Affidavit. 3.Resolution #2024-3 Protest to Board of Review in Writing Discussion: Barry County Recycling Coordi­ nator, Rachel Frantz. Burn Ordinance: Fire Chiefs will meet and offer opinion to the Irving Board of Trustees. Thornapple Township Emer­ gency Services Contract to be discussed at March Board Meeting. Fire reports presented and on file in their departments. Commissioner’s report by Jon Smelker- public town hall held on Solar Power Land Use. Treasurer’s report presented -available online or in Township Hall. Taxes accepted up to February 29, 2024, without interest charged. February 29, 2024, office hours 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. _ Clerk Olson- Early voting update. 21 voters so far. Discussed costs, March 19, 2024, Board Meeting 6:30 PM Full minutes are available at Irvingtownship.org or at 3425 Wing Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058. Prepared by Clerk, Sharon Olson. Attested to by Supervisor, Jamie Knight. 213513 I « I» b r <1 I I f 9 « I I 1 t I f ( r I I » f I I I I I I I * I t I r T I I k • b I f I F I . M • A 0 T S’*!’ 4 ■ 1 4 « v« »>.Xr I • I* — X �t I I 4 r I I II I f I « f I 3 t f t I t ♦ t I t 9 9 9 t 4 Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 16,2024 Sixth Woman award winner Vanstee first GLIi Brett Bremer Sports Editor Paige Vanstee made her way out onto the court inside the GVSU Fieldhouse a little over three minutes into Lakes Great Sunday’s Athletic Intercollegiate (GLIAC) Conference Tournament Championship Game inside her Lakers’ own State Valley Grand University Fieldhouse Arena. Nobody was better com­ ing off the bench during the 2023-24 GLIAC Women’s Basketball season than the former Thomapple Kellogg Trojan, Vanstee. Vanstee and the Lakers followed up their GLIAC regular season championship by taking down the Northern Michigan University women 67-48 in the conference tour­ nament final Sunday. A red-shirt sophomore for­ ward who graduated from Thomapple Kellogg High School in 2021, Vanstee was named the GLIAC’s Sixth Woman of the Year award wirmer last week. This is the first year that the GLIAC has given out a sixth woman award. Vanstee has played in 19 games so far this season for the Lakers, averaging 17.4 minutes a game. She heads into the NCAA Division II postseason averaging 8.9 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. She had a career-high 24 points in a Laker victory at Wisconsin-Parkside last I I I 1 t I I I I I I J i I I I i ( I I I I I I I * ( I 1 1 I I I r -I I I I I 4 I I t 1 I 1 1 I I 4 1 J. *4,* I X » I .P.» rj 7 r •<1 ..V-4 •t I r t ¥ « i^-Ml V r. * • r GVSU .. 'Ww 1 •l Paige Vanstee 1 month. Vanstee played in 32 games as a red-shirt fresh­ man for the Lakers during the 2022-23 season, averaging a little over 15 minutes a game while tallying 6.6 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. Playing four varsity seasons at TK, Vanstee was named all-conference in the OK Gold three times and was a three-time All-Barry County First Team honoree too. She isn’t the only Laker to earn GLIAC honors, cer tainly not after a 17-1 conference regular season. Laker head coach Mike Williams was named GLIAC Coach of the Year and junior forward Rylie Bisballe was named both the GLIAC Player of the Year and GLIAC Defensive Player of the Year. Bisballe was joined on the all-conference first team by teammate Nicole Karnin. Karnin, Bisballe and i > > > 1 <•* F r U'$ it j * r. i*p r.L Thornapple Kellogg alumnus Paige Vanstee (24) and her Grand Valley State University Laker teammates (from left) Ava Scanlon, Lexi Plitzuweit, Macy Bisballe and Avery Zeinstra enjoy celebrating their Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament Championship after beating Northern Michigan University in the tournament final Sunday at GVSU Fieldhouse Arena in Allendale. VanStee was named the conference’s first Sixth Woman of the Year award winner during the Lakers’ conference championship run. (Photo courtesy gvsulakers.com) teammate Hadley Miller were all named to the GLIAC All-Defensive Team this season. The Lakers swept through the GLIAC Tournament on their home court with a 65-54 win over Purdue Northwest in the opening round, March 6, and a 72-59 victory over Parkside in the GLIAC Semifinals Saturday. Vanstee was just l-of-6 from the field during the tournament championship team’s final basket of the GLIAC season. Vanstee also had nine points and six rebounds in the tournament semifinal victory over Parkside and five points and three rebounds in the win over Purdue Northwest in the tournament’s opening roimd last week. The Lakers are hosting their NCAA Division II Regional Tournament this weekend. They were set to game against Northern Michigan, but is shooting closer to 50 percent from the floor on the season. She fin­ ished the final with six points and five rebounds, going 4-of-5 at the free throw line. She helped cap off the Laker victory over the Wildcats with an assist on a three by Molly Anderson which put the Lakers up 65-43 with three minutes to go and a steal that led to her open action last night, March 15, on the home floor where they are 18-0 this season. They were scheduled to face Trevecca Nazarene in the NCAA Midwest Regional Quarterfinals at 5 p.m. back inside the GVSU Fieldhouse Arena. Regional semifinal ballgames will be played today, March 16, and the NCAA DIL Regional Final is set for Monday evening, March 18, in Allendale. Big TKWC group earns spots in MYWAY State tournament The TK Wrestling Club had more than 30 wrestlers compete in the MYWAY West Regional at Grandville High School Sunday, and 22 of the club’s wrestlers earned top four finishes to qualify for the upcoming MWAY State Championships. The Caledonia wrestling club also had seven of its eight wrestlers competing in the West Regional earn spots in the state championships. TKWC’s Abram Dutcher won the 2008-2009 HS 218pound weight class by pin­ ning The Heights WC’s Adam Morend in their cham­ pionship match, and the TKWC also got regional vic­ tories from Sawyer Jones in the 2016 Open 112-pound class and Tristen CraigWright in the 2015 Open Heavyweight A class. Caledonia got a regional High Efficiency championship from Owen Buckley in the 2016 Open 43-pound weight class. He took an 8-5 win over Fremont Wolf Pack’s Fischer Zeedyk in his championship bout. Ryker Reurink, Hendrix Sokoloski, Ben Landon, Zander Holderman, Ashton Braska and James Manne from the TKWC all finished second in their divisions. Kiernan LaMange, Collin I FURNACE: I g -Ihr: I I I 4 I I 400 OFF ' H Vl"* •«« .». a a I I e I I t « 4 *• ii^ f 1 IH B Ifl I „ 4^ I) t I t I 1 * Must present this coupon. Ebcpiros 4-12-24 I I I I FRONTIER HEATING S COOLING ri'* I • ” ♦ Ab 31 .■b% iff [•uTiTr 6164191 I** « I AX ■I I JN 4 V 1 L I I .r.. 1 A' t %ft I .Sr ' 1 I , 4 n > 4 .a ( I V nNAHClNG AVAU i ABLE No monthly interest 7'/ze company built by referrals N PQid within 18 mo. The TK Wrestling Club’s 2024 MYWAY state qualifiers include (front from left) Brayden Polmanteer, Ryker Reurink, Kiernan LaMange, Bayleigh Reurink, Remington Reurink, Colin Underhill,’,,.. (middle row) Sawyer Jones, Donovan Matthes, Rilie Hall, Hendrix Sokoloski, Levi K Z-’ ’ i>okoioski, Levi Sheely, Bryson Godfrev David Shepiv Ashton BrSkrTV Natalie Undethill, Zander Holderman M ♦9 and Blake Bossenberger as well as as; S'a^ ™ranS«."’ "-V. A^.an,^o:X“ • .— I 1 ! « r.' 4 V f f 1 k J f I * I A I 1 / 4 I t i • <1 9 i 4 e 7 i it 6 I I 1 < Al • 4 i < f » a « L 1 > J Y I 4 1 I ) J 4 4 I 9 I I I ■> fl I :4 s A I. V >4 1 r. 1 Jr. 4 'll A I .1 J I I 5*' 210 East Main Street, Caledonia I -* I 1 i I I * -t,- I >3 > II r X II. f 1 I Championships. Caledonia also had Chase Harder and Rhys Helmholdt earn regional runner-up fin­ ishes, Egan Otto place third and Teddy Maines, Louis Dyer and Lucas Griswold each place fourth in Grandville. The MYWAY State Championships will be held March 21 -24 at Wings Event Center in Kalamazoo. I i .‘t I Underhill, Remington Reurink, Donovan Matthes, Austin Quint and Brekin Mcwhinney were all third for TKWC. Blake Bossenberger, Brayden Polmanteer, Levi Sheely, Bryson Godfrey, Chandler Simerly, David Sheely and Trace Pfeifer all placed fourth at the regional. The TKWC also plans to have six girls competing in the MYWAY State X J 4 4 1 4 « J ‘ *4 4 t X I I t I > 4 4 I » . 4 • I I t J J k I \ I 4 • I » 1 ) a 1 I / t I * I b % 4 I t it 4 t t fl 4 I I I ’ o « '.4 I � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-03-23.pdf cb1f59e7d234360599800cf4c31721f1 PDF Text Text r *< A TH^^Sah <«^' *4 *» “1.-.' > . -* JWuX* 7 ’^:^i’.‘^ • 4 *•< • « A I « k '^urHometown Newspaper Serving Middleville and Caledonia Areas' No. 12/ March 23, 2024 k Published by J-Ad Graphics, inc. • 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 Caledonia Township board OKs changes to sign ordinance Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Caledonia Township Board Wednesday approved an amendment to the town­ ship’s sign ordinance, but not before making one final change affecting signage in windows. As part of its decision, the board voted 6-0 to pass a change that will require 70 percent of the total area of windows in a building to be unobstructed by signs. Two weeks earlier, the board had debated whether to require 90 percent of a window to be unobscured, even though the township Planning Commission had never dis­ cussed a percentage before­ hand in making its recom­ mendation to the board. “When it came out of the Planning Commission, it was blank, and it was anticipated that something would be in there, where it said blank percent shall be allowed to be covered, Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison said. “A number was dropped in by our planner (Lynee Wells) before we said let’s bring it to (the board), she put in 10 percent (as the pro­ posed limit for sign coverage in a window).” Harrison looked to bring the township in line with similar signage requirements in the village of Caledonia, 4 V* I 9 f^numotr 2 for / 919 “■Wtti > ih 1 I rrj / / M 41* ? 4^ PkRKlf L J •'t « d» VAN ^-5 * W 4\ r I t k T' T CHECH - -B-* FDFF FREE CBtCK [MGUtt UCHTon? ueiKttrnt ttttsnmtf' I . r' V BATTUY W*'W'* -5 •‘t J I♦ > A I 4 T I r i •7 rI r7 7 1 t I . w ) I I 1 I 146th year Postcard display and sale underway at Caledonia KDL branch I *• j L 1 f The Caledonia Township Board amended the township's sign ordinance, issu­ ing a change that will require 70 percent of the total area of windows in a building to be unobstructed by signs. (Photo by Greg Chandler) Greg Chandler Staff li riter A collection of postcards created by artists from the Caledonia community is now on display and avail­ able for sale at the Kent District Librarj' Caledonia branch. A total of 295 postcards. created by 43 artists. are part of the display that's been put together by Art In Caledonia. It's the seventh year for the event, which runs through Monday, April 15. “They're all on the pillars (throughout the library). said Lulu Brown, regional manager for the KDL Caledonia and Cascade branches. It’s like a mini-ArtPrize, just for Caledonia, high- lighting the talent that's here. One of the participating artists in the display is Sam Holland, who is an assistant branch librarian at the Caledonia KDL branch. Se\cral other artists are branch volunteers, Ikown said. Some ot the postcards depicl scenes from the Caledonia community. Brown said. Art In Caledonia was founded 10 years ago by Jane Heiss, who was the first manager of the Caledonia library when it opened in 2011. “We are always looking for opportunities and ven­ ues for artists to share their * I 4 I * I 1 I I I I I i It I t I See POSTCARD, page 3 • I which makes a distinction between temporary and per­ manent signage - allowing up to 30 percent coverage in a window for temporary signs and 15 percent for per­ manent signs. The 10 percent (recommendation) that came to us from our consultant, 1 believe that’s too restrictive. It’s also not consistent with what the village has,” Harrison said, recommending allowing 30 percent sign coverage in a window. Tom Purdy of Caledonia Rent-All called the 30 per­ cent allowance “reasonable,” but did raise other issues. There’s a few businesses that already have potentially more than that (coverage), and they’ve had it for years. To me, that’s kind of their right, and that’s the way they do business,” Purdy said. Stephen Smith, a district manager for AutoZone Inc., said that some of the current signage at the retailer’s loca­ tion on Cherry Valley Avenue covers more than 30 percent of the window, and proposed allowing a greater percentage on some windows if other windows in the building have no signage so that the total overall signage at the busi­ ness does not exceed the 30 percent limit. He says the retailer typically changes its signs every four weeks. The signs do pay for themselves (in generating increased sales), and they’re (4 ■ MJ L I 1 > X I 'I—i,. I * 4^ " 4 *1^ > I' 4-*- V * . See SIGN ORDINANCE, page 2 K A J Yankee Springs planning commissioner honored for 55 years of public service * •M I ♦ -41^ • < 7 «»* A total of 295 postcards, created by 43 artists throughout the Caledonia community, are part of the display at the Kent District Library Caledonia branch. (Photos by Greg Chandler) J Greg Chandler Staff IVriter Rich Beukema had just retired from the Grand Rapids Police Department in 1992 after 28 years as an officer. An avid sailor, Beukema was looking to move to a community that was near the water. He and his wife, Maxine, decided to move to Gun Lake in Yankee Springs Township. They found a vacant lot near the lake and had a home built on that lot, which the couple still lives in three decades later. “When we got here, we A discovered how nice of a place it was,” Beukema said. “I’m very happy with it. The crime rate is really low, we have good neighbors, people get along here. Everything’s of easy-going kind Everything I need here is \vithin two miles. I always say everything I need is two the docstop signs away tor, the bank, the store, whatever.” in established Once Yankee Springs, Beukema set out to try to get to know some of the people there, and I t > -A *f. i ) -iff < •.5 ' x-___ __ * r * > ■4.; J ric- J » < 'S I 4 ' BaI I ii 1 . I I | * 4- '.2 B J a-' * ■ 1 r*** * • Barry County Sheriff claims foreign interference in election « z •(« ♦ J 9• '..•jlRCgS * 1 * I ( ..a<. I / V I P • Cal school board approved superintendent contract ■ • TK schools to get new LED signage L_-_--- r 't I f > c I > * t SlISSllJE t -------- !■; ’ .4 11^ I t Rich Beukema with his planning certificate from Michigan State University. Rich recently marked 55 years of public service — 28 years as a police officer in Grand Rapids and 27 years as a Yankee Springs Township planning commissioner. (Photo by Greg See BEUKEMA, page 2 Chandler) r < ■ » *1 • LaeJy Cal soccer teams with FHC for Kick Cancer event Tuesday • TKHS girls start their soccer season with win at Hastings 1 �4 9 • Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 23, 2024 Cal schools project $4.7 million deficit in 24-25 preliminary draft budget SIGN ORDINANCE, continued from page 1 character by reducing visual clutter, to promote uniformity in the size and number and placement of signs in each zoning district.” significant Another change in the ordinance allows a commercial or industrial building with mul­ tiple tenants to allow up to 30 square feet of signage for each tenant. Previously, the ordinance limited the square footage of wall signs, no matter how many tenants were in a building. Wells said at March 4 Planning Commission meeting. not cheap,” Smith said. says it has hurt their business. Harrison called the win“When you have 7,000 locations and you (pay) $300 (for dow signage rules “a good signage) every four weeks first step” and said it gives for each location, you’re businesses “a lot more flexi­ talking about a big expense bility” than the earlier-proline that has to pay for itself posed measure. Harrison added that one of ... I think it’s important for a township like this to provide the most important additions businesses with whatever to the sign ordinance was a tools they need to make their “purpose and intent” section that explains the reasons for business successful.” Smith noted that in the city having the regulations. “Previously, that was not where Kentwood, of AutoZone has two locations, included, even though it’s the company is not allowed to implied,” he said. “It lists a have window signage under number of things - conserve the city’s sign ordinance. He and enhance community BEUKEMA, continued from page 1 — in the process, discovered an opportunity to serve his community much like he had in Grand Rapids. “I discovered there was a coffee group that was meet­ ing over at Sandy’s (Country Kitchen) down by the lake, so I started going to that,” he said. It was through this group that Beukema met a member of the township board, who suggested he apply for an opening on the township planning commission. “I had just spent 28 years in the police department, and I thought this is a way I can continue to serve the com­ munity. So I went in and talked to the (township) supervisor, who was George London at the time, and put an application in,” Beukema said. Beukema was appointed to fill that opening. He plunged headlong into learning everything he could about planning, taking a citizen planner course through Michigan State University. Five years later, Beukema was appointed chairman of the planning commission. . They kind of stuck me (with that role) for about 10 years,” he said with a chuckle. Beukema also served as the planning commission’s liaison to the zoning board of appeals. Twenty-seven years after his appointment, at age 82, Beukema still serves as a commissioner, helping the township set its zoning rules and addressing development proposals. He was honored at a recent township board meeting for his 55 years of public service, combining his police experience with his service as a commissioner. “I can’t imagine a tougher guy than Rich,” Township Supervisor Rob Heethuis said at the March 14 board meeting. “The other day, he happened to fall, and when he fell, he broke a couple of ribs The thought that he was not going to the planning commission meeting that night never entered his head.” Beukema says for the most part, not a lot has changed in Yankee Springs since he first began serving as a commissioner. “People come in and want building permits, and of course, you have the people who tiy to skirt around the (zoning) laws,” Beukema said. Recently, Beukema and his fellow commissioners took on the issue of short­ term rentals in the township, eventually recommending a measure to ban commercial short-term rentals in residential-zoned areas near the ’lake. ‘ ~ ' The township board adopted the change earlier this month. He says it hadn’t been an issue in his neigh­ borhood. • • ♦ “It’s probably because we’re on the channel rather than on the lake,” Beukema said. “I can see where that would be very problematic. I would hate to think of a lake house next to us here - it’s about 4,000 square feet (having the owners) starting to rent that out to 30 college kids on a weekend. That would be a real problem for me because of the noise and the music and the cussing and the (drunkenness).” Beukema has added to his service to the township in recent years, joining the Water Advisory Board in 2018 and the Fire Committee in 2021. He says serving the township in his various roles helps keep his mind active. “There’s lots of things you have to remember and get involved and study. That’s a blessing for me, for sure. It beats sitting in a rocking chair all day,” Beukema said. Beukema has been married to Maxine for 62 years, The couple has four children, 13 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. with most of the family living within a 45-minute drive of Gun Lake. When he’s not serving the township, he does landscaping work around his house. a-fl ■R I L Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education Monday night approved a contract for Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer that will run 4 f 1 L I .'4 e- 9 through the end of the 2027-28 school year. The contract, which was approved unanimously, is ret­ roactive to Jan. 1 and will be in effect through June 30, 2028. The school board in late December voted to offer the superintendent’s position to Weeldreyer, who had served CCS as its interim superinten­ dent since July 1, 2023. “We are pleased to have reached this point of working this (contract) out,” Board President Marcy White said. “It’s certainly been busy for our Finance Committee that had started working on this, and certainly difficult to coordinate all parties involved with manag­ ing the district every day in get­ ting this done. We are pleased to move forward with this.” The school board had reviewed Weeldreyer’s con­ tract at a committee of the OPTOMETRIST ~ 2 LOCATIONS — • HASTI^(Qf»»; 1510 N. Broadway - 269-945-2192 A LAIND: 216 N. Main - 269-792-0515 MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED I ( r 1 4 4 4 I f * « I I I I I I V » > I I I I I I i ' I » / I I 3£l jail W Dijats” at 1 hi IV Hi Ml®*’ kl whole meeting on March 13. “It’s a wonderful privilege to be able to serve here at Caledonia,” Weeldreyer said after Monday’s meeting. “I’m looking forward to working with the board. They have been great. I’ve been (enjoy­ ing) working with our wonder­ ful staff. It’s always a nice thing to get that (contract) set­ tled and behind us, and I’m looking forward to many years of productive relationships.” Weeldreyer’s contract will be extended for one additional year with each successfill job performance evaluation from the school board. White wrote in an e-mail to the Sun and News. Weeldreyer will be paid a pro-rated salary of $125,000 for the first six months of this year, and then receive a base salary of $250,000 for the 2024-25 school year. He would receive a 3 percent salary increase for the 202526 school year, a 2.91 percent raise in 2026-27 and a 2.83 percent pay hike in 2027-28, White wrote. “The district took care to explore comparative salaries and benefits statewide and throughout the greater Grand Rapids area when negotiating the superintendent’s contract,” White wrote. Scott Bloom, O.D. I just donated our unused items to M37Auction on behalf of the Caledonia Theatre Guild to help them get supplies for their performing arts programs! T 9 t: Quality Family Eye Care Since 1929 The auction is April 11 — 16th Drop off your items now and you can help too! I*. Cal school board approves Weeldreyer contract Caledonia Community Schools Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer will serve in his role through the end of the 2027-28 school year after the school board approved his con tract on Monday. • r1 cm we’re going to manage this,” Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer said. All ESSER funding must be spent by Sept. 30, DeVries said. The budget projection assumes no change in Caledonia’s enrollment for next year. The district’s enrollment in the fall was 4,991, a slight increase from the year before but still not on the same level as what enrollment was prior to the COVED-19 pandemic when CCS’ enrollment was more than 5,000. “The two years ofCOVED, we lost 200 students and we have not (fully) regained that back yet,” DeVries said. The project also assumes an increase in the district’s pcr-pupil allocation from the state of $241 per student, a figure that hasn’t been final­ ized yet by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and state lawmakers. “The state budget process is far from done,” Weeldreyer said. “All we have to go on so far at this point is the govemor’s recommendation. and while that provides a starting point, that’s certainly not the end. We will see where things go from here.” Assuming-the current esti ­ Greg Chandler mated shortfall holds, that Staff Writer fimd balance would be With several federal and reduced to $9,952,620, or state grants being phased out later this year, Caledonia 13.8 percent of expenditures, Community Schools are pro- by the end of the current fisjecting a budget deficit of cal year, DeVries said. One of the major issues more than $4.7 million for that’s expected to impact the 2024-25 fiscal year. Sara DeVries, the district’s next year’s budget is the chief financial officer, pre- elimination of about $3.6 sented a draft preliminary million in federal grants, pribudget for the next fiscal marily the Elementary and year at Monday’s Board of Secondary School Education meeting. The Emergency Relief Fund board is expected to under­ (ESSER), which is part of take a number of measures to the American Rescue Plan whittle down the projected Act that was signed into law shortfall before passing a by President Biden three years ago. new budget in June. CCS used ESSER funding “We do have some work to do, to right-size the bud­ to add 21 new teaching posi­ get,” DeVries told the board. tions for the 2022-23 school DeVries is projecting rev­ year, but eliminated 11.5 of enues of $69,853,246 for the those positions in the 20232024-25 fiscal year and 24 budget, as teachers who expenditures of $74,604,822, were hired under the grants resulting in a deficit of were able to move into other $4,751,576. The current dis­ general fimd positions left trict budget estimates a vacant by retirement or res­ shortfall of $424,727 for the ignation. It’s expected that fiscal year ending Jime 30, more positions will be slashed as part of the effort to she said. CCS began the 2023-24 reduce the projected deficit fiscal year with general fund for 2024-25. reserves of $10,377,347, rep­ “Those will be difficult resenting a little less than 15 conversations. We’re going percent of district spending. to have to figure out how “We always have a vegetable garden every year, we raise a lot of flowers,” he said. Beukema shows no signs of stepping down anytime soon and says he’ll spend the rest of his life at Gun Lake. I I I 1 I I I 1 I I.J I I I I II I I I J i I I i from QrcgCh# n J r *'4 I �The Sun and News, Saturday, March 23, 2024/ Page 3 Caledonia Twp. fire responds to increased calls per annual report I Greg Chandler The department saw a significant increase in the number of calk in both the noithw^'aiid I V?>'; overlapping calls - calls that come in while crews are already responding to another call. That’s when the department relies on part-time on-call firefighters to pick up the slack. The department had 243 overlapping calls in 2023, compared to 184 the year before, Siler said. The Caledonia Township Fire Department has eight fulltime firefighters and 15 parttime on-call firefighters, Siler said. “It’s where all the (residential) developments are going in. Where we have all the growth is in those two quad­ rants,” Siler said. The vast number of calls 75 percent to be exact, or 733 calls — were for medical emer­ gencies. The department handied 30 fires for the year, representing 3 percent of total calls for the year, Siler said. The department also saw an increase in the number of The Caledonia Township Fire Department saw a slight increase in the number of calls southwest portions of the town­ it responded to in 2023. ship. In the area north of 841h In his. annual report to the Street and west ofthe Thomappl e Township Board Wednesday River, the number "H —cuu vvcuncsuay Kiver, the number of calls the night. Fire Chief Scott Siler department handled spiked 31.9 reported that his department percent from 379 in 2022 to 500 responded to 1,219 calls last last year. The increase wasn’t year, a 2.3 percent increase quite as pronounced in the ai^ from the year before, but still south of 84th and west of the below the all-time high for calls river, where calls increased by 10 from 2021, when the depart- percent from 398 in 2022 to 438 u work,” Heiss wrote in an email. The organization’s first project, in 2014, was deco­ rated doors that were created by both businesses and indi­ vidual artists. The doors were displayed throughout the community and a map was created to help people find them all,” Heiss wrote. Since then, Art In Caledonia has done other community projects, such as quilt shows and art proj­ ects using recycled materi­ als. “It really is all about the art and the people who create it,” Heiss wrote. The postcard display and sale began with 10 artists and 101 cards in its first year and has grown ever since, Heiss wrote. Visitors to the library can last year. ment handled 1,307 calls. Writer POSTCARD, continued from page 1 — I 4 ’’.UK New lieutenant named, two complete black helmet training at Thornapple Fire '*5; Greg Chandler did, Thomapple Chief Bill Richardson said. “In June of last year, (he) pretty much had to take on the role as lieutenant Staff Writer fhomapple Township Fire Department recently promoted one of its firefighters to a lieu­ tenant’s position while two other firefighters received their black helmet to signify they have completed required training for an increased role. r, T u , , Bryn Lymburner, who has een part of the department since September 2022, is now a lieutenant after a pinning »n''' Iff 'M 'S - all of the responsibility with none of the authority. He’s done a great job since then.” Lymburner was the only firefighter to test for the lieutenant ’ s position from within . the department, Richardson said. “So many people on shift respected that he’s been doing the job, and he should be the one to have that position,” he said. Lymburner has been a paramedic for almost 10 years, and ceremony at a recent Township Board meeting. Lymbumer’s wife, Jessica, and parents par­ ticipated in the ceremony. “He hired in shortly after I » hi,.- - iw i; X'’5 I* .• I -1 9 I ** T•f i*«J * A 4 ! BcnbSsB p’ I '4 s k I <• ►J. ( I ■ ; [ fit las .t I' * *1 I S' r S’ I W*-’"** fsateb' < •c 1 4 T s .1 X• .4 I u s vA^ & < S':-'.' r e* •s k. tJaiDB; fj Wl From left to right Bryn Lymburner, Chief Bill Richardson, Shelby England and Jon Wallace of the Thornapple Township Fire Department. (Photo by Greg Chandler). iS (jiiiir? ffi caff*' paramedic school with a pro­ jected graduation of March 2025. He comes in, and he doesn’t care if he’s scrubbing floors or pulling a hose. He’s ready to come in and come to work. He’s excited every day. I wish I could have 10 more of him,” Richardson said. “He’s always eager to work, (whether it’s) 4 o’clock in the vice there, Richardson said. He’s well-seasoned. He holds my hand when I work on the ambulance with him. We’ve done a lot of shifts together over the last few 4months because of stafling, the chief said. Lymburner holds a fire sciLymburner holds a fire science ence certificate from Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie. “You get this badge, you gain a little extra weight. because (of) the responsibility behind having the badge,” Richardson said. “Now he’s ence, nine of them in Rockford and five more at Cutlerville. He joined the department in Februaiy of last year. “He came with a wealth of experience. He’s got rope-res­ cue (experience), hazmat operations (experience) and a myriad of other certificates in firefighting that he’s obtained • * '4 j I 4 rj •1 i 4^ * J >*'4^3 & I 'J 1 .<4 4 I k I f - 1 l", . . . ■ ft 77 4 £ I S: b r / * ... k- CT. u A J- t: J I F'-'- 1* 3 i r 4 A MM * ' i 1' ‘ 4 c . z I 4 I 7*. AM • ,• .4 4< 4 k k t ■r ••••• 1 r • •1. '' - .J I -r^ f 4 I* I t * ***B^H^I t t T. k .1 Ml 1 **‘54 DOMrftS BURKC 1 * Ik A r & - I A y ■ 4 t i r- {i S F I.« 17 I . « a" L r I 1 ? I J* I - I A-L ' J I 1 . t-' I. 7:00 PM 1 I s If4‘ z c Sx. f 1 f I / <. it c Z •J March 31 Free Breakfast served 9-10 AM •«r I K r. A *« I, * 10:30 AM t //^ k • r* 4 Easter Service / _ / fHt RE.^URREUl!'.'. I } March 31st • lOam CH I ■3 k Good Friday Service, March 29th • 7pm •“tl < If (*« i'' «» THAT By this we know love, He laid down his life for us tff i. i 1 f 1 John 3:16 .J WWW.yQllkcc5pTmg5blbleckuTck.OT9 I A 5215 N. M-37 FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET I I .••TT s r- ‘ !■ ■ -airgn.Ki '"'”75 .«* FIRST BAPTIST Middleville k I I ’ t Resurrection Sunday Service I I I k SUSAM RCIMSTEIN March 29 l\. sM .I L K' Palm Sunday Service, March 24th • 10am V r •r? Good Friday Service .v Please join us I I t 7/ s ar r ) 4 MIDDLEVILLE V •/ r* *•* «. K I' t I a* 'W' The display of postcards was put together by Art In Caledonia. It’s the seventh year for the event. h 8900 Puffy PoqJ. mlddlcville mi 49333 I I f LV Eveiyone enjoys having him around,” Richardson said. i V. t , I I. 4 4^ V I ■ r' “which is pretty incredible, to get through it, that quickly.” “He’s well-educated. He’s a: great asset to the department. I' r I 1 1 • a master’s degree in manage­ ment. He worked through his probationary objectives at Thomapple within a year — IjQnkce SpTmg5 6lblc CkuTck C J i I tu T'- I I I i . L Wallace earned his EMT certification in 2020 and holds 1 y 2 . I FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH r<e/ - *'' » I • J. I n nician and is now attending X 1 .•U over the years,” Richardson said. .1 .. UP rt morning, 4 o’clock in the afternoon. You get the same work ethic out of him.” Wallace comes to the Thomapple department with 14 years of past firefighting experi * 9! .V '1^230 PIANE HARPIH going to be responsible for going into fires and leading some of our junior firefighters that don’t have that experience. He’s not only responsi­ ble for himself and the citizens of this community, but he’s also responsible for the mem­ bers of the department that he’s going to (lead).” In addition, Shelby England and Jon Wallace received their black helmets for completing their probationary require­ ments. “I’m veiy proud of how hard these two have worked,” Richardson said. England joined the Thomapple department in 2021, works as a firefighter and emergency medical techt yr ru» * I * previously worked in Grand Rapids at an ambulance ser- reserve their favorite post­ cards via email, and then pay for them and pick them up on Saturday, April 13, from 1 to 4 p.m. Postcards are $20 apiece with all proceeds going to the artist. You can reserve a card by emailing artincalmi@aol.com and include the postcard number and name of the artist. Unreserved postcards can be purchased on April 13 by simply removing the unre­ served postcard from the dis­ play and bringing $20 to pay to an Art In Caledonia mem­ ber. The postcards can be viewed during regular library hours. They are Mondays from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 8 p.m., and Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1 I 1 I �Page 4ZTbe Sun and Hawa, Saturday, March 23, 2024 Gerald *ferry" fohn Riva Jerry Riva, age 84, of Middleville, MI passed away peacefully on March 16, 2024. Jerry was bom on April 24, 1939 in Grand Rapids, MI, the son of Peter and Doris (Latimer) Riva. Jerry was a dedicated employee of White Bradford the Corporation for over 46 years as an electrician, and was a proud UAW Local 1002 member. Jerry enjoyed his many friendships he made over the years with his BWC pals. While he was a 1957 graduate of Wyoming Park High School, Jerry spent his childhood summers at the family cottage on Cobb Margaret LUen Lavey Margaret Ellen (Elwood) Eavey, age 88, of Middleville, MI passed away peacefully on Monday, March 18, 2024. Mike as she was known by many, was bom on January 2, 1936 in Hastings, Ml, the daughter of Alton and Louise (Williams) Elwood. Mike was married to her loving husband Wall on June 27, 1954 and together they shared 66 won­ derful years raising their fami­ ly, before his passing in 2020. She worked at the Village Grocery in Middleville for over 15 years and also a vari­ ety of accounting services for small businesses in the area. Mike was a member of the Middleville United Methodist Church where she was active in many different groups. In her free time, she enjoyed square dancing, sewing, reading, and traveling. For eight years, Mike and Walt were volunteer lighthouse keepers at Michigan lighthouses, including their favorite. Big Sable in Ludington. They also worked for the National Parks Service at the Casa Grande Ruins Monument in Coolidge, AZ for several years. She will be dearly missed by her loving family. Mike is survived by her children, Connie (Rick) Hicks, Alan (Vai) Eavey, Timothy r V «■ $ a * ♦ *■ J % ■a ...» I ■A - 4 r Eiavey, Sherri (Tim) Hall; grandchildren; ten great seven grandchildren; brothers, Tom Lake in Barry County. He and Loyd Elwood; brother-inwas a city kid who soon law, Rich and Joann Eavey. Mike was also preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Patricia Arce and Jackie Elwood. Friends and relatives met with the family on Thursday, March 21,2024 fat the BeclerThe Caledonia Theatre Gores Funeral Home in Middleville, where a funeral Guild is partnering with service was conducted. Private M37Auction for a fundraiser burial took place at Mount that will benefit the commuHope Cemetery. Pastor Tony nity’s fine arts scene. M37Auction will host a Shumaker officiating. Memorial contributions to special auction April 11-16 Corewell Health Hospice will to benefit the Guild. be appreciated. Please visit The Caledonia Theatre www.beelergoresfuneral.com Guild promotes education. to share a memory or leave a participation, enjoyment and condolence message for appreciation of the theatric Mike’s family. and fine arts. It provides sup- Jerry’s family will receive friends Friday, April 26, 2024 from 4-6 p.m. at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, W. Main 914 St., Middleville. A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 11 a.m. Pastor Tony Shumaker will officiate. Private burial will take place at Mount Hope Cemetery. Please join the family for a luncheon after the service at the UAW hall, 308 Washington St., Middleville. Memorial contributions to Hand 2 Hand Feed The Kids of Barry County will be appreciated. Visit WWW. beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Jerry’s family. preceded in Jerry was death by his parents, Pete and Doris (Latimer) Riva; wife, Linda (Howell) Riva; brother-in-law, Don Stinson; best friend and cousin, Dick grew into country living and raised his family in the Jerry Middleville area. enjoyed many building projects over the years, including his cabin at Fife Lake, He also enjoyed traveling, camping and spending time with friends and family. Guppy. Jerry is survived by his sister, Jean E. Riva; chil(Keith) Cindy dren, Middlebush, Melinda (Jeff) King, Jesse (Brenda) Riva, John (Katie) Todd, Jeremy (Monte) Riva; grandchildren, Cary Middlebush Tony Saxton, (Curt) Nick King, (Shellyn) (Melissa) King, Jasmine Riva Swartz, Jesse (Sarah) Riva, Will (Taylor) Todd; 16 great grandchildren; sisterin-law, Velma Howell (Curt) Bonney; and dear friend, Freda Lehnen. ,1 f 1*^1, -.1 Cal Theatre Guild partnering with M37Auction for benefit auction April 11-16 port to Caledonia students and community members Caledonia use who Community Schools’ fine arts facilities. The Guild helps provide financial sup­ port for equipment including microphones and other tech­ nology. Locals can support the Guild by donating items to be sold in the upcoming ben­ efit auction. M37Auction accepts most items, so long as they are clean and in good working condition. Bedding, clothing and tube TVs are not accepted items. Donors can choose to noti­ fy the Guild of their donation or remain anonymous. M37Auction is located at 9790 Cherry Valley Ave. in Caledonia. Donated items will be accepted until the spe­ cial auction begins April 11. I III*’ ( Jill kt If f!! ! 5 More information can be found by visiting M37Auction.com, the Caledonia Theatre Guild’s Facebook page or by calling 616-920-6651. f GnjI ' C 1 J stills itawlS s Caledonia United Methodist Church tht Jistni Ibu 0 ipeli TiiM t Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street tftTJll iUui iftliii 616-891-8669 CalcdoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com/CaiedoniaUnitedMethodisl Serving - Strengthening FIRST corners tone ch u rch Sunday Service 10:30 AM BAPTIST Middleville Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am CO z f Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 Ifsmtel Mlliifc www.holyfaniilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:(X) a.m. & 11 ;(X) a.m. ngittllii k H Well Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. al Sioffc' m'! Sunday Worship I I I 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 .5 'A -rft Ill cornerstonemi.org/weekend 9:30 a.m. I Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com BJ . 1 $ ■ -•! Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 es!|Uo!ti biigiiitofl ■.f of Bender HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) 1 Connecting (269) 795-2391 iMiiie s OURNEY Be H U R C H 1 ^PEACE V * It PEACECHURCH.ee ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor; Pastor Ryan Kimmel LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com 1664 M-37 @thejchurch VeUe Church e .9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM Worship Services Sunday io am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm I www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. t 'IT. 1 » I 1 I it? t I j * b fames L. Collison, Pastor Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org • • » * I , • ? I ’ll Sunday Morning Worship.......................... 10:00 a.m. Community Group................. 11:00 a.m. Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 , ^atch our services froiji our website (see above) SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com "Shining Forth God's Light" Praising Cod through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou KI X_L 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"*^ & 48^ 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org ^ktii Yankee Springs Bible Church Fellowship Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto Sunday School... Whitneyville •«k MIDDLEVILLE 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 _________www.stpaulcaledoiiia j)rg peacechurch.ee Of CHURCH Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., MiddleviUe, MI 49333 616-217-2161 , THORNAPPLE VALLEY A Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. CHURCH r Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. I J I I I > I I I i ( t * * / y i J * J I > 1 I ’ I ■■ s t J .t �♦ I 5 I I 1 1 *1(» •» V iX’’ of O’I 1 s s < A Will. f H I ( I I I ( 1 I The Sun and News, Saturday, March 23, 2024/ Page 5 Road projects to get underway in Gaines, Caledonia townships Greg Chandler cost of $ 1.7 million, with fed­ Sto# Writer eral fiinding covering about Major road construction 80 percent of the project cost projects will soon get under­ and the Road Commission the way in Gaines and Caledonia remaining balance, Harrall townships, according to the said. Kent County Road Dean’s Excavating of Sand Commission. Lake has contracted with the Work is scheduled to get Road Commission to take on underway Monday on a one- the project. Work will begin mile section of 84th Street, with cutting of trees, which from East Paris Avenue and has to be completed by the Patterson Avenue in Gaines end of March because of the Township. Then on April 1, presence of two bat species in crews will begin work on a the area, Harrall said. 1.25-mile stretch of 68th The 84th Street work is Street, rom Thomapple slated to be completed by late River Drive to Whitneyville June, Harrall said. Avpniip in n 1 .n. ----in Caledonia The 68th Street reconstrucTownshin KCRreconstrucwnship, KCRC Deputy tion project from Thomapple Managing Director Wayne River Drive to Whitneyville Harrall said. is a continuation of a 2021 The 84th Street project will project on 68th from Cheny be a complete reconstruction, Valley Avenue to Thomapple with a new road surface with x^ver River mat that also also included included a 12-foot-wide lanes and widened paved shoulder to 8-ioot-wide shoulders, of accommodate non-motorized which 4 feet will be paved, traffic. traffic. Caledonia Caledonia Township Township The project has an estimated contributed financially to the Cal school board approves safety, security upgrades Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Community Schools will upgrade its safety and security 4.K V 1 « through the purchase of more than $168,000 in new equiprnent. he district s school board approved three contracts Monday to address those concerns, with funding coming through a state program known as Section 31aa that provides grants to help school districts address safety and mental health needs. The board awarded the contract for low-voltage to caffiing Shareco ommunications which submitted a bld of $73,255, for camera and speaker hardware to CDWG in the amount of $37,553 and door access controls to KnightWatch, which sub­ mitted a bid of $57,584 widened paved shoulder, Harrall said. Fifty percent of the esti­ mated $1.9 million cost will come from the American Rescue Plan Act’s allocation to Kent County, while the Road Commission will cover the remaining cost, Harrall said. J&N Construction of LeRoy is the project contrac­ tor. As with the 84th Street project, the first couple of weeks will consist primarily of tree removal before work begins on the road surface itself The project is slated for completion the week after the Fourth ofJuly holiday, Harrall said. During the construction, the Road Commission is recommending the use of Egan Avenue, 60th Street 60th Thomapple River Drive, 48th Street and Whitneyville as the suggested suggested detour route Harrall said. for that line item. The district will acquire additional seenrity cameras, for both inside and outside of -----* buildings, which will integrate integrate with with its its existexisting security camera syssys­ tern. tem. Large Large instructional instructional areas and cafeterias will have strobe light visual indicators installed and integrated into the district’s mass notification system, and speakers will be installed on the exterior of buildings to increase the audibility of emergency notifica­ tions to staff and students outdoors, CCS Technology Director Director Scott Vugteveen wrote in a memo to the school security board. downloaded as needed from the parking lot without the bus having to return to the CCS transportation idviiiiv facility, Vugteveen wrote in hfr memo. Also, door access door controls will be installed at several building entrances, and the two main entrances of the high school and the transportation facility will have video inter­ com systems installed allowing building staff I to safely screen visitors before they are allowed into the building, Vugteveen wrote. The various purchases were identified as areas of need in a recent safety assessment that was per­ formed by Secure by Education Consultants, a local company that contracts with the school dis­ trict on safety and securi­ ty matters. In addition, outdoor wireless access points will be installed along bus loops at each building that will allow video from bus cameras to be I ► I I j I I 1 II K Mil b ofefle 4. ... »-»1 m fitfjUi Thornapple Kellogg board approves new LED signage Greg Chandler Staff Writer Thornapple Kellogg Schools will soon have new electronic LED signage at nearly all of its buildings. The district’s Board of Education on March 11 approved a contract with Wayland-based Midwest Signs for the fabrication. delivery and installation of district monument signs at all of its buildings, with the exception of the existing sign leading into the high school off of Bender Road. The district will pay no more than $217,299 for the new signs. “It’s marketing for the district. It unifies all of our buildings and brings them uniTK form,” Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie said. Six of the new signs will feature state-of-the-art full-color LED message centers, which will be wirelessly controlled through 5G tech­ nology by TK office staff, LaHaie wrote in a memo to the school board. The new signs would be paid for out of the district’s general fund budget. Currently, most of the dis­ trict’s buildings still have man­ ual letter board signage. “(The signs are) not in bad shape, but they’re not in great said. LaHaie shape,” “Depending on where they’re at, they’re crumbling a little bit.” The district requested two types of bids - one a base bid using as much of the existing signs as possible, and an alternate bid where the contractor would work with the district on new sign designs. Midwest Signs submitted the low bid for both options among the six companies that bid on the project $169,190 for the base bid and $197,545 for the alternate bid. LaHaie is adding in a 10 percent contingency just in case of unexpected costs. All signs will feature double-sided internal illumination with LED lighting, acrylic push-through lettering and logos and routed aluminum faces that will be fastened to aluminum bases, LaHaie said. The district will need to get approval from the village of Middleville Middlevillefor forthe thenew newsigns, signs. They should be in place by May or June of this year, LaHaie LaHaiewrote wroteininhis hismemo. memo. In other business at the March 11 meeting, the school board; — Approved a network * J-! 11 1 MIV » 9^ ! I I electronics bid to Moss Telecommunications in the amount of $139,093, to upgrade the district’s remaining 122 wireless access points that were installed in 2015 and to upgrade end-of-hfe network switches. The district upgrad­ ed wireless access points at the high school and Page Elementary last year and will update the remaining access points at the middle school, Lee Elementary and McFall Elementary this summer. — Approved a structured cabling contract to Moss Telecommunications in an an amount of no more than $52,775, that will add network drops at McFall and Lee. — Approved separate bids for self-provisioned fiber replacement and maintenance, awarding the contracts for both to TumKey Network z ft. J Thorn APPLE Kellogg High School aCsr^' A - <1.? s I 4 ft 1 XMtrwA I HALFDAY DEC 21S 22 | 111 1—1 thornapple 1 .V >1 KELLOGG HIGHSCHOOL Hi ■ t 9 IWil-l ■ .J i '. ■’ ft I • < ft HOSCHOOL DEC2S-JAHS /—. - - - < I I Io e 6 4 4 4> ’ Ij X » .. •* \ '* *. ■• T i i I * ' <7 I 1 J L • 1’"*' K J i 6 I Lt « w* S.X' lA, ft ■J'j ¥ 1*T 6' • I 5 r. *1’1 A view of the current sign at Thornapple Kellogg High School (left) compared to what it will look like once the new sign is installed. (Photo provided) I I Solutions $88,903 for fiber replacement and $51,346 for maintaining the remaining fiber. “Self-provisioned fiber is the outdoor fiberoptic cabling that runs from the high school to each building and is the primary means by which each school is connect­ ed to the network and r I district’s fiber has been in place since the late 1990s. The district will be reim­ bursed for 70 percent of the cost through the state’s E-rate program that provides discounts on broadband connec­ tions and service to schools and libraries. — Approved awarding the bid for two new combination ovens, one for the high school and one for McFall, to Elliott Internet,” TK Technology Director John Dombrowski wrote in a memo. Most of the Food Equipment in an amount not to exceed $91,500. The district acquired new combi­ nation ovens, which cook fast­ er than convection ovens, for the middle school last year, and it’s resulted in increased productivity and energy sav­ ings, as well as reduced labor and cleaning costs, LaHaie said. Funding for the new ovens will come from the dis­ trict’s food service fund. •s « *. i 1 « ? | W •* r v r T't I ■J k" I 26 I *1... “4 ..fiT I J -1 1 'ft' •4 .V. It* i ¥ r I kV *-'5/ KT’ '■ j •‘! I i 1 J I• J I ' L' -J* ’■W. BL. 22 k I . *1! .•••r • 'w k I A__ ..y I I k rv - ’house - $12,400.00, a gallon of gas - .25, Hawaii - Mfe ' •'i .411* = 7 - 5 i- .Vl* ( I ft I •F > > % V ■ 4 J-. u* I - k P L w' r r became the 50th state in the U.S, the Barbie Doll first •f .I 4 4 t, « launched by Mattel, women - girdles, short bangs f 49 hh, >J 'T 9 ^9 » t ••k * 'J and petticoats, men - cardigan sweaters and leather * jackets, 5O's slang - go ape and unreal, songs Lonely Boy and Mack the Knife and to top it off in a little church in Key West, Florida, Alpha and Margiline SASTSR MMBm (Boutwell) Lewis were married, March 24,1959. I - iWrry.' If. 65 years seems not so long ago to two 80-year- ■III - J s.. * A olds living their best life in the same home they built together all those years ago in Bowens Mills. Alpha retired from Bradford White and Margie t at cornerstonechurch from Thornapple Schools. Both have enjoyed active retirement. The couple had five children, I Rob Lewis, passed in 2011, Louise Johnson, Lorraine and Joe Bush, Shari and Dale Klein, .7 and John Lewis remain and are frequent visitors along with their seven grandchildren and 84™ ST. CAMPUS SSRVICS TIMSS seven great grandchildren. He enjoys racing and class reunion breakfasts, while she enjoys western movies and gardening, and together he has never been a 'Lonely Boy*, and she has always been his 'Barbie Doll'. Saturday, March 30: 6pm On behalf of the Lewis children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, we wish you,' Sunday, March 31: 9:30 & 11am ■.Mom & Dad, Grandpa and Grandma Louie, great Grammy gran and great Grampy and oil; the other saying's you answer too, congratulations on your 65th! Best wishes, love. ? Experience Holy Week With Us! Find Out More: cornerstonemi.org/Easter and blessings for many more! Love, Weezie, Raino, Shar Bear and Johnny. The children are planning a family dinner to celebrate the occasion on the 24th, as both are recovering from recent health challenges, but they are doing great! : z » • V •> t I % minimum wage - $1.00 an hour, a new hi ■ “p. ------ f I J fA I !• I J 4 » s^- e;-- V ?•' • • I > 65 years ago a lot was happening in our ■ county: V 'k al 541pha & SMargiline | 'Lewis I Tiappy 65“’ ^Anniversary | I I ■> LTV » I J - . 9 9 • 6-----1 9 I I J • « W •r *- • r « I I »— *» A �t Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 23, 2024 Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation grant supplies history tools for eighth graders Gaines Township votes to reduce supervisor’s hours after November election 1 4 ••J"* «Hino** I . I I wz *3 )'< I ■*% He recommended that the schedule be made flexible so that the supervisor can participate in the various boards and committees for which he is a member. “Flexibility will also be helpful in meeting with con­ stituents as needed. This reduction in hours would come with an equivalent reduction in pay,” DeWard wrote. Last November, the town­ ship board voted 7-0 to raise the part-time supervisor’s annual salary by $1,000 to $53,500 for a 24-hour work week. The full-time township was salary manager’s increased to $125,000 annu­ ally, retroactive to Aug. 27, per the terms of his contract. De Ward told the board at its March 11 meeting that township staff should let the public know soon what the proposed hours for the supervisor position will be next year “for anybody who might want to run for that position.” DeWard said Weersing has handled some of the responsibilities that the supervisor might otherwise have to. “Rod has done a very good job of taking care of citizens that come in. Some of them still request that they speak with me. I’m more than happy to talk to them, but I think things are going very well,” he said. James Gemmell Contributing Writer The supervisor of Gaines Charter Township is leaning toward not seeking a third term in office. Rob De Ward said so at the March 11 township board meeting. He has served as supervisor for eight years. Before that, De Ward was on the township planning com­ mission lor 24 years. He was the planning commission chairman before running unopposed in the Nov. 2016 election. Don Hilton had served as the township super­ visor for 24 years before stepping down in 2016. De Ward’s current term as supervisor will expire in November, after the Nov. 5 general election. Whoever is the next supervisor will begin serving a four-year term on Nov. 20. According to the Townships Michigan Association, a person must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years of age, registered to vote and a resident of the township for at least 30 days before the date they file to run for township office. In a memo to the township board on March 6, DeWard also recommended that the supervisor’s hours be reduced next year from the current 24 hours per week to 16. The township board 7-0 on a motion to reduce the supervisor’s hours, eflFective Trustee Bob Terpstra when the next term in office asked De Ward why he was begins Nov. 20. recommending a 16-hour “Rod Weersing has served work week for the supervisor in the role of township man­ position beginning next year, ager for a little over a year. instead of 12 hours, for Based on his performance I example. believe that the supervisor’s “ “We We’’U U have have a a little little bit bit more more hours could be reduced,” flexibility with the 16,” De Ward wrote in the memo. DeWard replied. “I’ll have no I. I I I I I ■« f I s I S.; I V I I 0 At: »h;. ’*•1 I > s'?* •J ■ »T • I 4 I / I R I J I J f *■ . ..rf' < ♦ 1' I' 1^^ T 6I6-89I 1 Charter Gaines Township Supervisor Rob DeWard. (Source: gainestownship.org) (r . - » t I 1 I I 4 9 i f I ( > 4 J i t I I I The Michigan election is Aug. 6. X 1 I 111 'Ml -I ‘ I 4 '1 1: wiir—^■■1 ?* Eighth graders hold up supplies that were pur­ chased through a grant from the Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation. (Photos provided) > t k J K A I .fl -r * ■ < I1 • ^1 Tit,. I I Business Services CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, white Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or lar^r. C^ for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman's oomp. Fetterley Gigging (269)818-7793. I Your local agent insures your I H#me 2?* fttswoMa CoiHffo^ r Jason Parks ®1tB o . (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com I / I I I / i DOG CRATE, BRAND new, $50. 4Ft puppy pen, $80. Dog house, $50. Telescope, $125. Grooming table, $75. 269795-0673. i‘ itni, i lisfriUti Can 1 BtfiiSSUi i iballlMa siwdiebDih ilRli Rea! Estate lidfell CONDO FOR SALE with gar­ den. High Ridge Crossings in Middleville. Asking $282,000. 269-795-7815. iS liiSudlil W W 111I Help Wauled J Cuitg JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice Concrete Construction. Now Hiring. Full Time, Competi­ tive Wages, Insurance, 401K, Paid Vacations. No experience needed. Call 616-693-2123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. > of til 49 I 9 r I f * ) t till lata lilt Community Notice 4 I r f > t I I « 1 » — I r < I ®Mes- V r 1 l! 4 I 'I 4 (■ ri > t ( I I 1 ~i '..3 « Pets 4 I I CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roof­ ing, Siding, Pole Bams & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. I I » M NOTICE OF SELF-STOR­ AGE SALE: Please notice Red Dot Storage 195- Caledonia located at 5590 68th Street SE., Caledonia, MI 49316 intends to hold an auc­ tion of the storage unit in de­ fault of payment. This sale will occur online via www.storageTreasures.com on 4/10/2024 at 9:30 AM. Unless stated otherwise, the contents are household goods, furnishings, boxes, and general equipment. Unit numbers are #438. All property is being stored at the above self-storage facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply. See manager for details fARM BUREAU INSURANCE* 1 4 ilfOl®' Jii I ■ I JI i Caledonia High School honors the achievements of its students each month. In February, the school turned its attention to those who eml ly the core value of “leader­ ship” within the school. Recipients of the honor included (back row, left to right) Jeremiah Pittman, Jenna Clapper, Avery Watt, Aaliah Montiel, (front row, left to right) Claire James, Bella Wierzbicki, Emilee Diemer, Paige Mulder. I 1 jll ’ * I 9 t 0 / DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville > 0: “ * primary 4 maps, timelines and interac­ tive features. The combina­ tion of these pieces allows for a wider and total under­ standing of U.S. history and how events unfolded. She said these materials also encourage students to analyze data and use critical thinking and problem-solv­ ing skills. Students also gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultures and peoples that have contributed to the nation’s story. GERMAN SHEPHERD PUP PIES. Looking for their for­ ever home and family. Call 269-331-1788 1 No monthly interest If paid within 1 18 mo. I scores demonstrating the effectiveness of using the atlas of U.S. history as a learning tool. It’s a testament to the value of hands-on, interactive approaches to edu­ cation, particularly in subjects like history where visualiza­ tion and contextual under­ standing play crucial roles,” said Smith in follow-up infor­ mation about her grant. She said using an atlas of American history offers visual learning through CHS honors its February Students of the Month ►k available « u 4 -4 ai term starting,” Treasurer Laurie Lemke said. “Our budget will be just about ready by then.” 1 I I V I T Thanks to a Thomapple Area Enrichment Foundation grant, eighth grade students have new hands-on tools helping them study and bet­ ter understand U.S. history. Teacher Leah Smith said the grant enabled teachers to purchase U.S. history atlases and corresponding materials that bring a hands-on feature to U.S. history. “We are already seeing positive effects in both stu­ dent engagement and test problem filling the 16. Even now, even though I’m off Thursdays and Fridays, I spend a couple of hours each day just going through emails to tiy to keep up with them. On any given day, I can get 60 to 70 emails. It’s one of those things; it’s a moving taiget” DeWard added that he is making the announcement now so that whoever might decide to run for supervisor will know in advance what the recommended hours and pay are for the position. “So, they won’t be surprised. When we do the (township) budget at the end of the year, we’ll allocate it that way. It will be 16 hours per week for the supervisor,” he said. “I think November is a good time to do (the hours adjustment), with that new s I I 4 k -3 The compuny built by referrals I I 6^ & -“■(fl p 4 I I The grant enabled teachers to purchase U.S. history atlases and corresponding materials that bring a hands-on feature to U.S. history. I’m not planning to run for the next term,” Deward said. “It would take something drastic to get me to do that. But I can’t say that it would never happen.” I J ' 4 FRONTIER r nNANCING HEATING S COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia «v •.1 * Must present this coupon. Expires 4-12-24 ii- a •1 «• * 400 OFF — . f ■ ■ A A « • -w . .c 1 ® •» A I I *41 777S Ruup furnace I ww ( •n *»»A High Efficiency , .f. '• * la �Barry County Sheriff releases voter investigation docs, asks Congress to investigate Jayson Bussa elections tn Barry County, filed an Editor emergency motion the State of Michigan and asking a federal court to Barry County Sheriff Dar the United States. I am in disqualify Lambert Leaf has released a cache of possession of evidence from documents he says points to involving voting machines,” providing legal counsel to Byrne. improprieties in the 2020 Leaf wrote in his letter to Not only did Lambert election and has appealed to Rep. Jordan. follow her client ’ s instruc ­ United States a My office has come into tion to share Dominion ’ s Congressman to launch a possession of evidence that documents A r*“ with an federal investigation into foreign nationals have unknown number of indithe matter. accessed electronic voting viduals, she also filed dozLeaf has spent years uti­ machines in Michigan and ens of them publicly in an lizing resources in his own other states,” the letter con- unrelated K- . proceeding (to department and collaborat­ tinues further down. “Thie 5^ « Ulis which Dominion is nnt a IS not a ing with a nationwide net- evidence demonstrates that party), and they have now work of individuals who electronic voting machines been viewed by tens of have concerns about the and electronic election sys- thousands of users on social > integrity of the 2020 presi- terns used for elections in media. This too is a clear dential election and the Michigan and throughout violation of this court ’ s election process in general. the United States are not orders,” an attorney for Over the course of that secure and an immediate Dominion stated in the investigation, Leaf has investigation is needed by motion. claimed to have accumulat­ Congress.” Lambert is facing charges ed a deluge of evidence and P®"fraud Leaf is appealing to the United States Congress to The origins of the internal of her own in a separate investigate potential voter tied information. emails written by Dominion case. A special prosecutor Bussa) to the 2020 election. (Photo by Jayson Earlier this week was a employees came to light in Michigan has charged rare moment when Leaf shortly after and are tied in her, and two others, for an The Sun and News of Commissioners, spoke went public with some of with a court case between alleged conspiracy to illeJackson added a few reached out to the Secretary briefly about the situation that information. Dominion and Patrick Byrne, more thoughts after reading gaily obtain and test voting of State’s Office for a reac­ Establishing a new account the former CEO of online at Tuesday’s meeting. the statement. tabulators, one of which tion on Leaf’s claims. on the social media website retailer Overstock. Jackson and the board “1 guess from a standpoint was from Irving Township. Michigan ’ s election sysdrafted a statement on the of election integrity, we all X, formerly known as Dominion is suing Byrne The special prosecutor, terns are secure, adminis­ matter and it reads in full Twitter, Leaf linked to a i.i in icucidi federal vuuii court uver over wnat what Muskegon want elections to be free, to County tered by nonpartisan, pro­ below: trove of internal email com be fair, to be accurate, ” he they believe were false Prosecutor D.J. Hilson . iniini- fessional election officials “The Barry County Board said. “We all support that. If munications amongst claims of voter fraud made tially looked into charging and the results are an accu- of Commissioners is aware employees and contractors by the former CEO. Byrne Leaf, too, but didn’t find there is something here that rate reflection of the will of of the ongoing election leads to a further investigaDominion at Voting is being represented by sufficient evidence to the voters. The department evidence investigation by Sheriff tion Systems, which develops Stefanie Lambert, an attor- charge the sheriff with a or clarification, by all is not involved in this law­ Leaf. We are also aware of election hardware and soft- ney that Leaf has worked crime. means, we hope someone suit and so it would not be the information being will take it up. The concern ■ware^ used throughout the with throughout the past Hilson did subpoena Leaf appropriate to comment on released on social media to is a small county like Barry United States, including in three years. in the state’s case against documents allegedly related the attention of Rep. Jim County wrestling with most Michigan counties. a to this case,” Angela ■ - Jordan. The Board of national investigation of this Through the X account. Benander, director of com­ Commissioners did not structure.” Leaf, who confirmed to the Commissioners 4id not reviewer munications and media review or authorize any such We ’ re concerned about Sun and News that he estab­ authorize any such inyestigatioh into Dominion relations for the Michigan investigation into Dominion that,” Jackson added. “It is lished the account, also and/or their representatives; Sheriff Leaf is acting Department of State said in and/or their representatives. on our radar and we’re conlinked to individual email a text message. Sheriff Leaf is acting on his tinuing to monitor it. We on his own behalf andirl coordination with other exchanges, which appear to Dominion Voting own behalf and in coordina­ feel a little in the dark about show Dominion Voting individuials who have* ongoing concerns about Systems has been on the tion with other individuals all of this.” Systems employees trouthe 2020 election. Wd contipue to support our receiving end of voter fraud who have ongoing concerns bleshooting various issues. I claims by high-profile indi- about the 2020 elections. local clerks and believe that elections in Barry As the Sun and News con­ I viduals and media networks I “ We continue to support n County are continuing with the utmost integrity tinues to review the hundreds over the last few years and our local clerks and believe and professionalism.” of emails in% question, Leaf has not hesitated to slap that elections in Barry has pointed to them as a back with defamation law­ County are continuing with — Barry County Board smoking gun that Serbian suits when the accusations the utmost integrity and of Commissioners in a statement 0 nationals had infiltrated the have proven false, as they professionalism. The Barry election process. Leaf lays typically have. County Board of 4aj|gi lisiti I tjijg out his argument in an open Lambert said in inter­ Lambert recently and One of the most high-pro- Commissioners has not letter directed at United views that she received the ordered him to hand over file of legal proceedings been briefed on Sheriff naw e.clitix>.ni States Congressman Jim documents as part of dis- the files in his election came last year when Leaf’s investigation locally is Jordan (R-Ohio), who chairs covery in that case, and fraud investigation. Leaf Dominion sued Fox News or nationally and with the the Committee of the upon spotting evidence that submitted an affidavit Network for defamation release of the latest infor­ Judiciary and the she thought indicated ille- refusing to hand over his and both sides settled for mation we will be with­ Subcommittee on the gal activity, she turned it case files and claiming that $787 million. holding any further com­ Weaponization of the Federal over to “law enforcement,” he had evidence that shows With this sort of litigious ment as the process plays Government. In the letter, which included Leaf. Dominion employees history, county officials are out legally between Sheriff dated March 17 and pubLambert was arrested on “tasked Serbian nationals to concerned about what sort Leaf, the State of Michigan o r lished on Barty County Monday after violating remotely access the of liability Barry County and other named parties.” Sheriff’s Office letterhead. court orders in a separate Michigan election system.” might have if the same sce­ / Leaf asks Jordan, with ±e case where she faces crimi­ “I’m not willing to com­ nario plays out on the heels » evidence, to launch an inves­ nal charges. promise my investigation of Leaf’s claims against tigation into ±e matter. As a result of Lambert by providing my entire Dominion. My office is investigat- relaying these documents. file,” Leaf stated in the affi MB Dave Jackson, Chairman of the Barry County Board ing criminal acts related to attorneys for Dominion davit. 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MICHIGAN • 868-6490 , t t » I J I ( �4 A Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, Maren March Z3, 23,2024 Gas prices reach yearly high in Michigan, for tne third week in a row ^1 > > * X r I Janelle D. James Bridge Michigan Michigan gas prices have been steadily increasing over the last few weeks — just as families prepare to hit the road for spring break. Prices have reached yearly highs for the third consecutive week, according to AAA. The statewide average for a gallon of regular gas is $3.63, which is 11 cents more than it was last week when the average was $3.52. Gas prices have shot up 44 cents over the last month. Nationally, the average price ’X > for a gallon of regular gas is $3.52. “Michigan motorists con­ tinue to see higher prices at the pump, with the state average reaching a new 2024-high,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson for AAA. “If demand continues to increase, alongside tight supply, gas prices will likely follow suit.” The price of gasoline has increased as demand slightly rose from 9.01 to 9.04 mil­ lion barrels per day, accord­ ing to recent data from the Information Energy A J r >5 r 4 • Administration. However, domestic gasoline supply declined from 239.7 million barrels to 234.1 million bar­ rels. Gas prices also tend to increase as the deadline for states to switch over to sxunmer-grade gas approaches. Fuel terminals are required to transition to summer fuel by May 1, according to the Information Energy Administration. Gas stations across the country aren’t required to make the switch until Jime 1. Summer-grade fuel is I r ^1 W > *^r •b i Diese Regulor I < Cosh . r“ ■ III > ~ f Rec fuel Regutor ’ 4 fdc/gol .. ............. tv : •< • < J i sr ' - ■ t JL fl I I •“* •* X - z fl I V *r- » -... •4.-, •• 4 J w A A -X *< / X 4 y > - 1 s ’■<5^ ly \6*. / Gas prices in Michigan have shot up 44 cents in the last month, reaching yearhighs for the third consecutive week. (Bridge photo by Janelle D. James) fluid for example. In the win­ ter, gas contains more butane, to help vehicles start up in colder weather. Summer-grade gasoline typically contains 2 percent of butane, a colorless, odorless gas that is used in lighter more expensive to produce and people usually drive more as the weather warms, increasing demand. I/' .-f I s I J ► ■ ■ < i' / I . 1 fl ! f ■ 1 *' More expansion on tap for Gerald R. Ford International OUS airlines being consolidat­ ed to one section rather than being on either side of the baggage claim area. The bag­ gage claim will be in a sepa­ rate section from the ticket counters. Plans for a new control tower are in the design phase. Peric said the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) owns all the control towers across the country and Ford International has been trying to get it moved since 2009. He expects it will be relocated by the end of 2026 or early 2027. Until then. Ford Airport carmot build a parking garage in the north lot or build large. tall hangars to accommodate general aviation or corporate aircraft. “So, moving the tower’s going to be critical,” Peric said. The airport authority is an independent body guided by a seven-member board. Peric said 3.79 million passengers walked through the gates at Ford Airport in 2023. And he said the findings of a study Chamber of Commerce’s quarterly luncheon Tuesday, March 11. It was held at the Conference Crossroads Center, 6611 Clay Ave., in Cutlerville. Groundbreaking for the terminal expansion is scheduled for April 10. Peric said the building will be extended to the west side, with the ticket counters for the vari- James Gemmell Contributing Writer A groundbreaking cere­ mony for a terminal expan­ sion project at Michigan’s second-largest airport will take place next month. So said Gerald R. Ford Airport International Authority Chief Operating President Officer/Vice Alexander Peric at the Gaines f 1 .1 •“••fl-** ^>11. •» f ... . r Jit/ I t 9^ ** I <■ 5 ktir*. a .- w* Si * it i::-* *V <^A A I r 1 - * .-f A Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority executive Alex Peric speaks at the Gaines Chamber of Commerce quarterly luncheon. (Photo by James Gemmell) — AIS Bruce's Frame end H 1 Full Service Body Shop • • • • Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted on the airport’s economic impact on the region will be released to the public this spring. Ford International sits on 3,200 acres of land at 5500 44th St. It was Peric’s first address to the Gaines Chamber since Sept. 2021. He gave a slide presentation to Chamber members and guests, updating what the airport is up to this year. 2? fl » .> r fl 'A- I § z I I '■? .'5i- H» 17'9 . ** b.'i. FUMEi if- ’ Li I -rJi.' ► ♦f . I ^^fl I r 4 r » • fl f I t fl A T a 4 4 1 ♦ f • * I I f ♦ 1 < A t K I I f I 11 > A crowd of business leaders listens to a presentation at a Gaines Chamber of Commerce luncheon gathering at the Crossroad Conference Center on March 11. (Photo by James Gemmell) I He talked about the $110 million expansion of Concourse ‘A’, the first phase of which opened last summer. It will have legacy carriers such as United, Delta and American Airlines and contain higher end amenities, including a V.I.P. lounge that is scheduled to open in March 2025. “It’s not airline-specific. You won’t need to be a cer­ tain airline passenger to access the second-story loimge,” Peric said. Three concessions areas have opened there, and more more will be opened soon in in Concourse A. “It’s a brew garden, a retail area in the middle there down in the common area, and then < Saturday 9 am-3 pm I fl» * e * M 4 1 f IK k fl *• /• OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5;30 pm; I .b it* ♦ 9 -y i ) 1 r V. 1(»* 4 • t' Y 218 E. State St,, Hastings • 945-9673 4152nd • Middleville I'A* I. or His Mercy <. t A QUESTIONS: ASK US... » • ... J k ••ii « ^4 •A'*.' ■ («* 9 Ik t A •I 4 '1 iX’'. t I i « 4 ,X SI* I HKr^V s r I'll .4 '*.1 * .11 • ii'. I ■ •€ I - A i r it; a ■ » ■ ,s s a* I I / i -'a * \ < •* f 'f r * ‘I ft t;4 J.'7 5^ I 4 • A. • 4 < 'TR fl I a .* > r-' > ..•A t brucesframe.com f 1 > ‘44* s Thank God Over 40 years experience I** I I I f ( I a market kind of district location with fresh-baked goods. We are opening up Freddy’s (restaurant). So, Freddy’s will open at the end of this month. Uccello’s will open up sometime in the summer,” Peric said. Parking has expanded at Ford International, which recently opened an extension on the airport’s economy lot. Pricing has gone up a bit. too. “In the short-term area, we lifted the cap of $36 per day. So, now it’s an hourly; $2 per hour with a daily rate of $48,” Peric said. The long-term garage parking is $24 daily. The north lot charges $17, and the other lots are $ 14 per hour. Peric said Ford International offers non-stop flights to distant places like Houston and Los Angeles, although sometimes it is on a seasonal basis. He says there are 30 or more nonstop flights on any given day. Ford Airport’s newest car­ rier is Sun Country Airlines. They’ve been doing charters to Biloxi (Mississippi); Laughlin, Nevada; Atlantic City. But now they’re going to be doing nonstop service to Minneapolis/St. Paul start­ ing June 13. And then, we’ll try to convince them to do more, of course. And into Florida and maybe Uas Vegas and Arizona,” Peric said. He noted that there are several airports that Ford International has to compete with for passengers. For example, there are commercial-service airports in Muskegon, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Flint and in metro Detroit, plus two in Chicago. “We’re getting passengers all the way down from Traverse City, up from South Bend to fly out of our air­ port,” Peric said. “So, we’re really being the airport of West Michigan.” He said the average round­ trip domestic flight out of Ford International is $377, which is above the national average but less than some other airports in the region. About 14 years ago, the airport was the second-most expensive airport to fly out of in the country. Commimity leaders got together to entice AirTran Airways to begin nonstop service in Grand Rapids in 2010. “It put downward pressure on overall fares,” Peric said. The competitive pricing began inducing passengers to choose Ford International as their preferred airport. Peric said the airport authority sells the community on air­ lines and puts an emphasis on making sure the airlines have what they need to oper­ ate smoothly at the airport. ”•7 p 11 -5 ■K - 4 *77; * 1- vm J .7 4MriiAi aift ll' 59 W1 r 7. ■ * •> 'Sail » I * V <• ' •X? fl > A S', ( jr • s -X ) I i A I « 1 I I �I The Sun and News, Saturday, March 23, 2024/ Page 9 < 5k •l b i I I ’^5 f • A5 I </ I 1 •I 1 •J r • I 7 IL f ♦ am b . t 5 ti>* * I • I II iI « -*ia ;■ r. * *« « k. % *• X <■ f I X Jt - >7 /F* *: < ;L r I I f: B. 4; i 5> JI I I «< > "r* i '■ III—■■■iTxii. • ✓ «y-' A -- A V* ■X-. 5 rf- - l’' ? t I Ji® 9 A A M p h s • 4 4 34 *1 •’ Ts r 4 rJ r It - V* ■ «» • I I i % Top county grapplers among state’s best « 4^ Brett Bremer Trojans this winter and was the OK Gold Conference champion at 113 pounds. Miller was third at districts before his state tournament run came to an end. 120: Vincent Vincent Stamm, Lakewood: Stamm wrestled to a 34-11 record and a seventh 144: Jonathan Krebs, Sports Editor Lakewood: A senior, Krebs There was one county wres­ fought though the leftover tler competing for a state pain of old injuries and ±e i championship at the end of the new pain of a tom ACL to get MHSAA Division 3 Individual all the way to the 144-pound Ifor ! State Finals at Ford Field in %p| championship match in match Detroit the first weekend in Division 3 at the MHSAA ? Individual State Finals where stJt A handful of others had place finish in Division 3’s he earned the runner-up medal. already secured their final 120-pound weight class at the Krebs was 40-3 on the year. spots on the state medal stand. MHSAA Individual State I He won district and regional In all, a total of 13 guys Finals. championships on his way to were a part of the Grand stamm Stamm won his weight the state finals and second a March at the start of the state class at the Elks Wrestling new team record for technical finals thanks to their status as Tournament in Januaiy and falls in a season. , individual state qualifiers. scored a third-place finish at 150: Keegan Sutfin, It was a pretty good season the CAAC Championships in „ , „ Hastings: A state medalist as a for most of their teams too. , . jmior this winter, Sutfin Lakewood had the best districts and regionals to earn placed fifth in Division I s state run of anybody in the his state finals spot. 144-poiind weight class. I county as a team. The \Tkings f Kade 126: Kade Rougher He had a record of 47-7 this Boucher, beat their district nemesis Lakewood: A junior, Boucher season and now is 119-20 as a Portland at the start of the was 30-14 overall this season varsity wrestler in three sea­ i Division 3 team state touma- and earned a spot in the indisons at Hastings. He was the ment and followed that up vidual state finals. runner-up at his weight class with a regional championship. J He was a rurmer-up at dis- in the 1-8 this season. V; /Hie Vikings got to compete tricts and placed third at 157: Haiden Simmet, m the WSAA Team State regionals to earn his state Hastings: A semor. simmet senior, Simmet m s mgs vent Cento fin^ spot finished his year with a record ; m Kalamazoo, filling to the 132: Gauge Stampfler. 132. Stampfler, of of39-8. 39-8. He He canned capped hi. his varsity perenmal state champions Delton Kellogg: Now a two- wrestling time with 98 total from Dundee in the state quar quar- time state medalist, Stampfler wins. terfinals closed his winter by placing Simmet was a team captain Lakewood got the chance to fifth in Division 4’s 132-pound for the Saxons and the runcompete with rival Portland wight class. He wrestled to a ner-up at his weight in the 1-8 more than once this season as record of 53-7 this season. this season. the two teams also battled in ' He placed third at the SAC 165: Jayce Curtis, 165; Javce Cnrtic the newly reworked Capital Tournament, districts and Thomapple Kellogg: The lone Area Activities Conference re^onals as a junior. guy from TK to qualify for the I'fsttsal White Division. The Raiders Colton 138: Smith individual state finals this seaSmith, got the best of the Vikings Hastings: Smith finished his during their conference dual senior season with a record of Curtis, a junior, put together though. 45-7 and his varsity westling an overall record of 42-10. He piwftr Strings of conference domi ­ time with an overall mark of was the OK Gold Conference teKc®?' nance were stymied all across 111-36. champion at his weight class f is the county this winter. Smith was an Interstate-8 and won a district title in Hastings was edged out for the Athletic Conference Division 2 too. ir fflJ io Eetto Interstate-8 Athletic Champion, a regional qualifier 175: Luke Watson, Delton twnQK^ Conference Championship in Division 1 and one of the Kellogg: A senior, Watson and the Thomapple Kellogg saxons’ team captains this qualified for the MHSAA 5 ta b varsity wrestling team went winter. Individual State Finals for the through its first major rebuild­ MdIbp ing season in quite some time aii'Si.’f’’ in the OK Gold Conference. ihe Epdlrf All five of the cotmty’s var­ sity wrestling teams were rep­ resented at those state finals in I Detroit at the end of the sea­ Fundraiser son. ifeuSioEi Here are the 2023-24 All Bany County Wrestling First and Second Teams 6 in ia4i All-Barry County Friday, March 29, 2024 Wrestling First Team 106: Troy Hokanson, 5-7p.m. or until gone Com®®? Hastings: A junior with a $14.00 Adults (3 pcs. fish) & record of 119-22 wrestling for $8.00 Children 12 and under note? the Saxon varsity, Hokanson (2 pieces of fish) ftjli « was 50-4 this season and is Dinner Includes: 3 pieces (adults) just the fifth Saxon ever to Battered Fresh Pollock Loins prepared: with reach 50 wins in a season. He Tartar Sauce, French Fries, Coleslaw & set a new Saxon single season Homemade Bread & Butter. record for falls with 47. Dessert: Soft Serve Ice Cream. No other Food Menu Available. For those who Hokanson was a state qual­ do not want fish dinner, outside food may be ifier this season in Division 1. brought in. He is a three-time Interstate-8 All proceeds goes to Athletic Conference champiWest Michigan Veterans Assistance Program on. I i **5 ss iM I * r f • A I I I I I I Li 9 -I, V CM w* * -is; 4. I V; ■p s % % ** rfy V Am. 7^ I II R. V I u • I I . . .Al to --- j fl I t / 9 1 I . S'* 1 i c I, .3 1 ri •, ki? J Jayce Curtis t* first time this season thanks to a third place finish at regionals. Watson was 30-15 on the season. He was a runner-up at his team’s individual disttict tournament. t V >3 to ever be a state placer and can look to become the program’s first four-time wresfling state medalist next sea­ son as a senior. Friddle was 49-9 this season and now has a career mark of 139-31 overall. He won ±e Interstate-8 - Athletic Conference championship at his weight class this year. 215: Joel Simon, Lakewood: A junior two-time state medal­ ist, Simon wrestled his way to a fourth-place medal in 190: Jackson Bmpee, Maple Valley: An individual state qualifier for the first time as a sophomore this winter, Burpee compiled an overall record of 35-6. He took victories at four tournaments this season tournaments including the Lions’ own Jesse Snow Memorial Tournament I Division 3’s 215-pound weight class at the state finals. Simon put together a record * of 38-4 this winter. He was a district champion and a regional runner-up. 285: Mitchell Swift, Delton Kellogg: A sophomore. Swift wrestled his way to a fifth­ place finish in Division 4’s 285-pound weight class at the individual state finals to earn his first state medal. 14 I I I I ► 1 i I See 6/MPPI£/?S, page 11 I I I r and the Saxons’ LH Lamb Tournament. He was a district A^aenoo AAen rIgB J! •a ||W 215: Isaac Friddle, Hastings: Friddle, a junior, is a three­ time state medalist after plac­ ing eighth in Division 1 ’s 215pound weight class this sea- W* »I Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers ; • Cellular Enhancement Systems • ' *- » A** A f runner-up and qualified for the state finals with a third-place regional finish. Antenna Meri B Give us a call! ■jc c ±1 cell(M) SIG 4^1 I t * I 269-967-8241 n®* i J www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com wvvw.cellsignalpros.com son. He is just the fifth Saxon | cram Caledonia ’American Legion #305 0 a' « Ia WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS GOOD FRIDAY FISH FRY _i-TC"-La I C’’* I I t I 5 I ? i’ ri M t « i i Residential & Commei^ir I I ! 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T*** r k I * r A 5--^r> t rea girls keep making gains on mat 1 won the Three Rivers Girls’ Invitational this season and had a runner-up finish at her weight class at the Kent County Classic. Chipman, Maddie Hastings: A sophomore 100-pounder, Chipman won 17 matches this season. Chipman finished in the top four in her eight class at three tournaments this sea­ son including a runner-up finish at the Grayling Invitational. Skylar Fenstamaker, senior Hastings: A 135-pounder, Fenstamaker won 19 matches this sea son. She placed second in her weight class at the Hastings Girls Invitational and had a third-place finish at Grayling. Bella Friddle, Hastings: A freshman 130-pounder, Friddle won the East Jackson Invitational this season and placed second at the Midland Chernies Classic this season. She closed her season with 18 victories. “I am excited to be a part of it and see where it goes.” Here are the 14 members of the 2023-24 All-Barry County Girls’ Wrestling First Team. All-Barry County Girls’ Wrestling First Team Alberts, Rylee Thomapple Kellogg; One of two TK wrestlers to qualify for the MHSAA Individual State Finals at 125 pounds this winter, Alberts was a regional runner-up to teammate Emma Gibson. Alberts put together a record of 22-8 as a fresh­ man and was a champion at the Northview Girls Invitational and the Hastings Girls Invitational late in the season. Raini Braska, Thomapple Kellogg: A junior, Braska qualified for the MHSAA Individual State Finals at 115 pounds this winter and had an overall record of 20-15. She placed fourth at regionals this season. She Brett Bremer Sports Editor The sport of wrestling continues to grow for girls in the Barry County area, and the girls on the mat keep getting better and bet­ ter. The county’s four varsity wrestling programs with girls’ contingents sent two dozen wrestlers to the MHSAA Girls’ Red 2 Regional at Gull Lake High School in February and from that group of 24, seven earned the right to compete in the MHSAA Individual State Finals at Ford Field in Detroit at the end of the season. The number of high school tournaments spe­ cifically for girls contin­ ued to grow this season and the Hastings program hosted a good one this sea­ son. “The support for the girls’ team from our boys’ team, the school and the community has been fantas­ tic,” Hastings varsity girls’ coach Mike Goggins said, «o 13996 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 Caleix)nA TCWNSHIP CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on Monday, April 15, 2024 at 7:00pm at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, SE, Caledonia Michigan, 49316. The request is for a rezoning from Agricultural to R2 PUD for 30.1 acres of land within a portion of parcel: 41-23-18-101-00 Kent County Web Map - Uardi 18.2024 <w A • fV' "’la T1*' •#•* • w gjgnsrawifc — «r * A . lb iS ♦ ► 3 1! i I t JK / 1 Ollh i ■J s» J i.. A 5^ j ------- A ■W.-f'- > I •«* F ♦ T .e.__ ceaj '»• , to* h 4 * * k-LH 4 .*s» < ■ ** 9t V ' SSwmSB *'l p. I'. <*’■} ■i; J? IK^ ' 'to ■t i: 4 “I p 4 •F ■ v T I t X 1 * K r■ t * OF* is ♦i .*9 .1 ■ a & ' *4^ I «■ •w ' ** « 1 4 3' St ■ f? I 7. •. 4 4 I 4 « fit J *0 & ’P 4: .4 I Jr ri' !> t -4 b ‘■f A fl 'ft* •»! Jc •a k> to I • I <1^ .S’ . J ST" S' <4 a* I”’ to- 4 tr 4 '•4 ?< t r >‘3 X ' '-'’I **■> * ••J I w A k I 4 ■ .n R 1 ;2TI I .-9 ’• JM ' * . 'fcX* biW •- ’fwii I . IVb.’ I- 'Z X 'i- ‘I I w 3S- / • « a' ♦ I, >1 -1 -y ■ 754 f-: XI « A* 4 . -Al *- ■ .J. 1 *T 4 •s r I ■ 4.1 J I z; to- A r \ t I l' J 4 «« v» ■■ ■ • • -i > ♦ •J .7 s •i zz .. ..A.^ . to S- *r (■ / 4 .1 .J • J rl % 4^ T. •V I I' T '' - to* Hi— 2^' • • I -•4-- . Sh^S •s ?erv rr^ *• ir' Ita > .1 ■it Hto* r J ujjLj : I* ♦ —I* u .* * J J • ■ A ) k' »r- * - I VnMC RaF-"— t I V .a >. » to V '" ’T 9. i.-' i •s-^ Emma Gibson .a Olivia Friddle, Hastings: A two-time individual state qualifier, Friddle didn’t get to compete at the state finals at the end of her sophomore season this winter due to a knee injury suffered while also competing for the Saxon varsity girls’ basketball team. Friddle had a record of 19-6 on the season and took championships at the Grayling Invitational and the Hastings Girls’ Invitational this season as a 140-pounder. Emma Gibson, Thornapple Kellogg: A two-time state qualifier, Gibson was a regional champion as a junior this season. Gibson put together a record of 24-4 on the year, She won the Girls 120125-pound weight class at the Kent County Classic in December and also won the Hopkins Invitational in January. Naomi Grummet, Hastings: A Saxon junior who won 26 matches and finished her year on the state medal stand as the eighth-place finisher in the 155-pound weight class at ■ Ford Field the first week­ end in March. Grummet placed third at regionals this season, falling only to the two-time state champion Maddie Hayden from Caledonia. Adelaide Holderman, Thomapple Kellogg: She placed third in tournaments at Three Rivers and Hastings this season. A freshman, she capped the year with a record of 18-10. Dezarae Mathis, Hastings: Nobody from the county finished higher on the state medal stand this season than Mathis who was third in the 120-pound weight class at the MHSAA Individual State Finals. Mathis put together a sophorecord of 31-9 as a sopho more this season. She was third at reeionals regionals and tnnk took the championship at the East Jackson Invite early in the season. Jordan Milanowski, Hastings: A two-time state qualifier, she saw her junior season end in the blood round at the state finals this winter. She had a record of 26-11 on the season. Milanowski, a 145-pounder, won the •w Grayling Invitational this season and was the run­ ner-up at her weight class at the Hastings Girls’ Invitational. Olivia Post, Delton Kellogg; Post qualified for the state finals in her fresh­ man season at 125 pounds this winter. Post scored 11 victories on the season and had a fourth-place regional finish. Allison Slater, Lakewood: A senior. Slater put together a record of 15-10 this winter competing at 120 pounds. Slater came up just one win shy of earning a spot in the state finals, falling in the blood round at regionals to the Saxons’ state medalist Mathis. Sophia Sunior, Hastings: A state medalist as a junior last season, Sunior saw her senior season come up just short of a return trip to the state finals. She put together a record of 16-7 this season wrestling between 190 pounds and 235 pounds. She won the Grayling Invitational and had a runner-up finish at the Hastings Girls’ Invitational. 2 sjai * r z 1 ¥ z , < la ' L • )>* / ’ 13 I.-; St-. i J ..Xw ifta? ;i±f» I1 ♦ .aaiDif N Jii ' ' 1 r r T «ipi •k ’’Hit <k.?L k € * £tL/ « I, J 1 r. - .’.x- c TV* ' ... Thornapple Kellogg Schools > V '' K mV I Lii t 'I . t * <b 1. 9 1 » t’T .-A.' ^^4-. . .•*1 r' 11 «,» ’ «* « • lA -U POOL COORDINATOR: I v«» ii * / ^9^ ■ r" I 4,4.. J • J I 'I 4S. «a 1 4*. c ? 4. a* 0 <10<5 « 009 *• N A 3 nt die u—■* All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed rezoning. Written comments . concerning the requested rezoning may be submitted to the Township office, at the above-stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Dated: March 18, 2024 PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA < < I I { 1 I, . ’ S' ’’i fSSi lH! Thomapple Kellogg Schools in Middleville is looking for a Pool Coordinator. 20-25 hours per week during the school year, reduced schedule in the summer. Must be certified in Lifeguarding, Water Safety Instruction, CPR, First Aid, and Certified Pool Director $22.00 per hour. kterested applicants should email Erica Dudik at edudik@tkschonls nr tor more information and how to apply. ' N ‘it a 1 i I 213894 1 I < I f a » 4 t 1 > I 4 I ^.1 *> A q * A ' .^4 I f., A r 1 f �The Sun and • ana News, news, Saturday, March Marci 23,2024/ Page 11 -------------------------------------- Chief Noonday ChaptergoeTI CHS girls hosting Kick green for weekend hike Cancer event Tuesday night The Caledonia High School girls’ soccer program will host a United We Kick Cancer event during its contest with Forest Hills Central at Scotland Yard Tuesday. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and the event will honor FHC’s Jackee Fisher and Caledonia’s Maddie Lockwood who have battled cancer. The varsity match is set to begin at 6:45 p.m. Tuesday in Caledonia. Both teams have plans to wear special orange jerseys, and ‘United We Can Fight Cancel’ T-shirts were sold as a fundraiser in the leadup to the event. Neither team got a match in during the first week of the high school soccer season in Michigan due to the wintery weather. The FHC giris are set to fece I Li * •k t « * •- ft ♦ r « •T' e ft XI 1 i F r ! I f i r* L<' I / i t I 9 i y T •.* 4^. W* 4.VJ 2!^ T* “W . - iT *< »■ i -. I ' *«» • ■' \ 4 u I ' •'•-5 rtirwiw.,j The Chief Noonday Chapter of the North Country Scenic Trail AssociafioT hosted 71 hikers, including 18 first time club hik&rs, to the trail section downtown Middleville Saturday morning. This group headed towards Irving Jn a hike while another grouptne followed the trail along the - seven-mile - --------- ---------------y.uup ioliowea trail northwest Thornapple River on a shorter four-mile hike. (Photo by Brett Bremer) *X 4* i KT- GRAPPLERS, continued from page 9 Swift put together a record of 47-9 this season. He was a district champion and placed third at regionals. He was also the runner-up at heavy­ weight this season at the SAC Tournament. All-Barry Coimty ii Wrestling Second Team te* 106: Kayle Mclellan, J Delton Kellogg: One of a I handful of outstanding Ifeshmen for the Panthers this IL r season, Mclellan was a regional qualifier this year thanks to a runner-up district finals in Division 4. He placed fourth at the Christien Miller SAC Tournament at 106 pounds to a record of 35-11. 175: Calder Villanueva, 113; Jordan Humphrey, He was a regional qualifi­ Lakewood: Villanueva had a Hastings: Humphrey was a er in Division 4 thanks to a solid junior season for the regional qualifier in Division third-place district finish. Vikings wrestling his way to 1 as a junior this season. Harmon was the runner-up at nine victories. He compiled a record of 138 pounds at the SAC He had a win in the 38-16 this season and now Tournament this season. Vikings’ team district chamhas 98 varsity victories over150; Chris Webb, pionship win over Portland all. Lakewood; A senior for the and finished the season 132: Dylan Pauline, Vikings this season, Webb strong. Thomapple Kellogg: A soph- saw his individual state tour190; Kyle Echtinaw, omore, Pauline piled up 22 nament run end in the blood Hastings: A sophomore wins this season for TK. round at districts. who missed a chunk of time He had a 4-1 day at the Webb was eighth at the due to an injury, he still Grandville Challenge, one of CAAC Championships this came up big for the Saxons. the Trojans’ tough early sea­ winter and had an overall He wrestled to a record of son tournaments, and placed record of 29-20. 19-13. fifth at the Hopkins 157: Aden Armstrong, Echtinaw finished as the Invitational later in the sea­ Hastings: A sophomore. runner-up in his weight class son. Armstrong huge impact for at the Interstate-8 Athletic 138: Bryson Boucher, the Saxons. He compiled a Conference tournament. Lakewood: A freshman. 30-16 record and won the 1-8 215: Michael Bhola, j Boucher was 34-15 overall Championship at his weight Delton Kellogg: One of two this season and qualified for class. seniors on the DK roster the state finals in Division 3. Armstrong was a team this winter, Bhola put He placed third at both captain this year and won his together a record of 26-24 districts and regionals to earn weight class at the LH Lamb this season. his state finals spot. Bhola was a regional qualTournament. 138; Colten 165: Blake Bossenberger, ifier this season in Division. Denton, Hastings: A sophomore, Thomapple Kellogg: A soph285: Jaden Manhart, Denton wrestled to a record omore, he put together a Lakewood: Manhart wres­ of 34-11 this winter. record of 30-18 this season tled his way to a sixth-place He took the championship for TK. finish at his weight class at He had his season ended the CAAC Championships at this season at the Saxons’ own LH Lamb Tournament in the district blood round in the end of the year. A senior. he jumped and was the runner-up at his Division 2 a week after placweight class in the ing third at his weight class around the heavyweight Interstate-8. at the OK Gold Conference spots as needed for the 144: Griffyn Hannon, Tournament. He was fifth at Vikings wrestling at 285 Delton Kellogg: Harmon his weight class at the Kent pounds, 215 and 190. He took a step up during his County Classic early in the closed the year with a 26-11 overall record. sophomore season wrestling season. i. } * I rMS :,5 U* « S s„,^' A* 4 » - >s MMHG'S. r 5:" I- '■'‘'I*. « r-1 •4 .4 *>• X. t I / « V .. •<' * IF..' 1'1 « •4. * .<•' t I' ■ I me CHS gu^ faceHudsonville Home School Hornets Girls n B KA Soccer Club Monday in Caledonia at 6:45 pjn. It is the first of a handful of special nights inside Scotland Yard this spring. There are plans for a Unified Night game for Special Olympics, and END IT Night to once again support Better Way Designs, the annual Youth Night and more. I I t ii t *• I * -x,ue^' •t •»« t fal&j 11 iiialiEjira))tuifudfa). V oijmiiof «aft'to tiiiifiifil inmififliki Wpok Ji, Sie «a liiW ff-up fciii fiirii I I I I Pool I need ifety lOUf- ,3854 ! i I I 1 I t I 17 • hi 1 t J •i I 1 * A Al 4 4^ * * t> K * S: -a 1 'J I -3^1 I t Jf t V. >e 4 L ■'« 4 . -T > • ,*1 ■w t r 1 f ! z >■> • I*'- V tK * f / / Z’ F i I ♦1 4 •1> S I Senior Laney Peterson and the Caledonia varsity Forest Hills Central Tuesday, March 26, for a United We Kick Cancer Scotland Yard beginning at 6:45 p.m. (File photo) _________ CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes The minutes for the March 6, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting which were approved on March 20, 2024, fk I.--------- posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at wwwxaledoniatownship.org. I I - n * mnipolu *’l T , I > 1 I He HI js B i. > • fc- » Iff! Wj of Wfl fflp. mJi. * ti I* Slid, r I I 4 re^oiui t •T 9 i ( • •• I .!>■ I I - • • 'Ik I r ft *r f J. .1 I . I kness^— * K 5A* c:. S.’ .s' 41 I I A, y Easter J *1 J. i* I 1 I I I t 4 Ji •■•1^_______ * r 1 EGG HUNT * * i* c 1.x •Tj J ■l 3. •..i ; J This year we are hosting the Caledonia Area Community Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 23 11am at Holy Family. This event will be held rain or shine! All kids 10 and under are invited to join us 4 . Don’t forget to get your photo taken with the bunny! 4 * < X. V w«*. «s VTi f > SATURDAY;WARCH 23 -11AM > 4* •l 1! Holy Family Parish 9669 Kraft Ave. Caiedonta, Ml 49316 I f f a 1 •• . 1. e II k k • f * A I \ • Jt/. .Bl------ 1?t A» t.-V' ■4»“. -I * 1 71 I • * «,'« > I & I I 1 ■ f'*- I 1^ M 4 ■It? .1 t *• ii r •'..Kf' % .A V *;= o •>/ -s ■3 o X*? • I J -IflP 1 >. I?. ■I I I I I * ^r' -I ' Ilf ? r‘ ,1 I i 1^- * « i'-® • r- % b* K- 1 '7 'f •4s 4* » 2 -v;: .•v uVs h ' H •?'"-r t I 4 1 1 L 1 ] Jf 1 t 1 u I I « ' I <1 T Ik "* if J zv ?-R>. TH •A i I ! T >4 ■f r I <’ I ?•' It < « I •• I J I ■•'. I I ^ffi^epfCa(e^nJas 1 T I t J **■■ — — ■ >> fc " 1 11 4 / • < t k r 4 t I * « »• r*- 4 «• J! I 54 Mi-t « 9 I 4' 1 I f I * f 4 » 4 « I I I » I �% I e 4 Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 23, 2024 TK ladies open spring with win at Hastings I I I ft I r • V 1 4’ 4 I 1 I I ft b 4 S‘>i 14 'h a 1 I J r Aj V r fl 1 r * »• ft * ft >* jr I Z < > «• 4 I A •l >• t k *■.1^ I ? « I 11 **•/ i 2. t *7 V I* A i I l^i I T< fl * L x'f ‘IJk SVe k- Js. i _____________ ft. s I* IM 9 i z» h«T Il '• $ J 1 A 1 i1 ■x J -r’.' Bsai « ** •j ■W' I 5-/' lA ( .4 4 1 I S I I L:f7 U ir?a '■<• ^4^ 5 r> 4 *1 . ■c " •Ir •c : •"-n <!•- r f LI it' !* MW 1 ■f( •' ,4. ■•' 1^' 4 / ^5^4 £ V^KMBW^ % I b ♦ > li , c •z ♦ r '»• b i- A I Cl "V;^r .r® . . 9. • ‘»s‘ e * ,"r-». ♦ •l S> I «HR* ■xvwir V! J , F n •J f Wzft * 1 •> «>-<w I •i •v M t 4 j I I I* * ■ -’*■ I?, >*• ri* 'l^ I 4 "I < i < •ft J t RJ '' Kp >'?• $' 1 ♦ s .. ,wwft>ew •• rI ye'' -r : *s 4 1 ''•) •T* • • 1, p' -•..x k.' ’ •-, ft^ Pb ^»l' fc ji"' - ■ 1 t . * ♦♦ DA I -• ft I. k ■f'--- — ft ft •T • t 1 I 1 I V •> .-iff 5 Lj V SG b • J ..V -r I I. e ji. ♦L i' 1 1 I I b 1 I I Z* 4 »• “• 1-4' X’. -2 r T r J -s! ..»., - A' wc- •* ’ - inifiW . Rfc,. J i *» Thornapple Kellogg midfielder Paige Abshagen pushes towards the Hastings goal as the Saxons’ Jordyn Winters gives chase during the first half of their season opener inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field Thursday in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I I 1 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The first goal of the 202324 varsity girls’ soccer sea­ son summed up the Trojans’ whole victory in Hastings Thursday evening. Thomapple Kellogg sophomore attacker Tealy Cross ripped a shot towards the far post on the south end of Baum Stadium at Johnson Field. Saxon senior goalkeeper Dekota Blough made a fabu­ lous save diving to her left. TK midfielder Paige Abshagen was there to hit the rebound into the open net in the game s 19th minute. Blough was outstanding in net for the Saxons, but the Trojans created so many chances that they were bound 4 I I / I I f r I I I I I I I I ( J r r I I I f I I I I to get a few by any keeper in what turned into a 5-1 Thomapple Kellogg victory. Blough finished the bail­ game with 18 saves. Cross scored two goals of her own in the win forTK. She made it 2-0 in the 28th minute, chasing down a per­ fectly struck long ball ahead from all-state teammate Emma Schut and calmly car­ rying it in for a shot by Blough. She also scored in the game’s 57th minute, midway through the second half, on another another 1-v-l 1-v-l chance chance against against Blough Blough off off aa nice feed from Schut Schut in in the the middle middle of of the the field. Sophomore Madilyn Chivis added a goal on an ~ 1 r I Thornapple Kellogg midfielder Emma Schut gets her head on the ball in front of Hastings’ Raegen Morrison and teammate Natalie Borrink during the first half of their ballgame inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field in Hastings Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) outstanding long shot with 7:10 to go in the first half, and the Trojans’ final tally came with 3:26 to go in the game when Megan Schuurmans beat Blough to a rebound and put it into the net. The Trojans’ final tally came with 3:26 to go in the game when Megan Schuurmans beat Blough to a reboimd and put it into the net. Hastings head coach Tim Schoessel had a big chat with his girls about that one. Blough hit a goal kick which Schuurmans snagged outside the box and took in for the score with Blough not getting enough assistance from her teammates. legitimately, probably kept that from being a more lop­ sided game. She made a few saves on Tealy one-on-one. She made a couple diving saves.” “She was lights out, for what she had to work with,” Schoessel said of his keeper. “We have some things to clean up on defense, but they improved in the second half on defense. In the first half. they were kind of dead on their feet and things weren’t going well, but they picked it up and they cleaned it up.” The Trojans come into the season a bit shorthanded, and were okay with Friday after­ noon’s ballgame with Lowell “Their keeper [Blough] being postponed due to the snow. TK had just one sub to take on the Saxons. Senior honorable mention all-state attacker Holly Velting injured an ankle during the Trojans’ preseason scrim­ mage - knocking the varsity roster from 13 down to 12 for Thursday at least. “I think we have a good core,” TK head coach Ben Sleeman said. “We only have two seniors too, Emma [Schut] and Holly [Velting]. In a way, it is nice because the majority of our team will be back for the next couple years.” Sleeman, who is co-coaching the Trojans once again I I I I I I I % I I ED’S BODY SHOP I 1 •ft*. 4. ft 1 r L I CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN I 3 R * -7 f L •mt* rU 4 STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS i .r I I State & I-CAR Certified Technicians I k J TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System I I I * ——7 y I -w— 5 A I Frame Repair ¥ % r ft A —C '5 A if •^3 I •ft L ~l >—i» I *-1 I A .s ** ■: 616.891.0150 WMBA I Lesonal I MW Bourne System 1 1 J 1 I f I I J I J I > i » * V ft I at times.” ft I J t ' I t / struggle mentally and then it transitions to the field 1 1 I M • .In ’• Thornapple Kellogg's Tealy Cross (13) and team­ mate Megan Schuurmans celebrate a ooal hv Cm« midway through the second half of thei? 5- win ovTr the Saxons at Hastinas Hioh <?rhnr.i th ning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thursday eveeye- OPEN; M thru F 7:30 am - 5:00 pm 110 Johnson St.; Caledonia r ' -T« ♦ ^NFIB Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner L J I I CA9 www.edsbody.com ggSOft I 4 GOLD CLASS this spring with David Wood, said there will also be some up and down from the JV roster to support the varsity. “We kind of knew going into the season that we would have smaller numbers. It is going to be a good group,” Sleeman said. “It is just going to be if we’re okay depth wise. That was kind of our downfall at the end of last year. We just didn’t have the depth. We had a good starting 11 and a couple girls who came off the bench. Hopefully, we can make it imscathed through the rest of the season.” The TK ladies will be on the road at Northview Monday, weather-permitting, and then start the OK Gold Conference season at home against Cedar Springs after spring break, April 10. The Saxons are right back at it Monday too, hosting Delton Kellogg. Captain Raegen Morrison scored the Saxons’ lone goal, cutting the TK lead to 4-1 at the time with 21:29 to go in the game. Hastings got a turnover near midfield and quickly had Morrison going the other way against TK keeper Makenna Hoebeke. Hoebeke and the TK defense didn’t have a whole lot to do as the Trojans kept on the attack much of the evening. “This is always a hard game to start with,” Sleeman said. “It’s local and it gets scrappy, and for the girls you re confident, and sometimes going into I 4 J I I t I t I ft I I J I I i � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-03-30.pdf 858b2855e61c746ef97d26fae569f2a1 PDF Text Text Il •4 I BSb< - IV ■ JW o. t 0/^1 f X. at ■- : t; - B J■ r t "l _. It I I o /on iiMsiai s i rar -. * “k. A . I v 1 1/ r jzi 1 •^srj 1 J « 4^ > A* * 1 ▼ < M i J Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville No. 13/ March 30, 2024 1. and Caledonia Areas Published by J-Ad Graphics. Inc.. 1351 N. M-43 Highway. Hastings, Ml 49058 Gaines Township turns down grant, stiii moves forward with Hanna Lake sidewaik project f James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Gaines Township Board has declined acceptance of a Community Development Block Grant award that would have helped fund the construction of a sidewalk along a section of Harma Lake Avenue in Dutton. It is considering installing the sidewalk without the grant. On a unanimous voice vote at its March 11 meeting, the board rejected the CDBG matching grant of $72,000. The total estimated project cost was about $ 144,000. The grant would have pro ­ .... . vided a combination of stale and federal funds to help pay for the stretch of sidewalk mostly south of 68th Street. “But a big portion of that was that farm field we don’t have to do any longer. So, I think it’s a waste of money,” Township Manager Rod Weersing said. “As we got into it more and more, we realized it was . going to cost us more money than if we did it ourselves,’’ Supervisor Rob DeWard said. In addition to the stretch south of 68th Street, the pro- *L ir^***^** 4 * i I f « < I !■ I 6 . •V • • r k i J 4 «*<> * * r I, SB 901 r V. • V KV.^ r* A V ?♦ Gaines Township Manager Rod Weersing points to a map where sidewalk is Proposed to be installed along Hanna Lake Avenue south of 68th Street in Dutton, in Dutton. (Photo by James Gemmell) posed project includes a sec­ tion of sidewalk that would be built in front of Dutton Christian Elementary School’s north campus, 6729 Hanna Lake Ave. That is just north of 68th Street, on the west side of the road. Originally, trustees were considering dedicating some of the township’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars to funding sidewalks on both sides of Harma Lake Avenue. But then it learned 146th year 1 Crosswalk to be installed near Lee, no foil rway stop at Main and Bender Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Middleville will have a new crosswalk installed on West Main Street near Lee Elementary School. However, the village will not convert the inter­ section of West Main and Bender Road into a four­ way stop, going against the recommendation of its plarming consultant. The Village Council Tuesday approved a request from Thomapple Kellogg Schools to have the new crosswalk installed on West Main, near Sixth Street. The village will upfront the estimated ) -I 4 ballot It checks the pulse of the community, to see what they’re looking for,” said Council Trustee Makenzi Peters, who is one of the vil lage representatives on a *■ that CDBG funds could be applied to the project. However, township officials later learned that only the east side of the street project was eligible to be covered with the CDBG funds, from the south side of the ceme­ tery to the intersection at 68th Street. Because the CDBG grant could only be applied to funding sidewalk installation on the east side of the road, the township is considering committee, proposed the vil­ lage’s contribution, which would be matched by an equal $2,500 contribution from Thomapple Kellogg Schools. In addition, the — Makenzi Peters, Trustee, Middleville Village Council I t I 1 1 See CROSSWALK, page 2 imdertaking the sidewalk project itself and possibly installing it on both the east and west sides of the road. “We foimd out there was a gas station at one time on the comer. We would have need­ ed to do Phase 1 environ­ mental (impact) testing. Probably, $10,000. So, we cut that piece off,” Weersing said. When the project discus- ***; Barry Community Foundation has awarded a $15,000 grant to the Friends of the Middleville Area Community Library, and the friends group is contributing another $5,000 from funds that had been previously raised. •. ••■i^. **u t 4 J Wft Ma t *»v. **».^*« I I t I Hi * I, .V •i f y- r 1 * 3. i r * I r I * • I t /• k 1 See PROJECT, page 3 “Any money spent on get­ ting the library out of the high school is good money,” Council Trustee Robert Bishop said. A couple of potential sites have been identified as possi ble locations for the library - one on Sheridan Street near the village’s wastewater treatment plant and another being a site owned by TK schools that was once the district’s bus garage. “It is now a storage lot for constmction materials and a PaperGator. right behind the post office,” Cramer said Tuesday. Hopkins will interview local leaders in the proposed service area to see how much support there is for the library project, and report back to the committee with his findings, committee member « • » r* • r/fr- f''« Middleville Department of Public Works Director Alec Belson addresses the village council on the recent traffic study at West Main Street and Bender Road at Tuesday’s council meeting. (Photo by Greg Chandler) It i 1 I I ! IN SIISBUIE I 1 I I I PR I i I • • New Bahy County mineral mining ordinance in the works . - -J I I* I J 1 I t - •% • Nominations sought for TAEF Hometown Hero I 1 I • Caledonia Twp. board discusses public safety tax levy • Thornapple Kellogg spring sports preview • All-Barry County boys basketball See IfBRARK page 2 1 k » I es the work of seeing if it s something the community wants before we go through the expense of planning and putting it on the ballot ... It checks the pulse of the community, to see what they’re looking for.” committee that is looking into the feasibility of a public library that would replace the current Thomapple Kellogg School and Community Library that is inside the high school. Village President Mike Cramer, who also sits on the I $10,000 cost for purchas­ ing and installing the crosswalk out of its major streets fund, with the school district to reimburse the village later. District officials had recently raised concerns with the village over about the safety of kids walking across Main to get to and from Lee. “We’ve had a couple of close calls with parents coming off Sixth Street (and) turning onto Sixth Street (off of Main),” Village Department of Public Works Director Alec Belson said. Middleville library study to move forward Greg Chandler Staff Writer An assessment to determine whether there is enough community support to build a standalone public library in Middleville will move for­ ward, after organizers were able to raise $25,000 to cover the cost of the survey. Village Council members in Middleville Tuesday agreed by consensus to have the village contribute $2,500 toward the needs assessment survey, which will be con­ ducted by Keith Hopkins of Hopkins Fundraising & Consulting to determine whether the community has the necessary backing to build and maintain the library. “It does the work of seeing if it’s something the commu­ nity wants before we go through the expense of planning and putting it on the > / ®- �I I X % I X u % 1 t X < Page 2ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, March 30,2024 CROSSWALK, continued from page 1 LIBRARY, continued from page 1 — Josh Mosey wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Triangle Construction has provided what Mosey calls “rough numbers” on what it could cost to build a library - ranging from $5 million for a 10,000-square-foot building to $7.8 million for a 15,000-square-foot building. “Keith will let us know if either of those numbers are achievable,” Mosey wrote in his email. The current library is open to the community only 12 hours a week during the school year - 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday nights, and 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays. According to statistics from the Library of Michigan, the TK School and Community Library ranks in the bottom 10 of Michigan’s 394 libraries in terms of the number of hours it is open to the public each year, at only 804 hours for the 2022-23 fiscal year. It also The exact location for the new crosswalk is still being determined by Belson and Sgt. Scott Ware of the Barry County SherifTs Office ranks at the bottom for the size of community it serves. Mosey wrote in his email. ‘The : t remains that the hours and location ofthe current public library in Middleville are holding it back fiom truly serv­ ing the needs of tire public,” Mosey wrote in his email the By comparison, Freeport District Library, which serves a much smaller coverage area than the TK library, was open to the public 1,563 hours during the 202223 fiscal year. The Henika District Library in Wayland was open to the public 2,550 hours during that same fiscal year. the Delton District Library was open 2392 hours and the Hastings Public Library was open 2,976 hours for the 2022-23 fiscal year, according to Library of Michigan statistics. The library committee is next scheduled to meet on April 17 at the Middleville Village Hall. /* Middleville unit. The village recently had a traffic study done by its plan­ ning consultant, Williams & Works, for the intersection of West Main and Bender. The intersection is currently a two-way stop, with traffic on Bender having to stop. A similar traffic study had been done at that intersection in 2018. In a memo to the village, Williams & Works project manager Katie Mendez rec­ ommended converting the West Main and Bender inter­ section to a four-way stop, saying it “would contribute to better traffic flow coordi­ nation and improved pedes­ trian safety.” In the study that was con last December, ducted Williams & Works found that northbound traffic on Bender seeking to turn left onto u. Street. First responders will have troubles hying to navi­ gate through the congested traffic while responding to emergencies. An all-way stop will not improve this intersection.” There have been no seri­ ous injury or fatal accidents at the West Main and Bender intersection over the last five years, according to Michigan State Police data. Williams & Works did propose implementation of marked crosswalks, accom­ panied by the installation of in-pavement lighting, as an alternative to converting the West Main and Bender inter­ section to a four-way stop. combination of “The marked crosswalks and attention-grabbing light fea­ tures serves as a viable alter­ native to an all-way stop, offering a balanced solution that prioritizes both vehicu­ lar and pedestrian safety while maintaining smooth traffic flow,” Mendez wrote in her memo. However, Ware, Belson, Village Manager Craig Stolsonbui^ and TK Assistant Superintendent Chns LaHaie came to a different conclu­ sion when they met last week to review the results of the traffic study. Peak traffic levels were observed between 6:45 and 7:30 a.m. for the morning drop off period, and between 2:15 and 3 p.m. for the afternoon pickup. But outside of those peak hours, traffic volumes in the West Main and Bender area were low, the study found. “Adding additional stop signs will cause eastbound traffic (on Main) to back up in front of the high school drives, making it harder to get in and out,” Ware wrote in a memo to the Village Council. “It will also create backups for westbound traf­ fic on Main Street. These backups will block Minstehr Drive and Sixth Street. “(Residents) will have dif­ ficulty trying to leave their driveways along West Main Main experienced an average delay of 39.7 seconds during the morning peak period and 32.3 seconds during the afternoon peak period, while southbound traffic on Bender seeking to come straight across Main experienced an average delay of 32.3 sec­ onds. In its 2018 study, Williams & Works found northbound traffic looking to turn left onto Main waited an average of three minutes, 45 seconds during the afternoon peak period, and southbound traf­ fic trying to cross Main saw an average delay of three minutes, 36 seconds. One concern raised in the Williams & Works recom­ mendation addressed the issue of speed by motorists coming from the west on Main. Even though the post­ ed speed limit on Main is 25 miles per hour, “it is visually evident that traffic from the west is entering the intersec­ tion at a higher rate of speed,” Mendez wrote in her memo. Gi t Ttie co Sami’W the ('jiiiih® Ijihf 1^ I to ch* >a0' OHS’* tea® the 3’’^' i lUe’'’*’ -Eact i £3)Clll (((1111®' ! BibeS®' ) w** Caledonia IWp. board discussing public safety tax levy 4 u i -Hei® 4 Greg Chandler Caledonia Township voters will be asked later this year to approve continuing the township’s public safety millage. What’s not yet clear is whether the township will ask for a renewal of the existing levy that supports both the township fire department and law enforcement services from the Kent County Sheriffs Department, or whether it will seek at least a restoration of the tax back to the level it was when voters approved the levy in August 20’8. The township board is likely to make a decision soon on the matter, to get it on the August ballot. The board discussed several ballot options at Its last meeting on March 20. “This is not a discussion that we have walked into lightly,” Township Manager Alison Alison Nugent Nugent said said at at that that meeting. meeting. ““We We have have had had many, many, many many meetings meetings about about this this with Chief (Scott) Siler and the treasurer (Richard (Richard Robertson) where we’re tiying to figure out a way to make make the the number number fair fair not not only only to to our our community community memmembers bers but but to to ensure ensure that that we we have have the the proper proper services services for for our township as it grows.” Township Township voters voters in August 2018 approved a 1.993-mill public public safety safety levy levy for for six six years, years, an an increase increase from from the the previous previoustax tax of of1.5 1.5 mills, mills, by by aa margin margin of of2,305 2,305 to to 973. 973. Since Since then, then, the the levy levy has has been been rolled rolled back by the the Headlee Amendment to its current level would cost that same level of 1.9236 mills. “We are operating the best homeowner an additional we can. The concern is that in $ 11.28 per year while increasaafew fewyears, years, we wemay may come comeup up ing the tax to 2 mills would running running short short in in money money if ifwe we result in a $12.42 increase on don don’’tt consider consider the the future future that homeowner’s tax bill. costs, Nugent said. costs,”” Nugent Nugent said. said. The board discussed keep“We’re literally talking ing ingthe thelevy levyatatits itscurrent currentlevel level about a trip to the drive-thru of Township of 1.9236, 1.9236, but but then then supplesupple- difference,” menting revenues from the Supervisor Bryan Harrison tax with a $ 150,000 contribusaid. tion from the general fund. Siler says his department is They also looked at going facing rising capital costs, back back to to the the original original voted voted and some repairs need to be millage millage from from 2018, 2018, or or possipossi- made to the fire station. He bly says the fire department will bly even asking to seek seek a a full full 22 mills mills atat the the ballot ballot box box in in likely have to pay more than August. $1 million the next time it August. At the current levy, the needs a new truck because of At the current levy, the owner of a $325,000 home rising costs. owner of a $325,000 home with a taxable value of Township Trustee Greg with a taxable value of $162,500 Zoller, who served on the $ 162,500 pays pays $312.59 $312.59 annuannually for public safety services, township Public Safety Restoring the levy to its 2018 Committee, suggests seeking a restoration of the originally voted levy from six years ago. “I think it’s an easy sell,” Zoller said. “This is what you approved in 2018.” ED’S BODY SHOP Trustee Dale Hermenet expressed some concern about how much to ask for in a public safety levy, in light of the township possibly seeking a parks and recreation or trail millage in the future. “I want to make sure we’re careful in how we look at it, and not isolate this in a deci­ sion of what we’re making,” Hermenet said. At its current level, the public safety millage gener­ ates $1,884,521 to support fire and police services in the township, $400,000 of which goes to the sheriffs depart­ ment. Restoring the levy to its voted 2018 level would generate an additional $67,990 in revenue, Nugent said. Siler suggested the possi­ bility of renewing and increasing the levy to 2.1 mills, which he says would generate an additional $180,000 for fire and police tional $28 per year on their taxes. “My gut thought is, (we) have good support in the community. Just go out and ask them. This is what we’re projecting to buy the trucks, to keep the staff, to keep the lights on,” Siler said. The Caledonia Township Fire Department responded to 1,219 calls for service last year, a 2.3 percent increase from 2022. About 75 percent of the calls were for medical emergencies. The department handled 30 fires for the year, representing 3 percent of all calls, according to the depart- ' ment’s annual report that was presented to the Township Board on March 20. The fire department has eight full-time firefighters and 15 part-time on-call fire­ fighters. 01 ' . leadiis® ■Itih! lit Kumi’ paaliteecw adjwittlw® LT<SKi rtoe.' tKHAj." Ciktai I MEt ' siifakj : planni f iiWak ■ bb, The Township Board is scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE. services and cost the owner of the $325,000 home an addi- Vc Md OD $1 AttnK' ’’lb. J “asifor lalfei CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN lusjie r ! STATE OF THE ART SYSTEMS a z Hui K r 1 (•a State & I-CAR Certified Technicians «• 1 1 TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System *t I I Frame Repair Il d ■I I Hit 1 accede 1 t i 616.891.0150 WMBA I i. Lesonal L GOLDCLASS Mbfer dnme System ’ 4 > { » 110 Johnson St., Caledonia -T >181 OPEN; M thru F 7:30 am - 5:00 pm 1 J 4 I J t .1 J - iliS before, that teal I am going to hire M37Auction com to sell most of it." < I I » * ^NFIB Ed Pawloski Jr., Owner 1 4 Iw www.edsbody.com 1 '3. I 1 '•kl. b f I t J I I ?* s �k 4 4 • !S I 1 I i Caledonia mock trial team reaches ' io . V semifinal round of state tournament The Sun and News, Saturday, March 30, 2024/ Page 3 Staycation events set at Caledonia KDL branch J Greg Chandler Slaff IVriter The Caledonia School Mock Trial •it'' 5.^ I *S4' " v"'4. 3 I * V i i High J J / team completed its season last Saturday, reaching the semi­ final round of the state final /• 'J fl •I Greg Chandler t I r I i i L_»* X I rK Writer The Caledonia branch of Kent District Library has a series of activities planned for next week for families who are opting to stay home for spring break. ‘■There’s a lot of people who aren’t going on vacation,” said Leigh Verbuig, an outnsach and programming specialist for the libraiy. “We wanted to have something fun for kids to do (during the week). Activities begin Monday morning with a visit from John Ball Zoo, featuring animals from the zoo as well as a craft focused on ecology and nature exploration. The event takes place from 10 to 11:30 ajn. From 1-3 pm. Monday, the library will host a KDL Lab Experience event focused around the upcoming solar eclipse, featuring STEAMbased activities. Special glass­ es that will allow people to see the April 8 eclipse will be handed out at the event. The library will have a X I i i J » * *% 0 tournament that was held at •<. ft the Veterans Memorial r Courthouse in Lansing. In the process, the team’s coach, Jenny Jonkman, was honored for her commitment to civic and law-related edu cation. Twelve teams competed in The Caledonia High School Mock Trial ... ,. , team finished its season as a state the state finals, with each semifinalist and competed at the final tournament at Veterans Memorial team being guaranteed two Courthouse in Lansing. (Photos provided). trials, one where it argues on the side of the plaintiff and plaintiff’s side for the semifione where it takes the side of nal trial, which lasted anoththe defense. er two hours. “Each trial lasts about two The tournament does not hours and once both trials are announce which team fin­ completed, the scoring judgished third or fourth, we only Vj es calculate the scores,” know we finished in the Jonkman wrote in an email semifinals. It was an excep­ to the Sun and News. tional day of academic com­ Eight teams are eliminated petition,” Jonkman wrote. after the two initial trials. The CHS team consisted .A. A leaving four semifinalists, of of Alyssa Bursch, Emery I which Caledonia was one. Rewa, Grace Bryant, Rewa, .* The trials are mentally Alexander Hochwarth, Alexa exhausting and students have Pearson, Sebastian Rissley, to be focused for hours at a Allison Malone, Meghan time, wrote Jonkman, who Ruthven and Maria Maunu. teaches social studies at CHS. On the Friday before the Caledonia Mock Trail team coach Jenny Jonkman “I told my students, ‘Take state finals, the CHS students was honored as Teacher of the Year by the Michigan it one question, one answer met with Michigan Supreme Center for Civic Education, at a time. Stay focused and in Court Chief Justice Elizabeth the moment. You have pre­ Clement. The students asked Michigan Center for Civic students of any other school pared these cases for months Clement about cases that Education. The award recog­ in the state of Michigan to and you all know what you’re make it to the high court. nizes a teacher who shows compete in Mock Trial this doing. You know the case, what it is like to serve, and commitment to civic and year, with more than 40 stu­ you know the objections, you advice for young people who law-related education. dents competing, broken up know the good and bad facts are thinking about a career in “I was not aware this was into four teams. CHS was the of this case. You’re ready. law, Jonkman wrote. an award, and was surprised only school from Kent, Barry You are as good as anyone Jonkman also was recog­ and humbled to receive it,” and Ottawa counties to have a here today. nized during the weekend as Jonkman wrote. team reach the state finals this Caledonia was on the Teacher of the Year by the Caledonia entered the most year. 'X' I 1 t t 4'4 r V S' Ik sis *> I,. '5 46 -9- / f- 'S £... ' ^1 ry < < Cdunt^ The inr.h.g>n <rtr*n4S flj d»ecv*sc (o 66 es. C*tf Jt nifl MCCE (SsUwrsfao in St w ?** t tl b,. i ft <1^ I'samlEptti iiidhss kWi EfelijG; (ifafe I SpaiM: 5. roB5i?te kJmKii’; sill' f Ik I® & I' 4 I" V Q T. fr • I I vdur corrmKeieri u •Ad end rr: •du:.*:*:* I 1 I ♦ 1 I II 1 I I I iA• •'* •• t V ghs( f. ' r I 1 I 4k 1 dance instructor coming in at 1 p.m. Tuesday afternoon to teach the little ones basic dance steps. On Wednesday morning from 10 a.m. to noon, the library will have a springthemed craft event. with about 6-8 different crafts available for kids to make. Another craft event, centered around the Minecraft video game, will take place from 1-3 p.m. on Thursday. At 6 p.m. Thursday, the library will have Rock the Uke, where kids can learn how to play the ukulele. From 10 a.m. to noon Friday, kids can attend a Bluey-themed party, centered around the popular animated show with the Australian blue heeler puppy. The party will include games and crafts. Then on Saturday, teens can attend an anime club event at the library from 10 to 11 ;30 am., where they can watch and discuss an anime show. The library is located at 6260 92nd St. SE. i t- I r ♦ I • I I ■?< r* V. w '• ! •» I alaLibrary 3^ ' - '.'fss 4 < I I A L 5 "w 1 1 t IS’ ... — Spring breakers who aren’t traveling this year will find events and activities at the Caledonia branch of the Kent District Library. (Courtesy photo) rI PROJECT, continued from page 1 sion first began, the township was planning to install a sidewalk along the Post Farm property at 3316 68th St. Since then, the township has seen a developer’s plan to build on some land there beginning in 2025. The township had planned to pay for a stretch of side­ walk there. But it now makes no sense for the tovmship to install the sidewalk where the former Post property is, because the developer will be required to install that section of sidewalk itself. The township is looking at 2025 or 2026 for installing sidewalk from just south of the Dutton Cemetery (7000 Hanna Lake Ave.) up to 68th Street, and a little bit north of there. Before any digging work could be done at the ceme­ tery, a professional archaeologist must use some ground-penetrating radar to reveal what may lie beneath the surface. The geophysical inventory necessary is because federal funds would be involved in the project. The goal would be to avoid disturbing any cultur­ ally sensitive areas. Some of the testing may include ground-penetrating radar or other techniques such as electrical resistivity, magne­ tometry, and gravitometry. The exact locations where the sidewalk will be installed are still being worked out. “I think we can do the por­ tions on this (east) side a little cheaper than what we would spend for the entire grant, by the time you got into all the extra testing that’s needed,” Weersing said. “But I’d also like to revisit going back to the west side. If we’re going to do it on our own there’s a sidewalk here already, let’s run that up to the comer, as well. So, the people from the development on the west side have a way up to the comer. (Allen Edwin Homes) that’s doing the north farm field is Antenna Men s. 4 inary survey work. “And then, the developer I1 r I • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems cifn •• • '* cell(W) signAl Give us a call! ' n o« a 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com i antennamen@gmail.com www.ceHsignalpros.com » r*' * *4 yankce Spxmg5 Bible Ckuxck r* 1r Happy Easter I' UU- Antenno M*n I would get them probably two-thirds of the way to 76th Street,” Weersing said. The revised total cost of the project was still being calculated at press time, ' .i I . i* Q also doing the south farm field. So, they would do (sidewalk) south of that. It as well, without kids having to cross the street to get to a sidewalk.” The estimated survey cost is $8,750. That funding would come from Kent County’s side of the project’s budgeted funds. The county has already spent $1,950 for some prelim- .A f - TBaj 8900 Duffy Doad, ITliddleville mi 49333 I I j / % » i Please join us I Resurrection Sunday Service r I.' 1 t 1 t I I i He is Risen! 'u* V ans-wersyrayers * "u* March 31 • 10am iii c A 1 t If I t' fa0V.; I J Mi CEtfBSArF THE RESuRFti ■k F* ft I Ri I /OB <r .'■'i i I' II I I QUESTIONS: ASK US r 218 E. State St., Hastings • 'A 945-9673 4 I Saturday 9 am-3 pm it 4 b ’S a. www.yQnkGe5pting5blblcckuTck.oxg I .* a '•"W •t ♦ OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; V T I V J. I > «• s. ! { �P9ge 4/Tbe Sun arxJ News, Saturday, March X, 2024 Grammy-nominated The War and Treaty coming to Barry Expo Center . >« .M Steven Dwight Lewis - Steven Dwight Lewis, passed away unexpectedly on March 26, 2024, at the age of 66. Bom on June 2, 1957, in Hastings, ML Steve was the son of Jack and Gloria (Karcher) Lewis. Steve spent over three decades working al Allied Finishing before recently reliring. He was a proud member of the Mtx^sc Lodge and showed his selfless nature through regular blood donalions to the Red Cross. After many memorable years of dating, he married (he love of his life, Denise, on September I9H5. Their marriage was a icsiamenl to true partnership and love, creating cherished memories for both and selling a beautiful example for their children. An enthusiastic outdoorsman, Steve relished in riding motorcycles and could often be found hunting, fishing, camping, foraging for mush­ rooms or simply working in the yard. His passion for nature was matched only by his love for his family and his beloved cats, Chance and Crystal. He lcave,s behind a loving family, his wife, Denise; children, Kristy (Terry) Kellogg and Justin Lewis; grandchildren, Ashley Reed ft .d z Morrison, John Legend and Jayson Bussa k Editor -«. The Fair Ground Festival will return to Hastings this year for its second install­ ment and the line-up of r female-fronted bands has come into full focus. January in Starting k already, the Thornapple Arts Council, which orga­ nizes the event, started to I slowly unveil each of the and Morgan (Hunter) Foster; six bands on this year's and brothers, Jack Lewis line-up. The announcements ended this week and James (Cheryl) Lewis. Steve was preceded in when the TAC announced AwardGrammy death by his parents, Jack that and Gloria Lewis, and his nominated The War and grandparents, George and Treaty would be the head­ Alice Karcher, and Edwin liner for this year’s festival, which will take place on and Lena Lewis. Sieve’s family will receive July 27 at the Barry Expo friends on Wednesday, April Center. The War and Treaty is 3, 2024 at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, Middleville comprised of the husbandfrom 10 to 11 a.m., where is and-wife duo Michael and Tanya Trotter, who are service will be held at 11 a.m. Pastor Brian Teed will originally from Albion, Mich. officiate. Memorial donation to #The duo, which perAmerican Heart Association forms a fusion of many or Barry County Humane types of music and is often Society will be greatly pegged as a gospel country appreciated. band, was nominated in the Plea.se visit www.beeler- Best New Artist category at goresfuneral.com to share a this year’s Grammy Awards. memory or leave a condo­ They have shared the stage lence message for Steve’s with the likes of Al Green, family. Chris Stapleton, Van w * . .to mi””' r. others. “We focus on diversity in the festival, both in the per­ formers and in the music, said Megan Lavell, execu­ tive director for TAC. “Last year, one of the things we heard is that we were very folk-heavy, which we were. It is again this year but we wanted to expand on that a little bit and The War and Treaty is definitely outside offolk. We really diversified the kind of music we had.” The War and Treaty will round out a busy event, which also sees the return of The Accidentals, a folksy rock band originally from Traverse City and now based in Nashville, Tenn. The Accidentals performed at last year’s Fair Ground Festival and have been fix­ tures at the summer concert series in Hastings before that. Rebel Eves The Alanna (Kalamazoo); Royale (Nashville, Tenn.); BAILEN (New York, N.Y.) and Hannah Wicklund (Hilton Head Island, S.C.) round out the show. Last year marked the maiden voyage of the music festival, which was df' 10 10 I rules 4 for co »io»e'’ I 5 « n.. f’*: J b rV itol 11) Jc’S I . * i* * 1 1 ♦* I* * A J ii Tanya (right) and Michael (left) Trotter make up The War and Treaty, a country gospel duo that will head * line The Fair Ground Festival in Hastings in July. (Photo provided) sKt®' event financially, as well. Last year we had experience with different events and festivals but nothing of this scale,” Lavell said. “Last year we were all going through it for the first time and everything had such a steep learning curve. This year at least we have blueprints for what we’re doing.” celebrate to designed women in music while pro­ viding a regional line-up of artists that can’t be found elsewhere throughout the state. The event drew roughly 700 spectators. Lavell said she hopes orga­ nizers can double that num­ ber this year. She and her team also hope to break even on the iteptnJ ii 1 ilnmiif’’ Jlltil! S dni'ni*'! lilt d K jnder lit I (ouaiy Caledonia United Methodist Church coniiMW A PSffi I Join us for our traditional yet casual worship KlljWo’ K id service, in person or online, at 9;00 am. raili6ita Re\’. Christine Beaudoin 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Liveslream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUniiedMethodist Serving - Strengthening cornerstonechurch FIRST BAPTIST Middleville Join us this Easter! '‘t-' Sunday Worship « HOLY FAMILY VJZ CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 9:30 a.m. 8] cornerstonemi.org/Easter 1675 84th St. SE. Caledonia, Ml 49316 Ill i< .J-*'- .irfl Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Church; FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET-5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 * * **^ I OURNEY fKPEACE IC H U R C H CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: 1664 M-37 LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com 616-217-2161 @thejchurch r stJ’Wnrtfcran cto/i CHURCH t A ■J .4-■ PEACECHURCH.ee ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS IB Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com ifatOH! i Wtnp 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) ' 4. Saturday, March 30: 6PM Sunday. March 31: 9:30 & HAM Good Shepherd Lutheran Church I Connecting I Sunday Service 10:30 AM : (iWWi Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. (269) 795-2391 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. I : alUiist fcfSifflecoa teloptliel Wow nil rt reside *1 Ria *0 Mwtirn Wad Biikirea I THORNAPPLE VALLEY Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. CHURCH r MIDDLEVILLE @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool SERVICE TIMES: 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com www,stpaulcaledonia x)rg J Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM IK® 1447^/? oz/r serwees from our website (see above) tR Whitneyville / Fellowship Church Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52'^*^ 8148*^ Praising Cod through HVTTnf Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online; WhitneyvilleFellowship.org 1 "Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship......................... Community Group........................... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankecspringsbiblechurch. I org 1 I I t 1 I I 1 4 > I 1 I I T 4 I f e < f ) I f < I �I I Barrv PaHIIIv ““fy county planners discuss new mineral mining regulations Am The sun and News, satumay, March 30,2024/page 5 - «((, fIl Greg Chandler Commissioners went Writer back and forth over a period About four months after of 18 months on whether to approving a sand and gravel approve the Stoneco proj­ mining operation in ect, eventually agreeing to Orangevill Township grant approval with a series carry County planning of conditions that includes commissioners are working requiring the company to to develop new ground install dust monitors on the rules to address future site for one construction requests for similar mining season, sound monitors to operations in the county. measure noise from the !tie For about 90 minutes location for one construeMonday night, commis- tion season, and maintain* rrM* •> f>W sioners combed over a pro- ing monitor wells along the posed planned mineral edge of the property for as A view of a gravel pit owned by Top Grade Aaareaate<5 removal ordinance that will at long the'siTe """ " " Applications for located at 3300 N. Patterson Road on the border lay down standards that new gravel mining operations within Barry County have provIf approved, the new en to be contentious and laborious to review. A new ordinance aims to fix that. (File photo\)7j^s"on B^Sa) companies must meet to get new a permit to mine sand and ordinance would require a in 15-acre increments so “Those are not fees that Kent County lawsuit has erties. gravel in most Barry County site developer to describe you don ’ t get any large can be used for any pur- significantly impacted the townships. It gives com­ the nature of the mining swath of areas that Some of the things that are sitpose. They can only be used ability of local govemmen- were submitted with the missioners the ability to operation, including when ting open,” Redick said. to administer the ordinance tai units to block sand and Stoneco application approve special land use the project would begin, were If approved, commis- at the site, and if any (fees gravel mining operations, mining operations on prop­ hours and days of opera­ generalized studies. They sioners could grant a com­ are) unused at the terminaerties of at least five acres, tion, the type and quantity That ruling led to the ere- weren’t specific to the area pany a permit to mine at a tion of the project, they are ation of the Zoning in question,” Redick said. so long as the company of material that will be site for no more than five to be refunded to the appli­ Enabling Act by the submits a plan upfront to removed from the site, and A lot of the potential years, Redick said. cant, ” Redick said. Legislature in 2006, and an sites for mines are not going rehabilitate and restore the methods of extracting and “They can seek a renewal The ordinance would amendment to that act five property after it completes processing the material. It to have a site-specific hous ­ for longer than that, if give commissioners the years later. mining on the site. ing study done (in advance). also would require the there’s circumstances that ability to address “ very Act 113 of the Zoning previous to what we may This is a process of not developer to submit “a fea- justify the project taking serious adverse conse- Enabling Act says that local only getting minerals out of sible and detailed site reha- longer than that, which can want. We may have to have quences or serious environcommunities cannot pass an one done . not at each the ground but making sure bilitation plan” for restor­ often be the case if you’re mental impact ” that would ordinance that would “pre- site, but (at) certain sites,” it’s done in a way where ing the property once mintalking about very large result from a mining opera- vent the extraction, by min­ Commissioner there is prior thought given ing is concluded there, properties ” Redick said. Jack tion that may include addi- ing, of valuable natural Nadwornik said. to what the end use of this according to the ordinance A company seeking a tional truck traffic. resources from any proper ­ Commissioner Jack property is going to be, language. permit renewal must apply decreased air quality, and ty unless very serious con­ Miner thanked Redick for making sure that what The ordinance would to the Planning Commission loss of property values. It sequences would result the work he put in to devel­ they’re proposing is consis­ also limit how much of a at least 120 days before the would also allow the com­ from the extraction of those op the proposed ordinance. tent with the end use you site can be mined at any existing permit is to expire, mission to seek outside natural resources. “When this all started want to see with the proper­ one time. No more than 15 Redick said. expertise to address some The act lists criteria for out, we (wanted) to have a ty under the master plan acres of land would be Minin removal, pro- of those concerns. what would fall under “ very document that we could and zoning ordinance,” said allowed to be used for min­ cessing and transport “It gives the Planning serious consequences” for hand to applicants, to have county attorney Ron ing operations or activities operations would be limit­ Commission the option to rejecting a mining opera­ them know what was Redick, who went over the at any one time. Of the ed to 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. contract with an indepen- tion. They include impact expected, for them to figure 27-page document with land that would be in use. Monday through Saturday, dent, third-party expert to on existing land uses, out what the cost was. commissioners Monday. no more than one-third of Mining activity would be prepare any or all of those impact on property values We ’ re not there yet, but A PMR permit would it can be used for removal banned on federal holi­ reports or studies, or to and impact on pedestrian we’re really close,” Miner only be allowed on proper­ of mining material and no days such as Christmas, evaluate the studies that and traffic safety. said. ties zoned agricultural, more than one-third can be Memorial Day, the Fourth the applicant presents, as In the Stoneco case, proj­ Redick will incorporate rural residential or conser­ used for site preparation, of July and Thanksgiving, well as having that expert ect developers and oppo­ commissioners’ comments vation reserve, Redick said. according to the ordinance Redick said. if you need him to appear nents presented conflicting on the ordinance and come The proposed ordinance language. The ordinance also would at meetings of the Planning studies on how mining back with a revised ordi­ comes just a few months “The idea of this is so require a developer to pay Commission to convey operations would affect nance proposal for the next after commissioners last that you don’t get some- an annual surveillance fee any explanation or addi­ property values. Some com­ scheduled Planning November approved a spe- body let’s say they that would offset the coun­ tional narrative that expert missioners would like to Commission meeting on cial land use and site plan become financially unstable ty’s costs of enforcing the may want to give,” Redick see a site-specific report April 22. The ordinance for Stoneco of Michigan to and they move along and terms of the PMR permit, said. required on how a future would have to go through a develop the Delton Quarry they had all good intentions with that fee to be based on A 1982 Michigan project might impact the public hearing process on a 160-acre site on Miller to reclaim the site, but they the tonnage of mineral Supreme Court ruling in a value of surrounding prop- before it is adopted. Road, over objections from now have 100 acres open material removed during nearby residents who said and that’s when they go the entire removal operathe project would negative­ defunct This is going to tion. The Planning ly affect air and water qual­ force them to reclaim (the Commission would set the ity, traffic and property val­ land), consistent with their fee by resolution, Redick ues in the area. approved reclamation plan. said. A !' A fl >• -I J J 1 1 J 1 *-rJ ;e6*-Z 4! t • -J * « ■ ■ 'r r * r -■’lit:- i a I »£. V r A w t : % J y t A* rW u 4 ’V' S2-** i M ' V < - ' -- "■ *** ^9e .1U V 1 %r «9 l^e ll u 7 -V* I t <A hi w. r <* * fx * 4 > V 4 % *. a - fl '■i' < • I. ® scale; l ' : "t 1) a »i’ ’’S.k I ) his J'® at *ts ft,,, u w I » 4 I 1 I 4 59 o » e rfstCli I I MI XK Cita 4 I fl I fl I t i 1 Its xCas <• / KI iR ^7; •.v ■V' 'r. I 1*11 I I '~.h' I I K b ❖ □ Tr • 3 ir ■. V ?» .0 i' b' B’ ' I .\.1 I * k f. ' I 7. I :■ .1 rV 'r ■ I ; At l' *4’ 9 I* I '<4 *d .1 e F' iW? AT . A-.. . • J I' . Q. 9 >. <* 5/ ..r9 9 ^3 «k V'" i •A'. SASTSR at cornerstonechurch 84™ ST. CAMPUS SSRVICS TIMSS MM I Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers ./n Sunday, March 31; 9:30 & Ham m3 1 Experience Holy Week With Us! Find Out More: cornerstonemi.org/Easter jr'y-IV** I } •• r 1 .4 • I if J I p 72: SV' • i. 11 I A IJ > i I I i . I 'L'j I ) I i'2 * •J a ( I I ■ la. ft *16 ^*1 k RI r- I r ■ • • •*• X I I sw ' ' ■‘1 i/ •l • 1 I ♦ *0 ATIMC & A AIR A1D rnMniTinNiur. HEATING CONDITIONING, imp INC. Sfnev f I 1 V p» ? ,1 DeWeerd ('68) DEWEERDHTG.COM IP * to • Saturday, March 30: 6pm I s I * I Residential & Commercial I I 4 |V . .. 9’ p.,* I •r.' • < o i WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS r 1955 ILBBB. 269-792-2234 ACCREOfTEO BUSINESS ‘f. V A I I A fl b �Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 30,2024 ■ ■ JR Nominations sought for 2024 Hometown Hero Award an outstanding individual in or Middleville the Thomapple Kellogg com­ munity who exemplifies excellence, integrity and commitment. The TAEF The Thomapple Area bundation Enrichment (TAEF) is seeking^omina {ion5;forthe 2024 Hqpietown ero Award. 1 ‘Hometown Hero is * V Wk- > encourages those who know someone fitting that descrip­ tion to nominate them and show the person how much the community appreciates their dedication and com- ■ < * T Uncial focus T ' *''' I 3 \ fl 4 6? *jri Provided by Andrew McFadden nd Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones I I J 11 «1 ' I -f ',lI %*■! I* fl * > r I E •> •"! • • J T ■ .J5 r •.Ill J 1 in When should you take Social Security? « One of your important sources of retirement income will likely be Social Security — but when should you start taking it? You can start collecting Social Security benefits at 62, but your checks will be considerably bigger if you wait until your full retirement age, which is likely between 66 and 67. You could even wait until you’re 70, at which point the payments will max out, except for yearly cost-of-living adjustments. But if you need the money, you need the money, even if you’re just 62 or any age before full retirement age. However, if you have ade­ quate financial resources to meet your monthly needs, whether through earned income, your investment portfolio or a combination of the two, you could have some flexibility in choosing when to take Social Security. In this case, you may want to weigh these considerations: • Life expectancy - For all of us, it’s one of life’s great mys­ teries: How long will we live? Of course, we can’t see into the future, so the question can’t be answered with total confidence. But to make an infonned decision on when to take Social Security, you don’t need to know your exact lifes- benefits because of your excess earnings.) • Spouse - Spouses can receive two types of Social Security benefits: spousal and survivor, ^^^th a spousal benefit, your spouse can receive up to 50% of your full retirement benefits, regardless of when you start taking them. (Your spouse’s benefit can be reduced by the amount of their own retirement benefit and whether they took Social Security before their full retirement age.) But with a survivor benefit, your decision about when to take Social Security can make a big difference. A surviving spouse can receive the larger of their own benefit or 100% of adeceased spouse’s benefit, so if you take benefits early and receive a permanent reduction, your spouse’s survivor benefit may also be reduced for their lifetime? * When to take Social Security is an important — and irrevocable — decision. So, con­ sider all the factors before making your choice pan — you just need to make a reasonably good estimate. So, for example, if you’re approaching 62, you’re enjoying excellent health and you have a family history of Iongevity, you might conclude it’s worth waiting a few years to collect Social Security, so you can receive the bigger pay­ ments. Conversely, if your health is questionable and your family has not been fortunate in terms of longevity, you might want to start taking your benefits earlier. • Employment - You can certainly continue working and still receive Social Securi­ ty benefits. However, if you’re under your full retirement age for the entire year. Social Security will deduct $1 from your benefits for every $2 you eam above the annual limit of $22320. In the year you reach your full retirement age. Social Security will deduct $ 1 in benefits for every $3 you earn above $59,520. So, you may want to keep these reductions in mind when deciding when to begin accepting benefits. Once you reach your full retirement age, you can earn any amount without losing benefits. (Also, at your full retirement age, Social Security will recalculate your benefit amount to credit you for the months you received reduced 4^ : Heroes include: 2008 - Frank Tichvon 2009 - Rex and Christine Schad 2010 - Bob and Helen Wenger Marilyn 2011 Finkbeiner 2012 - Joyce Domire and Terri VanderKooi 2013 - John Loftus 2014 - Don Boyson 2015 - Janis Fitzgerald 2016 - Jim and Diane Weatherhead 2017 - Walt Eavey 2018 - Deb and Scott McKeown 2019 - Don Williamson 2022 - Mike Bremer 2023 - Keith and Cindy Middlebush The Thomapple Area Enrichment Foundation is a geographic affiliate of the Barry Community Foundation, Those with questions about the Hometown Hero Award or TAEF are encouraged to con­ tact Annie Halle at 269-9450526. spring. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss sup­ port group, meets eveiy Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-9088036, or Maiyellen, 616-3183545. The first meeting is free. 0 datgi laiiiB th oswwlte .•* 1 4*1 r^^fl h ■ L.. —1 ( « I 4 1 * N (.* X'5* * ■. 4k V »* r A'? r •A ♦ .• IS 1 ?r/- I Er .1 f' i k 1 400 OFF FRONTIER nNANCING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia available HEATING 8 COOLING 616-891 .T.T.T/ No monthly interest psid within 18 mo. The company built by referrals L J 2144S4 J < I 1 { t < I 1 • / t ' 4 » I 1 * I 0 I V- Taukee Springs Township ■ST. 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 •.?r2r YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE ► w 4a*^*»* . 1 'is 4 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commission’s consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the 1. •fl. 9 ♦« 1®-2O5-3O6-OO. 3124 Sandy Beach Street, Wayland, Ml safe 4 * A request by Dennis Stiffler, the owner of this property, which is zoned Residential Single Family, for a Special Exception Use Permit to allow construction of guest I > Pursuant to the Yankee Springs Township Zoning Ordinance, Article IV Special Exception Uses. 4* ZOC 24-02-04: Parcel ID 16-008-006-40, Bowens Milt Road. Middleville. Ml 49333 Xr this vacant parcel AG ZoX^?Residential) pursuant to Yankee Springs Township ’ Zooms Ordinance, Art/cfe XIX Amendments to Zoning Ordinance and Official Lning I 'x I . 3. • ’’"I","'1®-°°8-O2O-55, 55 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333. A request by Ron Clairmont, the property owner, to re-zone this property from from R-AG (Rural Agricultural) to RR (Rural Residential), pursuant to the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance, Art/c/eX/XAmendments to Zoning Ordinance and Official Zoning Map. 4. Such other business I \ as may properly come before the Planning Commission. Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall AU interested persons are invited to be meeting is held, to participate via the SXnteriXSr®'" Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities * ' X 1 \\ '• •* s h ''I nrtoi h -'■equiring auxiliary aids or services should Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. contact the Township k x. 6'x S YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION By: Shana Bush, Chairperson <T, Yankee Springs Township Hall M i 'k 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville, Michigan 49333 ; % 1 f 1 1 I I I fl 1 * < fl fl J > k V (269) 795-9091 I 1 PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item{s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: ® * Must present this coupon. ^ires 4-19-24 h liJ£ I 11 „... „ (. I.... I..... .... * I I . . , ''''' I t .u ) and emails are ue one week before the hearing date; or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. p •V. 6 A.’- I A =i:. I . •I I k,. J?:- I r •5’ r' r - ? 49 r I 2. ■•i 55 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on April 18, 2024, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville Ml, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. I Z'*' I I I I I I { t with a pet, a smile, a hug from a fidend or the first signs of < Member FURNACE I mitment. Nominations must include name, nominee’s the address, phone number and a brief explanation of why the nominee should be con­ sidered as the community’s Hero. Hometown Nominators are asked to include their contact infor­ mation as well. To submit a nomination, submit it elecIronically at formsbcf.org/ view.php?id=55088 or mail it to TAEF C/0 Annie Halle, P.O. Box 164, Middleville, 2024 The MI 49333. Hometown Hero will be rec- The March 25 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. There are three new fish in the fishbowl. Maiyellen’s program was from the Jan/Feb TOPS mag­ azine titled “Glimmers of Light: Nurturing Moments of Calm.” “Glimmers” are small. heartwarming moments that bring us peace. They remind us of the good­ ness surrounding us. Oiu* brains and bodies feel connected and calm they are the opposite of triggers. They signal our nervous system that everything is OK. “Glimmers” can be a snuggle riigh Efficiencu * MH _■ ■*. ognized at Hometown Hero Dinner put on by TAEF later this year. Hometown Previous «* Middleville TOPS 546 This aitide was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, SIPC annual the r I �I I i ' Hi I Gurule Sale irump returning to Michigan amid campaign border battle GARAGE SALE. APRIL 4-6, nJ -tv % 2024 Thur-Sat. 8am-4pm. Collectibles, household items, antiques, glassware, etc. 5616 Duncan Lane, Caledonia. Business Services CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure wash­ ing. Brian Ellens (269)9535496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 I "I CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-8385937. BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. In­ sured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. PtV.v DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. LANSWG — Donald I rump will return to Michigan next week for a campaign speech in Grand Rapids, where intends to criticize souAen, border policies under Democratic President Joe Biden, ms campaign his announced Thursday Trump’s visit, planned for Tuesday, follows recent reports that a. previously . deported immigrant who who re-entered the country illegally is facing murder charges in Grand Rapids. Brandon Ortiz-Vite is accused of killing fellow 25-yeaf-old Ruby Garcia in what authorities have called a “domestic violence homicide” that stemmed from their .. , . , . roumtic relationship. There are typically 600 to -7An ;yp*wiiy OUU to 00 murders in Michigan each year, most committed by legal residents. But Republicans have amplified the Grand GERMAN SHEPHERD PUP­ PIES. Looking for their for­ ever home and family. Call Rapids case while arguing Biden is not doing enough to secure the country’s southern border. “West Michigan suburban rennnes are now facing the families are fact that the worst issues of the southern border have now maJo +k • made their way into our backyard,” Michigan GOP Chairman Pete Hoekstra said in a Thursday evening statement. President Biden worked with Republicans to negotiate the toughest and fairest bill to secure the border in decades,” Michigan Democratic Party Chair Lavora Barnes said Thursday in a statement. “It was Donald Trump who ordered his MAGA allies to kill it because he doesn’t care about border security — he only cares about seeking rev^ge and retribution.” The immigration debate intensified in Michigan late “I look forward to welcoming President Trump, Hoekstra added. Biden’s campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Trump’s pending visit and planned immigiation speech. Wednesday when state Rep. Matt Maddock, R-Milford, posted pictures to social media of buses at Detroit Metro Airport that he falsely claimed were “loaded up with illegal invaders ” president has in recent weeks criticized Congressional Republicans for reiectine a Republicans for rejecting bipartisan border deal that aimed to reduce illegal crossings. “Voters imderstand 16 game hosted at Little Caesars Arena in downtown Detroit. Trump is expected to speak at the DeVos Place convention center in Grand Rapids on Tuesday at around 2:30 p.m. Immigration has long been a top campaign issue for Trump, who proposed building a south­ ern border wall as part of his winning 2016 campaign. The former president won Michigan’s Feb. 27 presidential primary and is now the presumed GOP nominee to take on Biden this fall. r I GOT A ^ocK! DOG CRATE, BRAND new, $50. 4Ft puppy pen, $80. Dog house, $50. Telescope, $125. Grooming table, $75. 269-795-0673. C^’Va wan/t ME. Kit?*? Have you seeu THE P^E op Egos this vea^ • • • • 91 A I 1 I r I I I I I r I i I Former President Donald Trump plans to return to Grand Rapids on Tuesday, April 2 for an immigration speech (Courtesy photo) ♦ I 1 t I Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted v/hat ■K V I Full Service Body Shop .h ? • 4 t Bruce'S Frame and H Airport authorities later confirmed the buses were actually transporting college basketball players who had just flown into Michigan for an NCAA Tournament Sweet that I1 II Al! 1 5 269-331-1788 I The Sun and News, Saturday, March 30,2024/Page 7 _ T* Over 40 years experience I . k brucesframe.com I • i I * X ^'2 I • Real Estate r r CONDO FOR SALE with gar­ den. High Ridge Crossings in Middleville. Asking $282,000. 269-795-7815. I f 9 B I I I J * a Help Wanted I I ■ „ 3 MASTER GARDENER: Wb •***. Ft', *• J 1J V SASKATOON Golf Club is looking to hire a part-time, seasonal Master gardener to develop and maintain flower beds and accent landscaping during the golf season. Flexi ble hours beginning late April I early May through mid-October, approx. 24 hours a week. Apply online at saska­ toongolf, com/employment/ or in-person at 9038 92nd St, Alto. z X’ 1 Cl WlWc I “Thornappl I • V r ■i A .1^ I CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN A * i 415 2nd • Middleville X' Concrete Construction. Now Hiring. Full Time, Competi tive Wages, Insurance, 401K, Paid Vacations. No experi­ ence needed. Call 616-6932123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. I wr • • ’ * Ki Vl 1• V, * 14427 JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice ijjwidarrs; A .’ ■ I— .« ■ 8 1^ Coininunity Notice NOTICE OF SELF-STOR­ AGE SALE: Please notice Red Dot Stor­ age 195- Caledonia located at 5590 68th Street SE., Caledo­ nia, MI 49316 intends to hold an auction of the storage unit in default of payment. This sale will occur online via www.storageTreasures. com on 4/10/2024 at 9:30 AM. Unless stated otherwise, the contents are household goods, furnishings, boxes, and general equipment. Unit numbers are #438. All prop­ erty is being stored at the above self-storage facility. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and condi­ tions apply. See manager for details ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ... CALL TODAY! liQ'W Please visit our website for more information thornaDPleevecare.com (Next to Harding's Market) 4624 N. M-37 Hwy. Ste E, Middleville, Ml 269-213-8108 t t NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF AMENDMENT TO TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECT THEREOF. PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on March 20, 2024, the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia adopt­ ed Ordinance No. 2024-0IZ, which amended Chapters 19 and 27 of the Caledonia Charter Township Zoning Ordinance. The following is a summary of the principal provisions of the ordinance: Purpose and Intent. Section 19.0 was added to the Zoning Ordinance to describe the purpose of the sign regulations, which include protecting the public health and safety, promoting uniformity in the size, number and placement of signs balanced with the rights of businesses and residents to advertise, convey information, and express viewpoints using signs. Definitions. Definitions of terms used in Chapter 19 of the Ordinance were revised, and definitions added to Section 19.1. General Provisions. Section 19.2, which contains provi­ sions applicable to all signs, was revised. Requirements are included for digital signage installed within permitted signs. Requirements for proof of insurance for sign owners and sign installers are deleted. Regulations For All Districts. Sections 19.6 and 19,7 per­ taining to allowed and prohibited signs in all districts were revised. Signs in all districts which serve a directional or traffic control purpose, and defined small signs are permitted subject to size, number, and time of display regulations. AgricultureZResidential Districts. Some provisions of Section 19.9 with respect to signs in the Agriculture and Residential District were revised as to size, height, and location of signage. Commercial and industrial Districts. Some provisions of Sections 19.10 and 19.11 for signs in the Commercial and Industrial Districts were revised as to type, size, height, and location of signage. Planned Unit Developments/Cherry Valley Overlay Dis­ trict. Section 19.12 was revised to limit the maximum sign area in any PUD to 200 square feet. Provisions for signage in the Broadmoor/ Cherry Valley Corridor Overlay District were relocated from Chapter 27 to Chapter 19, and some of the regulations for size, height and location of signs were revised. Large Signs. No new sign exceeding 200 square feet in area is permitted. Provisions for the continuation, maintenance and alter­ ation of existing large signs are included in Section 19.15. The amending ordinance will become effective seven days after this publication. A copy of the ordinances may be examined or purchased at the Caledonia Charter Township Offices, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, during Township office hours. Dated: ,2024 TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA r I t I i I I I I r 1 f �* t I I I r ,1 ) I I f I f f J r 4 I r r r I * f I F Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, March 30, 2024 <•* 1 ft A I*. J’ *A s if Senior group for TKHS boys includes state qualifiers . ■* h »■ J L***^’" I J A MS %n;. ■l* W±A> w Wonders said the goal is to compete in every meet this season. The Trojans opened the season indoor at the Grand Valley State University Laker Challenge March 13. VanMeter had the top finish for the TK boys on the track with a time of 2 minutes 1.17 seconds in the 800-meter run that put him in eighth place. TK will open the OK Gold Conference season at home April 9 taking on Forest Hills Eastern and Ottawa Hills. Forest Hills Eastern and Wayland were the top two teams in the conference a year ago and both bring back strong groups. senior distance runner Lucas VanMeter and senior Kyle VanHaitsma. Snyder was eighth in the OK Gold a year ago in the shot put. VanMeter was sixth in the 800-meter run in the con­ ference a year ago and Sias was sixth in the 400. TK co-coaches Matt Wonders and Chad Ruger looking forward to see­ ing what distance runner Jacob Draaisma and freshman sprinter Brandon Velting can add to the varsity score sheet too this seSason. “We have a hard-work­ ing group of athletes who are ready to compete daily,” Wonders said. Overall, there are a lot of new faces on the team. Brett Bremer Sports Editor A solid senior group is looking to power the Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ track and field team this spring as it looks to improve on a seventh-place finish from a year ago in its final season in the OK Gold Conference. That senior group includes state qualifiers Jaxan Sias and Ethan Bonnema in the sprints who were a part of the Trojans’ 4x400-meter relay team that placed 12^^ at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Track and Field Finals last June. Also back are senior thrower Drake Snyder, 3Te ■U "f '-^■ .4 J 91 s *2 :i> ’Sfe 6 1 •• l«p. » 'J A :•( 'c> \ > >■ ■' V V r r* t clZ'. '? asx?. ix •• I f * ft?. b s’ r 9* r-X. *^*1 I t * * iLJtt t I J .'W R #/ i ■ 4 4 J f f K • IV V: TROJANS t' .■O'' <' MV Jb i < r Ui ns ¥S? r t 1 ift 4 ‘.'i ’k* V-i Jr 7^ ■fl-:' 7* a % I ‘ r. A 1 A ;J 1 I - 1 4 I V’ W yfAA ea* 4ist^ T a «*' * V .'.i A* Ji J*’ -I _,r <-s — 8 >4 T X ril’ a %* >.1 vtr- , ■■ J %. Mia Hilton s> * r.iie . ~s* fc A*; ^1* t ■ 'HTT, '<h I J Em g -rf L>Z I •• 1 M S ST * » >■ S5±i=^.^«’ • *** i fl ..•FARMS’.. . ..8:» >- ( I ' *.* •l ♦e Ar' & Z* r-r • > * * n X f I ki * A . 7/ k 4^ Ri^ 3? t J*-!* X \ 7 x> v- Brett Bremer Sports Editor There is a lot for the Trojans to be optimistic about. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field team was second to Ottawa Hills in the OK Gold Conference a year ago, third at regionals, sent eight girls to the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Track and Field Finals and have five of those girls earn all­ state medals. Of those eight, seven are back this spring. And that list doesn’t even include twotime regional champion Brooklyn Harmon who swept the 100-meter hurdles ***> < r I IJ' r’ 11 •d •u A 4 *1 *v * > .w .b LA- t f • >X-’ ’ ’4/' • *' A e??® ) 4 .»*V ri rf? I M*! A 4.’J * J «a* Most state medalists back for 71*0130 girls track J t / .'d • 'P st, Ethan Bonnema and 300-meter hurdles at regionals last year but wasn’t able to compete at the state finals due to an injuiy. The hurdle group is an oustanding one again for TK. Harmon is back for her junior campaign, joined by sopho­ more Mia Hilton who was a state medliast as a fi'eshman in the 300 hurdles and by senior Joselyn DeBoer who competed at the state finals with the 4x200-meter relay team a year ago. The list of returning state medalists for TK also includes sophomore sprinter Payton Gater, senior sprinter Kenady Smith, junior dis­ tance runner Ava Crews. Smith, Gater and Crews were all a part of the Trojans’ sixth-place 4x400-meter relay team at the finals a year ago, and Smith had a fifht-place finish in the high jump at t he finals too. The TK team also brings back senior Aya Corson, who ran with Smith, DeBoer and then senior teammate Lindsey Velting in the 4x200 relay at the finals last year, junior Emma Dykhouse and sophomore Madison Kietzman as key contributors. TK head coach Maggie Wilkinson said the team has a lot of first time athletes this fall. She is especially looking V I I See TROJAN GIRLS, pa^ 11 THANKS TO THE SPONSORS WHO SUPPORT LOCAL SPORTS Andrew R. Cove.CFR AAMS Financial Advisor 421 W. Woodlawn Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-3553 Good LucH Mhletes Italian I •X •• % * ■nautiwu •■ik t Edwardjones making sense of investing FABU BVRCAV e MSUKAN/CE Mitckgoxig CoiKftour^ MIDDLEVILLE'S FINEST '1'17 MV. MAIN MIDDLEVILLE, Ml l>ll 795-7911 Fax 795-1677 • FRIENDLY MARKETS | 4650 -37, Middleville (269}-795-7019 7am - 9pm Mon-Sat; 8am - 8pm Sun m Jason Parks 9028 N. Rodgers Ct. S.E., Caledonia 616-891-1233 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com hoRNAPFLE InTCHEN Iv# RESTAURANT s RN r*3. . ft w. 4525 M-37 Hwy Ste J Middleville, Ml 49333 269.795.3672 • fiq I « «d[I?JE^!2ElO. FRONTIER ^eekr-^ores HEATING 8 COOLING COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR Middleville • 269-795-3550 500 Arlington St. 210 E. Main St, Caledonia Caledonia • 616-891-3550 9820 Cherry Valley Rd. Co// Frontier Now! 914 W. Main Street 616-891-8900 Middleville TIRES2000.NET Phone (269) 795-3694 *, Sun News 269.945.9554 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 D t i SEPTIC SERVICE Joe Lyons & John Curtis, Ovuner/Operators 3305 West Quimby Road. Hastings, Ml 49058 « '-'5 4 269.945.4240 s s i ’ V. I �Xi h r• - - >4^ ? b IlM, .a • < ^'F ' >r t • rR i p’ - The Sun and Newre, Saturday, March 30, 2024/ Page 9 p« •• . "W- .’’’a’ - % > /^a ♦V L* ' .k • r %i • >• n *• * »r? ■ < ? . I I ’*1 I > r " iT^ 2^ ♦ TK baseball opens Gold play with doubleheader at home & f Brett Bremer ’Iveson, who is entering his Sports Editor The Trojans will jump right into the 2024 OK Gold Conference varsity baseball season when they return from spring break. The Thomapple Kellogg boys will host Cedar Springs for a doubleheader in Middleville Tuesday, April 9. The teams will then meet up against at Cedar Springs Thursday, April II, to close out the conference set. TK follows that up with a Saturday, April 12, trip to Hastings for the Saxons annual Barry County Invitational. “Our goal this year is to continue improving on our previous season performance. We have a group that is highly motivated to be in the mix for a conference title and to contend for a district title,” TK head coach Nick r £n« k I b B • t third season leading the TK program. The Trojans were 8-26 last spring. They took one tournament title, winning their own Wooden Bat Invitational. Back from that squad to lead the way this spring are senior pitcher Logan Snelling, shortstop Brody Wiersma and junior outfielder Anson Verlinde. Coach Iveson said he expects Wiersma to bat lead-off for TK and Verlinde to man the clean-up spot. Wiersma will see time on the mound too. Snelling will spend time at catcher and iin the infield when he’s not tak­ ing his turns on the mound. Junior Connor Dombkowski will share time at catcher with Snelling as one of the key varsity new­ comers for the Trojans. Iveson is also looking for­ ward to the additions of junior pitcher/outfielder Jacob Davis and junior first baseman Jayce Brummel especially. The Trojan coach said he feels like he has a deep and experienced pitching staff this spring. Offensively, he likes his team s aggressiveness and athleticism on the base paths * ar* .A A; I •V| •s < 1. '■< V Forest Hills Eastern will likely remain the class of the OK Gold Conference this season. The Hawks won the MHSAA Division 2 State Championship in 2022 and I • 1 4 1 4 t ■■ I i ; I I ! S'! , Wirt ! 1 sf ->’«» r.*'. 4 V b •J A . = I •4 • .1. I .1 ’ □ J A • ;'C 1 reached the state semifinals again last year after winning the OK Gold Conference title. The Trojans have some time to work out the kinks before facing the Hawks for a series in mid May. The Trojans TK Wooden Bat Invitational is on the calendar for April 27 this season. a « '■ . 1 -8 s f r. I I A ■ I •r 1 r*' * A 1^- • . -a 1 V *** fc I . > .*X ■t': >A r I >** - 4 • /- ft :s. 1 w V-. r • •Z » A ▼ I 't? *B -J I •=? 9 .e L ’ .9. ' .r ♦X J J-1 1 rf-. I 1 • X • I I Brody Wiersma I TKHS softball expects to be powered by pitching depth > * I I iCf Brett Bremer “i Ui iM* s ulsW A V kbuj, r iJ ini kil I inittDeten' ' ■’ .1 A 1 J I niof laasEi itijiiitO • '4 9 \ a J t ,1 I »9 f tWilijjit Xi n tribal ib • ,7,’* .*.* • kih * v«*. jy i J ■ A I 'v 1^1 X' & i 9i I r 4 Z * r . L2u 4 I sltfoitiit a AT . I gdlkliailit' k a 3 -*,4 ^ffT .• < * . * « •<“ » M If 4 _ <* « 1 S '• s *■ »* ' - -- « ♦1 ft * * <• - . /•** I > t / w a % th « •* > <* ♦ <* • / •* A ’ M'- * ' r 14 ■ #r . *' ' Kifallii ■ r /4k 'J » ’< e .7 ' V 5 s» e* w / 9 aai b 4 ** i u 4 *1- < ♦** 9 'e .* • • * 4 X t J *■ W I ♦ > *.. . I' ; VX #* ' «..5 i.' I 9- 4- " ■' *' 4 Kylee Hoebeke Sports Editor It is a squad without a lot of varsity expertise for the Thomapple Kellogg varsity softball team this spring. TK head coach Ashely Garrett, in her fifth year leading the program, said that there are only a handful of upperclassmen on the team. That handful includes junior pitcher/infielder Kylee Hoebeke who is a two-time all-conference honoree in the OK Gold Conference already. Senior first baseman Shelby Robinett is back along with junior second baseman Kenzie Bouma. Bouma could also see time in the outfield. We’ll look for our sophomores with varsity experi­ ence to bolster the line-up,” Garrett said. Robinett will also see time at pitcher along with Hoebeke and teammates Jenna Robinett and Adelaide Holdeman. Garrett said she likes the depth she has in the circle. The Trojan pitchers will have to be good for their team to improve on a 9-27 record from a year ago. The OK Gold Conference will be tough once again, led by the strong trio of Wayland, South Christian and Cedar Springs. Wayland beat out 44 I South Christian for a district championship in Division 1 at the end of the 2023 sea­ son. The Trojans get a week back from break before they dive into the conference sea­ son with a doubleheader against Grand Rapids Catholic Central April 16. ( 6 J I I I •l I 1 TK will be at Wyoming for two April 11 and then will head to Hastings April 13 foe the annual Barry County Invitational with the Saxons, Delton Kellogg and Lake wood. TK also had a non-conference doubleheader with Caledonia on the slate for April 19 and will host its TK Invitational April 27. I I I THANKS TO THE SPONSORS WHO SUPPORT LOCAL SPORTS i ivA a™ Sra III A.DV A.NCED ^STON E T m FABR I CATI O N S 269-795-0002 'SteJ 925 Grand Rapids St. Middleville, Ml 49333 Advancedstonefab.com 19333 Ph (269) MIDDLEVILLE'S HOMETOWN BODYSHOP Highpoint 948-8281 THE COOKIE STORE ----------- LLC I Fax (269) ' 948-8590 COMMUNITY BANK FBAUE A AUa^UEn/T BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS I I Phone: 269-795-9596 221 W. Apple St. Hastings, MI 49058 1-888-422-2280 hiqhpointcotnmunitybank.com 415 2nd St., Middleville Member FDIC O'smYSHP CALEDONIA RENT ALL 200 Lafayette St. Middleville Ml 49333 800-523-2931 I 11 mkpCPA nci I McnowM t KBAAi FtorcamoaAi. irtis, 5 load. 18 >40 500 Edward St., P.O. Box 277 Middleville, MI 4933.3-(3277 PH; 269.795.7927 www.mkpcpa.com C hfiTq V^IIcq K. ' 4 Sf ‘^aw In Ctfedonia 816-891-7598 dierryvaKystove.coni CaiBdoRla. Ml Phone: 616-891-0150 110 Johnson St., Caledonia Skag Mowers Husqvarna Outdoor Products Phone: 616-891-0050 9800 Cherry Valley, Caledonia SHOE I » OEER I Southern BBQ 6* Catering I I 120 E. Main St. Middleville, MI 49333 i 259-241-1050 brckensmcker.com J I I I I ♦ I 1 �*4 i f ;a I Page lOZThe Sun and News, Saturday, March 30, 2024 I • r •5 •l A t V » I 1 Parks the lone varsity regular back for TK team KUJ* JS? Brett Bremer Sports Editor Senior Jordan Parks is the lone returning regular varsity golfer for the Trojans this spring on the Thomapple Kellogg boys’ team. He was the team’s number two at regionals a year ago, shooting a 95 as the team placed 16^h at its Division 2 Regional Tournament. Trojan head coach Bob Kaminski sees a lot of rein­ forcements on the way. The group of guys vying for the varsity scoring positions is a long one, headed by juniors Owen Comer and Blake Hardy, senior Raphael De Fresse De Monval, and juniors Evan Liu, Will Nathan, Kylan Pratt and Ryan Skidmore. “We really like our team’s potential,” Kaminski said. “We return only one golfer from last year, so we have some inexperience with varsity golf. We also have some freshman and sophomores that are not on varsity cur­ rently, but could potentially be a part of the varsity team later this year. “We have a hard working group of golfers so hopefully they will continue to improve on the areas that they need to improve on.” Just gaining experience will be big for many of the youngsters. That group of juniors and seniors at the top did play a lot of JV golf the past couple seasons, and coach Kaminski said it will be interesting to see how they compete when challenged by the tough golfers they’ll face on a regular basis in the OK Gold Conference. Our goal this year is to be competitive within the conference and get better throughout the season,” Kaminski said. “We are looking forward to competing in our conference and hopefully being in conten- tion by the end of the season. It will be a tough, compet­ itive conference overall once V. : again. There are a number of teams that are very good according to Kaminski, and that list is led by South Christian, Catholic Central 9G Mi. and Forest Hills Eastern. ii With just one senior in the line-up last spring. Grand Rapids Catholic Central won c Lower MHSAA the Peninsula Division 3 State Championship. Then junior Matthew Sokorai was the individual sate champion in D3 with junior teammate Will Preston finishing as the state runner-up behind him. A Forest Hills Central team with three freshmen, a sophomore and a junior placed fourth at the Division 2 State Finals a year ago too while a South Christian team with a handful of talented the conference April 16 when young golfers was ninth. the OK Gold gathers at Quail TK will get its first look at Ridge for the first conference K. I***;« .. . w > ; f i;^7^ I A * 4 J ♦ ?hV •x ^', TT^uTm . ■ —V. •.i A A*.| w l I * . n ■i w.» r / A » 1 J f I I if ri % > il* ■ v« 4 * * 1 wt 'A 4 9 s> -,(1* '4' • rib* * e 1 V I UI c • I* * • * 4V ■Um....* •k .1 *rL A * •T n 1 * .•r sr b I •2r - ♦ I ■i/Jr. 'J nr . .ZA:.' y..I "J i I ■J . 4 Jordan Parks A U I * jamboree of the season. TK is hosting its TK Invite at Yankee Springs April 12. The conference comes to Yankee Springs for the Trojans’jamboree May 8. '1 Proposal would allow e-bikes on Michigan trails Operation of Class 1 electrie bicycles on state park-managed nonmotorized trails open to bicycles would expand under a proposed Michigan Department of PUBLIC NOTICE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS March 11, 2024 The Gaines Charter Township Board held a regular meeting on Monday, March 11, 2024 and took the following actions. 1. Reviewed the Consent Agenda. 2. Approved the Meeting Agenda 3. Approved the Consent Agenda 4. Approved Resolutions ex­ pressing appreciation to Randy Foreman and Brett Holmes for their service to Gaines Township as Firefighters 5. Renewed liquor licenses for: • Logan’s Restaurant #531 • JD Holdings, LLC - Peppino’s • TSF Ventures, LLC - Apple­ bee’s • Stonewater Country Club Fire Rock Grille • Grinning Mitton, dba Rail­ town - Microbrewer Manufac­ turers License •Grinning Mitton, dba Rail­ town - Small Wine Maker Manufacturers License • Celebration Banquets, LLC • Briarwood Golf Course 6. Accepted the bid from Fence Consultants for $8200.00 to fix the bridge near Countryside Elementary. 7. Accepted the quote from Rieth-Riley for $163,410.00 to repave the Township Hall parking lots and driveway using ARPA dollars 8. Accepted the recommen­ dation from the Supervisor’s of­ fice to appoint Sandra Woltjer to the Parks & Trails committee for the, term that ends in 2025 9. Approved the $4,000 con­ tribution to The Right Place 10. Approved the CutlerVille Fire Department Advisory Natural Resources land use change that could go into effect as early as this spring. Under current Michigan law, only Class 1 e-bikes e-bikes that are pedal-assist Committee to name the Gaines Charter Township new fire entity Gaines Charter Township Fire Department to take effect Janu­ ary 1,2025 11. Declined the CDBG grant money and voted to proceed with portions of the Hanna Lake sidewalk project utilizing new de­ velopment in the area to provide other portions of the sidewalk. 12. Changed the meeting per diem for the Board of Review to mirror other sub-committee per diems 12. Allocated $1.2 million to purchase the fire truck on order for Cutlerville Fire Department. 14. Approved reducing the Supervisor’s hours to 16 hours to begin November 2024 with the new board 15. Set a Public Hearing for rezoning 7610 Division Avenue SE for April 8, 2024 16. Granted a shared drive waiver for a 50 foot easement for utilities for 589 and 549 92^ Street 17. Approved Water and Sewer Development contracts for • Thornapple Farms Phase One • Thornapple Farms Phase Two • Thornapple Farms Trunk Sewer • Pine Rest • Grooters Phase Two • Ashford Woods 1A 18. Adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 8:41 pm A complete copy of the min­ utes of these meetings and any resolutions or ordinances adopt­ ed at the meeting are on file and available for review at the Gaines Charter Township office, 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledo­ nia, Michigan 49316. Ordinanc­ es, meeting schedules, meeting minutes, and other Township information are also available at www.gainestownship.org. Michael Brew Gaines Charter Township Clerk ed and can go up to 20 miles per hour - are allowed on improved surface trails, which are trails that are paved or consist of gravel or asphalt. Current law also allows for local entities to expand or further regulate e-bike usage in their respec­ tive communities. The proposed DNR land use change would expand allowable e-bike use to include Class 1 e-bikes on natural surface, nonmotor­ ized trails on state park-managed land open to bicycles. In addition, the proposed change would allow opera­ tion of Class 2 e-bikes, which are throttle- and pedal-assist­ ed and can travel up to 20 miles per hour, on both linear paved trails and state park-managed natural sur­ face trails for mobility pur­ poses as long as a cyclist had applied for and received a permit to do so. Currently, Class 2 e-bikes are allowed with a permit only on non­ motorized, natural surface trails (such as mountain bike trails). This expansion would not apply on wildlife or state forest land trails that are open to bicycles. Also, Class 3 e-bikes, which are ped­ al-assisted and have a maxi­ mum speed of 28 miles per hour, would remain prohibit­ ed on any state-managed land under the new policy. The 3,000 miles of non­ motorized state park-man­ aged trails open to bicycles that would be affected by this proposed change may be viewed on the DNR’s inter­ active nonmotorized trail map. If the proposed change is approved, signage indicat ing allowable e-bike use would be placed at trail­ heads. “This change would make trails more accessible for people who may not have the physical ability to ride a tra­ ditional bike,” said Tim Novak, the DNR’s state trails coordinator. “This would 214257 0 1 -"er- * N S H I P CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF GAINES KENT COUNTY, Ml NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO AMEND THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AS PROVIDED FOR IN CHAPTER 27 THEREOF BY AMENDING SECTION 1.6 AND THE TOWNSHIP ZONING MAR At a Regular Meeting of the Township Board of the Charter Township of Gaines, held on Monday, March 11, 2024 the Township Board introduced a first reading of an Ordinance to amend the Gaines Charter Township Zoning Ordinance as provided for in Chapter 27 thereof by amending Section 1.6 and the Township Zoning Map. • y* 1 ■ I I I I' «« — MH fflillm I H n Rs* 1 include individuals living with disabilities, older adults and really anyone who wish­ es to experience some assis­ tance as they ride a bicycle. Class 1 e-bikes require ped­ aling, providing a great health benefit to riders.” A public survey about the proposed land use change is open through March 31, and results will be shared during the April 11 Michigan THE PROPERTY SUBJECT TO THE REZONING FROM HEAVY INDUSTRIAL (1-2) TO NEIGHBORHOOD- -COMMERCIAL (NC) IS COMMONLY DESCRIBED AS PARCELS 41-22-18-101-002 LOCATED AT 7610 DIVISION AVENUE SE. The North 300 feet of the West 223 feet of the NW % of Section 18, Township 5 N, Range 11, Gaines Charter Township, Kent County, MI The Township Board of the Charter Township of Gaines will consider the proposed ordinance to amend the Gaines Charter Township Zoning Ordinance as provided for in Chapter 27 thereof by amending Section 1.6 and the Township Zoning Map at a Regular Meetinq on Monday, April 8 , 2024 at 7:00PM. Meetings of the Township Board of the Charte^r Township of Gaines are held at the Gaines Charter Township Offices, 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, Ml. Current CDC guidelines will be followed. A true and complete copy of the proposed Ordinance proposeo urdinance to amend the Gaines Charter Ordinance as provided for in Chapter 27 thereof by amending Section 1.6 and the Township Zoning Map can be obtained at: Charter Township of Gaines 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 616-698-6640 Natural 'I • k V n. » I s Resources Commission meeting. The proposed policy change will go before DNR Director Scott Bowen for action at the commission’s May meeting, with any approved change going into effect immediate­ ly thereafter. Charter Township of Gaines Michael A. Brew, Clerk I Si '' 'X'J * - ' ’ 4 * t at ■ .s XI U*1 . r.' • 1 I Ik. A t t 1 • t Ji I < S. 1 1 �TV The Sun and News, Saturday, March 30, 2024/ Page 11 * If** a^ .. r. «i • V ®'''® I’®*® unfinished business in Gold Brett Bremer “She leads both vocally and Hgnin co-coaching the varsity Sports Editor with a save when needed,” “Already, she has shown her­ by example. She is the player with David Wood, said there The Trojans have some on our team that I most hear Sleeman said. “She is only self to be a hard worker and are plans to have a few JV motivation as they chase an coaches and going to continue to get bet ­ an integral part of the team opponents wor- girls shuttling up and down OK Gold Conference cham­ rying about and focusing on ter with time and is another this season and a core build­ between the levels. pionship on the soccer field and has a hunger and fire to solid foundational piece of ing block for the next few “ [Velting ’ s] speed and this spring. the team this year and seasons as well.” win that I have rarely seen as physicality make her diffibeyond.” The Thomapple Kellogg a coach. The TK ladies are already cult for teams to match up varsity girls’ soccer team The defense also expects off to a 2-0 start thanks to a “Despite playing as a against for the entirety of a to get a boost from sopho­ was 15-5-1 overall last spring holding midfielder, she 5-1 win at Hastings and an was match.” and won an MHSAA near the top of the team in more Megan Shuurmans in 8-0 victory at Northview. The Trojans missed her in Division her first varsity season. 2 District both goals and assists and The Trojans will play their their regional semifinal over ­ Championship. She fits into a position of first home game April 10 her presence is vital to any time loss to Plainwell after need seamlessly and she is when they take on Cedar South Christian managed success that we hope to have she got a red card in , . the technically one of our best Springs to open OK Gold an undefeated conference this season.” . • . „ , team s district championship plavers ” season to take the conference Sleeman said. Conference play. Joining Schut as a captain victory. P‘ayers, title, but the Sailors never are junior center back Emma -■ m * The Trojans do have- more defeated the Trojans. The Geukes and senior forward capable goal scorers though. two teams tied their lone reg- Holly Velting. Velting was with Chivis at the top of that ular season meeting. The TK honorable mention all-state a list. She had eight goals a ladies got bumped off by year ago. Junior center mid- year ago. Cedar Springs during the fielder Madily n Chivis She is a hard worker and conference regular season returns too. .J someone that we can move and then upended by Catholic 1 Emma steadily grew into around to play in almost any i Central in the semifinals of one of the best players on our F' position on the field without the conference tournament as team last season,” Sleeman her missing a beat,” Sleeman they tried to chase a rematch said. “She is a solid and said of Chivis. “She has with the Sailors. trustworthy player in our grown a ton as a player from TK was second in the con- back line and dominates both her sophomore season and ference standings at 7-2-1 physically and mentally any- will continue to be an import­ overall at the end behind the time she is on the field. She ant player for us this year 9-0-1 Sailors. is another great leader and and into her senior season as It’s not just an institutional someone who the other girls well.” J » Bt... memory for the TK program. look to day in and day out as TK also brings back soph­ This Trojan squad brings a way to measure them­ omore attacker Tealy Cross back much of the very suc­ selves. We are looking for­ who scored ten goals and cessful roster from a yer ago. ward to having her for anoth­ steadily improved through Highlighting the group of er two seasons to solidify our her freshman season on the returnees is senior all-state backline.” varsity. midfielder Emma Schut, Velting led TK in goals On the back end with I _i who is a team captain. She with 22 a year ago. She suf- Ueukes, goalkeeper Geukes, finished second team all­ fered an injuiy during the McKenna Hoebeke returns w state a year ago while earn­ Trojans’ preseason scrim- for her sophomore year. 1 ing conference, district and mage, but the team is hoping She is technically sound regional honors along the she gets back soon. That is and a solid shot-stopper who way. the one big weakness of this takes a lot of stress off the Emma is the heart and Trojan squad. There are just defenders in front of her Emma Schut soul of the team,” TK head 13 girls on the varsity roster. because they are confident coach Ben Sleeman said. Coach Sleeman, who is once in her ability to come up 14258 < I-' ?! “Our league is so difficult and there are three or four teams that can truly test each other on any given night,” Sleeman said. “Obviously, losing out on the regular sea­ son and conference tourna­ ment last year hurts and will hopefully add some motiva­ tion to the group going into league play this season because nothing should be taken lightly and everything will be a battle within that top group of teams.” J tn- <31 A AZ* *r,’ .4 ** '^w b 4 *« * (4 Oi Ik ri >* tt » b •sr * < f, *, i I • J I < -r-%* *w 1’ I ibjifc, I fle put® tb(i mr !( ik ffl'i b Md trsl ffoposedcte mOJMAf GIRIS, continued from pages------------ f KjtbA I flonililW'iiilli iitfewilj mli li'M olderidA' li SdJfJSili- I acji jjjtjwf' a te" aWi! ctaBffii h}l> (till Direclof |cW 4.^ s. K * r- t' /S .< * <r K sKuldiiatf In •8> I stpatota IMitidlhfe Hi ** forward to contributions from senior Mali Holland and freshmasn Ellie Harmon. “We look strong,” Wilkinson said. “We have 58 girls on the team this year compared to 38 last year.” “Every year we really focus on personal growth as a runner and person. Leadership continues to be strong on the team. We are trying athletes in different roles this year and looking forward to doing the best we can as a team to improve what we did last year. I’m very excited about this sea­ son and so are the girls.” TK opens the season with a double dual against Ottawa Hills and Forest Hills Eastern in Middleville April 9. That first day will play a big part in who ultimately finishes at the top of the OK Gold Conference in its final sea­ son of the current alignment. J 4 iitib o(^ r.**V i I COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the March 12, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on March 26, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villaqeofmiddleville.ora. A 1\ TT 4 r 214429 w Tanhee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 ***2024 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP SPRING CLEANUP DAY*** Saturday, April 27, 2024 9:00 AM start @ the Fire Station 1425 S Payne Lake Rd. Finish (and Pizza!) around noon. Please come and join us in cleaning along the roads in the township. A dumpster for trash collected will be provided along with trash bags. Please call the Township office with any questions 269-795-9091. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Please be advised the Village of Middleville Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Thursday, April 18,2024, at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible to consider an application for a use variance on property located on parcel #08-41-023-021- 00 (also known as 611 Grand Rapids Street). The hear­ ing will be held in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall, 100 E. Main Street Middleville, Ml 49333. The application to be considered by the Zoning Board of Appeals seeks the following variance from the terms of the Village Code: Division 15 of the Municipal Code does not allow dog grooming as a permitted use in Section 78-482 or by way of special use as seen in Section 78-483. Therefore, a use variance is required to allow for a dog grooming business to be established at 611 Grand Rapids Street. Any interested person may attend the public hearing to offer comments to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Alternatively, to participate in the meeting by provid­ ing written public comment, you may email your public comment to the follow­ ing email address powersd@villageofmiddleville.org. Emails received prior to 4:00 pm on April 18, 2024, at the above-listed address, will be distributed to Zoning Board of Appeals members and it will be noted that such written com­ ments were received prior to the meeting. A copy of the variance application is available for inspection at the Village office, 100 E. Main St., during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Friday. Persons with special needs who wish to attend should contact the Clerk no less than 72 hours prior to the public hearing. Respectfully submitted, Kim Dannenberg Deputy Clerk ( I f t �t PsQ* 12/Tbe Sun end I Ssturctey. March X, 2024 P L < 1- 7 —w :A r < i " It ■ L « 1 I I I t I < A F I -■ Sr ■ ‘ ■■' r* r Ir* w / -» i *v e * ‘ < Guys put together solid hoops season t I ? f J I I I► I i I iI 9 I I 1 J I I I J i I 1 I I I I I I I I r I I A * * I 1 n J RITES CSVISINE i 1 1 ; £ 9 ’IB * • b— 4 4 • •1’ k I • -I*- J • I J r *4- ‘jr m/ I I I I > » li We at Mike's Pizzeria appreciate ihe'sup'pW a » * .f r >’1 Tavern I HO < J Wishing the best for everyone during the EasteHioliday. Hallelujah the Lord is Risen and is in controll « - B— I 4 Let your faith be bigger than your fear! 1 1 I ! « / scoring talents inside and out­ side throughout the year. Maple Avden Wilkes, Valle>: A three-year varsity starter and two-time captain fee the Lions, Wilkes finishes high school with 902 career points. He averaged 17.4 points a game as a senior as well as 5.9 rebounds and 2.1 assists. He recorded five double-doubles this season. He was named first team all-conference in the Big 8 Conference. “Ayden was a great leader for us,” Lion head coach Ryan Nevins said. “He grew tremendously over his four years as a player but even more as a person.” Tyler Gavette, Thomapple Kellogg; A senior guard in his third varsity season, Gavette averaged 8.8 points a game. Gavette was able to use his speed to get into the paint offensively and his strength to score score once once he he was was there. there. The The Trojans relied on his outside shot a little more as the sea­ son progressed. Kyle VanHaitsma, Thomapple Kellogg; A senior leader playing forward and guard for the Trojans, VanHaitsma averaged ten points per game this winter. VanHaitsma was named first team all-conference in the OK Gold Conference this winter. All-Barry County Boys’ Basketball Second Team Isaiah Lamphere, Barry County Christian: The Eagles’ sophomore point guard in his varsity season, second Lamphere was named first Lake Hr 1 I 4 game and did a lot of the dirty work for the Eagles. Lilley added 6.1 rebounds. 1.9 blocks, 3.8 steals and 4.2 assists a game this season. He was named first team all-conference in the Great Lakes 6. “Noah had the abili ty to change any game with his defense and offense," coach Josh Lamphere said. Hugo Martino, Delton Kellogg: A Spanish exchange student, Martino used his long frame and skills to score Tyler Gavette in a variety of ways and to be a fantastic shot blocker. said, adding that Barnum was Coach Jim Hogoboom called the vocal leader of the team him an unselfish player - he while holding expectations tried to get him to shoot the high for all. ball more all season. Logan Faulkner, Martino still averaged 10.3 Lakewood: A junior shooting points a game on just 9.3 field guard, Faulkner stepped up as goal attempts. He averaged teammates went down this 5.5 rebounds a game too. He season. had a season-high 26 points A capable ball-handler and against Galesburg-Augusta, solid scoring threat for the Chad Stopher, Delton Vikings, Kellogg: A senior center who Jake McDonald, Maple was just a bit undersized for a Valley: A junior guard, post player at 6-1, coach Jim McDonald was named honor­ Hogoboom calls him a “war able mention all-conference nor rior” who plays much bigger in the Big 8. He averaged 8.5 than his 6-foot-l height. He points, 7.0 rebounds and 2.3 used his good footwork to assists a game. average 10.6 points a game “Jake was a first-year start­ while shooting 47 percent er. He played as an under­ from the floor. He averaged 8 sized post player for us. He rebounds aa game and tallied did an outstanding job of 11 double-doubles. rebounding the ball this year. Hogoboom said Stopher is He was our third leading scor­ “a great leader who just goes er as well,” Lion coach Ryan to work every single day. I Nevins said. “Jake is very never wonder how he is going athletic and does a lot of dif­ to practice. He gets stronger ferent things for us on the and even more productive as floor. He was a great asset to the game wears on.” the team and we looking for­ Jett Barnum, Hastings: A ward to having him back next jumor who did some of every- year.” team all-conference in the thing for the Saxons and was Teegan McDonald, Maple Great Lakes 6 for the run­ named honorable mention Valley: A freshman guard who ner-up Eagles. all-conference in the had a major impact for the He led his team in points Interstate-8 Athletic Lions as the season prowith 22.2 per game, steals Conference. Saxon head coach gressed, as he recovered from with 4 per game and assists Jess Webb called him his an early season ankle injury. with 4.2 per game, while also team’s toughest player. He averaged 10.9 points, 3.8 tallying 1.5 rebounds a game. Barnum averaged 9 points, 6.5 rebounds. 1.4 assists and 1.0 I Coach Josh Lamphere said rebounds (including 3 offenblocks a game. He was second I the big jump in his game this sive rebounds) and nearly one on the team in scoring and led - season were all the assists and charge taken every game, the Lions in blocked shots. i steals. “Jett played through multi“He may have saved his I Noah Lilley, Barry County pie sprained ankles. All year best two games of the year I Christian: A junior forwards and continued to compete at a during tournament play where who averaged 12.3 points per very high level,” coach Webb he came off the bench and scored 24 and 19 points,” Lion head coach Ryan Nevins said. Your local agent insures your “We nnssed Teegan greatly when he was out with his inju11 ry. He "made a major impact for us on the offensive end this year He is a very good passer and an underrated defensive player. He will definitely be looked upon to do more things FARM BUREAU for us next year.” . M8URANCE* Jude Webster,Thomapple fMutvuKe. Kellogg: Webster had an out­ standing firs varsity season as a shooting guard for the Jason Parks Trojan varsity boys’ team. (269) 795-8827 121 E. Main Street Webster averaged 8.6 jparks@fbinsmi.com Downtown Middleville FarmBureaulnsurance.com points per game for TK this winter. TTic two holdovers. Maple plays every minute unless Brett Bremer Valley's Ryan Nevins and their team is up or down big. Spf)rf\ Editor Jim He calls him a tireless worker, Kellogg’s There were a few more Delton ballgame-', on the basketball HogoKxim, both guided their strong defender, and the rea­ schedules across the stale this teams to MHSAA Division 3 son most teams don’t extend winter, and the Thomapplc Dislnct f inals with the their pressure on us.” Owen Carroll, Hastings: A Kellogg, Delton Kellogg and Panthers capturing their first Maple Valley varsity boys' district championship in 40 senior point guard who wa.s years by winning a thriller called upon to be a big-time basket ba I " a 11 took advan ic 40 Compile dou- over Southwestern Athletic scorer for the Saxons this sea­ hle-dwt victories during the Conference Central Division son toot He was named all-con202 season. Saugatuck foe at feretKC in the lnterstate-8 ll^Ungf' was just shy of Bloomingdale High School Athletic Conference. that lyiark with 'nine wins. by a 37-36 score. He averaged 16 points per Lakewood had just four vicDie Delton Kellogg boys game this season while maku,rics, but three came against closed the season with the top ing a third of his three-point county foes Hastings and record among the five attempts. Hastings head coach Maple Valley. Tlic Barry MHSAA squads in the county Jess Webb said he was as capCounty area also had the with a 12-12 mark. tain who led by example and Barry County Christian Here arc the 2023-24 All­ took over games. He was the fSagles put together an out­ Barry County varsity boys’ one player every Saxon oppostanding winter season and basketball first and second nent had to focus on stopping. finish as the runners-up in the teams. Landon Steward, Hastings: Great Lakes 6 Conference. All-Barry County A senior forward who was a Lakewocxi moved to the Boys’ Basketball First leader in practice and in Team Capital Area Activities learn games as a captain for his Conference White Division Tyler Jlowland, Howland, Delton team according to Saxon head and the Maple Valley boys Kellogg: A sophomore point coach Jess Webb. Steward jumped to the Big 8 confer­ guard who has started every averaged 6 points and 5 ence this winter. game the past two seasons for rebounds a game. The schedule wasn’t the the Panthers, Howland averHe guarded opponents’ only thing different for the aged 10.8 points, 3 assists, 4 best player every game and local teams this winter. rebounds, 3 steals and 3 was named the team’s defen­ Lakewood [Jason Solgat], deflections a game this win- sive player of the year. Hastings [Jess Webb] and ter. He was named first team Troy Acker, Lakewood: A Thomapple Kellogg [Phil all-conference in the SAC junior guard/forward who Garber) all welcomed new Central Division. was one of the few Lakewood varsity boys’ coaches this DK head coach Jim starters able to avoid injuries year. Hogoboom said Howland and missed time this winter. That left him with the ball in his hands more than expected. He took the opportunity 1 and ran with it finishing as one of he Vikings leading a scorers on the season. Landon Makley, Lakewood: A senior forward/ RIVER CRUISE VACATIONS center, Makley was slowed Experience the beauty and history of the St. Lawrence A Ottawa Rivera by injuries a bit early in the on a clasilc Canadian riverboat. Rtquetl our tree tnni brochure. season but came back strong. 1 "800-267*7868 www.StLawrenceCrulseLines.com A solid defender in the paint, Makley contributed his I 1 I ’I I ‘ i ’ i k Bl/ f » 1 1 I 1 t 1 I . .7 9 < XM .1 ____ , 1 < 1 tf 1 1 4 I' 4 4 9 » I 4 J f f I � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-04-06.pdf 757c7c74698ce8eee9cf4ae02bfa294d PDF Text Text * 9 9 -*4;, . - • IT 1 Air’ I I *J 0, wr. • I* * 4 r i <1 J - -vi • *c.^ lj:/ M >• * 1 : :.U ^9^ I 4L* . r- 1 A ” .r A z —•J I" I “X 4 Jt Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville and Caledonia Areas No. 14/ April 6, 2024 I d > Published by J-Ad Graphics. Inc. • 1351 N. M-43 Highway. Hastings, Ml 49058 1 I Roof to be repaired Middleville Village Hall 4 <** 4^ > I ’ J* »’• * -9 .•S. < de f .e s .1 1 4 > 4^ A 1A« a t r I ■9 AIjL ..4 4 ,4 rf s I 1 1 i • 1 ' *^1'.« * J I % •k. w»» 4 » ■e^.. *e4tae*»K * • '■ X, - ---- ~r .. - »> ' ' <)« -**• -.ji '. * 0 .7 4 4 .. ■■V. Wn9-ft Ai I X • ?-* V’i’ V J.* J * brt-tj* U 4 , /- Village Hall in Middleville is set to have its roof replaced after it was extensively damaged in a hail storm last year. (Courtesy photo) Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Village Hall in Middleville will soon be get­ ting its roof repaired. The Village Council on Tuesday at its committee of the whole meeting heard an update on the project from Department of Public Works Director Alec Belson. The roof was damaged by a large hailstorm in early April of last year, although the dam­ age wasn’t discovered until months after the storm occurred. Pretty soon after the hailstorm, we inspected it with our (insurance) adjusters and contractors at the time. There was no visible damage to the roof (at first),” Belson told council members. But then in November, the roof was inspected again as part of a yearly maintenance contract with Weather Shield Roofing. In that inspection, “thousands of dents” were found in the roof, Belson said. “What happens with a rub­ ber roof like that, once it expands and contracts a lot, those dents end up showing up,” Belson said. The village’s insurance carrier is covering nearly $64,000 of the project cost. Belson asked the council to approve spending up to $6,000 above what the insur­ ance is paying just in case something comes up in the repair process. It gives us a little cushion, even though we could still go back to insurance and ask for that (additional) reimbursement. It gives staff a little bit of wiggle room, just in case, so we could move the process forward,” Belson 44 :r •• a 4^ X r 4 <• C? A X u g ' * Rm ;t This picture shows the size and quantity of the hail stones that fell during an April 2023 hail storm, which pummeled Middleville and other nearby areas. (File photo by Greg Chandler) said. The council is expected this Tuesday to approve going ahead with the project. The village received quotes from three different compa­ nies for the repair work, Belson said. Greg Chandler Staff IVriter Thornapple Kellogg Schools are mourning the loss of a longtime teacher. Jerry Robinson, who taught government and digital media at Thomapple Kellogg High School for 29 years, died March 28 at Borgess Pipp Hospital in Plainwell after a three-year battle with cancer. TK Superintendent Craig McCarthy recalled Robinson’s upbeat and car­ ing spirit in the classroom even as he fought against cancer. “He had a passion for teaching but also liked to keep things light-hearted,” McCarthy wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “He was a valued member of the TK staff, and he will be truly missed.” Robinson joined the TK staff in August 1995. McCarthy wrote in his email that Robinson impacted thousands of TK students during his tenure at the high school. He also recalled Robinson’s inter­ est in meteorology. “He loved making pre­ dictions using the charts and graphs he would get from various weather web­ sites,” McCarthy wrote. One of the things I will miss most about Jerry is his helpful weather emails. During the winter months, he would often send me his analysis of weather fore casts in preparation for a possible snow day. “It was all in good fun, and we would laugh about 44 Caledonia Twp. board approves refund of surplus special assessment collections • v* . ** Greg Chandler e ! I 1 I I A I s I 146th year e ’-4 pw 4 t Longtime Thornapple Kei logg High School teacher dies of cancer *4^ r i I 4 / I *** ■t The township will refund Staff Writer $1,726,428 of surplus funds Some Caledonia Township that had been collected for property owners who paid the sewer special assessment .?w into water and sewer district and $1,303,287 of improvements in the north­ surplus funds that were west portion of the township received for the water special will soon be seeing a check assessment district, Nugent in the mail, refunding them a said. The special assessment portion of what they paid. The Township Board districts were established in Wednesday voted 4-1 to December 2000, and the approve a resolution autho­ assessment roll was set the ---following March, in the rizing a refund of more than * $3 million of surplus funds amount of $4,266,008 for that were collected for the sewer and $6,869,500 for Northwest Township sewer water. Annual assessments WK and water special assessment began in 2001 and continued -r districts. About 700 property through 2020, Nugent said. Under state law, a municiowners in those districts will Caledonia Township Manager Alison Nugent speaks receive refunds. Township See REFUND, page 2 during a Wednesday meeting of the township board. Manager Alison Nugent said. ■V'---------- •f.» s* • E « r. I “ -r -r t 1 ■•-7 V Jerry Robinson his accuracy or inaccuracy, depending on the actual weather.” Robinson was heavily involved in sports, coach­ ing his children in softball. He enjoyed golfing, bowl­ ing, watching Marvel movies and playing Saturday night poker with his bud­ dies. He also served on the Otsego Public Schools Board of Education from January 2017 to November 2018, district spokeswom­ an Holly McCaw wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Robinson is survived by his wife, Kimberly; chil­ dren, Rebecca and Kai; parents, Jerry Sr. and Sandra Robinson; brother, Jason (Mary) Robinson; a host of aunts, uncles and cousins and his dog, Jarvis. According to Robinson’s wishes, his body has been cremated. His ashes will be buried at a later date at Mountain Home Cemetery in Otsego. A memorial service will take place at 1 p.m. April 13 at the Winkel Funeral Home, 207 E. Allegan St., I I 1 i 1 I See TEACHER, page 2 1 s. J f 1 11^ F I < I A i TL I Barry County commissioners vote on Constitutional resolution I • Middleville council expected to approve more water line replacements ♦ I I 1 I • I i s h ai 1 J < J L. » Dutton Center development gets more feedback from Gaines Twp. planners 1 “*■ IBWB r ' • Caledonia student, family do their part to ‘kick’ cancer I • Caledonia spring sports previews 4 I �f I I Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday. April 6, 2024 County Veterans Council holding Memorial Day essay contest Students from area high schools and middle schools are eligible to submit an essay for the contest, with an entry deadline of May 1. The essays should be at least 500 words in length, but no more than 750 words maximum. The United Veterans Council will pick a finalist from each participating school, with the winning entry to be chosen from the group of finalists. All final­ ists will be invited to view the May 25 Memorial Day parade in Grand Rapids from the official reviewing stand, and be entitled to VIP seating at the ceremony that follows the parade at Veterans Memorial Park, council com- Greg Chandler Staff Writer United Veterans The Council of Kent County is inviting local students to submit entries for an essay contest in connection with Memorial Day this year. Representatives from the veterans council came to the Caledonia Township board meeting Wednesday night to speak about the essay contest as well as this year’s Memorial Day parade in Grand Rapids, where they are encouraging veterans and others from throughout Kent County to turn out. The theme of the essay contest IS “what does Memorial Day mean to me?” Center in Houston, Texas or pality is required to refund property owners if surplus collections for an assessment district are at least 5 percent above the amount of the original assessment roll. “When it became clear that all the assessments were paid off, then we had to cal­ culate a refund, which was a gargantuan task (for townTownship ship staff),” Treasurer Richard Robertson said. “There have been par­ cels that have been divided and re-divided and re-com­ bined, and the refund has to to the current parcel go owner.” Refunds are to be distributed to people who own properties in the assessment district as of the date the refunding resolution passed, which was Wednesday. “When we send out the checks, we need to include a letter that says this is a refund you have for this parcel been found to be the current parcel owner and that’s why you’re receiving this check, because I’m afraid people are going to get it and think it’s a joke and throw it away,” Nugent said. The amount of the checks will be based on the acreage of each parcel. Most sin­ gle-family residential home­ owners can expect to see a refund of about $200, Nugent said. Robertson said questions were raised with legal coxmsel about whether refunds should go to people who originally owned the proper ty rather than the current property owners. “(They might say), ‘wait a minute. I’m the one who paid that tens of thousand dollars of assessment, and now you’re giving the refund to somebody else.’ We had that question come up a number of years ago, and our legal position is pretty strong there. It’s not to say that it couldn’t be challenged,” he said. Before taking a final vote. the board voted 3-2 on trans ferring $10,000 from the the Sarcoma Foundation of water fund and $10,000 we open (participation) up to mander Melvin Bauman the county? ’ So that s what said. The contest winner will be we’re doing.” “ If you want to have a invited to read his or her vehicle (from the township) essay at the ceremony and in the parade, that ’ s great will receive a $250 gift card from the United Veterans any way you want to partici­ pate, you ’ re invited to do it. Council, Bauman said. The Memorial Day parade Bauman added. Caledonia’s Memorial Day in Grand Rapids is being held on a Saturday and will parade and graveside ceremonot conflict with local obser­ ny, put on by American Legion Post 305, will take vances of Memorial Day. “In the past, we’ve always place on Monday, May 27. Entries for the essay conlimited (participation in the parade) to organizations test can be submitted via within the city limits of email to United Veterans Grand Rapids,” Bauman Council representative Paul said. “I got thinking about it,. Ryan at paul.j.ryan(giserand 1 thought, ‘hmmm, we’re vonline.net or sent via postal the Kent County United mail to P.O. Box 1430, Grand Veterans Council. Why don’t Rapids, MI 49501. Middleville council expected to approve more water line service replacements Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Middleville is continuing to work its way through replacing lead-based and galvanized water service lines. So far, the village has replaced service lines on 19 homes, and its Department of Public Works is moving toward replacing lines on 11 more homes, mostly on Grand Rapids Street. The Village Council is expected Tuesday to approve a con­ tract for Wyoming-based Tubergen Construction to replace the additional lines, at a cost of $31,800. The council is also expect­ ed to authorize DPW staff and contractors to replace additional water service lines 4 t t Lt'” aa#. • * .» * * z X • 9 '4 4* ' J • I. a J 7 b rr 1 3^'v: * - V V r» I o 1 I I q REFUND, continued from page 1 in the future at a cost of no water service. With this fund­ more than $6,000 per service ing, the village would be able until the village expends its (to) replace an estimated 30-60 fiscal year 2024 allocation services depending on final under the American Rescue pricing for each service.” Giving the village staff the Plan Act of $165,590. The village and other ability to line up contractors to Michigan communities were perform the work now will mandated in 2021 by the allow for the service lines to Michigan Department of be replaced in a timelier fashEnvironment, Great Lakes ion, Belson wrote in his memo. and Energy to replace on Eight of the 11 homes to average 5 percent of its lead have service lines replaced are and galvanized service lines. on Grand Rapids Street, with “We are currently a little additional homes to be behind on the 5 percent aver- addressed on East Main Street, age,” DPW Director Alec Thornton Street and High Belson wrote in a memo to the Street, according to the job council that was reviewed at estimate submitted to the vilTuesday’s committee of the lage by Tubeigen Construction. whole meeting. “If council The village pursued other were to approve this funding it quotes from contractors, but would put us back on schedule Tubergen’s came in about and possibly a little ahead. $800-$2,000 per service line Staff is estimating (costs of) less than other contractors, $3,000-$6,000 to replace a Belson told council members. lEADNER, continued from page 1 from the sewer fund to the township general fund to keep in reserve in case someone challenges the amount of their refund. Township attorneys had rec­ ommended setting aside $50,000 from each of the funds, but Trustee Greg Zoller proposed lowering that amount to $10,000. “We aren’t going to have $100,000 in (legal) costs, even 50 (thousand),” said Zoller, who had called for refunds to be issued to prop­ erty owners long before Wednesday’s action. “This money is owed to the people that paid it, and any overage will go back to the sewer fund. That’s like them dou­ ble-paying for that. After talking with Alison and (reviewing) some of the costs, I can’t see keeping any more than $10,000 for each, for the sewer and the water, for (a total of) $20,000. The vast majority of our costs have already been paid out of these funds.” Zoller was supported on his motion to lower the reserve funding by trustees Tim Bradshaw and Richard Snoeyink, while Robertson and Clerk Joni Henry voted no. Bradshaw was the lone no vote on the resolution, as he proposed holding off on a decision until the amount to be refunded could be final­ ized in the resolution docu­ ment and the full board could be in attendance for a vote. “There’s a lot of moving parts here. I think it’s very important that everything for the final resolution is accurate,” Bradshaw said. “I know there’s some fiiistration that it’s taken many years to get to this point, but personally, I would feel more comfortable tabling this to make sure that we have a corrected (resolution) copy at our next meeting, and maybe a more full board as well.” Township Supervisor a.m. to 1 p.m. Those attend­ ing are encouraged to dress casually representing their favorite sports team, or in Marvel Comics attire. In lieu of flowers, contri - Beef & Pork Roast Dinner Saturday, April 13* • 5-7pm member of the TK staff, and he will be truly missed.” i V l»J >11 I (11^1 0»’ S!l lit At® (itfa’I' k tel -an -ill! I -IM ipHlKDl SaU, spt-ta Mtiatei 4* * L *I " i ■ I I' • . C' ,r»» ^2 **' I •i i I » ' V 4' I 'X ■ f 2 47 • ♦* — ' •* B * ' I - atI I Ssflmhii HfWij * H • 5' 1 -7 I • * A'S. ' * ‘M • 11 »■ , ‘e t , * ki V’ ‘ i iiK I 1 I I* butions in memory of Jerry Robinson may be made to M.D. Anderson Cancer ^E* America. Messages of con­ dolence may be posted at WinkelFuneralHome.com. ■r 4- ALTO AMERICAN LEGIONJ * Includes: Potatoes, vegetables, & homemade dessert. .c Friday, April 12 » .1 r k Adults $15 • Children 5-12 $10 _______ 4 years & under FREE ( • J S, I I _* * 1 1 5:00-7:30 p.m. r . . public Meicoin® 9: BOWNE CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH J. . PORK STEAK I dinner Potato, veggie and roll No Sunday Breakfast 12051 84TH ST SE, ALTO, Ml 49302 comer of Alden Nash (M60) i 84th Street, Allo 60S6 LINFIELD, ALTO, MICHIGAN •» » I k S’ f ( • 868-6490 f/ieliliiii ¥ — Craig McCarthy, Superintendent, Thornapple Kellogg Schools 4 ‘ -TH' J __ Jc -i Iks liiPilj *? 4 I -Iw,i S|B-f«ll % < M'- 4*. ^4' il' if*' ■r; « >' di 7^ d a passion for teaching but also liked to keep things light-hearted. He was a valued J *97.' 'iZ ► Bryan Harrison and Trustee Dale Hermenet were absent from Wednesday’s meeting. * Otsego, with Pastor Lance Laker officiating. Friends may visit with the family prior to the service from 11 t < I • f- When it became clear that all the assessments were paid off, then we had to calculate a refund, which was a gargantuan task (for township staff),” Township reasurer Richard Robertson (pictured) said. t I I �The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6, 2024/Page 3 ■ <> S s' L bA Games planners expect proposed hub to make investment along 68th Street corridor ‘jump’ I ) s Janies Gemmell “We looked at that and we an open green space,” he “Sa Contributing Writer ultimately decided it’s prob­ said. K I The Gaines Township ably not a good idea,” Commissioners said that Planning Commission has Pulaski said. “One of the big could be anything from a given the developer of a reasons is, if you go through • !J basketball court to a splash ! I i proposed mixed-use resi­ here you can count the numpad, or perhaps a playground dential and commercial hub ber of driveways just from I or a small soccer field. -I in Dutton a better idea of Dutton Avenue over to “ Even though this is a what additional steps are Hanna Lake Avenue along I Io PUD (request), the bottom required for it to gain proj­ 68th, just in that short part of this is an RL-14 S' ’ ect approval. s„ercn. stretch. There’s like 15 (zoned section). These lots Planning commissioners driveways in just that short ? I k. are 5,500 square feet, and voted 6-0 at their March 28 little stretch.” there’s no green space at (II meeting to authorize plan­ However, he said there is all, ” Giarmo said. ''We have It I> ning staff to schedule a pub ­ have somethina fnr th CH ® potcntial townhome design for the Dutton Center. (Source: Allen a section of property along to It®' to nave something tor the Edwin Homes) lic hearing once a traffic-im- 68th Street that would lend people who are going to be pact study is completed and itself to the village-design there. They need more. US ' the developer has submitted concept of placing a build­ tei They’re not going to have a revised site plan. That will ing closer than usual to the much of a yard. They’re likely be sometime this road. going to need a place to go spring. One commissioner “Having a nice little to do some stuff.” was absent from the meet­ storefront presence. Smaller “I’m confident we can get ing. buildings again, with drive- the open space where it '2SI», ■ Dan Larabel with Allen way access that could needs to be,” Larabel Edwin Homes, in conjunc- come into the back of the replied. 4. tion with the J «& A Post building,” Pulaski said. Commissioner Ryan Family Farm LLC, is Hanna Lake Avenue Wiersema described the his ®i)hoi requesting the rezoning of a would serve as the primary latest site plan as a “huge single parcel of nearly 31 entrance into the Dutton improvement” over the one acres to a Planned United Center development. There that was submitted by J® Development (PUD). It would be some two-story developers earlier this would be east of Hanna flex buildings, also known year. However, he suggestLake Avenue and south of as live-work buildings. ed that a revised plan II ''Oieoili 68th Street. Currently, there “ On the first floor, you ’ d include the installation of a T are various zoning designa- have what we call flex space sidewalk along the perimetions for that section of of maybe non-residential. ter of the pond that is on •^ioiilShJk tl The Gaines Township planning commission reviewed the latest site plan for the property. The second floor could be the property. Dutton Center at its March 28 meeting at the township hall. (Photo by James The residential portion of residential space,” Pulaski «It 2 You could have some Gemmell) the development would told commissioners. benches there,” he said. ®® atil lb t include 243 dwelling units: There would be a private. Wiersema added that upstairs living; live/work The study should be com­ that are going to be coming — 51 detached homes on boulevard entrance into the more parking availability setups,” Larabel said. pleted this spring, before the into this area is going to minimum 5,800 square-foot development, with on-street for residents and guests The total project cost public hearing takes place. Thw's 1 b drive some commercial lots parallel parking available. should be included in the has not been calculated The Dutton Center project development. Not just along Pttbtlij. 15 Veranda-style That would help reduce the proposal when the revised yet. The address is 3316 tentatively calls for 243 the periphery of this PUD, RMtajjjK homes number of garages needed site plan is submitted to 68th St. SE. The northern dwelling units and the ihefialsii, but the whole northern side — 57 two- and four-unit for the project. commissioners later this border would be 68th Thomapple Farms project of 68th Street and further attached townhomes (all “That helps to calm traftraf­ spring. Street. Dutton Avenue will add 171 single-family down where there are larger O is'; single-family) fic, which was another one “Perhaps removing an would be on the eastern detached homes to the lots that can incorporate it,” MO b i'i I — 120 multiple-family of your goals in the master apartment building or two. edge. Hanna Lake Avenue Dutton area. Wells said. “It’s going to wiotafss! apartment units (10 build- plan,” Pulaski said. He and perhaps one or two is on the western edge, but “The number of people make investment jump.” eMail)', II®; ings with 12 units each) added that having parked (townhouses),” he said. the property juts in and Hl inbicgB: The mixed-use portion cars along the road would “The (proposed) town- goes south past the Dutton I would include: lake provide a buffer of comfort houses do have integrated Cemetery. — Two, one-story 14,500 for pedestrians on the adja- parking (two-stall garages) ancted iRSBz On a side note, the Gaines square-foot commercial cent sidewalk. : M K56E on the ground floor,” Township Board approved CLUB OF CALEDONIA buildings along 68th Street ^■iieaiwsk'^ Planning commissioners Community Development in December the final pre­ (29,000 square feet total) The Caledonia Kiwanis Charity Golf Outing told the developers that their Director Dan Wells said, liminary plat for a separate A’ Two, two-story 22,500 latest conceptual plan looks “There is some parking Allen Edwin Homes-related Wf 2 Is moving to September 20, 2024. square-foot mixed-use com- a lot more plausible than the space inside the building.” development immediately mercial/residential buildings preliminary site plan that The township envisions south of the proposed Dutton For more info contact along Harma Lake Avenue was presented at an initial shared parking where apart- Center PUD. It is called Thom at tkoh@greenridge.com PUD review meeting in ments would be adjacent to Thomapple Farms. The first (55,000 square feet total) or616-260-1179 Rick Pulaski with project February. However, they retail space. two of six project phases for engineering firm Nederveld, want Larabel and his associ“With the understanding that project were given the Inc. gave a presentation to ates to craft a revised site that some of that parking thumbs-up in December. the planning commission, plan that addresses some will be occupied during the That subdivision is being He noted that township remaining concerns. day by retail customers, and built north of Dutton Shady staff recently introduced “I think it’s an improve­ then filled at night by people Side Park, at 7307 Hammond some architectural stan- ment, but I still think there is who are coming home from Ave. dards for new townhouses some work to do,” Planning work from their day shift,” “This (Dutton Center) i and single-family homes in Commission Chairwoman Wells said. project is intended to tie into areas of the township desig­ Connie Giarmo said. Larabel told the Sun and the Thomapple Farms develRODNEY nated as “Village Center” Planning Commission News he hopes construction opment seamlessly, and pro­ CARRINGTON Secretary Lani Thomas said can begin next year. The vide a denser housing type districts. FRIDAY, APRIL 5 “So, we wanted to come she would like to see more project would be done in to fulfill the master plan back with something that green space added to the three phases, each one tak­ vision for Dutton as a vil looks a little bit closer to proposed site to make it ing a year or two to com- lage center,” Wells wrote in 5 a memo to the planning what was envisioned by the more conducive to residen- plete. “There’s a range of commission. community at large, Gaines tial activity. GREAT WHITE & SLAUGHTER FRIDAY, APRIL 19 With all of the new devel“We have 51 houses lined attached single-family. Township citizens, within an attached opment potentially coming the (new) master plan,” he up in a row with nothing in there’s BRANTLEY GILBERT SATURDAY, MAY 4 multi-family element. And online soon, the township between,” she said. said. Tickets available now at the FireKeepers Box Office Tim then there are commercial has requested a traffic-im Commissioner One question engineers or FireKeepersCasino.com. considered was whether a Haagsma agreed that some elements; both standalone pact study be submitted by ■HilTntEKEEPEBS GET YOUR viSfF ON the developer. road should be connected public amenities need to be and mixed commercial, ■I Vn| CASINO*HOTEL BATTLE CREEK where you have different “ They have started one. from the north side of the included in the layout. -4^ 1-94 to Exit 104 I 11177 Michigan Avenue | Battie Creek, Ml 49014 “Some kind of recre- intensities. Whether it’s They hired somebody,” Dutton Center development Must be 21 or older. Tickets based on availability. Schedule subject to change. ational use, instead of just offices or restaurants or Haagsma said. to 68th Street. - r> •i r^W < 4 1 1 » i <• -fl I I * I 4. i 1 ■■BI? J ;j I t k _ <4 ^1» ; - ■Si <—* V I X it si I Im. I •K • L s I 1 % I » I li? s * >1.'^ I s . vs I, % I • • • I < I Si. * < V t* J « t 'I > s .f 1 • •l •x "*4 * k■ Kiwanis r ________________ I •l NOTHIN’ BUT A GOOD TIME J f j X 1 * I >4lW w I I I I 1 ) k I I I m z * n t« 4 <-■ �Page 4ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, April 6, 2024 Local bicycle enthusiast finds a home at Chief Noonday Car Park Mary Snyder — Mary Snyder, age 86, of Caledonia, MI, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024. She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Andrew and Olga Snyder, Christine and Mark Zoet, and Randy and Diana Snyder; grandchildren, Philip, Jim, Meghan, Nathan, Pam, Brittany, Brad, and Lance; and six great grandchildren. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Snyder Jr.; son, Larry Snyder, and daughter, Kim Snyder; sister, Anita Mieras; brother-in-law, John Snyder; sisters-in-law, Tudy Allff and Beth Shane. She was a loving wife. mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and will be dearly missed by all that knew her. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to an animal shelter of one’s choosing. Condolences may be sent online at www. mkdfuneralhome.com. Kayser Brothers' Birthday Celebration JU k4 iu-, z -r L 1 J J' A t V' Sf 9 < I r < A J! . ZP*.. .. •> • ■ -1 •1 4 .s b* 7^w B The Kayser brothers will be celebrating their birth­ days. Gerald (right) is 98 and Vern (left) is 91. A community open house will be held on Sunday, April 21, at St. Paul Lutheran Church Gymnasium, 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. for Gerald and Vern. No gifts please, your presence is a gift to Gerald and Vern, Karen 'Rirko-Ebright Contributing Writer While Chief Noonday Car Park near Gun Lake has become the Promised Land for antique and vintage car enthusiasts, not all vehicles on the property have motors. In fact, thanks to Kenny Prelwitz, there is an assort­ ment of classic bicycles on the grounds, as well. Prelwitz runs his business at the car park; Kenny’s Classic Bike Shop and Repair. He is the in-house restores specialist who antique bicycles and helps with the park’s car collec­ tion. “I work on antique bicydes. We are in the middle of restoring a 1927 Mead Crusader. Some parts are get­ ting special treatment. We’re also working on a 71 Suzuki TSI25,” said Prelwitz. “I work on small engines and small bicycles.” One of his restored mas­ terpieces is the 1967 Schwinn Fastback. “Everything on this is cor­ rect. I bought this out of Dearborn. I got the correct tires and pedals for it,” explained Prelwitz. “I proba­ bly put 40 hours into this bike just cleaning it up alone. old with wheels on it.” Prelwitz works at the car different story. But you learn as you go,” said Prelwitz. “I like old cars and old bicycles. Anything Nowadays, the bike is worth 4^ about $800.” Prelwitz is proud of his restoration, and anyone who enjoys antiques will appreciate and notice the shiny details in his work. “Can you see right on the other side of the fender here? You see the forks through there? That means it’s very, very clean,” Prelwitz said. When he was 14, Prelwitz developed his passion for restoring antiques, and now, at 20, he said his passion has grown stronger. “I love my job here because I just love antiques. I love old cars. I love wrench­ ing on things,” Prelwitz explained. He said he likes taking things apart, but putting things back together is a f r % Jr .O’ See CHIEF NOONDAY, page 5 Ml 3 ft 1 I z r jg 2 ?A c ,• f I ft t I J - •/ -?V 1 ---I A > If. ; I r J to *f 'j 9 4 £«« I r siw * 211 1 S 4 dl?' 1 » I r ( A I S/ f. t, it J £ .to-' Yi 1 4: I Kenny Prelwitz runs his business, Kenny’s Classic Bike Shop and Repair, out of Chief Noonday Car Park in the Gun Lake area. (Photos by Karen Turko-Ebright) • 1 'M 1 tI -'S • i • 5 i. A g L i C'itk i ■ ■ ■'*> I 7 r A r* ■1 7 f f 1 «T- r a_. j t 4 4* II. "I. • e •■4.. a k<■ JSS5^’ Pajet fomfrsra 5!1W lesfiign . .. Chief Noonday Car Park is now in its third year of operation. Caledonia United Methodist Church ffffflSl fans Su Rew Christine Beaudoin JJ. IlflC Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org u Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodisl toll list To be .lenleBlj miw rajinn Im shfae ij GPA ad 12 Faris a Serving ~ Strengthening ~ Connecting cornerstonechurch 1 Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham ■ 5' ■ FIRST BAPTIST Good Shepherd Lutheran Church CO Middleville JI • Sunday Service 10:30 AM I 1 HI I t' f:??- s<* F' III ,1 \4 '.•uvr Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googiepages. com •1 Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Church: OURNEY M peace CHURCH CALEDONIA; " »>'■ 5f. "hiiidiihif - i :T 9185 Cher^ Valley Ave SE LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE; 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch peacechurch.ee Whitneyville % <—! 'Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School.. Sunday Worship Worship Services Sunday io am & 6 pm . 9:30 AM 10:30 AM lyoZc/j our services from our website (see above) I Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhltneyvilleFellowship.org / I I Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm THORNAPPLE VALLEY Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. J 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 _ _______ www.stpaulcaledonia .org fbiM of It 111litiJFn 1 •« ES. F . ®llt!iott CHURCH Still SERVICE TIMES: 8ci MIDDLEVILLE Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com l'»04y I Yankee Springs Bible Church Fellowship Church Praising God through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music ■ @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool i 76^ 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52^^ & 48th 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Ikaiiiji Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. (269) 795-2391 Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 n;5C; Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. P ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS meofgnd w CHURCH I 9:30 a.m. 4’f. FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 * * 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemLorg/weekend HOLY FAMILY □/catholic church r* I 1. "Shining Forth God's Light" Si* 7 Pl Sunday Morning Worship....................... Community Groiin 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. spoilt Li Jufnes L, Collison, Pustor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org % ) r �I Page Elementary students celebrate reading accomplishments V 'lil, * Ss if Page Elementary students in Middleville celebrated their very successful reading month with the final school wide Battle of the Books, plus the announcement of four xvui top lup readers reauers and ana two two top top classrooms. Before heading on Spring Break, "un S t »* s k. I UfvSSvG 1 With with UD up cnlnrfiil colorful wmgs, a pink and purple skirt and colorful pink and ., Ses*Vn'oT"' a"'? • compare tothe students excitement of being able to “goop” their principal and one teacher after reaching their reading goals for March, Page students filled the high school auditoriu fl for t e inal celebration and Battle of the Books contest last Wednesday afternoon. The 20 classroom Battle of the Books champions competed on stage for the top honors for the school. Much bee forma,, a spelling bee format, __ i_ .«i_ each student «took their , turn answering a detailed quesabout one of the books title. Two rounds later, fifthgrade classmate Nora Wiswell was was crowned crowned the the reserve champion for the school. Other classroom champi ons competing were Ivy Young, Dutch Workman, CJ Culhane, Tytan Bennett, Brody Witt, Ellison*^ SWba’ Nora’^ Nora McKeown, tt ’ Hartman, Gabby Dykhouse, Kaydence Morris, Jacob McRoy Luke Rilev Charlie TeunesieC rSta’ X round, After five rounds After fifth-grader Lucy Damico outlasted the rest of the competition to earn the champion ^“4"“ J"!* Gabby Wilso^ KXciUe, Tn. • , Mallory Thorington and Adeline DeDoe. Page Principal Gregg Bruno announced that in total, students at Page read 899 books and that 269 stu­ dents read at least two books during the month The top classrooms were Mrs. Selewski’s classroom with students reading 93 books and Mrs. Bosworth’s class, reading 55 books. There were also four stu­ dents recognized as top read­ ers for the month. Each of these students read at least all of the books on the reading list for their grade level during March. Those students were Jace Vadeboncoeur, Koko Vandermeer, Dutch Workman and Bryn Mosey. After all the student awards were announced, Principal Bruno and fourth-grade teacher Lindsay Ebeling, got ready for the final celebra­ tion. While each of them knelt within a small wading pool student names were drawn to see who would get to “goop” their teacher and principal. Students poured jelly, ketch­ up, slime, juice, feathers and paper shreds over the heads of Ebeling and Bruno leaving them sticky, wet and covered with goop! Students roared with laughter and applause as they celebrated their accomplishments during reading month. Wi' I > * Z .' • * * / * > * ■■ I *<4 e r r* -P'S® t J- in I A I 1 1 A W. ! til ri I‘ r'' 4 5^4 I J % II ri- 7 J 1 J I I Pl V A *$ r r Page Elementary Principal Gregg Bruno d ressed up in colorful wings, a skirt and a pink and blue wig to introduce the school s Battle of the Books competition. ife; • ''l-> , I ♦ ^4^ .’9-" ■ I Page Elementary Principal Gregg Bruno and fourth-grade teacher Lindsay Ebeling volunteered to get “gooped” by students to celebrate a successful reading month. (Photos provided) W»i 5^ I r. I « iasCa^ •T—I®. CHIEF NOONDAY, continued from page 4 ------------------------------------- I » psiv The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6,2024/ Page 5 Area students earn dean’s list honors Ferris State University Wheeler, Micaiah Belotti, Dalton Bailey, Megan Bargy, Caledonia has been named to Ferris State University in Madelyn Saunders, Savanna Jessica Stanchik, Ryan Lake Superior State Big Rapids recently recog­ Wolbert, Kyle Bennink, Stanton, Hunter Poe, Morgan University’s fall 2023 dean’s nized several local students Kaitlyn Baldwin, Maci Chapin, Benjamin Tmdell, list. for excellence in academics Vander Laan, Kyla Nelson, Mitchell Middleton, Erin To be eligible for the on its fall 2023 Academic Cooper Sorsen, Caleb Chinavare, Payton Stahl. dean’s list at Lake Superior Honors list. Tenhaaf, Jacob Bultsma, Shelbyville - Samantha State, students must maintain To be eligible for Wyatt Foerch, Allison Weibel. Stone, Lexis Brummel, Ella a minimum term GPA of 3.5. Academic Honors, the mini­ Freeport Henry Vanderlaan, Bronson Huyck. Rhodes College mum requirements for full Deridder, Brendan Vandam, Lucy Foraetti of Caledonia time students each term are: Lucas Vandam, Karissa Iowa State University has been named to Rhodes 3.5 GPA and completion of Lange, Haydin Hawkins, Jonah Hilton of Caledonia College’s fall 2023 honor 12 Ferris credit hours or Jessica Durkee. has been named to Iowa roll. more of graded course work Gaines - Anthony Stefani. State University’s fall 2023 To be eligible for the at the 100 level or higher. Hickory Corners - Top 2%. He is among the Tennessee college’s honor The minimum requirements Kaitlyn McRae, Salina Dally. top-ranking students at the roll, students must be for part-time students each Middleville - Jacob school. enrolled in at least 16 credits term are; 3.5 GPA with com­ Rossman, Amelya Thome, Lake Superior State of academic work and pletion of at least 12 accu- Alejandro Rodas, Madeline University achieve a semester GPA of II ulated Ferris credit hours Hoover, Chloe Powers, Ashley Brandow of 3.85 or better. of graded course work at the 100 level or higher. Area students named to Ferris State’s Academic $ Honors list are; Alto-WilliamMalinowski, Caitlin Osterhouse, Carmen Maas, Matthew Kaczanowski Scott Beatson, Lorrin McCarty, Lilli Kempisty, Timothy Knoertzer, Antoinette Fanco, Theodore Fanco, Kylie Gardner, Lauren Herzog, Bryce Peterson. Caledonia Abby June 17-20 I 6-8:30pm | 84th St Campus Mitchell, Lily Le, Natalia Cost: $18 (includes t-shirt and MEGA swag!) Jacob Andersen, Ulloa, Selena Pham, Gretchen MEGA Kids Camp is for kids entering Kindergarten through Sth grade in Tenhaaf, Samuel McLean, the fall of 2024. Through sports, arts, music, video, and more, kids learn Olivia Torres, Cheryl Long, about God's love for them in a fun, exciting and safe environment! Kelsey Harkema, Deja Carter, Natalia Allison Vigna, Register your kids (through April 20): cornerstonemi.org/MEGA Quigley, Matthew Vannoord, Madeline Clark, Joseph Wayt, Lance Nichols, Eulalia park after his full-time job. “I come here to spend most of my time here. I do a lot of work for Terry. I travel around with him, help him with trailers, and help him move cars around,” he explained. “As far as I m concerned, I m here to stay and keep work ing for him. I quite like it here.” As the season ushers in the warmer weather. Chief Noonday Car Park will now be bustling with old cars. Kicking off on April 2 was the “Cars in the Park” event. This annual series of events happens every Tuesday ...... from April through October from 5 to 8 p.m. “Cars in the Park” is a cruise-in event where enthusiasts can tool around in their vintage and antique vehicles and talk shop. It’s one of the many events and attractions at the car park. which is still fairly in its infancy. In fact, the car park is now in its third year. Two lifelong friends who deeply appreciate the automobile industry are living the dream. Terry Cole and Scott Grooters will tell you their love of cars is in their blood. passed down to them by their grandfathers and fathers. That’s why the decision to build the Chief Noonday Car Park together made perfect sense. The car park now sits on the site of a former driving range on M-179 across from the Yankee Springs Township fire station. “It’s amazing. We * always knew it was out there, but everybody loves anything to do with old cars and trucks. We’ve had a lot of people say, ‘Build it, we’ll come,’ and boy. they come, Cole said. “Every Tuesday, we have a little impromptu car show here, and families bring their kids and run around and look at stuff,” Cole said. Owning their classic car park is a natural fit for Cole and Grooters. After all, their grandfathers started the Grand Rapids Horseless Carriage Club in the 1950s. The two uvya became ucwme menus boys friends at one of the club’s meetings inside Rogers Plaza, and throughout their growing up, they stayed connected. Now, they are taking their love and knowledge of old cars passed down from their grandfathers and fathers and paying it forward. The car park is on a 40-acre lot with tluee buildings on the grounds, plus the clubhouse. “We finished the fourth building this past summer. We built what we have now in a year and a half,” Cole explained. “It was an old driving range. The only thing we had here were golfballs.” Another building, the fifth building, will be built this summer and is the last building to close out phase one of the car park. It will offer personal storage units; hobby shops and workshop spaces will be available. <• I I - > * I n iflkCia : Ml« lufihdsia; X te... - jiesfflCB I ■I Albert (Dan) Genther 5/12/49 - 4/4/22 •w 4 -i-'- V 1 ■r a** * .» J hr i • -.^L « I I Ba I * r *• * I I L it /■' X. I * . I . •* I. .1 I -'4 a •I > I I'. L" - l_ J A p •’.7- ft 7 I I I 2024. I r I T " -'U.” '«*pr • tl. q pI 1»I u •1'<. . .» « J . b .... . .-t. ■S- (1 J Uli- ■ - I I I •'.k Ik ’ I "A • ’.X 1 little knew that morning that Cod was going to call your name. In life I loved you dearly, in death I do the same. It broke my heart to lose you, you did not go alone; for part of me went with you the day God called you home. You left me peaceful memories your love is still my guide; and though I cannot see you, you’re always by my side. Our special chain is broken and nothing seems the same; but as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. I I I I I 1 4 i I i I I I I Forever in my heart, Love Amy cornerstone church 4 I J �Pa9e 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6, 2024 Barry County to abolish office of Gear up for spring surveyor, appoint one instead fishing and get your 2024 license Michigan’s new fishing license and regulation sea­ son kicked off Monday, April 1, so anglers need to be sure they have pur­ chased a new license for this fishing season in order to enjoy some great fishing opportunities. The 2024 fishing licenses are valid through March 31, 2025. Fishing licenses can be purchased at Michigan. gov/DNRLicenses or by downloading the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app and purchasing your license through the app. Michigan DNR Hunt Fish, an official app of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, gives you a mobile path to buy and store hunting, fishing, ORV and snowmobile licenses and permits, report harvests, access guides and digests, and get the latest outdoor recreation updates. 2024 FISHING SEASONS release fishing for muskellunge is open all year.) — The catch-and-immediate-release season for laigemouth and smallmouth bass is open all year on nearly all waters (unless otherwise closed to fishing — check the current Michigan Fishing Regulations for specifics). — The possession season for bass opens statewide Saturday, May 25, except for Lake St. Clair and the St Clair and Detroit rivers which open Saturday, June 15. The 2024 Michigan Fishing Regulations and Inland Trout & Salmon Maps are available online along with a lot of other helpful fishing information. Visit the DNR website at Michigan.gov/Fishing for the most up-to-date information. For fishing license questions, contact DNR eLicense at MDNRE-License@Michigan.gov or call 517-284-6057. HELP PROTECT MICHIGAN’S WATERS — The statewide trout Remember to start and opener and the Lower Peninsula inland walleye end each fishing adventure and northern pike seasons by doing your part to pre­ all open Saturday, April 27. vent the spread of invasive In Upper Peninsula species. Start with a clean waters, the walleye and boat and clean gear. End by northern pike seasons open cleaning debris and plant Monday, May 15. material from boats and — Michigan’s muskel- trailers and draining live lunge possession season on wells and bilges. all Great Lakes, inland Decontaminate waders and waters, the St. Marys River, gear by applying a chemical Lake St. Clair and the St. disinfectant after each use. Clair and Detroit rivers and prevent the spread of opens Saturday, June 1. fish diseases by disposing (Remember that catch-and- of leftover bait in the trash. B -Ft Jayson Bussa Editor With Barry County’s long­ time surveyor opting not to run for another four-year term, the county board has decided to abolish the office and appoint someone to take on the role. The decision to abolish the office of the county surveyor is not a p^icularly extraor­ dinary one. In fact, the move puts Barry County in line with many neighboring counties, such as Calhoim, Eaton, Ionia and Kent, none of which have an office of the county surveyor any lon­ ger. Meanwhile, less than half of the counties in the state still maintain this office, including Allegan, Berrien, Cass and Kalamazoo. For counties with the office, the surveyor is an elected posi­ tion. And that’s where Barry County is rurming into an issue. Brian Reynolds, who has been in the position for 32 years now, does not want to commit to another four-year term and the county lacks a bench of qualified candidates to run for the position. To run for the position, the candi­ date must be from Barry County and hold the neces­ sary qualifications. In fact, of all the residents who have these qualifica­ tions, just two are viable can­ didates, Reynolds said. He said he spoke with both of them to gauge their interest. finding that one of them is not interested in running for the office and the other doesn’t necessarily have an interest but would run if needed. The office of the county surveyor is fairly antiquated, but there is still a need for a surveyor to administer the county’s remonumentation project, a decades-long pro­ cess where surveyors work in townships throughout the county to moniunent Public Land Survey comers. By abolishing the office. the commissioners are then able to appoint a surveyor for the role and they don’t necessarily have to be a resident of they simply Barry County need to be qualified. Reynolds appeared in front of the county board’s committee of the whole on Tuesday morning with Barry Administrator County Michael Brown to provide an UI•IIlate on his status. “We didn’t want to get past the filing deadline and find that we didn’t have someone that ran and then what do you do? Then you have to appoint and maybe struggle to appoint,” Brown said. “That doesn’t leave you a lot of options.” “With the appointment process, you forgo the issue of having to hold a special election of some type,” Brown added. “There are just a lot of legal complexities that go away with the appointment.” “It doesn’t mean there ft a: Cl * ** li I \ * tl'*' JI' ♦ •'’l 1 •J I Ji ■ r J,** / i®'' 1, Barry County Administrator Michael Brown (fore­ ground) sits next to County Surveyor Brian Reynolds as they speak to the county board’s committee of the whole on Tuesday morning. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) rtI ’. X I'J won’t be someone to admin­ ister the (remonumentation) program, it just becomes an appointed position, not a position,” neglected Reynolds told the board. County Board chairman asked Jackson Dave Reynolds if he would be willing to serve as an appointed surveyor. “The answer to that is yes, I am. I am willing to take on a one-year obligation but I’m not willing to take on a fouryear obligation,” Reynolds said. Appointing someone to the position will likely unlock cost savings, as well. The 2024 salary for the county surveyor is $11,046 and the position provides a variety of benefits paid for by the county. Reynolds was receiving $600 extra per year due to a longevity bonus that pays out $25 for each year of service. Reynolds will serve up until Jan. 1, 2025. The Board of Commissioners is expected to give final approval of the resolution this coming Tuesday. iStt®!'* jy. COP, iltfflJeii [fflJliiSffl jjjliiitto 9 toltiina' iitsiiwiiii If4 Cm I—i 4 s n. ItecsDe® • fflUI ffirialia iliili lit Barry County road commissioners defer millage discussion to next year ninliA1 bi.bd Sub USE m dot Q It life 15 Greg Chandler ( Fishing licenses can be purchased at Michigan. gov/DNRLicenses or by downloading the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app and purchasing your license through the app. The 2024 fishing licenses are valid through March 31, 2025. (Photo provided) Your local agent insures your Staff Writer Barry County road commissioners aren’t quite ready yet to ask county taxpayers whether they would support a dedicated millage that would help pay for the upkeep of county roads. Commissioners Tuesday discussed the possibility of bringing a county road millage before voters and agreed to continue thosd'discussions early next year as part of the road commission’s strategic plarming process. Road Commission Vice . Chairman Frank Fiala favors some type of levy to support iBns Ji----------n ti Men i ♦T r 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville tax. “I just don’t see an appe­ tite for it,” Solmes said. The road commission receives the majority of its funding support through the Michigan Transportation some benefit from those (services), Fiala said. But the roads, everyone uses them.” “I would think some kind of small millage request, to get a feel from the people, yes or no, like Rutland Township did, I think it would be reasonable,” Fiala added. However, Chairman David Solmes doubts whether there is enough support for a road Fund, which is funded through state gas taxes and * •r *V -.tr* antenna Men • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers * Cellular Enhancement Systems « Jason Parks “general operations that we have,” citing a lack of fund­ ing at the state level for road improvements. "in “In terms of of schools, in terms of police, in terms of FMS • • • everybody gets EMS Give us a call! (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com 1 n G- J nA 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpros.com I 1 vehicle registration fees. In 2022, BCRC received nearly $9.23 million in fimding through the MTF, according to figures from the County Road Association (CRA) of Michigan. In addition the ’ road commission receives funding from townshim to juSdictkjm* A total of 31 Michigan counties have countywide road millages, including sev­ eral neighboring counties to Barry, said Dustin Earley, deputy director of engagement for the CRA. Allegan County, to the west of Barry, has had a ded­ icated countywide road tax since 1982 that generates more than $4 million a year toward resurfacing and pres- ervation of primary roads in the coimty. Eaton County, to the east, has had a county­ wide millage to fund resto­ ration and rehabilitation of local county roads since 2015. Commissioner Jim James recommended that his col­ leagues revisit the road millage issue as part of the road commission’s strategic plan­ ning process in January of next year “so that we do not the take time away from manageable, achievable goals that we’ve set for 2024.” Fiala and Solmes agreed to have the issue brought up in those strategic planning sessions. “That’s the place for it,” Fiala said. “We’ll be doing budgeting and making some forecasting of what we think is going to happen with MTF (funding) over the next couple of years,” Solmes added. BCRC oversees the main­ tenance of 1,067 miles of local roads and 52 bridges across Barry County, accord­ ing to the agency’s website. bih I ! s fiii ' ^Shilled J** C' ’ 'Si �I I I i' If 4. L'J 1 (• 1 r k Pusiin St. I( St,' W - Miij ft ift Caaaus,, Tosb. < IKK 'f VI M21 Ij I tKII *T I• 4 J- ■ KSIFIFW ■■ The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6, 2024/Page 7 Barry County drafts resolution affirming Constitution, second Amendment after months of discussion who echoed the sentiments of of That portion was amended some of his colleagues on the during the meeting with input After roughly a year of board, said that it was in from Barry County Sheriff on-again, off-again discussion, everyone’s best interests to Dar Leaf, who suggested Barry County commissioners have the board focus on conchanging the verbiage from largely agreed on a resolution ducting the business of the “ constitutional rights ” to “ natthat would signal to the state county and staying away from ural rights, protected by the that it is opposed to any legis­ political issues especially Constitution.” lation that infnnges on the those that the county has no Commissioner Mark rights afforded by the authority on. Doster, who has been unwavConstitution, singling out the However, since then, the ering in his opinion that a res­ Second Amendment. issue has cropped up from olution of this nature is not During a Tuesday morning time to time, either on the necessary and could set a prec * meeting of the board’s com- agenda or from residents who edent for a parade of forth ­ mittee of the whole, commis­ have appeared in front of the coming symbolic resolutions, sioners voted 7-1 to approve a board during the public com­ did not like the fact that the resolution that affirmed the ment portion of the meetings. resolution was amended on board’s support of the United The issue was brought back the fly. States Constitution and the to the agenda yet again at the ‘‘You’ve made substantial Second Amendment, specifi­ suggestion of commissioners changes to the thing just cally. Barty County joins 55 Bob Teunessen, Jon Smelker during the board meeting,” other counties throughout the and Mike Callton. Doster said. “The public does state that have passed similar Callton said that, by his not know what those are. I do resolutions, ranging from count, this current resolution not know what those are. This declaring themselves as a was the seventh version that is very premature to be comSecond Amendment sanctuary had been drafted since the . 1 XX- • . . ing before the board. It should to simpty afiinnmg their sup- original. be put off and whatever ver­ oiiginal. port of the Umted States ““This This has has been an issue issue that that sion you all have determined o^titution. hashasbeen beenaround aroundsince sincelastlast you’re going to support needs Barry County s resolution summer summer and and itit certainly certainly not not to be printed in our agenda so does not declare the county as one one of those things that is the people of the county have a Second Amendment sanctu- going goingto to be be an an 8-0 8-0 vote vote— itit’s’s an opportunity to come and somewhat controversial,” speak on it. If you go and aiy somewhat The wheels on this drawn- Callton Callton said. said. “What we’re change something on the spot out process were first put into looking at today is what I here, you re robbing them of rnp r 7”^ this resolution T T ”® from coming attended a Board of one of one place place or or another. another. II think think commissioners meeting m this this version version has has something something in in high numbers to lobby for the it for everyone and probably board to entertain and approve something that everyone a resolution that would declare doesn ’ t like. That ’ s what a „ _ ru . Barry County a Second compromise is.” Amendment sanctuaiy county. “Fifty-five counties have This came on the heels of new either eitheraasanctuaiy sanctuarycounty countyresoresocontrol legislation lution. gun lution. Second Second Amendment Amendment authored by the Democrat- resolution or constitutional controlled state legislature, (resolution). This is a constitucounty’s tional and Second Amendment which the Republicans felt was an over- resolution that will put us in reach and infringed upon their that group,” Callton added. Second Amendment right to The resolution states that bear arms. each commissioner took an The board did not take oath oath of ofoffice office toto support support the the action on that original resolu- United UnitedStates StatesConstitution Constitutionand and tion, rather, went back to the declared declared their their support support for for the the drawing board to draft a Constitution Constitution and and specifically specifically resolution broader resolution that the Second Amendment. affirmed its support for the “The Barry County Board Constitution and all of its of Commissioners is opposed amendments. The changes to any legislation that will didn’t resonate with the local infringe upon the natural rights GOP and the resolution was of the people, protected by the never voted on. At the time. Constitution,” the resolution board chairman Dave Jackson, states. ' their Ftot Amendment rights. •*“ '• was wassimply simplyaamatter matterof of““wordwordsmithing smithing””and andthat thatthe theamendamended resolution could still be Board"“tf “‘c Board 01 Commissioners meeting. The eight commissioners — all Republicans — haven ’ t haven’t always alwaysseen seeneye-to-eye eye-to-eyeon onthe the issue. issue. Even Even ifif passed, passed, the the board boardhas hasno nopower powertotodictate dictate how the offices of the county sheriff and prosecutor carry out out their their work. work. Even Even if if a a new new gun gun law law was was thought thought of of as as unconstitutional, unconstitutional, it it would would still still go go into into effect. effect. Barry County Prosecutor Julie spoke in in Julie Nakfoor Nakfoor Pratt Pratt spoke front board aa front of of the the county county board coupleof ofweeks weeksago agowhen whenthe the couple discussion kicked back up to set the record straight on any resolution that might include the word “sanctuary.” “I urge anyone that has a problem with any new laws to read them, give us a call if you S > I 1 r ♦I I I 1 J* 4 • J I J I 1 ♦I I I V I 1 n -9! • I3 I * I •» . 1 •• .•••• .. r I t I#*? I th t Callton (right) are two Barry County commissioners that led the charge in bringing a constitutional resolution back to the board’s agenda to be voted on. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) have any questions on them,” she said at that meeting. “Again, I did not create the laws but I’m here to enforce them but please keep in mind that ‘sanctuary’ gives the impression you are immune from it and you are not. I will not pick and choose what I enforce. However, I do have the discretion to do what’s best based on many factors.” Not only did Doster say that the constitutional resolution would open the door for simi lar, symbolic resolutions but he also said that this one was especially problematic “ "tight encourage some to ignore new gun laws some to ignore new gun laws that have been put in place. that have been put in place. “The thing is this is what’s “The thing is, this is what’s scaiy, is that h it’snol s not symbolic to the people who are pushing this, ” Doster said. “ They this,” Doster said. believe that, if we pass this we will be winking and nudging to the sheriff that he does not have to enforce gun laws that he determines infringe on this right.” “This is going to encourage that type of behavior,” he added. Teunessen, one of the three commissioners who requested the issue be put on the agenda^ said that it sends an important statement to the state. “This isn’t symbolic to responsible gun owners,” he said. “ Second “The The Amendment is under attack and it will be under attack, ok? It might be symbolic but it’s sending a message to the state of Michigan that 56 of the 83 counties don’t want their Second Amendment rights taken away or infringed on.” ( 4 I; / ‘ ■ »■' ✓ I /1 •X f1 / y* • On its website, the CSPOA also makes claims of nationwide voter fraud that it believes has gone ignored or unchecked. The conference is April 17 at the Ahem Luxury Boutique Hotel in Las Vegas. In addi­ tion to Leaf, some of the include other speakers General Michael Flyrm, the National Security Advisor to former President Donald Trump; My Pillow CEO Mike Lindell; and Patrick Byrne, the former CECI of. Overstock. Voting software/hardware vendor Dominion Voting Systems has sued both Lindell and Byrne for their very public claims the com­ pany facilitated voter fraud during the 2020 election. Leaf is up for re-election this year and records show that he has not yet filed. He announced at a recent Barry County GOP meeting that he does intend to run, and when he does, he will face a fairly .crowded field, The resolution will go to the Board of Commissioners this coming week for final approval. > I 9 Garage Sale Rea! Estate MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE. Huge sale. Furniture, home decor, vintage items, porcelain dolls, kids and adult clothes, books, household items and much more! FH-Sat, April 12th-13th, 2024. 9a.m.-6p.m. 922 Grand Rapids St. Mid­ dleville. CONDO, Middleville village. Open floor plan, lots of natural light. Walkout lower level, Main floor bedroom, en-suite. walk in closet. Kitchen with pantry. Main floor laundry, 1/2 bath. All appliances in­ cluded. Second bedroom/ study. Downstairs bedroom, full bath, family room, work room, storage room. Attached garage, 2 car. Flower beds with perennials! $282,000. 269-795-7815 B asiness Services buying All HARn BUYING WOODS?Paying fo' Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or ?pricing. Will comp. Fetterley Loggine (269)818-7793. CONSTRUCTION: ADDI TIONS,REMODELING,Roofing, Siding, Pole Bams & Decks. Licensed builder25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 Pets DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. &• Help Wanted MASTER GARDENER: SASKATOON Golf Club is looking to hire a part-time; seasonal Master gardener to develop and maintain flower beds and accent landscaping during the golf season. Flexible hours beginning late April / early May through mid-October, approx. 24 hours a week. Apply online at saskatoongolf.com/employment/ or in-person at 9038 92nd St, Alto. JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice Concrete Construction. Now Hiring. Full Time, Competi­ tive Wages, Insurance, 401K, Paid Vacations. No experience needed. Call 616-693-2123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. ’ll Bruce's Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop • • • • . •* affiliated with the Oath Keepers militia group. Leaf has been very public about his inclusion in the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (CSPOA), whose members share the chief belief that local police officials serve as an ultimate authority of sorts, wielding the power to decide whether or not to enforce federal and state laws that they believe are an on the infringement Constitution.. i I I 1 Barry County Sheriff featured at Constitutional Sheriffs convention Jayson Bussa Editor Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf is billed as a featured speaker for the armual meet­ ing of a nationwide group called the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association. This is a group of police officials from across the nation that was formed in 2011 by Richard Mack, a controversial figure who formerly served as sheriff of Graham County, Ariz. and is I I —'-W* s ill!' 1^. I gglRlk’ 6 I g Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com I I L r FHKt 1 H|k 1 c 1 I I I r I I I I I I I ,415 2nd • Middleville 1 • «• A. II i I �I Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6, 2024 Michigan population may plummet by 700K in 26 years, report warns Solar eclipse moves through area on Monday Jayson Bussa Editor A total solar eclipse will be visible in Michigan for the first lime in 70 years and Barry County students and sun gazers alike have no shortage of resources with which to observe the natural phenomenon. On April 8, Barry County will not be in the narrow path in of a total solar eclipse fact, only a small southeast sliver of the state will get to take in that once-in-a-lifetime scene. Midwestern cit­ ies such as Indianapolis, Dayton and Cleveland are also on the path, which stretches from Texas up to Maine. Still, observers in Barry County will be able to watch as a large chunk of the sun is briefly eclipsed by the moon. bringing a level of darkness in the middle of the day. Data made available by NASA states that the partial eclipse for the Grand Rapids the nearest metropolarea itan area — will begin at 1:55 p.m. and achieve maxi­ mum coverage at 3:11 p.m. when 94 percent of the sun will be covered. Safety is paramount when observing a solar eclipse, as looking up at the sun without eye protection can cause irre­ versible damage. “Think about how you can use that typical handheld magnifier to focus the sun to bum holes in paper. That’s what happens when you look at the sun without eye protec­ tion,” said Dr. Kimberly J. Norris of Creekside Vision in Hastings. “You focus the sun’s light on the retina, burning holes in light-sensi­ tive photoreceptor cells, causing blindness.” There is a brief phase during a total solar eclipse when it is safe to look direct­ ly at the sun. This phase is called totality, and it lasts about two minutes. It occurs when the moon entirely blocks the sun’s bright face. However, Dr. Norris warns that totality will not occur in most of Michigan, so observ­ ers in this area will need eye protection at all times when viewing the solar eclipse. Creekside Vision, at 1761 W. M-43 Highway in Hastings, is offering eclipse glasses for $2 each to safely view the solar eclipse. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has teamed up with the American Astronomical Society to offer these tips. — Use specially designed solar eclipse glasses and viewers to block the sun’s harmful rays. Ordinary sun­ glasses, even dark ones, are not strong enough to protect the eyes. — Inspect the solar filter before the eclipse and don’t use it if it’s scratched or dam­ aged. — Use solar filters on camera lenses, binoculars and telescopes. Do not use solar eclipse glasses to look through a camera, binoculars or a tele­ scope. The sun can melt the filter and damage the eyes. . * V Z A* '4 1 ? R i V >ri 3 L' > I I r p* » I 4 * f 1. X 7* I< s*; r •J?; * .4 i ■.y T I . B* A I I t : I 2 <2 1 (Tnafirr 1 i •m 5* I i t I’41 •4-^ <5 t 4 w I >1? «. I < < i: * II A 1 !<* ft ?? Hm 9 tU ST * * “Ww * ,s I 9 J y» s *4’ ir I r yr s♦ <1 ♦♦ > > fi^', Sa WB I t \ X- W iUit H ■ J 4 ► X Michigan was the nation’s seventh most populous state in 1970. It’s now 10th, and a new state report warns that it could lose another 700,000 people by 2050. dents age and fewer women cial demographer, aren’t alone in their predictions. are of childbearing years. Bridge Michigan A 2023 report by the “We’re certainly not alone Michigan’s demographic woes could get even worse in and the nation is going to Citizens Research Council of the next few decades, as a follow,” said Alan Leach, a Michigan for Altarum, a new report projects the state demographic analyst for the Michigan-based nonprofit population could decline by center. Estimates suggest the focusing on health, reached nearly 700,000 residents by nation will have more deaths similar conclusions and the Leaders for than births beginning in Business 2050. warned Michigan that The report from the state’s 2038, he said. demographers, the Michigan “We’re just going to get Michigan is a “below-average Center for state” that must address popu­ Data and there sooner.” Analytics, forecasts a big A projected loss of lation as part of a strategy to population drop unless long­ 700,000 residents would be a protect the state’s economy. term trends turn around and decline of 7 percent, reduc­ Gov. Whitmer is focused more people move to ing Michigan’s population to on making Michigan a state Michigan than leave it. a level not seen since 1990, where everyone can thrive. And even if they do, the perhaps knocking it from its That’s why she’s working to state’s population now perch as the nation’s 10th attract good-paying jobs, 10.1 million will still like- largest state for population. lower costs by building more ly fall by 128,000 in popula­ For perspective, Michigan affordable housing, protect tion as deaths are projected lost 54,000 residents from and expand fundamental to outnumber births by some 2000 to 2010, the only rights, and so much more,” 25,000 per year within a decade in history the state’s said Whitmer spokesperson decade. population declined. Stacey LaRouche in a state­ The latest report comes The projected loss in the ment. amid growing consternation next 26 years would be near­ In recent years, Whitmer among political and econom­ ly 13 times as much. has created the Growing ic leaders about stiff head­ “Substantial population Michigan Together Council winds facing Michigan and growth from natural increase to brainstorm ideas to reverse other northern states. is unlikely unlikely in in the the foreseeable foreseeable trends and appointed a chief is The report’s language is future, future, ” the report conclud- growth officer. ” the report concludgrowth officer. blunt, predicting “sustained ed.^ The most recent populaThe most recent populaand steepening” loss from a “However, if Michigan tion report notes that aging generational shift, as resi- maintains net positive migra- demographics will impact Mike Wilkinson I I 1 tion near the levels in the 1990s, the state potentially has another five to 10 years until natural decrease is so severe that net positive migration is unlikely to offset it.” The forecast is the most recent since 2019, one year ai before the pandemic, and it comes as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and other state officials are getting serious • about Michigan’s vexing population problems. Michigan ranks 49th among states nationwide in population growth iQon ah ,1 f 1990, ahead of only West Virginia, exacerbating work er shortages, impacting hous­ ing costs, infrastructure and quality of life. Leach and colleague Jaclyn Butler, the state’s offi r 1 s I I I ‘4 4 bi I i I t r I ••J ’’bA I. b "4^om, think we are taking a little too much with you to the senior living community. Lets drop some off a M3/Auction. com ____________ and get you some money!" t % *■ r. o 4 I 4 Y/f*. • %* .1 I fev 4 << Ss^\ I 1 1 I -. * * s4J 41 I •V (• k-' rk V ir I i I J 1 J p Ar 4 I ■’'-'IP ’•*1^ A* 4 i f, ' ’’ J h I • • 4-^ '• * J? I •iT . r - 4^ T’ • If i < lij I t I 4 ». ■* • 1’ I Area resident can observe a solar eclipse begin­ ning around 1:55 p.m. on Monday and achieving maximum coverage at 3:11 p.m. (Courtesy photo) It 7. r 1 1 much of the country. Experts and Census data indicate some areas will better sustain the changes, including the Sun Belt, Mountain West and West Coast, which continue to attract residents from other states sidles. Michigan, however, has lost residents to those states while its flow of intemational migrants has waned. And now it has more funerals than baby showers. Michigan is now going into a long term situation to have more deaths than births,” Leach said. “Our growth will e entirely dependent in the near future on positive migration.” On that front, the progno« SIS IS not good. Michigan / continually has one of the highest out-migration rates as tracked by both the Census, the IRS and residential shipping companies. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the time when deaths would exceed births in Michigan, hitting that milestone in 2020. But with the state’s birth rate lower than the nation’s and in a state where the over 65 population is set to grow 30 percent by 2050, deaths will routinely exceed births, Leach and Butler predict. That was the trend in 73 of the state’s 83 counties in 2023, according to the most recent Census estimates. which had the state population increasing by just 4,000 residents. ,1'111?® ,fi 164® isSlWi kA •W w 3E oisd sirtli! I JilslH I dtniie * alii MI I That gap between deaths and births is only expected to grow, according to the report. From the 1940s to early 1960s, Michigan’s total fertility rate was higher than the nation, according to the report. But since the mid­ 1970s it has consistently aann* :-fe, ■ wdf 5teain4 '■^!£tear I ifebai I I been below that threshold said and not reached “replace­ ment” level, where each woman has two or more children. Since the U.S. last hit that rate in 2007, it has fallen to 1.67 average children per woman, yet still above Michigan’s average of 1.57. . i *■ 'u * population wildcard is tu .jH’* iki j migration, once a boon to Michigan, whose population nearly doubled between 1910 (2.8 million) and 1940 (5.3 — — — — » WA A — million) as millions flocked to the state for work. Now, those arriving from abroad are not offsetting the state’s losses to the rest of the nation. Between 2020 and 2023, the state had lost a net of 5,268 to other states while gaining 3,900 from abroad, for an overall net migration loss of nearly 1,400. 5 *^1 ■ '<k'' �M Sun and News, Saturday, April 6,2024/ Page 9 H Local family now helping others Kick Cancer Brett Bremer Michigan LLS candidates for ” "W-WNW VHIIVVI She is an all ‘A’ student at Sports Editor Visionary of the Year this point who is currently The victories for freshmen with being a lead fiindraiser thinking of maybe working Madison “ Maddie ” this sr _ , , „ „ , . spring and spreading the towards being a veterinarian Lockwood from Caledonia LLS’ss me«aaA ____ _ message. Never one to when she is grown. and Jackee Fisher from Forest set small goals, Aaron is hop“She lost her hair multiple Hills Central came well mg to beat the record-setting times, had multiple broken before they started competing fundraising total total by by a bones, mouth sores, constant ► in varsity sports. Visionary candidate of nausea vomiting, and most of They beat blood cancer. $118,000. the time you ’ d never know. 1 The Caledonia varsity Throughout her battle with She just smiled her way girls’ soccer team joined cancer, Maddie underwent through it and never wanted Forest Hills Central and the two and a half years of cheanyone else to be upset, Leukemia and Lymphoma motherapy. She 9 got one day Aaron said. Society of West Michigan to back nack m in school before Aaron ’s fundraising efforts 1 host a Kick Cancer fundraiser COVID-19 forced at-home are running from Feb. 22 to at Scotland Yard last Tuesday, learning across the countiy in May 2 when LLS hosts its an event powered by the the spring of 2020. She was West Michigan Visionaries of Caledonia High School stu- home schooled in sixth grade, the Year Grand Finale Gala. dent council. then finally started to get back “We have a leadership Caledonia freshman Maddie Lockwood (left) and Forest Hills Central freshman Lockwood was the West to normal in seventh grade. committee [that chooses Jackee Fisher Michigan Leukemia & of k^ancer the Kick Cancer She had good guidance Visionary of the Year candi- . ... are , •presented , — with .........flowers .luiiiiiiicatK,/!halftime uiv r\iuK qame between their school s varsity girls’ soccer teams at Scotland Yard Tuesday March Lymphoma SocoC, (LLS) d,mng fc home school yearn dales]," Slevens-Beny said 26. Lockwood was the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society ’ s West Michigan Youth Honored Youth Hero a year itu uy ncr mompr Knctin i * j j ? i , ■-.ji 111,^11^/1110 vj' led by her mother Kristin ago and Fisher has that honor Lockwood, a Caledonia High within th ° people Honored Hero in 2023 and Fisher has that honor this year. (Photo by Brett Bremer) tkjc c K , '-aieuoma High within the community that are K r' 1 ,4 K f teacher. known to be philanthropic is a BBQ, Bags and Brews Links to everything are on Fisher played much of the Evep^g appeared on track that are leaders within their 1, As far as that soccer game, event at Max Effort Aaron Lockwood ’ s Facebook first half for the Forest Hills until............. March of 2022 when it industry. We also try to get Fieldhouse the Rangers were in control in Caledonia Central varsity girls’ soccer was nearly time to nng the bell people from all much of the evening, but the over West planned for April 28 from 1 team in its 1-0 win over the on her recovery, declaring her Michigan, no, jus, ,n the p.m. to 6 p.m. There will be a Maddie said doctors have Caledonia defense powered not just in the told her it is highly unlikely by senior defender Langley Caledonia girls in what was cancer gone for good. Final Grand Rapids area. People cornhole tournament, that her cancer will return. the Rangers’ first contest of tests indicated that her cancer who stand out in the crowd. Peterson and senior goalkeep­ Saladino Smoke BBQ and “I feel like I don’t really er Davanee Balczak managed the season on a cool, windy could be returning. She was We kind of do a nomination door prizes, too. worry about it much from day to fend off the Forest Hills evening. Maddie learned having liver issues and lost her meeting and invite them to be BBQ, Bags and Brews to day. When it comes close Central attack for nearly the early on in life that she wasn’t hair for a second time. a part of the campaign.” team entry, food tickets and to appointments it is kind of full 80 minutes. a soccer player, she joked that ’^coiiT The Lockwood family Maddie said she enjoyed sponsorships can be done nerve-wracking,” she said. she is more likely to have a headed for the woods for a the Kick Cancer event in The Caledonia girls picked , , through the Max Effort Those appointments are up their attack a bit as the ball hit off her face than to put week of qmet m a tree house Caledoma, but it was “a little Fieldhouse website at maxefgetting to be fewer and fur­ winds changed with the start a header on goal, but she is m the Hocking Hills area of weird” trotting through the fortfieldhouse.ryzerevents. ther between, though. of the second half, but slowly still around the sport thanks to k • , . southe^t Ohio. In that week, tunnel tunnel of of soccer soccer players players atat com. Individual tickets for the The point of all this fundthings shifted back to the her younger sister Camden her ANC (absolute neutrophil midfield with her family and BBQ buffet are $40. There raising is to give others simi- Rangers. Ranger senior Ayla Lockwood s competing m wum;, oe nsner count), wmvn which snuuiu should be Fisheraunng duringthe thehalftime halftimecercer­ will be a cash bar. Team entry lar outcomes. Stevens-Berry Thompson got a takeaway in some of the top area clubs, above above 500 500 atat least, least, jumped jumped emony. emony. Players Players on on both both sides sides is $150 and includes two cussaid the Visionary campaign the middle of the Scots’ The West Michigan Galaxy from 0 to 800. She finally got donned orange event shirts for tom T-shirts, and two tickets donned orange event shirts for each year is about much more defensive zone and put a pass and Midwest United soccer to ring that bell in April. the ceremony. Student council for food and drink. There are to ring that bell in April. the ceremony. Student council 'P«ah, than just raising funds. It is ahead for freshman teammate clubs have contributed to the There are little memories members collected funds in also gold, silver and team Mas* members collected funds in about spreading awareness Kathryn Campbell on the cause as well. that stick out along the way. the stands throughout the sponsorship opportunities. about just how tough these right side ofthe box. Campbell The March event in Maddie said she remembers game, sold T-shirts and braceThere is also a Pound Out blood cancers can be on those lofted a shot across the goal­ °r'^ seeing hail for the first time drumming event dealing with the disease and mouth that snuck in just 3>2,2UU. 1 he entire 2024 LLS during their week away m the compete on the field for prizes planned for April 27 at 10 a.m. their loved ones. a.m. S. ti inside of the far post with two Visionary of the Year cam- Hocking at the Max Effort Fieldhouse Hocking Hills Hills wilderness. wilderness. ItIt during duringhalftime. halftime. Knstin helped spread the and a half minutes to play. paign in West Michigan is wasn The West Michigan Galaxy Aaron is teaming up with 2023 wasn’t’ttime timetotoget getinto intohorsehorse­ The West Michigan Galaxy message becoming a member Fisher, who was diagnosed expected to raise about manship until one day riding FC FC isiscurrently currentlyselling sellingorange orange LLS Visionary ofthe Year and of the LLS executiveleaderwith leukemia in May of » I) $500,000 according to West with her father in the car she Kick Kick Cancer Cancer shirts shirts as as nart part nf of t-tndoirinc Hodgkins tLymphoma xzmriimmo survivor ship team before the 2023 2022, as a 13-year-old, and ite. Michigan LLS campaign pointed out a cow in a field the fundraising efforts now Carmen Skiba on the fundraisnow carmen Skiba on the fundrais- campaign kicked off. She spent six months in Helen development manager Kris along the road - it was a through er, which which will will feature feature Bee Bee nominated through April April 15. 15. There There are are er, Thornapple DeVos Children’s Hospital fellbljiii Stevens-Berry. also orange and red frames Strong Fitness and Fine Point Kellogg Middle School math r going through five rounds of “It was wonderful,” Maddie is very familiar being solid at Caledonia Fitness Fitness at at MEF MEF Fieldhouse. Fieldhouse, teacher Carmen Skiba for her chemotherapy, celebrated on OT A; iSi Stevens-Berry said. _“I thought with equines now. Her horse. Vision throughout the month There There is is aa $20 $20 suggested suggested dona dona-­ 2023 Visionary of the Year the sideline with her Forest the student council students Trumpet,retired at the ripe of April to benefit LLS tion campaign. Hills Central teammates tion to to participate. participate. raewfe: were awesome. They are fear- old age of 29 following the “It is kind of everybody’s less. They love fundraising. I high school equestrian sea- thing,” Maddie said of her st aBaiS! am surprised, but I’m not sur­ son. She specialized in hunt dad’s Visionary campaign. I prised.” Uis® seat equitation with Trumpet “He is IS kind of or the ring leader IMfcM MM Stevens-Berry said that in the high school program all. We ’ re of his individuals and local busi- last fall, but performs in all assistants. Reaching out to Kias'’ nesses in the Caledonia and kinds of disciplines and com- friends and helping him plan Middleville areas have been petes at the fair and in Arabian his events. Helping him set up | V amazing contributors to her horse shows too. his events when it comes organization and its fundrais­ Currently, she has two time.” ing efforts over the years. horses she is working with The big fundraising event Maddie, a freshman at Frost and Fury. ahead for Aaron’s campaign Caledonia High School this I 1 r year who lives in Middleville V * with her family, took to danc­ . r ■ I A I' ing after giving up soccer. I a. When her leukemia and its I »t#'V. Si* side effects took away danc­ osEB nuns • ncK dps • one toms • wins • smrs • jeek • 4M s I J#*' ing opportunities she turned I * Must prsssnt this coupon. to horse riding. She was a j I Ebqiiros 4-19-24 member of the Caledonia j High School equestrian team j 4 that finished as the Michigan j • * « Interscholastic Horsemanship Association Class A Reserve ’ Champions last October — No monthly interest five years removed from her 210 East Main Street, Caledonia Il paid within life-changing leukemia diag r '/’//t' company 18 mo. ■ nosis. built by referrals I L J L J L J J Maddie’s father, Aaron L J ▲ J Lockwood, is one of 11 West T -7? A •CT S I I I I I W*-' a t A. I I i SA f f 1 Ilf I 1 A; V' I 4 h I'li IT *V « F High Efficiency I'-.; 1^9 FURNACE I I I ■1. I I *-*r. 4| \ I I ****^25 T’'; 1 4 I 9 Air* IIGHT TRUCK PARTS •* • I > » 4^ / ► 400 OFF f• ) 11 , r I ■k « I EDU SERVICE a YUU PULL IT *A II I b i 1.1 s d.- I k ^1 fl 'J I I I I I T 269-381-2300 'I * 4,* ■w t A 4 St 1 Sf 4 fl AV J * -■JI HEATING a COOLING J USED PARTS I USED TIRES I I J « 1811 LAIS SI KAUUHAZOD JI financing availadle I I 1 I I T * If t A' < I �I 4 Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6, 2024 • •J* 4 & i 1 Scots open 2024 with win over tough Bulldog team Ik IB* A season. Gutierrez’s senior team­ mate Maddox Greenfield was right behind that duo in third place with a personal record leap of his own of 19-7.5. Greenfield has a personal record time in the 100-meter dash in his first varsity track and field meet. Fighting Scot distance runners junior Kort senior and Thompson Samuel Pugh set personal records in the 1600-meter run. Hager was Owen Caledonia’s lone state medalist a year ago. He won both the 110-meter high hurdles and the 300-meter intermediate hurdles against Byron Center. Senior Ian Fedewa, a state qualifier in 2024, had a solid performance in the throws and sophomore Liam More was even better with personal records of 44-3.5 in the shot put and 146-1 in the discus that earned him the runner-up points in both events. That is just a smattering of the guys that Caledonia head coach Ben Thompson is excited to have back this sea­ son. The long list of key returnees also includes senior Brett Bremer Sports Editor I low prepared for the 2024 varsity boys’ track and field season are the Fighting Scots? If the first meet is any indication, they’re in pretty good shape. Caledonia boys The opened the season with a 71-66 win over a pretty talented Byron Center team Myers inside Ralph E Stadium in Caledonia March 25. TTiere were highlights at the high jump pit where a pair of state qualifiers squared ofiF. Byron Center’s Jayden Brock closed out his junior season with a top leap of 21 feet 5.75 inches which earned him the eighth-place medal at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Track and Field Finals at Rockford High School last June. Jordan Caledonia’s Gutierrez was also a state qualifier in the long jump last year. Brock flew to a mark of 22-.25 to win the event last week with Gutierrez not far behind at 2 J-1.75 - a mark that would have been ninth right behind Brock at the state finals last > • •t * Ml 3 5 L <r'i 4** f to . _.w ? r. * s -r* •.>. ♦ % L«-.. h •MM ’ I t .■t»A.; •T >4 >; .•». 1^* ♦ r ; <J I* « 4 < t.: < V •J 9 5- 9 ♦ •< t, A f' -9 <4 I I« t I <> 4 * A* 4- 9 I ? lo rxi t P r- f bV *4 4 C \ « < r J9 r 1 * I 5?: > ■r H * A r* ► ? V * A t X •k 1 I V A I r 1?^ I1 « 4 ■ i J I 'I .¥ t A» t* t < f ' 1 I i**? -1 I A. Al s 4 ’. > > h A *4 < I <<*<*•: K i 4 '!ir * 4 The 2024 Caledonia varsity boys’ track and field team celebrates its season opening victory over visiting Byron Center inside Ralph E. Myers Stadium in Caledonia March 25. sprinters Ethan Berends, Dharius Walker and Mason Osterhouse and sophomore sprinter Shaden Thomas. In the middle distance races the Scots bring back senior Ayden Duffin, sophomore Eli Veiling, senior Micah Nagel and junior Joshua Maier. Carter Tufts, a senior, will look to keep pace as best he can with Hager in the hur­ dles. Sophomore Cody Meyers is a key returnee in the throws and the Scots will look for points from senior Daniel Swartz and sopho­ more Ben Moss in the pole vault. All those guys helped as the Scots were 6-2 in duals a year ago and won a couple of invitationals and earned a third-place finish at the OK Red Conference meet. The Scots went on from there to place fourth at their MHSAA L.P..,Division 1 Regional and fourth at the MITCH Team State Finals. / to try and keep pace with East Kentwood and Rockford in the OK Red Conference while also fighting to tend off other challengers for a top spot like Grand Haven and Jenison. Caledonia opens the OK Red Conference season with a dual at Grand Haven Wednesday, April 10. The Scots host their annual Soderman Relays Saturday, April 13. The next home dual for the Scots is against Hudsonville April 17. Looking to help the Scots try and improve on those finishes in their first varsity season with the Scots are Greenfield, freshman sprinter Aaron Collins, freshman runner distance Grant Feldpausch and senior leaper Lual Abiel. Coach Thompson sees this as a very deep team with great senior leadership. So far, he likes his team’s posi­ tive attitude. He sees a big group or hard workers. 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Main St., Caledonia 616-891-7560 cliennyvaleystove.coni V616.891.6055 9 I HEATING a COOLING in Caledonia 1900 Patterson Rd. Middleville, Ml 49333 FRONTIER 1ZL.1 ! n-j TIRES2000.NET 1 medical & aesthetics CENTER 269.945.9554 1 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 Area Chamber of Commerce •.A*.-' T * ’ •k I * A * A * *» * A ® WWW PROPEREU COM I Q 9809 CHERRY VALLEY AVE ▼ SE. SUITE C. CALEDONIA Mi I 616.327.5155 w T : ♦ I f * • r • I r •* » ► �I t r f The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6,2024/ Page 11 * SSr?^ . V JT --■ ----------------- 5 - - _______ - X.- •t .'4. FT , >4) < < - * •\*' 4' 'y 11 -i I I I ^1 « i I \ I’ \ thk. Scots have strong group of senior leaders on 2024 squad girls lacrosse has solid senior group back 4 •, *«irfT—?■ £#' mmmm « M« HV r 5 * - j>v 1 f-- J St **^*9 * * *w C-t- y at: > 11 vt >..> ,--- . <^4 iBM ■ I •. 4 -an V 4 e.--';iss25 A* l«S “5 r ■ft * i ll\jb *<^ll » <* r-3. I * ■Hie l<S«r K 4 \ > $ * i I *1 LV < f i.n 1 / i i > 4 r !» i '4 A ?£ ^Ls-^ - >•. T J f B g| 1.;^ lUIJH J MIX A V Jr-' 4 ■-» 'r't !?♦'>’ ;:ssa.J' •rx TZu^ T * V . L <A« ? **'» *12 r'> ✓ iiJH# £4’? r Molly Winger, Alyssa DeFields, Kloe KimbreU and Kiersten Sports Editor s 1 J^sity girls’ track and field head coach Ben Howell has been leading the program for six years, but he has been coaching in the pro­ gram much longer. The depth and leadership in this group of girls for the rightmg Scots this spring is as good or better than any he has coached. “We have more quality returning seniors than we have probably ever had,” Howells aid. “This is great for the lead­ ership on our team.” The group is paced by a trio of sprinters: Teresa Abraham, Brooke Heyboer and Audrey Howell. “These three have been the backbone of much of our team success over the past three years in the spnnt relays and their individual events,” Howell said. Abraham will also be a key contributor in the high jump and Howell in the hurdles. Heyboer ran her fastest 100-meter dash ever to place fifth in the race at the OK Red Conference cham­ pionship last spring and Howell was top five in the conference in bo± hurdles races. Coach Howell is also really excited to welcome back seniors 3I1S0 w 7* ‘ « 11 siai; t.. .A I TT’^ii'wW r * M IK•Ti « I IM9 >AWy^ Z’’V •> A** 1 Addie Roe hh -ilHU «Cate>? .--•fc- .4 /.n * li* 1 A *A Brett Bremer ’''stciaj, 1-575C F’ •:* « •1 lie: Ft f Center inX^pX^h ♦ ill < J • I ^4;* •4^7 >•* •b. : »¥ tt***^* t. "A* ' • ** ^e' T- >•? * •^rr :/• ) (• Fl 1 * **) •Sulk, i < < ■■bf 4 A . L By r-i.-" *r - 9 *kli< r**” ** *s.<' > •l T I « «6srw*. ' •' **.' VVE^ i & . * ^1 * * *^F I I ^e '■ >1. TV “a. lOiM I >'1^1^ **-- ---------•w WT*Wt-J -• z*** 5*^ ’•* *» *x»*i£3E aS’ .•*4^1 > ^..4blW •• UF** 1 p Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lowell was no match for the Caledonia varsity girls’ lacrosse team in the season opener at Scotland Yard March 20. The Caledonia girls took a 15-6 win over the Red Arrows. Things went the other way in game two of the season. Northview bested the Scots 15-2 March 26 before the sides headed into spring break. The Fighting Scots were second in their con­ ference a year ago and reaged the regional semi­ finals in Division 2 before falling to perenni­ al state power East Grand Rapids. Back from that squad to lead the way for the Fighting Scots are senior attacker Whitney Graham, senior defender Megan Bushart and senior midfielders Addie Roe and Catalina Peterson. “We have a big fresh­ man class, eight girls,” said second-year Caledonia head coach Kendra Venema. “Caelyn Crocker and Vivian Fink are both freshman that stood out in our first game.” The Caledonia girls will return to action Wednesay, April 10, at home against West Ottawa. DeHaan. DeHaan wiU be one of the Scots’ top throwers this year. DeFields and KimbreU are lead * ers in ±e distance races. Winger K the tern’s one iMuming Stole qualifier finm a year ago. She cleared 10 feet 9 inches in the pole vault at the MHS AA against Byron Center March _____ 25. They contributed in relays and Hawkins had ninner-up fimshes in both hurdles races. Kl^must had a runner-up finish in that dual with the Bulldogs, one one the Byron Center girls won by a score of 84-53, and while she is a returning athlete coach Howell Conference and coach Howell hopes for the team to earn a spot in ±e MITCA Team State Meet again. East Rockford, and West Ottawa will be strong as usual and wiU make it tough for teuns trying to get into the top half of the eight-team conference. Caledonia girls won the 4x 100-meter relav. the relay, 4x200-meter relay and the 4x400-meter relay in the dual Lower Peninsula Division 1 said she has really worked Track and Field Finals in 2023 hard this offseason to get the after setting her PR at II-O ear- chance to be a factor in a lot her in the season. more events than just the 400 with the Bulldogs to open the The CHS girls a year ago as a junior this spring. season last week. The only were fifth in the OK Red Getting those fi-eshmen and other victories for the Scots Conference, sixth at regionals others scoring points will be came in the field with Winger and they scored a tenth-place key to ±e season according to taking the pole vault at 9-6 and finish in the D1 competition at Howell. sophomore Jolie King winthe MTTCA Team State Meet. ““Just Just as as this this senior senior class class is is ning the long jump with a Coach Howell said there are very very strong, strong, we we need need to to develdevel­ mark of 15-4. many fi-eshmen who will fac- on The Caledonia girls return to op oualitv quality scores in other tor into the varsity positions grades to help support the long action at Grand Haven this spring. Olivia Hawkins, term growth of our program,” Wednesday, April 10, for the Evelyn Huttenga and Isla ne fiist conference dual of the sea­ hesaid. said. Sheely were all big contribuAs the youngsters grow, the son. They wiU follow that up by As the youngsters grow, the tors as the Scots opened their Scots will push to finish in the hosting the annual Sodemian 2024 season with a dual top half of the OK Red Relays Saturday, April 13. ► STWTE - iB I Jr .. L |i ■ [ I F N MM • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair i 0 4 • 5 t SA A >9|Qn s. mr<^b!i@Av COLO CLASS J< IT a Lesonal ? NFIB OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm (^^[wmO ^9 .3S9 I Hi Quality Family Eye Care Since 1929 J Scott Bloom, O.D. <• OPTOMETRIST — 2 LOCATIONS — until te nw edlmni i.s «' I* * 'i • HASTINGS; 1510 N. Broadway - 269-945-2192 • WAYLAND: 216 N. Main - 269-792-0515 MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED ED’S BODY SHOP ■ 1! 110 Johnson Street CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN I '• o *s Z 616.891.0150 Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner www.edsbody.com > �Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6,2024 1 z p. w 1 ♦ e * ■ •f k Sports Editor If the Fighting Scots are going to make a bit of a jump up the OK Red Conference standings, this is a spring to do it. The Caledonia varsity girls’ tennis team has much of its singles line-up and at least half of its doubles line-up returning from a team that placed seventh in the conference a year ago for head coach Mike Wilson. This is Wilson’s 34th season leading the program. Junior Kiley Bommarito opened her sophomore sea­ son as the Scots’ first sin­ gles player, but an injury took her out of the line-up about halfway through the season, bumping everybody in the line-up up a bit. Senior Sarah Kirk and junior Hailey Markwat are back with good experience in the singles line-up. Markwat played first singles much of last spring and will get to settle in at third singles this time around to start the year. Kirk returns at second singles where she ■y ” Trt III I Sports Editor Nobody is going to just give you the ball in lacrosse. You have to take it. The Caledonia varsity boys’ lacrosse team is look­ ing to be better at getting its strings on the ball with the help of senior Finn White this spring. Fighting Scot head coach Kolin Herron said White had a really good first game of the sea­ son taking face-offs for the Scots. “We have struggled in past years and he is going to help us,” coach Herron said. “We brought in a new face-off coach this year who has done a ton of work in the offsea­ son with the guys. [White] has put in the effort and put in the extra work.” “You have to have quick hands, you’ve gotta be gritty, you have to be willing to get in there. You’re going to get hit. You have to be physical, The kid just grinds and he works hard and he wants it bad.” Herron said White was about 50/50 against Forest Hills Eastern’s all-state face­ off guy in the Scots’ opener. Caledonia kept things close in what turned into an 11-7 loss to the Hawks in Ada March 20. The Scots are 0-2 so far on the young season. Mattawan took an 8-6 win over the vis­ iting Scots March 26. Caledonia returns to action at home against Lowell Tuesday, April 9. Coach Herron said his squad has nearly all of its See TENNIS, next page Hailey Markwat Scots to work on in clearing the ball. Coach Herron said the top lacrosse teams are almost always those that can transition the ball from the defensive end to the offen­ sive end most efficiently. It also falls on the attackers to turn to a defensive mindset to make sure the other team has a tough time clearing the ball from its end. Coach Herron said the team put a lot of emphasis on that after struggling with those transitions a bit in the loss to Forest Hills Eastern. The Scots will once again be a part of the OK Conference Tier 11 along with lowell. West Ottawa, Shores and Mona Hudsonville, Zeeland, Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Mona Shores and Byron Center. “Last year, we were in the middle,” coach Herron said. “This year we definitely want to be one of those top one or two teams. Hopefully, number one is the goal. We have more talent this year than what we’ve had in the past. We think that’s achiev­ able. We think we can go far this year.” Caledonia will return to action at home against Lowell Tuesday, April 9, and then will go on the road Thursday, April 11, to face Mona Shores. The Scots head to Northview Saturday, April 13, for a noon start with the Wildcats. The Scots have plans to host a Caledonia Community Lacrosse Day April 21 at starters back from a year ago. The team brings back senior goalkeeper Josh Sprague who joined the varsity as a sophomore. Blake Herron is back for his senior year as an offensive midfielder and the Scots bring back senior attackers Jack VanEss and Jackson Kozac too. Coach Herron said that junior Ethan Fisher was hav­ ing an all-conference kind of season before being injured as a sophomore. He’ll return to contribute as an offensive midfielder. Junior Crew Paulman will be an import­ ant young offensive mid­ fielder too as will freshman Lincoln Senti. The Scots’ offensive has been a work in progress, but coach Herron said he has seen steady progression over his couple years leading the program. He sees more and more guys to trust on the offensive end, and likes the chemistry of everyone coming together. Landen Moore and Ryder Bom are a couple other freshmen that could contrib­ ute to the varsity here and there. “We have 43 kids in the program,” coach Herron said. “That is pretty solid. About where we want to be. We don’t cut anyone, so that is a nice thing. We have plenty of jerseys to go around. We put about 26 to 28 on the varsity depending on the fifth quarter guys. Then another 18 to 19 on JV. We’ll kind of move a few of those freshmen aroimd.” The really big thing for the Brett Bremer closed last season after spending some time on the doubles side of the line-up. CHS returns the senior doubles duo ofAbby Duong and Sela Fitzell who will fill the top spot in the line­ up this season. Juniors Zoe Fleming and Sawyer Mertz were the Scots’ third dou­ bles team for a time last spring and will be together at number two this season. Seniors Lilly Hess and Emily Sorstokke are slotted for the third doubles spot ( X' *1 I HU ■« r f •t A '» 4 i t p r iwl * nS# ,, ji'iHIIl® jjisiifiali jitfiDpartic If 31 'sxiltiiime SaJiirfi ni:< < SoW a AiifM a ft fa See LACROSSE, pa^ 14 IJ i SUL *4 i WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS r CHS lacrosse team likes experience on the attack Scots tennis has been working to improve since iast spring Brett Bremer ir I II Iran •ir ir I I, > I V' I»ti as as > • A 4 .. 1. » '^apraedti J f |!T. I » A' Residential & Commercial r I *« > ■ for ■» ,*• ' <U’-- s. *9^ y ’ : ; "I- (. 4 t * Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps -Water Heaters llumidifiers r .A ' ■ '•*. a "i 6 s- I I J. .t •A '.'fX' J -1 • . <» 'W.sBBB 5^ r K • 11 .•> » I ; . I• *** &> i — ’t f i * t A*. r. • A .V s ' t' /■ . ’ll 1 I ■V. I I 1 ■L MB 'Ir?* 1^ ). ■ I r $ < •» r / A • I. . I I H I 8 a. *•< 9 A2 DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 1 ■w ' I e ... « 1 j ^5^ % 5 r .4 S HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING. 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Adaptive track events to be permanent part of postseason .“hSi Sv?* •» * SloriCl '■t'vthu mi it® Bin (ft Ik Sat flhisSiiik4 The permanent addition during the Council's Fall of adaptive track & field Mccting in fJecember. events for Regional and The Council discussed a Finals competitions high­ F ootbal 1 Comm i ttee rcclighted actions taken by the ommendation that would Representative Council of cap enrollment of 11 -player the Michigan High School schools participating in Athletic Association during Division 8 at 250 students its Winter Meeting, March The proposal was made in 22 in East Lansing. order to protect those For the past two years smallest 11-player schoofs (2022 and 2023 tourna­ from playing much larger ments), the MHSAA ha.s opponents during the provided a pilot program MHSAA Playoffs as the for wheelchair track «Sc field enrollment dividing line athletes during its postsea- between Division 7 and 8 son meets with adaptive has continued to trend 100, 200 and 400-meter upward as more small races and shot put. The pro­ schools have switched to posal to make these events the 8-playcr format. While permanent for Regionals the Council voted to not and Finals wa.s brought to approve this proposal to the Council by the MHSAA take effect with the 2024Track & Field Committee. 25 school year, the Council Council The also did vote to discuss the pro­ a approved Softball posal again al its May Committee recommenda- meeting with possible tion permitting schooLs to implementation for 2025play District Semifinal and 26 if approved. Final games on either a The Council also continThursday or Friday (instead ued its past conversation on of Saturday) if all partici­ the start and end dates of pating teams agree to the winter seasons and the pos schedule change. If any sibilities of moving up both school in the bracket does or keeping the same current not approve the change, the start date and moving up default District Tournament the end by one week. The day will remain Saturday. Council reviewed results of This opportunity will take a recent survey of MHSAA effect with this spring’s membership on the topic. 2024 MHSAA Softball Also among ongoing Tournament. topics of discussion were Additionally, the Council possible new and emerging approved MHSAA sports, including girls field Tournament officials fees hockey, boys volleyball. for the next four school water polo and indoor track years beginning with 2024- & field for girls and boys, 25 and including increases and girls flag football. in all sports for which the The Representative MHSAA sponsors postsea­ Council is the legislative son competition. body of the MHSAA. All The Winter Meeting also but five members are electfrequent ly serves as an ed by member schools. opportunity for the Council Four members are appoint­ to discuss items expected to ed by the Council to facilicome up for action at its tatc representation of final meeting of the school females and minorities, and year, scheduled for May the 19th position is occu5-6, and discussion of three pied by the Superintendent topics continued after pre- of Public Instruction or viously being discussed designee. Defense should be dominant for Scots in 2024 Brett Bremer Sports Editor Caledonia giris have been r scattered across west Michigan playing for club teams and in a year many' will be scattered around the stale playing collegiate soccer For now, they ’re teamed up for the purple and gold as the Fighting Scot varsity girls’ soccer team rolls into the 2024 season The Scots off to a I -1 start so far. They took a 6-0 win in a match against the Hudsonville Home .Sch(X)l Hawk.s March 25 and then fell I -0 to v isiting Forest Hills Cmtral back at Scotland Yard the next e\ening, March 26. With the group the Caledonia girls have, allowmg one goal in two games might not be a rarity. Leading the list of returnees for the Caledonia program Steams is in his third seathis spnng are senior goal­ son leading the Caledonia keeper Devanec Balczak girls. He has coached for ten and senior defender Laney years in the soccer program Peterson. Balczak will con­ al Caledonia, with the last tinue her playing days at six spent in the spring with Grand Valley State the girls. University next season and He clearly likes his team's Peterson ha.s signed on to defensive ability and said he play at Western Michigan also likes the speed his girls University next season. arc able to play with. That duo played a big part “We should have a v cr> in the Caledonia girls finishing strong team this year over­ 13-5-1 a year ago and placing all,’’ Stearns said. "The goal second inin the the OK OK Red Red i.s to win conference and go Conference. TTic Scot.s also deep in the postseason tour44 reached a district final in nament. Division 1 at the end of the Finishing atop the OK Red sca.son. Conference won't be easy. The list of returnees for Steams said he expects the Fighting Scots also Hudsonville. Rockford and includes senior defenders West Ottawa all be be vying Kendall Maynard and Alexa for the top spot too. Pearson, senior forwards Hudsonville was a perteet Bella Teelander, sophomore I (KO in the conference a year forward Baylee Devries, ago, handing the Scots two senior midfielder Abigail of their three conference Kramer and junior mid- losses. fielder Josie Wilcox. The biggest challenge for Maynard, Teelander, the Fighting Scots will be Pearson, Kramer and finding the back of the net Wilcox all have collegiate themselves. The program soccer plans too. lost a lot of ofTcnsivc fire­ Fighting Scot head coach power to graduation last Sam Stearns said he expects spring. Ullcox had two goals freshman forward Averi int eh Scots' season-opening Rosted and sophomore mid­ win over the Hudsonville fielder Kortney Muller to be Homeschool Hornets. key contributors in their first Maynard, Devries, Ellery varsity season too. Lienesch and Posted each m I I ■ f§ **2 1 and sophomore Audrey Duong returns to fill the fourth singles spot. Junior Claire Teunessen and sophomore Kebe Fitzell look to join the varsity this season and fill the fourth doubles spot. We have a great mix of hard-working experienced players and some younger players who have spent time tmproving,’’ head coach Mike Wilson, wdio has been leading program for 24 seasons. said. “We should see some progress this season.’’ It is never going to be easy to move up in the OK Red Conference standings. The top should be crowded again with excellent teams at Rockford, West Ottawa, Grand Haven and Hudsonville. Rockford, Jenison and West Ottawa out of the OK Red all advanced to the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls Tennis Finals last spring. The Scots are off to a good start already. They were sec- * Li JR rw TENNIS, continued from previous page 1 r * ond at the Jenison Invitational March 22 where they beat two conference foes. Byron Center won the day’s competition with 23 points. The Scots were second with 12 points ahead of Jenison 9 and Grandville 6. Bommarito had a win in a tiebreaker of Grandville’s Quinn Block. She was 1-1 for the day. Kirk. Duong and Markwat had one win apiece too. Hess and Sorstokke were 3-0 at third doubles and the CHS fourth doubles team of Teunessen and Fitzell was 2-1. The Scots have a bit of time before they start ofticial conference duals. They will face South Christian at Caledonia High School Tuesday, April 9, and then are slated to host Thomapple Kellogg Thursday. The Scots go to the East Kentwood invitational Saturday. The conference season starts when West Ottawa comes to Caledonia April 15. » Laney Peterson scored once. The Caledonia girls return to action at (irand Ledge Tuesday. April 9. and then will be at Forest Hills Eastern Saturdav. April 1 V The OK Red Conlercnce season begins when the Scots host (irandville April 16. CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes The minute* for the March 20. 202-1 lownchip hoard of IruM Meeting which were approved on April 3. 2024. are po.ted al the lownthip Ottices at 11196 Rniadmoor Ave., and on the website al www.cjlctlonutownibip (»rg * w 9 r r arn NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MONDAY, APRIL 22, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. Please be advised the Thomapple Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on April 22, at 7pm or as soon thereafter as possible. The public hearings will take place in the Township Hall, 200 E. Main St., Middleville. The public hearings will address the following: 1) special Use f169 - Applicants Matthew A Mr^lee Veunnk are wishing to install an accessory building with­ in the front yard setback of their residence al 6808 Dun­ can Shores Ln. Middleville. Ml (parcel 08-14-007-001-55) per Thomapple Township Zoning Ordinance 21 3. Any interested person may atterxJ the public hearings to learn about the extent and location of Speaal Use requests to offer comments to the Planning (Commission A copy of the application noted above may be examined in the Township offices at the address noted above during regular business hours. Monday - Thursday 9am- 4pm Written comments regarding these applications may be addressed to: Secretary Sandy Rairigh, Thornapple Township Planning Commission, P.O. Box 459, Middleville, Ml 49333, or submitted via email to: zoning-administrator@thornapple-twp.org Americans with Disabilities Notice Persons with special access needs should contact the Township Clerk at 269-795-7202 no less than 72 hours before the hearings. Cindy Ordway, Tbomapple Township Clerk �Page 14/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6, 2024 i •H *_ 1 ►A , I J s * ■r*“v •l! •«rA’ -I 1 ar *« Scots look to keep rolling after fun 2023 postseason run Fighting Scot softball hoping to surprise foes / r» I Brett Bremer Sports Editor Fighting Scot head coach Jason Buighardt expects the Caledonia varsity baseball team to be powered by a deep pitch­ ing staff"and a solid defense as it enters the 2024 season. That certainly played out in the season opener March 25 against Thomapple Kellogg as the Scots took an 11 -0 win in which pitchers Cam Meyers and Aryn Taylor teamed up to hold the Trojans hitless in the five-inning victory. Meyers got the win with eight strikeouts over his four innings on the mound. He walked one. Taylor struck out two and walked one in his inning of work. Buighardt likes the core he has back spread across the infield and outfield this season. He said he felt like the team is two weeks ahead of where it usually is because of all the experience on the roster. The guys at every level of the program are settling in during what is Binghardt’s third sea­ son leading the program. It’ll be tough to top the magic of the 2023 season for the Fighting Scots, but that is certainly what they’re aiming for. Caledonia took a district championship a year ago and then beat out OK Red Conference foe Grandville in the regional semifinals of the MHSAA Division 1 State Tournament. Back from that squad in the outfield are seniors AJ Szabo “We anticipate being an looking to break into the line-up. That group is high­ overlooked team, but I Sports Editor There is a good group lighted by pitcher Aliya think we are going to sur­ back and a lot of talent to Hemden, pitcher/infielder prise people,” Schertzing sori through in the junior Amber Fairchild, catchers said. “I have no problem class for the Caledonia var- Lexi Henney and Claire being the underdog. We sity softball team this Hoop, first baseman Sophia always have a tough sched­ ule being in the OK Red, Gauthier and outfielder spring. but I think we’ll be much Head coach Kaylie Rian Restau. So far the CHS coach more competitive with the Schertzing, in her fourth season leading the CHS likes what she has seen high level teams that we play. program, is happy to have from her team defensively. “We’ve had some lead­ Schertzing said this seven girls back many of whom were mainstays in group is eager to give ers step up and actively the starting line-up last sea­ Caledonia a new reputation work to shift our program’s and win a lot more games culture. I envision those son. That group includes than the team did last sea­ efforts paying off this sea­ senior second baseman son. The Fighting Scots son. The girls are invested, excited, and ready to comKala Bisterfeldt, junior won 11 games a year ago. Improving the record pete.” center fielder Addy Lash, pitcher Molly starts with two big things The Scots don’t expect junior Lieske, senior pitcher Jaz - pitching and hitting, there to be any easy afterDana and junior catcher Schertzing said the team is noons in the OK Red Malia Burke. looking to improve its bat Conference. Hudsonville, Schertzing said it’s a ting average and knock Jenison, Rockford, Grand huge junior class with a lot down its overall ERA from Haven and Grandville will of talent and versatility a year ago. all be especially tough. Jenison is ranked third in the state coming into the year and Hudsonville fourth. Grand Haven, Rockford, Jenison and Grandville all won district championships a year ago, and Jenison and J Rockford advanced to a WH regional final where the Wildcats took a 6-5 extra innings victory to get into the DI state quarterfinals. The Scots had a few ballgames canceled before spring break, but managed to get a 12-1 win in over the Forest Hills Eastern girls March 25. Bisterfeldt, Lash, Dana, Mackenzie Devries and Lieske had two hits apiece in the win. The Scots had 14 hits overall including a Hr" solo home run by Lash to * lead off the bottom of the Jaz Dana first inning. Brett Bremer fit f r’ •l. r^« !4 I tiJ*f'' «’ I? R 4 Tommy Clarey !1 and Tommy Clarey. Szabo will see time in center field and at shortstop this season. Clarey will spend time in left and at catcher. The team also brings back second baseman Corbin Raffler, shortstop AJ Roszkowski and Meyers who will play third base and pitch. Burghardt said he is excited to have a pitching staff" that is more like six guys deep than three guys deep. Senior nick Slater returns along with Jacob Stoczynski and Andrew Render as well as Meyers and Taylor. Carter Bom will take his turns on the hill too. “Culture-wise, we’re in a really good spot,” Burghardt said. “The guys have been around. The team has bonded well the first couple weeks. I think the postseason success last year made guys more team focused than individual focused.” The Scot coach thinks that’ll be especially important on offense. The Scots lost a little thump from their line-up a year ago and he doesn’t want his guys to get distracted by statistics. It’s going to take team work to move runners and score runs. Caledonia jumps right into the OK Red Conference against a Jenison team that won 28 games a year ago. The Scots host the Wildcats for two Tuesday, April 9, and then goes to Jenison to finish the series Thursday. After that, the Scots take on the Grandville team they beat in the regional semifinals at Grandville High School last year. Burghardt is expecting to get the Bulldogs’ best shot after that 2023 result. Mi A .3 •1 LACROSSE, continued from page 12 4 & I I** ,« ■Fl!!*: :^Area I life I wMC II i^feUogg C li ..J hl I 4* Me' V' Scotland Yard from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are plans for a youth clinic for boys in grades 1-8 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. There will also be a comhole tournament. The cost to participate is $50 per team with prizes for the top *1 5^ I • 4 — ■ .1 wr I iC > • • _ . 'v.. • ■ ■ /i: • J % t, a 1 ' ..■-I ■r >1* * 1*I .’••r I» IL. £: s• •T* I. three teams at the event. More information can be found on the Caledonia High School Lacrosse Facebook page. Coach Herron said there will also be a cook-out. dunk tank and blow-up house. “We just want to connect and have a good time, do some bonding and meet everyone we haven’t met yet. We just want the community to get closer as a whole. especially the lacrosse com- munity,” coach Herron said. L.-* kAiiow r1.1 ijsiiik tow ailiatof ^91 -IT g, ; a biiie !Z w to ^iilheir A a? '•lintof id •I ’•fife 15 'k«of i.l; T-" • ** 9 • • "^1 * “.b— 214889 < • ’1 •< . .. I* St 214890 •I 4 ^If I* 4 I 0 W I N S H P GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP I N 1 H P GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP I I NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING b I NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to build a 2,400 square foot addition to an accessory building. Property will have a total of 5,422 square feet of accessory buildings when complete. Property Address: 4598 84'*’ Street, Byron Center, Ml 49316 The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Utt Special Land Use request to build a 1,536 square foot accessory building for personal storage. Property Address: 820 92"'* Street, Byron Center, Ml 49315 nr Parcel Numbers: 41-22-24-200-038 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-29-100-050 Applicant: Mike Naber, Homeowner Applicant: John VanderMuelen, Homeowner Date and Time of Hearing: 163 April 25'*’, 2024, at 7:00 pm Date and Time of Hearing: April 25'”, 2024, at 7:00 pm 11- Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appearand be heard onsaid __ proposal. Information related to tffls request may be insperted, by appt., during regular business houVs at the Plan'nfng Departnienrwindow ship Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. In order to be entered into the public recorcUs^ed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on April 25'”, 2024. disabilities rieeding special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 6986640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request Tay be'nsperted, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window SaH6161 980 For information related to this request, contact Dan mrnH dan ban.wells@gainestownship.org. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on April ZS*", 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 6986640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. I A t s Am Gai �The Sun and News, Saturday, April 6,2024/ Page 15 9^ * -A -*•4 K 0 V* « 2^ « J& r9 • • «l ,r ^5 q ♦s k c I 49* r r« e 1 *^4 IH •:%r - •< '.i ’*.‘8 i > V •' A r* ■V 4 A •s X 3 w I I. A 1 e A '•> I*' Ul* O- r~ * ‘"tu •v-a . / - a ^^4 I“55: 'k 9^^ *• I. Kr .r» J • 1 . ■ —. 4;. '■ s » A *x '*:• A ♦ A'' * Vikes put together lone .500 campaign Brett Bremer I r I' iC i it ®'5UU; ®i5®i J * WHSlllfdi temfteytas 111 iffliilii Hi^StWls L.-l • Ki|ll !a^ IK Hit iidlgiK im aid sa feM® asiilii tost® UlKXS^ Sporfs Editor Whether it was one of the teams right around .500 or one ofthe ones that was as long way fiom thaL no one could argue that the Barry County girls didn’t play hard this winter. The Lakewood varsity girls’ basketball team had ±e top record from the five MHSAA varsity girls’ basketball teams in the county this season, making the move into the Capital Area Activities Conference and compiling a 12-12 mark overall. That record included a win over Thomapple Kellogg in fte final game of te regular season and a win over the Hastings girls in the opening round ofthe MHSAA Division 2 state tournament. One of the highlights of the whole girls’ basketball season in the coun­ ty, for anyone other than a Saxon, came when the Vikings overcame a five-point Saxon lead in the final five seconds of regulation to score a win in Hastings in late January. This winter was the Vikings ’ first back in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division after nine years in the Greater Lansmg Activities Conference. The competition was tough, but the Vikings managed a 7-7 mark in CAAC ™„™app,e Kellogg Delton Kellogg and Maple Valley squads. Here are the 2023-24 AllBarry County varsity girls’ basketball first and second teams. aged two steals and two assists a game. Cadence Poll, Lakewood: A senior center. Poll averaged 13 points and 10 rebounds a game this winter for the Vikings and had nine double-doubles. She had season highs of 24 points and 21 rebounds. AU-Bariy County Girls Basketball First Team Josie Williams, Delton Kellogg: A junior guard/forward, Williams led the Panth^s with 9.29 noi points per game and averaged a team high 5.3 rebounds too. She had every team his girls played and she was still consistently producing, Hewitt was named honorable oil r -1 eX 8 T.h?J' V I » •< ♦ Poll was named honorable mention all-conference in the CAAC White this winter. Tealy Cross, Thomapple Kellogg: A sophomore guard, Cross averaged 10.2 points and 3.3 steals per game. She had multiple games with over 20 points this season. Cross was named all fere^^^ tafco'orOoTrns’ single game highs of 20 points, 14 rebounds and and seven blocked shots. A three-year varsity starter so far, she holds the DK records for blocta in a season witn 44 and in a career with 93. Coach Mike Mohn said she is the most complete basketball player on the DK squad. She was named honorable mention all-conference in the SAC Central this season. Rachael Hewitt, Hastings: Hewitt led the county in scoring at 14 points per game, and was the Saxon leader in three-pointers made, steals and rebounds. Saxon head coach Chase Youngs said his junior forward 4 -4*** ' 4 I sr r r - CT i. A K winter in her second varsity season. Reece Ritsema, Thomapple Kellogg: A freshman forward. ■ A Y z i. tJ Ritsema averaged 5.4 points and 7.8 rebounds a game while totaling four double-doubles during conference play. She was named honorable mention all-conference in the OK Gold. Wv>«' F 1 5^ - i c I I r w.i' I —* . jv.' ■ r I « fi e X * t < •* ^1 it A”: & .3''’ » ‘A.4 1 AU-Barry County Girls’ Basketball Second Team Addie Stampfler, Delton Kellogg: A sophomore guard. Stan^fler finished second on t e DK team m scoring with 8.5 pomts per game. She-------had a ■I- I ■' t Tealy Cross Olivia Friddle, Hastings: A sophomore forward for the saxons, Saxons, sne she mushed finished second second in in points, second in steals and averaged a couple points and a couple assists a game for the Lions, forced to take on a big role when the Lions’ senior third in rebounds on the point guard went down with - inj^arly in ™ oT .... hvia Eventt, Lakewood: physical forward for the Vikings, Everitt averaged 6.5 noints and 73 points 7.5 rphnnndc rebounds a guard guaruposition. posinon. Head Head coach coach Mike Mike Mohn Mohn called her a pretty good athlete on both sides of the court until a knee injury ended her basketball season - and her run to who probably has the most upside regarding her basketball potential of anyone on his squad. the state wrestling finals. She Kimber Fenstemaker, Hastings: A senior forward, Fenstemaker was second in rounds, third in steals and led the Saxons in blocked shots. Hastings head coach Chase Youngs said he relied on Fenstemaker to guard four of the five positions on the court regularly. ♦1. .1 and seven rehmmHc fi-nm rebounds XdZi “ from her girls had the second best record in the county at 11-13 and competed well in the OK Gold Conference. A win over Forest Hills Eastern in the game as a senior this winter. conference opener was part of Sh also averaged a block a a 7-0 start to the season for the game with many partial blocks TK ladies. The Trojans got to too. 8-1 but eventually ran into the Audrey Hillard, Lakewood: poweihouse programs in their A senior guard, Hillard aver­ conference. aged 6.7 points and 6.3 Hastings had to be one of rebounds a game for the the most competitive threeVikings with a season high 19 win teams in the state of points against Eaton Rapids. Michigan, and it was solid Hillard was a team leader year of growth for young for the Vikings and also aver- t t. Athletic — iniersiaie-o *3^ •• * • v.-;ziz4io,,—11___ 1 v j was an individual state qualifi­ er in wrestling this winter too. Autumn Williams, Lakewood: The Vikings’ senior point guard, coach Kelly Memts called her a great defensive player who did a lot of the small things for their squad. She had 13 points and three steals in a conference win over Sexton. Aubree Roth, Maple Valley: A freshman point guard, Roth . She had to come in to learn to run the show and learn to be the sort of player her older teammates could learn to respect and follow,” Lion head coach Karl Wilhelm said. “She made huge progress as the year went a long.” Kyla VanAlstine, Maple Valley: A senior guard who once once again again had had to to play play with with the ball in her hands more than the Lions would have reallv really liked, she averaged seven seven points and a couple of rebounds a ballgame. “Most importantly, she has been our senior leader and real- ly a leader for the past couple years. She probably deserves the recognition for just putting up with me the past two years,’’ Lion head coach Karl Wilhelm said. “She has been our go-to scorer. Without her we’d lose a lot of firepower.” Emma Geukes, Thomapple Kellogg: A junior guard, Geukes led the Trojans in assists and was one of her team’s top outside scoring threats as well. Geukes averaged 5.7 points per game this season. Lydia Schilthroat, Thomapple Kellogg; A junior euard. SchiUhrnat guard, Schilthroat WnmP became a key ball-handler and defender for the Trojans this season. She averaged 7.1 points, 2.6 steals and 3.8 rebounds per game. JIM 214891 214892 ■ T 0 N S H J P GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP I GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING „ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to build a 900 square foot accessory building (garage) for storage of vehicles. The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use requesttooperateaBrewpubinthe Neighborhood Commercial (NC) zoning district. Property Address; 44 Brownell Street SE, Grand Rapids, Ml 49548 Property Address: 163 68’^ Street, Grand Rapids, Ml 49548 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-06-356-010 Parcel Numbers: Applicant: Daniel Suarez-Lopez, Homeowner Applicant: Date and Time of Hearing: April 25% 2024, at 7:00 pm 41-22-07-151-007 Matt Szukalowski, Adesanya Mead & Microbrewery Date and Time of Hearing: April 25‘\ 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing; Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on April 25”’, 2024. Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on April 25% 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 6986640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. ( ■ P ■ * �K -IX. 1 f k •>- R A « ▼ ^■1 9 I « % X 9» i 1 rI X < 4 'li 4 J I i I } kt w I I <l V. t F MKUr c A ft 1 l> I J ’> ♦I « >■ 11 9 I •< I 7 ____ V 1 T ;t- V Mi hux .> •r ♦ 11 i^--' •■M’V’ < > 1 k a -J s » F .'Xs < A > ■w I 4 •r-^ 4 I** I k f t l< I I < <4» ”1 I''' tw I »• . I >> ‘ < A A*^ 4 ai" I r' * J I I a r 1 I V / Olfi; i ■I « u? H '^i; % V * ilX %« L«(. I X A < ^11 4 1'^ t 1. *a c “O 4 -< 1 '£ lTi' A * *^4 X JA «. t. • i. 11: t Jt**’ > ► ' i; 4 k X k Ita 1 bj9> PAWING - ALL Y ING PROGRAM DRAIN R IB MILLING 10 t. I sf r? L\ :\ R ly i' « » K*. f Wb u* K X 1 I' lU J k 1 k A < * » ' i«: r t R •i I J I < I 1 I I ^R- . ',■ » [ ? • b ’Fi '^1 1. I J 4’ >’ I - 1-^ & n I x ■i; w I I ’■*«! t wk > kv. r / I I u I u * % 4' t I * FILLING 4 I > 1 4 2 a> *▼■ ' i r <• « •“ r ] J ( I { a 4 ' I.a. 4 ' Lr a I I F ’ t ^8i, .. -, »» •i L, It \ <1 « i I 9 ^•1 ’v » FA ( 4* X’ u I > • . 11 III *» a »( I / •A It' I ?• y ! y* *< L f I ) A • I I vl 1 I *1 .«!■ A-*- I * a 4 *1 3 ri I » *’• •• * « % At '• i' <♦ • ♦ •.* I ■'t , - I, I > X **- r 1•* L 4 » ft* !V X X *• I I < ! > T a > (269)948-9363 4 0 1 r I Find us on 4 >F^ i 'K Facebook K> JftifiaiiiiaiS:.^ieaiBiiailSINfli I Q I I A i •) It 4 , t 'r � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-04-13.pdf 5621fd5cba8e63c3dc833cb15e447ea2 PDF Text Text •M1 I J*' ♦ Ai C 4i < >I f. V .' > J * k 1 ? J j 1 *« r> ' iT r 1 « H '.'^ A r ♦ p' ) <* *>» A 1A ■<4.' L 1 >* 7r - — I j I i A w iJBUi ▼ t > 14 .**A_ *5*^ k MX V -4 L» •-J Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville No. 15/April 13, 2024 an(d Caletjonia Areas Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. • 1351 N. M-43 Highway. Hastings, Ml 49058 V ‘ 4* <« liiBhIf ,.-■:• \b r ■Lt* % Lk I & * / • r»,p J f . •’rf Wh»e 4 4 * 1 1 b >> / V p. b * ■>> i •ri Ar r « . - *M « .< * > A* A 4 .J 4 *-•* « '-A ■ k'l. r. V A crowd of people mostly opposed to the town center project spoke out against it at a February 2022 board meeting. (File photo by James Gemmell) Work to begin on Prairie Wolf Station town center in Gaines I I « James Gemmell er. That was after the town­ ronmental impacts of build­ Contributing Writer ship board voted in February ing a large development on After years of trying to 2022 to reject the company’s what is currently farmland. get an estimated $100 mil­ proposal to build the mixed- The impact on local schools lion town center develop­ use development on farm­ also was cited. ment approved in Gaines land along 84th Street east The developer argued in Township, American of Kalamazoo Avenue. Kent County Circuit Court Kendall Properties LLC is Caleydonia LLC bought the that the development was about to turn shovels on the property from the Lansing­ allowed by right under the project. based Eyde Company in township’s zoning ordi­ A business entity called 2023. nance. In order to settle the Caleydonia LLC sued the Some township board suit, the township relented township for $4 million in members and many resi­ by signing a consent agree­ 2022 on behalf of the dents expressed concerns ment to allow the Prairie Indianapolis-based develop- about the traffic and envi- Wolf Station development to move forward. The town­ ship board has since passed a new master plan, a new future land use plan, and is working to craft a new zon­ ing ordinance to codify those plans. On Monday night, the township board voted 5-0 to approve a water develop­ ment contract for Prairie Wolf Station. That means municipal water lines will See PMIRIE WOLF, pa^ 2 Village of Middleville, Bradford White honored by United Way Jayson Bussa Editor The Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center honored the Village of Middleville and Bradford White this week for its fundraising and volunteer efforts. On Thursday afternoon, the United Way held a victory celebration to cap off another successful annual fundraising campaign. This year, the United Way set a goal of $775,000 and sur­ passed that by announcing the total of $780,646.49 at Thursday’s event, held at the Barry Community Enrichment Center. Amongst a slate of individual awards handed out by » 1 t the United Way was the in giving and a large percent­ Forbes awarded the Better Together age of participation rate.” Florence Tyden-Groos Govemmental Award, which Middleville-based Award, intended for a busi­ went to the Village of Bradford White/UAW Local ness or organization that Middleville. #1002 were also singled out achieves exceptional engage“The Village of as a key cog in the successful Middleville went all in this campaign. See UNITED WAT, pag^ 3 year with participation in programs and services to their residents,” Barry County United Way 1 Executive Director Lani Forbes told the audience. “They also were able to uti­ lize Day of Caring volunteers to make a visual difference with all of the projects in their community. Under (Village Manager) Craig The Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center (Stolsonburg)’s leadership. the Village of Middleville hosted its annual victory celebration on Thursday had a 144.1 percent increase afternoon in Hastings. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) 1 “ .ifS ? I > -I II 1 •V r ' »• i V .1 I. ..." 'W*. i'f- L t 5?^ —. 4 1. k s r, 146th year Duncan Lake principal being considered for Hastings superintendent gig ( T: I Greg Chandler and Hunter McLaren Staff Writers The principal of Duncan Lake Middle School in Caledonia will interview next week for the superintendent’s job with Hastings Area School System. Jaym Abraham, who has been the principal at Duncan Lake since 2018, is one of five candidates who will interview with the Hastings Board of Education to replace outgoing Superintendent Matt Goebel. He is sched­ uled to interview with the Hastings board Friday afternoon. During Abraham’s ten­ ure at Duncan Lake, the school has twice been named a “Reward School” from the state of Michigan, based on test scores on Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP) and Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) being in the top 5 percent of all middle schools in the state. “I am seeking a position where I can develop a cooperative and positive atmosphere with all team members, enhancing the overall educational vision and mission of a school district,” Abraham wrote in his resume. Prior to coming to IN H «■ Jaym Abraham Duncan Lake, Abraham served as principal of Pine Trails Elementary School in Allegan from 2015 to 2018, and assistant principal at Allegan’s L.E. White Middle School from 2012 to 2015. Before that, he taught at Wayland Union High School for 10 years. Other candidates set to be interviewed for the Hastings superintendent post include Beth Stevens, assistant superintendent at Hastings; Nick Damico, a principal in the Delton Kellogg School District; Carol Dawson, a principal in the Grant public school district; and Raphael Rittenhouse, most recent­ ly superintendent at Gull Lake Community Schools. The five were selected by the school board Monday from among 19 applicants for the position. Public interviews for the superintendent candi­ dates will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday and Friday in the Hastings Middle School commons. I I i t I I iiWBI • TK schools plan non-homestead millage forum • Contract for High Street construction project awarded • Mid-Villa project developers seek tax incentives • GIM Athletics Xcel team has 14 girls qualify for regional meet • TKHS ladies open OK Gold track season with two big victories I I I 9 I I I I I t 4 I �Page 2ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, April 13, 2024 Developers of major project in Middleville seek tax incentives PRAIRIE WOlf, continued fmm pagB 1 be extended about two miles to the site on 84th Street, beginning this spring. Two board members were absent. Weersing said this con­ tract will include some over­ sizing charges that the town­ ship will pay to cover the costs of future expansion of municipal water and sani tary sewer lines along a stretch of 84th Street in the vicinity of the development. “There’s a payback agree­ ment attached to this one, as well. So, for 10 years any­ one along the route who chooses to connect, their availability fees will go back to the developer who did the installation, as opposed to going to the Water & Sewer Department. After 10 years, they do revert back to Water/ Sewer,” Weersing said. If a resident’s property is within approximately 200 feet of the route and their private water well goes dry, they will be required to con­ nect to the municipal water system. “1 do believe it adds value to the property,” Weersing said. He said the developer is ready to begin installation of the municipal water lines right away and have the project completed by August. The water lines will be extended from the near* est connection point on Eastern Avenue at 92nd Street over to Kalamazoo Avenue, and then up to the development site on 84th Street. A lift station will be built in the northeast comer of Prairie Wolf Station. “And then, the sewer will tie in. It’s actually right up by the driveway on 84th Street,” Weersing said. He added that he expects to see construction begin on the development sometime later this year. That was based on American Kendall signing the water contract in mid-April, as township staff expected. . The development will include a retail plaza area facing 84th Street, with various apartments, townhouses and condominiums on an 82-acre site. Township plan ners said previously that American Kendall will build 127 single-family homes and 258 multi-family apart­ ment units. In addition, there will be 44 attached single-family townhome units. 34 mixed-use apartment units atop retail space in the plaza area and 36 traditional neighborhood-design condominiums. Also, plans called for 110 senior living units, six commercial buildings, two out-lots and 10 acres of green space. * I X * 4 4 •• t I F * <rj ; I .J f; r 4 A. •1. Gaines Township trustees approved a contract Monday that will allow the developers of Prairie Wolf Station to begin extension of municipal water lines to the site. (Photo by James Gemmell) Ai: Bm's Frame ood i Full Service Body Shop • • • • Greg Chandler 5*^^ Writer The developer of the Flats at Mid-Villa project in the village of Middleville is seeking approval of tax incentives which he says will make the apartments that are planned to be built there more affordable. Nate Heyboer of Dutch Developers LLC and his project team shared their request to the Thomapple Township board Monday night. It’s the first of what will be several presentations to local taxing imits seeking approval of tax-increment financing - a process where new tax revenues generated by development of a blighted property can be captured and given back to the developer to reimburse them for eligi­ ble costs tied to redeveloping the site. Dutch Developers is seek­ ing to collect $4.5 million in new tax revenues expected to be generated by development of the residential portion of the project, where 144 apartments are planned to be built, over the next 15 years. It does not apply to the development’s commercial por­ tion, which includes a 134unit self-storage facility and three commercial out lots along M-37. “To be able to keep the apartments affordable, with the environment of construc­ tion costs and interest rates, there needs to be some sort of partnership to make it fea­ sible,” Heyboer told the board. Dutch Developers is seeking the TIP as a result of a change m the state’s Brownfield Development Financing Act to fund afford- able housing projects with the approval of the Michigan State Housing Development The Authority. state Legislature passed a four-bill package making the change possible, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the bills into law in July of last year. 4 7'-. ( ■ t r 1 f I It” I ! 4 > •• V .. e ■ ■ : M. < 4^ ' I. •i* Jf- ’* J . .J 4 ’ J # * 4 J- ■ *• *' •*> •» 5>-“ * e '*4‘ I 1 . « ( % .A 7 1^ C9 J 5: -A 9 i* 4 k • 1 * A, •'V - «< -■* 4 A •w w e* 9 > *»A •*4>i 4 '>..s ** * X : I l« P! • L>' -C" 1 Xi «> a * * 1 ♦ I• 4 -< AK' * J •^7 • 1. »» ^I^FKgi'g J* *>- *'■ '■ f * .V- * '-W'" *■ *->’V • . >«• is***- $50,000 a year income to even qualify to live here,” Heyboer said. “That’s going to be your husband and wife - one has a full-time job at Bradford White (Corporation) on the line, the other works part-time at a coflfee shop. This is your stepping stone, This is your way to stay in the village. This is where you want to plant roots.” The apartment portion of the project will consist of 120 two-bedroom imits and 24 one-bedroom units. If the tax-increment financing was approved, rents for the units would range from $1,225 a month for one bedroom to $1,475 for two bedrooms. That would be about $200 a month less than without the TIF, Ringnalda said. The Village Council in May of last year approved rezoning the property as a planned unit development. The site was previously home to the Middle Villa Inn, which was built in 1962 and owned by the Wiersum The developer will make similar requests for TIP support in the coming weeks to the village of Middleville, the village’s Downtown Development Authority and the Barry County Board of Commissioners. The developer is investing $42 million into the Flats at Mid-Villa project, including $27.5 mil­ lion for the residential por­ tion. “On this site in particular, there’s some infrastructure needs - an abandoned gas line that Nate has to buy, and a lift station that he has to put in (to handle sewage from the site),” said Marcus Ringnalda, a consultant who has been working with Heyboer on the project. Ringnalda said that the apartments are meant to address what he calls “the missing middle” — workforce housing targeted toward people whose people incomes are between 80 and 120 120 percent percent of ofthe the communicommuni­ ty’s median income. You need to have at least a sisted of a 16-lane bowling alley, miniature golf course, banquet rooms, restaurant and later, a microbreweiy. The inn closed in May 2014 when owners Steve and Sue Wiersum could not find a buyer to take it over. It was demolished the following year and the property has been vacant ever since. Village leaders have been contacted Dutch by Developers about the tax-in­ crement financing proposal. Village President Mike Cramer expressed excite­ ment about the project at Tuesday’s Village Council meeting. “We are in desperate need of the housing you’re provid­ ing for us,” Cramer said. Heyboer and Ringnalda were in attendance at the Village Coimcil meeting as well as a joint meeting of the council and DDA board ear­ lier on Tuesday, but did not speak at either meeting. They are expected to present their request to the DDA board next Tuesday. family for 45 years. It conI Beef & Pork Roast Dinner Saturday, April la'^-S-rpm (SiS® loCiis 1 :-V I *• s * w- A I I 0 I I fcferl lone^ t t I 1 1 a»iii! WfuUi tMlIt "lisjiai ^li fl ’4 *v ■ ' '* 'i > y*- • Wutii Mod, * f «r* > w. 4: t r % *•* f 4 ' ' I i kV A * 4' brucesframet^m t r• I • «i< ? M 1IS * 'I *' 4 F, * r I I ,• »• I?.I rr • * Xj <I r - *5 . * V *< «*>' - •• H * -■5*- '< I « r 4 “w k.' ' •■ • .......... w - . ' ' r r »V' 4 , %• • *^4^ ***"*.. Includes: Potatoes, vegetables, & homemade dessert. r T • r? 7 > 5 IT «*^»*)*(*> r 4 I u- '5 I ' r' •» •••* ’S ^1 e. 1**4 *» 9 Ar 5- Adults $15 • Children 5-12 $10 4 years & under FREE — •* « r / 5 J-JMiAGb. ■T * •-* •, I > »■ r mj Um liin ► T Z5y > t * I » !>* * X. .A < < BOWNE CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 415 2nd • Middleville * a ** 9 t 1 5 5 corner of Alden Nash (M50) & 84th Street, Alto * ? t I I I X r » 4 * r 9^ I T '7 WA * 7 I till. I » I t - I I I ’ I Vv t J I J I 1 f I I 1 4 i I JI 4 f I 4 com ’»'!d as. Gillis I 4 4 1 I I tr I I I iffte The Flats at Mid-Villa project in Middleville will feature 144 apartments to be built over the next 15 1contain a commercial portion with a -unit self-storage facility and three commercial out lots. (Photos by Greg Chandler) 12051 84TH ST SE, ALTO, Ml 49302 k I i ■ f ff t y(jlllS5 Jr I > or use Developers of the Flats at Mid-Villa project are seeking to collect $4.5 million in tax increment financing to help make apartments there more affordable to tenants. % 9 Hits® • r Over 40 years experience « S<i. 5S W* * »» p *T • PTS »* / • t Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa MasterCard Accepted 05 <« I 1 • t Mil •s w w �I t The Sun and News, Saturday, April 13,2024/ Page 3 Gaines Board approves Gaines Township preliminary plat for Phase II of manager gets a pay raise t '-Adi . 1 l! i1 I 1 I J James Gemmell I I J « I • A & *M X I *•4 > t I •A I ii.. L 1 1 •w Ofc I Contributing Writer When the Gaines Charter Township Board approved a two-year employment contract for new township manager Rod Weersing in February 2023, his annual salary was set at $120,000. As part of Weersing’s contract, his salary had been increased to $125,000 after his first six months on the job. And the township board on Monday night voted 5-0 to approve an additional $5,000 salary increase retroactive to the Feb. 27 one-year armiversaiy of his start date. That boosts Weersing ’ s annual , salary to $130,000. That had been called for in his contract and recommended by the township’s personnel committee. That is $30,000 more per year than former Township Manager Jonathan Seyferth was earning when he came to Gaines Township in 2021. He left in November 2022 to take the city man­ ager’s position in Muskegon. “Jonathan said before he left, ‘If you guys want a manager, you’re going to have to pay at least $120,000 to get what you want.’And so, we followed his recommendation,” Township Supervisor Rob De Ward said in a Februaiy 2023 interview. The township board also approved a request to extend Weersing’s twoyear contract by an addi­ tional year, meaning it will expire on Feb. 27, 2026. Weersing had been the Georgetown Charter Township Assistant Assistant Superintendent. Since he has been the manager in Gaines Township, he has received excellent reviews for his work. The township’s personnel committee completed the one-year review recently. Respondents included all township department * ■c i Ai' “Rod has the confi­ dence to move projects and decisions forward.” — “Rod is steady, care­ fill, thoughtful and able to confidently manage staff and residents.” Township staff also rec- ommended that trustees consider conducting a Birkman Assessment for all department heads, and consider providing executive-style coaching for them. The Birkman review takes a look at personality traits that drive a person’s work style. “The Birkman Assessment for me will be $1,000,” Weersing told the township board. “And then. I my plan was once I’ve J gone through the process, 4-^ \ •i heads and township board members. Some comments included: — “Rod is well-respect­ ed by staff and trustees. He is regarded as highly pro­ fessional, communicative, informed and task-orient­ ed.” — “Rod is able to pro­ vide context and rationale for decisions, and shares his vision with trustees and staff, 4^ t’ MS V‘’ I 7 K’eIeaJsg 1 r< acted ijj ■'»P«al»s 11 I 4 fesifcl w ajrisifj r ■ 1 ] J I I I I I review it and take a look at the possibility of doing it for all department heads.” The township board would then consider whether to approve the overall cost of that. “I’ve been through it myself, done it in a team j situation, and it’s been very Kv!' j iiri it i •I 1 sanim sfliS! valuable,” Trustee Kathy VanderStel said. “I believe the coaching around it would be a really The Gaines Township Board approved a salary good thing for our departhike for Township Manager Rod Weersing following ment heads, overall,” a one-year performance review. (File photo) Trustee Bob Terpstra said. Hoffman Meadows subdivision James Gemmell Contributing Writer On a 5-0 roll call vote Monday night, the Gaines Township Board approved the preliminary plat for Phase 2 of the Hoffman Meadows subdivision. One more step is required before _ final approval can be given. It would be for the southem portion of the development at 2410 68th St, west of Hanna Lake Avenue in Dutton. Two board trustees were absent from the meeting at the township hall. The project would cover about 15 acres and include 55 single-family detached home lots. The property is in the u- , T.T townships RL-10 residential zoning district. Chris VanderHoff is the property owner and the engineering firm is Feenstra & Associates, There are four phases in the development. Each phase of the project must go through a platting process. The first phase on the northern section of the property was completed last year. The township board approved the first of three required steps for Phase 2 in December, called the tentative preliminary plat. On Monday, the board approved the second step, the preliminary plat. That gives the developer the authority to start laying out the infrastruc­ ture necessary to support the houses. “They’ll start laying out the streets, putting in utilities,” Community Development Director Dan Wells said. “They had to get all of the other agency approvals from the Kent County Road Commission, the Drain Commission, the county Plat Board. They’ve gotten all of those.” The third step would be to gain final plat approval. They’ll start selling lots once they get the final plat approval so, this is just kind finalizing their second phase,” Wells said. Township planners are recommending that the board approve the final plat with some Standard conditions, such as requiring that the necessary infiustructure be in place. “They’re quite a ways down the road for final approval. And I would expect to see that shortly,” Township Manager Rod Weersing said in a post-meeting interview. “They’ve been doing a little bit of (site preparation) work out there. A huge detention pond is in, so they’ve been plugging away.” First-phase construction of Hoffinan Meadows began last year for 40 single-family home lots on 15 acres on the northern half of the develop­ ment. Up to 130 single-family lots may be built in future years, once the final phase of the project is completed. “This is about as borine boring as it gets. Straight streets, all these square lots. It just seems like we could mix things up a little bit. We can do better than this, it seems,” trustee Dan Fiyling said. “They are putting a very nice product in there,” Weersing responded. “I don’t know if you’ve been through Phase 1 and seen it. They’re doing a good job with some nice houses.” Trustee Kathy VanderStel asked if the road connection that goes to Ciystal Meadows Street will be blocked off during construction, so that no construction traffic will be going through the adjacent, existing neighborhood. “This being a plat, these are public streets, and so once the roads are connected, they will be able to use them, just like they would any other street,” Wells replied. “It’s a common complaint we get (during developments), but these are public roads. And if they’re able to handle the construction traffic, then they’re allowed to use them.” Treasurer Laurie Lemke said she would like to see some greenspace added to the I I I development. The township does not have as much say on the layout of straight plats like Hoffman Meadows as it does with planned unit developments, However, township staff is Starting to draft a new zoning ordinance that would ensure some park space gets incorporated into future subdivisions. But, for now, the township does not have much authority to dictate how much greenspace is included. “This being a plat, this was a development that was pretty much by (legal) right,” Wells said. “Once we set zoning in place and they meet the lot-size requirements, they’re able to move forward. Once we go to update our (township) zoning ordinance, we’re likely going to put some requirements in there for a certain amount of greens­ pace per (residential) unit.” I I *i jpir.5 I « Klilpf I * [SS * ( UNITED WAY, continued from page 1 ment with the campaign, to Kick-off for United Way’s dollars change lives every Bradford White Corp./UAW next fundraising campaign day in our community and Local 1002. its 90th will be on that’s what it’s really all “This year, they have 18 Sept. 12. about, right?” Forbes leadership donors and 33 “I know that the agen­ said. “We all want to Live United donors,” Forbes cies and the services that make a difference and said. “With the largest cam­ happen because of those you do.” paign in all of Barry County I exceeding $93,000, please join me in congratulating b. ht: Su» 4 . ■ Bradford White and Local n tS VB #1002.” 11 Previous recipients of that included Barry award Community Foundation, 'I* Southside Pediatrics, Flexfab, Viking Corporation t r i-''<7 Credit and Thornapple Union. Matt Palmer, Director of Finance for Bradford White, accepted the award on behalf of the company. Palmer also served as one of the two co-chairs for the campaign Village Manager of Middleville Craig Stolsonburg this year. He was joined by Emily Welker, Director of (right) accepts the “Better Together Governmental Operations for Corewell Award” from Lani Forbes (left), Executive Director of the Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center. Health West. ThornappI •C«v , i I 1 9 492 - r tb* NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ... CALL TODAY! l\w :/ X’’ Ji?' I.' 1 •• Please visit our website for more information thornapDleevecare.com (Next to Harding's Market) 4624 N. M-37 Hwy. Ste E. Middleville, Ml 269-213-8108 ) I * s '4 I ij 1 I a I V �1 I I Page 4/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 13, 2024 mother. Her countless comfriends valued her munity softspoken, caring relation- the owners of the “Sun and News” a weekly newspaper and moved to Middleville. Joanne was the beloved wife, mother and grand­ mother of four children, five grandchildren and two great ♦T Joanne Brunson Boysen ship. Visitation with the family will be held at the BeelerGores Home, Funeral Middleville, MI on Thursday, April 25, 2024 from 5 to 7 A Celebration of p.m. Joanne’s life will be held on Friday, April 26, 2024 at 11 a.m . at the Middleville United 111 Church, Methodist Church St, Middleville. Donations in Joanne’s memory may be made to The Beacon Society, Friends of Middleville the Middleville Area Community Library, #161, c/o TAEF Co. TAEF Barry Foundation, 231 S. Broadway, Hastings; and the Middleville United Methodist Church. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Joanne’s family. Joanne Brunson Boysen grandchildren. Their children passed away on April 4, 2024 are Beth Bauer, Chris Boysen in Village at Carvelh (John Nash), Michael Boysen Middleville, MI. (Rachel) and Martin Boysen She was born April 24, (Janine). Surviving are grand­ 1933 to Harry and Dorothy children, Jacob Bauer (Jen), (Lee) Brunson in southern Emily Floyd, Nathan Boysen, Alabama. When she was 11 A Sean Boysen and Cole years old, she, her parents and Boysen; great grandchildren, Gene, younger brother, Jackson and Elliot Floyd. moved to Michigan, arriving Joanne’s love for her fami­ on June 6, 1944 (D-Day of WWII). An early acquain- she fiiends was was demon demonand fiiends ­ she practiced practiced in in various various denden­ lyly and tance was Don Boysen, a tai throughout her her life. life. strated throughout tal offices offices until until retirement retirement in in strated classmate from seventh grade 2002. For 30 years she established One week after graduation the tradition of welcoming through graduation from Plainwell High School, Class from U of M on June 20, her family to her home with a 1954, she and Don Boysen, home prepared meal every of 1950. Joanne then entered the her friend, classmate and love Friday night. She loved and protected her children and University of Michigan where were married, a union that she earned a BS degree in they celebrated for nearly 70 grandchildren with a Goddental hygiene, a profession years. In 1956 they became given attention of a bom 4 A AR I 4 I, » * t 1 -M ' J s I IKJi f / Tw. • 1 • 1 1 I s I ,> % * ' *A ^4 .Sa Kayser Brothers' Birthday Celebration The Kayser brothers will be celebrating their birthdays. Gerald (right) is 98 and Vem (left) is 91. A community open house will be held on Sunday, April •*: 21, at St Paul Lutheran Church Gymnasium, 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. for Gerald and Vern. No gifts please, your pres­ ence is a gift to Gerald and Vern. 0^ II’ Middleville TOPS 546 MOOT lifting all remaining spring weight restrictions Monday Effective 6 LANSING a.m. Monday, April 15, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will lift seasonal weight restrictions on all state trunkline highways in the entire state of Michigan. State routes typically cany M, I or US designations. Weight restrictions are implemented during the spring frost thaw period and are now completed for the 2024 season. County road commissions and city public works departments put in place their own seasonal weight restrictions, which usually, but not always, coincide with state highway weight restrictions. The April 8 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. There is one new fish in the fishbowl. Maiyellen’s program was from the March/April TOPS magazine, titled “A Time to Blossom Cultivating Seeds of Change.” The article encourages TOPS members to write all the goals tlic7 want to accomplish, not just the weight goals. Members are asked to take a moment to write down all of Signs are generally posted to indicate which routes have weight restrictions in effect. For weight restriction information and updates, call 800-787-8960, or you can access this information on MDOT’s website at Michigan.gov/Truckers, under “Restrictions.” their achievements and positive changes. Talking to others about the strategies that worked is important, as is learning what worked for others. Priorities and cfrcumstances may shift as the year progresses. Need to adjust? Align as needed, because flexi­ bility is key to long-term success. Members were encouraged to share experiences, support each other, strengthen bonds, remain committed, embrace progress and face the future with renewed determination. Alice lost the Ha-Ha box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p an. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. jds*® 1 IK lift i fjlBlIlltW i jipiciio'* I CidSin’ tdlSfals®^ lirt iifcdii Caledonia United Methodist Church Gi? Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship He lonsliipF service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com/CaIedoniaUnitedMelhodisl Serving Strengthening ~ Connecting te. Ik Im V FIRST cornerstonechurch BAPTIST Middleville Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham 4"' Sunday Worship Jt •S'*: * < I '-f-' Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com fh cornerstonemi.org/weekend Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddteville Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 (269) 795-2391 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: 1664 M-37 @thejchurch Wh/tneyv/l/e 11 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto • Sunday School.. . 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM I Worship Services Sunday 70 am & 6 pm IFC^S » * ♦ •e I SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com If hi Sunday Morning Worship Community Group Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm ...10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org ■* * r 1 « 4 I ( * I » 11 1 ‘ I A < A I I I 1 « V I •I J r 1 u t 4 4 I 1 I 4 ’las * X J MIDDLEVILLE ^(l Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org our sen/ices from our website (see above) Wluffis RBHeJii "Shining Forth God's Light" I Praising God through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou -A ®ideis tj 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 VVhitneyville Ave, between 52'^^^ & 48*^ 616.891.8661 www.whitne)rvillebible.org THORNAPPLE VALLEY Yankee Springs Bible Church Fellowship Church Church lnsffltjSf Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 ____ ____ www.stpaulcaledonia.org peacechurch.ee r« ulOttote «i«let @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 616-217-2161 trni-fc hiilsii Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. I Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel thejchurch.com »te ei^ iiisfotilt Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. PEACECHURCH.ee LEARN MORE! 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org b.’ r 4 CALEDONIA: fl® file ’lid Hies OURNEY M peace CHURCH pP^HURCH - TWO LOCATIONS •A 9:30 a.m. I * 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 I I HOLY FAMILY if CATHOLIC CHURCH 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) r •V- me Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Sunday Service 10:30 AM ( I f s• f I 4 At b 1 ♦J I 4 I I, H I « �I r t 1» .r i 1 It I3 > ■'ll 3 « I T 1 V * 'S :iT •"‘S High Street construction contract awarded to WaylS"" company Greg Chandler Ct i an excellent job on ±e Dearborn project, we probably would recommend them (for High Street) Stolsonburg said. “However, since we’re receiving this grant from (the Michigan Department of Transportation), we need to go with their recommendation (to award the contract to the low bidder).” Staff Writer The Middleville ViUage Council Tuesday approved awarding the contract for the reconstruction project on High „ Street that will take place this summer. The council awarded the contract for the project to B&L _ Excavating LLC of Wayland, which submitted the low bid of $1,348,093. “High Street between Main Street and Washington is a major street in the village and has long been a major route . for residents and employees of businesses in our industrial park, pnmarily Bradford White,” Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg wrote in a memo to the council. ‘TTiis street has been in disrepair for .nany yea. .d is pan of d,e I 4- 1^: e > J LF A 4 \^r:^ 4 * I .V • -VL ’M. : t >* I .i ■1 t * ' * II r—w. r 1 LA A 1 ■2 S«:-=' ’f I 9 •4 erf U .4 Kv A, ( tt The High Street project received a $250,(XX) grant last year through MDOT’s Community Service Infrastructure Fund (CSIF) Category B . program, which funds road projects in commu- A I *e- Ff. SIP % - ■■ village’s capital improvement , , plan. In addition to the road surface, there is agmg water and sewer infi-astmcture that needs to be replaced. The village received two blds for the project, with the other bidder being Georgetown Construction of Jenison, / which is currently working on ±e Dearborn Street recon­ struction project. Georgetown’s bid was about $50,000 higher than the B&L bid, Stolsonburg told the council Tuesday. , We feel like they re doing V. $ *' - *"****«^ * » y «• , ^•4 Si t * A' I 'S' ■ • i I ..' ' '• *,.1 V . .-.'C —=■ • • ■i' -S? 5 I •< <1 M J nities with a population of less than 10,000 residents 10,000 Middleville was one of AH 6/. * < I J. Cl 45 * ■* < •- ''•^.. ?r •*n } I * - 4i •t ♦ iK K L*/, (1(5 '“fciiKiissi *1 l’>B i-fl «z I •I*-' — The Middleville Village Council voted to seek bids for reconstruction of the retaining wall and the vil­ lage-owned parking lot on High Street, pictured here. (Photos by Greg Chandler) F41 .1^ . J- I * s' • > > communities around the state to receive approval for the •^-4! & 5 •s s^ - Jt * * >A r V*1 1 fe', J, High Street just north of Main, , J , X -.X IS one of the stretches of road slated for construction this summer. «s S: Wayland-based B&L Excavating LLC. maxmium possible award through the program umer Other mnding funding tor for the the projproj­ ect ect wfli will come come from from the the vilvillage lage’s’s Local Local Development Deve lopment Finance Authority, in the amount amount of of $750,000, $750,000, as as weft well as from its water, sewer and major major streets streets fund fund reserves, reserves, Stolsonburg wrote in his 1 95 > K . W. k^ 4 8* • The fire bam has since been sold. The village will spend no more titan $ 12,(X)0 for the two design options for the High Street lot, Belson said. thousands of dents” in die roof. The damage was not discovered until a routine inspection of the roof last November. The village’s insurance carrier will cover $64,000 of die project cost, and the council agreed to chip in another $6,000 in case of a cost overrun. — The council approved a quote from Tubergen Construction for replacing lead service water lines in the amount of $31,800, and autliorized staff to continue replac­ ing more lines at a cost of no more than $6,000 per line until the full amount of tire village’s second allocation under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of $ 165,590 is used up. So far, the village Iras replaced 19 service lines, aird it is hoped that another 30-60 more will be replaced with the rest of the ARPA funding, Belson wrote in a memo to the council. B u s in ess Sen ’ ices Real Estate CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 CONDO, MIDDLEVILLE VILLAGE. Open floor plan, lots of natural light. Walkout lower level. Main floor bed­ room, en-suite, walk in closet. Kitchen with pantry. Main floor laundry, 1/2 bath. All appliances included. Second bedroom/study. Downstairs bedroom, full bath, family room, work room, storage room. Attached garage, 2 car. Flower beds with perennials’ $282,000. 269-795-7815 14 1 J > ask bidders for two construction options for the project one to rebuild the existing lot, which has seven parking spaces, and the other that would rebuild the lot and add five more spaces. Village officials have stmg gled to figure out what to do about the retaining wall on the High Street lot for some rime In 2016, they noticed the retaining wall had several large cracks, and the wall was deemed unsafe, Department of memo to ±e council. On a related note, the council voted to seek bids for reconstmcuon reconstmction of ofthe Ihe retainretain ing ing wall wall and and the the vilvillagc-owncd lage-owned parking parking lot lot on on High Street. The council will * Public Works Director Alec Belson said. “There is a large dirt pile that’s been installed there to prevent the retaining wall from falling down,” Belson said. “At the time, the village staff and council had no clue what was going to be the end result of the fire bam (that was adjacent to the lot)... That dirt will stay, we will just push it back a little bit to create a little more room and ±en build a retaining wall there.” That area needs major aesthetic improvement,” Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith said. “It’s the right thing to do given the circumstanc­ es.” hl other business Tuesday: — The council approved the replacement of the roof of the Village Hall, which was damaged in a hailstorm in April of last year that left 44 A •A odist Qt' Thornapple 1Wp. board approves increased firefighter training Greg Chandler telaagiig lua^nin, W (iHi, IV w KK kiCilfiE J. r.i jaCibi f’ II and run calls and see how Staff Writer daily operations work,” the The Thornapple chief added. Township Fire Department On a related matter is stepping up training for Monday, the board approved its part-paid, on-call fire a policy change for partfighters. paid, on-call firefighters. The Township Board changing their work period Monday approved a request from a 7-day cycle to a from Fire Chief Bill 14-day cycle, a move Richardson to allow crews Richardson hopes will to have eight-hour training allow greater work flexibil days for a four-month trial ity for firefighters and period - first in May and reduce overtime costs for June and again in September the department. and October. “If we had members that In a recent review by the worked (a) heavy (schedInsurance Services Office, ule) in one week, they could which rates fire depart­ work less the next and we ments on levels of service, wouldn’t have to pay as II nch overtime,” he said. many of the department members weren’t getting Richardson said partenough hours of training to paid department members improve the department’s proposed the change to him. ISO rating, which affects , fire insurance costs for both homeowners and business­ es, Richardson said. “One of the things Z*Caledonia (Fire Iw A I Department) is doing, and I think is a good idea is they have shift crews that come in and they train on Saturdays. They rotate their training crews. They work them for eight hours, and they get about six hours of training done in that eightHour period of time,” Richardson said. ■ “It gives them an oppor- I tunity to be part of a shift ■ 2 . i CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roof­ ing, Siding, Pole Bams & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. e X ► IT’ •I * Vk a •X ■Si’. t I •* 1 IP s 1 t 5Z « s-» it ’ fl r ( 1 * ’ f I • I i 4 . J r to r? The Thornapple Township Fire Department can now allow crews to have eight-hour training days for a four-month trial period. (Courtesy photo) BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Help f fan ted JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice Concrete Construction. Now Hiring. Full Time, Competi­ tive Wages, Insurance, 401K, Paid Vacations. No experi­ ence needed. Call 616-6932123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. Pets The policy change is rooted in a 2018 Michigan 1 aw known as the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act, a provision that allows for a 14-day work period for the computation of overtime instead of 7 days, provided there is a written agreement between the employer and employee. DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. iTZ > !»* * A ? u' 2C' ‘T » I 4^ r i ▼ ▼X L 5^ lEs time to start Grad Quilts LU. ■S ■ I «■ L '‘'K t I Xjit I .f **1 A' ^20241 •s k*. J z* • New Collections >r r; , r. t 1 1 • Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station \ • Linus Project Drop Off June 17-20 I 6-8:30pm | 84th St. Campus Cost: $18 (includes t-shirt and MEGA swag!) w. ■3“ Prau for our Count MEGA Kids Camp is for kids entering Kindergarten through 5th grade in the fall of 2024. Through sports, arts, music, video, and more, kids learn about God's love for them in a fun. exciting and safe environment! QUESTIONS: ASK US **• 218 E. state St.. Hastings • 4 945-9673 Register your kids (through April 20): cornerstonemi.org/MEGA OPEN; Monday-Friday 8 am-5.30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm 7 a cornerstonechurch I •* * I 4 > r A I k « A » .*1 ♦- • • *» * * I I 1 t J * a I 4 I V i I I I I i I I « i r I * I I I r 1 I �9 Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 13, 2024 Federal court rejects GOP challenge to Michigan election laws VOTE I VOTE 9* Proposal 3 of 2018 and Proposal 2 of 2022 ushened in no-reason absentee voting and in-person early voting to Michigan. Some Republican lawmakers argue those changes shouldn’t have bypassed the Legislature. (Bridge photo) Benson and Elections vote is neither concrete Director Jonathan Brater nor particularized because moved to dismiss the case. it is shared by every single noting that the Legislature member of the Michigan has already codified in Legislature,” Beckering state law nearly all of the wrote. State Sen. Jim Runestad, constitutional changes outlined in both ballot a White Lake Republican and one of the plaintiffs in proposals. U.S. District Court Judge the case, said the group and Jane Beckering agreed, their attorneys aren’t surfinding the GOP lawmakers prised by the judge’s decilacked standing for the sion but feel it’s “complete­ court to move forward in ly off base” and plan to considering the suit. appeal. As individual lawmak­ “As I understand it, the ers, they failed to prove any individual Legislature does specific injury to them- have standing in a case like selves that would warrant a this, so it will be appealed,” federal court taking up the he said. “Everyone still case, Beckering ruled in a feels pretty‘good about it, 13-page opinion. and we want to get the “Plaintiffs’ asserted inju- appeal rolling in time to the deprivation of the impact the upcoming elecly power to cast a binding tions.” I' , and Grace Kotrba. The Xcel Platinum State Championships were held March 17 and competitors needed to earn an all-around score of 35.00 or better to advance to regionals. GIM Athletics had five Platinum girls meet that mark led by an all-arormd score of 36.850 by Lexie Watson. She was the runner-up in her Junior B division in the vault with a score of 9.250. Lauryn Meyer, Violeta Sanchez, Lily Devries and Bristal Schnell also qualified for regionals from the GIM Athletics team at the Platinum State Championships. was among the competitors from the GIM Athletics club. She was the top performer in the vault in her division with a score of 9.475 and quali­ fied for regionals with her overall score of 36.875. Madi Mahalik had the top all-around score of any of the GIM Athletics girls across the nine different divisions putting up a total score of 37.375. Also qualifying for region­ als from the GIM Athletics Club on the Gold level were Zoe Miller, Olivia English, Lucy Draaisma, Michaela Aleeah Vanderlaan, Kruisenga, Annabell Jackson Brett Bremer Sports Editor Gymnastics in Motion in Middleville has 14 girls who have qualified to compete Region 5 Xcel Regionals in LaGrange II the weekend of April 25-28. The club’s Gold and Platinum competitors quali fied for regionals with their performance at their March state championship meets. The Xcel Gold State Championships were held March 24 and competitors needed to record an allaround score above 35.5 points to earn a spot at regionals. Braylin Goyings - rre I GIM Athletics has qualify for Xcel Regional I Lauren Gibbons Bridge Michigan A federal judge on dismissed Wednesday efforts by conservative state lawmakers to invalivoter-initiated date changes to Michigan election laws, leaving absentee balloting and early voting rules in place for the fall presidential contest. Republican lawmakers who brought the suit are planning an appeal, however. Last fall, a group of 11 Michigan lawmakers led by Sen. Jonathan Lindsey, R-Allen, sued Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and state election officials. arguing that Proposal 3 of 2018 and Proposal 2 of 2022 should be invalidated only the because Legislature should be able to regulate the times, plac­ es and manner of federal elections. The two ballot initia­ tives brought no-reason absentee voting, in-person early voting and other election changes to Michigan, and both were supported by a wide major­ ity of voters. Attorneys for Whitmer, Secretary of State Jocelyn J 5^ ■V ’•J 7 * w i1 k 1 T I I * P 41 bI 1-^ * t > f • ..4 ^4 / f n /• f. X V •l v.;\ / Z /1 X I I s I I Fl V 1 f I J j I •X * Bl .T ■ IX AV r Gymnastics in Motion Athletics had 14 girls from their Xcel Platinum and Gold squads earn spots in the upcoming Xcel Regional competition in Illinois. The group includes (front from left) Olivia English, Lucy Draaisma, Bristal Schnell, Lauryn Meyer, Grace Kotrba, Annabell Jackson, Braylin Goyings, (back) Madi Mahalik, Allah Kruisenga, Michaela Vanderlaan, Lily Devries, Zoe' Miller, Lexie Watson and Violeta Sanchez. iV Opening day festivities set for CBSL next Saturday The Caledonia Baseball Softball League (CBSL) will be celebrating its 2024 season with an Opening Day event on Saturday, April 20 at Cal-Plex Sports Complex (5401 100 St, SE Caledonia, 49316). CBSL welcomes over 700 kids to its league this season, with ages ranging from 4- 14, playing T-ball to all the way up to Girls Majors and Boys Juniors. “CBSL is excited to bring people together to share our mission of One Little League, One Cal(edonia). We are thrilled to showcase our outfield fences filled with local businesses who sup- tawLuca port oiu- league, and a parade of little ones who will be celebrated before we all watch the older youth play America’s favorite pastime,” CBSL president Mallory Walsh said. “From Caledonia youth playing and umpir ing, to parents enjoying an alumni owned local restau­ rant, Opening Day is a wonderful way to celebrate what is sure to be a great season.” CBSL Opening Day will feature games from many age levels as well as festivities for the commimity to enjoy. There will be booths from CBSL sponsors, games, apparel sales, photo opportunities and food from Caledonia’s new restaurant Butcher Block Social. The Caledonia Youth Sports Association (CYSA) recently partnered with the restaurant to provide an ele vated food and dining expe rience to Cal-Plex. The brand-new outdoor eating area at Cal-Plex will feature new seating, similar to what is found at Wildwood Farms, perfect for commu- JOB OPPORTUNITY: Animal Care I Kennel Assistant: r Seeking part-time help (10-15 hours/week) for a private show dog kennel. Responsibilities will include cleaning kennels, feeding/walking dogs and other daily care. care. Flexible working around school/sports schedules, weekends/occasional holidays will be required. Will train on all tasks! Pay is competitive with other entry level jobs. <jl9 Win 5* - 1 5 I 91 111 a Located south of Middleville. * r -2 a,' -k.W, IJ* 4 J Please contact by email, kavbelter@amail com or text 616-808-6460 * *W ! * .f. 9 ----------------- HI 4** 1 4 I 7 I •t t J .^5 A' > ■ I < . * 'b V' a ir I Antenna Meri a -■ Si.' V »k u 7/ n . Adx4*rwxo Men /L I V * 1^*2 -» f * f 4 * ■ *» • > . * B*’ « 1 k * .1 » y 1 s •k I t X -» ■* I • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers ' T -.,4 4 4 % V »"V. : r _______ Enhancement Systems F •3r •• a i I 1 Give us a call! IC j n G* » I •r I » *^“**(* * ' A* www.theantennamen.com A h L* e t, • f ■'4 antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpros.com * I 269-967-8241 1 4. 1 > I tffSuri I » •. * k. I bl" '■F"« . I I ' I I ----------------------------------------------- i * * I % 9 I f I r t I I I X ’ r / " > ' i : <• 1 < I 4 * « 1 k » 4 • > I I I I « 9 1 I 1 A ' I X I I I I -J, e r 4 f I 1 t t t I ( I f • .r * * 4B I A A V ( >■ I f/z .7 I 1 nity bonding and delicious bites in between games. “We’re thrilled about teaming up with Butcher Block Social to bring fan tastic food to Cal-Plex, fea­ turing their BBQ specialties and some ballpark classics. This partnership is all about enhancing food options and convenience for the com munity while showing our support for Cal youth sports,” CYSA president Kjde^^lement said. Besides baseball and softball, Cal-Plex also pro­ vides fields for soccer, football and lacrosse, so this new community collabora tion will be a win for many sports in our commxmity. Butcher Block Social food will be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be games going throughout the day, A t-Ball and coach pitch parade of teams at 11:30 a.m., the singing of the national anthem by Caledonia fifth grader Dilynn Bard at 12:15 p.m., and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. sponsor booths, games apparel sales, photo oppor­ tunities and more will be open. 1 taantl Ot �H MJL _ The Sun and News, Saturday, April 13,2024/ Page 7 _ First Gold meet a big one for TK ladies *>. Brett Bremer u er e •f f _ JV' S’; ■ I for Sports Editor The Trojans eclipsed the only team to beat them in the OK Gold Conference in 2023 at the first outdoor meet of Ih'202^eason. The Thomapp e Kellogg rcit^z varsity girls’ track and field team knocked off the defending OK Gold Conference champions from Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills 99.537.5 at a conference tri in Middleville Tuesday after­ noon. The Bengals won their 2023 dual with the Trojans and then were the only team to finish ahead of TK at the conference championship meet at the end of the season. The TK ladies were 2-0 on the day also scoring an 89-48 win over the Forest Hills Eastern girls. The TK boys were 1-1 in ...... ne aetendtheir .»u two uuais, duals. iThe defending conference champs from T?Forest Hills Eastern much on the boys’ side. The Hawks took a 91-46 win over TK. The Trojans defeat­ ed the Ottawa Hills boys 77-60. The Bengals could hang with the TK ladies, at least. when pure speed was the determining factor, but adding in some jumps or throws the Trojans dominated. TK earned 41 of the 45 points > •y* ' r .1 I available in the dual with the that race in 45.27 seconds Bengals in the field events and was also the long jump C’ and 17 of the 18 points in the champion with a mark of L hurdles. * 18-7.5. He added a runi TK junior Brooklyn /* ner-up leap of 5-8 in the I Harmon won the 100-meter high jump. hurdles f in 15.50 seconds. t That long jump win was leading a sweep of the top one of two victories in the overall (factoring field for the TK boys. Senior in both FHE and Ottawa Drake Snyder took the shot Hills foes) with senior put with a personal record Joselyn DeBoer second and mark of 46-1.5. sophomore Mia Hilton third. Senior Jaxan Sias won the * Harmon followed that up by 400-meter dash for TK with T A J! Iwfr ■ winning the 300-meter low a time of 53.01. hurdles in 49.39 seconds Junior Jacob Draaisma a with Hilton second in that new varsity track runner for race. the Trojans, had an impres­ TK had a sweep of the top sive 3200-meter run. His first three spots in the shot put in time competing in the race the day’s overall standings he won with a time of too. Junior Emma Dykhouse 10:38.56. He beat out Forest won with a personal record Hills Eastern senior Brendan put of 30 feet 4 inches. Junior Hoving who was the conferLilly McKeown was second ence runner-up in the race a J; and senior Elizabeth year ago. Middleton third. Trojan FHE junior Henry Dixon, senior Mollie Moore set a PR the conference champ in the Thornapple Kelloggsophomore Luke Archer gets of 85-3 to win the discus. 3200-meter race last year, over the bar at 9 feet 6 inches during the Trojans’ OK Middleton was third overall scratched the 3200 Tuesday Gold Conference tri against Forest Hills Eastern and in that one and McKeown with his Hawks comfortably Ottawa Hills Tuesday inside Bob White Stadium i in fourth. ahead of the Trojans and Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) In the high jump, the three Bengals and already with highest flyers were TK wins wins in in the the SOn-mptpr 800-meter run hand. Draaisma also led TK time of 4:34.13 that had him senior Kenady Smith who and the 1600-meter run in in that 1600-meter run with a fifth overall in the race. cleared 5-0, TK junior Brooklyn Harmon who set SSSTK*^’ . T*. her PR at 4-8 and TK fresh­ Jie man Lydia Slagel who set a f A. 4-8 PR too. Freshman Ellie Harmon > won the long jump for TK flying 14-10. In the pole 1 vault, TK had senior TJ Myers and Hilton tie for sec­ ond both clearing 8-0. *• * : f z Trojan foursomes won the 7 4x400-meter relay and the X 4x800-meter relay in the girls’ meet. Hilton, sopho­ more Payton Gater, Ellie Harmon and Brooklyn Harmon combined for a 4x400 relay time of 4 min­ utes 25.41 seconds. Gater, Ellie Harmon, senior Kendra Coe and junior Ava Crews Thornapple Kellogg senior Kenady Smith gets over the bar in the high jump at won the 4x800 relay in 5 feet during the Trojans’ OK Gold Conference tri with Ottawa Hills and Forest Hills 10:20.77. Eastern. The height got her the win in the event Tuesday in Middleville (Photo by Despite the Bengals win- Brett Bremer) ning 17 of the 18 possible A points against TK in the 100meter dash and 200-meter * dash combined, the Trojan senior foursome of Eva Corson, Mali Holland DeBoer and Smith beat the Bengal team in the 5 J’ 4x200-meter relay - placing second in the race behind the FEE girls. ,, . .c■ Selma ^r Anderson, a four-time OK ~ * t Gold Conference champion W. 4B last spring as a junior, was listed as a scratch in the three distance races she won last (: year. 12 Crews took all those firstplace points for TK. She won the 800-meter run in 2:35.05, sSSga: the 1600-meter run in 5:3 8.19 9^ If and the 3200-meter run in 12:07.81 while also being a part of that winning distance relay. « Senior Kyle VanHaitsma had a great day for the TK HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. > Sincv J9?S f boys. He set his personal DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 record in the 300-meter BBB. > intermediate hurdles to win •* A * I I J *•'*' '**5* ■D*' .>• i n . J Ha bL . * t’V * J ?. J I « i I 4- b J TMOm^ S3 ’A" M 1 r -IK I J 1 I* J r ? » —A i z » ’9J h • 1 if?' .J 4 • ? *— .S J- - «__ A • r-^ J A n < K 4 • I 9 $ a 4^. A 4 * S ;V] . •> T □ •4. A I F •l ^^7 •n. •i & h 1 J *1 Ki- < I *1 I • >1 tlb I. 1 ♦ LT P • V • ^5^1 >1 •> fey*- 'A ..V T.r-d > ’ z rZ a. T* l.’ 1, J 4 % I ♦ *> <4 I 4 a > ' J’ iX • I •< PefiwiHii. t’ 4 I •I c- 1 .1 r s / > le^Zoe'Wtj s in between E Wre tte: nine np siSfe dUtit , % r*. tW; fj r S* I Thornapple Kellogg junior Jacob Draaisma (left) and senior Lucas VanMeter make their way along with the pack early on in the 1600-meter run during their team’s OK Gold Conference tri with Forest Hills Eastern and Ottawa Hills Tuesday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I it MtWt: iittofiKjH I 1 1 I I I t a* '■ ' I f I. X I'affiiSi*' iiyAi®' w) H' Hili’ fleas* tilei is*' ‘ «« IVE'RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS I —• J r fs •------- -- <1 •l 1 I • r HResidentiai & Commercial -.n t 1/ •tt Gas Furnaces |--Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters -Humidifiers A ■?. .V 11 < =5 I* T96 9 A *b .I *( J tI• ». I ■ T* . p* rfi k ** I * ■ • v* I' ? t t ■i •I MW *•■*.■* Ik.. A' 1 « •T’ DM. •T«: .• *,♦ I «v> V 5 X r t I • h. »• ' I 1.' 1 111*-. I , /I Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Payton Gater takes her turn with the baton for the Trojans’ winning 4x400-meter relay team at the end of their victory over Forest Hills Eastern and Ottawa Hills Tuesday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) t tt L DeWeerd (68) A* s E 'A". w«'« TW2 t • I » LENNPjO t f 1 I I I I I z s / r I I I / » t ( I 1 I I 1* �b ♦f f _ ______ ■■■ Page8/TheSun and News, Saturday, April 13, 2024 _r<ja Thornffppi*^ Kello^ schools to hold non-homostead millago Toruni Greg Chandler Staff Writer Kellogg Thornapple Schools will hold a commu­ nity forum on Wednesday to provide information about the district’s upcoming non-homestead millage pro­ posal. TK Superintendent Craig McCarthy will host the forum at 7 p.m. at the dis- ■ • assessed at one time. “Districts often request additional mills to create a buffer when the full 18 mills are reduced by the Headlee McCarthy Amendment,” said. “At no point can a school district levy more than 18 mills, but your approval of the additional mill ensures our students will always receive the full foun- is needed for the TK district to receive its full per-pupil funding from the state. It generates more than $3.8 million a year for the district, representing 8 percent of its annual general fund budget, McCarthy said. The actual ballot language asks voters to approve a renewal of 18.9923 mills, but no more than 18 mills can be affected by the non-homestead tax, McCarthy said. “Your primary residence tax rate will remain the same (if the proposal passes). In fact, for both homeowners and businesses alike, nothing will change: homeowners don’t pay this tax and busi­ nesses will simply continue paying it,” McCarthy said. The non-homestead levy trict’s Early Childhood Center, 3316 Bender Rd. The district is seeking to renew the 18-mill non-home­ stead levy, which is assessed to businesses, vacation homes and rental properties, as well as commercial and industrial properties, for the next 10 years. The proposal will be on the May 7 ballot. Primary homes are not dation allowance allowed by law.” TK voters approve renew­ als of the non-homestead millage in 1995, 2005 and 2014. In November 2014, the proposal passed with 3,253 voters casting “yes” votes and 1,684 voting “no.” For more information on the non-homestead levy, visit tkschools.org. T 10 t ■■ 4 A >A*' ■ '14 * II fl 4 ■0 ( 1 J l. • f Yankee Springs board approves repairs to damaged hall addition t ■0 Greg Chandler er got out of the vehicle to put something in the garbage can. However, the car was apparently left running and was not in park. Cunningham said. “The car moved away under power towards the building with the driver in pursuit. The driver fell down, the car went over the curb, down the slope and hit the building with enough force to cause drywall cracking inside and brick and mortar cracking in about a 15-foot-wide sec­ tion of the exterior wall,” Cunningham wrote in a memo to the board. year. Cracks in the exterior of the addition’s north wall and drywall inside the new zoning office were discovered in late February. An inspection of the damage found that there had been impact to the building, but it wasn’t until Township Clerk Mike Cunningham found security video foot­ age that the cause of the damage was found. Video footage taken on Jan. 1 showed a car stopping about 50 feet from the north wall of the addition after using the township’s recycling system. The driv- Staff Writer An addition to the Yankee Springs Township Hall that was damaged earlier this year when it was struck by a car that had been left run­ ning will be getting some repairs. The Township Board Thursday night approved a proposal from Mugen Construction to repair the addition’s north wall at a cost of $7,822. Mugen had been the contractor for the 1,700-square-foot addition and renovation of the origi­ nal Township Hall space that was completed last * • A 1 FIIXAINClAL FOCUS R? S J ?• ft I Provlded by Andrew McFadden and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones I II' ■ J fl i •k N I J I i Ii II The driver, who suffered a broken leg when she fell down and the wheels ran over her leg, later came for­ ward and admitted to what happened. The interior wall framing was inspected when interior drywall was removed on March 20 to see if anything had been broken as a result of the impact, Cunningham said. “(The impact) pushed four or five of the framing members into the office about an inch and a half at the most,” Cunningham told members board Thursday. “The contractor says that’s just a matter of going back and re-securing them. There wasn’t any broken fi-aming or anything like that.” The township initially * e J* What should you know about long-term care? •l ♦ 0 We all hope to remain type of care you may require. healthy and independent Also, by the time you might throughout our lives - but life need help, your grown chil­ can be unpredictable. If you dren or other family members were ever to need some type might not live in your area, of long-term care, would you So, you may need to protect be financially prepared? yourself and your loved ones Long-term care encompass- from the potential costs of es everything from the ser- long-term care. Basically, vices of a home health aide to you’ve got two main choices: a stay in an assisted living You could self-insure or you facility to a long residence in a could transfer the risk by purnursing home. You may never chasing some type of longneed any of these kinds of term care insurance. care, but the odds aren’t necesIf you have considerable sarily in your favor Someone financial resources, you might turning age 65 today has find self-insuring to be attracalmost a 70% chance of need- five, rather than choosing ing some type of long-term insurance and paying policy care services and support in premiums. You may wish to their remaining years, accord­ keep an emergency savings or ing to the U.S. Department of investment account that’s earHealth and Human Services. marked exclusively for longAnd all types of long-term term care to help avoid relying care can involve considerable on your other retirement financial expense. The median accounts. But self-insuring has annual cost for a home health two main drawbacks. First, aide’s services is more than because long-term care can be $60,000 per year, and it’s more costly, you might need to plan than SlOOfiOO per year for a for a significant amount. And private room in a nursing second, it will be quite hard to home, according to Genworth, predict exactly how much an insurance company. Fur- money you’U need, because so thermore, contrary to many >many variables are involved — people s expectations, Medi- your age when you start need­ care usually pays very little of ing care, interest rates or inflathese costs. tion, the cost of care in your Of course, some people area, the type of care you’ll expect their family will be require, the length of time able to take care of their long­ you’ll need care, and so on. term care needs. But this may As an alternative to self-in­ not be a viable strategy. For suring, you could purchase one thing, your family mem long-term care insurance, bers simply may not have the which can vide benefits for skills needed to give you the home h care, adult day t « f 1 • > » t 4 • • I I I % I I I I I r I I 4 I 4 J » • r I fl t *4 recovery and BURN ordinance tabled to May 2024 township meeting. Township year-end au­ dit date, July 12, open to the pub­ lic, 9: 00am-5:00pm. Cemetery Clean-up, Day o1 Caring, scheduled for Friday, April 26, 9:00am-12:00 noon. German Cemetery, pine trees to be trimmed, overhang in field. Treasury Report, winter tax col­ lection ended. Interest earned or all accounts, to date, fiscal year 2023/2024. $48,000 vs $15,453, 2022/2023. Next board meeting, Tuesday, ADril ie @ 6 30 nT Pp-nniaT copies of meeting minutes are available from the township 3lerk, 269-948-0633 or website al 5 ''.((I •> • X i t h**’ ■ a ’•/ • ‘•4, V *. I. •r .• * fl . »-• • > X J * » 4 n -- < 4 .<1 • 1 •X * ’5’ 4 V 4 z % ’4* S’ 4 . 4 « , * * .f > . • « 'Ur-' t fl * » 4 ' I 4 A ',A I ' •» k I * t • t*' 'V - t ' * *v ' Xi -V *** • s fl • . -*** ***> *v ■r. • r I fl 15. •*1 * 1 • >4 - •• <4 s * t '*•4 1 .1 J -1* ■» *^4 1 flit•v, M. ' *> k 7 A «v A * •♦ * .-9 The following photo shows a close-up look at some of the damage inflicted on the Yankee Springs Township Hall after it was struck by a car earlier in the year. (File photo) * fl [ A I'i r • filed a claim with its insur­ ance carrier after the dam age was discovered, esti­ mating damage at between $5,000 and $10,000. That carrier is now working with the driver’s insurance company to settle who will pay for the damage. Cimningham said. The $7,822 repair cost will include masonry work, drywall repair, painting, flooring and caulking. Mugen Construction says it has enough brick left over from the project to repair the damaged brick, with the THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP BOARD 200 E. MAIN ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml 49333 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING MINUTES Monday, March 11,2024 Meeting called to order at 7:0C 3.m. with seven members present. Items approved: 1. Printed Agenda approved as oresented. 2. Consent Agenda approved as oresented. 3. Approved motion to purchase a new laptop for the Planning anc Zoning Administrator at a cost NTE 51450. 4. Approved motion to apply foi a state license at a cost of $2,00C dr each tone; NTE $4,000 total. (SOOmHz system) 5. Approved motion to adopt the at:ached fee schedule for cost recovery 6. Approved motion to adopt Res­ olution 3-2024, “General Appropria;ions Act.” 7. Approved motion to adopt Res­ olution 4-2024, “Supervisor's Salary.” 8. Approved motion to adopt Resoution 5-2024, “Clerk’s Salary.” 9. Approved motion to adopt Res­ olution 6-2024, “Treasurer’s Salary.” 10. Approved motion to adopt the Irving Township Fire and Ambulance Contract. 11. Motion to adopt Resolutior 7-2024, “Land Acquisition.” Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Am\ Brown. Approved by Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer. minutes available upon request from the Township Clerk or by visitino oui . ....................... website at hlU bl L www.irvingtownship.org. 215211 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thurs- • -^-y; ,2J5221 * • • / . w » * ’I repair expected to take two days’ labor to complete. The insurance will cover the full cost of the repairs, Cunningham said. “We won’t have to pay our deductible since the other insurance company is involved,” he said. In other business Thursday: — The board approved a rezoning request by the Gun Lake Area Sewer and Water Authority a 5-acre parcel at the southwest cor­ ner of South Payne Lake Road and Cobb Lake Road from agricultural to rural residential. GLASWA has a lift station for its sewer sys­ tem on the property, but only uses a small portion of the land for the lift station. The authority plans to sell the property for residential development but will retain an easement to the lift sta­ tion, said Trustee Larry Knowles, who is also direc­ tor of GLASWA. — The board set a June 12 workshop and a June 26 public hearing on the town­ ship budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The June 12 workshop will take place at 3 p.m. and the June 26 hear­ ing at 6 p.m. at the Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd. — The board set April 27 as the annual township cleanup day. Volxmteers can meet at 9 a.m. at the town­ ship fire station, 1425 S. Payne Lake Rd. A dumpster for trash collected will be provided along with trash bags. Pizza will be provided after the cleanup at around noon. — The board approved spending up to $1,100 to provide CPR training for township employees. t » k 4 I * b > •. »■ « 7. (4) accounts over budget, Yearend preparations ($1700), Board of Review ($85.51), ($2,270) Treasurer/Assessor postage/ mailings ($2,270), Elections, due to Proposal 2 and nine (9) days of voting ($8,672) use Surplus budget to adjust acounts. 8. Bill Pay of $5292.19. Recap Hazardous materials & cosi t ’I ' r I T Co., L.P. and in California, New Mexico and Massachu­ setts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Califor­ nia, L.L.C.; Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C.; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C. California Insurance License OC24309 This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. I I I care and assisted living and nursing home facilities. How­ ever, you will need to consider the issues attached to long­ term care insurance. For one thing, it can be expensive. though the younger you are when you buy your policy, the more affordable it may be. Also, long-term care policies typically require you to wait a certain amount of time before benefits are paid. But policies vary greatly in what they offer, so, if you are thinking of buy­ ing this insurance, you’ll want to review options and compare benefits and costs. In any case, by being aware of the potential need for long­ term care, its cost and the ways of paying for it, you’ll be able to make the appropriate decisions for your financial situation, your needs and your loved ones. Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & SYNOPSIS IRVING TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING MARCH 19, 2024 Meeting called to order at 6:3C om. Four board members pres­ ent, one absent. (16) public. Ap­ oroved Motions: 1. Agenda 2. Minutes of Board Meeting, February 20, insert omitted text, ooard member, Knight to board member, Olson, “Who is youi deputy?” 3. Thornapple Emergency Ser*rices Contract 4. Replace (3) township print­ ers, $1400. 5. Building and Grounds, $1300, for the (2) added parking lots to township, effective 04/01/2024. 6. Sexton Wage Increase, $15,000, effective, 04/01/2024. ' I ! 1 I V I I I I ■ I I fl * 1 1 I �Jenison wins big twice over K, I s Scots to open Red i, ! 11^555% i The Sun and News, Saturday, April 13, 2024/ Page 9 I* Brett Bremer IS I'nK V * Render had a scoreless 1 1/3 inning of relief and Aiyn Taylor and Drew Drennan took their turns on the mounds too for the Scots. In game two, Roszkowski drove in both Caledonia runs - one in the bottom of the fj-of I » and one m the bottom of the third. Jenison put together a tenrun outburst in the top of the fourth to end the game early The two Caledonia hits in . . the loss were singles by AJ Szabo and Henry Simon. Jacob Stoczynski took the loss on the mound. The Wildcats knocked him from the game after an inning and a third. He struck out two, Sports Editor Jenison took two from the Caledonia varsity baseball team in Caledonia Tuesday afternoon to open the OK Red Conference season. The Wildcats won their opener with the Scots 11-0 and then took a 17-2 win in game two. Tommy Clarey was 2-fori • 2 at the plate for the Scots in AJ the opener and Roszkowski was 1 -for-3 with a double. Cam Myers took the loss on the mound. He struck out four in 2 1/3 innings of work while giving up eight hits and five earned runs. Andrew i Ui ) I i i ► I I I V L A ti/. >« I Huge day at the plate for Hoebeke as TK takes two walked two and allowed three hits. Of the six runs against him four were earned. Isaac Jurmu, Trevor Walter, Roszkowski and Talen Verburg all threw in relief for the Scots. The series finale planned for Thursday was postponed Brett Bremer Sports Editor The TK varsity softball team swept a non-conference doubleheader Wednesday against visiting ^^\oming. TK took game one 8-7 and then pulled out a 7-3 win in game two. Wyoming snapped a 6-6 tie with a run in the top of the sixth inning of game one, but TK answered with two runs in the bottom of the sixth on a two-run single from Shelby Robinett to get back in front and then held on for the one- due to rain. There are plans to make up the ballgame Monday afternoon ion Jenison. The Scots start their conference set with Grandville on the road Tuesday and then finish things off Thursday at home with the Bulldogs. Next Friday, April 19, the Scots are playing host to Sparta for one game. Buccaneers outscore Scots in first OK Red track meet /.v * 44 •A. Brett Bremer theVanL # Sports Editor Grand Haven pulled out victories over the visiting Caledonia varsity boys’ and girls’ track and field teams to ’ open the OK Red Conference season in Grand Haven , Wednesday. The CHS boys were bested tan said. 79-57 by the Buccaneers even ban 10 pjj with a couple of Fighting Scot distance runners turning in ^CtHDpaujjj their best times ever. feiati Sophomore Eli Veiling ran 'fer business ' his fastest 800-meter run eveiy to win that race for the Scots in 2 minutes 1.37 seconds and 'W by Hi junior Kort Thompson set a ta Sewer and new PR in the 3200-meter run hiity a S-iro to win that in 10:09.44. ie soiibwef w014 fijiK Laie I I aiU Io id GLASWAhiS! blits seiffli)!' eprort,l»l small poii of IbeliDslab y plans b sill for residential but will reiaiii Io lie lili sianislec tao)' isalsodirecI Iseiaf® d a)® 2b 1 be to®' ie ■ June 12 bplace II ](2d beat’ losisliip gsfti iieerscsJ je 1125 5 imiipsi'f pfO’ib' nIII. it CHS had three field event wins. Daniel Swartz took the pole vault by clearing the bar at 10-0, a height matched by teammate Benjamin Moss who was the runner-up in the event. Freshman Aaron Collins, junior Joshua Maier and Brett Bremer Scots with a bunch of varsity expertise yet either. Junior Parker Little was the only non-senior in the Caledonia team’s regional line-up last spring. He’s back to lead the way along with seniors Emerson Lippert and Tucker Dion this season. Sports Editor Every contest Caledonia head coach Ian Durkee is going to have to seed his guys from one to six in the varsity line-up. He doesn’t have any expectation that the guy at the top of the card has a lower score than Coach Durkee also expects the one at the bottom as the juniors Mason Kern, Lukas 2024 spring season gets under­ Keson, Levi Verburg and way. He’s really excited about sophomore DJ Robinson to be that. shooting for spots in the varsi“This team will be a much ty six along with junior Sam deeper team than I have had in Miersen who is new to the the past. Anyone on this team varsity. age in the entire OK Red Conference. The current Scots haven’t shown that tal­ r f I i break to a tough doubleheader against visiting Byron Center Tuesday. The Bulldogs took 10-3 and 12-2 wins over the Fighting Scots. joz. mrew me Jaz L/iuiii Dana threw the opener for the Scots. She struck out of the night with a time of The Grand Haven girls took a 96-41 win. The CHS girls won three events, all ones. Senior Kiersten DeHaan won the discus with a throw of 84-3 and senior tea’”"^ate Molly Wmger took the pole vault by clearing the bar at 10-6. ten in seven innings while walking three and giving up 14 hits. Of the ten runs against Brett Bremer Maier and seniors Audrey Howell, Brooke Heyboer and Teresa Abraham earning a time of 52.53. As a team, the Scots were tied for third in the OK Red Conference a year ago. Coach Berry who shot his way into Durkee said the goal is to win the Red, compete at regionals the state finals along with then Scot senior Sam Baldwin. ent quite yet. There aren’t many of the | I I RUUD 5. 9 u. *•' * • • | 9 r . ■ X- I 11 there, but the technical side of the game was a little rusty.” The Scots have just a few days to be into form before the start of the OK Red Conference season. They will host Grandville to start con­ ference play Tuesday and then go on the road to face East Kentwood Thursday in the week ahead. Grandville is off to a 2-1-1 start so far and East Kentwood is out to a 3-1 start. High Efficiency -4^'9. I 1 * I* ♦ | 400 OFF :1 « jP '« ii? 4 ■ ,t. ■ I —I « A’ » ■ 0 A. FW 1 ’ I 5^? I I * / a xf.t: >• 4 V »l 1-2 .A.s sV * | ••• • I I * - I 1 t * I 5 k a Must present this coupon. Expires 4-26-24 The minutes of the March 26, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved onApril 9, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villaqeofmiddleville.orq. ■ HEATING & COOLING > 210 East Main Street, Caledonia r r I L J r r I L J J L paid within 18 mo. “The company built by referrals “ J A s financing available No monthly interest 1 I I I I I I I > I I I I I I I I I I I FURNACE - frontier COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES « Bisterfeld was solid again at the plate. She went 2-for-2 with a triple and a walk. She scored one run. Fairchild was 2-for-3 with a run scored. Keira Sundstrom was 1 -for-3 with an RBI. Peyton Brenner had a double, and Molly Lieske, Lexi Henney and Sophia Gauthier each singled once. Lieske started in the circle and took the loss. She allowed nine runs (four earned) on five hits and three walks in 5 1/3 innings. She struck out five. “The girls played well, we just couldn’t put the final piece together,” Caledonia head coach Sam Steams said. “We had control of the game the entire time and just couldn’t find the net. We tried a new formation in the second half that we’ve been wanting to do in a game and they adjusted really well. “Coming off of spring break is always difficult as well. The energy and effort is Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity girls’ soccer team is still shooting for its first goal since the season opener. The Fighting Scots will get their next shot at it today, April 13, in Ada as they face off with Forest Hills Eastern. Caledonia is 1-1-1 overall this season after finishing in a scoreless draw at Grand Ledge Tuesday evening, and get to the state finals as a team. That’s a tall task. the Panthers ninth and the Fighting Scots 11th in 2023. Grand Haven also had a coupie of sophomores in its regional five including Luke T CHS soccer plays to 0-0 draw at Grand Ledge The Fighting Scots also took the 4xl00-meter relay with the team ofjunior Jessica Coach Durkee expects Hudsonville, Rockford and West Ottawa all to be especial­ ly tough this season. West Ottawa had three underclass­ men in its regional line-up a year ago and Rockford had four. All of those youngsters shot in the 8O’s at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Regional where the Eagles were were fifth, the Rams seventh, her only four were earned. Caledonia had nearly as many hits as the Bulldogs, belting ten. Kala Bisterfeld had three of those going 3-for4 with an RBI. Amber Fairchild and Mckayla Kohn were both 2-for-3 with a double at the plate for the Scots. Kohn drove in two runs. In game two, the Scots outhit the Bulldogs 10-7, but four errors helped the Bulldog attack in a 12-2 win. Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity softbaU team returned firom spring seniors Sam Pugh and Ayden Duffin took the 4x400-meter relay for Caledonia at the end fl I J Brett Bremer CHS golf coach likes his team’s depth as year starts can go out there and get a low score,” Durkee said. They are all capable of shooting low scores, but maybe not the lowest. The past two seasons the Fighting Scots have had Landon Wanless (2022) and Jacob Byanski (2023), guys who shot the lowest scoring aver­ Idtisliip Caledonia senior Owen Hager had two individual wins sweeping the hurdles. He won the 110-meter hurdles in 14.77 seconds and the 300-meter intermediate hurdles in 42.76 seconds. Senior Ian Fedewa took the two throws for the Scots. He earned a mark of 43 feet 6 inches in the shot put and TK outhit the Wolves 9-7 in game two. Hoebeke had another huge game at the plate going 3-for-3 with a double, a triple and four RBI. She walked twice and scored three times. Shelby Robinett was 2-for5 with an RBI and Chloe Bossenberger singled and drove in a run. Kenzie Bouma, Hayden Clement and Emma Reil added hits for TK. Hoebeke shut out the Wolves for six innings in the circle. She struck out ten and allowed four hits. Bulldogs sweep doubleheader against Scot softball squad *0 ■ run lead. Kylee Hoebeke was 2-for3 in the lead-off spot for TK with a pair of home runs. She drove in five runs. Shelby Robinett was 2-for-4 at the plate with two RBI and Jenna Robinett, Adelaide Holderman, Brittney Roodvoets and Emily Stevens had one hit each. Shelby Robinett also got the win in the cirlce. She allowed four earned runs in the seven-inning start. She struck out eight and walked one. The Wolves had six hits. t I 4 I If I » I I . s«l 'V * IF 1'9 ., ,1 I < ft I. < J 1 i 4 4 . I z > I I I 9 t I I 9 f a t I 9 r I 9 �Page lOZThe Sun and News, Saturday, April 13,2024 4 * p • < * 4 ■ M'.X c* - ... * 4 -- r f f I **■ . * ’T* J I A 3 4 1 I « *rr C..ZW * A J .« K p *» ..r - 4* I *3 1 >; K... ' TF> I ** * 1 r •*T 9f * I «* W’ -- Success continued for county cheer teams round of the state tournament Brett Bremer in Division 2. Sports Editor Delton Kellogg advanced It was another outstanding winter for the five varsity to ±e regional round of the competitive cheer teams in state tournament in Division 4, while the Maple Lions Bany County. Few sports have had the came up just short of advanckind of sustained success of ing to regionals along with competitive cheer in the area the Panthers. Here are the 2023-24 All­ The in recent years. Thomapple Kellogg and Barry County Competitive Lakewood varsity competi­ Cheer First and Second tive cheer teams once again Teams. qualified for the MHSAA All-Barry County Competitive Cheer Finals in Competitive Cheer 2024 the Vikings in First Team Division 3 and the Trojans in Madelyn Waller, Delton Division 2. Both teams shared confer- Kellogg: A senior in her ence championships during third varsity season, Waller a veteran flyer for the the 2023-24 season. The Vikings returned to the Panthers and coach Zoe Capital Area Activities Reynolds said she had a skill Conference White Division set above most, was a great and split the wins at the two tiunbler and a round one conference jamborees with leader; She was named first team the Portland girls. Thomapple Kellogg won the first two all-conference, first team OK Gold Conference jambo­ all-district and honorable rees of the season and then mention all-region in shared the conference title Division 4 this season. And with the Cedar Springs girls was also voted one of the who won the conference Panthers’ co-MVPs this sea­ finale. son while also earning aca­ On the way to the state demic all-state honors. finals, the Lakewood ladies Maysse Weissner, Delton won their program’s first Kellogg: The Panthers’other ever regional champion­ co-MVP this season as a ship. three-round senior in her The Hastings girls had third varsity season. Weissner another outstanding was named first team all-conInterstate-8 Athletic ference and first team all-disConference season winning a trict. conference title of their own. “This season Maysse has but just missed out on grown in her tumbling and advancing to the regional stunting. She is a valuable yN^s, asset to the team,” coach Reynolds said. Aicken, Audrey Hastings: A freshman. Aicken was first team all-re­ gion this season for the Saxons as a flyer. She quick ly earned a spot in all three rounds for the varsity. She continued to improve all season long and complet­ ed her full for the first time at districts according to head coach Linsey Jacinto. Camilla Loss, Hastings: A senior, she was the Saxons’ only experienced flyer com­ ing into the year. “She set an amazing example for her teammates, and continued to push herself beyond her limits,” coach Jacinto said. She was second team all-district this season. Makayla Pickett, Hastings: A senior in all three rounds for the Saxons after some hard work to earn her spot in round three. Pickett was named second team all-district this season. “She lifted hard during sideline, which continued through competitive season,” coach Jacinto said, adding “she had an awesome sea­ son.” Taylor Carpenter, Lakewood: A sophomore base in all three rounds for the Vikings with outstanding tumbling skills. Carpenter was named first team all-state in Division 3, as well as first team all-dis­ trict and all-region. She was m 215084 I p AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AS PROVIDED FOR IN CHAPTER 27 THEREOF BY AMENDING SECTION 1.6 AND THE TOWNSHIP ZONING MAP At a Regular Meeting of the Township Board of the Charter Township of Gaines, held on Monday, April 8, 2024 the Township Board approved an Ordinance to amend the Gaines Charter Township Zoning Ordinance as provided for in Chapter 27 thereof by amending Section 1.6 and the Township Zoning Map. one of four Vikings to earn first team all-conference too. Emily Pilar, Lakewood: A senior out front for the Vikings throughout the com­ petition for the Vikings again this winter. Pilar was named first team all-conference, all-region and all-district. Kassandra Schlottman, Lakewood: A Viking senior this season, Schlottman was named second team all-state in Division 2. She earned first team all-district, all-region and all-conference honors too. Walkington, Kylie Lakewood: A senior in all three rounds for Lakewood this winter, she was named honorable mention all-state in Division 3. Walkington was also first team all-conference, all-dis­ trict and all-region this year. Alexa Reitz, Maple Valley: A senior flyer, Reitz was named first team all-dis­ trict this season which was her fourth as a varsity cheer­ leader with the Lions. She was also named first team all-conference in the Big 8. She was awarded the Lions’ Most Valuable Player honor by her teammates. “Alexa is not only an inspiration to her entire team, but to future cheerleaders here at Maple Valley,” head coach Sarah Huissen said, “She leads our team by example both as an athlete and a student. Alexa always gives every thing she has when she is out on the mat performing.” Payton Gater, Thornapple Kellogg: A sophomore backspot, she was named honorable men­ tion all-state at the end of the season. TK head coach Madelynn Lula was impressed with how she took on a leadership role at a young age this fall. The TK coach said Gater would be one to make sure skills that needed it were THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF GAINES (the "Township") ORDAINS: The Zoning Ordinance is hereby amended by the amendment of Section 1.6 thereof the Zoning Map, so as to rezone the following property from Heavy Industrial (1-2) to Neighborhood Commercial (NC), the land being commonly described as parcel 41-22-18-101-020 located at 7610 Division Avenue Southeast. The legal description is as follows; * >- i The North 300 feet of the West 223 feet of the NW % of Section 18, Township 5 N, Range 11 W, Gaines Charter Township, Kent County, Michigan This Ordinance shall become effective seven (7) days after this notice is published in a newspaper of general circulation within the Township. A true and complete copy of the Ordinance to amend the Gaines Charter .. .... -------- --------- Township Zoning Ordinance as provided for in Chapter 27 thereof by amending Section 1.6 and the Township Zoning May can be obtained at: ® SuBi & Niej F-a®,e.^oja{g ue> tjg dgt© u Qitilj the ^Charter Township of Gaines . 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 616-698-6640 •J I Charter Township of Gaines Michael A. Brew, Clerk A' t J 1 gp 1, » 1 » 4 E I I » trained again and again, and rounds for TK, Smith was got teammates to follow named first team all-state in along in an encouraging way. Division 2 at he end of the “She is a fantastic athlete season while earning first team all-district and all-re­ too,” Lula added. Holland, gion too. Mali Coach Lula called Smith Thornapple Kellogg: A senior main base for the relentless and hard-working, Trojans, she was second but what pushed her over the team all-district and first top this season was taking team all-region this season over a big leadership role to and a great leader for her go along with her athletic talents. team. AU-Barry County “Mali is so freakin’ talent­ Competitive Cheer ed,” coach Lula said. “She is Second Team just such a fantastic athlete. Olivia Bouchard, She can do everything you ask her to do with a smile on Thornapple Kellogg: A her face. You say jump, she junior backspot, Bouchard says how high. Her talent pushed in the weight room and how good she is pushes and the practice room and in tumbling classes to be a key everybody around her.” Ava Jahnke, Thornapple contributor in all three Kellogg: A first team all-dis­ rounds for the Trojans this trict and all-region flyer for season. She earned first team the Trojans, coach Lula said all-district at the end of the she really put her quiet season. strength to good use this She earned her spot in winter while also showing round two for TK by nailing off her tremendous skills. her back tuck last summer. “She is someone behind “She put in the work,” coach the scenes doing more than Lula said. “She did, and I anyone. She is so good about know she still has more room encouragement. If something to grow.” is not going right, I have Kaylee Clarke, learned to see it - Ava was Thornapple Kellogg: A the one that turned around sophomore flyer, Clarke and grabbed someone by the earned her team’s coach’s arm or shoulders saying. award this season while ‘you’ve got this.’ Whatever making the challenging is going on in your brain. transition from being a block this.’ She is so good at main base coming into the cheering people up from a season to being a flyer bad day.” because of an injury that Claira Kovich, prevented her from lifting Thornapple Kellogg: A up teammates. sophomore flyer for the Coach Lula said Clarke is Trojans, Kovich was hon- hard-working, always on ored as second team all-re­ time, and one to ask though gion this season. provoking questions in prac­ Coach Lula said consis- tice. “She has continued to tency is one of Kovich’s show improvement in many greatest attributes. She said areas.” she had the most consistent Mia Hilton, Thomapple back tuck in round two on Kellogg: Hilton earned acathe team all season and any demic all-state honors as a little wobble in round two flyer this season for TK, was skills or round three stunts second team all-region and had her going over, and over honorable mention all-dis­ things in practice until it was trict. cleaned up. Coach Lula said Hilton Anna Jo Smith, really grew physically and Thornapple Kellogg: A emotionally this season, main base during her senior and really worked to perfect season for TK, Smith was her full twisting lay-out in second team all-state in round three. “She puts in Division 2 this season and her work in the offseason,” also first team all-district and Lula said. “She wants to be all-region. the best at her craft and that She shared the Teammate shows.” of the Year honor as voted on Other members of the All­ by her teammates this sea- Barry County Second Team son. Coach Lula said she are Delton Kellogg’s would always spend ten or Samantha Makowski and 15 minutes after practice Emily Stonebumer; Hastings’ working with teammates on Carly Frazer, Mia Santos and skills and stunts and was Adrianne VanDenberg; excellent at offering con- Lakewood’s Skylarr structive criticism and sup- Anderson, Lilly Burgess, port. Nadia Martin and Navaeh Kenady Smith, Newton; and Maple Valley’s Thornapple Kellogg: A Emily Reitz and Sophia senior backspot in all three Rose. ) J I I 4 1 I / t t I / ■if. , 7 I 9 f r !y I ill (1 J j’* (in I •4 I 5 1 i •t I a I I i-.® I • ii-- 1 9 ■■ 'R € as Gif >1^ ( •1» V.; •Kj! I' j; s I i J * • *< - L -W "a 4 I 5 « 'J X . * ■'Jje * V .’I ' I >4 �The Sun ana and news, News, ^turday, Saturday, Apr April 13, 2024/ Page 11 > iw oun Sailors take narrow win over CHS tennis team Brett Bremer % sll ’ "is ’ >») I '*(? Cs s, * *s It ^lei .‘“'■J **•1 Sports Editor Caledonia and South Christian split sets at three flights and had a few other exceptionally tight matches as the Sailors too a 5-3 non-conference win over the Fighting Scots Tuesday. The Caledonia varsity girls’ tennis team won a pair of flights in a super tiebreaker, but the Sailors took another to ultimately take the team victory. The fourth doubles duo of Claire Teunessen and Kebe Fitzell scored a 2-6, 6-4, (10-4) win for the CHS girls over the Sailors’ Ava Oosting and Madelynn Bultsema. Audrey Duong took a super tiebreaker win for the Scots at fourth singles too. She bested Audi Burgess 3-6, 6-2, (10-8). The Fighting Scots’ other team point came thanks to Hailey Markwat’s 6-0, 6-4 win over South Christian’s Danya Hendrickson at third sin gles. Scots score lopsided win over West Ottawa girls Brett Bremer The Sailors got their super tiebreaker win at sec­ ond doubles with the team of Stella Jelsema and Lilly Harkema scoring a 6-2, 4-6, (10-8) win over the Caledonia team of Zoe Fleming and Sawyer Mertz. The other two doubles flights finished with finished exceptionally close twoset wins for the Sailors. Josie Meengs and Kate Niewiek took a 7-5, 6-3 win over the Scots’ Abby Duong and Sela Fitzell in the first doubles match. At third doubles, the Sailors’ Katelyn Vierzen and Morgan Struck out­ scored Lilly Hess and Emily Sorstokke 6-3, 6-4. The first singles match was a competitive one too. The Sailors’ Gabby Young managed a 6-3, 6-4 win over the Scots’ Kiley Bommarito. At second singles. South Christian’s Savana Michmerhuizen outscored the Scots’ Sarah Kirk 6-4, 6-1. Citrif, Sports Editor Caledonia had its biggest offensive outpouring yet Wednesday evening as the Fighting Scot varsity girls’ lacrosse team returned from spring break to score a 22-4 win over visiting West Ottawa at Scotland Yard. Addie Roe had a team-high five goals to go with two assists and teammate Ellie Hudson mirrored those numbers putting in two goals and firing off five assists. Mya Burgess had four goals and Caelyn Crocker scored three times each for Caledonia too. “The girls did amazing this first game back after break,” Fighting Scot head coach Kendra Venema said. “Before break we had been battling a few injuries on the team and it was good to have everyone back on the field. They are really starting to leam how each other play and find their groove. “We have a big freshman class and they are really grow­ ing into the speed and higher level ofplay at the varsity level.” In the win over the Panthers, the Scots also got two goals and an assist fi-om Vivian Fmk. Lina Peterson had one goal, Megan Bushart two and Ryleigh Vanderberg one. Whitney Graham had two goals and a key eight draw control wins for her team. The Scots were 2-1 overall this season heading into this weekend. They were slated to visit Spring Lake last night, April 12. They will be back in action at home against Mattawan Monday and Byron Center Wednesday. They also visit Jenison Friday in the week ahead. TK 1-0 in Gold heading into showdown with GRCC Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans scored early, but they couldn’t score often against Cedar Springs in the OK Gold Conference opener in Middleville Wednesday. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ soccer team took a 2-0 win over the Red Hawks. “Not our best performance in the world, but coming off spring break and only having two games under our belt to start the season that’s some­ what expected,” TK head coach Ben Sleeman said. TK got off to a good start with a goal by senior Holly Veiling in the opening two minutes. Tealy Cross got on the end of a long free kick and then played the ball to Velting for the score. “It was nice having Holly back from an ankle injury,” Sleeman said. “We missed her presence up top during her games away.” The Trojan coach said both teams turned the ball over in the midfield time and again from that point on. Chances were so few and far between that the Trojan coaches told their girls that they thought one more goal should be enough to clinch the win. TK got that one more goal with about 15 minutes left as Madilyn Chivis ripped a shot by the Red Hawk keeper. “Cedar was definitely a handful and had a few good chances to score, but I felt like [goalkeeper] Makenna [Hoebeke] didn’t really have to make any difficult saves and our back line really han­ dled their front three well.” The Trojans have a tough week ahead of them. They will face OK Gold Conference foes Grand Rapids Catholic Central at home Monday and Wayland on the road Wednesday. TK closes the week with a contest against Grand Rapids Christian Friday in Middleville. “That will be a nice test for our fitness and mentality head­ ing into the back half of the season,” Sleeman said. Catholic Central beat Wayland in its conference open­ er Wednesday, 6-0. The Trojans will be looking for a little revenge Monday as the Cougars beat them by a goal last spring in the semifinals ofthe OK Gold Conference ToumamenL A ' Ws toitii’j lUt ' U being a ctmg ® 4t tag a {)■(, f«iijii)' ini b la tag Its. ilasaiiOailtii Jlrays n stieiissiia- lo lent ID o»' Thomapple eamfdaa- taois Ji J forlK,»» -itgion and ion alMii- Top singles players back for Trojan tennis squad Brett Bremer Sports Editor The top of the line-up will look very similar, just shuffled a bit for the Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ tennis team this spring. The Trojans bring back their top three singles players from a team that won ten duals a year ago. The group includes Hailey Dudik who has worked her way into the first singles spot to open the z leading the singles, and there are a few sophomores step­ ping up with the juniors in the doubles line-up. He is also really excited for a Z 215085 TOWNSHIP STREET LIGHTING SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT - THORNAPPLE FARMS PHASES ONE AND TWO NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Township Board of the Charter Township of I / *c j;. i*.- freshman class that is look­ ing like a fun group at the JV level that wants to play level to open the season. The Trojans were in the / -***!'> aa middle of the pack in the OK Gold Conference as year ago, and it’s likely they’ll fit in somewhere close to that again this season. They were 4-3 in conference duals a year ago. Forest Hills Eastern placed Hailey Dudik ninth at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 3 Girls’ eight flights in straight sets. Tennis Finals last spring and Carpenter took a 6-2, 6-1 Grand Rapids Catholic win at number two; Nelson Central was sixth at the won 6-1, 6-3 at third singles Division 4 Finals. South and Schilthroat scored a 6-2, Christian was right there 6-0 win at fourth singles. with those teams during the Wodrich and Bufka scored conference competition and a 6-2, 6-1 win at first doubles should be solid again this and Pranger and Loy Savary took a 6-0, 6-1 win at num­ year. The TK ladies opened the ber three. Emilia Rickert and season at Wyoming Tuesday, Martina Panades at third April 9, and scored an 8-0 doubles and Zellmer and Natileigh Merchant at fourth win. doubles scored 6-0, 6-0 wins. Dudik took the first sin­ The TK ladies were set to gles win by a score of 6-0, 6-0 against the Wolves’ be a part of the Lakewood Alexis Moras. TK won all Quad Saturday, April 13. iic * Gaines, Kent County, Michigan, having received a request to make certain public improvements consisting of installation, operation, and maintenance of street lighting with the development of Thornapple Farms Phases I and II, from record owners of land constituting more than 50% of the land area in the special assess­ ment district described below, has resolved its intention to proceed on the petition and, pursuant to Act 188 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1954, as amended, to make said improvements. if The Township Board has tentatively determined that the cost of said improve­ ments shall be specially assessed against each of the following described lots and parcels of land which are benefited by the improvements, and which together comprise the following proposed special assessment district: 4^ THORNAPPLE FARMS PHASES I AND II PART OF W 1/2 OF SEC COM AT . •» aid licalJy and s season, 'to perfect Isy-oiit io puts in Jseasoo," I year, with Holly Carpenter at number two singles and Charlotte Nelson at number three. Isabelle Schilthroat is making the jump up from a spot in the doubles line-up to the fourth singles spot for the jjtslotit [tail'll*' Trojans to start the spring. ofthe All- Tyne Bufka and Cail in Wodrich had different part­ Omi I®” (elW’* iski Has#' iosa»l jeiibe® jljylarr gujess, jiaf*^ Sophi! ners a year ago, but were both at the top of the Trojans doubles line-up. They’ll team up in the stop doubles spot this season. Ava Zellmer and Jordan Pranger are also returning to the doubles line-up along with a handful of varsity newcomers. TK head coach Philippe Sylvestre said his seniors are I I 1 t .f J ' t 9 I ? * ’ jfc * * J r ** y i j • N 86D 38M 58S E 66.10 FT TH N 89D 44M IOS E 93.32 FT TH S OD 15M SOS E 176.03 FT TH S OD 23M SOS W 66.0 FT TH S OD ISM SOS E 166.0 FT TH N 89D 44M IOS E 70.0 FT TH S OD ISM SOS E 70.0 FT TH S 89D 44M IOS W 163.43 FT TH N 89 41M 07S W 66.0 FT TH S 89D SOM 26S W 164.16 FT TH S OD 09M 34S E 320.1S FT TO E&W 1/4 LINE TH S ID 02M 35S E 210.94 FT TH S OD IIM OOS E 4S1.64 FT TO S LINE OF N 1/4 OF SW 1/4 TH S 89D S7M 21S W ALONG SD S LINE 675.0 FT TO W SEC LINE TH N OD IIM OOS W ALONG W SEC LINE 220.0 FT TH N 89D 49M OOS E 200.0 FT TH N OD IIM OOS W 230.0 FT TH S 89D 49M OOS W 200.0 FT TO W SEC LINE TH N OD IIM OOS W ALONG W SEC LINE 212.41 FT TO BEG * SEC 11 T5N RllW The Township Board of the Charter Township of Gaines will hold a public hearing on May 13, 2024 at the 7:00 PM meeting, to be held at the Township offices locat­ ed at 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316, to hear and consider any objections to the petitions filed, the proposed improvements, the proposed special assessment district, and all other matters relating to said improvements. Michael A. Brew Clerk Gaines Charter Township •«•«•!« til Itai « < . . *• A • » »*> 1 1 I I V f 1 » I « 4 I I 1 « • I » I 'A I I I > r » 1 I I f 04S E 660.0 FT TH S 48D 29M 59S E 111.10 FT TH N 89D SOM 26S E 93.0 FT TH I > I J W 1/4 COR TH N OD 09M 34S W ALONG W SEC LINE 866.90 FT TH N 89D 52M » 9 t I f I * �Page 12/Tbe Sun and News, Saturday, April 13, 2024 sweep TK Red Hawks score two late to Brett Bremer Sports Editor I r. t The Trojans were five outs from win number one of the 2024 season Tuesday. A suicide squeeze bunt about 30 feet down the thirdbase line with one out in the top of the sixth inning plated the tying run for Cedar Springs though, and then the Red Hawks went ahead in the top of the seventh on a ball that bounded closer to 300 feet out into the right field comer. The visiting Red Hawks OK Gold swept their Conference doubleheader with the Thomapple Kellogg varsity baseball team with a 4-3 comefrom-behind win in game two after taking the day’s opener 11-1 in six innings. Junior right-hander Brody Wiersma held the Red HawLs al bay for much of game two Tuesday despite the base paths being fairly busy. He took the loss on the mound allowing four runs on nine hits and six walks. He struck out six. The last two guys he walked came around to score the tying and winning runs after the Trojans took a 3-2 lead with three runs in the bot­ tom of the third inning. At the plate, Wiersma was 2-for-3 with a walk He had a single, a double and a run scored. Jayce Brummel came on to get the final three outs on the mound in the top of the sev­ enth for TK. He had a solid game two at the plate too going 2-for-3 with the Trojans’ two RBIs. Logan and Wiersma Snelling both walked with one out in the bottom of the third to start TK’s scoring rally. A throw from the Cedar Springs catcher got away from the Red Hawk third baseman as Ulersma attempted a steal of third, and Wiersma came in to score as the ball rolled down the left-field line. TX’s Connor Dombkowski and Jacob Davis were hit by pitches, eventually leaving the Trojans with the bases loaded and two out. That’s when Brummel delivered a bloop single into center that brought home the Trojans’ final two runs to take a 3-2 lead at the time. The Red Hawks’ game-ty ing rally in the sixth started with a lead-off walk to Bruce Luevano. He stole second and went to third on a sacrifice fly into center by Tyler Twiss. The t J J I I I i I I I r i I i / 4 I; i tf • ’ * 4 t r The Trojans’ Jacob Davis hustles into third base during the Trojans’ three-run rally in the bottom of the third inning of game two against Cedar Springs Tuesday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) A 214429 I f-* Tankee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 ★ ★★ I I —1 4 2024 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP SPRING CLEANUP DAY*** Saturday, April 27, 2024 9:00 AM start @ the Fire Station 1425 S Payne Lake Rd. Finish (and Pizza!) around noon. • 4 : I tL *'-<3 I i( I 4 »h 4 I « A 9 J I 2 1 1 "JI ( B 1 - • -TT S’ & > 'A-. I* uK I, •< I 3. 'X I I . 4 -• t t * 4 ■ i J I J ra •ri Ji ■, t KI I?, R I T I I, 1 'F^'' Thomapple Kellogg’s Jayce Brummel knocks a two-run single into center field during the bottom of the third inning of game two against visiting Cedar Springs in Middleville Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ■ i' next batter, Quinton Bell, dropped a perfect bunt down the third base line as Luevano came sprinting home to tie the game. The third baseman Snelling scooped the bunt to get Bell out at first and then Wiersma ended the inning with a strike out. In the top of the seventh, C edar S prings ’ Hunter Hendges worked a lead-off walk against Wiersma on four pitches. Wiersma fired a pitch for a strike to Zach Reed, but then the Red Hawk lead-off hitter belted the next pitch down the right-field line for a go-ahead, RBI triple. Brummel came on there and induced a pair of pop outs. Some aggressive base running third and home, eventually tagged out diving for the plate. Back-to-back strikeouts by Red Hawk pitcher Zach Reed ended the Trojan threat. Walker Glyshaw started on the mound and got the win for I 1 f I k -A- by the Red Hawks’ helped out too. Reed tried to score from third on a pop foul behind the bag at first, but first baseman Maddix Ferden had plenty of time to fire the ball to the catch­ er Dombkowski at the plate and he put the tag on Reed to keep it a one-run game. Wiersma and Snelling led off the bottom of the seventh with singles for TK, and they were on second and third with nobody out after Snelling stole second, but a Trojan squeeze play backfired. Wiersma was caught in a rundown between ''k 4 I J I *il r4i *r •’*54 t Jjf > • /. r I J ' t . J • r .i 'f.' 5-Sj •p * A. Y A A* I♦ I F 4.• * 1 4 I? 1 •A Thornapple Kellogg shortstop Spencer Ybema positions himself to grab a bouncing ball during the top of the second inning of game two against Cedar Springs Tuesday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the Red Hawks. He struck out ten and walked four in his six innings of work. Eight different Red Hawks had hits in the game two win. Bell was the only one with two. Cedar Springs outhit TK 13-3 in game one. Wiersma had a double and scored TK’s only run. Anson Verlinde and Austin Alumbrack leading the way with three. Cedar Springs’ Parker Vaughn had a double, a walk le of their three-game OK Gold Conference series at Cedar Springs postponed due to rain Thursday. TK will be in Hastings Saturday morning, April 13, for the annual Barty County Invitational along with the host Saxons, Delton Kellogg and Lakewood. and was hit by a pitch. He scored three runs and also earned the win on the mound. He struck out 14 and didn’t walk a batter. The two teamshad the fina- Ben Koster both singled once for TK in the 11-1 loss. Twiss led the Red Hawks attack going 4-for-4 with two runs and two RBIs. Luevano, Glyshaw and Bell had two hits each. Bell had a double, a tri- 5 r & i i pie and three RBIs. Luevano doubled once. Cedar Springs A t also stole nine bases with fl ( Your local agent insures your 1 1 Retfarement Ask about our annuities and IRAs Please come and join us in cleaning along the roads in the township. I 4 r r J V X I FAttUB BUREAU • INSURANCE* i- A dumpster for trash collected will be provided along with trash bags. jer « 4 Jason Parks Please call the Township office with any questions 269-795-9091. t I 1 4 <■ f * 1 L ’ '■’I 3’ t 4* r • V i t r « > ' < I I ■■ i I I . I I / J J a i ! I rv J / 4 « ♦ 4 (269) 795-8827 jparks @fbinsmi .com FarmBureaulnsurance.com 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville 1 I ! - 1 4 I ( I 9 4 r •*1 Thornapple Kellogg junior Brody Wiersma pitches against Cedar Springs during game two of the Conference doubleheader in I Middleville Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I V < I » I t f $ > . r I r t I * a « 4 I if •t f ' 4 4 ( 4 t t 4 4 I' I ( * 1 I 1 i' J � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-04-20.pdf ced9729c02960ac16c02ccf0e603a193 PDF Text Text t •l > A.|J I I 4 I —u ’y'r'A and News Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville No. 16/ April 20, 2024 '■ .-ft s and Caledonia Areas A 1 Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. • 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, MI 49058 I 4 146th year ' PEDAL TO THE GRAVEL; Barry-Roubaix Gaines Township weaves through Barry County today election worker ----------------------------------------------- -------------- r♦ 4 r A r'A r Y' .rZ T accused of crimes sees case dismissed i V . 4, •< f k -I ?/ J 4 F I 'W A* c ! 45.* ^7 I*’ • r * . w V -< I I I Li * O.’ • 1 L 9 K. Ih'i “ft 1 44 • 4ltc ;tj> I I I ' ’ - 4^'? _ __ • L4 A X I I I A *a a kT iiT?. i J >1 tV •A , 4X« ¥< « 4"^ JE>| I .•jV ■■ 'r C‘‘ 1 MvS * T p n J . > n r t niij. i 4-. > ►- J J t -'T' < I 'i « <r fj 4 I •'sR L * R A ' " ‘- t B r 5: ** < 4 8» \ Uv "v •t » *T r 11 5 4 Ji?. i - . •'kn —>■ • >«a3P* J II 5 F 56^*^ James Gemmell Contributing Writer An election worker charged with falsifying election returns and using a computer to commit a crime could have received up to nine years in prison. But the Michigan Court of Appeals on Thursday dismissed the case against James Donald Holkeboer. He was not employed by the county. The alleged incident occurred after the primary election polls closed in Gaines Charter Township in August 2022. It was in the township’s Sth Precinct, at Ada Bible Church on 68th Street. A witness reported seeing • ♦•*J Holkeboer insert a USB flash drive into an elec­ tronic poll book. That is the computer used to help administer the election. Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker told the Sun and News he will likely appeal the court’s deci­ sion. “Because it seems a bit troubling heading into a presidential election that I Over 5,000 cyclists will participate in this year’s Barry-Roubaix, which starts in downtown Hastings and . • takes riders out on gravel and dirt roads throughout Barry County. (File photos) Jayson Bussa zig-zag areas throughout the Editor Barry State Game Area and Organizers of most out­ beyond. door events tend to keep an Acker, who is a profes­ eagle eye on the weather sional cyclist himself, knows forecast - especially during that most competitors will the unpredictable times of absorb whatever the eleearly spring. ments throw at them. And, Matt Acker doesn’t seem when it comes to the history to sweat it, though. of the Bany-Roubaix, that Acker is co-director for has been just about everythe annual Barry-Roubaix thing, from snow and rain to off-road cycling race, which the unseasonable warm ternwill be celebrating its 1 Sth peratures that came with last installment today, April 20, year’s event. when thousands of cyclists “I think last year, I don’t want to say it was too warm and I don’t want to complain. but when all these Michiganders and Midwesterners get out and it goes from 50 to 80, it’s a lit­ tle overwhelming to the sys­ tem. Last year, we saw a lot of people struggling with the heat. We went through nearly 200 five-gallon jugs of water, which is twice as much water as we normally do.” The Barry-Roubaix is big­ ger than it ever has been with 5,200 riders that will tackle four different courses of var­ ious lengths. All cyclists take off from the start/fmish line in downtown Hastings, but they will weave through the many miles of dirt and gravel roads throughout the county. The 5,200 riders is a jump from the 4,800 riders that the event hosted last year. The crowded field of riders makes it one of the largest events of its kind in the world, attract­ ing riders from all stretches we now seem to have a case that says an election worker can take informa­ tion from an election com­ puter and not be in viola­ tion of the law. I think it’s definitely something we need to take a harder look at,” he said. After the alleged crime occurred, Kent County Clerk/Register of Deeds Lisa Posthumus Lyons called it “an extremely egregious and incredibly alarming” act. The electronic poll book holds confidential and per­ sonal information about all voters in a precinct. However, the poll book is not connected to any of the tabulation equipment or to the internet. “The willful violation occurred after the files in the electronic poll book were saved to the precinct’s authorized, encrypted system device, and that system device was placed in a certified, sealed container per standard pro­ cedure,” Lyons said in . I I I4 I I i I i i I i I t 1 I I 1 I I 1 I I I I 1' I I I I I I See HOLKEBOER, page 3 t I I i I > 1 I I I I > » See CYCLING RACE, page 2 ♦p I It *T Caledonia village and its manager part ways Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Caledonia is looking for a new manag- er. Jeff Thornton, who has served as Caledonia’s village manager since June 2019, nWW W g 35^ ii.ii nr- k i I J rr 1 4 1 f ♦♦ ► I1 PS n Ir *1 ,4 r. M « I t t s- I I •. • ~ .4 I ■rt • fAs • I Jeff Thornton speaks during a Caledonia Village Council meeting on Monday evening. (Photo by Greg . Ch^0|qr) , will resign from his position effective next Monday, under a separation agree­ ment that was approved by the Village Council Monday night. Thornton will also step down from the positions of village clerk and Department of Public Works director under the agree­ ment, which was approved on a 6-0 vote. The council’s action came three weeks after a special meeting on March 25 at which it authorized Village President Jermifer Lindsey to offer a separation agree­ ment to Thornton and “to negotiate terms of potential separation of employment.” Thornton and Lindsey both signed the agreement after Monday night’s meeting. “I wish him well,” Lindsey said after the meeting. She declined to comment further on the circumstances that led to Thornton’s departure. Other council members thanked Thornton for his ser­ vice to the village over the past five years. Earlier this year, Thornton and the council clashed over a request by the manager to use flex time - taking an equal amount of time off in a pay period equal to hours he worked in that same pay period beyond a typical week. 40-hour work Thornton said he had an agreement with the village ** 4 Gaines Township Clerk Michael Brew, in the red shirt, explaining at an August township board meet­ ing what happened on primary election night in 2022. (File photo by James Gemmell) 11^ 4 ISBW I I I F ! • Proposed TIP for Flats at Mid-Villa draws concerns • CHS evacuated because of gas leak • One person killed in M-37 crash in Caledonia • TK baseball beats Delton Kellogg and Hastings in county tourney • Senior scores late to lift Scot soccer into draw with Kentwood See THORNTON, page 3 I I I I 1 r' k «' I I I I <. * i I I I I I t 4 > I I ! I k t I > ! t { I I < �Page 2ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, April 20,2024 Concerns raised about proposed TIF for Flats at Mid-Villa rf-* 4 incomes are between 80 and Greg Chandler 120 percent of the communi­ Staff Writer A proposed tax-increment ty’s median income. That financing plan for the Flats works out to about $40,000 at Mid-Villa development in to $90,000 a year. He says Middleville is generating for some folks who work in mixed reviews in the com­ Middleville, finding a place to live in the community is munity so far. The village’s Downtown out of reach. /< lot of people are drivDevelopment Authority 0 board Tuesday heard a pre- ing 40 to 45 minutes to get to sentation Dutch work. We definitely hear it by M' Developers LLC, seeking from employers. We’re listhe board’s support to allow tening to the community on the Barry County Brownfield how to best to deliver a proji .'^.C < Redevelopment Authority to ect that is connected to the collect $4.48 million in new community,” Ringnalda a-r. tax revenues expected to be said. generated by construction of The project has the backthe residential portion of the ing of Bradford White Dutch Developers LLC owner Nate Heyboer project over the next 15 Corporation, the village’s speaks in front of the Village of Middleville’s Downtown years. Those funds would largest employer. Company Development Authority board on Tuesday evening. then go to reimburse the senior vice president and developer for infrastructure general manager Peter bers, however, are skeptical. tant, explained to the board and other related costs tied Kattula has written a letter to Board Chairwoman Kim that incentives such as a TIF to the project. the village expressing a need Jachim asked Heyboer a are a necessity to make The DDA board tabled a for affordable housing in point-blank question dxuing housing projects of this type decision on whether to sup­ Middleville. Tuesday’s discussion; “If feasible. He cited that three port the TIF capture but is “It is imperative that we you are not given this TIF, major housing projects in expected to address the mat­ don’t lose potential employ­ are you walking?” the old Moose Hastings ter next month. The Village ees to businesses in neigh­ “I’m obviously not walk­ lodge, the Royal Coach proj­ Council is expected to hear a boring counties or see high ing from the development as ect on the site of the former similar presentation by school and college graduates a whole. We’re working on Hastings Manufacturing Dutch Developers LLC, led leave the area for communi- the commercial (portion), plant and the Tyden Lofts by owner Nate Heyboer, at — all have incentives tied to >next Tuesday’s council it. want housing in your community, you’re meeting. “If you want housing in The Flats at Mid-Villa going to have to consider some of these tools to your community, you’re project involves the con­ going to have to consider make this happen. I know it can seem to some on struction of 144 apartment some of these tools to make the outside like a money grab it ’ s not. ” units —120 two-bedroom this happen,” Smith said. “I apartments and 24 one-bed— Casey Smith, know it can seem to some on room apartments as well the outside like a money Consultant, SME as a 134-unit self-storage grab - it’s not. It makes these facility and three commer­ projects (work) out.” cial out lots along M-37. ties with better housing investing a lot of that money Thornapple Township The Village Council in May opportunities,” Kattula right now to get that going. Supervisor Eric Schaefer, of last year approved rezon­ vkTote in his letter. The apartment project would who heard a presentation on ing the property as a Heyboer said in recent be mothballed,” Heyboer the TIF request last week at planned unit development. discussions with Bradford said. the Township Board meetmeet­ The TIF request does not White, six of eight students Heyboer went on to ing, said he spoke to a longinclude the self-storage who were offered intern- explain that without the TIF, time resident who quesfacility or the commercial ships with the company rents for the project would tioned the benefit of the out lots. turned down the offers be much higher than what project. The resident is on a Marcus Ringnalda, a con­ because they couldn’t find a has been proposed, making fixed income but must still sultant who has been work­ place to live. the development not feasi­ pay taxes every year, ing with Heyboer on the Rents for the Mid-Villa ble. Schaefer said. project, says the apartments apartments would range “The math doesn’t work. “In good conscience, I are meant to address what he from $ 1,225 a month for one It’s a math problem,” he don’t know how I can vote in refers to as “the missing bedroom to $1,475 for two said. favor of this,” Schaefer said. middle” workforce hous- bedrooms, Ringnalda said. Casey Smith of SME, the Heyboer said that in its ing for people whose Some DDA board mem- county’s brovkmfield consulcurrent undeveloped state, * I •< » /■ 4M >■ .4Nbp' d « 9 •< •A»f fimpliflea - k Mir ■ r i ' * > "dy - lA ■ 46 I • I ■9 . r A IB ✓ •r ! wA. * ** R k wr ^4. '3^ > > • / * ■ It I "9 <- V •l r i jifc i I The Flats at Mid-Villa project in Middleville will feature 144 apartments to be built over the next 15 years. It will also contain a commercial portion with a 134-unit self-storage facility and three commercial out lots. (Photos by Greg Chandler) .JI* j4 ke Brownfield Development Financing Act to fund afford­ able housing projects with the approval of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. Dutch Developers is seeking support for the TIF from the DDA, village, Thomapple Township and the Barry County Board of Commissioners, but MSHDA would have to grant the final approval. DDA board member Justine King moved to table the TIF request until next month. “I would like it to be a fairly quick period, so that we can move past this. I don’t want to sit on it,” King said. “I would like some time to research, but I don’t think we don’t need months.” Heyboer said he hopes to get the local approvals in place by the end of June, after which the developer would go through a 60-day waiting period with MSHDA before final approval of the TIF would go through. “I’m ready to write con­ tracts and break ground and get some housing going. We’re there,” he said. he pays about $30,000 in taxes annually for the 13.3acre Mid-Villa property. Jachim said she has received a number of phone calls from residents express­ ing concerns about the proj­ ect and the TIF request. “We are representing the people who have called and asked us to ask these ques­ tions,” Jachim said. “That’s doing our job, by asking you guys the tough questions, sitting up here and making ourselves vulnerable.” Three residents spoke out against the TIF during the public comment period, while no one spoke in favor. Eric Buchanan called the project “oversized” and “not exactly the right fit for Middleville,” suggesting a smaller development. “You drop something like this in Holland or Byron Center and it would have a small impact. To drop something this size into Middleville, it’s going to have an enormous impact,” Buchanan said. The TIF request comes less than a year after state lawmakers approved a change in the state’s ill 1 I ^,14^ I ’iibilk ill I*'" lllltt’^ (Hili’? I* lar Mita! tobtiiiili sjfllfcjid salaries. T! Mita 117.S11 tan’i' Mer agreeniait, me»i n 31)22,44 Ma SI 4eC(®of, itsteifflj CYCLING RACE, continued from page 1 of the country and globe. WHAT TO KNOW — Cyclists began arriving on Friday for a variety of pre-race events. This includ ed packet pickup, group rides and the B4 Barry Gravel Social, which fea- tured bonfires, food trucks and music. — The Barry-Roubaix kicks off at 7 a.m. today when the 100-mile racers take off. This is followed by races of 36 miles (10 a.m. start time); 62 miles (11 a.m.) «■ and 18 miles (11:15 a.m.). — An afterparty will run from 1:30 to 5 p.m. along with an award ceremony in downtown Hastings. — Parking will be incred­ ibly limited and city resi­ dents can expect some road closures. Elsewhere in the county, drivers should keep a close eye out for cyclists, Signage has been installed to alert motorists. — Maps and other infor­ mation can be found at barry-roubaix.com. J M A •• w ^7 ’ >• rt ! mfeiittio it SMis, 1 iWcoffji 'M 9^ 'A e I Il IlW ■ittmoiij f’lalitjili IWII Iwi ’’S >. I 1 J I J Siij •J.jn - < K Your local agent insures your *. A » 4 ’91. f New ■7 J I a * V'C'9. A 1 A V WA• Busin ■••V Fa brics 1 r * * » 4 Nt 4 ’it. •4—1 A 5^; ** 1 * .T*-' •'A* * ! ! •$ r I V/T J & 1 t* 9 L’?? , « 7 New Collections '’"Wli'i .-R « •r .*, • • ‘’Ill's I 1 > I lltFriiiai I Ai-. 3 4 * FARM BUREAU MSURANCE" 1 - « BW I • -u- .» • A A *-•'------ 44 « > S' r* > Hip I.. 9* •• .U •i t 1 w. « ii tioli Ifsaii ' vr I -wj* * LrfflgglMi Z" 4.’ r, f: 1 V .VZ'.- V, SI? I '•'i*' I3 A. lA. f w. ■y* fttearwc& Compoft^ r QocC Coves youl '!> a *4 ii V s :*S * 1 JasoitParks dOd c • o. 0 . 121 E Mam Street Downtown Middleville ypgtf^ 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 V: Hvhl CleaMers Pickt^ Station r 0 4 » I & I, ■j/iAAy. b ! J t' ( 4* OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 ani-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm '.‘‘1 .^14 n f.' rjRt r k R-Z) f •I**. '4 * ■A t > t 4 (269)795-8827 jparks@fbinsml.coin FarmBureaulnsurance.cora QUESTIONS: ASK US... 'je. rv’s s ^(1 Cyclists have braved the cold, snow, rain and even unseasonably hot temperatures throughout the plstory of the Barry-Roubaix. " —• ■ » t i 4. >'Ui Olf '6, k a«li �THORNTON, continued from page 1 The Sun and News, Saturday, April 20, 2024/ Page 3 I Fatal accident plays out on IVI-37 in Village of Caledonia A V I for the flex time and had amount of $29,485, which is Trustee Dan Erskine felt the been using it throughout his roughly equal to 12 weeks’ description was not detailed tenure. Lindsey said that the salary. It also includes com­ enough. village was not required to pensation for accrued but “ You need to have more allow Thornton to use flex unused time off and vacation Greg Chandler specifics than what ’ s here, ” time and that the village time. He will also continue Writer said Erskine, who was the could change the terms of to receive health insurance One person is dead and lone no vote on the 5-1 vote his employment because he coverage for six months, another is hospitalized in criti­ approving the job descripcal condition after a crash was an at-will employee. involving a semi-tnick and a In July 2022, Thornton you for the time I’ve been here. I hop e passenger vehicle early took on the duties of public Thursday morning in the vil­ you find a qualified replacement, and good luck service director after the village of Caledonia, lage was unable to find a on your endeavors. I think the village is set for The crash occurred about Department of Public Works a good future financially. I think there are some 5:30 a.m. director for a period of two v«n A M-™heny good projects coming along. ” Valley Avenue and 100th years. He was paid an addi­ Street. tional $2,000 a month on top — Jeff Thornton, According to Michigan of his village manager sala­ Village Manager, Caledonia State Police at the Grand ry for taking on the public Rapids post, a semi was headed ""TT ‘‘y'" eligible tion northbound on M-37/Cherry while village officials for health insurance through approving the job Valley when the passenger worked on a job description. a The council in August of end of th^ six^monthne^ ’ the council vehicle crossed the centerline i tabled a decision on what and slammed into the semi last year reduced the additional pay to $1,000 a “nl aX“^dnver of^e vehimanTT,__ _ u_______ , . Thomton has agreed not re-employment with the village and will not pursue any legal action against the village, according to the month. % Si % fl * 6 u. K I 4 hl loilll V. 5 I I I ’"IJ fib hl I psi i Mitli-,' h'l k 1 ikfflleg Alb bilk h MiiiilFi “ Thank you for the time T, , , „ _ I ve been here, Thornton said to council members in his final comments. I hope you find a qualified replacement, and good luck on your endeavors. I think the village is set for a good future finan­ cially. I think there are some good projects coming along ...I think there’s been some good practices put in place that you’ve been doing regarding street mainte­ nance, which seems to have been a big problem (in the past).” The council in June of last year approved a balanced general fund budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year of a little more than $883,000. The budget included increased spending for capital outlay projects as well as for DPW salaries. The village’s tax rate has remained unchanged at 7.944 mills during Thornton’s tenure. Under the separation agreement, Thornton will receive severance pay in the agreement document. Before coming to Caledonia, Thornton was city manager in the Upper Peninsula community of Negaunee from 2011 to 2017. He also chief administrative officer in Alpena County in northeast Lower Michigan from 2005 to 2009. Thornton was scheduled to interview Friday afternoon for the county adminis trator job in Alpena County. He is one of three finalists under consideration for the job. Shortly after voting to approve the separation agreement with Thornton, the council approved an updated job description for the village manager position and will provide that descrip­ tion to recruiters who may assist the village in filling the position. But Council MB position. In addition, the council approved beginning a search process for a new adminis­ trative assistant at the village office. Longtime administra­ tive assistant Lisa Segard is retiring in July after 26 years with the village. “(Segard) never really had a job description, so we made one up,” Lindsey said. The initial job description proposed setting the pay range for the position at $ 15 to $18 per hour. Council Trustee Gerrianne Schuler said the range should be higher. “I don’t think we’ll get someone of quality paying $ 15 an hour,” Schuler said. The council agreed with Schuler, raising the pay range to $ 18 to $25 per hour. The 28-hour-a-week posi­ tion will also offer paid time off for vacation and sick leave, and will offer an option for joining the vil­ lage’s retirement plan by having the individual con­ tribute up to 5 percent of their pay to the plan. Jpitij HOLKEBOER, continued from page 1 10 IIS." KSi^l' Ibhp ,’W i I i J 4* is ty , n «i I ( I ] Z- 2022, after the alleged inci­ dent was reported. Becker was asked what the Court of Appeals based its decision upon. “They kind of hinged it on the dictionary definition of words, and essentially that copying is not the same as removing. And that’s probably the best thing, is that you just copy and that’s really not removing or destroying it. So, ergo, it’s not in violation of the law,” he said. On Friday, Lyons told the Sun & News the appeals opinion court’s was “extremely disappointing.” She said she spoke to Becker and is looking for­ ward to an appeal of the decision. “I’m deeply troubled that the Court of Appeals didn’t see fit to hold accountable an individual who know­ ingly and secretly entered a personal flash drive into our election equipment without authorization. He • obtained information for his own purposes. It’s beyond the bounds of his duty as an election worker.” Lyons said in 2022 the incident was in violation of public trust and the oath that election workers are required to take. “It’s always a concern,” Becker said. “How do you keep an eye on all these election workers and what they may do? Because this is a flash drive, and every body’s got access to one of those. So, like I said, it’s a troubling ruling and so I think there’s probably a « M. W* ■ T. ■ 4' * bf :^.i* ** * ZAS 1 s .B ’I ' B !• I I * I KT . J .. .4* ,• it' 4 'f/t Michigan State Police work at the scene of a fatal accident that occurred on Thursday morning in the Village of Caledonia. (Photo by Greg Chandler) ’ scene, while the passenger was airlifted to a Grand Rapids hospital in critical condition. The driver of the semi was not injured, police said, Names of the victims have not been released, authorities citing the ongoing investiga­ tion. The northbound lanes of M-37/Cherry Valley were reopened around 11 a.m. but southbound traffic was detoured through the village of Caledonia onto Main and Kinsey streets further into the day. The crash remains under investigation by Michigan State Police. J J I 4 Light turnout for TK nonhomestead levy forum Greg Chandler Staff Writer About a dozen residents of the Thomapple Kellogg school district turned out Wednesday night for a community forum on next month’s ballot propos­ al to renew the district’s non-homestead tax levy. Superintendent Craig McCarthy and Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie explained the proposal to renew the 18-mill levy for the next 10 years that will be on the May 7 ballot at the forum, which was held at TK’s Early Childhood Center. The non-homestead tax is assessed to businesses, vacation homes, rental homes, and commercial and industrial properties. It does not apply to primary residences. “For most of us, if this pass­ es, we don’t pay any more on our tax bills. If this doesn’t pass, we don’t pay any more on our tax bill. There’s no opportunity for anyone to get a tax break, except for the non-homestead property owners, the business owners, the rental property owners,” LaHaie said. District officials say the levy is needed in order for TK to receive its full per-pupil funding allocation from the state of Michigan. “If we don’t levy that 18 mills, it would have a detri­ mental effect on the school district,” McCarthy said at the forum. “We would have the potential to lose $3.8 million per year, which would mean that in a matter of two-and-ahalf years, we’d eat up all the school district savings, which we’ve taken a number of years to build up.” The ballot language asks voters to approve a renewal of is.yyzj 18.9923mills millsand andananadditional additional 0.5 0.5mill milldesigned designedtotooffset offsetrollroll­ backs backsfrom fromthe theHeadlee Headleeamendamendment, but the district can levy no more than 18 mills at any one time. McCarthy calls the additional levy beyond 18 mills “the Headlee hedge.” “If we have a Headlee rollback, we have that amount to be able to chip away, so we don’t fall below the 18 mills and lose revenue for the school district,” McCarthy said. TK voters approved renew­ als of the non-homestead millage in 1995,2005 and 2014. In 2014, TK voters approved a 20-mill levy, of which the two I I i 1 1 I► i 1 ft: I T- 1 1 i I I » I I i J1 I i I i I I I I I * 4; Craig McCarthy additional mills were used to absorb the Headlee rollback, by a margin of 3,253 to 1,684. “Statutorily, we can never levy more than 18. If and when this passes and it goes back to 19.4923 (mills), everybody’s non-homestead property tax bill will still say 18,” LaHaie said. The non-homestead levy represents about 8 percent of TK’s general fund budget. “These are all operating dollars. This isn’t like a bond campaign or sinking fund . for capital projects. These are the dollars we use every day to pay teachers, buy supplies, pay all staff, keep the lights on, run the buses,” LaHaie said. For more information on the non-homestead levy, visit tkschools.org. I I I I I i I I I II I 1 I i I J i i I I I I I X: 1 KU ' X I I I t I ur J? I I V I f 'I I I- * J I I I f .J - I Spring C^’aft & n ^Zendor Show • «!> f i I-, « I 1 * ’’f • Clerk Lisa Posthumus Lyons VST? •r ? ' I" . V'l ' t_ » 1 I r I 4 I i I I 3885 lender‘Kd., fMiddleville, SMQ 49333 * 0 .* i f r Saturday, 54pril 27th, 2024 I « 1 basis for an appeal, and we’ll see what happens.” cle was pronounced dead at the ' ‘‘^.56 1 a • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems We have 80 vendors and counting I I * . f celi.(«R>)) SIG % KIG* 1 • • • Come support these local businesses and your State finalists ‘Trojans. z I < Give us a call! 1 I 269-967-8241 > 1 can 7 wait to see you! * I www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com >'>a» .1 . www.cellsignalpros.£O(n . « 4 i I » ( I I r » $ k « •bl'’ i I I I �Page 4ZThe Son and News, Saturday, April 20, 2024 Former Caledonia DPW director, athletic volunteer dies a ♦TWJ h Gayle Allison Arensmeler the opportunity to travel. She was a people person, and this was a perfect career path for her. She married Doug Arensmeier on February 14, 1999 and lived in Salem, OR until her death. She was proceeded in death by her husband. She was a beloved sister and aunt. She is survived by her Gayle Allison Arensmeier passed away on March 31, 2024 in Salem, OR. born on She was September 6, 1946 in Detroit, MI. She grew up in graduating Middleville from Thornapple Kellogg High School in 1964. After graduation, she began a career in retail. eventually becoming a buyer which afforded her sisters, Valerie Allison (Ed Jones), Karen Allison (Steve Werkema), Sheryl Allison (Ralph Haynes), brothers, Mark Allison Allison Matt And (Shelly). A celebration of life will be held at Virgil T Golden 605 Services, Funeral Commercial St. SE., Salem, OR 97301 on April 28, 2024. r b 1 I Kayser Brothers' Birthday Celebration * M f 9 l|«: ■*J sf "■p. w 9 ZT <- z 1 The Kayser brothers will be celebrating their birth­ days. Gerald (right) is 98 and Vem (left) is 91. A community open house will be held on Sunday, April 21, at St. Paul Lutheran Church Gymnasium, 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. for Gerald and Vem. No gifts please, your presence is a gift to Gerald and Vem. a J; LJ I Loring when he was a stu­ dent-athlete at CHS, graduat­ ing in 2001, and then later as Miedema became part of the school’s athletic staff. Loring would basically do whatever was needed at athletic events, ranging from game manage­ ment at the site to helping out ticket-takers to welcoming game officials, Miedema said. “He was that main staple dude who would help at pretty much every single (home) event we had ... He lived at the gym, he lived at Scotland Yard, he lived at the football field,” Miedema said. During the Christmas sea­ son, Loring would often dress as Santa Claus, including at the annual Christmas in Caledonia parade. He also enjoyed hunting and traveling to the Upper Peninsula and was an ardent Michigan State University sports fan. Loring is survived by his daughter, Nichole; sister, Judy Greg Chandler Staff Writer A memorial service will be held next weekend for a former Caledonia village official and longtime community volunteer. Roger Loring, who served as the village’s director of pub­ lic works and also volunteered at Caledonia High School ath­ letic events, died April 9 at the age of 67. A memorial service will be held Sunday, April 28, from 1 to 4 p.m. at American Legion Post 305, 9548 Cherry Valley Ave. SE. A lifelong Caledonia residenL Loring worited for the village in the public works department from October 1986 to May 2020. In addition, he played a major role in support­ ing Caledonia High athletics. “He’s a town hero and a town legend,” CHS assistant athletic director Phil Miedema said of Loring, who he consid­ ered a longtime fiiend. Miedema first got to know t I t 9 f Roger Loring iff ^5* (Gary); nephews Dennis and Jon (Ariaima); niece, Julia (Max), along with all their children. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Doris Loring and his brother. Jack Loring, Jr. Arrangements are being handled by Matthysse-KuiperDeGraaf Funeral Home in Caledonia. Family and friends who wish to make a charitable donation in Loring’s memory are asked to consider donating to the Caledonia Education Foundation at caledoniacef. org/support.html. I I J 1 I DNR shooting range back open sports minor renovations Greg Chandler Staff Writer The new Michigan Department of Natural Resources shooting range in Rutland Charter Township is back open. The range, located within the Bany State Game Area on the south side of Chief I I I I t i f I 1 Noonday Road (M-179) just east of Peets Road, reopened Sunday, April 14 after addi- DepjiWl ftddijCh ^««seas See SHOOTING, page 5 Caledonia United Methodist Church 7?ev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship Ik Yi service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaiedoniaUMC.org Liveslream: Facebook.comUaledoniaUnitedMethodist Senifig FIRST cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham » BAPTIST Middleville Sunday Service 10:30 AM CO 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) 1 » 11 1 <- IP, • "X- J* 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend Good Shepherd Lutheran Church h /■ JI I r Sunday Worship J ** * •< «h I fit i r A A Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 *1* mm OURNEY CHURCH V 4 CHURCH ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE (269) 795-2391 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. >5 ■.f 3 t CALEDONIA; 9:30 a.m. PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE; 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch peacechurch.ee IMmM f Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 Strengthening Connecting 1 rilmjlii IO0(U1I! IM ksmitpn; ri HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 w w w.holy familycaledonia. org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. THORNAPPLE VALLEY btili) woHn] L’Jit; i kbtiei NII. lmr Sfcyh III / CHURCH 1 MiDDLEViLLE 1 SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com ________ www.stpaulcaiedonia .org 1 Whitneyville Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto Fellowship Church 1 Praising God through Hymns • Reading God's Word • Special Music www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou . 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM Worship Services Sunday lo am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Watch our services from our website (see above) • W 4 * w* •Aj” r •<. •u * a • 4 r 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"** & 48^^ 616.891.8661 Sunday School Yankee Springs Bible Church % * * t Sermons online: WhltneyvilleFellowship.org » "Sbiniag Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Group..................... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankecspringsbiblcchurch. org �I 4 I SHOOnNGf continued from page 4 tional constniction work was done on the site. The range initially opened in early November 202.3 to give hunt­ ers an opportunity to practice for firearms deer season, and remained open for about a month before it was closed down for die winter. The range’s target area was renovated Friday and Saturday widi new target boards and support lumber. DNR represeniative Aiden McLearon wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Some additions still need to be made to the site, most nota­ bly handicap-accessible shoot­ ing stations which are to be installed later. A dumpster has also been ordered and will be delivered as soon as possible. McLearon wrote in his email. The 11-acre, $1.4 million range replaced a secluded tliree_ acre site off Yankee Springs J II "i, a I 4* I I T r On e I * ^8 J 1 I JI I I X ■St k •X A.- I The Sun ana and news, News, daxuraay> Saturday, Apni April ai, 20,2024/ Page : a«4/ rage S Siler expressed support for Robertson said. “The reason is Staff Writer raising the levy to 2.1 mills. ...we have so much general A renewal of Caledonia raising concerns about staffing fund surplus (in tlie) budget Township’s public safety miU levels as well as nsing costs every year. In 2023, if you age will go before township for new equipment for the fire took out the capital projects voters this summer department. But the board . . . for parks and (recreation), tlie The Township Board decided to keep the levy as its budget surplus would be about Wednesday night voted to ask present level, adding tliat the S900.0(K). If you said we have voters to renew tlie existing township could contribute out that much money left over nullage of 1.9236 mills for a of its general fund to address every year, we can easily pro­ period of six years at the ballot some of those concerns. vide tlie fire department tlie box on Aug. 6. Tlie levy sup“When you look at the other funds they need to address ports both the township fire townships and what they’ re whatever needs as they come department and law enforcepaying for a public safety mill up, and still liave lots of money nient services from the Kent age. I’d be very reluctant to go left over. County Sheriff’s Department over tlie two (mill) niunber “I can’t see asking the votThe levy would go into effect Township Trustee Dale n u . ■ f^stee Dale ers to give us more for the fire w til the Decemter 2024 tax Hennenet said. “We’re already department so that we can bills and i^ain through 2029. very high. We need it. we have keep money to do otlier tilings Township votere in August great equipment, we have a with To me, public safety £: great staff, but I do think should be the fir^t priority, tlie paid for through fluids that were collected under the Pittman-Robertson Act, a fed­ eral law dating back to 1937 that assesses excise taxes on sporting arms, ammunition. archery equipment and hand- guns, with the revenues to be used for development of pub­ lic shooting ranges and hunter education programs, as well as projects that restore and improve wildlife habitat. Visitors to the range need to bring tlieir own targets. Tile range is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.in. now through September, and 9 a.m. to 5 P-™- fro"’ October through December. 4 it e f •* * Lr c !J r V .1 I*. Greg (’handler * k w Caledonia Twp. seeks renewal of public safety millage on August ballot Road north of M-179. that shooters used for many years. The project was built witli the help of a $200,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant tliat was received in 2020. iss Mb s ic safety levy, an increase from the previous mills nrw niK tax fnv of 15 l with 70 percent of the nearly 3300 voters who cast ballots approvuig the proposal. Since tliere the levy lias been rolled back to Its current level by the Headlee Amendment. Board members debated whetlier to seek a restoration of the original voted millage from 2018, or possibly even go higlier. Fire Chief Scott r •« * r * ’OKla)! --- V Greg Chandler Staff Writer Students at Caledonia High School were evacuated late Friday morning after a gas leak was discovered. The incident occurred about 10:50 a.m. An excavating crew working in the area where a connector between the higli school’s north and south buildings is being consfructed struck a 2-inch Consumers Energy gas line, resulting in the leak. Caledonia Township Fire Cliief Scott Siler said. Woricers immediately called 911 and notified school officials of the leak. Students were promptly evacuated from the school and were moved to nearby Kraft Meadows Intermediate School as a pre­ cautionary measure. Meanwhile, the fire depart- The Yankee Springs tain someone’s life. Township Fire Department While all types of blood are will host a blood drive from 2 needed. Type O blood, especial to 6:30 p.111. on Tliursday, May ly, is routinely in short sufply and 9. Versiti Blood Center will be in higli demand by hospitals. the service provider. Anyone attempting to The fire station is located at donate will be entered for a 1425 S. Payne Lake Road in chance to win a $1,000 gift Wayland. card for a waterpark resort. Anyone who is at least 17 Questions may be directed years old and weighs more to Versiti Blood Center, dian 110 pounds may be eligi- 8 6 6 M I B L O 0 D . ble to be a donor. No money is Appointments are preferred involved; the only cost is only and may be made at donate. time, hl return, donors leave mivchigan.versiti.org. but knowing they have helped sus- walk-ins are welcomed. «» 118 (oUbi t * dOiiii-i.J . tfi®® 1 point to the conununity, we leave (tlie levy) as it is, and we ' • pul into writing (additional general fund contributions) as needed,” Hennenet added. Townshin Treasurer Township Richard Robertson agreed, I don’t think we need to raise the millage rate. The township’s Public Safety Committee had recom mended restoring the levy back to its 2018 level. Townsliip Supervisor Bryan Harrison said. We wanted to dedicate all of diose dollars to public safe ty ... It drives those dollars direct to those uses. We can’t use them for otlier tilings. We have a relatively low general 1 i I II I I I I ttlittcasajr- lQUb consider that. I m more inclined to say. probably from an optics stand- I I I I B J I I CHS students evacuated after gas leak g Yankee Springs Fire ww ____ .X.___ - - R Department hosting blood drive rw r .a I couple of individuals put the Michigan Department of Natural Resources shooting range In Rutland Charter Township to use after it re-opened for the season on Sunday. (Photo by Greg Chandler) ■* »’ _ first tiling we pay for.” would add another SI 1.28 to die homeowner’s annual tax bill. Township Manager Alison Nugent said. The public safety levy cur rently generates S1.884.521 to support fire and police services tn the township. $400,000 of which goes to die sherifTs department and die rest to die fire department. Restoring die levy to its 2018 level would have generated an additional $67,990 in revenue, Nugent said. Tlie Caledonia Township Fire Department responded to 1,219 calls for service last % year, an increase of 2..3 percent from 2022. About 75 percent of the calls were for medical emergencies. The department has eight ftill-time firefighters and 15 part-time on-call fire­ fighters. ♦ A MS we ve got to look at tliat and operating (levy),” Harrison said. At the current levy of 1.9236 mills, the owner of a $325,000 home widi a taxable value of SI62.500 pays S312.59 annually for public safety services. Restoring the levy back to the 2018 level ment sought to clear the build­ ing of die gas. We opened doors and got ventilation going,” Siler said. Student drivers and students whose parents were able to pick them up early were released from Kraft Meadows at about 12:30 p.m. Student drivers were taken by school bus back to the liigh school to their vehicles, while parents were able to sign out and col­ lect tlieir students from Kraft Meadows, district spokes­ woman Kelly Clark said. Both tlie north and south buildings were declared safe for re-entry at 1:11 p.m, Higli school students remaining at Kraft Meadows were transported back to the nortli campus for pick up or to ride tlieir assigned bus home. All stu­ dents were then permitted to return to CHS to pick up any belongings they may have left behind. Clark said. “We appreciate the swift response of all involved par­ ties and the cooperation of our students, families, and staff during today’s incident. Caledonia Community Schools Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer said in a prepared statement. “Emergency pre­ paredness is a district priority and events like diis allow us to review and enhance our prac­ tices and procedures.” The fire department cleared I le scene at about 1:15 p.m.. Siler said. The gas line has been fully repaired and is back in opera­ tion, Clark said. The connector project between the north and south buildings at CHS was made possible by voter approval of a bond issue in May 2020. 5^ Weeldreyer issued a brief u ale on the project at Monday’s Board of Education meeting. Temporary walls have been erected on the south end of die building to fiinnel the flow of students, and a water main junction is being relocated as part of the connector project. Weeldreyer said. "Student traffic between the two buildings has been rerout­ ed ... due to tlie work going on, and it will stay dial way the rest of the school year,’’ Weeldreyer told the board. All evening activities at CHS went on as scheduled Friday night, including tlie school’s annual carnival. “We understand the impor tance of these activities for our students and the community. and we are glad to maintain our scheduled events,” Clark said. 1 V I I I 1 I I i I I I I I 4 I I I I Fr V■ I t «■ ., 4 I ♦ 4 I • ' I' —4 I I I MS* 9 • I 'SS: T V I I I 1 I 4 i i *■ I I ». i I I I •« >41 2024 . .. ••'"Fl mm iI * 1 ««k« ft A r t 1 > I 1 & r' . i', I I 1 -/ Bae I I •4/ fli I I 4 June 17-20 I 6-8:30pm I 84th St Campus •■r Cost: $18 (includes t-shirt and MEGA swag!) ♦ HI w 4 MEGA Kids Camp is for kids entering Kindergarten through Sth grade in the fall of 2024. Through sports, arts, music, video, and more, kids learn about God's love for them in a fun, exciting and safe environment! have peace of when you hire II M37A.uction.com to sell your parents' treasures. Register your kids (through April 20): cornerstonemi.org/MEGA •V t ..I ri ?•. ___X cornerstonechurch I « 4 A • « I 1 t I I I I 1 1 I �S I Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 20,2024 Open house Monday on proposed Caledonia rental inspection ordinance Caledonia village resi­ dents and property owners will have a chance Monday to offer their views on a pro­ posal to require landlords to register their homes or apart­ ments with the village and have them inspected before they are allowed to be rented. The village will hold an open house on the proposed rental ordinance at 7 p.m. at the Village Mall, 250 S. Maple St. SE • The Village Council earHer this year directed Village Manager Jeff Manager Thornton to pursue having an ordinance drawn up that would regulate rentals and require their inspection. This came after the council heard a presentation by village zoning administrator Lance Gates, who shared examples of a similar ordinance now in effect in Cedar Springs in northern Kent County. Gates told council members then that E'or Rent Card of Thanks Greg Chandler Staff Writer the primary reason for hav­ ing a rental inspection program is to assure the health and safety of tenants. Since then, however, some landlords have expressed opposition to the proposal, seeing it as a case of govern­ ment intrusion and over- Jennifer Lindsey and Village Attorney Kathryn Stegink. In his presentation. Gates said the Cedar Springs rental inspection ordinance is based on the International Property Maintenance Code, a docu­ ment Caledonia adopted in 2018. It sets forth require­ ments that a landlord must reach. Gates is expected to be one of the main speakers at the event. Other likely speakCaledonia include ers Township Fire Chief Scott Village President Siler, __________________ meet in order to be able to legally rent out a home or apartment, addressing every­ thing from the size of bedrooms to whether smoke detectors are working. Under the Cedar Springs Real Estate ordinance, a property that IT'S TIME TO say "thank CONDO, MIDDLEVILLE you" to everyone involved VILLAGE. Open floor plan, with Jack Rathbum's Celebra­ lots of natural light. Walkout tion of Life event last Satur­ lower level. Main floor bed­ day. Thank you... To the Ver- room, en-suite, walk in closet. montville and Grand Ledge Kitchen with pantry. Main Greg Chandler American Legion members floor laundry, 1/2 bath. All Staff Writer who made up the honor appliances included. Second A Caledonia Community guard. To Jolina Steury who bedroom/study. Downstairs Garafie Sale played taps. To Pastor Andy bedroom, full bath, family Schools administrator will ALTO COMMUNITY GA­ Trowbridge for comforting room, work room, storage soon be retiring from her RAGE SALES - Fri., April 26 words at the internment ser­ room. Attached garage, 2 car. position. and Sat., April 27, 9am-5pm. vice. To the Vermontville Flower beds with perennials! Wendy Dubuisson, who Times & availability may vary Fire Department members $282,000. 269-795-7815 for individual residences. In­ for preparing the building has served as the district’s cludes community neighbor­ for us to use. To the many Help Wanted director of special programs hood, several rural residences, bakers that made all of the for the past five years, will Alto Meadows Association & delicious goodies (Jack loved ANIMAL CARE/KENNEL KDL Alto Friends of the Li- is sweets!). To the ladies who ASSISTANT: Seeking part retire from the district effecbrary book sale. Maps marked organized the event and did time help (10-15 hours/week) tive Sept. 30. Superintendent with addresses of participating gji ^he setup and cleanup. For for a private show dog ken­ Dirk Weeldreyer said he sellers will be available at sale all the kind words of condo- nel. Responsibilities will in­ received Dubuisson’s letter locations. Bright markers will lences sent to us by mail and clude cleaning kennels, feedexpressing her intentions on indicate sale sites. in person. To all of the 200 ing/walking dogs and other plus friends that attended daily care. Flexible working Monday, prior to that night’s Basiness Services the event on Saturday. And around school/sports sched­ Board of Education meet­ ules, weekends/occasional ing. the many individuals who BUYING ALL HARD­ holidays will be required. contributed money to Jack's “Wendy has been an inte­ WOODS; Paying Premiums for Will train on all tasks! Pay is Memorial Fund to plant trees Walnut, WhiteOak,TulipPopgral part of our learning competitive with other entry in the Vermontville Wood ­ lar wi th a 2ft diameter or larger. level jobs. Located south of community since joining us lawn Cemetery. Jack loved Call for pricing. Will buy single Middleville. Please contact by in May 2019, bringing with Vermontville and gave so Walnut trees. Insured, liability email, kaybelter@gmail.com her a wealth of experience much to the community. & workman's comp. Fetterley or text 616-808-6460. That love has been returned Logging, (269)818-7793. from her exemplary 35-year now in his memory. Thank journey in education, ” you all on behalf of the Joyce JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ Weeldreyer said in a pre ­ Rathburn family. Concrete Construction. Now TIONS, REMODELING, Roof­ pared statement. “We are Hiring. Full Time, Competi ­ ing, Siding, Pole Bams & Decks. Pets tive Wages, Insurance, 401K, immensely grateful for Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Paid Vacations. No experience Wendy ’ s contributions to our Beard, 269-838-5937. DOG GROOMING. QUALneeded. Call 616-693-2123 or ITY local groomer at reason­ stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR able rates. 269-331-9999. Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 COZY COTTAGE, ABOVE Lake Michigan, North of Har* bor Springs. Close to beaches, restaurants, galleries, general store. WiFi, 55inch smart TV, comfy beds, fluffy towels. No smoking. No pets. 269-908-6199. t A •> a ^*5 L*** w ,1. 1 .•w A I passes inspection the first time gets a five-year certifi­ cation of rental occupancy. If a property fails inspection the first time, they are required to fix the problem. after which the property receives a three-year certifi­ cate of occupancy. Gates said. No decisions have been made on the ordinance, and no date has been set for final action yet. Co* Cal schools administrator retiring district over the past five years, and we wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement.” Prior to coming to Caledonia, Dubuisson served as director of special educa­ tion at the Allegan Area Educational Service Agency for several years. Before that, she worked at Fennville Public Schools, where Weeldreyer served as super­ intendent, in a variety of roles, including elementary principal, special education supervisor and director of instructional services. Dubuisson began her teaching career as an ele­ mentary teacher at Glenn School in Allegan County and also held a variety of teaching positions at South Haven Public Schools. “My experience at Caledonia Community Schools has truly enriched my professional journey , ' y AS* tv 1 .3 STKTE 1 I SYSTEMS • State & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair ff » GOLD CLASS Lesonal :nfib OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm rwMBA ED’S BODY SHOP 110 Johnson Street CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN 616.891.0150 I 4 Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner www.eqsbodv.com Greg Chandler I ? Staff Writer Caledonia Township will seek a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant to help build a trail on 76th Street and Patterson Avenue. The Township Board Wednesday voted unanimously to pursue the $400,000 trust fund grant for the trail, which would run along Patterson from 84th Street to 76th, and along 76th from Patterson to the entrance of the Copper Comers subdivision. It would connect with the Paul Henry Thomapple Trail, Township Manager Alison Nugent said. “When I was speaking with our DNR grant coordinator, he said that the DNR is prioritizing grant funding to trail projects, river trail projects, trail projects that connect to larger regional trail? (whi, as the Paul .UBS®* 4. s ! jjdilil®” Wendy Dubuisson and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated educators to create learning environments where every student can thrive,” Dubuisson wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “I look forward to staying connected with the commu­ nity to celebrate their con­ tinued success.” Dubuisson holds degrees from Hope College, Walden University and Grand Valley State University. ’ 1 I I I I WBisI 1 i iffteiM i fete ' HeJuyi iitoiil i^offeb Caledonia 1Wp. to seek DNR grant for 76th/Patterson trail I |*‘ i IK* 61 Henry),” Nugent said. “There was consideration to apply for (grant funding for) the Kraft (Avenue) trail project, but we would like to separate the two so we can apply for two different DNR grants.” The path would serve the new Dutton Elementary School, which is under con­ struction on the southeast comer of Patterson and 76th and set to open in the 202526 school year. “It creates a (trail) loop in what is really the most dense residential area of our com­ munity,” Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison said. “I think it is actually a good plan, and if we can finance it with grant dollars, that is a good thing.” The cost of the project has been estimated at about $2.7 million. Details on the local funding share still have to be WMltjed bjjJ VW townsJjjB is expected to contribute at least a 25 percent match toward the project if the grant is approved, Nugent said. The trail along Patterson is planned to go past more than 27 acres of property south of the new Dutton building where there has been a sales agreement for JTB Homes to purchase the land Caledonia from Schools. Community However, JTB has since asked the district to change the agreement after the developer was presented with a condition from the township that either JTB or the school district must pay for the path across the school property in order for the township to extend a sewer line to serve the property. The schools have not expressed any interest in changing the terms of the ggr^^., , a’. Dlhiaist aiaiOfl , iteigBsabi • MlKpe ; fiftiils! Ifittiitsaij I f a * r I 4 •S' 4 J 4 i I* far r u r I II 1 I 7 • 5 �I The Sun and News, Saturday, April Apri 20, 2024/ Page 7 ■ « Ballot language for senior services millage heading to Barry County boaid for approval Tnvenn Riiccn _____ Jayson Bussa exceed the rate of inflation each year. If taxable value growth on the previous exist­ ing property exceeds inflation, the millage is reduced to a rate that would yield the maximum allowed. Millage reductions are permanent through expira­ tion, as well. In 1994, voters agreed to a Headlee override, which allowed it to capture the full 0.2500 mill. In 2004, the Commission on Aging began to administer more senior services, adding adult day service and more senior activities. This justified requesting 0.5000 mills for 10 years, a proposition that was approved by the voters. But once it was levied it was already being rolled back by the Headlee Amendment and the COA was never able to benefit from the 0.5000 mill. And, in 2014, voters approved a renewal of the millage at 0.4907 mills for 10 years. Throughout those 10 years. Headlee reductions were applied in eight different years, bringing the current tax levy to 0.4665 mills. Editor Voters in Barry County will be asked in August to weigh in on a millage renewal that would continue to fund many crucial services for area senior citizens. On Tuesday morning, representatives from the Commission on Aging presented ballot language that it would like added to the August 6 state primary ballot, which asks voters to approve a millage renewal for funding the operations of older citizens’ services through the Bany County Commission on Aging. The history of this tax levy stems back to 1990 when voters first approved an older cit izen services millage at 0.2500 mills for five years. Voters renewed that same millage rate in 1994, this time for 10 years. But, at this time, the Headlee Amendment was starting to chip away at that millage rate. The Headlee Amendment is intended to prohibit taxing entities from collecting an increase in prop­ This is the millage that vot­ erty tax revenue that would ers would be voting on in p L ’J A ilS! 1 i s, s On ■ k. ’ HOJ r a * t August, plus an increase of .0335 mills to restore the full 0.5000 mills. Courtney Ziny, executive director for the Commission on Aging, presented the ballot language to commissioners on Tuesday morning along with extensive data about the otgaorganization s needs and funding history. A levy of 0.5000 mills would provide revenue of $1,521,323 in the first calendar year, an increase of $101,929 from the current millage. Ziny said that the additional funds would be used for things like the continuation of servserv­ ing Meals on Wheels five days a week which is more frequent than most other areas obtaining electronic record keeping for direct care work­ ers, updating computer hardware/software and protecting the organization’s fund bal­ ance. The price tag for the millage renewal and override would be under $3 for the average resident. Ziny pointed out that the average taxable value for a resident in Barry County is $87,523. The 2024 millage rate has residents pay­ ing S40.83. an amount that would bump up to S43.76 with the Headlee override. That's a rise of S2.93. In light of growing senior populations — both in Barry Banrv County and thought the rest of the county — Ziny said that funding for these sen ices is B 1 4 <5 •» * s V . v I ■ •e I V K. Cl •s *7 J . 4 I I J <1 A I more important now than it ever has been. In Barry County, 27 percent of residents are over the age of 60 with 14 percent between the ages of 50 and 59. I *• F • r t V i Meanwhile, minor children are less than 25 percent of the population. “This, right now, is the time Meals on Wheels driver Don Wilgus delivers food to Barry County resident Doris Boomer. (Photo pre­ vided) for proactive planning and investment in aging-related services and resources,” Ziny told commissioners. The millage proposal received support, not only from a parade of COA board mem­ bers who spoke during public comment many of whom utilize the services themselves — but county commissioners also co-signed on the fact that these services were invaluable to the growing senior popula­ tion in Barry County. “Personally, I am grateful for the assistance 1 was given by the Commission on Aging when my mother had a massive stroke and they gave me assistance in trying to keep her at our home so she could be in some sort of familiar environ­ ment,” Commissioner Mike Callton said. Callton also sits on the COA board as a repre­ sentative from the Board of Commissioners. 4^ This should not be political football this should be a slam dunk,” Call ton said of the millage renewal proposal. t I Commissioner Catherine Getty provided a similar endorsement for the COA and its services. “My mom was also able to stay in her house,” Getty said. I think it's been said that society will be judged by how well we take care of our elders. 1 hope when we select on this, and as voters go to the ballot box, if they’re young and find­ ing their first house, they’ll (still) see the value that sup­ porting this millage is going to bring.” 4 1 I t I I ’ I I t ! I I i ! I ft I I I i • ♦ I I 1 ill Mt Siti Chief Noonday Car Park ‘Talks in the Park’ kick off with discussion on Titanic "'Mils, tudent cm *iss)l 1,(6^ How much do you know located on M-179 across from about the sinking of the RMS the Yankee Springs Fire Titanic? Historian Jay Follis Department. His engaging and points out that Michigan actu- informative program “Titanic: ally has several connections to Michigan Connections” is fi-ee the disaster. to guests of all ages. Donations The stoiy of the Titanic is to help offset expenses are well-known. The maiden voy­ always welcome. Following age of the famed “unsinkable” the program, attendees can ship ended in disaster in April peruse an artifact display. 1912 when it struck an iceberg “More than 60 passengers and sank. Of the over 2,200 aboard the doomed liner were passengers onboard, including from Michigan or heading to many of the world’s wealthi­ our state,” Follis said. “These est, only 705 people survived. included the ultra-wealthy Follis will make an encore who booked First Class Titanic presentation at the start accommodations to those in of the 2024 Talks in the Park Third Class immigrating to the Thursday, April 25, at 6 p.m. at state. Each had their own Chief Noonday Car Park, dreams and aspirations.” Wdiilij lytotelttBii llltif silt®' Wwfflliii MH(ipeC«6jd ffl'ffijj'aliai file Cbm. I ssjftiiiiini 151) ’! P' ri lii [IS' ml is 10' 11 i I jljIffllt.Sl ■•'T' VW J r.yiu I Su 4.1 11 * . V . J V I iM »»» I 1 1 'v lasafel^ « A I , k — And each, according to Follis, “has their own fascinat ing stories.” One of the obscure threads he has investigated is the unexpected ties the Great Lake State has to the famed ocean liner. In'his program “Titanic: Michigan Connections,” Follis will present amazing, yet lit tie-known stories of several Michigan passengers aboard the doomed liner how within weeks of the sinking, a Michigan college student I launched a now century-old publishing company with a | | book about the Titanic; how a hometown hero met the rescue ship Carpathia in the New York harbor and led the Senate investigation into the disaster and many more. Follis has shared similar presentations for museums, historic societies and civic groups, including one for Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit i V I — the renowned traveling exhibition of items recovered 2 jjiuil! . ft- 1 > ever. t X I 0-“' 'f’l i J y. IJ ■ A'.•w L * 1 ft V’ < l; 4 W' Tx.. —-W [ I u I ' 1 5 9 ft I' z I I P Allegan residents Jay and Barbara Follis dressed as Titanic passengers are pictured in front of their Titanicrelated artifact display. The Follis’ will display nearly 150 artifacts during Jay’s presentation at Yankee Spring’s Chief Noonday Car Park on Thursday. (Photos provided) The artifact display will remain open following Follis’s captivating multi-media pre­ sentation that begins at 6 p.m. It is during this event, with both Follis and his wife Barbara dressed in period attire, guests will be intro­ duced to many Michigan lives lost, rescued or forever impact­ ed by the iconic disaster. As a researcher and museum professional, Follis has passion- from the Titanic’s debris field — during its stop at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Follis will display several actual White Star Line artifacts, showcasing authentic objects from the Titanic’s sis­ ter ships that are identical to items used onboard and found at the Titanic’s wreck site. Rare photos, postcards, sheet music and newspapers from surrounding the event 112 years ago are also included. ately pursued many facets of American history and has had a fascination with the R.M.S. Titanic that has lasted over four decades. In fact, Follis gave his first public presentation about the "ntanic to a historical society nearly five decades ago — when he was only 14. Follis has given hundreds of presentations throughout the United States and was recently sought out and interviewed by J I media outlets in regard to the doomed submersible. Titan. He first joined the Titanic Historical Society in 1979, and, in addition to his studies of Titanic and the White Star Line, he has served the Gilmore Car Museum for the past 23 years, founded the Tucker Automobile Historical Collection and Library in 1999 and served as its director for 15 years. 1 k I J I a ..J, akvi;# 4m ♦ -1. R I • • S’ I? > J ♦ WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS •H * I I 1 • I 1 I I 4 ’u .• •• k-l” i * ’X .1^. Residential & Commercial r •V ■ I ‘'rf ... I — GflS FumdCBS ‘ IIDVCO BoilOrS ' -Air Conditioners -Heat Pumps -Water Heaters -Humidifiers i GLfs 4 « » I 44 '•J . 4 I J * > 12' I 1 ► i i I p «< I 1 •1 •i. ■k ’ * »• I * ri J k p-3 -KL' I k', r k ft . 1 fcnfa’i s. •a DeWeerd (68)HTtTTIHH H A+l EEffia HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWFERDHTG.rOM 2^9-792-22^4 DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 « ) I ACCREOITEO , B8B- • 4 r r 4 r �A X I I I •l s 1 II »• 9I I, b Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 20, 2024 rsw mx Squatters’ rights in Michigan: What homeowners shwId know J 9 wait until squatting becomes a larger issue here. Borton cited the case of a Lansing homeowner who in 2021 fought a months-long battle to get uninvited occupants to leave his home. High-profile cases nation­ wide have brought squatting into the spotlight. In Los Angeles, a group of squatters were accused of living in a multimillion-dollar mansion in Hollywood Hills. Two squatters in New York were accused of murdering a woman who went to prepare a property for a family friend. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis county sheriff to order an Janelle D. James immediate removal and, if Bridge Michigan Lawmakers across the necessary, to arrest squatters country are cracking down if a homeowner files a comon squatting, or people living plaint and verifies that in unoccupied properties they’ve asked the people to leave. without permission. The homeowner would Michigan has had a law on the books for 10 years that have to acknowledge that the makes squatting a crime, but people are not former tenants homeowners can’t physically and that any documentation remove unwanted occupants the occupants provide is fraudulent. from their property. “More and more reports of State Rep. Ken Borton, R-Gaylord, proposed a bill squatters have been popping this month that would make up across the country, and it easier for homeowners to Michigan is not immune,” remove squatters from their Borton said in a press state­ property. It would allow a ment. “I refuse to sit by and « s 9 t r .ft * .9 1 4 4 t L■It- z-** JV • K s Squatting is a form of trespassing, but in this case, uninvited visitors begin to live in the home. In Michigan, squatting is a crime that can result in fines or jail time. ’•’f 5 ♦ > 5^ PM - 5 PM 4 •z Sjt I y <« s 5T. 4 I * *I 9 > SAVE 25 - 507. off FRAMES •••.’ft ■ 4. ♦ I 4 4 .< Meet our team, check out our space, win prizes & I ♦•V r get great deals on glasses! Refreshments provided. > 1 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 < 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 I 9 North M 37 Hwy, Middleville 9 9 9 269-213-8108 • Ih orna pp 1 eeyccar e.coin 9 f I f 9 ( 9 ) t « •9 9 4 t 4 9 9 * 9 * I I 1 ♦ 4 » ft. 1 t V* 4 .■'.’ts-' ) I 1 1 < a •I 4l 9 { 9 < < u 1 A I I S S 1 t I I I < I < i *9 I .. .*• '• .V 9 a a •« ' IF fl I A J a * a-:.' •J & 1 r r. 12 PM W I t MAY 3,2024 FRAME SHOW & OPEN HOUSE ft « ♦ RIBBON CUTTING r ■ 2 Thornapple • b "• -JI 9 a 4 1♦ 0 9 * < s 9 V X a » ’ ‘I recently signed a measure allowing law enforcement to immediately remove squat­ ters for refusing to leave the homeowner’s property. The law also makes it a first-degree misdemeanor to present false documents claiming the property and a second-degree felony for squatting and causing more than $1,000 in damages. What is squatting? Squatting, also called “illegal occupancy” is a type of trespassing when someone not only enters another per­ son’s property without the owner’s permission but begins to take residence on that property. In Michigan, a first squatting offense is a misdemeanor punishable by up to $5,000 or 180 days in jail. The sec­ ond offense is a felony punishable by up to $10,000 or two years in jail. Homeowners who are fac­ ing foreclosure or tenants fighting eviction who are still living on the property are not considered squatters during the foreclosure or eviction process, according to the Michigan Municipal League. It’s common for people to squat in what some might consider their “vacation home” or a place that is only occupied by the homeowner for part of the year. said Gerald Fisher, retired munic­ ipal attorney for Clarkston. I found a squatter on my property, what should I do? Although squatting is ille­ gal in Michigan, squatters do have rights and are protected by the law. If a homeowner finds someone squatting on their property the best course of action is to call the local authorities. A homeowner can face legal consequences for forcefully removing a squatter from their property, threatening them or starting a violent altercation with them. If the actual owner goes to the door, and the squatter comes out and the actual homeowner starts going after them with aa gun eun or assaults them, then it’s pos­ sible that the homeowner could be held responsible at least on a temporary basis,” Fisher said. iaw enforcement,, fisher A»A said, “may go after the actual owner because they have started the altercation.” Homeowners can take other steps to remove squat­ ters from their property, such as asking them to leave within a certain time, changing the locks, or boarding the windows and doors when the squatter is gone, Fisher said. The owner can also put fences or other barriers up to prevent the person from entering their property but these tactics should only be used to remove squatters. If the person is a former homeowner or tenant, implement­ ing these tactics is consid­ ered illegal, according to the Michigan Municipal League. How do I get a squatter to leave my property? If a squatter still refuses to leave, the homeowner can take legal action. “The first thing might be to go to law enforcement and say. ‘I’ve got somebody squatting on my property’,” Fisher said. “They would certainly have to do an investigation first and then law enforcement visits the person, or if a prosecutor writes him a letter or something. they may just leave.” Homeowners can also file a civil suit, but Fisher said that can end up being even more tiresome for the homeowner. “If you want to go to court and evict somebody, number one, it takes a fair amount of time,” he said. “You may feel the necessity of hiring a law­ yer, which is paying money in order to get your own property back.” Can a squatter claim “squatters’ rights” and refuse to leave? On rare occasions, squatters can take the property by “adverse possession.” In order to do so, they must live on the property consecutively for 15 years and maintain the property as if they were the homeowner. If the true homeowner made no attempt to remove the squatter during the 15 years the squatter can claim the property. In order to do so, the squatter would have to go to court to claim the title of the house, then the court would decide M(ha.tbe true lUtis'’ Sdlill® jiliiil^ 1 fl iaUofd SUJlII}’! lin^ ■blm liWpliji r LK'W J SlhltM J MW 4 IS ’1^ '^tii it* s« «• �M— ■ ■ _ ■ News, Saturday, April 20, 2024/ Page 9 rrgjgnsjndSailors have soccer showdown Thursday I ir •ft**' *• * » a". MA :2 a 4ft. Hft 4 '“.r • X * •« «• • ft” Srt ■Eb-.r& Uft 3 if At. w * a s • I r- * ft* <* I* •f < •< / •<*>r F 4. t J c JS < w^«* r 1 *.| -X 4 •* V ^r’l J . I." 1 4 # ' - 5: 5 % • •?' / < .1 4 V •kl ■t- 1^; H-i *• •v4 • *fc If 'J ! ftF r?4 ? y V a •A ,1 • • •4^ •i <•' ! ? -e’ 1 ’ ?*A 4- j p • B < ’« *, A ■ X. 4- w 1^9^. o ‘ j&j. B Ife «- c J. “•! I J •* ’‘S- g > 4 I. J » • z ■ •.:v. 4’” •• ( -4 " > >-r: ';wi,. V Tk . .1' ' >»• .4 ;S "s«i;5 K I.' 1^ .> • !«’* t 9 i A** * ? R 4^. • < •I 1 J ■^’ A^: •I* e -•'> J -.;i i ) ““Zisiid «.«><• **v* ■ X' r. a* X- » -U' < * r M5 "* <?• r *> i»«.j r .. V k _* '-^■ ^4*J- ’t hg’L-ir- J®: »*f t 1 I. «< -.i- ?* r » J V 5 -'If £1^9 i *1 1 ’♦/ I -t c. «k I m 4 ’.'SW + . V •c I X g • f •• * I’lSf • ♦• ♦ ■ »iC. M ■■ Al 3^ I s i\ 'W •I ) < :z^ 2: T^W J * >. 9 r 1 j ft i **aii Wi^. * '^- L ®1 * ‘■k,? I A r WI «b TK senior Holly Velting (right) battles for possession of the ball with a Grand Central foe during the Trojans’ OK Gold Conference win over the visiting Cougars Monday in Middleville. !«:9 HK ■- * I k I «<* <* J hi s fa IV St ? Eliese “^44; Brett Bremer Sports Editor There is a big one looming Thursday. Thomapple Kellogg and „ , South Christian have the only two teams left m the OK Gold Conference that have . . 1 yet to lose a conference match. They meet up at South Christian High School Thursday and the league led should be on the line. Neither team will over­ look their Tuesday opponent. The Trojans take on Ottawa Hills in Grand Rapids while the Sailors face off against r X ks Cedar Springs Tuesday. a decent start with two good The Thomapple Kellogg results in conference play,” girls moved to 3-0 in the con­ TK coach Ben Sleeman said. ference and 5-0 overall with Tealy Cross, Holly Velting a 5-0 win at Wayland and Emma Schut scored the Wednesday evening. That three Trojan goals Monday , , . . win came on the heels of a in the win over Cougars win came on the heels of a in the win over Cougars. • ° • Z’'"®’’ Grand That was the scoring trio Rapids Catholic Central in aeain Wednesaavntu/£iwiQr.j agam Wednesday at Wayland, Middleville Monday. Velting and Cross had two Trojans have yet to goals each and Schut had concede a goal in conference play, outscoring their first “We haven’t been tested three foes 10-0. Overall, much in these matches, but they’ve outscored their five the times that we have, our opponents this year 23-1. defense and Makenna “We have had a busy week Hoebeke in goal have done a this week and so far, it’s been great job keeping clean ' i > A ** <> in Kellogg defender Ella Fischer settles the ball in a crowd of Cougars in the midfield during their OK Gold Conference contest in Middleville Monday. sheets,” Sleeman said. “At this point our season really hinges on nlavers stav..j ...i • ing healthy and making sure I I teams we will face, and we hope to have everyone pre­ pared for that point in the season through the difficult middle run of games.” “We are definitely still try­ ing to find the best way to play, and haven’t really been we can work to improve our quality of play because once we head into district play there are some really quality I firing on all cylinders, but hopefully some reshuffling of personnel and positions will give us a little boost.” TK had plans for a tough test with Grand Rapids Christian last night, April 19, but that match was canceled. j I i t I s 215341 1 1 I 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 I Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CAledcwI TCWNSHIP I i i I k-' t f f'fe ?«It ^«STg I iBailiii I 'OKIM ®: I a ieiErasE trojBIK' bwzi aailfB EUSffihii a. framiit jolEsa^* cl 1 M •t » >■. « ( !S<!‘ < ( V »• I »• t I C}**' lif' Is 1^ 0' / f f i JI J 3 I RESCHEDULED MHSj IM has handful of rule changes for spring season A k A handftd of changes have band wi± plays or instructions been approved byfhe MHSAA will be permitted but must be a for the new spring sports sea­ single, solid color, and for son changing how baseball pitchers may not contain ±e and softball players share colors white or gray or be o±information, postseason quali­ erwise distracting. Baseball fication in boys ’ golf and girls ’ players must wear this wrist­ tennis and how soccer fouls band on the wrist or forearm. are classified. and pitchers may wear one The MHSAA sponsors only on their non-pitching postseason competition each arm. spring in baseball, girls and Also in baseball, a rule boys lacrosse, girls soccer, change allows for one-way softball, girls and boys track & communication devices worn field, boys golf (Lower and by the catcher to receive Upper Peninsula) and girls instructions from the dugout golf (UP), and girls (LP) and while on defense, for the purboys (UP) tennis. pose of calling pitches. The A significant rule change in coach must be inside ±e dugsoftball alters pitch deliveiy out/bench area to use the com Ok mechanics. The pitcher may munication device. now have both feet off the Golfers now are required to ground at the same time when participate in at least four releasing ±e ball as long as competitions for the high bo± feet remain within the school team prior to represent­ 24-inch width of a pitching ing ±at school team in an plate and the pitcher does not MHSAA Regional or Final. replant the pivot foot before Those four regular-season delivering the pitch. competitions may be 9 or Another change in softball 18-hole events. requires that a playbook/playIn tennis, for ±e first time card be worn on the wrist or in Lower Peninsula play, a No. kept in a back pocket to reduce 1 doubles flight from a distractions. If worn by ±e non-qualifying team will be pitcher, ±e equipment must be able to advance from its worn on the non-pitching arm. Regional to Finals competi.•iSunilarly in baseball, A.wdst- Jion..TQ do so, that No., I dou-. I i i CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter bles flight must finish first or second at its Regional, and ±e No. 1 singles player from that Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on Monday, May 20, 2024 at 7:00pm at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, SE, Caledonia Michigan, 49316. 1 f 1 The request is for a rezoning from Agricultural to R2 PUD for 30.1 acres of land within a portion of 4950 76*^ Street SE, parcel #: 41-23-18-101-005. 9 team also must have qualified for the Finals individually by finishing first or second in Regional play. On ±e soccer pitch, two officiating-related changes will be especially noticeable. OflBcials now may stop the clock to check on an injured player without that player being required to leave the match — previously that player would have to sub out. Also, categories for fouls have been redefined: careless (which is a foul but does not receive a card), reckless (a foul wi± a yellow card) and excessive force (foul with red card). The Girls & Boys Lacrosse Finals will be played at University of Michigan Lacrosse Stadium for the first time this season too. In ±e area surrounding Barry County, Battle Creek Harper Creek, Pennfield and Lakeview all host boys’ lacrosse teams as do Lowell and Caledonia which also have girls’ programs. The U-M Lacrosse Stadium *' * * . , See RULES, page 11 1 p Kent County Web Map J "r '' -1 f 4 ■' '=>'■ .‘•< 4 r w *» ibiV: '41 9.;^# < r % 'jr s?. t r ^99 ( tTr T ZL. J n' 1*^ £‘A: e? r < .1 s« 2 kt .1 -L^ W: « 4* * eT .JB—RM *V 3 KI <t W J T ^7 -lb 1' . ■ ®'''T i?8 e I c I kS^AK « s I I F f* U'tM. I I t P' tfl V I I > ( 3. . • • iN 11’ * Bp’- T X • rar I J( -4 V -L- » L 1 ■«, ur •. f f: « eV I 1 '1 1 1 Bffi I e I? 1^.. i fl *• r » •• t , s 9 2 i 1 •.V V 9 t ' *w s r-;«r MSB^ n< A b'J* -■' • V ■ I 1 t .**r*-» I . L * b< 5 A ft « I t 5 \ 1. ^iK. I T 'X I' 1 i^l t ki* £ s A S? jX'X ...c: I I 1 ’■ &-.■ ' «■ ■■ p * *• «• I s I *( « f « Pl - I -r - . k>“T ♦ I7” s w>-^ . lAI » > .4 1ft . I «*► ( i-S i * ^- >• I I I » .• ft 5 k » s 1 Hfl i i ' ■» I I I I J 'V — r V' > ( *!<• 4 4*! I '■ / -iI ft 4. b k ft: I 1 I J r •*u • »l *1^ 5^‘*«*h* 1 I 4 ft, V ■ 1 I *• * 4r I at V lCm hr * * UJ <1 c. i i iMrtfiiina '« * ' T— i *• 4 L •**' ?-<* • a it »-X' t t 1 I' -tl • .K J i S3^ I A 3 I I i All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed rezoning. Written comments concerning the requested rezoning may be submitted to the Township office, at the above-stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. i 1 r i I ♦ 1 I i I i Dated: April 4, 2024 i PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA I ( ’» + — 4 9 •r k b I r I I I I • 'I • .V • . -^- ^1 -..Uj. �P / f I I Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 20, 2024 Senior saves draw for Scots with second half goal 1 •*T 5*^ L'?,, 1 r I^TJ . JS 4 a b*' I > T < K • 1 k jRiP I 4 X I h£abX> : •!Sf • *1 > <• X % •w I rV i’ .V ►' A 1 9 <•5 Z-I F 9 • I y z ^4 V IL . ’ 1> / - ** ?^!2 '•Jv *• 5^' -c / S <n w • s’ ■*" * A w? *( :rt > s J L I .♦ b J « •b ♦ ♦ L Ab I A ' ■ A ' r t « • '• * iT-nC. BBatL') I >*•* r •' *-e 53it . r ^8 » •A . 'J' /f 1* V. • 1* v.s I V lx**' 4 AMb.. •/ s* i ** ‘'"s 1*^ •“ ** V >*' aki v* • lU J > 8 I .4. ■f" Caledonia senior Isabella Teelander (3) works to keep on her path forward as she’s bumped off the ball by East Kentwood’s Liliana Bea in the midfield during the second half Thursday at Scotland Yard. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Caledonia seniors Kendall Maynard (right) and Langley Peterson (center) celebrate a big save with goalkeeper Davanee Balczak during the first half of their OK Red Conference match against East Kentwood Thursday at Scotland Yard. (Photo by Brett Bremer) •>i > half was a much better indica­ tor of what we intended the game to go like.” Peterson played through her leg injury the rest of the night. She fired a free kick on frame that East Kentwood senior keeper Sam Guerink deflected away with both arms. The save led to another chance for Caledonia, a comer kick from the left of ±e Falcon net which led to Maynard’s goal. Fighting Scot junior Joslynn Wilcox hit ±e ball from left to right over everybody and it found its way to Haywood being patient above the box in fi-ont of ±e Caledonia bench, Maynard lofted a perfect shot from right to left over Guerink and into the net. “Kendall made that happen for sure. [Assistant coach] Taylor [Kastens] and I were down here, and we were both like ‘Kendall! Kendall, be patient. It’s going to come through, and to see that actually happen. To pull that out was just insane. I am really proud. The scoring chances came often for the Scots throughout the second half, after a much more even first half. Caledonia closed the night having put ten shots on goal. Balczak made five saves. saves, The defense around Balczak was a bit difierent than usual. Senior Alicia Rice got the start Fighting Scot senior keeper Davanee Balczak made a coupie of outstanding 1-v-l saves on the night, but wasn’t able to stop Dixon’s shot that time. Seniors Balczak, Maynard and others will leave a hole in the CHS program after graduation this spring, as happens every year. There was a bit of a surprise hole in the Scots’ defense at the moment of Dixon’s goal. Senior center back Langley Peterson had been momentarily sidelined wi± an injury when the space opened up for Dixon to move in for the Falcons’ only goal. “We kind of knew what their play style was going to be,” Steams said of the Falcons Falcons’’ attack. attack. ““We We didn didn’’tt execute execute the the way way that that we we needneed­ ed ed to. to. We We were were anticipating anticipating long and quick. Mistakes haf>pen. pen. ItIt was was the ±e same same thing thing that ±at happened Tuesday and we see it again today. Lessons to learn, but today the second Brett Bremer Sports Editor Playing with urgency down a goal, the Fighting Scots found ways to get the ball into the net this week. The Caledonia varsity girls’ soccer team got to have a senior night celebration thanks to a goal from senior Kendall Maynard with just over 11 minutes to play against OK Red Conference rival East Kentwood at Scotland Yard Thursday. Time eventually ran out on a 1-1 draw. The goal tonight from Kendall was just outrageous, senior night and a senior scor­ ing that goal when the game is on the line is just a huge deal,” Caledonia head coach Sam Steams said. East Kentwood took a 1 -0 lead with15.55 to play in the first half asthe middle of the field opened up for senior attacker Makenzie Dixon. Bruce'S Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop • • • • Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted * e. Ml' lilies' / f* If > I s Over 40 years experience J brucesframe.com 4 « (9^ 'Unoii> T*' 4 t I Sf 'Wt IP, |lvj L f L J «a « *» '« * • •« • * ' « < * A . ' VJ-A V. a •.’5 ■Ss r r [ : -.1' I :*• .t L« r a^'i • • ^fW « is A i « * * X V JUe p. 4 * * -I'X XX f bS I > i e I I .w > !• .'H J. iT 1 J V w I I K' f •1 42 lie I _____ ’J .^1 .'MB'.?.,*' > - it rr t g -MTj I S' ' I PRI •Ut «. hU .1 5 I I k- X S ’5 k*'. -*? tf RS ‘ t f IC it - All 5 IX r J * 9 •b* • * ■t ? >* Caledonia senior Kendall Maynard drives forward with the ball during the first half of her team’s 1 -1 draw against East Kentwood on senior night at Scotland Yard Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) on semor night and saw the on senior night and saw the most action she has seen in most action she has seen in more than yearafter afterbeing being more than aa year limitedas asaajunior juniorby byan aninjury. injury, limited She was solid on the ±e left side. “We were excited she was fiilly cleared by tryouts. This is basically the first full game game she has played [since her junior year],” Steams said. “She just played phenomenally well. Everybody acknowledged it after the game. It was a standout performance for her, for sure. Allye Risner who !f>4? <I • t i • ; '.<r If fe »■ ?** I h is normally in that position has been dealing with kind of a been dealing with kind of nagging injury, so Alicia with it being a senior night and her being a senior we started her on the field and she was just phenomenal.” The scoring chances came early and often in the second half at the other end of the field for the Scots. Peterson put a shot in three minutes into the second half that bounded around in the Falcon box for a bit before the EK keeper final­ ly collected it. Freshman Avery Rosted had a charge in on goal ±at ended with a shot into the belly of the EK keeper. Wilcox had a long comer that didn’t find a foot on the other side of the net. Sophomore Baylee Devries had a turnaround shot from a step inside the top of the 18 that couldn’t quite break I I •< * u «« •*» * » 4^ USED TIRES ■’4 KAQffliAZOO b r —*_- *.z -» . «€ •b I 4 A *- if > PS 4 •* V % 5. I f z r Ifz p A9»k I i I T : Tc-.; 4P»* •i: IBjl fX fX 269-381-2300 S' 'A /e’J * r_r I. "8 I '* %• lil- * I is 4 f USEO PARTS f I 415 2nd • Middleville «' 1 tai« ri. V* 1 f A I •€^4^ >7 ! ■”T *i £ CALEDQUn FULL SERVICE & YOU PULL IT > • .«j^ .-■ I l<' *• s t VSEO miTS * nCK UPS • ONE TONS • VANS • SUITS • KEPS • 4X4S v*** J-. L-9 LIGHT TRUCK raRtC 8 e .r c & < a ! ,1 through to the net. That was all just in the first ten minutes of the second half. Devries had a couple more chances fly just wide of the goal after that, one on an excellent ball in from junior forward Ellery Lienesch, and 1 then another shot suck between two defenders ±at Geurink made a kick save of. “The halftime talk. we always let the players have two or three minutes to just sort things out on their own without their coaches around, just talk through it, navigate, alright get these things out and try and figure things out on your own, ±en we come in and provide insight and just clarification. We didn’t make any changes to the formation. We didn’t make any changes to the game plan. It was a just a refocusing of - alright, this is how we need to play this. This is how we need to run this in the second half” It was a similar story Tuesday as Grandville built a 1-0 lead in the first half against the Scots at Scotland Yard. That time, Peterson buried a penalty kick to tie the match and then senior Isabella Teelander scored the go-ahead goal. The Scots are now 3-1-2 overall this season. They go on the road in the OK Red next Tuesday to Grand Haven. 1 ?sew WhJs kA'A ' • : '1 .ftIJ ’ 111] SA « % S' I I k III •1 I I I > - �The Sun and News, Saturday, April 20, 2024/ Page 11 TK singles line-up shuffles to start new season i jrh 1 J A’5 4.;'^ ^5 * Jai -s I A r i W»***^*l A ' . • Ik*' < kM < . . tea r.-. 51 ** ** **•* « r.r. I» » 1 •V 4^ I j ■••Y; >!• K . . *s Xb* t-i 1 1 r. ■’t; r• . ■>! 9 -J.- 4 I r ■ 7 I f — I — ■’**■-*. * « < / J • r >* A k 4 A t i ■Win . A Y > 2 r/ « X f & IT- ' 1 I s fl < Ab IT j»' ► fY •w-T V * ■ I, W \ \ > \ JI s V V C. b; -4 . < ■•4 S'*'^ > ■ V Thornapple Kellogg’s Jordan Pranger chases down a shot in the corner during her second doubles win with teammate Lou Savary during their team’s dual with Grand Rapids Catholic Central Monday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) y f 1 r i« I r / IM ► * * A s I ■^1 * •'t < la ♦ h r k * I ?</ 4* •t1 ■n^atSoW Ube anti ; lie Iw .1 4^1 ee to just lesefciesiwtaDi Trojan senior Charlotte Nelson puts a forehand back at her foe from Grand Rapids Catholic Central during their third singles match in Middleville Monday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) le tiiiiB (It ® IfflWWi® RULES, continued from page 9 OlldlteM irMiteJiffll 9ijl i ffligai, IM r Thornapple Kellogg second singles player Holly Carpenter fires her mefrh ^fth rrooH Q L T'fires a lorehand back at her foe during Brei^er) afternoon in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Brett Bremer Sports Editor A first singles player doesn’t just take on oppo­ nents’ best players during a varsity tennis dual. A first singles player makes it possible for the next girl in her line-up to face an opponents’ second best player - and on down the line. Thomapple Kellogg senior Charlotte Nelson shared time between first and second sin­ gles as a freshman on the Trojan varsity girls’ tennis team. She spent her sopho­ more and juniors seasons exclusively at the top spot in the line-up and did pretty well. She went 5-5 against the OK Gold Conference’s top players as a junior after a 7-3 sophomore season where she was the runner-up at first singles at the conference tournament. Teammates Hailey Dudik and Holly Carpenter showed off their offseason work in the preseason and it earned them the top two spots in the Trojan line-up to start this season. Dudik made the jump up in com­ petition from the second singles spot to number one this spring and Carpenter has moved up from third singles to second singles. The Trojan singles players gave up just one game in four straight set wins last week as they opened the con­ ference season with an 8-0 win over Cedar Springs. Things were tougher in Middleville Monday as the TK ladies had their confer­ ence record evened at 1-1 with a 6-2 loss to visiting Grand Rapids Catholic Central. The Cougars’ top player made a jump up the line-up this spring too. Lily David pulled out a three-set win over Carpenter at third sin- | I I I I gles during the dual between the two teams last season, this time at first singles she fought off Dudik for a 6-1, 7-5 win. Catholic Central’s Isabel Krueger took a 3-6, 6-2, 6-3 win over Carpenter in their second singles match. Nelson had the lone sin­ gles win for the TK ladies. She took a 6-1 win in the opening set against Katelyn Izworski and then pulled out a 7-6(6) win in a sec­ ond-set tiebreaker. The Trojans’ other victo­ ry Monday came from the second doubles team of Jordan Pranger and Lou Savary that outscored Mary Irwin and Arabella Sassano 6-0, 6-3. Catholic Central won the other three doubles fiights in straight sets. The team of Isabelle Bocian and Mallory Lindemann took the first doubles win with a 6-1, 6-2 score against TK’s Cailin Wodrich and Tyne Bufka. The third and fourth dou­ bles matches were competi­ tive two-set wins for the Cougars. Ruthie Radgens and Margaret Deimel took a 6-3, 6-4 win over TK’s Emilia Rickert and Martina Panades at number three. At number four, TK’s Ava Zellmer and Natileigh Merchant were bested 6-4, 6-2 by the Cougars’ Clara Malloy and Callan Pobojewski. Catholic Central’s Colleen Kirk outscored TK’s Isabelle Schilithroat 6-3, 6-0 at fourth singles. The TK team moved to 2-1 in duals this season with the loss. High Efficiency RUUD FURNACE ls?toc I [. to Hi Ahl jjiefoww any chanffs aill«>l^ oplayfe’’^ J (01® Il’S “ sijiilir« . „or ■ H'2 opened for competition in flow of play - players award2018 and seats 2,000 specta­ ed a free position outside of tors. The Girls Lacrosse Finals the critical scoring area no will be played Friday, June 7, longer must come to a stop with Division 1 at 4 p.m. and and settled stance before Division 2 at 7 p.m. The Boys self-starting, and false start Lacrosse Finals will be played penalties outside the critical the following day, June 8, with scoring area have been elim­ Division 2 at 11 a.m. and inated. Several more rules chang­ Division 1 at 2 p.m. Girls lacrosse also has a es will be noticeable this significant format adjust­ spring: In boys lacrosse, a change ment this season, as games will be played with four was made to enhance player 12-minutes quarters instead safety. Play will stop immeof the previous two halves, in diately any time a player’s part to allow coaches more helmet comes off, and that opportunities to provide player may not return until direct instruction during a the next dead ball after play game. Two more rules chang­ continues. es are expecte^i, to, improve A 1 Fai;^ap4ilegal star^.qre a continued emphasis for track & field, and a rule change will allow for movement before the start of the race as long as a competitor does not leave their mark with a hand or a foot after the “set” command. or make forward motion before the starting device is activated. The 2023-24 Spring campaign culminates with post season tournaments, as the schedule championship begins with the Upper Peninsula Girls & Boys Golf and Boys Tennis Finals during the week of May 27 and wraps up with Girls Soccer, Baseball and Softball F jnals on .^qpe r * * / » ■ | J 4 B 4’ 9 ■».W I I I I V I I A ■J Il ?*• J5-* 4 4 400 OFF to • I t ■ys' >7 I . I f I £1 . ■ ■ ■'J V ? I —i c 'it I {. ''.•Vl I * 1 r t jk. It I 'I I Must present this coupon. I^ires 5-3-24 1 HEATING 8 COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia r ▼ ▼ ▼ 1 i A F financing ► ar The company built by referrals ” J L .F I I ( : I t 1 I I I I f » * available No monthly interest I' paid within 18 mo. I I I I I I I I I I I �b Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 20,2024 M MM w A’ Ikojans take two in abbreviated countj^^rnameni 4>'' '/''I Delton Kellogg scored six times with two out in the top of the fifth to take a 6-3 lead over the host Trojans. TK matched that with six runs against the Panthers in the home half of the inning. All six of those Trojan runs were one-earned as a couple throwing errors with two out spoiled what had started as a decent relief appearance for the Panthers’ Elliott Rogers. A two-run single through the right side by the Trojans’ Jayce Brummel tied the game at 6-6, and the TK offense kept rolling from there. Isaac Kimbel drilled an RBI triple into right cen terfield to put the Trojans in front. Maddix Ferden followed with a walk to put runners on the comers and Spencer Ybema followed with the Trojans’ second tri­ ple of the inning into right to plate the final two runs. TK had three triples in the bailgame. Anson Verlinde had the other. Ybema and Brody Wiersma led off the Brett Bremer Sports Editor Baseball found a way. Hastings had to cancel Saturday morning’s Barry County Invitational because rains from earlier in the week left the Saxons’ field too soggy, but the Saxons, Thomapple Kellogg Trojans and Delton Kellogg Panthers managed to get a little round robin tournament completed in the sunshine in Middleville Saturday afternoon. The host Trojans were 2-0 on the day. They put together a six-run rally in the bottom of the fifth inning to overtake Delton Kellogg in a 9-6 win to start the day. Thomapple Kellogg then closed the day with a 13-4 win over Hastings. Delton Kellogg spilt its two ballgame, holding on for a 9-7 win over Hastings in the middle game of the tour­ nament. The Panthers and Trojans traded six runs apiece in the fifth inning of their opener. <■ < —— A 5. A I nil'® 4 ■ **« •> 4r e-' ^2 f Ml * «« I <> ■^■***R' A* ■OT * » —*■ k J K •• * J' /> ■ • A ■ ■ M Jr , J R ri > JI. ** 1 / I . J _ f. Thornapple Kellogg shortstop Brody Wiersma snags a flip from second baseman Spencer Ybema on the bag at second before firing to first for a double play as Delton Kellogg’s Elliott Rogers (6) closes in on him during their bailgame Saturday afternoon in Middleville. The Trojans bested Delton Kellogg and Hastings at TKHS in the Barry County Invitational which was moved from Hastings to Middleville because of wet field conditions in Hastings. (Photo by Brett Bremer) bottom of the third inning with singles to start the Trojans’ first scoring surge. Dombkowski, Connor Verlinde and Jacob Davis q J #1 zl >• •I j•V •l, - . *4. / J I I r *• 4 t %* iv> Thornapple Kellogg’s Isaac Kimbel looks to his dugout and celebrates an RBI triple in the bottom of the fifth inning of his team’s win over Delton Kellogg in Middleville Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 215600 Village of Caledonia Administrative Assistant Immediate Opening: Part Time (28 hour/wk.), MondayThursday, partially benefitted position with paid time off and the ability to participate in a retirement program. Interested parties should complete the application, provide two professional and two personal references and return them to the Village by email vllofcaKg.vlllageof caledonla.org . USPS or In person to 250 S Maple St SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. each had an RBI as TK built a 3-0 lead. Brummel started on the mound and held Delton Kellogg scoreless through the first four innings, but finished his day having allowed six runs on 13 hits and four walks. He struck out five. He did get the win thanks to his team’s scoring outburst in the fifth. Verlinde came on to hold the lead and earn the save for TK. He gave up two hits and a walk while striking out one in the final two innings. Chad Stopher started for Delton Kellogg and threw well before running into a pitch count to keep availability for his team’s Southwestern Athletic Conference Central Division doubleheader this week. He had a big game at the plate too going 3-for-4 with a run and an RBI. He doubled twice. Stopher flicked a few balls foul down the left field line with two on and two out in the top of the fifth and then drove the ball into the right Centerfield gap for an RBI double to bring home his team’s first run of the inning. Keegan Hill had a two-run double for the DK team to cap off that six-run fifth for the Panthers, but was thrown out trying to turn his knock to right center into a triple. The Trojans combined six hits, ten walks and one Saxon error to score their 13 runs in the day’s finale. Logan Snelling powered the Trojans at the plate going 2-for-2 with and RBI and four runs scored. He walked twice and had a triple. Wiersma, Verlinde, Ben Koster and Kimbel had the other Trojan hits in the win over the Saxons. Bradley Moerman got the win on the mound going three innings. He gave up four runs on two hits and five walks. He struck out five. Dombkowski threw two innings of scoreless, hitless relief while striking out four and walking one. Hastings had an RBI dou­ ble from Zach Byle and an RBI single from Scott Sanders in the loss. Those were the only two Saxon hits. It was a back-and-forth ballgame between the Hastings and Delton Kellogg boys too, with DK pulling out the two-run win in a six-inning affair. Hastings scored four times in the top of the fourth to take a 7-5 lead, but this time Delton Kellogg was the team answering with four runs of its own in the bottom half to go back in front. Hastings had the tying runs on first and second with one out in the top of the sev­ enth, but couldn’t get the hit it needed to keep the rally going. Lead-off hitter Tyler Frazer got Hastings off to a great start in the game. He walked, stole second and third and then scored on a throwing error after sliding into third. Hastings put two more on in that inning too, but couldn’t get them around to score. Delton Kellogg answered right back in the bottom of the first with runs from its top two hitters in the line-up Gauge Stampfler and Tristan Boze. Stampfler reached on an error, stole second, went to third on Boze’s single and then worked his way out of a pickle to steal home on a CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes The description for this position and application can be viewed at www.villag^fcaledonia.org/news/ The minutes for the April 3, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting which were approved on April 17, 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at www.caledoniatownship.org. * play where Boze went to third. Boze eventually scored on a sacrifice fly from Stopher. DK added to its lead with three runs in the bottom of the second. Stampfler and Boze both had RBI singles. Hill started the rally with a two-out single. Collin Muskovin walked behind him before the line-up turned over to Stampfler and Boze. The Saxons’ 3-4 hitters Eastin Tibble and Landon Steward opened the third with back-to-back doubles to cut into the Delton lead. Teammate Jackson Hayes followed with a walk and he eventually scored on a ground out by Sanders. A Frazer double to start the top of the fourth for Hastings got a four-run, go-ahead rally started. Steward had a two-run single in the inning and Jackson Hayes drove in a run with a hit. A couple of walks and a fielder’s choice where every­ one was safe was what got the Panthers’ game-wining rally started in the fifth. The big blast was an RBI double into center by Stopher. Tucker Tack had an RBI sin­ gle in the inning and Boze drove in a run with a sacri­ fice. Steward was 2-for-3 with a run and three RBI’s for Hastings. He walked twice. Hayes went 2-for-2 with an RBI and two runs scored. Tibble started on the mound and gave up three earned runs on four hits and a walk for Hastings. He struck out three. Sanders took the loss in three innings of relief work. Riley Bardo got the win for Delton Kellogg in two innings of scoreless, hitless relief. He walked two and struck out two. The Trojans returned to action this week to face Grand Rapids Catholic Central in a trio of OK Gold Conference ballgames. The 1 1 I51 I 4 it. * ■ *» a’fe® -'jjfiBlS ;iiairid b 'a) bn ^^ioj ‘Ssaw • * 1 . '■as Sat * * letmids '"Jfeait! I J 814®! ^'SSC( 4 ses H 'isi 11 v* V I See TROJANS, next page ►T F'’. . * i - - A. I 4 •* V 4 > • .■ & •Ti I • r/ Ite 4 b I 9* I I .> • A I I w < 1.1 Cl t 1 jr » J' > 1 �TROJANS, continuGd from previous pd^ 1. A L' p »• I -?H. 1I k t **•% « 1 ) (hl aI The Sun and News, Saturday, April 20, 2024/ Page 13 Cougars took games one and had an RBI. each. Kimbel, Bradley two of the set in Middleville The Cougars slammed 19 Moreman and Wiersma had Monday winning by the hits in the first game in one RBI each and Snelling scores of 21 -9 and 7-6. The Middleville Monday on their drove in four runs. Wiersma Cougars finished off the way to their 2l runs. TK did didn ’ t have a hit, but he walked series in Grand Rapids with a put the bat on the ball too on three times and scored twice. 3-0 win Thursday. the way to its nine runs. TK is I -5 in the OK Gold Wiersma was 2-for-3 with a Koster, Dombkowski, Conference after the three lossdouble and Snelling and Davis Kimbel and Snelling all cs to the Cougars. The Trojans had singles in the 3-0 loss to smacked doubles. Verlinde was have a set with Wayland in the finish off the series. 3-for-4 at the plate. Koster and week ahead starting with two at Snelling threw well despite Dombkowski had two hits Wayland Tuesday. taking the loss. In six innings he struck out six and walked two. The Cougars had eight hits. Game two of the series was back and forth. The lead changed hands over and over again. TK scored three times in the bottom of the fourth to go up 5-4, the Cougars went back 1 in front with two in the top of s the fifth. TK tied the ballgame J with a run in the bottom of the sixth, but the Cougars went right back in front with a run in the top of the seventh to get the 7-6 victory. A walk and a double with two out got the Cougars the 1 go-ahead run in the seventh. Wiersma was 1 -for-1 with a double and three RBIs out of the„ leadoff , . spot for TK. He Jayce Brummel pitches for the Thornapple Kellogg walked twice and scored two varsity baseball team during its win over Delton runs. The other three Trojan Kellogg in the Barry County Invitational which was hits were singles by Brummel, moved from Hastings to Middleville Saturday afterFerden and Ybema. Snelling noon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I -- - >. a h, ha. 7 & I 4 I If added 1*^ '“fislfjj hollo ppi M 4 ci AJI '*5 •I S kJ ’lit 4 J* Scots in bottom half of tough couple conference jamborees Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ golf team placed sixth at the OK Red Conference jamboree at Blythefield Country Club Thursday. The host Rockford team took first on the day with an overall score of 154 strokes. Grand Haven was second at 165 ahead of Jenison 167, Grandville 167, West Ottawa 171, Caledonia 180, Hudsonville 185 and East Kentwood 189. Junior Mason Kern led the Fighting Scots with a 44 which had him 19th individually in the day’s standings. Senior Emersen Lippert and junior Levi Verburg each shot a 45 for the Scots and junior Sam Miersen tallied a 46. Junior Parker Little was right outside the four scorers for the Scots with a 47. Rockford freshman Owen Wilson and Grand Haven junior Joel SeWell tied for the day’s top honors with 37s. Rockford junior Kaiden Dressier and Grandville senior Tony Spicuzza both shot 38s. The Rams also had a 39 from Jack Reum, a 40 from Austin Helsel and a 40 from Owen Hodel. A sixth Ram, Trevor Hobbs, shot a 41 to finish in a five­ way tie for ninth on the day. Rockford was at the top Monday too as the league got together at Macatawa Legends in Holland for the league jamboree hosted by West Ottawa. The Rams put up a score of 155 ahead of West Ottawa 156, Grandville 169, Hudsonville 169, Grand Haven 170, East Kentwood 174, Caledonia 177 and Jenison 179. Little led the Scots there with a 43. Kem and Miersen each shot a 44 and the Scots' fourth score was a 46 from junior Lukas Keson. Grand Haven junior Carson Osborn was the individual champ with a score of 35. Hodel led Rockford with a 36 and West Ottawa senior Carson Witvoet led his team with a 37. Rockford’s Hobbs also shot a 37. West Ottawa's Will Niziolek and William Nagelvoort tied Hudsonville's Myles Secor for fifth on the lead­ erboard with 38s. h •mu w Ali Hurdle records falling at Caledonia High School Brett Bremer i Sports Editor ' Wta lead adrenaline and The urgency of big meets got 'hinilijilf Caledonia’s Owen Hager across the finish line in less b 'Il'Sife than 15 seconds twice in the iWitosai 110-meter high hurdles last spring as a junior. L S* a He broke that 15-second fill)' Ml mark in the finals of the OK Red Conference Meet and in the prelim’s at the QiSanlJib MHSAA Lower Peninsula einaniiijli state medalist Owen Division 1 Track and Field Hager broke the Caledonia Finals - pushing him to 110-meter high hurdle of nisi I earn a state medal in the record during the Fighting Kutew-I race a year ago. Scot varsity boys’ track Hager already has two and field team’s win over sub-15 second performanc­ Hudsonville Wednesday es already this spring in the inside Ralph E. Myers race, and he had the fastest Stadium in Caledonia. He jy St|k run by a Fighting Scot in hit the finish line in 14.47 lanfflt the race ever Wednesday, seconds. He flew to a school record ■iftasacntime of 14.47 seconds to six hundredths of a second win the race in his team ’ s to get the win. •frj OK Red Conference dual It was a sweep in both ffs fc with visiting Hudsonville. hurdles races for the CHS 'S^ W It was three tenths of a sec ­ boys. Senior Carter Tufts ! a ond faster he was the previ ­ set his PR at 15.62 to place cottd ous Wednesday in a dual at second in the 110-meter on tK Grand Haven. high hurdles and sopho15) Ite He did it in a win too as more Brecken Byrd low­ ■litsaji the Caledonia boys scored ered his PR to 16.27 to their first conference dual place third. There were two SjnJffi meet victory of the season PR’s at the top for the Scots by topping the visiting in the 300-meter intermedi­ Eagles 98-39. Hudsonville ate hurdles. Hager won that took a slim 75-62 win in the race in 40.12 and sophobl” girls’ meet. more Jonas Howell was biles ’ I Hager ’ s wasn ’ t the only second in 43.20. Dalton Ed a record-setting performance had a third-place time of for the CHS boys. Aaron 43.66in those 300 hurdles Collins set a freshman for the Scots. 0 6*^ Caledonia boys won 14 record at Caledonia with his winning time of 51.50 sec­ of the day’s 17 events and onds in the 400-meter dash. every single running event. 5. IK He beat out Hudsonville There was a sweep of the junior Carbon ,Dykstra by 2p0-meter ^ dash scoring f *. HijK 1 <. •AO** A J I J, v'<-' •* I r k i Va A •»- - spots for the Scots too. Senior Dharius Walker won in 23.42, with Tufts second in 23.90 and Collins third in 24.16. Tufts and Collins both set their PR in the race. Walker won the 100meter dash in 11.41. Senior Ayden Duffin won the 800-meter run for the Scots in 2 minutes 4.09 sec­ onds, senior Levi Moss won the 1600-meter run in 4:47.22 and junior Kort Thompson won the 3200- meter run in 10:27.73. The Scots swept the three scor- I itt- t 4 I I ing spots in the 1600 and the 3200. In the 1600, Ethan Buer set his PR to place second in 4:48.53 and senior Samuel Pugh was third in 4:54.41. Moss was second in the 3200 in 10:32.78 and sophomore Eli Veiling set a PR of 10:38.28 to place third. Caledonia guys won all four relay races. In the field, senior Ian Fedewa took the discus with a mark of 139 feet 5 inches and senior Jordan Gutierrez won the high jump by clear­ ing 6-2 for the Scots. The Caledonia girls got a personal record in a win­ ning 400-meter performance too Wednesday. Junior Avalynn Klapmust won that race for the Scots in 1:04.27. Senior Alyssa DeFields ran her fastest 3200-meter run every, 12:15.94, to win that race for CHS. Freshman Olivia Hawkins matched Hager’s two PRs in the^hurdles. She won the 100-meter hurdles in 17.42 for the Scots and the 300-meter low hurdles in 50.02. Senior Molly Winger had the lone win in the field for the Caledonia girls. She cleared 10-0 in the pole vault. The CHS girls won the three sprint relays, the 4x 100-meter, the 4x200-meter and the 4x400-meter. The Caledonia boys were third and the girls fourth last Saturday as they hosted their own Soderman Relays. The CHS boys were just four points behind the win- ning team from Zeeland West. The Dux finished the day with 94 points. Bryon Center was second with 93 points and the Scots third with 90 in a field of seven teams overall. Zeeland East outscored Zeeland West 88-87.5 at the top of the girls’ standings and Byron Center was third with 85 points. The CHS girls finished fourth with 65 points. The Scots dominated the day’s hurdle event - the shuttle hurdle relay. Hager, Howell, Tufts and Byrd set a new meet record in the boys’ 4x 110-meter shuttle hurdle race by a second and a half in finishing in 58.45. The CHS girls’ team of Hawkins, Audrey Howell, Ah’Nya Pittman and Mariah Peterson won in 1:11.03 in the 4x100-meter shuttle hurdles. The Caledonia boys had the team of Thompson, Moss, Pugh and Veiling win the 4x 1600-meter relay in 19:07.84. Gutierrez and Maddox Greenfield teamed up to win the long jump relay for the Caledonia boys. Gutierrez flew 19-10 and Greenfield 19-8. 215658 4 A Yankee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 ! FAX 269-795-2388 NOTICE OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the following is a summary of Ordinance No. 04-11-2024 which was adopted by the Yankee Springs Township Board at a regular meeting held on April 11,2024. * SECTION I REZQNING OF PROPERTY The Township zoning map is amended to rezone a 5 acre parcel of land at the southwest comer of the intersection of Cobb Lake Road and South Payne Lake Road from RA, Rural Agriculture Zoning District to RR, Rural Residential Zoning District. The tax parcel number is 16-018-001 10. SECTION II SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Ordinance are severable. SECTION III REPEAL. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. SECTION IV tion. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Ordinance shall take effect eight days after publication after adop- PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the full text of the Ordinance has been posted in the Office of the Township Clerk at the address set forth below and that a copy of the Ordinance may be purchased or inspected at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular working days following the date of this publication. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP Michael Curmingham, Clerk 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, MI 49333 _____ (269)795-9091 ♦ I �Page 14ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, April 20, 2024 Scots score first conference softball victories at Grandville Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity softball team scored its first two OK Red Conference wins of the season at home Tuesday. The Fighting Scots are 2-3 in conference play thanks in part to a sweep of their doubleheader at Grandville. Caledonia took the day’s opener 8-6 and then fought off the Bulldogs for a 6-1 win in game two. Caledonia took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning of the opener and never trailed. Every time the Bulldogs answered so did the Scots. A two-run home run by A Lash had the Scots up 6-1 in the top of the fourth inning. The Bulldogs answered with four runs in the home half of the inning, but never could overtake the Scots. Lash was 2-for- with two runs and two RBIs in the win. She walked once too. Grace Siekman was 3-for-3 with two runs and two RBIs in the nine spot in the line-up for the Scots. Amber Fairchild and Marisa Kohn had two hits apiece. Jaz Dana got the win in the circle for the Scots. Only three of the six runs against her were earned. She struck out six, walked four and allowed nine hits. Moly Lieske got the win in game two allowing just one run on seven hits. She struck out five Bulldogs and didn’t walk a batter. All eight Caledonia hits were singles. Lash, Kala Bisterfeldt and Malia Burke were all 2-for-4 at the plate. Bisterfeldt and Fairchild had the Scots’ two RBIs. Lieske and Siekman added singles. Four Grandville errors helped the Scots score five unearned runs in the ball­ game. Jenison took 9-0 and 9-3 wins over the visiting Scots to open the conference season Monday afternoon. Singles by Kohn and Lieske were the only Caledonia hits in game one. In game two, the Scots’ bats were better but the defense committed six errors that helped the Bulldogs score five imeamed runs. Burke was 2-for-4 at the plate in game two. Fairchild was 2-for-3 with two RBIs. Mackenzie Devries doubled and had an RBI. Lieske also had a hit for the Scots. The Scots played their first home conference contest Thursday afternoon, falling 6-3 to East Kentwood. Fairchild was 2-for-3 with a double for the Scots. Bisterfeldt and Burke both doubled too. Siekman had her team’s lone RBI. Keira Sundstrom kept the bases busy walking three times. The Scots were in Middleville for two non-conference ballgames with Thomapple Kellogg Friday. The Scots return to confer­ ence play visiting Grand Haven Tuesday and West Ottawa Thursday in the week ahead. They host a bailgame with Jenison Friday, April 26. CHS LAX boys win three in a row to get back to .500 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ lacrosse team is on a roll. “We’re playing good. Playing good right now,” Caledonia head coach Kolin Herron said. The Fighting Scots nar­ rowly beat Grand Haven in overtime a season ago, but managed a 13-6 win at the of the home Tuesday Buccaneers night. The Scots led 7-5at the half and really worked to pull away in the second half. That win came on the heels of a 17-4 win at Northview last Saturday and a 14-1 win at Mona week Shores last Thursday, April 11. The Scots’ Ethan Fisher had three goals against Mona Shores and two against Grand Haven. Jack Van Ess had five goals and four assists against Mona Shores and five more goals in the Grand against game Haven. “Mona Shores we came out hot. The boys really wanted revenge in that one,” coach Herron said. He was really pleased to see his guys put togeth­ er a full 48-minute perfor­ mance against the Sailors who beat them by a goal in 2023. “They are moving the ball good,” coach Herron said of his guys. “In past years, we have had one or two guys who do most of our scoring. This year we have about eight guys who will each put up two to three goals a game. Obviously, Jack [Van Ess] has been putting up more than everyone else. We get him the ball and he also does a good job of distributing it.” 9 A i ■J''' ■ The Scot coach said he thinks having all the scor­ ing options makes his team one that is tough to prepare for. His guys have been working to prepare for a trip to the Portage Northern Invitational this weekend, April 20, where his team will face the host Huskies as well as Portage Central. that said Herron Portage Northern has proven one of the tough­ est teams in the region in recent seasons, and his guys are looking forward to that match as they hope to build their program into a regional title con­ tender. The Scots will be at home to take on Spring Lake Tuesday and Holland Christian Thursday in the week ahead. Next Saturday, April 27, the Scots face rival Byron Center. v’ ( »> 4 / I / 1\ r 9 .f A* Hl 4 I A fil 1 •*1 • i* dI ‘1 r 4. '.J#!** 1 ♦ rF > I*": Smith sets TK high jump record as giris win two more duais $ Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field team leapt to a 4-0 start to the OK Gold Conference season with a 115-22 win over Kenowa Hills and a 110-27 win over the host Wildcats at Wayland Union High School Tuesday. Senior Kenady Smith leapt to a new school record at the meet, clearing the bar at 5 feet 5 inches in the high jump, a quarter of an inch better than the record set back in 1982. The TK boys also got a win Tuesday, knocking off Kenowa Hills 72-65. The Wildcats bested the Trojan boys though 83-54. Thomapple Kellogg girls coach Maggie Wilkinson said there were a lot of per­ sonal records set throughout the day. Some of the high- lights included senior Eva Corson winning the 200meter dash in 27.71 seconds, A 6 minute 20.35 second runner-up time from fi-eshman Alaina McCrumb in the 1600-meter run, freshman Ellie Harmon’s winning long jump of 15-9.5, a winning put of 33-10 by junior Emma Dykhouse in the shot put and a fourth-place mark of 29-2 from junior Lilly McKeown in that event. “This team is unbeliev­ able,” coach Wilkinson said. “They are there for each other in all events. Every meet we have new PRs being set. We have had a couple of injuries this season and girls have stepped up and filled the holes. I couldn’t be more proud.” TK teams won all four of the girls’ relays on the day. Junior Brooklyn Harmon took the 100-meter hurdles in 16.22 and the 300-meter low hurdles in 48.82. Teammates Mia Hilton and Joselyn DeBoer went 2-3 in those two events behind her. Junior Ava Crews won the 1600-meter run and the 3200-meter run for TK, with TK sweeping the top three scoring spots in both those races too. Reynolds wasn’t the only one setting a PR in the 1600. Freshman Carmen Reynolds did it too while placing third in 6:36.45. Sophomores Avery Hagemann and Madison Kietzman went 2-3 in the 3200 behind Crews. Crews won the 800 too in 2:30.44. Ellie Harmon also won the 400-meter dash in 1:04.31. In the boys’ competition, junior Jacob Draaisma con­ tinued to impress in his return to the track for TK. He won the 3200-meter run GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP in 10:54.14 and he took the 1600-meter run in 4:47.57. Senior teammate Lucas VanMeter was the runner-up in the 1600. Trojan freshman Brandan Velting ran to a personal record time of 43.64 in the 3 00-meter low hurdles which earned him the runner-up spot behind Wayland senior Austin Graham who also set his PR at 40.19. The'top seven guys in that event set new personal records - and they weren’t the only ones. TK got a boost in its run to beat Kenowa Hills by winning the 4x200-meter and 4x400-meter relay races, and the TK boys were sec­ ond to Wayland, but ahead of the Knight foursome in the 4x800-meter relay. Jaxan Sias, Ethan Bonnema, Velting and Drake Snyder combined for the 4x200-meter relay win for the TK boys 215555 Summary of Request: Request for a dimensional variance to reduce the side yard setback of the southern property line from the twenty-foot (20’) requirement in the A-R zon­ ing district to nine (9’) feet, to construct a 1,925 square-foot accessory buildmg. Property Address: Parcel Number: Applicant: 3241 Muff Ridge Lane SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 41-22-26-301-005 Matt and Eve Wynalda 0 in** asm 011 k: -J .♦v. 1 SKifIS ll < . I V datcj umtMi thefc lilt •J. 5. * B HiasISK iHaJss, V 1*^f ¥ ‘ttdherja 'kistol® ’Si ' S’? pli 215556 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ■^iln The Gaines Charter Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Request for a dimensional variance to reduce the side yard setback of the southern property line from the twenty-foot (20’) requirement in the A-R zon­ ing district to ten feet (10’), to construct a 960 square-foot accessory building. Property Address: 1267 100th Street SE, Byron Center, Ml 49315 Parcel Number: 41-22-29-400-052 Applicant: Daniel Brown 1 Date and Time of Hearing: May Sth, 2024, at 7:00 PM Date and Time of Hearing: May Sth, 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: girls’ team, followed closely by Crews, Ellie Harmon and Kenady Smith. The TK team won three of the six medals in six different events and won the 4x800-meter and 4x400-meter relay races. GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: in 1:35.19. Sias, Kyle VanHaitsma, VanMater and Bonnema took the 4x400-meter relay in 3:34.63. The top finish in the field for TK was a personal record leap of 5-10 in the high jump by VanHaitsma, he got the win over Kenowa Hills senior Alex Andino who also got over the bar at 5-10. It was the second meet in a row in Wayland for the TK athletes.They were a part of the April 12 Wayland Invitational. The TK ladies took the invitational championship by outscoring Plainwell 78-4579 at the top of the seven-team standings. The TK boys were third on their side behind the champs from Wayland and the Plainwell boys. Brooklyn Harmon was the top point scorer for the TK Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspeaed during regular business hours Monday through Friday, at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices or contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan wells® gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received bv 5 PM on May 8th, 2023. * 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected during regular business hours Monday through Friday, at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices or contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells® gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5 PM on May 8th, 2023. Persons with disabilities needing special acconimodation should contact info@gainestownship.org or (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodation should __ _ contact info@gainestownship.org or (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Niti X’ f 411 ’ * I’'S \ • 1 ’ J L k �«Kirk hopes to learn from facing top tennis foes 2024/ Page 15 Bremer every single time. Every Sports Editor time I got emotional Fighting Scot senior [Thursday] I’d get more ' Sarah Kirk set her sights on emotional because I’d rally earning the top spot in the it and then she’d hit a win­ singles line-up tin just her ner. a second varsity season and “But I learned. When I 4 was able to tick off that did play aggressive I hit it goal on Thursday after­ good, so I just have to keep 20 * noon, but the Caledonia playing aggressive.” varsity girls’ tennis team is Her plan to fight off any still working for its first OK discouragement playing the % Red Conference victory. .-r - M? top players from the Grand Grand Haven and West Rapids area over and over Ottawa took 9-0 wins over again is to think of the eii "'Hill >4 sS the Fighting Scots in con­ whole thing as an opportu­ •u 4 '. « « M . •SB*'* ference duals this week. m .~ 1 X*' nity instead of matches that La Kirk moved into the first she has to win every time. singles flight for the first She tore an ACL and Fighting Scot third time on the varsity for meniscus during her fresh­ *». S doubles player Emily Thursday’s dual with the man year. Sorstokke knocks down Buccaneers, and began the “I tried to continue [play- an overhead overnead volley ei. process of learning how to mg soccer] with it sophoduring her match with le play against opposing more year, but it just hurt teammate Lilly Hess teams’ top tennis talents. too bad,” Kirk said. “My against Grand Haven M Grand Haven’s Kendra dad has always loved tenThursday in Caledonia. Price bested Kirk 6-0, 6-2 nis, he was like ‘why don’t (Photo by Brett Bremer) in a match the Fighting you just try tennis,’ and ’ItlJ •« s! Scot senior thought could then I really loved it. I like against these tough teams,” 1 fap- . ’ have been a closer one on that it is an individual sport, Wilson said. “We’re pretty I the scorecards had she but you still get to bond young. It is just totally a upped her aggressiveness with your teammates. I like process. The goal is always earlier in the match. the whole idea of it.” to be playing our best at the Moving into the number Kirk has been doing a lot end of the year. We have two spot in the singles line­ of physical therapy over the talked about it so much up after opening the confer­ past few years. She had a with this group, because it ence season against West nine month stretch of it is going to be vital to Ottawa Monday at number before her sophomore year, improve every day.” junior one, Kiley and then started some more Kirk’s former doubles Bommarito played one. . of strengthening physical ther- partner, Fitzell, is teamed competitive apy before starting tennis. the most tennis, up with senior captain Abby matches of the day for the She said her style on the Duong at first doubles this Scots. She eventually sue- court, mostly making sure spring. Grand Haven had cumbed to the Buccaneers’ she chases everything the first doubles duo of Meg Taylor 6-4, 6-3. down, is tough on her Abbey Klumpel and Olivia Kirk, a soccer player in knees. She said she spends Winkler outscore that pair the spring her first two a lot of time now with CHS 6-0, 6-2 Thursday. years of high school, won a athletic trainers Kaycee Lee “[Abby Duong] has challenge match to move up and Brett Knoop to prepare worked so hard to improve into the to spot. for matches. her footwork and really “The first match was a “She is so athletic and improve her ground strokes. Ite little rough. I have to get she runs a lot of stuff She is hitting with so much used to playing aggressive, down,” head coach Mike more page and just getting so I think in the coming Wilson said. “It is fun to in position for everything,” matches I’ll do better,” watch the progression. In coach Wilson said. “She Kirk said. “That was more the beginning, the ball has always been someone MIS, like trial and error I guess. I sprayed a little bit more. who is going to try to track think the next matches will When she finds her contact everything down, but now be a lot better than that.” point, she’s driving the ball she is kind of like Sarah in Kirk opened her junior and that is where her tennis that regard where she has year in the doubles line-up skills just keep getting bet just added so much more for the Scots, teaming up ter and better as the days go refinement to her strokes. mostly at third doubles with on. She is hitting with top spin classmate Sela Fitzell. She As far as on the court from both sides and her worked her way into the improvements, Kirk said footwork on her volleys has singles line-up playing her serve and her confi­ improved so much.” third and then second dou­ dence improving have both He said the combo of bles last spring. She was been a big boost this spring. Abby and Fitzell is getting ;i5S 3-5 in her eight second sin­ “I had enough confidence better every day. gles matches in 2023. to win my matches at sec­ Sophomore Audrey She is hoping that the ond singles,” Kirk said. Duong returned to the competition at first singles “but now I have to have Scots’ singles line-up after will make her a better play­ enough confidence to play missing Monday’s match er in the end. against the best girl at every and battled the Buccaneers’ “I am excited to go school and try to beat them. Kayla Hatzel in a contest at t-flionagainst that talent,” Kirk I think it is more of a confi­ number four that Hatzel kW' said. “You’re hitting against dence thing with tennis. won 7-5, 6-3. CHS junior such good players that you You have to go out with an Hailey have to return with good ego, a big ego, even if in Markwat picked up her play shots too. It is like practice, your head you’re like ‘oh in the second set of the but with players that are gosh, this girl is good,’ you third singles match against Grand Haven’s Zoe Rant in consistently better than you have to have a big ego.” or at least even with you. Caledonia head coach a 6-0, 6-3 defeat. The second and third “I am kind of a head Mike Wilson said he sees esirf case. I’m not going to lie,” all his girls continuing to doubles matches were two of the most competitive of Kirk added. “When I get make progress. afternoon. Grand “Right now. on our the more emotional at second singles, I would just rally it schedule, we’re playing a Haven’s Autumn Korecki and hit it lightly and keep it lot of really tough teams, and Nayda Green outlasted •n. At first singles. You We’re not backing down the Scots’ Zoe Fleming and can’t really do that. You and we’re continuing to Sawyer Mertz 6-3, 6-4 at haye to hit. y^ith^ j»ower challenge ourselves to j)lay number two^ At^ third dou; _______ I < I Mb*. 4Mb Mar « «■» « • * * » --W V* . 4 * c d * 4k i 1 •M. •• .J •9 9^’ IBM t • *1* * <- * «' *>* MM ■r ^ ■■ ■■ Il " j » «« a * % J I. V , I r Il J4 W • J A * A I it t 4 X. -' I t r 1 f 1 ■*1^ JI 4 t •- - 4. Hj. st I * f I r’> t «• J * <A * A 'X . ■ L • A f*- e?T J f is ■ fe- -i- 11 »* < * Caledonia pnior first singles player Sarah Kirk chases down a backhand shot in the corner during her match against Grand Haven's top player Thursday after­ noon at Caledonia High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) V A .■.<a«rrL* i. 'i * I a; :-?E=7^ 9 X« r» 41^ -h £22^ 'u ** 4 I 'W >2^ .V 4 IT F--- ■Jh-,. * *11 f A 4B* 4 * * x T’ *4 4 - • f: 1 iX >A.- •r < U •• r** 9 I L* ’ LUI .I e*24. r V. •J- 9 .1 .I BAB— 1-J st.-:. f 1’ ’* f f I I * *1 •• 7 > finis Hij «S«; wn - • o .**: czrs - X- ■ - - 4'1*. ••l *1 * 3^ I ft * 9 n < L. I ,ll■l■... JMfl K< ' w. t r• 7 5 1 I ¥t 4 Ji I <4 •l If J A z •rfj• ’.T >■ f:- .r' ■ • I .r -F ,1 (19’' I ?»r .. ^cMu. s • ?? *•*<« V Caledonia senior first doubles player Abby Duong puts a forehand back at the top doubles team from Grand Haven during their OK Red Conference dual at Caledonia High School Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) bles. Grand Haven’s Clara Streng and Kaitlyn Bays outscored the Scots’ Lilly Hess and Emily Sorstokke 6-4, 6-2. At fourth doubles Grand Haven got a 6-1, 6-0 win over Claire Teunessen and Kebe Fitzell. In a fifth dou­ bles match interrupted by rain not long after its start. Grand Haven’s Gabby Lans and Keira Behnke beat the Scots’ Anna Homrich and Gretchen VanderEide 8-2 in an eight-game pro set. The Caledonia girls are back on their home courts today, April 20, for the four-team Caledonia Invitational. GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP 215554 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Request for a dimensional variance to reduce the side yard setback of the western property line from the twenty-foot (20') requirement tn the A-R zon­ ing district to twelve (12’) feet to construct a 2,470 square-foot single family dwelling. . Property Address: 225 Sorrento Drive, Byron Center, Ml 49315 Parcel Number: 41-22-19-376-012 Applicant: Kevin DieKevers Date and Time of Hearing: May Sth, 2024, at 7;00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected during regular business hours Monday through Friday, at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices or contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells® gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5 PM on May Sth, 2023. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodation should contact info@gainestownship.org or (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. A 'A A < .3 ■ 4' V 9 ( a 4 �9 * / * 4 9 t I f I < i I I i J ! J t t t t f t t t I Va f z > t f t i t t 1 4 t J ! I t / f ! i f r t r t t I i i I b I Page 16ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, April 20, 2024 I f I I 4722 50th Street SE Grand Rapids, Ml 49512 616-855-6600 T I I t J J rit J Hours Monday-Friday 9am - 5pm THE BEST WA Y TO SELL X UNIQUE VEHICLE Ku ■>: > .l *' I., • r T K to GR Auto Gallery 4^ .*. .* f < I If I 1 1 t SELL? 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T ll I T* I •' JfriaL» s;^-» /, z z 8 •’z •• 4 •z^ I I 4 LOCATIONS: 4 ..I •a «•? —*•* -1: s I* BUY BACK ON ANY VEHICl E L I Grand Rapids • Traverse City Metro Detroit • Indianapolis 1 it '. b . • » ( I ■i s I f- k f 1 I >• I I t . Vr/ ■ 7 •i I 9 8, > < ’ I »- b i» z f «*k V r < I I 4 « r Z I 4 b I t I. .1 • I 1 I Ir � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-04-27.pdf 2f3ad3df7c77e1cd75dd8fe01da6d361 PDF Text Text I f ♦ A X. ' * * 4 1 >» . ’X: t News I UBR^S^ i ■ I 1 Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville No. 17/ April 27, 2024 Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. 9 * 4 1 at '’V 'V V '*' Si 9 g «• ■» J £9 '\1 Sx9W99^ <*• '^3 % 4 ■'-J 1 1 > ’ u. I 4 r t M I • A 5» r <> . •« t'.- 5. A *w lX ^1 aa 9* •' ■» 5*- 1 > ir J ■> *4^ •s > t; '' inili I 4 -'i ' ... J® w . J - > - 9 * ’T? r. >1 * / S*« A A pack of cyclists round a corner during the annual Barry-Roubaix gravel road race on Saturday morning near Otis Lake in the Barry State Game Area. (Photos by Jayson Bussa) Jayson Bussa Editor Lou Richey made the trip to Hastings on Saturday to compete in her ninth BarryRoubaix. She also plans to return this summer. Richey, who is from Valparaiso, was just one day removed from retiring as the director of her local depart­ ment of child services. Her newfoimd freedom will give her time to bike one of her favorite circuits of dirt and gravel roads. “It’s neat what this (race) has brought to this small community they even have permanent signs up for the routes so if you just want to come in the summer and ride the route, you can and that makes it really cool,” Richey said. “I’ve always wanted to, but never have.... So, I’m going to do it this summer.’’ Richey was one of the 1 <Ti over 5,000 cyclists that •> flocked to Hastings on Saturday for the 15th install­ ment of the Barry-Roubaix, which stands as one of the r laigest gravel road races in the nation. Wg * I *• The event is split into b races of four different dis*> tances 18, 36, 62 and 100 >4 miles. Richey was in the field of cyclists that traversed 36 5 ' ar"*****’"*^'^* '**■ f., miles of Barry County dirt and gravel roads. She fin­ ished ±e course on her fat bike in two hours and 40 n . minutes. With the online monicker of “An Indiana Girl on a uyciists Cyclists stream down Otis Lake Road during Bike,” Richey is no stranger Saturday’s Barry-Roubaix gravel road race. The four to ±ese types of races she different races, of varying lengths, started off In downtown Hastings and traveled throughout the many dirt See BARRY-ROUBAIX, page 8 and gravel roads of western Barry County. •J i < 4 > X r tr 146th year Staff Writer h proposed tax-incre­ ment financing plan for the Flats at Mid-Villa development on M-37 in Middleville cleared its first hurdle Tuesday night. The Village Council xmanimously approved the proposal to allow the Barry County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority to collect $4.48 million in new tax revenues expected to be generated by development of the residential por tion of the project over the next 15 years. The TIP proposal from Dutch Developers LLC still needs approval from the village’s Downtown Development Authority Thomapple Township and Barry County before it goes to the Michigan State 1 jM (. Greg Chandler ?*** 5 I Middleville council approves TIF plan for Mid-Villa development I R I ^2 ♦ i'bir'’2: J I ^1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 r f I I 19 4 L an(j Caledonia Areas 1 *A I I - Cyclists hit local gravel roads for 15th annual Barry-Roubaix race b ■* 9 ■* K. • T -4 »'s *nk 4 Housing Development Authority for final action. The developer says the TIF is needed to make the resi­ dential portion of the proj­ ect feasible. The Flats at Mid-Villa project includes construetion of six apartment build­ ings, consisting of 144 total units 120 two-bedroom apartments and 24 one-bedroom apartments as well as a 134-unit self-storage facility and three commer­ cial out lots along M-37. The 13.3-acre site has been vacant since the former Middle Villa Inn was tom down in 2015. Dutch Developers LLC is seeking to capture only new tax revenues from the residential portion of the project, while new reve- I 1 I J I 1 I I I 1 I I ) See MID-VILLA, page 2 A ,4. I I I .« k. f V I J • \ -kV I «» 1 4 'H •i i • -• <r4 X Cwi.> I9 Ti-... "5- •* < 1 V ii 1 ^iroplhi •4 * k *w. .JI SA • A r 1^ I *1*4- •r. 't k *r < > ___ » -» • . - •■X .w a • I ^^^iiipn •• * J 99 ft . f- r. Mh 4* < • \ i ■ 4 ?• si*'’ I u «* i f a. ■w w I '4ie ______ •r s I 9l i. jcr.. _ ■ ./ vr ♦ . A ■A* >• -- . I • c- ’ «- •J • * 9*1 -«-*A ' ’K. rjM5S» [ I f. •* 4 The Flats at Mid-Villa project in Middleville will feature 144 apartments to be built over the next 15 years. It will also contain a commercial portion with a 134-unit self-storage facility and three com­ mercial out lots. (Photos by Greg Chandler) Gaines Township pianners approve permit for microbrewery production faciiity in Cutierviiie 1 t I I i r I I » * ■S-S . .> p •**— I I b A'. rifhi > 4 t 4 t rr -. T.<>. I I 4 V • ' I f. Dr. Matthew Szukaiowski (left) and a business part­ ner are planning to open a production brewery in a building on Brownell Street at Division Avenue in Gaines Township. (Photo by James Gemmell) IN future land use plan the township adopted last year designates the parcel for residential/retail space. However, it is legally nonconforming to the zon­ ing district’s requirements that there be at least 25 feet of side and rear setbacks when such a facility is adja­ cent to residential property. No one spoke at a public hearing during Thursday night’s meeting. «» ;:-2^ I * James Gemmell Contributing Writer It won’t be a pub, but a mead and microbrew ing-production facility will be opening soon in Gaines Charter Township. It will be located in an older, existing building on 0.22 acres at 44 Brownell St. SE at Division Avenue, a few blocks south of 68th Street in Cutlerville. That is in the township’s Neighborhood Commercial (C-1) zoning district. The I SB ill E I.I • Middleville Pride event cleared for another year downtown • Tornado warning hits Middleville area this week • YMCA takes over TK childcare program * I 4 * I * ^11. i t I i 4 I I • Trio of state qualifiers shine for Cal boys track in loss • TK and South play to a draw In girls soccer See MICROBREWERY, page 3 f t » I « « I » 4 I i. I f t I « I 1 9 I I r > I t �1 •l 5 •» k I I k $ 1 •i s k I k s k 1 f Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27,2024 MlD-VlLLA, continued from page 1 developer for infrastructure and other related costs tied to the project. Among the infra­ structure work that has already taken place on the site includes construction of a lift station that will handle sewage for the apartment units. The $475,000 project has been built to meet the specifications of the village’s wastewater system. nues generated by the com­ mercial out lots and self-stor­ age facility would be taxed in their normal fashion. “We’re focused on just the apartment portion (for the TIF), the affordable housing portion,” Dutch Developers principal Nate Heyboer said. The captured revenues would go to reimburse the ■A'*—-1— II —I ‘***-***ww^ t K T. I V ir' i A v;\:i 4 5 - -t J 3 i A - ■- IT. 5^ r - f 1 <5^ ■ >' I f y.r- L' ■ 4 ' •.‘A r * Dutch Developers LLC owner Nate Heyboer speaks in front of the Village of Middleville’s Downtown Development Authority last week. mercial perspective as well as Heyboer said. The apartments are being the residential side ... We need proposed to address a need for housing in this community, we “workforce housing” that was need housing because we have identified in a 2023 report by a large employer.” Letters of support for the Community Barry the Foundation and Barry County project have been submitted White Bradford Chamber and Economic by Development Alliance. The Corporation, the county’s largapartments would be targeted est employer, and Broadmoor toward people whose incomes Motors. In a recent letter to the are between 80 and 120 per­ village, Bradford White senior cent of the community’s medi­ vice president and general an income, which works out to manager Peter Kattula wrote about $40,000 to $90,000 a that without affordable housing in the area, the company year. Rents for the apartments ‘Svill continue to face hiring would range from $1,225 a challenges.” Village President Mike month for one bedroom to $1,475 for two bedrooms, said Cramer compared the proposal Marcus Ringnalda, a housing to tax abatements that have consultant who has worked been approved for Bradford closely with Heyboer on the White over the years to encour­ Mid-Villa project. age the company to expand its “The need is there. operations in Middleville. Middleville is ripe for the “Since they’ve gotten (those development, and it makes tax breaks), they have added really good sense,” Village over 1,500 jobs in this com­ President Pro Tempore Kevin munity,” Cramer said. “You Smith said. “That land sits want to talk about revenue, it’s vacant currently, and there’s a not all taxes. Those people lot of opportunity from a com- shop here, they eat here, they buy gas here ... this is us investing in Nate as much as Nate is investing in us.” Several village residents have expressed reservations about the TIF proposal since it was first introduced. Dawn Lewis spoke Tuesday night about the additional services that the project will generate. “We are going to need more police, more rescue, more fire (services). Who’s going to pay for it? The taxpayers,” Lewis said. The TIF is not expected to have an impact on the village’s general fund. However, it is expected that about $ 1.94 million of future tax revenues that would normally go to DDA would be captured as a result of the TIF over that 15-year window, Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg wrote in a memo to the council. The current taxable value of the Mid-Villa property is $380,600. upon completion of the project, the estimated taxable value is expected to reach $6.6 million, according to an estimate from the Barry County equalization departrnent that is included in a project report from the Barry County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Heyboer told the council that he expects to invest $20 million into the commercial portion of the Mid-Villa project, and expects to generate about $600,000 in new tax revenues off that portion which would not be affected by the TIF. “The lots are currently for sale. I own all the lots still to this day. I have (non-disclo­ sure agreements) with some potential buyers that want to come to the village and are excited about the lots being done,” Heyboer said. The DDA board tabled action on the TIF capture pro­ posal earlier this month and is expected to take the issue back up at its next scheduled meet ing May 21. The Thomapple Township Board is expected to weigh in on the proposal when it meets next on May 13. I If at ■ (til > I 4 .xw' I 1 r Im” z I pH* ji /iji'9 • -J * I tf t hilli’B J iSjil®’ I •n<i' Caledonia Village Council drops rental inspection proposal Greg Chandler Staff Writer Facing significant opposition from landlords and tenants alike, the Caledonia Village Council has pulled the plug on pursumg an ordinance that would have required landlords to register their homes or apartments with the village and have them inspectedbefore they were allowed to be rented. About two dozen people attended an open house hosted by the council at the Village Hall Monday night,and every person who got up to speak opposed the ordinance. While no vote was taken, council members agreed not to take further action. “This workshop was very insightful and informative, and helped direct council to come to the conclusion a rent­ al ordinance is not needed at this time,” Village President Jennifer Lindsey said after the meeting. The council in early January had directed then-Villa■tl e Manager Jeff Thornton to have an ordinance drawn up to regulate rental properties and require their inspection. The 6-1 vote followed a presentation by village zoning administrator Lance Gates, who does rental inspections in several communities, most notably Cedar Springs in northern Kent County. At the time, Gates said the reason for pursuing a rental inspection program was to protect tect the the safety safety of oftenants. tenants. Gates had been expected to attend Monday’s open house to furflier explain the rationale for a rental registration and expansion program but did not show, Full Service Body Shop ifflieni^' Ue etas II opeiniH fiiiiUoixi ffijile p® IfjWIll of Uij® At KJJOffl a 81 j« sjaRts •• >1 ••1. • I* adopted by local municipalities with less than 10,000 residents. I iiiii including one in nearby Byron Township, that could have served as models for the village to consider. However, no ordinance language had been put together yet, Lindsey said. F ibi! * ■ s . tolciisi *. “We had no plan, we had no ordinance. This was more of SWISS STEAK DINNER SATURDAY, may 4™ 5:00-7:00 pm Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCar(j Accepted “I wouldn’t have lived 17 years in the same place if someone was coming through my house every 3 to 5 years (to inspect it) If I think something is unsafe. I’ve never had a landlord that hasn’t been willing to address anything that needed to be solved - ever,” Driscoll said. Council members thanked those who attended the open house for expressing their opinions. “We wanted to know what people thought, and I think we got our answer,” Council Trustee Gerrianne Schuler said. (an exercise in) listening and I hearing what you want think we got the information we wanted,” Lindsey said. At one point. Council Trustee Jeff Niles asked the audience if anyone favored an ordinance, which was greeted by a chorus of “no.” Niles treat tenants as second-class called the proposal “nonsense.” citizens because they rent. “I stand with all of you citizens because they rent. Ifyou you want want this this ordinance. ordinance, because I don’t like anybody ““If have this ordinance for eveiy going through my house or my single house in the village. If garage,” Niles said, truly aa safety safety issue issue and and aa The opposition itit’’ss truly The even health issue, issue, itit should should apply anniv to tn extended to tenants such as health everybody, ” Chapman said, •IO Jeremy Driscoll, who has rentVillage Attorney Kathiyn ed a home on Oak Street for Stegink presented to the counthe past 17 years. cil several examples of rental ordinances that have been “Red tape doesn’t help any business. I don’t see this rent al agreement actually increasing anybody’s safety. It’s only going to increase costs. That’s not small business-friendly,” Bm's frame and Alignment • • • • Flier said. Michael Chapman, one of the other partners at 203 E. Main, said the ordinance would violate the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution against unreasonable search and seizure. He added that the measure would Speakers saw the proposed ordinance as an example of govemment overreach and an infringement on small businesses. Several people called the proposal unconstitutional. “We do not need another law to enforce the laws ... Anyone of us, owner or tenant, who believes or knows that something in their building, home or apartment is not safe or unhealthy or presents a danger in in their their building building — there are existing ordinances and codes to to handle handle them, them,”” resident resident and and business owner owner Jeffrey Kusmierz Kusmierzsaid. said.““Look Lookthem themup. up. Ask Askyour yourown ownquestions. questions. Talk Talk totoyour yourlocal localofficials. officials.”” Andrew Andrew Flier, Flier, one one of of the the owners of the building at 203 E. Main St., said the ordinance was the opposite of bein friendly to small businesses. Jcfiriilw Undsoy WSWEW .J I'eneEiii 1 1 Caledonia Village President Jennifer Lindsey participates in Monday’s open house. I Mma i ‘Ikd I I •K' . 1 - k - ,• •T '^1 •• Tt’ A' ft •■I V rr f 1 154 1 Over 40 years experience 'x. I 5 z® * r -I s. * 1 ■w ■V , •) brucesframe.com f F < $ .•J 'lassei UX 4 A V s 7^ < FW' r’. • ■-* 1 I Includes: Potatoes, vegetables, & homemade dessert. iltil J ’'iF . a 7 . I* Adults $ 15 » Children 5-12 $10 • 4 I*-, r ears & under FREE BOWNE CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH I 415 2nd • Middleville 12051 84TH ST SE, AITO, Ml 49302 corner ol Alden Nash (M50) S sigpi Alto I I I • iw 1 K I t I •t t P nn owners of a building at 203 in Caledonia, speaks during an open house Ly 1'*^® else at the open house, egainst a potential ordinance that would have with 'th ^1^ *^18107 their homes or apartments wpr» ai^ Inspected before they owed to be rented. (Photos by Greg Chandler) k I k « k « » I * I I I « 4 I « < I 1 % I V I ’ll, �I s. I YMCA to take over Thornapple Kellogg childcare program The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27,2024/ Page 3 I MICROBREWERY, continued from page 1 The Gaines Planning Commission voted 5-0 to approve a special use per­ mit requested by Dr. Matthew Szukalowski of Hudsonville. There is a condition, though. Because wastewater from breweries often contains high sugar and solid components, the City of Wyoming Wastewater Treatment Plan requires a survey to be completed before discharge, to deter­ mine if any mitigation mea­ sures will need to be taken. “This is one of the first breweries we’ve had since Railtown back in the day,” Community Development Director Dan Wells said. Szukalowski spent 34 years as a manager of cus­ tomer experience at UPS, before retiring. He cited his extensive experience in engineering and logistics as reasons why he expects the business to thrive. The business’s primary storefront location is at Adesanya Mead & Microbrewery, 3012 28th St. SW in Grandville. Beer will be transported to that location from the Cutlerville site. The company specializes in beer, cider, mead and wine, and offers food items, as well. The Cutlerville facility, though, will be for brewing and production only. There will be no retail sales there. Greg Chandler “It’s strictly for brewing local farmers. beer, canning it, kegging it. He said the frequency of There’s some cooler space, grain pickups from the some office space. Really, farmers depends on the pro­ it’s kind of a small-scale duction schedule. The large manufacturing program,” tanks on site are fermenta­ Wells said. tion vessels. Some of the equipment to “Once you have extract­ be installed includes fer­ ed all the sugars, it takes a mentation tanks, hot water while for the yeast to do its tanks, a cooler, mash tuns magic, to make the mead or and packaging equipment. the beer while those tanks The mash tun is used to are occupied. So, we proba­ combine hot water and bly brew a couple or two malt. batches a day, at the most. “You steep the grain in And we maybe do it two or hot water until it’s ready to three times a week. So, we drain. Then, you throw the would make sure all of that yeast in and let it ferment,” is synchronized with the Wells explained. pickups,” Szukalowski The existing building said. will also be used for office He added that the pickup space. Because it is next to process will be optimized some residential homes, on rainy days so the spent township conditions for grain placed in the trash bin approving the permit outside does not produce a include the installation of a strong odor. The grain is small ornamental tree and considered spent after all of landscape vegetation the sugar is extracted from (shrubs) fronting Brownell It. Street to help buffer the “So, that grain gets damp view for neighbors. and then we containerize it, “We don’t think it’s going and then the farmers can get to make much of an impact it. The farmers actually like on the neighborhood, at it when it’s damp. It’s much all,” Wells said. “We don’t better as a food source for see any adverse environ­ the animals, for their live­ ment impacts here.” stock (feed),” Szukalowski Szukalowski said spent said. grain being put in the busi­ The property owner is ness’s trash bin could pro­ Vander Hyde Holdings, duce an occasional odor. LLC, in Grand Rapids. The but he does not anticipate brewing firm is leasing the that being a nuisance to building, which is currently neighbors because the spent being used as a garage, .for grain wilL be donated to Vander Hyde vehicles. t I » I 1 I I f per session) for before and Staff fVriter after school, five days A major change is com­ — $70 per week ($14 per ing to Thomapple Kellogg session) for before or after Schools’ childcare proschool, five days gram. '^sk% — $45 per week ($15 per Starting this summer, the session) for before or after YMCA of Greater Grand 4 school, three days Rapids will take over the — $30 per week ($15 per district’s before-school and session) for before or after ‘•>0 after-school childcare pro- care. school, two days gram, as well as the sum­ “We currently don’t offer “The variation in the rate mer day camp program. this option. Our current per number of days chosen The summer program will childcare program is only is to allow for adequate take place at Lee licensed for school-aged staffing,” McCarthy wrote. Elementary School, and’ in children in grades K-5,” Caledonia Community the fall, Lee and McFall Elementary School will The childcare program currently occupies one host age-appropriate child of the classrooms. With this change, we can care programs in their offer two more sections of preschool to the buildings. TK Superintendent Craig community s parents, including a brand-new McCarthy wrote in an 3-year-old option.” email to the Sun and News — Craig McCarthy, Superintendent, this week. “They have a robust Thornapple Kellogg Schools childcare operation with many activities for children McCarthy wrote. Schools have had a long­ and curricular components McCarthy recognizes standing relationship with that dovetail nicely with that the change has result- the YMCA for their child­ our content,” McCarthy ed in some unhappy par- care programs. The Y has wrote in the email. ents. coordinated the district’s The change comes not “Our intent is to provide childcare services since is itti-. quite two years after the the highest-quality program September 2006. a |«5_. opening of TK’s Early for as many of our students “The collaboration on as possible, and this change entails YMCA staff provid­ Childhood,.. Center b ®afe' J Bender Road, which was does just that,” McCarthy ing care at our early childmade possible by voter wrote. hood center for children al 11911®^ approval of a $42.8 million Assistant J": TR from birth through 5 years »aWib I bond issue in November Superintendent Chris old, and childcare for 4 •«. X’fi «ajRajI 2019. At the time, the LaHaie has worked close- school-age children is school was built to house ly with the YMCA to keep facilitated at each elemenboth preschool and child- the increase in costs for tary school within our discare programs. the childcare program in trict,” CCS spokeswoman I “We moved from a build­ line with what the district Kelly Clark wrote in an 1 GcfiiaSj ing of just under 15,000 would have charged had it email to the Sun and News. square feet to one that is continued to keep the pro- “The YMCA also offers I• 33,000 square feet, more gram in-house. The dis summer care for our stu­ than doubling the size,” trict charged $11 per ses- dents.” McCarthy wrote. “Last year sion for the program this Registration for the TK the building was filled to school year and would childcare program this fall ^'1 t capacity as soon as we have increased it to $13 began Friday. More inforopened.” per session next fall had it mation on the childcare / & There is a waiting list for stayed under the direction changes can be found on r/ parents wanting to enroll of the district, McCarthy the district’s website at their kids in TK’s preschool wrote. tkschools.org, then go to program next fall. There are Pricing under the YMCA the “Families” drop-down AS currently 28 students on program will be: menu and click on “child­ This is the building where a microbrewing business will begin production soon. that waiting list, McCarthy — $130 per week ($13 care.” (Source: GainesTownship.org) wrote. “ The childcare program [erW currently occupies one of the classrooms. With this change, we can offer two more sections of preschool dl^B to the community’s parents. Help us support veterans and community functions. including a brand-new ** Saturday, May 4,2024 3-year-old / option,” I A and the First Saturday of each month McCarthy wrote. Serving 8 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. In addition to the lengthy MA Fggs, bacon, sausage links or patties, potatoes, waiting list for preschool biscuits and sausage gravy, pancakes, milk, OJ, coffee I classes, McCarthy cited 1 I licensing differences * Menu subject to change Adults $13.00 • Children 10 & under $5.00 between the Early Coffee BIGGBY:^ For more information call the Post at 616-891-1882 Donated by Childhood Center and the COFFEE ’ 'J childcare program, making I Caledonia Memorial Legion Post 305 housing both in the same 9548 Cherry Valley, Caledonia, MI building a challenge. LUNCH M-TH 11 AM-8 PM: FRI 11 AM-2PM • FRI BUILD A BURGER 4-8 PM One benefit to the change, McCarthy wrote, is that it will allow the district < US' to offer wraparound ser •4^ 1 < vices for ECC students, including before and after -fe the ? 4? 'V * I * I i I I I I I I I I t f I I I ► I I 1 T i r< te I I I r i * I TO. V ,.1 I ►* I *• t * X. •»r - '■ Inr 'J- ■4 IIIB I 1 A* (ig * Il I L * i-J 1 * ’ I t t i : 1 7Ci * * f 1 1 ***• 4 rSd ,7 ' - ••s (•*“ * * t - ¥ * k J » I ^4 • • i I .. T • " A t r v I 1 r' * ./ *-v . J 4 > •M r I I ♦ J ( ( J*' •». I 1 •r* «I « * '* w. 1 I F. J * I f i i I 4 I*: 5* Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser I i i» * J .1— Ir .V ■ r A j . '-iSf •I ■ « I 1 f ' 7, I ■ ''IZ ‘J* • • - Ir ■k ■F P *% V ' *' ' ’'•v* J,. ALEDONIA “..T* * iL A I "T J «■ t . t •t 4 t 77 fi i I .<3 I I .-3 EDUCATION FOUNDATION •3 I » ' f 1 . . r.a A I j c » V. «■ ?‘i I,. » I '5 1 r I Donate Your Vehicle, Boat or Tractor .T> ' / I <1 ____ I I ♦ t f t » » < Contact Jay at M37Auction.com (616)920-6651 M37Auction@gmail.com 47 1 t A’ I I * tI I » I I I .s I s > ( * I I I t < f I t I I * I * / >1 i ' 1 t ! !■ I i ► i V 4 I • I I * I �f Page 4/Tbe Sun and Hews, Saturday, April 27,2024 Tell us about your summer events! Caledonia 1Wp. board expands sewer district, OKs Kettle Preserve development had been approved as a planned unit development in July 2022, but issues over soil conditions and water quality put the project on hold. Whitneyville Investors, the developer of the project, asked the township to expand the sewer district to accommodate a large portion of the development. Under the development plan, 48 of the 63 lots will be served by public water and sewer, while the remaining 15 lots will be served by individual septic systems, according to the resolution document. The township Planning Commission approved the Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Caledonia Township Board has cleared the way for a developer to break ground on a 63-lot single family hous­ ing development near Kettle and Campau lakes. The board at its April 17 meeting approved expansion of the Campau/Kettle Lake sanitary sewer district, then signed off on the final site plan for the 78-acre Kettle Preserve 7153 at development SE. Whitneyville Ave. Approval of the sewer system expansion was needed for the final site plan to be approved. The Kettle Preserve project Kettle Preserve development last November as a site condo­ minium under the property’s current zoning designation of medium-density residential. The developer agreed to keep some amenities that were in the original PUD, including a playground, a pavilion, open space areas along Whitneyville Avenue and a woodchip loop path, even though they were not required for approval, Township Planner Lynee Wells said at that time. The developer must install 5-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides of the street throughout the development, as well as an 8-foot-wide path along the entire frontage of Whitneyville leading into the development, according to the resolution document. Under the township’s medi­ um-density residential zoning requirements, lots in areas that will serviced by sanitary sewer must be at least one-half acre and have a minimum width of 100 feet, while lots in areas that will have septic systems must be at least one acre and have a minimum width of 150 feet. Setbacks for each home and minimum floor area must meet the standards of the medium-density residential zoning. your event listed, email per­ tinent information to editor@j-adgraphics.com. Please include the date, time, name of the event, a brief description, location, contact information and any costs associated with it. For questions or concerns, call the J-Ad Graphics oflSce at 269-945-9554. J-Ad Graphics is currently working on its annual summer event guide, which is designed to be the most com­ prehensive listing of summer events throughout areas that include Hastings, Middleville, Delton, Lakewood, Maple Valley, Caledonia and more. We want to include your event in our listings. To have able to hear the siren, includ­ ing one from the Mill Pond condominiums downtown. But residents as far away as Bender and L>oop roads said they heard the siren, Middleville Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said. The Middleville tornado warning siren was relocated from the former fire bam to Thomapple Township Fire Department property on High Street earlier this week. The I’ t *• .<*.3 .. F ri I K / » 4 I A I I** t *< ♦ ft 1 I _** ■ '7**; I f *<•0 t* : J*** ’X 4^ -•'J J ‘ r •y 4 t Severe weather brings tornado warning to Middleville area thunderstorm near Wayland, about 15 miles west of Hastings. Tornado warning sirens were activated throughout the county. Central Dispatch Director Stephanie Lehman wrote in an email to the Sun and News. No damage was reported from the storm, Lehman wrote. Several reports were received in the Middleville area of residents not being V r s Greg Chandler Staff Writer A line of strong thunder­ storms rolled through Barry County Tuesday night, pro­ ducing hail and resulting in the National Weather Service issuing a tornado warning for the northwest portion of the county, around Middleville. The warning was issued shortly after 9:30 p.m., when NWS radar indicated a rotat­ ing cloud during a severe I I r* 5 • ■ as* a a * a ■ I — 4 :iii) 1 siren is located north of the fire department building. Fire Chief Bill Richardson said. “It’s sitting higher than it was before (when it was at the old fire bam),’’ Richardson said. The Village Council in June 2023 voted to transfer owner­ ship of the siren from the village to Thomapple Township, with the village paying for all expenses related to relocating and reinstalling the siren. I •••! II ’X ( * > "-a iMtoi * R c» r LU •A k * >• i siipe'”' I (tteiitd si' ‘>1 I L TWKT »p (jsiTlri • 7^ 5 I# I *4 * 4 r * I I J I ftiii ® 1 [jjjsoaiiiK ! a * i I jB zfl I nisi ft® . BAra! ® Caledonia United Methodist Church OtenoLis iae,’! laWiipli Rev. Christine Beaudoin shemii jSx Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street It a 616-891-8669 CaIedoniaUMC.org Livestream; Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist Serving - Strengthening cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am FIRST BAPTIST Middleville r k Sunday Service 10:30 AM L 1 -S' V/ Lutheran Church 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) nr http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com kv Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET-5215 M37 - 55 Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. Ja «■ * II CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch peacechurch.ee J 'J. 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto Whitneyville I Fellowship Church Praising God through Hymns • Reading Cod's Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday Worship Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm 9:30 AM 10:30 AM I / I • > tiislalej11 L Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m.& 11:00 a.m. mon "hat Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. looLedatit' 8436 Kraft iWe., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 * Preschool (616) 891-8688 ku 11 THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Yankee Springs Bible Church HI ^lll fete 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 "Si I "Shiaiag Forth God's light'’ k. w Sunday Morning Worship Community Group........................ 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Vj 1 James L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankeespringsbibiechurch. org ’s< '’I I 4 « r • 't Weeiufgi glacis MIDDLEVILLE 1 > 11 Naiioml « I fan Ijt nicfE hoB > I * I Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online WhitneyvilleFellowship.org luritkATi Watch our services from our website (see above) t @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52^^^ & 48^^ 616.891.8661 www.whjtneyvillebible.org Su’to t be s 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org ________ wwwestpaulcaledonia .org t Ji Church Sunday School fv* rr PEACECHURCH.ee ONE CHURCH - J\NO LOCATIONS (269) 795-2391 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. CHURCH .Sb' HOLY FAMILY J^CATHOLIC CHURCH ftte bly, MPEACE HC H U R C H 9:30 a.m. £ Pastor: Rev. Peter berg 1 J Livestream: facebook.com/flrstbaptistmiddleville OURNEY tiniWt I Sunday Worship Ill Connecting centtkaaip . I* 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia. Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend ■Esjeiai < « 'I I b 9 I ’ I < L < . U I 1 k 1 < t; i J :'t t I « y ■ ■ i.i • �* I Barry County commissioners Middleville council OKs move forward with Pride festival permit search for administrator The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27, 2024/ Page 5 A' Greg Chandler Staff Writer A Pride festival will be returning to the Village of Middleville this year. The Village Council Tuesday approved a permit for organizers of the LGBTQ-(- festival to hold the event on Saturday, June 8 at the Sesquicentennial Pavilion and DDA amphitheater. The council approved the permit on a 6-1 vote. The village’s first Pride festival was held in June of last year, and generated a larger-than-expected turnout. “We got a lot of people who really felt like it meant a lot to them, to see something of such love and light in our community,” said Olivia Bennett, one of the festival organizers. This year’s festival will include information booths, giveaways, a drag show at the amphitheater, music, chalk art, and yard games, according to the permit application submitted by Amanda Fisk, another of the event organizers. While last year’s festival lasted two hours, organiz­ ers are planning the event to run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. this year, according to the event application. Last year’s festival gen- A Jayson Bussa Editor County commissioners will soon select a firm tasked with spearheading the search for a new administrator for Barry County. ■ « Current administrator Michael Brown will be retir­ ing later this year, taking 30 years of experience at the helm of the county with him. This sets up a relatively highstakes search for a candidate who will take those reins from Brown. The first step in that pro­ cess is to team up with a search firm to source, vet and County Administrator Michael Brown, who will be bring potential candidates to retiring this year, speaks during Tuesday morning’s county commissioners to be Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting. interviewed. The county’s (Photo by Jayson Bussa) newly formed Personnel and Human Services Committee Michigan. mend two candidates for the previously put out a request “They are a great firm a bull board to interview. for proposals from search lot of national experience,” Commissioners who are firms nationwide. The Hatfield said. “But very little not on the personnel commit­ four-person committee Michigan experience. Travel tee are permitted to attend received six proposals and will be a big issue trying to the committee meetings, and came to a consensus on its have any of those people on Teunessen entertained the top two candidates during site. They don’t, frankly, idea of doing that. last Thursday’s committee have much familiarity with “I don’t see the purpose of meeting. our markets.” forming a personnel commit­ At the meeting. Chairman The personnel committee tee if the personnel commit­ David Hatfield, Dave brought their recommenda- tee can’t bring forth a recom­ Jackson and Catherine Getty tions to Tuesday morning’s mendation for the full board, cited Illinois-based GovHR Board of Commissioners and if the whole board wants USA and Walsh Municipal meeting to determine a pro- to interview multiple candi­ Services, headquartered in cess for selecting a search dates, then I don’t see the Okemos, as the two most firm and, in the future, inter­ purpose of the committee,” promising search firm candi­ viewing actual candidates. Callton said. dates, with the Michigan The conversation high­ Brown walked commis­ Leadership Institute also in lighted the fact that all board sioners through ways they the mix, albeit a bit behind members are still getting might be able to sit in on the the other two. acclimated to the committee interviews even if they are Mike Callton was absent structure, where most of the not members of the personfrom the meeting. due diligence on personnel nel committee. “Experience with county matters is handled within the “The optics are what administrators, Michigan­ committee and recommenda- become more problematic, centric and pricing were kind tions are brought to the board for lack of a better term,” of the three things I ranked to be voted on. After just two Brown said. “When you have first,” Jackson said during a months, some commission- a quorum of the board attenddiscussion last Thursday. ers said they didn’t feel ing a committee meeting “We have somebody a little informed on personnel mat- itself. We can legally can bit more homegrown, knows ters because they weren’t address that through (a) noti­ our state, knows our county, involved in those conversa­ fication that a quorum may knows our area. So that’s tions. be present.” what I was thinking as I In regards to selecting a The board concluded that looked at it.” search firm, commissioners the personnel committee National powerhouse Mark Doster and Jon Smelker would conduct interviews, BakerTilly was in the mix as were fine with the personnel bringing a recommendation well, but all three commis­ committee conducting inter­ back to the full board. sioners at the personnel com- views and bringing back a However, when it comes mittee meeting agreed that recommendation to the board time to interview administrathey lacked experience in while commissioner Bob tor candidates, the full board Teunessen initially requested will be involved in that prothat the committee recom- cess. • .•s ■■ c • V _* r 4L I k vvl / ■ iw >./ I II C« 'ft E i■ B k r .J I k I s It J ) “» •'i J ( 1• wQk )(Mi “Iwasduj (iisisiate r II I Ml f M « iliiEi® IB I J iwta»win I I security point of view. I have no objections to having this picnic ... Td rather see it off 37 where sheriffs (units) can control (traffic) in and out. said Hamilton, who was the lone no vote on approving the event permit for the pavilion and amphitheater. Village President Mike Cramer said his concern with moving the festival to Spring Park was the lack of parking at the park. He also said there were no issues at last year’s event. The council put in as a condition of its approval requiring event organizers to provide insurance infor­ mation to the village on or before June 5, in case of a liability issue. 5^ 1 5 1 ► 1 < I * T V’* A *i ! SI vs I i E 4 J f ( 4 EIr I I 4 t I I t Drag performer Countess Hexen performed' their first routine in this fairy-inspired outfit at Middleville’s Pride Festival last summer. I 1 II r I 1 I I I J I A ft I T * * z *» '! I. I ■ I V is* N * >k w p. • 1 I t y 'if •*2 s HI « I * 4 * rV 2 V I lit L- t i• a 1 4 J V I n Ir p ILJL 4 4% •u • >d. WR i Middleville’s first Pride festival was held in June of last year, and generat­ ed a larger-than-expected turnout. The Village Council Tuesday approved a permit for organizers of the festival to hold the event on Saturday, June 8 at the Sesquicentennial Pavilion and DDA amphitheater. I 1 I i THE GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT L. • I' i r i AM Iyl * k AV* L • ‘ SAi 59 erated some opposition in the community who object to LGBTQ+ lifestyles. Council Trustee Makenzi Peters said the event shouldn’t be treated differ­ ently than any other event held downtown. We, as a board, are not here to censor content, as long as it doesn’t violate rules and regulations and laws of the village,” Peters said. “I personally feel that this is well within a person’s right to free assembly and free speech, and it shouldn’t be an issue with this event.” Trustee Richard Hamilton proposed the fes­ tival be held at Spring Park, just off M-37 on the village’s south side, “where it could could be be managed managed from from a i I 1 4« » si ► 3 4 •• - -gnr, ff-LL1 Simulcast Live at Cornerstone Church - 84th St. Campus IES: i m* lll^ 4 11> kw w Neiv Fabrics £ New Collections I |r^| III (fate, until thgj t I I « The best of leaders never stop learning. Commit now to secure your seat at this year's Summit, where you will join hundreds of thousands of leaders like YOU! I J ¥«' 1 1 I 4 ! r f z » I I •t? Jesus Coves youl 'u* I I I I I t I QUESTIONS: ASK US I ««« r. I I « i « s■# •*1 L .. If J r > 'i 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 c 4 I I I I OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm i CRAIG GROESCHEL I ! •« f I i I { .1 Hubt Cleaners Pickup Station MIKE KRZVZEWSKi AMY EDMUNDSON MOLLY FLETCHEM MICHAEL JR. i / vx —M I I ! ) « I 1 r �4 X X Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27,2024 1 S ■ __ I Commiinity rallies for Meals on Wheels fundraiser Jayson Bussa Editor Community members gath­ ered at Venue 1230 in Hastings to support the county’s Meals on Wheels program in a very by sharing a fitting fashion meal. County Barry The Commission on Aging, which administers the Meals on Wheels program — amongst a long list of additional senior held its lasagna services dinner fundraiser last Friday. The event drew solid atten­ dance, filling up the venue for a lasagna dinner in addition to both silent and live auctions. H us in ess Sereic ‘es CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pres­ sure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 BUYING ALL HARD * WOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. In­ sured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. Pets DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. In total, the Commission on fundraiser helped to infuse the Aging raised $9,181.50 thanks program with cash along with to the contributions of roughly addressing the inflated costs that are so prevalent in today’s 350 attendees. All the money raised will economy. Courtney Ziny, executive go to the Meals on Wheels program, which is one of the director for the COA, said that cornerstone services provided the $9,000 raised is expected by the COA. The COA has to cover the food costs of near­ worked to provide a Meals on ly 2,000 meals for homebound Wheels program that not only seniors in Barry County. Barry County Commission requires no waiting list but is delivered five times a week on Aging’s Meals on A^Tieels ra±er than three times a week, program delivers nearly 5,000 which is more common in healthy meals across the coun­ ty each month, helping to other areas. The COA’s other revenue ensure that homebound seniors streams go to support Meals and their caregivers have on Wheels, but this additional access to essential nutrients needed for their overall health Help Wanted and well-being. In addition to delivering JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice Concrete Construction. Now meals, drivers provide social Hiring. Full Time, Competi­ interaction, companionship tive Wages, Insurance, 401K, and mental support for seniors Paid Vacations. No experience who may be living alone or needed. Call 616-693-2123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland isolated. Often, meal deliver­ ies are doubling as a wellness Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. check, ensuring that recipients ANIMAL CARE/KENNEL are safe. There have been sev­ ASSISTANT: Seeking part eral instances of a Meals on time help (10-15 hours/week) Wheels driver finding a recip­ for a private show dog kennel. Responsibilities will include ient in a medical emergency. All of COA’s nutrition ser­ cleaning kennels, feeding/ walking dogs and other daily vices, including Meals on care. Flexible working around Wheels, are provided on a school/sports schedules, weekdonation basis — meaning the ends/occasional holidays will be required. Will train on all recipient is under no obligatasks! Pay is competitive with tion to pay for the meals. Each other entry level jobs. Located month they receive a letter south of Middleville. Please detailing the number of meals contact by email, kaybelter® gmail.com or text 616-808-6460. 1 V . I V'.>: I I » t* . V6 S*’ 41' M I 1 4 f. • .( < The Barry County Commission on Aging hosted a lasagna dinner fundraiser on Friday, April 19. All funds raised will go to the Meals on Wheels program. they received and a suggested cost-sharing “price” of $3 per meal. Recipients pay what they can and if they can, based on their particular financial situation. Funding for these nutrition services comes fi'om the Barry County Senior Millage, state and federal dol­ lars (i.e., Older Americans Act), recipient contributions and community donations. Meals on Wheels can be helpful for short-term needs, too. The organization often has seniors who may have a medical procedure that affects their mobility or ability to cook for themselves for a peri­ od of time that will sign up for Meals on Wheels. Randy Evans is a retired Meals on Wheels driver for the county who has since moved out of state. However, he looks back on his experience admin­ istering the service fondly. “Most seniors ^predate knowing that someone cares enough to deliver a variety of nutritious meals and provide a wellness check,” he said. ‘Tor some, we are the only people they see for days at a time. Over the years, drivers have come across folks having numerous medical issues. I personally delivered to a blind woman who had fallen backwards against a wall and had broken bones in her neck; she could not move. If not for a visit that day to deliver meals and being persistent in locating her in the house, who knows what the outcome would have been.” I J • 4 ! 0' is t be staged. The event is planned to be as realistic as possible, with a quick response from emergency personnel who will use their actual life-saving tools and equipment at the scene. “We feel this is a great opportunity to educate our stu­ dents about the dangers of drinking and driving, especial­ ly during the prom season. The mock disaster will also be a way for our emergency ser­ vices to practice and train for this type of real-life situation,” TKHS Principal Tony Petersen said. -12-:' I * A Ml r.K, % if: -r- ' A-b I l£NN0X > i I B8E B8B. ACCREOITEO BUSINESS f After the crash scene out­ side, students will reconvene in the high school auditorium from approximately 1:30 to 2:20 p.m. During this time they will watch a mock trial for the “drunk driver” from the mock accident. They will also witness a mock funeral for one of the “crash victims” and a critical care scene for another. “This event may bring about some strong emotions, and we want to encourage parents to have conversations with students at home,” Petersen said. If a parent feels like their [ I The April 22 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. Three new fish jumped into the fishbowl while one jumped out. The chapter enjoyed a 16-pound loss this past week. Virginia asked how well last week’s challenges went for everyone. New challenges were given for this week. Sue’s program from a health magazine was titled “Big FAT Mistakes.” Committing only to cardio will not work because it is too limiting it needs to be combined with other exercis * es. Cutting calories doesn’t work by itself because all calories are different. Food quality is the key. Cutting all carbs and fat isn’t sood goou because they are a crucial part of a balanced diet. Waking up early to work out isn’t always helpful because you can become hungrier from lack of sleep. Only working out if you have a full hour doesn’t help because it tends to make you skip exercise altogether. Try high-intensity interval train­ ing instead. Going all natural or gluten free doesn’t work because the FDA has no defi­ nition on what is considered natural. Eat more “natural” foods, not processed foods. Using the gym as an excuse to overindulge doesn’t work because the amount of exercise needed to counteract what you are eating is excessivp Pin t sive. Fill your plate with J « * I ri 5^ * A -X SJW-® table of goods sits next to a stage at Venue 1230 in Hastings waiting to be auctioned off during the Commission on Aging’s lasagna dinner fundraiser last Friday. (Photos by Jayson Bussa) fii i lek I I Iffliii * J. . Upffl *« ! . M* • fi * sdk. r r < ♦» •bMr ii®!y 1 Tmpona child would be uncomfortable for any reason, the parent may contact the high school office at 269-795-5431 to have their child excused from attending this event, Petersen said. “We know this can be a difficult situation to watch, but we feel it is an important reminder for students about their actions and the conse­ quences fliey could face. This season of prom and graduation should be a time of celebration and joy. We want all students to be safe and enjoy this spe­ cial time,” Petersen said. I list .Mhm I ' I i cikiiA • IW 104! i Stt® ) Middleville TOPS 546 .Jr f niRiiiB* i “17 •Bl « : •A. .W'X .■3V v< • <5-^ ir- ■ I .r-' J ' ' I / ■ Mir------- r .1 269-792-2234 ft * >4 X •B. Ml DEWEERDHTG.COM 5 t • r I. >• ■ I L1 1. r T. C - '7^ Since 1955 < 1 « W.4| HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC * 4 1 ZZi I3. .■V 4^ I ■■o I I I • X Thomapple Kellogg High School and the Thomapple Township Fire Department will be hosting a mock drunk driving accident from approximately 12:50 to 1:30 p.m. next Friday, May 3. Several emergency vehicles will be part of this planned event on the service drive between the high school and middle school near the soccer fields. This is only a simulation. No students will actually be injured, and the wreck will all Residential & Commercial S' *' I. I • I ■ ■ ■4* I WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers I i s T; I I if TKHS to host mock drunk driving crash CommunitY i^otiee NOTICE OF SELF-STORAGE SALE: Please notice Red Dot Storage 195- Caledonia located at 5590 68th Street SE., Caledo­ Real Estate nia, MI 49316 intends to hold CONDO, MIDDLEVILLE an auction of the storage unit VILLAGE. Open floor plan, in default of payment. lEis sale lots of natural light. Walk­ will occur online via www.storout lower level. Main floor ageTreasures.com on 5/13/2024 bedroom, en-suite, walk in at 9:30 AM. Unless stated oth­ closet. Kitchen with pan­ erwise, the contents are house­ try. Main floor laundry, hold goods, furnishings, boxes, 1/2 bath. All appliances and general equipment. Unit included. Second bedroom/ numbers are #116; and #327. All study. Downstairs bedroom, property is being stored at the full bath, family room, work above self-storage facility. This room, storage room. At­ sale may be vidthdrawn at any tached garage, 2 car. Flow- time without notice. Certain er beds with perennials! terms and conditions apply. See $282,000,269-795-7815 manager for details. i L fruits, veggies, fish and legumes. Cut back on empty calories. Juice cleanses will not work they have no fiber or protein. Increase pro­ duce instead. Virginia won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss sup­ port group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzz­ er for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is fi^. « * • i 2^- I I f t �I I I I Proposal would keep tractor­ trailers out of the left lane on Michigan freeways Janelle D. James I •U’i I 1 i I I i NS J t k X J* ■ nPUL. I L I 1 • s-l 41 r « J '1 1' Wiaiser , issa) I U WWnifE JesmsalJiBj f'MPifeaj QlltUdti^ fid it is as ffiietiiJifc; acbiilL tesiterii f iiiof;i(iiiis J J wift three or more lanes. It one or more lanes are closed due to construction and only two lanes are open on the freeway, m,eb wo^d be 4* J fl 11 I J* ’ liBie '•J “ ••4 ..<s * J" • .2^ *r. I 9 * * f V R 9 InHwL^ nirastructure Committee unanimous y approved a and tractor-tSer^^m driving in the left-most lane on the freeway. (Bridge photo by Janelle D. James) S k t • t T .w r SC & W « 1 ' * K, * k **. r 1 t •-lu V 4 4. r • * •4 <r '•* safer highways will be. S’ Vi io d,e « w w 4K • « X I J • 4 AV. p L• 2-=^ far right lane, it could poten- A* * ‘-'jj . « Ate W- g'~»y tially cause traflic ams for cars coming on the freeway and especially those trying to exit, Pugh said. “What’s going to happen is these cars are going to puU out & they 6 ’rek going ivui in the left lane, Members of the Caledonia Women’s Club hosted their 2nd Annual “Bunco” fundraiser at Holy Family Catholic Parish in Caledonia on Saturday, April 20, yy.it^ support of its members and several local businesses, the night was ftlled with fun, food and prizes. Each year, the proceeds from this event help fund the club’s various projects, including “wonder closets,” which provide clothing to students in need at five area elementary schools. Earth Day seedHngs for Kettle Lake Elementary students, MyLead scholarships for Caledonia High School students and scholarships for CHS senior girls. The club thanks all who supported them at last weekend’s fundraiser n,,!.,.. ..ir and right to go flying off before, they’re going to cut in tr. „rv front of a semi,” Pugh said. “We all know that training people how to do things makes people better,” he said. “Let’s make sure we’re training our kids on how to operate around trucks and how to operate on the highway just in general.” Several other states have considered similar legislation. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear recently signed a bill into law that prohibits a truck tractor, trailer or semi-trailer from using the far-left lane on highways with at least three lanes traveling in the same direction. A Colorado bill would keep commercial vehicles out of the left lane on a portion ofInterstate 70. Lawmakers in Florida, Iowa and Oklahoma have considered legislation for all vehicles not just trucks and tractor-trailers— that designates the far left lane as the passing lane and requires drivers to stay in the right lanes unless they are passing or for other safety measures. ■r kiaiiOTiw.. OPEN: M thru F; 7:30 am - 5:00 pm 616.891.0150 r J *1 gygTEWS CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN I r. « f I A' * * BODY SHOP 110 Johnson Street -^373 -J *fc •• klOB^ Mji .V- iT ■J- - GOID CLASS lg^ ’I A/ sieai J I •w H'J NFIB r 1 • Frame Repair I 4 * tail • TOUCH Computerized Eiectronic Measuring System Lesonal > A I ’ V • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians I I I *4 1 br ► ■ 2- •T•r--' •• UP L • w 4 BP* Ift t i I ** • K i r# ♦i k w tt’Pf®! 4 I « >Q the changes in his bill would give fte Miehig^ Deparb^^ii give the Michigan Department S:“me bm'of Ti^ponation the authority to emorce enforce it. it. .J r hons for trucks usuig the led "Well never make our “We’ll never make our lane when makmg Wide turns, roads 100 percent safe, ifs just roads 100 percent safe, it’s just avoidmg hazardous exits or m an has an impossibility. impossibility. But But this this has construction zones^ the ability to make them safer Hie biU IS aimed at miPgat- because because itit clears clears up that left mg traflic congestion on - faster-moving , free- * lane for traflic,” ways that larger trucks and Bruck said. tractor-trailers may cause, but According to the Michigan opponents say such restrictions State Police, ±ere were 15,088 could lead to more accidents. accidents statewide in 2023 “The left lane is a more dan­ that involved either buses, gerous lane especially if you commercial trucks or trachave slower traflic,” Bruck tor-trailers with a gross vehicle said. “Certainly this is some­ weight of 10,001 pounds or thing that eveiyone has experi- more. That’s down slightly enced. You’re driving down the from 15,802 accidents in 2022. freeway, there’s heavy traflic to Among those speaking out begin with, and then you have against the Michigan bill and heavy trucks and trailers trying similar legislation in other to pass and everyone’s going states is the Owner-Operator below the speed limit.” Independent Drivers Bruck’s bill passed unani- Association, which represents mously in the House truck drivers. Such measures Transportation, Mobility and could have unintended conseInfrastructure Committee and quences for truckers, the group will go to the full House for says. further consideration. “You’re forcing truck driv­ State law already requires ers to have their interactions trucks, tractors and similar with cars increased by hunvehicles wi± a gross weight of dreds ofpercent because you’re over 10,000 pounds to stay in going to have cars that come up ei±er of the farthest two lanes behind them, pass them and cut to the right, except when mak­ back in front of them to get off ing a left turn. an exit ramp,” said Lewie Though there are signs Pugh, executive vice president posted on highways across the for OOIDA. “The more we can state reminding truck drivers (decrease) the interaction to stay to the right, Bruck said between cars and trucks the STHTE » I L T SSS£? M’S* ?*U. ..fliw . . - I Cal Women’s Club’s 2nd Annual ^Bunco’ fundraiser raised funds for club projects .w Bridge Michigan Michigan is one of several states considering legislation that would limit which lanes large trucks and tractor-trailers can travel in. A bill put forth by State Rep. William Bruck, R-Erie, would prohibit large trucks and huctor-tmite from using thp lo the far-left lane The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27, 2024/ Page 7 Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner www.edsbody.com l1 I I I I r t FINANCIAL FOCUS < i Provided by Andrew McFadden and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones I J .1 . I . ** w* I I 4 1 A < 1 I -t ' I r b I 1 Term vs. Perm: Which is right for you ? If you’ve been thinking about life insurance, especially if you have family, loved ones, or anyone who depends on you financially, you might be curi­ ous about the different kinds of policies available. Which type is right for you? Essentially, you can look at two main categories of life insurance: term and permanent. Term insurance is a pay-asyou-go option that covers a specific amount of time, usual­ ly 20 years or fewer. Term insurance benefits are paid to your beneficiaries free of feder­ al income taxes if you pass away during the coverage peri­ od, but there’s no opportunity to build cash value. Permanent insurance, such as whole life or universal life, offers coverage for as long as you pay the premiums, and in addition to providing a tax-free death benefit, also offers a chance to build equity, or cash value, on a tax-deferred basis. When determining which type of insurance is appropriate for your needs, you’ll want to consider these factors: • Cost - Term insurance is generally affordable for most people, which is why it may be particularly suitable for parents and young adults who may be at the beginning of their careers. Permanent insurance is typical­ ly more expensive, largely because it is meant to last for one’s lifetime and some of the premiums go toward building cash value in the policy and paying for other features. Gen­ erally, the younger and healthi­ er you are when you purchase permanent insurance, the lower your rates will be. • Length of time insurance is needed - If you think you will only need life insurance for a certain period — perhaps until your children are grown — you might lean toward term insur­ ance. If you feel the need for life insurance for other goals throughout your lifetime, for whatever reason — you might have a special needs child, or perhaps you want to use your policy to help pay for retire­ ment, or you wish to include the policy as part of your lega­ cy and estate plans — you may want to consider some type of permanent insurance. • \nvestment preferences You may have heard the phrase “buy term and invest the differ­ ence.” Essentially, this just means that an investor could purchase low-cost term insur­ ance, and then invest the mon­ ey that was saved by not get­ ting permanent insurance. This can be a valuable strategy in some situations, but people often don’t actually invest the difference. A permanent insur­ ance policy, through the pay­ ment of premiums, may result in a steady buildup of cash value or continued contribu­ tions to the policy’s investment components. For many people, this discipline is helpful. • Future insurability - If you have health issues, it could jjii:?' * 4 i I i I ! i ! A 1 > become difficult to get perma­ nent insurance after you’ve reached the end of a term insur­ ance policy. (Some term insur­ ance policies do offer the opportunity to convert to per­ manent coverage, usually with­ out the need for a medical exam.) You could avoid this potential problem by purchas­ ing permanent insurance when you are still young and healthy. Ultimately, you will need to weigh the various factors involved in the permanent-versus-term decision. You also might benefit from consulting a financial professional, who can evaluate which type of insur­ ance is most appropriate for your situation. But whether it’s term or permanent, make sure you have the coverage you need to protect yourself and your loved ones. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & Co., LP. and in California, New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agen­ cy of California, LL.C.; Edward Jones Insurance Agen­ cy of New Mexico, LL.C.; and Edward Jones Insurance AgenMassachusetts, of cy LL.C. California Insurance License OC24309 I I I I I I I I * I f j 4 t I ( I I r I I i I < I I I I I I IJ i » I.. I » 4 J » ) ♦ » I I I > I » 1 I I • « 1 » �f» Page SZThe Sun and News, Saturday, April 27,2024 BMtRY-ftOUBAIX, continued from page (4 • I, •■a* ♦ nr 5, J * r* rJ fl t ’ •1^ * I * Valerie Hymnan and David Bucholtz, sporting their cat-ear bike helmets, pedal up a hill on a tandem bike during Saturday’s Barry-Roubaix. ir' i ♦ A 1 KMI > •• 4( f I 5 >r i J994T' 1 I I r t I events our size might get,” Acker admitted. “The closest one in Michigan is (cross country mountain bike race) Iceman Cometh in Traverse City. They have gotten some live television streams over the years.” “But, we don’t necessarily go knocking on doors to make that happen,” Acker added. “If people want to cover or televise things. we’re very much open to that but it’s just not something we pursue. The event sells out every year and our focus really is on the riders and their experience and making sure it goes well for the city and all the things of that nature. Also, that it’s very cost-effective.” In the coming months, organizers will again meet with city officials and other stakeholders to learn what went well and what maybe did not go well. This is in an effort to tweak the annual race. But, Acker didn’t antic ipate any big changes given the success of the race. “Things have been going well and they continue to go well,” Acker said. “It’s sort of that old adage that if it ain’t broke then don’t fix it. We definitely hear that. Every little change makes a massive amount of work for us and the folks we work with.” Hastings residents again made annual practice out of lending their city to the del­ uge of cyclists. Acker extend­ ed his gratitude to them and the city for their sacrifice. “We just like to express our gratitude to the city of Hastings. We get to talk to a lot of the stakeholders. Mayor Tossava, Chief Boulter, we work closely with them and get to express our gratitude to them but we want to make sure that the residents and citizens of Hastings really understand that we appreciate people embracing the event. We hear from riders all the time about how welcome they feel. I know it can be an imposition for residents, especially in the city, for the weekend. But we appreciate the grace we’re shown.” might topple over. While these conditions were in stark contrast to last year’s 80-degree day, it’s certainly not anything riders haven’t already dealt with. Two years ago, freezing wind chills and snow greeted them on the course. “It went well. We’re happy with how the event went — just the experience for the riders. It was all good on our end,” said Matt Acker, one of the race’s co-directors. Despite the magnitude of the Barry-Roubaix, it still flies surprisingly under the radar in terms of media coverage. Over the 15 years of competition, it’s rare to see much coverage outside the confines of Hastings and Barry County. “Wc definitely don’t see a lot of coverage like other 100-mile riders has steadily grown throughout the event’s history. This year, 450 cyclists comprised the field. Allan finished the course in 6 hours and 40 minutes. Colorado-based professional cyclist Daxton Mock took first place in the 100-mile race, finishing in 4 hours and 58 minutes. While some of the coun­ try’s most elite riders captured wins in the event, the Barry-Roubaix stands as a family-friendly event that attracts competitors of varying skill levels. Riders this year were provided with blustery conditions. Temperatures* • hovered around 40 degrees with winds so heavy that organizers opted not to assemble the signature inflatable state/fmish line gate out of fear it CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN JO? & *** '. • > » I . 9 W 7 . X. PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on Monday, May 20, 2024 at 7:00pm at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, SE, Caledonia Michigan, 49316. * w. 4 * ■t * ’ r 4 The request is for special land use for a vehicle wash establishment with oil change use. Drive and Shine, at 6949 Broadmoor Avenue SE on parcel: 41-23-07-276-001. The use will occupy approximately 4 acres in the north east corner of the parcel. I ft’ A * • * ** •w w, r 4 4 I ** V .■w ■ - I 1 -4. la JIi , 1 Pastor Bryce Feighner of Green Street United Methodist Church in Hastings conducts a blessing of the bikes ceremony before most of the cyclists take off for their rides on Saturday morning. I AH * t « •I ...'."le ’a u - V XI 'I 'V. I < » i t- V I I * 9 I t fl J ! spring Book Sale X fli 7^ 1■ i I Thursday, May 2 • Friends members pre-sale 3pm-7pm ■y * I* • t I Ik Thursday, May 2 • public sale begins 3pm-7pni *j < » 9 > Friday, May 3 • public sale 10am-3pm 1 Saturday, May 6. public sale 10am-3pm « 3 TEACHERS BRING I AND GET 20 FREE BOOKS! 4• M.-. All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed request. Written comments concerning the request may be submitted to the Township office, at the abovestated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Caledonia Township Librar Dated: April 22,2024 PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA 6260 92nd Street, Caledonia '5>cx?k j . Sponsored by Caledonia Friends of the Library i « s. > •J k * * i » I r 1-^ 4 I « W t » i ! ♦ -'-ft '>V-* 1 > 9 I t 9 I r * Cyclists in the 36-mile race of the Barry-Roubaix head down Green Street in Hastings as onlookers line the streets to take photos and offer words of encour­ agement. /■.■u z I J Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax; 616.891.0430 OledoniA t 4 215943 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia. MJ 49316 4 < 80 percent of the race takes place on gravel roads located throughout the county, pri­ marily throughout the Barry State Game Area. “It’s just such a great event,” said David Allan of Byron Center. “It’s a great Hastings group of people always puts on a show and the roads here are just incred­ ible. You have everything from sand to rock to gravel to fast roads, hills.” Allan, who was one of the brave and elite riders to tack­ le the 100-mile course, pro­ vided both a local and inter­ national perspective. Allan, who is design director for global medical device heavy­ weight Stryker Corporation in Kalamazoo, lives in Byron Center, but he moved to the States from Scotland 20 years ago. Here, he has fallen in love with cycling — especially in Barry County. “I love the riding here (in the United States),” Allan said. “The cycling is amaz­ ing — the community is amazing. Allan said he frequently cycles from his home in Byron Center over to Barry County to enjoy what he said are some of his favorite roads. Allan and his fellow racers in the 100-mile race took off at 7 a.m. already three hours before any of the other races took place. The field of competes in plenty through- keep up, another group out the season. However, the comes along.” This year’s event featured Barry-Roubaix stands out to the largest field of cyclists in her because of its sheer size. Most cravel events that I the Barry-Roubaix’s history do are 200, 300, 500 or at 5,2<X) riders strong. That maybe 1,000 (cyclists),” said was by design, as organizers Richey, before she embarked have slowly expanded the on her 36 miles. “But this is field over the 15 years of the event to avoid overloading huge.” “In thi.s race, there is the infrastructure that comes always a group you can draft with the small city of with and you can go faster,” Hastings and the rest of she added. “It’s cool. In the Barry County. Cyclists in this year’s field smaller races, if you get dropped, you’re out on your represented 44 states and own. It’s you and the crickets eight different countries. and the wind. With this race, While the event kicks off at it’s kind of nice. If you fall the start/finish line in the off a group and you can’t heart of the city of Hastings, A 1 A I > 1 4i « V I * « t A 4 I I t L / r 1 r Y ( < V t ft J ft > I s > * ff I 1 * t I I I 1 « I t ' 1 ‘XT < 1 1 r' ( f t < 1 1 •. '• < '■ I ' ) t 3 t ♦ kA I I r I Din” fSlS^ jCilii kii'ni.s* iWCinfei a to * aUmii I jilM. litto 3i4eS«Ss ISWW ■Me * of flioonds teiiela) i liiei, Josh tltti u ’nfH *1 ’itjblif ’’Mitill J I., n St -?5 .S! V �Scot state qualifiers do well in diiryiTth EK ' * ‘s* I I I < S’ u ■ L t * i * I A .5* r- uTl I * i 4^ f sy*-I I ? % t 1 I r u « I r «- 4.^ • *'*n \ - Mkidr r^i sr f-7» Ant r ^ t IT A B9 1“ 4\ i z ““iS! '_ J --i ■9 • >. » I ? J •s 4 L V n I I I ( A, 4 > 0* ’• *»1 M <<iS % rf— a ■^->-vV'' ■jB> 4 . X.. mi M.. ••■ -J — ^''--ir*-__ — 2 • A. »> * < z 4 i- 1^ • •i T Ax. • . ri h ' ’ j^Ss'•‘f 1 r? J '*emi w • -A lUX # ^tW n ?l «» 4* SLT 4 **/. *» " t A*>. i V»SRWV B I. Jk, Sv rZ« ►/ Jr- : ■ H .« r \ •v 1 9 : /W; * e •• V I 1 * P>F r. .a*^, >I 1^ •'.'b* . L- a 5#v *«= w r 1 « 1 • J L Al^.. b .«** ■Bia;- _ ‘ S’ &- *®"^»(4(v, J* B ■ I s II » .* W-* - . ■ A 4iu *->i-^‘. UM^' *• *b ^iktlliai ’lilied.if wver Or 4^ r TT n fc Hl t Caledonia senior Maddox Greenfield takes off with the baton «v.,««M„eia raxes on with the baton for the final leg of the 4x100-meter relay Wednesday during his team’s OK Red Conference du^ with East Kentwood inside Ralph E. Myers Stadium in Caledonia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ' Hi, <1 Also, 4,f' Brett Bremer The CHS boys had at least the top two in the 3200Sports Editor one point scorer in every meter run. Junior Kort The Falcons are fast. individual event. They had Thompson won that race in The Scots were fast too as they tried to keep up. The Caledonia varsity boys’ and girls’ track and field teams were bested in OK Red Conference duals by visiting East Kentwood * Wednesday at Ralph E • I Myers Stadium in Caledonia. The East Kentwood girls took a 106.5-30.5 win while the East Kentwood boy.s outscored the Scots 73-64. B* The Caledonia boys did cap off their evening with a winning time of 3 minute.s A 34.29 seconds from the 4x400-meter relay team of Lual Abiel, Joshua Maier, Ayden Duffin and Aaron Collins. That was the second relay win of the day for the CHS boys as the senior four­ some of Carter Tufts, Owen Hager, Maddox Greenfield and Dharius Walker won the 4x200-meter relay in 1:32.64. Caledonia senior Samuel Pugh outruns East It was a solid afternoon for Kentwood’s Ethan Quibel to the finish line at the end a trio of returning state final of the 800-meter run Wednesday inside Ralph E. ists for the Scots. Hager won Myers Stadium. Pugh set his PR in the race with a the 110-meter high hurdles in time of 2 minutes 6.26 seconds to place third. s .7 . ’4 city 4(,, ttlite I) ij, col '*!. ml ft, ^ooiH^ ioft Io lltil I, * - Caledonia junior Emmi Mince clears the bar in the high jump Wednesday Conference dual with visrting East Kentwood. She placed third in the event at 4 feet 8 irtches. (Photo by Brett Bremer 10:24.84 and senior team­ mate Levi Moss was the run­ ner-up less than two second.s back in 10:26.75. The top race for the Caledonia girls was the 32(X)-mcter um where senior Alyssa DeFields set a new personal record with her winning time of 12:00.82. It was a sweep of the three sconng places for (he Scots. ScnuK KIoc Ktmhrvli ssas second and junior Adysen Daman sei her PR in the race to place third. The CHS girls* team also got a 1-2 finish from seniors Molly Winger and Summer Kopec in the pole vault. Winger cleared 9-6 and Kopec upped her PR to 7-6. mdiit “Hihijsliftli' Milwia X1 HrTwhnoor A*< SI M astiiigiBiJ eguilps infittifiittif )fcycliils.li!!’ is jislliilif’ ft jd S"" 'll!* ir J,« Ml KU fJl ***.» I”, ntm Caledonia Caledonia. Ml 49316 MA Wl nOTT) I ax M6 X9) 04 W •A » J' CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN ^•-*1 v a 4I \ taoUiilKi 'iMfitar ; Jetteh k syGlItibi sshtiMii’ and ihe fcfc’ See SCOTS, page 11 215944 J x.BMciiilt ilcaiylijdit Il wxs a solid show ing tor the Scots in the high jump iw where senior Teresa Abraham svas the njnncT-up at 4-10 and junior teammate I mmi Mince cleared 4-8 Io place in a tie for third. Junior Avalynn Klapmust added a winning time of PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on Monday, May 20. 2024 at 7:00pm at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, SE, Caledonia Michigan. 49316 The request is for PUD reroning of a combined 28 4 acres from C 2 and RR to PUD (6949 Broadmoor Avenue SE and 7005 Broadmoor Avenue SE, parcel numbers: 41-23-07-276-004 and 41-23-07-276-001 The applicant is proposing commercial uses along the Broadmoor corridor including a Drive and Shine car wash with oil change as a special land use, as well as light industrial uses approximately 600' west of the corridor. 1 •wr * ■ ».* a1 X» 4 T 4 <v I r I J r A : 1 1 ■ »> •• > .1 & t •^2 J XB » * 15.39 seconds and the 300meter intermediate hurdles in 41.63. Senior thrower Ian Fedewa set his PR in the shot put at 47-.5 in a runner-up finish and won the discus with a throw of 148-5, his best of the season in that event. In the long jump, senior Jordan Gutierrez won with a mark of 21-0 and Greenfield placed second behind him with a personal record jump of 20-8.75. Fedewa led a sweep of the scoring spots for the CHS boys in the discus. Liam Moore took second and William Knipping third. 4 « .■ I k < V - <1 t 'fiTi 4* f ' 4 st X . * * Ik- I b. - : »* 4 «9i » « L .*S I J t J Your local agent insures your I J k h I h A 1 ( fl I I jTOpS I > » FARM BUREAU INSURANCE* > All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed request. Written comments concerning the request may be submitted to the Township office, at the above­ stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-6827 jparxsWDinsmi.com FarniBureaulnsurance.com Dated: April 22, 2024 PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA » ft i & �F Page lOZThe Sun and News, Saturday, April 27,2024 CHS tennis gets a few doubles wins at its home tournament I Brett Bremer Sports Editor The second doubles duo of Zoe Fleming and Sawyer Mertz picked up two wins for the Fighting Scots to lead the team at its Caledonia Invitational Saturday. knocked off They Hamilton’s Drew VanHouten and Danielle Wedeven 8-5 and pulled out an 8-6 win over Christian’s NorthPointe Amelia Bowman and Ainsley Bowman. The Caledonia varsity girls’ tennis team finished fourth on the day with that second doubles team picking up two of the team’s five points. Byron Center took the day’s champi- onship with 23 points ahead of Hamilton 16 and NorthPointe CTiristian 10. The Caledonia girls’ lone singles win on the day came ffom Audrey Duong at num­ ber four where she won a tie­ breaker at the end of her eightwith proset game NorthPointe’s Katie Kok 8-7(6). Caledonia’s top doubles team of Abby Duong and Sela Byron outscored Fitzell Center’s Kasey Cutler and Giulia Gulisano 8-6. The third doubles team of Lilly Hess and Emily Sorstokke got an 8-2 win over the NorthPointe team of Leah Ulsted and Laura Brandt. CHS girls have won five straight lacrosse matches fifth doubles win fi'om Anna Gretchen and Homrich VanderEide by the score of 7-5, 0-6, 6-2. Audrey Duong played a tough third singles match against the Eagles’ Raylee Loughin, but Loughin pre­ vailed in a 7-6( 1), 7-5 win. Abby Duong and Markwat took a 6-1, 6-4 win over Catholic Central’s top doubles team at the FHN Quad Tuesday to score the Scots’ lone point in a 7-1 loss to the Cougars. Caledonia headed north again Thursday to face Rockford in an OK Red Conference dual which the Rams won by the score of 9-0. The Scots got in three duals this week, a pair of OK Red Conference contests and one match at the Forest Hills Northern Quad Tuesday against Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Hudsonville took a 6-3 win over the Caledonia girls in a conference dual Monday. It was the Scot doubles teams that found the most success once again. Abby Duong and Markwat at number one scored a 6-2, 6-2 victory over the Eagles’ top pair of Tessa Vandebunte and Maddie LaFrenier. Hess and Sorstokke scored a tough 6-4, 6-3 win at fourth doubles and Caledonia got a J 4 < t A Bushart for reaching the 100 ground balls milestone. The CHS girls were visit scheduled to Grandville Friday eve­ ning, April 26, and will be back in action at 12:30 p.m. today, April 27. at Forest Hills Central. It’s a busy stretch as the Scots play host to Zeeland East Monday evening and host Grand Rapids Christian Wednesday in the week ahead. The Caledonia varsi­ ty girls’ lacrosse team just keeps rolling. The Fighting Scots moved to 5-0 since spring break and 6-1 season this overall with a 16-3 win over visiting Mona Shores Wednesday. That victo­ ry came on the heels of a 17-2 win last Friday, April 19, at Jenison. During the recent run, the Scots celebrated seniors Addie Megan and Roe •^.1 I .5* 4 1 5* Grant helps TK students learn about wildlife conservation An American Kestrel perched on the gloved hand of a John Ball Zoo handler as she walked around the TKHS environmental science class­ room letting students get a closer look at the smallest Men b •* member of the falcon family. Despite its size, the Kestrel plays a large role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem, the zoo member said. The kestrel feeds on insects as well as small mice, frogs, snakes and I > I r * 1 3*. • * TAntenna Men **•> • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! 1 269-967-8241 C(l fl n o* www.theantennamen.com flntennamen@gmail.com www.cell8ignalpros.com I [ smaller birds. Thanks to a grant from TangerKids, the John Ball Ambassadors brought four animals for the high school students to study. While showing the animals, the zoo ambassadors also talked to students about the important role of each animal in the ecosystem. They discussed the importance of wildlife conser­ vation and protection to main­ tain a healthy balance in the ecosystem and ways everyone can help maintain that balance. A northern water snake was content to curl around her ambassador’s hand while students got a closer look at the reptile. These snakes eat tad- poles, fish (alive or dead), large insects, other snakes, turtles and small mammals like mice. A wood turtle, one of the 10 turtles native to Michigan, was also a guest in the classroom. Turtle eggs are especially susceptible to predators like raccoons, possums and skunks who dig up an entire clutch of turtle eggs and will eat them all. John Ball Zoo has helped turtles by bringing the eggs to the zoo to hatch in a safe place, and then returning the turtles to their natural environment. The African bullfrog’s popu­ lation was declining quickly in certain parts of the world, according to the zookeeper. Showing the bullfrog inside an aquarium, the ambassador told students the frogs drink through their skins, so pollution is very hard on them and water quality is a huge issue to preservation of the African bullfrogs. Limiting pollution in streams, rivers, lakes, oceans, and natural habitat areas is one way everyone can help pre­ serve wildlife, the ambassadors told students. They also said natural habitats need to be pro­ tected so there are places for animals to live and that every- 215647 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Phone: 6I6.«91.OO7O Fax: 616.891.0430 Caledonia TOWNSHIP CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECT THEREOF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on April 17, 2024, the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia adopted an ordinance entitled. “An Ordinance to Amend Sewer Connection, Use and Rate Ordinance” (the _____ ’ Ordinance”), which amends the Township’s Sewer Connection, Use and Rate Ordinance a.k.a. Ordinance No. 15-05, as amended (the “Sewer Ordinance”), A summary of the provisions of the Ordinance is set forth below: Section 1. Amendment of Appendix I-A to the Sewer Ordinance. Sec­ tion 1 of the Ordinance amends Appendix I-A to the Sewer Ordinance, the ... T . . . ----- ’ of the Campau/Kettle Lake Sewer District, to replace the map with a new map as shown in the Ordinance. one should follow government regulations and laws that are enacted to protect animals. ■ ■ > • A 7 i 7 -M-'J « *4 (I- 4*- I Section 2. Severability and Paragraph Headings. Section 2 of the Ordi­ nance provides for the severability of the provisions of the Ordinance in the event a portion of the Ordinance is determined to be unenforceable, The paragraph headings in the Ordinance The Caledonia High School choir program congratulates its members for a strong show­ ing at State Solo and Ensemble Section 3. Publication and Recording. Section 3 of the Ordinance pro­ vides that the ordinance, or a summary thereof, must be published once in a newspaper of general circulation in the Township following its adoption and that the Ordinance must be recorded in the Ordinance Book of the Township. a I 1 ySjiiSl Jk '■ VJ ■ fid ft I 1 r 1 I* 4 f An ambassador from the John Ball Zoo shows off a Kestrel to students in the TKHS environmental science classroom. The Kestrel is the smallest member of the falcon family. (Photos provided) E -------- * 1- I \nidlJ zjl to l « / - 1 i* f ( A *3 itta Dili Ml /... ! llDfoflif ’Bl :: iJ f 8 A r lib ID f •■>4 J ** v Ki SI I ISHBDttl pv*- »1 '■■I Through a grant from TangerKids, John Ball Zoo ambassadors brought four animals for the ThornaoDle T ........................... Kellogg High School students to study. This is a northern water snake. 1 >%. •y Jt -» Festival. Fifteen soloists along with the Chamber Singers per­ formed on Friday, April 19. All of the competing events t c k Section 4. Effective Date. The Ordinance is effective as of April 27, 2024. I « 1 n T amending ordinance may be reviewed or purchased at the Township office during Township office hours. Lt < { ’ j1 TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA R Ba 46-' — I w I’ Li N. w a ■ ■ 4 f i i■ u = ’ J w ___ t I •V '.■1*1 J I t 1 e f * 4 I' t S s received first division ratings. The include: Soloists Adeline Wolters; Alexis Saidoo; Landon Fleming; Daniel Parker; Allison Malone; Stephanie Dryburgh; Christian Moorlag; Gabrielle Linker; Rylyn Groeneveld; Connor Parlin; Alyssa Bursch; Lydia Shoesmith; Meghan Ruthven; Evie Slomp; Morgan Vredevoogd. Chamber Singers — Alyssa Bursch; Rylyn Groeneveld; Emeiy Rewa; Adeline Wohere; Ayden Taylor, Dalton Ed; Landon Fleming; Christian Moorlag. ►*'>1 a X r 7. <4 A r! of* I ? I . 1 4 4 « « I J J f * t I * % 1 if a 1 CHS choirs shine at Solo and Ensemble Festival f- Dated: April 17,2024 J,** 5 J K I �SCOTSf continued from The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27, 2024/ Page 11 d 1:04.72 in the 400-meter Caledonin boys won the 300-meter intermediate dash, beating Kentwood three field events and two hurdles in 44.11. sophomore Maely Guerrero relays, and also had Hager The Caledonia girls had a by five hundredths of a sec­ take the 110-meter high hurhandful of runner-up perfor ­ ond in their lap around the dies in 15.48. ’ft mances on the day. The team track. lii * 1^ s Collins, Tufts, Hager and of Ashleigh Adams, Jessica The Caledonia boys also Walker won the 4x200-meter n "■ ’ ^11 Maier, Brooke Heyboer and got a personal record time of relay in 1:35.01 and the team Abraham was second in the 11.60 from Greenfield in a of Arreentield, Hager, 4xl00-meter relay with Greenfield, a third-place finish in the 100- Gutierrez and Walker won time of 54.05. Klapmust, meter dash and a PR of 23.60 the 4xl00-meter relay in Howell, Heyboer and from Tufts in a third-place 44.37. Collins, Abiel, Jonas Abraham placed second in finish in the 200-meter dash. Howell and Velting added a the 4x200-meter relay in In the 400-meter dash the runner-up time of 3:34.87 in 1:52.04. Scots’ Collins and Abiel went the 4x800-meter relay. Winger was the pole vault 2-3. Collins hit the finish line In the field, Fedewa won runner-up clearing 10-0. in 52.04 and Abiel improved the shot put with a mark of Caledonia also had Olivia his PR to 52.62 to pick up a 46-6 and Gutierrez won the Hawkins second in the 300point for the team. In the 800- high jump at 5-10 and the meter low hurdles with a meter run it was sophomore long jump at 19-8.25. time of 53.30. Eli Velting and senior Samuel Greenfield was the long The Scots got individual Pugh going 2-3. Velting was jump runner-up at 19-7.5. third-place finishes from the runner-up in 2:01.44 and Liam Moore added a runsenior Allie Perna who had a Pugh improved his PR to ner-up throw of 140-6 in the PR of 28-7 in the shot put 2:06.26 to place third. Pugh discus for the CHS boys and and Abraham who cleared had already set his PR in the Howell was the runner-up in 4-8 in the high jump. 1600-meter run with a time of 4:39.38 that had him third in that race. r Senior Audrey Howell had one of the top finishes on the track for the Caledonia girls with a runner-up time of 27.39 in the 200-meter dash. Caledonia’s girls set a number of personal records 9 16 on the day too, but mostly 'ai. outside of the top three scor­ .4 ing spots. DeFields was one 4 of those. She added a PR run K ♦ of 5:353.36 in a fourth-place A finish in the 1600 to her i 1-9 3200-meter PR. I Outside of the OK Red Conference, the Caledonia ..-/'■■'S i.., 'O' i ON i.-boys were the champions and the girls the runners-up at Lowell’s Kathy Talus Memorial Invitational last I Saturday. Byron Center and ’ll '•J Caledonia shared the titles. The Caledonia boys outscored the Bulldogs 139-94 at the top of the standings a while the Byron Center girls beat out the Scots 140-81 for the title. Grandville was tied Fighting Scot freshman Olivia Hawkins runs to a with the Scots in the run­ third-place finish in the 300-meter low hurdles during ner-up spot in the girls’ ner her team team’s ui\ OK Hea Red auai dual witn with tast East Kentwood inside standings with 81 points at Ralph E. Myers Stadium Wednesday. (Photo by Brett the eight-team meet. Bremer) Scots seventh at mid-season after strong day in Kentwood S.\ 'I Brett Bremer Sports Editor Senior Emersen Lippert led the Fighting Scot varsity boys’ golf team with an 85 at the OK Red Conference Mid-Season Tournament at Macatawa Legends Golf and Country Club Wednesday. The score earned Lippert a 19th-place individual finish at the event. His teammates weren’t far behind. Caledonia got an 86 from junior Mason Kem and 87s from junior Parker Little and jumor Sam Miersen. West Ottawa took the team victory on the day with an overall score of 319 strokes. Grandville shot a 324, Grand Haven 325, Hudsonville 328, Rockford 330, East Kentwood 341, '«i, ?<» 1 ’I ■ 5' ;* : i’* >!**' s k Caledonia 345 and Jenison 353.Grandville senior Tony Spicuzza was well ahead of the field with a 71. East Kentwood senior Dario Bonazzi and West Ottawa senior Will Niziolek tied for second at 76. Hudsonville junior and senior Carson Witvoet from West Ottawa tied for fourth with 77s. With all six guys shooting 46 or better, the Caledonia boys were all the way up in fourth place at the conference jamboree hosted by East Kentwood at Stonewater Country Club Monday. West Ottawa won there too with a score of 160 ahead of Rockford 161, Grandville 167, Caledonia 169, Hudsonville 169, East Kentwood 173, Jenison 175 and Grand Haven 177. Lippert led die Scots again witii a 41 that had him in eighth place individually for the day. Kem shot a 42. Junior Levi Verburg and senior Tucker Dion both scored 43s for the Scots. Little added a 44 to win the tiebreaker with the Hudsonville boys for fourth. Rockford freshman Owen Wilson and Hudsonville junior Myles Secor tied for the individual lead with 37s. Niziolek led the West Ottawa team with a 38 and junior Kaiden Dressier scored a 38 for Rockford. The Scots will host a con­ ference jamboree Monday and then Grand Haven plays host to the conference Tuesday in the week ahead. ■*** jj L I TK tops Bengals, but falls at South as Sailors sweep doubles f’ •* I 1 - I I J t * I. ■ Brett Bremer » '.r ft t g •' Lb I • r." ruV Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ tennis team improved is 2-2 in the OK Gold Conference after split­ ting a pair of conference duals this week. The TK ladies scored 7-0 win over Ottawa Hills in Middleville Monday after­ noon, but couldn’t quite keep up with the Sailors at South Christian High School Wednesday afternoon in a 5-3 defeat. TK first singles player Hailey Dudik took a 6-0, 6-0 win over Ottawa Hills’ Yaneli Gonzalez-Quintino. Trojan third singles player Charlotte Nelson won a 6-0, 6-0 match against the Bengals’ Sienna Barstow. At second singles, ' * ■•LM I '.V.* •4. * f * «4,, r .11 .. I fv L I » 1 I » I ■9 4 a..* A i ?rri < * 4 < 4 ^*1 »* * i J 4^. r. * 1 • . V. V * I . • I - r < 4 ' ■ r ( 1 1 I r • b J • y L- 1 n •V 4 r. r k 4^ M fllR • ♦•fc J / r t TK’s Holly Carpenter won by I default. The Trojans also got 6-0, 6-0 victories from the team of Emilia Rickert and Martina Panades at third doubles and the team of Ava Zellmer and Natileigh Merchant at num­ ber four. The TK first doubles team of Cailin Wodrich and Tyne Bufka took a 6-2, 6-1 win over Jennifer Dinh and Lia Lin. At second doubles, TK’s Jordan Pranger and Emilia Rickert won 6-3, 6-1 over Clementine Bahr-Attanasie and Lisa Lin. The South Christian girls took a 5-3 win over TK Wednesday sweeping the four doubles points in straight set matches. Isabelle Schilithroat closed out her three-set fourth singles match strong against the Sailors’ Audi Burgess. Schilithroat won the opening set 7-5 before Burgess rallied for a 6-4 win in the second. Schilithroat took the deciding third set 6-1. Dudik beat the Sailors’ top player Gabby Young 6-0, 6-0 and Nelson took a 6-1, 6-0 win over South Christian’s Danya Hendrickson at number three. The Sailors tipped the scales in their favor with a win from Savana Michmerhuizen at second singles where she outscored Carpenter 6-3, 6-2. The TK ladies will be home Saturday, April 27, for their own TK Invite and then will host a conference dual Monday with Forest Hills Eastem. TK goes to Kenowa Hills next Wednesday, May 1. I I* ..JC High Efficiency I !, John Ball Zoo 215892 I I I ' I gUL^ FURNACE itudy, TIis«a I I I * if I 5 dinsion fa®?' 'I y •: So» ' ' I Volters; Alf® T ■ I 4 5J *0 I —7 *1 . t • ** 9 I ’’ /rr- h u t B 8 B BB ■k Am 1 I t HS I iniioD fl* ■ I I ■i 1 I Allis® ■ I * r rl< ■ Gahii* TWNSHIP NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the polling location has been CHANGED for the upcoming Thomapple Kellogg School District Special Election to be held on May 7, 2024 in the Charter Township of Caledonia, Kent County, Michigan. For this election ONLY, the Charter Township of Caledonia’s registered voters who reside in the Thornapple Kellogg School District will vote at the Bowne Township Hall located at 8240 Alden Nash Avenue SE, Alto, MI 49302. I Must present this coupon. Spires 5-10-24 ■ This change is ONLY for the May 7, 2024 Thomapple Kellogg School District Special Election after which these registered voters will return to their prior polling location for all future elections. ft Busi 1 nNANCING AVAILABLE *No monthly interest HEATING G COOLING ftceoow I J 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891 1 If paid within 18 mo. The company built by referrals ar Any questions, please contact the Charter Township of Caledonia Clerk’s Department at 8196 Broadmoor Avenue SE, Caledonia, MI 49316 or call (616) 891-0070. ■ Joni Henry, Clerk L J » I Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax; 616.891.0430 PUBLIC NOTICE POLLING LOCATION CHANGE NOTICE I I 400 OFF , 4 * • .V >I 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 1 I » I 4 1 �/ f ( Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27,2024 _ ■ Scots enjoy 2-0 Saturday at Portage tournament 1^ y ♦s •?/ •V J ?* A □r.’. !•> ll /zz/zz/z/Ji nW> >! i J I 1 • < f r> !i* J 4 > 4 •> X’ I* 9 I? / t 1 , * '» t 5'SSV'”’' 55j< n .ir I 'W * A t:- ■ L 77 if 1 ■ Tt /■ & * I 1 * •' ..J ^’r.-s’ w .ir" £ < Li : > 4. A. Dlbi.'l *k4 15 X •4b K.< * pI r *.s > ?• Mt >/ ?-f5 w• K > Ki b 1 I 4 > • > a f'. r I *’ -f ^HktobfWIi^ • . K » >— w I 4 A. s-J-ax, 1 . -i >• Li > I*. fJ I 1 •u «VWK. • J Ui » •■•»T:'rTWS^ r-* w ^7 ; b' * •1 , -S' 'i* 'C' ■' e«" ' V- V < <k ^1 I z ' -j; 4 ♦ * J 9 * / ’ VI r t 4,' •- *• f* IA - r •. >> -If I * -3^^ > .!•» ■JS*. »b .1 - ir* • C I - G»e k 9 *> •d. “SU®.: .1 iK r. A ' •.* • ■■ ' < I - & V ^44 .«« V* w -a^w. .s». >r. .^tTt Caledonia senior Blake Herron preps to unleash a shot as Spring Lake’s Nathan Tierman charges his way Tuesday night at Scotland Yard. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 1 A. Ml-.? •.<. N n ' t ''>4' * 4 J" I. */ I 1^1 / — ** 1 4. • I t » ' ■7e > *r r 4 J < . % * * au> e « • a;\« iT^ |rf8" K3br*4*;2. 4 9^ * : 1 The Fighting Scots’ Jack VanEss looks to spin around Spring Lake defender Harry Fogg to get to the net during the third quarter at Scotland Yard Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Portage Northern boys are eighth in the current MHSAA Division 2 power rankings. That’s after the blemish the Fighting Scots put on their record Saturday. The Caledonia varsity boys’ lacrosse team opened Northern the Portage Invitational by outscoring the host Huskies 11-2 in a match between squads that could meet up again in the regional round of the state tournament this spring. The Huskies were 6-1 going into the match with their only defeat a 12-10 early season loss against Grand Rapids Catholic Central, and a 9-2 win over Jenison had been the Huskies previous low goal-scoring output this season. “That was a big game,” Caledonia head coach Kolin Herron said. “They’re one of 216055 I rid k ' w. V v” T»^, Taakee Sprix^ Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASETAKE NOTICEthata public hearing will be held on May 16,2024, commencing at7;00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville Ml, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commission's consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (joeshea@yankeespringstwp.org). Letters and emails are due one week before the hearing date; or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. ZOC 24-02-03: Parcel ID 16-008-020-50, 200 Old Mill Road, Middleville, Ml 49333. A request by Owen Sabin, the property owner, to re-zone this property from from RC (Resort and Recreation to R-AG (Rural Agricultural), pursuant to the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance, 4rt/c/e XIX Amendments to Zoning Ordinance and Official Zoning Map, 2. ZOC 24-02-05: Parcel ID 16-008-020-51,200 Old Mill Road, Middleville, Ml 49333. A request by Owen Sabin, the property owner, to re-zone this property from from RC (Resort and Recreation to R-AG (Rural Agricultural), pursuant to the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance, Article XIXAmendments to Zoning Ordinance and Official Zoning Map. 3. Such other business as may properly come before the Planning Commission. Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days’ prior notice to the Township a* Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION By: Shana Bush, Chairperson Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 % k 1 < the top teams in the state. That was a huge win for us. We took it to them and han­ dled them pretty solid. No one has held them to two goals all year. We were pretty proud of that.” The Caledonia defense focused on slowing down Portage Northern’s leading goal-scorer Ben Torrence. “We put one of our LSMs, Leighton Fink, on him. We held him to two goals. He scored their only two goals of the game. They came rela­ tively early in the game,” coach Herron said. . “Offensively, we studied their film, prepared and put a game plan together. They ran a zone defense, pretty similar to a zone defense in basket­ ball. We came into it with a basketball/lacrosse mindset that, okay we’re going to shoot them out of the zone.” The Scot offense has the skill to do that this year. Jack VanEss, Ryder Bom and Ethan Fisher filled up the net for , the Scots. IRVING TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS APRIL 16, 2024 Meeting called to order at 6:30 PM AT 3425 Wing Rd. Hastings, Michigan 49058 Roll call: Sokolowski, Bass, Knight, Buehler present. Olson absent. 9 members of the public in attendance. Agenda approved March Minutes approved Approved to hire Hickory Ridge Tree Service to trim trees in German Cemetery Approved two invoices from Thornapple Township Fire Dept Approved to purchase flags and cleaning supplies for Ger­ man and Irving Cemeteries Approved to pay bills $6,295.92 Fire reports given and on file in their departments. Dept Chiefs to discuss burn ordinance and pres­ ent to Board Commissioner Smelker report Treasurer's report presented -available online or in Township Hall Upcoming Meeting dates May 7 (election), May 21 (Board Meeting) Adjourn 7:04 PM Full minutes are available at lrvingtownship.org or at 3425 Wing Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058. Prepared by Deputy Clerk, Shelly Lake. Attested to by Supervisor, Jamie Knight. 216065 Ai4 4 ;-!» ;:^3 4 i 1 i i t / I I iiiol !1 -St!? 5 I > .’l ^tetai <.4= I P ®* k ‘ j5 SV > > I\ I . I i 11 ' vj* » T % {? 7^ Emm 7 < * w ijSSS i I I' • i si I r5 z mttWWHW ( w •< r V 'Mttwtiv ’ r J 9 j? J \ttmm < *¥ I « * k t: ) '1 4 '%W ah 'S f » fl It » ’ r! r ‘i xAj * - ? I t A f. < ,'■ i •> « t n s. . X ■>, * * L • -.x.* •• rSS- « • 't A’ - s: ■I I. • I, '4 *"***^”^’**^.v.-I !-■ int i ilita aW I» :(( ':4 Fighting Scot senior keeper Joshua Sprague directs a Spring Lake shots wide of his net at Scotland Yard Tuesday evening. Stomris moving through the area forced most of the second half to be postponed with the Caledonia boys holding a 7-3 advantage. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Freshman Emmett Haan scored his first varsity goal on the attack. The Caledonia boys fol­ lowed up that win with another 11-2 win, this time over Portage Central, to close their day. Coach Herron said he got eveiybody off the bench in that one and was happy to see the youngsters perform well. The Scots returned to action Tuesday at home and held a 7-3 lead with 6:31 to play over Spring Lake at Scotland Yard when severe weather flew through the area forcing the rest of the game to be postponed. Herron said Friday that his team is still looking to set a date to play the final quarter and a half against the Lakers. Caledonia followed that up by taking a 12-6 win over visiting Holland Christian Thursday at Scotland Yard. Herron said his team start a» ed slow. “Last year, that would have hurt us, but this year we’re still talented enough and the boys grind, they get pretty gritty, they get after it and we started to pull away after halftime.” Fisher had two goals. Haan had four goals. Lincoln Senti chipped in one. VanEss had four. Brady Hilaski added a goal too. Keeper Josh Sprague had seven saves at the other end of the field in the win over the Maroons. The Caledonia boys are scheduled to have another big Saturday today, April 27. They visit Byron Center for a 2 p.m. start. Coach Herron said the schedule only gets tougher and tough­ er from here on out for his 6-3 squad. The Scots visit Hudsonville Tuesday and West Ottawa Thursday in the week ahead. I i 'ifa ■'.'I'l! ■iarp® t-.! J. i-^sda I ^ItB k • •» . . Fs » > > a Js k 't: ' 'i I. • '•< k t> 4 I , 4I t .N k \v t sI « '• \ \ i t A Xi t h I % «r s' I s v' > 1 �The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27,2024/Page 13 TKHS gets Its first sweep of conference baseball Brett Bremer 1 I I •S’ 1^- I b Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity baseball team moved its OK Gold Conference record to 4-5 with a sweep of its doubleheader in Wayland Tuesday and then a third win over the Wildcats in Middleville Thursday. Pitcher Jacob Davis tossed a complete game shutout in the opener as the TK team took a 4-0 victory. Davis struck out four, walked one and allowed just four hits. I Maddix Mauuix Ferden rcruen was was 2-forz-ror, 3 hittmg m the mne spot for TK. Logan Snelling doubled. Connor Dombkowski, Anson Verlinde, Jayce Brummel and Ben Koster had the other four TK hits, all singles. Koster had an RBI. kbl Dombkowski scored two runs and Verlinde and Snelling both scored once. TK took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first. Snelling doubled, went to third on a sacri- top of the fifth. Wayland rallied to get within 6-4, but the Trojans tacked on two more runs in the top of the seventh to fend off the Wildcats. Brody Wiersma, Snelling and Dombkowski had two hits each for TK in the game two win. Verlinde, Davis, Brummel and Spencer Ybema had one hit apiece. Verlinde drove in three runs. Davis, Ybema, Dombkowski and Snelling had one RBI each. Wiersma also walked once and had a team-high three runs scored out of the leadoff spot. Wiersma got the win on the mound too. He struck out one , walked three and allowed just one earned run in 6 2/3 innings. • • Wayland managed six hits against him fice fly from Dombkowski and then scored on a single to the left side by Verlinde to put their team in front. The Trojans added two runs in the top of the sixth and another in the top of the seventh. TK took game two 8-5. The Trojans struck in the top of the first again and then added single runs in the sec­ ond and third innings in game two. They gave themselves some breathing room with three more runs in the and three unearned runs. Bradley Moerman came with runners on first and sec­ ond in the bottom of the seventh to get the final out in. He allowed an RBI single to the one batter he faced, but the Trojans threw out the Wildcats’ trailing runner at the plate as he tried to score from first. In the win in Middleville Wednesday, the two teams scored more runs than they did in the previous two ball- games combined. TK took a 10-4 lead after two iimings and then had fight back in the end for a 14-13 win as the Wildcats put together an eight-run inning of their own to go in front 13-12 in the top of the sixth. Brummel was on first with two outs in the bottom of the sixth after getting hit by a pitch to leadoff the inning. Ybema and Wiersma walked with two-out to keep the mning alive, and Brummel and Ybema scored the tying and go-ahead runs on a passed ball. Dombkowski was 2-of-r5 at the plate with three runs scored and two RBIs in the win. Brummel was l-for-3 with two runs and three bat­ ted in. Koster had two RBIs. Ybema finished 2-for-3 with two runs and a walk. Isaac Kimbel, Davis, Verlinde, Brummel, Snelling and Wiersma had one hit apiece. A double by Kimbel was TK’s lone extra-base hit. season Snelling started on the mound for TK and allowed ten runs (only four earned) on eight hits and a walk. He struck out four. Brummel held on in the end for the win. He had three unearned runs against him in 1 1/3 innings. He struck out one, walked one and gave up two hits. TK will also play host Saturday, April 27, to its annu­ al Wooden Bat Tournament. The Trojans are scheduled to take on Delton Kellogg in the tournament opener at 10 a.m. TK faces Ottawa Hills in the OK Gold Conference in the week ahead. They host the Bengals for two in Middleville Tuesday and then head to Grand Rapids for one Thursday. Trojan golfers fifth at first three OK Gold jamborees Brett Bremer SHWihflJi Qintiimiiffl ’mwiiJI JI ►iy wiwihi?' 1 ’’WtiBisr /; I/ 1 I I ' 1, . Id Ctt I X ’S I / '^1 t' t» ■I 1 r w|)' 1 I 3. 1 t.- I n . J I fc Joshua Spiajje sO'.Vt'i Sloms iw? sUiljaM «tint J •*1 OS, M to ’ Sports Editor The Trojans have settled into fifth in the OK Gold Conference varsity boys’ golf standings so far. They finished in that posi­ tion at each of the first three conference jamborees as the standings in front of them shuffle here and there. Forest Hills Eastern won the conference jamboree it hosted at Egypt Valley Country Club Wednesday, outscoring Grand Rapids Catholic Central 151-153 at the top of the leaderboard. South Christian was right behind with a 155. Kenowa Hills placed fourth with a score of 180 ahead of TK 183, Cedar Springs 187, Wayland 190 and Ottawa Hills 231. Junior Will Nathan led the TK team with a 42. Junior Ryan Skidmore shot a 46 for the Trojans, freshman Parker D^ey a 47 and junior Kylan Pratt a 48. Nathan birdied the 413-yard, par-4 number four and had four pars throughout his round. Dahley and Skidmore both managed a birdie on the 179- yard par-3, number seven. Forest Hills Eastern junior James Seymour and sophomore Hunter morris tied Catholic Central senior Will Preston for first individually. All three shot even-par-36. Seymour earned his spot in the trio in part by scoring an eagle on the 499yard, par-5 number eight South Christian freshman Harris Hoekwater and Catholic Central senior Matthew Sokorai and sophomore Tommy Jandemoa all shot 37 to tie for fourth. The South Christian team also had junior A^^att Sall and junior Landon Lemmen tied for seventh with 38s. The Sailors hosted die conference at Railside Golf Club Monday and finished just behind the FHE boys at the top. The Hawks put together a score of 161 strokes ahead of South Christian 164, Wayland 174, Catholic Central 183, Thomapple Kellogg 188, Kenowa Hills 191, Cedar Springs 191 and Ottawa Hills 257. The TK team got a 46 from senior Raphael De Fresse De Monval, 47s Irom Dahley and Pratt and 48s from Skidmore and senior Jordan Parks. Hoekwater, Sall and Forest Hills Eastern’s Will Overbeek tied for the individual lead with 38s. The Trojans followed up those conference outings by placing 20th at the 23-team Tom Collins Memorial Tournament hosted by Gull Lake at Gull Lake View Golf Course Thursday. The host Blue Devils took the day’s championship with a score of 296. Mattawan was second at 315 followed by Otsego 318, Portage Central 321, Mason 323, Vicksbuig 323, Loy Norrix 334, Plainwell 335, Zeeland West 340 and East Lansing 343 in the top ten. TK had an overall score of 377. Nathan led the Trojans with an 89 and Dahley shot a 92. The TK team had four under 100 with Skidmore shooting a 97 and Pratt a 99. senior Will Thomas. There were 16 guys in the field who shot better than 80. Last Saturday, April 20, the TK team placed 16th at the Hamilton Invitational at Diamond Springs. The team had an overall score of 396 there. Dahley shot a 95, De 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a special public hearing will be held on May 14, 2024, commencing at 6:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd.. Middleville Ml’ within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the ZBA’s consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the ZBA for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (joeshea@yankeespringstwp.org). Letters and emails are due 3 days before the meeting date, or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. Gull Lake had two of the top three golfers on the day. Junior Joseph Blondia was the individual champ with a 71 and his junior teammate Hank Livingston shot a 72. Portage Central also got a 72 from PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: J wo F 'gojls.t®® jjOOf' lilts had £jiofi« Iff (in UK C(0 yn® JJII. Ui pjlfffl®* J 1. ZBA24-04-01 ParcellD: 16-155-057-00,2731 1864 Parker Drive, Wayland, Ml 49348 A. A request by property owners, Doug and Julie Ybema, for relief from lakefront setback requirements established in section 12.4.3 "Required Setbacks." 1. The property is zoned GLRLF (Gun Lake Residential Lake Front). The Applicants are requesting a variance to allow a shed on the lake side of their dwelling which exceeds the lakefront setback requirements. 2. ZBA 24-04-02 Parcel ID: 16-217-003-00,12610 Park Drive, Wayland, Ml 49348 A. An appeal by the property owner, Kay Cummiford, from the decision of the Zoning Administrator pursuant to section 20.8.2, Authority of the Board ofAppeals. i.The property is zoned GLRLF (Gun lake Residential Lake Front). The property owner is appealing the decision of the Zoning Administrator denying an application for Short-Term Rental. eJ 10 gles from Shelby Robinett, Sports Editor Kylee Hoebeke and Emily The Thomapple Kellogg Stevens. varsity softball team will look Game two was a four-in­ to notch its first OK Gold ning affair. Conference wins of the season Hoebeke drove in the when it plays host to Ottawa Trojans’ lone run with an RBI Hills Tuesday. triple in the bottom of the The TK ladies fell to 0-4 in third. Stevens singled and the conference with a pair of scored their team’s lone run. losses at Wayland Tuesday Adelaide Holderman also sinafternoon. gled for the Trojans in the loss. The Wildcats took 13-0 and TK faced Byron Center in a 16-1 wins over the TK ladies. tough non-conference double­ Wildcat pitcher Madi header Thursday falling 8-0 Ludema shut out TK on four and 11-3 in a pair of ballgames hits and one walk in five with the host Bulldogs. innings in game one. She Bulldog pitcher Margo Steansma scattered eight struck out five. The TK hits were a double Trojan hits in the shut out win from Kenzie Bouma and sin- in game one. All eight hit were Unity Christian senior Colin Nieuwenhuis was the individual champion with a 69. Grand Rapids Christian won the team total led by a 70 from sophomore Cooper Reitsma, a 76 from junior John Cassiday and a 77 from sophomore Sawyer O’Grady. 216011 Wildcats hold TK ladies to one run in OK Gold doubleheader Brett Bremer Monval scored a 96, Skidmore 100 and Parks 105. Grand Rapids Christian won the 16-team event with a score of 303. Unity Christian was second ahead of Unity Christian 313, Allendale 318, St Joseph 318 and Holland Christian 328 in the top five. singles. Stevens had two and Kennah Cocco, E Reil, Brittney Roodvoets, Bouma, Robinett and Hoebeke had one each. The Bulldogs broke open a 4-3 ballgame with seven runs ion the top of the seventh inning to close the day. Hoebeke hits a two-run home run that had the Trojans in front 2-1 at the end of three irmings, but Byron Center came right back with a walks. a single and a triple in the top of the fourth that plated two runs to move in front 3-2 and then went in front 4-2 with a run in the top of the fifth. See TK SOFTBALL, Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or. if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days’ prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Jake Welch, Chairman 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 (269) 795-9091 15 1 I i 3. ZBA 24-04-03 Ordinance Interpretation Request A. A request by the Zoning Administrator for an interpretation of the zoning ordinance pursuant to section 20.8.1, Authority of the Board ofAppeals. i.The Zoning Administrator is asking for an interpretation of section 2.1.88 Definitions; Structure, and section 12.7.1 outbuildings as applied to the use of shipping containers in residential zoning districts. 4. Such other business as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals, I ( I 1 I I I 1 I I �■ A , Page 14/The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27, 2024 South keeps TK atop OK Gold standings Draw f «r b* '« 41 4 : <4 • f .J I f / k * i -Bif * r J* I ' 4« z V f XT %• ■ > A V ► t if 9^ »*■ at A 4* •k IR"'- ■ I 57 /X i-^ .w« ■r “ 5^ Jr. i* 4 ' •b P A/,-. J < 4 K If 4 I* > f- J r TW F b As? • % ». r W- » b: —B 9 f / << •~'4 •I ft**. ■f! s ■'3^' 5 p*.. (* ■ J s 7h < •i-: A • *•••— - x- V -^7 7 -...u > k 4 V w J V s iV 1 e I, 1^. I r f I/•S • 0 c ♦ < J r ’Z 4 L9 n.. . V IT .i av/ 1 4 ■ft?**’ ’ ikX* fj •’.s'b*’ ^-F_ 1 3* V 4 ^5 **5” ■ ” 1 JV i? X 1 I * z < z ,, I « 1 11 -.“J 1 Sink’ z. J 1 4 X I '1^ ---•V T p 3 V .u »■ —i-=!X. 4 I. SSjs 1 ;i A X- > -w* «: J. a; / t Thornapple Kellogg senior defender Emma Schut turns upfield with the ball as fallen Sailor Meredith Helmus looks on during the second half Wednesday at South Christian High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Brett Bremer Sports Editor In the end it wasn’t quite how the Trojans wanted to get there, but they have first place in the OK Gold Conference all to themselves and remain the only unbeat­ en varsity girls’ squad in con­ ference play. Thomapple Kellogg and South Christian played to a 1-1 draw at South Christian High School Wednesday. The Trojans move to 4-0-1 in conference play and 6-0-1 overall with the result while the Sailors sit at fourth in the current conference standings with a 3-1-1 mark behind the 4-1 Forest Hills Eastern and Cedar Springs girls. With hearts still thumping from a South Christian goal celebration that was thwarted by an offside flag late in the second half at the north end of the field, the Sailor defense was whistled for a handball in its box with 5:56 to play. TK sophomore mid­ fielder Paige Abshagen stepped up and ripped the penalty kick past the South Christian keeper for a 1-0 Trojan lead. “[Abshagen] has really stepped up lately and has started scoring more consis­ tently this season,’’ TK co-head coach Ben Sleeman said. “When we were award­ ed the penalty late in the match, she was the first one to step up with confidence and say that she wanted to take it. She absolutely buried the penalty and gave us the goal we needed to secure a point.” While much of the contest was played between the they suddenly boxes, became full of traffic in the closing minutes. South Christian lofted a comer kick into a mob in the mid­ dle of the box with a little over a minute to play. TK goalkeeper McKenna Hoebeke couldn’t quite get through the crowd to get her fist on the ball, and Sailor freshman Meredith Helmus got a head on it. The hall deflected down towards the near post where Trojan sophomore defender Megan Schuurmans saved it from crossing the goal-line, but the relief was short-lived. The rebound went right to Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Paige Abshagen fights through South Christian’s Maci Burgess (4) and Izzy DeJong (22) to get to the ball in the midfield during the second half of their teams’ 1 -1 draw at South Christian High School Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ■ ■ii». >• the feet of Sailor jimior Alexa Boersma who tapped it past a diving Hoebeke and by Schuiumans who was still back there attempting to guard the line. The goal tied the game at one with 64 sec­ onds to go. The Trojans got one more 4 solid chance in those final seconds on a comer of their own. Sophomore forward Tealy Cross rose high above f everyone to get a head on the ball on the far side off a boot' from Schuurmans, but the header flew just high. Senior Emma Schut, a key piece in the middle of the Trojan defense on the night, was there in front of Cross as her header sailed over the . cross bar and wrapped her arms around her as they started trotting back towards midfield and time expired. 'VS'*‘*'** .♦X'*^**®** “We tmst [Schut] to play pretty much anywhere because of the player she is, but it’s tough to lose her abil­ ities in midfield to control a game. We also brought up TK sophomore goalkeeper McKenna Hoebeke is freshman Addy Henry for the there to stop a bounding South Christian shot during her team’s 1-1 OK Gold Conference draw with the See DRAW, next pagfi host Sailors Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) W 1W1‘ “V < fc I w t V 'samfiii .1 3r Hi ,-s 4J k I |;.W »< otISi u 1 1 4• II'*1 ^^isi '■tieSn i r 1 •A Ua £ io I i niislie « -oS:^ * T ■s 'ijssas '3itj k * * 16010 4 • I 1 . I 1 4 • .UI I 1 , 1 • J *A b r ■: ^A.;- ; 4 r*v yhtUidJLc^ittc Middleville Housing Commission The Village of Middleville seeks a qualified applicant to serve as a representa­ tive on the Middleville Housing Commission. You must be a resident of the Village of Middleville. Meetings are held once a month in the evening at the Lincoln Meadow Senior Citizen Apartments. This is a volunteer position. The 5-year term will start upon approval by the Village Council, and swearing in, and go until April 30, 2029. iai»l i^it® •liiai 1 ■ !>4b I I. Jiril :'5t^ 15893 1 '‘55 I k k \ •ii I I I <r -/'■'fr ■ r .. ft Responses will be accepted until the position is filled. ’5SI 4K I PUBLIC NOTICE Interested parties should submit an application to: > u Mike Cramer, Village President Village of Middleville PO Box 69 100 E Main Street Middleville. Ml 49333-0069 X The Committee of the Whole Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 7 2024 has been RESCHEDULED for Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 4:30 pm. <1 ‘At '*>1 The Planning Commission Meeting scheduled for Tuesday Mav 7 2024 has been RESCHEDULED for Wednesday, May 8, 2024 at 7:00 pm. Application can be found on our website at httos: www.villageofmiddlevillp-or wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Application-for-Boards-and-Commissions-fi I la b I e-2. df I* Rhonda Van Polen Village Clerk x;‘s it; <1 ’k? k »? s A k > V �|Scots win one in Wyoming I before tough set with Bucs Brett Bremer Sports Editor In a busy part of foe season, foe Fighting Scots had their most success Monday at Wyoming. The Caledonia varsity base­ ball team bested the host Wolves 14-6 in a non-conference ballgame Monday. A group of ten different Scots scored runs and eight different guys had XTat least one , hit in foe victory. Nick Slater was 2-for-3 at foe plate for the Scots with three RBIs. He also walked once. Elliot Clark tripled. Carter Bom and Isaac Jurmu both doubled once for foe Scots, Tommy Clarey, Drew Drennan, ; " •'’77" Cam Myers and Trevor Walter all added singles. Walter had two RBIs, and Brogan Hacht, Clark, Bom, Ken Otani and Clarey had one RBI apiece. AJ Roszkowski threw three scoreless innings at the start •H' for the Scots and struck out out of the mess still in front. seven. He walked one and An error and a walk allowed didn’t allow a hit while earn­ the Scots to put two on with ing the win. two out agam in foe bottom of Things proved tougher as foe the event, but a flyout ended Scots returned to OK Red foe ballgame. Conference play Tuesday. The five Caledonia hits in Grand Haven swept its confer­ foe bailgame were all singles. ence set with foe Caledonia Slater was 2-for-4 with a run boys this week. The Buccaneers scored. Corbin Raffler, Jurmu took a 6-3 win ovct foe visiting and Myers each singled once. Scots Tuesday and then finished Walter, Jurmu and Henry offwin number two Thursday in Simon each had an RBI. Caledonia 5-0. Grand Haven Myers went foe distance on closed things out wife a4-3 win foe mound for Caledonia. He in Caledonia Thursday. struck out two and didn’t walk Caledonia rallied for three a batter in seven innings. He runs in the bottom of the sixth allowed three earned runs on in game three Thursday to get four hits within a run. An RBI single In the 6-3 game one loss of from Jurmu, a single by Slater •’uimu, a smgie by Slater foe series, Clare was 2-for-3 and a couple of Buccaneer with a triple and two runs errors helped get the surge scored. Slater singled and started. Walter knocked in a drove in two runs. Simon dourun with a ground out leaving bled. Ben Kieliszsweki, Walter runners on second and third and Myers also had hits. with two outs, but the Andrew Render took the Buccaneers managed to get loss on the mound getting the start in the series opener. He gave up four earned runs in five innings on three hits and three walks. He struck out six. Singles by Myers and Raffler were the only two hits for the Scots in game two, the 5-0 defeat The Caledonia boys are in Byron Center today, April 27, for a 10 a.m. start. They face Rockford in foe OK Red in foe week ahead. The Rams come to Caledonia for two Tuesday and foe Scots finish the set in Rockford Thursday. In another non-conference ballgame last Friday, April 19, the Scots were bested 10-8 by visiting Sparta. A six-run fourth inning was the big spark for foe Spartans, Clarey, Jurmu, Raffler and Kieliszsweki had tow hits apiece for the Scots. Kieliszsweki and Jurmu had two RBIs each. Myers also drove in two. Scot soccer has 0 match go each way in conference play a r' Brett Bremer Sports Editor , The Caledonia varsity girls’ soccer team upped its OK Red Conference record to 2-1-1 wife a 1-0 win at Jenison Thursday in foe second of back-to-back con­ ference matches. Fighting Scot head coach Sam Steams said it was a great turnaround for his girls after a tough 1 -0 loss at Grand Haven foe night before. Josie A\filcox scored the Scots lone goal with an assist from Averi Rosted. “Averi picked up the ball around half field and carried it into Jenison’s box and was able to get foe ball out to Josie who put it away. We played really well so it was nice to take home the win,” Steams said. He added that he thought the one-goal difference didn’t reflect just how well his girls ‘We were evenly matched played or the number of and it could’ve gone either opportunities against the way but unfortunately it didn’t Wildcat net his girls created. woik out for us.” “Grand Haven on The next three teams on foe Wednesday was not a great Scots’ schedule. West Ottawa, game for us,” Steams said. Hudsonville and Rockford are “They’re a talented group who all unbeaten in the OK Red so plays really well as a team. far this spring. Caledonia gets They play, what I refer to as, all three at Scotland Yard tak‘good soccer.’ So many teams ing on foe Panthers Tuesday, in West Michigan play a style the Eagles Thursday and then that is effective, but boring. the Rams May 7. The Sun and News, Saturday, April 27, 2024/ Page 15 Scot softball wins big in first Red match-up with Panthers Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity softball team had its biggest outburst of the season so far Thursday in an 18-0 win at West Ottawa. The Fighting Scots smacked 14 hits in the three-inning victory. Addy Lash hit an inside the park grand slam on a line drive into right field to close out the Scots’ scoring in the ballgame.Lash was 2-for-3 at the plate with a walk and four runs scored to go with her four RBIs. The Scots’ extra base hits on the day included a triple from Mackenzie Devries and a double from Marisa Kohn. Kala Bisterfeldt, Keira Sundstrom, Grace Siekman and Devries joined Lash in smacking two hits on the day. Siekman also had four RBIs. Sundstrom drove in three runs. Molly Lieske and Kohn had two RBIs each. Bisterfeldt was a perfect 2-for-2 at the plate with a pair of walks too. Lieske started and threw two hitless innings for the Scots in the circle. She struck out three Panthers. Amber Fairchild threw a perfect third inning striking out one. The Scots got one OK Red Conference bailgame in at Grand Haven Tuesday before storms storms moved moved in. The Buccaneers took a 7-2 win. Lash was 2-for-4 at the top of the Scots’ line-up, but the Caledonia uirk nniv Caledonia girls only man. managed three other hits. Sundstrom and Kohn both singled once and Peyton Brenner had an RBI double. Sundstrom drove in Caledonia’s other run. Jaz Dana started in the circle for theScots and struck out four in 3 1/3 innings. She gave up five runs on eight hits and three walks. Aliya Hemden threw the final 2 2/3 innings. She struck out one, walked three and gave up two runs on two hits. Last Friday, April 19, the Caledonia girls took two over the Thomapple Kellogg girls in Middleville. They outscored the Trojans 13-1 and 9-2 in the non-conference ballgames. Dana threw two scoreless innings in the opener. She struck out four and gave up three hits. Hemden threw the final four innings allowing one run on six hits. She struck out seven. The CHS offense had 14 hits in that 13-1 win. Claire Hoop had a single, a double and two RBIs. Dana and Devries had two hits apiece. Bisterfeldt was 3-for-4 with three runs scored an an RBI. Sundstrom and Devries both had two RBIs. In all, nine different Scots had hits. Lieske allowed one earned run on seven hits and no walks from the circle in game two. She struck out 11 in the complete game win. The Caledonia offense tal­ lied 12 more hits. Devries was 3-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored. Burke and Lash had two hits each. Rian Restau was 1-for-l wife two runs scored and two RBIs. Brenner also had one hit and two RBIs. DRAW, continued front previous page match, and she played a vital role in us being able to get a result in the match. She slot­ ted in nicely at center mid and showed a ton of maturity and poise in a difficult position on foe field for only playing in her third varsity match.” Schut, typically a member of foe Trojan midfield, had to drop back and fill a role as center back Wednesday due to injuries on the TK roster. TK was without sophomore defender Ella Fischer. Junior Madilyn Chivis also played a lot more minutes than expected due to an injury, and Sleemanshedidagoodjobof fighting through her own pains to play every minute. “[It] was a bit of a mixed bag of emotions for everyone,” Sleeman said. “We went into the game feeling pretty confi­ dent we could win and for the most part the game was evenly matched with both teams hav­ ing everyone as healthy and fit ing chances. Honestly, most of as possible.” the pressure lies with South The two programs could with them already having a loss meet again in foe conference in the league, so a draw ulti­ tournament at the end of the mately was a better result for regular season and should us. However, it was certainly expect more battles like this at disappointing to concede the the top ofthe conference stand­ equalizer so late, and on a set ings in the coming years. piece as well. Our conversation Between the two teams there afterward largely revolved are just six seniors on the rosaround how proud we were of ters. The Trojan team has ten the girls and their work rate and sophomores and two freshmen effort.” on its varsity roster this spring “[Co-head coach] David and the Sailors have four fresh[Wood] and I were really men and a couple sophomores. pleased with the effort and The TK ladies have another intensity that everyone showed, big conference match-up without being able to rotate Monday in Middleville when much, many ofthem played the they take on the Forest Hills entire match without rest and were almost able to come out with a win,” Sleeman added. “Much of the remainder of the season is going to revolve around managing and recovering from injuries and just keep- Eastern girls. The Hawks’only conference defeat so far this season came against the Sailors two weeks ago. “We are in control of our own destiny moving forward and we know that we have TK SOFTBALL, continued from page 13 Hoebeke was 2-for-3 in the lead-off spot for TK with a walk. She scored two runs and had two RBIs. Robinett, Holderman, Stevens and Cocco had TK’s other four hits in the defeat. Robinett had an RBI and Cocco scored TK’s other run. TK will be home for its TK Invitational Saturday, April 27, in Middleville. The Trojans are slated to face Delton Kellogg at 10 a.m. in the first ballgame of the day. another tough game at home Monday with FHE,” Sleeman said. “We can’t let off the gas. and even with foe injuries we need to be ready to go for the upcoming run of games as we wind down the season.” COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of foe April 9, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on April 23, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villageofmiddleville.orQ. 215966 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 CaledcwiA TCWNSHIP CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on May 20, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at the Caledonia Charter Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, Caledonia, Michigan, on the application of Cherry Valley Development, LLC for approval of continued planned mineral excavation and removal on lands included in the applicant’s current PMR permit. The lands included in the applicant’s PMR permit are commonly described as 6490, 6540,6768,6850,6920, and 7000 68th Street, and 7190 and 7320 Cherry Valley Avenue with parcel numbers as follows; 41-23-09-100-031, 41-23-09-100-034, 41-23-09-100-039, 41-23-09-201-013, 41-2309- 201 -011,41 -23-09-226-031,41 -23-09-100-041, and 41 -23-09-301 -004. All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the renewal in the PMR permit. Written comments concerning the renewal may be submitted to the Township, at the above-stated address, up to the time of and during the public hearing. Dated: April 24, 2024 PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA J A I I Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 ----- > �Page 16ZThe Sun and Nawa, Saturday, April 27, 2024 GRCC TK girls win storm shortened dual at 1 I f f I I 1 Kendra Coe, sophomore Madison Kietzman, ffeshman Ellie Harmon and junior Ava Crews winning the 4x800-meter relay in 11:44.90. Senior Emily Tomes had a big afternoon for the Catholic Central team. She won the 400-meter dash in a personal record time of 1:01.04 and the 800-meter run in a season-best time of 5:22.19. Senior Allyson Broaddus won two events for the Catholic Central girls too. She took the shot put at 35 the Thomapple Kellogg line in 17.75 and she fin­ girls improved their confer­ ished the 300 hurdles in Sports Editor Thunderstorms brought ence record to 5-0 with a 48.59. The TK ladies won all an early end to the OK Gold 74-31 win over their hosts. Conference dual between The Catholic Central boys three of the relays that were contested. The senior fourthe Thornapple Kellogg took a 70-35 win. As usual, the hurdlers some of Kenady Smith, varsity boys’ and girls’ track and field teams in provided a good point base Mali Holland, Sophia for the TK ladies, even if it Marcukaitis and Joselyn Grand Rapids Tuesday. The Cougar boys and TK was a slightly shorthanded DeBoer won the 4x200-meladies already had enough hurdle team for TK. Junior ter relay in 1 minute 51.88 points when the storms Brooklyn Harmon won the seconds. Smith and Holland rolled in to clinch confer­ 100-meter hurdles in 16.12 teamed with junior Lydia seconds and the 300-meter Schilthroat and senior Eva ence wins though. win the to Without the 4x400-meter low hurdles in 47.49. Corson relay, the 3200-meter run, Sophomore Mia Hilton was 4xl00-meter relay in 53.50. The Trojans opened the the 200-meter dash or the second in both races. She 800-meter run completed. hit the 100 hurdle finish meet with the team of senior Brett Bremer I I t r .*_l^ 1 i I I * I I f Thornapple I 5 ♦ a I I 4 1 11 f 1 I I i I i p 1 t i i t f I I f I I r I I 1 I 4 ) ) i I J I » I t 1 « » < 4 I I I It e t t I I I MAY 3,2024 i 1 1 ♦ I ♦ s 9 5 9 4 I . . t ) 4 s* * 4^, RIBBON CUTTING »1< I *4^ A I /'a ' •1 I. 4 J ♦ .••1 •v: 75 « / * i? •A . .r’X -'t Ki t PM 8 1 I I j n V I r /f ■ .A;' ' « c y ■■ la .^1 * •9^r » I I T I ■ I 4 ' v. «X «» S •* I FRAME SHOW &OPEN HOUSE -4*r. f I I w it % I r * >I k. A a. s It'* I i*' I I ■w 12PM-5PM I I I w I r' t '*> M 1 * • « •* I** IV /.A • t A i x < «. f r •> SAVE 25 - 50% off FRAMES I I Meet our team, check out our space, win prizes & *• } get great deals on glasses! Refreshments provided. * « a » 4624 North M 37 Hwy, Middleville t I (t9 9 I >. IJ S1 OS • 1 lioriiappleevecai c.CGin '.4 t G * t .1 K » J 1 , t V < I I ' t. ' s ( c 4 ( tJ , < ( r' 9 I # 4 i 'A-*, 1 ( I t ( / J « r f 4 I I / < i * < I f s »»v • I / ’ 4 < I i ? « s V ' I « t . b k relay in 1:35.54. Snyder placed fourth in the shot put with a mark of 44-9. Velting ran to a time of 44.46 that put him in seventh place in that race. In the field, the TK boys also had Archer third in the pole vault at 10-0, VanHaitsma fourth in the high jump at 5-8 and third in the long jump at 18-7. I < < t . i < I i « ’ 0 '< ~d A d’_ J I I" « , I | j 1 I 7 1 * 4 r f 1 1 4 feet 4 inches and the discus 110-3. TK senior at Elizabeth Middleton fired off a personal record throw of 77-3 to place second in the discus. TK was 2-3 in both those throws. Senior Mollie Moore had a throw of 77-2 in the discus, and in the shot put TK got a mark of 33-6.75 from junior Emma Dykhouse and a per­ sonal record of 29-10.75 from Lilly McKeown. The Trojans were strong in the jumps. Ellie Harmon wont he long jump with a PR of 15-11.25 and junior Emma Dykhouse was second with a PR of 15-4.5. In the high jump. Smith cleared 4-10 to win it and Brooklyn Harmon was sec­ ond at 4-8. The TK team swept the pole vault points with Hilton first at 8-0, senior TJ Myers second at 8-0 and freshman Lydia Slagel third with a personal record vault of 7-6. The TK boys are now 2-3 in conference duals this season. Senior Drake Snyder had the lone victories for the TK boys. He fired a PR of 46-3.25 to win the shot put and won the discus with a throw of 105-6. Junior Jake Kelley picked up the third place point for the TK boys in the shot ptit with a personal record put of 39-4.5. Snyder tacked on a runner-up time of 11.86 in the 100-meter dash too. TK had a 2-3 finish in the boys’ pole vault. Catholic Central senior Andrew Brown won the event by clearing the bar at 10-0 and TK sophomore Luke Archer cleared 10-0 to place second. Trojan junior Hunter Tietz was third getting over 9-0 for the first time. There was a 2-3 finish for the TK boys in the 300meter low hurdles too. Freshman Brandan Velting was the runner-up in 40.84 and senior Kyle VanHaitsma was third at 45.41. Catholic Central senior Marcus Nystrom won both hurdles races - finishing nearly four seconds ahead of Velting in the 300 and more than three seconds ahead of his nearest competitor in the 110-meter high hurdles with a time of 15.12. On the track TK boys were second and third in both the 400-meter dash and the 1600-meter run. Senior Jaxan Sias took the runner-up finish in the 400 with a time of 53.11. Catholic Central senior Mill Coleman ran a PR of 52.50 to beat him to the finish line. Trojan senior Kaden Hamming had a PR in the race too with a time of 55.65 that netted him third place. In the 1600-meter run, TK senior Lucas VanMeter was second in 4:46.74 and junior team­ mate Jacob Draaisma third in 4:47.23. The TK teams will be at home Thursday, May 2, to face off against South Christian and Cedar Springs in the final conference duals of the season. The conference championship meet is planned for May 10 at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids. The TK teams were in action at the 16-team Allegan Invitational last Friday, April 16. The TK ladies took the champion ship by besting runner-up Otsego by 49 points at the top of the standings. Teams could enter two athletes in each event and the top eight in each event scored for their team. The Trojan girls scored in every event but the discus and had a top three finish in each of the four relay races. In seven of the individual events, the TK girls’ team had both its competitors among the top eight finish­ ers. There were eight run­ ner-up finishes on the day for the TK ladies. The team’s lone event win came in the 4x400-meter relay that the team of Hilton, Marcukaitis, Ellie Harmon and Brooklyn Harmon won in 4:20.69. Holland set her PR at 13.69 in the 100-meter dash, finishing just two hundredths of a second behind teammate Dykhouse. Crews and sophomore Avery Hagemann both set PRs in the 3200-meter run. Crews hit the finish line second in 11:49.26 and Hagemann placed eighth in 13:41.24. The TK boys won the 4x400-meter relay too at the end of the evening. The team of Draaisma, Sias, VanMeter and Ethan Bonnema finished the race in 3:34.96. The TK boys also got a win from VanMeter in the 800-meter run. He set his PR in the race with a time of 1:58.24. Draaisma notched a PR in that one too to place fourth in 2:01.61. Draaisma started his day by placing fourth in the 1600 with a PR of 4:33.46. Sias ran to a fomlh-place time of 23.91 in the 200 meter dash and also placed third in the 400 in 53.17. He also joined Bonnema, Velting and Snyder in placing third in the 4x200-meter .r/'' i' • i | * > � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-05-04.pdf de2539f265cc491ff716de2aa3ec2fc3 PDF Text Text •l 4:* 1 w 8 >.S < io u? *4 % < I A •>' J 4 * *** l&JHU^ .«9(9l Your Hometown Newspaper Servin^'idd’ieviite < I A ••J i * No. 18/ May 4, 2024 Published by J-Ad Graphics, k * and Caledonia Areas [nc. * 1351 N. M-43 Highway. Hastings, Ml 49058 146th year CHS food science class presents “Farm to Fork” lesson to Paris Ridge students r A r Greg Chandler Staff Writer More than 200 students at I Paris Ridge Elementary | School in the Caledonia school | district received a lesson f s Thursday in where their food | * comes from. ’ | Students from the food sci- P i r* \ence class at Caledonia High E .1 I Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf (left) speaks in School gave a “Farm to Fork” I I front of the Irving Township Board last year. The presentation to the Paris Ridge I I board could potentially look a lot different after the 1 I upcoming election. For starters, Supervisor Jamie students on the school’s playi^M I Knight will not be seeking re-election. groxmd. Seven stations were * t . set up around the playground where students could feed and T« pet chickens, goats, sheep 5id rabbits, as students from the food science class explained how the animals contribute to our food supply. It’s the first time the CHS food science class has gone off > campus to give a presentation Greg Chandler « at one of the district’s elemen­ mary by 34 votes, 359 to Staff Writer 325. tary schools, teacher Stacy T After 12 years as super­ Bender said. “I helped to arrange I visor in Irving Township, high-speed internet for the “In the past, we used to do Jamie Knight has decided township and maintained a something , similar with the to step aside. 2i]? great working relationship Caledonia Early Childhood Knight did not submit a with the Barry County Center, but they would come Pans Ridge Elementary School students gather around a chicken during a • petition for re-election to Road Commission,” to us right there at the high Farm to Fork” presentation made by Caledonia High School food science stu­ her office by the April 23 Knight wrote. “I also loved school,” Bender said. dents on Thursday. (Photos by Greg Chandler) deadline for candidates to being able to help our Scott Bont, a social worker file for elections to towntownship residents.” and student support specialist think it’s really important for ship offices. She wrote in a Daniel Lydy and who works with students that US to have an appreciation for text this week to the Sun Lorraine Bush are seeking are on the autism spectrum, that.” and News that it was time to replace Knight as super ­ asked Bender if it was possible At other stations, Paris to step away from the posi ­ visor, and will face each to do a presentation about ±e Ridge students could make tion. other in the Republican pri­ 4:^ value of agriculture and its their own butter, as well as “ While I have loved mary in August. contribution to our food sup- pick up a plant to take home serving the residents of Township Clerk Sharon ply to his students. The idea where ±ey could grow their 41 Irving Township for the Olson, the subject of an grew from offering the presen- own green beans. Each student past 12 years, I am looking investigation by state offitation just to ASD students at got a snack at the end of the forward to spending more cials into alleged unautho­ Paris Ridge to include all stu­ presentation and received an quality time with my fami­ rized access to election dents at the school in kinder­ activity book created by the ly,” Knight wrote in her equipment two years ago, garten through second grade. food science class to take text. is running for township “Getting our kids to realize home and color. Knight was first elected trustee instead of seeking all that actually goes into makMelaine Heffner, a speech Irving supervisor in 2012, re-election as clerk. Olson ing the food that we buy from pathologist at Paris Ridge, defeating Charlie Boulter is one of five candidates the store or the cheeseburger called the presentation “fantasby just 14 votes in the running for two trustee you buy at the restaurant - tic,” saying it gives the high Republican primary, 235 to seats, along with incum­ there’s a lot of hands that have school students a chance to i 221. She ran unopposed in bent Michael Buehler and put a lot of eneigy and a lot of give back to the community, the 2016 election, and then challengers Larry Brummel heart and a lot of thought into She added that it gave Paris Thursday’s presentation was the first time that held off a challenge by Tim getting ±at (food) to you on CHS food science students ventured off campus to Ross in the 2020 GOP priSee KNIGHT, page 3 your plate,” Bender said. “I See FOOD SCIENCE, page 2 give a presentation. I r Mr/ I * i B/S / fiiil Xi I, 88 ll J |k' « 'A “ x '"W 1 £X.. * I I <4 I E^« * 'X I I i fi" I t i •ll I*' ► > « « »w y •• * r i-* t ft MVr.* M ♦ t I \ ■f _^J V 4^ 8 J ft J II 4 .1 Knight decides not to run for re-eiection in irving; township board races set t t I I I 1 I I ^■'-1 I * II I k •4 1 3*?w I 1'A 1 h’ / f I I '■ 1 • • 4 I f/ 8^^ < c ’♦* a 4. f 5. ♦ * <4 I •fl 1t 1 I t i Ii I I I I I I \ t ♦e ‘a I I V I I ♦ \ r I I .? I . I ' I I J rst .1 4.* «* * 1 I I • A. I I 4 < * •i I 4 < i i I 1 I r ?«• i I i • I I f r 4 4 11 I • i, .i • I Irving Township woman removed from ballot for not having law license Jayson Bussa who had never rpn for public office until this point, is not Editor Beth Postema’s debut in politics was over before it got started. The Irving Township resi­ dent filed to run for Barry County Prosecutor before last week’s filing deadline. Her candidacy sparked debate because Postema, ♦ t t licensed to practice law. prompting the county clerk’s z I r^^hink law is on our side and Avhen I say our/ I mean prosecuting attorneys all over the state. ...This can have consequences anywhere - not just here in Barry County. — Julie Nakfoor Pratt, office to review her filing and eventually reject it. Postema’s bid to run for the office landed in a bit of a legal gray area, as there are no laws that state a candidate for county prosecutor must be licensed through the state bar to hold the office. At the Barry County Prosecuting Attorney ' 4 / 0 9 9 r. * t t J t i V' 9 H 'if r ! *» r IN SlISBUIE.. I I --- t • TK voters to decide on non homestead millage renewal • Caledonia middle school robotics team makes trip to world championship • TKHS names top students of Class of 2024 • Caledonia lacrosse girls reach more century mark milestones • Thornapple Kellogg baseball puts together back-to-back Gold sweeps k I I • .4I J I «■ ( k I J •1 4r •} t ( I 1 I I I See POSTEMA, page 2 / » ‘I t I r A �! Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4,2024 FOOD SCf£NC£ continiied ftom 1- buildings in the Caledonia dis­ trict in the future. “We would like to set this up where maybe all of our elementary schools would have a day where we get to come and do this with their kids,” Bender said. “It might be some in the fall, some in the spring, not all the same day, obviously. But it’s definitely something we would like to see continue to grow.” Ridge students who have a disability an experience they might not otherwise have received elsewhere. “Some of our kids who have disabilities can’t go out to the zoo, because it’s too over whelming. This was a senso­ ry-friendly way to bring the animals to them,” Hefl&ier said. Bender hopes to be able to take the Farm to Foik presen­ tation to other elementaiy .I ^<4 r*~trrr ir ♦f * .S • •I . VL* ■e ;I t> ■■ -A’t*'' Aside from getting up close and personal with some animals, Paris Ridge students could also make their own butter, as well as pick up a plant to take home where they could grow their own green beans. v; j A POSTEMA, continued from page 1 same time, not being able to ing attorneys shall, in their practice law in Michigan respective counties, appear could be seen as an obstruc­ for the state or county, and tion in her carrying out the prosecute or defend in all the necessary duties of the coiuts of the county, all pros­ office, which include autho- ecutions, suits, applications rizing and prosecuting the and motions whether civil or violation of misdemeanor criminal, in which the state or and felony criminal laws for county may be a party or interested.” both adults and juveniles. Postema’s experience with That’s ultimately the deci­ sion that the clerk’s office criminal justice includes a bachelor’s degree in criminal landed on after consulting with the county’s legal coun­ justice and a stint serving as a sel. The Sun and News probation probation officer. officer. She She’s’s aa reached out to County Clerk self-described constitutionalself-described constitutionalCindy White, who relayed ist and said that nothing she the opinions of the county’s has mmp armss IpmIIv elimcome across legally elim­ inates her from running for legal counsel, which led to her decision to reject the office. Postema’s filing. “In the Constitution, it “Upon ±e advice of coun­ uses prosecuting attorney as sel, ±e filing as a candidate a type of a title,” Postema for Prosecuting Attorney by said. “If you look at it, what Beth Postema was rejected,” does attorney stand for? It White wrote to the Sun and stands for somebody who News in an email. represents another in a court; “The following informa­ that doesn’t necessarily mean tion was given to the individ­ licensed through the bar. So ual; Pursuant to Const 1963, that’s kind of where we went art 7, Sec 4, ‘There shall be with things.” elected for four-year terms in “According to every docu­ each organized county a ment I can find, there is nothprosecuting attorney, whose ing that specifically states duties and powers shall be that I’m ineligible,” Postema provided by law.” A prose- said. “It’s just the clerk has cuting attorney is a licensed decided that’s not the way attorney who represents the she wants to pursue it. She’s People of the State of given me some reasons, but Michigan in Court.” again, I can’t find anything in Counsel also pointed to an order or opinion case hisMichigan Compiled Laws tory that specifically says you (MCL) Section 49.153, must have a license to prac­ • which states “The prosecut- tice to be prosecutor.” to serve a fourth term that would begin in 2025. “I do think law is on our estate industry, is currently serving as a part-time substi­ side and when I say ‘our,’ I tute teacher. She said that she mean prosecuting attorneys has long had aspirations to all over the state,” Pratt said. run for public office and that “...this can have consequenc­ she was encouraged to jump es anywhere - not just here in into this year’s race by some Barry County.” While Pratt is a Republican of her friends and colleagues. “I was approached by herself, she has faced critisome friends who are active cism from a segment of her in the County own party, often over her the Barry Barry Republican Party and just interactions with the sheriff’s office regarding Sheriff Dar kind of was encouraged to apply Leafs wi espread voter ••• apply to to run run for for office. office. ...I spoke with some people and fiuud investigation. found there really isn t a Leaf has been outspoken good candidate to run against and critical of Pratt and her (County Prosecutor) Julie office over the years specifi(Nakfoor) Pratt, so I kind of cally when it comes to his efforts to bring to light what threw my name in the hat.” he suspects is voting fraud Pratt admitted she was sur prised at the resume of her being carried out throughout the country. Leaf has said that newly established opponent. “It surprised me that some­ Pratt’s office has not acted on one applied that is not a law- what he feels is credible evi­ yer because they cannot carry dence of voter fiaud. Postema echoed those senout the duties of the position,” Pratt told the Sun and timents when asked why she News. “I didn’t know why chose to take Pratt on. “Specific with Julie, I that would be allowed.” Pratt said that she has con- would challenge (with) the suited with attorneys around fact she doesn’t really sup­ the state, who also dove in to port our sheriff,” Postema research an issue that has said. “That to me is a big cropped up in the state deal. I believe our sheriff and before, albeit seldom. our prosecuting attorney With her findings, Pratt should have a really good said she is confident in the working relationship that, decision rendered and that when there is a crime, it is she would move forward thoroughly investigated and with her campaign, now run- no one shuts anyone down ning unopposed and poised while investigating crimes.” Postema, who has expenence in the building and real ■ iA’p lllii 'Jr c,„ I 1 i Ue Af’®' lll'^ HR . *./ IW 4 V '.AA' Township board OKs storm drain fix near Community Green maintenance building s I i* k tlieit(!«i? itrod Ihi ** • 9 > I -Al Greg Chandler I was lower than the three other Staff Writer bids that were submitted, The Caledonia Township Nugent said. -4 u Board will use a contractor “ It ’ s failing. It ’ s leaking. It ’ s f 9 that is already performing not functioning the way . it I excavating work on the new should be,” Nugent said of the Community Green mainte­ need for the storm drain Paris Ridge students take the opportunity to get nance building to make repairs repairs. “The whole area is hands-on with a chicken. to a nearby storm drain. very wet. It is a wetland, so if At a meeting Wednesday you’re just walking over there, night that lasted all of 11 min . you would think (it’s wet Al! Utes, the board approved because) it’s a wetland, but it awarding the contract for the shouldn’t be that wet. It’s been repairs to the local firm failing for years, we just didn’t Steenwyk and Sons know because it was a wet­ Excavating. land.” Steenwyk and Sons provid­ The drain was damaged by ed a quote of $22,549 for the a sewer project years ago. The repair woik to the township repairs needed to be done as • Wheel Alignments last month, but offered to cut P" • Auto Glass Installation its price to $19,339 because of mg the mamtenance buildmg • Insurance Work Welcome the work it was already doing project. on the maintenance building. • Visa & MasterCard Accepted “In order for us to move on Township Manager Alison and complete the project, we Over 40 years experience Nugent said. need to have that storm drain The board approved the fixed so we can do the site contract award on a 5-0 vote. work and then put the sidebruc6sframe.c6ni • .< with Supervisor Bryan walk in (that will lead to the e Harrison and Treasurer building) Treasurer maintenance maintenance Richard Robertson absent. Nugent said. Nugent presented Steenwyk and a, board’s app^^ed « 1 ita of Sia f/ >4 J * De\'elo|nifll C r• r. I. 1 Bm's Frame ond I s Iicmb Dwg SokdiB I tlulieigeiiliyF I •V r k I I__ . ■■ Bn -•4 ' Ji WKt I I < III Zigtoman. * ft I Il, loliD Lat 7/ b-6 illl Stout is I M for ten Full Service Body Shop r Bl - ?1l. * April 17 meeting. The board directed the manager to come back with additional bids to make sure the initial price quote was competitive. With the $3,210 deduction Steenwyk and Sons provided. ™yK ana ^ons provided, the contractor’s final price tag eville r maintenance building, local ed at the end of Higley Street near the Caledonia Village Center. The 48-foot-by-48foot building is being built using a stick-built construetion process. Vander Kodde Construction of Wyoming is JnotherarEj Beulx r I •c ■ Caledonia Township Manager Alison Nugent steenwyk and Sons” q7rte'at the t^art’s 1 7 meeting. 17 meeting. (Photo (Photo bv by Gren Greg ChanHiort Chandler) handling construction of the building. In other business Wednesday, the board a* 111 * back (language) that was a typo,” she said. The board has called a special meeting for next Wednesday at 7 p.m. to con­ tinue discussions on the ongo­ ing lawsuit against the town­ ship by Prime-Site Media. The Detroit-area company is suing the township over a provision in the sign ordinance that bans the erection of new billboards or other off premises signage, claiming free speech protec­ tion. The discussion of the law­ suit is expected to take place in closed session, Nugent said. approved a correction to its recently-updated sign ordi_ nance. The change now requires that any freestandareas be at least 10 feet away from any street right-of-way. The original ordinance language had a 25-foot setback requirement, but Nugent said that was a typographical error. “It doesn’t change the ordi­ nance. It’s just fixing the set­ • '•J i ( 1 I « t *14 DO i At“Itoi foi k > JBd 4t C”!'! �A ?vii. The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4,202^/ Page 3 _ lexander Trails development inches closer to approval six years after being proposed I i I I J I James Gemmell first phase would be primarily projects like this, because we Contributing Writer construction of single-familv can serve a broader spectrum The COVID-19 pandemic homes, although some townof customers. That is really threw a monkey wrench into houses may be built during important to me.” Eastbrook Homes’ plans to the initial phase, as well. But Under the latest plan, the build a large housing devel­ before then, municipal water total number of detached opment in Gaines Township and sanitary sewer lines will homes would be 230, an called Alexander Trails. have to be extended to the increase of 12 from the previ­ First proposed in 2018, the site, at Signature’s expense ous plan. The number of sinproposed project is starting to S.^ature sells property lots gle-family platted lots has gain traction after several set­ to Eastbrook Homes. decreased slightly under the •al ' lb backs. •• vwJ The original goal was to new proposal Eastbrook Homes begin the initial phase of In February 2022, the plan r President Mike McGraw told infrastructure construction bv ning commission approved a the Gaines Planning 'the fall of 2019 or early spring tentative preliminaiy plat for Commission at its April 25 2020. But that is when the the project at 2451 76th St. meeting that the long delay COVID-19 pandemic began, SE. But that was amended a may prove to be a blessing in and plans were delayed. month later to tweak where disguise. He said the new Several adjacent property some roads and bridges project layout is more appeal­ owners also had expressed would go within the complex. ing, and plaiming commis­ concerns to the planning The nrioinQi PI Tr> Township Planning Commission reviews the latest plan for the was Alexander Trails housing development at its April 25 meeting. (Photo by sioners agreed, at least pre- commission at a public hear- aDDroved In 9090 k . 'T approved m 2020, but the James Gemmell) liminarily. iiminanly. They ihey also also reflect reflect ing on Dec. 20, 2018, and the project was delayed during changes in market conditions township received about 20 * * the pandemic. Because no areas of the PUD layout, areas the middle are two-story, with also will be a view of the smce the pandemic. letters from residents con- significant progress was made Terrace-style homes would be the main floor up. So, with natural area of wetlands and a The planning commission cemed about the project, tor for a year, the site plan along the eastern section of any building we ’ ve got vari ­ floodplain. voted 5-0 to give preliminary Increased traffic and approvals expired. the development. ety, ” McGraw said. “ We ’ ve now activated a approval for a major amend­ storm-water management So, basically what we “Coming down this main Planning Commissioner space that was kind of cut off, ment to the plarmed unit were two of the main issues have is a shell PUD or a ghost road, you’re going to have Talimma Billips agreed. previously, ” McGraw said. development (PUD) along they raised back then. PUD, Community views of these greenspaces “From the last (PUD sub­ If the project gets approved 76th Street, east of Harma The planning commission’s Development Director Dan that the detached terrace mittal) to this one, I feel that as currently presented, it will Lake Avenue. Two commis- approval ofthelatest proposal Wells explained during the homes front onto. We’ve got there ’ s more variety And I homes front onto. We’ve got reset the overall PUD and sioners were absent from the will allowEastbrook/ April 25 meeting. “There’s a different uses inside these think there ’ s been more condifferent uses inside these establish what the setbacks meeting. Signature to request a public PUD rezoning, but the site open spaces. The other plan sideration in the placement of will be for the various build ­ The 404-unit mixed-use hearing and site plan review, plan’s not there anymore. had some open spaces, but the ponds and the dog park ing types. After the setbacks development would be built possibly as early as the next Eastbrook is now ready to they were backyards they and different things. It seems are established and approved in several phases over many planning commission meeting begin the project. So, they weren’t super-functional,” like more people can get to by the township board. years on a 159-acre parcel, on made some changes.” ’ on May May 23. 23. McGraw said. * more things easier, with all Eastbrook can submit the Plans call for single-family Building 404 units may “It was a short hiccup,” The new plan envisions the sidewalks,” she said. plats and site condominium ■ homes, two-story townho­ take up to 20 years. That first McGraw said. “And then, as more sidewalks and incorpo. Several patio areas would plans for the individual par­ mes, ranch-style townhomes. would entail selling about 20 we know, housing demand in rates a dog park. There are 13 provide gathering space for cels. ranch-style condominiums home lots annually. suburban areas got stronger. fewer larger-sized buildings residents. A detention pond The township engineer and detached condominiums. “There will be years where uoi wcaxer. nonesuy, not weaker. Honestly, wnen when 1I contaimng containing multiple multiple units, units, and and would be more in line of their must examine project details. Construction could begin as look at the two plans side-by- more duplexes. earlv as snrinp 9095 if «11 f sight under the new design. A plus landscaping and density e»ly as spring 2025, if all of cially with the yanety (of side again, II think think it it was was aa ““Rather Rather than than having having kind kind common space would include calculations will have to side again, the required approvals are housing types), McGraw blessmg m disguise. I think of a monolith, the same thing, park space featuring a playworked out for the site. received. The first phase told the planning commis- the we’ve ve got got front-loaded front-loaded towntown- ground and pickleball courts. the new new plan plan is is substantially substantially we ground and pickleball courts. Standard approvals must also would cover about 29 acres. sion. “That gives us variety in better homes(garages (garagesin infront frontof ofthe the The better for for aa number number of of rearea- homes The plan plan calls calls for for more more be obtained from the Kent McGraw, who also is pres- price point and variety in 5°”^homes) on the perimeter. The hard-surface walkways that County Road Commission ident of Signature Land demographics for purchasers. The biggest changes were end units are designed to be improve improve pedestrian pedestrian connecconnec- and the county Drain Development Corp., said the That’s why I get excited about along the east and central ranch-style condominiums. In tivity along the streets. There Commission. 1 i f I I I •i':’ I 1 1 I I I I ) 1 4 1 tI » 1 fr • ‘C'*' c IS iiti ■S lit? "distal I* li* ’"'f sheiit' ■11. H If Prosecuhjj 11 1 V 5'1 shs anj'oj. I i 4 f 1 I 1 I I 1 1 I I I f t I I I •I f I I I f I I I I i I i I I 1 4 1 1 i i y I I i r I I I I i 1 i I ■ • 1J >4 KNIGHT, continued from page 1 — I I I 4 [ Jr., John Lake and Cory have filed to run on the Zigterman. Republican ticket for super­ Incumbent Treasurer visor. Doug Sokolowski is being Running for re-election to challenged by Francie Nagel, the Gaines board are Clerk while first-time candidate Michael Brew, Treasurer Tessa Stout is running unop­ Laurie Lemke and trustees posed for township clerk. Dan Fryling, Tim Haagsma In other area townships, all and Kathy VanderStel. All seven members of the are Republicans. No chalCaledonia Township Board lengers filed for any of those Jamie Knight have filed to run for re-elec­ seats. tion, with no challengers. In Thomapple Township, after Parker died in December Bryan Harrison, who has been six of the seven sitting board of that year before he could township supervisor since members have filed to run. take office. 2000, will likely retain his including Supervisor Eric Clerk Cindy Ordway and office for another four years. Schaefer. Treasurer Laura Bouchard, Also running unopposed Schaefer lost in the 2020 who were appointed to their for four-year terms are Republican primary for the positions last year after the Treasurer Richard Robertson, supervisor’s position to Dan resignations of Cindy Clerk Joni Henry and trust­ Parker, but was appointed Wilshire as clerk and Deb ees Tim Bradshaw, Dale Hermenet, Richard Snoeyink and Greg Zoller. All are i Republicans. CREATE A MOREL GARDEN IN YOUR BACK YARD Charter In Gaines We provide the seed and easy to use instructions Township, Rob DeWard is for preparing an outdoor Morel Habitat stepping away from the You just sow the seed, maintain the Morel Habitat and pick and enjoy pounds of fresh Morels supervisor’s office he has $35.95 + $7.95 S/H - ORDER held for the past eight years, GOURMET MUSHROOMS but will still try to remain on P.O. BOX 515 CN24 * GRATON, CA 95444 the Township Board as a www.gmushrooms.org trustee. Current Trustee Bob Spawn Guaranteed to Produce Terpstra and Jenna Pilkington < A I .<1 -4• 1 3 % 1'1 I, . w >4 r Buckowing as treasurer, have filed to run for their respecfive offices for the first time. Incumbent trustees Curt Campbell, Ross DeMaagd and Sandy Rairigh have filed to run for re-election, joined by newcomer David Stanton. Trustee Kim Selleck, who 'pul* ir • > iti*' k VI-'’ r. ■ f K .■ I T' s Mother’s Day MOREL GIFT trustee Larry Knowles and Dave VanHouten - have filed to run unopposed for re-elec tion. The five ran together on a ticket dubbed “Team Yankee Springs” in 2020 and won election. All but Knowles are completing their first term in office. I I I i ■t I t I I r •* I it' has been on the board the last four years, did not file to run again. In Yankee Springs Township, the five incumbent board members Supervisor Rob Heethuis, Clerk Mike Cunningham, Treasurer Deb Mousseau and /! J* I . .y f •• .'■u r 'I f" . * C' •< X 1 4 fF •l p.’ .tlL IT** F •* f I I• I f ’ J I I I 1 I 1 T e, *'9 •* -.'-I «« •'J. ,3. ■ CAtEDONI 4 I* I » J 1 1 •c 4. 1 * e>'> I I T7< .f * 1 E DU GATIO N FD UNDATIO N < • S; aa-^‘ MW*" c . T. *1 I* • I • J if ■6 I S-r* • •• S— I fj • • I I • I I Donate Your Vehicle, Boat or Tractor Contact Jay at M37Auction.com (616) 920-6651 M37Auction@gmail.com J * 1 ) 1 I I I ( » < I i I I« • 1 I t I * < �t Page 4/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4,2024 her sister and her husband. Eileen devoted her life to her husband and children, her parents and in-laws, extended family members, families of the Pleasant Avenue neighborhood in Caledonia, and activities in the Caledonia community. She enjoyed quilting and embroidery. Upon moving to Heather Hills, she nurtured and enjoyed a new commu­ nity of fiiends. The family wishes to thank the staff at The Village of Heather Hills and Faith Hospice care providers. Burial will be at Lakeside Cemetery, Caledonia, MI, where private services will be held. A Celebration of Life will be held this siunmer. Funeral arrangements by Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Directors-Caledonia. Edna EHeen Shook M • * IH Edna Eileen Shook was bom in Raverma, Ohio on November 6, 1926 and died on April 28, 2024. She was the daughter of Harry and Gladys Miller, and a sister to Robert (Eula) Davison and Wilma (Theodore) Cutler. She mar­ ried Jay L. Shook on July 3, 1947. Jay and Eileen had five children; Jacqueline (Phil) Babcock, Sharon Shook, Nancy (Dean) Haney, Brian (Ruth) Shook, and Jill (Doug) Wilson. She is survived by her grandchildren, children; Margaret Lane, Sarah (Geoffrey) Walton, Paul (Jennifer) Shook, Blake fl A <4 £: I • f 1 • M 9 7 h J I r ♦ ♦ ***’ - .tt.. y and Wilson (Andrea) Brandon (Brittany) Wilson; 14 great-grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; father-in-law, Harvey Shook; mother-in-law, Veva Shook, her brother and his wife, and Margaret Ann A dams Margaret Arm (Cundiff) Adams, bom April 1, 1925, passed away Febmary 6, 2024, age 98, at Mission Point of Grandville of natu­ ral causes. Maggie has been cremated and a memorial service is plarmed for May 10, 2024 at Beeler-Gores Funeral Home in Middleville, ML Visitation is at 10 a.m. and memorial service at 11a.m. Limch to follow at Holy Family Church at 9669 Kraft Ave SE, Caledonia, ML A 1 t ■i •* ? ♦ la . * bfl AI • I i»»* ^7-, •• * ■ Maggie and Keith’s cre­ mains will be interred at in Lakeside Cemetery Caledonia, ML In lieu of flowers, Keith and Maggie’s wishes are for donations to be made for 4 their great-grandson, Deaken, care expenses. Please send in care of Char Mello, 6724 Gracepoint Dr SE, Caledonia, MI 49316. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to view the full obituary, share a memory, or to leave a condolence message for Maggie’s family. Jennifer Conine Tobin Jennifer Corrine Tobin, our beloved wife, mother, step­ mother, daughter, and sister, left this world suddenly and unexpectedly on Simday, April 14, 2024, in Rockville, MD. She was 42 years old. Jenny was bom and raised in Middleville, MI, where, at a young age, she demonstrat­ ed a voracious appetite for reading and learning. Even when told to go “play” out­ side, she could often be foxmd outdoors in the yard with a book in hand. This love of hers carried over into her adult life where it was not uncommon for her to read four or five books at a time and plan ways to visit every Montgomery County library with her daughter, Eva and her husband, Aaron Gonzales. After graduating from Thomapple Kellogg High Jenny attended School, Albion College where she double majored in chemistry eventually and physics, obtaining a master’s degree in nuclear engineering from the University of New Mexico. After grad school, she accept­ ed a position at the US Regulatory Nuclear Commission, beginning a career that spanned 18 years. She loved and poured her soul into her work at the agency, often telling her family that this was the work she was meant to do. Jenny was one of the stron- gest, most resilient people any of US had ever known. When she was just eight years old, she was involved in a terrible accident that took the life of her younger brother, John Ben, and left her with physical consequences that affected her for the rest of her life. This amazing woman never let this stop her from doing anything she set out to do, including becoming a “sporty, outdoors” mom to Eva and her stepdaughter. Gabby Gonzales, as well as cooking, baking, and crafting with her stepson. Gavin Gonzales. Jermy’s proudest accomplishment was achieving the goal most important to her in her life - becoming a mom. Eva was not only her daughter and *“mini-me”, but her best fiiend. They spent almost every waking hour outside of school together, passing on. her love of reading and learning to Eva. She often shared with Aaron that she was lucky three times over because, not only did she have Eva, but z also her two “bonus” chil­ dren, Gabby and Gavin, who she loved as her own support­ ing them in everything they did. Jermy was one of the most caring and giving people you would ever know and to know her was to never forget her. She touched the lives of everyone she met, building amazing communities at home, at work and in her neighborhood. Jenny is survived by her husband, Aaron; daughter, Eva, her “stunt double”; stepchildren, Gavin and Gabby; parents, Darm and Francy Tobin; sister, Katy Pearson; brother, James Tobin; sisterin-law, Heidi Tobin; and brother-in-law, Ian Pearson. A private memorial service was held in Maryland with public visitation on Sunday, April 21, 2024. Should you care to do something in lieu of flowers, you can make a contribution. in honor of Jenny, to EcoLatinos (http://ecolatinos. org/donate/), an organization dear to her Maryland family. A Celebration of Life will be held in Michigan on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Middleville United Methodist Church, 111 Church St., Middleville, MI, with a visitation with family beginning at 10 a.m. There will be a luncheon following her service in the fellowship hall. Id 81 i*! fl' Dof Y I I 1 i i)i! to* Dfiis , also Stoi Sii liiis i J® 9 Caledonia United Methodist Church iit IUtCi J Re\’. Christine Beaudoin I 1 I Join us for our traditional yet casual worship I I, service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMelhodist Serving Strengthening Connecting I I; I tt Ji A fl1 cornerstonechurch fl Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Uam ’A I •I BAPTIST Middleville Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Sunday Service 10:30 AM % JI fl 908 W Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) 4. Sunday Worship 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 9:30 a.m. I -r I I cornerstonemi.org/weekend Ill Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com '1 I Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 OURNEY CHURCH MPEACE - Cfiug/i (269) 795-2391 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. CHURCH Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. -i ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch peacechurch, cc Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee wile' '^Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM iMTCtHATl Watch our services from our website (see above) 4 @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 Yankee Springs Bible Church Fellowship Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"^^ & 48^*^ Worship Services Sunday io am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.oi^ T' HOLY FAMILY J/C ATHOLIC CHURCH If 4 rt 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 3 I Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:(X) a.m. & 11:(X) a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. SIk plus to THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES: i 'fieresit Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com _________ www^tpaulcaledonia.org Whitneyville Praising God through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music i. I b •s »« 3 01 fc'"* "Shining Forth God's Light” Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... •• S' 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org 1 11^ �The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4,2024/Page 5 ■ I ™names top students for Class of 2024 VI during her sophomore year. She enjoys snowboarding, going to the beach, swim­ ming, being with family and friends, hunting and tennis. _ Eleven students have been named as the top academic students in the Thomapple Kellogg High School Class of 2024. The top students are listed here in alphabetical order. Sis, Joselyn DeBoer S' Tyne Bufka bftzK.' Cfk c"t on her a™,omv ....... cent on her anatomy cat test in her junior year. She enjoys watching and playing sports, the NYT games, and going to the beach. Kaden Hamming ? p » i t ________ Kyan has been active in tennis and NHS in high school. He also volunteered at a charity race outside of high school. He lists his greatest accomplishments in high school as winning the National Rural & Small-Town Scholar Award his sophomore year and getting to know all his teachers who have helped him in his success. He lists sailing, water and downhill skiing, and listen­ ing to music as some of his hobbies. f II X J g 4 I I -n> « k V, 1; •J*** 1 4 X V ** A It t;? «*• i i 1’ 'i ■t ' UM / n IT w 4 -■wks ^^4 I L -J*. k A 4 < Cade Hicswa r z z \ t L I ‘1 5 4 fcllOHilg J 1’ L"'****s iistCb Tyne is the daughter of Keith and Ken Bufka. She plans to attend Michigan State University to major in marketing and potentially minor in market research and/or sales management. During her high school career, Tyne has been active in NHS, BPA where she was a state finalist, student coun­ cil and varsity tennis. She also volunteered at The Shack. She lists her greatest accomplishments at TK as being the math department Rotary Student and receiving the coaches award in tennis Tyne enjoys reading, being with friends and family and spending time on the lake. Holly Carpenter oabtiiu Joselyn is the daughter of Nathan and Knsty DeBoer. She is considering pursuing a degree in sports medicine or kinesiology. possibly at Spring Arbor University. Joselyn has been a member of the golf and track teams in high school. She has also been active in NHS, Odyssey of the Mind, robot­ ics, band. Student Athlete Leadership Team, and plays. Outside of school she attends church at FBC where , . . . she IS active in the youth group, nursery and Vacation Bible School; works at Dairy Queen, and volunteers at golf clinics for children. She lists her greatest accomplishment in high school as creating a success­ ful ice cream bar with her AP Comp group, making it 4* 1 Kaden is the son of Keith and Linda Hamming. He plans to" attend"”the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan to earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration with i t' . • • V' 7 9/ 4^ 4 s oX• A SI LTI J R.. • A V4 Nathan is the son of Scott and Vicki Koester. He plans to attend Grand Valley State University to major in mechanical engineering. After earning his degree, he plans to move to North Carolina to work in NASCAR and one day be a crew chief in the NASCAR Cup series. Nathan has made several projects in Advanced 3D CAD classes that have gone to the MITES state competition. He has also been a member of NHS. Outside of school, Nathan can mostly be found racing, working on his race car or being with friends at the racetrack. He also volunteers to flag at quarter midget track races. He lists his greatest accomplishment during his high school years as continu­ ing to pursue his passion for the sport of racing and hav­ ing much success. He has won dozens of races fol­ lowed by a handful of track championships in the quarter midgets. In his rookie season at the Kalamazoo Speedway, he won a race and the rookie of the year title. He lists his hobbies as racing and working on race cars. He has been a NASCAR fan and began racing Quarter Midgets when he was 9 years old. When he was 15,, he started racing an asphalt late model at Berlin Raceway. If he is not at the track, he is either home working on his race car or virtually racing on his IRacing simulator. She plans to attend Central Michigan University to study finance and accounting. Charlotte has been active in JV basketball, freshmen and varsity volleyball, and varsity tennis where she was named all-conference for three years. She also has been a member of NHS, TATU, and was part of a TKHS musical. Outside of high school, Charlotte competes in travel volleyball and helps at a youth volleyball camp. She lists her greatest accomplishments in high school as making the varsity tennis team as a freshman and making the varsity vol­ leyball team as a sophomore. Reading, working out and journaling are listed as a few of her hobbies. I I I t I I I I • * I I I i I II I » 1 t 4 4 1 I A % I ■I* 1 I 1 I i I I I 1 I I Emilia Rickert •I j a concentration in finance and accounting. Kaden has been a member of the cross-country team for four years, earning the most Cade is the son of Tim and s improved award in 2020, the Amy Hicswa. He plans to coaches award in 2023 and attend Michigan State 4 served two years as a team University to major in engicaptain. He also has been a neering. two-year member of the Cade is a member of track team and baseball team. NHS and participated in He was in the marching band TATU (Teens Against for two years and NHS. He Tobacco Use). Emilia is the daughter of has also been in the Business He lists his greatest Ray and Tricia Rickert. She Frotessionals of Amenca for accomplishment in high plans to attend Grand Valley four years, qualifying each school State University to study school as as winning winning the the AP AP year for the state competi- Scholar Scholar with with Distinction Distinction Elementary Education. Award in 2023 and helping . Emilia has been active in mostly alive,” and placing national high school in plays and national qualifier qualifier and and oneone- make make the the community community aa better better seventh at the OM World time time national national finalist. finalist. He He has has place place through through volunteer volunteer musicals and as a member of finals in 2023. served two years as the BPA work for NHS. band and choir. She serves as She eiyoys reading, fish­ president and one year as He lists fishing and video Charlotte Nelson the NHS vice president. She ing, art and piano. vice president. games as his hobbies. is also a part of the Mental Outside of school he is a Wellness Club, and the ten­ Jessie Drenten member of the Peace Church Nathan Koester nis team. She was named the youth group for four years English Department Rotary and praise band member. t Student. First Baptist Church of Outside of school Emilia Middleville youth group for is a volunteer teaching assis­ two years, and went on three tant at Grand Rapids Civic mission trips. Theatre and has helped coor ­ Bl I• He lists his greatest I dinate NHS Blood Drives. r accomplishment in high She lists her greatest • ■'rsrr*f school as being a national ® accomplishment in high J qualifier in BPA three out of school as getting a “ 5 ” on her 4 four years and being captain £• AP calculus exam. ij of the cross-coimtry team. Charlotte is the daughter t. I His hobbies include run of Seth and Jaime Nelson. See TOP STUDENTS, page 6 ning, video creation, guitar, Jessie is the daughter of baseball and camping. Mark and Debra Drenten. She plans to attend the Kyan Haywood University of Michigan to study biochemistry in hopes of becoming a doctor. Jessie has been active in high school serving as the NHS secretary, TATU and Student Athletic Leadership Team. She earned the most improved player in softball. academic all-state in softball, coaches award for volley­ t ball, all-conference honorable mention in volleyball. and served as captain for the Caledonia, MI Kyan is the son of Jason varsity volleyball team. Outside of schools she and Nicole Haywood. He CaZZ assists with blood drives and plans to attend Michigan State University to major in is a tutor. She lists her greatest finance with a possible minor snydermonuments.com accomplishment in high in entrepreneurship or inter national business. school as getting a 100 per •I 1 w f A 1 I I I 1 I I I 4 I i I I I I 'I I i i 1 I f 9 1r 41 B t Ai 1 I a fr’ I A L 'W I •4 f Y. c« ’5= 1 4 4 :<r ri 7 9G »« •«r - V A OU ’1 I J ?.! * I b 4 ' i. •> '•r 4. 5 M 1 9 1 4I c 1 ,#■ L I Vl" briafasci (111 I I I Holly is the daughter of Jason and Pamela Carpenter. She plans to attend Southeastern University in Lakeland Florida to study nursing and possibly return later to school to earn a mas­ ter’s degree. Holly has been active in numerous clubs in high school including NHS, varsi­ ty tennis and swim team where she was part of the medley relay team that set a school record at state. She also was a member of TATU, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, involved in weekly Bible study, and Student Council. Outside of school. Holly attends . Journey Church, volunteers in the church nurseiy, works at a daycare and attends “Met by Love” worship gatherings. She lists her greatest accomplishment in school as receiving marks of over 100 on both honors chem exams .r. I '•1 Jit >*. 1 r SNYDER HONUNENTS, LLC Respectful, Quality Memorials .X- 1 •I I. I' ■ >1 ■- A |k' F ■I t* ' ■ k 1 r I I t til r *v. V 7 > : r“' 11 A Consulting^ designing and installing quality monuments. today 616-291-2425 I . I « 4 I I I i r t » 4 I * i I I I » I • • I « 'i I I • 1 I “ J i I « I < * 1 ao I I f t I 4, t * * I I �r Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4, 2024 Thornapple Township sets special meeting on Mid-Villa project TOP STUDENTS, continued from page 5 Her hobbies include doing the Denver Post Crossword, reading, playing tennis and baking. Shelby Robinett •♦ f . * ♦ •1 I B L J * ► ' 6 J ♦ ^7 I 4 r Shelby is the daughter of Cory and Melinda Robinett. She plans to attend Michigan Technological University to study environmental engineer­ Church, and volunteered with ing and will also be in the softball camps. She lists her greatest accom­ Pavlis Honors College. In school Shelby has been a plishments as being part of an member of the softball team all-girl OM team that competed all four years, serving as varsi­ in the technical problem. For ty captain this year. She has that problem, she made a dress participated in Odyssey of the of melted crayons and helped Mind for nine years and com­ engineer a Rube Goldberg peted at the world finals twice device to earn seventh place at during high school. She cur- the world finals. Another rently volunteers as a coach accomplishment is returning as for a Page Elementary team a senior in OM to coach an elethat is also going to the world mentary team and have them finals this year. She is the compete in the world finals. She Student Council vice presi­ also is proud of being a leader dent, color guard captain, among the marching band and a member of the symphonic color guard captain, and for band, NHS, and robotics team. being a member of an aJl-girl Outside of high school she robotics team and helping engi­ has been a member of the neer and build a robot. Her hobbies include readMichigan Storm Softball proing, hunting, fishing, cooking. gram for three years, volun­ teered at Holy Family Catholic kayaking and snowmobiling. Greg Chandler Staff Writer Thornapple The Township Board has scheduled a special meeting for next Thursday to hear from developers of the Flats at Mid-Villa project and their request for approval of a tax-increment financing proposal they consider critical to development of the residential portion of the project. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the township fire station, 128 High St. It comes four days before a regularly-scheduled May 13 meeting at which the Township Board is expect­ ed to decide whether to approve the TIE request from Dutch Developers LLC. “It’s an opportunity for the public to voice their concerns or support for the Township project,” Supervisor Eric Schaefer said. The meeting was moved to the fire station to accommodate a crowd larger than what the Township Hall could seat, Schaefer said. The Flats at Mid-Villa has been proposed for a 13.3-acre site along M-37 that has been vacant since the former Middle Villa Inn was tom down in 2015. The project includes construc­ tion of six apartment build­ ings, consisting of 144 total Middleville TOPS 546 The April 29 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. Two new fish jumped into the fishbowl as one jumped out. In April, the chapter lost 15.2 pounds. \firginia went over each member’s challenges from last week. New challenges were made for this week. Prizes were given, as well. Wellness The May Challenge was given to all club members. Plans were made to attend the Spring Workshop in Battle Creek on Saturday. Sue won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss sup­ port group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.. followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzz­ er for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maiyellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is fi’ee. Garage Sale Business Services Real Estate MULTI-FAMILY SALE in one garage. Friday, May 10, 9am5pm. Saturday, May 11, 9am2pm. 6754 Chancery Drive SE., Alto. Household goods, picnic baskets, antiques, quilts, Christmas, home decor, DVDs, adult and lids clothing, toys, high chairs, cribs, furniture, log bed, hunting equipment, small welder, small air compressor, kayak, and much more! CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 CONDO, MIDDLEVILLE VILLAGE. Open floor plan, lots of natural light. Walkout lower level. Main floor bed­ room, en-suite, walk in closet. Kitchen with pantry. Main floor laundry, t/l bath. AU appliances included. Second bedroom/ study. Downstairs bedroom, full bath, family room, work room, storage room. Attached garage, 2 car. Flower beds with perenni­ als! $282,000.269-795-7815 A utomotive CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-8385937. BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. In­ sured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Loeeing, (269)818-7793. 2003 PORSCHE BOXTER S. 67,000 Miles. Runs and drives great! $16,600. 616-551-9412. Pets DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. Community Notice NOTICE OF SELF-STORAGE SALE: Please notice Red Dot Storage 195- Caledonia located at 5590 68th Street SE., Caledo­ nia, MI 49316 intends to hold an auction of the storage unit in default of payment. This sale will occur online via www.storageTreasures.com on 5/13/2024 at 9:30 AM. Unless stated oth­ erwise, the contents are household goods, furnishings, boxes, and general equipment. Unit numbers are #116; and it327. AU property is being stored at the above self-storage facUity. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Certain terms and conditions apply, manager for details. Help Wanted_______ join OUR TEAM! Choice Concrete Construction. Now Hiring. Full Time, Competitive Wages, Insurance, 401K, Paid Vacations. No experience needed. Call 616-693-2123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS •f _ I SS9W! 1 .zr*» J ■ IITBrl Ar* V * * I •* ■ % Z * 1 *t’’T.** ' 4 9* A .* % w « - • ♦ « 4 ... I* • 0* e?” T-SeA.’ ■ m • I Hl A * • -e* r ■rX -fr-*I 1 X. 1 w' J f K* "■ I -1' > IL Pictured here is the proposed future site of The Flats at Mid-Villa, which would span 13.3 acres along M-37, and has been vacant since the former Middle Villa Inn was tom down in 2015. (File photo by Greg Chandler) imits 120 two-bedroom apartments and 24 one-bedroom apartments along with a 134-unit self-storage facility and three commercial outlets along M-37. Dutch Developers LLC is asking the township, the village of Middleville, the village’s Downtown Development Authority and Barry County to approve a proposal that will allow the Barry County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority to collect $4.48 million in new tax revenues that are expected to be generated by development of the apartments over the next 15 years. That money would then be used to reimburse the developer for infrastructure and other related costs tied to the project, such as construction of a lift station that would handie sewage for the develop­ ment. The apartments are being proposed to address a need for “workforce housing” that was identified in a 2023 report by the Barry Community Foundation and Barry County Chamber and Economic Development Alliance. The apartments would be marketed toward people P'^upic whose wiiose incomes are between 80 and 120 percent of the community’s median income, which works out to ’ft < ‘ IO about $40,000 to $90,000 a year. The TIF application is the result of a change in the Brownfield state’s Development Financing Act to fund affordable housing projects with the approval of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. The state Legislature passed a four-bill package making the change possible, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the bills into law in July of last year. Rents for the apartments would range from $1,225 a month for one bedroom to $1,475 for two bedrooms, housing consultant Marcus Ringnalda told the Village Council at its April 23 meet­ ing. The TIF request does not involve the commercial portion of the property, consisting of the self-stor­ age facility and commercial outlots. Nate Heyboer, the principal behind Dutch Developers, said he expects to generate about $600,000 in new tax revenues from the commercial side of the development that would be taxed in its normal fashion. The Village Council at the April 23 meeting voted unanimously to approve the TIF proposal. The DDA is scheduled to consider the proposal on May 21. mi I* IT EspaioR* ■ h '■< • . I THE GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT Residential & Commercial (>< Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps -Water Heaters Humidifiers ■^2 Ax » •f ci J- A t 'I » Simulcast Live at Cornerstone Church 84th St. Campus I • C’ I. - I fl / 1 ir A •I JIS J v I, y S I ♦ -A - The best of leaders never stop learning. Commit now to secure your seat at this year's Summit, where you will join hundreds of thousands of leaders tike Ynui It I 1 1 71^ a! I II a*® 1 r« ti ID; DeWeerd 68^ ■ HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING. INC ■ DEWEERDHTG.COM LENNOX > - J J V ■liiei /■* i'.’t ; ST ■ A+ LS Sin 269-792-2234 L ACCREDITED BUSINESS CRAIG GROESCHEL MIKE KRZYZeWSXi AMY EOMUNOSON MOLLY FLETCHER MICHAEL Jit 1 1 t 1 * I t I 1 I �- I The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4,2024/Page 7 __ _ Celebration Cinema South marks completion V - '*«nenia douin marks completion of S4M facelift with grand-reopening celebration James Gemmell Contributing Writer Studio C has finished a major renovation project at Celebration Cinema South in Gaines Charter Township, less than four months after it began. A festive crowd of invited guests attended a- grand c—« re- opening party on Monday evenmg in the lobby, enjoying cocktails and appetizers to mark the occasion. Some brief remarks were made by Studio C President & CEO J.D. Loeks. Studio C is the parent company to Celebration Cinema. “Bultsma Construction did a phenomenal job getting this project done on time and on budget,” he told the ‘■V A s I Sis 'S,J ■ S*'’* *«fe ® "foiUtt iij. Sint I I, seats, the C Premium auditorium is the only one with Dolby Atmos surround sound, as well as 4K digital laser projection. Celebration Cinema techoology expert Jessica Forker described to those who attended the “Preview Experience” event some of the state-of-the-art visual aspects in technical terms. “We fitted the (laser pro­ jector) with a high-contrast lens, so it can do a contrast ratio ratio of of 6,000-to-l. 6,000-to-l. It It can produce 30,000 lumens of brightness. And it’s paired with a brand new high-beam silver screen. So, the images that you’ll see are crisper; they’re brighter,” she said. As for the Dolby Atmos audio, Forker-said there are 38 speakers in the ceiling and along the walls. “There are six, dual 18-inch subwoofer cabinets behind the screen. There’s a bunch of speakers behind the screen. There’s two more 18-inch woofers in the back,” Forker said. “So, we want you to feel this experience, and I think you will.” She noted that a traditional theater may have 5.1 or 7.1 (surround sound rating), but 1 he 10-screen multiplex theater first opened in 2005 at 1506 Eastport Dr., near M-6 and Kalamazoo Avenue. It was considered state-ofthe-art at the time. But with luxurious recliner seats and high-tech digital surround sound now the industry norm for premium theaters. Studio C executives knew it was time for a major upgrade. “That’s true,” Emily Loeks said. She is Director of Community Affairs for Studio C. “Once people get adjusted to the heated recliners, there’s almost no going Loeks thanked the staff at back. And the community Celebration South for their around Celebration Cinema hard work during the nearly South has definitely been four-month refurbishment of telling us that this is what the facility. they like. And we’re glad to “They pulled this off with­ be able to provide it.” out closing for a single day The C Premium auditori­ throughout a massive reno­ um opened to the public on vation of the entire build­ Feb. 29 with a showing of ing,” he said, to a round of the new “Dune: IP film. applause. Although all 10 of the theLater, a special Preview aters inside Celebration Experience was held inside South have the reclining >!r 1 Celebration Cinema South’s new C Premium auditorium. That included the screening of a nearly 90-minute package of movie trailers for the upcoming summer film sea­ son. Hot the b Si 1': I’O fekdi MBsuftani told the atiBApril23tt < 'b;M ■ •* “ I i I ^2 I I b I I •UKr I teifistei ■ tOt{; ' of lie mg of k & ilit}' ak one I 1 Studio C President & CEO J.D. Loeks being interviewed during Monday evening’s grand reopening party at Celebration Cinema South. (All photos by Steve Katerberg) the audio is 29.3 in the C Premium .auditorium. J.D. Loeks mentioned to the crowd in the lobby some of the renovation project’s highlights. “We tried to modernize our theaters to all of the things our guests most want to see, starting with heated recliner chairs in all of our auditoriums, provided by Grand Rapids-based Irwin Seating,” he said. “It’s pretty cool. We’ve got the best chairs in the industry manu­ factured just a few miles down the road.” He noted that a full kitch- a A? f' & 'i >• I L*x- .'a IBM 4 f J J A f r I 1 4 Nate Heifei; al kkiffii' )ers,sai(ikK rateatatS® tax revtsE? mercial sia: Miitos itsHilii ffllifeC V i if. tt£4ab£'. •J 4 3' zd a: <1 .r S ■I **^^1 r’ * c, 4 t 1% « ■ '1 I, 1 V 1 I . . I 'ITRL »»■ „ J V ' AI G'-'r .. H •f # Vii lA pr-1. VU* t c I 5 V i V '4' > 'k '• . J-** r* I C'‘^' ( 'r" 1 G S 1 i}i I I ♦ t t I I 1 f- IS. a i I The lighted marquee outside Celebration Cinema South in Gaines Township. en and bar have been added at Celebration Cinema South. “So, it’s probably going to be one of the best spots in all of western Michigan to watch the biggest releases that are going to be coming out. And, of course, we modernized our food and beverage opera­ tion,” J.D. Loeks said. Emily Loeks said that movie-goers can now have their food and drinks deliv­ ered directly to their theater seats, if they choose. Studio C Chairman John Loeks said he created the Celebration Cinema chain in 1997, after buying the family business. And he drew the original designs for Celebration South. “This (renovation) was needed. The team came together and did a wonderful job . designing it,” he said. “They chose new colors and new patterns. And, of course, new seats and all-new tech­ nology, so far as presentation and soimd are concerned. So, it’s now as good as you’re going to get in a movie the­ ater in Michigan today.” The movie theater indus­ try is still trying to fully overcome the negative impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on it a few years ago. Like restaurants, bars and nightclubs, theaters were shut down in 2020. And when they were allowed to reopen after several months in 2021, movie theaters were not allowed to sell conces­ sions for a while, because of the pandemic restrictions. “We are still coming out of some of the ripple effects of the pandemic, and the writers’ and actors’ strikes,” Emily Loeks said. “But as we look towards the end of the year and 2025, we are looking at some of the best movie slates that we’ve seen. So, we feel that there’s a lot of reason for optimism mov­ ing forward. And our mission as a company is to bring people together around these movies, and these stories. So, we’re happy to reinvest in that here. It’s just been a real­ ly great community gather­ ing spot for more than 19 years.” 4 tic J d ' If •» r CELlCW) 'wl a SIG t i I » i I I I • ♦ I i » I I » » I I t i I I i .! I » t < 4 i I I 1 . I 1 I « www.theantennamen.com J ante nnamen@gmail.com * t. ’j r < I" .'Jfl t t A' T t • T A t .•wP 4^ w k I I e 1 r LIGHT TRUCK PARTS USED PARTS • nCK BPS • ONE TONS • WINS • SW8 • JEEPS • 4I4S ;4. f i AI .-J I •♦ ; A' I I r V . I > J FULL SERVICE & YOU PULL IT I * i 'V » a4 I I I } 269-381-2300 Af’ e » ■A* ft • 1 1 ’ J • i 5^. > J; . I * I r I » « I I f V* i USEU PARTS p USES TIRES 5*5- 4 1 A * § I I 4 • I www.cellsignatpros.com fl < ' ’i I i 1 >;• st, KALMIIRZSS - ■ IJ —' "*■ i •5* » 1 I I I I 1 T 4 1 269-967-8241 CtbFI A. 1 I ! Z fe ’■ I Give us a call! H '«U._ *-r* 1 1 1 I I ■ I I Antenna Men I .//Surges •* I'A I I ..r r I I t t k I 4 4 I I • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems stead millage in 1995, 2005 and 2014. In the most recent election in 2014, TK voters approved a 20-mill levy, of which the two additional mills were used to absorb the Headlee rollback, by a mar­ gin of 3,253 to 1,684. f I I I $• 4 C .jt-. I A i I. I I asanas: I ( I r ' I 'I i I .1 1 TK voters to decide on non homestead renewal Tuesday . * forum at the district’s Early Childhood Center. “These are the dollars we use every day to pay teachers, buy sup­ plies, pay all staff, keep the lights on, run the buses.” TK voters approved renewals of the non-home- I I t I n ____ tion homes, rental homes and commercial and industrial properties. It does not apply to primary homes. The non-homestead levy generates about $3.8 million in general fund revenues for the TK district, representing 8 percent of its budget. School officials say the levy is needed for the district to receive its full per-pupil funding allocation from the state of Michigan. “These are all operating dollars. This isn’t like a bond campaign or sinking fund • • • for capital projects,” TK Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie said at a recent — h ( « A party was held in the lobby of Celebration South on Monday for invited guests. Greg Chandler Staff Writer Voters in the Thomapple Kellogg school district go to the polls Tuesday to decide whether to renew the dis­ trict’s non-homestead tax for the next decade. The ballot language asks TK voters to pass a renewal of 18.9923 mills and add on another 0.5 mill to offset rollbacks in the levy from the Headlee amendment. By state law, the district can levy no more than 18 mills of the non-homestead tax at any one time. The non-homestead tax is assessed to businesses, vaca- (J T" 3® luu* : a iislytoiF' Ot.to’i' i i I Jiot®* I -ri I u t i 1 1 I A r 4 I ,1 VW tI I •» ¥ ; f t 9 1 ■■ Li IK I - >• 5*^ I : 1 I i ft 1 kJ I ■KSMiar.J e ufeMM L z. b iV I . □ ym 52 r=f£j 1 - i A* 7, z t 1 a * A I I I I» • I I >1-3 w •t I • > •I I I I �T Afll Page 8/The Sun and Nawa, Saturday, May 4, 2024 & Caledonia middle school robotics team places at VEX World Championship ▼ '* * k J B FWk * nN MMve mw 4 peted this week in the VEX World Robotics Championship in Dallas. EnrichED’s Caledonia Greg Chandler Staff IVhter A middle school robotics team from Caledonia comJ * .eri J 9 1 I d^ J I < team, the Champion Pirates, finished 37th among 80 teams in their division and 55th among 307 teams in the skills competition, placing them about the top 17 per­ cent of all teams in the meet and in the top 10 percent of all teams that competed all season. The Champion Pirates, consisting of Philip Metz, Xander Osborn, Samantha Richardson and Noah Soper, qualified for the world cham­ pionships in February by placing third in skills at the > .MaaiPionbir.Wfs 1 M r 1 1 ■ K. * I ■9 V r i A* V ( f fc «L' I Michigan state champion­ ship. Metz and Osborn repre­ sented the team at the world championship, where they had the opportunity to com­ pete alongside alliance partners from Indiana, New Oklahoma, York, South Pennsylvania, Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Canada. Outside of competition, the boys had the chance to witness the impressive open­ ing and closing ceremonies and connect with teams from around the world as they vis- tbr ♦ * I ited their pits. It was an incredible opportunity, made possible by the support of the •i.*: aiC: A I* ; i-./* » f>i •.r’J'- Wh e r e c h aRo’ toH i : w r are made I J f *’1' 4 :-ft •z • r* • ^4.2 f iL” b :■ i'. . a . J s ■ r n . t I Vi zflK *( > V • 4F I Ml I ( * I r «* . n I Philip Metz and Xander Osborn (pictured in the middle) represented the Champion Pirates team at the VEX World Championships. Samantha Richardson and Noah Soper are also members of the team. i» f > I } A middle school robotics team from Caledonia made the trip to the VEX Robotics World Championships in Dallas, which ran April 25 to May 3. (Photos provided) T I /• H •ij. •>r— J* « Caledonia High School honors the achievements of its students each month. In March, it turned its attention to those who embody the core value of “Community” within the school. Handpicked by their teachers, these individuals exemplify the qualities that define Cal Pride. They include (left photo, left to right) Danny Parker, Brody Siler, Claire Plummer and Muhammed Turk in addition to (right photo, left to right) Christina Waldmiller, Hudson Nichols and Justin Brown. Dakota Tomac is not picture but was also honored. ring TUNE a A- ■3: Expires 5-18-24 •* • i 9f <. 6. IT* *' . iB r FRONTIER S COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia J BiPTi Locally ou'ned huslriess. liotct Ilias'* £^i liiHlifl M v’ir Op* jjjjtW Victim Services Unit volunteers sought J < * I program’s generous spon­ sors. Caledonia EnrichED is a non-profit organization dedi­ cated to raising funds to help maintain and enhance the quality of educational enrichment opportunities at Caledonia Community Schools through the collabo­ ration of parents, educators. and the community. Registration for the Caledonia Robotics for next school year is now open for students in grades 2-12. For further information, please visit the Caledonia Robotics Facebook page. ‘Ji iiif® ?• I> I 4^ I, *• I II I <1^1 e CHS shines a spotlight on Students of the Month omr f } : J The Champion Pirates compete at the recent VEX World Championships in Dallas. • <. r* Ihi a *7* ftfl i ' *I I • 'tf-1 The Barry County Sheriff’s Office is seeking volunteers for its victim services unit. VSU volunteers are civilians of various ages and backgrounds who have a desire to assist individu­ als and families experienc­ ing the trauma of a sudden, unexpected death. Providing comfort and direction, victim services volunteers are in place to help families cope with the loss of a loved one, assist a victim of a crime, or pro­ vide solutions to those in time of" need. Applicants must live in Barry County, pass a back­ ground check, have their own transportation and be on call for 12-hour shifts. The Michigan Sheriffs’ Association conducts a in 20-hour training session which covers subjects such as the five stages of grief, effective communication techniques, law enforce­ ment protocols, and the rights of victims in the criminal justice system. Anyone interested in being a VSU volunteer can email BCSODispatch@ -barrycounty.org to ask for an application. ■Ui as a mix ■.'ifca wiJ EK tffl. Sh liniilx! HI b a to in a tetKtoi) i*Uii w h hew & mil( «iBting alter I il^ slli IIS cl I a Ji Wj I'affla i Wayland fire chief hospitalized; Yankee Springs station operation “status quo” Greg Chandler Staff Writer The chief of the Wayland Fire Department is in the hospital after suffering what the department is calling “a cardiac emergency.” Chief Jim Stoddard is being treated in the critical care unit at Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids after suffering the cardiac emergency on April 26. The fire depart­ ment posted a Facebook message about the incident on Sunday and asked for prayers for Stoddard. It has since posted additional mes­ sages updating the chiefs condition. “He continues to fight and we are encouraged by his progress,” the department n I I *«< « 1 DC 1 posted in a message on Wednesday. Stoddard has been Wayland fire chief since September 2021. Yankee Springs Township has contracted with Wayland for firefighting services since April 2016. The township and city last year approved an extension of their agreement through 2027. I 1 I Deputy Chief Dan Miller, who is in charge of the Yankee Springs fire station on South Payne Lake Road, wrote in an email this week that the station’s day-to-day operations remain “status quo out here” in light of Stoddard’s illness. Miller, who was recently honored for his 50 years of public service to the Wayland and Yankee Springs commu­ nities, was named permanent deputy chief of the Yankee Springs station earlier this year, with Lt<Jon Timmers serving as <^puty chief in Wayland. Cards to Stoddard can be sent to him at the Wayland Fire Department, 160 W. Superior St., Wayland MI 49348. f k I ♦ 1 J 'I Hl I I 1 I I I r » ' * f ■ t f **. • I r I 4 « I •1 <73 �I I I ig I The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4,2024/ Page 9 ocots celebrate more milestones in victory to: • )*' • ,11#* %•' A« A Lis' ' * t I I .fe i •• rd' 4 A Y-“ 1 ■k I 3 • s •< « T. f, F .V •> A .V J?' .♦i •t' s * ?/• 4 ^•’7 •« s. ) Cr« I J 4 b, I I i I I '*3 1 f K . % too 1 I 1 A •s I 4 r ’ s. . X I v> s %' 1 « • « .1I >? I >£»- ."^Edb f ? ( 100 * j > W ^'Lr<>LJ r 4 Z1 1 '•V Q QVeev SttMes i I •i* I GioqI^‘ j *f . A I I I r X » «J V rirA 4 X f -ft At * I V.5 A .W * f I f I 1 J I’iP’-***• • *R S«is, I1 n I e > > 4 I F I > I ’’tiiSi X $ I A? ft I ' FT'f ■ « I 4 I F -I j « I ’• Caledonia senior Addison Roe (left) celebrates scoring her 100th varsity goal in the Scots’ 16-1 win over Zeeland at Scotland Yard Tuesday with junior team•• “lebrating rec’orti'n^ he7l 00th 'vS save Which she notched last Saturday at Forest Hills Central. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ’em i■SX? 1 •t > I 1 I rj. !X ’.• e 1 I? a * I * 1 ») \ V k r < J. ‘••s. t V K I I fe siajs (fp COBSSaC protocsls, B! of littIlli SEJ laljistoaE y® ill®. aVSUifej BCSODiip omij'ziEiiiii to and she is always very patient, but also she is never afraid to give it up for some­ one else or pull it out if she knows it is not the right shot. She has a really high lacrosse IQ, and that helps her. She actually was fighting an injurv Obe frarh.rAH h f t ty, she fractured her foot m basketball this season, she came in late and is really “They don’t tell me, so I don’t choke,” Roe said with a smile. After this senior season, Roe will be looking to score goals with the Davenport University women. Kenna Kenna VanLente VanLente flipped flipped aa little pass up that Roe caught in front of the net, and she fired a point-blank chance by the Zeeland keeper for number 100. “The whole crowd was like ‘whoooo!” Roe said. “Everyone knew but me.” It has been a season full of century-mark milestones so far for the Scots. Roe and senior teammate Megan Bushart recently celebrated their 100th ground balls and CHS junior keeper Alivia Neubauer-Keyes recorded ner her 1lUUth 00th varsity save on Saturday in a loss at Forest Hills Central. “She just has that shot,” coach Venema said of Roe. “She has great placement I :i4 > .r 1 ' -4? F* * ^^ * •♦* K-S ( X > I ♦ freshman Vivian Fink finds a little hole in the middle of the Zeeland defense to get just enough space for a shot during her team’s 16-1 win over the Zeeland girls Monday in Caledonia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Hudson had three goals in the win over Zeeland. Hudson had two assists too. Junior Kenna VanLente had two goals and junior Eden Korb, Bushart, junior Mya Burgess, and freshmen Vivian Fink and Keira Paalman each scored once in the win. Caledonia led the match 12-0 at the half. Zeeland’s lone goal was scored by freshman Audrina Knoper with 8:24 remaining in the fourth quarter moving the Scots’advantage to 14-1 at the time. “They did really well,” Venema said after Monday night’s win. Against Forest Hills Central that first half 1 V'l"' 1 1 V ! n’t I aueci^^ kill I * I I t -r the second half of the loss to the Rangers Saturday and carried their patience and unselfishness into Monday’s lopsided victory. “When we know the skill level of the team we’re play­ ing and we really slow it down so everyone gets a chance,” Roe said of the execution Monday. “We did a really good job, and Ellie Hudson she does a really good job of slowing it down. Our key word is yellow. We slow down when it’s yellow, so it’s perfect.” Senior Catalina Peterson had four goals and the junior ‘ a* 1 c having a strong comeback.” Roe said her her team improved its performance in friS J .1 I *> B- > r J I 4 *i t ✓ Z - I “J IJttI?- I t I k I L 3L. I I A 4 junior season, but hadn’t been keeping watch of her tally this spring. ! r • I J 1 Brett Bremer Sports Editor Coach Kendra Venema knew. She keeps watch over the stats. Team Captains knew. There were celebratory post­ er boards coach couldn’t keep completely hidden. Senior Whitney Graham knew. She had to pass on the message to the press box. “As everyone knows started the Scotland Yard announcer. Well almost everyone. It wasn’t until it came over the P.A. that senior Addie Roe knew. Her goal with 1 min­ ute and 33 seconds remain­ ing in the first half was her 100th as a member of the Caledonia varsity girls’ lacrosse team. She added goal number 101 less than a minute later in a 16-1 Fighting Scot victory over the visiting Zeeland girls. Roe knew the milestone was coming after being informed she was close by coach Kendra Venema at the team banquet following her 1 . J >5 the second we caught it we were shooting it and not taking our time to wait for the good shot and really slowing down our offense. We have a. big team, but we have a lot of freshmen and we have a lot of foreign exchange students, and we can really use that time to catch our breath, process and really just wait for that good pass instead of rushing it.” Caledonia trailed the Forest Hills girls 5-0 at the half Saturday, and that is where the Rangers’ lead stood at the end of the night in a 12-7 win. Last year was NeubauerKeyes’ first full season as a lacrosse goalie. “She just kind of stepped up for us, and out of nowhere became really good at it,” Venema said. “Most goalies don’t achieve (100 saves) in four years, let alone in a year and a half. It is pretty good for her to pick up the game, in net, and hit 100 in' less than two years. “She thinks she could have hit it sooner, but she doesn’t always see a lot of shots because the defense is strong in front of her.” Venema said she still man­ ages to save about half the shots that come her way in most contests. It’s her reaction time and she puts in the work. She was at every single offseason workout, wanting to work with [assistant coach Brandon Duba]. She really this past offseason has had the drive herself to want to get better There have been a number of big wins for the Scots this season, and coach Venema said it was nice to have a match like Monday’s where there is an opportunity to get a lot of different girls on the field. The Scots have had four or five of those chances already this season. The Caledonia girls are now 9-2 overall this season after pulling out a 11-10 win over Grand Rapids Christian at Scotland Yard Wednesday. A seven-goal win at Grandville last week Friday had been the Scots closest winning margin of the season before Wednesday. i I < f I • J I I I 1 ♦ I I I I I J 1 I I * 1 I II I I I r 1 I I I I I i . 1 .1 t I « % I • . A- ’ * k 1 Your local agent insures your '4 I 4^1 sJbs I I A 1 J ft '-i ..I'h « I » T X 4 • i I I WK a 1 • I— . I» 4 f Vj *J I'* *7 * r. I w:* >5 *■ nasjair 1 * f 'J. J I J Si A mJ’ • t FARM BVRFAV INSURANCE* I 7*. J 1 t ♦J I i» I IP, ■k 4• V- r.^» .. k I/IH k ' I 4 J w I k I. 1 Caledonia freshman Keira Paalman gets by Zeeland freshman Audrina Knoper to fire a shot at the net during the Fighting Scots’ win at Scotland Yard Monday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) f t Fighting Scot junior Kenna VanLente (26) leaves her feet and stretches high in the air to prevent Zeeland’s Audrina Knoper from getting a pass ahead during their match at Scotland Yard Monday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) » Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 jparks@tbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com I I 4 » 9 I 1 I �9 Page lOZThe Sun and News, Saturday, May 4, 2024 Caledonia tennis gets its first conference wins of 2024 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Fighting Scots will look to carry some momenturn into the final week of the regular season. The Caledonia varsity girls’ tennis team picked up its first two victories of the OK Red Conference sea­ son to improve to 2-4 in conference duals this sea­ son last week. The conferconclude duals ence Monday when the Scots visit Jenison. The OK Red Conference Tournament is planned for Saturday, May 11, at Grand Haven. A sweep of the five dou bles flights earned the Scots a 5-4 win over East KentAvood Monday, April 29. The Scots won all five of those matches in straight Sets with the fourth and fifth doubles teams holding on late to prevent having to go to a third set. Lilly Hess and Emily Sorstokke at number four outscored the Falcons’ Lina Le and Candela Oros 6-0, 6-3. At fifth doubles, the Scots’ Homrich Anna and Gretchen VanderEide pulled out a 6-2, 6-4 win over the Falcons’ Ashley 1 Quezada-Guerrero and * Markwat outscored the Mallory Bulldogs’ Woodruff and Kayla Buckley 4-6, 6-0, 7-6(4) at first doubles. Fleming and Mertz at second doubles, Sela and Kebe Fitzell at third doubles, Hess and Sorstokke at fourth doubles and the fifth doubles team of Homrich and VanderEide all won in straight sets for Caledonia. in Saturday Last Holland, the Scots were third at a three-team tournament. Hamilton won with 20 points ahead of Holland 16, Caledonia 10 and Black River 2. Abby Duong and Markwat won the first dou­ bles flight. They took a super tiebreaker to beat out the Holland team and the Hamilton team at their flight while adding a default win against Black River. The Scots won one match at each of the other three doubles flights. Kirk at first singles. Audrey Duong at number three and Teunessen at number four won one match each. The Scots also will be home on Tuesday for a non-conference dual in the week ahead against Thomapple Kellogg. Alexa Rodriguez. Abby Duong and Hailey Markwat won 6-1, 6-0 at first doubles for the Scots. Zoe Fleming and Sawyer Mertz took a 6-2, 6-0 win at second doubles. In the third doubles match, the Scots’ Sela Fitzell and Kebe Fitzell won 6-0, 6-2. The Falcons won all four singles flights in straight sets. Sarah Kirk at number one and Audrey Duong at number three had good batties with their Falcon oppoKentwood’s nents. Gracelynn Hall managed a 6-4,7-5 win over Kirk at first singles. Charlene OtuKonadu took the third singles match 6-3, 6-4 over Audrey. The Caledonia girls followed up that dual with a 1-2 win over Grandville Wednesday that included three, threeset victories. This time, the Scots got a pair of singles victories. Kirk picked up her first conference win at first singles outscoring Quinn Block 3-6, 7-6(4), 6-1. Audrey Duong won a three-setter too outscoring Arianna Comstock 4-6, 6-2, 6-1 at number three. Abby Duong and « I Scots rebound from tough ( loss to Byron Center___ _ IZ a** / l< rX L*>' J* • 4 T w .w • u. •h I '■ 1 r «l • 10 i . I .* ♦ 9 * I 7 i *«• f XBWWMM^I J * b I TRW'- ■ 1 ^1. •» •' • J be * l’ w • ♦ Caledonia freshman Lincoln Senti finds an opening to fire a shot for a goal during the second half of his team’s contest with Byron Center at Scotland Yard Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) f* iO^ iji^ 4 .1^ W- I1 * t r w *. . * --.7.^^ >• Sr. 4 - ri r 9 f T X • 1’ er- * 41* & 1 .I A• e *. k 1 ''.t j- * 1 I—• Correction t 6* >9 • . • * .X t ♦ • ♦ .u 9 A » 1 STHTE 1 r - .. SYSTEMS k* I ... .'■r—' lb. - Jfc, A . • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair 9 OOIDOASS Lesonal I ^NFIB OPEN; M thru F; 7:30 am - 5:00 pm ED’S BODY SHOP 110 Johnson Street CAIEOONIA. MICHIGAN 616.891.0150 Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner wwy^dsbody.com Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Fighting Scots didn’t let the Bulldogs get them down. The Caledonia varsity boys’ lacrosse team had a six match winning streak stopped by Byron Center at Scotland Yard Saturday afternoon, but bounced back to start a new streak this week. Caledonia scored a 16-15 overtime win at Hudsonville Tuesday afternoon and fol­ lowed that up with an 18-6 win at West Ottawa Thursday. The Caledonia boys will be home a couple times in the week ahead looking to keep adding Ws. They play host to Zeeland West Monday and Spring Lake Wednesday at Scotland Yard. On their home turf last Saturday, Byron Center outscored the Scots 13-7. The Bulldogs jumped out to a quick 4-0 lead and had their advantage to 7-1 at the half and 7-1 early in the third quarter. Junior Ethan Fischer scored for the Scots with 4:44 to play in the third quarter, off an assist from teammate Jack VanEss to get their team with in 9-3 at the time. It was just 19 seconds later when junior Brady Hilaski found the back of the net with the help of ■7 „„ an assist from hmmett Haan. The Scots near- ly turned the ball over moving into ±e, ofiensive zone, but recovered and some quick ball movement between VanEss, Haan and Hilaski created the opening that cut the Bulldog lead to 9-4. The Scots forced a turnover soon after at midfield with an aggressive forecheck, but couldn’t convert the possession into another goal. Byron 11 Center’s Mason Sarver scored with an assist from Reed Kartes with 2:05 to go in the third and the Scots were never closer than five goals the rest of the way. Lincoln Senti scored a goal that had the Scots within 10-5 in the closing seconds of the fourth quarter. Fisher tallied two goals in the fourth quarter for the Scots. i I S' ‘4 r•♦ I? 9* J V ? -f. . k 1. . VS ' A -j- w LY •• d ) K' I '' 't. I ZJ’ •r s XO! .T •Hi ‘ 5 ‘ja* 3^, ‘C? r* •A ’Ad I a 4 iC •n-." 94 I '•^Scot^ a < * . ?> r Lk 9 '* I •w •4 V -r» ffi I (« ’A mu.. • M a I !Si ■44, ir«: : p ‘V; 4 * rd: '4 » «' I Ik * 4 ft* •* I 1 -At 4 1 c 1 4, Lt 1^"' d z XJ I f. fl 4^ I a «I I ‘*7 V." TSl'fur-’-a* •st. I v» I i' k a to X »* . I A r I V.f A I :y 'ii s V.-; % JI 4 SA?/ — •< LC T r—, 3^. J I ♦ r' f . « r- .-I V 4 , 4' <« 4 ■ * . ■. I el L.i S' ■'..r ft i.**' rt: » J Caledonia senior Blake Herron fires a pass across the midfield during his team’s loss to visiting Byron Center at Scotland Yard Satunjay afternoon. (Photo bv by Brett Rremar^ Bremer) » I 4 I' l'-' ?' 9 • J .'J At the opening of the spring season, the Caledonia varsity softball season preview • • • Story listed four OK Red Conference teams that won district championships in 2024. That list should have included Jenison > Rockford, Grand Haven and East Kentwood • I The Fighting Scots’ Crew Paalman protects the ball as he takes a check from Byron Center’s Connor Ferguson during their match at Scotland Yard Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 4 saii I ■^•7' I iu. ■ 4 V : * '*__ h. s 4 4 < Ik u s <1 �The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4, 2024/ Page 11 TK ladies get through league regular season undefeated Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ soccer team wrapped up an undefeated OK Gold Conference regu­ lar season and will head into the conference tournament as the top seed thanks to two more wins this week. The Trojans were 6-0-1 during the conference sea son this spring, wi± the lone blemish their 1-1 draw at Sou± Christian last month. The TK ladies took a 2-1 win over the Forest Hills Eastern girls in Middleville Monday and followed that up with an 8-0 victory at Kenowa Hills Wednesday evening u n TK co-he^ wach Ben w T ?u • ladies all season, and only the David Wood and their girls second niav. second in in conference conference play. w I 4* •T ? 80^ “"ter a, knew that Forest Hills Eastern was going to be the last tough test of the confer­ ence regular season, and he said the Hawks provided that and more. Tealy Cross tapped in a free kick from teammate Emma Schut at the back post to put the TK ladies in „ , rront 2-1 over the Hawks late. A Schut free kick found the net from a ways out to give TK the first goal of the contest, but the Hawks soon found the equalizer with what coach Sleeman described as a nicely worked run of play that go in behind our defense.” 'n. ^.TheFHEgoalwasjustthe The FHE goal was just the third allowed by the TK ft r Scot bats hot as they take two from Rockford softball team Coach Sleeman said he is hoping that a break this weekend will give his girls a chance to heal up for a strong push in the confer­ ence tournament and then on into the state postsea­ son. The Trojans weren’t too strained Wednesday as they closed out the season at Kenowa Hills. Cross scored four goals and Velting and Schut had two apiece. Paige Abshagen, Megan Shuurmans, Charlie Manrose, Cross, Velting and Schut all had assists in the win over the Knights. Plans aren’t set in stone Sleeman said he expects his girls will host Kenowa Hills in the opening the conference tournament May 10. Brett Bremer Peyton Brenner added a 2-for-2 performance. She had a single, a double, three RBIs and two runs scored. Mackenzie DeVries, Marisa Rohn, Claire Hoop and Keira Sundstrom all added hits in the win. Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity softball team evened its OK Red Conference record with a sweep of its conference doubleheader with Rockford Tuesday, but fell to 5-6 in the conference Jaz Dana started in the with a loss at Hudsonville circle for the Scots and got Thursday afternoon. the win. She struck out six The Scots took game one and walked four in 5 1/3 against the visiting innings. She allowed three Rockford Rams 10-7 runs, only one earned, on Tuesday, building an 8-1 five hits. lead through four innings Aliya Hemden threw 1 and holding on for the win. 2/3 innings of relief for the Catcher Malia Burke had Scots. a huge game at the plate. In game two, the going 4-for-4 with three Caledonia girls jumped out doubles. The Scots had 12 to a 4-0 lead with four runs hits as a team. In the lead­ in the bottom of the third off spot, center fielder Addy and then closed out a 5-2 Lash was 2-for-4 with a win. They added 12 more double, a triple and two hits in game two - all of RBIs. She scored one run. them singles. Kala . i Bisterfeldt was 3-for-4 to lead the Scot attack. She drove in three runs and scored one. Molly Lieske, Devries and Brenner had two hits each. Lieske and Burke both had one RBI. Lieske went the distance in the circle. She struck out three, walked one and gave up seven hits. Hudsonville shut out the Caledonia girls at the home of the Eagles Thursday, 11-0. A single by Lash was the only hit off of Eagle pitcher Ellyson Koopman. The Caledonia girls head to East Kentwood for a doubleheader Tuesday afternoon and then will be home for one with Grandville Thursday this week. The Scots host their own Caledonia Invitational next Saturday, May 11. * Scots beat Jenison, play top-ranked Eagles tough I I 4 r. * T > I * •1 r, a *. a. 1 f I r 'j ■ '4' tr* < L » 4» . V I I ' ik J . . I . <I LU 1' I .At«i ' ' I- t" ■i/ V '*r r 4• < 4* l'« •* Ie 1. •a *• I t I I A1 r r-: * J b * • *v.j *9 * ■ * *"1 L I •I '•^1 .y I \ 4 I \ • 1 1 ’''a^acheckfm I « LA '«k /♦ .1'. Satufday ■■ s'l - t 1 Ml h - ■ A ♦ - .1 •. .’f. ’e r 9 * .T I * f * I' I <J V 9* • ■4. r V c. s • *R*. 4* * i*\ A JW V. I • • IR s‘fata ml > 1 4r J DM tab I.. . 'cr •Afc«- J /- .ts k* * 4 I. ZA Lr 0* ^4 2® to JO in fe ‘I. *x -M V :.s»••• * Ik dtheScrtswiwtr ’ tfflfejoalite • • .9 L'V". ft' • .J?" 4-. iMstoslijgl . ’I i- • ••:«3 •w r ;• .a I sl - I 11 I . C'\’ ■ nb/ v: 'AV^ I S s I I I I *4* I* 5 / MSfflliift i J r» '• - i i^-5ti * 0, ';L*1' k-- iiWpftff h I > f I * ,4'. £ 5 .‘•F» ’M'-WJ w . '. < •J 4 ‘4 * T f ras I »• ?! 'Is til 4 i tkl- -4 3» f f * t I J* V’ ’ * & «• R <1' i* I I A. ■ ;u5J »' 'Z'' *V t rV-* ■ V • I k wt W»| -•457 4.r / 2^ * jIh Ji - % i/™-''' i«r .*s I -t I I t s •« ' If I It I* . . fw. ' .1' I h sf I -I , 's * • t » ' 1 I < s L*’* • .V 4'’ IV. ■f*' -5 JC'. I .> {b . ■—T" .Tany X* * ' (- i-is.' r V A *» I. * * s isrtaftrfl W 7'-“/Li V 4 I V •V I*. A r. 9 * I r to*' I,' / r, •FT* rtu * >« k- 0- I cs Fighting Scot freshman forward Averi Posted (22) tries to get around Hudsonville senior Sofia Delink (5) and push up the field with the ball Thursday at Scotland Yard. (Photo by Perry Hardin) o . '"*21 % • z ■. rS; t ■ fi t > r iiai > I issac^ 6^ I-. The Caledonia varsity girls’soccer team moved to 3-2-1 in the OK Red Conference this season with a split in conference action this week. The Fighting Scots took a 1-0 win over visiting West Ottawa Tuesday, but fell 2-0 to Hudsonville Thursday night back at Scotland Yard. The Eagles are the top ranked team in the state in Division 1. • The Eagles got their first goal on a set piece in the middle of the first half. Ashley Johnson finished off a scramble in front of the Scot net to put the Eagles up 1-0 Thursday. One header from the Eagles got just beyond the reach of Scot keeper Davanee Balczak and clanged off the cross bar across the goal mouth where Johnson was waiting to put her head on the ball and knock it into the net. after, Adelyn Soon Raad made it a 2-0 Hudsonville with an unbelievable shot from the right sideline, a little more -than 15 yards out from the end line, which she drilled just inside the far post. the and Balczak Caledonia defense were up to the task the rest of the night, a night where they were tested repeatedly. The 4-0-1 Hudsonville girls head into the week- l' p k I V > .*> - ”X- . 7-r^ ir * I •J/ I P '4 <> > [ t ) 9 .. 1 T*. V3 • 7 i * X 1r I 9 • * 1*1 •» -4 • ft »1/ % .k I iT Caledonia junior forward Ellery Lienesch (11) set­ tles a throw-in in front of Hudsonville sophomore Lauren Moylan (7) Thursday at Scotland Yard. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Fighting Scot midfielder Lily Gortmaker (15) drib bles upfield and is cut off by Hudsonville’s Kendall Aikens during the first half at Scotland Yard Thursday. (Photo by Perry Hardin) end as one of two teams in the OK Red yet to suffer a conference defeat. Rockford is currently 3-03. The 14th-ranked Rams and the top-ranked Eagles played to a scoreless draw in their conference regu- Thursday, May 9. The Caledonia girls are lar season match-up. Neither team has lost this season. The Fighting Scots will play host to the Rockford girls Tuesday. The OK Red Conference Tournament is scheduled to being * jS E I fl 4 ir 'r 4 4 >< * f r. I tJ A * »_ £ A '' r M' 1 ft ■y^r. • Gift Certificates^ for Mom! • r^ew Fabrics a * & post 528 •4 I Friday, May 10 -rt At.' 5:00-7:30 p.m. II '.k ; < "S I '-ft' ( puW'C Welcor!'® «< ft ’'t .s ALTO AMERICAN LEGION now 5-3-2 overall on the season. 4 PORK STEAK DINNER ■t? % (goeCclives wiscfom 'u* QUESTIONS: ASK US... Potato, veggie and roll « J 4 218 E. state St.. Hastings • 945-9673 No Sunday Breakfast OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm ma *A *'S- 6056 LINFIELD, ALTO, MICHIGAN • 868-6490 Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station B ■-^.V ' 4 Vo? 0(1. < I 4 U< " • 1 » I * 1 �Page 12/Tbe Sun and News, Saturday, May 4, 2024 row TK makes it two league sweeps in Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ baseball team is in the midst of an eight-game winning streak. The run includes a threegame sweep of the Trojans’ OK Gold Conference set with Wayland last week, a sweep of a wooden bat doubleheader with visiting in Kellogg Delton Middleville Saturday, and three more wins over Ottawa Hills in this week’s OK Gold Conference series. “Thi.s has been a really fun string of wins,” TK head coach Nick Iveson said. “To get all three games against Wayland was big. They had won their series against Catholic Central and Cedar Springs before we met, so that was really cool to see our guys battle and work hard for the sweep. ''’We have been driving home this year that we want to be a process driven team and not an outcome driven team, so we know whether we win or lose there are pos­ itive things that we can pick out, but there will always be things that can be improved upon,” he added. “We have some tough series ahead of us to close out the season with South Christian, Forest Hills Eastern and Kenowa Hills, so 1 am looking forward to our guys compel ing.” The TK boys are 7-5 so far in the OK Gold this spring. They got to South Christian ft for a doubleheader Tuesday and then host the Sailors Thursday in the week ahead. “Jacob Davis on the mound has been great for us. He stays relaxed regardless of the situation and is really developing into a complete pitcher. “The bats woke up for us during our series with Catholic Central and it was good to see them take that momentum into last week and this week. Our juniors have taken some big leaps in development in the batters box and are starting to look more and more comfortable. That group brings a lot of energy and it has been really fun to coach them.” With wooden bats outside the conference Saturday in Middleville, it was a bottom of the sixth rally Saturday morning in game one against Delton Kellogg that kept TK’s win streak alive. The Panthers held a 10-7 lead . needing six more outs, but TK struck for nine runs and went on to a 16-10 win. TK had 19 hits in the opener. Brody Wiersma and Logan Snelling both tripled once and Snelling and Maddix Ferden both . had doubles. Wiersma, Snelling, Spencer Ybema and Anson Verlinde had three hits each. Ybema had a team-high four RBIs. Verlinde and Snelling had two RBIs each. Ferden, Koster, Abraham Ben Figuereo-Reyes and Connor Dombkowski had one RBI each. £ I , { 4 'J * 4 s 9 k x- 1 A Ll (■ >> 1 lA.: ft r * 1 I w ft f S' 1 * [ 5 ** J/ 4 ■ 9 r* y A. V• 4 s* •?r k •.V T *• c lirA .. I •A L ?• •’♦ VW r I H-'yw «, 1 1 MV ..k kA. .• « : .T J £ **> F <1 ..H* f * ■ Fft/- Ik* 1^? CS^Kft * .<3 rft Thornapple Kellogg’s Connor Dombkowski goes down low to pull an RBI single into left field during the bottom of the sixth inning of game one against Delton Kellogg in Middleville Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Dombkowski got the win in relief. He threw 4 2/3 innings in which he allowed just two unearned runs. He F struck out four, walked one and allowed five hits. The Trojans started tak­ ing care of business early in game two with an 11 -run outburst in the bottom of the second en route to an 18-11 victory over the ▲ Panthers. Thomapple Kellogg had A 12 hits in the game two win iw ■t■ ft over the Delton Kellogg 1' boys. Ferden helped power J the attack going 3-for-4 with ft two doubles and a triple. He R drove in four runs and scored 1 twice. Wiersma and Snelling had L two hits each. Wiersma singled twice. He had two RBIs I and a run scored. Snelling J had a single, a triple and a jA run scored. r ' Chad Stopher belted a grand slam in the Panthers’ Thornapple Kellogg’s Maddix Ferden trots home to score a run against Delton eight-run outburst in the fifth Kellogg during the Trojans’ game one win over the visiting Panthers Saturday inning of game two that cut a morning. (Photo by Brett Bremer) TK lead down from 16-3 to 16-11. was the second Saturday the scored. He had one of four Moreman had two hits and Despite the two defeats, Panthers have spent in TK doubles. Snelling, two RBIs each. Dombkowski Delton Kellogg head coach Middleville this season. Ybema and Bradley also drove in two runs. Brian Risner was pretty “Every time we have proud of his guys. played them, TK has shown “Even though we lost, us amazing respect and there were several bright sportsmanship,” Risner said. spots for the Panthers,” “I feel privileged to share the Risner said. diamond with them.” ' ' ' .^a Collin Muskovin had a tri­ The Trojans took 15-1 and ple, a single and drove in 23-1 wins over Ottawa Hills three runs in the doublehead­ in Middleville Tuesday after­ er for DK. Logan Kyser had noon. Wiersma had a huge two hits in game two. Beau game two at the plate. He Spooner was pulled up to the went 4-for-4 with four RBIs varsity Friday and threw 4 and four runs scored. ft I 1/3 solid innings in game Back at it with the Bengals two allowing five runs, but in Grand Raids Thursday, only one earned, on four hits TK scored an 18-0 win. and a walk. He struck out Snelling shut out the Bengals two. in the five-inning game. He The DK head coach also struck out 13 and allowed I .jtMB expressed his fondness for just two hits. * r the TK coaches and parents Wiersma was 5-for-5 with * following the ballgames. It six RBIs and four runs i t 4 f f 4 5 A 4 7<' * -p r( A 4 >ne igftii irwfti 11—Im ■ —t. I r i 1^’ ie?’3» I ' Mt ft « J ft A t x> its'leffliii opened 11 £ : T J ■?U - IIIHI _, *1* I ’i f A d iiwinivc O fifl 113 tana ® la I < 216326 * % ft OtfOftOOVftMoftftf •V m wt nft NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MONDAY, MAY 20, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. Please be advised the Thornapple Township Plan­ ning Commission will hold public hearings on May 20, at 7pm or as soon thereafter as possible. The public hearings will take place in the Town­ ship Hall, 200 E. Main St., Middleville. 41 9 Ji 1 <« ft k i i4ft w • •i •!’ ■ .4^ .Aft. - ft* Bl IS 5* " st)' « 3 DI pilcker s Hotat ia, Jui Ste .’dm tie itiniil pich HiH'OIDHP Roodtoets '»i>iih'oRBE 4 1 II ’«l tylee Ho AB The public hearings will address the following: 1) Special Use #168 - Applicants Richard & Cheryl Robrahn are wishing to install an accessory building within the front yard setback of their residence at 7600 Irving Rd, Middleville, Ml (parcel 08-14-007* 001-55) per Thornapple Township Zoning Ordi­ nance 21.3. c >5* <• « ^noJtmaiy -L ■ 1^^. IS i e Any interested person may attend the public hearings to learn about the extent and location of Special Use requests to offer comments to the Planning Com­ mission. A copy of the application noted above may be examined in the Township offices at the address noted above during regular business hours. Monday - Thursday 9am- 4pm / I Mttl I s, I "5} kbi k • ! >• S’ JI 19 Written comments regarding these applications may be addressed to: Secretary Sandy Rairigh, Thornapple Township Planning Commission, RO. Box 459, Middleville, Ml 49333, or submitted via email to: zoning-administrator@thornapple-twp.org I. » Mil 'F I f ■ '* 1 jL.V’tiAU- •r t jv r-. .1 _L_ •1^*^ I 3M «- •4 K -J C_ 4* CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes ?i u ft ' t.1 I Sk\. < «» ««r: 4 I I z* Americans with Disabilities Notice Persons with special access needs should contact the Township Clerk at 269-795-7202 no less than 72 hours before the hearings. » r Cindy Ordway, Thornapple Township Cler KT <ir h V J '4 Sv k ■ .—I. - ■ i j ft I ,A Sj ■ ♦ft * k'’. ** 173, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting which were approved on May , 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at www.caledoniatownship.org. Dominic McDonald pitches for the Trojans during game one of their wooden bat doubleheader against Delton Kellogg in Middleville Saturday. (Photo bv Brett Bremer) ic ,X'' I - -•djJs., '*• �A M The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4,2024/ Page 13 ■ top Delton to get into tournament finale '^9*3 li^ri w * <*• T «A Bl b* -1 t IctM 9 . jp e 5 flft •IS * r» * !?» I ** ifl B I ■:i ;:« J r » J J / *-< J ije^ if '« r ’T^a i nr r ‘> 4 1 **w:i i*?* 5 13 1 i s' *r' J f •’^ J X L r II "I A ... ... -t CiK.- A i * J « s' **• 1 ► I * -•tf J •A* I V k4 1^ 4 V « i a.- \w ft • ^-t?* ^>s>;a ■ 1 *• W > S' •«. .4 »»«»< •I : • I • £ 1 **4 A «% flft— * /’ I •*A i/41? s >1'. X'^ 1 r« Ik V < J .:?l Ji7 K J 1.‘ ll •.V ♦ w aa 1 IT"" ^M9 •»u* M jf . ‘H T j •S" Bm* ».o’ * m; • M‘ •*_F •>r.' ■ ;*-HI ♦ .<ia'- kz sJ 'Xh 5e* V 4 ”•5 — I'TiSl tl>-> I ■?2. — WK"* ' ‘J « * 2WM / b ** 4 'It' u»» ^7T-I a • ■Pf: a* iSifSj •* n- * ir I A * . .■ TJm -a* » A-'. _J** *•» ** e» ** *v> 'A .-W <• • . - s. A. > • **< •3 -• ry .. ft 4i.' Kt V*’ ‘ A yt> < >• •• * I* Sv. ♦ •'*x The Trojans visit South two ballgames Tuesday in the week ahead and then next Saturday will be a part of the Elk Rapids Invitational. Shelby Robinett pitches for the Thornapple Kellogg Saturday morning in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ’ < 1 <3 i s * 1 V r I nagaii^h nthers Saturtiy ud Wfltsii dWH qM sdi^ [aga^ tiota*’' Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity softball team picked up its first win since April 11 by outscoring Delton Kellogg 8-6 in the opening game of the TK Invitational in Middleville Saturday morn­ ing. The lead swung back and forth until TK put together a three-run inning in the bot­ tom of the fifth inning. The Trojans opened the inning with consecutive singles from Adelaide Holderman, Kenzie Bouma and Emily Stevens. A throwing error by the DK pitcher brought home Holderman and Bouma, and Stevens fol­ lowed across the plate thanks to a wild pitch. Bouma was 3-for-4 in the win with two runs scored. Brittney Roodvoets was 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a run scored. Kylee Hoebeke and Shelby Robinett had two hits apiece too. Robinett drove in two runs. Emma Reil had an RBI hit for the Trojans too. Jenna Robinett also had a hit for TK. Shelby Robinett got the win in the circle. She struck out 14 and walked three while allowing 11 hits. Only three of the six runs against her were earned as the Panthers had some throwing troubles throughout the con­ test that led to three unearned runs for TK. Delton Kellogg pitcher Lizzie Stonebumer threw six innings allowing five earned runs on 12 hits. She struck out two and didn’t walk any­ one. Maysse Wiessner, Laana Hooker, Alli Brandli, Abby Wooden and Olivia Post had two hits apiece for Delton Kellogg. Wiessner had a pair of doubles and Post tripled. Brandli had a single and a double for her two hits. Post had two RBIs and Hooker and Stonebumer had one RBI each. Hopkins defeated Covenant Christian on the JV field while the TK girls were besting Delton Kellogg, and the Vikings finished the day by outscoring the Trojans 16-4 in the tournament championship game. Jenna Robinett was 2-for3 with a double, a run and an RBI in the loss. Shelby Robinett was 2-for-3 at the plate with a run and an RBI. TK also got hits from Hoebeke, Bouma, Chloe Bosssenberger and Emalyn Cartwright. The Covenant Christian girls took down Delton Kellogg 18-7 in the day’s consolation final. The TK ladies took a pair of OK Gold Conference for­ feits Tuesday against Ottawa Hills and then returned to action Thursday with a pair at the home of conference foe Cedar Springs. The Red Hawks outscored the TK ladies 10-0 and 7-1 in the two ballgames. ae~ 4>*»‘ « * * r-C* z 4 f •?' A \ c -^Z. 4.* JT >♦ 1:; !• V < ? 1 4 A f A B/.l ♦ I <* I t >1 *< 9 -1 /*••> ft « 11 1 r. I ) > 1 fth. I I - 'J- i *1 r t I *t K t ' ■ f < ( *» t ft * I vr. <3 ; % * s t ip ( 5< U t ‘ &X1 'U- > r.'ft ft i - A I y 7 :i ft aA^ .< 1 r--' <■’1 ;l i 5*' J, 'j £■< /j K* } .4 V J ri • • y js •-V >3 .5 * . 1^9 •-..44 ?T- iTU I* p r kX ' >' 4 ■ i xi-'.-l*’ r* * «u < 1^ .’fc w 1* -A’: - >P .« .1 ur. <? r^. • u s -t T * «> 4 > I 1 I j -dW* w V I •««* 4 4* -iC » -9 < *' * ■**- '<• * ** *« <• •' *** w ■* *«• ' f * 7. V •. 1'r' Thornapple Kellogg’s Kylee Hoebeke drives the ball to the left side during the bottom of the fourth inning of her team’s win over visiting Delton Kellogg at the TK Invitational Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) * «.«a 4 ' rt VF T - , ft > / • /- ft'. a • 4w 1 0 . A. I r. i-*i > ’ 9 ♦* 1*. ■ ;.k. ?* V—* ,Kr. k Thornapple Kellogg’s Emily Stevens hustles to third base during the Trojans’ go-ahead rally in the bottom of the fifth inning against Delton Kellogg Saturday morning in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 216324 GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission wili hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to build a 3,200 square foot accessory building in the Residential-10 zone for vehicle and lawn maintenance storage. Property Address: 1470 68th Street SE, Grand Rapids, Ml 49508 Parcel Number: 41-22-08-226-013 Applicant: Chad Schaap, Homeowner Date and Time of Hearing: May 23rd, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: > . •-*:-■** * i >Wi^ Thornapple Kellogg second baseman Brittney Roodvoets fires to first for an out during her team’s win over Delton Kellogg in the opening game of the TK Invitational Saturday morning in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) % - ****» ^-- 4^ •r:^ I-. * •• r EX Ml * « ft V t oB* w * •*-» ’**.1 -I . -A V • F > •." .- A. * >^1 /< 7<* « A > aw I - -I r 1- Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on May 23rd, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. PUBLIC NOTICE GAINES CHARTER TOWN­ SHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS April 08, 2024 The Gaines Charter Township Board held a regular meeting on Monday, April 08, 2024 and took the following actions. 1. Appointed a temporary meeting chair. 2. Reviewed the Consent Agenda. 3. Approved the Meeting Agenda 4. Approved the Consent Agenda 5. Approved Rezoning of 7610 Division Avenue SE from Heavy Industrial to Neighbor­ hood Commercial with the Plan­ ning Commission recommenda­ tions 6. Approved the Hoffman Meadows Phase 11 Preliminary Plat Approval with conditions in the staff report 7. Postponed definitely discussion on the project to Octo­ ber 2024 including budgeting in the 2025 budget, developing educational materials, and com­ municating to the community of research being done. 8. Granted the request for a temporary fireworks stand with conditions outlined in the staff request 9. Granted the cemetery or- dinance exemption for a bench with condition that the monument company work with the sexton to install appropriate base 10. Approved the purchase of the Walter’s Equipment mower for $7,903.46 for the Dutton Fire Department 11. Set a public hearing for May 13, 2024 for Thornapple Farms Street Light Special As­ sessment District 12. Approved the Water and Sewer Development Contract for Prairie Wolf Station. 13. Increased the Township Manager’s salary by $5,000 ret­ roactive to February 27, 2024, to extend his contract by one year to February 27, 2026, and to ap­ prove the expenditure for Birkman Assessment coaching 19. Adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 8:37 pm A complete copy of the min­ utes of these meetings and any resolutions or ordinances adopt­ ed at the meeting are on file and available for review at the Gaines Charter Township office, 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledo­ nia, Michigan 49316. Ordinanc­ es, meeting schedules, meeting minutes, and other Township information are also available at www.gainestQwnship.org, Michael Brew Gaines Charter Township Clerk t e 4 J « « 9 * �I t Page 14/Tbe Sun and News, Saturday, May 4,2024 ■ CHS track teams both win pair of conference duals Brett Bremer Sports Editor An 11-year-old record fell as Caledonia senior Owen Hager raced to a time of 39.88 seconds in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles Monday. His victoiy inside Ralph E. Myers Stadium Monday was the biggest of many highlights for the Caledonia varsity boys’ and girls’ track and field teams as they both took victories over Grandville and Jenison in OK Red Conference duals this week. boys Caledonia The improved to 3-2 in conference duals with their win in Jenison Thursday and their home vic­ tory over the Grandville Bulldogs Thursday. The CHS girls moved to 2-3 with their two wins this week. The Caledonia boys outscored Grandville 108-29 and the Caledonia girls took a 98-39 win over the Bulldogs. Hager finished 35 hundredths of a second ahead of Grandville senior Cashis Ruff in his record-setting 300 hur­ dles race. Ruff set his own PR in the race at 40.23. Caledonia sophomore Jonas Howell was third an impressive PR of his own - 42.98 seconds. The Caledonia boys also swept the three scoring spots in the 400-meter dash, the 1600-meter run, the 3200meter run and the pole vault. Sophomore Eli Velting and senior Micah Nagel both ran PRs to go 1-2 in the 1600meter run. Velting hit the fin­ ish line in 4 minutes 39.13 seconds. Nagel came in at 4:41.85. Junior teammate Kort Thompson was third in that race. In the 3200-meter run, Moss, junior Ethan Buer and junior Mason Morrell went 1-2-3. The sweep of the 400meter run was led by freshman Aaron Collins’ time of 51.86. Junior Joshua Maier set his PR at 52.96 in a runner-up finish and senior teammate Lual Abiel was third. Benjamin Moss, David Potgeter and Daniel Swartz went 1-2-3 in the pole vault with Moss clearing 11-6 to finish at the top. CHS senior sprinter Dhan us Walker set his PR at 23.28 to win the 200-meter dash and senior Ayden Duffin ran his fastest time of the season to win the 800-meter run in 2:03.03. Hager was also the 1 IO­ meter high hurdle champ with a time of 15.06. In the field, Caledonia senior Ian Fedewa took the discus at 148-5 and the shot put at 48-10. Senior Jordan Gutierrez wont he high jump at 6-0 and the long jump at 20-9.5. Caledonia teams won the the 4x 100-meter relay, 4x400-meter relay and the 4x800-meter relay. The Caledonia girls matched the Caledonia boys’ sweep of the pole vault with seniors Molly Winger and Summer Kopec both clearing 7-0 and freshman Arma Scots slip back to seventh at a couple Red jamborees Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ golf team had a pair of sev* enth-place finishes at OK Red Conference jamborees this week. The Scots were seventh at the conference meet-up hosted by Grand Haven Tuesday at American Dunes Golf Course and on their home course at Broadmoor Golf Club Monday. Rockford beat out Grandville and Grand Haven for the top spot Tuesday at American Dunes. The Rams put up a score of 159 ahead of Grandville 161, Grand Haven 162, West Ottawa 171, Hudsonville 172, East Kentwood 172, Caledonia 176 and West Ottawa 178. Senior Emerson Lippert and sophomore Camden Quigley led the Fighting Scots with 43 s. Juniors Lukas Keson and Mason Kem both shot 45s. East Kentwood senior Dario Bonazzi was the day’s individual champ with a 36. The Rams had a little more breathing room on the field at Broadmoor Monday. Rockford won that jamboree with a score of 154. Grand Haven was second with a 159 ahead of Hudsonville 160, Jenison 161, West Ottawa 161, Grandville 166, Caledonia 173 and East Kentwood 174. Quigley was at the top of the Scot leaderboard again with a 42. Kem and junior Parker Little both shot 43s. The Scots’ fourth score was a 45 from sophomore DJ Robinson. Spicuzza shot a 35 to take the top individual honors on the day. VanderWal getting over at 6-6 to go 1 -2-3 in the event In the throws, CHS senior Kiersten DeHaan won the dis­ cus at 104-2 and senior team­ mate Allie Perna took the shot put at 29-5. Caledonia girls’ teams took and 4x200-meter the 4x100-meter relay races, and the sprinters did well individu­ ally too. Senior Brooke Heyboer wont he 100-meter dash for the Scots in 13.28 and senior Audrey Howell won the 200-meter dash in 27.72. The Caledonia girls scored a sweep in the 400-meter dash too. Junior Avalynn Klapmust won that race in 1:05.68 with freshmen teammates Isla Sheely and Evelyn Huttenga second and third respectively. Caledonia senior Alyssa DeFields ran her fastest 800meter race ever to win in 2:30.57 and her fastest 3200meter ever to win in 11:52.96. Scot freshman Olivia Hawkins took the 100-meter hurdles in 17.03 and the 300* 4x200-meter relay. Winger had the Caledonia girls’ lone win in the field with a height of 10-6 in the pole vault Caledonia’s boys took the 4x 100-meter, 4x200-ineter and 4x400-meter relay races in their dual with the Wildcats. Fedewa won the discus and shot put again and Gutierrez took the long jump and the high jump. Caledonia piled up points in the hurdles in the boys’ meet with Hager winning both races. Brecken Byrd and Dalton Ed went 2-3 in the 11 Os and Ed and sophomore Jonas Howell were 2-3 in the 300 hurdles. Jenison didn’t have a guys score better than third in any of the individual races imder 1600 meters. Walker won the 100-meter dash, sophomore Shaden Tomas took the 200meter dash, Collins won the 400-meter dash and Velting won the 800-meter run for CHS. meter low hurdles in 51.91. Things were a bit more competitive overall Thursday at Jenison with the Caledonia boys scoring a 96-41 win and the CHS girls pulling out a 73-64 victory. The CHS girls piled up points in the sprints with Heyboer leading a sweep in the lOO-meter dash for the CHS girls and Howell leading a 1-2 finish in the 200. Senior Kloe Kimbrell won the 800meter run for the Scots and DeFields led a sweep of the top three scoring places in the 1600-meter run for her team. Hawkins swept the top spot in the hurdles again. She set her PR in the 100-meter hur­ dles at 16.72 seconds, leading a sweep of that race with Howell and junior teammate Emmi Mince second and third in their best times of the sea­ son. Hawkins took the 300 hurdles in 52.37 with Mince second in a PR in that race too. Caledonia girls won the 4x100-meter relay and the V f’*' I I I I I J I TK girls finish undefeated season of Gold track duals Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field team finished off an unde­ feated season of OK Gold Conference duals with wins over Cedar Springs and South Christian in Middleville Thursday. The TK ladies outscored South Christian 103-34 on the day and took a 102-35 win over the Cedar Springs girls to get to 7-0 in the con­ ference. The OK Gold Conference Championship meet is Friday, May 10, at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids. The TK boys spilt their two conference duals. The Trojans beat South Christian 96-41, but fell to Cedar Springs 87-50. GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP Wins came in 12 of the 17 events for the TK ladies. Junior Emma Dykhouse led a sweep of the top three spots in the 100-meter dash for TK with a time of 14.03. Senior Mali Holland took the rurtner-up points and Sydney Martin ran her fast­ est 100 yet to place third. Holland and Dykhouse teamed up with junior Lydia Schilthroat and senior Eva Corson to win the 4x100-meter relay in 53.51 seconds. Holland, Corson, senior Sophia Marcukaitis and sophomore Madison Kietzman combined to win the 4x200-meter relay for the TK girls in 1 minute 53.88 seconds. Corson was the 200meter dash champion too with a time of 27.88. i 216325 cleared 4-10 to place second in that event. Hilton, Marcukaitis, freshman Ellie Harmon and senior Kendra Coe closed out the meet for TK winning the 4x400-meter relay in 4:16.50. Kietzman, Coe, Ellie Harmon and Crews won the 4x800-meter relay in 10:21.19. Dykhouse wasn’t only one of the Trojans’ most sue cessful sprinters, she also set her PR in the shot put at 34 feet 3.5 inches to win that event and was second in the long jump with a personal record leap of 15-10.75. Cedar Springs senior Taylor Diemond won the pole vault at 10-6, but two TK girls, freshman Lydia I I .y r 1 ■ J U sr * 1 lU { % See OK GOLD, next page GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: TK jimior Ava Crews won the 1600-meter run in 5:32.20 and the 800-meter run in 2:26.69. She was the rurmer-up to the Sailors’ senior Ellia Agar in the 3200-meter run with Agar racing to a new PR of 11:44.87. Junior Brooklyn Harmon won the two hurdles races for the TK ladies. She fin­ ished the 100-meter hurdles in 15.67 seconds and the 300-meter intermediate hur­ dles in 47.04. That was Harmon’s fastest 300 hur­ dles race of the season and sophomore teammate Mia Hilton was second with her best 300 hurdles time ever at 48.12. Harmon also won the high jump with a PR of 4 feet 10 inches. Corson *f 216323 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING I The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: 1 Summary of Request: Alexander Trails PUD requests approval for a residential development including 404 units of single-family homes and condominium units. Property Address: Parcel Number: Applicant: 2451 & 2701 76th Street SE; 7110 Terra Cotta Avenue SE 41-22-10-300-019 & -009; 41-22-10-151-003 Michael McGraw, Eastbrook Homes Date and Time of Hearing: May 23rd, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this .1^ • ----------- request, contact Dan Wells at (616) _ To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on May 23rd, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should __ contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance^ Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to build a 2,048 square foot accessory building in the Residential-14 zone for personal storage. Property Address: 7376 & 7382 Hanna Lake Avenue, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Number: 41-22-11-301-003, 41-22-11-301-011 (to be combined) Applicant: Rex Kogler, Homeowner Date and Time of Hearing: May 23rd, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request rnay be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this QRn.fiiaa A „ ■ ------- request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written com­ ments must be received by 5:00 PM on May 23rd. 2024, $ Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. 0 I PVI I �I f r I I Ilk p j Brett Bremer the set with a 9-4 win in Sports Editor Rockford Thursday. I The Caledonia varsity The Fighting Scots had a baseball team slipped to 3-0 lead midway through 2-10 in the OK Red the third inning, but the Conference this spring as Rams evened thiiigs up with Rockford swept its confer- three ‘ runs in the home half ence set with the Fighting of the third Thursday and Scots this week. then added two runs in the The Rams took two in fifth and four more in the Caledonia Tuesday after- sixth to take control of the noon and then finished off ballgame. Tommy Clarey had a big night at the plate for the Scots in a losing effort. He was 4-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored. The Scots had just two other hits in the game, singles by Corbin o , Mer and Nick Slater, Raffler had an RBI. Jacob Stoczynski went the first 4 1/3 on the mound. He struck out four, walked four and gave up just two hits. He was hit for five runs, but only two of them were earned. He did take the loss. The Rams earned 16-3 and 6-3 wins Tuesday in Caledonia. _ . , . Caledonia had an early lead in game two too, taking a 3-1 edge with a run in the bottom of the third. The I I Rams broke through for two A runs m the top of the fifth \ \\ and then added three in the top of Ae sixth. Again, the Rams were helped by three unearned runs. Cam Myers took the loss. He gave up ten hits in 5 Mi# 2/3 innings while striking - 35 2 out two. He didn’t walk a batter and only three of the ■isix runs against him were Fighting Scot Henry Simon steals second base earned. during game two of his team’s doubleheader with Slater was 3-for-3 at the Byron Center in Caledonia Saturday afternoon. (Photo plate in that one with an by Brett Bremer) RBI. Myers drove in a run. The other two Caledonia hits were singles by Elliot Clark and Ken Otani. In the series opener, the Scots were within 4-3 after three innings, but the Rams tallied a run in the fourth, four in the fifth, three in the sixth and four more in the >»r seventh inning. !85^ F The six Caledonia hits were all singles in the loss. I Raffler and Slater had two each. Myers and Ben JJ ' n Kielszewski had the other two. Myers and Slater both drove in one run. \V The Scots split a non-conference doubleI ** I header with visiting Byron £ I Center last Saturday. 1 1 Caledonia scored a 5-4 win in the opener and the Bulldogs came back for a N1 12-9 win in game two. -7^ Caledonia walked it off in game one with an error and A" two walks loading the bases with two out in the bottom Drew Drennan pitches for Caledonia during game of the eighth inning of a 4-4 two of its non-conference doubleheader against visit tie. A Roszkowski raced ing Byron Center Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Brett home from third on a passed Bremer) ball and that was that. Ski It ’ ®®“P'e ea^'y 'ea“s, but fall to Rwirfort 5®®?® r t % V A 4 I 1 f t s V V r I . J I A ' i f f ; ! b I r k* ii: * ■''v- le a 1 1 ' I \ «•*' - • X • .. V *•< •*T .^. . •A :i 1 k ‘ k. • w . * - A 'a 1^.. 1• WmA «. •• 'P . y. .U) . 4 .♦ *5^ •r* . -ft f < i ^<9 I .?» 44 I *J J/ k I I in L Aauml :i|l tllMi "J'S: ttwiltllj 1 ft l-fr .«ir e 4 z The Scots had scored two runs in the bottom of the sixth to tie the game at 4-4. Roszkowski was 2-for-4 at the plate and Kielszewski was 2-for-3. Slater doubled once and Trevor Walter tripled. Hemy Simon, Clarey V ’ '=y and Raffler had the Scots’ I other three hits. Simon and Walter had the Scots’ two 4 RBIs. 1 Carter Bom started on the mound for Caledonia and allowed three earned runs in six innings of work. He T> struck out three, walked five and gave up six hits. Slater tossed two innings of scoreless, hitless relief in which he walked one and struck MA out one. ---------1 An early lead got away ?r.' from the Scots in game two. *. They led 8-3 after four •A innings, but the Bulldogs 4 pushed across five runs in the top of the fifth and four more in the sixth to take the 12-9 win. Caledonia left fielder Ben Kieliszsewki hauls in a The Scots outhit the flyball during game two of his team’s doubleheader Bulldogs 7-6 in the loss, but with visiting Byron Center Saturday. (Photo by Brett Byron Center scored five Bremer) unearned runs with the assistance of four Caledonia second game. The other East Kentwood in the OK errors. Scot hits included a single Red in the week ahead. The Roszkowski started game for Simon and two by Falcons host a doublehead ­ luw miu up lour tow and gave gave up four runs Raffler. Raffler drove in two er Tuesday and come to (two earned) on four hits runs and scored once. Simon Caledonia for one Thursday. and two walks. He struck scored two runs. Delton Kellogg will visit out two. Portage Northern is host- Caledonia for a non-conferWalter was 4-for-4 with a ing the Scots for two today, ence contest Wednesday, double and two RBIs in that May 4. Caledonia faces May 8. * r* ) r 4 L I -•k I L ‘ I I t i. •2^ *. . •«• 1 A « ■: I I A A*'* c4 • 4 'T.-* * 2 •l I c ----- ■ . > * a i 1 1 C F f . A \ S' .J KC ■■ V < » y * *k a *5 I ■ rI J I* > •fj I .'9 M A 4 * A J/ ■•T et r p 4 J '4^ ’ J* ►. 4 Jj !* 9 •tJ • i ■i. . w A 216457 ->- VILLAGE OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 6 REGARDING FIRE REGULATIONS I 1 I- Sk.,' laU njx'n bi (M Btiili ssiiailili I I j tsi, M ______ f aijra 1® lillBiiSI nl Mik mhiiw »*r. . .8 J *1 \r / z 1 Iffi •A I J f *•*. y\ 4 p>, / ^''1 ^€41V KAMII IQ - V yc f ‘wf* 3s •Jf { J t • -4 •A 4* B, ., . , /Tlx jiK'I • k 'i'' d » * f V |< 1 <» SB OK GOU), continued from previous pi Slagel and Hilton, both cleared 8-6 behind her to improve their PRs and place second and third. Seniors Kyle VanHaitsma, Jaxan Sias, Lucas VanMeter and Ethan Bonnema had a pretty good day for the TK boys’ team. The four closed the meet by winning the 4x400-meter relay in 3:37.36. VanHaitsma set his PR at 6-2 in the high jump to win that event. Sias won the 400meter dash in 52.82 - his Section 1 of the Ordinance amends Chapter 6 of the Ordinance Code of the Village of Caledonia (“Ordinance Code”) regarding fire regulations within the Village Section 6.1 was amended to adopt the 2015 edition of the International Fire Code and incorporate its provisions into the Village Code by reference. a fl -f *. «#»* uiv I t .*** - f s 9 % XilK PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on March 11, 2023, the Caledonia Vniage Council adopted Ordinance No. 24-07 a regulatory ordinance to amend the Village s fire regulations. The principal provisions of the ordinance are summarized as follows: best time of the season in the Draaisma was second in race. VanMeter led a 1-2-3 the 1600-meter run too. sweep of the 800-meter run behind Cedar Springs sopho for the TK boys wi± a time more Ethan Shoffiier, and VanMeter was third in that of 2:04.70. Bonnema was the run­ race. Trojan freshman Brandan ner-up in the 200-meter dash and third in the 100-meter Velting won the 300-meter intermediate hurdles race in dash. TK junior Jacob Draaisma 44.11 seconds, with a trio of was second to VanMeter in South Christian guys setting the 800 with a time of 2:05.80 their PR on his heels. The TK boys close the and senior teammate Kaden Hamming set his PR in that conference duals with a 3-4 race at 2:13.11 to place third. record. Section 6.2 was amended to adopt revisions to the 2015 International Fire Code, including naming the Township Fire Chief as the fire code official for the Village, naming the Township Public Safety Advisory Committee as the Board of Appeals from determinations made by the fire official, to provide penalties for violation of the 2015 International Fire Code, and to include automatic sprinkling requirements Group 1-2, Condition 2 buildings within the Village. > Section 6.3 was amended to establish geographic and capacity limits for the Village and to regulate the storage of Class I and Class II liquids in above-ground tanks outside of buildings. Section 6.4 was amended to provide that if provisions regarding fire apparatus access roads are inconsistent with the Village Zoning Ordinance, the more stringent provision shall apply. Section 6.6 was added to Chapter 6 to provide that a person may not violate any law of the State of Michigan or any rule or regulation of a state agency or Kent County relating to fire hazards, fire prevention, or fire extinguishing. Section 6.7 was added to Chapter 7 to grant the Township Fire Department I authority to administer and enforce the Village’s fire regulations and the 2015 International I Fire Code. I Section 2 provides that the Ordinance shall become effective upon publication of a summary of its provisions. A complete copy of the ordinance is on file and may be inspected or purchased at the office of the Village Clerk, Village of Caledonia, 250 S. Maple Street, Caledonia, Michigan, during Village office hours. Dated: May 2, 2024 VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF CALEDONIA * * A » » 4 » I 1 �'I Page 16/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 4,2024 Busy Ikrojans look to finish Gold season a^vo .500 I TK ladies took an 8-0 win over visiting Kenowa Hills in Middleville Wednesday, afternoon, two days after falling 8-0 to the visiting Forest Hills Eastern girls. The TK ladies didn’t drop more than a single game in any set of the win over the girls Hills Kenowa Wednesday. Hailey Dudik, Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans will close out the 2024 season of OK Gold Conference duals at Wayland Wednesday. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ tennis team is 3-3 so far this season in the conference after splitting a pair of duals this week. The f I I I J I I 1 4 9 9 .4. ■ - V I I / J 1 F b * I arSI .a k A I 4 I 1 I * 4* A i J t 4 I L V S-! I k b 7^ I L 9*^ W & ■ ’^1 ^4^ .’r. * LP I r* >B *4 I . ... 1 k r : II » - I »I I i I • 4 i.wS^Xi®******- I *eMra(«ac«Br*«*r«m%9iK « ♦ i««ai£ia*^..£amsi&S£i Thornapple Kellogg’s Natileigh Merchant knocks down a volley during her win with fourth doubles teammate Ava Zellmer over Fruitport Saturday during the TK Invitational in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) * I t I - d JT / s; ■ I « I I R Holly Carpenter, Charlotte Isabelle and Nelson Schilithroat took the four singles wins for TK. The TK first doubles team of Calin Wodrich and Tyne Bufka, the second doubles team of Jordan Pranger and Lou Savaiy and the fourth doubles team of Ava Zellmer and Natileigh Merchant all scored 6-1, 6-1 wins and the Trojan third doubles duo of Emilia Rickert and Martina Panades won 6-0, 6-0. While it was the same 8-0 score Monday in the dual with Forest Hills Eastern, things were a bit tighter overall. The only set the TK ladies won came at one doubles. Wodrich and Bufka opened the afternoon with a 6-3 win in the opening set against the Hawks’ Bella Chiodini and Ella Molestra. The FHE girls rallied for 6-2, 6-0 wins in the final two sets. The Trojan second and third doubles teams both fought to 6-4 scores in the opening sets of their matches, but couldn’t keep the momentum going in the sec­ ond set. It has been a busy stretch for the TK girls. The Trojans were a part of the Zeeland Quad Thursday where they split non-conference duals with the Chix and Dux. The Trojans outscored the 1 I I I I 4 Creekside Growers West Michigan Flower Market ■ 1f 4 \I I I 4 1 I f.. . I •i Join Us for our Annual f 4 * t •s* ► 4 1 .V *ifix' t I't •r- tmii. i /i V •X *'• C • : '#• r' J 1 < ♦ J y a ''I 9 V A JI* •^3 'ij.'A . & f. 1 I, r ♦♦ --s b r A Trojan fourth singles player Isabelle Schilithroat fires a forehand back at her opponent from Vicksburg during their opening match at the TK Invitational Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Zeeland West Dux 5-1 for a Zeeland West’s Tessa non-conference win while Rindfliesch fought off falling 5-3 to the Chix. Nelson 6-2, 7-6(1). Schilithroat won by There were two more default at fourth doubles for super tiebreakers needed in TK, and the Trojan teams the match between the TK won at all four flights in the girls and Zeeland East. team’s victory over Zeeland Dudik won one at first sin­ West. gles to finish off the Chix’s Those were four competi- Anna Steenwyk. Dudik took tive doubles matches. the opening set 6-4, fell 6-3 Wodrich and Bufka pulled in the second and then took a out a pair of tiebreakers to super tiebreaker 10-5 for the defeat Brooklyn Quillan and victory. Halle Reider. The Trojan duo TK won the top three sinwon the two sets by the gles flights with Carpenter scores of 7-6(4), 7-6(4). and Nelson scoring wins at Pranger and Savary at num­ two and three respectively in ber two and Rickert and straight sets. Panades at number three need Zeeland East took all four ed super tiebreaker victories to doubles flights, with Rickert pick up their team points. and Panades extending their Pranger and Savaiy scored a third doubles match to a 6-0, 3-6, (10-5) win while super tiebreaker before fall­ Rickert and Panades outscored ing 6-3, 2-6, (10-5) in the the Dux 5-7, 6-0, (10-6). end. Zellmer and Merchant at Last Saturday, the Trojans fourth doubles for TK scored hosted their own four-team a 6-4, 6-2 win. TK Invitational. Vicksburg The Trojans’ lone defeat won the day’s championship was at third singles where with 20 points ahead of TK 14, Fruitport 12 and Calvin Christian 2. Fruitport’s Grace Sweet was 3-0 in the first singles spot and her Trojan team also had Josalynn Nowicki win the fourth singles flight. Vicksburg took flight titles at second and third singles and second, third and fourth doubles. Fruitport, Vicksburg and TK were all 2-1 at first doubles. The TK first doubles duo of Wodrich and Bufka beat out the Fruitport and Calvin Christian teams at its flight. Dudik at first singles and Nelson at number three both won two matches. The other three TK doubles teams were also 2-1 with wins over Fruitport and Calvin Christian. The TK girls have a non-conference dual at Caledonia Tuesday and will head to South Christian Friday, May 10, for the OK Gold Conference Tournament. “S 4 . ■>* 2 - - 'X*/. 'AV S'#-#* AV / • "* J' < We are excited this year to offer FREE: • oily’s Donuts - made on site • Ice Cream from the MILKHOUSE, produced by Local Dairy Fam ers serving from 9am-2pm ♦' * «s« * «V4 4' »5fcr»jfc. ViFf V . B f >■ * •< : * A »»' V . tor 5 V I • Wi *4 I Tuesdays are Senior Day 10% OFF purchase I I I I f I •AA I a I ■ I h I < a a I I 1 I I > t I 'Vr* « I 1 J WB « a L*A K^"=V^ se * *A**^^^^ .K • 7 r / V\\ 4 A. A A, * t I X »4 •I I « I t i t .. t « •r I w < ( * I T VIA » 1 I 1 4 < « I I i > f I I * r •> ‘viaa - ’I- A y MICHIGAN / FLOWER I MARKET • f ?• ■b A ♦. 1:^ r I I *■ & ib A*** A* r I f' • ■0^ kJHl I _ tJ to to^ :A -•I* I •tv ■M*; I . ....... . 1 *1 I *-v* — - r ’ 1 L-*- 4 ■ 4 ■ • bJMPR" www.creeksidegrowers .com I . ••a * t 4 7 "L ^»S ' •5 4 269-795-7674 I: J. t a —- 10197 Garbow Rd., Middleville V' 4’ t crKiMK aaxiBi » -e' < 4 4 a muta> * w • > r k I Tiii’ *‘ t X J i’j** A I » b 4 I . w •k V ’l i k I C *» 1 i ? ■ A 4 r> I• < GROWER 1 a e > Spring Hours: Monday-Friday 9-6; Saturday 9-4 - A Check out our new additions to the store featuring our locally grown cut flowers for your fresh bouquets. Creek A 4’ 9 X A We know you will find something Mom will love! > f Thornapple Kellogg first singles player Hailey Dudik over Vicksburg’s top pUy^r (Photo by Brett Bietnert ® Invitational in Middleville. ■ •’.TT’ V i; / s * a J ) > a 4 I * to I � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-05-11.pdf f6cb2dab47bb42c142c243a0c850f118 PDF Text Text 1 ♦ I 1 I n gs P 'J b I • Library^ reel 1 I I . ! •I I M I 1 I I I I Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville and Caledonia Areas No. 19/ May 11, 2024 Plashed by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. • 1351 N. M-43 Highway. Hastings, Ml 49058 A SWEET RETREAT: New bakery and cafe now open in heart of Caledonia J ♦ ♦ * • i1 TK operating millage proposal approved during Tuesday’s special election Jayson Bussa Allegan County. Editor No votes were cast on the Voters in the Thomapple proposal amongst the few Kellogg schools district district voters in Ionia approved a renewal of the County. 18-mill non-homestead ta.\ The Sun and Nesrs spoke le\y, which is assessed to with Superintendent Craic businesses, vacation homes McCarthy the niomintj after and rental properties, as well the election as he combed as commercial and industrial through the results. properties, for the next 10 I actually sent an update years. to our board to say that if The ballot language asked they hadn’t seen it, the TK voters to pass a renewal non-homestead millage of 18.9923 mills and add on passed at a rate of almost two another 0.5 mill to offset roll­ to one," he said. .1 would backs in the levy from the love to see even more people Headlee amendment. By voting yes on something like state law, the district can levy that but 1 understand that no more than 18 mills of the everybody has a different non-homestead tax at any outlook on taxes and govern­ one time. ment. 1 am very excited that The non-homestead tax the vast majority of the com­ does not apply to primary munity is support of the homes. school district.” The proposal passed Leading up to the vote, during Tuesday’s special both McCarthy and Assistant election on a vote of 1,202 to Superintendent Chris LeHaie 665 amongst school district made a push to educate vot­ residents in Barry, Kent, ers in the district on what the Allegan and Ionia counties. millage was and how it beneIn Barry County, the pro­ fitted the school. This includ­ posal passed 1,181 to 642. ed a public forum that the The proposal also received district hosted last month. eight yes votes and six no The people here in our votes in Kent County and 13 yes votes and 17 no votes in See TAX, page 2 t < » »ai>aw ■« • ..e 4V k I 11 * J * I •I l» •V sr* . w.-- 4^ 2 4 •O I i .* I 9 A ' * 9^ s? I I 9 * ,1 • r T I * •» u r. * -I • 4 f' .-r,* T-% -n.' * i .V- s.* A look at the sweet offerings of Sugar Momma’s Bakery and Cafe in Caledonia. While the current selection at the Caledonia location is limited, plans to expand the menu are on the horizon. (Photo by Shari Harris) Shari Harris ed to open a new location closer to home; right in Caledonia. The second location of Sugar Momma’s Bakery and Cafe opened at 203 E Main Street on Thursday, April 25. One might say that bak­ ing is thoroughly ingrained. “I did bake a lot as a child,” said McNeilChapman. “My mom, my grandma, my great Aunt Thelma, and even my Contributing Writer “I come from a long line of bakers,” said Haley McNeil-Chapman, the owner of Sugar Momma’s Bakery and Cafe in Caledonia. Baking is her passion, and with her mom’s help, she opened her first loca­ tion in Cascade in August 2011. After 12 years of suc­ cess in that area, she decid- grandmother’s brothers and sisters loved baking.” Her grandma, at 93 years old, still bakes and her mom calls them a “foodie fami ly.” McNeil-Chapman said, “I never set out to own my own bakery, but I fell in love with the flexibility in products we can make.” She mentioned that she loves the range of items they can offer such as cook- ies, scones, pies, and more. “It’s fiin to create. I love the variety and the change in seasons for baking,” she said. “I love to do fun holi­ day items, from light summer-y items to rich winter chocolate pastries.” The decision to open a second location in Caledonia came from the desire to bring a good * 146th year 4 I < I 4 I t 1 I - I I * I ! 1 i » I I I I I I * I ( * I I k I f I I j J } <4 I ♦ I I I ! II I II I ♦ ; •I •II I I See SUGAR MOMMA’S, page 2 » 1 4 I k Middleville Planning Commission makes infrastructure, housing priorities Hunter McLaren J t; IN r . TJ .. k V 1** 4^ < 4 J 9^ 0i J • r I 1 t ( I » I f t ‘ » I I *: I I r > I t I I > i I » t » » » f f t I » • I r * I I I* 9 ISSQIEi F t I I I i Ir I I r I I I I I II •i • t I * « 1 • I I Ci i . » I t I 1 •l , t I 'i > » « I t 4 > < I 1 J I I ■ k I I I I « « ( i t I f I I I > I 1 I I I U* 4<X • CHS receives grant for advanced manufacturing, engineering • Only a few affected in Middleville boil water advisory • Scots win all five doubles flights for OK Red victory over Jenison • Grandville makes the most of Its big inning to defeat Scot softball • Fighting Scot baseball team wins all three in Red set with Falcons •i 1 Bl I . f: .> I An 18-mill, non-homestead millage for Thornapple Kellogg Schools was renewed for another 10 years during Tuesday’s elections. (File photo) st I — *11 fci . •Tb fl z • IW' — I '* 1 j , « ’4 J t • I I >*< V I I I planning discussion: infra­ a variety of pre-approved site housing could prove effec­ structure, housing, and com- plans could speed up devel­ tive as well, such as allowing munity safety. Commission opment, allowing interested accessory dwelling units or chair Jason Holzhausen said builders to move quickly. housing and infrastructure Other avenues to create See PRIORITIES, page 3 would likely be the two areas the board could affect most. A few top-of-list items 1 would be easiest to impleI ment, he said. Taking a look ^3 . I 1 at and updating street design rK 1 standards in the village vsi Ii would help create a more 13 I 4 uniform street size throughout, with the village current** ly having many streets that are overly narrow. Middleville Planning and Zoning Administrator The board discussed variOUS ways it could work to Doug Powers presented findings from a recent stratecreate housing opportunities gic planning discussion with planning commissioners within the next year. Creating Wednesday. (Photo by Hunter McLaren) Staff Writer The Middleville Planning Commission is looking to implement policies to increase housing stock in the village over the next year. The board met Wednesday to discuss the findings of a strategic planning discussion involving representatives of the commission, the village council and many various community stakeholders. Doug Powers, planning and zoning administrator, pre­ sented a report to the board outlining areas it could take action in the next year. Three areas of focus emerged from the strategic t » t I ) 4 > I I ( t i k �k s 1 t 1 « Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 11,2024 SUGAR MOMMA’S, continued from page “from scratch” bakery to the area where the owner and her family live and go to school. All of the items are made from scratch, “... with a combination of reci­ pes and techniques I’ve learned from pastry school or previous work experisaid McNeilence, Chapman, “and some items we make are family reci­ pes.” McNeil-Chapman feels that her business being in Caledonia brings, “A fun place to work and gather. It brings a much-needed des­ tination to the village of Caledonia. Everyone has been so welcoming and excited.” McNeil-Chapman didn’t have any problem finding a space for her shop, either. The location was already tailor made for a bakery as the former home to the Vault Cafe & Bakery. The Vault operated at the loca­ tion for five years before shutting down in June of 2022. While the current selection at the Caledonia loca tion is limited, plans to expand the menu are on the horizon. The owner is hop­ ing to have more items coming in June including custom cake orders. For •» . t Wl » r /A II J^W 41 rr^ 'Wi IS i V Mb b ? « » '1 * *» i S I• •t w « f 9 * r Z'.-J’ • I ?• ’i; ...^’=i-A ti / a) t, ■» £ 4. 4 r .♦ * «• 4 t ^«' i -V 9 % t • t f j: I V* • 4 4' ^toE****" > CtMONnunO. k * 4a X « * I 4^ . ~.y!g»c ♦ 4 **« » « r; n I t 9 ki&j A 9 IT" V > it. - iif A ** 9 U I ** J I 4 J*'’ Hr k I OC^ 1 A 9 T * •1 I* 'X r j * H 4 ftV r s a / r Sis' 10 t ' *1' • I .1 S-k^ F? 41 ‘W « I .' I wmB> I 1 fl’ I 1 r '* A < II'F I«::i« V. I I »> p « > « 9 c • W» » • » I ?PuS ♦ • 1^1 4lt’ . t. J/, 9 a 1 ’ I "i I 4 4 J ■r*. r^j * I IM .A V MB ir «• V X -. ■ ' A s V i I > r c • t > ■ I f I J i I * Id 1 a I > t f I r I 1 1* 4 ■*^= S ♦FT! •“••i .i>—■ ■■< y. k I r r ««h. ,«ur"i V *«. • I I ll» ***»■> «'>^ /A' II ■ -r*— w«^« •f. s r < •- X *7714 k. —I «> . V.c.Wi Owned by Haley McNeil-Chapman, Sugar Momma’s Bakery and Cafe offers cookies, scones, pies and more. (Photo provided) now, patrons can enjoy some of the best-selling items which are, “ my great Aunt Thelma’s banana bread, our chocolate chip cookies, butter croissants and our pastry bars,” said McNeil-Chapman. The establishment also offers an espresso bar, fruit and tea drinks, and sand- •I I > t wiches. Beautiful cutting boards are also for sale. Caledonia location hours are Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are closed on Sunday and Monday. More information can be found on their website at sugarmommaspastries.com. . . ' -. \Dv ¥'?^ < run the buses.” TK voters approved renewals of tlie non-homestead millage in 1995,2005 and 2014. In the most recent election in 2014, TK voters approved a 20-mill levy, of which the two additional mills were used to absorb the Headlee rollback, by a margin of 3,253 to 1,684. Trom my perspective, I m extremely gratefill for the supportive community we have and their support for the school Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted ** •% '*^»- .• i » I t 9 s Sugar Momma’s Bakery and Cafe now occupies a space that formerly housed the Vault Cafe & Bakery, which shut down in June of 2022. (Photo by Shari Harris) Jayson Bussa I*. ■Ad IF 1^ Jason Parks I ) (269)795-8827 A 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville * f jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com : J X f t ( I I f > X ■ I I I » k » riculum, teacher training, student scholarships and funding for extracurricular activities and program sus­ tainability. Wyoming Kelloggsville High School was the only other West Michigan school to be amongst the new 16 new SME PRIME schools. “This grant enables CHS to join with 16 other new high schools in Michigan is® to' , JlCBffk ts Savkes aid Bair UDi0 ; Dur hope tor ft 1 niitte-ffli * BilliliMB blobliH i ibhsjni K jail .Ifiai w aihiLxirM s 'ifeV "llliJMliife benefiting from the SME PRIME program, an initia­ tive designed to bolster the state’s manufacturing talent * tisie » ^i^iisnces a ik project-based learning and industry-aligned certifica­ tions,” said Kelly Clark, communications and public relations coordinator for Caledonia Community Schools. “This partnership underscores our commit­ ment to equipping students with the necessary skills for future careers in manufacturing and engineering, contributing to filling the criti- cJb ' JI f cal skills gap in the U.S. manufacturing sector.” _ _ In total, SME PRIME is located in 110 schools across 23 states, serving 10,000 students, and 91 percent of SME PRIME seniors pursue manufactur­ ing post-graduation. i In u x lb '''I .1 1 i •1 i ! Q I i » t I* t I I I 1 k I ( I I * e 1 h A I According to the SME Education Foundation, there are currently over 620,000 manufacturing positions unfilled in the United States. This shortage is projected to grow to 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030. 1 Gn^pOit^ .s schools, bringing the total skills in skills manufacturing and puts them on a career H path to make a livable wage right here in Michigan,” SME Education Foundation Vice President Rob Luce said in a statement. “We thank the state of Michigan for their partnership and trust in us to inspire, prepare and support the next generation of manufacturmg and engineering talent.” SME PRIME (Partnership Response In Manufacturing Education) builds custom custom manufacturing and engi­ neering programs in high schools across the country, providing equipment, cur- FtMi *•< sme*' EDUCATION FOUNDATION Editor Caledonia High School was one of 16 schools throughout the state to receive a grant from the SME Education Foundation to bolster its offering of advanced manufacturing and engineering oppoifrmities for students. The SME Education Foundation and the State of Michigan have forged a public-private partnership to enhance the talent pipeline in these crucial industries. An expansion of this rMVm BLREAV •II i: tel®*® 1^ CHS nets grant for advanced manufacturing, engineering programs H#me I % '■ « Over 40 years experience I ftirf t Your local agent insures your g < partnership means that 16 schools throughout the state specialized are now new SME PRIME advanced 55'T contributed to this report bruGesframe.com I’* '«'A here in our community are supportive and are thoughtful. When we provide them with good, factual information they make reasonable decisions.” campaign or sinking fund for capital projects,” TK Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie said at the community forum. “These are the \ X dollars we use every day to pay teachers, buy supplies. pay all staff, keep the lights on, — C'razg McCarthy, Superintendent, Thornapple Kellogg Schools Si®ot / ^f^eople f M'A I ■W^ X.* tion from the state ofMichigan. “These are all operating dollars. This isn’t like a bond I n* r • Full Service Body Shop 'i ’> .M* «. >>■ a race's Frame end Alignment • • • • Y^T rs •‘:, .f- t * TAX, continued from page 1 -------community are supportive and are thoughtful,” McCarthy said. “When we provide them with good, factual information they make reasonable deci sions. That’s really, I think, the tactic we wanted to take - give them the information so they can make an informed deci­ sion.” The non-homestead levy generates about $3.8 million in general fund revenues for the TK district, representing 8 percent of its budget. School officials say the levy is needed for the district to receive its full per-pupil funding alloca­ > 4 > i r-' . '‘lx ? » « t I 4 4 •. 9 « * I �J I I I The Sun and News, Saturday, May 11, 2024/ Page 3 I r I tikij I 3 S9H J Si . V Ir if 1 T* J I m? I J r 1 ■I' I I ■t'l * J I I 1 Middleville issues boil water advisory after water main break, few affected Hunter McLaren Stajf Writer A boil water advisory has been issued for some Middleville residents after a water main break. Alec Belson, Department of Public Works director, said the water main break occurred around 2 p.m. Wednesday near the inter­ section of Dearborn and Larkin Streets. Contractors working to rebuild the street Tax revenue from recreational marijuana benefits Barry County accidentally struck the main Belson said water sam­ causing a near complete ples have been sent to a lab loss of pressure for some to test for any potential residents, Belson said. bacteria contamination. He A boil water advisory expects the results to return was issued for those resi­ and the advisory lifted as dents, About 10 Dearborn soon as Saturday. Street homes located Thankfully only a very between South Broadway small portion of town (was (M-37) and Larkin were affected),” he said. “It’s affected, he said. Belson just out of an abundance of said he made contact with caution. We’re just making all affected residents sure the water is fully safe Wednesday night. to drink.” Senior living facility Carveth Village marked the eve of the Kentucky Derby with a signature annual event. The Middleville-based facility held its Derby Day wheelchair races and derby hat-making competition last week Friday. Carveth Village has been holding the event for nearly 15 years. Derby Day was formerly an event only available to members of its own community, but following the pandemic, administrators for the facility invited others from throughout the area. In the last three years, the racers form Carveth Village have challenged dif­ ferent organizations such as the Commission on Aging, Thornapple Emergency Services and Barry County Central Dispatch. “Our hope for next year is to coordinate a little sooner with the long-term care facili­ ties in the county and for them to bring their residents along to enjoy the shenani­ gans,” said Makenzi Peters, administrator at Carveth Village. “The goal is always to have fun and be silly while also spending time with our seniors. Of course, the win­ ners of the races get home­ made trophies along with Commission on Aging bragging rights for the year.” or, the Commission on • 1 I I I % I ••. I 1 eJ 4 i rr ?-.\.> I • T: f •• *• J* ' I •a i * ’2 « r I F '4K »« -rr. % *«? i I. A • t •k* • » *'l 1 ftW I A -.’1 “iMr T> f < J V. i / JpOprJ I I 1^ ,.■^1 Miite (rifcE ‘4 4 1 4 I 4 I * ;4 > I I ♦ Jf n ? X. I I I / & > 1 K v • r, \ i S I I > , • 'S I •> ? r t I * A . 4 % r ♦ < J s\ •t X <* s 5 1 s I I I I V \ I i/’ * ’v ■ 4 ir- z I I IJI V r t 1 * f -; k V » '.it V r i'g* t V i <p . j.„« I 8W ■X I4 'A i I A look at the inside of Crafted Leaf Cannabis, one of the two marijuana dispensaries in the Village of Middleville. (File photo by Greg Chandler) ‘i» / I• • I mits it to something,” Brown said. “If they don’t, it will become part of the fund bal­ ance.” In total, $176,345 will be placed in contingency. The county will transfer $40,000 to the Master Land Use Fund for expenses related to devel­ oping a new zoning ordi­ nance. Another $20,000 will be transferred to the Victim Rights Advocate position in the county prosecutor’s office. This need stems from A 1 L 9 •»- I I I I I i .1’ I ♦ I I I i II i ! I < 1 I I I I 1 I I '1 1 1 Ml •r t ,4 * * I b 7 MtP A, r I Antenna Men t I « • Digital TV Antennas • Stariink installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems 5 T 1 I 1 I 1 * • rx 71 ftntenftF Ir .1 J 1 9'X A* ™ a grant that is designed to fund the position in the pros­ ecutor’s office but the grant has failed to keep up with expenditures, thus, the need ed supplemental funding. In fiscal year 2023, Baltimore and Rutland townships both received $59,086.35 in marijuana payments from the state each while the Village of Middleville, which is home to two dispensaries, received $118,172.70. I I > 1 A'. i 1 I* C’A > I 1 o"- V; I . • ’I A I I SllliE’' I iI fl! 4rr. if -.1 «S' X liclips -J a?*-- ■b>'T •r* > • t• •w I '( e - kJ •* I .1 « lii)lri[s: I I ..a V5* c^ > A tie I * I• r I I I J I I ( - t >< * I* f -"Wl * 4^^ I I I I I J •* PHOTO FINISH: Carveth Village hosts annual Derby Day I r • 1 I Jayson Bussa Editor Barry County received over $230,000 more in reve­ nue than budgeted from the state’s Marihuana Tax and is amending its budget accord­ ingly. Barry County Administrator Michael Brown appeared in front of the county’s committee of the whole on Tuesday mom* ing to walk commissioners through a proposal that entailed a number of minor budget amendments before the budget-making process for 2025 commences. When the previous budget was formed, Barry County was credited with having just one recreational marijuana dispensary. Now, the county is home to four, each of which generates revenue from the state’s Marihuana Tax back to the county and k RB • • J respective townships. -s This amounted to an • 'S’ increase of $236,345.40 in M r f' i: un-budgeted marijuana reve­ Racers take their mark as they prepare to take off nues collected in fiscal year during last week’s Derby Day at Carveth Village in in 2023. Each municipality Middleville. (Photos provided) received $59,086.35 per licensed dispensary in that year. ’A 2K Previously, the county was r,'-~ n:tej '4/ 7' sfe J r’ receiving around $50,000 in Marihuana Tax revenue. -r Brown advised commis^9sioners that this revenue source tends to fluctuate both because the number of licensed dispensaries can ebb I I and flow but also because the r*‘l^ L amount of revenue the state -4i r v» |: f 1 w shares with each county or « municipality can change from year to year. This can make it -2-: fairly tricky to budget. County administration is *'*W . proposing that the board take the extra revenue and use 1 c L I $60,000 of it on pressing needs ft X before stashing the rest away Senior living facility Carveth Village holds its Derby in general fund contingency. Day wheelchair races and derby hat-making compe“(General fund contingentition each year. It has expanded the event to include cy) is uncommitted and can’t Other members of the local community. be used until the board com- H 4 .J I •t 1 >1 1 I II in.^ flillfe M2>' •* lesie' si (J-” *St«»2gCa» r* > V «vAi"X 1 CELl(W) B3 G* J * a www.ceUsignalpros.com Give us a call! I 1 269-967-8241 I I < » www.theantennamen.com I f antennamen@gmaikcom I I A i •r « I iI I T Winning, which was their team’s name won this year. J I •( • i i I I PRIORITIES, continued from page 1 I « iWV •rsf.ix r 4 k.- » ✓ V' amendments to zoning code housing study performed last before those options could be to allow larger parcels to be year, which reported considered. The board would Middleville would require an have to confirm the village split up to increase density. Commissioner Maria additional 1,000 housing units council was in favor of any Dahlke cautioned the board within 10 years. Growth in the initiatives before drafting against overly aggressive village would be promoted to them. Additionally, because housing initiatives, warning reach that 1,000 unit goal, not the amount of infill opportu­ nities within the village are it might change the village’s just for it’s own sake. “You’re absolutely cor- very limited, the board would character. “As far as the density rect. None of (these proposed have to see if those changes issue, I don’t know if we options), some of them or all would have any significant should really push that. We of them could be looked impact on the issue. For those reasons, want to try to keep the small into,” Powers said. “These town feel,” she said. “It feels are just possible ways to help Holzhausen said it’d likely like we’re going to be grow­ us to get to that point since be beneficial to focus on cre­ there’s not a lot of infill ating pre-approved site plans ing too much.” now and reconsider other Powers clarified the need opportunities.” There would also be some avenues next year during for additional housing was based on a Barty County work for the board to do , master plan discussions. • i 1 I I f J I I J / I I i I J” < I I ♦ M 1 « < I I I j i A fl Caledonia, » r 42.- •1 I •1 • 1 I I ■1 I ci I I I f I I « I < 1 < « ! k t I I > t I » I 1 J 1 I » < I I i r I ■ I 1 I 1 .I t f I I I I * I ■I. i I I I 1» 4 » 1 » 1 s t » t ' I t I f I i I t I I I �Page 4/Tba Sun afxJ Naw*, Satunday, »*ay 11, 2024 Kenneth fames Thomas Kenneth James Thomas, age 62, of Middleville, MI was taken from us unex­ pectedly on Monday, May Lyle Norman Belson On Saturday, May 4, 2024, Lyle Norman Belson (bom May 15, 1929) passed away peacefully at home into the arms of Jesus with his family by his side at the age of 94, 11 days before his 95th birthday. We rejoice in knowing he is with his heav cniy father and all his loved ones that have gone before him. Lyle approached life with a sense of reliability and steadfast faithfulness that earned him the respect of all who crossed his path. Marked by hi.s calm pres­ ence and dependable nature, he leaves behind an endur­ ing legacy of honor and love. Lyle worked in various manufacturing positions. including 40 years at Baton 6, 2024. He was bom March 26, 1962. Ken married the for­ mer Jana (Carlson) Thomas and has celebrated 38 years of marriage. Tliey raised two sons, Daniel James Matthew and Thomas Joseph Thomas. was passion Ken’s motocross and he passed that on to his sons. Together, they enjoyed traveling around the state on weekends to participate * (Kathy) Belson, Colleen (Paul) Ruzinsky; his step(Frank) Amy children, Brown, Ed (Regina) Grube, Carrie (Dave) Searles, Jim Grube, Catherine (Joe) Yates; many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Lyle was preceded in glory by his first wife, Geraldine; his sister, Beverly Brooks, and his brothers. Waynard and Kenneth. A funeral mass will be held at Holy Family Catholic Parish in Caledonia, Mi on TTiursday, May 9, 2024 al 11 a.m., with a luncheon and continued fellowship to fol­ low. A private burial service will take place at Courtland Cemetery in Rockford, MI. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of Michigan or Holy Family Catholic Parish, Caledonia, Ml. Corporation and 15 years at Viking Corporation, where he retired at the age of 80. Lyle enjoyed playing euchre, hunting, fishing, and the great outdoors. In recent years, he enjoyed sitting on the deck, overlooking the lake and watching all of nature’s wildlife. Lyle is survived by his wife, Hilma “Liz” and his children, Christine (William) Ruzinsky, Thomas Belson, Allan father-in-law, He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Surviving, besides his wife, Jana and their two sons, Daniel and Matthew who is the father of Joseph Thomas; a brother, Gary Thomas; a sister, Michele (Gary) Hutchins; motherin-law, Shirley Carlson; brothers-in-law. two w Carlson. A. funeral mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 13, 2024 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 9669 Kraft SE, Caledonia. Burial in Ada Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet the family on Monday from 10 a.m. until time of mass at the church. Those who wish to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the needs of the family. Condolences may be sent online at www. mkdfuneralhome.com. Randall Carlson, Gregory (Renee) Carlson; several aunts, uncles, nieces, neph­ .H, in racing. Ken was gifted in being able to lake things apart, figure out what was wrong, fix it, and put it back together. A Stephen ews and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother. Patricia (Belka) Thomas; brother; Michael Thomas; and his 'S' '7'^' SS. Cyril and Methodius to host blood drive Middleville TOPS 546 The May 6 meeting opened w'ith roll call and the secretary’s report. One fish jumped out of the fish­ bowl. Virginia went over what the group learned at the workshop in Battle Creek on Saturday. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weighin is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immedi­ ately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. 'lie* Versiti Blood will be holding a blood drive Tuesday, May 21 at the SS. Cyril and Methodius Parish from 2 to 6:30 p.m. The church is located at 159 131st Ave. in Wayland. Anyone who is at least 17 years old and weighs more than 110 pounds may be eligible to be a donor. No money is involved; the only cost is only time. In return, donors leave knowing they have helped sustain someone’s life. While all types of blood are needed, Type O blood, especial­ ly, is routinely in short supply and in high demand by hospitals. Anyone attempting to donate will be entered for a chance to win a lawn mower Questions may be directed to Versiti Blood Center, 866-MIBLOOD. Appointments are preferred and may be made at donate.mivchigan.versiti.org, but walk-ins are welcomed. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. d (it Silt nlitefinto® Caledonia United Methodist Church aswsM'"' i liaj'togooiS ' III { i^ofilieciis i rear ft: i ’ issatemthe Bev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship A IV<11 service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org j Htj Ed to jf Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist Ser\'ing Strengthening I laiilieddfoiii Connecting stitdiisto cornerstonechurch BAPTIST Middleville 4 Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am Sunday Service 10:30 AM FT .J \\ 4 \ C' 4 Sunday Worship 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemj.org/weekend ** 9 ; III / ar t' 1 Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com • Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleviUe Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 A * ' VWS’ « * £ OURNEY MPEACE CHURCH PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel LEARN MORE! 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE thejchurch.com 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 616-217-2161 MIDDLEVILLE: ■ T-'L -- i..-. .<« "A CHURCH ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: •4.* 1664 M-37 @thejchurch peacechurch.ee 4 ill Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9;00 a.m.& 11:00 a.m. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. .11 ^*1! laatafft Wsiklijclofj THORNAPPLE VALLEY Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. I CHURCH Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, Ml 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 Ll.- Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. (269) 795-2391 @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool ' .tetil!; polic toSffliif a schi tli^iCttoiif feOiwW) tot to ton 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 9:30 a.m. E I ■ iFl HOLY FAMILY jy CATHOLIC CHURCH 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) » t Good Shepherd Lutheran Church . •jRp' ’I a M'S.t f 57 MIDDLEVILLE ki 4 « •• SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com __ ______ wwwAtpaukaledonia .org ✓ '^Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto Sund Wo. rship Fellowship Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 Praising God through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou ***>M*M*«66« Yankee Springs Bible Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52™^ & 48^^ 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Sunday School Whitneyville I Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm 9:30 AM 10:30 AM J/ Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org r services from our website (see above) 1 t 9 Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm 'Ja. 5' i "Shming Forth God 's Ught” .l1 Sunday Morning Worship.................... Community Group....................... 1^' 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. r -t’l James L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. 1 -A 4 r 4 * r*- i ft 1 t f « I I I * I 4 « *7 » ( I « k < < I . I k I 'a I J « I • » « I a f < 9 rv ■ t4 r * r 1 1 i' i I I Sr.; V, •W. ' $ . ■■I-' T- I - ?'>■ .1. \ * �1 J I A News, Saturday, May 11, 2024/ Page 5 Mock crash delivers powerful life lesson at TKHS t! v» I I Ss i X • li ' J S ?i Fix \' f ‘J i' I ts : st s. tk's <« I Garage Safe Senior Kate Powers lay mock incident took place MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE. Huge sale. Furniture, motionless in the grass not after everyone left the crash home decor, vintage items, far from the wreckage of two site. As students filtered into porcelain dolls, kids and adult vehicles. Her parents. Matt the high school auditorium. clothes, books, household and Shannon, knelt by her they saw a lone wooden items and much more! cas­ side, holding her motionless ket sitting on the otherwise Fri-Sat, April 12th-13th, 2024. 9a.m.-6p.m. hand as they grieved. At the empty stage, heard soft 922 Grand Rapids St. Mid ­ same time, firefighters, para­ music played “Somewhere dleville. medics and police swarmed Over the Rainbow,” and .A »fe K the wreckage working in uni­ watched photos of Kate’s life B asiHess Services « son to free Kate’s classmates rotate across a big screen. BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: from the vehicles while Thomapple Township Paying Premiums for Walnut, A police were arresting another Fire White Oak, Tulip Poplar with Chaplain Robert classmate. » a 2ft diameter or larger. Call Vanzanen gave a brief funerfor pricing. Will buy single Although it all looked and al service while Kate’s parWalnut trees. Insured, liability felt very real, it was all ents sat by the casket. <Sr workman's comp. Fetterley staged and part of a planned “Kate was struck and Logging, (269)818-7793. mock disaster coordinated to killed by a drunk driver. play out on Friday, May 3. CONSTRUCTION: ADDI There was no way to know TIONS, REMODELING, RoofAs prom and graduation that the veiy last time you ♦h responders from Thornapple Township Emergency Services seasons approach, the pro­ saw her was the last time you pick through ing, Siding, Pole Barns & the wreckage of a mock crash on Friday, May 3. (Photos provided) Decks. Licensed builder 25 gram aimed at sending stu­ would see her alive. She was years. Tom Beard, 269-838dents a powerful message here and now she’s gone, 5937. Joe Johnson, TTES para­ about how choices they make None of us knows what medic, asked students to can have lasting impacts on CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR , . tomorrow will bring,” he remember what they witLLC: Window cleaning and their lives and the lives of said. nessed soft wash pressure washing. The auditorium, although . “Please don’t put your Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, heart, said filled, became eerily silent. A friends and family through Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 K Principal Tony Petersen, few students wined wiped tear^ tears, what you’ve just seen today. Pets “One decision, one moment, because even though they This wasn’t real today, but can change Change everything. everything, knew it wasn’t real, they also it’s very much like scenes DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ Please, please think about the understood it could become v^q'nq been called out to too able rates. 269-331-9999. choices and decisions you very real. often. make.” Kate’s life wasn’t the only Students involved in the Rea! Estate Students watched as fire, one impacted by the crash. mock crash, which Student CONDO, Middleville village. police and EMS arrived at After the funeral, Garrett Council helped organize, Open floor plan, lots of natu­ the mock crash scene with appeared in a mock trial set- also made their plea to class­ Crews work with a victim as students from ral light. Walkout lower level. their sirens wailing and lights ting. Garrett had been con- mates to think before they Thornapple Kellogg High School look on the scene of Main floor bedroom, en-suite, flashing. It was meant to victed of drunk driving drive. walk in closet. Kitchen with a mock accident, helping to teach them what can pantry. Main floor laundry, look and feel as real as possi­ causing a death and Barry “It’s a real thing. I’m happen in instances of drunk driving. 1/2 bath. All appliances in ­ ble. They watched as an offi- County Judge Michael almost in tears right now cluded. Second bedroom/ cer checked for Kate’s pulse Schipper was ready to about all this. Please make about vaping, using marijua­ final thoughts after playing study. Downstairs bedroom, and after finding none, cov­ impose sentencing. full bath, family room, work smart decisions,’’ said na, being too tired to drive the role of grieving father. room, storage room. Attached ered her with a white sheet. “This wasn’t an accident. Garrett. safely and all kinds of dis­ “Make good decisions. garage, 2 car. Flower beds They watched as Kate’s par­ You chose to drink and Senior Alivia Raak said tracted driving like looking Death is always final. Life is with perennials! $282,000. ents were brought to identify drive,’’ said Schipper as he she will never forget this day. at their phone or changing precious. Respect and enjoy 269-795-7815 their daughter at the scene sentenced the teen to 10 to 15 “It scared me and shook music in the car. every minute you have here Help Wanted and say their goodbyes. years in prison, forever me up. It made a big impact Matt Powers offered his on Earth.” Firefighters crawled on changing his life and ending on me for the rest of my MASTER GARDENER- SAS­ top of the cars and slid his plans for the future. life,” she said. KATOON Golf Club is looking through a rear window to to hire a part-time, seasonal Afterward, Schipper told Dylan Bailey, Charlotte Master gardener to develop assist others in the vehicles. students he loves his job, but Nelson, Grady Palazzolo and and maintain flower beds and They used their jaws of life he hates these kinds of Landon Conroy were the accent landscaping during the and other rescue tools to roll cases. other three students involved golf season. Flexible hours be­ back the roof of one car and “I don’t want to see you in in the mock crash. ginning late April! early May ii through mid-October, approx. extricate one student on a my court. If you are under Members of the TTES, 24 hours a week. Apply online backboard. 21, understand there is zero Freeport Fire Department, at saskatoongolf.com/employUUMSW Meanwhile, police were tolerance for any alcohol. Barry County Sheriff’s ment/ or in-person at 9038 administering a sobriety test You don’t have to be drunk Department and the Michigan 92nd St, Alto. to Logan Garrett, one of the and the crash doesn’t even State Police were all involved mJMRS drivers. On wobbly legs, have to be your fault. It’s not in the mock event. Several JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice ^”1 Concrete Construction. Now Garrett tried to walk a worth it just think about members offered advice to Hiring. Full Time, Competi ­ straight heel-to-toe line but what it can do to your life students about what they had tive Wages, Insurance, 401K, lost his balance. Ultimately, and to someone else’s life. witnessed and reminded The mock crash even included a funeral for the Paid Vacations. No experience he was handcuffed and Be part of helping end these them that it’s not just about victim and Barry County Court Judge Michael needed. Call 616-693-2123 or placed in the back of a police kinds of scenes,” said avoiding alcohol. They Schipper, a graduate of TKHS, held mock court on stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. car. Schipper. “Make good choic­ reminded students they need stage to provide a sentence for the drunk driver. The second phase of the es every time.” to also make smart choices _______________ k I I I i I ) I I I 1 i » 1 1 I «» >**1 \ iA ff I I 4 r % ’ ‘» I 1 • fl I >■ < -a vs I I I •"i I i c I » • • » f pt: S * *1 «• 5* I St. } I I ♦ 1 i 1 f t I r I t r I I 1 * F' **■ «r k b K I I I ?♦ I rv’x. r ..Mr. * ; f m.i,< 1 I 4 J I I '4 •I* eiitttii, SIkjffi f •S’ tins istCltJ Mn 1 b I I I t I I i I4 1 i I I 1 i I I r t I I R I I / I u: • *♦ g-Cntai i I I t I F i I r 1 * r-. mr » I JI I I I r e I . »l. I , I• I a ''f X ' t' b- } i * I -Jl:: laJllfc II sjB foridintf % , ■ ,^1 I '! 1 I I » I II II I ■f 1 I I I f Kf I ■ i 3 'ja A 9 I THE GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT UKIVOOR \)M, HOW AEOOT if I • I making f ■! Something ( rI I I I I I « I « 1 ♦ z / FOR MOM ? I I J I • I i Simulcast Live at Cornerstone Church - 84th St. Campus s I 1 I tv wit' i: 1. I * t' —I V » 0 1 f V 4 9 IC. 7. f’ 4 5 «uII I o 9 1 1I c -4 4I * 1 i I I I The best of leaders never stop learning. Commit now to secure your seat at this year’s Summit, where you will join hundreds of thousands of leaders like YOU! < Ji t 1 Tit -i t I <j e 1 * .. f 4 *«F A •f I f- I i « « I* 6“^ ■ I lAT* I. . I . r. "51 V A- 0 i ■ t1 T*'» — ft > G)^ . f I 4 i r ■t. MIKE KRZYZrWSKI CRAIG GROESCHEL '■ *PS*»*. MOLLY FLETCHER AMY EDMUNDSON MICHAEL JR. « I I 4 f I J I I J i f f I 1 1 > » 4 1 I I z i I I I / I I ♦ < I 9 I 4 ♦ ' I 1 I I < I • T ’ ♦ • 1 • ( I 1 1 I •l 4 I 4 I I I r 1 4 I I 4 » 3 t I I » < * J I 4 • • 1 f I < * I 1 • I I t t ' i I ( I t I �e 9 I Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 11,2024 Local company is in the business of buying, selling classic cars Caledonia Women’s Club receives awards at GFWCMichigan State Convention Greg Chandler Uw W Mw I'. fl J - Uflw 1 hatoA flflflflfl I r r. - 4 * 1 • t • I 0* 215085 NOTICE DAY OF REVIEW OF APPORTIONMENTS AND REVIEW OF DRAINAGE DISTRICT BOUNDARIES QUESTIONS: to fl ♦k • w DATE: TIME: LOCATION: GRautogade • CONSIGN lB KENT COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSIONER r-' Stajf Writer When it comes to market­ trade BUY* ing and selling classic cars, the folks at GR Auto Gallery in Kentwood view the world t as one giant marketplace. Since its founding in 2009 Christopher owners by Hoexum, John Hoekstra and Jeff Bowen, the consignment shop, located within a stone’s throw of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, has sold more than 13,000 classic cars around the world, serving cus­ tomers in more than 100 coun­ tries. Its clients have included comedian Jerry Seinfeld. It has also has expanded its business GR Auto Gallery owners Jeff Bowen (left) and to include showrooms in metro Detroit, Traverse City and Christopher Hoexum (right). Indianapolis. Hoexmn says by having GR 20 grand (and buy) some­ “We sell probably 85 percent of our inventory every Auto Gallery handle the sales thing that’s really unique, outside the state of process rather than through a really cool and really fiin,” month Michigan, and of that, 10 to “sale by owner,” the seller will Hoexum said. “You can dip 15 percent goes overseas,” have a better chance for selling your toe into the hobby that the car for closer to its retail way. It’s relatively low risk.” Hoexum said. GR Auto Gallery plans to GR Auto Gallery offers a value. The process is described process and services that as straightforward, seamless add more showroom loca­ remove the burden of selling and “completely full disclo- tions in the future. Its most recent location the car from the owner, rang­ sure,” he said. in “When they come in and Indianapolis opened in 2021. ing from detailing the vehicle to marketing it around the pick up their check, they’re “We’re always looking for world on more than 50 major seeing where the car goes to. new markets, and we’re websites. including what city and state, they get always looking for new oppor­ Autotrader, Hemmings, the contact information for tunities. But we also want to CarGurus and eBay Motors. the buyer if they want to grow responsibly so that we’re “The big thing about the reach out to them and tell not getting stretched too thin,” classic car business is that them ‘this is how this little Hoexum said. it’s exciting. It’s exciting to widget works’ or ‘I did this GR Auto Gallery will host buy the car, it’s exciting to little modification there’ ... its annual Cruise-in Dust-off research the car,” Hoexum You see the sale price on the May 16 from 4 to 7 p.m. The said. “But a lot of people, car, you see what we made event is free. In addition to a once it comes time to sell it, on it, they get their check for wide variety of cars that will they (say) ‘I don’t want to do the difference and they’re be on display, there will be that part, I don’t want that happy,” Hoexum said. food and drinks available. 999 aspect of it. GR Auto Gallery offers “People love showing off “Selling my baby, and transport services for sellers their car, they love seeing the dealing with that whole and buyers from out of state. other cars, they love seeing aspect (of selling) is daunting as well as financing options their buddies that maybe they to people. It’s time-consum­ for those looking to buy. And haven’t seen since last fall,” ing and it’s very stressful. while classic cars are typical­ Hoexum said. ♦ • and if there’s a place here in ly considered more of a highGR Auto Gallery is located town that will do it for me end purchase, there are at 4722 50th St. SE, and is from start to finish, I don’t opportunities for buyers from open weekdays from 9 a.m. to have to do anything other a more moderate income 5 p.m. You can find informa­ than drop off my car, that’s a base to find a classic vehicle. tion on vehicles for sale at its no-brainer,” Hoexum added. “You can get in for 15-to- website at grautogallery.com. The Caledonia Women ’ s nity improvements by The Caledonia Women’s Club won first place for Club enhancing the lives of others Club had three members who of the Year in Category 2. The through volunteer service. General the attended club also won first place in During breakout sessions, Federation of Women’s Clubs - Michigan State Convention clubs shared ideas on their the fundraising category. The last week in Menominee. The various projects and activities club’s yearly MyLead scholconvention was hosted in the along with how to implement arships for Caledonia High success. School students and women’s measure Upper Peninsula by the and District 5 club. GFWC- Caledonia Women’s Club club scholarships for CHS Michigan is a member of an members say they came senior girls were recognized international women’s orga­ home with new ideas to by the state club at the con­ vention. nization dedicated to commu- implement. Other awards received by the Caledonia club at the con­ vention included second place in Women’s History and Resource Center, second place in Environment, second place in Education and f'M Libraries, third place in Art and Culture, third place in Health and Wellness and third place in Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention. Club members thanked the community for its support of The Caledonia Women’s Club received several the club’s many fundraisers. Next year’s GFWC con­ awards last week at the General Federation of Women’s Clubs - Michigan State Convention. ference will be held in (Photo provided) Traverse City. ’ fl ■ •e Thursday, May 30, 2024 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Kent County Drain Commissioner’s Office 775 Ball Ave, NE, Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 (616) 632-7910 The Kent County Drain Commissioner will hold a Day of Review of Apportionments and Review of Drainage District Boundaries on the above date, time, and location. The Day of Review is an opportunity to review the tentative apportionments of benefit for each parcel and municipality within the drainage districts. Maps of the proposed drainage district boundary revisions can be found on the Drain Commissioner’s website at: https://www. 1 TissionerZ under Petition Projects and Notices. A general description of the lands by section number proposed to be added or deleted from the drainage districts, as recommended by a licensed professional engineer or surveyor for the drains, is as follows: 4 / e ill I u I * c* Drain Portions of Sections Added Municipalities Portions of Sections Removed CALEDONIA MALONY AND WADE 20, 29, 30 20, 29, 30 TOWNSHIP e ram commissioner, engineers and/or other s an memoers wi oe avaiiaoie to assis individuals throughout the day and make revisions to the boundaries or apportionments where necessary. There is no need to schedule an appointment for a specific time on the Day of Review. The computation of costs for the drains will also be available at the Day of Review. Drain assessments are collected in the same manner as property taxes and will appear on your winter tax bill. If drain assessments are being collected for more than one (1) year, you may pay the assessment in full with any interest to date at any time and avoid further interest charges. Cal Women’s Club hears from Crowned Ree founder Persons with disabilities needing accommodations for effective participation in the Day of Re\new should contact the Drain Commissioner’s Office at the number noted above (voice) or through the Michigan Relay Center at 7-1-1 (TDD) at least 24 hours in advance of the Day of Review to request mobility, visual, hearing, or other assistance. ’’Ml* Members of the Caledonia Women s Club invited Heidi VanderWal, owner and creator of Crowned Free, to speak at its monthly meeting May 6. Crowned Free empowers women to become social entrepreneurs by selling clothing, jewelry and accesseries at pop-up shops, styl ing fiiends and spreading the passion to put an end to human trafficking. Crowned Free provides survivors with employment and vocational skills they Comments on the apportionment of benefits and drainage district boundaries may be subD Ta II IT R?'” Commissioner in writing before the date of the Day of Review J Rapids, Ml 49503, or electronically to drintoisiientcnunlvml^iw^ II fl • M MflI _ __ ? _l - A TcTSSbrgS SSSS*. ""X ** ** or verbally a. the S i submitted in advance must be received by the Drain Commissioner prior to the Day of Review to ensure consideration. You may appeal the Drain Commissioner’s decision to ^Iso appe^ Sw determination of apportionments to the Kent County Probate Court within ten (10) days. The fdlowing is a list of any county, township, city, and village to be assessed at large in Kent County in each of the drainage districts: Caledonia Township and Village of Caledonia The following is a description of the lands constituting the drainage district: Kenneth Yonker Kent County Drain Commissioner 1 i • t 1 i 9 t t I 4 1 I 1 I I » i -Iw k t Human trafficking is the world’s second-largest crimi­ nal enterprise behind narcot­ ics and generates $9.5 billion in the U.S. annually. Traffickers target their minor victims through chatrooms, clubs, social media, fiiends, malls and on the street. The women’s club increased its awareness and was informed of some of the Wii) a S' •" p Jt ' .2' I fi f* a ♦ Heidi VanderWal (left), owner and creator of Crowned Free, stands with Judy Minger (right) of the Caledonia Women’s Club. Crowned Free provides employment and vocational skills to survi­ signs of human trafficking — the first step in identifying survivors. This increased 1 » f 1 «x •fe vors of human trafficking. (PhQto provided) J I I to restore, rescue and rehabilitate survivors. can use to provide for them­ selves and their families. awareness can help save Crowned Free also donates a portion of its profits to orga­ More information on on nizations across the country 77 ; T n 'be found Wd intemqtionally that work,, at CrQwnedFree.com. * I I', 1 0 I '9 k 4 1 I I 4 1 I 1 1 I i I I 1 s:?' �> I I ■ SVO^T a The Sun and News, Saturday, May 11,2024/Page 7 . ■ ■ I I tareat goals get Scots by Falcons in OK Red tourney «J I •I I I b y. ( s * K >• A-o r 4^ K, ■7i _k < I • I. b ■•■K "7 * *• -*v. rpc dT •*>7 A 1*P. ' J s’ ^41 « 41 9 4 kA I > 7 r:7' 1 t I vv A ^4 / r. V I- V R^B 4 'X. 4 j- -d % •r’. aV .•fc /A’ * 1 > i?*6 y S' 4T ) r X • ' • z ** * *0 L> M? •i 9 f 1 I r ha_j— 1-X' J r 1^ I f t ■ I*♦* ♦ 'i T? • » « r ^4 a .• r* 1 ♦ I i 1 J r ^.1 .. I Wc *•1 • A •V «a ’ • r I * ■. — .. b" •• \ \’ •’ '1. • 1 1 I 1^ * •* 7^ •i >• S^ ' 5?^ • u» ■SIftM!-'’ x. < . .f* I • < *• i • **♦ M f K*- r • > r I» ■st* •< ** 2 * TA *" *W.* ' • K -L- J I ^*4 •t.. 4 A w* 4 1 I <?.’7 > * %a 9 Sis f . lOlV'^ ■Ji K t k i 4 * •? •• ■ I I •i* ■-< I r 13^-? ' I k f -V K sJ •t J - A ■£: •l h.. u t V I 1 1 I f *4k < *riSb^ RBI f ■» w ♦* I K« IV 4 -t {' f .r •?«« • ! , Ml ' f .A_ & ggE A Fighting Scot senior Isabella Teelander races towards the Falcon net with East Kentwood defender Ajia Maric in pursuit during the first half Thursday in Caledonia. (Photo by Brett Bremer) y ~ W4« *3% t •3 -.*1 w< i^aap*^If nn r «I- i>*C 4^ J J I »• > iT- I J -i .I A »■ I^w .'r'VOB ! '» • • —■ iP^niw"' • .■• •.^Ss.* — >--t=-. «»r '•w > ’Mt 1, *^—■5 • I I * .c— 1.' -? a. K 1 ^7 .t f <r ^9 «e4 t * A 1 QI / > !•: I 161 J/ 5 st I I'*'**!. ^•i. V k' f > *4 • »TT •*. • * I st’ ▼ >. 9 I k . • «<*■ * >*»•* I II I * ■ “• * J*,* k 4 • r MBb*. f 5 k. I J 1 « K^j^-«-iy.. eSr-* V .< y I. I ► ' •*’T“ W k.i •8. *« *«' .^1 1^ —. . k < >< 4,f« . 9:5^ c I r 1 .1 'lejd k» -u ». -> I ♦ I I r . A -> X’ I I i» 1 •4 I. rtf I IF^ I; I -A'"i * l--^» k f r \ •b u«I tee inf 4 M" » • *’7r» \ I wT • I < • r T •A I db 'It “wr mi-L-r IM * >1 I .»< It f«aa- \ 9 ’{iiiij, WsS,-, Brett Bremer Sports Editor A pair of amazing goals tucked into the upper left 90 of the goal at the south end of Scotland Yard was all the L-.’W l‘l.l *4.: scoring the Fighting Scots needed in their OK Red Conference Tournament opener against visiting East Kentwood Thursday. Free kicks by senior I Uiaii t *e lasf^ *< .. •» r , ’i* * kiA;^2iin 1b I k »f >1 • a/- X '-Ir >* A «iwi| 2 ' ’ ’fehsa; X «* r¥»4» « 1 •< • / Tiibnin; I .?k Mtlsflut ftbsn; sistmtfc £4 *X' 1 lb''* / rar « 4 « k « «• •» ... .-■a’?' nx *T 4“ t/** * f . r-'rcr^- iT [ r ! • */ .X w s s , I -•H A yosaiilii * > tel s M<■ « <M9<^ V’»' •/ •« '-;.i r.,j Y s ‘■f, p-r •■• r^. x.iil'MWr -■ bi. .'ta I . •f I *A- V. ■ t 4 * ..c^, aao^n* **•* iiUiGilnii ! i Si SI edibitiek I •ST >' • 1 nSdiii MiJ c I A\ Cllt •s? I I * . » s I > > « ^■- J «I .41 J*. 1^'^: % > •wv V.Ji. *^T u , T*'.« 4*?^^ - T iiF.> : 9 W’ I * East Kentwood’s Layla Kamil arrives just in time to keep Caledonia senior Abigail Kramer from the ball late in the first half of the OK Red Conference Tournament opener at Scotland Yard Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) T 1 n spa"k for Sloals'"’" ' She hi^onT fron, one nit one rroin near . .p ,. . midfield that a Kentwood defender deflected out of her box high into the air. Junior attacker Joslynn Wilcox stepped into a vol­ ley just above the 18 and drilled a ball that sailed over the Falcon keeper’s head and just under the crossbar for a 1-0 CHS lead. Peterson was closer to 40 yards out minutes later for a free kick and that she ripped off the bottom of the crossbar for a 2-0 lead. Caledonia head coach Sam Steams called Wilcox’s goal “unreal” and “one of the best goals I’ve ever seen at the high school level.” The Scots got a late equal­ izer from Kendall Maynard on senior night against the Falcons during the two team’s regular season meet­ ing too, prompting Steams to decide “we like to score amazing goals against EK this year.” « Steams said his girls played well the rest of the first half. East Kentwood junior Ella See TOURNEY, page 8 216676 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 CaledwiA Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 KMNSHIP r . 'JP.- PUBLIC NOTICE Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan *^1 A meeting of the Election Commission, a sub-committee of the Charter Township of Caledonia Board of Trustees will take place on Monday, May 13, 2024 at the Township Hall beginning at 9:45 a.m. The Township Hall is located at 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. The purpose of the meeting is to consider the adoption of a motion for the operation of an Absentee Voting Counting Board for all future elections. Joni R. Henry, Clerk Caledonia senior defender Kendall Maynard works to contain East Kentwood T Zoerhoff in the midfield during their teams’ OK Red Conference Toumament Opener at Scotland Yard Thursday. Zoerhoff scored the Falcons’ ’ lone ooel in ® e 2-1 Fighting PinH^irxzx Scot victory. (Photo by ■_ Brett Bremer) I I I I I 1 ' ► i FINANCIAL FOCUS «• t I t I Provided by Andrew McFadden and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones *1 i I * •l Financial freedom: A gift to your family Here’s a sobering statistic: 72% of retirees say one of ±eir biggest fears is becom­ ing a burden on their fami­ nes, according to a study by Edward Jones and the con­ suiting firm Age Wave. If you are near retirement, how can you prepare yourself to become financially free, so you won’t have to depend on grown children or other family members? Here are a few sugges­ tions to consider • Keep adding to retire­ ment savings. Today, with a greater awareness of healthy lifestyles, many people are spending two, or even three, decades in an active retire­ ment. To help pay for those years, then, you’ll likely need to build your retire­ ment savings as much as possible. So, while you’re still working, try to contrib­ ute as much as you can afford to your 401 (k) or o±er employer-sponsored retirement plan. If you are in the later stages of your career, possibly close to your peak earning power. you may be able to put in sizable sums every year. • Choose an appropriate withdrawal rate. While it’s obviously important to build your retirement savings, it’s just as essential to make the money last. Once you retire, you’ll want to establish an appropriate withdrawal rate — that is, the amount you can take out each year from your 401(k) and other investments without running the risk of outliving your money. The amount you can safely withdraw each year will depend on a variety of factors, including your age. your account balances. Social Security benefits, inflation, income tax rates and spousal income. In any case, selecting a suitable withdrawal rate can help go a long way toward preserv­ ing your financial freedom throughout your retirement. • Think about downsizing. One possible way to boost your savings and add liquid­ ity is to downsize your liv­ ing arrangements. This may be an attractive option if your children are grown and your current home feels too large. Of course, downsizing is a highly personal decision — if you’ve lived in your home for many years, have fond memories of raising a family in it and still enjoy the neighborhood, it can certainly be hard to leave. Consequently, you’ll need to weigh ±ese emotional factors against the potential financial benefits of moving i • I I f I I into a smaller, less expen­ sive space. • Prepare for long-term care costs. If you were ever to need some type of longterm care, such as an extended stay in a nursing home, you could face some sizable expenses, most of which may not be covered by Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan. And clear­ ly, you would not want to put your grown children in a position where they might feel the need to step in financially. To help avoid this possibility, you may want to consult with a financial pro­ fessional about addressing these costs through strate­ gies that may be appropriate for your needs. These aren’t the only ideas to consider in helping maintain your financial independence and reducing your potential dependence on your family during your retirement years. But taken together, they can give you a good start — so think about putting them to work. 1 I I I 1 t I I I 1I i r tI I J I • I * • » » * f* I • 1 J 1 I I I I t it I i • I I 1 I I i r i •I J J I 1 I I4 i I 4 1 * i I I I 1 i It I I j1 I II •I I J •I I I • « This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC I I t . I I 1 I • I - ! ’I 1 ■I i I 4 1 A ♦ I t I f » 1 I > 1 r r I t I I i •? > ’ » r T 1 f »t t I I f I k k 1 I 1 t I I V 1 I I I ' I 1 ■ j I » I * T 1 ) i k I I f 1 �I ( z r Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 11, 2024 __ one extra-inning win in set with Saiiors TK gets Consecutive one-out sin­ gles by Connor Dombkowski and Anson Verlinde to the TK rally in the eighth started. A wild pitch had them at sec­ ond and third with two out and then another wild pitch brought them home. Sailor pitcher Logan Henry did strike out the final two bat­ ters of the inning while the Trojan duo was advancing around the bases. The two TK runs in the top of the seventh that tied the game came with the help of a two-out Sailor error that was followed by a two-run single off the bat of Maddix Ferden. The Trojans had seven hits in the win, all singles. Spencer Ybema was 2-for-3 with a run scored. Logan Dombkowski, Snelling, Verlinde, Jayce Brummel and Ferden had one hit each. Brummel drove in two runs. Brummel got the win in relief He threw two scoreless innings allowing just Brett Bremer Sports Editor The South Christian varsi­ ty baseball team brought an end to Thomapple Kellogg’s ten-game win streak with a 6-3 win in game one of their OK Gold Conference doublcheader at South Christian High School Wednesday. TK bounced back in the nightcap, but the Sailors took Iwo of three in the confer­ ence set this week also win­ ning in Middleville Thursday. The Trojans won game two Wednesday 5-4 scoring twice in the top of the sev­ enth to tie the ballgame at 4-4 and then pushing across a run in the top of the eighth to win it. * it §UI)> a, ts* keen tje dale unt i I tie new edition i§pfinte4| two hits. Brody Wiersma started on the mound for TK. He struck out six in six innings while walking three and giving up six hits. Of the four runs against him only two were earned. Henry went the distance on the mound for the Sailors striking out nine and allowing nine hits and one walk in eight innings. He allowed three earned runs. All II Sailor hits were singles. South Christian took the opener 6-3 scoring twice in the bottom ofthe sixth to pull away. The Sailors also had a four-run third inning to start the scoring. Davis Kemper started on the mound and got the victo­ ry for South Christian. The Trojan had five singles. Dombkowski was l-for-3 with two RBIs. Wiersma, Snelling, Ben Koster and Ferden had one The Trojans were set to hit apiece. Snelling had an visit East Kentwood for a RBI. Jacob Davis took the loss non-conference doublehead­ on the mound. He gave up er Friday, May 10. TK takes four earned runs on four on Forest Hills Eastern in the walks and four hits. He OK Gold this week. The Hawks come to Middleville struck out four Sailors. South Christian took a 9-3 for two Tuesday and then win when the two teams met host TK in Ada Thursday back up in Middleville afternoon. Last Friday, May 3, the Thursday. The Sailors scored four times in the top of the TK boys took 5-4 and 16-3 first and three in the top of wins over West Michigan the second to jump on the Aviation in Middleville. An RBI single into left by Trojans. The Trojan defense didn’t Dombkowski with two out in do their starter Snelling any the bottom of the seventh got favors. Of the nine runs TK the walk-off win in game against him in five innings one. Koster and Ferden put only two were earned. He back to back singles to walked one and allowed nine together with one out in the hits. Ferden came on for two bottom of the seventh and innings of scoreless relief. they moved up to second and At the plate, Wiersma dou- third with a double steal. bled and scored a run. Snelling had the first big Snelling was 2-for-4 with an blast of the inning, a twoRBI. Dombkowski, Koster run double that brought and Verlinde each singled those two guys home, and once. Dombkowski and then he came home on Dombkowski’s hit. Verlinde had one RBI each. '.4 ’ ** It was a big game for Dombkowski who was 3-for4 at the plate and also ended up the winning pitcher throwing a scoreless top of the seventh. Ybema had a pair of singles and Verlinde tri­ pled. In the lopsided game two win, the Trojans smacked seven doubles including three by Snelling who was 3-for-3 with four runs scored and three RBI to lead the way. Dombkowski and Verlinde were both 2-for-3 with a double and a walk. Verlinde drove in two runs and Dombkowski had one RBI. Davis had a dou ble a run scored and three RBIs. Wiersma walked twice in the leadoff spot and scored two runs. Brummel, Koster, Ybema and Ferden each added hits for TK. Brummel, Koster and Isaac Kimbel had one RBI apiece. '.16 t ■' * 'tf TO' ui if - Jdspdts ’Cvd a *■ t Scots score five doubles wins to knock off Wildcats . J S6! L Brett Bremer Sports Editor Caledonia made it three in a row to close out the OK Red Conference duals. The Fighting Scots followed up wins over East Kentwood and Grandville by outscoring <4 •t o 6 Jenison in the final conference dual of the season Monday. Caledonia took a 5-4 win over the wildcats by winning all five doubles flights. The Scots took three of them in three sets and all five were extremely close battles. 216677 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia. MI 49316 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 (ZaledcwiA KWNSHIP . CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on Monday, June 3, 2024 at 7:00pm at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, SE, Caledonia Michigan, 49316, The request is for special land use and site plan review for a vehicle wash establishment. Mister Car Wash, located at 6675 Broadmoor Avenue SE on parcel: 41-23-06-451-038. n 9^^ IX 1 >♦! A< t. *5 p I "4.. t 4 A d » i .1 I'A* ‘A J tV. «( 9 1 ■ *. I . V t : *1 t » • • w 2^’ W w % W * f Higbee and Shannon Veltkamp. Jenison won all four sin­ gles flights in straight sets. The closest contest was at number three where Bomin Koo took a 6-2, 6-3 win over Caledonia’s Audrey Duong. Grand Haven is playing host to the OK Red Conference Tournament today. May 11. Caledonia will be back in action Thursday, May 16, at West Ottawa for the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Regional Tournament hosted by the Panthers. Scots end 2024 regular season at EGR Monday Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity girls’ lacrosse team put together back to back wins this week to move to 11-3 overall this season. The Fighting Scots knocked off visiting Hudsonville Wednesday, 14-3, at Scotland Yard. They followed that up with a 16-10 4 * in the opening set to Ella Roloff and Brianna Hathaway, but fought back for 6-2, 6-3 wins. The Caledonia second doubles team of Zoe Fleming and Sawyer Mertz took a 6-1 win in the opening set against Wildcats Natalie Wass and Audrey Fasse. The Jenison team took set two 7-5 before the Caledonia girls rebound­ ed for a 6-0 win in set num­ ber three. At fourth doubles, the Caledonia team of Lilly Hess and Emily Sorstokke took a 7-5, 6-4 victory over Kaitlyn / i .vjiitool)® I ■9 i If [hose I aiitfw’i s ! jwtejoined 1 I in sitM I nil ale I SffliKiale I ssasioFiiiiE ! snipim sans j ^iSJeadtofe a I I JJS-ltfldDg » to biEil —. I The Caledonia duo of Abby Duong and Hailey Markwat led the way with a 7-6(3), 7-5 win at first dou­ bles over Jenison’s Nancy Aboosh and Alexys Bechtel. The Scots rallied from a set down at third doubles and fifth doubles. Jenison’s third doubles team of Sophia Vande Bunte and Mackenzie Mitton took a 7-5 win over the Scots’ Sela Fitzell and Kebe Fitzell before the CHS pair fought back for 6-3, 6-4 wins. At number five, the Caledonia team of Anna Homrich and Gretchen VanderEide fell 6-2 ♦» I »< win at Grand Haven Thursday evening. The Caledonia girls have one more contest on the 2024 regular season schedule, at East Grand Rapids Monday. Game time is set for 6 p.m. The state postseason starts Tuesday with an MHSAA Division 2 Pre-Regional at home against Spring Lake Friday, May 17. The ..'S' Caledonia girls have yet to meet up with the Lakers this season as an early season contest was canceled. The winner of that match has a regional date with Grand Ledge May 22. The two wins for the Caledonia girls this week came on the heels of a 13-10 loss in overtime at DeWitt Monday evening. to IIH foi sd ''4 kh V '’■‘h sell toll I < he. I***!* TOURNEY, conUnued from pag/e 7 it;* r % <45 * Mh A. « » (8* > •in llJC ’A ■» I a 1 I A I I I % s I S SSE.. r » 1 I * I I <1 AlIJ * ~ f I All Interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed request Written comments concerning the request may he submitted to the Township office, at the abovestated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Dated: May 6,2024 J- PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA r I I r I t, t < a V • r I' I I I I I •t I « I I f « ~ I I I r ' * 4 ♦ Zoerhoff got her team within one with a goal in the first five minutes of the second half. “She’s a very, very good player so she basically made the goal happen almost on her own,” Steams said. “We were able to adjust and settle down and created a lot of chances in the second half. It was nice to be able to get a win, especially in the first round of conference. EK is a solid team and they played well. f i I I I' I I I * f. * 1 i “Zoerhoff for them is one of the best players I’ve seen from another team this sea­ son.” Caledonia will travel to face Jenison Monday in the semifinals of the conference tournament. The Fighting Scots and Rams have yet to meet this season with their regular season match-up can celed due to weather. The Rams opened the conference tournament with a 4-0 win over Jenison and went 3-0-3 during the OK Red regular season. The Caledonia girls were 3-2-1 during the conference regular season and are now 6-3-2 overall on the year. The final round of the con­ ference tournament will be played Thursday, May 16. Top seeded Hudsonville scored an 8-0 win over Grandville in its tournament opener this week and the Grand Haven girls will face the Eagles in the semifinals after a 1 -0 shoot out win over West Ottawa Thursday. . 1 4 * < f I « m. t 4 - _t » I 1 ai par VOli w te® s 1 fit llM ill ■ <; h Ml. pate prov I* f �f The Council of the Michigan % ^513 ' Io I 'bn iiw . S S I * School High Athletic Association took several actions during its Spring Meeting, May 5’6 in Gaylord, including approv­ ing the addition of boys vol­ leyball and girls field hockey to the lineup of MHSAAto the lineup of MHSAAsponsored tournament sports beginning in 2025.26’and reorganizing the winter '.................................................... championship calendar to til?'' •' ’•i J ^lijie 11, * >I ^1? "He I t IvIHSAA ., Ind I ksi *® j((5 ‘'*ll» ? 11. la •"I i Mion Ms? Ik 9 fe end one week earlier. The Spring Meeting of the 19-member legislative body of the Association’s more than 1,500 member schools is generally the busiest of its sessions each year. The Council considered 28 committee proposals and dealt with a variety of eligibility rule, postseason tournament and operational issues. After a year long conversation about emerging sports at MHSAA member schools, the Council approved a Volleyball Committee rec­ ommendation to begin sponsorship of boys volleyball with the 2025-26 school year. The Council also voted to begin sponsorship of girls field hockey beginning with 2025-26. Girls field hockey will be played during the Fall season, and boys volleyball during the Spring season, with the 2024-25 school year to serve as a development period as the MHSAA works with the current governing organizations for those sports. These will be the first sports added to the MHSAA’s tournament offerings since girls and boys lacrosse joined the lineup during the 200405 school year. Changes to the MHSAA Winter Calendar will take effect in 2025-26 and include several adjustaents to Finals schedules and practice starts that overall will lead to the winter sports season ending one week earlier - reflecting a fall survey that showed nearly 80 percent of MHSAA ils to? )'!i 10 member schools felt the win­ 1 the taken to ter should be shortened. The learlyM reshaped winter sports calen (wM He dar also completes competiI malcli has a tion before schools begin their spring breaks - which are being scheduled earlier than in the past — and places lb championships on dates that avoid potential facility con­ : al DeB flicts. I Beginning with 2025-26, the last weekend in February will include the Team Wrestling, Bowling and Competitive Cheer Finals gills’’® ; (with Skiing Finals remain14 j ing on the Monday of that jare ■ volleyball and girls’ field hockey third weekend of Malch The Upper Peninsula Girls & Boys Swimming & Divine tg Finals will remain in mid-February. With basket­ ball seasons ending earlier, basketball practices will be able ^hle to begin five days earlier (on a WednesdayHo k^p er (on a Wednesday) to keep trvouts/fir<tt nmot’ j "7 ilf„: “d, ’ Thanksgi^ng wiek More changes to MHSAA Tournament competition will begin in 2024-25 The Council voted to add a team chamninnch^T, -----championship rfor girls tling to be awarded to the school with the most success in the girls bracket of the Individual Finals. A girls individual bracket was added iv. u.c zuzi-zz for the 2021-22 season and the team championship’ will be awarded based on individual finishes similarly to how boys team championships were awarded before the dual format Finals were created with the 1987-88 season. Also for 2024-25, the Council approved Basketball (til if Ice Hockey and Girls j Gymnastics Finals. The Boys I Basketball Finals will move (jj'li. li 0''^ to the second weekend of March with the Lower Peninsula Boys Swimming & Diving Finals, and the Girls Basketball Finals will permanently conclude the an*) # of the fourth quarAt multi-team girls lacrosse tournaments where both school teams are play­ mg, an athlete would be allowed to plav in as manv halves or q'Xs S Xt the school’s highest team levf.1 th"? a . . discussed and documented within their practice plans. • The Council also approved a Committee recommendation reauirine MHSAA during an inversion the temporary loss of contact with d Fh ii external defibrillator) within visible distance of the event. The Council bolstered the inappropriale e l™ game officials, approvmg an Officials Review Committee recommendation modifying the penalty for any coach or athlete who is ejected for spitting at, hitting, slapping, kicking, pushing or intentionally and/ • The Council approved an OflBcials Review Committee recommendation requiring a set minimum number of officiaJs required to work an event, designated by sport and level (varsity or subvarsity). any time during that competition or after being ejected. The offending coach or athlete shall be suspended from competition for the next 14 calendar days and must complete an online sportsmanship course. The offending coach ..... vodcn also will not be eligible to coach in the MHSAA recommendation requiring varsity teams to submit their pitch count count information electronically by noon the day following every game(s). BOWLING: The Council approved a Bowling Committee committee recommendation allowing for Regionals Team and Singles - to be di^^^hat^ se°iol^^L7be sport during that nor be al3t tn h season, ? allowed to be present at the site or within sight, sound or commumcation mumcation of a touman,™ event for fta. lean,. cheering surface as long as both hands of the flyer main­ tain continuous hand-to-hand hand-to-arm contact with the ongmal bases or back spot, the flyer while transitioning to a double-based sponge with both feet of the flyer in the hands of the bases, or to a cradle or shoulder-level or below stunt. GOLF: The Council approved a Golf Committee recommendation to form a Golf Site Selection Committee to review Officials Sport Matters BASEBALL: The Council a schools and courses. SOCCER: The Council athlete’s Regional meet. WRESTLING: The Council approved a Wrestling Committee recommendation to amend the penalty for a team when a wrestler com­ petes at an ineligible weight class during a dual event. If the ineligible wrestler is dis­ covered during the involved match, that wrestler forfeits that match and the opposing team will be awarded six team points, plus the head coach of the team with the ineligible wrestler will be assessed an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty resulting in a one-point team score deduc­ tion. If the ineligible wrestler is discovered after the approved another Soccer Committee proposal to insti- See MHSAA, page 11 tute a running clock during the first half of matches when the goal differential is eight or more SWIMMING & DIVING: The Council approved Swimming Diving & Committee recommendation requiring all times entered for MHSAA Finals for both individual and relav swim events “o b“is Z consecutive competed days between Wednesday Wednesday and Saturday of that week to and Saturday of that week to increase the possibility of more bowling centers being able to host. Previously able to host. Previously Regionals could be bowled onlv on only Fridays and Saturdays. THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP BOARD 200 E. MAIN ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml 49333 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING MINUTES Monday, April 8, 2024 Meeting called members to order atpres7:00 Pm. with seven ent. and Soccer Committee rec­ Items approved: ommendations to seed the 1. Printed Agenda approved as presented. entire District tournaments in 2. Consent Agenda approved those sports using Michigan as presented. Power Ratings (MPR) data, 3. Approved motion to adopt Here is a summarv nf 1 , summary of are the fastest achieved in Resolution 8-2024, “Barry County which previously was used other notable actions taken n varsity competition during Road Commission Dust Control. to seed only the top two by the Representative 4. Approved motion to allow the current season and electeams in each bracket for Council the EMS Committee latitude to at the Spring COMPETITIVE CHEER: Ironically verifiable on determine the price of the sale o1 girls and boys basketball and Meeting, which will take The Council approved three Engine 56. SwimCloud.com . girls and boys soccer. effect during the 2024-25 Competitive 5. Approved motion to purCheer TENNIS: The Council The Council also approved school year unless noted: J ---------- chase a refurbished life pack committee recommenda- approved a Tennis Committee^5 cardiac monitor for a cost o1 a classification change in Regulations tions related to stunting recommendation requiring $18-593.24. requiring football intended to protect - i ,ic v-uuuuu approvea a • The Council approved while also prioritizing safety, the MHSAA to reduce the WaTofteX ™ J^hwouf the MHSAA to reduce the the state’s smallest schools change to the athletic-related . braced suspended for- number number of of Regional Regional toumatourna­ training days. sponsoring the 11 -player for­ transfer (link) rule stating ward roll pyramid, the flyer ments for a season from eight 7. Approved motion to change ments for a season from eight mat. Continuing a conversa- that an aWete is ineligible in and at least one bracer will to six if the number of tet^s and at least one bracer will to six if the number of teams tion from its Winter Meeting all sports participated m be required to have a hand- nartinimfina that be required to have a hand- participating that season is from a 7-day cycle to a 14-day in March, the Council during the current or previcycle. to-hand/arm connection, fewer than 288. approved a Football Football ous school year if that stu- with one or both hands/arms Meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m. TRACK & FIELD: The Committee recommendation dent has transferred to a of the bracer connected to Council approved a Cross Prepared by Deputy Clerk Amy to cap the enrollment of school where a coach is p.. . . „ . , one hand/arm/foot of the Country/Track & Field Brown. Approved by Township employed who previously flyer, and with this maneuver Committee recommendation Supervisor, Eric Schaefer. ---------u„.uv u.v divide wtis athesenooi employee or pertormed only to a cradle allowing for athletes to aual students, and then was a school Rmnlnvpp or was a school employee performed only to a Copies of the meeting minutes rest rest of ofthe the 11 11-player -player schools schools third-party contractor at the position or in a forward susare available upon request from ify for MHSAA Finals by evenly to determine the athlete’s former school. This pendedrole without twists the Township Clerk or by visiting reaching predetermined stan- our website at httpsiZ/thornapenrollment lines for the other change of language bolsters Another change will allow dards during a window pje-twp.org/meeting-minutesy Ofseven seven divisions. divisions. As As more the regulation to include a backward suspended roll beginning April 1 of that sea­ fice hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. small Monday through Thursday. small schools schools have have switched switched links to a coach at the new when it originates from the son and extending until that to 8-player, larger schools school who previously was have shifted into Division 8 employed in any way by the for 11-player - and this previous school. change guarantees Division 8 • The Council approved a schools will play only simi- change to the football prac­ larly-small schools during the tice and competition rule to postseason, taking effect with state that a school may not the 2025-26 school year. take part in an interscholastic To continue supporting schools providing teams at multiple levels despite low participation, the Council voted to allow athletes in two more sports to compete on teams at two levels on the same day. The Council approved a Bowling a Committee recommendation allowing bowlers to partici- 11 ' week). The first weekend in March will will include include the the £)< ! Maren fthei® Individual Wrestling, Boys The Sun and News, Saturday, May 11,2024/ Page 9 ■■ pate in subvarsity and varsity competition on the same day, provided the events are sepa- scrimmage with another school until the Wednesday of the second week of practice and only if the team has conducted football practice on at least seven separate previous days. A joint practice with another school is considered a scrimmage and Sports Medicine during each event - and also approved a Girls Lacrosse Committee recommendation to allow athletes to play in no more than five quarters in one day, with overtime an have emergency action plans specific to location which are posted, dispersed, rehearsed,. It 5 4. !□ g < TT I FRONTIER COOLING ■ I 210 East Main Street, Caledonia r J L J J J J Locally owned business. f > 1 a ( i » « I I I K I J J < *1 I • I Expires 5-18-24 may not take place until those seven days of practice have been completed. • The Council approved a Sports Medicine Advisory Committee recommendation to require high schools to attest by each season’s estab­ lished deadline that their high school sports coaches rate - bowlers may still be listed on only one match roster and bowl for one team - • r i I I 4 4 1 > r I I �I « I Page lO/The Sun and News, Saturday. May 11, 2024 Scots finish sweep of Faicons with one-run win two hitter Ben Kieliszsewki. Brett Bremer He was 2-for-3 with two Sports Editor Ihe Scots liked it belter runs scored. Clarey, Taylor having a cushion Tuesday, and Jurmu had one hit each. but they managed lo finish Corbin Raffler drove in two off a sweep of their OK Red runs. Jurmu had one RBI Conference series with the and walked twice. Slater last Kentwood varsity walked three times. Jurmu and Trevor Waller baseball team in Caledonia both stole two bases. The fhursday afternoon. Caledonia scored two big Scots had nine steals as a runs in the bottom of the team. The Scots’ answered the sixth inning to go ahead by three, 7-4, and then narrow­ Falcons’ early surge with ly held on for a 7-6 win two quick runs in the bot­ tom of the first and then over the Falcons. Back-to-back walks with added two in the second to one out in the top of the take the lead and one more seventh got the Falcons’ in the third to go up 5-3. final rally started. Nick They led the rest of the Slater, pitching in relief for afternoon. The Caledonia boys start­ the Scots got a strike out for the second out of the inning, ed the conference series but then an error allowed with 11-1 and 7-2 wins in J:ast Kentwood to push one Kentwood Wednesday. Clarey belted two home run across Noah runs in the five-inning Falcons’ The Murray knocked the first opener. He scored three pitch he saw into center times and drove in three field for an RBI single, but and was walked once. Cam the Scots were saved by a Myers was 3-for-3 with Slater, RBIS. Falcon TOOTBLAN as the three runner from first tried to get Kieliszsewki, Jurmu and to third as the throw from Clark had one hit each. Tommy Clarey came in to Kieliszsewki drove in two catcher Ethan Clark. Clark runs and Jurmu had an RBI. tired down to third baseman Andrew Render threw a Isaac Jurmu who just stood scoreless inning to open the with his arms out holding game. Tyler Verburg came the ball waiting for the on and threw there score­ Falcon baserunner to trot less innings. AJ Roszkowski into him for the final out of gave up one run on three the ballgame. walks in the fifth to finish Fast Kentwood opened things off. the ballgame scoring three The Scots only had four runs in the top of the first hits in the 7-2 victory in inning. two of them game two Wednesday, but unearned, against Caledonia they got a boost from ten Jacob Stoczynski who did East Kentwood errors. end up earning the win. He Clarey, at the top of the struck out nine, walked five line-up, was 2-for-3 with and allowed one hit in his four runs. He had a doufour innings. ble and a triple and Collin Kowatch, Aryn walked once. Kieliszsewki Taylor and Slater all threw and Jurmu had one hit in relief with Slater earning each. Kieliszsewki had an the two-out save. RBI and Jurmu drove in The Caledonia offense two runs. Myers added an managed five singles RBI and Raffler had two including two from number RBIs. STITE WF’ 4* r/sjtr. •I -r r J It ■ V a f- 1 uuQ 1 k .’fl?’ I MRoiaDOO 102 002 » r V I Z/^ D * 14 4 ' « t at 9^ F* 3 <r «3 > r *4 r I I > 4 I M f . Z’" a r 1 «k' I ✓ 4 Wi < * — ♦ a i 1 i t I « r ri I ) J >; /■■W r JI V'W < ♦ ! * r • < ft fa k ww * d 4 T' ■9 .*♦ I •* as i*. £1 L . t I 4 f * i r X k aw li 1 *1 V 9 t ‘ A ■ .J— ' .h ^>._ *4 •J >4 1 f » TT"'. 4 »- •fc:—•••.’ < .*1 I IT- * * ‘ -I AT I J I » 4 2 t I F k I .J■w -a. • f , let! t I •. t i 4 1 •,1 1 r I «* . * ♦ I ♦ •. <r^4 4b I 1 • > • •» • r 11 1 4 X \ • 1 4 f ■ 4A z < F/ I wua (• ’ t I 9 n *b 4 h f 11 V ^.1 / J * I I a. 1 HA 1 •» The Caledonia varsity baseball team gathers with members of the Caledonia youth baseball league after its youth night victory over East Kentwood in Caledonia Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) r f « f 1 .1 Myers tossed a com M plete game on the mound for the Scots. He struck out six, walked one and gave up six hits in seven innings. Last Saturday, Caledonia split its two games at the Portage Northern Invitational. The Scots fell 5-4 to the host Huskies to start he day and bounced back with a 6-4 win over Plymouth Christian. Caledonia was set to host Gull Lake Friday and will be back in action this morning hosting its own Caledonia Invitational. The Scots are set to open the tournament at 10 a.m. against Northview. West Ottawa will come to Caledonia for two OK Red ballgames Tuesday and then the Scots visit the home of the Panthers for one Thursday in the week ahead. Wiir w- W 1 t L > T' J J C s V I r a J ■r iV 1 I 1 4 V ■ ■£' 4 I 37 *1 I ' w ■L^ w 1*’ Ti/ f kI 4-. ; • I f 1 / I lb { H .-A«- 1 «* * £^* *■ **•< * I •■4 • 1 w:- -V I ’ll- V ijjjduiijtom I I ** .MB fc- •? . I nr. r '4 * « t 4. V > ■ .. .1 . re I n< ' * •C. A , IF M i Mtf l.iMI r <» »< "■ ' w• <* A I I t- . ?• u-|1 I <» t. * a J!. ' '*-1. J I I a I- ► 9. * f 1 t t |4 4 ■ -'if- • Vv A 4 « —£7 ♦r:*- 1 I •r k w T I kdr.>«4^ .9. 'Z —«• ,WH«aa* « 1 3^2 * % z al H Ittaf iitttr I •lb' iIMMm of . 4 The Fighting Scots’ Aryn Taylor pitches during his team’s OK Red Conference bailgame with East Kentwood in Caledonia Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) L 5?lteWby C JiWaiftBfe ‘■flUfeKj®. s r Spi»s ggtrg* * 8 IP ||iji s. wa >Wm' I mj * osss^ifw. ib» i.**^ !■ * J >1^ * Si • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System ’’’kiSaittii ''^isllsb 1.1 •« *®i!!liootoj >1 ■y - I • Frame Repair .5^; I I tifii, .’7, 'V ♦ f “IS. in L* ’ S I •t 9t » V i •, BT t«F . e •T.^ * GCXD CLASS 1’1, i. A' 1 . \ I OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm fek^NFIB Lesonal / 11^ Kill.', ><** _____ !£• ; < ar r ,s *4 ate ■ "« i % » ■ ’. -•=1 L A ED’S BODY SHOP r» V3t • 1 4 •z-' I ■I a I .1'.. k i4 . I Xv Mte? "siCr *.*K— ST! ' **1. » «» rr. r» F •< •s Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner » -/• -V >4 I A* ‘ J - •<>-> W ] •jaf ' *" A ' 'T.‘ * IC I t f <• f 2’S V Brr ^’lo. J yj I K' 616.891.0150 f w ■TTt f « . c*. ■»• ■ ^a.t BV»• Fi- % J 'S ?” CAIEDONIA. MICHIGAN b >4SS|K *ha ri I 1110 Johnson Street *” *r^. " rrl-^ »-' MT ■ —*st Caledonia right fielder Trevor Walter celebrates ..y.K HC.UC, irevor vvaixer celebrates a diving catch in right field Brett BreVerr Thursday afternoon. (Photo by I 41 f * .edsbody.com < . I 1 t I ( 'Ak I t / t J f a « 1 I 1 < . SYSTEMS WF % 'Z •i ! |i I 4 1 4 J » I S^1 �5 I Fighting Scot goif team eighth at pair of I I II I I I I I lb* Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ golf team had a pair of eighth place finishes at OK Red Conference jamborees this week. Rockford took the victory as Jenison played host at the Meadows Golf Course on the campus of Grand Valley State University in Allendale Wednesday. The Rams shot a 152. Grandville beat out West Ottawa on a tiebreaker as the two teams both fired scores of 157 with their top four. Hudsonville was fourth at 165 ahead of Jenison 166, Grand Haven 168, East Kentwood 173 and Caledonia 181. Juniors Lukas Keson and Parker Little and senior Emersen Lippert each shot a 45 for the Fighting Scot team. Junior teammate ™ Mason Kern added a 46. Grand Haven won Monday’s conference jambo­ ree hosted by Hudsonville at Sunnybrook Country Club. The Buccaneers shot a 15 7 to beat out West Ottawa 159, Hudsonville 161, East Kentwood 164, Rockford 165, Jenison 167, Grandville 171 and Caledonia 175. It was Lippert and junior Levi Verburg at the top of the Caledonia scorecard with a pair of 43s. Kem shot a 44 and sophomores Camden Quigley and DJ Robinson both scored 45s. I 1 MHSAA, continued from paged----------involved match, any points earned by the offending wres­ tler are removed from the team score, along with the point for unsportsmanlike conduct, and six points are added to the offended team’s total. In both instances, nei­ ther wrestler involved in the match in question may com­ pete again in that dual. If the ineligible wrestler is discovered after the dual is completed, the teams have left the CHS boys have another win streak goini( p I M •J ’ri I * i i 1 I . \ I ! l !f £ 1 J ! 10-5 win over the Zeeland boys Monday evening Thev Th7 ' season, evening. They They currently sit 14th in the followed that up with a 12-9 state’s Division 2 win over the Lakers Thursday rankings for what ^that’s night. worth - a spot behind the The Caledonia boys are Portage Northern team they The Caledonia varsity boys’ lacrosse team made it d .vine in . rnxv four wins in a row knocking ofiT Zeeland and Spring Lake this week at Scotland Yard. The Fighting Scots took a defeated by nine goals late last month. Caledonia had won six in a row before a loss to Byron Center the final weekend of April, and with the new run has now taken ten of its last 11 matches. 1 . 1 J I fl A*. Au' i)L I I 1 11 I » 'JFT--:-i.L 3* ■ ■. 3 The Scots were slated to host Vicksburg Friday evening and will be back in action at home Tuesday taking on Creek Battle Lakeview. East Grand Rapids will host the Fighting Scots Thursday, May 16. mat area and the scorebook has been signed by the official, the results and team score will stand. The Council also reviewed reports on membership, with 754 senior high schools and 774 junior high/middle schools in 2023-24 plus 60 elementary schools with 6th-grader participation; cooperative programs, with 392 high school programs for 720 teams during 2023-24; eligibility advancement applications, which totaled one; the use of Educational Transfer Forms, of which there were 128; school viola­ tions, attendance at athletic director in-service workshops and Coaches Advancement Program sessions; officials’ registrations (which were up 4.8 percent from 2022-23), rules meetings attendance, and officials reports submit­ ted for the past three sports seasons. The Association’s $14.8 million budget for the 2024-25 school year also was approved. The Representative Council is the 19-member legislative body of the MHSAA. All but five are elected by member schools. Four members are appointed by the Council to facilitate representation of females and minorities, and the 19th position is occupied by the Superintendent of Public Instruction or designee. niV 1 I I ’<1 I 1 lU 5- > > 1 •- t /• 4 ! 4 41 < Ma) 1 V 1 F w 1 '■ \ 1 X r J*: T’- T * ► tf Jr I Aft "Mi I A ’ w 1 » I A n; 1 >. • r> ufl 4 J 9. S ♦A . -Crr X - .4 i / *SS!* h r i I M t« k J ..“■4 I • L— 1 / h € g F S:w: L •• • I k I iI -Z' S^' fV fl''. iiT- * •V « 1- 4' > ♦ ■J I Ai i •? I r * •** * 'a A.I IF i * '1 4 ' W4 ol V .• r -i* * t I J f -* i ^•-1 < 4. ' J •• * v * * iTrf h-' >r A 1 J <1 * V •■' J 'd4 '‘5 I I C *1 / JI • I I ^*1 k 2 * J k ? '•y Of f. ■ 4 S' r. u * * V4 r 27 .1 a^I I I -i; < vn l ie* » I •i » J s -’If- t I c s 4 1 4 I r X -r fl .r 4-*? I 41; V . r. ■- J t i. The Fighting Scots’ Finneas White (14) makes a run as Zeeland’s Jacob Eckert (5) tries to knock the ball lose during their match Monday at Scotland Yard. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Caledonia’s Garrett Ruehl e(25) pushes upfield with Zeeland’s Teagan Slenk (6) in hot pursuit during their match at Scotland Yard Monday evening. (Photo by Perry Hardin) Tk'ojans shoot to fifth at their home Goid jamboree edteta Molyte oW Brett Bremer Sports Editor The OK Gold Conference got 18 holes in Wednesday, a conference jamboree hosted by Wayland at Orchard Hills in the morning and a conference jam­ boree hosted by Thomapple Kellogg at Yankee Springs Golf Course in the afternoon. The Trojans fared better on their home course shooting a 171 to place fifth. Grand Rapids Catholic Central won the afternoon ses­ sion at Yankee Springs with an overall score of 155. South Christian was second at 156 ahead of Forest Hills Eastern 160, Wayland 1658, TK 171, Cedar Springs 178, Kenowa Hills 187 and Ottawa Hills 237. Juniors Kylan Pratt and Blake Hardy both shot 42 to lead the TK team. Freshman Parker Dahley fired a 43 and the TK team also got 44s from exchange student Raphael De Fresse De Monval and junior Ryan Skidmore. Catholic Central senior Will Preston was the individual champ with a 34 and Cedar Springs senior Kennth Mitchell shot a 35. Forest Hills Eastern finished atop the standings at Orchard Hills with a score of 142 ahead of South Christian 147, Catholic Central 151, Wayland 164, Cedar Springs 165, Thomapple ________________________ Kellogg 174, Kenowa Elills 174 and Ottawa Hills 239. Pratt led TK with a 41 and Dahley shot a 42. The Trojan team added a 44 from Skidmore and a from De Fresse De Monval. Catholic Central senior Matthew Skorai was the indi­ vidual champ there with a 32. DON'T M.I55 THIS YARD SALE II WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS —4 pr. ■ Newberry Mission Fund Raiser May 17 • 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Middleville United Methodist Church i4BB •• -.-rt" . •r> r.vwp. >*' f c k ■. 15 Residential & Commercial X r 1 Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers f 1 Parking Lot (indoors if rain) 111 Church St., Middleville a I f I. i: Holiday decorations, bedding, kitchen items, furniture, toys, books, clothing, decorating accessories and much much more. ' I t • , .J .. T S’: k y. I - ata ■ "M) -S’- n- S< 4 f ► 1 12- ■• tUd <4 K I IF -'■5 ♦ i * 7^ I' ’tSfcSgj. ..4 I ‘ >•1 I - - t t } • i: A II proceeds goto Newberry 2025 Mission «lb nCTfra» a 9 * &TING A Ain rnNniTinMiMn imp HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC DEWEERDHTG.COM I T r 1 I t f I ) I 1 » 1 t J T 1 1 ) I I I ♦ .t A+ .2 I I ACCREDITED ' BUSINESS ’ .‘1 WP5 I k I I I I » I I k 1 ( I * 1. I 1 » ♦V ♦ 1 * I I , I M -• ■.. 1 E. «. 8BB « ‘i t* Since 19SS I t I ■ LENNO^ I. k J i V “E ' 269-792-2234 f s 4 7 DeWeerd <68) 4' r 1 I J jT A d*. I I I Forest Hills Eastern took first as a team with sophomores Hunter Morris and Jack Cavanaugh both shooting 34 and Dylan Morse adding a 36. r t I �f i I 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 11, 2024 P&ge ___ South Christian wins big twice over the TK iadies I Hoebeke who was 4-for-4 with two RBIs and three runs scored. She hit a solo home run that had TK with­ in 3-2 in the top of the third inning. The Trojans did smack ten hits in the loss, but the Sailors played stel­ lar defense while put­ ting together four-run Brett Bremer I I Sports Editor South Christian swept its OK Gold conference dou­ bleheader with the visiting Thomapple Kellogg varsity softball team. The Sailors took an 11-5 win in the opener despite a huge game at the plate from Trojan lead-off hitter Kylee r I I f E L I I I I 1 * innings in the fourth and fifth. Chloe Bossenberger was 2-for-3 for TK and Jenna Robinett, Kenzie Bouma and Emma Stevens each had one hit and one RBI. TK committed three errors and starting pitcher Robinett was Shelby charged with five unearned Giovana Daher both singled once. The Trojans are at the Elk Rapids Invitational today. May 11. They face Forest Hills Eastern for a doubleheader in Middleville Monday and then host Lowell for a non-conferdoubleheader ence Thursday. two, outhitting the TK girls 19-5 while the TK defense struggled. South Christian managed 11 unearned runs. Bouma doubled and drove in two of TK’s five runs. Jenna Robinett was 2-for-3 with a run and an RBI. Hoebeke was 0-for-l, but walked twice and scored a run. Shelby Robinett and runs among the 11 the Sailors scored in her 4 1/3 innings in the circle. She walked one and allowed 11 hits. Jenna Robinett threw 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief in which she walked one and gave up two hits. The Sailors took a 24-5 win in four innings in game I I * Big early inning puts Bulldogs ahead of Scots i I Grandville in Caledonia Thursday afternoon. Sports Editor Kala Bisterfeldt stepped The Fighting Scots did their best to answer the up and knocked an RBI sin­ Bulldogs big inning with gle into left, keeping the one of their own Thursday bases loaded, but a pop-up afternoon. kept the three Caledonia A bloop single into right base runners where they by Marisa Kohn and bunt were, and then a 6-4-3 dou­ singles by Peyton Brenner ble play ball that Malia and Addy Lash loaded the Burke nearly beat out at bases for the Fighting Scots first ended the threat. Burke to start the bottom of the hit the ball so hard right at fourth inning of their OK the Bulldog shortstop that Red Conference double- she even had time for a lit­ header against visiting tle bobble before flipping J I E J i I 1 I w w Brett Bremer I » A1 - I • t; I I T I vz t* W T i 1 1 >V fp V J .as J- X % w i.rr/' 9 I* ’ ii.' JTSe.-, k •e' r * 4 •i I ■vA- r I •1 » h * - € < * , r • Jtl J t . • Sr* I If’ • ■» * ir « "h* K X♦ 9 A ' 'i. <• F ,4 A 6 T«^FIC ^IN I I 11 >• •J La.* V r“ a • »« .:-L * • A__ «1 * A J" it. 5;^ I I The Fighting Scots’ Kiera Sundstrom knocks the ball to the right side during the bottom of the third inning of her team’s OK Red Conference ballgame with visiting Grandville Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I t ( t‘-A db II A* rV f I the ball over to second base to start the turn. Grandville scored its first seven runs in the top of the third inning and went on to a 10-3 win over the Caledonia girls. Both teams had nine hits, but the Bulldogs were helped out by five Caledonia errors. Bisterfeldt was 2-for-4 at the plate with an RB. She was one of eight Caledonia girls with hits. Molly Lieske and Burke both doubled once. Grace Siekman also drove in a run for the Scots. Keira Sundstrom, Mackenzie Devries, Kohn and Brenner each singled once. Lieske started in the cir­ cle for the Scots and allowed seven runs (five earned) on seven hits and one walk. She struck out one. Jaz Dana closed out the final four innings. She was hit for three runs, but <riR. i 1I I J »r-«—\ >.A. 1"> .• • I I •s*** ■v ♦ s' I 4 X’ 7T «** r— Id A =^riS J.-* « rv#V^ J. J < ^"3 -1 } ♦ I i J i ..z 1 b I . y ' • IH.- * T 1**4 - 7 --^5- w:—• iW « s I 'W< ' & Caledonia vaiuuonia ’s Peyton reyion Brenner hits the bag at third and hits the breaks during the bottom of the fourth inning of her team’s OK Red Conference loss to visit ing Grandville Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 9* « I r I I I I I I NOTHIN* BUT A GOOD TIME ‘.W 'e A I* r. Vf u r •% JAy LENO Fl FRIDAY, MAY 24 if ft 1 •a. I :y.* . t-?:<1 V: >1 <♦ V 4 a* F • <116 Bst Giib FRIDAY, JULY 12 Tickets available now at the FireKeepers Box Office ■* lATTLf lATTLC GET YOUR V/JifFoN Hemov’’ n» eacrr CKCEK Must be 21 or older. Tickets based on availability. Schedule subject to change. thebatguysbatremoval.com ’A • * I ' I t:1 i ( I < f * 11 I » I 1 t « I I I t t »• 41 I •') * » « I 75 I- k f .’K • I I I J r I 1J 4*^ t r f I:. I A t;' k4 . I* r I 1 I ► ► r 7 FT* I Ji ' , *“ - i t ♦ ? . >. 1, I HARMLESS BAT REMOVAL JK’ ■ T“ < BAT-PROOF & CLEAN UP *> Jl. <• I ( < I FULL ATTIC RESTORATION 'J ■•-^5'. -CT-'7 I ». r— wu9 . - > 4 -i • r. .' If -« *-A 10-YEAR WARRANTY 517-599-1019 * Fighting Scot shortstop Mackenzie Devries fires to ^°P seventh inning against Grandville in Caledonia Thursday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ( IT V ( y II 1 I I 1 > • - J - .1(^4 to Exit 104 I 11177 Michigan Avenue | Battle Creek, Ml 49014 > " IK ‘ ’ if or FireKeepersCasino.com. CASINO^HOTBL i. !*■« I GIVE US A CALL TODAY! WALKER HAYES ^ql M X V 1 i^FHElEEPEtS visit East Kentwood Monday, play host to West Ottawa Tuesday and then be home to take on Grand Haven Thursday. Next Saturday, May 18, the Caledonia girls head to Unity Christian. ..S.’X 1 4 R none of them were earned. O’Leary doubled and drove She struck out three and in two runs. allowed two hits without The Caledonia girls are walking anyone. hosting their own home Dana came on to start invitational today, May 11, the fourth inning and and will be back at it in a struck out the first batter busy OK Red Conference she faced and then got a week ahead. The Scots will couple of line outs on the infield. It was the first clean inning for the Caledonia defense and Dana headed over to the dugout with a big smile on her face as her teammates were fired up to attempt their comeback. Katelyn Paganelli put the finishing touches on the Bulldogs’ win in the top of the sixth with a two-run home run over the center field fence that pushed her i- •. ► team’s lead to its final 10-3 margin. She was 2-for-4 & with two runs scored and two RBIs on the afternoon. The Bulldogs’ catcher Riley Smith was 3-for-4 with two RBIs. Kenady I 1 4 *f < I ■ I f � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-05-18.pdf 4677432b36559999e94308ed750d4d66 PDF Text Text • ---- I I I j f I I I -*> b r M*- 1 < ••I ' I I > ■■ L •l I A** Jk L Hr? d .> < d p * I 5) A r« A • .•••i •>- I I •i J*, .rt- I 4 ‘t" I ••J 1^* -*• z 4 4 Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville and Caledonia Areas I No. 20/ May 18, 2024 I « Sun and News, other community newspapers sold to east-side publisher r>’ < A ■ft’ 5 • ’!Z » I ■f 4 ' r‘ T ‘v < I ■iW w ff - f.r A.'*- ■ mirt t « < 1 ’.nrr: ( MW J* 'Z :S UTL p ewo * i .•r f* J •», f □ » ■ I* J;5 *F-*r r • ■ '. 1 .1 ■r I s 3 . L -T fr f ,T •j’-'rZ r • *e * * .' .’tI I * - A. • * ? I -*s >T I ♦ K* y * ? * .v a:..-I iJ".* 11 I > • /w 91^. 7^^ I 1 * £^' 2?^ ’ > xvwe •*« . I 1*^ 1 —SSf J <L X V. I c S •a -ff. .B' Sa Jaj I. ;T=-t The Cutlerville Fire Station on 68th Street SW, just west of Division Avenue in Byron Township, will be retained by Gaines Charter Township. (Photos by James Gemmell) James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Gaines Township Board has unanimously approved two proposed legal agreements that spell out contractual terms of a split with Byron Township in mutually operating the Cutlerville Fire Department. In July 2023, the Byron Township Board voted to sever the 73-year-old part­ nership with Gaines Charter Township. Byron trustees cited Byron Township’s growing population for their desire for Byron to operate its own fire department in Cutlerville. Under an inter­ governmental operating agreement dating back to 1950, the partnership will officially end on July 22, 2024. The Gaines Township Board decided earlier this year to exercise its option to retain ownership of the Cutlerville Fire Station at 11 146th year -I •'f.p* ’ -J Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. • 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 Gaines Board approves proposed terms for split with Byron on Cutlerville Fire Department I J 68th St. SW, which is just west of Division Avenue and, therefore, in Byron Township. Gaines will buy off the remaining equity portion of the fire station and use the building to provide fire ser­ vices primarily on the Gaines Doug VanderLaan been made public. Contributing Writer Weekly production of the After nearly 80 years of Sun and News, Hastings telling the stories of people Banner, The Reminder and and businesses in Barry J-Ad’s newspapers in Battle Coimty, the Jacobs Family Creek, Marshall and Lowell has sold its J-Ad Graphics will continue under the publishing business to View Newspaper Group JAMS Media, LLC and its name. According to J-Ad View Newspaper Group of Graphics CEO Fred Jacobs, Lapeer. most employees will be Legal details of the trans­ retained though changes are action, which has been in likely in production and the works for months, were delivery operations. finalized on Thursday, with “I realized keeping the specific follow-up items business going was becom­ still being determined. ing more difficult due to Financial specifics have not rising costs, machine maintenance and declining advertising dollars,” said Jacobs. “I felt an obligation to do what was necessary to keep our papers going even if it meant selling them to an outside firm. See story “As I investigated poten- Meet View Newspaper Group 1 serve until I hand this position off to (the new man­ ager),” Segard said. Over the past month. Segard has been handling the functions of managing the village’s operations, without the title. “Lisa has stepped up to do that position and graciously has taken it on with...,” Village President Jennifer Lindsey said. “Gusto,” Schuler finished. Segard has served as depu­ ty treasurer for the village in addition to her administrative assistant role, and also took on the role of village clerk last month. Thornton had previously served as clerk during his tenure as manager. In a separate move, the council voted to boost Segard’s pay from $22.50 per I I I 4 ’V I I I ••••* I I i i ' t . I I 1 • . I i I i r r • I i 1 1 ♦ I i 1 I ■t. 4 I • . ! I f 1 I i W » r i I * I» I I PRINTERS A l PUBLISHERS I I I >* I 5® position. “We could just see what happens,” Schuler said. “If The village of Caledonia worse comes to worse, then will begin its search for a we can discuss (whether to new manager by looking bring in a search firm to locally for qualified candi- assist the village).” While the village is start­ dates. Village Council ing the process of finding a The Monday voted unanimously new manager, the council to advertise locally for the Monday appointed longtime position left vacant last administrative assistant Lisa month by the resignation of Segard to serve as interim manager until a permanent Jeff Thornton. “I personally think we successor is found. Segard, should start with (ourselves), who has been with the viland see what we can find,” lage for 26 years, had planned Trustee to retire in July, but those Council said Gerrianne Schuler, who plans will likely be put on made the motion to start the hold as she serves in the interim capacity. search locally. “Thank you for putting The council agreed to a three-week timefi’ame to see your faith in me. It has been what kind of interest there an honor to serve, and will might be in the manager’s continue to be an honor to I See VIEW GROUP, pagfi 2 h Greg Chandler Staff Writer •« on page 2 See FIRE DEPARTMENT, page 3 Caledonia begins local search for village manager, Lisa Segard appointed interim manager t 'r ♦ I i 4 I A « r « I •i t A hour to $39.96 per hour for serving as interim manager, and set the new pay scale retroactive to early April. Segard will receive $2,496 in retroacfive pay under the new wage. The council also voted to approve the job description Fred Jacobs (right), longtime owner of Hastings­ based printing and publishing company J-Ad Graphics inc., shakes hands with Wes Smith, pub­ lisher for View Newspaper Group. This week. View Newspaper Group finalized a deal to purchase J-Ad. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) I fl See SEGARD, pag/e 3 1 ( -J » t I I I .! I F 4. • TKHS student earns BPA national championship '1-^ * • ’’jir’ w • Caledonia seniors honored at recognition night ceremony 4. .. * :k»:. • Middleville council rejects DDA board candidate • TK track ladies finish undefeated run to OK Gold track championship ar 1 ( M*S .K 1 •I «* . I I • Scot seniors Hager and Fedewa earn allconference at OK Red Championship I •V Lisa Segard X’ 1 ‘l V » • i 1 I 5 •t rw«". * 4» �1k I Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18,2024 J VIEW GROUP, continued from page 1 tial buyers, it came down to only one that understood the importance of keeping as many employees as possible, putting out great products and having the financial abil­ ity to continue for years to come.” Based in Lapeer, the View Newspaper Group operates primarily on the east side of the state with 14 free circula tion and paid subscription community newspapers covering 10 Michigan counties, It prints more than 250,000 copies on both a weekly and daily basis. The purchase of the J-Ad Graphics portfolio of news­ papers fits the template of the View Newspaper Group whose exponential growth began in 2003 with the launch of the Lapeer Area View by company president and founder Rick Burrough. “The Jacobs family has been great stewards of the J-Ad group of newspapers,” stated Burrough. “When the family decided it was time for them to sell their papers, they sought us out knowing of our success in the community newspaper business and our reputation for treating readers, stakeholders advertisers, vendors and employees - with fairness and respect.” The company has solidified that success and reputation with consistent start-up ventures and acquisitions of family-legacy publications like those of the Jacobs family. In 2019, the View Newspaper Group purchased the Greenville Daily News and its printing operations we believe the things that from the venerated Stafford hold our communities togeth much stronger than the family. That addition, until er are last week’s J-Ad Graphics things that divide us.’ That was a major factor in purchase, has been the View Newspaper Group’s closest Jacobs’ choice of a corporate move to the west side of the successor as well as the financial security greaier state. by the View View “We kind of got to be offered known around the state by Newspaper Group’s efficienfamily publishers because cies in printing, delivery and we respect the legacy of their technology. “I’ve known the owners community newspapers,” said Wes Smith, who for several years and have re-joined his long-time col- the greatest respect for their league Burrough as publisher dedication and knowledge of of the View Newspaper the industry,” said Jacobs. Group in 2011. “We contin- “Having them take over my ue to be part of the commimi family’s business which has ties we serve by reporting on been in place for nearly 80 local community govem- years made it easier to do.” ment, safety issues, schools The Jacobs family will and everything that matters still have a local presence. to readers. A big part of our Fred’s son, Jon, and daughcommunity approach is that ter, Jennie Yonker, both of * * He expects that the View Newspaper Group will be renting the current oflSce facil­ ities to establish a local pres­ ence for its own operations. “I know that our present customers and some who haven’t been as active will support the new ownership,” said Jacobs. “They’ll make it possible for it to grow and produce the kind of papers I grew up with over the past 50-plus years.” Smith looks forward to that challenge. “I’ve had the good fortune of working with profession­ als like Fred throughout my career,” Smith said. “He’s been such a great example to me. He and his group have become my peers. “It’s an honor for us to have earned his trust.” whom hold active roles with J-Ad Graphics, have been offered positions with the View Newspaper Group. Daughter Carrie Larabee will continue to operate J-Ad’s Printing Plus facility independently from its current location in the restored bam at J-Ad’s M-43 location. Printing Plus, as well as the Lowell Lithograph and Charlotte Lithograph busi nesses, is not part of the sale transaction which wnicn includes niciuuc^ only the newspaper side of J-Ad’s holdings. Those printing operations will continue to be directed by the Jacobs family. Jacobs will retain owner­ ship of J-Ad’s property on N. 43 Highway, just north of Hastings, along with properties in Marshall and Lowell. I 'i ji’f I ♦< Lj II' I A A 9 Al* f I 41 i if V U Z I I ^1 1^. idf iiiii View Newspaper Group takes on same mission as J-Ad Graphics 4 Fs 1 Doug Vanderbaan Contributing Writer As long time colleagues, sometimes even working for competing newspapers, Wes Smith and Rick Burrough have always understood their mutual passion for the news­ paper business. Ink runs through their veins and the smell of newsprint always tells them their home. One thing they’ve also had in common is the pain they feel when a newspaper dies. That s why their professional mission as the owners of the View Newspaper Group is to save, restore, revitalize, and even start community newspapers throughout the state. Today, their Lapeerheadquartered group owns 14 free circulation and paid-subscription newspapers cover­ ing 10 Michigan counties. With last week’s purchase of the publication portfolio of J-Ad Graphics, Inc., seven more newspapers have been added n to theu stable. f . Burrough, founder and company president. and Smith, publisher, have felt the pain of a stricken newspaper industry up close. Dying newspapers began piercing America’s heart in the late 1990s and the camage has accelerated into the present day. According to a Washington Post report in Nov., 2021, over 2,200 local * newspapers closed in America from 2005 to 2021. Smith and Burrough have been there. Forty years ago. Smith was working at the Lapeer County Press as a production manager when Burrough walked in wanting to learn the business. Burrough moved on to other printing opportunities in the Thumb area of Michigan while Smith stayed and worked his way up to higher levels of management at the paper. Burrough purchased his first printing business and the two became competitors for a time when Burrough started his own newspaper, the Lapeer Area View, in 2003. That paper and the invitation by Burrough for Smith to j oin him in 2011 has been a grand and ambitious response to the country’s newspaper malaise. Using JAMS Media, LLC , as parent company, the two began acquiring and starting newspapers, first in their Thumb-area region and then branching out from there. With each addition to the group Burrough and Smith are proving they have a winning formula to stop the spread of “news deserts” in America. “A successful community newspaper plays a vital part in making their . cities and ,„ towns successful,” said Smith. Part of what we do is J I A 1*4 ' '<.i J % S'* G j I 1 / -J J - a A < t 6- ’ S •« z « X ■I". •108^^ cotton quilt backings (b I V lUsPNGs Banner Mi* w I A. ^MMk*** •-•rb ! -J •' > pifci tilt fl ■ * 1 • . -X. A A Bl ' t * Ite CoDiflCl ijiteiM t '% MM 5 t r Wes Smith Rick Burrough ■ • 4 - 1 KJ to ensure that businesses and nonprofit organizations in the community are prospering.” That comes not only in publicizing those entities but also as part of another View Newspaper Group tenet: Involvement. “Many of our team members serve on area nonprofit boards and are community volunteers,” said Smith. “We insist that they become involved with the community, that they ’ re involved with . ser bemg on boardsand with serviceorganizations. We push that responsibility down because they thrive on their «9 involvement and become more successful in their roles. Involvement also means a significant investment by the View Newspaper Group in direct contributions. Last J^ade $ 130,000 in cash donations to area nonprofits, $25,000 of which Burrough himself The View Newspaper Group is an active sponsor of signature events that raise money for important causes. In the last decade, the compa­ ny has made $240,000 in con­ tributions to the communities in which it is based. I Burrough sees J-Ad and the commimities it serves fit ting right in to the View Newspaper Group’s involve ment with and support of the readers, advertisers, and nonprofits it serves. “The Jacobs family has been great stewards of the J-Ad group of newspapers for nearly 80 years,” noted Burrough. “When the family decided^ it was time for them to sell their papers, they sought us out knowing of our success in the community newspaper business and our reputation for treating stakeholders — advertisers, venvendors and employees — with with fairness and respect^ The addition of J-Ad Graphics’ publications to the View Newspaper Group appears to be a winning prop- Lake an X ,1 - < Ml <1 11 II ■ ' /1 n fs • * SSSSS 2SS3S3 1 I 4 am ------- II « .......... * SUN TO BUSINESS *M ■Hiiisit I 252^*- . 4^ » >— iipistco / i ( 4M - UK MM W/ It. I s * I mm Be B I w fl aK ♦ . • J--- * i I " i ro;,-J v MT . • . ; tall UI fell hackto 1 J-Ad Graphics and its portfolio of newspapers have been engrained in the local community for 80 years. This is a photo of the team, includinq oublisher Fred Jacobs inside the newspaper suit, participating in a Christmas parade in Hastings. (File photo) osition for all players. J-Ad Graphics receives the assurance that its 80-year dedica­ tion to the community will continue; the \^ew Newspaper Group extends its mission to revitalize community joumalism in a threatened industry; coflsidei He U proves that local newspapers that reflect their readers, respond to the needs of their advertisers, and are involved in their community are still viable and in demand. Smith sees J-Ad Graphics as a mirror image of that busi ness model. “Our communities are made up of many good peo­ ple doing many good things,” he added. “Fred and his oper­ ation do so many things right and one of those things is the coimection to the community. “It’s an honor to have earned their trust.” accept from its ■ to atii: Ciillm sgreani t.s rr * and local readers, advertisers and nonprofit oiganizations can welcome the protection of not becoming a news desert. “Readers and advertisers deserve to have their home town newspapers to be vital parts of their community,” summed up Smith. “The View Newspaper Group for tbe Depim moled, the nMa I Positioi iirlier senice ON’, cilapp, CORRECTION: * r ' f In a(( tfiinas tve tfian^s '3* J 1' QUESTIONS: ASK US... tf. FAMt BCttEAC INSURANCE* Cof9^Q^ ’J 218 E. State St, Hastings • 945-9673 < ■ OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm I I I VKA ■■■M Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station Jason Parks __ 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269)795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com In a story that ran in the May 4 issue of the Sun and News, we incorrectly stated that Kim Selleck did not fife to run for Thornapple Township trustee in the upcoming election. This is incorrect. Selleck has filed to run for a Thornapple Township trustee position and he has done so as an independent. He previously has ran as a Republican. We regret the error. P«lhoi i . 9a 1 I i I i t •’ fi«) t 5/' 3 b ( ’-Sr •* • -w fl i n a I * MB * A Ht r * aU lb 2 • Our back door is open! , c 3 • Wide variety of cotton prints u I; 3 ra s T 1 \ • tj JI I Your local agent insures your * ' ‘l ’ * « • I .rr 9 f • » *s I 1 z *ith, ^tiii �I I % I The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18, 2024/ Page 3 FIRE DEPARTMENT, continued from page 1 •l I r I ^’1 V't >lc fs ill I « I f II b I I Ih A 1 7 fl 1 % J, I ■I l^» I I I I *♦? .‘1 a r •• newspapffi ranity kF linjpil I I photo xalHiJf tew idliEf .'1 >I iiBij'r. I 4 side of Cutlerville. Township will retain ownerThat means that Byron ship of the fire station on will be building a new fire 68th Street, it must provide station of its own in firefighting services to Byron Cutlerville at some point. Township until Byron can Gaines Supervisor Rob complete construction of its DeWard noted that Byron new fire station in Cutlerville trustees have acquired prop­ and begin operations. erty alongside US-131, just Under the intergovern­ north of the McDonald’s on mental agreement, whoever 68th Street, as the future site stays in the station (on 68th for that station. And they also Street) is required to offer have budgeted money for the fire services to the leaving new building, which would township until they can get be built on a former Michigan up and ready, and running on Department ofTransportation their own. So, we are required park-and-ride lot. to offer at least a one-year “They bought it to build a contract for fire services to fire station,” Township Byron, because we’re stayManager Rod Weersing said. ing in the Cutlerville staThe Byron Township tion,” Weersing said. Board’s most recent meeting The Gaines Township minutes listed $3 million as Board voted in March to the amount budgeted for that change the name of the expenditure. Cutlerville Fire Department After getting over the ini- to the Gaines Charter tial shock of learning about Township Fire Department, Byron’s vote to dissolve the which will take effect after partnership in Cutlerville, the partnership with Byron is Gaines officials assembled a fully dissolved. On Monday Fire Advisory Committee night, the Gaines Board last fall consisting of various voted voted 7-0 7-0 to to approve approve aa new new township stakeholders, such Gaines Charter Township as Gaines planning staff. Fire Department logo. police and firefighters, to The Gaines advisory com­ make recommendations to mittee recommended that the Gaines Township Board. Gaines use a pay-per-call The Cutlerville Fire billing method for fire serContract Termination vices it will be providing Agreement encompasses Byron until that township those recommendations. has its own fire department which the Gaines Board operating in Cutlerville. That voted 7-0 Monday night to is part of the proposed agree agree-­ ment. approve. This is the agreement that “So, we’re going to charge will be given to Byron for them for each call that is run them to accept or deny. This on the Byron side of the is just codification of the Cutlerville service area. It terms (of the proposed agree- boils down to $800 per (ser (ser-­ ment), Weersing told trust- vice) call. If a call lasts lon Ion-­ ees at their regular monthly ger than an hour, then there’s an meeting. ancillary charge,” He said the proposed Weersing said. agreement would be given to The Byron Township Byron Township Supervisor Board does not have to Donald (Amos) Tillema on accept the Cutlerville Fire May 14 to review and take Service agreement. back to the Byron board for “If they come back with consideration. any negotiation, I would The Gaines Township bring that to you,” Weersing Board also voted 7-0 to told the Gaines Township accept a recommendation Board. “And then, it’s up to from its advisory committee you to decide. All we have to to approve the proposed do is offer. They don’t have Cutlerville Fire Service to accept. We can hold pat. If agreement. Because Gaines you see wisdom in their I ?n .R r T •>** -.4. > I** ♦ > * I I -S'*-* * 4 • 5* e I I 213? V. 1**8 ITr. c 1 < t - fc- * /I .•X - - I S. ’•i sr l. Il u4 C •I J . X - » 4 I 4 * ■ rSv — J, « I sR •a. ■■ 1 I jf T I I t I The Gaines Township Board discussing the pending split with Byron Township in mutually operating the Cutlerville Fire Department. negotiation, we can make changes.” It s a very fair offer,” DeWard said, noting that Byron Township would have only a couple of options if its trustees decline the contract agreements that Gaines is proposing. At least, until Byron gets its own fire station built in Cutlerville and running. Byron Township could either try to service its side of the Cutlerville Fire territory using firefighters stationed in Byron Center, or it could rent a building some­ where as a temporary fire station. “We (Gaines) would still respond to mutual-aid calls like we do now,” De Ward DeWard said. Trustee Trustee Bob Terpstra asked what Gaines Township would do if Byron Township turns down the proposed contract agreements. “We’d start looking at our budget and preparing for just covering our side of the line. as of July 22,” Weersing responded. “And they’ll figure out a way to cover their side of the line without a station there?” Terpstra asked. “Yes. That’s on them,” Weersing said. Gaines Treasurer Laurie Lemke said the Byron board may accept the proposed agreements. “And within a few months, (Byron) would project out when they’re going to have their building built. And then, give us a six-month notice,” she said. Until Byron Township has a fire department up and run­ ning in Cutlerville, Gaines would provide mutual aid to support it in fighting larger fires in the Byron service area. “It’s really about residents. Whether it’s ours or theirs, people need to be protected,” Terpstra said. “That is what I would want to present to (Byron officials).” Weersing said he believes Byron Township has enough in its operating budget to cover expenses that the split might incur. ing all of the firefighting equipment in the Cutlerville Fire Station on 68th Street, except for a 2014 Ford F-550 Danko Mini Pumper truck. It was listed on the township website as having a value of $150,000 with a current mileage of 15,126. “In the numbers that I received from Byron, they wrote they would just take that off our hands,” Weersing said. “We’re paying for half of all the other vehicles; they are going to be asked to pay for half of that vehicle.” The cost would come out of the total payment Gaines will pay Byron for equip­ ment in the Cutlerville Fire station. Weersing refers to the truck as a “backup to a backup.” “It’s a smaller unit that’s mainly used for medical • I (I * calls,” he said. The proposed contract agreements must still be signed by Byron Township before the terms of the sepa- I I ration can be finalized. Meanwhile, the Byron Township side of the k 5 I Cutlerville service area will continue to be covered until Byron can build a new fire station and respond to calls there with its own firefighters. “So, residents in that area should see no change in ser­ vice,” Weersing said. Tillema has said he believes fire services will be enhanced in Cutlerville in the future with the eventual presence of two fire departments there, instead of one. Gaines will operate one, and Byron the other. I •I I I I t i» I I I t I I I 1 1 I “This is consistent with the intergovernmental agree­ ment that we’ve been working with all along,” DeWard said. “Again, I think it’s very Caledonia American Legion fair. They’re not going to i Post #305 build a building within a year. I don’t see that happen­ ing.” Weersing noted that Byron has the firefighting apparatus I it needs to fully service its own township, including its Monday, May 27, 2024 side of Cutlerville. “That’s why they have no Schedule for Cemeteries and Addresses I • Alaska *9:00 AM 68th St. and interest in our apparatus, other than a rescue truck,” he Thornapple River Drive said. I • Blain *9:45 AM - 1270 68th St. Gaines Township is retain Mcmori f * I I I I I It t I ;v I S’FKV 1C E'S® I I I 4 r I r I 1 •i 4 lbs! i)-W tagerffc<I nil®’ Mill! «• I »• tatf I* to JS' I I If t SEGARD, continued from page 1 for the new position of Department of Public Works foreman, and pro­ moted Jess Kantner to fill the position. The foreman position will replace the earlier position of public service director. Kantner joined the vil­ lage in December 2022 as a DPW technician. The coun­ cil approved raising her pay from $ 19.95 per hour to $25 per hour, and approved ret­ roactive pay based on her new wage in the amount of $ 1,222 dating back to early April. “She has really stepped up and helped us all out, and is always available to answer questions and work with us,” Segard said of Kantner. In addition, the council approved the appointment of a five-member committee to go over resumes and interview candidates for the administrative assistant position that Segard is retir- ing from. Lindsey, Schuler and President Pro Tempore Cheryl Miller will serve on the committee, along with Segard and Village Treasurer Jennifer Eardley. The com mittee will forward a recom- ■I I4 k Kraft 1I » Caledonia *12.00 Noon 503 Elm St. ili’r ■V R«m.' ITnNEW —-iatr' ■ 472 Arlington St, Middleville, Ml 49333 •s IWliON m 1j 4 r I 2 c^l i 3 UJST Il< 1 1-1.05 mendation on hiring the new assistant to the Village Council. The village has received 12 applications for the job, Lindsey said. I • Dutton *10:30 AM - 7000 Hanna Lake Ave. I • Holy Corners *11:15 AM - 84th and lA 60 new units and now hove outside storage for trailers, campers, boats and vehicles! If'* WIlKsOT I A” I zVERSxDE 'ri Rents A * k ^5 f{ •1’ 1 ft i KJ MONTHS 3 MONTHS e FORFREE! anvnew customer V I jL*# T ) I I i 9 f I r'l r' Text us at - 269-838-0S65 or call at (269) 795-3550 A*** ' % I I r I «< I ' I I �Page 4/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18, 2024 /C: O' 4i I Debate continues over Mid-Villa TIF request yr 'ii ** I?. Ellen Kay Noah Ellen Kay Noah passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on May 3, 2024, at the age of 89. Bom on July 10, 1934, in Detroit, MI, Kay was the beloved daughter of Mack and Marguerite (Stephan) Catchick. After graduating from Grosse Pointe High School in 1952, Kay pursued her passion for education and attained a BA degree in Elementary Education from Michigan State University in 1956. Kay continued her educational pursuits by obtaining a master’s degree from Western Michigan University in 1973. She devoted over two decades to shaping young minds as an at elementary teacher Thornapple-Kellogg Schools, from 1973 to 1994, a role she cherished deeply. Her marriage to Melvin L. Noah, MD on August 26, 1956 at the MSU Chapel was a testament to enduring love, spanning 67 years of mutual support and shared dreams. As the matriarch of a bustling household, Kay was a wonderful mother to four boys - Greg, Terry, Randy, and Chris - instilling in them the values of integ rity, generosity, and educa* ; IJ t;v pi 1 > 4k . r s 4** .* < « Sk tion. She was also a steadfast partner in her husband’s medical practice, offering her unwavering support through the years. Family was Kay’s greatest joy, as evidenced by her devotion to her sons and their spouses, Greg (Jean) Noah, OD, Terry (Margaret Helton, MD) Noah, MD, Randy (Chen Yin, JD) Noah, JD, and Chris (Ann) Noah, MD. She reveled in the growth of her grandchildren: Christopher (Christina) Noah, Kelsey (Austin) Styler, Corrie Noah, Paul Noah, Hannah Noah, MD, Sean (Sarah) Noah PhD, Kelly (Max) Wolffe, Carly Noah, Janie Noah, Luke Noah, Chloe (Steve) Reamer, and SJ (Claes) Adler. The cherished moments she spent with them and her many will great-grandchildren endure as treasured memo­ ries. Kay’s own siblings, broth­ ers, Jim and Chris Catchick and sister-in-law, Mary Frances VanderWall, along with her nieces and nephews, Maggie (Kevin) Houghton, Matt (Christine) Catchick, John (Jan) VanderWall, and Scott (Denise) VanderWall, enriched her life immeasur­ ably. Kay was preceded in death by her parents. Mack and (Stephan) Marguerite Catchick, step-mother, Doris Catchick, and brother, Jim Catchick. Kay’s family will receive friends on Saturday, July 13, 2024 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home where her celebration of life will be conducted at 1p.m. Private burial will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Memorial contribution to Thomapple-Kellogg Schools (memo line: Elementary Schools in memory of Kay Noah) will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condo­ lence message for Kay’s family. Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Thomapple Township Board has not yet reached a final decision on whether to back a developer’s request for a tax-increment financing proposal to support develop­ ment of the residential portion of the Flats at Mid-Villa project in Middleville. The issue did not come up at Monday’s board meeting, Township Supervisor but Eric Schaefer said afterwards there’s a possibility a special meeting could be held soon to decide on the matter. “I’m waiting to hear back from the attorney (on the resolution language that the board will vote on). It’s going to be a matter of days before I get an answer on . I what needs to happen didn’t have a resolution (Monday), I didn’t have an agreement, I didn’t anything I 'I I 4 5 /f « fsMed f I e■ I ’■**** - 4» s > • «- 4 *- ^^♦*»*^^** ’ k •1 • **£z *’7------ TPC: ■" -.*>*-** A" 4^ • :r-k / IhW* f *» «« I ■9 r > ■ ’-•5 *.4 .-’T-'w, * ( 9 TBP* " dr < /•a J The Thornapple Township Board may call a spe­ cial meeting soon to decide whether or not to back a developer’s request for tax-increment financing for a large housing development at the former Middle Villa Inn property. (File photo) to vote on,” Schaefer said. The board held a special meeting May 9 at the town­ ship fire station to get input from residents on the project and the TIF request from Dutch Developers LLC. The meeting lasted nearly twoand-a-half hours and featured considerable pushback from those in attendance, both concerning the nature of the project and the TIF proposal. “I called the special board meeting so that the develop­ ers of the Mid-Villa Flats would have a chance to inter­ act with the public and answer any questions they may have,” Schaefer said at the start of the special meet­ ing. Dutch Developers is ask­ ing the township, the village of Middleville, the village’s Downtown Development Authority and the Barry County board to pass a pro­ posal to allow the county’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority to collect $4.48 million in new tax revenues that are expected to be gener­ ated by development of the residential portion of the Mid-Villa project over the next 15 years. See MID-VILLA TIP, next page * I iJiti I*'’ ,1 I I 1 I 1 < Sa Villi’’ sippoit I (ii to'i' tofilieiw dl go t)ffo Caledonia United Methodist Church The Toi ■isiW' * Re\\ Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street siepiii 616-891-8669 CaiedoniaUMC.org •I Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist Serving ~ Strengthening ih liffO 4 Connecting <* cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham len * FIRST Sunday Service 10:30 AM BAPTIST Middleville Good Shepherd Lutheran Church <x "I o -^1 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend Wr. Ils <*■ 1 Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com 1 I Lfvestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddlevtlte Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 OURNEY CHURCH 4 SI ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch % Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Sunday School.. .9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM <^PEACE Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee 1447/c/? our services from our website (see above) * (269) 795-2391 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. p Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. IIM @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 -s. 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org !iutwisip5 Id fiidlnt Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. tnlOOKB ft tbs Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. IM. iueiBlieR itwpti THORNAPPLE VALLEY llhiiil if they t SCHURCH ion’l MIDDLEVILLE Mlei SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Tniste _________ www.stpaulcaledonia.or2 ’’Ma Whitneyville Yankee Springs Bible Church i 'iUloii Fellowship Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 lie 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52'^’^ & 48^1^ j Worship Services Sunday io am & 6 pm IK® ■< PEACECHURCH.ee I rNTEtHATfoSH SC-TautCfiurcfi CHURCH Praising God through Hymns • Reading God's Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou 9:30 a.m. iT* HOLY FAMILY ^/CATHOLIC CHURCH I Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: VVhitneyvilleFellowship.org t fvej "Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Groiin '^lace 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org *011 u 1 kimi On Vol .''S: �I I f The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18, 2024/ Page 5 1 ► Thornapple 1\vp. OKs cemetery rate increases Greg6. Chandler ‘J 'll ‘• '14 fl' $300 whik. JJUI), wniie a non-resident Staff Writer cremain lot will cost $650 Facing rising costs of under the new rate strucmaintaining Mount Hope ture, up from $500 accordCemetery, the Thomapple ing to township docuTownship Board Monday ments. unanimously approved a The burial fee for a full series of rate increases to cemetery lot between May generate additional reve­ and October will be $650, nue for upkeep of the cem­ an increase from $600, etery. while the burial fee for a The cost of a cemetery cremain lot in that same lot for a township resident time window will be $250, will increase from $700 to up from $200. The sur$850, while a lot for a charge for a burial during non-resident will rise from the months winter $1,000 to $1,200. A cre­ (November through April) main lot for a resident will will be an additional $150, now cost $450, up from an increase from $100, MID-VILLA TIFf continued from previous pi 9 I township documents show. The cost for a columbar­ ium niche for a township resident will increase from $800 to $875, while a non-resident columbarium niche will cost $1,175, an increase from $1,100. The township budget for the cemetery for the 202425 fiscal year calls for $93,700 in expenditures, including $26,800 for pro­ fessional services, $26,000 for repairs and mainte­ nance and $20,000 for building and grounds improvements, according to township documents. Mu 'Hie tonJ’'! Sxi **1 K' 4 Thornapple Twp. puts single fire services tax proposal on August ballot Greg Chandler A▲ ’•in. inia mat laljiitiiit- I robRiMla teiiaji ton e.,Cilatai » aUii If I 11 ifCiis [(Dfilfl® Mt IES: 11 Staff Writer With two millages to support fire services in Thomapple Township having expired, township offi cials have decided to combine the two previous levies into a new proposal that will go before voters on the August ballot. The Township Board Monday voted to put on the Aug. 6 ballot a single proposal for fire protection and emergency services, including the purchase of equipment, of 2.25 mills for six years, running from this year to 2029. If approved, the levy would generate $993,565 in its first year. On a unanimous vote, the board chose to combine the two prior tax levies one that was approved in August 2020 and a second that passed by less than 100 votes two years later — into one new proposal rath­ er than seek two separate renewals. Some board members were concerned about presenting separate renewal proposals. “I think we take a chance, if they only want to vote (yes) on one, but if they don’t (vote yes) on the smaller one We need both,” Township Treasurer Laura Bouchard said. Trustee Curt Campbell raised a concern about the way the ballot language will look to voters. Because it’s a new proposal, it can’t be worded as a renewal. even though it would replace the two prior sepa­ rate millages. “I don’t care how we do it, but I’m just worried that our voters aren’t going to understand what they’re voting for,” Campbell said. In August 2020, town- - >4 I 4 * T. ■^’4- -? r [ I I. I I B r L I I .1 1 I I t -X k 1^ •I ■ ■ ■ ■ r ' ,1 t 5 4^ ! Y i * c t •J A’-, CAUHA eOUCHAKD '•sy • .. . "Ml ill I ... Thornapple Township Treasurer Laura Bouchard shares her concerns about seeking separate renewals of the township’s fire and emergency services millage at Monday’s board meeting as Supervisor Eric Schaefer listens. (Photo by Greg Chandler) ship voters approved a that we’re combining the 1.7169-min renewal for fire two and making it longer. protection and emergency just for ease and budget services for four years, planning,” Selleck said. including funding to supFire Chief Bill port the purchase of fire Richardson also supported and emergency equipment, going for a six-year levy. with 1,151 yes votes to 469 “Every four years, it just no votes. That levy has seems like you’re over since been rolled back to here, constantly asking (for 1.6742 mills because of the approval),” Richardson Headlee amendment. said. In August 2022, the Supervisor Eric Schaefer township asked for an said that the township will additional 0.5662 mills for have to educate the public to fire and emergency ser- try to clear up any potential vices. That vote was much confusion about the new closer, passing with 1,006 proposal. Richardson sugyes votes to 913 no votes. gested an informational That levy has been rolled flyer similar to one distribback since then to its cur- uted by Thomapple Kellogg rent level of 0.5629 mills Schools to explain their by the Headlee amend- recent non-homestead millage proposal, which voters ment. Board members also approved last week. Seventy percent of the debated whether to seek a four-year or six-year period revenues generated by the for the new levy., Trustee millage goes to fire serKim Selleck supported vices, 20 percent goes to seeking a longer term for ambulance and 10 percent goes to capital improve the tax. “It’s a lot better (and) ments toward the purchase easier for planning down the road. We just have to explain to our constituents of new equipment, accord­ ing to township board min­ utes. That money would then be used to reimburse the devel­ oper for infrastructure and other related costs tied to the project, including construc­ tion of a $475,000 lift station that would handle sewage for the development. The TIF application is the result of a change in the state’s Brownfield Development Financing Act that has been in place for more than 25 years. State lawmakers last year passed a four-bill package that chang­ es the law to allow new tax revenues captured through local brownfield redevelop­ ment authorities to fund affordable housing projects. The Flats at Mid-Villa proj­ ect calls for construction of six apartment buildings, totaling 144 units — 120 two-bedroom apartments and 24 one-bedroom apartments - along with a 134-unit self-storage facility and three commercial outlets fronting M-37. The site has been vacant since the former Middle Villa Inn was tom down in 2015. The Village Council in May of last year approved a planned unit devel­ opment proposal for the proj­ ect. The developers say the project addresses a need for “workforce housing” that was identified in a report issued last year by the Barry Community Foundation and Barry County Chamber and Economic Development Alliance. The apartments would be marketed toward people whose incomes are between 80 and 120 percent of the community’s median income, which works out to between $40,000 and $90,000 a year. Rents for the units would range from $1,225 a month for one bedroom to $1,475 for two bedrooms, which developers say is below mar­ ket rate. Without the TIF, rents for the apartments would likely exceed $2,000 a month, Dutch Developers principal Nate Heyboer said. “It’s not perfect. It’s not going to help (eveiyone). It’s supposed to help some. It’s supposed to help the two-income family, the boy- fnend-girlfnend that work together, they’re trying to make the step into the vil­ lage, who want to live here and be part of the communi­ ty,” Heyboer said. “Right now, there is nothing avail­ able for anyone in that situa­ tion. You have to go to Misty Ridge or somewhere (else) and buy a brand new home.” Katie Stanton considers the TIF request an affront to the hard-working residents who pay taxes to support the community. “If you vote and you say yes to this you’re basically smacking them in the face because we helped make this community great,” Stanton said. “We paid our taxes. If a hundred residents came to you and said we don’t want to pay taxes, would you agree with that? No. That would be asinine - for 15 years. That’s crazy.” The TIF request does not involve the self-storage facil­ ity and commercial outlots. Development of that portion of the project is underway. Heyboer said recently he expects to generate about $600,000 in new tax reve­ nues from the commercial side of the development that will be taxed in its normal fashion. “The tax request for this has nothing do with any of the commercial properties. All the commercial proper­ ties - the potential restau­ rants, the potential doctors’ offices - are all going to be paying new (taxes), full taxes,” Heyboer said. Keara Hilton said that the type of project being pro­ posed at the Mid-Villa site is more suited to a larger city and not a community the size of Middleville. “I just don’t see what you’re trying to do, and (how) the program you’re trying to use fits with our small com­ munity,” Hilton said. Brenda Coles expressed concern about the mainte­ nance and upkeep of the building after the 15-year tax capture is completed. “In 15 years, you’re going to have a development that has had 15 years of full occu- pancy, full use,” Coles said. “I live in a home that’s 20 years old. When do things start tak­ ing a crap at my house? Around 15 years. You have to replace heating, cooling, plumbing, etc. Do we have projections for the mainte­ nance of those units over time? Do we have quality building going up, or are we going to be dealing with some run-down housing in 15 years?” Dutch Developers said it will use a property manage­ ment company that has been certified by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority to maintain the apartments. Concerns were also raised on the need for increased police and fire presence in the community as a result of the new development, as well as additional traffic on M-37. The Middleville Village Council on April 23 approved a resolution of support for the TIF proposal on a unani­ mous vote. Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith spoke of what he sees as the long-term benefit of the proj­ ect and the TIF proposal. “In 15 years, this will be a windfall for the village (in terms of new tax revenue), and we’ll have affordable housing to address what is, at this stage, a national crisis,” Smith said. “This isn’t a loss, it’s a gain.” The DDA board is expect­ ed to consider a similar reso­ lution when it meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday night at the Village Halt I I •I ■i - d 1 I I* I I I I» i I i > t I I I • ( 1 I Ii I J t i I I I I II I 1 I I t I I PUBLISHER’S NOTICE; I I I All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it ille­ I gal to advertise “any preference, limitation or II f4 I discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or marital status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial I status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in viola­ tion of the law. Our readers are hereby informed II I I that alt dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451 -2980. The HUD toll-free telephone num­ ber for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. I t I 1 I t I I* I COUAL HOUSMQ OrPORTUMITT U£ I ■» 1 t I 1 THE GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT » 1! Simulcast Live at Cornerstone Church - 84th St. Campus t J The best of leaders never stop learning. Commit now to secure your seat at this year's Summit, where you w hundrec s of«hous aders UI A it. 1 , • : . I k I I fz o t .”35' a I 'JSC., . W ~r r • iT^* I I I i CRAIG GROESCHEL MIKE KMZYZEWSKl AMY COMUNDSON MOLLY FLETCHER MICHAEL 1 I 4t I I �Page S/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18, 2024 TKHS plans Class of 2024 honors night and graduation TK board holds off on FFA barn pu rebase “We then have to constmet the building. We have to get a foun­ dation and figure out a lot of things. But this is die first step of maity in growing this FFA pro­ gram. It’s very exciting.” While board members are generally supportive of acquir­ ing the bam, they want to see some of the details addressed before committing to the pur­ chase. “I’m in favor of promoting the FFA as much as we possi- Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Thomapple Kellogg school board is pumping the brakes on a decision to approve the purchase of a bam to sup­ port the growing FEA program at the high school. The board Monday tabled the proposed purchase of the building, which would be erected on the southwest por­ tion of the school property, across from the American „ Az! are Handicapped seats are reserved at the top of the stands under the press box. Tickets are not required. In the event of rain or inclement weather, a deci­ sion will be made by 3 Graduation Graduation ceremonies ceremonies for the nearly 245 members of the TKHS Class of 2024 will take place at 7 p.m. May 23 in the stadium. Stadium gates open at 6 p.m. with seating being first-come, first-served. num. During this special night, students receive scholarships, scholastic and other awards. Many will be recognized for their involvement in ath­ letics, clubs and organiza­ tions. om that day whether the p.m. mai y ceremony will need to be moved inside to the large gymnasium. Prior to graduation, the school will host the annu­ al Honors Night event at 7 p.m. May 21 in the audito- TK hires new administrator, band director; OKs transfer of Page principal to high school 1*1! be honest, there are a lot of unknowns. This (request) is to purchase the building. We then have to construct the building. We have to get a foundation and figure out a lot of things. But this is the first step of many in growing this FFA program. s very exciting. (<*, I I 1 fI i I I i — Chris LaHaie, assistant superintendent, Thornapple Kellogg Schools Youth Soccer Organization fields. “There’s quite a patch of grass there, and there’s a field that’s currently farmed that we own quite a bit of,” TK Superintendent Assistant Chris LaHaie said. The TK district earlier this year received a $48,363 FEA grant through the Eaton Regional Educational Service Agency toward the purchase of the bam. TKHS agricultural science teacher and FEA coor­ dinator Alyssa Hamlin applied for the grant. The bam would be a metal structure wi± a sidewall of 60 feet, an endwall of 60 feet that includes a lean-to, and a pre­ pitch height of 18 feet. The district received two bids for the delivery of the building. with a low bid of $49,705 from Elite Metal Buildings. However, there are questions that haven’t been answered, such as how power and water might be siqiplied to ±e bam. LaHaie said there would be additional “significant costs” associated with providing those amenities to the site. “I’ll be honest, there are a lot of unknowns. This (request) is to purchase the building,” LaHaie told the school board. bly can, but it seems irrespon­ sible, at least from my per­ spective, to agree to buy this without having the rest of the information,” board member Jeff Dickman said. If approved, the building would be delivered over the summer. But then comes the questions over the constmction and its costs. “Unless we get labor that’s donated, we have to build it,” LaHaie said. Between the cost of the formdation and constmction of the bam, the additional cost of the project could reach $ 100,000 without donated labor or materials, LaHaie said. “I want to be supportive of the program. It was brought by passion, by passionate people. You can’t buy passion. I’m trying to be a steward of this new program,” LaHaie said. Board member Tyler Wenger, who is on a community committee that advises FFA, says he’ll work on addressing some of the unanswered questions. “I have no question that this is going to come together,” Wenger said. The grant funds for the bam purchase must be spent by July of next year, LaHaie said. GIVE US A CALL TODAY! HARMLESS BAT REMOVAL <iKe Bat G(ip« Removs*' thebatguysbatremoval.com w u BAT-PROOF & CLEAN UP FULL ATTIC RESTORATION 10-YEAR WARRANTY 517-599-1019 -jSSSSI* Men •J ■ >1 ir w. Antenna Men • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink installs • Towers _______ Enhancement Systems Give us a call! •tfsur^S^ 1 no* 1 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen^gmail.com www.celltignatpi-os.com ( i)S(* r- ’ 1 * 0 I •} I l»!»is' J fiifiJi A i*w * «y I <2V OS •Mr .* ■ iW J <« A 4 ■ r « A iT'i •J I >4 t 4 « eit'. J* 1 A ♦ I * 5’^ s Z Vi ?7i V '5’sir** T « • *>- <- tr < > & V <« •7* w i' 2: r*« -c s z*i c -J : ' -A a Adm iffoiitu a. ( > 5 m. I* • WO V e Li r. 7; ig A * '***\<* L 1 J «r* WopB ! Mlxi si as nte taiW a de EC 1 /• T • < 2mJ ■ V Clair Jansma replaces Ray Rickert, who will retire as high school band director at the end of the current school year. Jansma served a student teaching assignment under Rickert and middle school band director Mark Hagemann and also did a teaching apprenticeship at Marshall Elementary School in the Byron Center district. Greg Chandler Staff Writer Thornapple Kellogg Schools have hired a new administrator, approved the move of another adminis­ trator from an elementary building to the high school and hired a new high school band director. The district’s school board Monday approved the hiring of Heather Robotham as TK’s first director of sec­ ondary curriculum, the transfer of Gregg Bruno from principal at Page Elementary School to assis­ tant high school principal, and the hiring of Clair Jansma as high school band director. Robotham comes to TK from Wyoming Public Schools, where she has worked for 23 years, start­ ing as a high school chem­ istry teacher, and then for the last 10 years as an instructional coach. “Heather will work alongside middle and high school staff as we imple­ ment the (Professional Learning Communities) process and continue to improve instructional practices for students,” Superintendent Craig McCarthy wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Robotham will work closely with longtime cur■* riculum director Kim Chausow, who will turn her focus to instruction in the district’s elementary build­ ings, McCarthy wrote. “My approach to curricu­ lum development is ground­ ed in collaborative inquiry, data-driven decision mak­ ing, and a commitment to all students growing as learners,” Robotham wrote in her application cover letter. Robotham holds a bache •• lor of science degree from Michigan State University and a master’s in education from Aquinas College. Bruno came to the TK district in the fall of 2019 as principal at Page after seven years as principal at St. John Vianney Catholic School in Wyoming. “Much like we ask teach ers in March if anyone is interested in a change of assignment, we asked the administrative team if anyone was looking for a transfer (or) change in assignment,” McCarthy wrote in his email. “Mr. Bruno looked at this as an opportunity to return to the secondary level, which is where he Started his career.” Bruno formerly taught at Byron Center High School before moving into admin­ istration. McCarthy hopes to have a candidate for a new Page principal for the next school board meeting in June. Jansma is a 2020 TKHS graduate who recently fin­ ished her bachelor’s degree in music education with an instrumental focus from Grand Valley State University. She replaces Ray Rickert, who will retire as high school band director at the end of the current school year. She served a student teaching assign­ ment under Rickert and middle school band director Mark Hagemann and also did a teaching apprentice­ ship at Marshall Elementary School in the Byron Center district. “I am excited about the prospect of contributing to the music program that I was in as a student, collab­ orating with fellow stu­ dents and educators, and inspiring students to reach their full potential as mlisi * cians and individuals,” Jansma wrote in her cover letter. maajrxe llfflH iijffliie WSkb bl pea 'WlliB l&Ca is ippt ’liiM bCt® *‘ •PPoii Ui •Itt >!0i >e if '■f �I I I . Msbestos to be removed from old TK Learning Center before demolition 2'S’ 'W'1 I J I Greg Chandler Staff Writer •jtajj pyriter The demolition of the former Schools Learning Center will have to wait a bit. District officials recently learned that there was a small amount of asbestos remain- we have to get the asbestos out of there.” The asbestos was discovcred in late March during h; 7 n C g has to be removed before demolition can proceed. “We found it in some pipe insulation and in some old floor tile in four of the class,, TK rooms, Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie consultant, John of 1 1 * Analytical Services. The district had recently completed the removal of asbestos from roof of the high school swimming pool as part of the pool’s renovation, LaHaie said. told the u..u district ’ s school ici s school board Monday nieht night. “This is arelativelv • u • • » I Northern Analytical , assisted the district The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18, 2024/ Page 7 For Sale 1 12 FOOT FISHING boat and trailer, all accessories. Trolling motor, and hummingbird fish finder LCR-1000. Best Offer (reasonable). Also, for sale: TI/4 horse Elgin Outboard, but needs carburetor work. Antique. Make Offer. 269-908-0893. the November 2019 bond issue, as will the demolition of the former Learning Center. The building dates back to 1938 and was once once for removing the asbestos from the Learning Center. Three bids were received for the project. with the board board voting Thomapple Kellogg High School and later the middle school. Demolition of the building is slated to take place the week of June 24, LaHaie wrote in an email. The school board earlier this year awarded the demo­ lition contract to X-Treme Thermal Abatement Inc. at a cost not to exceed $34,300. Work on the asbestos remov­ al was expected to take place this week, LaHaie said. The asbestos removal will be paid for out of funds from Demolition of Grand Rapids at a cost of $72,400. ber who has served their country in the military, there is an online form where you can submit your information to be included in the memo­ rial database. School officials earlier this year approved the addi­ tion of the memorial, which will be installed outside the Peter V. DeLille Fine Arts Center on the school’s north campus. CHS senior Brody Woodwyk has spearheaded the campaign to create the memorial, with assistance from government and history teacher Heather Tomes. The high school’s Parent Teacher Student Organization (PTSO) has assisted with fundraising for the project. 2003 YAMAHA V-STAR Motorcycle. Saddle bags and windshield. 15,000 miles. 650 CC motor. $1500 734-323-6349 CONDO, MIDDLEVILLE VILLAGE. Open floor plan, lots of natural light. Walkout lower level. Main floor bed­ room, en-suite, walk in closet. Kitchen with pantry. Main floor laundry, 1/2 bath. All appliances included. Second bedroom/study. Downstairs bedroom, full bath, family room, work room, storage room. Attached garage, 2 car. Flower beds with perennials! $282,000. 269-795-7815 Garage Sale Help Ilan ted MAY 24TH-27TH, WED-SAT, 9am-6pm. Large man sale. Lots of construction tools, hand tools, ELE, paint, push brooms. Track for lighting. Way too much to list! In Middleville MI, across from the laundry mat on ^*^7. Look for signs!! FARMERS GROUP (CALE­ DONIA, MI) seeks Agile Dev Team Member IV to work w/.NET web framework & provide tech, feasibility using coding methods & adhere to coding standards for consis­ tent style & format. Must have SAFe Practitioner or SAFe Agilist Certification. Remote work option. Salary: $130,000/ yr. Apply at Farmers.com/ Careers, Job ID: 24132. VALLEY RIDGE ESTATES neighborhood garage sale. Saturday, May 25 & Sunday, May 26,2024. 9am-3pm. CHS seeks vets info for memorial Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia High School has begun to collect information for its veterans memorial wall to honor those who have served in the military. If you or someone you know is a CHS graduate or Caledonia community mem- with close to $10,000 having been raised so far, Tomes said. A dedication ceremony for the veterans memorial is expected to take place this summer. Tomes said. To find the online form to fill out information for the memorial, visit calschools. org/community/veterans. HUGE BARN SALE. East Sis­ son Road on the corner of Broadway in Freeport. Look for signs. May 23rd, 4-9pm. May 24th, 9-5pm. AnHques’ home decor and much more! A utomotive 2003 PORSCHE BOXTER S, 67,000 Miles. Runs and drives great! $16,600. 616551-9412. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 Middleville council rejects DDA board candidate I 1 eendofii. chooitatJ nlullii smaiii heiW:' •k' iicaksi!' Mtil w rsily. ’ % : leatli' • • » sctiwit*’ z I < jikiP at#' •J it^ ;x. ijr . * II,/ i’ I** 1895, the village president is defined as the chief executive officer for the village. Sklarin had applied for an opening on the village plan­ ning commission earlier this year, but after interviewing him, Cramer thought he would be a good fit for the DDA, saying he was “well-qualified.” “He has a lot of experi­ ence with development and regulations, and I felt while he interviewed for the planning commission, his experi­ ence leans more toward DDA,” said Cramer, who has been critical of the board for focusing more on events than encouraging development in the downtown area. Peters said that while she respects Cramer’s authority to make the appointments, the DDA board should have a voice in the process. “While the DDA still exists, because the (tax increment financing that supports the authority) is sunsetting if we allow it, we should at least have some collabora­ tion,” she said. “It is respect for letting them know, or bringing them in (to the process),” added Trustee Ann Williams, who owns a downtown business. “You are micromanaging them ... All you need to do is talk to them and collaborate with them. You can still make the appointments, but there’s no communication whatsoever. It’s what you say and what you do, and HlQ CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decfo. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-8385937. **^ < -' it • i t '■w' l' r •■r •I s ? ■ I ? .-z f •» s I' t n * 9 1 it I. I * t* J* u J. ► • t . * 'tf* 'J! : 3 BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. In­ sured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. >9 I r- 4I »* a.« 1 <.1 'A < / ’’IT i V Ann Williams (right) speaks out in favor of the Middleville DDA having a voice in the appointment process of a new board member as Village President Mike Cramer listens. (Photo by Greg Chandler) then you bring it to us, and that’s wrong.” The debate over DDA appointments goes back to February, when the council voted 4-3 to replace two sitting board members, Andrew Beck and Joe Mancini, replacing them with Kortney Lull and Derek Dean. Cramer proposed the appointment of the new members and cast the tie-breaking vote to approve their inclusion. Under Public Act 57, a majority of DDA board members must be individuals with an ownership or business interest in property in the downtown district. The municipality’s chief execu­ tive officer and one resident must also sit on the board as well. President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith voted against Sklarin’s appointment, along Williams, with Peters, Richard Hamilton and Steve Baldry. “With all due respect to your appointment, it was heavy-handed and it came at the expense of losing two people who had a heart to serve the village,” Smith said. “I welcome and encourage whatever candidate you wish to put in place. I recommend. personally, that we had two capable individuals. I would encourage them to reapply and follow through the same process so that they can be before this board and have the ability for this body, as a governing body, to make the decision collectively, so that everybody is involved in the decision,” Smith added. Baldry proposed having a joint meeting of the council and DDA board, even sug­ gesting having it at his pole bam. “I would love to get in the same room with the DDA and us, and have a talk,” he said. “I don’t know the right words to use other than that - what’s your beef, do you have a beef, who are you, what it is that you do I would really like to see us do that.” The council by consensus agreed to Baldry’s idea. GOLF COURSE MAINTE­ NANCE EMPLOYEE- All aspects of Golf course mainte­ nance, including trimming, mowing, tree removal, and bunker work. Please see Evan and apply in person at Sas­ katoon Golf Club 9038 92nd St., Alto, ML To set up an Appointment call 616-891-9229 ext.16 or apply online at saskatoongolf.com. I I ’1 «! t I I t I I II i I * I I I I •I I II 1 B asiItess Ser\ 'ices Greg Chandler Staff Writer An ongoing dispute over appointments to Middleville’s Downtown Development Authority board boiled over Tuesday night as Village Council members argued for more than a half-hour over wheth­ er the DDA board should have a voice in the appoint­ ment process. The council voted 5-2 to reject the appointment of David Sklarin to fill a DDA board position that has been vacant since the end of March. Village President Mike Cramer recommended the appointment. Trustee Makenzi Peters asked Cramer whether he consulted with the DDA board before bringing his recommendation. Cramer said that under state law, he doesn’t have to. “They’re not even legally required to be part of (the appointment process) While they want to be includ­ ed in it, realistically, it’s the process. The process is the appointment comes from me,” Cramer said. Under Section 204 of Public Act 57 of 2018, a law which regulates downtown development authorities in Michigan, DDA board members “shall be appointed by the chief executive officer of the municipality, subject to approval by the governing body of the Under municipality.” Michigan’s general law vil­ lage act, which dates back to Real Estate Pets DOG GROOMING. QUALI­ TY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice Concrete Construction. Now firing. Full Time, Competitive Wages, Insurance, 401K, Paid Vacations. No experience needed. Call 616-693-2123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd, Clarksville, MI 48815. I r •1 I I 1 MASTER GARDENER: SAS­ KATOON Golf Qub is looking to hire a part-time, seasonal Master gardener to develop and maintain flower beds and accent landscaping during the golf season. Flexible hours beginning late April / early May through mid-October, approx. 24 hours a week. Apply online at saskatoongolf.com/employment/ or in-person at 9038 92nd St, Alto. I I 4 I 1 I i 1 II Miscellaneous HELP, PLACE TO LIVE NEEDED! My wife and myself are forced to move. We need a place to live. We live on a small Social Security income. Please Call 269-908-0893 or 651-404-0295. r I I I I I Bruce'S Frame end Al! 1 Full Service Body Shop I I • • • • 1 t Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa & MasterCard Accepted I » » I I I I •1 ! I J I 1 I J 1 Over 40 years experience s 1 4 I I ( 1 ( 1 brucesframe.com I I I I t I 1 r. 4 1 » I , I 1 V ( ! 1 1 I I I I ( I A r » » • I I 1 1 415 2nd • Middleville k » J I < i f I �< I .J Page 8/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18,2024 __ TKHS ladies finish off undefeated OK Gold season 135 which was 15 points better than the runners-up from Ottawa Hills. Throwing coach Cary Saxton was there to accept the conference championship trophy with seniors Mali Holland and Joselyn DeBoer and junior Lilly McKeown. Mia Hilton, the Harmon sisters (Ellie and Brooklyn), Kendra Coe, Madison Kietzman, Ava Crews and others, like head coach Maggie Wilkinson and assistant Ethan Barnes, soon found their way to the party. “I think it is amazing,” Brooklyn junior TK Hannon said of the conference championship. “Going Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans’ biggest cel­ ebrations trickled in Friday night at Houseman Field in downtown Grand Rapids. First one for a school record on the boys’ side and then another as the Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field team finished off an undefeated run through the 2024 OK Gold Conference season. The TK ladies were scat­ tered throughout the stadium as the announcer began ticking off the team scores finally getting to the Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field team’s championship point total of t I z f *«4 ft ri > ZaR J ** ♦ 4* ;. J ~9*h x4ai3*ii*r4& «> rS^ 9 ’S? / 4-« ► i <■ r \ > «• * I I F9S i 4^ k V7 1 TRiCl^h I r % ■■ TfA’ 4 i A: 6—» J ; > > f < J r I* tr 'r- \ ►► J I 1 I r: /I ✓ »» .'v» i I 4 x V, • 9 It ** J=- -T u 9 ’s r r' Iw Zii A rflH r « « f t I A i ♦.. /tar 1. r **** • ini’* (• 1 ■ * •die*-..* j-F. ' ■ !*■ ■ z r ' ■ 3 ^****?!#*- J F 9^ r I 5 "4- 2 AV** •r wn 0 Members of the Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field team Ava Crews, head coach Maggie Wilkinson, Mali Holland, Ellie Harmon, Brooklyn Harmon, Mia Hilton, Elizabeth Middleton, Joselyn DeBoer, Kendra Coe, coach Cary Saxton, Madison Kietzman and coach Ethan Barnes cele­ brate with their team’s OK Gold Conference championship trophy on the infield at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids Friday, May 10. The TK ladies were a perfect 7-0 in conference duals and outscored runner-up Ottawa Hills by 15 points at the conference meet to finish off the undefeated conference season. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I? > fl. 4 315 ri I « I r 11.. ( I I I t J f I it ; A ’ 11 into the season, I was like oh we have a lot of girls, but I don’t know how it is going to work out just because I have never seen a lot of these girls run. I am very proud of us all. We showed our true colors in what we do. We really work together as a team. We’re always picking each other up and covering we . always have each other’s backs and I feel like that helps us work. Even though track is an individual race you still need a team to encourage you.” On the track, the TK ladies capped off their con­ ference championship sea­ son with the team of Coe, Hilton, Ellie Harmon and Brooklyn Harmon racing to a wirming time of 4 minutes 10.75 seconds in the 4x400-meter relay. They 6 .r X i A k 9 Thornapple Kellogg senior Lucas VanMeter picks up the pace as he rounds the final turn In his leg of the 4x400-meter relay Friday, May 10, during the OK Gold Conference Championship at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids. VanMeter broke the TK boys’ 800-meter race record while winning a conference championship in that race. (Photo by Brett Bremer) STHTE I I I I 1 SYSTEMS 'W cut 5.75 seconds off their team’s previous best time in the race from this season and blew away the top-seed­ ed Catholic Central team by almost three and a half sec­ onds. “I think our adrenaline kind of carried us, because we were all kind of ner­ vous, but Ave were trying to hide it,” Brooklyn said of the season best 4x400 time. “Kendra hasn’t run ; It before, so we were trying to keep her calm. The biggest thing in my mind was I knew us and Ottawa Hills were super close.” Brooklyn, a junior, said she loves getting the baton from her younger sister Ellie, a freshman, in the race. She can tell they’re always trying to do their best for each other. Brooklyn was really impressed with Ellie’s 400meter dash from earlier in the day. Ellie was the run­ ner-up in that race with a time of 1:03.37. Brooklyn added that she continues to be worried that Hilton is going to chase her down one of these days in the hurdles. Thornapple Kellogg senior Lucas VanMeter flew around the final 200 meters to a victory in the 800meter run and was swarmed by his teammates as he won the OK Gold Conference r K I .t k* k L I L f I .. '> I • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Eiectronic Measuring System n:i; 1 ■ 4 • Frame Repair < A f t9 9 GOID CLASS Lesonal 1 ICnfib OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm PWMBA ! iJ - I — g. ED’S BODY SHOP 110 Johnson Street CAtlDONIA, MICHIGAN 616.891.0150 Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner www.edsbody. co m I X V'- Thornapple Kellogg freshman Ellie Harmon leads a pack around the final turn of their leg in the 4x400-meter relay at the end of the OK Gold Conference Championship at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids May 10. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Championship in the race, outdueling Ottawa Hills senior Liam Walters. The swarm soon turned into a flurry of fingers refreshing their phone screens waiting on a time. VanMeter found his way out of the crowd to find some water, and then the celebration found him again. He wasn’t only the fastest guy in the 800-meter dash - he ran the fastest 800-meter race ever by a Trojan clocking in at 1:56.60. “I started really nmning the 800 last year, with my firiend who is also good at it (2023 TK grad Tyler Bushman). I failed to make it to state last year, but now I’ m running great,” VanMeter said. “Now I’ve got Jacob Draaisma to run with. That helps for prac­ tice. Mentally, it is good to have someone to run with - a partner I guess.” He had Walters to run with in his 800 Friday. The Bengal leader wound up with a time of 1:57.86, his fastest mile of the season. “He is probably the best competition I’ve ever run against, probably the clos­ est competition,” VanMeter said. “I went the first lap, just sitting back behind because I knew they were going to take off with a fast lap probably, and then I got kind of stuck behind some kids. I saw a gap and I went around them, and then I saw [Walter] right in front of me with about 200 to go and put the hammer down.” He ticked under two min­ utes in the race for the first time at the April 19 Allegan Invitational and figured he just needed one more really good race to be able to break the school record See GOLD, next page 0 » »» J ssi. ft'' rt« at^if si if jwi® Bis #fS I iali I ffl I & A 2 aEij * - 44 • »I smBi si » I �4 I GOLD, continued from previous pd^ The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18, 2024/ Page 9 which was previously held that race at 16.81 to place by Matt Williamson who fourth and DeBoer sixth. TK Slagel, Mollie Moore, the won OK Gold has relied on its hurdlers to Elizabeth Middleton and McKeown all also score Conference Championship pile up points all season and points for the TK girls at Houseman Field in the they did it again in the 300- hT \ U g"'*" I throughout the course of the spring of 2010 with a time meter low hurdles. Brooklyn of 1:57.68. . won that race in 47.94 and Dykhouse had a huge all an “Hard work. He is a hard Hilton was second in 48.71. W’zf! around day for the TK worker, a very hard workNobody beat Brooklyn in ladies. She was the runer” TK boys’ co-head either hurdles race all sea­ coach Matt Wonders said. son in the OK Gold. Only ner-up in the shot put with a “He’s in the weight room. once all season has she personal record mark of 34-4.25 and was also fourth He is always leading our been bested in the two in the long jump and eighth workouts. Those types of races, by two different hurI in the 1 00-meter dash. things. He is one of the , , . dlers at that April Allegan The 4x400-meter relay hardest workers in class. He Invitational. was a thrilling one for both 1, will do what you ask.” Crews ran her fastest TK teams at the end of the “He asks no questions,” 1600-meter race ever to evening. The senior four ­ fellow TK boys’ head coach place third (5:18.33) and had some of Jaxan Sias, Kyle Chad Ruger added. “He just her best 3200-meter time of VanHaitsma, VanMeter and buys in and runs, and lifts the season top place sixth in Ethan Bonnema ran to a ... That’s development. It’s that one. Kietzman, Emma season-best time of 3:27.34, progressive in nature. It Dykhouse, , . Holland, Eva earning the runner-up takes a little time, and he Corson, TJ Myers, Lydia points just 29 hundredths of had to decide to do it. There were times where we were like, ‘you can do it.’ We all 4 believed it. Once he ■' ■ M' 1 believed it, you saw today. You saw he was determined at the 200 mark to finish this thing and win it. He just decided to do it. Sometimes you just have to make the decision to do it.” •T “He did, it was cool,” Wonders chimed in. “It was so much fun,” Ruger added with a big I JI smile. The 4x400-meter relay ' ’ >>1 win was the last of five event championships for < the Thornapple Kellogg girls as they outscored Ottawa Hills 135-120 at the top of the standings. Forest Hills Eastern was third with haei 106 points ahead of Grand CIcdlEj I Rapids Catholic Central ^1, FF’ 6A Cedar Springs 66, South IstaitiiBil' Christian 61, Kenowa Hills SMIaavitr A 48 and Wayland 38. Senior Kenady Smith «k-!] K u was the conference high e jump champion for the state tali: 4 Thomapple Kellogg ladies, nmi: clearing the bar at 5 feet 2 Thornapple Kellogg junior Emma Dykhouse takes fa ill ’it inches. Ellie Harmon won off at the start of the 100-meter dash Friday, May 10, Jacoti De; the long jump with a mark during the OK Gold Conference Championship at . Hut of 16-5.5. Houseman Field in Grand Rapids. Dykhouse scored Mart; (IS Brooklyn Harmon won the for the TK ladies in the 100-meter dash, the 4x100-me100-meter hurdles in 15.52, ter relay, the long jump and the shot put on the day. laffitltis' with Hilton setting her PR in (Photo by Brett Bremer) 5 I a second behind the win­ ning Catholic Central guys. The TK boys also had the Sias, Brandon Veiling, Bonnema and Drake “It was as fantastic night.” Archer had one clearing 10-6 for the first time to place eighth in the pole vault. Veiling, a freshman, and the senior VanHaitsma both improved their PR while scoring in the 300meter intermediate hurdles. Veiling was fifth in the race in 42.96 and VanHaitsma seventh in 44.16. The TK boys were sixth. just three points back of fifth-place Kenowa Hills. Forest Hills Eastern’s boys outscored runner-up GRCC 144.5-107 at the top of the standings. Cedar Springs was third with 101 points ahead of Wayland 100.5, Kenowa Hills 72, TK 69, Ottawa Hills 52 and South Christian 16. Snyder second in the 4x200-meter relay 1:33.40. Sias added a runner-up time of 52.48 in the 400-meter dash. Draaisma, a junior, ran to his fastest 1600 -meter time yet, 4:29.95, to place second in that race behind Forest Hills Eastern star Henry Dixon. « I f-r Luke Archer, Juan Aguiar, Diego Rodas, Grant Middleton, Kaden Hamming and Lucas McNabnay also scored points for the TK boys at the meet. “There were PRs almost everywhere,” Wonders said. 1 .. \ I 1 -fl . ii' ! t* * ■*h** tfs* t I f -r-. I#' 4 ■ ■tUMWr — THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP BOARD 200 E. MAIN ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml 49333 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING MIN­ 1 ' • sSJ i c i I ] I 1 F3 J 4 first, update the numbering of the outline beginning with “Committee Reports" and second, change “TIFF to “TIF." • I W 3. Approved motion to adopt the enclosed rate increases for cemetery fees. 4. Approved motion to accept the attached bid for painting the Thornap­ ple Township Hall. 5. Approved motion to adopt Res­ olution 10-2024, “Fire and Emergency Services Millage Proposal." 6. Approved motion to adopt the enclosed, “Cost Recovery Fee Sched­ ule.” 7. Approved motion to purchase two thermal imaging cameras, two 4-gas monitors and two gas sniffers for a cost NTE the grant funds of $30,000. 8. Approved motion to hire three paid-on-call firefighters. 9. Approved motion to purchase 21 - 800 MHz pagers for a cost NTE $13,000.00. - s 9. Approved motion to enter the MABAS agreement. 10. Approved motion to hire four parl-time EMT’s and one part-time paramedic. Meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Amy Brown. Approved by Township Supervisor, Eric Schaefer. Copies of the meeting minutes are available upon request from the Town­ ship Clerk or by visiting our website at https:/Ahornapple-twp.org/meeting-minutes/ Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. -f <n II J •• •• rd a. P' Ihi w k I X * •M •* p. < 1’ J •* . /V L Sk i. Mk Zd I) r u. * . -»■ *’A s* £ r» s ?•> I• «« L lA 4 —— » r‘et *• A 1 I. r. >4 » ** • Xi I <5t < '■ *Y J LU J Ik r "5 I . I a / t 4 > 1 * b f Ik 1 I ► *-'V/ < 6 t + I - ■ I ,^<1 r;*: ♦•V L. / fcix 1* i—i^-^rnT "• • .J / .J r « ---------* "Ml I. & > ‘ T K * A* 5 s Lc * , R ’Si «• V * •I . •* *. Ji. * Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Luke Archer is all smiles after clearing the bat at 10 feet 6 inches in the pole vault, setting a new personal record, Friday, May 10, at the OK Gold Conference Championship at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 4 I f I II I I I 1 I •I n ! * X 1 I 1 * — IZ • < I * E,M> 1 I I I UTES Monday, May 13, 2024 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. with seven members present. Items approved: 1. Printed Agenda approved as printed. 2. Consent Agenda approved as amended with the following correclions to the 4-8-24 Meeting Minutes: I J k? ____ 3 I I I )1 f - r », I*; •t Ik^ * a »k I J * • 4 s\ I •/ BaeeMoK’ tSi keep ug» data until thfii new, ^gitjagi @ griijRMdli > T • . I T ■'5; • t I I I 4 I I . « I I t I 1 i t I » II I ( ♦ i I I I f } r t I I » I i 1 «1 ; lai te: s WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS 1 iflliiifflfe I al a time of I-•’ '. i H tniileoftks r < / jisprtfe^' » ’tiw fl ♦ ^151 E. j Httl S k z M s. .• ? iiF« 11 tfi' V F i -J|V — * ^3- - t I. V •e* ) IT > Ji y J . I I I 1 fsisd*^ J J p ^1 rJfi Residential & Commercial Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers I fl 1 & * T«^: t **1 T-: I r 'x — m ♦ 4 ? I X I b i 5 a I * * .J. ** I f : I f I « 1I 1 p r t I I t fflpeiiB® 1 A 12' I i c.. .. . I *« » • 1 -5=— N?* Mg, I 9 A r ■» e >e>v I • 3 <-r'4 t • (* ■ k I .fl . b p jCf “ .iv Thornapple Kellogg junior Ava Crews rounds a turn in the 1600-meter run Friday, May 10, at the OK Gold Conference Championship at Houseman Field in Grand Rapids. (Photo by Brett Bremer) DeWeerd (68) HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 LENNOXy ! f I I r Since- /9S5 A* ” I BBB. ACCREDITED BUSINESS j « '^1 il«» I �I Pag© 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18, 2024 >■ TKHS BPA student is national champion The third time’s the charm for Thomapple Kellogg High Kaden senior School Hamming. He was named Business National the Professionals of America (BPA) champion in funda­ mental accounting this week in Chicago. His first national experience was a virtual event because of the pandemic. Last year he attended the national event in Dallas. This year was Hamming’s third time qualifying for the national finals and it turned out to be not only his best fimish ever, but the best finish for any TK student ever. Hamming is the first TK stu­ dent to be crowned BPA national champion. Hamming actually quali­ fied for two events this year at the national finals. In addition to his national champion title, he also placed 10th in digital media. “I’ve always done digital media production and then I’ve added a different second event that’s always been dif- ferent every year,” he said. Hamming and five other TK BPA students competed at the national event this year: — Evan Liu finished 12th Word Fundamental in Processing. — Ryan Skidmore fin­ ished 23rd in Basic Office Systems. Freshmen Raegen Chapman, Carmen Reynolds and Katelyn Chase also competed and sharpened their skills. Hamming said BPA has really helped him recognize what he wants to do in the future. He will be attending Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan next year. “I know I want to do something in business. BPA helped me meet new people and make a lot of connections,” he said. Before going to the national contest in Chicago, Hamming told his team­ mates to enjoy the time there and make connec- tions with other students. He also encouraged them to do their best but realize they are competing against students from all over the country. Keith advisor, BPA Hamming, said having six students compete at nationals was nearly his largest group. One other year he took a group of eight students to the finals, but four of them worked together on a group project. “I’m just very proud of this whole group,” Keith Hamming said. “They all achieved so much just to make it to nationals. Then, to have Kaden make it on stage in two events, one as a national champion, is just awesome,” he said of this year’s national final­ ists.” Students took part in open­ ing ceremonies and contests while also getting some free time to visit attractions in the city. Keith Hamming said he was so impressed with his ‘"-I ■ yr / 4X. V. < 4? **d • 9 I A >• . I UN f © ■T r f J Si </ M* f 9 it.’ .•v it J1 3A S' 4 lb & • f I" !..*« >J . I J 4*^ 5 •V. • 7^41 4 k I 1^: r K • J •Y’’' t A' ’ ■K/ •« J . ’a *1 t - ’•rV u. a ; V'*’ I 721.-=T= f Ml lb *1 ir%^ r * 7 * V *1 J!* »i t * •i ■}. •X ' * .>111 « Kaden Hamming of Thornapple Kellogg High School poses with this national award. (Photo provided) if'* f especially since team none had been to the national finals before except Kaden and three of them were fresh­ men. “I had to remind myself and the students that this is the best of the nationals so all of the students best who competed should be pleased and proud of their accomplishments. The whole weekend in Chicago was just a very cool experience for us JiliSS all,” he said. The BPA students received a grant from the Barry Community Foundation to assist them with costs of attending the national com­ petition. M fl fl Yankee Springs Twp. to look into options for trail linking township park, state recreation area 43 r I 1 Greg Chandler Stajf Writer Yankee Springs Township will look into the possibility of building a handicap-accessible trail that would connect the township park with Yankee Springs State Recreation ?^rea. The five-member board at its May 9 meeting voted 3-1 to support the concept of building the trail “by explor­ ing grants, designs, permit­ ting requirements and part­ nerships available.” Supervisor Rob Heethuis said the action gives the board the ability to approach entities like the Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Department of Transportation and the Gun Lake Tribe to see if they have any interest in working with the township on such a proj­ ect. Heethuis was joined in support of the motion by Trustees Dave VanHouten and Larry Knowles. VanHouten said the move doesn’t commit the township to anything. “We could come back (later and find out) we don’t get enough grants, it costs too much, and we would never support it,” VanHouten said. “We don’t know at this point if we’re going to sup port it or not. I don’t know if I support it or not. We have to get the details.” Clerk Mike Cunningham opposes the idea of building a trail to connect the township park to the recreation area. L I'H^^ Ji £ * T V OKLY I s ; J 5 » 616-891 r r L J Locally owned business. J ^■:s 'I' ; Ml :nis9i I'caib ;2a.i : '1^ ^1 Jr • I ;?’8B •5’14 Ji® Li. J OS ’3M s A f * sx. 1 w 1 I* Bl V c - i > A A © 4 4H 4 >16^ 4 >- •* .T* I .a- s i,- 1 •4X A •• ^4. UI A ► '4^1 * 4' FRONTIER HEATING COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia I © r ’S7 4 «« t-. Expires 5-31-24 “I do not support, nor do I baseboard reinstalled, and against accepting an estimate think this board should sup­ that’s it,” Cunningham said. of $9,900 by the engineering port making our township adding that the final cost of firm Fleis & VandenBrink to park essentially part of the the project is not expected to prepare engineering stamped >5 state park system. exceed the estimate of more prints for a proposed addi Cunningham said. “That’s a than $7,800 from Mugen tion to the township fire sta neighborhood park, it’s in a Construction. Damage costs tion that would be used to neighborhood. There’s a lot are being covered by the secure bids for the project. A more people who come to township’s insurance policy. 600-square-foot addition has the state park every year than — Approved a revised been proposed to the east we have as residents in our estimate for renovating the side of the fire station on township. If this trail is going kitchen at the Township Hall South Payne Lake Road for to be used and needed. from Koval Construction in fire department and elections there’s going to be a lot of the amount of $30,860. equipment storage. people coming to use our Koval had earlier estimated — The board set a June 13 park and compete with our the project cost at $23,860, public hearing on whether to residents for the use of it, and but a company that had been establish a special assess­ I don’t know if they will treat subcontracted to build cabi- ment district for a resurfac­ it the same as our residents nets for the renovation proj­ ing project on Evans Lane do.” ect was recently destroyed from Cobb Lake Road to its Cunningham added that by a fire, resulting in the northern terminus. The proj­ the township would have to contractor having to find a ect involves milling and shoulder the burden of cov­ new vendor to build the cab­ resurfacing the road as well ering the costs for maintain­ inets. Even with the higher as removing and replacing a ing the trail once it’s built. cost, Koval’s bid was 36 per­ culvert. A total of 26 proper­ “Sometimes when some­ cent lower than a competing ties would be included in the body gives you a gift, you contractor and 48 percent special assessment district, need to say no because less than another. sharing in the estimated cost long-term, maybe it’s not a Cunningham said. of $26,718, according to gift,” he said. — The board voted 3-1 township documents. Treasurer Deb Mousseau was absent from the vote. W. . In other action at the May 9 meeting: — Cunningham presented YANKEE SPRINGS : an update on the repair proj­ RECREATION AREA ect to the north wall of the addition to the Township GUN LAKE UNIT Hall that was damaged in early January when it was struck by a car that had been left running. “They’ve put the base of the wall back in 1 ' place, the exterior brick has been repaired and replaced. the interior w;, 11 u K Yankee Springs Townshlp Board Is looWng for the mtenor wall ... has been ways to connect a trail to the Yankee Sorinas StatP painted. We need to have the Recreation Area from the township’s park JFile photo) r* *X 1* .A �CHS seniors honored at recognition night i ► [ Caledonia High School honored its top graduating i seniors at its senior recogniI tion night Wednesday at the ! Peter V. DeLille Fine Arts f Center. > ----------------- Gold Academic “ <.4 - > Awards Teresa Abraham, Tyler Ambrose, Pete Andrulis, Kala Bisterfeldt, Aidan Bozym, urace Grace Bryant, Alyssa Bursch, Megan Bushart, Alyssa DeFields, Mackenzie DeVries, Benjamin Diegel, Katie Eardley, Ian Fedewa, Rishi Garigipati, Reese Geister, Sydnie Greene, Chloe Groves, Jaxson Higgins, Cassandra Honsberger Kloe Kimbrell, Sarah Kirk, Bedi K o m e r a, Lauren Kosiorowski, Jackson Kozak, Katie Langejans, Micah Nagel Laney Peterson, Jared Porter, Collin Pyper, Corbin Raffler, Emery Rewa, Emily Sorstokke, ceremony I % •^e ... . I 4 I -A T- * * A total of 39 graduates received Gold Academic * T -4' awards for maintaining a 4.0 cumulative grade point average or higher by the end of the first semester of this year, while 116 others received Silver Academic Awards for i [ maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.5 to 3.99. “As teachers, we know the hard work, the late nights, 1 ▼ V the studying and eveiything we’ve done in the classroom what an accomplishment ► I ! this is tonight,” senior class r < a , co-advisor Jenny Jonkman 5^* * ' said. “We’re thrilled to cele­ Christopher Streit, Maeson Senior Micah Nagel receives the Ralph Keating Award from CHS brate with you, and acknowl­ Strzyzewski, Carter Tufts, counselor Andrea Hilaski, (Photo provided) edge their efforts. ” Kamrin Van’tHof, Kyan Brayion Swartz, ^is Daniel Macayla ' atioflji Lee Kohn Band Senior - Patrick S. DeVries, A total of 38 students VanderWoude, Joseph Volpe Mackenzie Swartz, Sierra Tague, Scholarship; Reese Geister, Gilmore Award; I received local scholarships and Taylor Walter. Katie DeVries, Benjamin Diegel, Sheldon Thomas, Cade Marisa Kohn, Corbin Raffler, totaling $43,400, represent­ Langejans; Outstanding Stephanie Dryburgh, Kaylee «saii Tidey, Dakota Tomac, Nina Addison Rapa; Highpoint ing various organizations Band Senior — Jazz Award: Dunwoody, Abigail Duong, Silver Academic Trupiano, Aubrey VanArtsen, Community Bank Educational ) and businesses in the Mikey Waldo; Outstanding Awards Katherine Eardley, Jaxson Lily VanDeraa, Owen Scholarship: Sheldon Orchestra Senior: Madison Caledonia community. A Engelberg, Ian Fedewa, Davanee Balczak, Mya VanderZand, Jack VanEss, Thomas; Patricia Winchester Suttorp; MSBOA Scholar total of 68 special, military Io Whitney Graham, Syndic Baldwin, Kyle Barthel, Barthel. Brenden VanGessel, Taylor Vanderbilt Scholarship: Instrumentalist Award: Greene, Owen Hager, Lilly and departmental awards Landon Battey, Blake Venhuizen Jason Volpe, Amaya Hawkins; PFCU Joseph Volpe; Physical Hess, *03)0®. were handed out to graduates Benjamin, Marli Berman, Daniel Vranjes, Jaxson Higgins, Daniel L Ryan McCrumb Scholarship: Alexa Education Award: for their outstanding accomAlex Carter Bom, Peyton Brenner, Charles Hoag, Elizabeth I Walbeck, Analis Wilks and Pearson; United I Bank Klingensmith, Davanee Honhart, Audrey Howell, Plishments. Cali Brown, Ella Canup, Brody Woodwyk Community Dedication Balczak; Science Department Kloe Kimbrell, Sarah Kirk, Micah Nagel received two Tommy Clarey, Riley Scholarship: Reese Geister, Award: Kala Bisterfeldt, major special awards during Collins, Saige Cooper, Noah Kylee Kirkbride, Alex Scholarship Alexa Pearson; Outstanding Benjamin Diegel, Reese Klingensmith, the evening - the Alpha Beta Creguer, Adrielle Crothers, William Recipients Junior Award: Ian Fedewa, Geister, Allison Perna; Award, given to the graduate Jazlynn Dana, Kiersten Knipping, Marisa Kohn, Caledonia Education Sarah Kirk. SEARS Award: Alexa Jackson Kozak, Ava Krebill, chosen to be the best citizen DeHaan, Jasmine DeLanoy, Association Scholarship: Pearson, Natalie Richardson, Nathan Maas, Kendall in his class, taking into Austin DeVries, Stephanie Morgan Vredevoogd; Special Awards Addison VanOost; Millard Maynard, Levi Moss, account scholarship, sports- Dryburgh, Kaylee Caledonia Education Alpha Beta Award: Micah Engle Social Studies Award: Mackenzie Myers, Micah manship, courtesy and coop- Dunwoody, Abigail Duong, Association Dependent Nagel; Ralph Keating Award: Katie Eardley, Jackson •h'tstipiijjjj i Nagel, Mason Osterhouse, eration, and the Ralph Sophia Durkee, Courtney Scholarship: Brenden Micah Nagel; Army Scholar Kozak, Taylor Venhuizen, Christopher Paoletti, Alexa * Keating Award, presented to Dyer Jaxson Engelberg, VanGessel; Athlete; Ian Fedewa, Sarah Brody WoodwykTechn'ical VanGessel; BeBe a a Good Good Athlete: Tan Fedewa Siarah Rm/lv _ • -1 Pearson, Derek Pennington, the senior boy voted on by Isabel Scholarship: Kirk; Marine Corps Education Department Isabel Fata, Fata, Leah Leah Felker, Felker, Samaritan Samaritan Langley Peterson, Samuel his classmates based on his Allison Felt, Annabelle Micah Nagel, Cade Tidey, Distinguished Athlete Award: Award: Ricardo Garcia Allison Felt, ’ a ptopostd < Award: Pugh, Corbin Raffler, personality and willingness Fraher-Matuszynski, Ricardo Adia Whisler; Kevin Corbin Raffler, Addison Roe; Owen HagerDirector ’ s Whisler; Owen Hager; Addison Rapa, Alicia Rice, Garcia, Ammar Ghannam, Remenap Remenap Memorial Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Award; Alyssa Bursch Marine Corps Semper Fidelis Award; Addison Roe, Ali Salih, I have found (Micahpo Tabitha Award: Jared Jared Porter, Porter, Grace Grace Lauren Kosiorowski’ Tabitha Gove, Gove, Whitney Whitney Scholarship; Scholarship; Micah Micah Nagel, Nagel, Award: Lauren Grace Siekman, Brayden be down to earth, genuine, Graham, Suzannah Green, Corbin Raffler; Caledonia Siekman; Marine Corps Technical Theatre Award ’ Graham, Suzannah Green, Corbin Raffler; Caledonia re-foombhi Siekman; Smith, Andrew Sova, Joshua umble, kmd, genumely carKylie Greenlee. Sadie Education Foundation Amv Excellence Claudia Rissley, Lily Sprague, Christopher Streit, Kylie Greenlee, Sadie Education Foundation Amy posed to li s Scholastic Rissley, ing about his community and Grimes, Rylyn Groeneveld, Lou Barnaby Scholarship: Award: Stephanie Dryburgh. VanDeraa; Drama Award: Keira Sundstrom, Sierra others around him,” teacher Owen Hager, Richard Harms, Faith Aversano, Morgan Brody Woodwyk. teliUii Suzannah Green, Emery Tague, Cade Tidey, Carter Kurt Hoffman said, noting Angela Harney, Amaya Vredevoogd; Caledonia neDliiilte Rewa; World Langauge Tufts, Aubrey Van Arisen, Nagel’s leading his class- Hawkins, James Heath, Education Foundation - Carl Military Cord Award German: Kala Kamrin Van’tHof, Kyan mates in reciting the Pledge Anastasia Herbst, Lilly Hess, E. Workman Scholarship: Presentation ll.<lll gihsll Bisterfeldt; World Langauge VanderWoude, Jack VanEss, of Allegiance at the start of Jaiden Higgins, Lydia Hilton, Kloe Kimbrell, Collin Pyper; Andrew Cherpes (Army), Award - Spanish: Sheldon Brenden VanGessel, Ryan class every day. Charlie Elizabeth Caledonia Caledonia Education Camden Johnson (Army), Charlie Hoag, Elizabeth Thomas. Walbeck, Taylor Venhuizen. Nagel was nominated by Honhart, Audrey Howell,Foundation - Glidden STEM Alex Klingensmith (Air ctfeiitsAMHSAA Scholar Athletes: his peers 21 times to be Jenna Huizenga, Reagan Scholarship: Sydnie Greene; Force), Brody Woodwyk Athletic Awards Teresa Abraham, : onEfailtt Kala Shident of the Month during Hurst, Kerstin Johnson, Caledonia Education (Air Education (Air Force). Force), Alexander 0-K Conference Scholar- Bisterfeldt, Alyssa DeFields, his four years at the high Aidan Johnson, Kylee Foundation Millard and Eva Rodriguez (Marines), Griffin Athletes: Teresa Abraham, Mackenzie DeVries, Jaxson ittlkii la school. CHS counselor Kirkbride, Alex Engle Scholarship; Audrey Wolverton (Marines). Davanee Balczak, Mya Engelberg, Ian Fedewa, fflilfesl s Andrea Hilaski said. Klingensmith, William Howell, Alexa Pearson; Baldwin, Blake Benjamin, Whitney Graham, Jackson One of the highlights of Knipping, Marisa Kohn, Caledonia Education Department Awards Kala Bisterfeldt, Carter Kozak, Mackenzie Myers, and Rffesi? > the evening was when six Abby Kramer, Ava Krebill, Foundation - Paula Weller Art Department Award; Bom, Peyton Brenner, Grace Alexa Pearson, Corbin al ofW graduates received their red, Kelsey LaValley, Haden Scholarship: oamuai isaoeiia iviazzareiii, Claudia ciauQia Bryant, Megan Bushart, Bushart, Raffler, Addison Rapa, Samual Isabella Mazzarelli, Bryant, Megan Raffler, white and blue cords from Lienesch, Nathan Maas, Baartman, Marisa Braylon Swartz; Swartz; Thomas Clarey, Jazlynn Addison Roe, Sheldon Marisa Kohn; Kohn; Rissley, Rissley, Braylon Thomas Clarey, Jazlynn Addison SSUflll®® the South Kent chapter of Kendall Maynard, Pennelope Caledonia Education Business Education Business Department DepartmentAward: Award: Dana, Alyssa DeFields, Thomas, Jack VanEss, Taylor .jSBtfil®® Blue Star Mothers, signify­ McGarvey, Cameron Mealey, Foundation Women in Amaya Hawkins; English Kiersten DeHaan, Austin Venhuizen. accOT^! * ing their plans to join the Gabriel Melo Bezerra, Business Scholarship: Brooke Department Award: Grace r 7iDltf military after graduation. Sydney Miller, Zach Miller, Heyboer; Caledonia Bryant, Rishi Garigipati, « * • •> 'iThe six Andrew Cherpes Carter Moorlag, Levi Moss, Education Foundation - Matt Jai den Higgins, Lauren •p (Army), Camden Johnson Paige Mulder, Mackenzie Christensen Scholarship: Kosiorowski; Therrian Math (Army), Alex Klingensmith Myers, Mason Osterhouse, Micah Nagel; Caledonia Award: Tyler Ambrose, I (Air Force), Brody Woodwyk Christopher Paoletti, Daniel Women’s Club Heritage Grace Biyant, Alyssa Bursch, USED PARTS « nCR UK * ONE TOHS « VANS • SWS * JEEPS « 4MS (Air Force), Alexander Parker, Alexa Pearson, Derek Scholarship: Kirsten Schutte; Benjamin Diegel, Reese '4 Rodriguez (Marines) and Pennington, Allison Pema, Caledonia Sons of the Geister, Jaxson Higgins, Gnffin Wolverton (Marines) Emerson Powers, Samuel American Legion Post 305 Lauren Kosiorowski, Jared — received a standing ova­ Pugh, Addison Rapa, Chloe Scholarship: Brenden Porter, Joseph Volpe; Music 4 Cpl. tion from those inside the Reese, Alicia Rice, Claudia VanGessel; Josh Department Award; Alyssa « c Memorial Bursch, Tucker Dion, Rylyn 4. A X « Fine Arts Center. They will Rissley, Addison Roe, Ethan Hoffman wear their cords with their Royce, Ali Salih, Allie Scholarship: Reese Geister, Groeneveld, James Heath, caps and gowns at next Sensing, Grace Siekman, Sarah Kirk; Caledonia Area Mikey Waldo; Outstanding Tuesday’s commencement Brayden Smith, Hailey Chamber of Commerce Choir Senior: Alyssa Bursch, Dryburgh; exercises at Calvin Smith, Andrew Sova, Hunter Human Service Scholarship; Stephanie r 95^ Soyka, Josh Sprague, Asher Grace Bryant, Alyssa Bursch, Outstanding Band Senior University. u Here a list of all the awards Straw, Owen Sufoma, Keira Alexa Pearson, Addison John Philip Sousa Award: Sundstrom, Madison Suttorp, Rapa, Brenden VanGessel; Tucker Dion; Outstanding presented at the ceremony; I f "•s ¥ ’•r* ■ > . ’1/ f I * . > 9^' 3^- ; 4 % <* ' 4 > ■ f 4 - 5- A .r-' N ■ * • r ■. - * •< A. <a n I •» .k •rr. t 4 I 1 ■J ei .1^ .. f 4 f IIGHT TRUCK PARTS i* ri •ft f I nusEinncEtvaapoLin 1 14 269-381-2300 A if if it it "i •j B .4 I I «• rt USHI nuns I USED TIRES 1 * w. 10 .UTLUWi I �I Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18,2024 MetroNet to expand Kentwood fiber internet buiidout into Gaines Township James Gemmell Contributing Writer A residential internet ser­ vice provider plans to install a fiber connection in Gaines Charter Township soon. The township board gave its unanimous blessing Monday night when it voted 7-0 to approve a METRO Act permit request from Metro Fibemet, LLC. The company’s brand name is MetroNet. METRO Act stands for Extension Metropolitan Telecommunications Rightsof-Way Oversight Act. Under the 2002 Michigan statute, municipalities must approve or deny access to public rightof ways within 45 days from VILLAGE OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN 217149 NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE TO AMEND VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF THE VILLAGE CODE TO REMOVE REFERENCES TO THE VILLAGE MARSHAL, THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR AND THE VILLAGE HEALTH OFFICER AND TO AMEND REFERENCES TO THE VILLAGE FIRE CHIEF TO THE TOWNSHIP FIRE CHIEF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on May 13, 2024, the Caledonia Village Council adopted Ordinance No. 24-009 a regulatory ordinance to amend various provisions of the Village Code. The principal provisions of the ordinance are summarized as follows: The Ordinance generally changed references using only masculine pronouns to also include feminine pronouns or to reference a specific Village position. Section 1 of the Ordinance amended Section 3.1 to provide that the Village Council may designate the Public Service Department to perform duties regarding maintenance and repair of public streets, sidewalks, alleys and other public ways. Section 2 amended Section 3.3 to provide that work regarding public sidewalks shall be performed under the direction of the Public Service Department and that a sidewalk in disrepair includes other conditions or kinds of disrepair as determined by the DPW Foreman. It also provides that after adoption of a resolution regarding sidewalks, the Village Manager is required to give written notice to the owner of the adjacent lot or premises. Section 3 amended Section 3.4(1) to change the reference to the Director of Public Service to the Department of Public Service. Section 4 amended Section 3.5 to remove references to the Public Service Director and to provide that the DPW Foreman is responsible for investigations regarding permits and to determine if permit applications shall be granted. Section 5 amended Section 3.6(9) to change the reference to the Public Service Director to the Public Service Department. Section 6 amended Section 3.7 to provide that the DPW Foreman shall review applications regarding driveways and that driveways shall be constructed only of materials and in such a manner as specified by the Public Service Department. Section 7 amended Section 8.3(2) to change the reference to the Public Service Director to the Village Manager. Section 8 amended Section 8.9(3) to change references to the Public Service Director to the Public Service Department. Section 9 amended Section 8.4(4) to change references to the Village Marshal to the Kent County SherifiPs Department. Section 10 amended Section 9.6(11) to change the reference to the Village Marshal to the Kent County SherifFs Department. Section 11 amended Section 8.12(4) to remove the reference to the Village Marshal. Section 12 amended Section 8.13(3) to remove references to the Village Marshal and to provide that if public safety requires immediate action regarding a dangerous structure, the Village Council may abate the public nuisance. Section 13 amended Section 8.21(8) to change the reference to the Village Fire Chief to the Fire Chief of the Charter Township of Caledonia and remove the reference to the Village Police Chief. Section 14 amended Section 9.1(4) to remove the references to the Village Marshal and the Village Health Officer and to change the reference to the Village Fire Chief to the Fire Chief of the Charter Township of Caledonia. It was also amended to provide that an application for a license may be referred to the Kent County Health Department or other appropriate municipal agency. Section 15 amended Section 9.2(3) to provide that applications for a license to operate a restaurant shall be investigated by the Kent County Health Department. Sectionl6 amended Section 9.7(4) to remove the reference to the Village Marshal and to change the references to the Village Fire Chief to the Fire Chief of the Charter Township of Caledonia It also changed references to the Village Health Officer to the Kent County Health Department. Section 17 amended Section 10.2 to change references to the Village Health Officer to the Kent County ‘Sheriffs Department. It also provides that the Kent County Health Department shall be responsible for the inspection process for restaurants within the Village. Saaion 18 provides that the Ordinance shall become effective upon publication of a summary of its provisions. A complete copy of the ordinance is on file and may be inspected or purchased at the office of the ^n^ge Clerk, Village of Caledonia, 250 S. Maple Street, Caledonia, Michigan, during Village office Dated: May 16, 2024 VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF CALEDONIA the date a provider files a per­ mit application. The Evansville, Ind.-based company is the nation’s largest independently owned, 100 percent fiber optic provider. It already is doing a major fiber buildout in the City of Kentwood, and “it has been going well,” Gaines Township Manager Rod Weersing said after the board meeting. The company claims it offers residential internet con­ nection speeds of up to two gigabits and as fast as 10 giga­ bits for businesses. MetroNet has been hiring local market managers, plus sales and cus­ tomer-service staff and service technicians as it expands its reach in Greater Grand Rapids, The service area in Gaines Township will be between 60th Street, which is a shared border with Kentwood, and M-6, and between Division and East Paris avenues. “There will be an opportunity for competition with (existing provider) Comcast (XFinity),” Weersing said. “So, many of our residents only have one option for high­ speed internet, and this will give them another viable solu­ tion for those needs.” Two MetroNet executives answered questions from the township board about the planned buildout. Mike Cannon is the company’s gov­ ernment affairs manager, and David Fritz is the senior con­ struction manager. Township Supervisor Rob DeWard told them he has heard concerns about the cost the company supposedly charged residents in another community to connect up to the fiber network. “It’s an outrageous number. What would you say is a typi­ cal connection fee?” DeWard asked. “Zero,” Fritz responded. “We don’t charge when the (customer) connects to the ser­ vice. If they choose to obtain our service, then we go in and do installation and whatever package they pick fi-om. But for us to come through and build past their house, they’re not even charged then.” Cannon said the monthly cost for the fiber internet service ranges between $40 and $100, depending on the level of service the customer wants. He said there is not a one-time connection fee. “Just like what Surf Internet is doing, just like what Comcast does in most areas. They’ll get you into the monthly charge. typically with some kind of a contract,” Weersing said. DeWard said he heard from a supervisor in an unnamed rural township that MetroNet charged $7,000 for a residential connection fee. Cannon, who supervises the company’s fiber-optic infrastructure in Michigan, said a prohibitive cost may be incurred only if a fiber line has to be extended a couple miles to connect to a home. “That might be a situation 7 k - t t X. •4 < II Z’ r - MetroNet executives David Fritz (left) and Mike Cannon (right) explain to the Gaines Township Board at its May 13 meeting where fiber connections will be installed east of Division Avenue and south of 60th Street. (Photo by James Gemmell) where we split a cost or some­ thing. Because, again, for us to put two miles of fiber in the ground for one house, it’s not good business,” he said. DeWard asked if the instal­ lation agreement with the township has a provision controlling connection costs. “No, it’s not part of the METRO Act,” Weersing replied. “All of their competi­ tion is not charging a connec­ tion fee. So, if they want to do business, they’ll sell their packages at a competitive price.” MetroNet serves both resi­ dential and business custom­ ers. Cannon said they both have the same level of need in terms of the speed and reliability of the internet service. “That’s the big thing now. With the standard fiber coax. we’re providing symmetrical up and down, the gig-over-gig speed — probably not a lot of that around. So, that’s what people are really kind of clam­ oring for and we want to pro­ vide,” Cannon said. Trustee Tim Haagsma said MetroNet has been “less than stellar” with some of its resto­ ration work. He is also Director of Traffic & Safety with the Kent County Road Commission. “I’ve seen iL I’ve heard it fi-om our inspectors. So, just be aware that you’ve got to keep up on that,” Haagsma told Cannon and Fritz. He added that an unspecified railroad company allegedly was not consulted before fiber lines were installed on its property somewhere in Kent County a while back. “I hope that is not indicative of (your) business,” Haagsma told the MetroNet executives. “Because you went through their property without their per­ mission. The railroad owns that property. The road commission has an easement over the rail­ road’s property. And you didn’t get permission ... So, just be get permission aware that your reputation is not as good as what I would hope it would be.” Under a 1993 Michigan law (MCL 462.265), wires and electrical lines cannot be strung across a railroad or street railway right-of-way unless notification is first I I given to the railroad company. And for crossings at any other location, notification must not only be given, but the railroad company must respond posi­ tively or negatively within 90 days after the request is received. However, the statute does not apply to underground cables. “We notify all the railroads when we have a crossing,” Fritz said. “We pull permits • • • There is a legal precedent set that we have to give them notification when we’re crossing in a public area and not a private crossing, which we do. We give them notification that we are planning on crossing these tracks in the air or in the ground.” Fritz added that about 80 percent of the fiber installation in Gaines Township will be underground, as opposed to aerial. That is because there are a lot of utility poles, and it is a time-consuming process to get applications through utility companies. Installing the fiber underground prevents project delays. As for service restoration, Fritz said MetroNet occasion­ ally runs into problems with contractors it employs. “We’ve got people in the field to identify that and cor­ rect it. And we will not ignore anything that gets poorly restored. We have a notifica­ tion process for your residents. They can call us and get a call back within 24 hours fi-om a local person here to address any issue that they have. And it’s corrected in less than eight days to their satisfaction,” Fritz said. MetroNet typically runs about 50,000 to 60,000 feet of fiber line per week. Fritz said the lines usually are installed 36 inches deep, depending on a municipality’s requirements. Fritz said MetroNet has a main feeder line running along 60th Street between Division and East Paris avenues. And connectors are set up north of M-6. The MetroNet officials said they plan to stay in touch with township officials when they begm submitting requests for individual construction permits in Gaines. I •J p Mt i'J •«» J I J J .;*** tr • ^*2 * ■* - ■<jsar6 I liiitfo nSj# ■ 2 Hi V I 1 I bSL'J'nl p StSiii I ¥ �The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18,2024/ Page 13 •A 1 ( I Caledonia girls fall 1-0 in final two conference tournament ^ames Fedewa and Hager earn all­ conference at Red meet Brett Bremer team from Hudsonville. A pair of 1 -0 wins over Caledonia and then Grand Haven earned the Rockford varsity girls’ soccer team the OK Red Conference Tournament title this week. Rockford bested the Caledonia girls 1 -0 in the tour­ nament semifinals Tuesday while the Grand Haven girls were upsetting the top-seeded teams played to a 1-1 draw in their regular season meeting. They will meet again Wednesday in Kentwood in the opening round of their MHSAA Division 1 District Tournament. Game time is set for 6 p.m. The winner advances to the district semifinals at West Ottawa May 29. The Scots got to face the Hudsonville girls in thenconsolation match for third place Thursday in Hudsonville and fell 1-0 to the Eagles. The Scots opened the con­ ference tournament the previ­ ous week with a 2-1 win over East Kentwood. The two tel) CHS girls fall in regular season finale, on to postseason 'Kt 117 **%■ 'll.’ East Grand Rapids, ranked seventh in the Michigan Power Rankings, bested the Caledonia varsity girls’ lacrosse game in the Scots’ final match of the regular sea­ son Monday, 17-6. The Caledonia girls end the season with an 11 -4 mark. If Hmidipiiii, 1 4 iTi 11 11 » , am I Mb isojife'i it fflfijs t The Caledonia girls set a pair of school records in recent games. Megan Bushart tallied 14 draw controls in one match and Ellie Hudson set a new program high for points in a match with 13. She tallied nine goals and four assists in one contest. TK girls see undefeated Gold run end in conference tourney Brett Bremer if.ani' The Scots were set to open the state postseason at home Friday taking on Spring Lake in an MHSAA Division 2 PreRegional contest. The winner from Friday night advances to the first round of regionals to take on Grand Ledge, in Grand Ledge, Wednesday, May 22. Sports Editor It wasn’t the tournament run the Trojans were shooting for. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls ’ soccer team fin­ ished fourth in the 2024 OK Gold Conference Tournament. After an opening round victo­ ry, the top-seeded Trojans were bested 6-5 in a shootout in the conference semifinals in Middleville Monday and then fell 2-1 to Forest Hills Eastern in their consolation game in Middleville Wednesday evening. The second-seeded South Christian girls clinched the conference title with a run to the tournament championship this week. The Sailors out- scored the Cedar Springs girls 3-0 in the toiunament cham­ pionship game Wednesday at South Christian High School. The TK girls were undefeated this spnng in the OK Gold heading into Monday’s tournament semifinal with the Red Hawks, with the only blemish on their conference record at 1-1 draw with the Sailors. TK senior Holly Velting put a rebound high into the net to get the Trojans within 2-1 late in their match Wednesday with Forest Hills Tealy Cross sent a comer kick mto a crowd in front of the goal and sophomore Paige Abshagen drilled a header down towards the goal line at , . , HU^TasZ deflT* Eastern Ills defender, Veiling pounced on the rebound to drill it by that defender and the leaping FHE keeper with just over four minutes minutes to to play. play. Sports Editor Caledonia senior Ian Fedewa added 21 inches to his personal record in the discus to win the OK Red Conference championship in the event Friday, May 10, at Jenison High School. Fedewa fired off a throw of 152 feet. He didn’t need a PR to win one of the Scots two conference championships on the day. He was 9 feet 10 inches further than his closest competitor in the discus, Jenison senior Tyler Lopez. Lopez put out a throw of 143-2 to earn the run­ ner-up points for his Wildcats. The Caledonia varsity boys’ track and field team also got a conference championship from senior Owen Hager who won the 1 IO­ meter high hurdles in 14.79 seconds. He was two hundredths of a second ahead of Rockford senior George Brown in the race. The three guys behind Brown all ran their PR and were within half a second of Hager too. Hager and Fedewa were both state qualifiers for the Caledonia team as .juniors — last spring, and were eyeing eyeing qualifying for the state finals ■ again then the Caledonia varsity teams went to Portage yesterday. May 17 for their MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Division Regional Meet. competition. Moore was fourth in the discus too at 142-1 and senior teammate William Knipping was sixth in the discus with a personal record throw of 133-6. Another Caledonia state qualifier from a year ago, senior Jordan Gutierrez, flew to a mark of 21-11.5 in the long jump which put him in third in that event. It was his best best jump jump of of the the season so far. The last relay was the best one for the Caledonia boys, The team of senior Lual Abiel, junior Joshua Maier, senior Ayden Duffin and freshman Aaron Collins was second in the 4x400-meter relay with a time of 3:30.12 behind the Rockford team in that race. The win by seniors Ben Cummings, Kaizer Westgate, Carter Bissell and junior David Stout in that final race capped off the Rams’ team championship on the day. Rockford won the boys’ meet with 130.5 points ahead of Grand Haven 113, West Ottawa 105.5, Caledonia 93.5, East Kentwood 91, Jenison 81.5, Grandville 27 and Hudsonville 21. East Kentwood won the girls’ meet with 192 points ahead of Rockford 153, West Ottawa 105, Grand Haven 101, Jenison 41, Hudsonville 36, Caledonia 19 and Grandville 14. The Trojans end the regular Senior Brooke Heyboer season with a 9-2-1 record Caledonia varsity boys’ had the top finish for the overall. They will face Otsego track and field coach Ben Caledonia girls. She was in the opening round of their Thompson said overall his fourth in the 100-meter MHSAA Division 2 District guys performed so well that dash with a time of 13.13. Tournament Monday at 6 they moved up from an The other top eight finish p.m. in Middleville. Hastings expected fifth place finish in an individual race on the and Harper Creek meet in the into fourth at the conference track for the Caledonia other opening round match on girls came from trom freshman their half of the bracket. The Fedewa also added a run- Olivia Hawkins who placed winners winners of of those those two two games games ner-up performance in the sixth sixth in in the the300-meter 300-meterlow low will will meet meet in in the the district district semisemi- shot put. He and Hager both hurdles with a time of finals May 28 in Wayland, earned all-conference hon- 49.10. 49.10. Otsego was 14-4 heading into ors. Fedewa had a mark of The big day in the field for its regular season finale - rid- 48-6.5 in the shot put, 13 the Caledonia boys also ing a seven-game win streak. inches behind East included a fifth-place high Kentwood junior Matthias jump finish from junior n / Granderson who won with a Andrew Tava lava who cleared r - r’ PR of 49-7.5. the bar at 5-9. A' The throws were good Hager was one of two A events for the Caledonia Scots Scots in in the the boys boys’ ’ 110-meter 110-meter A boys. Sophomore Liam high hurdle final. Senior Moore added a personal Carter Tufts recorded his PR record mark of 45-10 to in in that that race race placing placing fifth fifth in in place fourth in that shot put 15.30. -1^ - 4 J IS at-r-z-' ryoffiist® I -i .►.s' z .-r ,',F* * l» I * i b* >6 jsaalsiH' llmsfei VJ. r t • “ *• J J . a ^>11 7. A L I*. “5 Sjii&IB I * f - Caledonia senior Levi Moss set his PR at 10:09.48 in the 3200-meter run to place eighth in that race while chasing junior team­ mate Kort Thompson who was seventh in 10:02.35. Those CHS 4x400 guys were good in the open 400 too. Collins set his PR in the race at 50.77 to place seventh and Abiel placed sixth in 52.45. The CHS boys’ team also had senior Ayden Duffin sixth in the 800-meter run with a time of 2:02.30. West Ottawa had a huge day in the boys’ sprints. Teammates Desmond Chapa, Ruben Esparza and Andrew Spilotro went 1-2-3 in both the 100-meter dash and the 200-meter dash. Rockford managed to outrun those West Ottawa sprinters in the 4x 100-meter relay and the 4x200-meter relay though. East Kentwood had four girls in both the 100-meter dash and 200-meter dash finals in their competition. They foursome in the 200 f took the top four places isn the race. Freshman Logan Richardson was well in front in both races. She finished the 200 in 25.49 and the 100 in 12.39. She was more than half a second ahead of Rockford freshman Macy Vandenhout who was the runner-up in the 100 with a time of 12.98. Richardson’s sophomore teammate Arianna Carter was the runner-up in the 200 in 27.02. East Kentwood sophomore Alana Bracey swept the hurdles. She won the 100meter hurdles in 15.52 and the 300-meter low hurdles in 46.36. Falcon senior Kayla Harris swept the throws She won the discus at 138-3 and the shot put at 41-8 75 West Ottawa junior Helen Sachs was a two-time winner in the distance races on the girls’ side. She won the 3200-meter run in 10:40.07 and the 1600-meter run in 5:03.30. She was also a part of the Panthers’ winning 4x800-meter relay team. East Kentwood girls won the 4x 100-meter and 4xl00-meter 4x200-meter relays. k '.IM HELP WANTED 1 lV if J aiE(^ .r. >.'4* A ✓ Cl ' ••• 5J 4^ fa 7 9 E S T D 2 O 2 2 TIMBER RIVER HOMES & HOME BUILDERS, LLC. Residential Construction General Labor for Middleville and surrounding areas ■'jyea*. -r* " 4 I 4'. ,* ■ .f", i J.*. Thornapple Kellogg defender Emma Geukes looks to be at Forest Hills Eastern attacker to the ball during the second half of their OK Gold Conference Tournament match inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Job responsibilities to include various manual tasks such as: digging trenches, unloading building materials, preparing job sites, and home construction. I Full time position. Pay will be based on skill level. All skill levels will be considered. Open to applicants willing and capable of learning the trade. All inquiries please contact Jon at 910-366-7154 I I �Page 14/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18, 2024 - ■■ CHS boys take last of three with West Ottawa baseball Brett Bremer Sports Editor Tommy Clarey was 3-for-4 out of the leadoff spot and scored two of the Scots’ three runs in a 3-1 victory at West Ottawa Thursday. The Panthers took the first two games of the set Tuesday afternoon in Caledonia, but the Scots jumped out to a 2-0 lead Thursday with runs in the first and second inning. Anthony Render got the win on the mound for the Saxons allowing one run in six innings. He struck out eighf walked four and allowed three hits. AJ Roszkowski came on to throw a scoreless seventh inning to earn the save. The Scots had seven hits in all. Nic Slater was 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI. AJ Szabo and Trevor Walter had one hit apiece. Walter scored a run. West Ottawa took the series opener 5-3 and then won game two 5-3 too Tuesday. The Panthers scored twice in the top of the seventh of what had been a back and forth game to get the game one win. Jacob Stoczynski had a solid effort on the mound for Caledonia. He allowed two unearned runs on one hit and five walks. He struck out six in his five innings. Collin Kowatch and Roszkowski were both hit for one earned run in relief. Ethan Clark was 2-for-3 with an RBI for the Scot offense and Corbin Raffler, Slater, Ben Kieliszsewki, Isaac Jurmu and Cam Myers had one hit apiece. Jurmu and Raflier both drove in a run. Kieliszsewki also walked twice. In the second 5-3 West Ottawa win, all of the scor­ ing was done early. The Panthers took a 5-0 lead with four runs in the top of the third. The Scots answered with three runs in the home half of the third. It was zeros from there. Jurmu went 2-for-4 for the Scots in the loss with a double and a single. Clarey, Slater, Szabo and Walter had one hit each, with Szabo hitting a dou­ ble. Slater had the Scots’ lone RBI. The Scots had a busy weekend, scoring an 8-7 win over Gull Lake Friday, May 10, and then falling in a pair ofballgames at the Northview Invitational Saturday. The host Wildcats took a 4-2 win over the Scots to start the then and tournament Wayland took a 13-1 win over the Scots to finish the day. The Scots put together a six-run bottom of the sixth Friday at Gull Lake to go in front 8-4 and then held on in the seventh for the one run win. Clarey had another big bailgame going 2-for-3 at the plate with three RBIs and a walk. Jurmu was 2-for-3 with a triple. Clark was 2-for-2 with a double. Jurmu drove in one run and scored twice. Clark had a run and an RBI. Henry Simon singled and drove in two runs. z i* - 1 Xi . I p m 4^ f •5* / V IT J/ Coach likes doubles chemistry shown by TK girls at tourney /rV Brett Bremer Sports Editor Things finally clicked for the Trojans Friday, May 10. Thomapple Kellogg’s var­ sity girls’ tennis team finished in a three-way tie for second place at the OK Gold Tournament. Conference Forest Hills Eastern won the conference championship with a score of 24 points. South Christian, TK and Catholic Central all had 15 points on the day ahead of Wayland 11, Kenowa Hills 8, Ottawa Hills 4 and Cedar Springs 4. Thomapple Kellogg head coach Philippe Sylvestre was especially pleased with his top doubles teams. The number two team of exchange student Lou Savary and sophomore Jordan Pranger had a default win over Cedar Springs and pulled out a marathon victory over the South Christian pair of Stella Jelsema and Lilly Harkema. Jelsema and Harkema took a quick 6-2, 6-0 win when the VILLAGE OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN 217148 NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 2 REGARDING ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on May 13, 2024, the Caledonia Village Council adopted Ordinance No. 24-008 a regulatory ordinance to amend the provisions regarding administrative organization. The principal provisions of the ordinance are summarized as follows: Section 1 of the Ordinance amends Chapter 2 of the Ordinance Code of the Village of Caledonia (“Ordinance Code”) regarding the administrative organization of the Village. The Ordinance generally changed masculine pronouns to either include feminine pronouns or to reference a specific Village position. It also included the following substantive amendments: Section 2.1 was amended to provide that members of standing and special committees may be removed by recommendation of the Village President, subject to approval of the Village Council. Section 2.3 was amended to provide that the Village Clerk serves at the pleasure of the Village Council and may be removed by the Village Council. Section 2.4 was amended to provide that the Deputy Village Clerk serves at the pleasure of the Village Council and may be removed by the Village Council. Section 2.5 was amended to correct the reference to the General Law Village Act and to provide that the Village Treasurer serves at the pleasure of the Village Council and may be removed by the Village Council. A new Section 2.6 was added to include the office of Deputy Village Treasurer to assist the Treasurer in the performance of the Treasurer’s duties. It also provides that the Deputy Village Treasurer’s compensation is determined by the Village Council and the Deputy Village Treasurer serves at the pleasure of the Village Council and may be removed by the Village Council. The existing Section 2.10 regarding the Health Department was removed, and the new Section 2.10 regarding the Public Service Department was amended to remove the office of the Public Service Director. It also provides that the Department of Public Works Foreman shall make reports to the Village Council. Section 2.12 was amended to provide that the Village Attorney shall perform legal services as may be requested by the Village Manager, in addition to the Village President and the Village Council. Section 2.11 was amended to remove references to the Village Marshal. Section 2.15 was amended to provide that the Village Manager is responsible for supervision of Village staff and the Department of Public Works Foreman. It also provides that the Village Manager does not supervise the Village Clerk or the Village Treasurer and that the Village Manager shall assist with any necessary amendments to the Village budget. It was also amended to authorize the Village Manager to make purchases not to exceed a total of $3,000 in any calendar month. Section 2 provides that the Ordinance shall become effective upon publication of a summary of its provisions. A complete copy of the ordinance is on file and may be inspected or purchased at the office of the Village Clerk, Village of Caledonia, 250 S. Maple Street, Caledonia, Michigan, during Village office hours. Dated; May 16, 2024 VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF CALEDONIA two teams met in their OK Gold Conference dual this spring. Savary and Pranger took the opening set at the conference tournament in a tiebreaker 7-1, before the Sailor duo took the second set 7-5 in another tie breaker. In the end, the TK duo battled for a 6-4 victory in the third set. The Trojan teams’ lone loss was to the flight champs from Forest Hills Eastern, Izzy Feenstra and Katie Worden, who took a 6-1, 6-0 victory. Sylvestre said he could real­ ly tell that Pranger and Savary began to mesh here late in the season playing to each other’s strengths and weaknesses. At first doubles, TK’s Callin Wodrich and Tyne Bufka lost a tough 6-2,6-3 decision against Forest Hills Eastern’s top duo of Bella Chiodini and Ella Molestra, but took down Cedar Springs and Kenowa Hills squads on the day. At third doubles, the TK team of Emilia Rickert and Katie Comeau had a forfeit win over Ottawa Hills and took a 6-2, 6-0 victory over Cedar Springs at the tournament. TK picked up at least one point at every flight. First sin­ gles player Hailey Dudik had wins over the top players from South Christian and Wayland. Her only loss was to Forest Hills Eastern’s Lilah Zaskowski who won the first singles championship while dropping only four games all day, one of them to Dudik. Holly Carpenter had a win over Ottawa Hills at second sin­ gles for TK Charlotte Nelson at number three had a default win over Cedar Springs and bested Wayland’s Molly Tobin 6-0,6-1. At number, four Isabelle Schilithroat bested Ottawa Hills’ and South Christian’s Iburth sin­ gles players. Ava Zellmer and Natileigh Merchant at fourth doubles for TK had wins over Ottawa Hills and Kenowa Hills, and finished 2-1 with a loss to the team from Catholic Central at their flight. TK is in action today. May 18, at its MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Regional hosted by Portage Central. / J I t J / * I I X ri I I a ifl Ikojan baseball sweirt by FHE ends league year with Knights J ii r Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity baseball team is sched­ uled to close out the OK Gold Conference season with a set against Kenowa Hills in the week ahead. The Trojans head to Kenowa Hills for two on Monday and then will be home to close things out against the Knights Wednesday afternoon. TK fell in all three ballgames against the Forest Hills Eastern guys this week.The Hawks took 9-4 and 3-2 wins in Middleville Monday and then finished the set with a 3-0 win over the Trojans in Ada Thursday after­ noon Logan Snelling was the only hit for the Trojans in Thursday’s finale against Forest Hills Eastern pitcher Manel Conners who struck out seven and didn’t walk anyone in the complete game shut out. Brody Wiersma tossed a solid outing in game two Monday for TK. He allowed three runs in six innings on five walks and six hits. He struck out three. TK managed just one hit in that one too though, a single by Spencer Ybema off of the Hawks’ starter Max Ferrick. Wiersma, Connor Dombkowski, Jayce Brummel and Maddix Ferden had the four TK hits in the 9-4 loss to open the series. Wiersma and Snelling had the Trojans’ two RBIs. 1 1* ’ I * ♦ * ^Scot ilfrestt 5 Cato Pair of double digit wins for TK softball in set against FHE Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity softball team improved its OK Gold Conference record to 4-8 with a sweep of Forest Hills Eastern in Ada Monday. The Trojans won the open­ er 12-2 in five innings. Emily Stevens was 2-for-2 at the plate with a pair of dou­ bles and drove in four runs for TK in that opener. She scored three times and also walked once. Shelby Robinett was 2-for3 with an RBI and five other Trojans had hits. Robinett doubled once and also got the win in the circle. She struck out six, walked two and gave up one earned run on five hits her five innings. In the 12-1 game-two win, TK upped its lead to double digits with four runs in the top of the seventh. Kylee Hoebeke had the hot bat going 2-for-4 with a dou­ ble and a triple. She drove in two runs, scored three times and walked once. Kenzie Bouma and Chloe Bossenberger were both 3-for-4 with two runs scored for TK. Bossenberger dou­ bled once and drove in three runs. Emalyn Cartwright added a pair of singles, an RBI and two runs scored. Hoebeke was the starting pitcher for TK. She went five innings allowing one run on five hits. She struck out eight. Adelaide Holderman tossed two scoreless innings of relief in which she struck out two and gave up just one hit. The TK girls are scheduled to visits Kenowa Hills for two conference ballgames Monday and then will play host to senior night against Hamilton on Wednesday afternoon. TK fell 10-1 and 5-0 in a pair of non-conference games against Lowell Thursday this week. ♦ I■Xi’’ k �it r? ’ f tL •l? seventh inning rally by Scots ends just short 1 Brett Bremer f 3ll(| a ‘SHt’;'. *. d [•I «s, % CI* The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18,2024/ Page 15 ■ ■■ start getting runners around the bases soon enough in the bailgame they were able to complete Thursday. Caledonia pitcher Jaz Dana threw well in pfFnrt Cl, . losing effort. She went the Ml six "”'"s?ven‘Ti"® *T r” on seven hits and three walks. She struck out four, and her defense was solid behind her. The Buccaneers managed to put together a couple little outbursts to score two runs in the bottom of Ae thi^nd and two mo” m more imting inning. Grand _ _____________ _ Grand Haven starter Bri Borman was pretty great too She shut out the “Fighting She shut out the Fighting Scots through six i™in2 Sports Editor The Fighting Scots and Buccaneers aren’t having any luck getting their OK Red Conference set finished. The Grand Haven varsity softball team got one win in over the Caledonia girls April 23, but game two of the doubleheader in Grand Haven was postponed due to weather. The Bucs and Scots picked up where they left off, but in Caledonia, Thursday afternoon and the Grand Haven girls fought off a late Caledonia rally to take a 4-2 win. Game three of the set, the bailgame set-up for the Scots ,0 be .he home team, was and struck out 11 in 6 2/3 postponed in the top of the second inning due to a down pour that arrived after the Buccaneers had built a 7-0 a couple base-runnine eoofs kept Caledonia from capital­ izing on those two hits. Marisa Kohn doubled with one out in the top of the sixth for Caledonia and went to third on a wild pitch, bm third «/ 1 I ? 1 ►r < I / * ► k - ‘1 I i I I > k » -. V Ll____L_1 > I A f <' I I r » • I ’ » • 1 •A L < J r':x f * 1 ♦ » f Joi ( A irW 4 IM 4 I » > (* ' *v V Ve. ' * 4 * A, " I FT A-- AV.-.’ • * * Ik r0 / » rf t*:. iV h r» A kXrU r->' * rrTaViVi 't ’ two Caledonia batters of the inning. Aliya Hemden knocked a pinch hit single into right field to get her team’s seventh inning rally started. Rnrmon i ' . I u * > * X M • * '■ 1 It . I 4 I 4'.i' f fJ Vm' £ X. 1 • 4 ■ 4 4 •' • t - I ■^s X k •t; J l' V7 -1* 4*^ Z' ^r. k 1 “'en Kala Bisterfeldt worked “ SundstTom bounced a ball by the for''a^SiTn'’Jie testaTut. ® The the ^-4 Mackenzie Devries grips the bag at third with her during l^teanfs OK Red SnZslLe bailgame with Grand Haven in Caledonia Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Scots’ Amber J hiR "" and a two games with West Ottawa up two runs on six hits. and allow six hits. bases up and Kohn got an run scored. Addy Lash went Tuesday. Two of those hits off of RBI when Borman hit her There were ten different 2-for-3 with two runs and C Hoop and Grace Scots who had hits in the , Isik Borman came to start the top with a pitch. That was the two RBIs. Peyton Brenner Siekman were both 2-for-3 The Fighting Scots didn ’ t of the fifth for the Scots, but 13-1 ‘<l' game two victory. final pitch for Borman. was 3-for-4 with two runs with two doubles in the 12-2 Sophia Gauthier and Rian Caledonia had three on, and two RBIs. Mackenzie IBR win to start the day. Hoop Restau had two apiece down two with two out, but Devries added a pair of sin ­ i ’ drove in two runs and including a double for •.< V iLfl Lorelei Chciuk came on in gles in three at-bats and a run 51 Siekman had three RBIs. Gauthier. Lash, Kohn, relief to get a strike out to scored. Hemden had a single and a Bisterfeldt, Brenner and Fl end the game. i^aua wcm me run seven Dana went the full *^31. double in her four at-bats. Devries had two RBIs each. Grand Haven improved its innings in the circle. She Bisterfeldt had two RBIs. Amber Fairchild got the OK Red Conference record struck out nine, walked two, *• Hemden got the turn in the pitching victory. She struck to 14-3 with the win. The and allowed two earned runs circle and earned the five-in­ out one, walked four and only three losses for the on seven hits. ning win. She struck out allowed just one hit in five Buccaneers in the conference I' The Falcons bounced back four, walked two and gave innings. have come against the for an 8-5 win in game two. Hudsonville team ranked The 11 Caledonia hits in the (5^ among the best teams in the loss were all singles includ­ ’^f®a I jstate in Division 1. ing three each for Bisterfeldt t Caledonia is 8-9 in confer­ and Keira Sundstrom. Grace COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES i ence play so far. The Scots Siekman, Aliya Hemden, The minutes of the April 23, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, a have two on the schedule Sundstrom and Malia Burke which were approved on May 14, 2024, are 41 ir against Hudsonville for had one RBI each. • ** t'-' n posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the I Monday and go to Rockford ,o< <■ The Caledonia girls scored website at www.villaQeofmiddleville.org. for one Wednesday. 12-2 and 13-1 wins in the It was a busy week in the tlBtfcjj OK Red for the Fighting 17127 SI Scots. They swept a confer­ ladiiy ':'5* J ence doubleheader with vis­ r iting West Ottawa Tuesday him to Aafter splitting two at East Sugie IjjjSK Kentwood Monday after ­ iofW noon. Ffliii Fighting Scot senior second baseman Kala The Scots took the opener I, Please be advised the Village of Middleville COUNCIL will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Bisterfeldt fires to first for an out during her team ’ s 7-3 in Kentwood Monday. • t n_ iteJB Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 7:00 pm or as soon thereafter as possible, to consider the OK Red Conference ballgame with Grand Haven in Bisterfeldt and Kohn both hit adoption of an ordinance to amend Article VII of Chapter 66 of the Code of Ordinances Caledonia Thursday afternoon. (Photo by Brett home runs. Bisterfeldt was ilWbi of the Village of Middleville. This amendment pertains to the operation of off-road Bremer) 2-for-4 with a double, her vehicles within the Village. Uiafflui s^ 1 I I 1 I 1 4 *: A Ab S'- a, ft *1 / I ■ r •* I I I s tr I V. I I £1 » «• I J 4 n' r. 19 X f 1 f • 4’ V R, i >rl -t I » V I < * * Cs I j r.' 1 I a Z. 1 A? • '5 M-V 1 * -«I. Is I ■ Uliw X. • b b I ••• V I' ■■'"■J ’ < ’1 • R 4 ' . *1 -'••V I (X • ♦ •T 4» 1% I NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING fa f The proposed ordinance seeks to: 1. Define the types of off-road vehicles permitted for operation within the Village limits. “•.V I V' * 2. Establish guidelines and regulations for the safe and lawful operation of off-road vehicles on designated Itf’ ** i * ilt routes. 3. Outline penalties for violations of the ordinance. •l .Xi*.' 1. S01 fcs* 'i-' A copy of the full text of the proposed ordinance amendment is available for inspection and review at the Village Clerk'sOffice,locatedatlOOEMainStreet,Middleville,MI 49333,duringregularbusinesshours. fi i I * 1 s► The public hearing will be held in the Council Chambers during the regular Village Council meeting, which any interested person can attend, at 100 E. Main St. Middleville, Ml 49333. mil®® - •A I ml I® I 1 ••V.' Ka as [3^ Caledonia’s Sophia Gauthier (from left) Claire Hoop, Molly Lieske and Peyton Brenner try to inspire a rally during the top of the seventh inning of their team’s OK Red Conference bailgame against Grand Haven Thursday. In a make-up of ah earlier bailgame in Grand Haven, the Buccaneers held on for a 4-2 victory. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Any interested person may attend the public hearing to obtain information about the proposed ordinance amendment or provide comments to the Village Council. Additional information is available via email request to the Village Clerk at rvanpolen^ villageofmiddleville.org. Emails received prior to 4:00 pm on May 28, 2024 at the above-listed address, will be distributed to the Village Council. Persons with special needs who wish to attend should contact the Village Clerk no less than 72 hours prior to the public hearing. Written comments will be received up to and until the day of the hearing and may be delivered to Village Hall or by email at rvanpolen(5)villageofmiddleville.org. Respectfully submitted, Rhonda Van Polen Village Clerk 05/16/2024 t I r c �»• . • • • ** . p a . .. I * ' ♦♦ I* 9 r f T M rr 4 L I ( I I I 1 4 t II Page 16/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 18,2024 I .J — .a. TK golfers remain in middle of OK Gold golf pack I, •l I ♦ I r I I Wayland 361, Kenowa Hills Brett Bremer 362, Cedar Springs 365 and Sports Editor The OK Gold Conference Ottawa Hills 471. Junior Kylan Pratt led TK varsity boys’ golf teams will head to Kaufman Golf with an 86, freshman Parker Course in Grand Rapids for Dahley shot an 87 and junior the conference 18-hole Will Nathan added an 88 at championship tournament the top of the leaderboard for the Trojans. The TK team Wednesday. Cedar Chase Golf Course also got a 90 from senior played host to the final con­ Jordan Parks. Pratt shot a 43 on both the ference jamboree of the sea­ son, an 18-hole event where front and back nines, openthe Thomapple Kellogg boys ing the back nine with a run shot their way to a fourth of four consecutive pars. Dahley had the Trojans’ lone place finish. Grand Rapids Catholic birdie of the day on the 368Central led the way with an yard, par-4, number four. The top ten golfers all overall score of 303 strokes ahead of Forest Hills Eastern broke 80 for the day. Catholic 308, South Christian 308, Central senior Matthew Thomapple Kellogg 351, Sokorai was the individual I I h I. ( ir' , J. I K .t .’J e •* ■'w W.1 1 , champ with a 72. South Christian junior Brody Montsma and Catholic Central senior Will Preston w both shot 73s. The conference played nine holes at the jamboree hosted by Kenowa Hills at Gracewil Country Club Monday with Forest Hills 4 Eastern outscoring Wayland 1 155-162 at the top of the 9 4 standings. The standings were r I mixed up overall, but the TK T boys were fourth again even with a handful of different golfers leading the way. t South Christian was third with a score of 163 ahead of Thomapple Kellogg 167, 168, Central Catholic Kenowa Hills 169 Cedar Springs 182 and Ottawa Hills 221. Dahley led TK with a 39. Exchange student Raphael De Fresse De Monval shot a 41 for the Trojans, Owen Comer tallied a 43 and the Trojan team got a 44 from freshman Mason Chivis. Dahley got off to a great ■r start. He was even through Thornapple Kellogg freshman Parker Dahley hits his tee shot on number seven five holes with a birdie on number two and three pars in during the OK Gold Conference jamboree hosted by Kenowa Hills at Gracewil that stretch. De Fresse De Country Club Monday afternoon. Dahley led the TK team on the day with a score Monval also birdied number of 39 strokes. (Photo by Brett Bremer) two for TK, a 295-yard, par-4. There was a three-way for first individually. Kenowa Kaden Vargo, Hills’ Wayland’s Theo Oddy and FHE’s Jack Klimek each scored 38s. In between the two conference competitions, the Trojans got a few shots in at f: Kaufman in a non-conference dual with Calvin Christian. The Squires took a 160-175 win. Pratt led TK with a 42, Nathan shot a 43 and Dahley and De Fresse De Monval L both shot 45 s. * * * ♦ . 9 < I" 1 •l if I I 5 . MW P «' —4 0 r** * tfj r^js k fl. h Fs I -irV’* , J Ti <*« • I; 9 I ■ -► ■ ■ ■ I »l ~ ’111 I Ill' J,, » • 1 I 4 I.. ‘ . t J 4 I • I A «I ♦ t I % I I 4 I * 4 Thornapple Kellogg senior Jordan Parks hits his tee shot on number one at Gracewil Country Club Monday during the OK Gold Conference jamboree hosted by Kenowa Hills. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I 1 r’ r 1 -W-rf A f » /*• ■ I >*« f 4 I SH •> kr I to I Yankee Springs Township I ( < I r 4 •I . I ► I t TKHS senior foreign exchange student Raphael De Fresse De Monval taps a putt towards the hole on number six during the OK Gold Conference jamboree hosted by Kenowa Hills High School at Gracewil Country Club Monday afternoon. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I J •> I 4 I Scots tenth at last OK Red jamboree tourney is Idesday Sunday, May 26,2024 at 4 PM 4 * I at the Yankee Springs Memorial 1425 S. Payne Lake Road I I I I I a « I Corner of M-179 and S. Payne Lake Rd. i. • *> > I Forever in Our Hearts I I J Please join us in celebrating those Veterans who gave their life for our freedom! -I4 ! I t 1 I i • J I . r yan.kee springs TCAV K’5 H1P Vi'T E KANG M t MOR ! L FRE E Hol Doas & I l ies Donated hy Curler Cone I 1 1 1 J » 1 i Refreshments and Fellowship kkifkit ? 4 I > . Order a Brickfor Your Veteran L * 1 * E, •s I Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Fighting Scot varsity boys’ golf team was sixth in a crowded field at the final OK Red Conference jambo ree of the season Wednesday, hosted by Grandville at Kaufinan Golf Course. Just seven strokes separat­ ed second place from sev­ enth place. Rockford had a little breathing room at the top of the leaderboard with a score of 154 strokes. Grandville was second with 166 ahead of Hudsonville 167, Grand Haven 169, Jenison 171, Caledonia 172, West Ottawa 173 and East Kentwood 180. Junior Mason Kem tied •b' for sixth individually while leading the Caledonia team with a score of 39. He bird­ ied the 364-yard, par-5 num­ ber three and fired four pars during his round. The Caledonia boys also got a pair of 44s from junior Lukas Keson and jimior Parker Little. Sophomore Camden Quigley shot a 45 for his team’s fourth score. Grandville senior Tony Spicuzza led the Bulldogs on their home course with a score of 35. Rockford senior Owen Hodel was the runner-up with a 36. Grand Haven junior Carson Osborn, Rockford freshman Owen Wilson and Hudsonville junior Axel Waara each scored a 38. The Scots are at the Rockford RAM Invitational today. May 18, at Cedar Chase Golf Course. They will head to Thomapple Pointe for the OK Red Conference Post-Season I Tournament Tuesday, May 21. The Caledonia boys were 12th in a field of 18 teams at Mona Shores’ Tom Wilson Invitational at Muskegon Country Club Monday. Grand Rapids Catholic Central took the day’s cham­ pionship with a score of 302, and Grand Rapids Christian was second with a 305. Kem was the leader for the Scots with an 82 that had him 20th individually. J r I I 4 I I � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-05-25.pdf e61b2ab1b5d4c445d5be1dd22fef3c12 PDF Text Text I 4 ; ► r • I I I r r I 3 s e 4C.r I .' f • " X » V I I I * * < ‘.'’ a. > • Id s * L. A r •• s k^ 5 •••• 3 I I # t •< s A * >4^ e ’ u * I - < ft ■ ' *L 4 e <• ♦< 1 JFr-- *1 :. .Z. / “fc A > I 4^ / *v **■ % 1. * hl-iM L I A h. k r^.w/ ■ ■' 1 I 4 |U • •i 4 * r * "ij *• r < I < \ I, .-tV •r V' * i r k ’•RI, •T .•% •u’. A .. A, e * jr 0 ) r %■ • >. A ■> i */ - >« < >< -'J .*u-. ,.A^.1 1 •t r .< L “A * -»i f *T I < l: T*uL 4 F« . - •SV Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middlevil'e Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. ■s 4 J 'r 4*^ No. 21/ May 25, 2024 I r 1 57^* 41 ifctiK> «• i 4 7?u>:n« « /4r .. R / dbi«i V ZTX '1 >1 ... ■■■ I • * to A SP f ' j_ £ : ‘-r>. ♦ J. - r to ■ r ktT-" A •* ’ S_ A s4. A 3 -ST * and Caledonia Areas J t * 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 CHS graduates head off into the future after commencement 146th year 4« Construction begins on $98IVi Pediatric Behaviorai Heaith Center at Pine Rest •F I I X L I 4 .0 sw ** •: I . t.' & I c J r<’ 4 X 5 1 ^.4 Cl 4 to < Af^■"af 1 * 1 > ♦J K a* •k ,»-<*a > • §1 c 4 * i The graduating class at Caledonia High School flings their caps up in the air at the end of Tuesday’s com mencement ceremony. Greg Chandler Staff Writer At one point Tuesday night as he addressed his fel­ low graduates at Caledonia High School’s commence­ ment exercises, Micah Nagel took off his graduation cap. Nagel, who was this year’s recipient of CHS’Alpha Beta Award as the most outstand­ ing citizen in his class, drew on lessons he learned watching the superhero movie “Iron Man” to encourage his fellow graduates to be authentically themselves. “I can confidently say the color cords, scholarships, funny graduation hats (at which point Nagel removed his cap), looks, clothes — all of that’s not you,” he said. “You are the collection of all the people that have poured into you, the way you stand in the face of adversity and if you cry during sad dog movies.” I A total of 349 seniors, including 15 exchange stu­ dents, received their diplo­ mas during the ceremony at Calvin University’s Van Noord Arena, with several thousand family members and friends cheering each graduate at they walked across the stage. Nagel, who plans to study recreational therapy at Grand Rapids Community College in the fall, spoke of the chaichallenges he and his classmates faced during their senior year. “I can say for certain there’s one thing we won’t miss all of the decisions that have to be made senior year,” he said. “No one talks about how hard senior year really is. “I’ll be honest, (in my) senior year, there were moments that I felt lost. My college plans felt like they had fallen through. My ath-. w James Gemmell Contributing Writer The plan to build a Pediatric Behavioral Health Center at Pine Rest in Gaines Charter Township was announced more than two years ago. This past week, construetion shovels began to turn on the $98 million project. A community open house was held Tuesday on the 220-acre campus in Cutlerville to mark the occasion. The Pediatric Center will occupy 25 of those acres once it opens in 2026 near 72nd Street and Madison Avenue. The 74,000-square-foot build­ ing will house 66 inpatient beds, 10 of them for chil­ dren or teenagers who have Autism Spectrum Disorder. The Pediatric Center is being built by Holland-based EV Construction. The archi­ tectural firm is BWBR. Nederveld & Associates is the land-development con­ sultant. Pine Rest President & CEO Dr. Mark Eastburg made some remarks at the open house, with food trucks and children’s activ­ ities part of the festivities. Neighbors, construction crews and hospital staff attended the event. It has certainly been a busy week,” Pine Rest Communications Manager Matt Hiskes said in an email response for this story. Pine Rest received a $5 million gift from the DeVos Family Foundation I » See HEALTH CENTER, page 2 .-A-S" 4 4 l' < 9 Micah Nagel addresses his fellow graduates of Caledonia High School during Tuesday’s commencement, held at Calvin University. (Photos provided) A t* fi to f letic future seemed over, and I struggled with anxiety. I was scared to make the wrong choice. And we’ve all been there at some point this year. All of us have struggled with not knowing if we were making the right choice. What if we get it wrong?” So Nagel turned to the website WikiHow for ideas r » 1 I Thornapple Kellogg celebrates graduation fZ < t. < -*• V * * r I -r * r »» • ' i -.-flMir: * I - ■* •7 t 4- 3 -M Pick up next week’s 1a F4*< •I News to get full coverage of Thomapple Kellogg’s graduation and honors ceremonies. J » -'tC •*** - A k * a issue of the Sun and I “'» *— * ii: •l I 1 'A " ’r:: •»< I s ■ Construction boom cranes and bulldozers begin initial construction work for Pine Rest’s future Pediatric Behavioral Health Center. (Photos provided) See CRMUHKTEZ, page 2 a • IN ..I Middleville DDA narrowly approves Mid-Villa TIF J ' ' A,*’.* a •f LA t • •«4 ♦r ? • • •• 7 NT * *•* ■ I Thornapple Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer and Middleville Village President Mike Cramer debate the implications of the tax-increment financing proposal for the residential portion of the Flats at Mid Villa project at Tuesday’s Downtown Development Authority meeting. (Photo by Greg Chandler) Ol Greg Chandler Staff Writer A developer’s request for a financing tax-increment agreement to support construetion of 144 “workforce housing” apartment units as part of the Flats at Mid-Villa project in Middleville is still alive - but barely. On a narrow 3-2 vote Tuesday, the village’s Downtown Development Authority board passed a res- See MID-VILLA TIP, page 3 WIIV I I IS^SQIE a • Slate of Memorial Day observances set for this weekend • Recommendation made for site near new Dutton school • New Emmons Lake principal named • Three TKHS girls medal in both hurdles races at D2 track regional • Caledonia boys have seven state qualifying performances in Division 1 I I 1 X • J J n * �Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 25,2024 GRADUATES, continued from page 1 on what graduates should do and be. After his first point of encouraging graduates to be themselves, he then said they should find things to be at which thankful for point he donned a Detroit Lions cap and chanted the name of quarterback Jared Golf, thankful for the team’s first playoff victory in more than 30 years. “It hit me - yes, we have so much negativity in this world. But if you look for and focus on the positive. you can find joy in the midst of your hardship,” Nagel said. Nagel’s final point to graduates was “be a good neighbor.” He didn’t have to look far to find examples of that spirit within his graduat­ ing class. “Ask Kam Van’tHof, the most positive and fun person I’ve ever met. Ask Nola Langeweg, someone who will always stop to ask if someone needs a hand. Emery Rewa, and her heart for those in need. And, Ben Diegel for helping me write f IX s J 9 It Ci «■ 'i I A w 1 Srl bi 4 t A 9 i I X... • •IT*’ 3?^ ' it f Caledonia Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer presid­ ed over his first commencement since becoming superintendent in January, zz < I 1 1 I video scoreboard inside the Calvin arena displayed pic­ tures of each graduate, the activities he or she partici­ pated in during their high school years and their plans for college, the workforce or the military. For Caledonia Community Schools Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer, Tuesday was his first commencement ceremo­ ny since being named to head the district in January. “As Micah said, be true to yourself. Be daring, be confi- this speech,” Nagel said. “These are all people that are kind. They show every day what it’s like to be a neighbor. And maybe kindness isn’t seen as success, but I’d argue it is. At the end of the day, if you’re holding a medal, that prize will feel a lot nicer if you’re supported by the people around you, than weighed down by loneliness.” As the graduates walked across the stage to receive their diplomas, the overhead -w1 T* Caledonia High seniors head into Van Noord Arena at Calvin University for Tuesday’s commencement. dent and yet be humble,” Weeldreyer said. “Use the gifts that you’ve been given to the best of your ability, and be grateful to those who helped you along the way. I know all the people assem­ bled here tonight are looking forward to hearing about all assembly. Reese Geister received the Principal’s Leadership Award from Principal Bill Martin, while Brock Townsend and Addison Roe were presented the Athletes of the Year Award by Assistant Athletic Director Phil Miedema. the great things that you will accomplish.” Earlier on Tuesday, the CHS seniors had one final assembly at the school’s north gymnasium before heading off to graduation rehearsal. Several major awards were presented at the sifi ODA® i W Cisi®' I (iisw^ I 4*^ Former interim manager tapped to help with Caledonia village budget HEALTH CENTER, continued from page 1 in February to help pay for the facility. It was part of an overall $50 million donation to a trio of health­ care organizations to help advance children’s medical, rehabilitative and mental healthcare. The funding went to Pine Rest, Corewell Health and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital. “Regarding the construc­ tion timeline, it will begin in earnest over the next week. We are targeting late spring/early summer 2026 for completion,” Hiskes said. The original project cost was pegged around $62 million, but the rising inflation rate and construction costs have driven up the estimated cost considerably, plus increased funds needed for recruiting staff at a national level. “It’s about expanding access and meeting community need and this is a fun event to help kick that off,” Heather Treib said. She is a project executive for the pediatric center. “We’re going to have all of our acute or inpatient ' and crisis services on the fl 7* * first floor. Dr. Heide Rollings said in a recent recent Greg Chandler administrative assistant Staff Writer with the village, was The village of Caledonia appointed interim village ( is turning to a former manager earlier this month interim manager to help after the resignation of preJi the village put together its vious manager Jeff budget for the 2024-25 fis­ Thornton. cal year. Cotton, who was pres­ The Village Council at a ent at Monday’s budget special meeting Monday meeting, will provide 80 approved a letter of agree- hours of work for the vilment for Ryan Cotton to lage under the agreement. Ryan Cotton speaks work with the village on the with the village to pay in front of the Barry budget process. The new him $4,758 for the work. County Board of budget is to take effect July There is also a $660 conCommissioners earlier 1. tingency line item under this month. Cotton has “We need somebody who the agreement. Village been enlisted by Barry is familiar with how to do President Jennifer County to lead its search this,” Interim Village Lindsey said. for a new county admin­ Manager Lisa Segard said. Cotton served as interim istrator. Segard, a longtime manager in Caledonia in 2019 after the retirement of longtime manager Sandy Al! Stelma. He is currently a i consultant with GovHR USA/MGT of America Consulting, where he is leading Barry County in its search for a new adminis­ trator to take over upon the retirement of 30-year veter• Wheel Alignments an Michael Brown in • Auto Glass Installation August. • Insurance Work Welcome Cotton’s professional experience includes tenures • visa MasterCard Accepted as city manager in Holland Over 40 years experience and Grand Haven, and as village manager in Spring Lake. brucesframe.co KA,;/ ; 4 I U< fc’i. f ■k I 9^. .V J 1 4 Bruce's Frame and Full Service Body Shop .f - ' z f p ■ u• k A “ 1 »^4*. ' • ‘' -r' ■ #4 '■ •dt. "io WI I*? '4* f J J pfffl top ■3* ft ' •*^*®B4*33SbSSH5 #‘5 .« y >4. VI la •• J Ulin 1 fK .x2> V4db.- PoMBhl 1 IT, Sita .A Some chalk art welcomes the future Pediatric Behavioral Health Center at Pine Rest, interview. She is the Pediatric Center’s medical director. “That will include our inpatient beds and our urgent care center, which we we’’re re going going to to be be opening opening new new for for kids kids in in that that center, center. And And we we’’re re going going to to have have aa family lounge there, as as well. And a nice welcoming space that s really great for families and kids.” There will be more out­ patient care — also known as day-treatment program­ ming — and hospitalization on the second floor. On a side note, 30th District Republican State Senator Mark Huizenga recommended this month that $ 15 million be added to iuuuion DC aaaea to the fiscal year 2025 state budget budget for for Pine Pine Rest Rest’’ss outout- patient psychiatric urgent care. Rollings said the demand for pediatric behavioral health care has greatly exceeded available services since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The new pediatric Md tt! I i II I Gr center will expand access to inpatient and partial hospitalization, outpatient care and behavioral health test­ ing services for children and teens throughout the state. Pine Rest is the largest behavioral health provider of its kind in Michigan and one of the five largest in the United States. The main campus opened in 1910 on 68th Street at Division Avenue Cdeda Sdotlsh |®ipal Ma bdiod t®tSIO( I iLih •bicfse 'fitIk lb, L IS ftatl I? 'at .1' r 1 fl Men I ■ r r Rilllt I Allegan Antiques Market Antenna Meri t • **♦ * » Michigan's Finest Antique Show Digital TV Antennas • Starlink installs • Towers A I I i j I ■ F t t • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! 415 2nd • Middleville 1 n o* J I; ww^csilsignalpros.com Hundreds of Dealers in every field of Antiques, Vintage and Collectibles May 26^*^ www.alleganantiques.com 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com ar»tennamen<g>gma»l.com S' Si Ifttl 3' A r• �1 I MID-vluA nF, continued from 1 The Sun and News, Saturday, May 25,2024/ Page 3 olution supporting a TIF pro­ meeting of the Board.” It was so the rents can come down,” posal for the project for the determined that since there month for one bedroom to next 15 years, following the were six members “then in Dutch Developers principal $1,475 for two bedrooms, earlier lead of the Village office,” there was a quorum, Nate Heyboer said in explain­ project developers said. ing the need for the TIF. Council. Dutch Developers and the meeting proceeded. “Without (the TIF), the The Flats at Mid-Villa proj­ project is not feasible. I’m not LLC, the developer behind Board member Kortney the project, has said the TIF is Lull arrived to join the discus- ect calls for construction of going to bring a complex to Sion on the TIF request about 2d apartments this area with rents of $2,000 needed for the apartments to one-bedroom apart- to $2,200 a month. I don’t be built and offered at an a half-hour after the meetmg ments, along with a 134-unit think that ’ s good business affordable rent. started. self-storage facility and three sense and it doesn ’ t help anyOn a similar 3-2 vote, the If approved, the TIP would DDA board also adopted a tax allow the county’s Brownfield commercial outlets fronting body. I would mothball the M-37. The site has been project,” Heyboer said. revenue sharing agreement Redevelopment Authority to vacant since the former The TIF request does not where the Barry County collect $4.48 million in new Middle Villa Inn was tom include the commercial outBrownfield Redevelopment tax revenues that are expected down in 2015. The Village lots or the self-storage facility. Authority would collect new to be generated by develop­ Council in May of last year New taxes from that portion tax revenues generated by the ment of the apartments at approved a planned unit of the project will go to the construction of the apartments Mid-Villa over the next 15 development proposal for the usual taxing authorities, such on a 13.3-acre portion of the years. About $1.9 million of project. as the village, township and Mid-Villa property on M-37 that would come from DDA, The developers say the county. to be reimbursed to Dutch Schaefer asked how many Developers for expenses tied of the residents who would to development, such as infra­ ' safe, affordable housing is live in the apartments would structure improvements. something that we’ve needed for a really long work in Middleville. Heyboer It’s a vote that almost didn’t time. Not supporting this project would be a said the marketing emphasis take place. would be in the local commumistake. We need this. ” At the time the meeting nity. was scheduled to start, at 6 — Mike Cramer, “ Local marketing is going p.m., there were only four President, Village of Middleville to be huge, ” Heyboer said. DDA members present “ We want to market at the Village President Mike break rooms at Bradford Cramer, Thornapple To^Wp which operates with its own own project addresses a need for White (Corporation) and Supervisor Enc Schaefer, tax-mcrement financing “workforce housing” that was around the area ... We want to tax-increment around the area • • • Justine King and Derek Dean, mechanism mechanism where where itit captures captures identified in a report issued do pointed advertising to start Under state law, the board is aa portion portion of of taxes taxes paid paid by by last year by the Barry with.” supposed to have at least nine downtown property owners to Community Foundation and Schaefer ’ s strongest conand members. support support public public improvements improvements Bany Barry County County Chamber Chamber and and cem was how the TIF would However, there are eur^t- ininthe Eeonotnie Development intpaet local lire and enterthedowntown. downtown. Economic ly three vacancies on the DDA The TIF request from Alliance. eenev services Alliance. board, leavmg just six sittmg Dutch Developers LLC is the ““To regulated, “ I ’ m sure the TIF was ere To have have ... • • • regulated. T" n ““ safe, affordable housing is "ted for good purposes, but whether the four members Brownfield Development something that we’ve needed the fact is, emergency services present were were enough for a Facing the’potential pot^S'io FinancingAct Act which which has^n has been for a really long thne, time,” Cremer Cramer has the to not m place place since smee the the late late1990s. 1990s. said. “Not supporting this gain $200,000 (in new tax quorum to proceed with the in gain $200,000 (in new tax meeting. vn T • State lawmakers last year project would be a mistake, revenue) revenue) over over 15 15 years. years. ItIt n T ’*««’' »«“« ““ doesn’t sound like much, but Ayala and Planning and changes the law to allow new The apartments would be that ’ s a lot of sets of turnout The apartments would be that’s a lot of sets of turnout Zoning Administrator Doug tax marketed toward toward people people gear and fire hose,” Schaefer taxrevenues revenues captured capturedthrough through marketed Powers both read from Article local brownfield redevelop- whose whose incomes incomes are are between between said, VI, Section 3 of the DDA ment authorities to fund 80 and 120 percent of the “I understand there’s a cribylaws, which begins with “a affordable housing projects. community community’s’smedian medianincome, income. sis for housing, but I don’t see majority of the members of “We need to reduce the which works out to between why emergency services the Board then in office con- cost, to keep the rents down. $40,000 and $90,000 a year. should (miss out on the new stitutes a quorum for the It’s a simple math problem, Rents for the apartments tax revenue to support the transaction of business at any Expenses have to come down would range from $1,225 a project),” he added. r A, u. V I —r I 1 I fl / I f I I K, A J I ' I '8® bn I f I I I p I I I Peiiaiijt I ■ i it Bill However, Cramer said that the township and village will gain new tax revenue to sup­ port emergency services through the development of the commercial outlets and the self-storage facility that are not subject to TIP capture. “The real win is the com­ mercial wealth that comes with it that makes up for the tax revenue that we’re not going to capture from the apartments for 15 years,” Cramer said. “The other win here is they’re going to be a high water consumer that is going to be paying into our water service, with pipes that don’t require maintenance for another 20-30 years, which means we can take that money and slide it right over into replacing the lead services that we need to (replace), because the water system has to pay for the water system maintenance. “There’s a lot of wins with this project, as long as we invest in it, and that’s what this is. This is an investment from the village to get this project running.” Lull said the issue with emergency services shouldn’t be part of DDA’s decision. “Our job is to talk about the development. We are here to talk about how we’re going to develop this community, and that’s what this is about.” she Heyboer said that he has letter-of-intent agreements with letter-of-intent agreements with three different companies that »«*1 ">«ve into the commerwould move into the cial outlots, the most recent of which was signed on Monday. While non-disclosure agreements prevent specifics of who these companies are to be publicly announced, Heyboer said two of them, including one that’s under contract, are “hos­ pitality facilities.” “We’ve got tax money coming in from all three commercial lots, plus the mini-storage,” Heyboer said. Cramer, Lull and King voted to support the TIF proposal, while Schaefer and Dean voted no. DDA Chairwoman Kim Jachim was absent. “I cannot thank you guys enough for enduring this pro­ cess,” Cramer told the devel­ opers after the vote. “The value you’re bringing to the community and the residents you’re going to impact is gonna be huge. Your determination is appreciated ... Thank you for choosing Middleville.” The TIF for the Flats at Mid-Villa would be the second of its kind in Barry County. Late last year, a smaller TIF was approved for the redevelopment of the Courtside Screen Printing & Embroidery building in Nashville into updated commercial space on the main floor and two upstairs apartments. That project is expected to generate close to $60,(X)0 in new tax revenues over the next 20 years that will be cap­ tured and reimbursed to the developer to cover costs tied to the project, said Nichole Lyke, the chamber’s economic development coordinator. pto TXTSl pZZd for the Royal CoL homing project in Hastings Chamber Executive Diiecfor Jennifer Heinzman said 1I I 1 K The Thomapple Township board still must vote on whether to support the TIP proposal. It must also go before the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and the county Board of Commissioners. 4 Mmol Etitiii' « *I « iiSM j aofii I biii Walters named new principal at Emmons Lake .s *•-•**. .1' I gw I I * 24 hour access and security « lit®; italtof' ilieDicf' UliS'. nW iglifflis Iks’ I I I I I t Greg Chandler K'I -F Staff Writer Caledonia Community Schools have named a new principal at Emmons Lake Elementary School. Nathan Walters was intro­ duced to the district’s Board of Education Monday night. He comes to Caledonia from the Godfrey-Lee Public Schools in Wyoming, where he has been dean of students at the district’s early childhood cen­ ter for the past year. Walters told board mem­ bers that he is excited and energized to be taking on his new role, and by what he calls “the passion I’ve seen in the Caledonia community, specifi­ cally among Emmons staff and parents.” “I was over at the building four times last week (to meet with staff). We’re jumping in, we’re ten toes down. We’re going to get this thing started,” he said. A native ofHolland, Walters applied for the Emmons Lake position in February. He had looked at opportunities in other districts but was impressed by what he saw in Caledonia. “Caledonia stood out above a lot of the other districts in terms of the pride people have here, (and) the stability it offers,” Walters said. Prior to joining the GodfreyLee district, Walters spent five years as a fifth-grade teacher at Kentwood Public Schools. Walters holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary educa­ tion and a master’s in educa­ tional leadership from Calvin University. He did his student teaching at West Elementary School in Wyoming. 9 1 r .•rk 1. I fifed *»* L ■ EE*?® I 1 .. i y . .*b 'I « Nathan Waiters was introduced to the Caledonia Board of Education on Monday night. MOntH TO MOOTH OR POT FOR 5 & GOT 6 Month to Month 10x22x16 • ^80/nio 5x23x16 • ^60/nio 6x10x7 • MO/mo 6 Month Lease 10x22x16 • ^66^^/mo 5x23x16 • ^50/mo 6x10x7 • I r 1 • 6355 N. Moe Road, Middleville, MI (I mile east of mtitneyville between Garbow & Parmalee). Call Dave McDuffee at 616-891-2112 t iV r I j < Your local agent insures your I I HELP WANTED I I 1 I •# » it E S T O Z 0 22 TIMBER RIVER HOMES & HOME BUILDERS. I 4• 4 LLC. I Residential Construction General Labor for Middleville and surrounding areas « F4IIM BVREAV . I I Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville t I INSURANCE* I f "1 1* ©#6 (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com Job responsibilities to include various manual tasks such as; digging trenches, unloading building materials, preparing job sites, and home construction. Full time position. Pay will be based on skill level. All skill levels will be considered. Open to applicants willing and capable of learning the trade. All inquiries please contact Jon at 910-366-7154 p I 1 �Page 4/The Sun and Nawa, Saturday, May 25, 2024 Middleville couple opens Thornapple Eyecare Ieremy Aaron Totten Jeremy Aaron Totten, age 42, passed away unexpect- L J ■Am edly on May 13, 2024, He is survived by his best friend, Angela (Rider) Totten and thetr beloved sons. Zachery and Nicholas Totten; their two most perfect dogs, Sam and Bean, parents, Ron and Lauric (fietty) Totten; stepmother, Jilaine Totten; sister, Heather (Shawn) I.ustcy; niece and nephew, Bridget and Sam Webb; grandmother, Nancy Totten; and several cousins. He was preceded in death by grandparents, Bob and Lila (Jetty, and Tom Totten. Jeremy was gifted in computer systems and wa.s Staff Writer Oplometnsts Drs. Jeff and Laura Kenyon have lived in Middleville for the past 18 years, but have usually com­ muted to their jobs. But they had a vision to set up an eye clinic in their home­ town. “I would say it was a dream of Jeffs to have a practice in Laura community/’ our Kenyon said. Now, that vision has become reality, as the Kenyons p < • L_s?r ’'4 it r ■ > loved by everyone he worked with in the IT world. The bond he and Zachery had for gaming and all things Warcraft, will be carried on in his absence. He enjoyed kayaking, mountain biking, cooking, going out to dinner with fam­ ily and Totten family game nighls. He loved taking long walks with the dogs and watching the Lions finally have a good season with his sons. Jeremy always went out of his way to help others and was an organ donor. His family has found comfort knowing that he was able to give others the gift of life. Family and friends will celebrate his life and share memories at a later time. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to Paws With a Cause. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real eauic ttheruunK la (In* arwapaper» *ub)eci m (he fur Houunj Act md (he M)chi|M Ci«il RighU Act wtttdi tfdlecuvdy make it ille !■( to advertise "^y preferenoe, limitation or discnfliuMtKin hosed on rate. cdu. rdigKin. sea. handicap, familial Mala*. abKimd nngu, age or mantal Mataa. or an imentius. to make any such prvlemor. limtUdoo or ducTimmocn Greg Chandler hviuiial rtHus Hidudet children under (hr aft of I® hvmg with pnrend or lepl cuModiam. pregnant wonwB ■nd penpk aecuriog ontody rtf children under 18 Thia nrwipaper will not knowingly acceya aay advertrirog for real estate which ii in vidaiion of (he bw Our readen are hereby informed (hat all dwellings adveruied in (hit newspaper are ayatbMe on an equal upponuniiy baut To repon dbcnminaoon otfl (he hur Housing Center at MM5I-2W The HUO lull-free lelephane num her for the heanng impaired is I -HOO-PTf-9275 have opened Thomapple Eyecare in the Middleville Market Place strip mall on M-37. It’s believed to be the village’s first optometry office, “We are excited to practice in a small community with high level quality care that focuses on excellent customer service, which will set us apart and provide a great experience for our patients,” Jeff Kenyon said. The philosophy behind Thomapple Eyecare is simple: “Eye exams should be fun and not stressful,” Jeff Kenyon said. The Kenyons met as stu­ dents at Ferris State University, and graduated from the school’s Michigan College of Optometry in 2005, a year after they' married. After they completed a residency in Houston, Jeff went to uork at West Michigan Eyecare Associates in Grand Rapids in 2006, and Laura joined him at that practice in 2010. They are continuing to work at that getting while location Thomapple Eyecare up and running. While the Kenyons see a wide range of patients, each for has a speciality area Jeff, it's pediatrics, while for Laura, it’s older patients. If they’re 3, they see Jeff; if they're 93, they see me.” Laura Kenyon quipped. Thomapple Eyecare offers a full range of optical services, including routine exams as well as treatments for conditions such as glaucoma and 4< t < I Vnli t lY < •K fl '4 1 f .1 >?■ I I * T’ €4 macular degeneration. Four exam rooms are fully outfitted with the most current exam technology, including digital retinal imaging. “We’re in a small commu­ nity, but we have a high level of technology in our practice,” L.aura Kenyon said. The practice also includes a full service optical department that offers designer frames as well as contact lenses. Thomapple Eyecare has become actively involved in I A #1 Drs. Jeff and Laura Kenyon have opened Thornapple Eyecare, located within the Middleville Market Place strip mall along M-37. (Photo provided) the Middleville community, sponsoring a youth baseball team through the Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission, as well as taking part in a recent job fair at Thomapple Kellogg High School. Jeff Kenyon is a TAPRC board member and is also a high school basketball official, while Laura Kenyon has been involved in the effort to bring a standalone public qt* library to Middleville. “These are the things you can do in a small community,” Jeff Kenyon said. Thomapple Eyecare’s hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 9 a,m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday. For more information about the practice or to set up an appointmenL visit thomappleeyecare.com or call (269)213-8108. ictiot (ivk. Hi iiiffl p'” Caledonia United Methodist Church TojisIhP ! tutatl Silltd Io IIBiipioj . futaoi IS,1M if DHHi lorahiL biij'zo, s|iire fet liiK a mil Mtel,#'! iliii Ik Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-X91-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org f Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist Serving - Strengthening ~ Connecting cornerstonechurch Join US in person or online Suntjays 9:30 & 11am FIRST BAPTIST Middle-ville Sunday Service 10:30 AM <x co Lutheran Church •1* 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) I Sunday Worship 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend 3 ■t s (Il 9 M I ▼ Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmidcileville Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 .SOURNEY --aar ) CHURCH ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE; LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch •ACHURCH peace Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee '^Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52^ & 48^^ /^sforJonathan OeCou Sunday School wniMhOwi Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM Watch our services from our Praising Cod throush Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm •■TcaeATi Prayer Meetfr* & BfbIeStudy Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm (269) 795-2391 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org rear I'nl Mini iinie iiDit Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. 11 ^4! dtu^h Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. gl I9 > I Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. J PEACECHURCH.ee |B^ Whitneyville C—/ Fellowship Church 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org 9:30 a.m. . HOLY FAMILY 1^19CATHOLIC CHURCH @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., C:aledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 II bity k THORNAPPLE VALLEY S’ I CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE SeSEUy's SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com _________ www.stpaulcaledoniax)rg u Critic Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 k Shining Forth God's Li^t tn Sunday Morning Worship......................... 10:(X) a.m. (Community Group...................... 11:00 a.m. Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 James L. ColUson, Pastor Sermons online: WhftneyvilleFeilowship.org www.yankccspringsbiblechurch. org V « * I s . I �I Hl The Sun and News, Saturday, May 25,2024/Page 5 _ caieaonia Twp. planners recommend PUD rezoning for site near new Dutton School 1 I Greg Chandler ♦♦ \- r II I I f j I i I J F-r r I I r I > It? ' if IhoOMf s’/ A 'S t iistfc If Wo iljBcisa'iis w I * I (lei lai! • f: .... "'I bl I said. missioners attached a con­ Staff Writer “A planned unit devel­ dition that a 30-foot-wide A developer’s proposal opment is a development utility easement be includ ­ to build 44 homes just tool where the applicant ed on the northeast side of south of the new Dutton Cl-,, dimensional the development that Elementary School cleared standards of the zoning could be used as a pedes­ its first challenge Monday district, in exchange for trian access to and from night. public benefits,” Wells the school property. The Caledonia saiu. said. “m In this case, the The approval of the Township Planning applicant’s public benefit Dutton Preserve project is Commission voted to rec rec-­ is the preservation of contingent on the exten ­ ommend approval of two open space. They’re also sion of water and sewer to rezoning proposals for a building the trail network serve the site. The devel30.1-acre parcel along connecting all the way to oper will connect to a Patterson Avenue, south 76th Street, as well as 12-inch water line along of 76th Street - first from sidewalks and trail within Patterson that will service agricultural to medium their development. the school, Henderson density single-family resi­ They’re providing the tot said. dential, then from the lot and preserving a sigThe developer submitmedium density residen­ niticant woodland area on ted a “test plan” to the tial designation to planned the property.” township that would unit development. Both JTB is proposing the depict how many homes rezoning proposals, which preservation of nearly could be built on the site were approved on separate 12.5 acres of the property unaer medium-density under medium-density 5-0 votes, now go to the as open space, represent- zoning without a PUD Township Board for final mg 42 percent of its total designation. JTB could action. area. That includes signif- build 40 homes on the Wyoming-based JTB icant tree preservation on site, by right, without havHomes is seeking approv­ the northeast and south­ ing to get approval from al of the rezoning requests east portions of the parcel. the Planning Commission as part of its effort to The township’s PUD rules and without any of the build the proposed Dutton require a developer to pre- amenities proposed under Preserve development, serve at least 20 percent the PUD. JTB has an agreement to of a parcel as open space. “No greenspace,” purchase the parcel from It also allows a developer Planning Commission Caledonia Community to seek a density bonus of Chairman Doug Curtis Schools. The property is up to 10 percent - in the said. recommended for medium case of Dutton Preserve, Each of the test plan density single-family resi- four additional homes - in lots would be at least dential under the township exchange for the preserva 21,780 square feet in size. master plan that was tion of open space and according to project docuupdated earlier this year, inclusion of other ameni- ments. Township Planner Lynee ties. Wells said. “It’s a difference in how Wells said. JTB also plans to build people value the land. Do Under the plans pre­ the pathway that will con­ I just want a big lot, or do sented to the township, nect the development to I want a sense of seclusion JTB is proposing lot sizes the new Dutton school, and to be surrounded by for homes ranging from which is under construc­ (green space)?” 10,000 square feet, the tion and is expected to Commissioner John minimum allowable by the open in time for the 2025- Eberly said. township under medium 26 school year. Several residents spoke density zoning, to 39,000 “We’re going to bring it out against the proposed square feet. The lots will across their entire front- development during the have a minimum width of age and all the way up to public hearing. raising 75 feet, which is narrower 76th Street on their prop­ concerns over traffic and than the 100-foot mini­ erty,” said Paul Henderson the loss of rural character mum required width for of Roosien and Associates, in the community. medium density. Front the project architect. “It’s “I do think that it’s yard, rear yard and side a substantial offsite path- unnecessary to put this yard setbacks will be the way that we’re investing development in right same under the PUD as in. there, especially so close they would be under medi­ In addition to the path­ to the schools,” said um density zoning. Wells way along Patterson, com- Rosalie Graham, who lives on 84th Street. “We know Kraft (Avenue) is already a nightmare with all the schools right there, Patterson gets a lot of the (traffic) flow in the moming and afternoons when schools are in and out as well.” Graham also asked why the township is taking the step intermediary of rezoning the property for medium-density residential before going to a PUD, rather than going from the original agricul tural zoning to PUD. me ruu is oasea on “The PUD is based the density of the R-2 (medium density) district. If it wasn’t rezoned to R-2, then the density for the test plan that I showed would be what the (agricultural) district would allow, which would be 2-acre lots, or one acre with utilities,” Wells said. JTB and Caledonia Community Schools reached an agreement on the sale of the property in September 2022, and the agreement was amended in May and December of last year. The agreement called for JTB to buy the land from the school dis­ trict at a base cost of $750,000, plus an addi­ tional $10,000 per home over 30 homes that were to be built on the site. However, JTB late last year asked the schools to amend the agreement after the developer was pre­ sented with a condition from Caledonia Township that either JTB or the schools must pay for a non-motorized path across the school property in order for the township to extend a sewer line to serve the property. JTB asked the schools to strike from the agreement the provision of paying the extra $10,000 per home if more than 30 homes are built. The district declined the request, The sales agreement with the schools is contingent on JTB getting approval for the PUD, company land acquisition manager Jeff Hainer wrote in an email to the Sun and News. The Township Board must hold two readings before the rezonings are approved, and there will be another opportunity for residents to comment on the project when it reaches the board. Wells said. “There’s a second pub­ lic hearing at the Township Board for a planned unit development. Everyone will get the letter who got the letter (for Monday’s hearing) ” she said ing is scheduled for June 5 at 7 p.m. at the Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE. I 4 A. t@ hSgg) MBi t 1 I 4 *1 4 * —• rd tf The board’s next meet­ GIVE US FAI CALL TODAY! HARMLESS BAT REMOVAL Bat I » II ) BAT-PROOF & CLEAN UP FULL ATTIC RESTORATION Remove' thebatguysbatremoval.com 10-YEAR WARRANTY 517-599-1019 Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser Help us support veterans and community functions. Saturday, June 1,2024 and the First Saturday of each month Serving 8 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. bacon, sausage links or patties, potatoes, biscuits and sausage gravy, punches, milk. Of, coffee. I * Menu subject to change Adults $13.00 • Children 10 d' under $5.00 Coffee Donated by For more injbrmation call the Post at 616-891-1882 u BtGCm C'OF F E E Caledonia Memorial Legion Post 305 9548 Cherry Valley, Caledonia, MI LUNCH M-TH 11 AM-8 PM: FRI 11 AM-2PM • FRI BUILD A BURGER 4-8 PM v-b 31 o) 1 I . I I G r III I ,I 1 ii s Middleville TOPS 546 The May 20 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. Only one fish is s\vimming in the fishbowl. Maryellen’s program was Crackdown: “Critic Overcoming our Irmer Bully.” Weight-based bullying happens everywhere, Lots of folks on the receiv ing end of bullying gain weight from the stress. Maryellen told club mem bers that the bully that needs to reform is the one in our own heads. We call our­ selves names, judge our own choices and fret about our be no meeting next week due weight. Our inner critic real- to Memorial Day. ly only wants us to succeed The meeting closed with but uses the wrong tactics, marching in place as the Maryellen said. group recited the TOPS The chapter talked about pledge. the messages they hear and TOPS, a weight loss sup­ what they call themselves. port group, meets every at Lincoln The chapter then discussed Monday how they would talk to a Meadows in Middleville. friend in the same scenario. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. Positive talk leads to positive to 3:45 p.m., followed imme I* results. Members made a diately by the meeting. Press commitment to talk positive- the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions ly to themselves and others. New personal commit­ may call Virginia, 269-908ments were made for the 8036, or Maiyellen, 616-318next two wedcs. There will 3545. The first meeting is five. THE GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT ! I 1 I Simulcast Live at Cornerstone Church - 84th St Campus I I ! I The best of leaders never stop learning. e\ iI : 9 ? 1 »• r \ A r •Ji r * - f 4r- I J auuG MOCSCHH. ■m MIKE MOYZeWSKI ( t 1 j AMY COMUNDSOM MOLLY FLCTCMCft HICHAi J*- I •1 a ■ / I I f t * I. I �6ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, May zo, 25, 2024 Page 6/The j CHS veterans memorial project _ honored by West Michigan organization high school history and gov­ ernment teacher Heather Tomes wrote in an email to the Sun and News. The $1,000 award will be added to the nearly $10,000 that has been raised for the memorial already. Tomes wrote. “The design is being tweaked and (installation) should be under way very soon,” Tomes wrote. Six Caledonia High stu­ dents attended a luncheon at side the Peter V. DeLille Fine Arts Center, which is expect­ ed to take place this summer. The committee awarded $1,000 to be used toward the project. Caledonia was selected from among more than 40 schools to receive the award “for going above and beyond to support veterans and mili­ tary this year with the work that Brody Woodwyk has done to bring a permanent veterans memorial to CHS,” Greg Chandler Staff Writer A student-led campaign to have a permanent veterans memorial erected at Caledonia High School has received a , special honor from a West Michigan organization. The Grand Rapids-based Armed Forces Thanksgiving Committee on May 10 pre sented its Thanksgiving In ^Action award to the high * school for its efforts to have the memorial installed out- the JW Marriott Hotel in Grand Rapids at which the award was presented, including Woodwyk, who spent most of his senior year lead­ ing the campaign for the vet­ erans memorial. The students led the procession from the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum to the JW Mamott, the by accompanied Caledonia Pipe and Drums ensemble. The six met with business leaders, veterans. active duty military personnel, law enforcement and first responders at the event. Tomes wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “Having what I have been working on getting recognized by communities and organizations outside of Caledonia is amazing,” Woodwyk wrote in an email to ±e Sun and News. “The huge part of being recognized is I just hope that other students and schools will see what I did and implement some±ing into their community.” Forces The Armed Thanksgiving event was cre­ ated 10 years ago by a group of Grand Rapids business leaders with the goal of rais­ ing awareness and dialogue on the contributions by mili­ tary members to our country. The event, which is held during Armed Forces Appreciation Mon±, raises money for the West Michigan Veterans Coalition, an organi zation that seeks to connect veterans and their families to support services and resourc7 I I ^1 3Z 9^^ I C?ObJ'T Kips TopAV. SPE:N(plb4G ALL PAV STA^Mg at little: Sc-R’E:E:NfS • 1.. -•i* . -- ■e/ 1 * RS I f. * :T ' -I*. i •* 4 ■i I ■1 I * k.. i p jfc- 'i .jh I K I ■ sat I. •a* i s 7/1 Vit , 4 / 1 H** . « Lz=t» •f • < * I Wwip Cji^t-ann '"T' i > J I I 1 Z.'«» . r << I li ■ * wCTP ■ > I r May 28 Auction/Estate Sale * \* I 9 <. A. . bMED forccs r r r ♦ •l •f r. BW/HC* ,1*’ If * In**'' | | z 4 r'inr* w .*4 V * * A 2 Ik >7: ■>* I> •« C ■« r I X * •* t' •» •? ,4 KV J' « Six Caledonia High students attended a luncheon 3t tho JW Msrriott HotGl in Grsnd Rdpids whorG they WGFG 3W3rdGd thG Th3nksgiving In Action 3W3rd, proSGntGd by thG Gr3nd R3pids-b3SGd AnriGd ForcGS Thanksgiving Committee Ko” ’J I * fdi (iieif' 1 T -Cl a ,0 { r Lf ! ! *** .1# W®! 41 iS w >3 -ML. m r » <r I I f Aarfaxifi «b «*s>» is ilmiin .J V Ex jjiiiilM The six CHS students met with business leaders, veterans, active duty military personnel, law enforce­ ment and first responders at the event tak and es throughout West Michigan. Other CHS students who attended the Armed Forces Thanksgiving luncheon were Caleb Thome, Camden Johnson, Lauren Lauver, Emerson Lippert and Nathaniel Gue. 5 hte I r f I I 4: A I I y.' f »- I iS I' “ . • i ,0 0 Cherry Valley Ave ia. Ml 49316 616920-6651 www.M37Auction.com «. r• Force main damage leads to sewage overflow on Gun Lake 9 -TX t* 4 '.I e' > V Family and Friends Are Invited to join EDMUND KILMARTIN Jr situation and discovered that the sewer force main had been damaged, office manag­ er Tara Palandri wrote in an email. It was determined that the sewage would flow into Gun Lake when the homeowner’s grinder pump would run. The overflow went into the lake just north of Chicago Point. It is estimated that about 3,350 gallons of sewage flowed into the lake during the incident. I te-ip®, ' lotsiia ladteis IWEil I fettCE Wilt) I Satuiday^ May ^pm. After 32 years of service to Caledonia Community Schools, 4 ex. < IS RETIRING! •' r J •4 •’•iA ■»' 7 IT 4 V SUNDAY, JUNE 9, 2024 ’’l-JIll Michelle Kowalski i ON S Her joyful spirit and dedication have long inspired her family, friends, and community. > From 12:30pm - 3:00pm .9 At Holy Family Catholic Church lot ^5. ® » 9669 Kraft Avenue, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Lite refreshments will be served I t Poi II eKBiMMi Uf'' L- -y I Palandri wrote. The overflow was stopped at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. The sewer main has been repaired, Palandri wrote. GLASA has contacted the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) and the Barry-Eaton District Health Department to report the incident, and has prepared a report of discharge detailing the incident. ‘5^ 100th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION I'» Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Gun Lake Area Sewer Authority is reporting a sewage overflow incident that occurred earlier this week on Gun Lake. The incident occurred on Cascade Lane in Orangeville Township. The authority received a call at 2:43 p.m. Tuesday that there was a pos­ sible sewage flow into Gun Lake. GLASA evaluated ±e IW*lB J I tt ■ for his : pipecnad [ipehTO .mn I' ■.».-w* ■ ’ KG10( c V >- tt We love you! The best is yet to come! Joe, Amanda, Joey Ashley •ir k1 . I j w>* 1 ■ .4 1 i!-'m Send your thanks an •A % • , » i* 2k �I Longtime volunteer honored for service Th« Sun and News, Saturday, May 25, 2024/ Page 7 I t 216O5S 4 Jayson Bussa I A WO lilA 4 1 f- 1 I• * Editor It can sometimes be tough to decipher whether Catherine Getty is worldng or recreating. In her over two decades of volunteering throughout Bany County, the Middleville resi­ dent has masterfully melded the two together. Getty, who is currently a Barry County Commissioner but has served in other local governmental capacities, was honored earlier this month by . „ the Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center, which named her its Volunteer of the —c ? s k' t T* I 1 IT ■ (S It 1 it I I I 1 i' the evert The United Way received five nomination letters recommending Getty, whose name has become synonymous with all things park, recreation and trails in Barry County. Amid her laundry list of public service gigs, the one that stands out is her 20-plus-year tenure with the Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission. She got involved with the organization in 1998 when she moved back to Michigan and her kids were involved with T-Ball. Not only did she make habit of raking fields and keeping score but she later joining the board and has helped it update its five-year rec plan that allows it to stay eligible for state and federal grants. “I grew up being outdoors and having access to parks and trails and property to roam around on,” Getty said. “I guess I’ve always felt like it was real- For Sale MISCELLANEOUS PLUMB ING TOOLS: Rigid 300 Power Head tripod pipe machine, Tripod vice and pipe wrenches. (616)498-3793 Garage Sale Us® Ueirafef;iJO fi ; Wffi’ * irojselfeEnffi'lBii lOias ft MAY 24TH-27TH, FRI-MON, 9am-6pm. Large man sale. Lots of construction tools, hand tools, ELE, paint, push brooms. Track for lighting. Way too much to list! In Mid­ dleville MI, across from the laundry mat on M-37. Look for signs!! VALLEY RIDGE ESTATES neighborhood garage sale. Saturday, May 25 & Sun­ day, May 26, 2024. 9am3pm. eatulk? A Uto motive ciM 2003 PORSCHE BOXTER S. 67,000 Miles. Runs and drives great! $16,600. 616551-9412. Business Services ft 1 If 9 I I' / i I CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-8385937. BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. In­ sured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. . 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBUC HEARING EVANS LANE SPEOAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 49 TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: ism”::'- - on the Board's own motion, as authorized by PA - r.,aes on Evans Lane in Yankee Springs Township recovery of the costs thereof by special assessment against the properties » -e Denented. ■ r I I Catherine Getty ly important in our community to have access to that. In her capacity at TAPRC, she saw how enthusiastic and passionate residents were passionate residents about projects like connecting 99 the Paul Henry trail to extend through Bany County. While the kids she once kept score for in T-Ball might uieir own now be auum adults ui of their Getty said the work is never truly over as she continues on. “I think I just tiy to take advantage of every opportunity to make our county, our com­ munities, the places people want to live,” she said. “Where they have a good quality of life.” The United Way acknowledged this work at its Volunteer Awards ceremony earlier this month. “Through her work with the Thomapple Parks and Recreation Commission, she has proven a love for our community with the many opportunities that she has either cre­ ated, had a hand in or has given of her time to work on,” said Morgan Johnson, director of outreach and community engagement for Bany County United Way. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 ^ANS LANE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 49 - PROPOSED DISTRICT: The properties indicated by parcel numbers below and on the attached map: I iI:Br:BiT;T«BiIfBiTi] •I:Br;BiT;TtBiil!BiTi' •}:Br®WiBW.-BiI» iI:BI«T:TiEiTiI.-BiT« •T:BI®TSiBiTiXBiT»' •I:BraiTSiBiT«B»Ti; i}:BI«I;fiB«I(XBiTi; iKBtaiWtBjTiTEiHI •KBMiWiBiVJiBiX w:Br.-BiwiBnriBi:»; W:Br®W»BiTiftBi:i >I:BWiW»B«W:B«W :ii:Br®w«B»istBin ff;Bfa>T:r>BiT>yg>Tn I I j iT:Br;B(T:riBiiicEiTi; iWBraiTsnEOFAT*) iI:Br«iiI:Bi>ZBiX iJ:Br;B«n:Bi?4.-Bi7i; »?:BrgiII;B»HI;BiT>1 I PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has received plans showing the proposed road paving project and associated activities, together with an estimate of the cost of the project in the amount of $80,155. The proposed road i approximately 18 tons of crushed concrete to raise the low portion of the road. Install 1.5* of base course asphalt compacted. Install 1.5” of 5E1 widening (to a widltTo? 3 w«on olZ -S (™™Slv , “TZ V? section th. n piterminating at Cobb Lake Road and adding 4’ to the north section of of the the turnaround turnaround on on parcel parcel 08-16-060-017-00 08-16-060-017-00. The The project and to create the afore-described special PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has placed the proiect olans and costs estimate on file with the Township Clerk and said plans, cost estimates may further be * please take further notice that the Township Board proposes to make a figr-pgrcel special assessment each year for a period of three years (2024-2026 inclusive) Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, At the hearing, the Board will consider any written objections and comments to any of the foregoing matters which are filed with the Township Clerk at or before the hearing,»and any objections u- u J at the hearing; and at the hearing (or any adjournment of the hearing which mav be made without further notice), the township board may revise, correct, amend or change the plans, cost estimates or special assessment district. u objections to the project are filed with the Township Board at or before the hearing, signed by the record owners of land constituting more than 20% of the total frontage on the road, the township board may not proceed unless petitions in support of the project, signed by record W^i"ttPn on the road proposed for improvement and for inclusion in the special assessment district, are filed with the township. Written comments or objections may be filed with the clerk at the address set out below. take further notice that appearance and protest at the public hearing is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the special assessment roll is confirmed. An owner or party in interest, or his or her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to a^ssessment, or shall be permitted to file at or before the hearing his or her appearance or protest by letter and his or her personal appearance shall not be required. All interested persons are invited to be present in person or by representative and to express their views at the public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that If the township board determines to proceed with the special assessment, the board will cause a special assessment roll to be prepared and another hearing will be held, after notice to record owners of property proposed to be specially assessed, to hear public comments concerning the proposed special assessment. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (7) days' notice to the Townshio Clerk at the address below, J Mike Cunningham, Clerk Yankee Springs Township 284. N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333 (269) 795-9091 mikec@vankeesDrinestwp.ore Pefs DOG GROOMING. QUAL­ ITY local groomer at reason­ able rates. 269-331-9999. .s - 5?^ *1^ Rea! Estate \ CONDO, MIDDLEVILLE VILLAGE. Open floor plan, lots of natural light. Walkout lower level. Main floor bed­ room, en-suite, walk in closet. Kitchen with pantry. Main floor laundry, 1/2 bath. AU appliances included. Second bedroom/ study. Downstairs bedroom, fuU bath, family room, work room, storage room. Attached garage, 2 car. Flower beds with perenni­ als! $282,000.269-795-7815 J 15-060-017 I l64)6&4)ie-00 16-060-023^ 16-060^14-00 164)60-0154)8 184)604)14.00 16080-013-00 16-0884)134)0 188604)124)0 COBB LA K E 1 164)604)12-00 16060-011-00 t; 18-0604)22-00 &O6O4)1O-OO V 164)6&-011-00 16-O18-OO&X}O 16-060-0094)0 Help Wanted 16-060-0634)0 164)60-006-00 1«)6O4)O7-OO|H 16^i504)074» * lt64)604)C&-00l MASTER GARDENER; SAS­ KATOON Golf Club is looking to hire a part-time, seasonal Master gardener to develop and maintain flower beds and accent landscaping during the golf season. Flexible hours beginning late April ! early May through mid-October, approx. 24 hours a week. Apply online at saskatoongolf.com/employment/ or in-person at 9038 92nd St, Alto. ---------------------------------------JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice Concrete Construction. Now Hiring. Full Time, Competifive Wages, Insurance, 401K, Paid Vacations. No experience needed. Call 616-693-2123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd,-ClarksvillerMI 48815. 1184)684)054)01 iv f164)6O-OO44)O' ! 184)604)034X) 188684)054X) 16-86Q-Q04-O0 1V~ 16i604)184» 1 ' .'k 180604)02-80 11 3 41 «-oeo-ooTX» uET - - IL I )I « I 1 16-0164)254)0 !■ —■ 4> A kiiM 5* 6riS/3Q24 Evans Lane Improvement Special Assessment District BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN Yankee Springs Township 1W ait to fwatf Mp » 3 « to hMM e MhM inf d tng tood, KbtoiQ utottA toMM smafoft to Bs er e A •arnrCMtor L«nd WarmMWrt Served M MM adantotoc wMa to « tam tor • pMtov Bvry Covk tom oto v pqMMm to to» « N» 1 I I t �8ZTb® Sun and News, Saturday, May 25, 2024 Page Ji* /I V V .> ?« Thank You to these Caledonia businesses for sponsoring the 4 Caledonia Grads. CnamMT et cornmm^ J €jii r '5 t r, A « \ I I ' If. 1 ’ H f X CALE III NIA FARMERS ELEVATOR ' t n ' r » <> L A I 4l FIOM TOVS CAUDOVIA FAUUS Uy ELFVATOfi FAMILY 146 E Mam, Caledonia ®• 9 M /' J : ' G •I • * *4 . • U- ; ( p?7 * , f i. M' (616) 891-8108 www.cfeco.com 5iy) K* A w Hrar I ] J d I I I > 1 I j « b V I t X. I I - ■< '•W' 4 •J 1 A. . I« r< k Z‘ *< > C10 7 Iff*. (« 1 I S L W' *e< k ■« * 1. <9 '^V * 1« R ' . -» J . p? . u > t I' . ’ t* .• tS^ I 4. < •^-P ..h * f A kl I 1 yr. I 4 • 5 *'• 'a5 e <1 w 4 z *>’ 1 •J R* b 1*'^ *•a I V r A* < / *««> L • •A 1 4 I J H ' . S. ( I i <* .• I 4 if- ♦f < E ! A I I I r ( e> > 4 1?’ «*» * t;- 4^ c - 9 9 I 3r_ s e .-^ "s:- r •p:. V ) (I 1 e —■_ p. b |r J ? Tv I.*’ 1 bl 1 B 4 6 ■5^ "U’ * * 1' 4 *4^ »S. t r / 4.hL [ r, —s «• b * M «*• * I W2 kl^ 4 r ,1 4 > C9\ ♦ JK< ♦ c < -• / r» I >'S :* .-I *k CXs 4 L* •• I / br* O I / r*- 1 YA- II r > X'« p^«1 f. 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( .f; Hours: 12pm-8pni Tues.-Sat. >• 12pm-4pm Sun. >e 9175 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia €. 616.710.0796 . .k Phone: 616-891 -9171 "2^ E. Main St, Caledonia i. .y I> Comer of 92nd & East Paris ;1 Ml: ti B TF ir/ww.CaledoniaPack t Swtoj^GA J E E L E » S CALEDONIA’ RENT ALL Skag Mowers Husqvarna Outdoor Products T I s S Phone: 616-891-5750 Phone: 616-891-0050 Caledonia D&W Center 9800 Cherry Valley, Caledonia T L • I J .1 �The Sun and News, Saturday, May 25, 2024/ Page 9 I **-r f { Phone; 269 945-9105 I Ll^l t 11 COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR Middleville • 269-795*3550 500 Arlington St. 1351 N. N-43 Hwy., Hastings Caledonia • 616<891>3550 9820 Cherry Valley Rd. TIRES2000.NET FRONTIER HEATING 8 C00UN6 C-herrq Vallcq * Stovr tS- Saw ^VT I b A I > .s 618-881-7500 Call Frontier Now! cherpyvaley$t(we.c(im 616091-8900 < >■* 1 9 . T r tr< 7 1 h. 210 E. Main St.. Caledonia InCaMoato V I I ^?^.j •/^ y. 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J 1• p s<> I» s V V » « a; ,<> s i. /T s X. •.* 1??< « *••• I ;sJ 'V 5 a, s, I 4 e "* ■ K ’t . p its ^2l J• .> r. • X-J' < «6 .4 f t .-* ' ■\ H.* :3-» 1* J 2-'* s V. X*. I 'I f I i*> n.'. . I 'll * .' I .. ?.ii <> il.*. •’ 3» A > 54 -V^ • 4 J > 1 I I I .“>• ■I I J. I Ads > - €: J 1 I tS' I '^‘•' e «*{ .4 ij • 4 . I X, 4 J Geskus Photography Inc /• I « .a 'T' I J 1 OiMCE iQPo SEIF s 1 ■chiropractic" L . wp" I O'Smsiif\ f 1-888-422-2280 hiqhpointcommunitybank.com b »• 649 Emmons St SE. Caledonia P hone : 616-891-8153 0* 1 "yr Member FDIC BROEBIFsi---WOZER Southern BBQ & Catering bM > «.. Phone: 616-891-0150 110 Johnson St., Caledonia Congratulations k* ■ * 8 1. .’f Caledonia Graduates T V*--* Middle r « • « i W H t 6450100th Street SE Caledonia , m 49333 *s 259-241-1050 SlCAKHOOSf 616.891.6055 J AV* XWk. «WW«** wX X I k I I I t I I < �T— I Page 10/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 25,2024 Caledonia school board tables abortion policy change interests of the district,” Morris said. “Parents have the right to make decisions of their chil­ dren, and that’s law. I don’t want to have this policy con­ flict against the law, and I think the alternative. Option 2, best represents that,” he added. Board Treasurer Jason Saidoo, who made the motion that the board adopt Option 1 as policy, disagreed. Greg Chandler Local Memorial Day observances set ing that they do have these students’ best interests (at heart). “We did not have prob­ lems before these policies were put in place. It has not been a problem since they’ve been put in place.” Board Secretary Katie Isic said she could go in either way on the policy change. “I would prefer being the person at the reins for my children, but I also agree ... Staff Writer Caledonia school board members are split on chang­ ing a school district policy regarding referral or assis­ tance to a student in getting an abortion by any district employee, board member or administrator. The board Monday night tabled a final decision on whether to eliminate a policy that had been adopted in 2018 that would ban a school employee, board member or our teachers, but this is a parent thing, man. official from referring a stuIt’s not the option for teachers.” dent for an abortion or assist — John Brandow, Trustee, ing a student in having the Caledonia school board procedure done. It also tabled any changes to the district’s “I think Option 1, rescind­ that there are vulnerable pop­ policies on sex education and ing the policy, takes the poli- ulations of kids who might reproductive health. The abortion policy had tics out of it,” Saidoo said. go to a trusted teacher or a been adopted in response to a “It leaves the interest of the counselor, and what resourc­ state law that assessed finan- students into the hands of our es can our district provide cial penalties for a school teachers who can make those students with this poli­ employee or official that the best decision for them.” cy,” Isic said. referred or assisted in a stu­ Trustee John Brandow Caledonia Superintendent dent receiving an abortion. sided with Morris. Dirk Weeldreyer said the However, that measure was “I love our teachers, but board can have more discusremoved last year by state this is a parent thing, man. sions on the policy change lawmakers, leaving school It’s not the option for teach­ before taking final action. districts across the state hav­ ers,” Brandow said. “It’s not a policy that has ing to rewrite policies around Board President Marcy a mandatory adopt-by date,” a law that doesn’t exist any­ White sounded a note of cau Weeldreyer said. “It’s just more. tion that home might not that we are now in a position While the second reading always be a safe place for where the current policy, as of the policy change, dubbed every student. written, no longer has the “Option 1,” would have done “In a happy world, I think law behind it We need to away with the 2018 measure. we’d all love to believe that do something, but of course several board members want (every student’s home is we are entering into the to keep the policy in some safe). But we do want to summer. We would have form even without the back­ make sure that all kids have a some time to continue to ing of state law. Board safe place to be and (have address it.” Trustee Tim Morris offered someone to) talk to. I think Morris’ motion for Option 2 an amendment that the board assuming that our staff has went down to defeat as it approve what has been any ill intent, ever, with chil- deadlocked at 3-3, with dubbed “Option 2,” which dren would certainly be a Trustee Jeimifer Nichols retains the language of the dangerous space to be in. I absent. Morris, Brandow and current policy, removing certainly am okay with White voted in favor of Option only the words “in accor- Option 2, but I certainly do 2, while Saidoo, Isic and dance with Michigan stat not have any question as to Board Vice President Brittany Ute.” the integrity of our staff or Barber Garcia voted no. “It simplifies the policy, I how that they would handle A motion to table the orig­ believe. It takes the politics themselves, knowing that we inal motion to grant final out of it, I believe, and I all sit in these seats as man- approval passed on a 5-1 think it would be in the better datory reporters and know- vote with Saidoo voting no. Staff Writer Local communities will hold Memorial Day parades and ceremonies this week­ end to honor those who gave their lives in defense of their country. the Middleville, In Memorial Day parade will take place at 10:30 a.m. Monday, starting from Thomapple Valley Church and then winding its way east on Main Street to Mount Hope Cemetery. The procession will stop momentarily on the bridge over the Thomapple River, where a wreath will be tossed into the river in memory of those lost at sea. After the parade reaches the cemetery, a ceremony will take place to remember those who paid the ultimate price on the battlefield. Rich Jenkins, commander of American Legion Post 140, said this year’s theme will focus on the question “What does Memorial Day mean to us?’ The keynote speaker for the ceremony will be Donna Roush, the mother of U.S. Army Cpl. Nicholas Roush, a Thomapple Kellogg High School graduate who died Aug. 16, 2009 of injuries suffered when an improvised w • 'W a • I J z ■ 141 In the Caledonia area, American Legion Post 305 will hold services at five local cemeteries on Monday, continuing a tradition that has been in place for more than 75 years. Services will be held at 9 a.m. at Alaska Cemetery at 68th Street and Thomapple River Drive; 9:45 a.m. at Blain Cemetery, 1270 68th St SE; 10:30 a.m. at Dutton Cemetery, 7000 Hanna Lake Ave. SE; 11:15 a.m. at Holy Comers Cemetery, comer of 84th Street and Kraft Avenue, and 12:30 p.m. at Lakeside Cemetery, 503 Elm St. SE in the village of Caledonia. The service at Lakeside Cemetery will be preceded by the village’s armual Memorial Day parade, which will take place on Main Street at noon. At 1 p.m. a luncheon for veterans, their families, and first responders will be held at Post 305, 9548 Cherry Valley Ave. SE. Yankee Springs Township will hold its Memorial Day observance on Sunday after­ noon at 4 p.m. at the township veterans memorial, 1425 S. Payne Lake Rd. The obser­ vance will feature speakers and special music. Free hot dogs and flies will be offered by the Curley Cone. explosive device detonated near the vehicle in which he was riding in Herat, Afghamstan. Nicholas Roush is one of 13 military members with ties to the Middleville com munity who lost their lives while serving their country, and whose names are etched onto the veterans memorial near the Sesquicentennial Pavilion. Roush’s family and the family of Dane Carver, another TKHS graduate who was killed in action in Iraq in 2005, will be part of the parade as Gold Star Families - families that have experi­ enced the loss of an immedi­ ate member who died while serving their country in battie, Jenkins said. The ceremony will con­ clude with a rifle salute and the playing of “Taps” by members of the TKHS marching band. Prior to the parade, a pan­ cake breakfast will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. at Middleville United Methodist Church. The breakfast is hosted by the church’s men’s group to honor veterans. The cost for the general public is a dona­ tion and veterans eat free of charge. Greg Chandler J V F I & Si 4 4* ft plali K I ♦ I * 5. 4 1 V< 4 I I •4 * r t I I * -* I u t - ■ - We; 3 A 'i Ph I J I I *- 5^ © Il I 1 ■ I & I** < ■ I* • 1 1 Jim I I 4a •Kirf' ! 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Division 1 State Finals which will be held May 31 - June 1. West Ottawa senior Megan Blake beat out Grand Haven junior Kendra Price for the first singles championship after Price upset Hudsonville sophomore Liza Brouwer in three sets in the semifinal round match between the sec­ ond and third seeds at the top flight. Junior Danielle Lebster won the second singles flight for West Ottawa. Senior Abby Duong and junior Hailey Markwat won their way to the semifinals at first doubles for Caledonia. The defeated the top team from East Kentwood 6-1, 6-2 in round two before falling to the top seeded first doubles team from Rockford. Senior Sela Fitzell and sophomore Kebe Fitzell took a 6-1, 6-2 win for the Scots at third doubles over foes from East Kentwood in round one then fell to Grand Haven’s duo at their flight 6-3, 6-3 in round two. The Caledonia fourth doubles team went 1-1 too. Seniors Emily Sorstokke and Lilly Hess took down the Grandville team at their flight 6-2, 6-2 before falling to the top seeded duo from Rockford in round two. The Caledonia took part in the OK Red Conference Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity girls’ tennis team scored six points to finish in the middle of the pack at its MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Regional hosted by West Ottawa May 15. Third and fourth singles players Audrey Duong and Claire Teunessen both won one match to get into the sec­ ond round for the Fighting Scots. Duong, a sophomore, outscored Grandville sophomore Arianna Comstock 6-4, 6-2 in their first round march. Duong had to take on West Ottawa freshman Evie Price in the second round and fell 6-0, 6-2 to the top seeded player at their flight. Price went on to win the regional champion­ ship at third singles. Teunessen outscored Union’s Haley Ramos 6-0,6-0 in their opening round match. Rockford senior Celia Laufersky bested Teunessen 6-0, 6-1 in round two at fourth singles and then went on to finish second at their flight to West Ottawa’s Jessica Zhang. West Ottawa won all four singles flights and the third doubles title too. Rockford won the three doubles flights the Panthers didn’t. West Ottawa took the regional championship with 27 points and Rockford earned the runner-up spot with 25 Tournament the previous Saturday, May 11. The top fin­ ish for the team came from the fifth doubles duo of Anna Homrich and Gretchen VanderEide, a pair of freshmen, who were third at their flight. The won an opening round match against Hudsonville before falling to the eventual flight champions from Rockford in the semifinals. Homrich and VanderEide closed out their tournament with a 6-2, 6-3 win over the duo from Grand Haven in the match for third. Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ tennis team had its season come to an end with an eighth-place finish at its MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division Regional hosted by Portage Central Saturday. The Trojans got their five points thanks to five opening round wins, three on the singles side and two on the doubles side. Trojan senior first singles player Hailey Dudik opened her day with a 6-0, 7-6(1) win over Zeeland East junior Anna Steenwyk, but then ran into the top ranked player at their flight, Mattawan’s Ana Cheng, in round two. Cheng took a 6-0, 6-0 win and went on to take her next two matches in straight sets too to win the regional title. She defeated St. Joseph’s Ellie Fischer 6-4, 6-1 in the first singles final. The Mattawan team won the regional title with 24 The other four Caledonia doubles teams all placed fifth, pulling out close matches at the end of the day of tennis. ncss aiiu oursioKKe won Hess and Sorstokke their way to a fifth-place finish at fourth doubles with a thrill­ ing 7-6(3), 7-5 win over the team from Jenison in the match for fifth. The Fitzell duo at third doubles placed fifth with a strong finish too. They knocked off the team from Jenison 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 in their fifth-place match. CHS juniors Zoe Fleming and Sawyer Mertz placed fifth at second doubles with a 7-5, 7-5 win over the team from Jenison in their final round match. Abby Duong and Markwat at first doubles outscored the team from Grandville 6-4, 6-4 in their match for fifth place. » 'F * “W I J h * A 1 Hopkins Saturday, June 1, to fece West Michigan Aviation Academy in the district semifi­ nals at 10 a.m. South Christian and Wayland meet in the second district semifinal in Hopkins Saturday, with the district cham­ pionship game to follow. Once you’re retired, you will likely need to draw on several types of income for your living expenses. You’ll need to know where these funds are coming from and how much you can count on, but you should also be aware of how this money is taxed — because this knowledge can help you plan and budget for your retirement years. Here’s the basic tax infor­ mation on some key sources of retirement income: • Social Security - Many people don’t realize they may have to pay taxes on their Social Security benefits. Whether your benefits will be taxed depends on how much other taxable income you receive from various sources, such as self-employment, stock dividends and interest payments. You’ll want to check with your tax advisor to determine whether your income reaches the threshold where your Social Security benefits will be taxed. The lower your total taxable income, the lower the taxes will be on your benefits. The Social Security Administra­ tion will not automatically take out taxes from your monthly checks — to have taxes withheld, you will need to fill out Form W-4V (Volun­ tary Withholding Request). Again, your tax advisor can help you determine the per­ centage of your benefits you should withhold. The TK boys fell in its final three OK Gold Conference ballgames of the season this week against Kenowa Hills. The Knights took 9-0, 11-6 and 11 -0 wins over the Trojans at 8-13 in the conference this spring. special US t A/C TUNE-UP i 3 1 u i d J fl: omr s I 5 ft Expires 6-3-24 =s; t I r < f COOLING 210 East Main Street. Caledonia 616-891- r•T A. I How is your retirement income taxed? -.1 4 1 I A V 1 I and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones I J t.') I TKHS baseball sees Hopkins in pre-district game Tuesday The Thomapple Kellogg varsity baseball team will head to Hopkins Tuesday to face the Vikings in an MHSAA Division 2 Pre-District ball­ game. The winner of that contest will be back on the diamond in and senior exchange stu­ dent Lou Savary over the second doubles team from Portage Central and a 7-6(4), 6-3 win from the fourth doubles team of sophomores Ava Zellmer and Natileigh Merchant over Portage Central in round one. Trojan senior third sin­ gles player Charlotte Nelson lost a tough three-setter with Zeeland West’s Tessa Rindfliesch in round two, with the fourth-seeded Zeeland senior scoring a 6-3, 1-6, 6-2 win. Mattawan took three flight titles on the day, with the Wildcat teams also winning the second and third doubles flights. The Mattawan and St. Joseph girls will head to the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Girls’ Tennis Finals host­ ed by Byron Center May 31 — June 1. There will also be opening day matches played at South Christian and Grandville if needed.) J FINANCIAL FOCUS Provided by Andrew McFadden I b points narrowly beating out St. Joseph. The St. Joseph girls finished with 22 points to also qualify for the state finals ahead of Byron Center 16, Portage Central 9, Zeeland West 9, Holland 8, Sturgis 6, Zeeland East 5, Thomapple Kellogg 5 and Portage Northern 0. At second singles, TK senior Holly Carpenter beat Zeeland East senior Lily Sanchez 6-0, 6-1 to open the day, but then fell to second-seeded Lanie Smith from St. Joseph 6-2, 6-1 in round two. Isabelle Schilthroat, the only non-senior in the Trojan singles line-up, ended her junior year with a 7-5, 6-3 win over Sturgis senior Ava Stewart in the opening round at fourth singles before a 6-4, 6-2 loss to second-seeded Viola Benintende from Byron Center in the second round. On the doubles’ side, TK got a 6-3, 7-6(1) win from sophomore Jordan Pranger : I I .A. Locally owned business. * « * ^ 4* ■« 4 4 t * • Retirement accounts During your working years, you may have contributed to two basic retirement accounts: an IRA and a 401 (k) or simi­ lar plan (such as a 457(b) plan for state and local govern­ ment employees or a 403(b) plan for educators and employees of some nonprof­ its). If you invested in a “tra­ ditional” IRA or 401(k) or similar plan, your contribu­ tions may have been partially or completely deductible and your earnings grew on a tax-deferred basis. But when you start taking withdrawals from your traditional IRA or 401(k), the money is consid­ ered taxable at your normal income tax rate. However, if you chose the “Roth” option (when available), your contri­ butions were not deductible, but your earnings and with­ drawals are tax-lree, provided you meet certain conditions. • Annuities - Many inves­ tors use annuities to supple­ ment their retirement income. An annuity is essentially a contract between you and an insurance company in which the insurer pays you an income stream for a given number of years, or for life, in exchange for the premiums you paid. You typically pur­ chase a “qualified” annuity with pre-tax dollars, possibly within a traditional IRA or 401(k), so your premiums may be deductible, and your earnings can grow tax 4 deferred. Once you start tak­ ing payouts, the entire amount — your contributions and earnings are taxable at your individual tax rate. On the other hand, you purchase “non-qualified annuities with after-tax dollars, so your premiums aren’t deductible, but just like qualified annu­ ities, your earnings grow on a tax-deferred basis. When you take payments, you won’t pay taxes on the principal amounts you invested but the earnings will be taxed as ordinary income. We’ve looked at some gen­ eral rules governing different sources of income, but you should consult your tax pro­ fessional about your specific situation. Ultimately, factors such as your goals, lifestyle and time horizon should drive the decisions you make for your retirement income. Nonetheless, you may want to look for ways to control the taxes that result from your various income pools. And the more you know about how your income is taxed, the fewer unpleasant surprises you may experience. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Finan­ cial Advisor. Edward Jones, it’s finan­ cial advisors and associates do not provide tax or legal advice. Edward Jones, Member SIPC * A * * «> �Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, May 25, 2024 Gold Trojan golf team sixth tournament at Kaufman G.C. Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ golf team placed sixth at the OK Gold Conference Championship at Golf Course Kaufman Wednesday. Catholic Central beat out Forest Hills Eastern on a fifth score tiebreaker to win the day’s championships. Both teams had a top four score of 305. South Christian was third at 321 ahead of Wayland 344, Cedar Springs 360, ThOTnapple Kellogg 369, Kenowa Hills 369 and Ottawa Hills 453. TK got a 91 from fresh­ man Parker Dahley and 92s from junior Will Nathan and Ryan Skidmore at the top of the scorecard. Senior team­ mate Jordan Parks added a 94 for his team’s fourth score. Forest Hills Eastern fresh­ man Jack Klimek was the day’s individual champion with a 70. Catholic Central was led by a 72 from senior Will Preston and a 74 from senior Matthew Sokorai. They were second and third in the day’s individual standings. The TK boys were excitMB ed to have junior Kylan Pratt fire a hole in one on number four during a prac­ tice round at Quail Ridge Golf Course Tuesday. The TK team will play its MHSAA Division 2 Regional round there at Quail Ridge Tuesday. CHS girls open softball district with bailgame at Lowell TUes. Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity softball team will face Lowell in the opening round of the MHSAA Division 1 state tournament Tuesday at Lowell High School. The winner of that bail­ game advances to the district semifinals at Wyoming High School Saturday, June 1, to take on the host Wolves at 11:30 a.m. Caledonia closed out a 9-10 season of ballgames in the OK Red Conference with an 8-0 loss to Rockford Wednesday afternoon. Kala Bisterfeldt and Sophia Gauthier had two hits apiece for the Scots in the shut out loss and Claire Hoop doubled once. The other She struck out five, walked Caledonia hit was a single by one and scattered seven hits while giving up just the one Marisa Kohn. The Caledonia girls were run. The Caledonia offense visiting bested by Hudsonville 15-3 in confer­ mashed 17 hits. Bisterfeldt ence play Monday afternoon. was 4-for-4 at the top of the Caledonia had two hits in lien-up with an RBI and two that loss to the Eagles, sin- runs scored. Kohn went gles by Bisterfeldt and Addy 3-for-3 with two RBIs, a run Lash. Keira Simdstrom had and a walk. Malia Burke, her team’s lone RBI. Kohn Lieske, Addy Lash and Gauthier had two hits each. walked twice. The Scots split their two Unity Christian was ballgames last Saturday at helped by six unearned runs Unity Christian. The Scots in its win over the Scots to opened their day with a 9-1 close out the day. Jaz Dana win over Zeeland West and went the distance in the cirthen fell to the host Crusaders cle for Caledonia. She struck 9-3. out seven and gave up 11 hits Molly Lieske got the win in six innings. She didn’t in the circle for the Scots walk a batter and allowed over the Dux to open play, just three earned runs. 217644 Taakee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a special public hearing will be held on June 11, 2024, commencing at 6:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville Ml, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. CHS boys have seven state qualifying finishes at DI regional Brett Bremer Sports Editor Everybody who flew by the 160-foot mark in the discus competition at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Track and Field Finals in 2023 earned a state medal. Fedewa inched close to the 150-foot mark at those state finals to finish in 11th place that Saturday last June. He hit the 150 mark for the first time midway through his senior season this spring and crossed that 160-foot barrier for the first time Friday, May 17, at the Scots’ MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Regional hosted by Portage Central High School. Fedewa fired a personal record throw of 160 feet 5 inches to finish second to Byron Center junior Nolan Stubblefield who won the regional title in the event with a mark of 161-3. Fedewa’s big throw was one of six regional qualifying performances for the Caledonia varsity boys’ track and field team on the day in Portage. The Scots’ top event was the 110-meter high hurdles where school record holder Owen Hager won a regional title with a time of 14.84 sec­ onds. His senior classmate Carter Tufts was the runner-up in the race with a personal record time of 15.01. Senior Jordan Gutierrez was a three-time state qualifi­ er for the Caledonia boys. He had his best high jump perfor­ mance of the season, clearing 6-4, to win the regional title in that event. He added a state qualifying leap of 21 -5 in the long jump that placed him seventh at the regional. Gutierrez also teamed with sophomore Shaden Thomas and seniors Maddox Greenfield and Dharius Walker to meet the state qualifying time in a fourth-place finish in the 4xl(X)-meter relay. The team finished its race in 43.27. The top two in each event Friday, and others like Gutierrez in the long jump who met the predetermined qualifying times and distanc­ es, earned spots in the June 1 MHSAA L.P. Track and Field Finals that will be hosted by East Kentwood High School. The top eight at the regional earned medals and scored points for their team in each event. Hager also added a thirdplace finish in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles with a time of 41.24. He was one hundredth of a second behind Lowell jimior Christopher Wigger who was the runner-up in the race. Greenville sopho­ more Blake Schmitt won the race in 40.84. Caledonia had two guys place in the 400-meter dash with freshman Aaron Collins sixth in 51.16 and senior Lual Abiel eighth in 52.27. Walker added an eighth-place time of 11.60 in the 100-meter dash. Abiel, Collins, junior Joshua Maier and senior Ayden Duffin closed the meet with a fourth-place time of 3 minutes 28.41 seconds in the 4x400-meter relay. CHS boys’ teams were fifth in the 4x200-meter and 4x800-meter relay races. Gutierrez was one of three Caledonia guys to place in the high jump. Junior Andrew Tava cleared the bar at 5-10 to place fifth and sophomore Rydik Wrubel placed seventh with a leap over 5-8. The high jump was a strong spot for the Caledonia girls too. Senior Teresa Abraham placed third with a jump of 5-0 and junior teammate Emmi Mince was sixth getting over the bar at 4-10. Senior Molly Winger, a state qualifier in the pole vault a year ago, came up just shy of that goal this time around. She 1. ZBA24-05-02, Parcel ID: 16-105-018-00,2797 Russell Drive, Wayland --------------------, .J, Ml 49348 A. An appeal by property owners Lara Brower and Stephanie Rutkowski from the decision of the Zoning Administrator denying their application fora commercial shortterm rental at the above address. 2. Such other business as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals. Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. . Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to rii'J i^i® Jour (4) days’ prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township »' Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS r 4 J A- Jake Welch, Chairman Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 y placed fourth in her competition with a top height of 9-9. Caledonia had senior girls score in both throws. Allie Perna pushed her PR in the shot put to 32-1.5 to place sixth. Kiersten DeHaan was eighth in the discus with a mark of 100-2. Olivia freshman CHS Hawkins earned a medal with personal record runs in both hurdles races. She was third in the 300-meter low hurdles with a time of47.52 and sixth in the 100-meter hurdles in 15.94. Senior Teammate Audrey Howell also medaled in both hurdles with seventh-place fin­ ishes in both races. Alyssa DeFields added sev enth-place finishes for the CHS girls in the distance races to close out her senior season. She turned in a time of5:32.57 in the 1600-meter run and 12:18.09 in the 3200-meter run. The top relay finish for the Caledonia girls came from the 4x200-meter team of junior Avalynn Klapmust and seniors Howell, Brooke Heyboer and Abraham that ran to a time of 1:48.50. The CHS girls were seventh in the 4x400-meter relay and the 4x800-meter relay and eighth in the 4x 100-meter relay. Kalamazoo Central’s boys and East Kentwood’s girls won regional team champion­ ships. The Kalamazoo Central guys put up a 101.5-point effort ahead of Byron Center 90.25, East Kentwood 78.75, Caledonia 72.25 and Portage Central 65.5 in the top five of the 15-team regional. The East Kentwood girls rolled to 189.5 points while Forest Hills Central finished in the runner-up spot with 77 points ahead of Byron Center 67, St. Joseph 62.5 and Portage Central 49.5 in the top five. The Caledonia girls were sev­ enth with 42.5 points. 217182 • ! & J. f' *» 'X * V s ; I t, ii: J I 1'/ ri I Inti*' villi’ tW Jit'll Kif.' te Mi I Jit'® I W VI i'S’ Si ♦ 'if ml ^33 f iab i; I I* 1 I comments to the ZBA for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: / f PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the ZBA’s consideration by emailing or mailing those Jo® (jQesh£a@vankeespringstmLorg). Letters and emails are due 3 days before the meeting date, or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. i• 0 N S H I NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - PROPOSED CHANGE TO THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE AS PROVIDED FOR IN CHAPTER 1 THEREOF, BY AMENDING CHAPTER 22 SECTION 136 - BUILDING PERMITS. At a regular meeting of the Township Board of the Charter Township of Gaines, to be held Monday, June 10, 2024, the Township Board will introduce for first reading a proposed ordinance amendment to Chapter 22, Section 136 - Building Permits, Section (B). The Township Board of the Charter Township of Gaines will consider striking a section of the Gaines Township Code of Ordinances, specifically Chapter 22 Land Divisions, Subdivisions, and Land Development, Article V, Multiple-Family Developments, subsection (B). Subsection (B) provides the Township Board with the authority to waive the requirements of sub-section (a) - early starts, for up to four multi-family building permits. The proposed amendment will restrict the authority to waive the requirements of sub-section (a) to single-family units. A true and complete copy of the proposed text amendment to Chapter 22 Section 136 - Building Permits, of the Gaines Charter Township Code of Ordinances can be inspected or obtained in the office of the Township Clerk at the following location: Charter Township of Gaines 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 616-698-6640 bl "’ll# ID ,^1 fc C* Charter Township of Gaines Michael A Brew, Clerk hi I �* [ First varsity hat-trick for Rosted ft’ ft I --Brett Bremer i Sports Editor Advanced metrics weren’t available immediately after • S -- -— The Sun and News, Saturday, May 25, 2024/ Page 13 powers Scots at EK z AX nhl. the match, but there is a possibility Caledonia senior defender Langley Peterson hit her top sprint speed of the match rush­ I ing from the southwest comer of Pat Patterson Athletic Field with her arms spread wide, ready to embrace fi-eshman teammate Averi Rosted. Rosted touched home a cor­ ner kick from Peterson to fin­ ish olfher hat-trick with 2:53 to play in a 3-0 victory over the East Kentwood varsity girls’ soccer team in the first round of their MHSAA Division 1 District Tournament Wednesday in Kentwood. Rosted knocked in a comer kick from teammate Josie Wilcox, crashing into the ball -.K u M . u <¥ J : ■ c ’-'J ? *1^« r 5ei. ®P relay ®!19 ® purest Si'** ' fem I. z ^siHs iloffentaj oip, 3 Katwood git Wjttutilt CfltiiiiilBii lofBymtffl Wliaaifte iimiietffe u gidiRR sri.ijiii iPt Wins ■ 81 Fightmg Scots ahead 1-0 early m the first half. However it went in, Caledonia head coach Sam Steams was happy to see his girls convert on a set piece. something the team has put a lot of work into lately. “This time of year, you have to take any opportunity, any chance you get,” Steams said. “Knowing that, set pieces are always an opportunity for us. Last time we played Kentwood, Laney Peterson scored from a free kick. We always know opportunities are there, so we have to capital­ ize.” Rosted called it her first lucky goal of the season. She didn t need much luck Wednesday, combining her speed with some excellent ball movement by her teammates. Goal number two came with 25:21 to play in the sec­ ond half. Sophomore team­ mate Bailey Devries, who’d had a couple of near misses of her own, fired a pass across the goal mouth from left to right. A wide open Rosted touched that pass into the open net. Fighting Scot sophomore Kortney Muller and a Falcon defender went up for J 20 1 r t s / * I. ,A * * L ) / I L f A I V 1 h. • J’ ed lysate i-SiiW more in the top of the sixth. Kennah Cocco was hit by a pitch and Emma Reil singled into right with two out in the top of die fifth and the TK ladies down 5-3. Hoebeke Sten•J •>:<1 up and hit a three-run rI * « AM/ « * > 1 > / r / *1 • (■I I X -TTJ •* ■V ■s’..* I .f 6^ A ■ 3 1 fl • .7??^ • C M . > kV • *v . ?•> * a b'i I, I* c 1 / I >’. 1 1 I >♦ jif- I • * ** .’.T- *•. ____ Sr S’ sW J >1 • /*• 3“^ — .< Caledonia seniors Kendall Maynard (left) and Langley Peterson areet freshman teammate Averi Rosted after Rosted’s third goal in the Scots’ 3-O^win over^East Kentwood in the MHSAA Division 1 District opener hosted by the Falcons Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Peterson’s late comer kick, and the ball glanced oflf their scrum to the feet of Rosted to set up her third score. “It’s a pretty good feeling,” Rosted said. It is Rosted’s first varsity hat trick (three-goal game) and she can’t remember the last time she scored three goals in a game at any level. She spent a few recent seasons as a defender in club, but was excited to enter high school tryouts as a forward. She loves the freedom of playing on on aa wing, getting to zig-zag inside and out. “I think that as the season has been going on, [the ofiense] has been getting a lot better. We’ve really connected through the months we’ve had,” Rosted said. “We’re connecting passes better. We worked on them a lot in practice, and moving from out outside backs through our wingers, I think the connections are really good now.” “All of my goals were oflf of my teammates just playing really good balls to me. I am just really proud of them and really glad it happened tonight,” she added. It is the first time since the season opener against the Hudsonville Home School girls that the Scots have scored as many as three goals in a match. * There were other chances too senior midfielder Isabella Teelander rang a shot oflf a post and Peterson put a direct kick of the cross bar late in the first half. “Bailey [Devries], last year. she had four goals m one game, so we always knew she was going to be a threat [this season],” Steams said. “Aveiy, first day of tryouts, we were like, ‘oh, okay!’The speed she has is just dangerous, so we knew that she was going to make things happen. We haven’t been scor­ ing a lot of goals, so it is nice that we are scoring them in the right time of the year.” Caledonia moves to 7-5-2 overall this season with the win. They were 2-0-1 in three match-ups with the Falcons who close the season at 3-9-6. While the youngsters Rosted and Devries piled up scoring chances on one end of I Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity softball team got one in with Kenowa Hills to close out the OK Gold Conference season Monday before storms rolled in. The Trojans took an 8-5 win to move their record to 5-8 in the conference this spring. TK dug out of a 5-3 hole with three runs in the top of the fifth and then added two Tt'i . V irojan softball takes first of two with Kenowa Hills girls Brett Bremer 4 home run to left field to put TK in front. Hoebeke finished 3-for-3 at the plate also belting a double. She scored two runs and drove in three. She also walked once. Kenzie Bouma was 3-for4 for TK and Reil and Jenna Robinett had two hits apiece. Robinett drove in two runs. Shelby Robinett and Emily Stevens also had RBIs for the TK team. Shelby Robinett got the pitching victory. She struck out nine and didn’t walk a batter in seven innings. She allowed four earned runs on seven hits. TK has plans to get the final ballgame in against the Knights back on the north­ west side of Grand Rapids Tuesday, May 28. The Trojans followed up their ballgame with the Knights falling 17-0 and 13-2 in a pair of non-conference games with visiting Hamilton Wednesday afternoon. TK will close the regular season with a non-conference doubleheader Thursday, May 30, against West Catholic in Middleville. The postseason starts for TK Saturday at Hopkins where the Trojans will face the host Vikings in an MHSAA * Division 2 District Semifinal beginning at 10 a.m •v Caledonia sophomore forward Bailey Devries goes above a pair of East Kentwood defenders to try and get her head on the ball during their MHSAA Division 1 District opener at the Falcons’ Pat Patterson Athletic Field Wednesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) we’re very hard to break down, very disciplined with great players. Almost the entire back line is playing in college. There is just quality all around, and quality coming off" the bench as well.” Wilcox, Teelander, senior Kendall Maynard and junior Lily Gortmaker did an excel­ lent job of moving the ball and putting pressure on the Falcons all over the field. “It was a really, really good performance from Lily Gortmaker as well,” Steams said. “Coming off of last year, not getting the minutes she probably wanted, but coming in this year she is playing amazing.” Caledonia will face Byron Center next Wednesday, May 29, in the MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinals at West Ottawa Stadium in Holland. OK Red Conference foes West Ottawa and Hudsonville meet in the other district semifinal match. Byron Center (14-2-2) outscored Grandville 5-1 in its district opener Wednesday. 217548 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Caledonia Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 TOWNSHIP CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on June 17, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., at the Caledonia Township Hall located at 8196 Broadmoor Avenue SE, Caledonia, Michigan 49316. The hearing is regarding the lands are commonly known as 6307 84"’ Street, Caledonia, Ml with parcel number: 41-23-17-400-076. The request fs to rezone from the PUD Industrial to the PUD Commercial to allow a funeral establishment which is a place of business used in the care and preparation for burial or transportation of a dead human body, or a place where a person represents that the person is engaged in the profession of undertaking or the practice of mortuary science. The project is Parcel 11 within the Valley Point South Industrial Park PUD. The parcel is legally described as follows: PART OF SE1/4 COM AT SE COR OF SEC TH S 88D 24M 20S W ALONG S SEC LINE 451.75 FT TH N ID 35M 40S W 223.52 FT TH N 4D 34M SOS W 25.49 FT TH N 88D 24M 20S E 456.81 FT TO E SEC LINE TH S OD 44M 065 E ALONG E SEC LINE 249.0 FT TO BEG * SEC 17 T5N RIOW All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed request. Written comments concerning the request may be submitted to the Township office, at the above-stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. f X'* Dated: May 20, 2024 ft A { PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA i A A the field, the defense led in part by seniors Peterson, Alicia Rice and keeper Devanee Balczak picked up its sixth shut out of the season. Only once all year has a team scored as many as two goals against the Fighting Scots. Balczak had a couple excep­ tional saves during the first half and deflected away a rocket from the Falcons’ star attacker Ella Zoerhoff with a little over five minutes to go in the game to preserve the shut out. “That has been our strong point for the whole year,” Steams said of his defense. “Even feedback from other coaches is that defensively Ji •> �I I Paee 1 </The Sun and News, Saturday, May 25, 2024 TK girls win six medals in regional hurdle races Brett Bremer Sports Editor It has been the bedrock the Trojans have built their point totals on this spring. Thomapple Kellogg senior Joselyn DeBoer, junior Brooklyn Harmon and soph­ omore Mia Hilton lined up shoulder to shoulder in their preliminary heat of the 100meter hurdles during the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Track and Field Regional at Sparta High School Saturday. A few seconds later Harmon knew she had quali­ fied for the regional final race thanks to her victory. and not long after Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field head coach Maggie Wilkinson sprinted the length of the field to high five Hilton and DeBoer who had finished 2-3 in the prelim’. Their times put them among the eight finalists loo. Hilton was sixth in the prelim’s and DeBoer eighth. Wilkinson was especially pleased for the senior, DeBoer, who sprained an ankle doing workouts during a college recruiting visit early this spring, missed a couple meets and has had to work hard to round back into form. DeBoer said after her regional runs she feels back to 100 percent, although she always wants to be a little faster. We’re just beasts, to be honest,” DeBoer said with a smile of the trio of herself, Hilton and Harmon in the hurdles. “In the summer time we got to camps and we put in the eftbrt. We cheer each other on, and if our form is off we help fix it. We just have a good crew.” It isn’t a new development at TK. DeBoer said the last person to really help her form in the lead-up to regionals was her coach’s daughter Claudia Wilkinson, a 2020 <4 TK graduate, who was a state qualifier in the 300 hurdles and now is a member of the Ferris State University Women’s Track and Field team. “The first thing she said was keeping my arms tighter and then the second thing was snapping faster,” DeBoer said. “We fixed the arms, and snapping is usually okay.” Mia Hilton’s big sister Tiysta, a 2022 TK grad, won a handful of hurdle medals at the state finals following up Claudia in the progression. DeBoer ran a couple seasons with Trysta. For those maybe looking ahead, TK eighth grader Amya Gater was the West Michigan Middle School Conference South Champion this spring. “I was really proud of all of us for getting in the (100 hurdle) finals, because that was pretty awesome,” DeBoer said Saturday. “It was fun, because it was us 217550 8196 BroadnKwr Avc. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CaledwiA TCWNSHIP CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA, COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on June 17, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing at the Caledonia Charter Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, on the application of North Kraft Lake Venture Farms LLC for an amendment to the Foremost Corporation Plarmed Unit Development (Kraft Lake Office Park) (the “PUD”). The proposed amendment would allow indoor recreational uses, such as basketball and pickleball courts and food service to the land uses permitted within a defined area of the PUD, with conditions upon site development for such a use, for such lands being located generally at 6110 Kraft Avenue SE, and such lands being legally described as follows: PART OF THE NORTHWEST 1/3 OF SECTION 5, TOWN 5 NORTH, RANGE 10 WEST, DESCRIBED AS: BEGIN­ NING ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID SECTION 5 AT A POINT BEING SOUTH 00 DEGREES 08 MINUTES 24 SECONDS EAST 82.09 FEET FROM THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 21 MINUTES 32 SECONDS EAST 546.35 FEET PARALLEL WITH THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SECTION; THENCE EASTERLY 819.98 FEET ON A 4084.65 FOOT RADIUS CURVE TO THE LEFT, THE CHORD OF WHICH BEARS NORTH 83 DEGREES 36 MINUTES 29 SECONDS EAST 83 DEGREES 36 MIN­ UTES 29 SECONDS EASE 818.57 FEET; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES 21 MINUTES 32 SECONDS EAST 105.11 FEET ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID SEC­ TION TO THE NORTHERLY LINE OF HIGHWAY M-6 (A LIMITED ACCESS HIGHWAY; THENCE SOUTH 76 DEGREES 11 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 732.67 FEET ALONG SAID NORTHERLY LINE; THENCE NORTH 13 DEGREES 48 MINUTES 20 SECONDS WEST 36.09 FEET ALONG SAID NORTHERLY LINE; THENCE SOUTH 76 DEGREES 11 MINUTES 40 SECONDS WEST 766.42 FEET ALONG SAID NORTHERLY LINE; THENCE NORTH 00 DEGREES 08 MINUTES 24 SECONDS WEST 224.26 FEET ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID SEC­ TION TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING. T T I *—4-- < I 'i -4- I I .>• I J .1 1 ft I % * i Joni Henry, Township Clerk Caledonia Charter Township : 9 * * w 1 t as i I t 9*f sril 4 ♦I’ * ■ ’• I w * :X ♦ ’ r I -» I I f J 9 4 1 H .i ri* 1 ♦ z 4 - I -- I • * 1 R a f * ■a 9 as ♦ 4 r 4 A 9 L IJ 4 4- 4 f p * f 1 • r' t I 4 V I I <• L 1 Thornapple Kellogg senior Drake Snyder competes in the discus during the MHSAA L.R Division 2 Regional at Sparta High School Saturday, May 18. He fired off a personal record throw of 123 feet 3 inches to place seventh in the event. (Photo by Brett Bremer) three right next to each other and I was like yeah, that’s my girls.” Harmon won regional titles in both hurdles races with a personal record time of 15.35 seconds in the 100meter hurdle final and a sea­ son best time of 46.69 in the 300-meter low hurdles later on. Hilton placed sixth in the 100 hurdles and DeBoer eighth. In the 300 hurdles, Hilton qualified for the state finals with a runner-up time of 48.25 and DeBoer set her PR at 50.07 while placing fifth. Even with all those hur­ dles points, and dozens more from all around Spartan Stadium, the TK ladies couldn’t outdo the East Grand Rapids girls. The Pioneers had junior Sadey Seyferth win the 3200-meter run, the penultimate race of the day to put her team up five points, and even the TK all-star team of senior Kendra Coe, Hilton, freshman Ellie Harmon and Brooklyn Harmon was no match for the Pioneer foursome in the 4x400-meter relay. The Pioneer team won the race over the rurmer-up Trojans by close to five and a half seconds. The TK ladies turned in a time of 4 minutes 11.82 seconds. The Pioneers finished seven points ahead of the Trojans in the end, 122-115. The TK boys were fifth at the 14-team regional with 60 points. The Forest Hills Eastern boys ran away with the regional title, outscoring runner-up East Grand Rapids 140.5-94. Both Thomapple Kellogg 4x400-meter relay teams were second, qualifying for Hi** r J 1 Sv.Z_’.a<^ J -------C M I -If. 7 ■ 'i9 *1 tr 4 ♦ A. ’*■ * r u 4 • *V T' V » 4 T *1 I .■. ' * * s.> * J r I * i 9 71 • U/ -I /•. ■ iL iy / Oil < k < p 1 Ka 4 r L' * « •» • ri i * r .u w.w , I Jn'-fca .*( 9* •I ’. *4 * 1" V' y 1 .9 £ *■ I***' t - KI J 1?^ : J fl Ie.; r 4 rI 9 1 I B. A copy of the proposed amending ordinance and drawing of the site are on file and may be examined at the Township Offices. All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the requested amendment. Written comments may be submitted to the Township at the above-stated address up to the time of and during the public hearing. Interested persons may contact the Township Offices or consult the Township website at www.caledoniatownship.org up to the time of the meeting for any updates concerning the manner of holding the hearing. ;i(’ 1 1 t < 9 I *’14 * 1 II t II 1 4 i A• 1 1 t Thomapple Kellogg senior Kyle VanHaitsma tries to get over the bar in the high jump Saturday at the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Regional at Sparta High School. He cleared 6 feet 2 inches in the event to win the regional title and qualify for the June 1 state finals. (Photo by Brett Bremer). (Photo by Brett Bremer) the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Track and Field Finals that will be hosted by Hamilton High School, June 1. Trojan senior Ethan Bormema couldn’t quite fight off the Grand Rapids Christian anchor down the home stretch, but they were well ahead of the pack. The TK senior team of Bonnema, Jaxan Sias, Kyle VanHaitsma and Lucas VanMeter finished the race in 3:27.47. The Thomapple Kellogg boys’ team won two other regional titles and had three guys earn spots in the state finals. VanMeter followed up his school-record run at the OK Gold Conference Championship by winning the regional champion in the boys’ 800-meter run with a time of 1:57.30. Junior team­ mate Jacob Draaisma ran a PR of 1:58.71 to place fifth in the race and qualify for the state finals along side his senior teammate. The top two finishers in every event and others, like Draaisma in the 800, who meet the pre-determined state qualifying times and distances qualified for the upcoming state finals. TK junior distance runner Ava Crews qualified for the state finals in the 1600-meter run with a PR of 5:13.85 that placed her sixth and in the 3200-meter run with a fourth-place time of 11:35.59. The high jump pit will be a great place to catch a Trojan at the state finals. Seniors Kenady Smith and VanHaitsma won regional titles in the event. VanHaitsma cleared 6 feet 2 inches to win the boys’ com­ petition and Smith won the girls’ contest at 5-1. Teammate Brooklyn Harmon was third in that high jump. Ellie Harmon flew 16-8 to win the regional champion­ ship in the long jump. See TK 77MCK, next page nrt ■ * - ^atS Willis'^ ■-.J 1I ' «? I I I » 1 I i J a K ’’Gil ian '’liieam I I iSiT 1i ;<k. Jaat) Sv Si �TK TRACK, continued from previous The Sun and News, Saturday, May 25, 2024/ Page 15 Pi r Junior Emma Dykhouse didn’t qualify for the finals, but had another great allaround day for TK. She was fourth in the long jump and third in the shot put. There was a bit of heart­ break early on for the TK boys as the 4x800-meter relay team placed fourth in 8:19.46, less than half a second off the state quali- fying time. Trojan senior Drake Snyder was just 2.5 inches shy of the state qualifying mark in the shot put. He set is PR in both throws, placing third in the shot put and seventh in the - discus. The TK girls’ team also had its 4x 100- and 4x200 -meter teams place in the top eight, but miss out on quali­ fying for the state finals by less than half a second. The top eight in every event earned regional medals and scored for their team. Bonnema was third in the 200-meter dash and Sias fourth in the 400-meter dash _ . tor the TK boys. Freshman Brandon Velting placed sixth in the 300-meter intermedi­ ate hurdles. Junior Jake Kelley was eighth in the shot put. The TK ladies had senior Eva Corson eighth in the 200-meter dash and Ellie Harmon fifth in the 400meter dash. Senior Mollie Moore was fifth and junior Lilly McKeown eighth in the discus. In the pole vault, senior TJ Myers and Hilton both cleared 8-6 to tie for sixth. *« — J 4 I jr- J. Al A"? r’.’V - ■ r . * i. -vr; \ < dofi 'V a ®J»ANS I SPAF RTAWq KTANS 9 SPARTA SPART^ •A Thornapple Kell . senior Joselyn DeBoer runs to an eighth-place finish in the finals of the 100-meter hurdles during her team’s MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Regional at Sparta High School Saturday, May 18. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I io DllI "*s-. •m 'O'. 4d Atta ♦ t#', 35. i> If? 5 1 I I'if ^9is5 t ■ ^>1 ip-r * '.Jp 4* 1 . 4 -4M- a < 'i fr' 1 Weiffit ill? I? nillBj 1 champion io its p» 1 r "■ A'* A_ H-T 4^ W'"- ' 1.8* I T" I'. L 4w /. * • <1 •• 1 n* . f i I >is 4 L ittiranitii I r fv A '.ri i 1 I' p- 1 •a ni ir • r ‘i- WK f -I? 'i' I SPARTA^ I alone i b T rt. w finite ii ad jite, Sit ij tees nd 1 Iftl felie TJ u. li(':i PART^ A? 7 r k/ ' o and in 1 villi 3 tint of i f ^1 alsSeti® and liih regioisl event lit ?r;ii < J 4 •J pppil'’^ a iji al tljtiw® je« ® 11 jdiauP"’^ jiJi'P' Position Available Department of Public Works Laborer Village of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan Position requires an enthusiastic person capable of following detailed directions after training. Position days / hours are flexible 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Position will be responsible for taking direction from the DPW Foreman to assist in these tasks but not limited to: Picking up leaf bags & brush on the curb, landscape maintenance & snow management, watering flower beds and trees, setting up and taking down materials as needed for events. Capable of carrying up to 50 pounds on a daily basis. Any other related duties as assigned. Be willing to work weekend hours for special occasions with advance planning & interested in permanent work Such work would be on a half-time basis. Interested parties should submit an application found here: https://www.villageofcaledonia.org/ document/application-for-employment/ to the Village by email vilofcd@villageofcaledonia.org, USPS or in person to 250 S Maple St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316. By June 5, 2024. 217645 •mil# ’ V . Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Mia Hilton closes in on the finish line in the 300-meter low hurdles during the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Regional at Sparta High School Saturday, May 18. Hilton placed second, behind junior teammate Brooklyn Harmon, to earn a spot in the Jun 1 state finals in the race. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Sedfofiie IfiOO-meler «( HO* <SPARTA SPABIAN^ Brett Bremer Sports Editor A bases loaded balk in the top of the ninth got the Scots a go-ahead run at South Christian High School Thursday, The Caledonia varsity baseball team took a 6-5 win over the host Sailors. South Christian rallied from a 5-2 hole with runs in the bottom of the fifth, sixth and seventh to send the game into extra innings where the Fighting Scots finally secured the victory. Nic Slater for the victory on the mound in relief for the Scots. He tossed two scoreless, hitless innings. striking out one and walking three. Andrew Render started for the Scots and struck out eight in six innings. Of the four runs against him, only one was earned. He walked two and allowed four hits. AJ Roszkowski threw a hitless seventh inning in relief, The win over the Sailors snapped a five game skid for the Scots. They were swept in their OK Red Conference series with Hudsonville this week. The Eagles took 10-1 and 13-4 wins Monday and finished the set with a 7-2 win Wednesday afternoon in Hudsonville. In game three Wednesday, Ken Otani and Ethan Sova were both 2-for-3 at the plate for the Scots. Sova doubled and scored a run. Otani had RBI. an Roszkowski had the Scots’ only other hit, a single, off of Hudsonville pitcher Gibson Sinke. Sinke went the distance, striking out 17 in seven innings to get the win. He walked one and gave up one earned run. The Caledonia pitchers Aryn Taylor and Garrett Johnson allowed just one earned run between them and only gave up five total hits in the loss. Kenowa Hills took two from the Scots in a non-conference doubleheader in Caledonia last Saturday scoring 14-7 and 17-8 wins. Tommy Clarey and Szabo at the top of the line-up had a big game one against the Knights. Clarey was 2-for-3 with a triple and two RBIs. Szabo singled twice and drove in two runs. Slater also had two hits in that 14-7 defeat. Slater, Jurmu and Otani had two hits apiece in game two. Jurmu doubled, had an RBI and two runs scored. Raffler knocked a triple, scored once and drove in two runs. Clarey had an RBI and Clark drove in two runs. r LIVE PUBLIC AUCTION but he walked one and the Sailors scored an unearned Friday, May 31 st •-10 am run to tie things up at 5-5. Trevor Walter in the num­ 3006 108th Ave., Allegan, Ml ber nine spot in the line-up TRUCKS • TRAILERS • HEAVY EQUIPMENT • WELL DRILLING EQUIPMENT • was 2-for-3 w9th a double, SHOP EQUIPMENT • TOOLS • ANTIQUES • SCRAP IRON • MUCH MORE two RBIs and a run scored ESTATE OF STANLEY MCKENNEY for the Scots. Isaac Jurmu Please join us for this LARGE auction. Mr. McKenney was a well driller for many years as well as a collector, enthusiast was 2-for-5 with an RBI. and preserver of many categories of items including: Slater was 2-for-4 with a Tractors: (S) antique farm tractors; Trucks: 12+ Trucks in double. AJ Szabo and varying age and condition; Well Drilling equipment: 8 well drilling rigs. Support equipment, implements, full line of Corbin Raffler had hits for hand tools and shop equipment, recreation items, fittings, the Scots too. casings, and other well drilling items. LARGE AMOUNT OF Ryne Brown threw four SCRAP IRON. scoreless innings of relief See our website for photos and information WWW.VKauctions.com for the Sailors after the Scots scored five runs, two earned, in the first three I Scott Vander Kolk Jr. innings. www.VKauctions.com The Caledonia boys close (616) 437-1047 AUGTUN C AmiAISAL out the regular season at home against Forest Hills PUBLIC NOTICE TextMyGov for election texting Northern Tuesday and then GAINES CHARTER 13. Approved the Metro Fiwill play host to their TOWNSHIP bernet LLC (Metronet) Metro Act MHSAA Division 1 District BOARD MEETING Permit request SYNOPSIS 14. Approved the approve the Tournament Saturday, June May 13, 2024 contract renewal with the Interur­ 1, at Davenport University. ban Transit noting the increase in The Gaines Charter Township East Kentwood and Lowell cost for budgetary purposes Board held a regular meeting on 15. Approved the contract for face off in one district semi­ Monday, May 13, 2024, and took one year to train and control in­ final at 10 a.m. Saturday and the following actions. vasive plant species in the Prai­ 1. Reviewed the Consent the Scots will face Forest rie Wolf Park prairie sections 16. Approved the revised Pine Hills Central in the second \ 2. Approved the Meeting Rest Water and Sewer Develop­ semifinal at about 12:30 p.m. Agenda ment contract * s <» r I I * Jltoptett h. ,3^. J •f 4 1 •( *1 ••• k’#' • r* Dm nil J I « M9 I if.- Scots overtake South Christian boys in the top of the ninth The Village of Caledonia is in immediate need of a Village Manager. This is a Full-Time, benefitted position. Interested parties should complete the application, provide a cover letter, resume, salary requirements to the Village email vilofcal@ by villageofcaledonia.org, USPS or in person to 250 S Maple St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316. More information about the position and how to apply can be obtained at https://www. villageofcaledonia.org/news/ 217593 3. Approved the Consent Agenda 4. A township resident spoke concerning the 92"^ Street ease­ ment from the March 2024 Town­ ship Board Meeting. 5. Held a public hearing on Thomapple Farms Special Streetlighting Assessment Dis­ trict 6. Authorized accepting the Kent County Municipal Grant 7. Approved the Parkview Es­ tates Plat Parcel Combination Request 8. Set a public hearing for June 10, 2024, to revise Chapter 22 Land Divisions, Subdivisions, and Land Development, Arti­ cle V, Multiple-Family Develop­ ments, Section 22-136, Building permits, Section (B) 9. Approved the Cutlerville Fire Intergovernmental Agree­ ment Termination as presented 10. Approved the Cutlerville Fire Service Agreement with By­ ron Township as recommended by the advisory committee 11. Approved the logo for the Gaines Charter Township Fire Department after July 2024 12. Approved the contract with 17. Approved the charitable gaming license request for Bus­ es by the Beach, Inc. to benefit the Phoenix Society 18. Granted the request for a temporary fireworks stand with conditions outlined in the staff request 19. Approved the road closure request for the Little Miss Fire­ cracker Parade in the Crystal Spring neighborh 20. Adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 8:53 pm I A complete copy of the min­ utes of these meetings and any resolutions or ordinances adopt­ ed at the meeting are on file and available for review at the Gaines Charter Township office, 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledo­ nia, Michigan 49316. Ordinanc­ es, meeting schedules, meeting minutes, and other Township information are also available at www.gainestownship.org. K. Michael Brew Gaines Charter Township Clerk r J 217551 �Page 16/The Sun and Nawa, Saturday. May 25, 2024 Scots have their best Red finish at conference tourney I I I I I I I 1 I I Rockford beat out West Brett Bremer Ottawa by a stroke for the Sprjris Editor tournament championship, The Iasi day of the OK 326-327, to earn a share of Red Conference season was the conference title with the a gfxxl day for the Caledonia Panthers. While the Rams varsity boys’ golf team. have their fair share of golf The Fighting Scots shot championships it is the first their way to fourth at the OK Red boys’ golf title for conference postseason tourthe West Ottawa boys. namcnt at Thomapple Pointe Grandville was third on Golf Club Tuesday morning the day with a score of 330 - matching their best confer­ ahead of Caledonia 339, ence finish of the season. 339, Haven Grand The Scots were as high as 341, Hudsonville East fourth at one of the eight Kentwood 342 and Jenison conference jamborees this 349. spring, but had settled in Hudsonville junior Myles between sixth and eighth at Secor ran away with the the other conference meet ups. day’s individual title. He shot a one-under-71. He was three Caledonia head coach Ian Durkee said he put some under on the front nine with pressure on his guys early in three birdies and six pars. the season, as it was going to Little knocked down his take a big team effort to comscore with a birdie on the 470-yard, par-5, number seven late in his round. Kern nr birdied number seven too for the Scots. They both shot a 40 on the front nine. Little f was right there with the tournament but medalists, couldn’t quite keep pace f after bogies on nine and ten. r Durkee said Little kept pace with the top golfers in ati the conference thanks to his short game really being on. Robinson’s tie-breaking round opened with a birdie on the 150-yard, par-3, num­ ber 12. His 89 beat out a 92 in the fifth spot for the Buccaneers. “It is fun. In reality, when MUMK UMX AffdHtpliant we go out and play anybody can beat anybody,” Durkee said of the similar skill level up and down his line-up. car show, fiood trucks “That has kind of been the dressed contest, trivia $■ message. As far as the team nisic mini the SO's. 6O'S & 7vs dynamic, that has been awe­ some.” « a He said overall, the expe­ rience gained by his yoimg9309 Dobber Wenger Memorial Dr VT sters this spring has really Caledonia. Ml <19316 improved their course man­ agement. A pair of 81s, one from L”^‘' senior Owen Hodel and freshman Owen Wilson led the way for the tournament Une up win beginF champs from Rockford. w><’ Senior Trevor Hobbs and aflpm freshman Austin Helsel both kii! enter off of 92n(l st it V shot 82. East Kentwood senior Daniel Bonazzi shot a 75 to z L finish as the individual run­ ner-up, and West Ottawa ¥ □ sophomore William Nagelvoort was third with a th. Grand Haven junior □ Carson Osborn was fourth with an 80. Little was one of five guys to shoot an 82, finishing one Step back in time and join us for a nostalgic night of retro revelry at Caledonia Town stroke behind the top ten fro™ 5:31 to 8 pm, at the Caledonia Community Green (9309 Dobber Wenger Memorial Dr.) medalists. There was a group Dress to impress in your finest 50s attire - whether it’s poodle skirts of six guys who each fired an or leather jackets, everyone is in vited to showcase their style. The excitement kicks off with 81 to tie for fifth individually. a hula hoop contest and a chance to twis the nightr away on the dance floor. Don ’ t ,, , you’’ shot at winning the coveted “Best Dressed” award For the season, Grandville sign up for the contest by 6:30 pm. Awards for both adults and children will be awarded at 7:30 pm senior Tony Spicuzza fin­ Tn l^d-back vibe, immerse yourselfin the timeless tunes ofthe 50s, 60s, and 70s, courtesy ofth< ished as the conference’s top 5“<JHark-Up.^eyUeventhrowinsomegroovytriviatokeepyouentertainedaUnightlong.Andbecausegreatmusic dancing, and delicious food go hand m hand, be prepared for a fantastic lineup of food trucks to satisfy your cravings individual. He was one of those tied for fifth Tuesday. But wait, there s more! The classic car show is making its triumphant return for the third year. Rev your en gmes and showcase your wheels for a chance to snag 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place trophies. The ............... The Scots head to Lincoln car show lineup be gms at 4.00 pm along Dobber Wenger - enter off of 92nd Street. Trophies will be proudly presented at 7:30 pm Golf Club in Muskegon for In case of inclement weather, fear not! Our rain date is their MHSAA set for June 14th, 2024 Join us for a blast from the past filled with Peninsula music, dancing, delectable delights, and das sic cars. This is an event you won’t want to miss - a night of pure, unadulterated fimi Regional pete in the OK Red without a single guy shooting ultra low scores. He really encouraged his guys to just have fun Tuesday. “Keep it simple. Golf can be so stressful,” Durkee said. “That’s the biggest thing. I just told them to have fun today. They weren’t getting frustrated on a bad shot. Everybody hits a bad shot, so the biggest thing is not get­ ting down on yourself. I saw a lot of heads held high today.” Hours before crossing the stage to accept his diploma, Caledonia senior Emersen Lippert, the lone senior in the CHS line-up, fired an 84 to finish in a tie for 17th over­ all. He held his hands high too while celebrating chip­ ping in for a birdie on the 160-yard, par-3, number eight late in his round. He closed things out with a short par putt on number ten. “I got to watch [the bird­ ie],” Durkee said. “It was pretty cool. He was below the green. He got a birdie. It was a chip in from about 25 yards. 1 got to watch that with his dad and his uncle. It was pretty cool.” Junior Parker Little led the Scots with an 82 that put him in a tie for 11th. The Fighting Scot team also got an 84 from sopho­ more Camden Quigley and an 87 from junior Mason Kern. It took an 89 from sopho­ more DJ Robinson to boost the Scots into fourth by tak­ ing a fifth-score tiebreaker with the Grand Haven boys. - % b Caledonia senior Emerson Lippert fires his ball towards the green on number 10 at Thornapple Pointe Golf Club Tuesday during the OK Red Postseason Tournament. (Photo by Brett Bremer) >■ I, 3rd Annual 1 ■Xi*. I f. _______________________________ I J I I M ic I t t I 1 I and Bl J!.- -M, teasels; P • .J L ♦ r * ■' . it A- A '• ".’J fe J (•.-a;’ I V •I i •'1 I i f I 5O's Sock Hop & Car Show > ‘-IPf I • fS *'^I V Friday June 1,202*1 1 J <r < v> ■V. * if 11 4 ■t-' • p it •l 5:30pm - 8pm 7b , d h 4, »*• V 9 > I •l 1 ,1 •J f JJ i' •C- J •l*. HF a 1| K V •.5'- * . ■J V : * « ■ I r? r 1 1 aS 4 0 * • A • * ’.’f .f I. * c . .«k ___ « m ---- n I J I* \ 4 <• * •i I s.\ I d I I I I I I V. I 3^ / J r .ti 9 •A er'^^>1 r d IHMB* WC'Jit'S «* A . Fighting Scot junior Mason Kern hits his tee shot on number ten at Thornapple Pointe Golf Club Tuesday during the OK Red Postseason Tournament, (Photo by Brett Bremer) 1 ■’ Z e . I J ft? Xz g.. r • J C * I J S' • ' IS I i - • I’ J« r * lai * S<“.P ' A// w ■' Kw'A’ I T « *^19 n * ’9^ I •* 4 •/ r e « ' I' k' z on f awwls foi/ g znd&Snl place I V J' <9 ""r /v ' f X ■ 4 •A' I I S I j e « xr iVfBl A"i • ' i. S. V • • J|<S. 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M J* ilTlt, * F • I -IB J * & • ■‘<^ry > I r> 1 rM- ■^3 * -1 I 7 J* e h •» 9 X a v J z ( .4* fl . <:• IV J f % 1' J a A J \ 4 S Ari J5) < r 4 .wa < V W- 1 ••J I* an(d Caledonia Areas f-: •^« £ I J *I r A * •» e •r J * / ► lr7 * *r e^ f I 4. * £ ! a... » » * > . t WMKX L^ ■ I A a L S- *< w f * 1 'i 11 .A ♦ ■^J • * 9 .. -• ► r 4 9 .«*• K b V a I *4 4 «■ t. I M. ,T I ' I •t 4- S ♦I f K 6 kM s J A f. s Nick Roush’s parents share his story at Middieviiie Memoriai Day ceremony ate, was to be part of a psy­ chological operations team attached to a Marine special command operations (MARSOC) unit. “He knew their mission would be dangerous, and his commander told him to tell us everything,” Bob Roush said. “He told us where he wanted to be buried, if he wasn’t able to make it home. He wanted to be buried right here in (Mount Hope) Cemetery, not Arlington , (National Cemetery). “I just made light of it, and Donna just cried.” Late on the night of Aug. 15, 2009, Nick Roush was returning from a mission where his unit destroyed an enemy weapons cache. The unit came under an ambush attack on the return route. About eight miles from the operations base, Roush’s Humvee drove over a remote set improvised explosive device (lED). See ROUSH, page 2 146th year I I ' I < X » a R Caledonia school board member clarifies comment that drew I firestorm of criticism Brett Bremer Sports Editor t ▼? 9 “Today is a beautiful day,” keynote speaker Maggie Wilkinson told the students i 1 r J spread out in front of her 1 inside Bob White Stadium. •w fc “It is your day and you are t • 't graduating. You are off to a e* i party. That would be fun. And 4 the weather is amazing. We’re J not inside. And you’re sur­ -I?. rounded by your friends and *5 family. And you’re out of here, because ... 1 “It’s a beautiful day!” came s.t >r the refrain from the Thomapple Kellogg graduating class of 2024. 1 Thomapple Kellogg Schools celebrated its 245 graduates during the 2024 commencement exercises on a warm sunny day in Middleville The Thornapple Kellogg graduating class of 2024 fires its mortarboards into Thursday evening. sky at the conclusion of the commencement inside Bob White Stadium in The honors choir reminded Middleville Thursday, May 23. (Photo by Brett Bremer) » I the graduates “you’ll be in my heart; from this day on; now and forever more.” Graduating senior Cade Hicswa provided the opening remarks and Jonas Grummet IIL —* reminded his classmates that, in the words of Stan Lee, “with great power comes great responsibility.” Fellow graduating senior Charlotte Nelson welcomed Wilkinson, this year’s TK the. task •teacher , • • honored with * f of providing the keynote address. Kaden Hamming offered some closing remarks to his fellow graduates before Shelby Robinett led them in Z their tassel turning ceremony. * The graduates were wel­ comed into the stadium and sent off with “Pomp and Mali Holland and Anna Jo Smith celebrate with their diplomas on their way out of Bob White Stadium in Middleville Thursday, May 23, following the 2024 See GRADUATES, pa^ 6 Thornapple Kellogg High School commencement. (Photo by Brett Bremer) L t » Published by J-Ad Graphics, Inc. • 1351 N. M-43 Highway, Hastings, Ml 49058 • Staff Writer U.S. Army Cpl. Nicholas Roush was preparing to be deployed to Afghanistan in the spring of 2009 when he gathered his parents. Bob and Donna, in the kitchen of their Middleville home to tell them about the mission he was about to go on - and to prepare them for the possibil­ ity he might not come home alive. Roush, a 2005 Thomapple ., .JQeJlpgg Jiigb .S^diool gradu- I 4^ ComniGncenient a beautiful day for TK class of 2024 Greg Chandler — *■ Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville No. 22/ June 1, 2024 * r* i .'*=*^ lib ( b k Greg Chandler Writer A Caledonia Community Schools Board ofEducation member is clarifying a comment he made at a recent board meeting on a proposed change to a dis­ trict policy regarding refer­ ral or assistance to a stu­ dent in getting an abortion by any school employee, board member or adminis­ trator. Jason Saidoo, who has been on the school board since 2016, has come under fire for a comment he made at a May 20 meeting, where board members were split on whether to delete a pol­ icy that bans a district employee, board member or official from referring a student for an abortion or assisting in having the pro­ cedure done. Saidoo favors eliminating the policy because there is no longer a state law that supports it. Other board members, however, want to keep the policy, and offered an alter­ native proposal that keeps the language from the poli­ cy, removing only the words “in accordance with Michigan statute.” That proposal died on a tie vote of 3-3 May 20, and the issue was eventually tabled. In a lengthy post on his Facebook page Thursday, Saidoo went into detail about the policy and the law on which it was based, as well as an explanation of his stance. He said the pol­ icy, adopted by the school board in February 2018, was based on a state law / Jason Saidoo requiring school districts to adopt a policy to discipline school employees for refer­ ral for abortion or assisting a student in getting an abortion. However, that law was repealed when voters approved Proposal 3 — the Right to Reproductive Freedom Imitative in November 2022, Saidoo wrote. “The policy, as it cur­ rently exists, begins with ‘in accordance with Michigan statute’ and cites the law,” Saidoo wrote in his post. “Given the law is invalid, the policy as writ­ ten is invalid. Our policy provider, Neola, recommended rescinding the pol icy to bring us back to where we were at the beginning of 2018 before (the state law) was passed. I agree we should rescind the policy and operate as we did in the decades before 2018.” During discussion at the May 20 meeting, Saidoo stated his position in sup­ port of what has been dubbed “Option 1,” elimi­ nating the 2018 policy. “I think Option 1, See SAIDOO, page 2 f I I INfeTiHISlISSW-Em ■■ w Mi Mi. »u f.-r. -'.S 4^ X w 4 r »' I Donna Roush (left) and Bob Roush (right) speak about their son, U.S. Army CpI. Nicholas Roush, during a Memorial Day observance in Middleville on Monday. (Photos by Brett Bremei) ■■■■ r • Memorial Day tradition continues in Caledonia • Middleville council moves toward rescinding ORV ordinance • TK baseball takes walk-off win in Division 2 Pre-District game • Lowell soffball ends Caledonia season with extra-inning victory • Fighting Scot soccer beats district nemesis for another shot at No. 1 • s » * « I » •J t I 1 «» * �Page 2/The Sun and News, Saturday, June 1,2024 ROUSH, continued from page 1 “His Humvee flew 20 vance Monday at Mount feet into the air. It rolled Hope Cemetery, near the over and came to rest, sort gravesite where Nick is of upside down and on its buried. The observance, held under a light drizzle, side,” Bob Roush said. Nick Roush, who was followed the village’s annujust 22 years old, and an al Memorial Day parade, interpreter the where hundreds lined Main inside Humvee were killed instant­ Street, most dressed in red, ly. Four Marines were seri­ white and blue. Donna Roush shared ously injured in the attack. one of whom later died of memories of the son who enjoyed hanging out with his injuries. Bob and Donna Roush friends, going to his church shared the story of their son youth group, and playing at a Memorial Day obser- four years as a member of * •I I J** * o R JItr 4 a * I I I z i 1 < r>- J V < 4% •* ir We. X rJ lll^ f \ • ft’ I I ft u .. .»* ■ iW r I Cl < ♦ 7 f Ito” A at ♦ 1^1 • <1 9 -4, 4 i>r ci!« I. < st#! 5 * ■b tom spec THL.. f aloo < * J 3 1 t 4 ) r 4* Kira Holzhausen performs “Taps” on the trumpet during the Memorial Day ceremony at Mount Hope Cemetery In Middleville Monday morning. w- Z X..P the TKHS boys’ golf team. She talked about how Nick 7 could easily make the peo­ ple aroimd him laugh. ** “He loved people in gen­ eral, and I mean all people. and they seemed to love him back,” she said. Donna also spoke of Nick IL spending countless hours 41 restoring a 1995 Eagle rv Talon that he named “Monica.” “She ended up being a Daisy Madalyn Williams and veteran Rich Jenkins show winner everywhere he offer a salute after placing a bouquet at the monu­ took her,” she said. ment in Mount Hope Cemetery Monday during the It was in his second year Memorial Day ceremony In Middleville. at Kalamazoo Valley Community College when Nick Roush met a former Your local agent insures your p Army special operations soldier in one of his classes. “That veteran told him how much he missed the military, and the brotherAsk about our annuities and IRAs hood that he felt as part of a team,” Donna Roush said. As a result of that encoimter, Nick decided to enlist. He went to a recruit ing center in Plainwell, and signed up for an Army pro­ gram called 18X. Donna Roush said she and her husband were shocked. “It was a five-year commitment. It fast-tracked sol­ diers directly into special operations,” Donna Roush said. “Nick told us he wanted to do something significant with his life, while he still could. Graduating from college, marriage, and that hot-rod shop he dreamed of owning could all come later. He felt God calling him to do this now.” In a book he read, Nick Roush came across a verse from the Old Testament book of Isaiah: “Then I heard the voice of the Lord -s ■ *♦( -1 -ri; ♦r I I r. ___ ■ a .. r ft r » .V. ♦ I RetSsrement F4ftM BUREAU INSURANCE* saying. ‘Whom shall I community who gave their Ih send? And who will go for lives in defense of their (dll’ us?’ Then said I, ‘Here I country. “Nick am. Send me. met the love of The words from Isaiah his life, right here in 6:8 became an inspiration Middleville. But he never Ik for Nick Roush’s service to got to be a husband, he his country. Today, those never got to be a father and words appear on the wall of he never got to be an uncle,” a classroom at Fort Bragg, Bob Roush said. “He had N.C., that is named for him. given the last full measure “Nick had fought the of devotion to his country, kbdi good fight. He had finished to all of us. A million others ((fcii his race,” Bob Roush said have done the same. as he fought back tears. “As “The freedoms we enjoy 1 imb & a firm believer in his are too great to waste. gnbnce. Christian faith, Nick was Nick would want you to ■Iks prepared, not just to fight, enjoy Memorial weekend, but to die for his country. but his family and his tefi I iTBaan We will see him again, but brothers and sisters in tiiii for now, it hurts. It hurts arms are thankful that every single day.” you’ve taken the time to ifcr Nick Roush’s name is solemnly remember today. u one of 13 etched onto the Please do it every veterans memorial in Memorial weekend and Siolsi Middleville, honoring those make sure your kids under military members from the stand the meaning as well.” tiliiii • r SAIDOO, continued from page 1 itm 1 rescinding the policy, takes the politics out of it,” he said at that meeting. “It leaves the interest of the students into the hands of our teachers ... who can make the best deci­ sion for them.” -. __ a Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.corT) FannBureaulnsurance.com That comment generated objections from board members Tim Morris and John Brandow, who said that parents have the right to make decisions involving their children. It also touched off a firestorm of reactions on social media, both from Caledonia residents and from outside the community. Some of the responses were sexually graphic in nature, Saidoo wrote. I agree that this should be a parent conversation. I said so during the same discusSion quoted in the memes,” Saidoo wrote in his post. J? il' >n 4 * f* ,1 ;) A I KZi a* CLASS OF t 2024 I i 5 I % Antenna mS Ji 9 1 .«1 Li*’ Digital TV Antennas • Stariink Installs • Towers i 'f f KELLOGG Cellular Enhancement Systems A COMMUNITY COLLEGE Give us a call! rv k.. - I I •\ I ,1 « I 7 A 1 t. * < • A 4. • 1^ I » < -r I A J' 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.con com antennamen@gmail.corT. w^.cellsignalpros.com • J? •! I j\ . tsJf *. n I no* 1 » n tion, without opinion, on all pregnancy options constitute assistance? Would answering questions about the dangers of abortion constitute assistance? My concern is for the students who may not have the space at home for these conversations. Maybe a single parent who is absent. Parents who are incapacitated in some manner. A child to*' t 4 r “My concern is that my fel­ low board member who is promoting the policy (Morris) cannot define assistance when directly asked during the meeting, Would providing informa JI Wl I til given custody to a relative they barely know. Or even the student who may come to the counselor with ‘I need help talking to my parents. The board is expected to revisit the abortion policy, as well as related policies on 4 I 'ft • t J I ' Ik 1 j L. i 0 sex education and reproducfive health, at its next sched* uled meeting June 17. in 'ih I believe that listening to the entire conversation (at the «$! meeting) would have made clear that the ‘decision’ in the oft-quoted line was a decision to listen and help the student or say ‘that’s a conversation to be had with your parents,”’ Saidoo wrote. “Make the best choice for the student between those two options. Keeping the policy in place leaves only the latter choice. There must be a balance between parents’ rights and allowing kids in need to get help.” Saidoo concluded his mes­ sage with a line from the Ted Lasso television series. “Be curious, not judgmen­ tal.” k I !» 4e pill ill I j X tel da i ’ kt Ila 111 �Th© Sun and News, Saturday, June 1, 2024/ Page 3 TKHS graduate winding down reign as Nationai Cherry Festivai queen Greg Chandler I:? Writer It’s not often that a local Memorial Day parade gets an appearance from a festi­ val queen, but Monday’s parade in Middleville was just a bit different than past parades. Carmen Beemer, a 2020 Thomapple Kellogg High School graduate, is winding down her tenure as queen of the National Cherry Festival, held each summer in Traverse City. Wearing a crown and a sash in recognition of her honor, Beemer waved at spectators who lined up along Main Street for the 1 s.. I, V. a V. ‘ K % I %' I ft t * sb I , * 'If *< I tS parade as she sat in the back of a convertible. While Beemer has partici pated in quite a few parades during her reign to promote Michigan’s cherry industry and agriculture statewide, she was excited to be taking Monday’s parade in Middleville. “I love my hometown, and I wanted to come down here and be able to see everybody and my family in a hometown parade,” the 22-yearold Beemer said, sporting wings on her sash that were pinned on her by a member of the Coast Guard when she was crowned queen in July of last year. Beemer recently graduat­ ed from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in horticulture science the study of fruit trees and vegetables,” she said — with wim a minor m in crop and soil sciences. The scholarship she received for being named festival queen helped ^y for her senior year at I I c farmers, and we work togeth­ er to produce a bountiful crop for them,” she said. Beemer developed an interest in agriculture at a young age, raising rabbits and cultivating vegetable gardens. She ... ...c FFA in the TKHS, where varsity letters manager for Gold Coast Sales, which sells fertilizer to farms and agribusinesses throughout the Midwest. 1 work alongside the 'r. , r / r f i 4 i' $ L I I {4 •s Jr 1.^ A '•Z ■ s •I 5?’ •<-n was involved program at she also won in basketball I I A Carn’®*' r . -1 National Cherry Festival Queen Carmen Beemer with friend Cami Huyck before Monday’s Memorial Day parade. (Photo by Greg Chandler) Middleville council moves toward rescinding ORV ordinance Greg Chandler spending $5,000 to enforce it Staff Writer when the resources to do so The longstanding debate already exist at the county and over whether off-road vehicles at the state level,” Smith said. should be allowed in the vil­ Village President Mike lage of Middleville has taken a Cramer, who opposed any surprising turn. change in the current ordi­ The Village Council nance, welcomed the idea of Tuesday night agreed by con- rescinding the measure. sensus to move toward “I agree with Kevin. We rescinding a 2001 village ordi­ take it right off the books and nance that has banned the use let the state handle it,” Cramer of ORVs on local streets. Once said. the local ordinance is rescindCramer said that even with ed, the village would then fall the local ordinance being under Barry County’s ORV rescinded, the state woiild still ordinance. require ORVs to have license The sooner that this is not plates and insurance to operate in our book of ordinances, the on village streets. better it’s going to be for our “Without it, if law enforcecommunity, and certainly bet­ ment sees them driving, they ter for the law enforcement can pull them over and write folks to take care of it,” Village them a ticket,” Cramer said. President Pro Tempore Kevin The county ORV ordinance. Smith said. which was adopted in January Village Manager Craig 2016, allows ORVs to be operStolsonburg will have a reso- ated on a designated road in lution drafted that would the county at speeds of no rescind the ordinance that the more than 25 miles per hour, council would have to approve unless a lower speed is posted. . _ They can operate' on ‘‘Anv nrHinanpp fViof tmn - * jonlyJ?*!. * • thej Any ordmance that you far right side of the mamtamed have on the books, you have portion of a designated road. the power to rescind,” ORVs are not allowed to be Stolsonbuig said. used on any portion of a state The coimcil’s decision highway such as M-37, Tuesday came after a public according to the ordinance hearing on a proposed ordi- language nance language change that would have allowed the use of _iC! ORVs on village streets, pro­ vided the operator is at least 16 years of age and holds a driv­ er’s license. The current ordi­ nance only allows ORV use on private property. Only one person spoke during the public hearing Andrew Beck, who led a peti­ tion drive signed by more than 50 business owners last year to legalize ORV use in the vil­ lage. Smith and other mem­ bers of the council have claimed the current ORV ordi nance is unenforceable, and the Middleville unit of the Barry County Sheriff’s Office has reported very few com­ plaints about ORV use. See “The last thing that we want for all event to enter into is a situation that details! Gi 1 for a $50 or $100 fine, we’re •» • « ‘Ti- and soccer. After graduating from high school. she attended Grand Rapids Community College for two years, earning an associate’s degree before transferring to MSU. Beemer is the daughter of Gary Godley and Shanon Beemer of Wayland. Beemer now lives in Shelby, in Oceana County near Lake Michigan. She is a crop consultant sales account f t % I, a **1 hk."' r a * J > * ‘i " ■*»* o<v r.S r > * Qi t •r- * '*-*•*> * • f • * •? I • .1 Jr > ♦ I r i ’y. T'T > n IT M rfi?. ' ,:sA A ’ r" 'B -P* t J ..JR ,F I :rjM“ t, Si'’’ » r I fc Ik.— *• -i.v "<-v I— 7*^ A •i’’ <5 s- .*1 £ •uX: A ■ s• •'J« >- J V > a* jF >S. UP ! : it-: T • -p — i •• •=- TO A >-■ a f*• vi»3-’sa>, / I r? t _____ 8 . ar If. A* Middleville resident Andrew Beck speaks out in support of V, allowing aiiuwiiig off-road on-roaa vehicles venicies on village streets at Tuesdays public hearing on a proposed change to the village’s ORV ordinance­ Vehicles must travel with the flow of trafiic and not interfere with traffic on the road. They must travel single file unless overtaking and passing another ORV. Anyone less than 18 years old cannot operate an ORV unless that person has. a valid t* , ' . driver’s license or is under the direct supervision of a parent or guardian, and possesses an ORV safety certificate, accord ing to the ordinance language. In addition, each operator and passenger must wear a Middleville Village Council President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith explains" his reasoning for the village eliminating its off-road vehicle ordinance and replac­ ing it with the county’s ordinance regulating ORV use. Beck, who served on an ad hoc committee that worked on dents when it comes to the use of ORVs. the proposed ordinance change, said after the meeting that he could live with the village rescinding the ordinance, “I see it as another way of getting to the same answers “If somebody wants to go to Curley Cone and jump in their crash helmet and protective ORV, they’re going to do it,” ^proved by the U.S. he said. “If they are unsafe in a Department of Transportation Transportation manner that’s unsafe, they ’ re I unless the vehicle has a roof probably going to get pulled that meets or exceeds stan- (we were looking for with the over ... If there’s no shoulder, dards for a crash helmet, petition),” he said. they are taking the risk of drivaccording to the ordinance Smith said he does not ing their ORV on the road language. believe the change of going to illegally. That’s on them. If ' rUStCC StCVC the county’s ordinance will they want to take that risk. Baldly raised safety concerns change the behavior of resi- they’re going to take that risk.” change the behavior of resiwith the ordinance change, as well as with parking. AIS have a lot of pedestrian 1 trafinc, we have a lot of fami­ lies pushing strollers in the roads,” Baldly said. Bruce'S Frame and Full Service Body Shop □ I fr 1* • • • • 5. 4 I . X Wheel Alignments Auto Glass Installation Insurance Work Welcome Visa MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience Veorsf brucesframe.com June 15th, 12-8»ni 1 >3 — *4 Cheers to a* I 1 M I ’lirtL J **> AB r 1 $3 Hot dogs & Chips $3 Drink Specials Music from The Blind Squirrels 5-8pm FRHfil r <1? Hours: 12pm-8pm Tues.-Sat. • 12pm-4pm Sun. 9175 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia 616.710.0796 415 2nd • Middleville □ I �I _______ ■ 4/The Son and Naw*, Saturday, June 1,2024 Memorial Day tradition continues in Caledonia munity for more than 75 years continued Monday with the community’s annu­ al .Memorial Day parade Greg Charidkr Staff Writer K tradition that has been part of the C aledonia com- ''^1 -X* r*' z 4a* 4 ^-9... I- J t .f' » 1 I* V A 4 * gr — 1 Vo/4. •s 9 I* ii. . . i Ij* % r I f*- r and ceremony. Despite a light drizzle and breezy conditions, hundreds lined Main Street and nearby side streets for the annual parade, put together by American Legion Post 305. The Caledonia High School marching band performed The Battle Hymn of the Republic” and "You’re A Grand Old Flag” as they marched along the parade route. Following the parade, an observance was held at Lakeside Cemetery to remember those who lost their lives in defense of their country. “It is a conscious effort to remember that Memorial Day is about more than barbecues and the kickoff of our summer months,” Post 305 adjutant Scott Baldwin said. Former state American Legion commander Brett Holt was the keynote speak er for the observance. He quickly cleared up any con­ fusion people might have on the meaning of Memorial Day. “There are many veterans among us today. including myself, but today is not our day,’’ said Holt, a Navy veteran from Saginaw who served on board the USS America and LS George Washington from 1983 to 1994. “Today is the day that has been made for the ones who left home, but did not return. We gather to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for us, and to pay them homage. Holt served as state American Legion commander in 2017-18 and is the stale’s candidate for the office of national com­ mander of the American Legion, Baldwin said. Holt asked how we are to measure the sacrifice of those who have given their lives for their country. He said that about 1.3 million soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines have died in active military service, starting from the Revolutionary War and going through the most recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Tbat’s a number larger than the population of the cities of Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing and Saginaw combined. Holt said. But other ways to count the sacrifice are more diffi­ cult, if not impossible, to quantify. “We can count the num­ ber of fathers, brothers, husbands, mothers, sisters or wives that never came home from a war zone,” * fcnfi..;-, 1 #1 s ^‘9 * '■a A. . 4 • 4' a►.75. «r . y • ■ k w. 99* ■F 1 - • -J’: * ' T • * - •*. *5- ♦ I I * Ie * w * J. A w A 9' ♦ ..J ’I 5/ s <* 1 * r - * * *9*^ A - * Members of American Legion Post 305 in Caledonia complete the folding of the American flag during Monday’s Memorial Day ceremony. (Photo by Greg Chandler) Holt said. “If we envision a militar> funeral, we can count the number of times an American flag is folded before it’s handed to a new widow. We can count the number of shots fired after she receives the flag or the number of notes in ‘Taps. Maybe we can count the number of nights she goes to sleep (alone), and the number of times she asks God ‘why,’ or the number of tears she cries. “We can count the num­ ber of Little League games that a boy’s father will not be there for, or the number of walks a mother will not be able to go on with her daughter. “If we’re able to add all these things up, perhaps it would give us some idea of the sacrifice that has been made for our free doms. However, in reality, such things are not quanti fiable. “We cannot count the grief in a mother’s heart when she finds out that her son or daughter is not returning home from a for­ eign battlefield. We cannot count the thoughts that go through a soldier’s head as he gasps for his last few breaths of air while his buddies try in vain to save his life. Truly, the sacrific* S ri V es made by this nation’s heroes and their families are immeasurable.” The roll of names of local veterans who have died in the past year were read during the ceremony, w hich concluded with the playing of “Taps” and a bagpipe rendition of “Amazing Grace.” In addition to the cere­ mony at Lakeside Cemetery, similar ceremonies were held by Post 305 at four other cemeteries around Caledonia Township Alaska, Blain, Dutton and Holy Comers. 4 % < lid * J ft*.' WWtj SUR Mg on Faeeb is, kw UR' data until t Qtw ejitiagi BwntQdl ► I yaiff JO!’' >■1 KB® J*’ ii? iB9i Hill 7- . Kiltr 1®!,® Caledonia United Methodist Church ObAN |0iUI^ Rew Christine Beaudoin Ini Join us for our traditional yet casual worship Ui service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Liveslrcam: Facebook,comCaledoniaUniledMcthodist Serving - Strengthening Connecting I b bill in ffii cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham FIRST BAPTIST Sunday Service 10:30 AM 7 Middleville Lutheran Church 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) 1 i Sunday Worship 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia. Ml 49316 * -V t' . MU cornerstonemi.org/weekend Ill Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http:/! goodshepherdJcms.googlepages .com 9 « ♦• *• Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Church: FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET-5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 • . e?? OURNEY |C H U R C H ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: 9:30 a.m. •APEACE CHURCH PEACECHURCH.ee LEARN MORE! Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM thejchurch.com Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616-217-2161 1664 M.37 @thejchurch 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. * ( S (269) 795-2391 'P 5 ’J J V Ui Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 _________ www^tpaulcaledonia x)rg s Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM Watch Mjr ^nhces from our website (see above) |D^ Whitneyville f—! Fellowship Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"*^ & 48^^ Praising God through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music Worship Services Sunday ioam&6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org HOLY FAMILY J/CATHOLIC CHURCH ini 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org alii fete V ■ifia iMil Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. b, Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Hi THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE •ililie Ibi SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml ! www.tvcweb.com w« Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 Hull "Shining Forth God 's Ligh t Sunday Morning Worship...................... Community Groun James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. org "tetll Mi �I I I -S The Sun and News, Saturday, June 1, 2024/ Page 5 •V- * .** 'J' S’* CoL Ralph F, Stocker ---------- •C I Rodney Darrell Cromer, On the morning of age 66, went home to be with Wednesday, May 22, 2024, his Lord and Savior, Jesus Col. Ralph F. Stocker joined Christ, on Sunday, May 26 Mary Ann Reed, age 95, his wife of 44 years in heav ­ 2024. of Middleville, MI, passed en. Rod was bom July 24, away peacefully on May 23 Ralph was bom on April 1957, in Garden City, MI, one 2024. 30, 1940 in Sault Ste. Marie, of seven children bom to Mary was bom on June MI to Ralph and Phoebe Huston and Helen Cromer. A 14, 1928, in Portland, MI, (Bumside) Stocker. He is sur­ man of strong faith. Rod loved the daughter of Preston and vived by his 3 sons Marc to share his love for the Lord Dorothea (Boettger) (Sara), Brad (Jamie), and and the assurance of salvation Esterline. As a young lady, Ralph (Janet); his daughter that was his. He was a strong Mary worked as a soda jerk Cindy; and his nine grand­ family man and was a devoted Addison and Weston Atwood, children. at her uncle’s pharmacy. She XV and loving husband, father. Natalie and Tyler Cromer, was a true “Rosie the He was preceded in dea± and ^dfalJier, who provided Jonathan, Olivia, and by his mother, father, wife Olivia, Riveter”, contributing to the well for his family. Theodore Cromer, Ryleigh, World War 11 effort by makSusan B. Stocker and his Rod was dedicated to his Paisley, Sawyer, and McKinlee mg airplane parts alongside love will be dearly daughter, Wendy Stocker. missed by work. He loved his work and Cromer; sisters and brother, her sister and mother. Colonel Ralph F. Stocker all who knew her. the people he worked with. He Reba and JeflF Hartley, Janet Mary spent over three Mary is survived by her began his career in air freight and Jamie Graves, Norma and entered the U.S. Army in Jime decades working at Meijer, daughters, Janet (Jochen , r-n ------1964 and served 30 years He nearly 50 years ago, working Nick LaVallee, Russell began his career with two LaVallee, enhancing not only the com- Ertl) Schantz, Joanne Lipski, for just one company. He Cromer; his brothers-in-law. pany but also the lives of Cormie (Bob) tours of duty in Vietnam. Blain, and worked at Emery Air Freight Lany Koths those she worked with. She Jacquelyn Dutcher; X? ' .J -T •' ------’ Lisa Ralph served as an instructor ~ - (later Prandrh.M • Emery Worldwide) Oswald, Mark Oswald; many at the developed lifelong ffiend- grandchildren, 35 great before it was acquired by UPS U.S. J 1. Army Transportation ships from her friends at grandchildren, 13 great-great Global Freight Forwarding, mec.ss and nephews. Transportation School School in in isitation md the funeral Oberursel, Germany along Meijer and enjoyed going on grandchildren; and several where, for the past 20 years, he service will be held at Ada with other positions within with other positions within many trips with them. After nieces and nephews. has worked as an operations Bible Church Germany. He acted as the retirement, Mary continued Mary was preceded in manager and supervisor. Campus, 2045 68th Street SE, Chief of Ocean Terminals Chief of Ocean Terminals to touch lives, greeting cus- death by her parents; husRod was an avid bass fish- Caledonia, TT , 49316. Division in Panama. tomers at the local dollar band, Leroy Reed; son, Ron ^an. He also really enjoyed Visitation with Rod’s family Ralph spent time as Chief of Ralph spent time as Chief of store with her warm smile. Reed; daughter, Barb the time he spent hunting with Will be Sunday, June 2, from 3 the Strategic Mobility Division Her love for ballroom and Finkbeiner; siblings, Lorene his father. - 6 p.m., and on Monday, June in the Office of the Deputy square dancing, golfing, and Weller, Jeanette Scheurer, He was preceded in death by 3, from 10 - 10:45 a.m. The Chief of Staff for Logistics at playing cards resonated with and Earl Esterline. his son, Darrell Cromer; grand­ funeral service will follow at 11 the Pentagon. Ralph led as the everyone she met. Mary A private service will be son, Jacob Cromer; parents, a.m. on Monday. The interment Commander for the Military cherished being able to trav­ held at a later date. Huston and Helen Cromer; will be in Alaska Cemetery. Ocean Terminal in Bayonne, el, especially to Texas for the Memorial contributions to brother, Jerry Cromer; and sisContributions in memory of New Jersey. winters. the American Cancer Society ter, Brenda Koths. Rod may be made to Ada Colonel Stocker concluded She exemplified faith and or Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids Rod will be lovingly Bible Church Benevolence his career as the Armv the Army fellowship throughout her will be appreciated. remembered by his wife, Fund, at the time of service. Inspector General for the life as a member of Portland Please visit www.beeler- Kathy of 43 years; children, The service will be live- State of Michigan from Baptist Church, where she goresfuneral.com to share a Renee and Dave Atwood, streamed at https://control.resi. September 1989 and served met her loving husband, memory or to leave a condo- Chelsey Cromer, Andrew and io/webplayer/video.htm- until retirement in 1994. Leroy, and then at Leighton lence message for Mary’s Cari Cromer, Kyle and Ashley l?id=6el750be-dc0d-4666Colonel Stocker ’ s military Church. Mary’s vivacity and family. Cromer; grandchildren. 83bf-6970e0cea7e 1 awards included the Legion V. r K < * f* •' Maiy Ann Reed k* 4 I I V: 4 Ct? Rodney Darrell Cromer I ♦t w ^1 1? ir s r' X'- I I c I Clk ■9 7^s£ f Ito V f • ’F uu « I' f I u , * I of Merit; the Bronze Star Medal for Merit with one Oak loan A. Kunde Joan Anne (Stachowiak) Kunde, age 69, of Alto, MI, passed away peacefully at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit on May 27, 2024. Joan was bom February 2, 1955 in Grand Rapids, the daughter of John and Wanda (Maslowski) Stachowiak. Joan attended Sacred Heart Academy during grade school and was a 1973 graduate of West Catholic High School. After working for the US Postal Service, March of Dimes, and a few smaller companies, Joan served her family as a mother, wife and homemaker. She was at peace listening to music and rocking or sitting with her cat and coffee reading devotionals. and she collected everything with angels. Joan always looked forward to spending time with Jan, her best fiiend since grade school. They enjoyed many weekday limches, holiday shopping, pool or lake visits, and after­ noon casino trips to celebrate their birthdays. Joan and Ed were fortunate to take trips to New York City, Las Vegas, Aruba, Disney World and mostly recently California with Derek and Valerie. They also traveled to virtually all of Valerie’s cross country and Valerie will always love her mom’s advice, to help with pre-race nerves and really any stressful situation: “Do your best and let God do the rest.” Known affectionately as Granny, Joan was the glue that held our little, sweet family together. Granny was a pro at celebrating holidays and birthdays, shopping for gifts early, often and with great generosity (lots of gifts!) She was a fabulous host­ ess; her cooking will be sore­ ly missed, in particular her pea soup and holiday cheese­ ball. Granny adored her grand­ daughters Brooklyn and Hadley and provided many rides, meals, sleepovers; much time and energy. The girls will fondly remember making Christmas cookies, many crafts and cotton candy track meets while she was at East Kentwood High School and Aquinas College. in Granny’s kitchen! They also treasured half-days at school, because Granny was e .-v?! ’V RI.** •1 A.; 1, -‘74 W ’ ’’ ’.-i I - I S >(I 1 * I •v; •T I > I A L Leaf Cluster; the Defense Meritorious Service Medal 1I 5.’ ..« 7"/ •J • certain to treat them to lunch dates after picking them up. She was clever and playful, always keeping the girls on their toes with a well-timed wink, like they had a super-se­ cret to keep! Joan will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 46 years, Edward B. Kunde; daughter, Valerie (Derek) Thomasma; grand­ daughters, Brooklyn and Hadley; sibling, Marie Jason, Marilyn (David) Zimmerman, John (Tina) Stachowiak, Lawrence (Ann) Stachowiak; sister-in-law. Laura Stachowiak; brothers-in-law. Kurt (Connie) Kunde, Richard (Kathy) Kunde; sev­ eral nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother. L!__ -RL AL Daniel Stachowiak. Joan’s family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at Holy Family Catholic Church from 10-11 a.m., where her memorial mass will be conducted at 11 a.m Father Michael Cilibraise will officiate. Private burial will take place at Freeport Cemetery. Memorial contributions to the Holy Family Parish Food Pantry will be appreciated. • with one Oak Leaf Cluster; the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters; and the Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster. Ralph was known for his infectious smile, his laugh, and his ability to look at everything through a positive lens. “I’m fine” or “I’m great” was his usual phrase when asked how he was doing - regardless of whether he was in the hospital or playing Bineo at Green Acres Ms family will remember the mountain of holiday cookies he made every year, his amazing pies, and the love he shared with all of us. In lieu of flowers, dona­ tions can be made to the Friends ofVeterans Memorial, PO Box 451, Middleville, ML A celebration of life will be held at 6 p.m. on June 28, 2024 at the Caledonia American Legion. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Colonpl Stocker’s family. - '.iLL. .JjMJ IIU WIFWWWWUI——ii—limmiwimimi ■ r V - ' mill . J FA A • Our back door is open! £ • New Collectionsfrom Moda^ • Quilt Cottens & Backings rJ < f f. ■1? “ifonor our vets &’ voCice force QUESTIONS: US 218 E. State St.. Hastings • Please visit www.beeleigoresfuneral.com to share a memo­ ry or leave a condolence mes­ sage for Joan’s family. 945-9673 OPEN; Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm w Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station Q ^3^ THE GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Simulcast Live at Cornerstone Church - 84th St. Campus All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it ille­ gal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, The best of leaders never stop learning. t r at this year's Su Co: It now to se re yo mit, V' you will ioin hund of thousands of leaders ? <e YOU! handicap, familial status, national origin, age or marital .status, or an intention, to make any such * A * ■ preference, limitation or discrimination.’’ Familial 9 r 1 I re v: status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in viola­ tion of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report A discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD toll-free telephone num­ T 'I V’" J I ' -mAt .3 ber for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. '■'T/ I I MIKE KRZYZEWSKI CRAIG GROESCHEL AMY EDMUHDSON MOLLY FLETCHER GOOML NOEMM ORRORTGRTTY w « 4 * A V A A a ■» a A MICHAEL JR. ^ ‘4 1 �Page 6/The Sun and News, Saturday, June 1, 2024 GRADUATES, continued from page 1 1 Circumstance” performed by the symphonic band led by retiring music instructor Ray Rickert for the final time. It was a beautiful day. “I am about as comfortable giving this speech as a pen­ guin is in a sauna,” Hicswa said as he welcomed everyone to the ceremony. “The class of 2024 has per­ fected breaking out of the com­ fort zone,” he added. “It is my honor to recognize the great achievements of this class and to welcome the next stage of each of our lives. Our journey through high school has been filled with excitement and encouragement, but also stress and anxiety, but now we are here to celebrate the culmina­ tion of years of hard work and dedication. As we look to the future, 1 have no doubt the class of 2024 will continue to thrive and explore the unknown with confidence and optimism. “And as we step forward, let us not forget people who supported us where we are today. Every graduate has had multiple people supporting them in many ways. To the friends, family and faculty who have helped make this joumey through high school unforgettable, I express my gratitude. And to my class- z * I -Si fii® •p. ’- k I Tt 6i. "7 «• . joo® 9. >-— jc^ -t Hi 4 J ? > I 5 f * w- « lecfl 'd3 j ' ^■ •V I F ■it i! «*•: ? 1 Ak ... a mates, congratulations on graduation.” After thanking the adminis­ tration and all those at Thomapple Kellogg Schools responsible for hosting the commencement. annual TKHS principal Tony Petersen addressed the graduating class, “Tonight marks the starting point for your future,” Petersen told the class of 2024. “Many of you will be heading to fouryear university’s to pursue degrees, others will be head­ ing to community colleges, trade schools or entering the workforce. Some of you have chosen to enlist in a branch of the armed services, and will be dedicating your lives to protect our freedoms.” He reminded the graduates to continue to make a positive t f k •r' its*' V I J i ■I '.9 8- (. ^4 fe. » ' Ne if.z r./* J I Thornapple .. .V.,, .appic Kellogg rxciluyy High nign School ocnooi teacher teacner and ana varsity girls’ track and field coach Maggie Wilkinson reminds everyone that “it’s a beautiful day,” during her keynote address at the 2024 TKHS commencement Thursday, May 23. (Photo bv Brett Bremer) Spring Sp J ERI A/C TUNE I T Expires 6-10-24 I <• " I J .xV- 4 H' 4 .1 f person in this whole school who will continue to believe in you and help you to achieve your excellence, it is Mrs. Wilkinson. If there is one per­ son in this school who is happy to explain a project to you over, and over, and over again until you get it, it is Mrs. Wilkinson. And if there is one person who can bounce back after a hard day, it is Mrs. Wilkinson.” Nelson said she is very appreciative of the way Wilkinson is able to celebrate her students successes that come both inside and outside of the classroom. give US A CALL TODAY! Bat Giibj ’I ’^t Remove' J Locally owned business. thebatguysbatremoval.com J 4 HARMLESS BAT REMOVAL bat-proof & CLEAN UP 210 East Main Street, Caledonia I Spider-Man,” Grummet said. “When you hear this phrase you may come to question, ‘what power do I really have?’ I certainly know I have before. After all, we’re all just people living out our lives to the best of our abilities, or so we may believe. This passive way of thinking, however, despite it being understandable, leads us to neglect the power we do have to make an impact. I mean, sure, none of us have radioactive spider powers unfortunately, but we might just have an open hand to extend to someone who has fallen down or to hold the door for someone whose hands may not be quite as free. We have a voice to inspire with our stories to or to advocate for those who are less fortunate for ourselves. That is power.” He urged his classmates to continue to become a story worth telling. Nelson was happy to welcome Wilkinson, the keynote speaker. “Luckily for us, no one is as tenacious as Mrs. Wilkinson,” Nelson said. “If there is one ** • • I .A. Bsee ! -«, impact on others throughout their lives, and that they will always be a “member of the TK family and you will forever be a TK Trojan.” While Mr. Hicswa may not have been at his most comfortable at the microphone in front of his TK family and their Grummet was families. pleased to get the chance to speak to his fellow graduates and the crowd. He said he was more than grateful to get the chance, he felt lucky. “As a writer and a sto­ ry-teller, it is immensely grati­ fying to append a sort of after­ word to this chapter of our lives,” Grummet said. He looked back at his time with his classmates at TK and towards the future realizing that his has all just been a beginning. “Stories only hold as much power as they do, because they come to an end,” Grummet said. “Because at the end of the day that is what we are and what we will be: stories. Each and every one of us has a legacy to leave behind both here at TK and on the world, no matter how small it may seem it is important. He went on to elaborate on the idea. “In the words of, you may have heard of him, SpiderMan, written by Stan Lee him­ self, ‘with great power, there must also come great responsibihty. ’ We have all heard this quote a multitude of times in life, and more than likely a thousand times in the past year. As with many other say­ ings, it is spoken so often because it rings true. It is a principle I hold very close to my heart both as a human and a long-time fan of all things r k .A. He J?® Retiring Thornapple Kellogg High School music teacher Ray Rickert leads members of the TKHS band at graduation for the final time Thursday, May 23. Rickert spent 27 years directing TKHS bands. (Photo by Brett Bremer) frontier HEATING & COOLING 616-891- ((td* jieff Jonas Grummet reminds his classmates that, in the words of Stan Lee in his Spider-Man comics, “with great power there must also come great respon­ sibility,” during his senior class address at the 2024 Thornapple Kellogg High School commencement Thursday, May 23. (Photo by Brett Bremer) OKLY J r r I 1 M IB <^i. •* L- 4 it y • f ( FULL ATTIC RESTORATION 10-YEAR WARRANTY 5^599-1019 Wilkinson thanked every­ one in the bleachers for com­ ing and the students for gradu­ ating, and told the class of 2024 that her speech was inspired by them. “Last year, one of you said ‘happy Thursday coach, ’ and it stuck,” Wilkinson said. “It wasn’t a particularly happy Thursday for me, but you were so joyful and had so much enthusiasm, and you always do, that I tried to emulate that and change my mindset in that moment and say I can make this a happy Thursday. “And it has evolved into. because,” she said with eyes up to her students behind her sun glasses “It’s a beautiful day!” they shouted back. The students responded with the exuberant utterance time and again. Wilkinson told the mem­ bers of the class of 2024 how impressed she has been over the years with the community they created amongst classmates and friends and the way they have supporting each other. She reminded them how much small kindnesses have meant not only to their class­ mates but to their teachers too. “Embrace the chaos of life and run with it,” she told them. “Run, with it. You never know where it is going to lead you,” Wilkinson urged the gradu­ ates. Petersen presented the class of 2024 and TK Schools superintendent Craig McCarthy accepted and recognized the graduating class before the class rolls were ready and diplomas awarded one after another. “No one knows how great we will be, how far we are willing to go, or where we will end up,” Hamming said in his closing remarks to his fellow graduates. “What I do know is that they will remember us, the greatest class ever - the class of 2024.” Robinett set off the celebra tion as Rickert led the Trojan band in the school fight song one final time inside the stadium and mortarboards flew. - JLWAbeaut^_ 4ay^____ * Id • to® ' jKis I ' JJHI ' It® ■ [IliJ i ' ill 1 II It I ! II.U I 'I (dSi I I tL Si 11 Iweisil . Itai* alste I Ilir: Hl M ' I : Il « 1 It : is; , ai i Kra uilit iotE I Q I ' mi iLlli Sid ia I I t I I I i I I f I i I )) I ft- �Sun and News, Saturday, June 1,2024/Page 7 Class of 2024 Receives riVlIVlO Honors CHIU and Awards 1 L I Fl I I t I I I s, Ji Bl Si St I Thou^ds of dollars in scholarships were awardcf’ I iz 11 ^omapple Kellogg High School seniors last week at the annual Senior Honors Ceremony. Students also received recognition and awards for their academic. community service and athlet­ ic successes. High School Principal Tony Petersen welcomed all the families and guests attending. We are here this evening to recognize the outstanding achievements of an exception* al group of young men and women,” said Petersen. He thanked the seniors and . their families. “It is an honor to serve as your principal and I look forward to impact you make on the world,” said Petersen. More than 50 scholarships, from corporations, memorial funds and other sources, were announced with many coming from the Thomapple Area Enrichment Foundation. The following scholarships and awards were awarded: --S University of Michigan Award: Kaden Hamming and Charlotte Nelson male and one female from the upper one-third (scholastically) of the senior class. The criteria considered when selecting these students are honesty, willingness, industry, courtesy. contribution to school, sportsmanship, initiaave. itej I'llV 1 Ui it 9“" 'i® (till Bailey Eden, Lynn Helngel Simimes ^iKil^p -Bailey Eden; Pzi. Education Scholarship - Emilia wekert; Lois A^ NagelSeppanen Scholarship - Kaden Hamming; Gerald and Ceta Williams Scholarship Williams Charlotte Nelson; Ethel Scholastic Excellence Award: Tyne Bufka and Dylan Bailey This award is intended to bring recognition to a senior student who demonstrates the qualities of an exemplary citizen, role model to younger students, traits of courage. TK Class of 1957 Scholarship - Logan Garrett; Denton Groos Scholarship Ashleigh Norman; Village Players of Middleville and Kay Simpson Scholarship - Holly Carpenter; RKW Working Students Scholarship - Kendra Coe; Gerald “’‘I Lois LOIS Page Hage Scholarship - Logan Garrett; r -Grant Middleton; Ad^ Dipp Scholarship-EmilyFliearman- Don and Catherine Williamson Dan Dykstra Jr. Scholarshin Schola^Wn" "l Dan Dykstra Jr. Scholarship - Laine Hinton; i’ Noelk Smith I^Zine- Scholarship Lvd^T r„i,^ Smith; Lorraine Lydia Cole Memorial M^hS Noelle ^oT“ S County Dahlgren Memorial - Joselyn Scholarship - Holly Carpenter; Kimbrue > Pri Honors Night program. TKHS Pnncipal Tony Petersen welcomes family members. (Photos provided) Robinette and Cade Hicswa; First Presbyterian Church of Hastings Scholarship Elizabeth Middleton; TKEA - Holly Carpenter, Hailey Dudik, Shelby Robinette, Emilfa Emilia Rickert, Lucy VanDuine, Memorial This award is intended to bring public recognition to a senior student who to earned the respect of his or her school and the community. The recipient is not always an active participant in every school function but someone who Women’s Athletic Scholarship demonstrates that they can - Kendra Coe; Emil Tyden contribute without hurting oth­ Founders Scholarship - Kendra ers and that they can succeed Coe; Rodney and Rena Schad by helping others to succeed. Memorial * Kendra Coe; The following was considered Samuel McKeown Memorial when nominating this student: Scholarship (Business) school citizenship, academic Kendra Coe, Hayden Chatman; Noelle Smith; Union Bank Scholarship - Bailey Eden; KCC Scholarship - Clare Webster; TAEF Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force Scholarship - Nathan Koester, TAEF Ball TAEF Family Scholarships Shelby Garren Post, Max Rogers, Leadmg Scholar Distinguished Finalists Award - Elizabeth Samuel Trudell, Lucy Van Duine, Lucas Van Meter; Digital Media Department Award: Samuel Trudell; Student Council Awards: Cameryn Ames. Holly Carpenter, Hailey Dudik, Kaitlyn Hodges, Shelby Robinett, Whitney Ruger, Emma Schut, David Temple. Middleton; Northern Michigan University Presidential, Presidential, Leadership and Wildcat Merit aS^ ^d'^lm'^iT^Visit Scholarships Ashleigh =-£2 E=„, Tech Scholarship - Emilia Rickert; Architecture Verseti Blood Donmi;;; s:;.;;;i^“E A^ Blood NATIONAL HONORS VanDuine, Ferris State University SOCIETY AWARDS: Ethan Emilia Rickert, Brooke Woodbridge N. Ferris Bonnema, Bayleigh Bruce, Reurink, Brittney Roodvoets, Scholarship Sydney Tyne Bufl<a, Holly Carpenter, Hannah Middleton Kenzie Robertson. Hayden Chatman, Kendra Coe, Linderman, Sara Johnson, TKHS DEPARTMENT Katelyn Comeau, Landon Hailey Dudik, Jessie Drenten. AWARDS Conroy, Joselyn DeBoer, Jessie UNIVERSITY AND Art Department Award: Dnsnten, Hailey Dudik, Bailey COLLEGE AWARDS Laine Hinton; Business/ Eden, Abraham FiguereoOdyssey of the Mind and Computer Science Department Natural Talent Scholarship University Scholarship - Daniel Beckering; Davenport University Excellence Scholarship and Cross Countrv/Track Country/Track Scholaiship - Lucas Van Meter; Ferris ___ -7^'^ State University university Woodbridge N. Fems N. Scholarship * Beckering; Edward University - DylZi“ WierinZhoZip Scholarship - Ethan Bonnema; Ruger; Middleville Women’s u It K C U , V Alecia Lorraine Holst Club Scholarship - Cash Memorial - Brooke Reurink; Rabley; Eugene and Edna Tad Thatcher Memorial Hendrickson Scholarship Scholarship - Whitney Ruger, Venus Appel, Leyla Cruz; Brian Appel Scholarship - Rotary Scholarships - Bailey ~ Justin Goggins; Goggins; McCullough Laine Hinton, Hinton, Kaden Kaden Justin McCullough Eden, Eden, Laine Family Scholarship - Alivia Hamming, Whitney Ruger, Raak; Millicent Grace Knox Drake Snyder; Drake Snyder; Woody Scholarship - Emilia Rickert; Wyngarden Scholarship Terri Yoder Scholarship- Hailey Dudik; TKESP Support Jaelyn Thomas; Julie Bender Professionals Scholarship - Henry J. Dugan PrincipaPs Award: Whitney Ruger I JU ithi that a special “Service Award” should be given to the individ­ ual selected. SCHOLARSHIPS: ents these students with a die * tionaiy. / Lawrence Ei— The University Alumni Club each year pres- ) excellence, poor respeo, com- ’ Samuel McKeoun Memorial serxicc, involvement Scholarship (Medical) - Hailey in co<urricular activities, and Dudik, Madalynne Barrerawho quietly contributes to Wilder, Ray Page Scholar make his or her school a better Athletic Memorial Scholarship place and who otherwise - Drake Snyder, GFWC - Gun might not be publicly recogLake Women’s Club nized for their effort Scholarship - Samuel Trudell, Ray Page Service Award: Katie Comeau, Justin Goggins; Elizabeth Middleton Adele and Arnold Parker This award is intended to Scholarship - Emilia Rickert; bring recognition to a senior Dr. Wayne and Marie student who has contributed Finkbeiner Scholarship * extra time and effort to help Madalynne Barrera Wilder; out when and where needed. Thomas Hamilton Memorial The recipient isn’t necessarily Scholarship - Charlotte NelsonRotv.rt c a straight ‘A’ or ‘B’ student Robert Eveans Memonal but seems to be there when needThomapple Kellogg Alumni ed. We have many of these Association Scholarship - Michigan Tech University Leadmg Scholar Distinguished Finalist Award, Excellence Award, Silver Level Presidential Scholars Award, Alumni Legacy inward Chemical ’ engineering Department Scholarship . Marian Gielincki; Michigan ~ Tech University Presidential Scholars Award ^d Excellence Award - Kira Holzhausen; Michigan Tech University National Merit Scholarship and STHTE Drama Award: Rickert, Jonas Grummet; English Award: Dylan Bailey, Tyne Bufka, Nathan Koester, Charlotte Nelson Nelson. Emili^ Rickert, Whitney Ruger; Foreign Language Department Language Department Awards: Dylan Lawrence, Hagemann, Kaden Hamming. Kyan Haywood, Cade Hicswa, Laine Hinton, Sara Johnson, Austin Jones, Isaac Kimbel, Nathan Koester, Benjamin Koster, Emilie Landry, Dylan Lawrence. Kenzie Kenzie Linderman, I indf*rmnn Lawrence, Sophia Marcukailis, Elizabelb ^z^=De “ Norris, Shrontz; Math Department Hannah Middleton, X'^m^Z “ “ Nelson, Rickert; Science Science Department Department Award: Award: Madeline Pauline, Lilly Pease, Travis Barton, Holly Katherine Powers, Alivia Raak, Travis Barton, Carpenter, Jessie Drenten, Brooke Reurink, Emilia Kaden Hamming, Katherine Rickert, Sydney Robertson, Powers, Shelby Robinett, Samuel Trudell; Social Studies Department Award; Bailey Eden; Technology Education Department Award: Dylan Bailey, Kendra Coe, Adam Gunnink, Matthew Jore, Nathan Koester, Seth Mahler, Elizabeth Middleton, Ashton Nichols, Ainsley Parsons, i I I Shelby Robinett, Whitney Ruger, Emma Schut, Brianna Sharp, Madison Shattuck, Elizabeth Shrontz, Jaxan Sias, Noelle Smith, Logan Snelling, Drake Snyder, Samuel Trudell, Lucy Van Duine, Kenna Van Elst, Lucas Van Meter, Kyle VanHaitsma, Holly Velting, Cailin Wodrich. SYSTEHS A Jk- ■ .. it? * I? • State & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System 1' J * la 5; Family and Friends Are invited to join I • Frame Repair J-' I I. EDMUND KILMARTIN Jr S' if 9 ■few ___________ for his 'l' •I 1 % GOLD CLASS 4 100th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION I Lesonal :nfib OPEN; M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm IP r * 1 ON ED’S BODY SHOP I SUNDAY, JUNE 9,2024 1 From 12:30pm - 3;00pm At Holy Family Catholic Church 110 Johnson Street 9669 Kraft Avenue, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Lite refreshments will be served V « ■ ;I II . ( I ’ I > 5 .J CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN I 9 , r i * i h J I 4b J 616.891.0150 Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner www.edsbocly.com �r J J ■I t I I I 1 ! ■r IJ J I 1 '•3> Daniel Beckering Andrew Beckertng Travts Barton Adam BogusiawsW Tom Sewersdorf Tyler Benuey Thor Bennett UyMt 1 7A-» I -•w * ^^1 i I % >• VB ' fe* - •jr* US a* PM: r «r.9 w* I ■ -p* I Abraham Ftguereo Beyes Martffhf Perden Dam^ Foster EmHy Hiearman Berta GarciaXJUlez Garcia Skytar Gena Tyler Gavette Logan Garrett 7 <3toMana Daher Thornapple-Kellj Class c si 4 9 Aidan Dabakey Aaliya Curtiss LeyUCruz Sahara Coston EvaCwson Landon Conroy Katdyn Comeau I r» •*- • ■i T "I .r- a L ft •• • • wi r » •J • c j .Uk i IL >.-9 Hr afr * 1 r* -if Ifc, BT*^ hr . >* 2 <•*?( " ^'.7 AV tlr ____ C' A i- 4 1 .1 .>•5 z .'I •I J J / I :I ,i KT <4V'. i9 9 I •J a Is I r 1 « EmtiyHaveman . fl r 1 1^ i I .^r Kyan Haywood Madelyn Heany Brandon Hembree Alexander Hess Cade Hicswa Laine Hinton Mah Holland Reece Hoeksma Kaldyn Hodges Kira Holdiausen a •< */■; . fl S^^XS 1 I ► * If' i EmiUe Landry Leo Langford Nolan Langkamp Dylan Lawrence 5 >4^ 4 -MT ' Lj Kenzle Linderman .AjJ ' I w . 1 f b h T K _ 1^^ J Zoe Linderman k r r r *» k- . f r « i •■■'JI 4*'I ft i J fe I I,- 1 I. I .m . . 1 L ?■ 13 Emma Huston -y-' FLi' -T*- f fk[ Mb* ♦ X .. •I 'Ai A s sibiMo ‘r- •t u* . - •V ‘-Ju.t'-'.d t r J U A .H . Trent Huebner Tom Lorach 1 E b I k r I ."q; b* flV b >♦ A MoHy Losey Remington Lowing Melanie Luevano Zoie Ludwiczak Seth Mahier Sophia Marcukaitis J 1*4 r *5 «r •' ? 2 IP: 9^ t • i M 6?j39i^ 4 'firi r: - .iW' » t • u ■4 4 t. < -j'- ix I I i a r ♦ u i j b 1 I -’S . i. ’ I t / A I I 1^ I MF k a I Clayton Mohr Carson Moore Motile Moore Isabelle Mosley Ava Myers Sydney Myers Charlotte Nelson Noah Newland I Ashton Nichols Ashleigh Norman r ^L*' - li tl i 11' hl 1 V ..J I0 JS .. Rt J I . Jd a r ■-A' r I L I nm f fJj ... I* T r d I ’VI ■ •• a** •< OwenPetrak Garrett Post Katherine Powers NoahQuintard AlMa Raak Colton Rabley y i 1 *5 Allen Petrak »* •n- * AX a u ir k L 4 I I B" J Summer Nowinsky I a “If'' * Claire Norris 1 1 -7* •A _ M Megan Norman r a t ’T’n *. ’F r- 6 •* . J A * a f b * 4 V 4 Santi«^ Ramirez Atize Raphael Brooke Reurink a 1 I F J 1 Hanna Rttsema t %dney Robertson Shelby RaUnttt > < ■Z' i If ‘ I 1 'T-t' A eF J i 13 a ■ Zadok Shafer S’*- Cole Shaffer Brianna Sharp Braden Sharrar Madison Shattuck Dylan Shoemaker Seth Shoemaker cHiabeth Shrona ’F JaxanSias Brenen Simon kJ t .4 «» i 0 I jr r 9 * * V i * 4 1 1 4 < -.sr •« / J 'I 4. 5<s *1- r*r- 1 I Lucy Van Duine Hr” Kenna Van Eist > T« -J 1 k rTIBBl Lucas Van Meter --IwJ BOQ * KaHyn Vandenboss TimotivVandeflfcr ft'V-- * ‘-.u'TZ 1 aH^': Kyle VartHaltsma MAKINO SENSE OF INVESTING '■•ry I ^el: 9175 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia 616.710.0796 c i .. TTZTTjEG rs:- 2BO COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR > ’—.'f I •r Middleville • 269-795-3550 500 Arlington St. ^2- MI J i: I* * j ^''' II nTINC 8 COOLING 210 E. Main St., Caledonia J I 1 1. 1 • TIRiS2000.NET ) 1 ^•vAr ’S»2 i ■ r-A'-. 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',r 5, f- jt' * a Justin Goggins I ii H V Lc^an Gosselin JorusGrumnwt Adam Gurvnlnk ’ W Mallory Hagcmann Mariella Hagen fl 1 *7V' s R r •» £ fc',1 si T* X:.. 4 1 • .4^ •" ?* .j \j Mr . K A >• f yT t '■ .* z •f 1 •J I L «. I «w ‘.fr w. V I » TT •4 >. 1^ h? i*» . 1. k id •> .1^ r 1 JI 4 1 p. .r’ I M < d r F*' 1 I Tristan Chambers • i: F! Marian Gleitncki / HoHy Carpenter 4 r k t '..Lev w*- 4 i Ogg High School W 2024 I Byron Buter u . kL^Si Aw_b w •r 'kS:K • a .jtr Emnu Burton I .«• r TyneBufka JI id < ■ ■iS (• S.: J •< 4 ♦ !» 1 ► ’ 5 I W . % w* > *f 4^ » ><t'V IR • a Caleb De Leon t^l I J» 6 .V J' taphad De Fresse De Morwal I-""- W' b » I 1 < ^■211 t Andrew Bownun » — ^''41 r:> ;• .’tx' / Nl I F p • 1 4 •!f. 7- W 1 Cl a. I J • , « « •• I I Br^dy Bower </ ss ^... J WTtf i* . I ,T 1 L Aya Jahnke Keaganjarvie Sara Johnson Julian Kailihiwa Isaac KlmbeJ ’1 z r ' / 1^’ L’ T / f OUvn* Klerk F'^ Mathan Koester Sawyer Kostelec » A• Beniamin Koster Gabriella Koster Aubrey Krausbauer i hh.- •tt* 1 J J 1 r < . 5^ I 2?-iV I t J. s s 4 « ) 5'f * * « , L> I J. ^5.* * ' I ft r 4 Gabriella Martin Luke McFaddOT Martina Mediru Panades 1 Isabela Meehan I f * * < •M** L. Astrid Mendoza Trevor Merryman Nathaniel Micklatcher Elizabeth Middieton ■ 1 Grant Middleton Hannah Middleton r K* Raven Middleton I a I ■• — Kira Miller Abbigale Moes Andrew Pennington Austin Peterson • =v 1 ■: i’ •tT- '■ I Madelyn LaBelle < s I * V r r * Matthew Jore s 77^ 1 .Jfl •4i - I .'W • ••’ Jv F ra 1 i-k.. 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Ji 1 : CU �Page lOZThe Sun and News, Saturday, June 1, 2024 J utonuitive Change of plans for statefonded road project in Caledonia and the recommended patching was pretty extensive, Fleis & VandenBrink project manager Jon Moxey wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “We asked MDOT whether it would be possible to change the project scope from patching and thin over­ lay to complete asphalt replacement, if the village had the additional funds available to do so.” However, MEX)T felt that the asphalt on the Glen Valley streets was in too poor of condition for the mainte­ nance project, and gave the village the ability to choose alternate streets for patch and overlay work, Moxey wrote in his email. The cost of the project on Emmons, Maple, Duncan Lake and Casey Court has been estimated at $375,000, with the village covering the remaining costs, Moxey wrote. The Glen Valley streets “will continue to be a priori­ ty for resurfacing work” in the village in upcoming bud­ get years, Moxey wrote. Fleis & VandenBrink is working on design plans for new streets, and hopes to get the project out to bid this summer for construction in late summer or early fall, Moxey wrote. is targeted toward communi­ Greg Chandler ties with populations of less ,S7fl# BT-Z/e/' There’s been a change in than 10,000 residents. fJriginally, the money was plan.s for a state-funded road improvement project in the to be used for patching and thin overlay work on streets village of Caledonia. After a conversation in the Glen Valley retail area Glengarry between the village’s engi­ of the village neering consultant and the Drive, North Rodgers Court, Michigan Department of Dobber Wenger Memorial Transportation, the project Drive, Higley Street and has been switched to patch­ Kaechele Street. However, as engineers ing and overlay work on Maple from Fleis & VandenBrink Emmons Street, Street, Duncan Lake Road began design work on the project, they noticed issues and Casey Court. The village last fall was with the Glen Valley streets. “The existing asphalt is selected to receive $184,000 in grant funding through the fairly thin in a number of less than the three Service areas Community Infrastructure Fund (CSIF) inches we would normally Category B program, which expect to see, at a minimum i; Mt 1 24 Innir access iiinl security • • t.: J J 1 ) r- •( •X . e-i A '4 ' —T;: 49^ I A ’5; I I * • a I 4 11?^ . * w ■ r MOHTH TO MOOTH OR POT FOR 5 & GOT 6 Month to Month 10x22x16 • ^80/nio 5x23x16 • *60/mo 6 Month Lease 10x22x16 • ^66^^/mo 5x23x16 • ^50/mo 6x10x7 • ^33^^/mo 6x10x7 • MO/mo Caledonia Women’s Club holds brunch, hands out scholarships 6355 N. Moe Road, Middleville, Ml (I miU tost of H'hitneyviNe between Garbow A Parmatee) McDufTee at 616-891-2112 2003 PORSCHE BOXTER S. 67,000 Miles. Runs and drives great! $16,600. 616-551-9412. Business Sen 'ices CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 embark on their own paths. Caledonia The Women’s Club awarded four $1,000 Memorial Scholarships to Megan Bushart, Grace Bryant, Marisa Kohn and Alexa Pearson as well as their and Trade $1,000 Vocational Scholarship to Sydney Miller. In addi­ tion, the club honored Caledonia Women’s Club Scholarship Heritage winner Kirsten Schutte, who was presented with a $1,000 scholarship at the Senior Recognition Night on May 15. The ladies of Caledonia look forward to this event and are very thankful for the Women’s Club and the efforts they put into making it a success. Caledonia senior girls and their mothers gath­ ered at the high school on Monday, May 20, to cele­ brate their accomplishments and reminisce on the years gone by at the Senior Girls Brunch. The ladies were greet­ ed by members of the Women’s Caledonia Club, who host the annu­ al event. After enjoying musical arrangements by seniors Ella Canup and Emilee Diemer, guest speaker Michelle LaJoyeYoung, Kent County Sheriff, delivered an inspiring and heartfelt address. She shared her college and career jour­ ney and provided invalu­ able advice and motivation to these young women as they prepare to BUYING ALL HARD­ WOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft dieimeter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. In­ sured, liability & workman's comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. CONSTRUCTION: ADDI­ TIONS, REMODELING, Roof­ ing, Siding, Pole Bams & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. 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The Eagles took 2-0 and 1-0 wins t. I As is expected, each step is getting tougher. The Caledonia varsity girls’ soccer team knocked off OK two OK Red Conference matchRed Conference foe East iq)s this spring. Kentwood in the opening But the Scots are on a roll. round of its MHSAA Division “Really happy with our 1 District Tournament and fol­ result as you can imagine,” lowed that up with a 2-0 victo- Caledonia head coach Sam ty over Byron Center in the Steams said after the wi win over district semifinals Wednesday the Byron Center girls at West Ottawa High School. district semifinals. *‘We knew The Caledonia girls earned Byron Center would be one of the right to face a 14-1-2 the toughest opponents we’ve Hudsonville team, ranked num­ faced so far, and they put up a ber one in the state in Division 1 veiy good fight.” Bulldogs had bounced the Caledonia girls from the state tournament in each of the past two seasons, so coach »» happ/for his^ 'half - with - Laney -Peterson play­ ing a free kick to the back side of the goal box. Bay lee Devries received the pass and played what coach Steams called a “perfectly placed pass” to teammate Josie Wilcox who was able to sneak a shot in at the far post. The Scots second goal start­ ed with the build up in the midfield. Averi Rosted put a pass ahead for teammate Kortney Muller who beat a defender and “casually passed the ball by the Byron Center goalkeeper and into the net,” Steams said. to break that streak. He said his team went into the game confidence off of a couple very good practice sessions. “We played some of the best soccer of our season and it couldn’t have been at a more perfect time,” Steams said, “Ultimately, we were able to execute our plan almost perfectly,” he added. The Scots took the lead about ten minutes into the first Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity baseball team was bested 7-5 by visiting Forest Hills Northern Tuesday. The Huskies pushed a 3-2 lead to 6-2 with three runs in the top of the sixth inning. The Scots fell despite outhitting the Forest Hills Northern guys 7-5. Cam Myers and Jacob Stoczynski each threw a scoreless inning to open the district tune-up for the Scots. AJ Szabo was 2-for-4 for the Scots. Tommy Clarey singled and scored a run. Nick Slater was l-for-3 with Trojan baseball takes walk-off win in pre-district at Hopkins Brett Bremer LT I th A** tonu Ji Id. n 0 !8Bfi iiG aw 'slop and Sils and Ifeirly lL . Sports Editor The Trojans didn’t spend much time building the sus­ pense in the bottom of the seventh in Hopkins Tuesday. Connor Dombkowski off with the Trojans tied with the Hopkins Vikings 5-5 in their MHSAA Division 2 PreDistrict ballgame. Dombkowski stole second, went to third on a wild pitch and then came in to touch home on a walk-off RBI single into right by teammate Anson Verlinde. The win puts the Trojans in the district semifinals back in Hopkins today, June 1. The 14-15 Trojans will face the 17-13 West Michigan Aviation Academy boys in the first semifinal of the day at 10 a.m. South Christian takes on Wayland in the district’s other semifinal contest, with the dis­ trict championship game to follow. Hopkins ends its season with a 15-10 record. The teams were back and forth in the middle of the ball­ game. TK struck first with two runs in the bottom of the third inning when Logan Snelling doubled in two runs with two out. Maddix Ferden started the second to third on the hit leav­ ing TK with one on and two out. The Trojan bats came through though. Brummel singled into right to move Verlinde to third. Verlinde scored from there on a passed ball and Brummel stole rally with a single through the second. Jacob Davis worked a left side. Brody Wiersma walk to keep the inning alive walked to finishing setting the and then Ybema delivered an table for Snelling. RBI single into right that Jayce Brummel hit a one- evened the score at 5-5. out double and eventually Snelling started on the scored from third on an RBI mound for TK and gave up single by Spencer Ybema in five runs on 4 1/3 Innings. He the bottom of the fourth after struck out one, didn’t walk a the Vikings had pulled to with- batter and allowed nine hits. in b/scoring once in the Wiersma got the win ifr relief. top of the fourth. He walked three and allowed The Vikings came right one hit in 2 2/3 innings of back in the top of the fifth to scoreless pitching. rally from 3-1 down to a 5-3 TK had nine hits in the ball­ lead putting together five singame. Ybema was 2-for-2 gles and a sacrifice bunt to with his two RBIs. Snelling score four times. had two hits ad two RBIs. Verlinde singled to the left Verlinde and Brummel had side with one on and one out two hits apiece. Verlinde had in the bottom of the fifth, but one RBI. Brummel scored Logan Snelling was thrown twice. Ferden as 1 -for-2 with a out trying to advance from walk and a run scored. tripled in two at bats and scored a run. Ethan Sova also had a hit for CHS. Slater and Carter Bom also threw scoreless innings in relief against the Huskies. The Caledonia boys were slated to face Forest Hills Central in their MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinal bailgame Friday, May 31, at Davenport University. Lowell and East Kentwood were slated to meet in the district’s other semifinal game to start the day of baseball. 3rd Annual 1 a. / \\ a run and an RBI. AJ Roszkowski was 1-for-2 with an RBI. Trevor Walter r f i J f t 2 ottJodi s ft-< 1^. I ■■ ll^ •3 OJui teaser; J 4 •r* *1, « • I* ► *£ •f T J• < J r *1 • 5O’s Sock Hop & Car Show •f I 5:30pin - Spin 1 Wi ^4 <J 4*- 4 1^. A . ‘‘■4 11 I , tap show, food trucks best dressed contest, triv^music from the 5O's, 60 s & 7O's r JA.I 1 V' 4^ 'S? !■ .;wr a 55 ■MS V. Scots put three in 80s, team 12th, at DI boys’ golf regional Sports Editor That was a competitive regional. Even the OK Red Conference co-champions from Rockford and West Ottawa found it that way. The Panthers finished the day in seventh place and the Rams were in a battle to earn one of the three state qualifying spots from the regional. The Rams pulled that off, just barely. The top three teams i. 1 , 1 4*' f 1 I I I I I at regionals across the state this week, and the top three golfers not on those teams, earn spots in the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Boys’ Golf Finals which will be held June 7-8 at Bedford Valley in Battle Creek. The Caledonia boys saw their 2024 season end at the regional with an 12th-place finish in the field of 19 teams. . Portage Central won the Rockford third with a score of 317. The top team behind the three state qualifiers was a Mattawan team that put together a score of 391. Grandville senior Tony Spicuzza helped his team to a fifth-place finish by shooting a 73 that earned him the first of the three individual state qualilying spots from the regional, He was the individual runner-up on the day, tied with Forest Hills Northern junior Will Pollack. The individual champion­ ship from the regional went to Portage Central senior Jake Longman who scored a 72. The Portage Central team had three guys in the 70s with junior Brady Jensenius shoot­ ing a 78 and senior Will TTiomas a 76. Mattawan got 76s from 451. ♦ I 9369Dobbep Wenger ul$itonja. Ml *19316 --------------------te- 4^ t. • -v . -V y J* jC I r 'ir ♦V *1^ .1 /— 11___ ' ■ ■ f ■ Matthew Novak and Brian Graver. Both those Wildcats qualified for the state finals with that score. Junior Parker Little led the Caledonia team with an 83. The Scots got an 84 from senior Emersen Lippert, an 85 from sophomore Camden Quigley and a 93 from junior Mason Kem. Rockford was led by a 74 from sophomore Jack Reum, which had him in fifth individ­ ually for the day. Loy Norrix was sixth in the team standings with a score of 333 ahead of West Ottawa 336, Grand Haven 338, Hudsonville 338, ReethsPuffer 344, Jenison 345, Caledonia 345, Mona Shores 346, East Kentwood 353, Byron Center 356, Grand Rapids Union 372, Portage Northern 392, Battle Creek Lakeview 396 and Wyoming 1: fc?k« LX team regional title with a score of 310. Forest Hills Northern was second at 313 and h 7 * Brett Bremer J Friday June 1202H 1 ■festal * y ■ f 1. I ill A .1 4 V - » * I ur I AX •-se >5 ««llM -- ine up will begin i ^ atMpm enter off of 92nd st C I I /5 .90 n <I ’•’t. — k T t i • J * fi 2 * i /* / /P ' A .owcmIs fov I s If > 1 t i f » I » J M 2nd & Jrd I b 1 I L W?'J.C«5 1 4 I □ rni<» I □ Ml place SB w (toipitg ct^^alcdoMa/ ^oMMuiuhi Step back in time and join us for a nostalgic night of retro revelry at Caledonia Town ship’s THIRD annual Summer Sock Hop! Mark your calendars for June 7th, from 5:3( to 8 pm, at the Caledonia Community Green (9309 Dobber Wenger Memorial Dr.) Dress to impress in your finest 50s attire - whether it’s poodle skirts or leather jackets, everyone is in vited to showcase their style. The excitement kicks off with a hula hoop contest and a chance to twis the night away on the dance floor. Don’t miss your shot at winning the coveted “Best Dressed” award sign up for the contest by 6:30 pm. Awards for both adults and children will be awarded at 7:30 pm Forthosewhopreferamorelaid-backvibe,immerseyourselfinthetimelesstunesofthe50s,60s,and70s,courtesyofth< bandHark-Up. They’ll even throwinsomegroovytrivia to keep youentertained all nightlong. Andbecause greatmusic dancing, and delicious food go hand in hand, be prepared for a fantastic lineup of food trucks to satisfy your cravings But wait, there s more! The classic car show is making its triumphant return for the third year. Rev your en gines and showcase your wheels for a chance to snag 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place trophies. The car show lineup be­ gins at 4:00 pm along Dobber Wenger - enter off of 92nd Street. Trophies will be proudly presented at 7:30 pm fear rain rain date date is set for June 14th, 2024 Join us for a blast from the past filled with music, dancing, delectable delights, and clas sic cars. This is an event you won’t want to miss - a night of pure, unadulterated fun In of case I T < " I weather, inclement i F • » Jl » not! Our �I Page 12/The Sun and News, Saturday, June 1, 2024 Wojan softball hits West Catholic hard in game two I s * I IP F-X' y 4 <1 * t f •4 A • 1 4f ibr<k y I .1 4 4 » X 9 t J •n u. .. » * M * >1' > 9 » . . A r •A V 1. I <1« 4 T 1 4 hLr. ■ 1 f/sk* Jit'' r I. '•1^ ’ 4 ■ . 9 I 5 ** .•5' < e 'r* <5 4’*! i e ee r'*’ * ** •‘^TO * • t S J • * Ww • ‘ • z L * ** 1 4 I I •• ♦ <«Mr. > ** <. r —W - * e r 7 * % 4 * 4= J ♦ T^' asf^- * WiK I ‘-.' 9^ * 9^ MA -gto. ' • 'MV© b£ a ▼ >..- ■ -w s Thornapple Kellogg’s Jenna Robinett hits a double deep to center field during game two of her team’s doubleheader split with visiting West Catholic in Middleville Thursday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) i. ,I IRVING TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS MAY 21, 2024 Meeting called to order at 6:30pm at 3425 Wing Rd. Hast­ ings, Michigan 49058 Present: Sokolowski, Knight, Buehler. Ab­ sent: Bass and Olson. Agenda approved with amend­ ments March Minutes approved as pre­ sented Approved to obtain estimate for IT server, not to exceed $15,000 Approved to pay Thornapple Township Fire Dept Contract $12,471.50 Approved to pay Freeport Fire Assoc township millage $69,717.93 Approved to contract with KCI to process summer tax bills - $1,643.33, with a prepay of $862.00 for postage Approved to pay bills - $1,651.32 Fire reports given and on file in their departments Treasurer’s report presented -available online or in Township Hall Upcoming Meeting date - June 18, 2024 (Board Meeting) Adjourn 6:46pm Full minutes are available at Irvingtownship.org or at 3425 Wing Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058. Prepared by Deputy Clerk. Shelly Lake. Attested to by Supervisor, Jamie Knight. 217941 in the district final at about noon. “Wins are always nice. I will never complain about a win,” Garrett said. “It’s nice to see a new conference rival. They will be in our conference next year looking at their doubleheader scores it looked like they did this a lot. So, I kind of figured they had a strong pitch­ er and a not as strong pitcher. “This (TK) team is so young. I was counting earlier, I think we have eight first-year players, three upperclassmen that are healthy and able to play. It has been a tough year. but the game isn’t moving so fast for the freshmen anymore. They’re starting to get it. This was a good game leading into Saturday I hope.” Empie shut out the Trojans on on three three hits hits in in game game one. one. She She struck didn’t’twalk walk struck out out six six and and didn anyone. anyone. “I don’t think any any of of our our pitchers throw a rise,” Garrett said. “The other coaches and I were talking about that. How do we teach them to lay ofif a rise. Obviously, just talkmg about it isn isn’’tt doins doing it. it. Hopefully, the Hopkins girl doesn’t throw one.” • • • As far as other things on the diamond, Garrett has seen some pretty good strides from her youngsters and is excited that a solid middle school program, run through the TAPRC, A -A ’ bZ f>’ -4* « * -S 9 e I ..,. • -X , .Ok < t I * r * b*nB I ■■! I * WB ‘ S" •«X :5te’ r to ' r 0!® '■ I should really start to feed play­ * . ers to the high school program Junior Kylee Hoebeke pitches for the TK varsity softball team during game two in the near future. The Trojans haven’t had a JV team since of its doubleheader with West Catholic in Middleville Thursday. (Photo by Brett 2021, and Garrett is really Bremer) hoping there are enough girls to revive that next spring. She said the varsity is really feel­ ing that lack of JV experience for the youngsters this season. “[At the start of the season] they were just a step and a play I behind,” Garrett said. “The V & game was moving so fast, they weren’t able to think the play ahead like you need to in order to be successful. But they’re starting to get it now, and it’s A fun to see.” “Any time you have a play­ er like Kylee Hoebeke on your team you’re going to have good days. She has been our ■rA \ \ rock for three years, and I am so excited I get to have her for / / I 1 one more year before she t i heads off to Grand Valley. It is fun as a coaching staff to see them taking those steps and J > 1 ^11 A u !• « < 41 - i -• * J* r I " e R’ • » A —J L I* « « p* «• • • I -- jj - I J. I• V/ * A el I -^.' I • r* V> i-J < .■KT t** V’ s I :J r fa I •T’ F c • • • r 4'* I A 4 11 r-~ • f fSlfsip jiJjiliiE \ 1 j/pfaiJieSii I 4 ’l I 1 1 1 I I I f J 1 4 > iEOsaieri I ‘ I f I « / i ft c I l|«rb! k (|is iJ ,«■ ft i r- iM'id)’! growing.” Garrett said Hoebeke and senior Shelby Robinett have been amazing helping guide the team’s youngsters by step­ ping into leadership roles. Thomapple Kellogg’s Jenna Robinett and Hoebeke teamed up in the circle in game two. Jenna threw the first four innings allowing three runs (two earned) on five hits and two walks. She struck Thornapple Kellogg’s Giovana Daher gets some last minute advice and a high five from teammate Emalyn Cartwright before an at-bat in game two of their doubleheader against visiting West Catholic Thursday in Middleville. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 'HiiiBmsli * out one and earned the win. Hoebeke threw three score­ less innings to close out the day and did most of the defen­ sive work herself. She caught a line drive for out number one in the bottom of the sixth and then scooped up two ground 217881 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on June 10, 2024, at 7:00 o’clock p.ni., at the TK Early Childhood Center 3316 Bender Road, Middleville, Michigan, the Board of Education of Thomapple Kellogg Schools will hold a public hearing to consider the District’s proposed 2024-2025 budget. The Board may not adopt its proposed 2024-2025 budget until after a public hearing. A copy of the proposed 2024-2025 budget, including the proposed property tax millage rate. IS available for public inspection during normal business hours at 10051 Green Lake Road, Middleville, Michigan. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. This notice is given by order of the Board of Education. Brenda Hess Secretary 4 miid^bilu alisliittoff THORNAPPLE KELLOGG SCHOOLS NOTICE OF A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2024-2025 BUDGET « 4 ♦ f. 9 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans couldn’t quite catch up to or lay off of the rise ball from West Catholic pitch­ er Jordan Empie in game one of a non-conference doubleheader in Middleville Thursday. The Trojans spirits rose, and so did their run totals, with Empie out of the circle in game two. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity softball team split a non-conference doubleheader with future conference foe West Catholic. The Falcons took the day’s opener 7-0 before the Trojans earned an 11 -3 victory in game two. Thomapple Kellogg head coach Ashley Garrett said her young team has learned a lot this spring, but how to deal with a pitcher with a good rise ball is not one of those suecesses just yet. She was hoping that doesn t crop up as an issue today, June 1, as the Trojans face Hopkins in the MHSAA Division 2 District Semifinals at Hopkins High School. Game time is set for 10 a.m. The winner of that ballgame will take on Wayland r> -hj-? balls and threw to first for outs to get out of that inning 1-2-3, and then she struck out the side in the seventh. She fin­ ished with five strike outs. A single by the Falcons’ Becca Tuttle, who was 3-for-4 at the plate with a two-run home run in game one, was the only hit against Hoebeke during her stint in game two. The Trojans hammered 14 hits in game two. Hoebeke at the top of the line-up was 3-for-3 with a walk and scored four runs. Robinett followed her in the line-up and finished with three hits, three RBIs and two runs scored. They bo± hit one double. Adelaide Holderman and Kenzie Bouma had two hits apiece for TK. Holderman drove in three runs and scored once. Bouma added a walk, two RBIs and a run scored. C Bossenberger was 2-for-4 with two RBIs for TK. Emalyn Cartwright and Shelby Robinett had one hit apiece. Shelby scored two runs and Cartwright one. The Falcons led game two ?sfe;«,h 3-2 after four innings. TK struck for five runs in the top of the fifth and then four more in the top of the sixth to take control. TK had five singles in both of those big innings. Hoebeke doubled in game one for one of the three TK hits off of Empie. Holderman had a triple and Shelby Robinett a single in that con­ test. Shelby Robinett and Holderman shared the seven innings in the circle allowing just one earned run between them. West Catholic had 11 hits, but was helped to six unearned runs on three TK errors. Shelby struck out six and allowed seven hits in 4 2/3 innings. Holderman didn’t allow an earned run in her 2 1/3 innings striking out four, walking two and allowing four hits. I- liLbj J Bin anilb •f r i’l Vlr. < to. iiEb !i^ * lie ,4** He ’'"•ne l> The TK softball program (and all non-football sports) will be a part of the OK Gold next year along with West Catholic, South Christian, Wayland, Wyoming, Grand Rapids Union and Northview. *• 1 S S3 . I w- �f JlfjiB f _ The Sun and News, Saturday, June 1,2024/Page TK boys golf season ends at tough D2 regional Brett Bremer Sports Editor Shooting an 84 on quick greens at Quail Ridge Golf , Club isn’t a bad day. It is also not quite good enough to earn another day for I the top two Thomapple ! Kellogg golfers. Thomapple Kellogg freshman Parker Dahley and junior Will Nathan both shot 84 at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Regional Tournament I Tuesday. That score put them in a tie for 29th individually in a field of 89 golfers. The top three teams and top X g:? three players not a part of fJ >« those three teams earned spots in the June 7-8 MHSAA L.P. Division 2 State Finals that will be held at Forest Akers < JfA-West Golf Course on the cam­ pus of Michigan State University. t i The top five guys at the V regional all shot 74 or better and were a part of the three state qualifying teams. Grand junior Will Nathan shoots his ball at the green D • , r.. . Rapids Chnstian won the team during the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 regional title with an impres- Regional Tournament at Quail Ridge Golf Club 1 sive 296. South Christian was Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) the regional runner-up with a score of 303 strokes ahead of just like going into playing a for the Trojan team, but didn’t third-place Otsego’s 311. round with my friends.” quite have the senior season he is Unity Christian placed fourth By the time the OK Gold would have liked. Dahley said with a score of 318 in a field of got to its second varsity jam- Parks really did an excellent ’ Dahley job of helping him settle in on a.iM The Thomapple Kellogg had shot his way to the top the varsity early on. , Jboys were 11th overall with a spot. He also led the TK team Plainwell sophomore Drew score of 353. at the Hamilton Invitational at Rayman and Unity Christian Junior Kyle Pratt added a Diamond Springs in between senior Colin Nieuwenhuis 92 for TK and junior Ryan those first two conference both shot 75 to qualify indiSkidmore shot a 93. jamborees. The nerves picked vidually for the state finals at Dahley had a birdie on the back up when he looked at the Tuesday’s regional, finishing 512-yard, par-5 number five, app teams use to keep scores in a tie for sixth overall, part of a 41 on the front nine and saw his name at number Holland Christian freshman for the Trojan leader. one heading into the jambojambo­ Linus VanDenBerg shot a 76 The greens are really fast ree hosted by South Christian to earn the last of the individuhere. My putter has been at Railside Golf Club. There al state qualifying spots from strugglmg all year,” Dahley at the top of the line-up, he the regional. said. “I couldn’t really get it found the number ones he Grand Rapids Christian started today either, but luckily was shooting against certain- junior John Cassiday was the 'te to­ my driver and my irons really ly took things a bit more day’s individual champion te 11) Bit# picked it up for me. I was usu- seriously, but they weren’t with a 70. Otsego junior ally smacking hybrid off the any less welcoming of a var- Spencer Shearer and Shearer tee, gomg like 240, it was sity newcomer. Christian senior Dylan Clark ■fil actually pretty pure. The driv“Now, I am friends with all both shot 73. South Christian er was all right. My pitching the other Wk who ate the senior v.ntng and senior jacK Jack Vining and treshfreshtalm wedge through six iron, I one seeds, D^ey said ... man Hams Hoekwater both couldn’t ask for anything once I got into the groove of it, scored 74. fesiffileso things went Rounding out the top tour four wciii all an right. ngni. ” Koundmg liiiie. Dahley fought through Senior Jordan Parks was for for Grand Grand Rapids Rapids Christian, Christian, We® nerves throughout his fi-esh- TK TK’s’s number number six six at at the the OK OK sophomore sophomore Cooper Cooper Reitsma Reitsma man se^on to be the top scor- Gold Conference Gold Conference shot a 75 and sophomore I Holtaan er for the Trojan team m the Championship to close out the Sawyer O’Grady a 78. and SWj end. He said he had some regular season, but only five South Christian earned its butterflies the first time he saw players compete in the state runner-up finish wi± junior ihiiiett and his name in the varsity line-up, tournament so he didn’t get to Brody Montsma adding a 77 Itbes^-en and then that feeling came compete Tuesday. Parks start­ and junior Landon Lemmen a ;le allo^iD? back the first time he saw his ed the season in the top spot 1^. Ill] name at the top of that line-up .J midway through the season. w a 4/ jJ '4^ si* z> tod 11 His first varsity match this season was the OK Gold Conference jamboree at Quail 1^: enotS' Ridge back in mid April. He USED FMm • nCK VPS • ONE TONS * VANS • SUITS * JEIPS * 4X4$ was in the six spot in the .3 Trojan line-up that day, and the nerves didn’t show. He led luilll’®' the TK team with a 44 playing UOUtf® on the front nine. He said the 2* guys in his group that day. 4^' 4» .Sf Cedar Springs Luke Tabor and Idlsi*’^’ Wayland’s Tristin Elliott, kept things light and fun, which really helped him settle in. f 13 < 1 I I ( I t ■if A. * -a: N.- t • >u * r. • *- rA * •n* a*; H 4«’ T 1 > V J X' s **4 f.' 9 1* > jr A ft . b 4* ♦A '■iT 4. ►* X • < |4 b «• I ’k I -J- A > /■* 4 I i.-. • •<£* rT- T > w 1 2 ^r<> «*.,» A t ♦ *•< aiS’ I? >« ys r-C’ r. r Ar> N 4 4 t .r* .• ♦ : •-• I • f. **< •* « Sf* I 1 ► ‘iR 9 •V * •\ I * V’ R A’ I ** V X* I u ll •^jr I > i . -< •J- >■ s. * “4 «t -^e ' h J . .'.-i I •sxr. r* » < L s < r % w k •• • V W J b I• I I* 5\ •• T I* I » •I c r A s • /*. T b *7 ^• K K it. • n»r.- \ .'fl j .w» I •Z'.’ r:^:9K^7 H w 2. 9 ^•u >a A r Il * I • ♦ *\l ? ”5 • r c 19 s «i»»S laC4a.'U JIV g •l .7^ % * * .X f I <!.• -^.1 : 1) 9 • A. >k ,ST-o5*' .f A J * a I* J /r r. •*' ?4 I /- .ia i I* * !■» '.•ML * » AM - ■> .■ r M I TK freshman Parker Dahley fires a shot from the fairway towards the green on number three Tuesday at Quail Ridge Golf Club durino the MH^aa i nvuor Peninsula Division 2 Regional Tournament. (Photo by Brett Bremer) -i — I ? * i < I I 4 3 t J ,j t I 1 r * I' T 1 . 'k 'I r I,' « 4 J ....... ■ • J, I 1 <• : .?L< b'-<. k < • f w ■^ar > 4 - R **** < 1 i *• » f- { *• jir . I* ••.y fl I?v' 1 *J'V wa 1 ?♦ * .V u; Thornapple Kellogg junior Ryan Skidmore watches his ball fly over the fairway on number three during the MHSAA' Lower Peninsula Division 2 Regiona'i Tournament at Quail Ridge Golf Club Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Behind the top four teams, Holland Christian was fifth with a score of 329 ahead of Plainwell 331, Zeeland West 342, Hamilton 343, Wayland 347, Holland 348, Thomapple Kellogg 353 Allegan 354 Hastings 355* ’ West Michigan Aviation Academy 31Q, Portland 376, Zeeland East 392 and Ionia 392. VILLAGE OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN 217943 PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 4 ■ ri I r.:* LIGHT TRUCK PARTS f .s J FUU SERVICE & YDO PULL IT 269-381-2300 ' a. •if «. 'a** ’if » ? .< V 't USED TIRES USED PARTS ■ I was»„e„„. going into it,” Dahley said. “Going Osif LAKE St KALAMAZUU The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. >5’ Sf I T PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on June 10, 2024 at 7:00 PM, the Village Council of the Village of Caledonia will hold a public hearing at the Caledonia Village Hall, 250 S Maple St, Caledonia, Michigan, to hear and consider comments regarding the proposed Village budget for the July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025 fiscal year. A copy of the budget is available for public inspection at the Caledonia Village Offices during Village business hours. e. t This notice is given pursuant to Act 43 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1963 (Second Extra Session), as amended. Dated; June 1,2024 Lisa Segard Interim Village Manager / Clerk • I into today [at regionals], it was / V �Pag© 14ZThe Sun and News, Saturday, June 1,2024 216055 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN Nona OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBUC HEARING EVANS LANE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 49 THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: 10: PLEASE TAKE NOnCE that, the Township Board of Yankee Springs Township, on the basis of petitions submitted and on the Board's own motion as authorized by PA 188 of 1954 as amended, proposes to undertake a road improvement project (including paving and related improvements) on Evans Lane in Yankee Springs Township as more particularly described below and to create a special assessment district for the recovery of the costs thereof by special assessment against the properties benefited. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the special assessment district within which the foregoing improvements are proposed to be made and within which the costs thereof are to be specially assessed includes all parcels with frontage on Evans Lane, including the following tax parcels. I Caledonia lacrosse guys fall in regional semi’s The Fighting Scots suf­ fered just six defeats all spring, but two came at the hands of the Mattawan guys. Mattawan, ranked tenth in the state’s Division 2 power rankings, ended the Fighting Scot varsity boys’ lacrosse season with a 17-10 win over the Caledonia team in the MHSAA Division 2 Regional Semifinals in Byron Center Friday, May 24. It was an exciting evening in Byron Center as the host Bulldogs took a 13-12 over­ time win over Lowell in the regional’s other semifinal match. The Bulldogs, ranked sev­ enth in the state in D2, went on to outscore the Mattawan Wildcats 12-6 in the regional final in Byron Center Wednesday. Caledonia ends the season with a 13-6 overall record. I EVANS LANE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 49 - PROPOSED DISTRICT: The properties indicated by parcel numbers below and on the attached map: I J I •I;5r;BiT;WiiWrTi rtliSTAtlBBtPZBiTi: I I I riT:BrdriT:riViTtT:7«Tii 1 iRBraiWiiEffiTi^ rilzSraiWiiRBiIr] •T:Brdr«T:fiBiIMriTi iT:Br:IiT:T<7tTiIB«Ti1 •T:Br:ffiT:T«7iTM«Ti] PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has received plans showing the proposed road paving project and associated activities, together with an estimate of the cost of the project in the amount of $80,155. The proposed road improvement will consist of milling out all asphalt on approximately 22,778 st of road. Fine grade and compact gravel. Remove and replace culvert. Install approximately 18 tons of crushed concrete to raise the low portion of the road. Install 1.5" of base course asphalt compacted. Install 1.5” of 5E1 surface course asphalt compacted. The proposed road improvernent includes widening (to a width of 14’) the south portion of the road (approximately 1,086 lineal feet) terminating at Cobb Lake Road and adding 4’ to the north section of the turnaround on parcel 08-16-060-017-00. The cost of the project is proposed to be raised by special assessment on parcels in the proposed district. The Yankee Springs Township Board has passed a resolution tentatively declaring its intention to undertake such project and to create the afore-described special assessment district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has placed the project plans and costs estimate on file with the Township Clerk and said plans, cost estimates and special assessment district may be examined at the Township Clerk's office from the date of this Notice to the date of the public hearing and may further be examined at such public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board proposes to make a per-parcel special assessment each year for a period of three years (2024-2026 inclusive) of approximately $1,113.26 per year. Additionally, the Township Board reserves the right to levy a lesser assessment in any year that there are more funds in the special assessment district fund than the amount needed. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a public hearing on the plans, district, and cost estimates will be held at Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml, on June 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. At the hearing, the Board will consider any written objections and comments to any of the foregoing matters which are filed with the Township Clerk at or before the hearing, and any objections or comments raised at the hearing; and at the hearing (or any adjournment of the hearing which may be made without further notice), the township board may revise, correct, amend or change the plans, cost estimates or special assessment district. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if written objections to the project are filed with the Township Board at or before the hearing, signed by the record owners of land constituting more than 20% of the total frontage on the road, the township board may not proceed unless petitions in support of the project, signed by record owners of more than 50% of the total frontage on the road proposed for improvement and for inclusion in the special assessment district, are filed with the township. Written comments or objections may be filed with the clerk at the address set out below. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest at the public hearing is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the special assessment roll is confirmed. An owner or party in Interest, or his or her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or shall be permitted to file at or before the hearing his or her appearance or protest by letter and his or her personal appearance shall not be required. All interested persons are invited to be present in person or by representative and to express their views at the public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if the township board determines to proceed with the special assessment, the board will cause a special assessment roll to be prepared and another hearing will be held, after notice to record owners of property proposed to be specially assessed, to hear public comments concerning the proposed special assessment. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (7) days' notice to the Township Clerk at the address below. Mike Cunningham, Clerk Yankee Springs Township 284. N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333 (269) 795-9091 mikec@vankeespringstwp.org 4 I* X' se :• * 1 * * fl. •I 4 4 10*000-010-00 I 1^041640^ 'i -A 1^000-02340 10-00041440 ( < « 10*000*414*00 j I 10M0^>OO ' a 18.000^1^00 COBB « 10400413*00 iMeo-ou-oo o LAKE « . 10400411*00 A t * 1 1. * ’ iai ’ .1 « 104004^^ f r i0*oeo*ofl8.o(>||| - tMewowlU Uj* i0>0e<MK»oo UL I A '7 *"5 10<I0O*0O»W I » 1 194aMI044Q 1l& k -r sgr: I 4 •'p. « 10-O1OO2546 I A »f. f c. 5f1&2i&4 Evans Lane Improvement Special Assessment District BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN Yankee Springs Township e A L mf *i<armMKn Sv 0CW e I ligvr (mbiM aw av a wwy ad e «i to to atoit wto Tto tomM* a Bar Coito © dtofeiM ad hfltoW to e vtoBd omtoto d tow M mW v »• Mibw • taRI—M «l ■« « <■ Thornapple Kellogg ladies sixth at MITCA Team Finals Brett Bremer Sports Editor State track and field stars are a big part of the MITCA Team State Finals each spring. Teams like Thomapple Kellogg need girls like Brooklyn Harmon and Kenady Smith to perform well to pile up points, and they did Friday in the MITCA Division 2 Team State Meet hosted by Berrien Springs. Harmon, a junior, won the 100-meter hurdles in 15.45 seconds and set her personal record time at 46.33 in win­ ning the 300-meter low hur­ dles. Smith won the high jump by getting over the bar at 5 feet 2 inches. Teams need other success too though, and the Trojans got quite a few of those on their way to sixth-place finish in the meet where teams can enter up to three participants in each individual event and everyone who finishes scores for their team. Sophomore Kara Smith placed 29th overall in the long jump for the Trojans with a mark of 14-.05. She was 3.75 inches better than her previous PR this season - a boost in five points in the end compared to if she had only matched her previous best. Harper Creek and Parma Western went 1-2 in the boys’ standings, with the Beavers scoring a 1590-1588 win. Harper Creek clinched the win in the last race of the day with the 4x400-meter relay team of Tre ’ Quon Cotton, Joe Cummins, Dylan Eversole and Ethan Tabiadon placing fourth with a time of 3:29.17 that had them 15 hundredths of a sec­ ond ahead of the Parma Western foursome in fifth place. There is a differoice of six points from one place to the next in the four relays at the Team State Meet. The Frankenmuth ladies ✓ had more of a cushion in the end outscoring Cadillac 1582.5-1419 at the top of their standings. Shepherd was third in the girls’ meet with 1341 points ahead of Stevensville Lakeshore 1318.5, Chelsea 1288, Thomapple Kellogg 1225.5, Harper Creek 1192.5, Unity Christian 1171, Spring Lake 1108 and Freeland 1089 in the top ten. A couple of the most impressive PRs for the TK ladies on the day came on the track. Freshman Ellie Harmon cut more time off her 400meter dash to place fourth in 1:01.15. Junior distance run­ ner Ava Crews ran her fastest 3200-meter race yet to place second in 11:31.29. All three TK ladies in the 800-meter run improved their PR. Senior Kendra Coe was 18th in 2:30.43, sophomore Madison Kietzman 33rd in 2:40.13 and freshman Isla Tillema 34th in 2:40.58. Ellie Harmon was also fourth in that long jump with Smith. She flew 16-4.25. Junior teammate Emma Dykhouse placed eighth at 15-7. Other top ten finishes for the TK ladies at the meet included Dykhouse ninth in the shot put, sophomore Mia Hilton fourth in the 300 hur­ dles, senior Joselyn DeBoer tenth ' in.fc. the 300 hurdles and Crews fourth in the 1600meter run. Others scoring for the TK team at the meet were Sydney Martin, Mali Holland, Eva Corson, Sophia Marcukaitis, Payton Gater, Alaina McCrumb, Isla Tillema, Lilly McKeown, Elizabeth McKeown, Mollie Moore and Raylee Preston. The top relay finish for the TK ladies came at the end of the meet with the team of Coe, Hilton, Ellie Harmon and Brooklyn Harmon placing fifth in 4:13.60. Hamilton was third in the boys’ standings Friday with 1507.5 points ahead of Frankenmuth 1334.5, Berrien Springs 1236m Wayland 1183, DeWitt 1176, Stevensville Lakeshore 1098, Allendale 1067 and Charlotte 1019.5 in the top ten. The Thomapple Kellogg MHSAA state qualifiers, of which there are many, will be 3t Hamilton High School Saturday, June 1, for the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Track and Field Finals. •1 >5 iki wii 1( r jalil jiW J I I isilkupK 1 i I I I f J I I I 4 n r i II li hb.. C*| Sh I s �rrows end Scot softball season in extra innings I N’s . r L •9 ♦ I < \r • • \ A 9 J I ■ Ij fi I *1 I ■* ■! • t R* •v r. I 4** urs r 23 r «iW.* >s. MM I -V p a •• Y 1 \ 1 a 9 h fa I *r 4 ■ c I * «• * I ; ?.*• • *.« S^ 1 1 5>< I' < 1 ;^5‘ ( •*<( H sb MS* **><|5 '? an RBI triple into right field to put her team in front 1 -0 in the top of the second inning of its MHSAA Division 1 Pre-Distnct bailgame at Lowell Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) i 4 A** I *► «> k If • 1 •<* •-M I > ♦ • i f* • bl Jaz Dana pitches for the Caledonia varsity softball team during its MHSAA Division 1 Pre-District ball™'OWS ar ooweil nign school game against the Red Arrows at Lowell High School (Pl’oto ‘>y Brett Bremer) with a bunt single, went to second on a sacrifice bunt by teammate Ruby German, and then got held un at third a, 4 s I Lillie knXra sin- 5 4 G a ' Hi *•<(»**. •Hft. ‘5 ^^Isi ba Ss h fcn *1. '®Bi b K (fad 0^1 ’ top tn bib fa ladies x fa n t [wt, soptaMt Ml Mil in Ub' n ee « 8’® to put two on Brett Bremer team a 5-4 win over the with one out. Lillie stole secSports Editor Fighting Scots in their ond and then McCIymont A half inning '""’"8 ended with pre-district bailgame and a battled back from down 0-2 teeth and hands clenched spot in Saturday’s MHSAA against Caledonia pitcher Jaz hoping for one more hit at Division 1 District Dana by fouling off a couple least ten times before it was Tournament in Wyoming. pitches before knocking a the Red Arrows that finally Both teams made it through 2-2 pitch through the left got that one more hit. four and a half excellent side of the infield. Lowell’s Jordyn innmgs Dana was outstanding in innings or of sottball softball tied 1-1, McCIymont snuck a ground and then had the kind of half the circle for the Scots. She ball just out of the reach of inning defensively they’d gave up three earned runs on Caledonia shortstop rather have in early April than ten hits and one walk in 8 1/3 Mackenzie Devries to score late May. When the dust set­ innings. She struck out five. teammate Lexi Martin from tled, the two teams were tied Her counterpart, Lillie, third base with one out in the at 4-4 through four and a half allowed two earned runs on 12 bottom of the ninth inning innings and it was back to the hits and one walk. She struck Tuesday at Lowell High stellar softball. out six in her nine innings in School. The run gave the Martin opened the bottom the circle for Lowell. Red Arrow varsity softball of the ninth for the Arrows Catcher Maha Burke had a big day at the plate for Caledonia. She was 4-of-5. Keira Sundstrom was 3-of-4 with a walk. Sophia Gauthier I was 2-for-4 with an RBI. Dana, Devries and Kala <•« Bisterfeldt had one hit each. Devries tripled into right center field to bring home u Hudsyn Tanner, who was in as the courtesy runner for Burke time and again, with two out in the top of the sec­ ond inning. The Scots held that 1-0 lead w ’ 4 .C B feeljii Mr < thejWMBi 1 . Mnbtt I scoriqg fir Ik H [mjetwidp Jal HoW 61 ofJiaJtal® Gato * libfcl* EliaW J k* — 1* ■ ■■m H >«IIRR R s » 4 I -3 I * .< •* - •X. n*- 4 4 M it*’’*. 4 — .' A r • r V 4 > r 'I- I •■^wirny « -.we’ I • r f b 4 >1 Sr2l 1l % * yf; • K ♦ >- X ! / • .V •V K s -’Ll' V 9t7Xi «U I .*0^- r ’5?i& I riT .«r,. f & -V- “ . ■7 V- V *» *>• 1 Lj*’ 4 4 f I • r* Ar fe >r c V X r ‘« ■ I r F. P <L-6 ■ •« c • s * ♦ 1\ ' fa - Tt- — J rR»e 01^ >« * 4. s Jf— x! * .'J'; * i V » A >*A Caledonia’s Hudsyn Tanner takes off for third in the top of the fourth inning as ® ground ball gets by diving Lowell shortstop Hannah Faylor during their MHSAA Division 1 Pre-District game in Lowell. (Photo by Brett Bremer) until Lowell’s Claire Mitchell drilled a home run over ±e left Centerfield fence leading off the bottom of the fourth. Lowell struck for three runs in the bottom of the fifth, and the Scots answered with three in the top of the sixth. A leadoff double by Burke started the Scots’ rally there. Gauthier singled her home. Gauthier eventually scored from third on a ground out by Devries. Dana reached base on an error in the inning and scored when a pop up by Bisterfeldt needlessly fell to the grass behind second base between the Red Arrow mid­ dle infielders. Both teams had a runner to second in the eighth, but couldn’t get her around. Caledonia had two on with one out in the top of the ninth, but the Lillie got her team out of the jam. Lillie and Hannah Faylor had two hits each for the Red Arrows. Lowell will face the host Wolves in the district semifi­ nals in Wyoming Saturday, June 1, at 11:30 a.m. Byron Center and East Kentwood meet in the first district semi­ final of the day in Wyoming. The Bulldogs took a 15-0 win over Forest Hills Central in their pre-district bailgame this week. i;i 4 >« * I I U zx’?.-’ ueJilitfflJ'^ •e I* I* « (JeieaDioff^ J H2/SIX n •J ? ^<1 ? o 1 < r X A >0 4? Q J ^ii 8 ®M prt - -"uU tx « ■ S-M - ’ * ♦? I alieail R llUJ * T-l— IT. V a < • •*»WI * *p Caledonia right fielder Keira Sundstrom makes a running catch in right field during her team’s MHSAA Division 1 Pre-District game against the Red Arrows in Lowell Tuesday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) *•’1: COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES pjoiniiJ^ The minutes of the May 14, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on May 28, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villaQeofmiddleville.org. Position Available Department of Public Works Laborer Village of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan Position requires an en±usiastic person capable of following detailed directions after training. Position days / hours are flexible 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Position will be responsible for taking direction from the DPW Foreman to assist in these tasks but not limited to: Picking up leaf bags & brush on the curb, landscape maintenance & snow management, watering flower beds and trees, setting up and taking down materids as needed for events. Capable of carrying up to 50 pounds on a daily basis. Any other related duties as assigned. Be willing to work weekend hours for special occasions with advance planning & interested in permanent work. Such work would be on a half-time basis. Interested parties should submit an application found here: https://www.villageofcaledonia.org/ document/application-for-employment/ to the Village by email vilofcal@villageofcaledonia.org, USPS or in person to 250 S Maple St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316. By June 5,2024. The Village of Caledonia is in immediate need of a Village Manager. This is a Full-Time, benefitted position. Interested parties should complete the application, provide a cover letter, resume, salary requirements to the Village email vilofcal(5) by villageofcaledonia.org. USPS or in person to 250 S Maple St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316. More information about the position and how to apply can be obtained at https://www. villageofcaledonia.org/news/ 21764S * 217593 *4 t t < - Mm . �• • ** * I Page 16/The Sun and News, Saturday, June 1,2024 nention readers! advertisers: Watch ter ear new “look" and size! « I H 4 New design '^ESUN AND NEWS New ad sizes ?®n’^?r»ngTh e Fallen New deadiines front page advertising Delivered by U.S. Postal Service I I > I t ^■^7wxT.28h 10 4 2024 ) I J b I I r > ■< A T >7 I wwwsunandnp **5.com ILet‘ us “ ® "Ot Jwaet those save *heir lives’ Johnny Cownbuiiho Writer M»y 30 “ Decoratio^a^m « ‘*’6 end^f . t r a ▼ sr A 1 r 1 ^1__________ War until 1979 Day hi: .^’’'^“’<’"^1 ybeen observed L"Monday in niis federal holiday nonors U.S soldiers who K •* I i ^ohn Twist 'vaned over of _ deadlines 1 and salutes, and and stars Smarties and 'Taps' '®ars, Memorial Day 2024 observes Mam Street and ceremont aTiu ^'°og pQrade alona Cemetery. Prayers ^opeJ a 9 PRESS releases NCBMEwI I « “call to dirty w ^^^otors tears Middleville observes salutes and Taps' ° annual parade along ^24 wiih mCT®®' Street. **’*’*•■ SrtmrtiBd I / ^K. Hiose P®“'ons,® ’‘' at *“*6 seemed lo^h c time to their chiS^ » rather keep^^/^^line but I .» Ae militajy I r: as a way. to serve, of life. *» “ough to keep 5pm I OAve THem PY: I ,* ’> J r I «J!?o r. 5pm 1 i ^em$£M£Nr I I CLASSIEIEQ^^ I ^■68wx 1.751, J Wednesday prior to publication I ’ r.* •c As announced earlier this month. The Sun and News and six other J-Ad 4 f ► “fve known the owners for several years and have the greatest respect for their dedication and knowledge of the industry,” Jacobs said. “As As II investigated potential buyers, it came down to only one that understood the importance of keeping as many employees as possible, putting out great products and having the financial ability to continue for years to come.” The change in delivery method dictates changes in deadlines for announcements, press releases and classified and display advertising. (See box for new Sun and News deadlines.) As the transition of ownership from J-Ad to View Newspaper Group progresses, changes in the look, delivery method and deadlines for the papers will take place. » r• • The content for each J-Ad paper will maintain its focus on local matters. Current editors, sports reporters and writers will remain bn the team. Our direction to them is *Keep doing what you’ve been doing,’ ” Smith said. I b- .1 the J-Ad group will be delivered to households by U.S. Mail starting the week of June 10. The papers will also continue to be available for free at select locations in each circulation area. newspapers have been sold to View Newspaper Group. J-Ad owner and publisher Fred Jacobs sought out the Lapeer-based independent publisher of 14 other community papers to ensure the continuation of the publications his family built over nearly eight decades of dedication to serving local readers and advertisers. f I * Sm V 5pm I ■ w “View Newspaper Group has grown from a single community newspaper started in Lapeer 21 years ago to now a group of 21 papers covering 13 Michigan counties with weekly print edition circulation of 335,000,” Smith said. That growth has come through serving the needs of readers and advertisers, and commitment to communities we serve We look forward to continuing what Fred Jacobs and his family including working with his dedicated and hardworking Starting next week, the J-Ad papers will feature R new design. The following week, the free newspapers will be delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. <€ We’re excited to debut a new look for the J-Ad papers,” said View Group Publisher Wes Smith. We are also pleased to announce the free papers in — NEW ADVERTISING SIZES 4.. k. 4 FULL Page (#2) I TABLOID (10.5x11) 1/2 Page-H 1/2 Page-V (#3) 1/2 Page (Square) (#4) 1/4 Page-V 1/4 Page-H (Banner) (#5) t' 1 1/8 Page-H (#6) 1/8 Page-V (#7) 1/16 Page * (#8) t s* 9.5wx9.75h 75h 7.0625W X 7.25h 4.625W X 4.75h 9.5w X 2.25h 4.625W X 2.25h 2.1875wx4.75h 2.1875wx2.25h ! I J I % * ' t I 4 ' ..i - ->73 t < .J-t* •J >. 1 k ■* __ I , f ' A • ' 1 1' 1 • 4 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-06-08.pdf f85d001c0e458862d9f1def2892759d3 PDF Text Text I* -* -•* * J I J I* - •• . . 4 ’ r.* 1 > «• * b J". 4 d I .3 ^1 ** I* In gg ► ♦♦. mB ■> . . J^. Ait* SPORTS the SUN AND NEWS FEDEWA ADDS TO PR TO WIN SHOT PUT MEDAL AT FINALS NO. 10 ». H sr Ti 1^* }* V Ji6 V. r "^^ Vf »V SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 2024 £. PAGE 13 ■^j ____________ I >T • “* I K I I • * * ■w .. •fc, .o "^fcs I IB •— L 1 u* I •I L 1 , J % V i .1 I 1 li i* & v f B k » •TV *’ —» 4 E A r » A'* i -t. * j •i*.- iV I JI';' i £ n n r * •>.' «( ii X .-■k. R ; S • / V T iLi « /• v) \ Cf f A > . » • « *r L r R > V. J / & I i I, « 3 *► ii. Ay '• 1 » * r J « ;r «b !» •i 7 4*^ •i i . In I I m * l>' r f s IN A <1 * * I t 4 _ i ■ia****' rs • t i »: t. >*' f. <* 1 -;k 4*- I' *« I I "df I iTfc;.. I ^r*-’ « V k 1 •• -4 t - I H Bp z *w .* •• iji * • .^■J r I p <1^ 1 w r >* I J t ? I w i V -'I X I 1 ■V i i * * > 1 With a deadline to pass a budget for the 2024-25 fis­ cal year fast approaching, Caledonia Community Schools officials have proposed more than $2.62 million in net spending cuts in an attempt to narrow the projected deficit for the new fiscal year. Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer outlined the pro­ posed reductions at a school board workshop Tuesday night. The district has pro­ jected a shortfall of more than $4.75 million if no cuts are made to the 2024-25 budget that goes into effect July 1. After consulting with district central office administraSee BUDGET CUTS on 3 « 4 A « \ .St #?*• ’ K. I S' 1 I 1*- ■ T r** *> z '•'cbJT- f K >V ij 1 4 r I . >K * « « •'~* ■ . -«• .<P^ f « 1^ * j , .*r ‘•-«-* J J J, I* Hi 1^ f S’ -W. C*' r:» B i «r <p *• 1• X k1 .n * » 4 I — ar. •n. J X I r —*l i 1 f 11*5 *V *-•4* ♦ .* w-'*T*r w. 5' » "f-; Sx 1, ^1 f s I It •y I il 4 .4 I I Staff Writer I S T Cal schools considering $2.6 million in budget cuts 1 * I I . ii ■ * u. • ■L.^s •w A wi^ / V. 7 GREG CHANDLER A r r ✓ t 4 A A <b. .It^> 4» • . - *- 1 I Vietnam War vet, ArtPrize finalist named Caledonia Hometown Hero A decorated Vietnam War veteran from Caledonia Township who was a finalist in last year’s ArtPrize competition in Grand Rapids has been named Caledonia’s Hometown Hero for this year. John Brummel, who has lived in the township for more than 50 years, was named the recipient of the honor at Wednesday night’s Township Board meeting. He will participate in Caledonia’s annual Independence Day parade on Saturday, June 29. The Hometown Hero honor is present­ ed annually to a Caledonia resident who demonstrates “exceptional, unusual and distinguished service to Caledonia, dem­ onstrated concern for neighbors and com­ munity (and) contributions to shaping our community and future.” The award has been presented since 2002. “I think it’s a good and fitting stoiy of (someone) we want to recognize and shine a light on,” Township Supervisor Biyan Harrison said in recognizing Brummel for the honor. Brummel, who will turn 76 on July 7, grew up in the Grand Rapids area and graduated from Union High School in 1966. In March 1968, at the height of the Vietnam War, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and sent to that southeast See HOMETOWN HERO on 8 :r;' 1 ’*• .iiR •' www.sunandnews.com fl.* GREG CHANDLER I •l • -f % . J * R .Mt'- I t • s Your Hometown Newspaper Serving Middleville and Caledonia Areas •^**l5 u* •* 1 i -A . I '■W 4 t «»• A ' I * •. :\i /:pj b\ •b *** t .|SiWfc.>-.-^’ s I _ ’ « •’*<. A > St. * • 'I > •4w. 3 J* Cr-' JT iM.* > 11 r. a.. K *t I -\ s 1^^ A r » 0 tb i.,' •r*'’ 4« * > • r* JS > b • 4*> « —** Tt bF I *S■* * >• IS ■ » « F* a »»* r > rV. x>^ »■ ■> •Af' i I fs / B V .cx^ “»ey 3 b «* .1 •* ■* -#• « r^K* » «f*} b* 4 I I (Right) John Brummel, a decorated Vietnam War veteran from Caledonia Township, was named Hometown Hero for this year. (Left) This was John Brummel’s entry into ArtPrize called “The Heart of the Nation.” (Photos provided) I Caledonia Community Schools Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer speaks during Tuesday night’s board meeting, where the board proposed $2.6 mil­ lion in budget cuts. �i 2 Saturday, June 8, 2024 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Caledonia Twp. board approves Kraft Avenue line to connect to GR water system GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer A two-mile long trunkline along Kraft Avenue that will connect Caledonia Township to the city of Grand Rapids water system will move forward after the town­ ship board approved the project Wednesday night. The board voted 5-0 to move ahead with engineering and construction of the trunkline, which will run along Kraft from 76th Street to 92nd Street. The project, which is tentatively scheduled to begin in the spring of next year, has an estimated cost of $4 million, including engineering. It’s the next phase in the process of connecting the township to the Grand Rapids water system, Township Manager Alison Nugent said. “This project has moved a lot quicker than I think anybody antici pated,” Nugent said. “Grand Rapids brought it up to us. We thought we were still a few years out, but it’s coming pretty fast.” The first part of the connection process is the construction of a pump station off of 60th Street just outside the Kentwood city limits, which is served by the Grand Rapids water system. The pump station is being bid out currently, with construction expected to begin in late fall and be done next year, Nugent said. “We’re basically creating our own lift station,” Nugent said after the rneeting. “Once we have a pump sta­ tion in place, we can look into putting (in) the trunkline, which is a direct w water line that would go down Kraft and connect to our water towers.” Installing the line will allow the township to store water that is com­ ing in from Grand Rapids in its storage tanks, which will help in the event of high usage events, Nugent said. The township has already received a $160,000 grant through Michigan’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund that will cover half of the engi­ neering costs for the project. The township is also seeking a federal grant toward construction costs, an effort that has the backing of U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Midland. The remainder of the project cost will be paid for out of the township water system, Nugent said. In addition to the water main that will be built along Kraft, there will be a need to construct another water main under M-6 as part of connecting to the Grand Rapids system, Nugent said. Nugent said that there are no major issues with the existing township water system. “Our water is perfectly safe,” she said. “It’s just very hard. We have a lot of issues with people softening their water, so when it comes back into the system, it does a lot of dam age to our system. The water from Grand Rapids is considered a better water source because it ’ s surface water. It doesn’t have a hardness. We get a lot of complaints from residents saying they’re having to switch out their appliances (because of the hard­ ness of the water).” Cheers to 3 VearsJ lane 15th, 12-8nm v: I t H M*. tJ Hours: 12pm-8pm Tues.-Sat. • 12pm-4pm Sun. I «Wr<K»v * $3 Hot dogs & Chips $3 Drink Specials Music from “ The Blind Squirrels S-Spm 9175 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia 616.710.0796 See for all event details! < y. < 4^ f , 1 I “J ?, H ] !j i I 1 i - 5-^ »«■<^' • ♦ 1 ni < . » ' 111 Hl J? * 4 y. I 4 i 1H1 I I < ? 1 j ff " I r ;i * I <^1. >< Ji f 1 ) L a I i j . 1 r A s A n* i i i .A' « i 1 I ,. J r V T J u Ff J > 1 WBHb * r r 1^ -4 K •w t I IT * F J I *u’ W iI \1 kv —B ■■■B -4- “r« . << ? ■ k > ■ h <M I * 55=5S2===i. 55^5S55^ i iI < I * -s# I. yL nI t X •^s VBiiv * V* < 9 r*: J K I.- r .1* n > I *A i’ll ■1*1*4 * • •-» V 9 k 9 «w »• X/ •V ““k* ;v'rM s V « SOfi-' •'• r*W ■ f t J lA A i 4 k* 14 » a r; f <• '* V* .A r: I a feLif t . J V • i •IA_ I .•**H k .J t ‘ F 01 * .■ •>< .. '-'IF- << A 'a-.9^ E •l iS^ *IE I I •* “3 ?< J.' 9^ t ■X X— - « A :<’F >w>w r** n I s *" ▼ ' ^■•bJ 4 * 9^^' 1 •s > , M 1 .> f ?/ A' ' * i4 a 4 < The Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce distributed scholarships to eight Caledonia seniors this year. (Photo provided) Caledonia Chamber looking for sponsors, donations for annual golf outing On July 26, the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce will host its 14th Annual “Tee Up Fore Scholarships” golf outing. The event supports college scholarships awarded each year to deserving students and will take place at Saskatoon Golf Club. Over the past 12 years, the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce has assisted more than two dozen area students with scholarships for higher education. This year, the Chamber has distrib uted scholarships to eight seniors; Grace Bryant, Alyssa Burch, Alexa Pearson, Addison Rapa, Brenden Van Gessel, Olivia Seif, Dana Langdon and Wyatt Vliestra, The Chamber is continuing this annual effort but is looking to area residents and businesses for help in the form of sponsorships or dona­ tions. The Chamber is soliciting raffle items and door prizes for the event. For more information on spon­ sorship or donation opportunities, or to register to play, visit the Chamber’s golf outing website at caledoniachamber.com or call Shana Spinney at 616-690-2719. ) �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS 3 Saturday, June 8, 2024 i A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHERS f Dear Reader, You may have noticed something different about today’s edition of the Sun and News. In fact, we’re pretty sure you did notice. This week we unveil a new size and design for the J-Ad family of community newspapers. Our goal in doing so is to make the papers more reader-friendly with smaller page size, redesigned layouts with clear and consistent typography and graphics, and enhanced use of color. The new design rolls out as part of the transition of ownership of the Sun and News and the other J-Ad papers from the Jacobs family to View Newspaper Group. With the acquisition of the J-Ad papers. View Newspaper Group now includes 21 community news papers serving readers and advertis«V9 BUDGET CUTS * > .A ■ •w t 1 ^4 « Fred Jacobs J-Ad Graphics Owner/Publisher •’V Wes Smith View Newspaper Group Publisher ers in 13 Michigan counties from Huron County at the tip of the Thumb to Barry, Kent, Calhoun and Montcalm counties on the west side of the state. The news, information and high school sports coverage of the Sun and News and its sister papers will remain unchanged as View Newspaper Group’s commitment to the local news and the communities we serve is right in line with what the Jacobs family has delivered to readers and advertisers for nearly eight decades. A note on distribution: This is the final week our free papers will be home-delivered by private car­ rier service. Starting next week our papers will be delivered to residen­ tial mailboxes by the U.S. Postal Service. Our free papers will also continue to be available at select locations in each circulation area. Please call us at 269-945-9554 if you have questions regarding home delivery. Thank you for reading the Sun and News. Fred Jacobs, &wner/Publisher J-Ad Graphics - iVes Smith, Group Publisher — View Newspaper Group of $74,604,822. The district is pro­ rather than being overly optimistic jected to end the current fiscal year Continued from Page 1 and be surprised to the bad and have June 30 with a surplus of slightly to make cuts. That’s not a place to tion as well as building principals, more than $1 million, boosting its be,” Weeldreyer said. Weeldreyer proposed a budget that general fund reserves to more than District officials also considered cuts the equivalent of 27 full-time $11.4 million, representing 16.1 per­ cuts in other areas, but did not ulti­ positions, some of which had been cent of the district’s expenditures. mately recommend them to the board, funded through the Elementary and The board has a stated policy of such as cutting nursing services, cut­ Secondary School Emergency Relief maintaining a ting technology (ESSER) Fund, a program that general fund bal­ staff and eliminat­ UWe try to budget pumped federal dollars into local ance of at least 13 ing sports with low conservatively, so school districts in response to the percent, and doing participation rates. COVID-19 pandemic. The ESSER so would require that we are surprised While the dis­ funding will expire this fall. the district to cut trict is planning to the good, rather The vast majority of the cuts are at least $2.7 mil­ to cut positions, it than being overly expected to be absorbed by attrition lion in spending has proposed add­ and should result in very few layoffs, optimistic and be ing several new out of the new Weeldreyer said. budget. With the positions, such as surprised to the bad In addition to the staffing cuts, proposed cuts, a full-time para ­ and have to make reductions are also being recommend­ the district came professional at the cuts. That’s not a Early Childhood ed in athletics, such as cutting an ath­ within $74,000 of letic assistant stipend and reduction that $2.7 million Center, a physical place to be. of a contract with Max Effort Fitness. target, Weeldreyer education paraDirk Weeldreyer The transportation department would said. pro at the high Superintendent cut one bus run, a high school lunch The district has school, a halfaide would have her salary paid for projected a revenue increase of 2 time resource room staff member at out of the food service fund instead percent for the new fiscal year, but Caledonia Elementary School and of the general fund and new server the final amount isn’t expected to a half-time special education social purchases in technology would be be known until the state Legislature workers, Weeldreyer said. paid for out of grants instead of the approves its budget, which isn’t The board is scheduled to adopt the general fund, Weeldreyer said. expected until fall. The district also new budget when it has its next regu­ Earlier this spring, CCS Finance has projected no change in enrollment lar meeting on June 17. The board Director Sara DeVries proposed a for the new school year. could schedule another workshop 2024-25 budget that projected reve “We try to budget conservatively, prior that to further discuss proposed nues of $69,853,246 and expenditures so that we are surprised to the good. spending cuts. Hl*** —* X- 1 i * W J < i'-ii 4 it ’ / •« ' K wHk***** Digging In J Local PFCU Credit Union branch manager Eric King, center, digs into the dirt at a groundbreaking ceremony for the new PFCU branch in Caledonia Township Tuesday morning. At left is Fawn Morris, vice president of branch operations for PFCU, while at right is PFCU chief executive officer Michele Makley. PFCU has operated a branch in Caledonia since 2015. The new branch office is expected to open by the end of the year. King said. Bruce's Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop • Wheel Alignments • Auto Glass Installation • Insurance Work Welcome • Visa & MasterCard Accepted fl « Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com J 1195-15^ LKHM 415 2nd • Middleville �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 Barry County board, consultant settle on timeline for administrator search JAYSON BUSSA Editor A timeline for Barry County’s search for a new administrator is now set. During the county board’s commit­ tee of the whole meeting on Tuesday morning, commissioners met with Ryan Cotton, a contractor with GovHR who is quarterbacking the search for Barry County while also working separately with the Village of Caledonia to draft a budget for the coming year as it searches for a man­ ager. Cotton and Barry County locked in the key dates in the search; — July 12; An electric book featur­ ing information on the best eight to 14 candidates will be delivered to the board. — July 16; Behind closed doors, the selection team will pick four to six candidates to interview. This is kept confidential until a candidate accepts the invitation to interview. — July 19: First interviews with finalists in front of the Board of Commissioners. — July 23: Second interviews with an even more narrow field of final­ ists. An offer is ideally extended on this day, as well. — Aug. 26: Tentative start date for the new hire. The county is seeking to replace Michael Brown, the current admin­ istrator who is scheduled to retire at the end of August after serving the county for more than 30 years. LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY K Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch I pV I, ♦ Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham Kev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship FIRST BAPTIST Sunday Service 10:30 AM Middleville service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org 250 Vine Street Livestream: Faccbook.com/CaledoniaUnitcdMethodisl Scf'ving oc (O i '-f-J IN * Strengthening Connecting 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter ’ erg 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone; 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages.com Church: 4 ■ ’•'•p ■ -W' Cfiutia -A/ CHURCH 4 ' J c PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee 1 I ’ll 1 LA* B s SS 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52^*^ & 48*^*^ 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Praising God through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Worship Services Sunday io am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 J*T<ailATt3i^ Wafch our services from our website (see above) Sermons online; WhltneyvilleFellowship.org 4 ■RM OURNEY CHURCH ONE CHURCH - -r\NO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE MIDDLEVILLE: 1664 M-37 Alice Joyce Slater, age 89, of Alto, Ml, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 1,2024. Joyce loved living on the lake property that has been in her family for several generations. Her favorite activities were pontoon —— boat rides, dancing the polka, play­ ing euchre, I shopping, Ax Uk and family cookouts. ■ 4 She was r preceded in death by .Ik. V. I * her mother, Gertrude Grant; sister and brothers. Ardis Heers, Frank Sherington Jr., Donald Sherington, and Carl Sherington. She is lovingly remembered by her chil­ dren, Diane (Cliff) Hewitt, Dennis Slater, Kristine pavid) Meeuwsen; grandchildren, Laurie Nicklyn, Brian Morgan, Danielle (Jerry) Smith, Joe Meeuwsen and fiancee, Emily; seven great grandchildren; sister, Shirley Burd; and beloved nieces and neph­ ews. Joyce’s wishes were for a private burial at Alaska Cemetery in Caledonia. To honor her life, donations may be made to the Humane Society of West Michigan. J - .•* A* LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com 616-217-2161 @thejchurch ► THORNAPPLE VALLEY ►CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool ^fPeUe' Sunday Worship r i*" Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. t R Whitneyville / Fellowship Church .9:30 AM 10:30AM Ill . __ Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. (269) 795-2391 <1^PEACE Sunday School.. t ♦«* n HOLY FAMILY J/CATHOLIC CHURCH 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship * ■ FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Alice Joyce Slater . 3 ( 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia. Ml 49316 cornerstonemi-org/weekend Obituaries Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Yankee Springs Bible Church X -A Ml t 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 "Shining Forth God’s Light” Sunday Morning W^orship Community Group.......... <* * FUNERAL ETIQUETTE WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP LATER? SERVICE TIMES: 'Si “Wi 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org In the days and months to come, the family will continue to need your support. Try to write or call on a regular basis. Continue to include them in your social plans, they will let you know when they are ready to participate. It is also nice to remember the family on special occasions during the first year following the death. Don’t worry about bringing up the pain and emotion of the loss, they are well aware of that. By remembering such occasions as wedding anniversaries and birthdays, you are not remembering the death, but reaffirming that a life was lived. Source: Thefuneraisoufce.ofg I )I j i« I » I / f �JI I I 1 I I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 5 Middleville village audit reveals larger-than-expected surplus GREG CHANDLER 5 staff Writer 1 r J 1 The village of Middleville ended last year in a solid financial position, reporting a larger surplus than had been budgeted, according to the vil­ lage’s most recent audit. Dan Veldhuizen of the account­ ing firm Siegfried Crandall PC pre­ sented results of the 2023 audit to the Village Council at its committee of the whole session Tuesday afternoon. The village ended last year with a general fund surplus of $350,721, more than three times what had been budgeted. That boosted the village’s unrestricted general fund reserves to $1,711,863, representing 75 percent of current year spending, Veldhuizen said. “I started working with the village > \ I r> ft < •Ta 4 ■ r- :V* r t, Jk. Dan Veldhuizen of the accounting firm Siegfried Crandall PC presents the annual audit for the village of Middleville at the village council's committee of the whole meeting on Tuesday. (Photo by Greg Chandler) I I I II f Caledonia Twp. planners OK addition to warehouse complex GREG CHANDLER complex called for only four build­ Staff Writer ings, Township Planner Lynee Wells Caledonia Township planning com­ said. missioners Monday night approved While the complex was developed the construction of a 41,000-squareas one parcel, each of the buildings foot warehouse off of 68th Street, just now on the site have been split off west of Broadmoor Avenue. into individual parcels, and the new Commissioners voted 4-0 to warehouse will likewise be split off approve the site plan for a multi­ into its own parcel. An access road tenant warehouse, which would be that currently serves the other four the fifth building of a complex on warehouses will serve the new build­ the west side of 5255 and 5275 68th ing, Wells said. St. SE. The property, owned by 1379 One of the major issues of discus­ Comstock Street LLC, is zoned for sion was a 32-foot-high stockpile light industrial use, and warehouses of building material located on the are an approved use in that zoning site of the new warehouse that had district. been used for construction of other “Industrial spaces (are) sought after. warehouses. Commissioners directed We want to use the industrial prop­ DeGroot to work with the town­ erty because it is limited in its avail­ ship planner and engineer to move ability,” said Don DeGroot of Exxel the stockpile off site because of the Engineering, representing the owner. potential environmental impact on a The original plan for the warehouse nearby wetland. The buck stays here! in the late ’90s, so I’m pretty sure that you’re in a better financial condi tion than any (other) time that I have worked here,” Veldhuizen told the council. Most cities and villages carry gen­ eral fund reserves of 10 to 20 percent of expenditures, Veldhuizen said. “Twenty-five to 50 percent is a healthy fund balance, I w°ould say, and you’re above that,” he said. The village took in general fund revenues last year of $2,373,914, transfers of $59,440 and insurance proceeds of $188,397, more than enough to cover its spending of $2,271,030, according to the audit document. The village’s major street fund also added to its reserves, ending the year with a surplus of $90,686, boosting its rainy-day fund to $1,369,820. The fund also transferred $250,000 to the local streets fund, according to the audit document. The local street fund experienced a decrease of $88,824 in the fund bal­ ance, with expenditures of $504,057 offsetting revenues of $165,233 plus the $250,000 transfer from the major street fund. Reserves in the local street fund at the end of the year were $555,073, the audit document shows. The village experienced operating losses in both the sewer and water funds — a $228,520 shortfall in the sewer fund and $102,749 in the water fund. The Village Council late last year approved rate increases to pay for capital improvements to both its sewer and water service. The village’s pension plan experi­ enced a decline in the funding level of plan liabilities - falling from 83.4 percent in 2022 to 71.1 percent last year. However, Veldhuizen expects that percentage to rebound this year, with the help of rising investment earnings, as well as an addi tional $250,000 contribution from the Village Council that was approved last year that did not factor into the pension liability calculation. The pension plan is operated through the Municipal Employees Retirement System of Michigan, and currently covers 33 members, includ­ ing 12 retirees and their beneficiaries. cornerstonechurch ft we’re casual, come as vou are. iiiw i •‘T • * I JT’ I I ir 11 Caledonia I Grand Rapids I Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! □ □ 5»V X I □U a Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! ■'T—, 9t X 2 ,«K I J Spand it here. Koap it iiara. r-‘ Bk Invest In Your Community. Ik. o » 11 15 J r* mJ £ J I ••A If One Church • Three Locations a ?• L.jas /cornerstonemi o I @cornerstonemi ife ' H |T« ■ * �6 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 Annual Brian Diemer 5K gets underway today in Cutlerville JAMES GEMMELL > ( Contributing Writer < 7? J* • Tis: ♦> * V - - \ I I The 34th annual Brian Diemer 5K Run is taking place today in Cutlerville. About 700 people partici­ f pate each year in the nonprofit Um. Diemer Family of Races on the second Saturday of June in Byron >M»r and Gaines Brian Diemer Townships. The competitions include a 5K walk, 5K handcycle race, a 5K ‘My Team Triumph,’ masters’ race, grand masters race and a kids’ steeple­ chase. The handcycle and triumph races were set to go off at 8:29 a.m. The main Brian Diemer 5K race was scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. at Legacy Christian School, 6768 68th St. SW, which is just west of Division Avenue. Hyde said the steeplechase is a fun event for kids of all ages. It gets *• y /•L'l i A I -s ss DI F^l Y r > < 9 Pr I--' X. IV ■ > Ik '4 : i■ A I ■u * f '**•2 F.^ < '4 :'3 .; ra I 2- , . » V I ■ •X II 1 1 -t I I. *> *r » f ■C'.’ _■ •c X six’ » I • V -v> f ' 4 u 4 I • i»a& 17^ y- •J • J* V i J Jh f •\ J K< ,, 399 I t *' • 4« »I 4 t l^ll ) * I - »r* * 1 * ' t Jfl \ mi fc* — .i'' ♦ l42« II • <4 id >< , A I 1, - ■,ijfcair^> i LI r i I A V I I* t ¥ *: 1 * ?• p TL •T' ■ b -r »J rT> Trrf, *. • ' I • > • xki 4P»;. The Diemer Family of Races getting off to a start in Cutlerville in 2023. Brian Diemer, after whom the 5K Run is named, won a bronze medal at the 1984 Olympics. Bf » I .F« * I a V *4^» * JI* a 616-891-8900 vv ' ; K .A> • Must present this coupon. Expires 6-28-24 210 Easl Main Street, Caledonia r .i OFF HEATING S COOLING *’ ttz rzz-' .A<- • eoM Mt FURNACE! &A1R *150 RUUD FRONTIER ♦ C:? Hi^h EiRciency I underway at 10:15 a.m. I handcycling divisions, to the top 10 “Where they run on the soccer field overall in the 5K, to the top 5 in the I (behind the school), over hay bales master’s division (ages 40 and older), I and in team swimming pools,” race and to the first-place finisher in the director Rob Hyde explained. grand masters’ race, which is for ages I I Brian Diemer is a three-time 50 and older. I I Olympian who starred in track at Diemer himself always participates. I I South Christian High School when it And there is a fun challenge for any­ was located across 68th Street from one who can beat the 62-year-old I I Legacy Christian School. Diemer Grand Rapids native. I I went on to greater accomplishments “You win a doughnut. The three I I at the University of Michigan and at time Olympian still likes to have fun the 1984 Summer Olympics, where and he still likes to compete, ” Hyde I ^li I he won the bronze medal in the explained. “ So, at the end of the race I I 3,000-meter steeplechase. actually, when he ’ s done he I I I More than $9,000 in prize money I stands there and high-fives everyone will be awarded after this year ’ s com who finishes. And then, once we get I I petitions. Last year, 34-year-old Alex j the results, we hand ouf doughnuts to I I I Russeau of Dundee won the Diemer everyone who beat his time.” 5K Run and collected $550 for finish ­ I I Someone actually runs alongside FINANCING AVAILABLE ing first in the men ’ s open. He posted Diemer decked out in a doughnut I No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. I a time of 14 minutes, 45 seconds. costume with balloons on them. I “The company built by referrals” I Patrick Letz of Aurora, Ill., came in “So, during the race anyone in the I I START FINISH '-f > i X Race with Olympic medaUst Brian Olemer every year on the second Saturi^ay tn June. ‘ J J w ’•*11 J > 5 r Tl M I .. * 'i >1^ ______ • L. .. .<1 •*1 Y • / ^4^ I , 1T '***7'. I \ .r ♦ 4 « 1.^ t— *k 1^' s' ,«f lb / I V r k % ~ • r ••f I •I •\T second, and Micah Meinderstma of Grand Rapids was third. On the women’s side, Megan O’Neil of Rochester posted a run time of 16:17, good for first place and $550. This year, the awards will go to the top three in the men’s and women’s tainment throughout that entire course,” Hyde said. The original 5K race began in 1990 in Wyoming, and it moved over to Cutlerville in 2000. That is when Hyde got involved as race director. The Diemer Family of Races gives money to eight nonprofit organiza tions. “At the end of the day, that’s why we raise this money,” Hyde said, not­ ing that many nonprofit group mem­ bers either participate in the race or volunteer. “So, just a fun partnership to bring people together,” he said. The Brian Diemer 5K used to be part of a larger, daylong event called the Cutlerville Community Days that ended about four years ago. It includ­ ed a parade, activities at Cutler Park and a fireworks display behind the former South Christian High School race can see where he’s at, if they site on 68th Street. want to key off him and try to get So far, no organization has him at the end, they have a chance to stepped up to recreate Cutlerville do that,” Hyde said. Days. Gaines Township and Gaines Six bands were scheduled to per­ Chamber of Commerce leaders have form a variety of music alongside the said it would take an organization or race course on 68th Street. business leaders to fund it and round - ?So,, plenty of fim,jplenty of enter--.. -UR yolunteejs.,, «» �’■Cj> www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS J» Mister Car Wash site proposai tabied in Caiedonia Twp. t J I I I GREG CHANDLER ■ ” Staff Writer The Caledonia Township Planning Commission Monday put on hold a site plan and spe­ cial land use request for a new car wash to be located just north of the Culver’s restaurant on M-37. Commissioners tabled the pro­ posal for a Mister Car Wash to be built on a 1.66-acre parcel at 6675 Broadmoor Ave. SE. The site had been approved for a retail strip development more than a year ago, but the project never broke ground. The property is zoned for high­ way commercial use. Mister Car Wash is proposing a 160-footlong tunnel for the car wash as well as 14 vacuums for custom­ ers to clean out their vehicles, Township Planner Lynee Wells said. “This is a typical use that you would see in an auto-oriented corridor like M-37,” Wells said. However, planners have raised several issues with the site plan including potential stormwater drainage problems as well as the possibility of ice buildup during the winter months. We believe that there could be some issue with ice and water from cars and tires accumulating on that access road,” Wells said. “There’s only about 35 feet from ... when you exit the car wash to the internal access drive. That is a drive that would have turning movements either north or south and then connect out to M-37.” Wells pointed out that she has seen similar problems with ice buildup and water on the road way at another Mister Car Wash location in Byron Center on 84th Street. In addition, Wells said that the developer has proposed the removal of several large canopy trees and pine trees along the south end of the property. It also would disturb a regulated wet 9 9 * land, she said. “It just doesn’t seem like these were taken into account when the plan was developed,” Wells said. “It was more like, ‘let’s put our plan on top of the ground and clear whatever is in the way. Matt Carey of Pinnacle Engineering Group, the project architect, pointed to the chal­ lenges he’s encountered trying to fit the project into the site footprint. “We have trees that we’re try­ ing to maintain on the southern lot line and we have a wetland on the northern lot line,” Carey said. “It really sandwiches and leaves you a tight window for actually developing the site. We feel like we’re doing what we can to make it work.” With regard to the concerns over ice buildup, Carey said that a heated concrete section and a trench drain section, along with adequate sloping of the site, would alleviate that potential problem. The site plan and special land use request were tabled on a 4-0 vote. Planning Commission Chairman Doug Curtis called the Mister Car Wash application “a headache.” “The simple things aren’t right, let alone the difficult things,” Curtis said. “You don’t have the right trees that are clearly called out in our ordinance The lighting table isn’t supplied, it’s not filled out. The controls aren’t there. I think we have major con­ cerns about the storm drainage.” “This commission has taken the stance of we don’t solve problems on your plans, it’s not our job to design it. (The application) is incomplete, in my opinion at this time,” Curtis added. The public hearing that was held Monday will be carried over to the next Planning Commission meeting, which is expected to be June 17. • • • Saturday, June 8, 2024 FiNANCiAL FOCUS Provided by Andrew McFadden and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones •l i-’" I • Don ’ t let investments take a vacation Summertime is almost here — and for many people that means it’s time to hit the road. But even if you decide to take a vacation, you’ll want other areas of your life to keep working — especially your invest­ ments. So, how can you pre­ vent your investments, and your overall finan­ cial strategy, from going on “vacation”? Here are a few suggestions; • Check your progress. You want your investments to be work­ ing hard for you, so you’ll need to check on their performance peri­ odically — but be care­ ful about how you eval­ uate results. Don’t com­ pare your portfolio’s results against those of a market index, such as the S&P 500, which tracks the stock perfor­ mance of 500 large U.S. companies listed on American stock exchanges. This com­ parison may not be par­ ticularly valid because your own portfolio ide­ ally should include a range of investments, including U.S. and for­ eign stocks, corporate and government bonds, certificates of deposit (CDs) and other securities. So, instead of checking your progress against a market index, use benchmarks mean­ ingful to your individual situation, such as wheth­ er your portfolio is showing enough growth potential based on a compounding rate of return to keep you mov­ ing toward a comfort­ able retirement and oth­ er long-term goals. • Invest with a pur­ pose. When you work intensely at something, it’s usually because you have a definite result in mind. And this sense of purpose applies to investing, too. If you buy a stock here, and another one there, based on “hot” tips you might have seen on television or the internet, you may end up with a jumbled sort of portfolio that doesn’t really reflect your needs. Instead, try to follow a long-term investment strategy based on your financial goals, risk tolerance. asset accumulation needs, liquidity and time horizon, always with an eye toward where you want to go in life — how long you plan to work, what sort of retirement lifestyle you envision, and so on. • Be strategic with your investments. Over the years, you will like­ ly have a variety of competing financial goals and you’ll want your investment portfo­ lio working to help achieve all of them. That means, though, that you’ll likely need to match certain invest­ ments with specific goals. For example, when you contribute to an IRA and a 401(k) or similar plan, you’re put­ ting away money for t * ... retirement. But if you want to help your chil­ dren go to college or receive some other type of post-secondary edu­ cation or training, you might want to save in a 529 education savings plan, which allows taxfree withdrawals for qualified education expenses. Or, if you want to save for a short­ term goal, such as a wedding or a long vaca­ tion, you might choose an investment that offers significant protection of principal, so the money will be available when you need it. Ultimately, this type of goals-based investing can help ensure your portfolio is always working on your behalf, in the way you intended. When you take a vacation, you will hope­ fully be more relaxed and refreshed. But if you let your investments stop working as hard as they should, the results could be stressful. So, be diligent about your investment strategy, monitor it regularly and make those moves appropriate for your sit­ uation. By doing so, you can’t necessarily guar­ antee a long day at the beach, but you’ll have a good chance of enjoying a sunny outlook. 'This article was writ­ ten by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Mem­ ber SIPC I �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 8 HOMETOWNHERO Continued from Page 1 Asian country. He was 19 at the time. “I didn’t even know where Vietnam was. I didn’t. I had no idea,” Brummel said. Nicknamed “Beau” after the 1960s rock band the Beau Brummels, Brummel was part of the 9th Infantry Division’s 2nd Batallion, 47th Infantry Regiment reconnaissance platoon in Vietnam. On May 12, 1969 in the Mekong Delta, Brummel’s platoon was ambushed. Of the 47 men in the platoon, 32 were wounded, includ­ ing Brummel, who received shrapnel wounds to his left shoulder and right arm. “Left shoulder, the shrapnel went in and stayed, the right arm it went in and out,” Brummel said. “1 should have died that day.” The shrapnel in Brummel’s right shoulder would stay there until it was surgically removed in the early 1990s at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Ann Arbor. fhree men were killed in the battle, including a soldier from Detroit named John and Pam are still together more Phil Ratta who was Brummel’s best than a half-century later, and have two fnend in the platoon. children and 10 grandchildren. “I put him on the helicopter with a Brummel worked in the underground bullet in his head. I was maybe the last guy to touch him, alive,” Brummel said. construction industry for more than 55 Brummel received two Purple Hearts, years, including 44 years at DeWitt Trenching in Hudsonville, from where a Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, two he retired last year. Army commendation medals and a “I found out that combat infantry work was my ther­ badge for his ser­ I found out apy (from PTSD),’’ vice. He was dis­ Brummel said. that work was charged in October “ Some guys like to of that year and my therapy (from sit around in groups returned to West PTSD). Some guys and talk about Michigan. After returning like to sit around things. That doesn’t work for me. ” home, Brummel in groups and talk In January of last struggled with post about things. That year, Brummel was traumatic stress disorder from his doesn’t work for cutting a dead cherry log for firewood Vietnam experience, me.W when he made a and admitted using John Brummel drugs for a time. But discovery that would Caledonia Township Hometown Hero in 1972, he became lead him to create a a Christian and mar­ piece of artwork that ried his wife, Pam. would become an ArtPrize finalist. He “Jesus changed me from the inside found the log to be rotted in the mid out. It was miraculous,’’ Brummel said. die, caused by carpenter ants, but it We were on this road and being hipwas the shape of the hole that caught pies and (doing) drugs and ruining our his attention. lives, and everything just stopped, and “I cut a section out of it, and I said, we got on another road.” ‘that’s a perfect heart. I ought to clean that out and give it to my wife for Valentine’s Day, Brummel said. So Brummel did exactly that. He cut a 5-inch-wide section of the log, cleaned out the rot, sanded the piece and var­ nished it, then gave it to Pam. She hung the heart in the kitchen of their home. Brummel then cut more pieces from the log until the shape was gone. He cut out 11 more hearts. Brummel, who had never considered himself an artist, looked at his creation and had a thought - entering it in ArtPrize. “Why that thought ever came to me, I have no idea,” he said. “That’s like say­ 3 ing to a person that’s not athletic, ‘hey, I think I’ll go (play) in the World Series this year. 72 Shortly after the idea of entering ArtPrize came, Brummel had another thought that reminded him of his war­ time experience - the Purple Heart, III which is awarded to those wounded or killed while serving in the military. “I felt like God was leading me up to that point, but then suddenly the inspi ration came. I went, ‘oh my goodness.’ LENND^ Within three days, the whole design of what I should do was laid out in my 7”*^; iV Since t9SS ACCREDITED mind, ” Brummel said. BUSINESS BBB Brummel took two large pieces of plywood - 8 feet long and 4 feet wide - WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS ’TTTy a Residential & Commercial X ? t. t' 'W Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters -Humidifiers MB * I. f < J. I K ) 55 DeWeerd <681 HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 ri A J 9 ' > 'J ■ A (L. 'mtSjxasMI www.sunandnews.com laid them on top of each other, and then cut out a big heart from the plywood, then took the smaller hearts that he had already cut out and laid them inside the larger heart. To help complete the design, he asked Pam if he could have the heart he gave her as a Valentine’s gift back. She said yes. Brummel titled his design “The Heart of the Nation.” Brummel’s piece was on display at Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Grand Rapids during ArtPrize last fall. He said he was shocked when he learned that his work was named one of the competition’s 25 finalists. “The veterans park down there, there have been veterans that go there every year with works. They said, ‘John, we’ve never won a top 25.’ And here I go the first year and I’m not even an artist (and I’m a finalist).” Brummel shared the story of his Vietnam experience with students at Caledonia High School 10 years ago, speaking in a class called America At War, taught by social studies teacher Heather Tomes. “I felt like I had to do more than just give them some military history. I felt I needed to challenge the kids. God helped me that day,” Brummel said. Brummel brought some of his medals, including his Purple Hearts, and let the students hold them. “That’s something that kids are not going to forget. All their lives they’re going to go. ‘I held one of those.’ I wanted it to register up here (what the Purple Heart symbolizes),” he said. In an email to the Sun and News, Tomes wrote about Brummel’s talk to her class and how it impacted her and her students. “What really resonated with me and the students too is that even though John went through the traumatic experience of combat in Vietnam, he recognized that all of us have a choice involving how we want to live,” Tomes wrote. “And that decision falls solely on each individual’s shoulders. You can’t use your past experiences to make excuses on how you live your life today. More than 50 years after his Vietnam experience, Brummel says his Vietnam experience taught him endurance. “I say to people, ‘don’t waste your sorrows. Learn from them,’” Brummel said. “Negatives are going to come, and we don’t want them. But if we waste them, then we never learn from them, and then our life falls apart.” �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS i n I <• MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 1 V’ I J s I I t- I I \ lA A The June 3 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. Sue is the only fish in the fishbowl. She received $1 for being in the fishbowl for four weeks in a row. The Wellness Challenge for June was passed out. We discussed how we could incorporate five servings of fruits and veggies into our everyday diet plans. State Recognition Days (SRD) in Lansing will be Friday and Saturday this week. Ideas were given for what we would do in the theme parade. Maryellen met her personal commitment and was given a prize. The meeting closed with marching in place as we recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 to 3:45 p.m. followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia at 269-908-8036, or Maryellen at 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. GIVE US YOUR SCOOP! If you see news happening, or if you just want us to know about something going on ♦ • • EMAIL US! editor@j-adgraphics.com Saturday, June 8, 2024 9 Village security camera system online in Middleville GREG CHANDLER ,A Staff Writer K A new security camera system that covers Middleville Village Hall as well as other village-owned properties is up and running. The Village Council Tuesday got a chance to see how the new system works during an interactive presenta­ tion by Jake Kuncaitis of the K-Group, the village’s information technology provider. The council late last year approved spending up to $ 162,000 out of the village’s allocation of funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for the project. “We are at the finish line,” Kuncaitis told council members. Kuncaitis showed council members live footage from cameras at the Village Hall, the wastewater treatment plant, the train depot and the Downtown Development Authority amphitheater. ( The video is processed through Aware, a cloud-based portal. Each of the cam­ eras have encrypted secure digital (SD) cards to store the video, Kuncaitis said. The camera system has a search feature that allows for easily identify­ ing people or a vehicle in a shot. Each camera has a 30-day cloud subscrip tion where footage can be retained, Kuncaitis said. — The new campus security system includes 16 cameras, situated around various locations around the village. They include: — Five cameras from inside Village Hall. — Three cameras on the DPW building. — Two cameras on the Calvin Hill Park restroom building. — Two cameras on the township light pole near the train depot. — One camera in the Calvin Hill Park pavilion. — One camera on the DDA amphi­ theater. — One camera on the train depot. — One camera light pole south of the wastewater treatment plant. The Middleville unit of the Barry County SherifT s Office has access to all the video cameras. Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said. The council reallocated ARPA fund ing from replacement of lead service water lines to purchase and install the security cameras. At the time, Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith I A b* 'fl I . 1I*! a •f r * V f■ • 1 -f A >’ w>wn i WT I •> ri .M > I 4 •MJ* * >• • • fcf: 4 >1 ’SB ■ : • v ?. 2 > ■ .a t.. ’ ? ♦ < 1 A .1 1 R r» .I - UM I." kit Jake Kuncaitis of the KGroup shares video footage of Middleville’s new secu­ rity camera system with the Village Council Tuesday. (Photo by Greg Chandler) expressed strong reservations about moving that funding to the security system. After hearing Tuesday’s presentation, Smith praised K-Group for its work. “This is really phenomenal. This exceeds everything that I had thought this was going to be,” Smith said. WB OOOO OOVIMWMfXT HAS ITS wwui> •OOTS in IN THS RSOFlf ii> •“ r The council later allocated the vil­ lage ’ s second round of ARPA funding toward replacing lead service lines by the end of 2026. The only remaining portion of the project is the installation of a camera on a light pole at the wastewater treat­ ment plant, Kuncaitis said. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MONDAY, JUNE 24, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. Please be advised the Thornapple Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on June 24, at 7pm or as soon thereafter as possible. The public hearings will t^e place in the Township Hall, 200 E. Main St., Middleville. The public hearing(s) will address the following: 1) special Use ^170 - Applicants Steve & Janice Huyser are wishing to install an accessory building within the front yard setback of their residence at 7175 Rolling Oaks Ln, Middleville, MI (parcel 08-14-001-015-33) per Thornapple Township Zoning Ordinance 21.3. 2) Special Use ttl71—Applicants Joseph & Amy Ter Mors are wishing to construct a residence on their property to house an immediate family member requiring around the clock care. Their residence is located at 8026 W. Crane Rd, Middleville, MI 49333 (parcel 08-14-014-004-05) per Thornapple Township Zoning Ordinance 4.3 (bb) and 19.68. 3) Special Use ^172 — Applicant Brian Schultz is wishing to install an accessory building within the front yard setback of the residence at 6451 Robertson Rd, Middleville, MI (parcel 08-14-012-01060) per Thornapple Township Zoning Ordinance 21.3. Any interested person may attend the public hearings to learn about the extent and location of Spe­ cial Use requests to offer comments to the Planning Commission. A copy of the application noted above may be examined in the Township offices at the address noted above during regular business hours. Monday - Thursday 9am- 4pm Written comments regarding these applications may be addressed to: Secretary Sandy Rairigh, Thomapple Township Planning Commission, P.O. Box 459, Middleville, MI 49333, or submitted via email to: zoning-administrator@thornapple-twp.org Americans with Disabilities Notice Persons with special access needs should contact the Township Clerk at 269-795-7202 no less than 72 hours before the hearings. Cindy Ordway, Thornapple Township Clerk > �* 10 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 Caledonia High School announces SPRING SEMESTER HONOR ROLL Caledonia High School has released its honor roll for the second semester of the 2023-24 academic year. Students earning a grade point average of 4.000 or above are recognized as Summa Cum Laude. Those with a GPA of 3.5003.999 as Magna Cum Laude, and those with a 3.300-3.499 GPA as Cum Laude. Students qualifying include: NINTH GRADE Summa Cum Laude Aibree Akers, Layla Bouwens, Bria Brower, Jagger Bumes, Adan Col Isem, Elliott Davis, Trevor Dorman, Allison Dryburgh, Liam Dykhouse, Grant Feldpausch, Estella Finkbeiner, Chase Geister, Ayla Gerken, Aseel Ghannam, Grace Groendyke, Sean Harney, Dylan Hilaski, Leah Hileman, Thomas Hodgson, Braden Hofstee, Anna Homrich, Maria Homrich, Evelyn Huttenga, Claire James, Nimrat Kaur, Zachary Keson, Ty Kimbrell, Mackenzie Krentz, Jack LeBoeuf, Madison Lockwood, Benjamin Lusaya, Owen McCormick, Rayleigh Miersen, Noah Miller, Kyle Nguyen, Keira Paalman, Abby Poe, Katie Reoch, Madison Reynolds, Kelsey Roszkowski, Alexis Saidoo, Avery Seif, Lincoln Senti, Evelyn Smith, Tyler Smith, Lucas Swartz, William Szyperski, Margaret Thunder Hawk, Sui Tial, Katie Tran, Kate Trusevich, Anna VanderWal, James Visser, Emily Walbeck Magna Cum Laude Cody Adler, Jackson Almy, Addison Atheam, Bryce Backus, Cameron Beach, Sarah Berger, Ryder Bom, Liliana Brandner, Ainsley Bridges, Kayla Briseno, Aidan Brown, Justin Brown, Kobe Buchan, Kiara Cogswell, Aaron Collins, Elizabeth Crankson, Hunter Creguer, Caelyn Crocker, Akaela Daman, Addison Dana, Brecken Daniero, Cole DeBlecourt, Ada Decker, Ian DeHaan, Loralei DeHoek, Emery DeRosia, William Dickey, Levi Dorband, Cora Draft, Josie Endres, Walker Freese, Benjamin Geerdes, Justin Golembeske, GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to build a 13,533 square foot building to be used as a childcare facility in the Residential-10 zone. Property Address: 1688 68th Street, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-09-101-028 Applicant: Mark Kellenberger; 814 Services Date and Time of Hearing: June 27th, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested nnccoicu party pdily may appear and ano be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in in the Gaines Charter Township luwribnip Offices. unices. For For information information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan wellsOgainestownShip org. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments IiB must be received by 5:00 PM on June 27th J 2024 * Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 , week prior to the meeting to request mobility visual or any other assistance. Joell Gordon-Reyes, Luke Grasman, Emmett Haan, Lauiyn Hager, Tzila Handley, Olivia Hawkins, Gabriella Henney, Tony Hua, Jack Johnson, Tessa Jones, Isaac Judd, Riley Kalacanic, Emilia Kaszynska, Luke Kowatch, Ava LaBine, Rosalyn Langworthy, Sonja Lazarevic, Natalie Le, Olivia Le-Tran, Vanness Lin, Nicolas Long, Lovely Lwi, Made Mai, Jackson McNew, Ellie Melano, Alyson Minton, Gavin Montanino, Landen Moore, Grant Morrell, Madelyn Mulder, Connor Myers, Clayton Palmer, Jacob Paoletti, Connor Parlin, Logan Paulen, Nola Pearson, Jeremiah Pittman, Mackenzie Popma, Sophia Price, James Prichard, Jackson Pugh, Abigayle Putnam, Quentin Raffler, Ava Rairigh, Koleson Reeder, Benji Rewa, Ella Rigley, Gabriela Rissley, Willa Rose, Averi Rested, Lauren Scheid, Vanessa Schram, Tyden Schuch, Ayden Schwartz, Lily Smith, Mason Smith, Emma Sokolovic, Harrison Solum, Ethan Sova, Taylor Sowles, Reese Stafford, Maddie Terryn, Shelyn Thomas-Ferrell, Jazmyn Thompson, Madison Trompen, Hannah Twork, Niklas VanderArk, Gretchen VanderEide, Jayden VanderSyde, Mya VanderZwaag, Addison Veldt, Meghan Venhuizen, Sophia Whittemore, Abigail Wilkes, Emma Wilson, Julia Zenn Cum Laude Cohen Bloem, Alister Brew, Ean Bums, Scott Coulter, Georgia Cummins, Trey Curnow, Tessa DeYoung, Vivian Fink, Kobe Griffioen, Rhyan Guzman, Maggie Koopman, Corinne Nordlund, Hayden Paggeot, Milana Rico, Jennifer Schiefla, Kenan Sehic, Nicholas Seif, Lydia Shoesmith, Laife Shuman, Lincoln Snow, Sean Sorrell, Sophia Teelander, Presley Tidey, Olivia VanLaan, Gavin VanMeter, Ethan Wright TENTH GRADE Summa Cum Laude Mackenzi Anes, Madelyn Anes, Brooke Bender, Addison Cook, Gavin DeFields, Peyton DeHom, Baylee DeVries, Sebastian DeZeeuw, Charlie Doan, Brennan Donnelly, Sophia Douglass, Larissa Dudicz, Audrey Duong, Garrett Fales, Sophia Fata, Katelyn Ferris, Landry Hammond, Caleb Hamson, Ayden Hoisington, Noah Kaplan, Ian Kimbrell, Parker Knoop, Molly Liggett, Marian Listen, Allison Malone, Jayden McCoy, Angel Par, Caleb Parlin, Derick Prichard, Ashia Robinson, Isaac Robotham, Abigail Schnurstein, Abigail Skibinski, Evelynn Slomp, Ethan Snapper, Chelsea Tran, Helena Truong, Brooklynn VanArtsen, Brayion Walma, Maya White, Elliot Winger, Drake Young, Elliott Ziegler Magna Cum Laude Joelyn Abraham, Erica Angell, Alivia Baareman, Hannah Backhus, Andrew Barnum, Hannah Bennett, Madison Bergs, Skye Bradley, Brecken Byrd, Wade Cawson, Tana Coates, Julia Cooley, Hudsen Derengowski, Maxwell Doll, Anders Foerch, Yasmeen Ghannam, Eliana Grinstead, Andrew Hanna, Alysse Harper, Adam Haynes, Gage Helinski, Samuel Hoag, Katherine Honhart, Jonas Howell, Zoey Hunter, Kay Hurst, Raymond Huynh, Katelyn Jaquish, Paityn John, Lyla Keller, Jolie King, Hellen Komera, Circe Langeweg, Kohen Lapekes, Gabrielle Linker, Avarey Lippert, Parker Lipsman, Adelae Lucas, Addison Luxford, Keira Marshall, Jocelyn Martinez, Easton Miller, Ella Miller, Zoe Miller, Noah Moberly, Mitchell Moelker, Liam Moore, Christian Moorlag, Benjamin Moss, Kortney Muller, Cole Nyman, Rebecca Pezzato, Zach Pirozzo, Nathan Purvis, Camden Quigley, David Robinson, Savannah Robinson, Ella Schultetus, Gavin Senneker, Colton Sheely, Luke Smith, Ryan Snider, Bradyn Snow, Austin Soper, Evan Standley, Nina Stiver, Halle Stout, Hailey Thayer, Jack Thornton, Claire Timmerman, Kaden VanRyn, Rosalyn VanStrien, Eli Veiling, Abigail VerBurg, Ella Wickens, Yelena Wilks, Anna Windsor, Dakota Winters, Luke Witvoet, Rydik Wrubel, Ryne Wysocki Cum Laude Parker Anderson, Samuel Baker, Lillian Bender, Aydin DeBoer, Samantha DiqjJiam, Broderick Fanco, Katelyn Farstvedt, Gillian Guzman, Madeline Hayden, Hazel Homing, Benjamin James, Sergio Munoz, Sophia Myers, Codie Okrangley, Addyson Olin, Edyn Pitchford, Miguel Rodas-Reyes, Andrew VanderKolk, Samuel Walma, Ahmed Zangana See HONOR ROLL on 11 �www.sunandnews.com HONOR ROLL Continued from Page 10 I I s ? t % A A I * THE SUN AND NEWS Ethan Petz, Ragaz Piromari, Noah Pnor, Caydence Reed, Kaliana Reynolds, Jack Rife, Alaina Russell, Nick Sarver, Kasen Savoy, William Sheely, Maquder Shindegual, Makenna Smiertka, Taylor Sorsen, Olivia Stauffer, River Swanlund, Ayden Taylor, Alexis Tell, Nate Tewoldemedhin, Kort Thompson, Isabella Treib, Muhammed Turk, Annika VanderEide, Patrick VanderKolk, Addysen VanderLaan, Luke Veldman, Talen Verburg, Reed Vogeler, Trevor Walter Cameron Weibel, Isabella Wietzbicki, ’ Joslynn Wilcox, Cameron Wright, Alani Xiong Magna Cum Laude ♦ ♦ Saturday, June 8, 2024 11 Perez-Ferner, Hailey Popma, Samuel Pugh, Collin Pyper, Pierson Reiffer, Emery Rewa, Cadon Reynolds, Alicia Rice, Natalie Richardson, Addison Roe, McKenzie Ross, Ethan Royce, Olivia Shenefield, Grace Siekman, Hailey Smith, Karleigh Sobieranski, Josh Sprague, Clara Staskiewicz, Maeson Strzyzewski, Owen Sufoma, Madison Suttorp, Brayion Swartz, Daniel Swartz, Isabella Teelander, Tyler Tell, Kyleigh Thompson, Cade Tidey, Dakota Tomac, Nina Trupiano, Kamrin Van’tHof, Barbara VanderMaas, Owen VanderZand, Brenden VanGessel,’ Addison VanOost, Gisele Vazquez, Lucas Vincent, Ryan Walbeck, Dharius Walker, Brianna Weber, Finneas White, Brody Woodwyk Lauren Ashton, Davanee Balczak, ELEVENTH GRADE Mya Baldwin, Landon Battey, Blake Benjamin, Thomas Blowers, Carter Bom, Summa Cum Laude Aidan Bozym, Isabelle Bravata, Peyton Madelyn Abraham, Sophia Anderson, Brenner, Maya Brower, Ella Canup, Luke Atheam, Michael Berger, Greta Tommy Clarey, Saige Cooper, Mayari Betz, Ethan Buer, Malia Burke, Rory Coriano-Lahiff, Brayden Cramer, Adrielle Cobb, William Cook, Nathen Cox, Crothers, Jazlynn Dana, Kiersten DeHaan, Adysen Daman, Noah DeRosia, Christian Austin DeVries, Lillian DeWinter, DeYoung, Drew Diebolt, Hannah Dupuis Sydney Dochstader, Stephanie Dryburgh, Aidan Edgar, Alexa Elliot, Landon Sophia Durkee, Courtney Dyer, Jaxson Fleming, Kaeler Fox, Sophia Gauthier, Engelberg, Leah Felker, Allison Felt, Sela Jennifer George, Silas Haan, Alexandra Fitzell, Ricardo Garcia, Tabitha Gove, Heaton, Brady Hilaski, Elizabeth Jaden Grace, Suzannah Green, Sadie Cum Laude Hilton, Alexander Hochwarth, Noah Grimes, Rylyn Groeneveld, Owen Hager, Ashleigh Adams, Isabelle Anderson, Irish, Kathleen Johnson, Lukas Keson, Richard Harms, Angela Harney, Adrian ’ Brooklyn Bykerk, Dakota Cole, Brynn Benjamin Kieliszewski, Gretel Knipping, Heiser, Ryan Helmholdt, Alique Henlin, Decker, Tristan Devrou, Dalton Ed, Amber Lilly Hess, Brooke Heyboer, Lydia Colin Kowatch, Nirdhvaitha Kumar, Cum Laude Fairchild, Leighton Fink, Katie Guernsey, Mason Langeland, Danielle Le-Tran, Hilton, Caleb Hofstee, Elizabeth Honhart, Marli Berman, Cali Brown, Phoenix Presley Gyorki, Brogan Hacht, Analise ____ .jcuaii nuwnci jciuia Tyler McAllister, Samantha McCormick, Audrey Howell, Sarah Huebner, Jenna Bugai, Shaka Clever, Brayden Dickerson, S^kTs ’ ^AHuizenga, Reagan Hurst, Grade Jatoan, Brennan McVey, Sawyer Mertz, Samuel Drew Drennan, Annabelle Fraher’ * Jeffers, ' “ Miersen, Nathan Montross, Andrew Moore, LapeKes, Addyson Lash, Lauren Lauver, Catherine Aidan Johnson, Matuszynski, Nolan Gross, Anastasia Molly Lieske, Siyani Mahadevan, Amber Claire Musk, Cameron Myers, Alivia Camden Johnson, Pheonix King, Sarah Herbst, Allen Johnson, Nicholas Munson, Josie Noble, Crew Paalman, Neubauer-Keyes, Copelin Okrangley, Peter Kirk, William Knipping, Abigail Kramer, Klavinger, Alex Klingensmith, Emersen Alaina Palmer, Lukas Palmitier, Alana Paarlberg, Erin Peckham, Owen Petersen, Ava Krebill, Jack Lange, Nola Langeweg, Lippert, Gavin Mayrand, Isabella Pettenger, David Potgeter, Allye Risner, Kelsey LaValley, Madison Lieckfield, Thomas Platschorre, Allie Poe, Kayli Mazzarelli, Gabriel Melo Bezerra, Jensen Rivera, Anthony Roszkowski, Kendall Maynard, Pennelope McGarvey, Price, Joshua Raboum, Finn Radtke, Logan Alexis Otto, Nicklas Slater, Brayden Garrett Ruehle, Madison Savin, Brody ____________ ____ _______ Sydney Miller, Zachary Miller, Carter Reimbold, Rian Restau, Sebastian Rissley, Smith, Michael Smith, Hunter Soyka, Siler, Henry Simon, Cerys Smith, Quentin Moorlag, Levi Moss, Micah Nagel Addison Russell, Meghan Ruthven, Juliana Lily VanDeraa, Jack VanEss, Morgan Stacer, Emma Stein, Colton Timmerman, Hudson Nichols, Zoe Nono, Ella Norberg, Vredevoogd, Mikey Waldo, Adia Ryder, Addison Saidoo, Ranveer Singh, Aiden VanDeWeert, Addison Whisler, Mason Osterhouse, Christopher Paoletti, Johanna Sproul, Owen Straight, Andrew Whisler, Emma Whitman, Jacob Wilkes, Leah Williams, Lauren Wnuk Daniel Parker, Derek Pennington, Trinity Tava, Filip Taylor, Sam Temple, Claire Joni Young Teunessen, Hailey Tiers, Justin Trees, Adela Turpin, Ryleigh VanderBerg, Kenna TWELFTH GRADE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP VanLente, Susanna Vire, Emily Vu Summa Cum Laude Magna Cum Laude Teresa Abraham, Tyler Ambrose, Peter Andrulis, Kala Bisterfeldt, Grace Bryant, Ava Acton, Samir Begovic, Madison Alyssa Bursch, Megan Bushart, Alisha Bernal, Brecken Bloemers, Keira Bykerk, Riley Collins, Noah Creguer, Bommarito, Kiley Bommarito, Joseph Alyssa DeFields, Mackenzie DeVries, Briseno, Keegan Broomfield, Mya Burgess, Benjamin Diegel, Tucker Dion, Kaylee Gabrielle Bums, Parker Chapp, Teagan Dunwoody, Abigail Duong, Katherine Chu, Jack Collett, Lauren Collett, Carson Eardley, Isabel Fata, Ian Fedewa, Rishi Conroy, Remy Cortez, Samantha DaleyGarigipati, Reese Geister, Whitney Fell, Kaylee Dekkinga-Weller, Mary Graham, Sydnie Greene, Chloe Groves, Depetro, Ella DeRuyter, Kara DeVault, Amaya Hawkins, James Heath, Jaiden Cody DeVries, Isabelle DeWolf, Evan Higgins, Jaxson Higgins, Charles Hoag, DeYoung, Madison Doroff, Taylor Doss, Cassandra Honsberger, Kerstin Johnson, Easton Ellens, Laney Elles, Francesca Eliana Karadsheh, Kloe Kimbrell, Kylee Fanco, Noah Fennell, Ethan Fisher, Alaina Kirkbride, Marisa Kohn, Bedi Komera, Franklin, Cambria Gaier, Aiden Gieseler, Sydney Gonyon, Leigha Hall, Alex Hance, Lauren Kosiorowski, Jackson Kozak, Neal Hargrave, Leyla Hazel, Paige Henion, Katherine Langejans, Haden Lienesch, Nathan Maas, Cameron Mealey, Paige Claire Hoop, Micah Jacobson, Samuel Mulder, Mackenzie Myers, Alexa Pearson, Jones, Rachel Judd, Kaelin Kalacanic, Mason Kem, Elena LaFranca, Olivia Allison Perna, Catalina Peterson, Langley LaHaie, West Larson, Abbie Layton, Peterson, Jared Porter, Emerson Powers, Isabella Leason, Austin Licari, Ellery Corbin Raffler, Addison Rapa, Claudia Lienesch, Samuel Lusaya, Jessica Maier, Rissley, Lydia Rushlow, Anthony Russo, Joshua Maier, Hailey Markwat, Vincent Ali Salih, Alexandria Sensing, Emily Mauriello, Shaun Milanowski, Elise Miller, Sorstokke, Andrew Sova, Christopher Cole Morgan, Mason Morrell, Tucker Streit, Keira Sundstrom, Sheldon Thomas, Murray, Tien Dinh Nguyen, Sakura Otto, Carter Tufts, Aubrey VanArtsen, Kyan Emerson Pattock, Eliza Pehrson, Allison VanderWoude, Taylor Venhuizen, Joseph Pellerito, Georgia Pennington, Ada Volpe, Daniel Vranjes, Taylor Walter NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request; Summary of Request; Special Land Use request to build a 300 square foot roofed porch on the back of a planned 900 SF garage for a total of 1,200 SF accessory buildings on the property. Property Address: 163 68th Street, Grand Rapids, Ml 49548 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-06-356-010 Applicant: Daniel Suarez-Lopez, Homeowner Date and Time of Hearing: June 27th, 2024, at 7;00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room, 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at tee Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5;00 PM on June 27th 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. ♦ ♦ ♦ �< 12 ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 Gaines planners recommend township board approve Alexander IVails subdivision plan ♦ JAMES GEMMELL Contributing Writer First-phase construction on the pro­ posed Alexander Trails housing project in Gaines Township could begin as early as next spring, with the approval process now on the fast track after years of delays. The 404-unit mixed-use subdivi sion is proposed to be built in multiple phases over several years on 150 acres along 76th Street, east of H2inna Lake Avenue. In April, the township planning com mission gave preliminary approval for a major amendment to the planned unit development (PUD). And on May 23, the planning commission voted 6-0 to approve the latest site plan and recom­ mended the township board approve the PUD amendment, so long as all township department and outside agen cy approvals are secured. That includes some recommended changes to the photometric plan so that soft lighting is Ml IM Ml used on the site. The Kent County Road Commission will review access to the development and may conduct a traffic study. The Gaines Township Board will hear the first reading of the plan at its next regular meeting on Monday. Kelly Kuiper, the manager of land planning and entitlement with Eastbrook Homes, gave a presenta tion at the planning commission meeting. She said Eastbrook and project applicant Signature Land Development Corp, had fine-tuned the site plan. Signature sells property lots to Eastbrook. Originally, they hoped to begin the initial phase of infrastructure install­ ment by the fall of 2019 at 2451 76th St. SE. But the COVID-19 pandemic pushed those plans back several years. The first PUD was approved in 2020, but because the pandemic delayed the project, the original site-plan approv­ als expired. That created a “shell” or “ghost” PUD. The rezoning was previ- VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECTS THEREOF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on May 28, 2024, the Village Council of the Village of Middleville (the “Village”) adopted Village Ordinance No. 2138 (the “Ordinance”). The principal provisions of the Ordi­ nance are summarized as follows: Section 1 of Ordinance No. 2138 amends Section 46-36 of the Vil­ lage’s Code of Ordinances (the “Code”) with respect to the duties of the officers of the Village’s Planning Commission. Section 2 of the Ordinance amends Section 46-37 of the Village Code with respect to the Planning Commission’s meeting schedule. The Planning Commission is required to hold not less than four regular meetings each year. Section 3 of Ordinance No. 2138 provides for the severability of the Ordinance in the event a portion of the Ordinance is determined to be unen­ forceable. Section 4 of the Ordinance provides for the repeal of all ordinances, or parts of ordinances, which are in conflict with the Ordinance. Section 5 of the Ordinance provides for the publication and effective date of the Ordinance. Village Ordinance No. 2138 will become effective upon its publication or upon the publication of a summary of its provisions in a local newspaper of general circulation in the Village. A copy of Ordinance No. 2138 may be examined or purchased at the Village offices, 100 East Main Street, within the Village, during Village office hours. Dated; May 28, 2024 VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE ■ 0 * A Kelly Kuiper with Eastbrook Homes discusses with the Gaines Township Planning Commission at its May 23 meeting proposed changes to the Alexander Trails housing plan. (Photo by James Gemmell) ously approved, but the planned unit development had to be changed. At the planning commission meeting, Kuiper gave an update on the proposed project changes nearly five years later after the plan was first submitted. She said there will be 66 condominium attached single-story ranch-style homes and 108 two-story attached condominium homes. There also will be 40 condominium “terrace” homes with detached garages, and 190 platted detached homes. “And the difference here is that, in this new plan set, we’ve included some rear access two-story condos, as well,” Kuiper said. The total number of detached homes would be 230. Kuiper said the two-story town­ homes will likely be in the $300,000 to $400,000 price range. The ter* race homes will be in the $350,000 to $450,000 range, the ranch condos will cost anywhere from $375,000 to $500,000, and the single-family houses will be at least $475,000. “The bulk of them probably being $500,000 to $600,000 or $700,000 houses,” she said. “They’re creating a variety of house types, so we’re not just getting one thing,” Community Development Director Dan Wells told the plan­ ning commission. “There’s a variety of price points, which is really good for people who are changing their life situation. Whether it’s people buying starter homes or, when they’re start ing to have kids, they can buy a bigger house with a bigger yard. And then, when they’re ready to downsize, there are options there for ranch condomini­ ums or even for terrace homes.” The gross density for the overall site would be 2.7 units per acre. The net density, which factors out the land on the site that is not developable, would be 3.1 units per acre. That easily meets the township’s density requirements. There are about 50 acres of open space, including the Plaster Creek watershed. “It’s really important that we pre­ serve that environmentally sensitive land,” Kuiper said. “So, through this PUD that will be preserved in per­ petuity. There are both wetlands and floodplain there. There are multiple activated greenspace areas, pickleball courts, and a dog park in the comer.” Some adjacent property owners expressed concerns to the plaiming commission in December 2018 about stormwater management and the increased traffic the development will create in future years as it builds out. “76th Street, as everyone is aware, is not the highest-quality road in the township,” Wells said. “76th does have one main entrance (into the proposed subdivision).” He noted that another entrance point must be built before the devel­ opment exceeds 30 dwelling units, per code. The second entrance would provide access for emergency vehi­ cles to the site. Several citizens spoke during the public hearing portion of the meeting. Leon Pratt was one of them. He lives on nearby Crystal Meadows Street in the adjacent Sienna Pointe subdivision. He asked township officials to require two outlets from Alexander Trails to 76th Street, among other potential access points. “The Alexander Trails development will result in a drastic change in the average daily traffic through Sienna Pointe, without alterations (to the cur­ rent plan),” Pratt said. “We’d go from 70 cars a day to 2,000 to 3,000 cars a day. Excessive traffic is a four-letter word, and we all know why. This addi­ tional daily traffic puts our community at an unnecessary risk level.” �te li- n J Is www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 13 ♦ ♦ Sporting News ™2?*® addsJoPR to win shot put medal at Finals Sports Editor The big jump came between winning an OK Red Conference championship and shooting for a spot in the state finals. Caledonia senior Ian Fedewa won ±e OK Red Conference champion­ ship in the boys’ discus this spring with a throw of 152 feet. At the Scots’ MHSAA Division 1 Regional in Portage, Fedewaraddd more than eight feet to his personal record mark with a throw of 160 feet 5 inches. That PR lasted two weeks. Fedewa tacked on another five inches with a throw of 160-10 to earn himself an all-state medal at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Track and Field Finals Saturday, June 1, at East Kentwood High School. That throw put him in eighth place earning him the last of the eight state medals in the event. Fedewa was also a state qualifier in the discus as a junior in 2023. He capped off that season with a mark of 149-7, a PR that had him 11 th that day. Caledonia head coach Ben Thompson said that Fedewa battled with his competitors through the rain to accomplish their medal winning goals. None of the nine guys who reached the finals of the event were able to improve on their early marks. Of the eight state medalists, five of them had their top throw of the com­ petition on their first throw of the day. That group included Fedewa. Grosse Pointe North senior Clintin Allen was one of three guys to surpass the 170-foot mark in the discus. He won the state title with his personal record throw of 177-3. Each of the top five guys in the discus set their PR Saturday. Zeeland East senior Garett Weeden was the runner-up at 171-3, beating out Walled Lake Central senior Nathan Cody’s mark of 171-2 that earned him the third-place medal. 1 Weeden took the shot put champi- * 7 ♦. - ?* ’il r J X V I ti 4 I b . I •. ,J... JOI • : •Vl ft w* . . . >• ’ :■ . sxjs Bia • J T I ^3^ V \ I tr 9 /v < J 4 iisa& ^1 ■ • V J*. 6 T L I "mT' X? • s r ',K. 4 ft.11B i.. 11 ^3 Ir I ia^ 3%; r 5? I ♦ % > > • -‘m -^-.1 V ♦♦ ki > 4* «-» —I* .1 ^10? - X. I: JI *4X. .’t ‘ 'J -•i^' MM** 1 J 1 •t » 'S* -.* .■X * XI 'J jf*r 't ' I CT”* I J. 1 i• : f -t ------- 1 CnA^ ,w^. • JI I*, VJriA -' s I :3i*aB > '- > ss ■ *fci—J 4 9"^ X’ * I -i^rl •4 ,1 ' <. I h •<-l- iS i, > X) I • 4 Caledonia senior Ian Fedewa celebrates on the medal stand after an eighth­ place finish in the boys’ shot put at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Track and Field Finals hosted by East Kentwood High School Saturday, June 1. Fedewa improved his PR to 160 feet 10 inches at the meet. onship with a personal record put of 59-0.25. Cody placed seventh in that event, one of four Walled Lake Central guys to earn spots on the shot put medal stand. It was a solid day for the Fighting Scot boys in Kentwood. The foursome of sophomore Shaden Thomas and seniors Maddox Greenfield, Jordan Gutierrez and Dharius Walker ran their fastest 4x 100-meter relay of the season to finish 17th in that event. They put together a time of 43.03 seconds. Gutierrez competed in three events. He was 19th in the boys’ high jump clearing the bar at 6-3 and 12th in the boys’ long jump with a best leap of 20-7.25. The Kalamazoo Central boys and Oak Park girls won team state champi­ onships on the day. The Oak Park girls dominated, outscoring the second and third place teams combined. Oak Park finished with 88 points ahead of Ann Arbor Pioneer 42, East Kentwood 40, Detroit Renaissance 35, Saginaw Heritage 30, Detroit Cass Tech 27, West Ottawa 22, Allen Park 20, West Bloomfield 19, Midland Dow 19 and Forest Hills Central 19. Oak Park senior Morgan Roundtree won the 300-meter low hurdles in a personal record time of 41.31 seconds and was the runner-up to Ann Arbor Pioneer senior Maya Rollins in the 100-meter hurdles. Roundtree’s senior teammate Kylee King won the 800meter run in a PR of 2 minutes 10.53 seconds and finished second behind freshman Oak Park runner Nevaeh Bums in the 400-meter dash. Bums took that 400 in a PR of 55.02. Those three Oak Park girls all also contrib­ uted to relay wins for their team on the day as the Oak Park team won the 4x200-meter relay, the 4x 100-meter relay and the 4x400-meter relay. Rachel Forsyth, an Ann Arbor Pioneer senior, won the 1600-meter See FEDEWAon 20 �* 14 ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 Scots shoot number one out of tournament h 1 IE2 I ♦ F: 4 r Zi Every shot they got off found the back of the net; one in 100 minutes of soccer and four in a shoot out. The Caledonia varsity girls’ soc cer team got a goal from freshman Averi Rosted with 18 and a half minutes to play in the second half to even its MHSAA Division 1 District Final with top-ranked Hudsonville at West Ottawa High School in Holland Friday night. May 31. After 20 minutes of scoreless overtime, the Caledonia girls buried four kicks in a shootout for a 2-1 win over the Eagles who had beaten them twice during the 2024 OK Red Conference season. ITie Eagles outshot the Fighting Scots 23-1 through the course of two 40-minute halves and the two ten minute overtime sessions prior to the shootout out. Despite a plethora of tremendous w * saves, Caledonia keeper Davanee Balczak said she felt like it was Rosted saving her. Hudsonville sophomore Lauren Moylan scored her team’s only goal in the course of play on a left-footed comer kick from the right side of the Scots’ net with 25:44 to go in the game. She curled the kick just inside the near post. Balczak knocked . the ball down and fell on it, but was behind her line. It was only about seven minutes later when Rosted took a mistake off the foot of a Hudsonville defender, thanks to some high pressure, and lofted a shot over Eagle keeper Kai ley Walcott from about 30 yards out. “I honestly didn’t believe it. I saw it in the air and it was like slow motion. I was like, oh my goodness,” Caledonia senior defender Langley Peterson said. The Scots’ Baylee Devries, Kendall Maynard, Peterson and Rosted buried 4. . ■ r: J VJ < * 4 4 •> 3 16 a i ir ft* fid .iS A » r w < * *' w T*^ 1 * I « . .Mr '4 V * \ 9 * I t fit i 1 * I e e A A ft * nxi'T' * I r s. * I > T NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Michiana Land Development LLC requests approv al for a mixed-use planned unit development named “Dutton Center” including retail buildings and 234 units of single-family homes, multi-family homes, and condominium units. Property Address: 3316 68th Street Parcel Numbers: 41-22-11-101-017 Applicant: Dan Larabel, Michiana Land Development LLC/Allen Edwin Homes Date and Time of Hearing: June 27th, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on June 27th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. - —' J • -J t- The Caledonia varsity girls’ soccer team celebrates its MHSAA Division 1 District Championship after a 2-1 win over No. 1- ranked Hudsonville in the MHSAA Division 1 District Final at West Ottawa High School Friday, May 31. Team members are (front from left) Susanna Vire, Myah Lapekes, Isabella Teelander, Joslynn Wilcox, Langley Peterson, Davanee Balczak, Ella DeRuyter, Abigail Kramer, Allye Risner, Olivia Stauffer, Mady Mulder, Maya Terryn, (back) Baylee Devries, Haylee Winstrom, Delaney Elles, Kortney Muller, Ellery Lienesch, Averi Rosted, Kendall Maynard, Alexa Pearson, Alicia Rice, Kelsey Roskowski, Maddie Terryn, Jazmyn Thompson and Lily Gortmaker. (Photo by Brett Bremer) . kicks in the shoot out, with Rosted’s missed one I was like, is this real? Did shot clinching the district champion this just happen?” ship. Caledonia head coach Sam Steams After her stellar regulation and was the only member of the team that overtime, Balczak noted it was really has played in a shootout before for the her teammates who did all the work purple and gold, as a member of the in the shoot out. Two of the first four 2009 Caledonia varsity boys’ team shooters for Hudsonville missed the that won a district championship. net with their attempts, and the Scots “I have never felt a victory this didn’t even need their fifth shooter, rewarding,” Peterson said. “[Beating Josie Wilcox, to take a turn from the Byron Center in the district semifi­ spot. nals] was very rewarding, because Peterson said there were moments they have knocked us out the past two during the contest where years. We have never she was a bit nervous try­ beaten [Hudsonville] in ing to contain the Eagles’ my four years. My fresh­ star Moylan on the defen­ man year they knocked sive end, who she plays us out in the first or with in club soccer, but second round of dis those were nothing com­ tricts, and then the past Langley Peterson pared to the nerves she two years it was Byron felt stepping up for her Center. So, this was per­ kick in the shoot out. She felt a little sonal. I really, really wanted to hold extra pressure having been unsuccess­ them off and they took 23 shots. ful the last time she took a penalty “Davanee is incredible. Couldn’t do kick. Hers, like her teammates, turned it without her, for sure. She is the best out to be a perfect strike. ever.” “I was really scared. I missed my Balczak, who has plans to play last PK I tooK against EK,” Peterson collegiality at Grand Valley State said. “This was my breakthrough. I University, said there were times was like I have to make this one. I in her past the goal against her by really have to. It was so nerve wrack ing. I was so shaking. As soon as they See SCOTS on 15 * GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP r I ** * I ' » A * 9 I 1’ A if f BRETT BREMER Sports Editor ^1 l^i ’t Ml have never felt a victory this rewarding 79 ■B « �www.sunandnews.com I I ♦ SCOTS r 1 ♦ Saturday, June 8, 2024 Continued from Page 14 15 ♦ k * --------- Moylan would have brought her to tears. “I just had to try to remember that there was still 20 minutes left in the game. There is still a chance. What if? I just had to try to get it off my brain and focus on the next save,” Balczak said. “It took me a long time to get to that point. I used to cry every time I got scored on. It took me a long time to get to this point.” She said there is s special bond on the Scots’ defensive end. Balczak, Peterson and fellow senior Kendail Maynard have been playing together for as along as any of them can remember. The Caledonia senior group’s col­ lege plans also include Peterson play­ ing at Western Michigan University, Alexa Pearson at Spring Arbor and Bella Teelander and Abigail Kramer Tj rs 4M I I e f II ’ 1. A, k ’K. 4- »• > 4. I < rf: 4^ I k LUb I ’iQ L ■'At! P TUI 4 I I Mt »- V I » ''?Mr 5 r 4 k> i . > bs 1*^ WWMr Eagles in 2018. Steams said he thought that the win over Byron Center in the district semifinals really gave his girls a boost of confidence, and they went into the contest with the Eagles playing to their stren^h on the defensive end. He knew his girls would be able to absorb pressure from the Eagles, and hoped for a chance on the counter attack and that is basically exactly what played out. The Scots also had spent time prac­ ticing PKs at every practice recently, knowing that a state tournament game could likely come down to that par­ ticular skill. “At the beginning of the year, we were all like we’re going to do it, we’re going to do it, we’re going to do it,” Balczak said of winning a district title.“We were on and off throughout the year, but even at this game I was like we’re going to have to work really hard to get there. The Fighting Scot season did come to an end Tuesday, June 4, with a 2-0 loss to another OK Red Conference foe, Grand Haven, in the MHSAA Division 2 Regional Semifinals at Hudsonville High School. ♦ 95 -*=r^ — ' If' • w* 1. *4 t- * L •. < % I W ** -i* r - 9^ r ■ <^ia> & t. w ' \ 'lar*^ .... f ■'HU f * MV*"k *M 4> m' L/i ««l^ ’ **< • • * • 1 ‘'.X*-... • • • • •*.<! _x. "5^ 'W J { Ml P 4 1 ' 'bl bl F. ) T M x ~ ^-I - cV • < A '4 f. f 1 & a-. L z ’I 4. • • 4* * ■ J-; >4 I • 4 A .• I ?s* w ■ •4 V c \ it t ¥ V J 5 t I Caledonia senior defender Langley Peterson flies in to head the ball away from Hudsonville junior attacker Cadence Williams in the Scots’ end during the second half of their MHSAA Division 1 District Final at West Ottawa High School in Holland Friday, May 31. (Photo by Brett Bremer) X f- •*^r L I • V ■TfV L <» J y.at o* « I t fXi 4. £<’ 'W*' — r 4 •r V JLju'V J**' .’W” L.J :’.4 • * ''a T t^a W*« I -'» Caledonia senior Isabella Teelander greets senior goalkeeper Davanee Balczak at the end of the Scots’ shoot out win over Hudsonville in the MHSAA Division 1 District Final at West Ottawa High School in Holland Friday, May ^1 (Photo by Brett Bremer) teaming up at Aquinas College. The Eagles also suffered a shoot out loss to Grand Haven in the semifinals of this year’s OK Red Conference tournament - the only other loss this season for the 14-2-2 Hudsonville girls. The Caledonia end their season with a record of 9-6-2 with the win. The Fighting Scots will face either Portage Central or Battle Creek Lakeview in the MHSAA Division 1 Regional Semifinals in Hudsonville Tuesday, June 4. The program’s last district cham­ pionship came in ±e spring of 2013, and the victory Friday is the first over Hudsonville for the Caledonia girls since Steams has been a part of the program. The Septs last defeated the GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to build a 2,500 square foot accessory building in the Residential-10 zone for per­ sonal residential storage. Property Address: 985 61st Street, Grand Rapids, Ml 49508 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-05-102-020 Applicant: Jeffrey Prins, Homeowner Date and Time of Hearing: June 27th, 2024, at 7;00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. TO be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5;00 PM on June 27th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. < I �♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 16 www.sunandnews.com boys and girls 4x400 medals Only TK wins BR EH BREMER Sports Editor Jr The Trojans went fast and then they had to stop and wait, watch and hope. Hope that they’d been fast enough. Seniors Jaxan Sias, Kyle VanHaitsma, Lucas VanMeter and Ethan Bonnema broke their own school record in the boys’ 4x400-meter relay with a time of 3 minutes 26.06 seconds. Freshman Ellie *. T'A*-' *. • I* b'' 7 ______ -Ji’# X ^F= • * r. ,i6i *>r * fA I I ■ * p >* * ?! y I ''.Jlj 9 • w. r L . > 4 .. d * . ■’I:0 « + I I* p/f ’ • J. . s ’TTi: ,r ri f -V h* M*. ? J .4A a ■ *>• T T r' » •w " IX F jr ■“ • A F % r > r? EX .1 -#»** 4 I F k f 4 i / J, c »• J . X > ^_; 1*^ tI t * t . z 1 4 .kh 4. i V I E b Ue^a 1 * • S; X n 4 . t 4 > ?<• I* ' ":.-.'!ajsTs # . X. s L ». > r/'- >- r » ! :r **• a 4 > ..M a A A* a* f • • -►« •c J1 • .^.c ’< 4 .Hi t r>- Fb 1 1. w'* a* igil•* r t > ♦ A JL.^ •r JI* * “A ♦ — rr s ■ * J.e . .'3(^ I* •* • rr^- 4X Thornapple Kellogg junior Brooklyn Harmon races to the finish in her preliminary heat of the 100-meter hurdles Saturday during the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Track and Field Finals at Hamilton High School. Harmon placed third in the state in both the 100-meter hurdles and the 300-meter low hurdles, and was a state medalist with the TK girls’ sixth-place 4x400-meter relay team too. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I H9 ••i . « k . , r^* w Am p. t ■» Thornapple Kellogg senior Lucas Van Meter gets the baton into the hand of senior teammate Ethan Bonnema for the final leg of the 4x400-meter relay Saturday at the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Track and Field Finals at Hamilton High School. (Photo by Brett Bremer) 3k;2 -■W0W I •■i ■ <w » >* t «*> 4' A HE Anl*nno Men I •I •w i'-,^ •' L # ■ J - i i Antenna Men • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! tl/Sur^Q^ 1 M www.cellsi9nalpr0s.com 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen^gmail.com Harmon, sophomores Mia Hilton and Payton Gater, and junior Brooklyn Harmon teamed up to run the fastest Thomapple Kellogg girl’s 4x400-meter relay of the season (4:07.49). Both teams had to go from racing to watch­ ing. Their runs came in the penultimate heats of the 4x400 races at the MHSAA Division 2 Lower Peninsula Track and Field Finals Saturday at Hamilton High School. It was worth the wait as both teams looked to the video board displaying times after the final heat to see that they’d earned spots among the eight teams of all-state medalists. The TK boys relay team placed fourth and the girls sixth in the end. Thomapple Kellogg was the only school at the D2 Finals with both a boys’ and girls’ 4x400-meter relay team to finish in the top eight. For a few of those Trojans, it was adding to their impressive state medal collection. Brooklyn Harmon was third in both the 100-meter hurdles and the 300meter low hurdles, a year after missing out on compet­ ing at the state finals because of an injury exacerbated by an all-out regional meet effort. Hilton placed eighth in the 300-meter hurdles for the second year in a row. VanMeter improved two school records on the day. He was the state runner-up in the 800-meter run with a time of 1:55.98. Those four seniors boys set the TK 4x400meter relay record at the OK Gold Conference Championship last month, the same day VanMeter set the TK 800 record for the first time. Van Meter said that his training to run an 800 and a 400 are pret­ ty similar - mostly speed work for the guy who has been the lead runner for the TK varsity boys’ cross country team most of the past few seasons. VanHaitsma had a stressed look on his face after the 4x400, but that quickly melted into relief and joy once the final results were displayed. “I wasn’t sad about how the race was, or mad about that,” VanHaitsma said. “I was more sad that it was over. [VanMeter] is the only one that is going to do track anymore (at Davenport University). Me and Ethan aren’t going to play a college sport. [Sias] has football (at Alma College), but I am done. “High school sports meant a lot to me, and it’s sad to be done, but I like that,” he said motioning to the Trojans’ time on the scoreboard. VanHaitsma competed in the high jump Saturday morning. VanMeter had his 800 run, with junior teammate Jacob Draaisma behind him in 14th-place See MEDALS on 17 �for the first time. “This year, I came into it w ith a group of a couple of my best friends, all of them we’re super close,” Hilton said. It was easy to be able to rely on each other. We wanted to make it to the hand-off for each other, not just for ourselves or for the top eight spot. Gater was the only member of the 2024 finals foursome that ran in the race at the 2023 finals, but she didn’t run much this spring. She suffered a calf injury the first weekend of the out­ door season and was in a walking boot until recently. Between the injury' on April 12 and the June 1 state finals, Gater ran an all-out 400 meters one time - last Saturday (May 24) at the MITCA Team State Meet. She was two sec­ onds faster than she had been in April and earned her spot back on the relay team for the state finals. She had only been out of her boot for two weeks at that point. That was pretty cool,” Gater said of returning for the finals. “I was freaking ouL but I trust my teammates enough that even if I did do terrible, I trust Brooklyn, Ellie and Mia enough that I knew they wouldn’t let us lose.” Gater led off the relay and nearly toppled forward after the "set com mand from the meet official. She just managed to hold her balance until the gun sounded. “She came back from an injury we didn’t think she was going to come back from,” TK girls’ coach Maggie Wilkinson said. “She got cleared and in V •J I ’A t r V I xT * I L 1 r * -♦ tJ I » . I t;;. v* uV 1 r: 1 I r < UI I «» Lt- i .B* ( <wbi / > J . .. 1 ftl '1 Thornapple Kellogg senior 4x400-meter relay teammates (from left) Ethan 3onnema.^axan Sias, Lucas VanMeter and Kyle VanHaitsma make their wly to the fourth-place step on the medal stand at the MHSAA L.P Division 2 Track and Field Finals at Hamilton High School Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) MEDALS Continued from Page 16 in that race. Those were the only other events for TK boys other than the 4x400. “I think it is the fact that none of us had to run a preliminary, besides this guy [VanMeter],” Sias said of the relay team cutting time. “We all came out there on fresh legs.” “This is what we prayed for,” he added. “These are the things that you wish for. I am glad we got to live through it.” Sias and Bonnema were a part of the TK foursome that was 12th in the 4x400 at the 2023 state finals. VanMeter said he knew that if thev cut time the results would fall into place, but Bonnema really was focused on that top eight finish in the race all sea son long. He had the lead in the heat when he took the baton Saturday. “I was in front and just had to run away from people,” Bonnema said. “It was harder today than normal. I couldn’t tell where this kid was, but it wasn’t too bad. Usually, if I have someone to chase it will push me a little bit, but I am pretty good at stay­ ing in my own head and knowing what I need to do.” Host Hamilton won the boys’ 4x400meter relay with the team of Abatu Dykstra, Gabriel Schrotenboer, Josh Langeland and Benjamin Boehm fin­ ishing in 3:23.40. Unlike the boys, the TK ladies in the 4x400-meter relay have years of track and field ahead of them in orange and black, but they also know that they need to make the most of their chanc­ es. Brooklyn Harmon was undefeated in the lOO-meter hurdles, the 300meter hurdles and the 4x400-meter relay as a sophomore in 2023, but an injury knocked her out of the 4x400 at regionals after she had already won regional hurdles championships and she didn’t get to compete in the state finals. Hilton won a state medal in the 300meter hurdles at the 2023 finals, but wasn’t able to recover from that race to run in the 4x400-meter relay at the end of the finals. So she was running the * T v* 1 '.f.- t <■ mL' I. ■••••^ 4 J I .. 1 ■'« •I •l * z » t » F'^ went to physical therapy, and we just made sure we were very careful with how we progressed. We were careful at practice. We didn’t let her run 100 percent. But she knows nothing but fast. She doesn’t. I had to say things like, ‘you may not practice anvuiore.’ She’s just a gogetter. Gater said the hardest part of the whole race was just Uy ing to cheer on Hilton, who she handed the baton to, because she felt so dead. It is such a crazy race. I love the 4x400, but it’s the craziest race ever. There are so many ups and downs and peaks and valleys, it is so overw helm­ ing. It’s an adrenaline rush,” Gater said. Gater gave the baton to Hilton for tlie second leg of the race. We practiced our handoffs for two days,” Hilton said. “We had to change things up from a slow- shuffle to a quicker run so we could cut off a few seconds there too. Our handoffs felt really smooth today. The skies opened up midway through the finals and rarely let up, the hardest rain that fell all day was while the TK ladies were smiling on the medal stand, just a couple steps down from the East Grand Rapids foursome of Lilly Saunders, Avery Hecksei, Katelyn Artz and Drew Muller that won the girls’ 4x400 relay in 4:01.88. The rain certainly didn’t bother Brooklyn Harmon much. She set her PR in the lOO-meter hurdles with a time of 15.30 before the rain started and then splashed her way to a PR of 46.05 in the 300-meter low hurdles. Hilton set a PR in that 300-meter hurdles race too finishing in 47.30 to place eighth. She placed second in the penultimate heat behind Vicksburg’s Megan Zahnow who was fourth in the See TK WINS on 19 1 t •« / 1 BET*. r I 4 r ♦ ' k h *• 24 hour access and security n L * • I* f ^4 J Mio: S TOIRliGIE f -4 1 * .. ’ll « A I «*> * 3 * ax * AI * 4 bV’L-M ' ■ T ■ -.z-. i/ 2.’ I* • ■ k’ V L^*............ Thornapple Kellogg freshman Ellie Harmon greets her big sister, junior Brooklyn Harmon, who is helped away from the track by fellow 4x400-meter relay teammates Mia Hilton (front) and Payton Gater (back) near the end of the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Track and Field Finals at Hamilton High School Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) HOnTH TO MOOTH OR POT FOR 5 & GOT 6 Month to Month 10x22x16 • ^80/mo 5x23x16 • ^60/mo 6x10x7 • MO/mo 6 Month Lease 10x22x16 • ^66^^/m 5x23x16 • ^50/mo 6x10x7 • ^33^^/mo ^SS N. Moe Road, Middleville, Ml of l^TtiOurHat Gor^ Poro^) Call Dave McDufTee at 616-891-2112 �X 18 ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 Classifieds i r wi 4 ♦ ♦ f AUTOMOTIVE REAL ESTATE 2003 PORSCHE BOXTER S. 67,000 Miles. Runs and drives great! $16,600. 616-551-9412. CONDO, MIDDLEVILLE VILLAGE. Open floor plan, lots of natural light. Walkout lower level. Main floor bed­ room, en-suite, walk in closet. Kitchen with pantry. Main floor laundry, 1/2 bath. All appliances included. Second bedroom/study. Downstairs bedroom, full bath, family room, work room, storage room. Attached garage, 2 car. Flower beds with perennials! $282,000. 269-795-7815 BUSINESS SERVICES k F„.. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pres­ sure washing. Brian Ellens (269)9535496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tu­ lip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818 7793. 4S» CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. REAL ESTATE CONDO, MIDDLEVILLE VILLAGE. Open floor plan, lots of natural light. Walkout lower level. Main floor bed­ room, en-suite, walk in closet. Kitchen with pantry. Main floor laundry, 1/2 bath. All appliances included. Second bedroom/study. Downstairs bedroom, full bath, family room, work room, storage room. Attached garage, 2 car. Flower beds with perennials! $282,000. 269-795-7815 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes The minutes for the May 1, 2024 and the May 8, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting which were approved on June 5, 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at www.caledoniatownship.org. . 1 a HELP WANTEO GARDENER: SASKATOON Golf Club is looking to hire a part-time, seasonal Master gardener to develop and maintain flower beds and accent landscaping during the golf season. Flexible hours beginning late April / early May through mid-October, ap­ prox. 24 hours a week. Apply online at saskatoongolf.com/employment/ or in-person at 9038 92nd St, Alto. COMMUNITY NOTICE THE FOLLOWING STORAGE units at Caledonia A-1 Affordable Stor­ age will be sold at ON-LINE Public Auction to the highest bidder via M37 Auction.com whose business address is 9790 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Cal­ edonia Ml 49316. ON-LINE auction to take place as follows; Pre-Bidding/ Viewing begins June 21 and auction close date of June 25, 2024 for this auction in order to satisfy storage liens outstanding as of sale date. Items are pertaining to the following units and are all miscellaneous gen­ eral household & garage type items: Ashley Hicks #91, Amanda Tye #83 and David Herriman #80. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD tollfree telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSmO OPPORTUNITY I ¥ . « I .1<sra V < KJ ■< kWT' • *L<||. -S' -u J ( 1 h zJa V % .w Z I Ct h • 4 y. >•>*- FT 5^ TJ th 5^ . I >' Caledonia pitcher Cam Myers fires the ball to the plate during his team’s win over Lowell in the MHSAA Division 1 District Final at Davenport University Friday, May 31. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Scots earn another shot at regional title BRETT BREMER Sports Editor The Fightings Scots are doing some­ thing right turning over the line-up. The Caledonia varsity baseball team will make the trip to Central Michigan University for a MHSAA Division 1 Regional Final ballgame for the second season in a row after winning its district tournament at Davenport University last Friday, May 31, and following that up with a 7-0 shut out of Wyoming in the MHSAA Division 1 Regional Semifinal at Grandville High School Wednesday. Tommy Clarey was hitting eighth in the Scots’ 2023 regional semifinal bailgame. He’s at the top of the line-up now, one ofjust four regular starting position players back from last year’s postseason line-up that eventually fell to Traverse City West in the regional final. The Scots are set to face a more familiar foe this season, the Hudsonville Eagles from the OK Red Conference. Hudsonville won all three of its conference contests with the Fighting Scots in late May. There will be three OK Red squads in Mount Pleasant today, June 8, with Grand Haven taking on Bay City Western in a Division 1 Regional Final at the Chippewas’ Keilitz Field at Theunissen Stadium. The two regional champion­ ship teams will face off Saturday after­ noon in a state quarterfinal match-up. Three of the four returning starters from last postseason got the Scots’ first scoring rally started against Wyoming Wednesday. Clarey hit a one-out single through the left side in the top of the third inning. He was eventually caught stealing, but AJ Szabo walked to keep things going and then Nic Slater sin gled into left, moving Szabo to second. A line drive single into center field by Isaac Jurmu brought home the first run of the bailgame, and really the only one the Scots’ needed with Andrew Render dealing on the mound. Render got the win. He threw five innings of one-hit ball. He struck out three. Cam Myers and Jacob Stoczynski each threw a scoreless inning of relief. Myers struck out one. Stoczynski struck out the side in the seventh to earn the save. The big inning offensively for the Scots against the Wolves was the top of the fifth when they pushed across six runs. Overall, the Scots had 12 hits with eight different guys notching at least one. Slater had the big blow in the fifth, a two run double, after Trevor Walter walked, Clarey was hit by a pitch and Szabo put down a bunt single to load the bases. Jurmu followed with a two run single. Elliot Clark drove in a run with a sacrifice fly in the inning and See SCOTS on 20 IB •• �♦ ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Trojans do their best to battle out of 9-0 hole at Hopkins BRED BREMER Sports Editor Thomapple Kellogg varsity softball coach Ashley Garrett is thank­ ful to have another season with Kylee Hoebeke ahead. The Trojan junior shortstop went 4-for-4 in the leadoff spot with a home run, a double, two runs scored and two RBIs, but that offensive outburst wasn’t quite enough to get her team into the district finals at Hopkins High School Saturday. The Trojans fell 12-7 to the host Vikings in their MHSAA Division 2 District Tournament’s lone semifinal contest. Wayland took a 14-0 win over the Hopkins girls in the district final to advance to this weekend’s regional round of the state tournament. Hopkins got a three-run home run from Ava Vanderkolk in the first inning and built a 5-0 advantage in that opening frame. The Vikings pushed that lead up to 9-0 in the top of the second inning. Vanderkolk finished the ballgame 3-for-4 at the plate with a walk, a double and a triple to go with her home run. She scored three runs and drove in two. TK started to chip away from TK WINS there. Kenzie Bouma advanced around the bases after a leadoff single for TK in the bottom of the second. Back-to-back doubles by Hoebeke and Shelby Robinett plated a run to. start the bottom of the third for TK. Jenna Robinett followed those two doubles with a single and then Adeladie Holderman knocked a two-run double into left that pulled TK within 9-4. An Emma Stevens sacrifice fly scored Holderman from third and TK was within 9-5 by the end of three innings. Hoebeke’s two-run home run with one out in the bottom of the fourth cut that four-run Hopkins lead in half. That was as close as TK would get. Hopkins upped its lead to 11-7 with two runs in the top of the sixth and then added one more insurance run in the top of the seventh. TK had 11 hits. Bouma finished 3-for-4 with a run scored. Shelby Robinett took the loss in the circle, allowing seven runs on seven hits. She struck out one. Holderman threw the final six innings. She struck out seven. walked five and allowed five runs (three earned) on seven hits. Ellie Harmon was 21 st in the long jump at 15 feet 2.5 inches and senior Continued from Page 17 Kenady Smith cleared 5-1 in the high jump to place 15th in that event. end. There were two heats of girls fol­ Dearborn Divine Child won the lowing hers at the state finals a year girls ’ team state championship in ago. Hilton was almost a second faster Hamilton with 46 points ahead of than she was at the state finals as a Yale 39, East Grand Rapids 36, freshman in the 300 hurdles. Summit Academy North 33, Saginaw Yale sophomore Sadie Dykstra Swan Valley 25, Grand Rapids was the day’s 300 hurdle champion Catholic Central 22, Forest Hills in 56.00 - a new PR for her. Dykstra Eastern 22, Marysville 18, Goodrich was the runner-up behind Chelsea 18, St. Johns 17 and Gaylord 17 in the senior Leila Wells in the 100-meter top ten. The TK girls were 12th with hurdles. Wells won the 100 hurdles 16 points. in 14.92. Pinckney freshman Davea The Berrien Springs boys captured Crowe was second, between Dykstra the team state championship with 40 and Harmon, in the 300 hurdles. The top three in both races all set new per­ points. Corunna was second with 38 sonal record times. points ahead of DeWitt 34, Charlotte Those were all the TK medalists, but 28, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 26, junior Ava Crews set her PR in the Parma Western 26, Stevensville 3200-meter run with a 17th-place time Lakeshore 24, Pinckney 24, Gladwin of 11:24.60. She also placed 21 st in 23 and Grand Rapids Catholic Central the 1600-meter run in 5:17.49. 23 in the top ten. 19 Saturday, June 8, 2024 wildcats shut out Trojan baseball in district final BRETT BREMER Sports Editor It wasn’t the third time that was the charm for the Wildcats. It was the fourth. The Wayland varsity baseball team scored a 10-0 win over Thomapple Kellogg in the MHSAA Division 2 District Final at Hopkins High School Saturday. The Trojans swept the threegame OK Gold Conference series between the two teams this season. Wayland starter Easton Williams shut out TK through the first four innings as his team built its 10-0 advantage, and then Ryder Morgan came in to close things out in the top of the fifth. Williams struck out three and gave up three hits, while Morgan gave up one hit and struck out two in the fifth. The Wildcat offense had three doubles among its six hits and scored five unearned runs against TK pitchers Brody Wiersma and Jacob Davis who each threw two innings. Wayland worked six walks and didn’t strike out once in the bailgame. The four TK hits in the bailgame were all singles one each for Wiersma, Logan Snelling, Anson Verlinde and Spencer Ybema. The Trojans had the leadoff guy on base in each of the first two innings, but both times had that runner picked off on the base paths. Wayland took a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning and took control of the ballgame with six runs in the bottom of the second. Cameron Bogart had a tworun double and Williams a two-run single in that six-run inning. The Wildcats pushed their lead to double figures with three runs in the top of the third. It had been a good start to the day for TK as the Trojans took a 4-1 win over West Michigan Aviation Academy (WMAA) in a district semifinal bailgame. Snelling shut out the Aviators for six innings allowing just one hit and striking out two. Jayce Brummel got the save in the seventh allowing one run on three hits and striking out one. TK got its first run without the benefit of a hit. Davis was hit by a pitch. He stole second and third, and scored on a WMAA error. The Trojan lead sat at 1-0 until the bot­ tom of the fifth. Ybema singled and Ben Koster reached on an error for TK. They went to second and third on a sacrifice bunt by Maddix Ferden, putting the pres­ sure on Wiersma. Wiersma managed to drive in two runs with a single to the left side. He went to second as the Aviators threw the ball around, and eventually stole third and then scored himself on a wild pitch. The Aviator offense never had a guy reach second base against Snelling. They had a two out single in the first and another guy reached on an error with two out in the top of the third. Both times Snelling quickly recorded the third out of the inning. The TK boys end the season with a 17-17 record. Wayland moved to 19-151 on the season with its win over the Trojans in the district final, but fell 11 -2 Wednesday to Grand Rapids Christian in its PvtHSAA Division 2 Regional Semifinal ballgame. Wayland got to the district final with a 6-2 win over South Christian in its district semifinal ballgame Saturday. • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Eiectronic Measuring System • Frame Repair ""We go above ana beyond your vehicle repairs!" GOD CLASS KV. Lesonal * (gO) NFIB WMBA ✓ 616.891.0150 www.edsbodv.com ED’S BODY SHOP CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN 110 Johnson Street Owner Ed Pawloski Jr. OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm ♦ ♦ �Ml 20 < ♦ FEDEWA 4 r* Continued from Page 18 Walter had an RBI single in his second plate appearance of the inning. Szabo, Slater, Jiumu and Walter had two hits apiece. Jurmu had a team-high three RBIs. Slater drove in two and Clark and Walter both had one RBI. The Fighting Scots won their way into the regional semifinal by besting Lowell in an MHSAA Division 1 District Final for the second consecutive season Friday afternoon. May 31, at Davenport University. A pair of runs in the top of the fifth inning broke a 1 -1 deadlock and Caledonia went on to a 3-1 win over the Red Arrows. Caledonia opened the day with a 5-3 win over Forest Hills Central in the district semifinals. Lowell beat East Kentwood 11 -4 in its semifinal match-up. Myers went the distance on the mound for tile Fighting Scots in the district final. He held the Red Arrows to one run on five hits. He struck out two and didn’t issue a walk. Caledonia took a 1 -0 lead in the top of the third inning. Ben Keiliszewski singled with two out and scored eas­ ily on a triple into center by teammate Ethan Sova. That came after the Scots loaded the bases in the first and second innings but failed to push a run across. A triple and a single by the Arrows evened the bailgame at 1-1 in the bot­ tom of the fourth inning. The Fighting Scots answered right back. Jurmu led off the top of the fifth with a triple. He beat the throw home on a ground ball to first by teammate Corbin Raffler, another of the Scots’ returning starters, to put the Scots back in front. Raffler went to second on a Lowell error and scored on a single into center by Sova. Your local agent insures your Business ft FARM BUREAU INSURANCE* Compoff^ o Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville I www.sunandnews.com 4 /1 4 I THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 8, 2024 SCOTS ♦ I (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com £ 1 Continued from Page 13 •► I ■ ’ < ✓ I I r I $ i I ■ Ow f < - - t9 4^ ItX 7 1Z*’T b w< b^W / ■•’-i Tft-V i The Fighting Scots’ Ben Kieliszewski looks to round third to score during his team’s win over Lowell in the MHSAA Division 1 District Final at Davenport University May 31. (Photo by Brett Bremer) A 6-4-3 double play from Szabo to Raffler to first baseman Slater wiped out a leadoff single by the Red Arrows in the bottom of the fifth. Myers retired seven of the next eight batters he faced, allowing just a two-out single in the bottom of the sixth. Jurmu was 3-for-4 in the bailgame. Caledonia had nine hits in all. Sova was 2-for-3 with a triple, a single and the two RBIs. Slater was 2-for-4 with a single and a double. The Arrows were careful with the Scots’ number two hitter Clarey. He was was l-for-2 with a pair of walks. Blake Sitzer and Owen Larose were both 2-for-3 for the Red Arrows. Larose had a double and singled behind Sitzer’s triple to plate their team ’ s first run. Caledonia jumped on Forest Hills Central for four runs in the top of the first inning of their district semifinal match-up earlier in the afternoon, and the Scots held that 4-0 lead until the Rangers struck for a run in the bottom of the fifth. The Scots got that one right back in the top of the sixth. Forest Hills Central made things interesting in the bottom of the seventh scoring two times against Render. The Rangers had a man on third and the win ning run in the batter’s box with two out when Slater relieved Render to record the final out. Jurmu snagged a pop-up at third and that was the ballgame. Redner got the win. He allowed three runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out five.Raffler had a huge game going 2-for-2 with a double and a triple. He scored two runs and drove in two runs. Sova was 2-for-3 with a triple and two RBIs. Slater had two hits too. * run in a PR of4:38.23, beating out Ottawa Hills senior Selma Anderson for the title. Forsyth also won the 3200-meter in in 10:15.57. Grand Haven senior Seth Norder took the boys’ 1600-meter dash. He was the state runner-up in the 1600 as a sophomore and won the state champion in the 3200-meter run as a junior. Junior sprinter Jeremy Dixon played a big part in Kalamazoo Central’s team title. He won the 100-meter dash in a PR of 10.72 and placed second in the 200-meter dash in 21.71 behind Clinton Township Chippewa Valley senior Shamar Heard (21.36). Heard was the 400-meter dash cham­ pion too (46.76). West Ottawa sprinters had a great day too as the Panthers won state championships in the boys’ 4x200meter relay and the boys’ 4x100meter relay. The team of Charlie Sanders, Ruben Esparza, Andrew Spilotro and Desmond Chapa won the 4x200 in 1:25.53 and the 4x100 in 41.35. Gutierrez was one of 19 guys to clear the bar at 6-3 in the high jump. The nine state medalists all cleared at least 6-5. Sturgis junior Brock Fergison and Zeeland West senior Andrew Kraft both cleared 6-10 with Fergison taking the state champion­ ship tiebreaker. The host East Kentwood team got a championship from sophomore Reece Emeott in the pole vault. He cleared 15-3. He was way above his competi­ tion. The state runner-up from Dexter, senior Clark Sheldon, bowed out after clearing 14-6. Gutierrez was two inches shy of the last of the nine guys who qualified for the finals of the boys’ long jump competition. Canton junior Quincy Isaac won that event with a leap of 23-3.75. Both the Caledonia boys and girls teams got to compete May 24 at the Division 1 MTTCA Team State Finals where their OK Red Conference foes the Rockford boys and East Kentwood girls took team championships. The Caledonia boys finished fifth overall on the day and the Caledonia girls eighth. Teams can enter three athletes in each event at the team state finals, and one relay team in each relay race, and every finishers scores for their team. Fedewa had his best shot put per formance ever there with a mark of 52-2.5 that put him in fourth place. It was sophomore Cody Meyers who led the Scots in the discus that day with a personal record throw of 139 3. Fedewa was tenth with a throw of 136-1. The Caledonia boys had three top ten finishes in the high jump. Gutierrez got over the bar at 6-2 to place fifth. Junior Andrew Tava was seventh with a PR leap of 6-0 and sophomore Rydik Wrubel placed tenth at 5-8. Gutierrez added a sixth­ placejump of 21-0.5 in the long jump. Senior Owen Hager took a champi­ onship for the Caledonia boys in the 110-meter high hurdles with a time of 14.73 seconds and senior teammate Carter Tufts placed seventh in that race. The top relay finish for the Caledonia boys came from the 4x400meter team of senior Lual Abiel, junior Joshua Maier, senior Ayden Duffin and freshman Aaron Collins that earned a time of 3:28.09. Collins had already set his PR in the 400-meter dash with a time of 50.48 that put him in fifth in that race. The hurdles were the top perform­ ers for the Caledonia girls. Freshman Olivia Hawkins was sixth in 100meter hurdles in 16.38 and seventh in the 300-meter low hurdles in 48.96. Senior Audrey Howell placed ninth in the 100-meter hurdles in 16.84 and eighth in the 300 hurdles in 49.10. Fighting Scot senior Brooke Heyboer had the only other top ten individual finish on the track for the Scots. She was tenth in the 100-meter dash in 13.18. The top relay finish for the CHS girls came from the team of junior Jessica Maier and seniors Howell, Heyboer and Teresa Abraham that was fifth in the 4x 100-meter relay with a time of 51.33. In the field, the Scots had Abraham seventh in the high jump at a heigh . of 4-11 and senior Kiersten DeHaan ninth in the discus with a personal record throw of 105-1. There were 12 boys’ teams and 11 girls’ teams competing at the annual event. t � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-06-15.pdf cac6114b474c8d360d0fd8b60f295d1f PDF Text Text •> L *• < 4 b a 9 »T jf h f r •|‘ * . p’ 4 t » ^1 J ■ b . s** » ■ 1. k i 4 J / 4 A SI I • > I p. b ■a - . • / >11 < 4 4 r . 9 * * r J/" > .*k- I 4 r A < t I ^* » * 4 •fc r * AND NEWS the SUN Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Gaines »p: '<*r CS ♦ < r I e :< ■r’k ■F^-- h .Lih •4 1 4k it < .m— V >• Township Areas FAMILY If’lT Y »? ’ ^.• s ? .'1 I fe* I >». — NO. 10 1 * 4 V • 1 . - ” u > SATURDAY, JUNE 16, 2024 J A / « * .-V GfO'U p. J a- •- ■ J/ ■H-ifc^-41 •':-^1. -r^T-"*^’' > ^3 • ’-B-. •■■••- . www.sunandnews.com »x 4 / X < A •l Former TK teachers heading to Guam to serve as missionaries GREG CHANDLER 1 1 b Ai # More than 200 people turned out last Saturday at First Baptist Church of Middleville to greet a local coupie who is preparing to head over­ seas to serve as missionaries. Josh and Jessica Thaler, bo± of whom have taught in Thomapple Kellogg Schools, will depart next week for the U.S. island territory of Guam in the Pacific Ocean more than 7,400 miles away from Middleville. The Thalers were surprised when they arrived at the church to see a message on its electronic sign wish­ ing them well on their upcoming See THALER on 2 Businesses inside Dutton strip mall close doors due to flooding from roof leak * Staff Writer I F■«^' 4 w* iU r «r. He •« — 9 ■9 J J k\ K jar 9^RS; • I I -W . At least one owner of a business inside a strip mall in Dutton says he is considering taking legal action after a roof leak during heavy rainfall on June 8 did significant damage. The location is 3555 68th Street, east of Hammond Avenue in Gaines Charter Township. At least three of the seven businesses in the plaza were temporarily closed due to the dam­ age. That included Barry G’s Italian Ice, which posted on social media that “we will be closed at least until things get cleaned up and the health department gives us the okay to reopen.” Salon 68 posted on Facebook that all the impacted business owners are working col­ lectively to get operations running at full levels again. See STRIP MALL on 3 4^ '4**' X- :9 WFi % Tr" fj ? J*-:* *4 z* > t i «c (Above) Last Saturday, members of the community gathered at First Baptist Church of Middleville to celebrate Josh and Jessica Thaler, who will be embarking with their family on a missionary trip to Guam. (Right) Josh and Jessica Thaler are pictured here with sons Ezra (left), age 3, and Jude (right), 21 months. • 4 L* * *• i -t 5 • » A-W A wAbS k .5 (Photos courtesy of Jessica Thaler) Thank you for reading The Sun and News Regular readers of The Sun and News noticed a change in the look of the paper last week as we unveiled a new design featuring a reader-friendly page size, redesigned layouts with clear and consistent typography and graphics, and increased use of color. You may have also previously read of the change in ownership of The Sun and News and the other J-Ad newspapers from the Jacobs family to View Newspaper Group. We are proud to add the J-Ad papers to our growing family of newspapers, which now includes 21 community newspa­ pers serving readers and advertisers in 13 Michigan counties from Huron County at WOCB aawoisno the tip of the Thumb to 1VUN3aiS3U SSMU03 Barry, Kent, Calhoun and KSg^ in anwuMjg OKxogod Montcalm counties on IllUJSd 8€88> the west side of the state. Another big change QlVd aovisod STI ois isad . J Contributing Writer kW»' • s il< R -• . ) J » JAMES GEMMELL ♦ f 1 •> •l 9^-- J ' f takes effect this week as The Sun and News and our other free papers are now delivered to residential mailboxes by the U.S. Postal Service. Our free papers will also continue to be avail­ able at select locations in each circula­ tion area. Please call us at 269-9459554 if you have questions regarding home delivery. The local news, information and high school sports coverage of The Sun and News and its sister papers will remain unchanged as View Newspaper Group’s commitment to the local news and the communities we serve is right in line with what the Jacobs family has delivered to read­ ers and advertisers for nearly eight decades. Thank you for your continued sup­ port of your local newspaper. — Wes Smith, View Newspaper Group Publisher .r-? < riiZ 1 t I WE X ' -’b t* . r 4 a* PRINTERS & PUBttSHERS ,1 ^TSI^t A r f 4.^* 1 T d r 4 Jir* ’ “5^ ■ < 1 *’4 A igfcaB i 'A *ri* -X* ♦? •rl Jf . -i «• >_ 1 fIK V 1 I k X 7 I t * •^* h._ k. > '^- . r.T|t **.4... •a;-*usl‘*: I ’«• L. X- I .ar:^ k^^ r r * ♦ V V yw Mk aa -I L. ■>T- I M J 4 The closing of the sale of The Sun and News and the other J-Ad newspapers from the Jacobs family to View Newspaper Group was concluded Monday at J-Ad’s corporate offices in Hastings. Pictured are (from left) View Newspaper Group controller Jill Nichols, J-Ad Graphics owner and publisher Fred Jacobs, View Newspaper Group owner and president Rick Burrough and View Newspaper Group publisher Wes Smith. K h I, 4 A �2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 16, 2024 THALER Continued from Page 1 missionary experience. “We picked a day (for the event) and said this is the time. Our friends just planned the rest of it. We didn’t know about the sign,” Jessica Thaler said. While in Guam, the Thalers will work for a K-12 Christian college prep school operated by Harvest Baptist Church in the village of Barrigada. “My main responsibility will be mid­ dle school and high school athletics, along with starting some youth (sports) programs,” said Josh "fhaler, who was the varsity boys basketball coach at Thomapple Kellogg High School for four seasons until he stepped down at the end of the 2022-23 season. Thaler, who graduated from TKHS in 2008, taught middle school math and third grade at Lee Elementary School during his lO-year tenure with the TK district. Jessica Thaler was a paraprofessional at Lee for three years before join­ ing the district as a teacher in 2018. She taught one year of Young Fives and one year of first grade at McFall Elementary School, then two years of second grade at Lee. The Thalers learned of the oppor­ tunity to serve Ln Guam in February when they met up with an old friend, Gary Walton, who serves as the lead pastor at Harvest Baptist Church. They knew Walton from their days attending a church in Kentwood years before. “We were just talking about life, and talked about how we felt like God was getting us ready for something differ­ ent than what I was currently doing with teaching,” Josh Thaler said. “We didn’t know what that would look like. We’ve been thinking about it for over a year, just waiting to see if anything popped up.” At first. Josh was offered a teach­ ing position at the academy in Guam. The Thalers decided to think and pray about it. About a month later. Josh was offered the opportunity to head up the middle school and hi^ school athletic program at the academy. The Thalers were intrigued, but wanted to make sure that this was a leading from God. They met with several couples from First Baptist and asked for prayers to help them discern the right course of action. They fully expected their fiiends to encourage them to stay in Middleville. But each of the couples encouraged them to go to Guam. “That was just so affirming, because these are people that want us to stay, but care more about what God wants than what they want,” Jessica Thaler said. “It’s just a huge testimony, I think, to that community at FBC where we want to serve the Lord, even at per sonal sacrifice and emotion.” Josh Thaler called the level of sup­ port the couple has received from their faith community “the wind in our sails.” “It’s very difficult to leave because we have a lot of deep connections (there). We’ve really enjoyed grow­ ing and serving with the church,” Josh Thaler said. Josh has been a deacon at FBC, while Jessica has volunteered with the church youth group and has served on the praise team. In addition to handling the ath­ letic program at Harvest Christian Academy, Josh Thaler will teach at least one math class. Jessica, who is expecting the couple’s third child in September to go along with sons Ezra, 3, and Jude, 21 months, will serve as an elementary paraprofessional at first but could move into a substitute teach­ ing role later. Harvest Christian Academy has close to 1,000 students, with many of them coming from as far away as Japan, Korea and the Philippines. Jessica Thaler describes it as “an Ivy League prep school” meant to serve as a transi­ tion to help prepare students for col MAGIC MAN: Magician, comedian brings fun to KDL in Caledonia % J. II t z M 4 ' - < 1 tt- j *• X A ¥ —w > F * A 31 A . rjafci ... A AMERO •'i i .X r t 5 F L I 1 Fl As part of a busy summer at the Kent District Library’s Caledonia Township branch, over a hundred kids and parents were treated to a magic show from Bay City-based performer Cameron Zvara on Monday morning. Zvara, who travels the world and extensively performs an educational show catering to schools throughout the year, performed tricks that ranged from burning a $10 bill and making it reappear and making a handkerchief dance inside of a glass case. He also honed his juggling skills. (Photos by Jayson Bussa) lege in United States. “Their mission field is bringing stu­ dents in for this high education. Eighty percent of the students (are) unsaved. That’s where our mission field is with the students, where most of them don’t know Christ,” Josh Thaler said. While the Thalers have not seen in person the community where they will be spending the next several years, they have gotten leads from family and fiiends who either live in Guam now or have in the past. Jessica Thaler has a cousin who has lived on the island for 20 years and has sent videos to the couple depicting life there. The Thalers are expected to be in Guam for at least the next three years, but it’s possible they could stay longer than that. “They’re hoping for longer, just for * the athletic director position,” Josh Thaler said. The Thalers, who have been married since 2015, have pointed to Chapter 8 from the book of Romans as inspiration for their upcoming ministry experience. In that chapter, the apostle Paul writes of living by the spirit of God and not according to fleshly desires, of living by faith and not by fear. The Thalers admit that leaving Middleville will be hard. “This is our community. We have felt so supported, not just by our church,” Jessica Thaler said. “A lot of those people at that party are just Middleville people teachers, coworkers, basketball players that (Josh) coached, people from Leighton Church, Good News Baptist Church, Peace Church.” “It’s a special place to live.” THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US Editor; Jayson Bussa .SiUfflittO JJJ r PUBLISHED BY 2 ii Group jayson@j-adgraphics.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept., 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. �> 1^ f 1 r 1 s I J www.sunandnews.com I f THE SUN AND NEWS STRIPMALL ’Tgdn Continued from Page 3 “Lfnfortunately, rain during our roof replacement has caused all of our businesses to experience significant water damage. All businesses have either closed or are forced to operate at minimal capacity at this time,” Salon 68 posted. Other establishments in the strip mall include Oskar Scots, Dutton Liquor, Octo Alliance Combat Sports, David’s Nails and Good Mooed Cafe. The owner of Oskar Scots, Randall Scot, says a roof repair crew contracted by the strip mall building’s landlord had begun repairing the roof a week prior. They still were working on it on June 8 when it began pouring rain outside that Saturday afternoon. Scot was not there at the time, but he was notified by the restaurant staff of the situation, and he advised them to close the restaurant right away. “The workers didn’t tarp the roof, they didn’t seal it, they didn’t finish it, they didn’t do anything; they just left,” Scot said. “As hard as it was raining outside, it was raining that hard inside my restau­ rant. In the kitchen, all over my food.” Scot said the landlord is Ajay Sehgal of Dutton Mill Comers LLC. The Sun and News reached out to him via a telephone call to corroborate ±at infor mation but was told by the man who answered the call ±at it was ±e wrong number. However, Scot later assured a reporter that it was, indeed, ±e correct phone number. Scot said he did not know for sure whether ±e company ±at was contract­ ed to fix the roof was licensed, bonded and insured. Several of the ceiling tiles had caved in by Sunday morning. Oskar Scots sus­ tained the worst of the damage among the seven businesses in the strip mall. No damage total had been calculated at the time this stoiy went to press. A res­ toration company and insurance adjus­ tors were inspecting the damages. Scot is 56 and a longtime Gaines Township resident. He said he moved his business last year from its former location at the D&W strip mall in Caledonia, 9353 Cherry Valley Ave. He opened ±e new restaurant on June 22, 2023. “So, I was getting ready to throw a one-year celebration I had planned out. And mind you, my roof has been leak­ ing since June 25 last year. Three days after I moved in and opened up my res­ Saturday, June 16, 2024 f \ u IM * ''^ >«h. 9J > 'T- —— J.’’ x* X' »-l pj >• F?T--= 4* l b ■f2 -^.;...H » I r •V. *I r ’.J < M *TXfc V I < ) V > 1 *. I I z V AU i. "f t : * M" ■■ * -r J a * *4 r J aWEHIM ^<4 BlU* «iiE;.-*>~ 4 w ?> M *> • I ra r ’: Ml^ 1 R 12 r ' w o I ■ * •• 1 >-• ’i ‘sTS I IB *d f . • .**» L 4 it V. * : Pn' bw « •/ A»’ ?» « < >■ r ♦ 4 JI. I An exterior view of the Oskar Scots restaurant on 68th Street in Dutton (Photo by James Gemmell) " • k “7 4 * V*- V \4 ■ii * . •iS s ra r ♦ **» V 1 b-Tv’ >* s * n I> ' ** A •> '4 . ...^^ -< < L k 55- > Jf > i 1 1 ja r*' ‘ '"flH W- ) •1^ s V^C ' •r •< I r.-.i 3/J s w -I 4 F" , < r/? z ? *1 > L< > A’ ■ ^jr.7 « A 4 < •r ' •1 >f . A '-'< 4* ‘•d> I :y I y I < r,. • w • « '*4W I ■ X A Insuiation covers much of the customer seating area inside of Oskar Scots’ restaurant foilowing the June 8 roof leak. (Photo from Randall Scot) Meanwhile, Scot said he is unsure when his business may reopen. He said his insurance company instructed him not to even go inside the building right away because ceiling tiles were still falling as of early in the week. And because the insurance adjustors want to first go to the site and evaluate the amount of damage done. After that, cleanup will begin. Scot said the landlord hired Otsego­ based Recovery Restoration to dry out and help clean up the building. “But they can’t go into my restaurant whatsoever because mine has the bmnt of the damage,” he said, adding that restoration could begin after his insur­ ance company inspects the building. Scot is a chef. He said he always opened his doors for his customers at 4 a.m. He cooked breakfast, and items such as burgers, barbecue, liver and onions, specialty pizzas, biscuits and gravy. “I smoke all of my own meats,” Scot said. “All of my food I purchase is local. Ninety percent of everything I serve there is scratch-made from local ingredients, from local farms,” Scot said. He hopes to open Oskar Scots again as soon as possible. « taurant, it started leaking. And it’s been a whole year of me trying to get this taken care of,” Scot said. The Kent County Health Department issued a citation at Oskar Scots in March 2024. “I called ±em up, sent ±em to my restaurant,” Scot said, adding ±at the health department video-recorded rain coming through ±e roof onto food. (The heal± department) shut me down. I had to shut down for a couple of days,” Scot said. He added that he asked the landlord once again at that time to fix the roof. Qi and supposedly was assured that it would be repaired soon. “He also was aware of leaking throughout the entire year. I’ve got pictures, emails. I’ve got text messages galore,” Scot said. He mentioned that he has been speak­ ing with an attorney about possibly fil­ ing a lawsuit. Drywall, insulation and various other items and equipment were also destroyed inside other businesses in the strip mall. And some had up to half an inch of standing water on Sunday, the day after the rain fell. • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Eiectronic Measuring System • Frame Repair "MZe go above anti beyond your vehicle rebairsl" GOLD CLASS A-^ Iesonal >(y8^^a8)L?NFIB • Back door is open • Burlap, Quilt Cottons, Denitn Canvis, Tozveling • 108” Wide Quilt Backs «« e ^1“ ED’S BODY SHOP QUESTIONS: ASK US... CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN ■■■■i VISA < raffigBBBS e' 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-96 h ?4 * WMBA 616.891.0150 www.edsbodv.com (Pray for our nation I? OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm 3 110 Johnson Street Owner Ed Pawloski Jr. OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm �www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 16, 2024 Obituaries MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Lansing last week. Linda won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as club members recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. The June 10 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary's report. There are three new fish in the fishbowl. The chapter had a no-gain week; this week's net loss was 13.2 pounds. Virginia and Maryellen discussed their impressions from State Recognition Days in Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY I I I Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch .** Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am Rev Christine Reaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship 1r * 1 •r? ■FIRST BAPTIST Middleville service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 1675 84th st. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend 6I6-89I -S669 CalcdoniaUMC. org IJvcsircain; Facebook.com^CalcdorHaUnitcdMclhodisl Serving a (o 9 'Ll Strengthening Connecting / t -A I PEACECHURCH.ee Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 . www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School.. Sunday Worship .9:30 AM 10:30 AM Watch our services from our website (see alcove) OURNEY CHURCH ONE CHURCH - T\NO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: LEARN MORE! 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledoniaa>rg ■K Whitneyville 1 -^4*^ 1 Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. i Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee « Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. «PEACE CHURCH r▼ 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Sunday Worship................................ 9:30 a.m. Church: (269) 795-2391 IL*' f 4 HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH 908 W Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) http://gaods}iephertllcms.googlepages .com I FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg Sunday Service 10:30 AM c__ / SERVICE TIMES; Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweh ni Yankee Springs Bible Church Fellowship Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"*^ & 48^ ■I Praising God through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music I Worship Services Sunday io am & 6 pm I Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:^o pm&ypm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online; WhitneyvilleFeilowship.org •ill 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 5 Shining Forth God*s Light Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... tf 10:00 a.in. 11:00 a.m. Jama L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org Robert N. King On June 5, 2024, Robert N. King, age 87, was called to spend eternity with his Lord and Savior. He passed peacefully at home with his wife at his bedside. Robert was born in Ionia, Ml on March 22, 1937. He was pre­ ceded in death by his parents, Charles L. King and Frances (Hochstetler) King, and his broth­ ers, Donald V. King and Lloyd C. King and his sister, Delores (King) Aspinall. He is survived by his wife of 64 years. Gloria J. (Bouck) King; his children, Jerold L. King and Lori J. (Madsen) King, Roy N. King and Laurie M. (Headworth) King, and Susan M. (King) Montroy and spouse Philip E. Montroy. Robert and Gloria had six grandchildren, Dalton, Braden, Ryan and his spouse Kendra, Erin and her spouse Raleigh, Daniel, and Emmarie. They also have four great grandchil­ dren, Jordyn, Levi, Camden; and Samuel. Robert retired from General Motors in 1992 after 32 years of service as a millwright skilled tradesman. He then returned to Mackinac Island for several summers to drive horse and buggy, giving tours of the island to vacation ing guests. Robert called Freeport his hometown. He graduated from Freeport High School in 1955, and attended Michigan State College, now University. He enjoyed golf, bowling, and being a coach to an amazing array of local young athletes who played little league base­ ball. Robert wore many hats throughout his life­ time. He was a wonderful husband, a devoted father and a kind friend. He enjoyed the friend­ ship of many in the Native American culture. His native name was Wabakeck, which when translated means Hawk. He loved local history and gave time to the Freeport Museum. As he wished, he will be cremated and a memorial service celebrating his life will be held Friday, June 28, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Middleville at 5215 N. M-37 Highway, Middleville, Ml 49333. There will be a light lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Freeport Museum Historical Society, RO. Box 127, Freeport, Ml 49325, or to the charity of your choice. *' f i ( J �www.sunandnews.com I s THE SUN AND NEWS Caledonia village budget approved GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer k r » c Saturday, June 16, 2024 The Caledonia Village Council Monday approved the village budget for the new fiscal year that begins July 1. The 2024-25 budget calls for general fund spending of $967,738, with revenues of $977,324, resulting in a slight sur­ plus of $9,586. The village’s tax rate remains unchanged at 7.944 mills, which it has been for several years. The budget includes a 3.2 percent wage increase for village employ­ ees as well as salary increases for the village president, clerk and treasurer. Village President Jennifer Lindsey will receive an increase in salary from $3,750 to $4,000 for her role, as well as $95 for each meeting attended and $75 for each special meeting attended. Village Treasurer Jennifer Eardley will be paid $3,750 in salary for the year, and the clerk will also be paid a $3,750 salary, with both being an increase from $3,000 in the 2023-24 fiscal year, according to village documents. Council trustees will be paid $95 per meeting attended and $75 for each special meeting attended, remaining unchanged from the current fiscal year. The budget sets a salary of $98,000 for the currently-vacant position of village manager, although the council in a separate resolution Monday approved set­ ting a pay range for the job at $75,000 to $98,000, depending on qualifications and experience. according to village documents. In the absence of a village manager, the new budget was put together by consultant Ryan Cotton and Interim Village Manager Lisa Segard. The council reviewed the budget at a special meeting May 20. Cotton served as interim vil­ lage manager in Caledonia in 2019 before the appointment of Jeff Thornton, who served as man­ ager until he resigned earlier this spring. The general fund budget also calls for more than $301,000 of spending in public works, includ­ ing salaries, health insurance costs and capital improvement projects. Another $75,300 is set aside for capital equipment purchases according to the budget document. The local street fund budget for next fiscal year is significantly higher than last year at $584,758, up from $139,526. That includes patching and overlay work on Emmons Street, Maple Street, Duncan Lake Road and Casey Court. The project is receiv­ ing $ 184,000 in grant funding through the state’s Community Service Infrastructure Fund. (CSIF) Category B program’, to be matched do 11 ar-for-do 11 ar by local funds. The local street fund is also cov ering the cost of chip seal work on Main Street from M-37 to School Street, on School from Main to Johnson Street, and on Johnson from Duncan Lake to Kinsey Street, according to village docu­ ments. Seven applications received for Caledonia village manager opening GREG CHANDLER " Staff Writer The village of Caledonia will soon begin the process of reviewing applications for the vacant position of village manager. Village President Jennifer Lindsey said Monday that the village has received seven applications for the position left vacant in April when Jeff Thornton resigned after nearly five years on the job. As the village seeks a new man ager, it is currently going through applications for the soon-to-be vacated position of administrative assistant, Lindsey said. “We’re focusing on admin right now, and (the) manager (applica­ tion review) will be happening very shortly,” Lindsey said. The new assistant will replace Lisa Segard, who is serving as interim village manager in addi­ tion to her administrative assistant responsibilities. Segard is retiring after 26 years with the village. The Village Council last month decided to begin its search for a new manager by looking locally for * qualified candidates. One resident says that the council should make it a priority to hire a candidate who lives in the village or at least close by. “Your right arm is the manager, and as the manager, you should have a minimum knowledge of this village, as much as we can pos­ sibly afford to gather,” said Jeff Kusmierz, who is running for the council in this year’s election. Kusmierz submitted a proposed sample motion to the council, set­ ting forth a priority list, starting with candidates who live in the vil­ lage, followed by those who live in Caledonia Township, then by those who live in the state and those who live outside the state. “It’s very crucial that we have someone as close to this community as we can possibly get, and an equi­ table assessment of that person’s capability,” Kusmierz said. Village consultant Ryan Cotton said there are legal issues that would prevent the village from requiring a candidate to live within its borders. “You cannot require that someone live in your community by state law and be considered for any position, in addition to the manager,” Cotton said. Council Trustee Gerrianne Schuler raised similar concerns, and suggested the village get input from its legal counsel before making any decisions on prioritizing candidates. Lindsey said that she has received applications from “multiple local candidates.” “That’s a good thing. Let the process play out. That’s all we can r { 4 f II **■ w- >t i ’/A ask,” Kusmierz said. A search committee will review the manager applications and deter­ mine who to bring in for an inter­ view. The committee consists of Lindsey, Segard, Village Treasurer Jennifer Eardley, Council President Pro Tempore Cheryl Miller, and Planning Commissioner Spike Baird. Cotton, a former interim manager in Caledonia who has vast experience as a city and village manager around West Michigan, will guide the committee, Lindsey said. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL = 6REAT the ® ■J 4- ep'c to ▼ fro^ Sunday, June 23-Thursday, June 27 6:30-8:30 p.m. Leighton Church 4180 2nd Street, Caledonia Age 4 thru 6th Grade (entering in the fall) Register online at www.leightonchurch.org/vbs • • * • • * �1 1 6 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 16, 2024 * V*' K- >** 'fl *1 .tf - 4 '4^ w>*‘ I * I 5 1 r •'< «r 4* I 4 fl > WtiT «««4 I . AV. ' ri*. I I *r* '» u rz. II * i" r:fl. I -I *^■5 t' I I «' w * 1^.* ■ •f i p; 4^ V « X 'f ■ p ; • k« r w». ] i J L f * < ■H I »^U» k( V I J <•* T I-* A fl rfl www.sunandnews.com V u ’I 9 :<^J» » 1 r.'' »■ fl ' Jk I- V' &\t < f- J .• J •*’ 4 I, S V It*. * J xw f ■ '« f * 11 <v « -J <» ■■Uws WR . ^• W-. 9 • r* r'UJ *I '.-1 ’ ri '*• > I. V T^ *F I < <1 . •;•*< >• b *’ Several hundred people watched a drag show at the amphitheater in Middleville last weekend as part of Middleville Pride (Photos provided) Middleville Pride festival draws hundreds GREG CHANDLER and Downtown Development Authority amphitheater. The day’s activities included face painting, vendors selling under the pavilion, a disc jockey and a drag show featuring several performers. “It seemed like a steadier flow of people for the day, and a bigger crowd for the show,” said Amanda Fisk, one of the event organizers. The festival brought in people from around the state, Fisk said. Staff Writer Several hundred people gathered in downtown Middleville Saturday to show their support for the LGBTQ community. With rainbow-colored flags and banners displaying messages such as “Love Is Love,” the community’s second annual Pride Festival took place at the Sesquicentennial Pavilion /• s .s’ WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS (•* : : ri{ I J flp 4^ r . We had a group travel from the east side of the state, several from other towns and counties that aren’t local,” she said. “People really made a journey out of the day and that was really great to see.” Middleville was the first Barry County community to have a Pride Festival last year. A similar event is planned in Hastings on June 29. “We’re hoping to join forces next year for better organization and big­ ger festivals,” Fisk said. “The major end goal is, of course, to just make people in our small towns feel seen, and feel like they’re not alone — that no matter what the politics or the hate they see on social media, they are loved and they have a com­ munity here.” > f r a b' P < I A». A• Residential & Commercial r A' t Ifl " > I I k r. k*. r '.i'. -I / *< I <5 ? I?. J I *2: wi I • '; 4 4 •l JS ►TV 9^*-* 1 -■9 r 1 I Countess Hexen performs during a drag show at Saturday’s Middleville Pride Festival. 14' ...^f V f .-9" J<* / 1 k s< 1 \ 'x, L / I*. -a I r r r 4 T. I * 1 I ■B * » V. I 5 z 1 ■< 1 72' ^1 II ' r tR Itt ( I V I 7 * 1 f• *t» f •t I w -T1 J *<• • SI 1— i MMB i 9 ■ I fl Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters -Humidifiers * % T ■I 6 - T a J 1 / "t ’n- ,l 'f-*' ** ** * A A #0" 4^ Il r k 5r X I 1 .?S§g^ «. s f Pt •vsb I p r; t ■ A..; I ' • fc*. A 4 t «KV ’.’ji .•« 4 • J > 'Jr* I t f f •t-t i-D-*. * > t k A -« » a; 9 V' 1 > p T < k'^ » *- DeWeerd HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 (68 Since 19S5 .1 LEMiDiC> •• • *•'. Z'i 1 . JI 6 “ .ff V I .■» fl z 5 f A+ I I ( I < I BBB^ ACCREDITED BUSINESS A i^.'> - v#-p . « I Keiryn Merrill and Neelani Jourden strike a pose, extending a flag behind them, at Middleville Pride last weekend. j I I I I �•KJ , It I t www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS _________________ ___________________ ___________ ___________ _____ _ ______ “——--------------------—— Saturday, June June 16, 2024 odiuruay, to, 4^024 f haines Township to hold outdoor Movie in the Park on Aua 23 JAMES GEMMFII JAMES GEMMELL I ”•"51 ■ _________________ ____________ Contributing Writer STS , I I > f' M tit J I I cr I Residents can watch a popular animated adventure comedy film free of charge on Aug. 23 outside the Gaines Township Hall The location is 8561 Kalamazoo Ave., at the southwest comer of the 84th Street/Kalamazoo Avenue intersection. It is adjacent to Prairie Wolf Park. The ninth annual free outdoor “Movie in the Park” that will be shown on the lawn that Friday night will be Universal Pictures’ 2023 film, “Migration.” It’s about a fam­ ily of mallards who try to convince the father to migrate with them from New England to Jamaica. The 83-minute-long children’s movie features the voices of actors Kumail Nanjiani, Danny DeVito, Elizabeth Banks and many others. Activities will begin at 6:30 p.m., two hours before the movie starts at 8:30 p.m. It is shown on an inflat­ able screen. Like last year, there will be food trucks, fire and sheriff department vehicles and displays. P I > ... i T A 4 •I 1 I __ V i I ♦> M 4 * >• .’f 4 wt I ■' — H * -X .< ' L_< < r . t ■ 'C 1 a I Hr I > <r ’* »I J ♦ I J > ^■5 bk. •VM.'TSa » •4 J I W•* .* A t; 7 ' > u •>T ’ " ■*a^: —ss I 4 1 ►>> .• KIV f***»Jt <• ? I i ^'7^ -$=5 V * ‘T* tt V K« . •V.’ A. ,- a.. * I- > 1 3^^ *.nau*au: k ri*^ iV * r r .. io; * w«. » r S \ *^_a fc.. J4 fr S 'i ? r*v. -•*1 ••• * u t. A . V**. :b 1 • ■'.t I ij • 4 Xs .••sr * i k.f * ry * Nearly 200 people attended last year’s ‘Movie in the Park’ outside the Gaines Township Hall. (Photos by James Gemmell) and various games and activities for the kids. Nearly 200 people showed up for last year’s event, which featured r> t zl 1 ptiwdin STAf^ FINISH'" r i. U > *♦ ’^1 • 'J 1 f 1^1 i' 'I r' f •I * 9k X< J A V s X H >5 ■ -t::; -p- 1 \ Running For Fun The 34th Annual Brian Diemer 5K Run was blessed with nearly perfect weather and attracted 634 participants last Saturday for another successful outing. Participants of all ages included runners, walkers, hand cyclists. “We had a perfect race day,” race director Rob Hyde said. “The temperature was 60 degrees and good conditions for good times ... (We were) so honored to have the 24th race in Cutlerville and the 34th race overall. We raised money for our eight charity partners and were able to bring a great event for the Cutlerville community.” the film “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.” The township holds the Movie in the Park in conjunction with the Gaines Chamber of Commerce and the Gaines branch of the Kentwood District Library (KDL). It is a chamber networking event, as well. The food trucks usually sell pop­ corn, cotton candy and caramel com, Chick-Fil-A supplied a lot of the food last year. All proceeds went to the Community Food Basket and the nonprofit Streams of Hope Food Center Pantry on 60th Street. Movie-goers usually bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit on. Although there will be food trucks, they can bring their own picnic bas­ ket, if they want. “We always hope for great weath­ er and it will be a great, fun activ­ ity for the whole family,” Gaines Township Treasurer Laurie Lemke said. “Kids of all ages will enjoy it.” “It’s a very exciting event,” Township Manager Rod Weersing agreed. “We’re looking forward to it again this year. I’m hoping for good weather. August is usually a pretty safe bet, but it can be such a huge factor on the crowd.” He added that if it rains hard, the event will be canceled. *s t r f i »' * * 't •* • 4- A* 91 l» s ..-I J k ' kx I:’ ' K’r ' .• L.> I # II W t*4 J aJr"4. Ik .. •l •k % J 4 ;i r r > .I- J-. Kids’ games, food trucks and other activities begin two hours before the film is shown at dusk. Your local agent insures your C/ops c I 1 n FARM BUttEAV M8UHANCF' »l r Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795*8827 jparRs@fbinsmi.com Farm6ureaulnsurance.com �8 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 16, 2024 TK district to dip into reserves under 24-25 budget GREG CHANDLER ... Staff Writer IV After eight consecutive years of budget sur pluses, Thomapple Kellogg Schools are expected to operate at a deficit for the new fiscal year that begins July 1. The district’s school board Monday approved a 2024-25 budget that dips into its reserves to the tune of $426,886. The district is expected to take in total revenues of $47,247,153 for the fis cal year, with spending and transfers out totaling $47,674,039, Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie said. The TK district is expected to end the current fiscal year June 30 with a surplus of $1,413,152, boosting its fund balance to $9,293,241, represent­ ing about 20 percent of its expenditures. Even with the expected shortfall, the fund balance would be just under 19 percent at the end of the 2024-25 fis­ cal year. Just six years ago, the district’s reserves were less than 12 percent of expenditures, accord­ ing to figures supplied by LaHaie. “Coming into this year • • • we knew we were going to be doing some amazing things,” LaHaie said. “We knew we were putting a half-million dollars into the Wonders (elementary reading) cur­ riculum. We knew that we were going to be invest­ ing in (professional learning communities). We r BtiCOtT I'EARING * f JI —V < 4 «I V- i V 11 V I * If t * Viii^ A I Thornapple Kellogg Schools Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie goes over the district’s 2024-25 budget at Monday’s school board meeting. (Photo by Greg Chandler) were going to be investing in some new positions. “What we didn’t know at the beginning — I’m talking this time last year - we did not know all the categorical funding that we would have access to. Some of that just came in March where we were able to offset $443,000 of our Wonders cur­ riculum with grant funds. So that’s part of why we continue to build this fund balance • • • Please know it’s not because we’re sitting back and putting our money in the bank. We are continuing to do great things, in a meaningful way.” LaHaie is projecting a $250-per-pupil increase in the district’s foundation grant from the state, to $9,858 per student, based on the governor’s budget proposal. He expects to see a reduction in state categorical funding, such as for mental health and behavioral support, that helped bolster the district’s finances this year. “All indications are they’re not going to continue like they have,” LaHaie said. In addition, the TK district is expected to see a cut in federal funding of more than $ 1 million under the new budget, primarily resulting from the conclusion of the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER), which is part of the American Rescue Plan Act that was enacted in response to the CO VID-19 pandemic. The last of the ESSER funds is to be spent by the end of September. Of the district’s planned spending for 2024-25, 83 percent is in salaries and benefits for teachSee BUDGET on 9 Estimated cost for TKHS FFA barn tops $262,000 GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer The price tag for purchasing and constructing a bam to support the FFA program at Thomapple Kellogg High School is rising, and that has some school board members con­ cerned. TK Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie Monday provided an estimated cost for the bam project, including purchase and constmction z t / / IIGHT TRUCK MRTr / KBMm>neiiR<iHTiiis*nB«sin<«R>oa I , HU snncE > vol Piu IT K 1 <• 1 i 269-381-2300 C; • :T ✓ BSEO nuns' usa tires / 1811 L MUAIMZOO I of the building as well as mnning infrastmcture such as plumbing and electrical to the building, at more than $262,000. And that doesn’t include future costs for operating the bam, such as utilities, buying feed for the animals, maintenance and repairs and property casualty insurance, LaHaie told the board. The district earlier this year received a $48,363 grant through the Eaton Regional Educational Service Agency to be used to purchase the bam. In addition, an anonymous donor has offered a $50,000 dona tion toward the project. If approved, the remaining cost would come out of the district’s capital projects fund, LaHaie said. The district received a quote last month of $49,705 from Elite Metal Buildings out of Arizona for the bam, which would be a metal struc­ ture with a sidewall of 60 feet, an end wall of 60 feet that includes a lean-to, and a pre-pitch height of 18 feet. However, the bid did not include a cost for assembling the structure. Another company, SE Agricultural & Commercial from Byron Center, offered a higher cost for the bam of $72,876, but also offered a quote for assembly work of $43,571, LaHaie said. LaHaie went on to detail the addi tional work and expense that will go with the bam project. “We looked at the cost to provide site work and gravel, to set the building on (there’s also costs for) sep­ tic and pipe, water line and a frostfree hydrant,” LaHaie said. Some of those additional costs include $31,000 for electrical work, including $19,910 for interior elec­ trical, nearly $13,000 for plumbing and $14,780 for spray foam insula­ tion, according to figures supplied by LaHaie to the board. Three companies have agreed to provide concrete for the project at no cost to the district, LaHaie said. Several board members say they have questions that have not yet been answered. The board’s Finance Committee reviewed the proposal prior to Monday night’s frill meeting. “There seemed to be still an awful lot of unknowns, like who’s going to take care of the animals in the sum­ mer, who’s even going to take care of the animals in the evening, if an animal gets loose, what the operating budget is going to be for a program like this,” board member David Smith said. I’m thrilled that we have the FFA program. I really am. I wanted to see us have the program for quite a few years, but it seems like we’re biting off a lot more than we should with his project.” Smith proposed starting small with the FFA program. “Caledonia doesn’t have a bam. I don’t know of any other districts that do. Maybe there’s somebody who can answer those types of questions. See BARN TOP on 9 �s I « THE SUN AND NEWS GARAGE SALE Saturday. June 16. 2024 Continued from Page 8 I REAL ESTATE But personally, 1 think we’re think­ ing too big,” he said. Board Vice President Krissy Hooson agreed, saying the board is super supportive” of what FFA is try ing to do. I don’t want to just put a bam up and then two years later (have it) not be viable,” Hooson said. “We want to figure out how to make this viable for decades so that you have a really robust program.” Board member Derrick Brock sug^4 MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE Huge sale. Furniture, home decor, vintage items, porcelain dolls, kids and adult clothes, books, household items and much more! Fri-Sat, April 12th-13th, 2024. 9a.m.6p.m. 922 Grand Rapids St. Mid­ dleville. s ft: h! !!■ BUSINESS SERVICES BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937 CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pres­ sure washing. Brian Ellens (269)9535496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 PETS 5 I I DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. CONDO, Middleville village. Open floor plan, lots of natural light. Walk­ out lower level. Main floor bedroom , en-suite, walk in closet. Kitchen with pantry. Main floor laundry, 1/2 bath. All appliances included. Second bedroom/study. Downstairs bedroom, full bath, family room, work room, storage room. Attached garage, 2 car. Flower beds with perennials! $282,000 269795-7815 Continued from Page 8 MASTER GARDENER: SASKATOON Golf Club is looking to hire a part-time, seasonal Master gardener to develop and maintain flower beds and accent landscaping during the golf season. Flexible hours beginning late April / early May through mid­ October, approx. 24 hours a week. Apply online at saskatoongolf.com/ employment/ or in-person at 9038 92nd St, Alto. JOIN OUR TEAM! Choice Concrete Construction. Now Hiring. Full Time, Competitive Wages, Insurance, 401K, Paid Vacations. No experience needed. Call 616-693-2123 or stop in 8-5 M-F. 8637 Portland Rd, Clarks­ ville, Ml 48815. r I z - I, st <*i^ \ I 1 s ,L- . •v I bi BUDGET HELP WANTED ers, administrators, support staff and other employees. “We see some savings from retirements and staff that have left, and replacing them with younger staff that are lower on the pay scale,” LaHaie said. LaHaie is projecting an enroll­ ment decrease of 29 students, which would mark the fifth consec­ utive year of enrollment declines at TK, to 3,1 10 students. The dis­ trict’s enrollment peak was 3,213 students in the 2019-20 fiscal year, according to LaHaie. The new budget has no pro­ gramming cuts. In addition to the Wonders curriculum implementation, the district has adopted a vocational education program and is continuing to use compensatory learning tools to help students facing various chal­ lenges, LaHaie said. “We’re being intentional and we’re being responsible with these funds We want to do great 5^ ‘ 'A 1 r h i 4 K ' ' Xi 4*' - < •. 8 I < 1 Work in progress A couple weeks ago, Rockford Construction published photos on social media depicting the progress being made on the Caledonia Community Center. The firm reported that it “is coming along nicely as our team has been working hard in the cardio area, pool, concessions, locker rooms and gym. From tiling the concessions floor to setting case work and installing lockers, we are this much closer to bringing this 47,000 sq. ft. aquatics and fitness center to the Caledonia community,” the post stated. ♦ •• 0 ♦ BARN TOP Classifieds S 111 I li k» I 9 t vwvw.sunandnews.com •1 « V 9 gested that TK look at another dis­ trict with an FFA program, such as Olivet in neighboring Eaton County, and speak to someone to address some of the unanswered questions the board has. “It would be great if someone could ... do a little more research and maybe come back with some answers. I know’ we’re doing a stepby-step process here,” Brock said. Board President Matt Powers has no problem with the district taking its time in addressing the project. “We’re better off going slow than being in a bad spot,” Powers said. things with them,” LaHaie said. LaHaie hopes to have a better idea what the district’s revenues after the state approves its school aid budget. “We’ll continue to monitor this. We don’t know what the school aid fund budget is going to be for next year. Hopefully, we’ll know in the next couple of weeks, and that’ll be the first work that goes into look ing at the (budget) amendment for 24-25,” he said. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discnmination based on race. ct^or, religion. handicap, familial national origin, age or martial hiatus, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discnniinalion ” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real cstote which is in violation of the law ()ur readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper arc available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980 The HUD loll free telephone number for the hearing impaired is I 800 927 9275 MIM. MOUMO OrPOWTUHITT I Cheers to 3 Years! * June 15th, 12-8»m • • i V/INKKX BKKV/kRY * 4 . J » $3 Hot dogs & Chips $3 Drink Specials Music from “ The Blind Squirrels S-Spm Hours: 12pm-8pm Tues.-Sat. • 12pm-4pm Sun. 9175 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia 616.710.0796 S« fot all evrnr ♦ ♦ �10 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 16, 2024 Gaines Township gets a thumbs-up, recommendations from its auditor •♦ JAMES GEMMELL 1 Contributing Writer 4 J .*1 X: * % A * T** W” it' r The Siegfried Crandall P.C. account­ ing firm has given Gaines Charter Township a clean bill of financial health after conducting an audit for the township’s 2023 fiscal year. The company is based in Portage and hired by the township to do the annual audit. It reviews the township’s financial statements, business activi­ ties, each major fund and the aggregate fund information. Siegfried principal Dan Veldhuizen is the one who oversees the auditing for Gaines and several other munici­ palities in West Michigan. He gave a presentation on the auditor’s report to the township board at its June 10 meeting in the township hall. He said the township received an unmodified, clean opinion,” which means there were no major accounting or other errors in its financial opera­ tions. Every municipality in the state must have a clean opinion before the Michigan Department of Treasury will accept it. “Every year, it’s always troubling V ■ * I I 44 i r -x, a: f •l ( T I* 44 Bruce's Frame and Alignment I Full Service Body Shop I • Wheel Alignments • Auto Gloss Installation • Insurance Work Welcome • Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com •x -•A.. i 7JJ5-9596 ■ 415 2nd • Middleville ■ i “additional benefits derived from implementing such a system would not outweigh the costs incurred to do so.” The general fund’s imassigned fund balance at the end of the 2023 fiscal year was $5,529,701. Veldhuizen said that is the amount of money the town­ ship actually had available to spend at year’s end. I always look at that relative to your current year’s expenditures. If you do the math, it’s about 116 percent of your current year’s expenditures. I would say a healthy fund balance is 25 to 50 percent. You’re well over that, although most of the townships I work with shoot for - the goal is - 100 per­ cent,” Veldhuizen said. He also noted that Gaines Charter Township still has about $2.2 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding available to spend. In 2021, the federal government allotted every municipal­ ity in the nation a specific amount of pandemic-relief funding, based on its respective population. Gaines received about $2.7 million. The township board voted in March to allocate $1.2 million of its ARPA money toward the $ 1.7 million cost of a new platform fire truck. The rest will come from the general fund. The fire truck is due to arrive in August 2025 from Appleton, Wisconsin-based Pierce Manufacturing. The new truck will enable firefighters to access the tops of taller buildings in the township from a platform. Local governments must report to the federal government how they intend to spend their ARPA funds by Dec. 31, 2024, and the funds must be spent by Dec. 31, 2026. Township trustees discussed at Monday’s meeting the likelihood of holding a workshop meeting soon - possibly on June 24 - to further discuss its plans for dedicating and spending the township’s remaining ARPA money. As for the auditor’s report, it listed several minor budget violations. “I have a feeling that’s going to be looked at much more closely this year. And I hope to be able to say next year that there were no budget violations,” Veldhuizen. He added that, “Overall, the financial condition of the township and its vari OUS funds are really quite healthy, and you have people here doing the work.” .4 ». 4 t ( f J 'It- Auditor Dan Veldhuizen with Siegfried Crandall P.C. gives a presentation to the Gaines Township Board on June 10 regarding the findings from its 2023 fiscal year audit. (Photo by James Gemmell) to hear in the media that ‘It’s a clean opinion, so everything must be fine.’ That’s not always the case. We really want to know how many corrections that we need to make to your internal records,” Veldhuizen said. The accounting firm identified and proposed several material audit adjustments that it said township manage ment reviewed and approved: — Correct revenue, receivables and deferred inflows of resources associ­ ated with property taxes — Recognize lease receivable and associated deferred inflow — Correct prepaids — Provide for depreciation on enter prise fund capital assets — Recognize developer contribu­ tions in the enterprise funds — Correct interfund balances — Record transfer to the Public Safety Fund to avoid deficit — Convert the fund-based data necessary to prepare the government-wide financial statements Township management must make the adjustments suggested by the accounting firm so that the financial statements are in accordance with gen­ erally accepted accounting principles. Although Siegfned Crandall prepares * the auditor report, the township staff has the responsibility to make a fair presentation of the financial statements and maintain financial control over the transactions, in terms of checks and balances. The auditor’s report said Gaines Township traditionally has relied on its independent external auditor to assist with the preparation of the financial statements. It noted that the township’s accounting records were “initially misstated by amounts material to the financial statements.” The report mentioned the mistakes were due to the township outsourc­ ing the preparation of its annual financial statements to the external auditor “rather than incur the costs of obtaining the necessary training and expertise required for the township to perform this task internally.” Althou^ the township has viewed outsourcing the financial statement preparation as more cost effective than performing the task internally, the auditor recommends township man­ agement prepare a draft of its annual financial statements versus contracting with its auditor for those services. The report noted that township management has determined that the �I.' J t k ♦ www.sunandnews.com Hi H M B THE SUN AND NEWS _ Saturday, June ID, 16, 2024 11 sjaiuiuay. juiitJ Midaleville council adopts policy for filling council, board openings GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer The Middleville Village Council Tuesday night approved a policy for filling open positions on the council as well as other local boards and committees, but not before Village President Mike Cramer clashed with a council colleague and the village man­ ager over issues involving the Downtown Development Authority. Cramer asked that a provision in the policy be stricken that says after a review of applications and interviews are conducted, the vil­ lage president “should collaborate on a recommendation for appoint­ ment” with the department head or board chairperson to fill an open­ ing. He says that provision goes against state law. “There’s no legal requirement for me to collaborate with anyone on my appointments,” Cramer said. “Those recommendations are mine to make and mine alone. That’s a state law. They’re welcome to give me their input, but ultimately that’s my job. “They’re welcome to sit in on the interviews, but I’m not going to be told how to do my job, and we’re not going to make that a policy to do so when it conflicts with state law.” Cramer cites Section 204 of Public Act 57 of 2018, a law which regulates downtown development authorities in Michigan, where he says DDA board members “shall be appointed by the chief executive officer of the municipality, sub­ ject to approval by the governing body of the municipality.” Under Michigan’s general law village act, which dates back to 1895, the village president is defined as the chief executive officer for the vil lage. Cramer’s request did not receive any support from the rest of the council. Cramer has clashed with sev­ eral council members over the last few months on appointments to the DDA board. Last month. «<» council voted 5-2 to reject the ments anvwherp in in this viiH.,.. ” ................ ... .. ments anywhere village, Jachini was not involved in the president’s recommendation to Hamilton said. process ot interviewing candidates appoint David Sklarin to the board. Cramer later exchanged words and recused herself when the board In February, the president chose with Village Manager Craig voted 5-0 to hire James on May 26 not to recommend the reappoint­ Stolsonburg over whether the of last year. ment of sitting board members process by which current DDA In addition to the Village Andrew Beck and Joe Mancini, and Director Gretchen James was hired Council and DDA, the policy cast the tie-breaking vote in favor last year should be investigated. addresses openings on the Planning of appointing their replacements, That specific incident was Commission, Local Development Derek Dean and Kortney Lull. brought to the attorney for review, Finance Authority, Zoning Board of Cramer has been critical of the which was reviewed and was deterDDA for Appeals and Housing Commission. mined that what he For council openings, applications there was no ttThere ’ s no legal termed “a will be taken for a pre-determined (violations), laundry list * requirement for me to time to be determined by the coun Stolsonburg of violations cil. Applicants must submit a letter collaborate with anyone said. of civil conof interest and fill out the boards “ That ’ s on my appointments. duct. and commissions application form. not a factual “We are on Those recommendations statement, Current council members will con­ our fourth duct interviews and vote on the are mine to make and because you DDA director appointment. said it wasn’t mine alone. Thr ’ s since I took For board and committee posi worth the a state law. They’re office,” he tions, applications will be received headache, and said. “The for a minimum of 30 days. welcome to give me you’d have to previous Applicants must fill out the boards go to court. their input, but uitimateiy complaints and commissions application form, Because 1 that’s my job. 9 9 include being and interviews will be conducted by asked, and 1 forced to Mike Cramer, applicable parties, such as the vil­ was told no, President, Village o/Middleville volunteer and lage president, board chairperson or we weren’t work hours department head. The recommenda­ going to past their salary, and getting con­ tion for appointment will be voted do that. Don’t fabricate things,” trary direction from what the board Cramer said. on by the council. had decided on, (and) our current “I’m not fabricating things, Mr. Stolsonburg told council mem­ hiring of the director.” President,” Stolsonburg said. “1 bers that adopting the policy is a President Pro Tempore Kevin provided everything to our attor best practice recommendation by Smith asked Cramer to detail the ney, and I gave you our attorney’s the state’s Redevelopment Ready allegations in writing. response.” Communities program and will “I would truly appreciate a list Cramer believes there was a assist the village in being re-certi that you have, on paper, in front of conflict of interest in the hiring of fied for the program in 2026. us, and then we can go dot by dot, James, who is the niece of DDA The policy was adopted on a 7-0 bullet by bullet, and discuss each of board chairwoman Kim Jachim. vote. those particular violations so that we can validate your concerns. Smith said. 2 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Phone: 616.891.0070 CuiboNiA Caledonia, Ml 49316 We have a nice letter from one Fax: 616.891.0430 TOWNSHIP of the applicants from the last DDA hiring process, that we all received PUBLIC NOTICE in paper, in front of us, that listed Charter Township of Caledonia a lot of concerns, and a lot of those Kent County, Michigan are valid, and a lot of those could A meeting of the Election Commission, a sub-committee of the Charter Township of Caledonia Board also put us in a bad spot (from a of Trustees will take place on Monday, June 24, 2024 at the Township Hall beginning at 9:30 a.m. liability perspective),” Cramer said The Township Hall is located at 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. in response. The purpose of the meeting is to set the date for the Public Accuracy Test to demonstrate that the Trustee Richard Hamilton raised computer program used to tabulate the votes cast at the election meet the requirements of the law; and to set the hours and dates for the Absentee Voting Counting Board. concerns about the ongoing dispute. “The worst thing we can do is Joni Henry, Clerk have a divided council on appoint5^ * * �12 Saturday, June 16. 2024 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS 2023 Water Quality Report for Village of Middleville In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the U.S. EPA prescribes regulations that limit the levels of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. Federal Food and Drug Administration regulations establish limits for con­ taminants in bottled water which provide the same protection for public health. Waler Suply Serial Number: 4360 J This report covers the drinking water quality for Village of Middleville for the 2023calendar year This information is a snapshot of the qual­ ity of the waler that we provided to you in 2023 Included are details about where your water comes from, what it contains, and how it compares to United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and state standards. Your water comes from 4 groundwater wells, each over 78ft deep. Two of which are located near the waler storage tower on the west side of town. A third well is located off Irving Rd near the Village limits. Production well # 6 on Irving Road and production well # 3 on the west side are built to a depth of 78 feet and utilize unconfined sand and gravel aquifers. Production well # 4 on the west side is built to a depth of 352 feet and utilizes the Marshall Sandstone aquifer. Well # 5 is located to the west of Bryanwood Estates Development near the Thornapple River. This well is built to a depth of 197 feel. There are no significant sources of contamination in our water sup­ ply We are making efforts to protect our sources by testing all of our drinking waler sources and distribution system along with imple­ menting our well head protection program. If you would like to know more about this report, please contact: Alec Belson, Village of Middleville, 100 E. Main St. Middleville Ml 49333, 269-795-3385, belsona@villageofmiddleville.org, wv/w.villageofmiddleville.org. Contaminants and their presence in water: Drinking water. Including bottled waler, may reasonably be expected to contain al least small amounts of some contaminants. The pres­ ence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the U.S. EPA's Safe Drinking Waler Hotline (800-426-4791). Vulnerability of sub-populations; Some people may be more vul­ nerable to contaminants in drinking waler than the general popula­ tion. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/ AIDS or other immune systems disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly al risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. U.S. EPA/Center for Disease Control guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbi­ al contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Waler Hotline (800-426-4791). Sources of drinking water: The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, res­ ervoirs, springs, and wells. Our water comes from wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dis­ solves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity. ■Ir t Water Quality Data • Microbial contaminants, soch as viruses and bacteria, may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural live­ stock operations and wildlife. The table below lists all the drinking water contaminants that we detected during the 2023 calendar year. The presence of these con­ taminants in the water does not necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk. Unless otherwise noted, the data presented in this table is from testing done January 1 through December 31, 2023. The Stale allows us to monitor for certain con­ taminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants are not expected to vary significantly from year to year. All the data is representative of the water quality, but some are more than one year old. Terms and abbreviations used below: • Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG): The level of a contam­ inant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety. • Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL): The highest level of a contam­ inant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to the MCLGs as feasible using the best available treatment technology. • Max-imum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL): The highest lev­ el of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants. • Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal (MRDLG): The level of a drinking water disinfectant below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants. • Treatment Technique (TT): A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water. • N/A: Not applicable • ND: not detectable at testing limit • ppm: parts per million or milligrams per liter • ppp: parts per billion or micrograms per liter • ppL parts per trillion or nanograms per liter • pCi/l; picocuries per liter (a measure of radioactivity) • Action Level (AL): The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements that a water system must follow. * Level 1 Assessment: A study of the water supply to identify poten­ tial problems and determine (if possible) why total coliform bacte­ ria have been found in our water system. • Level 2 Assessment: very detailed study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why an E. coli MCL violation has occurred and/or why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system on multiple occasions. OM * CmmMb ___ i' • .A • Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, can be natural­ ly occurring or result from urban stormwater runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production mining or farming. • Pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture and residential uses. • Radioactive contaminants, which can be naturally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities. ' .*», . >* I Mmmtimi 10 4 .• rr>«« MM ip*»> 4 NA 9 i*'AAO HMoaoair Ao* *PCN •0 Ctiemo* lAmi 4 AMm«Mmi'oC<i ‘ 15 $ "hWeaarh —»»*w —HIXWI I' tmc oAnoN^ * . Fa iHiB— f - • Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are by-products of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from gas stations, urban stormwater runoff, and septic systems. 4r 10 0*1)9 . 99) NO - I Mmi>' Qtvmt cMm ' £ M* MCL n t• 0 11 >AA ' Ifefez teA * , NAk » 4 f 0 • o' ■ <M9 a. »— 0 •- > ' MO 40 j 9029 I MO ios-ni 'joa ‘ mo M9t M4B9 ! 9039 I NO 4 ran MO 1 i«> ’"n»a ooMii ’7 CM) r> XI31 '' ’3........... >» ’ Ida WA WA 0 NA 0 WA , MRc I <# IW 4- NO ' ik>' wont MR. Ovctwg* Awn * •*** ^teiA «k«« M wn __________ ________ 1. ^arfeaanteom feUtenc aoN I MO ■ I : ma ! MO , ByvaM * (MW*S w«tor dwUMMto 1 ; Mrabfl or <nr*^ »■ ftn u ♦ IMS to conra ma«M « N nabw OapeM “•- -♦ nabw NMi I ,«» 903) 1 i----- i------ * OMvpt M «MN Ova MmMI NcNM *N 0*1 K tfMU NOeOOA M Roi* INO i M) 3> I Imo 4 Non* NNMM MNWe tmA~ >ei< f acN -i..- .— 90 09 'wn I 1*9 H INO 1 feO 302) INO I ' sn NO 1 4 NO NO MRMmMNcflM "^"FiMgraN NM* nkMm MnndiMmMam ------- 1... MO ♦ ' ^vrtuBmCMna mN* ' 303) I « 1 __ _ I WJ I— i ...I—I IW» — ND W> WA f I NO I Oatfwgt*^ **fN fem Rdiafem NMM*. fermAdowR N ANndM GOfMAwim nbcroawNn Nqiqm QkIn^b ond son twmNuOMNoiM . MMmnMk M ^aa^m t I WA I . aa*m MO a t ts * NMr PNW* e ) M I) QNNCM lak B ! NO DNCfWp* M wiato tom tfNuaM I Mm MrMrnamNmmwm , - --1^, Mo* aww < CuiMw»iN II i .-5. J 2on l» I — 4-. .. « .J » tia (aj f oaovi jr I ' OWtrNMA) MO u 01 M3 39) t I. 0 4 imd M>«» IRBA. ooram of houmMa Amifejny wi Mny tBnpi M Nmw. &mDn of AdMN dmmm ^oNMn of hoiMMd pfedoMo Nramm. Eraaon of naMM dmMN 9 MOw tW iMl mwW IN ov w«Nr Information about lead: If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and com­ ponents associated with service lines and home plumbing. The Vil­ lage of Middleville is responsible for providing high quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your waler has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cook­ ing. If you have a lead service line it is recommended that you run your water for at least 5 minutes to flush water from both your home plumbing and the lead service line. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline or at http.7/www.epa.gov/safewater/lead. Infants and children who drink water containing lead could experi­ ence delays in their physical or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this water over many years could develop kidney prob­ lems or high blood pressure. Copper is an essential nutrient, but some people who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level over a relatively short amount of time could experience gastrointestinal distress. Some people who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level over many years could suffer liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson’s Disease should consult their personal doctor. Our water supply has about 70 lead service lines and 201 service lines that were previously connected to lead out of a total of 1 250 service lines. Monitoring and Reporting to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) Requirements: The State of Michigan and the U.S. EPA require us to test our water on a regular basis to ensure its safety. We met all the monitoring and reporting requirements for 2023. We will update this report annually and will keep you informed of any problems that may occur throughout the year, as they happen. Copies are available at Village of Middleville main office 100 E. Main St. Middleville Ml 49333. This report will not be sent to you. We invite public participation in decisions that affect drinking water quality. For more information about your water, or the contents of this re­ port, contact Alec Belson (269)-795-2094 www.villageofmiddleville. org. For more information about safe drinking water visit the U S EPA at http://wvw.epa.gov/safewater. Npw M mM NM warn — 4 -- ------Nr*«nMmm0 I !•«* • mwn ARruN w««o» mw« f (1 > fMM WWt <WM WV^W f **** ® ***• Mr adv*. NO M) T or . _ 4.. m9 ■ I wir ill* •- 2 I oMO Perl ■ I 4«A' Cmmmb I F II wipi &wgn M ABibrM T e Nm M imm Q*ewM AN* wM.i ‘ • —i- NIA rAmnir m f—iomu (rngNiniMA m w ta f*-'- Nteama* aoN IFRiAi a Contaminants that may be present in source water include; - »ew WM MfRpN In CD* v< NtnAtfiOwi^ ter m am* of fem bammcbaw or iRrviArai acMy <rouM cm �www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 16, 2024 13 TKHS celebrates group of college-bound athletes DDCTT DDCMCn ♦ ■ BRETT BREMER Sports Editor Thomapple Kellogg High School honored its six seniors who have signed National Letters of Intent to compete in collegiate athletics at a senior signing day ceremony last month. The group includes members of the 2024 graduating class of TKHS Tyler Gavette, Whitney Ruger, Emma Schut, Jaxan Sias, Logan Snelling and Lucas Van Meter. Van Meter has plans to run cross country and track and field for Davenport University. He really found his stride as a senior this spring on the TKHS varsity boys’ track and field team setting a new school record in the 800-meter run and with Sias on the 4x400-meter relay team. He finished the season as the state runner-up in the 800. Sias was a state qualifier in the 400-meter dash as a junior and played some varsity basketball that year as well, but really put his combination of size, strength and speed to use on the football field. He has plans to play football at Alma College. ♦ IF :1 I IB B 4. ** W' J pr^i .W’ wr I I |■JH ♦ V • 'M 5fn??r 5t: .’i -fV t ,1V. >4 r X‘4 4 u i 1 4 . J. Tui r -I T ir s IS /> vs i ' 9 V ' 4^ i ** I■fl > J '■ 1 B• tv I Members of the Thornapple Kellogg High School graduating class of 2024 who will be competing in collegiate athletics (front from left) Emma Schut Whitney Ruger, Lucas Van Meter, (back) Tyler Gavette, Jaxan Sias and Logan Snelling are acknowledged during the Trojans annual senior signing day ceremony in May at TKHS. Gavette, a running back/defensive back with Sias on the TK varsity football team, missed much of his senior season due to an injury but showed off enough talent to earn the chance to compete with the Hope College football team next season. Snelling was one of the top pitch­ ers for the TK varsity baseball team this spring and closed his senior year with six shut-out innings in the Trojans’ district semifinal win over West Michigan Aviation Academy early this month. He’ll be a part of the Aquinas College baseball pro­ gram next season. Her senior season rewards haven’t all been announced yet, but Schut was one of the top performers in the history of the TKHS varsity girls’ soccer program over the course of her four varsity seasons. She was named second team all-state last spring as a junior and honorable mention all-state as a sophomore. Her plans are to continue playing at Southern Indiana University. A long-time dancer, Ruger has plans to provide her athleticism to the Spring Arbor University cheer team next season. Scots honor student-athletes going on to play college sports BRETT BREMER Sports Editor Some inked their plans well in advance. Other Fighting Scots from the Caledonia graduating class of 2024 are already off on their college adventure. The Fighting Scots honored 23 of their college­ bound student-athletes from the class of 2024 dur ing the armual signing day ceremony at the high school last month. No program was better represented on the day than the varsity girls’ soccer program which had five girls from the team that just knocked off top­ ranked Hudsonville to win a MHSAA Division 1 District Championship celebrate their collegiate plans: Abby Kramer (Aquinas College), Alexa Pearson (Spring Arbor University), (Davanee Balczak (Grand Valley State University), Isabella Teelander (Aquinas College) and Laney Peterson (Western Michigan University.) A handful of guys from the varsity baseball team which just won a second straight MHSAA Division 1 District Championship were on hand as well; Andrew Render (Kalamazoo Valley - Community College), Jacob Stoczynski (Grand Rapids Community College), Nick Slater (Hope College) and Tommy Clarey (Kalamazoo Valley Community College.) Audrey Howell (Calvin University), Brooke Heyboer (Davenport University) and Molly Winger (Roberts Wesleyan University) announced their plans to join college women’s track and field programs. All-state hurdlers Owen Hager will continue his running days too at Grace College, in Indiana. Samuel Pugh has plans to continue running with the Grand Rapids Community College men’s cross country program. Ky VanderWoude has signed with the Wheaton College Men’s Basketball program. Lillian DeWitner plans to dance at Aquinas College. Kirsten Schutte will join the Davenport University Women’s Stunt program, a sport which includes elements of high school competitive cheer without the cheer-leading portion of the per­ formance. Mayari Coriano-Lahiff has plans to continue diving at Arizona State University. Kala Bisterfeldt is headed to Grinnell College to play softball. The Caledonia varsity boys’ and girls’ lacrosse teams are both sending a couple athletes to com­ pete on the next level. The girls’ team has Addie Roe headed to Davenport University and Megan Bushart to Hope College. The boys’ team has Carson Beach set to compete at Aurora University and Jack VanEss at Hope College. V HE Anfenno Men > V. Antenna Men > . rM 1 L I Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! 1 SIGN^ 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpros.com « I ♦ �I 1 14 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. June 16, 2024 ’ www.sunandnews.com ’.4 f 4' » •4 a A .4 I'. t A* ' T <1 , ' ■ r”: J tr * u** r* » > 1 B' r t 51 if * J ' 1..* •l? Another Scot season ends in regional final at CMU BREH BREMER Sports Editor Senior Corbin Raffler stood there on the step of the first base dugout, lean­ ing on his bat and staring off across Keilitz f ield at I heunissen Stadium in Mount IMeasant Saturday morning. I Ie slowly turned and packed away his bat, slung hi.s bag around his back, but couldn’t slop gazing. Raffler rested his tape and bracelet covered arms on top of the dug out railing, slowly motioning a hand out in front of his eye-black stained cheeks a couple lime.s looking very much like a conductor trying to change the notes to some past symphony. It started to rain. Raffler’s final two varsity base- -r ft <k lb V i • <• I A 1 J-’ »I I r>l ■ /• ♦ • N’ A .A > < . .^ ■? . .a&L g".^ ^KTX 1 * » • r* 'Am. t V* if r f 1. also be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the proposed budgets will be avail­ able for public inspection at the Township Office on and after June 19,2024, during regular office hours. American with Disabilities Notice: The Yankee Springs Township Board Will provide necessary and reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such I as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed mMaterials being considered at the meeting to individuals at the Meeting upon I 7 days’ notice to the Township Supervisor, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville. Ml 49333. Phone 269-795-9091/Fax 269-795-2388 Mike Cunningham Yankee Springs Township Clerk * /a JI 5m. - 2 •*L • «r * A < 4 I• 1 '* V I *r f. ft T > * fr. 4 ’ T’ i .«A t ’» • > • .I »•--- ft y w c a «, t* ' < r Bk* X tj£?C£^ J / A. I •.» L. Wr t • iT lb. "Tiffs’ ? *1 I 1. i1 I _* a. ■ •• • I > r A i t 0 A 1 5 .4 • • Tankee Springs Township * 4 br :q I /I < W.' 11 I « .' 9. 0 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE JUNE 26th, 2024 @6 PM PROPOSEO 2024-2025 BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING The Yankee Springs Township Board will hold a Special Meeting to conduct a Public Hearing on the proposed Township Budget Fiscal Year 2024-2025 at the Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville. Ml 49333 on: Wednesday, June 26th, 2024 At 6:00 PM The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed Budget will be a subleci of this hearing. I The 2024-2025 Water System budget will A. w* f * — N BRIGCS ROAD MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269 795 9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 1 ^7^ 6. a f A «ft VAiafrjr > 3^ 9 r V ^5 J .>• i •t“ .» '^’•**121!^^ * •w 4 1 \str' Caledonia senior centerfielder Tommy Clarey makes a diving catch in center field in front of right fielder Trevor Walter during their MHSAA Division 1 Regional Final against Hudsonville at Central Michigan University's Keilitz Field at Theunissen Stadium in Mount Pleasant Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) ball seasons ended in the MHSAA Division 1 Regional Final there on the campus of Central Michigan University. Hudsonville fought off the Fighting Scots for a 3-2 victory and a spot in the state quarterfinals. Last season, it was Traverse City West knocking the Scots out of the postsea­ son at CMU. It was the best battle the Scots gave the Eagles this spring. Hudsonville took 10-1, 13-4 and 7-2 wins in their three OK Red Conference match-ups late last month. The Eagles bumped their lead to 3-1 with a run in the bottom of the fifth inning. Caledonia got that one back in the top of the sixth and had runners on secont^d third, but couldn’t get the tying in. Ethan Sova hit a lead-off double into the right field comer and made it to third on a wild pitch with one out in the top of the seventh, but again the Scots were unable to push across the tying run. Another Caledonia senior. Tommy Clarey who like Raffler was slow to leave the dugout for the final time, took strike one looking with two out and Sova still on third in the top of the seventh. He fouled off two pitches from Hudsonville reliever Jackson Hammersmith after that, but the sec­ ond one was lofted over foul territory behind third base. Eagle third base­ man Johnny Karsten lost his balance moving back, looking up at the sky, but snagged the pop-up before tum­ bling to the turf with the final out in his mitt. Both starting pitchers were outstand­ ing. Cam Myers went five innings for the Scots. He allowed three runs on eight hits and one walk. He struck out five. Nick Slater threw a perfect inning of relief for the Scots. Hudsonville’s Gibson Sinke got the win. He went six innings striking out five and allowing five hits and two runs. Hammersmith came on after Sova’s double in the top of the seventh. He struck out the Scots’ Elliot Clark, who fouled off three bunt attempts, and then struck out Trevor Walter on a called third strike leaving things up to Clarey in the end. Hudsonville didn’t have an issue getting bunts down early on. Kaden Howard singled through the right side to lead off the bottom of the first for the Eagles. Karsten and Ryan Arends See FINAL on 15 �♦ ♦ ♦ 15 Saturday, June 16, 2024 ♦ ♦ Continued from Page 15 ft '' • r— T > • .d then dropped down bunt singles that loaded the bases with nobody out. The Eagles would score two runs in the bottom of the first, but things could have been worse if Myers hadn’t got­ ten Ferris Edlred to hit a ground ball to Raffler at second that turned into a 4-6-3 double play. One run scored on that grounder, and a second came in on a wild pitch, but Myers finally got out of the jam with his first strikeout of the bailgame. Clarey kept the Scots in it early with his defense. He lunged for a ball in deep left Centerfield and made a catch before sprawling to the turf for out number one in the bottom of the second with a runner on, and dove forward in shallow center to make a catch for the third out. Each play prompted thoughts of “well, there is a reason he’s all-conference,” in the Eagle dugout. Defense was the big different for the Scots’ Saturday. They made 16 errors combined in their three-game series with the Eagles in May. They didn’t make an error on the turf in Mount Pleasant. Hudsonville loaded the bases again with one out in the bottom of the third. This time a strikeout by Myers and a pop out ended the threat. The fired up Scots came out in the top of the fourth and got a single into short right field by AJ Szabo and a •i * “»*• 1 to. V ** A 6i< I..U ' ~ " StoiWiL . It M* > d 1. F • • > .s •• •< — __ •1 ■. X ^1, / »> Caledonia shortstop AJ Szabo fires a throw to first from behind the bag at second during his team’s MHSAA Division 1 Regional Final against Hudsonville at Central Michigan University’s Keilitz Field at Theunissen Stadium in Mount Pleasant Saturday. (Photo by Brett Bremer) • w ' r • ri • J <2 V I *4 >r d b I »-• ♦ < I, X-' -•r; » T £ • t Ir' < Eb» • 5^ > 1 t I? •5 ••• . •fe. J, t to * A> ¥J S I :u 5^ > I « w I * •X »s ‘%n. 5 « I *1 “ts •I «<u» I i I X I j3 .rv MFa--jt 1 ----------------- 4 •to. e f A' *«( I to .E J 1 I K A •-•r r n A » f '=^ to* >». z 11 aA .r*< 4 *■£ I ' « ■i* ¥ ' **K k i V 1^1 * ;*m. i. .;4 >> I > ■A I at X' a; —- \ w «*■ ♦Z< -4 » r f 7, I -9 ' A r ! 4 A'i % X: > *1 •> I z K t r. ■) il> *' 1 . lb 4 Q I / ♦ 0 e ► ‘-*^1 A. R Ah .id f' * •c ' I *x.:£ 4 < I, w T */ k 4^ IX I r C ,:___ a IR V >* w T ^ >- * ^ '<*< ... '..-Li I f i L aM* s « ? Caledonia senior Corbin Raffler looks out at Keilitz Field at Theunissen Stadium as his teammates clear out of the first base dugout behind him following their 3-2 loss to OK Red Conference foe Hudsonville in the MHSAA Division 1 Regional Final in Mount Pleasant Saturday, June 8. (Photo by Brett Bremer) walk to Slater to start things off. Isaac Jurmu got a bunt down to move them to second and third. A ground ball by Raffler to the right side scored Szabo from third to make it 2-1. Karsten started off the Eagles’ final run scoring rally in the bottom of the fifth. He ripped a lined drive up the middle that went off of Myers’ glove. The ball got to Szabo at shortstop, but not in time for him to get a throw to first before Karsten. Brayion Miller, pinch running for Karsten, stole sec­ ond on the game ’ s next pitch, went to third on a ground out and scored on a line drive single into center by Eldred. One-out singles by Szabo and Slater in the top of the sixth had the Scots looking to get even at that point. Ken Otani came on to run for Slater at first. Sinke struck out Jurmu for the second out of the inning and then walked Raffler to load the bases with two out. Szabo scored and Otani and Raffler THORNAPPLE TOWN­ SHIP BOARD 200 E. MAIN ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml 49333 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING MINUTES Monday, June 10, 2024 Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. with seven mem­ bers present. Items approved: 1. Printed Agenda ap­ proved as printed. 2. Consent Agenda ap­ proved as amended with some minor spelling and grammatical corrections to the Special Meeting Board Minutes dated 5-09-24. 3. Approved motion to sign a contract with NTA for mowing of the fire station lawn. 4. Approved motion to purchase four SCBA bottles at a cost NTE $5,500.00. 5. Approved motion to make corrections to the Ir­ ving Township Fire Service Contract. 6. Tabled discussion for further research of the cre­ ation of an eBay account for the sale of fire department surplus. 7. Tabled discussion for further research of the ere ation of a Fire Department website until after the Au­ gust Election. Meeting adjourned at 8:22 p.m. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Amy Brown. Approved by Township Supervisor, Eric Schaefer. Copies of the meeting min­ utes are available upon request from the Township Clerk or by visiting our website at httDs:/Ahornapple-twp.org/meeting-minules/-C»ffice hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. moved up a base on a wild pitch, but Eldred made a good play at first to snag a hard-hit ground ball by Ben Kieliszewski to leave the Scots with just that one run in the inning. The Scots close out the year with a record of 16-21. Hudsonville fell 12-2 to Bay City Western in the state quarterfinal at CMU Saturday after noon to end the year with a 23-~l record. Bay City Western beat Grand Haven 3-0 in their regional final following the Eagles’ win over the Fighting Scots to set up the quarterfinal match-up. READ THE NEWS ONLINE . www.sunandnew8.coin I. I , • ’.-Jr COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the May 28, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on June 11, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villaqeofmiddleville.org. �I 16 .t4 r V / K * www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Cox goes from Billboard No. 1 to Caledonia stage released May 31, including the title Sports f ditor track, “7he Wrong Girl,” “Front It was good news to wake up to. Porch of Paradise,” and “Some Kristy Cox opened her I uesday I hings Don't Go Ibgether” as well morning by learning that her new a.s many others from her catalog and album, “I ,et It Bum,” had debuted a couple familiar cover tunes. at No. I on the Billboard Bluegrass Bluegrass and knitting apparently Albums Chart. do go together, as there was some I gol a text message from the P&R vigorous knitting going on the crowd guy from my record label (Billy of a few hundred spectators on a Blue Records), and it was a screen cool early June evening. Youngsters shot of the Billboard charts, and it danced, ran and cartwheeled in front was incredible,” Cox said in her of the crowd, as usual. A double Australian accent with a smile and a rainbow popped through the gray laugh. clouds to the east as the show con “We popped a bottle of champagne eluded one rainbow for each of and sprayed it all over the grass. Cox’s two albums to debut at No. I We didn’t even drink it. We really to date. haven’t celebrated yet,” she added. Her 2018 album ‘Ricochet’ also Cox and members of the Nashville debuted at No. I on the Billboard based bluegrass band Grasstime Bluegrass Album Chart. Her 2020 opened the 2024 season of the album “No Headlights” and her Caledonia Concert Series al the 2022 album “Shades of Blue” both Community Green amphitheater with debuted at No. 2. a show, sponsored by Henny’s Yam This one is extra special to me. Shop, just hours after that champagne This album is extra special,” Cox and confetti popper celebration. said of “Let It Bum,” which is her I hey perfonned a handful of songs eighth album. from the new album, which was just “I feel like, as an artist you grow. Every year and every album you’re I Hi^h Efficiency I growing and trying to beat your last project. 1 think 1 put a lot of heart I I and soul into this one for sure. I I Dubbed “Australia’s Queen of I I Bluegrass,” Cox told the crowd she I I came to the United States 11 years ago with just $3,000, her guitar and a I I broken heart and has since earned her I I American citizenship. She said she I I went right to work trying to turn that * MuRt prwent this coupon broken heart into an up beat blueI Expiroa 6-26-?4 I grass tune. I I Cox has won the Australian RUUD I I CMA award for ‘Best Bluegrass Recording ’ six times and is a mem ua I I ber of the Australian Country Music 11 s I I Hall of Fame’s Hands of Fame mon­ if ’ I I ument for those who have made a significant and ongoing contribution J FINANCING AVAILABLE I to Australian country music. ■ 'No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo I A rarity in the music business, Cox I The company built by referrals’ I and her bandmates spent about a week staying in the Caledonia area. I With the help of Caledonia Concert I Series organizer Adam Stauffer, they HEATING 8 COOLING I set up a home base here during a 210 East Main Street. Caledonia small section of their tour through Michigan and Illinois. She was happy to have gotten in a couple hikes on ■ area trails, being in her own words BREn BREMER ♦ V I-* * » 1 it A > « 'r a. A <» z si FT J a p r * ** Hs Hl I f > *«*• 4 J Ji t X. iv ** V I 1 * FURNACE AIR ®150 OFF RUUD X 7 T 4 r 9 9^ • * 9 ( £ ^1 •I ■ FRONTIER 616-891-8900 * 1 I 1 ' 1 A 1 4 • J Xa 1 ♦a/ •4 1 I s r •I I A J I 1 •1 A 1 Kristy Cox, a.k.a "Australia’s Queen of Bluegrass,” performs during the first Caledonia Concert Series event of the season at the Caledonia Community Green amphitheater Tuesday. Her new album “Let It Burn” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums chart Tuesday morning before her show with band Grasstime Tuesday evening. (Photo by Brett Bremer) and “outdoors girl.” “1 was made for these old dirt roads. For simple times where corn­ fields grow, with the ones I love right here to hold,” Cox sang on the chorus to “Front Porch of Paradise.” Sometimes 1 hear heaven speak, whispering in the evening breeze, fillmg up my soul with all 1 need.” The next stop on the tour is June 20 in Starks, Maine. “We leave tomorrow, but we have been here for a week. Everyone has been so lovely. I love the countryside and it has been great,” Cox said. Grasstime members Robbie Morris, Wes Horton and Allan Sanders were' joined by Michigan mandolin player Brian Oberlin in performing with Cox. Chicago based bluegrass duo The Sullivan Sisters, Soraya and Luciya Sullivan, opened the show and took a moment to perform with Cox and Grasstime later on in the evening. “I think the beautiful thing about 4^ bluegrass music, and music in gen­ eral, is that there are people like [Stauffer] everywhere,” Cox said. “The music industry is just one big happy family whether you’re a pro motfir, or an artist, or a songwriter or a fan. I think all of the true music people, we’re all kind of connected by that thing: music. Everyone seems to be really great everywhere we go. We are really blessed.” ITie annual summer concert series in Caledonia has acts on the schedule making all kinds of headlines recent ly. Stauffer is excited to have the band Ashes & Arrows on the slate for July 22. Ashes 8l Arrows performed recently on the NBC television show “America’s Got Talent.” Full Cord Trio and Pretend Friend will perform their own styles of blue­ grass at the next Caledonia Concert Series event Friday, June 21. Openers for the shows begin at 6 p.m. with headliners slated to start at 7 p.m. * I I CM rx. I O z z S Q. Q V) >. co <D c •c Q. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-06-22.pdf 0499d9105e5e31a3e4b49e80fd537a96 PDF Text Text r L I 1 1 b b 1 I b I 1 I •i I I I b V 1 1 1 1 1 5 %! r i * > b 1 1 I J I, ) / p r I J I t I •% 1 I 9 b J J r r p ■ ■■' • f .f I V J I > I ( I F r♦ f I ► > 1 4 < I, 9 I b > ► I 5 • rt I the SUN NO. n :*'***■’?■ VM' ¥.<^r V:. SATURDAY, JUNE 22, 2024 s H jl * See SPONGY MOTH on 2 4 r?-* * 1 f J VCe^i f ’‘..A? r «"* * ”•<» *1 . fc " I I. j J* A i£' I \ _ A ■- :W ■ ■ : > /P»- rf’ T*. 4* . * The Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education will take a second look at whether to cut several positions affect­ ing safety and security at district buildings, as well as whether to reinstate funding to a contract with a local fitness center that provides support for the district’s student-athletes. _ « The school board Monday approved a 2024-25 budget that could dip into the dis RELATED NEWS tri Ct’s gen­ eral fund ■ Caledonia reserves by school board more than approves updated $2.3 million abortion policy in the new See story on page 5 fiscal year that begins July 1, depending on whether the positions are brought hack or not. The budget was approved on a 6-1 vote, with Board Secretary Katie Isic dissenting. Board Trustee Jennifer Nichols called for the reinstatement of three positions ±at had been targeted as part of more ±an $2.6 million in spending cuts that had been proposed under the new budget. They are the dean of students at ±e high school, a school resource officer at Duncan Lake Middle School and a paraprofessional at Kraft Meadows Intermediate School. Nichols offered the reinstatement as an amendment to the original 1• r X > *%2 idi ► • T ♦ r. > > .<ri AT* - ♦; ■ m- s- T Up* « I. .I J %b > X ? • J 1^- w ■ - u <> w :r»^? 11^ ■> i > «* «•» Ac• ik- v t» **« r<- 1 I > **4 >1 t; I I X < t V s « k f /- ✓ > ’^4 b 1 ^C4i V.. 4 ^.1 V I 1 1 h. *Db ** ■A A < >T * ••* i ‘*K *-*• •1 s ..*L .:r-*«- » V •w*» • **< > ■’^ * ’I 9r' a,- r ** 4.i ^»f- 6 i I- I rvt^' \ 3S.? w^ ■' t .. xii ' »-»'**••'** ' -v r - h — *s A nearly three-hour-long Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education meeting was well attended on Monday evening as the board discussed potential cuts for the coming year. (Photos by Greg Chandler) , ^<S I *’l 1 1 I 6i L -«» > f.' f • A H.... ■ =3^ J •/ s r? -• ^x^'* p r,- $ r B . n K’ .*< . b V % J i 'J. ^11^ i 1^! izb A ..Ja .4 1 4 « ■» • ’ S aovisod s n aisisdd u ♦r b fv* ^■S (Photo by Jayson Bussa) ^5 ( I J '::±i . A* . » 1 SSMU03 in ‘SHIAUMJO orc xog Od A W*"' f *1 • 1 * *- ^\X V ■ 1^ 1^ ‘a||iAUd9J9 aivd 'i- b If . ) S s V r s.^ « s 3 •J* I TA A spongy moth caterpillar crawls on a branch of a large , oak tree in Hastings Charter Township. The leaves waaa surrounding U3M01Sn3 iviiNsaisau it have been nibbled on by other 8CC# liuJJSd caterpillars. 8C88^ h www.sunandnews.com '•J I T V-4 a U»Ip-. 4i'' f V ’T’ Staff Writer * ** * I Bany County has enlisted the help of the Barry Conservation District to take action against the wildly invasive spongy moth, but the efforts will not do anything about this season’s epi demic. Residents throughout Barry County have complained about infestations of spongy moth, formerly known as gypsy moth, as ±e caterpillars have ravaged entire swaths of forest, com­ pletely defoliating trees. The county has enlisted the help of the Barry Conservation District to take action against the wildly invasive spongy moth, but the efforts will not do any­ thing about this season’s epidemic. . 'a -3 .f-' GREG CHANDLER Editor T r r Cal school board to reconsider cutting safety, security positions, funding for athletic training JAYSON BUSSA X *> f r • v» Barry County mulls action as spongy moth devours local trees, forests Hi 9 CALEDONIA’S OLSEN NAMED TO OLYMPIC RUGBY TEAM L* PAGE 16 A I.. Your Hometowr^, i■'^tewspaper Serving the Middleville. Caledonia and Gaines Township Areas I 4 SPORTS AND NEWS , T I ■ri —I Caledonia Community Schools Finance Director Sara DeVries discusses the district’s 2024-25 budget at Monday night’s school board meeting at Caledonia High School’s south campus. budget motion. “These are going to be positions ±at are difficult to be filled, should we cut them now and these people seek alternate employment, and then should we have the funds to restore those positions, we need to find new individuals to fill them,” Nichols said. “These are individu­ als who have spent a lot of time developing relationships and rap­ port with our students. Security is one of those topics that we have made as a priority as a district and a community.” Meanwhile, Trustee Tim Morris offered a second amendment to restore about $50,000 in funding under a contract the district has See CUTTING on 3 I b b b �2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 22, 2024 SPONGY MOTH Continued from Page 1 Residents throughout Barry County have complained about infestations of spongy moth, formerly known as gypsy moth, as the caterpillars have ravaged entire swaths of forest, com­ pletely defoliating trees. “1 get a lot of calls,” Ben Savoie, district forester for the Barry Conservation District, told county commissioners during Tuesday moming’s Committee of the Whole meet ing. “This has been a trend for the past three to five years and this is kind of the peak that we have seen. This is definitely the most calls and the most damage we’ve seen.” Unfortunately for residents who are with this pest this spring and summer. tired of contending with bare trees, Hedges and Savoie presented satel­ unsightly caterpillars and caterpillar lite imagery from the USDA Forest feces raining down on their properties, Service’s Environmental Threat the time has passed for most forms of Assessment Center. The images show treatment. However, county commis­ areas of highly concentrated infesta­ sioners and the Barry Conservation tions that have devoured forest cano­ District did agree to conduct a survey pies. These areas were prevalent in in the fall to determine whether this areas such as the Barry State Game and pest will be an issue next year, and if Gun Lake areas. so, the information could help both Many residents who don’t necessarily townships and the county determine live in forested areas have seen their how to move forward. affected, The committee of the whole recom­ trees — primarily oak trees mended that the board of commission­ as well. Barry County Commissioner Bob ers approve the allocation of $15,000 from the county’s general fund to allow Teunessen commented that he has lived in the area his entire life and had never the Barry Conservation District to con­ seen such damage from this pest. duct the survey, likely in October. “To be clear, healthy trees can sur­ Savoie said that the survey would vive the outbreak and, in fact, the take approximately one month and (environmental threat assessment cen would study both old and new egg masses to determine if the spongy moth ter) sees in the year-over-year satellite population would continue to grow or imagery that forest bands that have if it might naturally collapse, as it nor gone through it have shown some resil­ mally does in its years-long cycle. ience and adaptable response going into Barry Conservation District staff the next year. But, that doesn’t help members will conduct these studies on trees that are not healthy.” privately owned land throughout the Residents have inquired about town county and deliver all municipalities ship- or county-wide application of and the county with a comprehensive pesticides to Idll off the spongy moth. report. Even if only hypothetically speaking, “Our proposal is for the District to a county-wide application would be do a survey in the fall, at the peak egg­ wildly expensive Hedges estimating laying period of time, so we know as around $8.5 million for applications to much as possible what is out there,” all of the county’s forests. said Jamie Lewis Hedges, executive The survey will provide some guid director of the Barry Conservation ance to townships and the county to District. “We would go document determine if they want to go that route where we see egg masses, where we in the coming year. These applications see non-target species. This would need to be made in the spring in order provide you information about when to make a difference. and where to treat, when and where Bany' County has seen large-scale not to treat and increase the informa applications of this nature in the 90s tion with which the public and public and early 2000s. County Administrator administration can respond in an envi­ Michael Brown outlined the cumber­ ronmentally safer and cost-effective some process of asking homeowners way.” if they are interested, creating spray While the upcoming survey will help blocks, getting estimates, bringing municipalities to know how to effec those estimates back to the residents tively manage this problem, it may not and allowing residents to opt out if they be music to the ears of county residents want. whose properties have become overrun Residents can take matters into their * Bruce s Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop * • Wheel Alignments • Auto Glass Installation • Insurance Work Welcome • Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com e * n * 415 2ncl • Middleville * * Thornapple Twp. corrects error in Irving fire service pact GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Thomapple Township is taking steps to correct an omission in its contract to provide fire services to portions of Irving Township. The Township Board at its June 10 meeting voted to approve a corrected version of the fire-res­ cue services contract with Irving that went into effect earlier this Spring. It adds in the eastern por tions of sections 21, 28 and 33, which should have been in the contract all along. “We were covering (those areas), but they were paying Hastings Fire for it,” Thomapple Chief Bill Richardson said. Irving Treasurer Doug Sokolowski noticed the error. The addition will mean an additional $4,500 on what Irving will pay Thomapple under the See ERROR on 5 own hands by applying the pesticide BTK on their own, but it has to be applied to the entire canopy of the trees before spongy moth caterpillars hatch. Homeowners can wrap their trees in burlap to capture and destroy the caterpillars and they can also seek out and scrap away egg masses during the fall and winter. “All of these are, for most land own­ ers, difficult and require an investment of time and money so many folks have been asking about doing aerial spraying by the county or a township,” Hedges said. “Our advice is we really need additional data before spraying.” THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 “3 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US Editor: Jayson Bussa < unrrin/r 2 4* , Group jayson@j-adgraphics.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com PUBLISHED BY PRINTED ON 100% S’ RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media. LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. �II s I I CUTTING Continued from Page 1 I with Max Effort Fitness, for the fit­ ness center to provide a staff member to assist in strength and conditioning classes for student-athletes. The safety and security positions and the reinstatement of funding for the Max Effort contract are expected to come back up for discussion at the July board meeting. Board President Marcy White said. “This is hard. It’s hard for every­ body,” White said. “Nobody wants to make any cuts. We’d like to have more of everything. We’d like to have smaller class sizes. These are not the things we like to be doing. Knowing that we have to have a meeting in July, we can revisit any discussions (on these issues) that we can have then. Restoring the three safety and secu­ rity positions and adding back in funding under the Max Effort contract would add $282,749 to the budget for next fiscal year, CCS Finance Director Sara DeVries said. That would increase the district’s expenditures for 2024-25 to more than $72 million, against rev­ enues of more than $69.8 million. Part of the issue is uncertainty about how much money the district will receive from the state, as the Legislature has not yet approved a school aid budget for the 2024-25 fis­ cal year. The district is projecting flat enrollment for the next school year and a $241 -per-pupil increase in its founda­ tion grant from the state, DeVries said. “Even through the summer, we can evaluate (cuts), as we know more information from the state,” Caledonia Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer said. “We can revisit some of these items and perhaps make some modifications, if that’s what the board wishes.” CCS is expected to end the current fiscal year June 30 with a shortfall of $204, resulting in a fund balance of $10,337,140, or about 14.2 percent of district expenditures. That savings would be reduced to $8,049,799, or 11.6 percent of expenditures, by the end of2024-25 fiscal year if the board restores the three positions and rein­ states the Max Effort funding, DeVries said. The district had proposed cutting the equivalent of 27 full-time posi­ tions under the new budget, some of which had been funded through the Elementary and Secondary School 99 Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund, a federal program that provided funds to local school districts in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The ESSER funding will expires this fall. The vast majority of those positions are to be absorbed by attrition through retire­ ments and resignations, Weeldreyer said. In addition, the district was able to reduce costs through hiring 18 new teachers to replace retiring veteran teachers who were higher on the pay scale, DeVries said. Several parents spoke out in favor of reinstating the safety positions and funding for the Max Effort contract. “Safety is not something we mess with - ever,” said Nikki Huttenga, a mother of a high school student and a middle school student. “We do not get a do-over if something goes awry ... We can go backwards on food service, we can go backwards on the band room. We cannot go backwards if something goes wrong with safety.” Tom Vogeler is part of a local non­ profit called the Touchdown Club that raises funds to support Caledonia athletic programs. He called the pos sibility of not having a Max Effort trainer assisting student-athletes at the high school “a letdown,” and said los­ ing that support would affect athletes in competing. “We’re trying to compete at (the O-K Red) level, and we’re going to take away the ability for these kids to com­ pete,” Vogeler said. “Many of these kids do not have the money to pay for private training. This is in the school, they’re being taught correctly. We’re seeing other sports (competing) now in an O-K Red that they haven’t been competitive in before.” Parent Katie Bom said that having the Max Effort trainer available sets up student-athletes for long-term success. From an equity and inclusion perspective, not all families have the means to pay for athletic training for their kids,” Bom said. “Having a certi­ fied trainer at the high school allows equal opportunity for all kids to have access to the same great benefits that training provides.” The amendment to reconsider the three safety and security positions passed on a 6-1 vote, with Isic voting no, while the amendment to reinstate funding for the Max Effort contract was approved 5-2, with Isic and Board Vice President Brittany Barber Garcia voting no. 46 , 2024 financial FOCUS Provided by Andrew McFadden and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones Avoid these estate planning mistakes By the time you reach retirement age, you may have accumulated a 401(k), IRA and other investment accounts, along with insurance poli­ cies and physical proper­ ties. You’ll use some of these assets to support your retirement, but the rest may end up in your estate — which is why an estate plan is so important. So, to leave a legacy for your family and those philanthropic groups you support, you need a com­ prehensive estate plan — and you need to avoid making mistakes. Here are some of the most common ones; • Procrastinating Estate planning, and its implications about our mortality, may not be a pleasant topic to think about. Yet, putting off your estate plans can be risky. If you were to pass away or become incapacitated without doing any estate planning, the results could be costly for your loved ones. One possible conse­ quence: If you haven’t at least created a basic, sim­ ple will, the courts could decide how to divide and distribute your assets, and they may do so in a way you wouldn’t want. • Not updating wills and other documents - Draft­ ing a will and other legal documents, such as a liv­ ing trust, is an important step in your estate plan­ ning. But you shouldn’t just create these arrange- ments and forget about them. Changes in your life and among your loved ones — deaths, divorce, remarriage, new children and more — may result in the need for you to update your estate plans, so it’s a good idea to review them periodically. • Not updating beneficiaries - Similar to updating your will to reflect changes in your life and family situation, you may also need to update the beneficiaries listed on your financial accounts and insurance policies. These designations carry a lot of weight and can even supersede instructions in your will, so you’ll need to make sure they are current and accurate. • Not properly titling assets in a trust - Depend­ ing on your situation, you may benefit from establishing a living trust, which may allow your estate to avoid the time-consuming and expensive process of pro­ bate. A living trust also helps give you control over how, and when, you want your assets distribut­ ed. However, you need to retitle your assets in the name of the trust for the trust to be effective. • Not choosing the right executor - An executor carries out your wishes based on the instructions you’ve given in your will or trust documents. But fulfilling an executor’s duties is not as simple as, say, following a recipe for a basic meal. Consequent­ ly, while you might just want to pick a close family member as executor, you need to be sure this person is competent, good with details and won’t be over­ whelmed by the financial and legal issues involved in settling an estate. If your initial choice doesn’t have these skills, you may need to find a responsible person outside the family. Finally, here’s one more mistake: going it alone. Estate planning is not a do-it-yourself activity. To help ensure your estate plan addresses all the issues involved, you’ll need to work with a legal advisor, and possibly your tax and financial profes­ sionals, too. Devoting the necessary time and effort can help you avoid many of the mistakes that threaten the effectiveness of estate plans — and the fewer mistakes you make, the better off your beneficia­ ries can be. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attor­ ney or qualified tax advi­ sor regarding your situa­ tion. —* �4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 22, 2024 Carole Mae Schad Carole Mae Schad, age 77, of Caledonia, Ml, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, June 17, 2024, at her home. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edythe and Simon Huberts. Born September 15,1946, in Grand Rapids, Ml, Carole will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 38 years, Lawrence Risbridger of Caledonia, daughter, Sarah Elizabeth (Matthew James) Romijn and her grandchildren, Elijah James, Katelyn Elizabeth, and James Henry Romijn of Forest www.sunandnews.com 1 Hills; son, Matthew Bradford Schad (Kimberly Barrett) of Grand Rapids, step-sons, Travis and Sam Risbridger of Chicago, brothersin-law, Bob Risbridger of Cedar, Ml, Jeff Risbridger of Cherryfield, ME, and Greg Risbridger of Cedar, Ml. She is also survived by her loving sister, Elaine Pauzenga (Curt) of Penn Yan, New York; and her neph­ ew, Nathaniel Pauzenga (Amanda Kistler) of Havertown, PA. Private family services have already taken place. Interment was in Alaska Cemetery. r * —e* Obituaries 1 t J Robert N. King ril '.r • ' J t ’V VIEW OBITUARIES ONLINE t SL A f■ »1 J r 11 5 4rl ■/ 1t < I « * .* SUNANDNEWS.COM : *• •1 ♦ 'irl LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaIedoniaUMC.org Livestream: Faccbook.com/CaledoniaUnitcdMethodist Serving Strengthening Connecting oc co 7 ^7 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9;30 & Uam I .y y http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages. com Church: (269) 795-2391 gAPEACE •ky'a'.*',,?.' vV*. J- 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfaniilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Ju < /t!.* JU 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"^^ & 48*^ 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Praising God through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music 10:30 AM Watch our services from our website (see above) III .ftp J . 1 t kv tl Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmidcHevine B '.ay — 99*7 Worship Services Sunday io am & 6 pm Sermons online; WhitneyvilleFellowship.org CHURCH THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Yankee Springs Bible Church Prayer Meeting & Bibie Study Wednesday 6:^0 pm & 7 pm I Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 OURNEY ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: LEARN MORE! 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool Fellowship Church Sunday Worship J ■I Church Sunday School.. ft- ■*A Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. V Whitneyvifle PastorJonathan DeCou ii*’ HOLY FAMILY J/CATHOLIC CHURCH 4 5 Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee BAPTIST Nliddleville iday Service 10:30 AM FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 CHURCH PEACECHURCH.ee I 3 I 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg On June 5, 2024, Robert N. King, age 87, was called to spend eternity with his Lord and Savior. He passed peacefully at home with his wife at his bedside. Robert was born in Ionia, Ml on March 22, 1937. He was pre­ ceded in death by his parents, Charles L. King and Frances (Hochstetler) King, and his broth­ ers, Donald V. King and Lloyd C. King and his sister, <r Delores (King) Aspinall. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Gloria J. (Bouck) King; his children, Jerold L. King and Lori J. (Madsen) King, Roy N. King and Laurie M. (Headworth) King, and Susan M. (King) Montroy and spouse Philip E. Montroy. Robert and Gloria had six grandchildren, Dalton, Braden, Ryan and his spouse Kendra, Erin and her spouse Raleigh, Daniel, and Emmarie. They also have four great grandchil­ dren, Jordyn, Levi, Camden; and Samuel. Robert retired from General Motors in 1992 after 32 years of service as a millwright skilled tradesman. He then returned to Mackinac Island for several summers to drive horse and buggy, giving tours of the island to vacation­ ing guests. Robert called Freeport his hometown. He graduated from Freeport High School in 1955, and attended Michigan State College, now University. He enjoyed golf, bowling, and being a coach to an amazing array of local young athletes who played little league baseball. Robert wore many hats throughout his life­ time. He was a wonderful husband, a devoted father and a kind friend. He enjoyed the friend­ ship of many in the Native American culture. His native name was Wabakeck, which when translated means Hawk. He loved local history and gave time to the Freeport Museum. As he wished, he will be cremated and a memorial service celebrating his life will be held Friday, June 28, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Middleville at 5215 N. M-37 Highway, Middleville, Ml 49333. There will be a light lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, a contribution may be made to the Freeport Museum Historical Society, P.O. Box 127, Freeport, Ml 49325, or to the charity of your choice. •e. 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship I I J •M I I 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 5 '’Shining Forth God’s Light” Morning Worship Group.......... 10:00 a.m, 11:00 a.m. Jaynes b. Collison^ Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org I i I I I I i f I I �( A i Z the sun and news i—i------------------—-—________________ ____________ __________________ _ , Saturday, June 22, 2024 5 bal school board approves updated abortion policv GREG CHANDLER L 1 * k X j I / I 1 .u . , . . ____ the original language from the 2018 Staff Writer policy, removing only the words “in The Caledonia Community Schools accordance with Michigan statute.” The Board of Education Monday unani­ board then added verbiage to the policy mously approved an updated district that further details what would be conpolicy that bans a school employee, sidered “refenring” or “assisting.” board member, administrator, or inde­ Examples of what would be considpendent contractor from referring a ered a violation of the updated policy student for an abortion or assisting a include: student in having the procedure done. — Distributing information to the The measure is an update of a policy student, either by print, electronic the school board adopted in 2018 in or other means, on how to obtain an response to a state law that was on the abortion; books at the time that assessed financial Assisting the student with mak­ penalties for a school employee or offi­ ing an appointment with a medical cial that referred or assisted a student provider in regards to an abortion; in getting an abortion. However, that — Transporting the student to or law was nullified when Michigan vot­ from an abortion; ers approved Proposal 3 at the polls in — Attending an abortion with the November 2022. student. “Our policy that was based on that The board’s vote came during law no longer had standing (from a a meeting that was moved to the legal standpoint),” CCS Superintendent Caledonia High School south campus Dirk Weeldreyer said. “We had to learning commons to accommodate do something with it. The approach the more than 100 parents and com­ NEOLA (the district’s policy consul­ munity residents who turned out. tant) initially prepared was to follow Many parents spoke out in favor the state law and return back, because of retaining the policy, saying any the policy did not exist in the schools’ decisions involving their children policy manual before 2018.” experiencing an unplanned pregnancy The updated policy retains most of should be made by the parents, not by ERROR “We get people who call and are asking what services we offer, and Continued from Page 2 what we have on the township web­ contract, which runs through the end site is very, very limited. We like to of March 2028. However, Thomapple have a site that could be interactive,” won’t be able to collect the additional Richardson said. However, Trustee Curt Campbell revenue until April 1 of next year, recommended the board hold off on according to township documents. approving the website contract until “We’re not going to get the pay­ after the August election, when voters ment this year, but starting next year will be asked to approve a 2.25-mill 9 we’ll get that $4,500,” Richardson six-year fire and emergency services said. levy that will replace two current fire Irving currently pays Thomapple and EMS levies that are expiring. $82,446 annually under the contract, “Let’s assume for the sake of dis­ Thomapple Supervisor Eric Schaefer cussion that our millage renewal for said. EMS does not pass, do we have (a) In other business at the June 10 budget to keep supporting this new meeting, the board tabled a deci­ ... website?” Campbell asked. sion on approving a contract with “If the millage doesn’t pass, we Freeport-based Pixelvine Creative would have a totally different service to create a standalone website for here,” Richardson responded. the fire department. The department The township would pay Pixelvine would like to create a website to $3,285 to create the fire department allow people to pay for EMS classes, website, along with a $75 monthly obtain burning permits and request fee for hosting and supportive the inspections, Richardson said. site. > __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ‘ TJ r n ♦ ^3 '•e * f* .c ■X •l •i-P. J Si. I f: <1 7. 'I iC ^0 W:: • J ' 1i I• f* 1 K' I I / TT il? JASON IMJOOO J I b I I" Caledonia School Board member Jason Saidoo thanks the school administration for its work on the abortion policy that was unanimously approved by the board on Monday night. (Photo by Greg Chandler) anyone associated with the school. “There’s a number of women in this room that have went through an abor tion, and with that, there’s a number of women who are still suffering with the shame and regret and depression that will haunt them the rest of their lives, parent Rose Graham said. “Many of them, if you ask them how old their 95 child would be, they will be able to tell you exactly without even hesitating. Every year they mourn the loss of that child. “I have a family member in her 60s that still suffers from the consequence of a decision that she made in her teens. Are you going to take respon­ sibility for that? Are you going to provide the counseling this woman’s going to need the rest of her life? I don’t think you will.” The board initially proposed deleting the 2018 policy altogether last month. Then, board Trustee Tim Morris pro­ posed keeping the ban in place and deleting the words “in accordance with Michigan statute.” With one board member absent, the measure failed on a tie vote of 3-3. Debate at that meeting included a comment by Board Treasurer Jason Saidoo, who supported deleting the policy altogether, which drew heavy criticism in the community. “I think Option 1, rescinding the pol­ icy, takes the politics out of it,” Saidoo See POLICY on 6 cornerstonechurch we re casual, come as vou are. L •w I 1 I 1 i I t I One Church • Three Locations Caledonia I Grand Rapids | Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! □U Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! *-• ■ '■ *1 I '* • �6 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 22, 2024 MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 • State & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair 'We go above and beyond your vehicle repairs!" GODOASS Lesonal TK administrators move into new positions GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer t I * POLICY for these conversations.” In the end, Saidoo voted with the rest of the board Continued from Page 5 to approve the updated policy. said at the May meeting. “It leaves the Kim Pyper, an occupational therapist interest of the students into the hands of who is a district employee, expressed our teachers who can make the best misgivings with the idea of being in a decision for them.” position as a staff member to advise a Saidoo later clarified his comments student facing an unplanned pregnancy. in a Facebook post, most of which was She recalled a situation when she was published in the Sun and News, to say in college when a friend of hers con­ that he agreed that such matters should fided that she had gotten pregnant and involve a parent conversation. In that was afi-aid to tell her parents. She was post, he expressed concern for students able to talk her friend through the situa­ “who may not have the space at home tion, and her fiiend had the baby. nfib * fj 616.891.0150 www.edsbodv.com •< • Back door is open • Burlap, Cottons, Denim, Canvas, Toweling • 108^^ Wide Quilt Backs ♦1 Su -I ED’S BODY SHOP CALEDONIA MICHIGAN 110 Johnson Street “Pray for our nation QUESTIONS ASK US... OPEN: M thru F; 7;30 am - 5.00 pm i ffulst ■■■■■ MS4 Owner Ed Pawloski Jr. —IMlh i M9S;« I • * f 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-96 r lj 1 [4* ^BA I support for staff” McCarthy wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “The behaviors at Page have become more sig­ nificant in recent years, and a dean will provide the structure and sup- ■ I’ * 1 Forman moved to the high school to become an English resource room teacher. She also served as adviser to the National Honor Amy Forman Society at the high school for three years. In August 2021, Forman was pro­ moted to assistant principal, where she handled student discipline issues, observed and evaluated teachers and support staff, and served as a Title IX investigator. McLaughlin has 37 years of educa tion experience, including 26 years as an elementary building principal. His most recent experience as principal was at Caledonia’s Kettle Lake Elementaiy School, where he served seven years before retiring in 2020. “The primary purpose of (the new elementary dean) position is to support students at many different levels so the principal can develop meaningful relationships with, and be the primary 1 Two administrators in the Thomapple Kellogg Schools will have new roles starting this fall. Amy Forman becomes the new prin cipal at Page Elementary School, after having served as assistant principal at Thomapple Kellogg High School for the past three years. She replaces Gregg Bruno, who is moving from Page to the high school to become an assistant principal. Bruno had been principal at Page since 2019. Meanwhile, the TK district is mov­ ing Sean McLaughlin into the newly created position of elementary dean of students, after he served for the past year as dean of students at TKHS. His office would be inside of Page, Superintendent Craig McCarthy said. Forman has been with the TK dis­ trict for 13 years. She started as a resource room and learning lab teacher at Thomapple Kellogg Middle School in 2013, as well as a building coach for the school’s multi-tier system of supports (MTSS) program. In 2019, The June 10 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary's report. There are three new fish in the fishbowl. The chapter had a no-gain week; this week's net loss was 13.2 pounds. Virginia and Maryellen dis­ cussed their impressions from State Recognition Days in Lan­ sing last week. Linda won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as club mem­ bers recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Mary­ ellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. mmHistmsiEMS www.sunandnews.com 4 OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm Pickup Station I ifflt I «X Sean McLaughlin port necessary.” McCarthy told board members at a recent meeting that the district had received reports of a Page student vaping in a classroom, and other students supplying vapes to fellow students. It does not appear that TK will fill the high school dean of students position with a single individual. The district is currently exploring several options for providing additional behavior support at the high school, McCarthy wrote in his email. This may be resolved through a division of administrative roles between the two assistant principals, or through the use of other staff members. This is yet to be determined,” McCarthy wrote. “When a student is faced with an unplanned pregnancy, the increased stress and anxiety make it difficult for them to make decisions,” she said. “They need the support of close fam­ ily and fiiends who know them well, liieir decisions should be rooted in their values, morals and religious con­ victions, or they’re going to live with intense regret and emotional pain.” Pete Murray, president of the Caledonia-Middleville Area Right to Life chapter, said that putting school staff in a situation of advising a student facing a pregnancy is not fair to either the staff member or the student. “This is a family matter, and it is the parent’s right to direct medi cal decisions for their minor child,” Murray said. “Children can’t even take a Tylenol from a school nurse without permission from the parent. We should not be putting teachers and staff in a difficult position of trying to navigate far more serious and consequential medical decisions without parental involvement.” The board also approved minor changes to district policies on sex education and reproductive health on Monday. * 4 I •n •< < J * i.-. - - - - .-IMI*: *,a t . .. jk . hl' IR ** ■« .r ,• I 4 '•'v a ' I* IS <*►- .» .. 4 f r I �II www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS _ ___________ Saturday, June 22, 2024 Gaines Twp. trustees approve contribution to county deer management program _______________________ JAMES GEMMELL < X s" KV 5?, *1 'X * \ . K X A *s Contributing Writer The Gaines Township Board has agreed to a request from the Kent County Road Commission to con­ tribute up to $1,000 toward a countywide deer-management program. The board voted unanimously to participate in the collaboration, which entails a study that is tenta­ tively scheduled to begin in a few months. Township Manager Rod Weersing told board members that the number of car-deer crashes in the county has increased by 21 percent since 2021. He said the collaboration is between the county, the KCRC and the Metro Six. “So, the six cities within the coun ty. (They’re) working together on doing a study on the deer population, their traveling habits, and why they don’t cross (the road) at the times. they’re supposed to,” Weersing said. KCRC Deputy Managing Director Jeny Byrne said in a June 3 letter to township managers throughout the county that a countywide deer population survey will be conducted by graduate students overseen by research faculty at Grand Valley State University. It tentatively would begin this fall and take about a year to complete. The project’s estimated cost is $65,000, with GVSU agree­ ing to contribute $32,500 in tuition for the graduate assistant and faculty support. The $32,500 balance of the cost would be split among local mimicipalities. “Currently, we have commit ments of $2,500 each from the cit­ ies of Grand Rapids, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker and Wyoming, along with MDOT (Michigan Department of Transportation), Kent County and the Kent County Road Commission,” Byrne wrote. The total contribution from those entities was $22,500. Kent County’s 21 townships are being asked to cover the remaining $ 10,000 balance toward the $65,000 total cost of the project. Byrne noted that 24 percent of all reported vehicle crashes in the coimty occur in townships. However, not all the townships are going to contribute funds to the survey. TOWNSHIPS TOTAL CRASHES DEER-INVOLVED CRASHES* PERCENTAGE OF REPORTED CRASHES WITH DEER INVOLVED AOA 343 108 31% ALGOMA 308 85 28% ALPINE 264 54 20% BOWNE 708 56 52% BYRON 774 104 13% CALEDONIA 466 99 21% CANNON 219 86 39% CASCADE 949 137 14% - 212 86 41% GAINES 620 98 16% GRAND RAPIDS 562 88 16% GRATTAN 98 71 72% LOWELL 315 90 29% NELSON 136 52 38% OAKFIELD 141 46 33% PLAINFIELD 1.028 175 17% SOLON 209 72 34% SPARTA 261 98 38% 43 44% COURTLAND «• I •* SPENCER 98 TYRONE 151 65 43% VERGENNES 143 68 48% TOTAL 7.405 1.781 24% I I I ■ I I I I I I I I I I I I ■ I I I I I ■ I I I I I *data does not include crashes that involve motorists veering for deer. “All of those that are participat ing will pay by (their) percentage of accidents. We’re one of the low est in the county,” Weersing said. “I’m think our portion (in Gaines Township) would be closer to $500 than $ 1,000, but I think that is some­ thing good for us to participate in.” Michigan State Police statistics show Kent County racked up the most car-deer crashes in the state in 2022, the latest year for which data was compiled. It showed Kent had 2,250 such collisions, substantially more than Oakland County (2,009), Jackson County (1,652), Ottawa County (1,511), Lapeer County (1500) and Allegan County (1,491). The Michigan State Police reported a 13-percent increase in deer-related car crashes across the state in 2022, the most in a decade. More than 58,000 crashes occurred that year, and the state says about 80 of them were on two-lane roads. Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, so a majority of the car-deer collisions were between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m., and 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. “The most serious vehicle-deer traffic crashes occur when driv­ ers veer to avoid the animal and hit another vehicle or a fixed object, such as a tree. Or when a vehicle rolls over,” the State of Michigan says on the Michigan.gov website. PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Michigan Civil Rights Act which collectively make it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race. color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age or martial status, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To report discrimination call the Fair Housing Center at 616-451-2980. The HUD tollfree telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL H0U8INQ «( OPFOHTUNITT It recommends that drivers take notice where deer-crossing signs are posted and be prepared for deer to dash out in front of their vehicle. That entails visually scanning the roadside while driving. “Deer typically follow one another in single file, so if you see one deer there are likely more nearby. Use high-beam headlights and additional driving lights to see the road better,” the state advises. “I have had some calls recently asking us to do something, whether it’s a private shoot or something (else) to try to manage the deer population in the township,” Weersing said. The study is seeking options to find a balance in how to address that. “Because for as many people over here that say, ‘Kill them,’ there’s the deer lovers over here saying ‘Let’s let them be.’ So, the (study organizers) are looking at a variety of options in walking that fine line to try to find something that will work - that will help everybody out, but is not wiping out the deer population,” Weersing said. Hi^h EfRciency I I I I I I FURNACE AIR I I I I I I I I I I * Must present this coupon Expires 7-5-24 I I i I I I J J I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I *No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. “The company built by referrals” I ®150 !RUUp OFF « r b i t ) JI j I I r •1 *< tf .• ri d 1 -I ••. I • £ * ’ I « . * ; I ' FRONTIER HEATING 6 COOLING ■ 210 East Main Street, Caledonia : 616-891-8900 I I I I �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 22, 2024 8 www.sunandnews.com District Court judge touts benefits of recovery court program physical health, their emotional Contributing Writer health. We deal with mental health, spiritual health. And we deal with The chief judge of the 63rd District getting them back working, because Court has shared with Gaines in order to get healthy you need to Township trustees progress that has been made since he established a pro­ be working, to get up in the morning. And once they’re working, we can gram in 2019 to address drug addic­ get stable housing for them. It’s the tions, disease and alcoholism. whole package,” O’Hara said. Residents in Gaines and most other municipalities in Kent County will Each of the 25 participants in the vote this year on a new judgeship that program are directed to engage in will be added to the court. healthy habits every day. Some Chief Judge Jeffrey O’Hara calls it examples might include a walk Recovery Court. He deals daily with through local trails, meditation, read cases involving alcohol, drugs and ing inspirational books or journaling. mental health. Methamphetamine, To qualify to enter the program, a heroin and fentanyl are just a few of person must have had at least two the drug addictions that people in the drunken or drugged driving convic program have been battling. tions. In the State of Michigan, those “This treatment court is treating convictions result in having your the disease, as opposed to a judge driver’s license revoked for a mini­ punishing an individual for using a mum of one year. drug,” he said. The J udge has the authority to O’Hara clarified that he is not soft approve a limited license for a par­ on crime, but pointed out that addic­ ticipant to drive a vehicle, so long tions change the chemical balance in as it has an ignition interlock device a person’s brain. connected to prove they are sober. “So, we have to re-wire the brain. And, a video connection that allows We demand that they change their the court to watch that person get into JAMES GEMMELL . .(S L i f ♦ i r : 3‘ I 1 :i b e* 4 & I £ y ’•J. > Ml June 25 Auction/Estate Sale f 5T - J • A* » V> —1 1 •! •f -t 4 4 •. * r*j 4 b' #1 f * •.* I p r I» -I .1 ia«. ■ .2' .♦ S''4 J 1 K- r. % ;* 7 .. f* ♦ •J ! • / ’W Si I ’ .■ % ■' i' a c« * a 4 <1'1 M 4 I 4 >1 t J 9' a 1 « . I'' > t I .* I* •* •♦ . * •i 4?! I 2 - * *4 - r. ♦I 5 f. -t I r# •1 r 63rd DistrictCourtChief Judge Jeffrey O’Hara speaks to Gaines Township trustees about the Recovery Court program he established. (Photo by James Gemmell) a car when they go to drive to and from work, or to and from a treat­ ment facility. “So, the whole goal is if we can get them healthy, working and making money, they can get an apartment, they can get stable housing,” O’Hara said. The recovery program has three principles to which the participant must adhere. The first one is to be honest with themselves. Because the judge will test them to see if they have been clean of drugs or alcohol. “If they’re using, I want them to come to me and say (before testing), ‘Judge, I screwed up last weekend.’ Now think about that psychological ly. If they’re willing to come to me and admit it, they’re taking that first step of self-accountability and calling themselves out,” O’Hara said. The second principle requires the addict to ask themselves how badly they want to change their lives. And the third principle is to never give up, even though it is difficult to change and some relapses are almost inevitable. The way the court system used to work, someone who relapses likely ee . t: / «r I; J ',i » ? 'r I V iP’. .4 *; A - MS» ' •.t —pl '■ *. f •5 ■. I "'I • I •b; I would end up in jail if they were caught. But in today’s Recovery Court, the judge first has them write a letter explaining why they were not strong enough to resist the drug or alcohol, and why they did not apply the program’s three principles. They are then asked what they are going to do next time they feel tempted to relapse. “People don’t just sail through this program. I understand intellectually that they’re going to relapse,” Judge O’Hara said. “We want to address the relapse immediately. We don’t want to address it in three weeks.” After a violation, the judge may send them to a landfill to work. “I make them go to the dump for two Saturdays,” O’Hara said. “And smell the stench of the dump. I say, ‘While you’re doing that, I want you to think about making better deci­ sions.’ And if they violate again, then I’ll put them in jail for two days.” When they do well, the judge will say he is proud of them. “There’s a lot of camaraderie amongst the group. When someone does good, they clap and they’re happy for them. And when they relapse, everyone hurts,” he said. There have been 12 graduates from the program and only one person has failed it. “I will tell them, ‘I’ll never give up on you, if you don’t give up on your­ self,”’ O’Hara said. The 63rd District Court in Grand Rapids Township will add a judge on Jan. 1, 2025, to help ease its rapidlygrowing caseload total. Right now, the Honorable Jeffrey O’Hara and Sarah Smolensk! are the only judges in the court. The candidates for the new judgeship will be decided in the Aug. 6 primary, and voted on in the Nov. 5 general election. The court is located at 1950 East Beltline Ave. NE. and covers all municipalities in Kent County, other than the cities of Grand Rapids, Wyoming, Kentwood, Walker and Grandville. O’Hara is a graduate of Michigan State University and earned his Juris Doctorate degree from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. He was elected judge of the 63rd District Court in 2014. �f www.sunandnews.com I I 4 THE SUN AND NEWS ♦ ♦ Saturday, June 22, 2024 Middleville woman maintains k‘j^ 2^j k I 4 -X 9 3L < Cj ri • > A «;4m ‘\ b\ Is resource for local pet owners 4 <>, lb ’^1 T'tt* L*•» A B ' «-• i / '-V ■ • ft 5 • w*w I ~i ■B 1 b k <- wa *3^ X. 9* b JAYSON BUSSA y KC FeeclersHoUy Fam t iM ^v; S^x* / .•^ ^HTwtoi . rIT^ I P***’ I *** I 'Pjfl A* Live-food -forExoftc -=»• I ^^9 Editor . > ••.. ••1 J * Ca ! t r*> . JP V A’ • .s'?.’ ’/^ F^W > <1^ t r n * ♦ ♦ ft, I Is *1 > * ♦ ^Bp' J St >» - 7'^ 'A. g: 1 i 5 * t *♦5. •7^. -r' , ft .\ At':. •'' -. XV ^ 4 \ . 9 4 ’> r a" 9 w* Texf fte Orier Pe+s ak*M08-000A p$ « < 1 For Keri Case, it’s not uncommon for a stranger to come wandering up the driveway of her family’s Middleville home and say “I’m here for my bugs.” Thus is life on a bug farm. Over the last three years, Case has dabbled in breeding insects and worms tliat serve as a primary food source for many exotic pets — from the many varieties of lizards to tarantulas. Just this year, though, she has turned that hobby (we’ll call it) into a formal business, dubbed KC Feeders Hobby Farm. Case, who lives in Middleville with her husband Caleb and their three kids, acquired an LLC for her busi­ ness and navigated the necessary legal red tape to get a special land use permit for her property so that '**' RltatwMW 1 1 1 I 4M 1 r BK! X* b:-' spa ir I -f ~ <>> ■ *w^ - .X’ I I * f»*y- I A •l-'q I A' t 1 4 I •*<>* •A. 9a^''. < • «aw .• * b .-7-7* F' • ' **■* * < I-* • ’fc *> WiCi A . *. , “I A F / » to* p n J* 4 ««b’- -r < •e g H *•* 9 b to*' ■9 v’' JW' Mr f •K ■4' F‘ .1 IL. z A * 1^5^ 1 V *«. 1“ 9 w* . ..- 'V-' » > t * ** It f > k fc*Xa:> * ft J ■ •^r 4ft ^L « ** ^k Ufakctija h > » tf a •> to ■•* .',1^ j .A Ap. *- r ' J. •l b^‘ C’ K w B^Vu. X’. . •!* y i z •• ■i >:' .(■ .,. r i' >• *• ,n' J <1 I r -w. * - TW- 1 > * p 4 i <1. •v fei » w . "X. THE BUG BIZ J Xi X-2> * k ' r* Jr 7^ .s * •y »._ :.-a ■^wsak fS® Yankee Springs TowMhip *▼ 2«4 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE. MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 M** « 9 of the closest to a room in the base­ ment,” Case said. “Now, it’s grow­ ing out of the basement to a heatcontrolled shed (located next to their home).” i< A li .'^_l she was able to post a sign at the foot of her driveway. With that, she was officially in the bug business. It started in a closet and grew out 5 I >’ i .• The Case family poses in front of a sign for KC Feeders Hobby Farm an operation established by Keri Case at her Middleville home. She raises worms and insects primarily used to feed exotic pets. (Photos by Jayson Bussa) >b: a u. & > V ♦ k/ 4 c t.. A * « The Cases are currently building and renovating a shed where Keri Case plans to move the insect and worm supplies she uses in her business, KC Feeders Hobby Farm. 4 r ir-r ?» 5 U ^ iZa » ** * sr?. f *•. K I■X .» III I I n *v I .5 r <M \s 4 « >• A * n ■ * a. A. •— • < . ;& "to I M » >* •> ' a v3 < •w?. • MT' /■ V p4 I > .1 X « t S •/ • *£ t, **\ ►1^' . a t * T A>*< ’‘-w ■'M •*^ •fr .I '• •X ? b*’' I 'f £. r I b. i. 1B> k * I ♦> A •• A * ^EMbBamechM -S«KU««« ’Cndet* BSFL 1 Lr'.5*- T. I -.-. •V tl 4 Keri Case, owner of KC Feeders Hobby Farm, displays some of the super worms that she is raising. Like many budding entrepreneurs. Case’s desire to get into the bug game stemmed from fulfilling a need in her own life. Case, at the time, owned one bearded dragon. Now, she owns two. Knowing that con­ stantly visiting corporate pet stores can be a strain on the wallet, she wanted to breed Dubia roaches of her own to feed to her lizard. “I just looked it up and was like ‘Oh, you can raise your own.’ So I started with one tub and if you do it right you get a lot of roaches,” Case explained. “I only had one bearded dragon so I thought maybe some other people around here must have lizards or something.” “So, I reached out randomly and got someone right away. They told a person and she told a person. Before I knew it, I had teachers from the schools messaging me See BUG FARM on 12 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE JUNE 26111, 2024 @6 PM PROPOSED 2024-2025 BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING The Yankee Springs Township Board will hold a Special Meeting to conduct a Public Hearing on the proposed Township Budget Fiscal Year 2024-2025 at the Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333 on: Wednesday, June 26th, 2024 At 6:00 PM The property tax millage rate proposed to 'I e levied to support the proposed Budget will be a subject of this hearing. The 2024-2025 Water System budget will also be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the proposed budgets will be avail­ able for public inspection at the Township Office on and after June 19, 2024, during regular office hours. American with Disabilities Notice: The Yankee Springs Township Board Will provide necessary and reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes .of printed mMaterials being considered at the meeting to individuals at the Meeting upon 7 days’ notice to the Township Supervisor, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Ml 49333. Phone 269-795-9091/Fax 269-795-2388 Mike Cunningham Yankee Springs Township Clerk 7^ �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. June 22, 2024 10 Local students earn dean’s list honors student of, the GPA requirement for the dean’s list is a minimum of 3.5. Cedarville University Area students were named to the dean’s list at Cedarville University in Ohio. To qualify, students earned a grade point average of 3.5 or higher for the spring 2024 semester with a minimum of 12 graded credit hours. Local students on the list, by home­ town, included: Caledonia — Daniel Battey In addition, some local students were named to Cedarville’s dean’s honor list. To qualify, students earned a grade point average of 3.75 or higher for the spring 2024 semester with a minimum of 12 graded credit hours. Local students named to the dean’s honor list include: Caledonia - Isaac Clark ♦ ♦ ♦ Saint Mary’s College Area students were named to the dean’s list at Saint Mary’s College in Indiana. To qualify, students earned a grade point average of 3.6 or higher for the spring 2024 semester with a minimum of 12 graded credit hours, no incompletes and no grades lower than a C. Local students on the list, by home­ town, included: Middleville - Ava Hess Southern New Hampshire University Several area students were named to the dean’s list at Southern New Hampshire University. To qualify, students earned a grade point average between 3.5 and 3.699 for the spring 2024 semester while maintaining frilltime status. Local students on the list, by home­ town, included: Alto - Sean Beach In addition, the president’s list includes students who See HONORS on 11 Marquette University Benjamin Klein of Caledonia has been named to the dean’s list for the spring 2024 semester at Marquette University in Wisconsin. To make the dean’s list, students must have earned at least 12 credits for the spring 2024 semester and have no disqualifying grades. For the school’s College of Health Sciences, of which Klein is a WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS 1 *X 1 Residential & Commercia Ml • F> r ry J U >• Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers 3 3 I A MM I * r ) MM ,. V I I s MM * I I < i-t >** JI r rr:52> 1 •^1 J & I % a ^^3 DeWeerd (68) HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEEROHTG.COM 269-792-2234 '.•i f Since i955 •e k 4 A+ 1 1 BBd« ixi.! ACCREDITED BUSINESS J s www.sunanclnews.com Yankee Springs board sets hearing for Barlow Lake treatment GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer The Yankee Springs Township board has set a hearing for next month on the latest round of treat ments to control aquatic plant growth on Barlow Lake. The township board will hold a public hearing on establishing a special assessment district for the plant control program on the 187acre inland lake at its next regu­ larly scheduled meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 11. The proposed treatment program, which was recently presented to the Barlow Lake Association, calls for herbicide treatment of invasive species such as Eurasian milfoil, curly-leaf pondweed and starry stonewort. Township Clerk Mike Cunningham said. The cost of the program would be $125,600 over the next eight years, for an annual cost of $15,700. However, there is an estimated balance of $50,000 from past lake treatment programs that will be used to offset a portion of that cost. “They raised more money over a five-year period than they actually spent, and then (property owners) might get a free year or two where they didn’t get assessed,” said Cunningham, a longtime Barlow Lake resident. “Our attorney said that’s not the way we should be doing it, (the assessment) should be continuous.” As a result of that surplus, prop­ erty owners along the lake would likely see their annual assessment for the treatment decrease from $60 to $56 for those with frontage on the lake and from $30 to $28 for backlot property owners. A total of 229 properties would be part of the special assessment dis­ trict, of which 200 have frontage on Barlow Lake. Progressive AE’s Water Resources Group, the consultant for the lake, will contract with a company to conduct the herbi­ cide treatment, said Luke Aaron, a water resources scientist for Progressive AE. In other business at the Township Board meeting June 13: — The board approved plans and established a special assessment district for a road improve ment project oh Evans Lane, on the east side of Cobb Lake. The project, which has an estimated cost of $80,155, would consist of milling out the existing asphalt on 22,778 square feet of road, grading and compacting gravel, install­ ing 18 tons of crushed concrete to raise the lower portion of the road, and installing new asphalt. It also calls for removing and replacing the existing culvert on that road, Cunningham said. A total of 24 properties are in the special assess­ ment district, and each property owner would pay $1,113 per year for a three-year period, according to township documents. A public hearing to set the assessment roll for the project will be held at the July 11 board meeting. — The board approved rezon­ ing of two parcels, totaling 13.8 acres, owned by Owen Sabin at 200 Old Mill Rd. from resort and recreation to rural agricultural. The township’s planning commis sion had recommended approval of the rezoning last month. No specific plans have been presented for any development of the site, said Trustee Larry Knowles, who serves as the board liaison to the planning commission. — Township Supervisor Rob Heethuis reported that the project to add four new pickleball courts to the Township Park and convert the current pickleball court into a full-length basketball court is now out for bid. The contract for the project is expected to be awarded next month, with construction to begin Aug. 1. The project has received a $131,200 Recreation Passport grant from the state. — The board appointed Sally Smith to be the township rep­ resentative on the Gun Lake Improvement Board, replacing for­ mer Township Clerk Jan Lippert. as �www.sunandnews.com I It I f I is. : i -{• e of tn 4 J i I i I I Middleville council hears presentation on Michigan Main Street program GREG CHANDLER The Michigan Main Street program has been in existence since 2003 and is affiliated with The village of Middleville is exploring the National Main Street Center, which sup ­ whether it might want to become part of a ports downtown revitalization efforts in 45 state program that provides economic developstates. During the 2022-23 fiscal year, commerit assistance to downtown areas that are part of the program across Leigh Young, a senior specialist for the Michigan realized more than $9.6 million of Michigan Mam Street program, gave a pre­ public investment, close to $17.5 million in sentation about the program to the Village private investment, and the startup of 144 new Council at its June 11 meeting. The Main businesses. Young said. Street program is affiliated with the Michigan In Wayland, the Main Street Program proEconomic Development Corporation, and vided guidance in helping the community provides support for downtowns in 22 commu­ develop updated branding, again capitalizing nities across the state, including Wayland in on a local community asset. Allegan County. They have this beautiful community painted We provide you with a framework that mural, and so we leveraged that to create their allows community members to get involved im downtown branding,” Young said. the future of their downtowns,” Young said. The Main Street program has four levels, The Michigan Main Street program pro­ ranging from a “ network ” level for a comvides technical assistance and rnunity that is looking for addi ­ training in areas that include tional resources, but isn ’ t quite branding, business recruitment AAWe like to ready for full membership, to a strategies, small business sup­ highlight historic “ master ” level where it meets port and market data analysis. national accreditation standards The goal of the program is to preservation and provides an opportunity attract residents and businesses because it ’ s about to mentor other communities to a community, encourage local seeking to revitalize their down leveraging the investment and build commu­ towns. An “ engaged ” level is a nity ownership. Young said. unique asset that 1- to 3-year commitment, while “All of our technical assis­ a select ” level is a 5-year com you have in your tance is provided free, no cost, mitment. At that latter level, to communities,” Young said. downtown and it ’ s required that a community The program seeks to capi­ building on it. would have a full-time staff talize on existing community member dealing the downtown. Leigh Young assets, such as historic preser “Maybe they’re a village Michigan Main Street Program vation, to encourage economic employee, maybe they’re an revitalization in the downtowns employee of the (Downtown it serves. Development Authority), or if you decide to “We like to highlight historic preservation start a nonprofit like several of our other com­ because it’s about leveraging the unique asset munities, we can figure out how that works.” that you have in your downtown and build­ Young said. ing on it,” Young said. “We like to highlight The village has a full-time DDA director that stakeholder engagement because it’s about reports to the authority board of directors. learning about what the community wants to The program also offers grant opportuni­ see for the downtown, and being the stewards ties to help develop small businesses, as well of what the community wants to see.” as promotions and marketing. In addition, it The process for developing a local Main offers a service to help communities recruit Street program includes coming up with a new business, starting by making sure they community vision for the downtown, which have materials to hand out to prospective busi­ would be developed through community and nesses. leadership surveys. Communities are then Young encouraged the council to discuss encouraged to pick one transformational strat­ next steps and determine what it might want egy that would cover a 3- to 5-year period, and going forward. No decisions have been made work on projects and programming to imple­ on whether the village will join the Main ment that strategy. They would then track Street program. progress in implementing that strategy. The “As of right now, the next steps will be program covers four main areas — economic taken by council,” DDA Director Gretchen vitality, promotion, design and organization. James wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Young said. “I think it sounds like a good opportunity if it Saturday, June 22, 2024 11 Budget hearing set for Yankee Springs Staff Writer ■ I THE SUN AND NEWS ♦ GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer The Yankee Springs Township Board will hold a pub­ lic hearing next Wednesday on the township budget for the new fiscal year that begins July 1. . P "’- the Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd. The board is proposing a general fund budget of $1,831,258, and would use $43,082 out of its fund bal­ ance, according to the budget document. The operation of the township fire station on South Payne Lake Road will be the biggest ticket item under the new budget, with proposed spending of $329,750 for the new fiscal year, compared to the current budget amount of $281,520, according to the budget document. Another $200,000 is to be transferred to the fire equipment purchase fund, including $150,000 from the township’s allocation from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The budget also calls for spending $150,000 on roads and $129,800 on parks. Another $68,000 will go toward paying off an installment purchase agreement that financed a portion of the Township Hall renovation project that was completed last year, according to the budget document. HONORS Continued from Page 10 earned at least a 3.7 GPA while maintaining full-time status. Local students on the president’s list are: Caledonia - EmUy Overla, Ramiza Nurkic-DiPonio Middleville — Michelle Bowers University off Alabama Several area students were named to the dean’s list at the University of Alabama. To qualify, students earned a grade point average of at least 3.5 during the spring 2024 semester while maintaining full-time status. Local students on the list, by hometown, included: Alto — Colin Thomasma In addition, the president’s list includes students who earned a 4.0 GPA while maintaining full-time status. Local students on the president’s list are: Caledonia — Wesley Knipping Middleville — Emily Drew Men 4 I Antenna Men • • Digital TV Antennas • Stariink Installs • Towers _______ • Cellular Enhancement Systems •f/SursQaS Give us a call! CEi-n n 269-967-8241 J www.theantennamen.com antennamen@g mail.com www.cellsignalpros.com ♦ ♦ �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 22, 2024 12 1 >• r.-?i I I* BUG FARM X. X r 0 Continued from Page 9 t 1 ♦ ♦ k J ■^2R * I. ft J > L jP ' •p ■ A ♦ ♦ ) ♦ •7 « -i.’ Al .1 /■ >1 KC Feeders also offers silk worms. because they have classroom pets. It kind of took off.” As Case started to sell her bugs and worms to others, she had to start matching demand. What started off as just Dubia roaches expanded into a farm of various other creep-crawlies. Right now. Case offers super worms, mealworms, black soldier fly larvae, red wiggler worms, crickets, Dubia roaches and silkworms, which are seasonal. I I r- IW< 'WBm ' Yankee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091! FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBLIC HEARING ■ SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL EVANS LANE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 49 TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, OWNERS OF LAND WITHIN THE EVANS LANE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 49 AND - ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: I www.sunandnews.com PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor and Assessor have prepared and filed in the office of the Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll covering all properties within the EVANS LANE ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 49 benefitted by the proposed road improvement project, which will include milling out all asphalt on approximately 22,778 sf of road. Fine grade and compact gravel. Remove and replace culvert. Install approximately 18 tons of crushed concrete to raise the low portion of the road. Install 1.5” of base course asphalt compacted. Install 1.5” of 5E1 surface course asphalt compacted. The proposed road improvement includes widening (to a width of 14’) the south portion of the road (approximately 1,086 lineal feet) terminating at Cobb Lake Road and adding 4’ to the north section of the turnaround on parcel 08-16-060-017-00. The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate of costs on file with the Township Clerk. The assessment roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing costs of the project within the aforesaid special assessment district, as is more particularly shown on plans on file with the Township Clerk at the Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, within the Township. The assessment roll is in the total amount of $80,155. The costs, including administrative costs, are proposed to be raised by a new special assessment. The assessment against each parcel in the special assessment district will be approximately $1,113.26 per year, for a period of three years, 2024 2026 inclusive. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor and Assessing Officer have reported to the Township Board that the assessment against each parcel of land within said District is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land in said District as the benefit to such parcel bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said District. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Yankee Springs Township Board will meet at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Michigan, on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of reviewing the special assessment roll and hearing any objections thereto. The roll may be examined at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular business days until the time of the hearing and may further be examined at the hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an owner or party in interest, or his/ her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment or may file his/her appearance and protest by letter before the hearing, and in that At its core, the process to raise all you these critters is simple need is the proper container, hydra­ tion, food source and the right tem­ perature to keep the bugs breeding. But there is still a science to it, and it has taken Case some trial and error to accomplish. “I first tried with mealworms and gave up once because it was a lot to keep up with,” Case said. “But people kept asking me about them. I just said ‘Dam it. I’m going to grow mealworms.’ I made it a point and researched it.” event, personal appearance shall not be required. Any person objecting to the assessment roll shall file his/her objection thereto in writing with the Township Clerk before the close of the hearing or within such other time as the Township Board may grant. The owners or any person having an interest in real property who protests in writing at or before the hearing may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessment roll. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (7) days' notice to the Township Supervisor at the address below Mike Cunningham, Clerk Yankee Springs Township 284. N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 (269) 795-9091 mikec@yankeesDringstwp.ofQ ' ".W.R ’J 16^60^7 c t,*- . 'I*— - I- ’ ' . .. - 10-0604)10^ ■ 104)00015-00 t V* 1043004)14410 104)0M14-qO 1OO0(M)1>OO 4 ie4«M>1W 104)604)124)0 COBS LAKE k 154)00-0124» 104)0M11-OO iMe -00 04)604)1000 IMMO-OOB-OO 104W>OO04» : te-060-063-00 Customers who are in the market for any of these six-legged (or no legged) friends can simply call up or text KC Feeders and place their order for pickup. “So, it’s quick and it’s easy for people. I was getting to the point where I needed a sign so people knew this was the right place. I had people slowly driving up and asking ‘Are you the one that sells bugs? Case said with a laugh. 99^ LENDING A HAND (OR A BUG) As Case prepares to move her operation to her bug shed, she said she’s also looking to expand online sales. She stays busy homeschooling her three kids and KC Feeders has turned into a curriculum of its own. “The whole reason I got into it is so the kids could see how a busi­ ness was built,” Case said. “They join in and they help me coimt bugs or they’ll run an order out if it’s a customer we already know. Not only that but (the business) pays for horse lessons and gymnastics and their cur­ riculum and things like that.” Case also said that she hopes her service is a valued resource for local pet owners because she knows that, sometimes, pet owners get more than they bargained for when they pur­ chase a hungry lizard. “One of my main goals with this business is to keep things affordable for people,” she said. “One of the things I hate is when people buy rep­ tiles and get frustrated and re-home them, so I really want to make sure they have a place that’s local and affordable.” Case and KC Feeders Hobby Farm’s online home is currently on Facebook at facebook.com/kcfeeders. 16-0604X10-00 104)0O4>O74X) R 56>0«>007<00 104)00^0040 10-Q0(M)O54X) 104)604)05-00 104)00-004-00 10-0004)044)0 f < .. —1 -t*,*— I 104)e<MX»4Xl k ar’- I b \ I « 104)0O4W4X) V .• - 104)6O4X)14)O 1Mt»<l34-00 <"• •*« I t - I -k *1 JU > ■>T- I ' «• A.' 5nsr2024 Evans Lane Improvement Special Assessment District BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN Yankee Springe Township TW *9 B iW VIWW9 M • IIN b bl • Mm m *4 *- MM * A r Ma to I My cm m IM UTM Mm------ T"— -TL tfj- L- rt Dubia roaches are an insect that are sought after by all types of lizards. Keri Case started by raising these roaches before she branched out to the other insects and worms that she now sells through KC Feeders Hobby Farm. �s ’'iet www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS ♦ Saturday, June 22, 2024 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN I or n k bit —• —— THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS; PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to PA 188 of 1954 t ugi ♦ ♦ SPEOAL assessment PUBLIC HEARING BARLOW LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPKliL ASSE^ DISTRICT No. 31-24 TO; 5-QQ7-QQ o c OS-16- c Q zQl as amended, the Township Board of Yankee based on its own motion, to undertake 1° undertake 08-16^125Aft D8-16 c 4 district for the recover of the costs thereof by special assessment against the properties benefited, The Special Assessment District shall be known as the BARLOW LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 31-24. o I has 1 I I are to be specially assessed are more particularly described c STs ?aS: LI Iw CILLCIVI I^U 11 lap. BARLOW LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 31-24 * Q8t16- Q8-16-125-000- -125-0245-215-00 08-16- PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board has received plans showing the proposed Q8-16-Q4.5-0QQ-2.3 08-16-125I 08-16-125- 08-16-045-019-00 zQQ * 08-16-008-005-0 08-16-008-006-01 08-16-045-029- 08-16-04.5-0; M 08-16-125-029-00 08-16-055-0.38-00 08-16-050-011-00 -008-010-00 08-16-050-012-00 08-16-055- zQQ 08-16-050-01,3-00 08-16-055-041-00 cQQ 08-16-050-015-00 5-042-00 08-16-008-015-00 08-16-050-017-00 08-16-045-01 08-16-050-018-00 -16-125-000-01 08-16-008- 08-16-055-044-00 08-16-125-040-00 5-002-00 08-16-115-003-00 08-16-125-041-00 08-16-125-005-00 8-16-115-005-00 08-16-045-003-51 Qfiz 08-16-125-043-0 08-16-125-044- 08-16-115-007-00 08-16-125-048- 08-16-115-008-00 08-16-125-049-00 08-16-055-006-00 08-16-115-009-00 QfiJ.6-200- -16-Q55-Q07-0Q 08-16-115-010-00 08-16-200-0 08-16-055-008-00 08-16-115-011-00 08-16-200-006-00 -16-055-009-00 08-16-115-012-00 08-16-200-008-00 -16-055-010-00 08-16-115-014-00 08-16-200-010-00 08-16-055-012-00 08-16-115-016-00 08^1.6-200-012-00 -16-200-014-00 045-005-00 further notice that appearance and protest at the public hearing is required in order to appeal to the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the special assessment roll is confirmed. An owner or party in interest, or his or her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or shall be permitted to file at or before the hearing his or her appearance o, or protest by letter and his or her personal appearance shall not be required. All interested persons are invited to be present in person or by representative and to submit comments concerning the establishment of the special assessment district, the plans and cost estimates. PROPERTY SHALL NOT BE ADDED TO THE PROPOSED SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT AND THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATE OF COST SHALL NOT BE INCREASED BY MORE THAN 10% WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE AND PUBLIC HEARING. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if the Township Board determines to proceed with the special assessments, the Board will cause a special assessment roll to be prepared and another hearing will be held, after notice to record owners of property proposed to be specially assessed, to hear public comments concerning the proposed special assessments. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon seven (7) days' notice to the Township Supervisor. 08-16-200-010-1 * zQQ ®ost estimates Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville Michigan. At the hearing, the Board will consider any written objections and comments to any of the foregoing matters which are filed with the clerk at or before the hearing and any objections or comments raised at the hearing. If written objections are filed with the township board at or before the hearing, signed by the record owners of land constituting more than 20% of the area within the proposed special assessment district, then the township board may not proceed unless petitions in support of the project, signed by record owners of more than 50% of the area to be made into a special assessment district, are filed Following , , with the township. Following the the hearing, hearing, the the townshin township hoard board mau may revise, correct, amend or change the plans, cost estimates or special assessment district. -16-125-039- Q8-16-Q55-Q04-QQ 08-16-045-003-20 08-16-125-037-00 08-16-115-002-00 08-16- 08-16-125-009- 08-16-125-0.35-00 Q8J 6-125-036- zQQ 08-16-1 Q8r.16- MO 8-16-125-001-00 8-16-125-001- 08-16-125-0.31-00 8-16-125-033- zlH 8-16-055-025- - 2031 inclusive) (including administrative costs), and has placed same on file with the Township clerk; has passed a resolution tentatively declaring its intention to make the improvement and to create the special assessment district. 7..„ The plans, cost estimates and special assessment district may be examined at the Clerk’s office from thYdate onhis Notice to the date of the public hearing and may further be examined at such public hearing. nn 6zQ2 08-16-045-0 08-16-045-052-00 08-16-050- -16-050-010-00 08-16-055-014-00 13 08-16-115-018-00 08-16-200-015-00 Mike Cunningham Yankee Springs Township Clerk 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 (269) 795-9091 �14 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 22, 2024 www.sunandnews.com J ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Sporting Sprague an Il-American at Cornerstone cademic I BRETT BREMER -A Sports Editor It has been a steady climb for Cornerstone University junior catcher Moriah Sprague since she graduated from Thomapple Kellogg High School r* in 2021. Sprague started ten games as a fresh­ 1 man for the Golden Eagles in 2022. She hit .209 that first spring in 43 I at-bats. With a year of experience behind the mask and in the classroom % XI at Cornerstone, her nervousness shrank 53 and her confidence grew. She soared to 4| a .387 average taking over the regular r catching duties as a sophomore and her ai_OEIM junior season this spring was stellar as Honors have been rolling in for she led the Eagles in a majority of their offensive statistics. Moriah Sprague after a strong Sprague has been at least as success junior season for the Cornerstone ful in the classroom and combining University Women’s Softball team’s her talents she has earned a spot on catcher this spring. Sprague, a the College Sports Communicators Thornapple Kellogg alumnus, was Academic All-America Second Team. It recently named a second team all­ is an honor she never really concerned region and second team academic herself with winning, rather one Aat All-America following a season in came from working hard and doing which she led the Golden Eagles in Aings the right way. nearly every major offensive statistic. “I try to just play the game and hope Aat I make my family proud, my friends, my teammates and most impor­ this week that Sprague has maintained tantly doing it for Ae glory of God a 3.87 GPA while working towards a and using Ae strengAs he gave me,” bachelor of science degree with a preSprague said. veterinary major in the biology depart­ The Golden Eagle program shared ment while also leading the Golden - 1 a J ff A Pl L r* -v ------- *** 1* 11 & 9 I ♦ ■A? Illi 5 A J I I « •s I * f 9 1*’ 0& I r J I*. « 4 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 CvledoniA TOWNSHIP Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 PUBLIC N 0 TIC E (REVISED) Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan A meeting of the Election Commission, a sub-committee of the Charter Township of Caledonia Board of Trustees will take place on Monday, June 24,2024 at the Township Hall beginning at 9:30 a.m. The Township Hall is located at 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 The purpose of the meeting is to set the date for the Public Accuracy Test to demonstrate that the computer program used to tabulate the votes cast at the elecjjon meet the requirements of the law; delegate the prelimi­ nary accuracy test duties to the Election Director; get the hours and dates for the Absentee Voting Counting Board; and to appoint the election inspectors for the August 6,2024 Presidential Primarv Joni Henry, Clerk Eagle team to a 26-23 record this sea­ son. The Golden Eagles were one vic­ tory at the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference Tournament shy of earning a spot in the NAIA Regionals. Sprague said the Golden Eagle team started the season slow, but the chemistry grew as the weeks went on. Everylhing clicked in the WHAC Tournament. The Golden Eagles fell to the University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH) 8-0 in their tournament opener May 1 in Sylvania, Ohio, but rallied for three straight wins after that in the double-elimination tournament. That win-streak included shut out wins over Lawrence Tech and Concordia University before a 2-0 win in a rematch with UNOH, the tournament’s number two seed. It was third-seeded Aquinas College that finally ended the Golden Eagles’ run with a 3-2 win in a May 2 bail­ game to see who would get to face top­ seeded Madonna for the tournament championship. Madonna University took the conference title with a 3-0 win over Aquinas to finish the tournament, its second win over the Saints in the tournament to close out an undefeated WHAC season. Sprague said conference tournament time is always one of the best parts of the season, school is out for the semes­ ter and there is time to really bond with teammates and focus on softball. Madonna went on to reach the NAIA Softball World Series in Columbus, Georgia. While the team highlights came in the conference tournament, Sprague said her personal highlight Ais spring came in Ae first bailgame of her team’s con­ ference doubleheader at Madonna. She hit a solo home run in Ae top of Ae fourth inning of Aat early April ball­ game to start a Golden Eagle comeback after Ae Crusaders built an early 7-0 lead. Sprague was back in Ae batter’s box wiA her team trailing 9-6 wiA two runners on and two out m Ae top of Ae seventh inning and she hit her second home run of the contest to tie things up at 9-9. Madonna did end up pushing across a run in the bottom of the seventh to earn the 10-9 walk-off win, but that game­ tying home run is still a moment that Sprague won’t soon forget. Sprague met the GPA and playing time requirements needed to earn CSC Academic All-District honors making her eligible for the All-America award. CSC members vote on the top play­ ers per position for the All-America honors. On the field, Sprague was named sec­ ond team all-region in the NAIA by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association this spring and first team all-conference in the WHAC in an at-large positiont. This was her second straight season earning WHAC First Team All Conference honors. Sprague led her team m batting aver­ age (.404), OPS (1.092), hits (55), doubles (12), home runs (6), RBIs (30), total bases (89), stolen bases (16), slug­ ging percentage (.654), and on-base percentage (.438) Ais spring in 46 games. She struck out just 12 times in 136 at-bats. She is working on campus this sum­ mer and visiting home, m Middleville, when she can. She is helpmg TK softball program by leading a group of Middleville girls playing on Monday mghts in Molme. She said she loves giving back to her community and helpmg grow Ae game like her former mentors Garrett, Jon Greenman, Tom Hudson, Pete Bailey and her faAer Ross Sprague. Sprague said a big part of her suc­ cess at Cornerstone has come from a focus on base-running. It is some­ thing she is really trying to imprint on the TK girls she is coaching Ais summer. She said she has learned over Ae years Aat base runners score runs, not hitters. Cornerstone head See SPRAGUE on 16 �P I www.sunandnews.com _______ ______________ THE SUN AND NEWS Kilt Klassic 5K takes off Saturday morning near Caledonia High School BRETT BREMER Sports Editor The Caledonia Kilt Klassic 5K is only a week away. The annual fundraiser for the Caledonia High School track and field and cross country program swill be held Saturday, June 29, with runners taking off at 8 a.m. near the north entrance to Caledonia High School. Sign-up is still going on. The cost to race is $35 for those who sign up online by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, June 27, along with a $4 online signup fee. The course once again wraps around the Caledonia school grounds between the high school, Emmons Lake Elementary School and Kraft Meadows Middle School, taking advantage of the area trails and cut­ ting through Lakeside Park. Packet pickup will occur Friday, June 28, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the north entrance to Caledonia High School and before the race from 7 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. Saturday. The price to compete rises to $40 after the midnight deadline Thursday. T-shirts can not be guaranteed for those who have signed up after June 16. As is tradition, the 5K will be fol­ lowed by a Kids Fun Run scheduled for 9:15 a.m.. The cost to participate is $15 and there is a $3.50 signup fee online. The price rises to $20 afterl 1:59 p.m. Friday, June 28. More information can be found on the event Facebook page, including links on how to become an “angel” runner with myTeam Triumph which partnered with the race for the first time last year. Classifieds BUSINESS SERVICES CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing. Siding. Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard. 269-838-5937. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pres­ sure washing. Brian Ellens (269)9535496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tu­ lip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. ' Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)8187793. PETS DOG GROOMING. UALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. ♦ ♦ Saturday. June 22, 2024 I--------- 15 if r 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE. MICHIGAN 49333 269 795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE property owners of the township of YANKEE SPRINGS , BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS. 0" July 9. 2024. commencing at Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, Ml, within the Township provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the fi-nn Tnwn^h notice in addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public e comrnents for the ZBA's consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the ? ‘?® "’®®®®9-Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (joeshea® i 3 P®*°^® ‘^® '"®®«n9 date, or by leaving a P Pl PAQPn *’® Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091 in brieUhf Sna considered at said public hearing include,! * y* 1 2^6-03, Parcel ID: 16-030-003-10, 2737 Russell Drive and 16-030-003-00, 2751 Russell AHmfn cf u® Pro^rties, Benjie Vista, is appealing from the decision of the Zoning Administrator denying his application for commercial short-term rentals at the above addresses 2. Such Other business as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals. reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested SSJliiy®®®"‘ at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held to participate via the electronic meeting. ® ZBA , "®®®a®ary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individ2 Clearing upon four (4) days' prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals w th disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Jake Welch, Chairman Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, Michigan 49333 _ __________________ (269) 795-9091 REAL ESTATE CONDO, MIDDLEVILLE VILLAGE. Open floor plan, lots of natural light. Walkout lower level. Main floor bed­ room. en-suite, walk in closet. Kitchen with pantry. Main floor laundry. 1/2 bath. All appliances included. Second bedroom/study. Downstairs bedroom, full bath, family room, work room, storage room. Attached garage. 2 car. Flower beds with perennials! $282,000. 269-795-7815 HELP WANTED GARDENER: SASKATOON Golf Club is looking to hire a part-time, seasonal Master gardener to develop and maintain flower beds and accent landscaping during the golf season. Flexible hours beginning late April / early May through mid-October, ap­ prox. 24 hours a week. Apply online at saskatoongolf.com/employment/ or in-person at 9038 92nd St, Alto. CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF GAINES KENT COUNTY, Ml T 0 J' N S H I P NOTICE OF PUBLISHING -CHANGE TO THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE AS PROVID­ ED FOR IN CHAPTER 1 THEREOF. BY AMENDING CHAPTER 22 SECTION 136 - BUILDING PERMITS. At a regular meeting of the Township Board of the Charter Township of Gaines, held Monday, June 10, 2024, the Township Board approved an ordi­ nance amendment to Chapter 22, Section 136 - Building Permits, Section (B). The Township Board of the Charter Township of Gaines approved the striking a section of the Gaines Township Code of Ordinances, specifically Chap­ ter 22 Land Divisions, Subdivisions, and Land Development, Article V Multi­ ple-Family Developments, subsection (B). Subsection (B) provides the Township Board with the authority to waive the requirements of sub-section (a) - early starts, for up to four multi-family building permits. The approved amendment re­ stricts the authority to waive the requirements of sub-section (a) to single-family units. Said amendment shall become effective seven (7) days after publication. A true and complete copy of the proposed text amendment to Chapter 22, Section 136 - Building Permits, of the Gaines Charter Township Code of Ordinances can be inspected or obtained in the office of the Township Clerk at the following location: Charter Township of Gaines 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 616-698-6640 Charter Township of Gaines Michael A. Brew, Clerk ♦ ♦ �16 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 22, 2024 Continued from Page 14 BRETT BREMER ♦ 4 ♦ ♦ ♦ coach Kelsey Kooistra might be more disappointed in someone not trying to take the extra base than someone thrown out on the base paths for being a bit too aggressive. Sprague isn’t just a mentor on the diamond. She said there are leader ship groups at Cornerstone. There are spiritual leaders, organizational leaders and she was chosen as an academic leader on the softball team offering any help she could provide to her teammates in the classroom. * Your local agent insures your r T FARM BUREAU INSURANCE' Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville a 1 Caledonia’s Olsen named to Olympic rugby team SPRAGUE ♦ www.sunandnews.com (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbjnsmi.com FdrmBureaulnsurance.com t Sports Editor Alena Olsen was named to the U.S. Olympic Women’s Rugby Sevens Team Monday and is set to compete in the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Olsen, a 2014 graduate of Caledonia High School, is one of 12 women chosen to be a starting athlete for the squad. She is one of five first-time Olympians on the Team USA roster. The 2024 Caledonia varsity girls’ soccer team knocked off top-ranked Hudsonville to win an MHSAA Division 1 District Championship this spring. It was the first district title for the Lady Scots’ program since 2013 when Olsen starred at Scotland Yard on a team that would feature two future University of Michigan student-athletes in Olsen and her classmate Rubina Veerakone, who went on to compete with the U of M Women’s Soccer Team. Olsen didn’t start out as a rugby player, or even a soccer player, at the University of Michigan. She w J Rotary was drawn to a rugby practice and found a fit - playing for the first time at the age of 18 . She said she ! found rugby players to be some of ;iHi i her “favorite kind of people” in her I USA Eagles Rugby bio. ♦ Olsen was named a Collegiate H *> All-American in 2015 and 2016 1 at the University of Michigan and -^V«s rw was selected to the Collegiate •V’A < Rugby Championship Dream Team in 2016. Olsen has competed with the Southern Headliners, based out of Memphis, Tenn., in the Premier ■ W-: 4Rugby Sevens competition since 2021. The Team USA Eagles leave July 14 for pre-Olympic training camp in Tours, France, before heading to the Olympic Village in Paris. The women’s rugby sevens competi­ Caledonia’s Alena Olsen in action for tion begins July 28, and pools will the Fighting Scot varsity girls’ soccer be announced for the competition team as a junior in the spring of 2013. June 23. Olsen found rugby at the University “We are very excited about this of Michigan and has worked her team, we have an excellent blend way to a spot on the U.S. Olympic of speed, power, work ethic, skill Women ’ s Rugby Sevens Team. (Photo and creativity that we know will by Brett Bremer) ignite our brand of rugby,” head coach Emilie Bydwell told Taylor Dean of eagles.rugby, the team’s home •% website. Rugby Sevens has seven players on each side, as the name implies, rather than the tradition 15, but plays on the same full-size field as the 15s. The 15s play two 40-minute halves and the sev­ ens play two 14 minute halves. Rugby Sevens debuted in the Olympics at the 2016 games in Rio de Janeiro. The USA women were fifth at that first * '4iti' r tournament and then sixth at the 2020 games in Tokyo. New Zeeland is the defending Olympic gold medalist in the sport and took the silver behind Australia at the inaugural 2016 competition. i •*> •J.a A * I * I a J; I V ♦I f , ■ A 1 r .'tf' in A Club of Middleville, Ml (hU/ bib d A ■ for sponsoring our 2024 MIDDLEVLLE ROTARY DUCK RACE • Thornapple Financial Center • Thornapple Eyecare • Community West Credit Union • Bob Williams • Chris Noah, MD • Carveth Village • Beeler-Gore Funeral Home _______ • Attorney William Renner Please visit us at the Riverbank Music Series, and Heritage Days in downtown Middleville to get some food and Duck race tickets! CM I I >0 'O Alena Olsen, a 2014 Caledonia High School graduate, has been named to the j U.S. Olympic J Women’s Rugby fl Sevens Team for the upcoming summer games in Paris. (USA Rugby Photo) 1 s 1 CASTaftc :SWSVSS7 O Z sQu 4* •i (Z) co TJ 0) C •c •M J b 1 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-06-29.pdf 89d5d601a281ab98055fd615f42a4f0b PDF Text Text I 4 * I|I^ r Rooted in Community iVrfh a new name and look AND NEWS the SUN I (1•f Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville. Caledonia and Games 1 \ NO. 11 > r ’jr> *./ IMMM s . >* \ I, 4. S*t A •, ^^k / i r g •F 4 > V1»W us online to tee whet v new •S, *•/ ’'*’*^* 4 *.. tia-* —— iZSiS •«^W5r 1l^ www.swnandnews.coiTi , r •# r..‘ I ••^ a " n L.J i »' SATURDAY, JUNE 29, 2024 r I Insurance / * i Hastings I -f, *• I I * To wnship A reas I |.! " ( A : •I'ftli ii^MT 'f 4 _• tf n^w r J i L 4k SE&kri; r A r t» • •S' z Ks VI <• r?sf^ I I p»^y ■ T 4 r « FIF •I 4 ** I* rf.i-*. e* I b i < ' €* I "I I F ♦ •e A ? ■1 \' I •^S I V* J »A^ > • Tractor Supply Company employees cut the ribbon to mark the official opening of its new Caledonia Township store last Saturday. From left are store employees Cole Opperman and Seth Cook, Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce executive director Shana Spinney, store manager Maya Hector, employees Nick Clay, Trevor Henchey and Kerry DeWitt and field activity support team member Jordan Skiver-Palmer. (Photos by Greg Chandler) After clearing hurdles, Tractor Supply opens in Caledonia Township GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer SSMU33 ecser in wufMJo OKn>eOd see# Muusd aivd — U- I About 18 months after plans were first presented to Caledonia Township officials. Tractor Supply Company is now open. A ribbon-cutting ceremony last Saturday afternoon marked the official opening of the 19,097-squarefoot store at 10300 Cherry Valley Ave. SE (M-37), near Stone Point Park condominiums and Caledonia Storage. Cash registers at the front of the store were busy all day as shoppers checked out the newest addi­ tion to the Caledonia business community. This is an exciting time for the community,” said Shana Spinney, executive director of the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s exciting from an economic standpoint, creating job oppor­ MQQS tunities. I’m pro-business, so I’m excited uaNoisno to see opportunities for our community.” ivuNaaisau It was a busy opening day for Maya Hector, who will manage the local 8C88> ‘ailiAusaJO T &HARDWUC See TRACTOR on 2 »w>— ujwsn 9 * * IC'W * « OTCK« V ■ T« I '1^ 1 *' r B > . i & ' * «* «i«. t « b 4 • • «i h b I w: SF^ 1 A. * I « I r* .w ^■_ '4* • Cash registers stayed busy during the grand opening of Tractor Supply in Caledonia last weekend. 3OVlSOd s n ais isud w 1. * a < I 'n J L * • t V Caledonia holds its annual Independence Day parade the Saturday before the Fourth of July. This year, it's slated for Saturday, June 29. (File photo by Greg Chandler) jxir % I « T I 4 '< If r •'t 1* I Ke .t^ i- F ji A ♦? • 1 '• w t .* T <•- •l •W« 5 9 > 11191 «v tw T I I Ik Caledonia Independence Day parade slated for Saturday GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Caledonia’s annual Independence Day parade takes place today, June 29, in the village's down­ town area. Parade participants are asked to gather at 10 a.m. at Duncan Lake Middle School. They should enter the middle school off Kraft Avenue. The parade will begin at 11 a.m., with the parade route leading out from the middle school onto Duncan Lake Avenue to Johnson Street and eventually Main Street. The Caledonia Independence Day parade is typ­ ically held the Saturday before the Fourth of July. Among the expected participants in this year’s parade is John Brummel, who was recently named Caledonia’s Hometown Hero for this year. Brummel is a longtime township resident, decorated Vietnam War veteran and Purple Heart recipient who was a finalist at last fall’s ArtPrize competition in Grand Rapids for his art work “The Heart of the Nation,” where he carved 12 wooden hearts, and then laid them inside a larger wooden heart as a tribute to recipients of the Purple Heart, which is awarded to those wounded or killed while serving in the military. The day’s activities will conclude with fire­ works to be shot off from the CalPlex sports and recreation area at dusk. The fireworks can be viewed from the middle school. �2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 29, 2024 TRACTOR J I ■w* J .Ttz \rr m Continuecd from Page 1 lETUBSIS I I ■ • * 1 —> ’1 A f .. I Bigsrr / I —WOT t a PELLETIZED HORSE BEDDING ‘1 4 * Tractor Supply store. “Opening the store has been a whole new journey. I loved every minute of it. Getting to know the community prior to being busy in the store was a super-fun experience,” said Hector, who joined the company six years ago, working at its Muskegon store. Before coming to Caledonia, Hector previously served as manager of Tractor Supply’s Comstock Park store. The new store has 16 employees. Hector said. Headquartered in Brentwood, Tenn., Tractor Supply Company is a Fortune 500 company that began as a mail­ order tractor parts business in 1938. Its first retail store opened a year later in Minot, N.D. Today, Tractor Supply operates more than 2,200 stores in 49 states, billing itself as “the largest operator of rural lifestyle retail stores in the United States,” according to the company’s website. The new store offers a wide variety of products, including outdoor power equipment, lawn and garden products, tools, home decor and furniture, cloth­ ing for work, pet supplies and feed for cattle, horses and poultry. “We’re going to be a great fit, a great company to extend to the com­ munity,” Hector said. uc « 1 I ti: 55 w, . *3 I f • lY *. r Staff Writer k a. ■,1 I A full day of activities is planned as Middleville cel­ ebrates Independence Day on Wednesday. Activities begin downtown at 9 a.m. and continue until 1 p.m. They will include a bounce house for kids to play in, a bike parade hosted by American Legion Post 140 where kids can decorate their bikes, music provided by DJ Mosaic, and a meet-and-greet with candidates running for Middleville Village Council, Thomapple Township Board and Thomapple Kellogg Schools Board of Education. Then at 6 p.m., activities move over to the American Youth Soccer Organization fields for the evening, located between the high school and middle school. These activities include laser tag, hatchet throwing, hot r : 41 I X'V, * — The Caledonia Township Planning Commission last summer approved construction of the Tractor Supply store, but not before extensive give-and-take between the township and the company. Tractor Supply operates more than 2,200 stores in 49 states and now has a presence in Caledonia Township after last weekend’s grand opening event. (Photos by Greg Chandler) The Caledonia Township Planning Commission last summer approved construction of the Tractor Supply store, but not before extensive give and-take between the township and the company. When Tractor Supply first came before the Planning Commission in December 2022, DMK Development, which develops the company’s Michigan stores, proposed a 21,930-square-foot store and addition­ al open-air business space. The initial proposal clashed with a township ordi­ nance that bans so-called “big-box” IB » •B, ■T- '^r 1 stores under the property’s zoning classification of C-2 general business. The township ordinance specifi­ cally defines a “big-box” store has “a very large retail or other store, usually with a physical layout that resembles a large square or box when viewed from above, and including more than 20,000 square feet of gross floor area. So Tractor Supply redrew its plans to reduce the store footprint under the 20,000-square-foot threshold. Commissioners also agreed to include an open-air business area immedi­ ately east of the building as part their approval. The property on which Tractor Supply was built is governed by a 2001 consent j udgment that was entered into between Caledonia Township and Clearview, a proj ect developer. While the property was initially zoned industrial at the time of the judgment, the landowner and township later agreed to allow other uses, including general business. Hours for the Caledonia Tractor Supply store will be 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, 55 3 «• UGHT TRUCK PARTS I OSffl PARIS’ PICK OPS* OIK TNS* WHS •SUITS* IBS •«« J .C.- p. HIU SDWICE > vra rail IT t 5 1 z J I J FARM BVREAV IMSUHMCl' I 269-381-2300 4 9' Ip t « ♦• t -vf ‘ Ww wrilWWB USED nuns i used tires 1im UWECT,tUAMUOO Full schedule of Fourth of July activities on tap in Middleville GREG CHANDLER t wo. I jparks@ft)insmi,com FarmBureaulnsurance.com 4 CW —• 3m 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville 7 49 I 3 L... T\ i i 4* (269) 795-8827 •BJ9 p??': t/ Jason Parks $ 0R •*** J h Hrime SrdHUD * I «a 1 WHOLE CORN * ♦ J r Your local agent insures your Bag. BtV.erVal.if r* J Ite 4 See ACTIVITIES on 1 •'••b* -1 i* • It > >r .■ t t f • V r', I’ 4 The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 I A variety of games and activities are assembled at the AYSO fields in Middleville during last year’s Fourth of July celebration. 1351 N. IVI-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.8unandnews.com Editor: Jayson Bussa I i jayson@j-adgraphics.com (File photo by James Gemmell) t ads@j-adgraphics.com a*-. I AllI advertising Sun and News is subject pi auvtjrub’ing in The I ne bun conditions in the applicable rate card contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser's order. Our ad takers have bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of - the advertiser’s order. •u Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher brett@j-adgraphics.com Advertising: I Group Sports: Brett Bremer k 7 r* J j i PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER Please recycle this newspaper I 1 i f f I ) f PUBLISHED BY 8*r ? 1 I i THE SUN AND NEWS CONTACT US I Copyright 2024 2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. �Si f fc. www.sunandnews.com I - -------------- ---------------settles suit over billboard denial THE SUNnews AND NEWS _______________________________ __________________________ Saturday, June 29, ML / r I T Prime-Site Media to erect a billboard in the area of Kraft Avenue and M-37, Township Treasurer Richard Robertson said. “Their application was denied, because the sign would have been too big and too tall for our ordi­ nance, Robertson said. “In fact, it would have been seven times big­ ger than our ordinance would allow (and) three-and-a-half times higher ... It didn’t meet our setback requirements, either.” However, Prime-Site Media took issue with the township denial, claiming the ruling violated the First and 14th amendments of the U.S. Constitution, as well as the Civil Rights Act. “We got this 25-page complaint, and it was all First Amendment stuff,” Robertson said. “It threw me for a loop. I always felt we didn’t deny it on any part of our ordinance that might be questionable (under) the First Amendment.” Section 19.1 of the sign ordinance bans new billboard or off-premises signs in Caledonia Township. It k I z T MU : i . C'-fiK.'HGLE PROBLEM vVE C/^tq'T HANDLE LA T r 1 « n!iWrn>o#^t f 9 «> I I » ■ 1 ■" =*•!» • I Caledonia Township settled a lawsuit filed by Royal Oak-based Prime-Site Media LLC over the township’s ordinance that bans new billboards. Existing billboards in the township have been grandfathered in and are allowed. (File photo by Jayson Bussa) been strongly encouraged to adopt this by (our) legal counsel.” The suit was filed in July 2023 in U.S. District Court in Grand Rapids. It involved a request by defines a billboard or off-premises sign as “a sign which contains a mes sage or advertises an establishment, product, service, space or activity not available on the lot on which the sign is located. New billboard or off-premises signs shall be expressly prohibited.” In court documents, Prime-Site Media contended that the township allows certain types of off-premises signage in conflict with the ordi­ nance. “The sign ordinance distinguishes between different types of offpremises signs ‘based on topic, sub­ ject matter, or viewpoint’ displayed on the sign,” the company alleged. “Some categories of off-premises speech are prohibited under the broad ‘off-premises sign’ prohibi­ tion, while other favored categories of off-premises speech is permitted to be displayed.” To illustrate its objection, PrimeSite Media cited a provision in the ordinance that allows political See BILLBOARD on 9 I 4 US The 52nd Annual Historic HARLTON Park 269-945-3775 3 W staff Writer Caledonia Township has settled a lawsuit with a Detroit-area media company that challenged the town­ ship’s sign ordinance after the town­ ship refused to allow the company to erect a billboard. Prime-Site Media LLC of Royal Oak will receive $30,000 in the settlement, which was covered by the township’s insurance liability carrier, Tokio Marine HCC. The Township Board at its June 19 meeting approved paying a $25,000 deduct­ ible to the insurer. “The settlement agreement has been signed. We are still waiting on confirming documentation but there will be no more hearings on the matter,” Township Manager Alison Nugent wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “They will release all claims with prejudice, which means it could not be brought up again,” Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison said at the June 19 meeting. “Neither party is admitting fault in this. We have 2024 I I ANTIQUE GAS & STEAM ENGINE SHOW A** I Village • Museum • Recreation Area - 2545 Charlton Park Rd., Hastings, Ml 49058 July 12-13, 2024 Residential & Commercia Friday and Saturday: 8 a.m. - Dusk FEATURING: Allis Chalmers Tractors & Equipment Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners -Heat Pumps Water Heaters -Humidifiers ? • • I --- Admission Adults (13 & over) - $7.00 Children (12 and younger) - FREE Exhibitors - FREE "Mm* ** • «>w*> I * I II I i VARIOUS f I♦ DEMONSTRATIONS & EXHIBITS... • Ql - u Z_i • t Sa * * V* T . I*' 1 -J »* r f •i s I I-, J t M'> V ( > - Pancake Breakfast - Saturday (7-9 a.m.) . F - Farm Tractor Pull - Saturday (9 a.m.) REGISTRATION & SET UP - Kids Pedal Pull - Saturday (10 a.m.) THUR - SAT. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Miniature Horse Pull - Saturday (3 p.m.) WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Steam Boats Welcome DeWeerd (68^ HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 Since /955 UNNOX »x* 3. A*i g ms I bBB. �4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 29, 2024 Obituaries MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 The June 24 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary's report. Two fish jumped into the fishbowl, one fish jumped out. The club had a net loss of 17.2 pounds for the month of June Virginia's program came from the July/Aug. TOPS magazine titled "Free to Change. Unzip for a Healthier Lifestyle" Virginia discussed “unzipping" negativity. Obesity is a disease, with too much stigma associated with the word. Instead of labelling oneself fat or not, she emphasized the real question should be whether one is healthy or unhealthy. Maryellen was the best loser for June. Sue won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. ____________ .f Donna Troost Donna (Nagel) Troost, age 93, of Caledonia, Ml, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, and there was reunit­ ed with many of her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard; and her granddaughter, Melissa Troost. Donna will be lovingly remembered by her children, David and Char, Roger and LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY * * Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstone ch u rch - 'W Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yei casual worship Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham r- BAPTIST Nlidd-leville III " ! Sunday Service 10:30 AM 1 I service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 2.S0 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CalcdonioUMC.org LivcNtream: I ucclxx)k.com/CalcdoniaUnitcdMcthodis( Serving Strengthen ing 4W Sue, Judy and Tom Kaechele, Cathy, Linda and Randy LeFebre, Nancy and Steve Harkema; her grandchildren, Angie and Dave Kloosterman, Matthew and Tara, Sarah and Jeremy Hatley, Jane and Justin DeJonge, Amy and Kevin Hoeksema, Leslie and Greg Hawkins, Jessica and Keith Simpson, Kurtis and Jordan Kaechele, Kevin and Layle Kaechele, Dan and Liz LeFebre, Tim and Elizabeth LeFebre, Jim LeFebre, Ben and Becky LeFebre, Matthew and Elise LeFebre, Nick Harkema, Jenny and Jeff Koning, Lisa and Corey Koll, Joe and Katie Harkema and 33 great grandchildren. Even when Donna was not feeling well, her grands and greats would always make her face light up. She dearly loved her family and prayed daily for each one of them by name. She also enjoyed baking, I flower gardening, r-’ watching birds, IC. ft going for rides and watching her great r .9 : grandchildren play. Len and Donna spent their years together doing what they loved, dairy farming. Once retired, they enjoyed camping with friends and fishing. Donna especially enjoyed fishing when she would catch more fish than Len. The family would like to thank the Faith Hospice team, especially her nurse. Amber, who so lovingly cared for Donna in her final days. The funeral service was held Monday, June 24, at Moline Christian Reformed Church, 4341 Chappell St. with Rev. John Ouwinga officiating. Interment was in Hooker Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Guatemala Mission team in care of Moline CRC or Streams of Hope (streamsgr.org). *1 1 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia. Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend Connecting p III r .1 I » ■I I • I Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddfeville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 I I Good Shepherd Ludieran Church ex co r. 5 *• 4 ' ''I«. H * u»** 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Pa.stor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcnis. googlepages.com (Jiurch; (269) 795-2391 MPEACE J7 HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. F » CHURCH PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, Ml 49333 peacechurch.ee @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Whitneyville '^Church Fellowship Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52^^ & 48*^ 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Praising Cod through Hymns > Reading God's Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School Sunday Worship .9:30 AM 10:30AM IFC ' *'(••ATI M/gfeZ? our services from our website &eea)ove) Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:^o pm & 7 pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online; WhitneyvilleFellowship.org la* — * si I I OURNEY CHURCH ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: LEARN MORE! 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9;30am & 11 Warn 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 "Shining Forth Gdds Light"* Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org I ( i Catherine Joyce Moma Catherine Joyce Moma, age 94, of Middleville, Ml, passed away on June 24, 2024. She was born on February 25,1930, in Middleville, Ml, the daughter of Garner and Clarissa (Bowerman) Schondelmayer. She was the wife of the late Berl G. Moma, Sr. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Sunday, June 30, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the Middleville United Methodist Church, 111 Church St., Middleville, Ml 49333. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net. 1 t �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS r 4 • I ••r' I I' X • I.’ I .1? I b I A I Barry Roger Swanson Barry Roger Swanson, age 87, of Middleville, Ml, fondly known to all as “Hotdog”, passed away peacefully of nat­ ural causes on Sunday, June 23, 2024 at Legacies Assisted Living, Caledonia after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Barry was born in Kankakee, IL to Howard August and Dorothy Lee (Rogers) Swanson on October 7,1936. He attended Donovan High School in Donovan, IL where he graduated in 1954. Upon graduation, Barry, known to his Navy friends as “Swede”, served in the United States Navy from 1954-1957 as an anti­ submarine warfare technician. Upon his honorable discharge, he used his benefits through the Gl Bill to attend the Bailey Tech Diesel School where he became a certi­ fied diesel mechanic. He began his career in Gary, IN. While back home in Illinois on a visit, he met the love of his life, Beverly Ann Zeedyk who survives. Barry moved to Grand Rapids and worked for Michigan Express Trucking Company while he waited for Bev to graduate from Hope College. They married in Danforth, IL in 1963. In 1967 the Swansons moved from Grand Rapids to Middleville with their young daugh­ ter, and Barry started what would eventually become Swanson Tire in downtown Caledonia. Shortly thereafter they were joined by their son. Swanson Tire would evolve over the years, even­ tually moving to their home on Cherry Valley also known as “the fifty-eight sixty club”. He loved to joke that he “walked to work” every day. Barry spent his career doing what he loved best; serving farmers in their fields with mobile service units he proudly constructed himself. He sold Swanson Tire to Ed Mayhew, but never really retired and had a thriving online tire sales business for many years. Barry was a lifelong member of Peace Reformed Church where in his younger days he enjoyed playing softball on the church team where he earned the nickname “Slippers” because he would wear a pair of Romeo slip­ pers instead of sneakers. His favorite church activity was being an usher, followed closely by enjoying yearly Easter breakfasts with his family. Barry also proudly served his commu­ nity for over twenty years as a member of the Thornapple Township Planning Commission. When Barry wasn’t working, he could be found relaxing/napping at home in his LazyBoy. He enjoyed doing crossword puzzles from the multiple daily newspapers he would buy, reading biographies, and watching the news. He loved daily coffee with his pals at the Thornapple Kitchen and tinkering in his barn. Travel was important to Barry and he loved 5 Wayne Hulst Obituaries ;. Saturday, June 29, 2024 taking his family on yearly road trips each August to plac­ es all across America. Upon his “retirement” he enjoyed life in Sebring, FL where he and Bev had a winter retreat. There he enjoyed playing bocce ball, euchre, dominoes, meeting up with his friends of the “brain trust” for coffee at the local Burger King, going to con­ certs, attending potlucks, and enjoying time with friends and his brother-and-sister-in-law. At home in Middleville, Barry loved attending auc­ tion sales with his friend Ken Rinvelt. Barry never met a tractor he didn’t fall in love with and would want to take home. He maintained a lovely lawn on Finkbeiner just so he could keep a tractor around. Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Dorothy Swanson; his parents-inlaw, Arthur and Josephine Zeedyk; sister, Judy Heffelfinger; brother, Larry Swanson; brotherin-law, Jack Heffelfinger; sister-in-law, Terry Swanson, and brother-in-law, Lavern Rahn. Barry is survived by and will be greatly missed by his wife of 61, Beverly (Zeedyk) Swanson; his daughter, Brenda (Matthew “Chip”) Hess of Middleville and his son, Bruce (Beth) of Hudson, lA; his sister-in-law, Adelle Swanson of Mattawan; his brother and sisterin-law, Ronald and Shirley Zeedyk of Danforth, IL, and his sister-in-law, Arlene Rahn of Zeelarid and many nieces and nephews. Barry was famously known as an especially wonderful and loving grandpa, proudly called “Hotdog” by his grandchildren, Alexander (Amanda) Brown of Niles, Benjamin “Badoski Brown of Middleville, and Carter and Emma Swanson of Hudson, lA. He loved everything about being a grandpa, but especially breaking the rules and serving the kids pie for breakfast. Hotdog was also the loving great-grandpa of Harrison and Natalie Brown of Niles. Family was Barry’s greatest joy and over the years he and Bev traveled thou­ sands of miles visiting and attending the kids’ events and activities. Hotdog’s family wishes to thank all of the CNA’s at Legacies Assisted Living in Caledonia and Care Team Hospice for all the loving care they provided. Barry’s family received friends on Thursday, June 27, at the Beeler Gores Funeral Home where his memorial service was held with full military honors conducted by American Legion Post 45. Private burial took place at Mount Hope Cemetery, Middleville. Memorial contributions can be made to Middleville Library Fund through the Barry Community Foundation. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Barry’s family. I Wayne Hulst, age 83, of Caledonia, Ml heard the bells ringing, he said to his wife, “Time is coming soon when I will see my mother, and meet my Lord, Jesus Christ!” Well, Wayne was right, the final bell rang June 17, 2024. Welcome home good and faithful servant! He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Hester Hulst; siblings, Joe, Pete, Russ, Alida, Verna, Hazel; parents-in-law, Roy and Gustava Noffke; and brother-inlaw, Jack Noffke. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 53 years, Sallie Jo; children, Nickilette (Jeffrey) DeVries, Juliette Mokma, Todd (Christie) Hulst; grandchildren, Rachel (Craig) Brookes, and their children, Finley, and Taylor; Brittnie (Michael) Berger, and their children, T.J. and Madelyn; Nick DeVries; Kelsey Mokma, and her children Joseph, Trace, Ezra; Presley (Adam) Willms; Keenan (Leah) Mokma and their children, Miyara, and Takoda; Danyn Hulst; Macy Jo Hulst; Beckett Hulst; brothers, Roger (Tret) Hulst, Sherwin (Barb) Hulst; sister-in-law, Lois Hulst; and many nieces, nephews, and close friends; and last but not least, his little doggie Tory. Wayne made his home at Duncan Lake in Caledonia. He drove truck and did concrete work for Sterk brothers for 40 years until his retirement. He enjoyed going up to the cottage r r • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair "IVe go above and beyond your vehicle repairs!'' GOtDCWSS 1 1 Lesonal I CW "JOS) NFIB WMBA 616.891.0150 www.edsbodv.com on Burt Lake in the summers and fishing down in the Florida Keys. Wayne loved the simple things in life like his morning coffee, windmill cookies, and going for Sunday drives. Most important to him was his family and friends. He had a great sense of humor and loved to play jokes and laugh with others. He enjoyed travel­ ing all over to his son’s races and picking up his grandkids from school and taking them to get treats from the gas station. It was important to him to make sure Sallie knew that “I always loved you, I hate to leave you, and I’m going to miss you Just remember that I’ll be waiting for you.” The family would like to thank Faith Hospice for all of their tender loving care and support throughout Wayne’s final days here. Memorial services will be held 3 p.m Friday, June 28, 2024 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 616 E. Main St. SE, Caledonia, with Rev. Jeffrey DeVries officiat­ ing. Relatives and friends may meet the fam­ ily Friday from 1-3 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the service. Those who wish may make memorial con­ tributions to Faith Hospice, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the Jimmy Swaggart Ministries. Condolences may be sent online at www. mkdfuneralhome.com. Bruce'S Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop • Wheel Alignments • Auto Glass Installation • Insurance Work Welcome • Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com ED’S BODY SHOP CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN 110 Johnson Street Owner Ed Pawloski Jr. T J I ^5-fl596°] IM OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm 415 2nd • Middleville �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 29, 2024 6 www.sunandnews.com Village president rejects reinstatement of former Middleville DDA board member GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Middleville Village President Mike Cramer 1 uesday rejected a request to reinstate a former member to the village’s Downtown Development Authority board. Cramer turned down a request by Village Council I rustee Ann Williams to reappoint Joe Mancini to the nine-member DDA board, which currently has three open positions. Mancini is Williams’ father. I’m extremely disappointed,” Williams said. 4 ' ?* Mancini served on the Middleville DDA board for more than a year before his term expired in February. The council voted 4-3 on Feb. 14 to replace Mancini and another incum­ bent board member, Andrew Beck, with Kortney Lull and Derek Dean. Cramer recommended the changes and cast the deciding vote in favor of the new members. Cramer has clashed with several council members since February over how to fill openings on the DDA board. He says under state law, he has the authority to appoint people to I 'M/ *- * ». * I X BUSINESS SERVICES CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. 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J ■ -■ T" -r r* 6^ > Ml ^^nniial • 108” Quilt Backs, New July Calico Sale • Lydias Lace by Moda ® Starts • Threads, Zippers, Trims, etc. Monday QQ ChronicUs 7:14 '0 QUESTIONS: ASK US... WBBMIfl 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-96 * r fii . I* ■C* ■ -W t fsf* w .4 r i *■ M « « f 0' ’ 4 •\ -t <y M---9■ _ 1 * *k. ♦ Bl ♦W w Br ? 4* / I •* r 'F I, ^■1 if ■■ L 1 feSX; a % * Ml » ifV I V . Middleville Village President Mike Cramer and Trustee Ann Williams debate Williams’ request to have Joe Mancini reappointed to the village’s downtown development authority on Tuesday night. Cramer refused the request. •JT • ’*4 I 0k .4 T • Classifieds * •■5 WM* * w; I !k • « • i-t - OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station 4 4 the board, subject to approval from the Village Council. Section 204 of Public Act 57 of 2018 states that DDA members “shall be appointed by the chief executive officer of the municipality, subject to approval by the governing body of the municipality.” Under Michigan’s general law village act, which has been in place since 1895, the vil­ lage president is defined as the chief executive officer for the village. Williams spoke of Mancini’s previ­ ous work on the DDA in advocating for his reappointment. “He was extremely active When Miss (Gretchen) James, (current DDA director) was not here, he did the farmers’ market, he did so much. He was at every meeting, and I think his application is being overlooked. I know the DDA board wants him on there also,” Williams said. Cramer was unmoved. “I made my recommendation, and it was turned down,” he said, referring to the Village Council voting 5-2 on May 14 to reject the appointment of David Sklarin to the DDA board. “Until we get a new applicant, that’s where it sits I took the most qualified candidate from the pool of applications and I recommended him, and it was turned down twice.” Cramer had recommendation Sklarin’s appointment in April as well, but later withdrew his motion when it ran into opposition from other council members. Under Public Act 57, a majority of DDA board members must be individuals with an ownership or business interest in property in the downtown district. The municipal­ ity’s chief executive officer and one resident must also sit on the board as well. Two positions are open for indi­ viduals with an ownership or busi­ ness interest, and the resident position is also vacant. “(Sklarin) does not own a business or work in Middleville,” Williams said. “He has development experience a lot,” Cramer responded. “That was the recommendation I made. It’s not changing.” President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith, noting the existing vacancies, asked if the next qualified candidate should be appointed to fill one of the openings in advocating for Mancini. “We’re speaking about experience and participation and the locality of the individual, having already been plugged into the community,” Smith said. “I think the board was fairly clear that we wanted to collaborate with the DDA openly, and we’re not doing that in this moment.” Williams asked Village Attorney Mark Nettleton about his interpreta­ tion of Section 204 of Public Act 57. “If we are a board, and each one of us have a vote, how can the village president be the only one that can make a decision for all of us? Then we do not have a vote unless it’s his choice and his choice only,” Williams See DDA on 7 .1 �it t * www.sunandn6ws.com I i ■------------------------- and news__________________________ Saturday. June 29, 2024 7 5®*"® company for lake treatment k ■ ‘I I Cl I I F Lj l! representative from the Gun Lake Clarke Aquatic Services for both the Protective Association. treatment of Gun Lake and consult­ The Gun Lake Improvement Board Voting to approve the awarding of ing services in September 2021. In will retain the same company that has the contract were GLPA representa­ November 2022, SOLitude acquired been treating the lake with herbicides tive Deb Masselink, Allegan County Clarke and took over management in an effort to control invasive aquatic Commissioner Gale Dugan, Allegan of the lake using employees who had plants in the lake for the last three County Drain Commissioner Denise previously worked for Clarke. years, but will go with a different con­ Medemar, Wayland Township rep­ One longtime lake resident was crit­ tractor to provide consulting services resentative Doug Kammeraad and ical of the board’s process of selecting to the board. Martin Township the contractors. On a narrow 5-4 vote June 20, the representative Chuck “ The board is sim ­ board decided to retain SOLitude Karmes. ^^The board is ply going on cost, Lake Management to continue the Voting no were based on prior meet­ simply going on freatrnents on Gun Lake against such board Chairwoman ings, and not basing invasive species as starry stonewort Vivian Conner cost, based on their assessment on and Eurasian milfoil for the next three of Orangeville prior meetings, and performance and years, and selected PLM Lake and Township, Barry reputation, ” said Land Management Corporation for not basing their County Drain Bill Bryker, a retired the consulting contract. The total cost Commissioner Jim assessment on chemist who has of the contracts over the three-year Dull, Baiyy County presented samples period is not to exceed $635,438. performance and Commissioner Mark of water quality at The vote to retain SOLitude came Doster and Yankee reputation. his property showing despite the fact that a company repre­ Springs representa­ what he says is the Bill Bryker, sentative failed to show at two previ­ tive Sally Smith. Gun Lake resident impact of copper ­ ous meetings to update the board on SOLitude submitbased herbicides to upcoming treatments, according to ted the low bid for the weed control treat the lake. board minutes of May 16 and May program at $580,068 over the next “ Based on the high real estate val ­ 28. three years, string at $189,540 next ues (of Gun Lake), GLIB should be The nine-member Gun Lake year and then increasing by 2 percent thoroughly vetting all potential lake Improvement Board consists of in 2026 and 2027. Next year’s treat­ consultant companies with in-person appointed representatives from ment cost is 48 percent more than the presentations,” Bryker added. Yankee Springs and Orangeville $127,500 GLIB is paying SOLitude Bryker proposed having a consul ­ townships in Barry County and from this year for treatment of the lake. tant from Restorative Lake Sciences, Wayland and Martin townships in PLM submitted the low bid for the a company that has done lake man­ Allegan County. The board also consulting work at $55,370, starting at agement on Houghton Lake, to includes the drain commissioners $17,790 next year and into 2025, then speak to the board. RLS manages from both counties, one representa­ increasing to $19,790 in 2026. 95 lakes without asking for a multi­ tive from each county board and a GLIB had previously retained year contract, and its head holds a Staff Writer DDA Continued from Page 6 said. Nettleton drew a com parison of the appointment process under Section 204 to when the president of the United States selects mem­ bers of his cabinet. “The president nominates officers to certain posi­ tions. He has that power of appointment. It’s up to the Senate to confirm and approve that appointment,” Nettleton said. “If there isn’t Senate confirmation, there is no appointment. The Senate can’t take on that appoint ment power on its own. That’s the analogy.” “It’s the village president’s prerogative to appoint. It’s the Village Council’s pre­ rogative to either approve that appointment or not. Practically speaking, is there an opportunity for collaboration? Sure either input from the DDA, from the Village Council, from mem­ bers in the village and other businesses. But is it required by law? No,” Nettleton added. Council Trustee Steve Baldry asked Cramer what it’s going to take the fill the DDA openings. “We’re going to repost it and see what we get,” Cramer said. “We never unposted it,” Village Clerk Rhonda VanPolen said. “There we go. It’s still up there,” Cramer said. Anyone interested in a DDA board opening should submit a letter of interest and the board member applica­ tion to Mike Cramer, Village of Middleville, P.O. Box 69, 100 E. Main St., Middleville, MI 49333. The board mem­ ber application can be found online at middlevilledda.org/ documents or at the Village Hall, 100 E. Main St. Mancini declined to com­ ment publicly on Cramer’s action after the meeting. designation as a certified lake profes­ sional from the North American Lake Management Society, Bryker said. Bryker and several other residents have said that SOLitude’s copper­ based treatments have done more harm than good, killing native aquatic plants in addition to the invasive plants, resulting in reduced fishing quality on the lake. Over the last year and a half, SOLitude moved away from copper­ based treatments toward peroxygen­ based algicides. However, the board at that June 20 meeting approved a new round of treatments for the lake that signaled at least a partial return toward using copper-based herbicides. The board approved using copper sulfate in a 15-acre area of the lake, mostly in the Gun-Ho channel, to treat nuisance algae and starry stonewort. The board also approved the use of chelated copper in several other channels. The board on June 20 also approved on a 8-1 vote a $273,000 budget for 2025, compared to this year’s GLIB budget of $ 190,000, due in large part to the $62,000 annual spike in treat­ ment costs. Dugan proposed using a portion of the board’s reserves to absorb the increase. “That figure uses that surplus, and it keeps it as low as possible. It also looks at any contingencies that we See GUN LAKE on 9 ACTIVITIES Continued from Page 2 dogs and popcorn provided by Thomapple Valley Church, music by the band Bluecatz, and food trucks offering a variety of eating options. Those who are interested in partic­ ipating in laser tag, made available through BattleGR Tactical Games, will need to fill out a waiver ahead of time. Those waives are available online, including on the Facebook page for the Middleville DDA. At 10 p.m., the annual Fourth of July fireworks will be launched from the AYSO fields. The Middleville Lions Club is organizing the Independence Day festivities. ^6 yiSk COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the June 11, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on June 25, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at wwwviiia qeofmiddleville.org. �MjT' * ♦ 8 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS ______________ ___________ Saturday, June 29, 2024 Voters in Gaines Township to pick a new supervisor in Aupust “With that said, I did not want to just walk away from serving the township, so I decided to run for a trustee slot,” DeWard wrote in a June 25 email to the Sun and News. TJie supervisor’s position is the only elected one on the township board that is truly being contested this elec tion cycle. Brew, the current clerk, is running unopposed. Also seeking re-election with no opposition is trea surer Laurie Lemke. And voters will be electing four trustees this year. The four trustee candidates on the ballot are DeWard, and incumbents Kathy Vander Stel, Dan Fiyling and Tim Haagsma. All of those are for fouryear terms, and all the candidates are Republicans. “As it turned out, the only elected position with opposition this year is the supervisor position,” DeWard said. “Our legal counsel has advised me to refrain from taking a public position on the candidates.” The two candidates for supervi sor are current trustee Bob Terpstra and former deputy treasurer Jenna Pilkington. Both are Republicans. Terpstra’s current term as a trustee will JAMES GEMMELL Contributing Writer Gaines Charter Township is poised to have a new supervisor for the first time in more than eight years. Voters will begin choosing their favorite candidates for this position, and others, in the Aug. 6 primary elec­ tion. The final, determining votes will be cast in the Nov. 5 general election. Township Supervisor Rob DeWard announced in March that he would not be seeking a third term as supervi­ sor. His current term expires after the November election. He has held the supervisor’s position for eight years and served on the township planning commission for 24 years prior to that. De Ward ran unopposed for the super­ visor’s job in Nov. 2016 when former supervisor Don Hilton announced he would be stepping down after 24 years on the job. In a memo to the township board on March 6, DeWard recommended that the supervisor’s hours be reduced next year from the current 24 hours per week to 16. The board’s approval means the supervisor’s job will be a part-time position. As a member of the township’s per­ sonnel committee, Terpstra has made some suggestions for improving execu­ tive leadership across the township departments. “I think there’s some work to do as the township grows in population,” he said in a phone interview. “And some of the things that we need to look at (are) getting more grants and start­ ing to hold the line on a few things. There’s work to do with communicat­ ing with our residents much, much bet­ ter than we do.” Terpstra said he does not believe the township does a sufficient job in dis seminating information to the public, including on the township website. “We could have a much better response, if we would post that infor­ mation,” he said. Terpstra praised Township Manager Rod Weersing. “He’s been doing a heck of a job; I can’t wait to work with him,” he said. Terpstra also noted that the qual­ ity of life in Gaines Township can be improved. “What I’m interested in a lot is the parks and the trails. Connecting the outdoor spaces and helping create rec­ reation areas,” he said. expire in November. Pilkington served as the township’s deputy treasurer for 11 years before resigning at the end of 2023. She was replaced by Chris Holwerda. Pilkington was asked to do an interand said she view for this article but had would be amenable to that not responded back by the time it went to press. If she responds, her comments will be included in a future report. Pilkington has a Facebook page titled, “Pilkington for Gaines Township Supervisor.” “With your support, I will make accountability, community and transnot an option,” she parency a given is quoted on that social media page. Terpstra was first elected as a trustee in 2019 and has been a member of the township board’s personnel committee. The 65-year-old had spent his career in human resources work. Most recent­ ly, he has been working at DOOR International, which is a Christian min­ istry outreach for deaf people. Terpstra has a Facebook page titled, “Robert Terpstra for Gaines Township Supervisor.” On it, the 32-year town­ ship resident describes himself as a “Compassionate and experienced • • visionary. * k * I 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 I □ -ci p ■I I a a t, ’• --A*"! P YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on July 18,2024, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville Ml, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commission's consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Town­ ship Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (ioeshea@vankeesprinqstwD.orQ). Letters and emails are due one week before the hearing date- or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1 SEU 24-06-04: Parcel ID 16-370-007-00,2731 Sandon Circle 17, Wayland, Ml 49348. A request by Ricardo Villarreal, the property owner for a commercial Short-term rental permit at the above address pursuant to the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance, Article X, Short Term Rentals. 2. SEU 24-06-05: Parcel ID 16-370-002-00,12759 Whispering Pines Drive, Wayland, Ml 49348. A request by Amy Conley, the property owner, for a commercial short-term rental permit at the above address, pursuant to the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance, Article X, Short 1..-. 1 Mr i 4. 4 - J J Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! 1 b i i* r >_ •g t • <1 4 *t • • « - » s t «* »»• « e I 4» 1 « - ^4^ -. 41 - s» 3. SEU 24-06-06: Parcel ID 16-370-006-00,12759 Sanden Circle, Wayland, Ml 49348. A request by Starr Adams, the properly owner for a commercial short-term rental permit at the above address, pursuant to the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance, Article X, Short Term Hentats 4. SEU 24-06-07: Parcel ID 16-080-051-00, Vacant Lol 60 Supervisors Plat of Englands Point, Shelbyville, Ml 49344. A request by Tabitha and Eric Zimny, the property owners, for a special exception use permit for an outbuilding on a vacant lot, pursuant to the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance, Section 12.7 Outbuildings. 5 Such other business as may properly come before the Planning Commission. Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (7) days pnor notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION By: Shana Bush, Chairperson Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Credted just for your big dsy, we*ve put together sets of stunning wedding invitetions to perfectly metch your style. PRINTING www.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com * 4 s ■■ ;► « > ■ *• ■ > I.F A * i * 1 4 ' I* *;r, KMKW I" I �♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ---------------_______ __________________ ♦ oaiuraay, June Saturday, June29,2C 29, 2024 9 Barry County Outdoor Youth Day set for Sent. < Barry Conservation District and nnH Ue its-----------------------------------community partners have announced Outdoor Youth Day 2024 is scheduled I for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21 at Historic Charlton Park in Hastings. < Getting kids outdoors is the simple yet powerful idea behind Outdoor Youth Day, initiated by local out­ 4 / doorsman George Cullers. This free event provides hands-on outdoor / . / experiences, fostering a lifelong pas­ sion for nature. Participants can look forward to a diverse range of activities, such as biking, fishing, hiking, trapping, .,S| archery, bird watching, fly casting, rock climbing and more. New this’ year are food trucks, guest speakers and workshops focused on nature and *< outdoor recreation. 4 “Our goal this year is to enhance the experience for all family members, Participants can look forward to a diverse range of activities at this year’s said Jamie Lewis Hedges, execu­ Outdoor Youth Day. New this year are food trucks, guest speakers and tive director of Barry Conservation workshops focused on nature and outdoor recreation. (Photo provided) District. “There will be something for everyone at Youth Day 2024.” Traveling Team will lead outreach and enjoy the outdoors. Stacy Bare, The Subaru/Leave No Trace efforts on how to responsibly protect executive director of Friends of Grand ♦ ♦ I r FA’ I. 4 » v . fl*. w. A fl 1 * ♦•^4 4 f. f A* '4<T, > « 1 .-. 1 f fl 11 me-. r r 1 r I b J T-*” t. }: d J ■” • I ? r fl- —4M I* 7 ’• 1 p *>-s \ .-u »4» I*" 1. 1 »V. T I I 11 s f I 1 Rapids Parks, will share his insights on the therapeutic power of outdoor recreation, especially for veteran families. A highlight of the event is the Bike Rodeo, a collaboration with Blue Zones and the West Michigan Mountain Bike Association. This ini­ tiative will teach kids essential biking skills and safety techniques under the guidance of experienced instructors. “Being able to ride a bike confi­ dently opens up a whole new world for families,” said Catherine Getty, executive director of Activate Barry County. “We have great regional trail systems. What a great family vaca­ tion!” The eighth annual event is spon sored by Barry County Parks, Barry Conservation District, Blue Zones Activate Barry County, Commercial Bank, Court-Side, George Cullers and the National Deer Association. Those interested in staying informed on the event and volunteer opportuni­ ties can sign up for email updates at barry cd. org/oy d. ■V t i I GUN LAKE Continued from Page 7 might want to look at for improving the lake ... It leaves us with some options,” Dugan said. GLIB currently has cash reserves of $212,289 and a certificate of deposit with Highpoint Community Bank in the amount of $173,136 that it could draw from, according to board docu­ ments. Doster proposed extending SOLitude’s contract for one year and not assessing lakefront owners for treatment in 2025, given those finan­ cial reserves. He suggested rebidding the contracts. We’re in a position where we can 64 BILLBOARD Continued from Page 3 signs in all zoning districts without having to get a permit from the town ship. Most other signage in the town­ ship does require a permit. “This was never really about the sign. It was always about our ordi- give these people who have actually paid this in the advantage of a free year,” said Doster, who voted against adopting the budget. “It would also give us enough time to look at a more aggressive budget, for testing particu­ larly.” Kammeraad favored reducing the annual assessment for lakefront own­ ers over the next three years, from the current rate of $ 106 for lots fronting the lake to $75. I m more apt to (support) lowering our rates and using part of our sur­ plus, versus trying to use our surplus and get that number down too low, that if we had a catastrophic year ... that we would run short on funds,” Kammeraad said. “We’ve gone over budget before and it’s always nice to nance We were sued because our ordinance was not up to date. The sign (denial) became a way to get in the door,” Robertson said. Harrison felt the township had a good case, but to prove it, the township would have had to spend additional money on legal expenses, although they would be covered by insurance. s have that surplus so we can cover that budget.” Dull said the spike in treatment costs will eat away at GLIB’s reserves if there is no increase in the assess­ ment. He suggested a one-year exten­ sion of the SOLitude contract. “If we stuck with the same assess­ ment we have now for three years, our extra money is going to be gone,” Dull said. “(That’s with going) with the lowest of three bids. The other two were $150,000 a year more. A year more. Not total, but a year.” The board will present the new bud­ get to Gun Lake residents at a public hearing to be held Saturday, Aug. 3 at 9:30 a.m. at Gun Lake Community Chapel, 12200 M-179 Hwy. “There is some risk (that we would lose ±e case). This (settlement) removes that risk,” Harrison said. Robertson agreed with the settle­ ment. “I think at this point, it’s the best we can do,” he said. “But the point I would make is, it’s the position I think we should never have been in to begin with.” X Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser Help us support veterans and community functions. I Saturdays July 6,2024j 1 and the First Saturday of each month Serving 8 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. bacon, sausage links or patties, potatoes, biscuits and sausage gravy, pancakes, milk, OJ, coffee. * Menu subject to change Adults $13.00 • Children 10 & under $5.00 For more information call the Post at 616-891-1882 Coffee Donated by t BIGGBY COFFEE Caledonia Memorial Legion Post 305 9548 Cherry Valley, Caledonia, MI LUNCH M-TH 11 AIVl-8 PM; FRI 11 AM-2PM; FRI BUILD A BURGER 4-8 PM I 4 t �4 10 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 29, 2024 Solar energy ordinance amended; public hearing slated for July 22 ► JAYSON BUSSA Editor Barry County Planning and Zoning has drafted an ordinance to regulate solar energy projects and will hold a public hearing on it during July 22’s planning commission meeting at the Tyden Center in Hastings. Earlier this month, Barry County Planning Director and Zoning Administrator Jim McManus distrib­ uted a draft ordinance to all jurisdic­ tions throughout the county and other draft ordinance included concerns with glare, minimum lot size for these projects and emergency response plans for such sites. Also, Consumers Energy, which has a large-scale solar project planned in Assyria Township, flagged an item in the ordinance that stated solar energy system structures (not the panels themselves) could only be 25 feet when the minimum that their project could support was 40 feet. stakeholders, including Consumers Energy, for them to review and pro­ vide feedback on. His department is the planning authority for 11 townships and two villages in Barry Coimty. Last week, McManus spoke in front of the county’s committee of the whole saying that his department had received feedback and would work to implement it into the ordi­ nance. Some of the key issues with the CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA • COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN MB NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CAMPAU/KETTLE LAKE AQUATIC WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT No. 1 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia, Kent County, Michigan, has determined to proceed, on its own motion, to renew the Campau/Kettle Lake Aquatic Weed Control Special Assessment District No. 1 (the “District”) to undertake certain public improvements consisting of the control of aquatic weeds and plants in Campau/Kettle Lake by means of periodic removal by chemical harvesting and other methods (the “Improvements”), pursuant to Act 188 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1954, as amended. The Township Board has tentatively determined that the cost of said Improvements shall be specially assessed against each of the following described lots and parcels of land which are benefitted by the Improvements and which together comprise the following District: Map of Special Assessment District (Includes only those parcels of land having frontage on Campau/Kettle Lake or deeded or dedicated access thereto) «« A« * «n«^ J 1 I™ r J I 4 r MTH 6 TH i\ */ f k Is:- il f I i □a I - a Lots and parcels numbered: 11-278-032 11 -278-033 11-278-034 11-278-035 11 -278-036 11-278-038 11 -278-039 11 -427-005 11-427-006 11-427-007 11-427-008 11-427-011 11-427-012 11-427-013 11-427-014 11-427-015 11-427-016 11-427-017 11-427-018 11-427-019 11-427-020 11-427-021 11 -427-022 11 -427-025 11-427-026 11-427-027 11 -427-030 11-427-031 11-427-032 11-427-033 12-101-038 12-101-041 12-101-043 12-101-044 12-101-045 12-101-050 12-101-052 12-101-053 12-101-054 12-101-055 12-101-056 12-101-057 12-101-059 12-101-060 12-101-061 12-107-022 12-107-030 12-107-032 12-107-033 12-152-003 12-152-004 12-152-007 12-152-008 12-152-026 12-152-027 12-152-028 12-152-029 12-300-009 12-300-011 12-300-072 12-300-077 12-300-079 12-300-080 I « V £ 4• 1. «f > < ' h <* 3 t w J f i > •X* *1^1 z J «•»* • J f i- 04 <A’ k •T -i*- 02-476-013 02-476-014 02-476-017 02-476-020 02-476-021 02-477-006 02-477-008 02-477-009 02-477-010 02-477-012 11-201-031 11-201-032 11-201-033 11 -201 -034 11-201-035 11-201-036 11-201-037 11-226-005 11-226-026 11-226-028 11-227-028 11-227-038 11-228-007 11-278-004 11-278-007 11-278-016 11-278-017 11-278-018 11-278-019 11-278-020 11-278-021 11-278-022 11-278-026 i V ? •'•J-' ■ 01-351-005 01-351-008 01-351-038 01-351-039 01-351-053 01-351-054 01-351-056 01-351-065 01-351-068 01-351-072 01-351-074 01-351-075 01-351-083 01-351-085 01-351-086 01-351-087 01-351-088 01-351-089 01-351-090 01-351-091 01-351-092 01-351-094 01-351-099 01-351-100 01-351-101 01-351-102 01-351-104 01-354-008 02-476-001 02-476-002 I 02-476-003 02-476-004 02-476-012 ■ $ 'X'. CAMPAU/KETTLE LAKE AQUATIC WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 aI r.' I.' •• • Atf • *3^* 4 i>i ■<» :=T5i I h 1 d M- • f ■t .. a IK I* ’■f L * p. 2 I T ■ - I 4 .I . . T«»'I 1 6 k ‘ J- I ; * Boundary of Campau/Kettle Lake Aquatic Weed Control ^p^al Assessment Olstrtet TAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on July 17,2024 at 7:00 p.m. (or shortly thereafter), at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE, within the Township, to hear and consider any objections to the proposed Improvements, the proposed special assessment district, and all other matters relating to said Improvements. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that preliminary plans and estimates of cost for the Improvements are on file with the Township Clerk for public examination be added to the proposed special ASSESSMENT DISTRICT AND THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATE OF COST SHALL NOT BE INCREASED BY MORE THAN 10% WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE AND PUBLIC HEARING. Periodic redeterminations of the cost of the Improvements may be may be necessary, without a change in the Special Assessment District, and in that event, such redeterminations may be made by the Township Board without further notice to record owners or parties in interest in the lands in the Special Assessment District, in accordance with the provisions of said Act 188. This Notice was authorized by the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia. Dated: June 19, 2024 The most recent draft of the ordi­ nance irons out some of those con­ cerns. The new ordinance states that the “total height for a principal-use SES shall not exceed 16 feet mea­ sured from the ground to the top of the system when oriented at maxi­ mum tilt. However, other structures aside from a solar panel (such as a substation) shall not exceed 45 feet measured from the groimd to the highest point on the structure.” Regarding minimum lot size, the ordinance states that solar farms shall not be constructed on parcels less than 80 acres in size in the agri cultural and rural residential zoning districts. In the draft ordinance, the minimum was just 20 acres. The minimum lot size remained at 20 acres for light industrial and gen­ eral industrial zoning districts. “We intended to make it somewhat restrictive,” McManus said. “I think we achieved that. At the same time, we made this as a single ordinance to cover all (projects) and Consumers is aware.” An ordinance to regulate solar energy projects is vital as statewide green energy goals become loftier and loftier, promoting the develop­ ment of such projects. Legislation adopted last year, which has proven to be a hot-button issue within Barry County and other rural counties, states that utilities can bypass local government approval and appeal directly to the state to permit proj ects with a capacity of 5 0 megawatts or more. Barry Coimty’s current ordinance is significantly more restrictive than the state’s standards, meaning utilities who don’t like it could go directly to the state for permission. However, county officials anticipate that proj ects that come to Barry County will be under that 50-megawatt threshold and, therefore, must adhere to the ordinance. “We really believe a majority of projects that are likely to come to Barry County will be smaller in nature and I think the ordinance does a nice job protecting people and companies won’t have to specu they’ll have to be specific on picking properties that meet our con ditions,” McManus said. «■ M ■■ Joni Henry, Township Clerk Charter Township of Caledonia See SOLAR ENERGY on 13 �f ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 29, 2024 ♦ YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN Q 08-16- 08-16-200-017-00 NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBLIC HEARING BARLOW LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT No. 31-24 ii TO: rnniMW OWNERS OF YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: 08-16-200-007-00 A Q 08-16-125-007-00 -011-00 I is I 8-16-200- 08-16-200-024- PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to PA 188 of 1954 ■OS-16-1 in,he Township, and ,o create aTp'SllSS 2S ; 08-16- district for the recovery of the costs thereof by special rPEaA^^AslETsMTN 08-16-055-022-00 08-16-125- 08-16-055-02.3-00 08-16-125-017-00 08-16-200-0 08-16-045-017-00 08-16-055-024-00 08-16-125-018-00 08-16- 8-16-005-001- 4)0 08-16-055-024-50 08-16-125-019-00 08-16-200-036-00 -005-001- =QQ1-QQ zQQ 08-16-125-020-00 08-16-200-037-00 8-16-005-001-40 5-215-00 NO. 31-24 08-16-005-001-45 08-16-005-001-60 zQQ 08-16- 08-16- 08-16-125- zQQ -055-036-00 =045-021-00 9=00 08-16-045-022-0 z01Q-Q0 08-16-125-029-00 08-16-125-030- 8=1.6-055- 08-16-055-040-00 08-16-008- 08-16-055-041-00 08-16-008-012- =00 08-16-055-042-00 08-16-055-043-00 -045-055-00 08-16-008-016-00 08-16-050-018-00 -16-045-058-00 08-16-008-017-00 08-16-050- 4=00 =QQ 08-16-008-024-00 08-16-055-001-10 =000=01 -008-027-00 08-16-055-002-00 08-16-115-003-00 08-16-125-041- -16-125-001-00 08-16-008-027-10 08-16-055-002-02 08-16-115-004-00 08-16-125-042-00 08-16-008-029- 08-16-125-001-20 * 08-16-125- -005-00 8-16-055-004-00 8-16-125-043w 8=16-125-005-00 I 08-16-008-0.3 8-16-125-006-00 =16 08-16-125-008-00 08-16-008-042-00 8-16-125-009-00 08-16-008-400-00 46=66 08-16-115-008-00 08-16-200-04108-16-200-044- 2zl0 08-16-055-030-00 08-16-125-022-00 08-16-050-002-20 08-16-055-031-00 08-16-125-023-00 08-16-115-010-00 =645=663=16 08-16-200-003-200-006-00 08-16-115-012-00 * -0Q8-QQ 0-010-00 -003-50 08-16-055-011-00 -16-045-003-51 08-16-055-012-00 08=16-115-016-00 08-16-200-012-00 =60 08-16-055-013-00 08-16-115-017-00 08-16-200-014-00 =60 08-16-115-018-00 08-16-200-015-00 68=16-115-015-06 associated activities together with an estimate of the cost of the project in the amount of $15,700 per year for 8 -years (2024 - 2031 inclusive) (including administrative costs), and has placed the same on file with the Township clerk; has passed a resolution tentatively declaring its intention to make he improvement and to create the special assessment district. The plans, cost estimates and special assessment district may be examined at the Clerk’s office from the date of this Notice to the date of the public hearing and may further be examined at such public hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest at the public hearing is required in order to appeal to the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the special assessment roll is confirmed. An owner or party in interest, or his or her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or shall be permitted to file at or before the hearing his or her appearance or protest by letter and his or her personal appearance shall not be required. All interested persons are invited to be present in person or by representative and to submit comments concerning the establishment of the special assessment district, the plans and cost estimates. PROPERTY SHALL NOT BE ADDED TO THE PROPOSED SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT AND THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATE OF COST SHALL NOT BE INCREASED BY MORE THAN 10% WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE AND PUBLIC HEARING. 08-16-125-049-00 08-16- * * -125-021-00 08-16-125-039-00 -055-025-00 -001-10 08-16-055- NOTICE that a public hearing on the plans, district and cost estimates P Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Michigan. At the hearing, the Board will consider any written objections and comments to any of the foregoing matters which are filed with the clerk at or before the hearing and any objections or comments mised at the hearing. If written objections are filed with the township board at or before the hearing, signed by the record owners of land constituting more than 20% of the area within the proposed special assessment district, then the township board may not proceed unless petitions in ® signed by record owners of more than 50% of the area to be made into a special assessment district, are filed with the township. Following the hearing, the township board may revise, correct, amend or change the plans, cost estimates or special assessment district. -045-029-00 08-16-045-049-00 08-16-050-002-00 further notice that the Township Board has received plans showing the proposed 8-16-045-000-23 -045-032-50 08z 08-16-045-015-00 "Provements are proposed =16- 08-16-200- 08-16-125-015-00 PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the land and BARLOW LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 08-16-125-014-00 08-16-0554)21-10 8-16-005-0 are to be specially assessed are more particularly described z2QQ-025- 08-16-045-014-00 -005-001-15 -125-000-12 11 PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that if the Township Board determines to proceed with the special assessments, the Board will cause a special assessment roll to be prepared and another hearing will be held, after notice to record owners of property proposed to be specially assessed, to hear public comments concerning the proposed special assessments. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon seven (7) days’ notice to the Township Supervisor. -200-010-10 Mike Cunningham Yankee Springs Township Clerk 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 (269) 795-9091 �12 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 29, 2024 Funeral home proposed for vacant Caledonia Twp. office building Eberly, who presided over the meet­ Staff Writer ing in the absence of Chairman Doug Curtis. “Let’s keep talking about A vacant office building with a blue it, and let’s resolve some of these roof on 84th Street, just east of M-37, could soon become a funeral home. issues. The Valley Point South park, which However, Caledonia Township plan­ was originally established in 1996 at ners have questions on whether there’s the northeast comer of 84thand M-37, enough parking to accommodate the proposed use. includes the Caledonia Township offices, the township Fire Department, Zaagman Memorial Chapel Inc. Max Effort Performance fitness center is asking the township to amend the planned unit development designation and Milestones child care center. The for the Valley Point South Industrial PUD has uses that are stipulated for Park to allow the building at 6307 each parcel, Township Planner Lynee 84th St. SE to be converted into a Wells said. funeral home. The parcel is owned by Zaagman Memorial Chapel, which Caledonia Investment Holdings LLC. already has a location on Burton Street The township Planning Commission in Grand Rapids, is planning to do “a tabled the request at its June 17 meet­ near 100 percent complete renovation ing, primarily over parking. of the interior of the 12,871 -square­ “This is not a ‘no,’ and this is not foot building, said David Durston, a lack of support,” said Planning one of the partners behind the funeral Commission Vice Chairman John home proposal. The interior would be renovated to include a chapel, visitation room, fel ­ IRVING TOWNSHIP lowship gathering room, conference BOARD MEETING room, office space and dressing room SYNOPSIS where the deceased are prepared for JUNE 18, 2024 viewing, according to plans presented Meeting called to order at 6:30pm at 3425 Wing Rd. Hast­ to the township. ings, Michigan 49058 Present: “The community definitely needs Sokolowski, Olson, Knight, Bue­ another funeral home, and we are very hler, Bass. Absent: None good at what we do,” Durston said. Agenda approved with amend­ Currently, there is only one funeral ments home serving the Caledonia com ­ May Minutes approved as pre­ munity - Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf sented Fimeral Home and Cremation Services Approved to spend up to $19,000.00 for IT server, etc. on Main Street in from Clark Technical Services the village. CHARTER Approved to obtain estimate for The biggest chal ­ TOWNSHIP OF website cleanup lenge township CALEDONIA Approved to pay bills officials are seeking $4,841.46 BOARD OF to address with the Fire reports given and on file in TRUSTEES Zaagman proposal their departments is making sure there Meeting Treasurer’s report presented is adequate parking and approved -available online or Minutes to serve the site. At in Township Hall Upcoming Meet­ ing date - July 16, 2024 (6:30pm present, there are 77 The minutes for the Board Mtg) and (1pm Board of parking spaces at the June 5, 2024 Township Review) location. Wells said Board of Trustees Adjourn 7:40pm Meeting that were that the presence of Full minutes are available at Irapproved on June 19, the fire department vingtownship.org or at 3425 Wing 2024, are posted at the nearby makes park Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058. Township Offices at ing an important Prepared by 8196 Broadmoor Ave., issue. and on the website at Deputy Clerk, Shelly Lake. www.caledoniatown “They rely on the Attested to by shjp.org . Supervisor, Jamie Knight. internal network GREG CHANDLER ^5 * .c ^5^S555S^ < ■ > > L o 55^ 'J .• I t J** *"V 5 . *' * — tZ-’! f- • 0^. ■ nes 5 r * I t • I k I In I J Zaagman Memorial Chapel Inc. is asking Caledonia Township to amend the planned unit development designation for the Valley Point South Industrial Park and allow the building at 6307 84th St. SE to be converted into a funeral home. (Google Streetview) of the roads here. These are private roads,” Wells said. “We have very limited control over whether people park on the road or not. We don’t want to see that these roadways are blocked in any way.” Restriping the current spaces to nar­ row the width of each space from 10 feet to 9 feet would add another 10 spaces to the site. However, under zoning requirements for the proposed combined uses of a chapel, fimeral home and fellowship room, 147 spac­ es are needed. Wells said. “We’ve had to combine these different uses and activities happening to at least get to a base level of what park ing would be required,” Wells said. Zaagman has proposed a shared parking arrangement with Max Effort Performance and Milestones, which would add another 3 7 spaces for the funeral home that could be used. No formal agreements have been reached. Wells said. Jon Andersh, an attorney from the Rhoades McKee law firm representing Zaagman, questioned the township’s calculation of parking spaces. “Those calculations are calculated in a way that it’s being classified as a church or a religious body,” Andersh said. “The zoning ordinance definition of a church actually says that a church or another place for assembly would be maintained and controlled by a reli gious body. This would not be. This is a private business. Zaagman is not a religious body (or) organization. We actually think this falls within the defi* nition for a funeral home in the park­ ing section (or the ordinance).” The parking section of the zoning ordinance for funeral homes and mor­ tuaries states that one parking space is required “for each 50 square feet of gross floor space in the slumber rooms, parlors or individual funeral service rooms.” For churches or other places of worship, the requirement is one parking space for each three seats, based upon the maximum seat­ ing capacity. The chapel in the fimeral home would have a capacity of 176 seats, according to township docu­ ments. Commissioner Jodie Masefield is concerned that with a lack of adequate parking on site, people coming to a visitation or funeral service may park across the street at United Bank and then try to cross 84th. “That is just not a situation (I am comfortable with),” Masefield said. “We have to figure out the parking for me to feel comfortable even approving this use.” The current Zaagman chapel on Burton Street has 103 parking spaces, Durston said. “J'here are very, very few times in a given year where our parking lot is stressed,” he said. “We have some overflow parking available (from) the church next door to us. They’re lucky we’re there, because they use our lot every weekend. It is very rare that we have an event that calls for more park­ ing than what we do have.” See FUNERAL HOME on 13 �I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS FUNERAL HOME Continued from Page 12 I Durston also said that it’s unlikely that the visitation room and chapel spaces would be used at the same time. ‘‘When people come in the door, let s say it is for a nighttime visitation, it’ll be used in the (visitation room),” ’ he said. “That is the only spot (that ’ would be used), besides maybe people gathering and conversing in the lobby areas where that visitation would take place for that evening. The next day, assuming it is a two-day event, the person’s body, casket and/or urn ... will be central to our chapel. We gen­ erally have an hour or so of visitation for gathering (or) viewing (before the service).” There would not be any proces­ sions after the ftmeral to a cemetery where the deceased would be buried Durston said. “There are very few processions these days. Most folks do not choose to do that, a lot of times there’s no body involved No body means no cemetery,” Durston said. Masefield asked Durston to come 9 Hi^h Efficiency I .4 !RUUD I I I I I I I I I; I ri I «150 I! OFF I * Must present this coupon. Expires 7-15-24 I I I i d I I I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. I “The company built by referrals ” W h, c* * I*. : 1 U * FRONTIER HEATING G COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 back to the township with a plan for addressing the parking issue. You guys have done some investigation, but it’s really hard for me to approve something based on conversations ...Id actually like to see a parking plan, Masefield said. I am not fully one way or another on -AX number of Ml spaces yet, ycl, but DUl I1 would WOUlCl like like tO what our plan is. I’m not going to dictate what that is. How are you managing parking, based on what you’re coming in asking us for?” It will likely be at least. August before commission­ ers reconsider the Zaagman proposal. The Planning Commission is not scheduled to meet in July and the meeting scheduled for the first Wednesday in August has also been cancelled. Saturday, June 29, 2024 13 SOLAR ENERGY ♦ ♦ Continued from Page 10 The Consumers Energy project, slated for Spring Creek Farm at the southeast border of the county, will be large enough that the utility could bypass local control if it wanted to. The com­ pany has signaled that they will work with the county. “There has been state (permitting) reform and there will be that option but that is not the way we operate,” David Hicks, vice president of clean energy development for Consumers Energy, told the Sun and News. “As we said before, we really rely on those relationships and relationship-building and really coming to agreement with local government in commg to a project that meets everyone’s needs and provides that clean solar generation. , to '“W Tankee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT PUBLIC HEARING - SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL EVANS LANE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 49 event, personal appearance shall not be required. Any person objecting to the assessment roll shall file his/her objection thereto in writing with the Township Clerk before the close of the hearing or within such other time as the Township Board may grant. The owners or any person having an interest in real property who protests in writing at or before the hearing may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessment roll. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed material being considered at the hearing, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (7) days' notice to the Township Supervisor at the address below Mike Cunningham, Clerk Yankee Springs Township 284. N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 (269) 795-9091 iliLkec@vankeesprinQstWD.ora TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, OWNERS OF LAND WITHIN THE EVANS LANE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO 49 AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS' 1 i FURNACE; I AIR I I I ♦ PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor and Assessor have prepared and filed in the office of the Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll covering all properties within the EVANS LANE ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 49 benefitted by the proposed road improvement project, which will include milling out all asphalt on approximately 22,778 sf of road. Fine grade and compact gravel. Remove and replace culvert. Install approximately 18 tons of crushed concrete to raise the low portion of the road. Install 1.5" of base course asphalt compacted. Install 1.5” of 5E1 surface course asphalt compacted. The proposed road improvement includes widening (to aa width of 14’) the south portion of the road (approximately 1,086 lineal feet) terminating at Cobb Lake Road and adding 4' to the north section of the turnaround on parcel 08-16-060-017-00. The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate of costs on file with the Township Clerk. The assessment roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing costs of the project within the aforesaid special assessment district, as is more particularly shown on plans on file with the Township Clerk at the Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, within the Township. The assessment roll is in the total amount of $80,155. The costs, including administrative costs, are proposed to be raised by a new special assessment. The assessment against each parcel in the special assessment district will be approximately $1,113.26 per year, for a period of three years, 2024 - 2026 inclusive. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor and Assessing Officer have reported to the Township Board that the assessment against each parcel of land within said District is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land in said District as the benefit to such parcel bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said District. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Yankee Springs Township Board will meet at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Michigan, on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of reviewing the special assessment roll and hearing any objections thereto. The roll may be examined at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular business days until the time of the hearing and may further be examined at the hearing. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an owner or party in interest, or his/ her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment or may file his/her appearance and protest by letter before the hearing, and in that 16X16001 T-(j) I 1 t6^)ea.023O0 16^)6M14-00 16-06OO14XX) te-oeo-013-00 tM6OO13-00j 1 16-060-012^» i r 16>06I>012-00 IS^WWIl-OO C 0 fi s LAKE P.r 56-060022 00 L_je-C6G<H0-00 it 16^)6&OnX» \ ieO604>0^ I iMatKmoo A 16-060006*^1 \160600070^ 16-060007^ ^16060006^ 16060005-00 ieO6OOM-0Q 16-0600O00 15-Q6CH>1»<0 I t94S0-002-d0 § iitA 16-060001-00 U? 1 16-0t8<0400 1W1 Wtt54» »1&2D24 Evans Lane Improvement Special Assessment District BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN Yankee Springe Township “ !>• ih Bl w w* • MhM m W < saw M aw WBRBl V Mt ■aBn au Mratw a « ApM aaMn d « taw to • aWa m* tovf tow a B toom • EDtotow < a MbM to Ml •to s •vtyCawar A I. �► 14 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, June 29, 2024 www.sunandnews.com * Transit providing free troiiey tours of Barry County JAYSON BUSSA Editor Residents can explore every comer of Barry County for free thanks to a new, limited-time service that Barry County Transit is rolling out. On every Friday in July, Barry County Transit will provide its free Barry County Scenic Tour, which zig­ zags around the county for an hourand-a-ha!f trip on the department’s signature trolley. I’he tour takes off at 1:15 p.m. each Friday from the Barry County Courthouse lawn, where passengers board the trolley. From there, the trolley will venture off on its route, bringing passengers to destinations that include: Tyden Park, Hammond Hill, Algonquin Lake, Hastings City/ Barry County Airport, Barry County Fairgrounds, Otto’s Turkey Farm, Thomapple Kellogg School, Camp Manitoulin, Bowens Mills, Gun Lake and Gun Lake area establishments. Circle Pines, Pine Lake, Prairieville Township Park, Kellogg Manor, Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, Charlton PUBLIC NOTICE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS June 10, 2024 The Gaines Charter Township Board held a regular meeting on Monday, June 10, 2024, and took the following actions. 1. Reviewed the Consent Agenda. 2. Approved the Meeting Agenda. 3. Approved the Consent Agenda. 4. Chief Judge Jefferey O’Hara from the 63'“ district court informed about his work helping those with alcoholism and addiction convictions. His goal is not incarceration but recovery. 5. Dan Veldhuizen from Siegfried Crandall discussed the 2023 audit. 6. Three township residents spoke concern­ ing the private road waiver from the March 2024 Township Board Meeting. 7. Held a public hearing on changes to the Gaines Charter Township Ordinance Chapter 22 Section 136 Building Permits Section B 8. Adopted the change to the Gaines Char­ ter Township Ordinance Chapter 22 Section 136 - Building Permits, Section B. Municipal Grant. 9. Set the Public Hearing for the regular board meeting on July 08. 2024 for Alexander Trails Planned Unit Development Amendment. 10. Approved the fireworks display permit for July 3, 2024 at Crystal Springs by Wolverine Fireworks. Park, Woodland and Freeport. As the name suggests, the trip is designed only to take in the sights and sounds of the county and there will be no stops at these locations. Mary Bassett, director of Barty County Transit, credited operations analyst Luman Williams for sparking the initial idea for the tour and the department worked to flesh the idea out. “Many of my employees know my dedication to being a part of the com­ munity and serving the community and they exhibit the same passion as I do,” Bassett said of the team effort. “I want those with limited means of transportation to be able to tour Barry County and see what it has to offer.” “Barry County is a beautiful county with so much to see and I want the community to know that Barry County Transit can get them any­ where in the county that they want to go,” Bassett added. “We are the back­ bone for those in the county that have limited means of transportation it’s what we’re here for.” 11. Approved the Revised Prairie Wolf Station Water and Sewer Development Contract. 12. Approved the Assessor Request to Attend 2024 International Association of Assessing Offi­ cers Conference in Denver, Colorado. 13. Approved the Application from Mark Krier for Board of Review Alternate. 14. Approved the Kent County Road Commis­ sion, Deer Management Countywide Collabora­ tion for approximately $1,000 based upon partic­ ipation of other municipalities. 15. Discussed the private drive width waiver granted in the March 11, 2024 regular board meeting. 16. Community Policing Officer Vander Molen discussed year 2023 to year 2024 statistics on the number of calls and the decrease in response time due to the additional noon to midnight shift added by the Township. 17. Adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 08:47 p.m. A complete copy of the minutes of these meet­ ings and any resolutions or ordinances adopted at the meeting are on file and available for review at the Gaines Charter Township office, 8555 Ka­ lamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Michigan 49316. Ordinances, meeting schedules, meeting min­ utes, and other Township information are also available at www.aainestownship.org. Michael Brew Gaines Charter Township Clerk i I . ’ A W I __ J ri It JH^***^ O 'I J? > I t 1’ i t 9* 1 J — I ' »: *fb-’ * H: ?!• U—------------------ -------------------------- --------------- -------------- - 5. * ■ -- ------------------ Barry County Transit is offering a free service on every Friday in July, taking passengers on a scenic tour of Barry County aboard its trolley. (File photo by Jayson Bussa) I -------------- A The Barry County Scenic Tour is the latest in a series of enhancements that Bassett and her team have made to the department’s services over the last few weeks. This month. County Transit kicked off its Trolley Around Town 2024 series, providing free trolley rides « — ♦ !» u *4 around downtown Hastings on Fridays from 6 to 9 p.m. This series runs through the end of August. The department, also since June, has been providing its service on Saturdays for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. Saturday ser vice runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Voters to hear from Barry County sheriff candidates at upcoming event REMINDER STAFF This year’s race for Barry County Sheriff is a crowded one and an upcoming event is designed to help voters vet its four candidates. On the evening of July 15, the Sun and Ne^vs and its parent company. View Newspaper Group, will be host ing a free public forum that features candidates for sheriff The event, which will be held at the Hastings Performing Arts Center, will allow voters to hear from candidates in this year’s field, which features long-time incumbent Sheriff Dar Leaf in addi­ tion to Sergeant Richelle Spencer, Deputy Mark Noteboom, and the only candidate that does not currently belong to the Sheriffs office, Joel Ibbotson of Rutland Township. All four candidates are participatSee VOTERS on 15 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Caledonia TOWNSHIP Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 PUBLIC NOTICE Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Public Accuracy Test for the August 6 2024 Pr^idential Primary has been scheduled for Friday, July 12, 2024 at 9:30 a m at the Caledonia Township Hall located at 8196 Broadmoor Ave. Caledonia. Michigan. The Public Accuracy Test is conducted to demonstrate that the .u ; vuiiuuvicu lu uemonsiraie mat the computer program used to i«r.- u ‘^ast at the election meet the requirements of the law. Joni Menry Clerk, Charter Township of Caledonia �T % ’n ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS I Saturday, June 29, 2024 15 ♦ ♦ •I* -Jr !C 'V J I* 4B *‘7r. » MHSAA looking to keep growing ranks of officials The Michigan High School Athletic Association is accepting registrations online or by mail for game officials for the 2024-25 school year. The MHSAA registered approxi­ mately 8,700 officials for the 202324 school year, an increase of nearly five percent over 2022-23 as the ranks continue to build back toward pre-COVID totals. All officials who register may sign up for up to two sports as part of their registration. Officials also will receive membership in the National Association of Sports Officials GVASO), which comes with a variety of educational and training resources and the NASO’s Shield liability insurance that will provide $6 mil­ lion in coverage for officials while they are working both MHSAA and non-MHSAA events. For new and returning officials, a $70 fee covers registration for up to two sports. Officials may register for additional sports at $ 16 per sport. To avoid a $30 late fee, all fall sport registration applications must be received by Aug. 19, 2024. Winter sports registrations must be received by Nov. 18 to avoid the late fee, and spring sports registrations must be received by March 24, 2025. Online registration can be accessed by clicking “Officials” on the home page of the MHSAA Website at www.mhsaa.com. More information about officials registration may be obtained by contacting the MHSAA by phone at (517) 332-5046 or by e-mail at register@mhsaa.com. There is an officials’ registration test for first-time officials and offi­ cials who were not registered during the past school year, derived from the MHSAA Officials Guidebook. New officials and those who didn’t officiate during 2023-24 also must complete the online MHSAA Principles of Officiating course. Additional exams must be taken by those registering for football or bas­ ketball for the first time or those who were not registered for those sports during the previous school year. Links to the Officials Guidebook, Principles of Officiating presenta­ tion and the football and basketball mechanics manuals can be found by following the “New Officials” link on the Officials page of the MHSAA Website. There also are opportunities to officiate for students at least 14 years old and in grades 9-12 through the MHSAA Legacy Program. Juniors and seniors may officiate subvarsity contests, while freshmen and sopho­ mores may officiate contests at the middle school/junior high levels. Mentor officials will work events with Legacy participants to provide guidance and support. Find infor­ mation on the Legacy Program by clicking “Officials Registration” on the Officials page of the MHSAA Website and following the “Legacy Program” link. Trojan junior, Hoebeke, earns all-state honor as a shortstop BRETT BREMER runs. She walked 11 times and struck out once only all season finishing with a .663 on-base percentage and a 1.126 slugging percentage. In the field she had a .982 field percentage and committed only two errors all season. Hoebeke has been an all-conference honoree in the OK Gold Conference in each of her three varsity seasons so far and an all-district award winner. This was her second season in a row earning all-region honors. She already has plans to continue playing collegiately at Grand Valley State University after another spring with the Trojans. Sports Editor Thomapple Kellogg junior Kylee Hoebeke has earned a spot among the Michigan High School Softball Coaches Association All-State honorees in Division 2 this season. Hoebeke earned honorable mention all-state at shortstop, while also pitching for the Trojans this spring. She was a powerhouse at the plate, in the field and in the circle for TK. Hoebeke had a .621 batting average this spring with 54 total hits including ten doubles, five triples and eight home runs. She had 29 RBI and scored 39 .. j ; Zk r • -5=^ - r £ jz* • •r.^ •Bfl. .• sX .t •w 4:fl F* I 9 1 / ; > ■* ’ > I PVfiAT. V ^•i * ♦ I9 r 'McW / * I'T 1 . ■ I ■aa-/. K: / Mi.- Vx- ■ff * *• i ' 'A 5 £ Im o 'A I FN- X 4* 1 i 'I 4 >lar•.* is .‘it - ■ « 4' 4 ’ 1 w* r V 1 w t •4 3- ■ ‘r- >.v I* *t ^^4 I 99 J 1 M « »«. •* . - -•X- t .. . w •' > ♦ <au J r*! 9 »« t t i’ • i. Ml •I la 9> 4 < 4 Continued from Page 14 ing Leaf, Spencer and Ibbotson have confirmed their presence while Noteboom cannot make it to the event as he will be on duty. An unedited inter view with Noteboom will be presented that night to account for his absence. All four candidates are running on the MB 0 4 Qc VOTERS 2j >«MBM a. 4 Thornapple Kellogg shortstop Kylee Hoebeke has been named honorable mention all-state in Division 2 by the Michigan High School Softball Coaches Association for her performance during . her junior season this spring. (Photo by Brett Bremer) I • ? , . - >rr Republican ticket, meaning that the county’s sher­ iff for the next four years will ultimately be decided at the Aug. 6 primary election. On July 15, each candidate will have the oppor tunity to field a series of questions in a one-on-one setting with event moderator, editor Jayson Bussa. The event is free to attend. Additional information and coverage will be available as the event nears. w.* I t iU; 9 I iWe Antenna Men .1 Digital TV Antennas • Starlink installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems I- OM Give us a call! 269-967-8241 1 cell((';p)) SIG j www.theantennamen.com antcnnamen@gmail.com www.celtsignalpros.com j;. icpie with the Richt Connections’ 4 I I 1. ■ I 4 f 4. I I I ' I �16 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Jay, June 29, 2024 I -■ ha I * 15 •' •?**! 7 A’ > I • .• > **J X. !• 1 V* k^a k 9: ‘^•j raivv «M«HMr - » ! +•’ * » 1 t ♦*k * •J « % ■ -t > ^1 I A >. J r J I 9 I? < I * 4> w 4 J « ■i r > i • 1 I k dk Ji ‘iJ T - UaBBB 1 V’ Cx’- ■ IV ifP r • •’•-w • ■“•*dr •■; * \r^ * > s: u ' 'f IP. 9 » <• Kv’ J • -^> uu'vcMra i —I' A *4. 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' .- ' •►. ♦ r ff ■< ■ > “■%'■< X ■1' 1 / fs ► ■ 1 b ' «, r • Si V 1^ t <a » •V.>|S(.- •r > > *'4f . •>-- ♦ •T : !»♦ d4 A S* P B «l * < i - •4 / 1 si > WB II* J '.*4' r.-* 'If. I I * I •■ * :> </' ■' I I > t z H. IW* h. J* 4 >•? • 4 s IB I i “k 1 A Ip >. >. •i. I 4 K 1 >1 CM rv 1 ■•4 R I in rx 1 I t 'O >? ). >0 o J z < M«r^ * z S Q.f« Q>^ 0: o a > I w '«• a -’j: V .'X >.:w or 9 •k am -a* S« * > , ■—i» e. w 7-f' •1 X Ty Hookahs -^1 V ' N’'>* V '', 1 \ 9 » RYO <z> CO Tl <U C Q. ■c � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-07-06.pdf d79811e19f587a48c41578f8b53c571e PDF Text Text p I I p I 4- - ri'- the SUN *s AND NEWS av* * > Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Gaines Township Areas * L*u 4 1*J V p > X NO. 14 i I TT V I First Lady visits Middleville touting food assistance programs a A ¥ r £ • A* . SATURDAY, JULY 6, 2024 I 1 I I i J Page 11 » I« ■■■ I www.sunandnews.com ^r: • Public hearing for Middleville housing project TIF set for Tuesday JAYSON BUSSA Editor > A developer’s request for a tax­ increment financing agreement to support a proposed Middleville housing project is heading down the final stretch for approval. After getting approval from the Village of Middleville and the Middleville Downtown Development Authority, Dutch Developers LLC now seeks a green light from the Barry County Board of Commissioners. A public hear­ ing for the agreement is slated for Tuesday, July 9 at the board’s 9 a.m. meeting in Hastings. The agreement would support the construction of 144 “workforce housing” apartment units on a 13.3See HOUSING on 5 E fc, ■i A Y'Trr * ♦ • * ’FwwiT'y^' .• j', ♦ "’^W J J IttRpflfjBfl ■‘^ 5^ *•*".*' >• . I 4 I si r w. </tsa r L 7 IT (tf \’ s h*t ‘4 H ’•f ' A*r > .» T * tJ. «A>-« « '-m. r -IS M ff-***r- f 1?^- T'Xr' > ■ .i ^HVW* J ■' *< '« i- •' KO^ IT •*i &.> lAt 4 ■MM The future site of the Flats at Mid-Villa project is designed to include 144 apartment units along with a 134waa3 U3IAI01Sn3 unit self-storage facility ivuNaoisiu and three commercial outlets fronting M-37 SZZ# JiLUJad SESet11/^ '3||IAU93jg Highway. (File photo) SSMU33 8C88. IW aiBAUsajB OK’oaOd aivd 3ovisod s n QiS ISdd Kilt Klassic 5K benefits CHS track, cross country programs GREG CHANDLER y?Lg— Staff Writer About 240 runners turned out last Saturday at Caledonia High School for the 17th annual Kilt Klassic 5K run. The run began under a light drizzle, but soon after the start, the drizzle ended, giving way to cloudy skies. Proceeds from the Kilt Klassic go toward supporting the track and cross country programs at Caledonia High. And it was one of the top runners that the CHS program has produced over the years that was first to the finish line. Micah Meindertsma, a 2017 CHS grad who went on to run track and cross country at Calvin University, won the men’s race for the second straight year and fifth time overall - he also won it in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Meindertsma crossed the finish line in 16 minutes, 2 seconds. Jamin Thompson was second over all in the men’s race and won the 20-24 age bracket in 16:22. Clenon Fincher was third overall in 16:39. Ashley Huggler, running in the Kilt Klassic for the first time since she won the women’s division in 2019, took the women’s title again in her return, completing the course in 19:07. Huggler is a physician‘s assistant and former standout runner at Grand Valley State University. Recent CHS graduate Alyssa DeFields finished second in the women’s division in 19:17, while Hannah Dupuis was third in 21:08. Meindertsma enjoys running in the Kilt Klassic and supporting the program in which he flourished as a high schooler. “I love the community. I love com B*? T^^CWAiu. ' .W2aN^r<> at*.: Iv*. X » t I A 4>- * 1*'. ♦ ? • — • «» J r %r* • i' c f' I '40*. •l . r <1 ■■ 'wf, «9 I * a. r <:x •V 6* I ... I * I s >2 A -AU ' .A 1 ,_____ J' 1 i' "Ft t c«c *». • 'i. ^y/ ■< < A. I V w* r «^' . .. 3if', ■ 9 ' xr. 1 • « 1^' • I » I X -JS. 1^- 5^ ♦ .1 » ■ I* I k •I ' r t' V r. < I ’ I— ^PW* r < z I A .*1 I, * x «»- s AdXlL"** ... !■»! I 1-“. irQir r^nM7 Runners get ready to take off for last Saturday’s Kilt Klassic 5K in Caledonia. (Photos by Andy Cleary) I « * ** ■ ♦ t V4 ‘1 V ^r rf <A» * v -•^ * I 1 r »r; I 1 « I I ■'S- t .> <1 b^ .* d] 0 .« fr 4 - )t^g • • k • • s • Vf'' • ■ft* ■ si •* *s 1 I ■ I - b SXd • * mU* A pack of kids take part in the fun run during the Kilt Klassic in Caledonia on Saturday, June 29. ing back to my hometown and being able to continue to support the cross country (and track) program here,” he said. “I’m still good friends with Coach (Ben Thompson), and I try to follow the team as much as I can. Meindertsma is beginning training for what he hopes will be an oppor­ tunity to compete in the marathon at the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2028. Thompson says a lot of the runners who take part in the Kilt Klassic ran in the CHS track and cross country programs when they were in high school. “It’s always kind of like a little homecoming,” Thompson said. “Just See KILT KLASSIC on 2 �J < 2 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 KILT KLASSIC Continued from Page 1 www.sunandnews.com sign up at runsignup.com/ hkrscaledonia. * 4 « NIA .KHt. k 1 today I got a chance to talk to quite a few of our former athletes. That’s always cool. 1 love to see them come back and support the pro­ gram.” For Huggler, running in the Kilt Klassic was a fam­ ily affair. Her husband, Caleb, was one of several Caledonia firefighters who volunteered for the race, and their kids were also on hand. “I’ve got my family down here, my kids (were) going to be out here (after the race) for the fun run,” Huggler said. After the 5K race, kids headed over to an open field behind the high school for the fun run. Kids had their choice of running a 100yard dash, a quarter-mile or a full mile. This year marked the first year that the Healthy Kids Running Series partnered with Kilt Klassic organizers for the fun run. “I’ve got a lot of famil iar faces from the running series I see,” series director Christine Bridges said. The Healthy Kids Running Series in Caledonia takes place twice during the year, for a span of five weeks each session. Runs take place at 4 p.m. on Simday afternoons. The fall season of the Healthy Kids Running Series will begin Sept. 8 at Lakeside Park. It is open to kids from age 2 to the eighth grade, with races ranging from a 50-yard dash to a mile run. Anyone interested in running can I R CALED 2024 Kilt Klassic Medalists Male 14 and under: 1. Sean Thompson, 18:45. 2. Isaac Dinh, 19:01. 3. Bentley Nichols, 20:20. Female 14 and under: 1. Annalise Wiltjer, 23:32. 2. Zoe Lockwood, 25:02. 3. Kendall Van Ryn, 25:30. Male 15-19: 1. Eli Velting, 16:40. 2. Kort Thompson, 17:07. 3. Noah Johnston, 17:19. Female 15-19: 1. Alyssa DeFields, 19:17. 2. Hannah Dupuis, 21:08. 3. Hannah Bennett, 23:31. Male 20-24: 1. Jamin Thompson, 16:22. 2. Clenon Fincher, 16:39. 3. Noah Peterson, 17:12. Female 20-24: 1. Alexis Mast, 31:13. 2. Stephanie Dykgraaf, 31:32. 3. Natalie Weibel, 32:12. Male 25-29: 1. Cole Mabie, 18:57. 2. Eric Pinder, 27:05. 3. Grant Cook, 29:21. Female 25-29: 1. Kelli Laube, 25:30. 2. Maria Feist, 25:31. 3. Kendra Longoria, 29:41. Male 30-34: 1. Brent VanEnk, 21:19. 2. Nathaniel Zeitler, 26:51. 3. Devin Longoria, 29:41. Female 30-34: 1. Andrea Miedema, 23:54. 2. Olivia Schram, 26:22. 3. Kara Hayward, 26:51. Male 35-39: 1. Ryan Harp, 20:51. 2. Andrew Mepham, 25:13. 3. Brandon Postema, 25:54. Female 35-39: 1. Kathryn Wells, 24:52. 2. Laura Marsh, 25:02. 3. Laura J / •/ *• IC « w t ’• * w ■ 1 jsic.cor ’> » assi • < hu’V • •n |S «- . ^- a AMOf I I r< 9 4, 1 •e.i ) 1 .71 • f- « «• i*L >V .< X I / r: >» J ( I.. —M *r t 'l(J 9X 1 A I T r* .9 • ■•' r* 'I * "v <s « I'Sic.com ti t* iri, I I I I • kiltklassif > ■ c* J 9 M iV k r • J xa ’W f •’I *1---- -J - t A,; « U" “•^ I b^S My Team Triumph West Michigan had several “captains.” those who are in wheelchairs, being pushed by “angels, which are volunteer runners. (Photo by Greg Chandler) < aa.” s:^ 4—.- M 5S'it < « I I f i I I 4 I '.Uit:s rC ^*1 II A / J Hoyer, 35:18. Male 40-44: 1. Greg Seif, 20:55. 2. Josh Edgar, 21:20. 3. Colin Nelson, 23:11. Female 40-44: 1. Lindsey Jacobs, 24:37. 2. Kim Burman, 28:28. 3. Katie Krusniak, 29:20. Male 45-49: 1. Scot Morrell, 19:49. 2. Mark DeBlaay, 20:26. 3. David Dryburgh, 25:22. Female 45-49: 1. Valerie DeBlaay, 24:50. 2. Shannon Collins, 24:58. 3. Vikki Boersma, 25:15. Male 50-54: 1. Paul Bundschuh, 29:07. 2. Chris Otto, 31:51. Female 50-54: 1. Jill DeGrove, 25:43. 2. Joy Slager-Hyde, 26:55. 3. Tammy Venhuizen, 28:47. Male 55-59: 1. Kevin Crothers, 28:09. 2. Thomas Bont, 34:44. Female 55-59: 1. Lisa Travis, 35:40. 2. Julie Meindertsma, 39:10. Male 60-64: 1. Tom Kribs, 24:17. 2. Jerry Barnaby, 25:15. 3. Tom Dean, 25:17. Female 60-64: 1. Joan Klooster, 28:48. 2. Dion Wierenga, 30:10. 3. Susan Pifer, 30:15. Male 65-69: 1. Howard Best, 26:02. 2. Mike Weingate, 26:07. 3. Steve Darrell, 30:00. Female 65-69: 1. Barbara Turner, 32:48. 2. Carla Safie, 41:46. 3. Sally Gless, 47:38. Male 70 and over: 1. Frank Schwartz, 22:34. 2. Steve Sanxter, 31:26. 3. Thomas Carlson, 33:46. Female 70 and over: 1. Joan Hanna Darrell, 31:58. My Team Triumph — W! . f •sic.cor n . •'3 / I i i 9 I r' y r "■ I .M '. Uklassic ?v I i f J K a 3 Women’s division winner Ashley Muggier poses for pictures with her 2-year-old daughter, Hadley. Huggler was competing in the Kilt Klassic for the first time since 2019, when she won the women’s division. 1 1 I (Photo by Greg Chandler) I i male: 1. Dakota Tomac, 20:39. 2. Josh Weingate, 23:25. 3. Brian VanDam, 29:37. My Team Triumph female: 1. Heather Brown, 25:48. I I THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. IWI-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US PUBLISHED BY S Editor: Jayson Bussa jayson@j-adgraphics.com . -Il ■ 4 r. < I f k Group Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper ' -9, e Alt advertisirig in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card °'' a^yert'sing contract, copies of which are t I 4 I 1 b -. •Hastings. Ml 49058 ( 269-945^54). This newspaper reserves the right not to orderrOur ad takers have s newspaper and only : iication of an ad constitutes acceptance of at advertiser’s order » 1 1 I f I I I 1 �/ s \ I www.sunanclnews.com tuc ci iki a Kir-v _■------------ ---------------- --------------------- ------- HE SUN AND NEWS______ _____________________Saturday, July 6, 2024 r 3 Middleville DDA seeks input on future of downtown GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer EWS The Middleville Downtown Development Authority is seeking input from village residents on what improvements and developments they would like to see in the down­ town area. The DDA is hosting three “pop-up” public engagement booths this sum­ mer at the Sesquicentennial Pavilion on Fridays during the Middleville Market and the Riverbank Music Series. The first of the sessions took place June 28. “We want to hear their input. We want to know what they need in their community,” DDA Director Gretchen James said. The DDA in January retained the consulting firm Williams & Works to help the organization update its development plan for downtown, as well as the tax-increment financing plan that provides the financial back­ bone to DDA. Middleville has had a DDA since 2001. The tax-increment financing plan is scheduled to expire at the end of next year if it is not renewed, James said. The DDA is in its recertification process, and as part of that, we want to engage with the public and see what they want to see in Middleville’s downtown,” James said. The DDA is paying Williams & Works $20,500 to assist in the devel- u I ■ A / f ____ X _ T" r k ( 7 t' .. -t: ?2*3 V <> i '■ J •./^>. I I 'is > > I AS X •r I r L —* • iF^t During the Middleville DDA’s June 28 public engagement session, visitors had a chance to take part in a penny jar exercise where they could place their pennies in any one of 10 jars that symbolize different options of activities DDA could pursue going forward. (Photos by Greg Chandler) opment plan update. During the June 28 public engage­ ment session, visitors had a chance to take part in a penny jar exercise where they could place their pennies in any one of 10 jars that symbolize different options of activities DDA could pursue going forward. The question on the poster asked, “if you were the Downtown Development Authority Board, how would you invest your tax increment financing dollars in the district to improve the downtown and encour- 1 J K (. •• r f JtJ ’^war *» I t’F .J '4 X* I 'Jr ■■■Rh*' ^^j^OVEMEN^ » ■.w-^ r* ' 'A ' “*( .f t f' 1 J*..*!. i ■■ •• '’M ♦ 4 < j . 'i •4^ f I A rsziXr^iir- • f f IS I ■- »• X 3^ **^^«**M«*«. Ji /. RV-*’ *—X' A; " - _« .*»• —r*w<- I i FURNACE i I I &AIR I— «15D; / 5-5 Hi^h Efficiency I I I I I I I r^gHT * 11 ,Wi— IIIM.I ; I I I 9 H X s X 11 I h' I *>**1 T 1 IMPROVeMCHTS 0Aa BU*«t irr»p«o*vm»nt> iriclu^ bt«fD'Our« lnr*r«e>ct>on*. AArrowino V9h>cl« A0«^i» AcMnQ B fn^i^ ot l^lnnd. % O1 c<WT>pi«Ka px—. i- ' |0dM«A^iK ■ fenmvR^ An<f narrow’no corn<K rMUf. Visitors to the booth could take part in a penny jar exercise where they could vote with their pennies on what improvements should be done downtown. i i * » Visa & MasterCard Accepted it 'u 5 Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com r FRONTIER 12S5-I596 HEATING a COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 »I I •"A' >11 — CALMING A STReer r s • Auto Glass Installation • Insurance Work Welcome i • •.A--- • J 1 J I « • Wheel Alignments < 1 &I X I a1 I I J It '4 ' i ^^Hjb 2^ Full Service Body Shop s I" * r I « 5 r I ■■ .n' ■ Bruce's Framed and Alignment ? a, I ‘ Must present this coupon Expires 7-15-24 I I rI r I ■2^ I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE ‘No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. I I “The company built by referrals” *•<5 V 1 OFF A 9frX. J. age economic development?” Jars were labeled with such catego­ ries as “promotion and marketing,” “facade/building improvements,” ■RUUD I t . tJ f, 4 J '^’^ketinc :5 •v:.’! I I .^^MOT^ON & s '3^ • I . •r ’X 1? 1 I t< 4 9 I < I •*. r •^* < 4 - # 5 J 5 < - > HB|Pr 1 4k :r. M I , •I L?fcSi= __ _ I .* t -«t'2 J •»^ ’4c >* / ***—’/fll 5 •> J Ci;.'’: z / * *'*h^ Ifi I X wMing"''^xr^i^ < ic'd :C f *c ► ( . k A « • I 4» I 1 S^' VS J *V w* «r 7^ r r ■ r- r T. > i '■'r ♦ X* X « & A * ; * r ex 4 f ts r 8^1 I ~^~ *•» < * -X'a A •« -A L )* 7^ ’ w h r »< / ^-•A. * • *h *«a '■Hi I* / f iK TSR'^i f 46 •’ “park and greenspace improvements and “landscaping improvements.” In addition, visitors could write suggestions on post-it notes and have them put up on another poster to address possible future amenities or developments. One resident proposed the idea of pickleball courts. The public engagement booths are the first step in the development plan update. The DDA will seek input later this year from businesses in the district to see what kind of support they need and how DDA can better assist them, James said. Recommendations on the plan update, based on the public and business input, are expected to be presented before the end of this year. The Village Council will have to give final approval to the update, said Nathan Mehmed, a senior plan­ ner for Williams & Works who is working with DDA on the project. Additional public input sessions will be held on July 19 during the Middleville Market and Riverbank Music Series, and Aug. 24 during 95 « r ri 1 415 2nd • Middleville ^■1 Hb V \ J l! ri*> 5 I �4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 - Gingriches to celebrate 50th wedding anniversary Charles and Juanita (Wilson) Gingrich will be celebrating their 50th anniversary on June 28, 2024. They were united in marriage on June 28, 1974 at Cascade Christian Church, Cascade, MI. Their children include Charles C. Gingrich of Hastings, MI, Emily (Steven) Gary of Freeport, MI, Katherine Gingrich of Delton, MI. They have three grandchildren, Charlie Gary, Abigail Falstrom, and Ella Gary. There will be a celebration hosted by the Gingriches in Sept. 2024, to be announced. To send them a card please mail to; 371 N. Airport Rd., Hastings, MI 49058. I t I +• Obituaries •‘■‘S ■ 4 X-' i . > I 6 J ' » 1 r ■ *** .arts] * w I Ellen Kay Noah s 1 d J w 1 it: i Ellen Kay Noah passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on May 3,2024, at the age of 89. Born on July 10,1934, in Detroit, Ml, Kay was the beloved daughter of Mack and Marguerite (Stephan) Catchick. After graduating from Grosse Pointe High School in 1952, Kay pursued her passion for education and attained a BA degree in elementary education from Michigan State University in 1956. Kay continued her educational pursuits by obtaining a master’s degree from Western Michigan University in 1973. She devoted over two decades to shaping young minds as an elementary teacher at Thornapple-Kellogg Schools, from 1973 to 1994, a role she cherished deeply. Her marriage to Melvin L. Noah, MD on August 26,1956 at the MSU Chapel was a testament to enduring love, spanning 67 years of mutual support and shared dreams. As the matriarch of a bustling household, Kay was a wonderful mother to four boys - Greg, Terry, Randy, and Chris instilling in them the values of integrity, generosity, and education. She was also a steadfast partner in her husband’s medical practice, offering her unwavering support through the years. Family was Kay’s greatest joy, as evidenced by her devotion to her sons and their spouses, Greg (Jean) Noah, OD, Terry (Margaret Helton, MD) Noah, MD, Randy (Chen Yin, JD) Noah, JD, and Chris (Ann) Noah, MD. She reveled in the growth of her grandchildren, Christopher (Christina) Noah, Kelsey (Austin) Styler, Corrie Noah, Paul Noah, Hannah Noah, MD, Sean (Sarah) Noah PhD, Kelly (Max) Wolffe, Carly Noah, Janie Noah, Luke Noah, Chloe (Steve) Reamer, and SJ (Claes) Adler. The cherished moments she spent with them and her many great-grandchildren will endure as treasured memories. Kay’s own siblings, brothers, Jim and Chris Catchick, along with her nieces and nephews, Maggie (Kevin) Houghton, Matt (Christine) Catchick, John (Jan) VanderWall, and Scott (Denise) VanderWall, enriched her life immeasurably. Kay was preceded in death by her parents. Mack and Marguerite (Stephan) Catchick; step­ mother, Doris Catchick: brother, Jim Catchick, and sister-in-law, Mary Frances VanderWall. Kay’s family will receive friends on Saturday, July 13, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home where her celebration of life will be conducted at 1 p.m. Private burial will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Memorial contribution to Thornapple-Kellogg Schools (memo line: Elementary Schools in memory of Kay Noah) will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Kay’s family. 1 » 1 I virf LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY 4 t c r— -<1- . 4 •Hi Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch T^V Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891 -8669 CalcdoniaUMC.org Livestream. Faccbook.com/CalcdoniaUnitedMethodist Serving Strengthening Connecting Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham r* BAPTIST IS4id.dleville • *» 1 • Sunday Service 10:30 AM Good Shepherd Lutheran Church ot co *!• fl I r ■“ r '4 Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville t ''A*-, '4^ 908 W Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: (269) 795-2391 a^PEACE CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfaniilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. V / .sTrauf iircfiuft/t ft": !. 4 (ill PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee OURNEY HOLY FAMILY ^/CATHOLIC CHURCH Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.or ■^AM CHURCH ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: LEARN MORE! 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch jAk THORNAPPLE VALLEY 9CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com I Whitneyville r. yChurch 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Sunday Wonhip 9:30 AM 10:30 AM INTCtBATIJm ' > J 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"*^ & 48^^ Worship Services Sunday ioamdi6 pm Watch our services from our website (see above) k Fellowship Church Praising Cod through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School M—/ Yankee Springs Bible Church 4 Forth God's Light" Prayer Meeting 8^ Bible Study Sunday Morning Worship Wednesday 6:30 pm & y pm I Group Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online; WhitneyvilleFellowshgp.org I t 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org t: .♦ u * FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 SH// O*< * • 1 III J .t - .Al- I b* 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend 9 a A « J 1 I I I I I 1 1 J I I �www.sunandnews.com M housing Continued from Page 1 al * 1 I I 1 acre section of property as part of the Flats at Mid-Villa project in Middleville, which is proposed for a long-vacant parcel of land along M-37 Highway. If approved, the TIF would allow the county’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority to collect $4.48 million in new tax revenues that are expected to be generated by the development of the apartments at Mid-Villa over the next 15 years. About $1.9 million of that would come from DDA, which operates with its own tax-increment financ­ ing mechanism where it captures a portion of taxes paid by downtown property owners to support public improvements in the downtown. The TIE request from Dutch Developers is the result of a change in the state’s Brownfield Development Financing Act which has been in place since the late 1990s. State lawmakers last year passed a four-bill package that changes the law to allow new tax revenues captured through local brownfield redevelopment authori­ ties to fund affordable housing proj­ ects. The Flats at Mid-Villa project calls for the construction of 120 two-bedroom apartments and 24 one-bedroom apartments, along with a 134-unit self-storage facility and three commercial outlets fronting M-37. The TIF agreement would not apply to the commercial portion of the project, the developers pointing out that the project would start con­ tributing some tax revenue immedi­ ately. The apartments would be mar­ keted toward people whose incomes are between 80 and 120 percent of the community’s median income, which works out to between $40,000 and $90,000 a year. Rents for the apartments would range from $ 1,225 a month for one bedroom to $1,475 for two bedrooms, project developers have said. Stakeholders presented the request and scheduled the public hearing during a June 18 meeting of the county board’s Committee of the Whole. At the meeting, the request THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 received strong support, both from “It is imperative that we don’t lose those who spoke during public potential employees to businesses comment and from members of the in neighboring counties or see high Middleville business community school and college graduates leave who provided their support in writ­ the area for communities with better ing. housing opportunities.” One of those was the county’s Travis Alden, an Irving Township largest employer in Bradford White, resident who was formerly presiwhich operates dent of the a large produc­ Barry County tion facility in Chamber of Middleville. Commerce “To ensure and Economic the long-term Development and now vitality of works for the area and economic address the development housing short­ firm The Right age, Bradford Place, under­ White is a scored that proponent of creating some the develop­ Travis Alden, momentum at ment of The The Right Place Inc. the site was Flats at Mid­ a long time Villa, affordcoming. able housing that will not only be a He recalled how, when he started benefit for all employers but future at the chamber eight years ago, job seekers,” Bradford White Senior the property was ripe for redevel­ Vice President Peter Kattula wrote opment. He said that developers in a letter of support for the project. “kicked the tires” but never could make the numbers work. “My concern is if there is a contin­ ued hesitation to utilize the housing TIF tool that it will continue to be the entryway to our county this vacant site,” Alden said. “If there is no action taken, noth­ ing happens,” he added. Hastings resident Chelsey Foster, who belongs to the Barry County Economic Development Alliance, Brownfield Redevelopment Board and Hastings Planning, also voiced his approval. He said a housing development of this magnitude would be a win for the Village of Middleville, Thomapple Kellogg Schools and the business commu­ nity. “The big elephant in the room to me is we have our largest employ­ er and taxpayer sitting there in Bradford White,” Foster said. “They struggle to hire all the time. They’re always trying to expand and look for folks, and they’ve always point­ ed to housing as a big challenge.” Staff writer Greg Chandler con­ tributed to this report. MlVIy concern is if there is a continued hesitation to utilize the housing TIF tool that it will continue to be the entryway to our county —this vacant site. 99 • ; I ,I f f U' ' I r:: lif I .vz; '.IJ PUBLIC NOTICE The Village of Middleville Public Works Department will be flushing fire hy­ drants beginning at 7:00 am on Mon­ day, July 15, 2024, and will continue throughout the month of July. Village water customers may experience some discoloration, and or pressure difference while this regular mainte­ nance is being accomplished. The water remains safe to drink during this process. Usually letting the tap run for a few minutes will clear up any discoloration and normal pressures will return once flushing operations have been completed. If you have any questions regarding this operation, contact the Department of Public Works at 269-795-2094. Village water operators appreciate your patience in our endeavor to provide you the high­ est quality water possible. Posted: July 1, 2024 Kim Dannenberg Village Deputy Clerk 5 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE, COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN Notice of Adoption of RESOLUTION REGARDING SCHEDULING OF A PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED VACATION OF A PORTION OF LAFAYETTE STREET WITHIN THE Village OF MIDDLEVILLE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, in accordance with the General Law Village Act, the Village Council of the Village of Middleville has adopted the following resolution relating to the scheduling of a public hearing on the proposed vacation of certain Village Streets Resolution No. 24-14: Resolution to Schedule Public Hearing on the Vacation and Discontinua­ tion of a Portion of Lafayette Street in the Keelers Addition Plat, a Recorded Plat (the “Resolution”). PUBLIC NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to the Resolution, the Village Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed vacation of a portion of Lafayette Street [East-West] on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., local time (or shortly thereafter) The text of this resolution setting forth the Village Council’s intent to vacate the street as de­ scribed above is set forth on the attached resolution or may be examined at the offices of the Mid­ dleville Village Clerk, 100 East Main Street, Middleville, Michigan, during Village office hours. Objections to the proposed vacation of the foregoing portion of Lafayette Street may be filed with the Village Clerk in writing at the Village offices, 100 East Main Street, Middleville, Michigan up to the time of the public hearing. VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 6 www.sunandnews.com Yankee Springs board passes 2024-25 budget, cuts tax rate GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Yankee Springs Township has a new budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year that began this week. The Township Board at a special meeting on June 26 unanimously passed a budget that calls for general fund spending of $1,831,258 and a surplus of $43,082 to be added to the township’s reserves. The township was expected to end the 2023-24 fiscal year June 30 with a surplus of $354,975, according to budget docu­ ments. The township’s total tax rate will be reduced this year via the Headlee amendment from 1.601 to 1.5912 mills. The operating levy has been rolled back from 0.851 to 0.8458 mills, while the emergency services levy has been reduced from 0.75 to 0.7454 mills, according to budget documents. The board held two special meet ings, on May 30 and June 12, to put together the budget, Township Supervisor Rob Heethuis said. “They were the longest meetings we had all year. It shows there was a lot of discussion,” Heethuis said. The township’s elected officers had their pay increased by 3.2 per­ cent. Heethuis’ salary increased from $30,772 to $31,757. Clerk Mike Cunningham will see his salary rise from $33,251 to $34,315. Treasurer Deb Mousseau’s pay will increase from $31,423 to $32,429, budget documents show. Board trustees Larry Knowles and Dave VanHouten will each receive a salary of $5,110 for the fiscal year, up from $4,952 during the 202324 fiscal year, according to budget documents. In addition to the elected officials’ salary increased, the budget provides a substantial increase for the parttime deputy clerk. The pay for that position jumped 20.4 percent from $6,976 to $8,400, Cunningham said. “The deputy clerk handles a lot of the new election law mandates. There’s been a lot of talk over the last couple of years about what a burden it is on the clerks, but the deputy clerk really picks up an awful lot of it also,” Cunningham said. The new Yankee Springs bud­ get creates three part-time posi­ tions: cemetery manager, recycling center manager and Freedom of Information Act coordinator. The cemetery manager pays $2,500 a year, while the recycling center man­ ager and FOIA coordinator positions pay $1,500 a year. “(These positions) are available to anybody — any of the (township) employees. It doesn’t even have to be elected or appointed. Anybody could do those (jobs), if we choose them for it,” Cunningham said. The operation of the township fire station on South Payne Lake Road is the biggest ticket line item in the 2024-25 budget, with the township expected to spend $329,750 in the new fiscal year, up from $281,520 during the 2023-24 fiscal year. according to the budget document. Another $200,000 will be trans­ ferred to the fire equipment purchase fund, including $150,000 from the township’s allocation from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The township will spend another $150,000 on roads and $129,800 on parks. In addition, $68,000 will go toward paying off an installment purchase agreement that financed a portion of the Township Hall reno vation project that was completed last year, the budget document shows. In addition to approving the gener­ al fund budget, the Township Board approved the Gun Lake Area Sewer & Water Authority water system budget of $161,506. That’s down from the 2023-24 budget figure of $176,029. The new budget reflects spending reductions in operations and maintenance, as well as in pay­ ing off bonds for the water tower and arsenic removal, according to township documents. * r cornerstone church we re casual, come as vou are. I ■r ' ' One Church • Three Locations Caledonia | Grand Rapids | Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! B I Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! U ■ < '5 . » « • •-■V V?- WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Residential & Commercial • t >> ' Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters ■ ■ ■ Bi 5^. • z.« A * J.' > • ‘AIB ►*«<' 'J 4 IJ s■ • *-r '■£2..’4Wir ..» 72 I< I , * -8?— V.Ji • ? s K k' I * �I I. ■t. T www.sunandnews.com I* —__________ _____________________________ THE SUN AND NEWS • I J Saturday, July 6, 2024 Game Area expands after DNR tacks on newly acquired property • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized . „ - —_________ Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair Celebration for the expansion is slated for July 15 Earlier this spring, the Southwest pj mwi mm Michigan Land Conservancy pur­ X v chased the 200-acre former Boys and '5 •'i V * * Girls Club of Kalamazoo Camp in *» 5 rd » Hastings, donating it to the Michigan ''We go above and beyond Un t Department of Natural Resources to »■ ■ i v»< your vehicle repairs! ” become part of Barry State Game GOLDOASS Area. This si^ificant addition ar I A' Hc^ enhances habitat connectivity and * WMBA biodiversity in the region, a key prior­ ’l Lesonal>(ym^ NFIB ity for both the conservancy and the DNR. 616.891.0150 '• The DNR and the Southwest www.edsbodv.com Michigan Land Conservancy will cel­ ebrate the conservation of this special property 2 to 4 p.m. on Monday, July 15, at the former Boys and Girls Club Camp. Brief remarks will be followed CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN by guided walks on the property at 110 Johnson Street 2451 Erway Road in Hastings. Owner Ed Pawloski Jr. An aerial view of a portion of the 200-acre former Boys and Girls Club of “We are thrilled to welcome this OPEN; M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Kalamazoo Camp in Hastings, which was donated to the DNR property into Barry State Game (Photo provided by Keto Gyekis) Area,” Mark Mills, regional supervi­ sor for the DNR Wildlife Division, said in a statement. “Conserving this boundary with the nearly 17,000-acre land is an important step in our ongo­ Barry State Game Area to the west. 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Phone: 616.891.0070 ing efforts to enhance wildlife habitat, Caledonia, MI 49316 “This is a key property that C■TOWNSHIP aledomiA Fax: 616.891.0430 biodiversity and hunting opportunities SWMLC has been interested in con­ in the region.” serving for many years,” said the con­ CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA The Boys and Girls Club Camp servancy ’ s Land Protection Director COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN property is situated between the Kaleigh Winkler. Audubon Warner Sanctuary to the The property has long been recog­ NOTICE TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF north and Southwest Michigan Land nized as one of the most important Conservancy’s limited-access Freese CALEDONIA OF THE LAST DAY OF VOTER REGISTRATION Preserve to the south. It also shares a FOR THE AUGUST 6, 2024 SPECIAL TOWNSHIP ELECTION See BARRY STATE on 12 '■-Y • ■ • t . 'V * 4 » i - .K? » 01. J• ■ Vr * . . A * •» > 7-. » f* « *4 4 K 1 I i K. fj A XI <■ I 4 if- e > * I f 21^ k .C. f n < • > I 1 41 ■ ■<t * ■r' *. .M* »■ 1 ?• 4 n -,4 4 1 c 0 ^ir. I I ■ IA X t ♦v- y* V I I a • ? t i I V *• t i .i’ r 9 ! r I *» ED’S BODY SHOP ,4 I Barry County community survey designed to identify health concerns REMINDER STAFF The Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) and Corewell Health Pennock have collaboratively launched the next cycle of the Barry County Community Health Needs Assessment, aimed at understand­ ing and identifying the most pressing health concerns within Barry County. One of the first stages of tiiis assess­ ment is a community health survey that can be completed by anyone who lives or works in Barry County. This initiative highlights the dedica tion of BEDHD and Corewell Health Pennock to enhancing the well-being of all residents in Barry County. Both BEDHD and Corewell Health Pennock acknowledged the importance of gathering input from the community to identify areas for improvement and to tailor programs and services accordingly. The survey is designed to collect insights directly I The Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia has scheduled a special Township I election in conjunction with the State primary election on August 6, 2024, to present a special ballot I proposition requesting renewal of a fire protection and law enforcement millage in the expiring I amount of 1.9236 mills. The total 1.9236 mills levy, if approved, would be used by the Township to I operate the Township fire department and provide law enforcement services within the Township. I The full text of the ballot proposition may be obtained free of charge at the Caledonia Township I office, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, Caledonia, Michigan. I Any qualified resident of the Charter Tovraship of Caledonia, County of Kent, State of Michigan, I who is not already registered to vote may register to vote in the special Township election to be held I on the 6th day of August, 2024, in the Township. I The last day to register for the August 6, 2024 special election (other than in-person registration) I will be: I Monday, July 22, 2024 I The Township Clerk shall be at the Clerk’s office during regular business hours located at the I Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, from Monday, July 22, 2024 to the I date of the election to receive voter registrations. I This Notice is given by authority of the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia. I I See SURVEY on 12 RENEWAL OF PUBLIC SAFETY MILLAGE Joni Henry, Clerk Charter Township of Caledonia �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 8 www.sunanclnews.com Caledonia shows its patriotic spirit at Independence Day parade GREG CHANDLER t Staff Writer 1^- W‘ > I 'ven the dogs came dressed in red, white and blue last Saturday in Caledonia for the community’s annu al Independence Day parade. Lmily Murphy of Caledonia brought her mini golden-doodles, I heo and Bernie, to the parade, along with her daughters Annie, 9, and Carrie, 7. Both dogs were sport­ ing tie-dyed red, white and blue dog shirts. Murphy said the shirts may have been a little uncomfortable for the dogs, “but they’ll tolerate it for an afternoon.” Hundreds of spectators lined Main Street for the parade, which began at Duncan Lake Middle School and concluded on Maple Street near the Village Hall. American Legion Post 305 led the parade, followed by the Caledonia High School marching band perform­ ing “You’re A Grand Old Flag.” Among the parade participants was John Brummel, who was recently t -___ ''d ^.«S r 4 4 «* *1 sr V* * Jil HA fl 9 I ■ ....... ‘■ST « V A • « « • i • •’*1 X < % • * • < - 4 • 1 h I * --- ■ WllMWfc « **• I > hJB i *i u w VJ •K A.; -/ •w 4 T « A ■ "1 IB a The Caledonia High School marching band plays “You’re A Grand Old Flag" as it marches the parade route last Saturday. -‘^5' . -L ■ **«<* A ___ • < ... A J V *1 « r r." I F 4 XI ■■'IC 1 •• • / I 4 i IBM I , *— r ft«rf"4 • * 1 The Caledonia Fire Department and Kent County Sheriffs Office also participated in the parade. The parade also featured numerous candidates for various political offices, with sup­ porters handing out brochures pro­ moting their favorite candidate. Later on Saturday night, the annual community fireworks were shot off from the CalPlex sports and recre­ ation complex, with spectators able to watch the festivities from Duncan Lake as well as the Holy Family Catholic Church campus. Caledonia’s Independence Day event is typically held the Saturday before the Fourth of July. **•< 4^ T ♦K ' *• t 9 L T J ,» 4* ■r K I J * f A A .#' » Lucas Makela, 7; Max Postema, 6 and Connor Makela, 9, all of Caledonia, show off their patriotism during last Saturday's I ndependence Day celebration in Caledonia (Photos by Greg Chandler) named Caledonia’s Hometown Hero for this year. Brummel, a Purple Heart recipient from when he was wounded in Vietnam in 1969, was a finalist in last fall’s ArtPrize competi­ tion in Grand Rapids for a piece of art inspired by those who received the Purple Heart after being wounded or killed in battle. He carved 12 wooden hearts and then laid them inside a larger wooden heart as a trib­ ute to Purple Heart recipients, titling the piece “The Heart of the Nation.” • III » ni Scan our QR code f io find your perfect invitation! 1 i 1 »> r L i&i rK ' ■* 9r. s n M. ri'' 4\ S ’ «l I llt«*« Mid L I S. '9. r I I I 4 c II 1 & I *i-7 T t' r 1 r • T », T Ihsv I I Nt p* I I 2 * I 9 F A *V ' *T ‘it M Simply Perfect K » r! •r 9 I WEDDING INVITATIONS p U*’ f Createrd just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. I PRINTING BY * ’i J I k I e ■¥< 4-w. • >^ www.printingbypennylane.com ft « ■ 4 «R •a I■ i:r> A ginad@pennylaneprinting .com * * fjsa Il_ . .X » MF''' > • . >•» • A •A 'I ..<w. -Z American Legion Post 305 led the Independence Day parade in Caledonia last Saturday. » 4* .< I 1 f * ~ri^- �♦ ♦ ♦ Saturday, July 6, 2024 9 ♦ i; ♦ f nuJ - ~L,' FINANCIAL FOCUS Provided by Andrew McFadden 1 J 4 • • » I I « r >jrr T and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones t Talk to your family about wealth transfer * < *> '-7-^ s. 9 ' J ir: \ > 8 « V 1,■ X. I « ■ <^.5. • • • *’ ''a .***»'■ r- — - 4 1 4 •• I* • i,;i, r 1^,.» *1 1 I '-i V ‘ TT" \ I I, A public hearing is set for July 16 to determine the potential continual on of a special assessment district for controlling aquatic weedsIlS pS in Campau and Kettle lake, which is pictured here (Photo by JaysoXssa) Caledonia Township slates hearing on Campau/Kettle Lake special assessment district for July 16 GREG CHANDLER staff Writer Caledonia Township has set a pub lie hearing for next month on con­ tinuing a special assessment district for controlling aquatic weeds and plants in Campau and Kettle lake. The Township Board will hold a public hearing at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, to consider plans by PLM Land and Lake Management to treat the lake start­ ing next year and continuing through 2040. The hearing will take place at the Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE. “This is an ongoing annual assess­ ment that the lake owners have asked us to do, to allow them to do col lections and to pay for weed control on that lake,” Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison said. PLM has proposed an aquatic weed and plant control program with pro­ jected costs over the 15-year period ranging from $238,000 to $285,000, including legal and contingency costs. The cost of the program in its first year would range from $22,000 to $27,000, according to township ■» •B documents. The July 16 hearing is part of a multi-step process for approving the special assessment district and determining how much property owners in the district will pay for the lake treatment. ‘Typically, special assessments begin with a petition on the part of the property owners, for lake treatment or for paving or some thing,” Township Treasurer Richard Robertson said. “This (assessment) has gone on so long that our attor­ ney, Mark Nettleton, suggested that we could move it forward on the board’s own motion. “I did contact a couple of different members of the lake association and they said almost 100 percent of the people are going to be for this. We save the step and the time of waiting for a petition, and we move forward with this first resolution.” The last time the Campau and Kettle Lake special assessment dis­ trict was updated was 2018. There are 129 lots included in the district, Robertson said. BB Are you anticipating an inheritance someday? If so. you may want to discuss it with your parents or other family members who may be leaving you the assets — because early, open commu­ nication will benefit every­ one involved. However, many people re uctant to have these conversations. More than a thwj A □ o Amencans do not oF 4-1. * X* np.? H O ? And the thai^nnlt that only about a quarter of wealthttisfefS S families. Perhaps this low level of communication is not sur­ prising - clearly, talking about wealth transfer and estate plans can be emotion­ al. But having these discus­ sions is important, for sever­ al reasons: Str^gthenmg family bonds bonds--Generational Generationalwealth wealth transfer shouldn’t be seen simply as a transactional event. By discussing your parents’ plans and wishes, and your own expectations, you can build a sense of unity and shared purpose. And you can develop a com­ mon philosophy about how your family’s legacy , goals will be earned forward through the succeeding generations. • Avoiding unpleasant surprises - If you or other • ■ r -I family members are expect­ you can discuss your par­ ing a certain inheritance and ents’ plans with them while things turn out differently, they are healthy and alert, disappointment and bad you can encourage them to feelings may occur. But this take the proper steps, such as can be avoided by having a reviewing outdated discussion beforehand that estate-planning documents clearly outlines your par­ and designating you or ents’ intentions. You still another family member as may not agree with them, , , power of attorney to make health care and financial but at least yuu you’u ll Know know wnat what health to exoect _ and van won ’ t ri * ■ , . to cxpeci expect — and and you you won won’tt decisions on their behalf make the the mistake mistake of of acting acting should they become incamake in advance on on any any assumpassump­ pacitated tions about what you’ll inherit. • Developing appropriate are clear, starting the converstrategies - Passing Passing on on 'wealth to a new generation sations can be^tricky You wealth to a new generation as part of an overall estate need to show that you want as part of an overall estate plan can be more complex to initiate these talks because than you might think. Are your parents using tax-smart strategies? Would they bene­ fit from establishing a living trust? Are the beneficiary designations on their retirement accounts and life insur­ ance policies accurate and up to date? If you suspect your parents may not have properly addressed these to bnng up the benefits of working with an estate-planning attorney and a tax advi­ sor. • Protecting against inca­ pacitation - Many people go through their senior years with few, if any, physical or mental --- impairments. But L»uL there are no guarantees. If one or both of your parents were to become incapacitated and unable to handle their financial affairs, it could cause senous problems with their wealth transfer and estate-planning goals. But if « plans need to be in place and understood by everyone involved. If you have a good relationship with your par­ ents, you should be able to start these conversations, but you’ll still need to be sensitive when bringing up the subject. One final word; Estate plans can take some time to develop — so, the sooner you have these discussions, the better. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors juuutcuu aavisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice You You should should consult consult your estate-nlnnnino nttnr^L or estate-planning attorney qualified tax advisor regarding your situation. Edward Jones, Member SIPC I �e 10 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 Plans being developed to address Hall Lake Dam deficiencies ♦ GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer ♦ ♦ Plans are in the works for what state officials are calling “necessary modifications and improvements” to the Hall Lake Dam in the Yankee Springs Recreation Area. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is working with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy on a design to address defi­ ciencies in the dam “while still pre­ serving an outdoor recreational lake experience at a new, lower lake ele­ vation,” park manager Joe Jandemoa said in a news release issued June 27. The dam, which is located six miles south of the village of Middleville and one mile east of Gun Lake, is owned by the DNR. Details of what the project will look like have not been publicly released. The DNR will share the concept plan once it has been com­ pleted, which is expected later this summer. A meeting for the public to share its views on the project is expected to be held in July or August. “When we do have the opportu­ nity to meet with the public later this summer, we hope to gather feedback from community mem­ bers, park users, anglers and other stakeholders to help inform the best course of action for Hall Lake Dam,” Jandemoa said in the news release. “The plan remains to minimize impacts by slightly lowering the water level, while maintaining the majority of the lake’s water acreage for recreation.” The Hall Lake Dam, which was built in the mid-1960s, was classifled as having a “significant haz ard potential” the last time it was inspected in July 2021. While a dam failure might not result in loss of human life, “economic damage, environmental harm or disruption to essential services downstream are probable,” Jandemoa said. The dam consists of a 250-footlong earthen fill embankment, located along the southernmost por­ tion of Hall Lake. The embankment tq. T . t 9 r * .-w 'A* A *4. £ > aw <• L ’If? rtf «■ M mvit V Vim NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MONDAY, JULY 22,2024, at 7:00 RM. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MONDAY, JULY 22,2024, at 7:00 P.M. Please be advised the Thomapple Township Plan­ ning Commission will hold public hearings on July 22, at 7pm or as soon thereafter as possible. The public hearings will take place in the Township Hall, 200 E. Main St, Middleville. Please be advised the Thomapple Township Plan­ ning Commission will hold public hearings on July 22, at 7pm or as soon thereafter as possible. The public hearings will take place in the Township Hall, 200 E Main St, Middleville. The public hearings will address the following; The public hearings will address the following: 1) Special Use 11173- Applicants Steven & Chere Hildeb­ rand are looking at operating a home based business for dumpster rentals at 7877 W Irving Rd, Middleville, Ml (parcel 08-14-025-009-23) per Thornapple Town­ ship Zoning Ordinance 5.3. Special Use 11156- Applicants Paul & Leslie Lettinga are wishing to begin a mining operation at 2190 Patterson Rd., Middleville, Ml (parcel 0814-031-014-20) per Thomapple Township Zoning Ordinance 19.53. Any interested person may attend the public hearings to leam about the extent and location of Special Use requests to offer comments to the Planning Commis­ sion. A copy of the application noted above may be examined in the Township offices at the address noted above during regular business hours. Monday - Thursday 9am- 4pm Any interested person may attend the public hearings to learn about the extent and location of Special Use requests to offer comments to the Planning Commission. A copy of the application noted above may be examined in the Township ofTices at the address noted above during regular business hours. Monday - Thursday Written comments regarding these applications may be addressed to: Secretary Sandy Rairigh, Thomap­ ple Township Planning Commision, P.O. Box 459, Written comments regarding these applications may be addressed to: Secretary Sandy Rairigh, Thornap­ ple Township Planning Commission, P.O. Box 459, Middleville, Ml 49333,or submitted via email to: zoning-administrator^hornapple-twp.org Middleville, Ml 49333, or submitted via email to: zoning-adminjstrator#thornapple-twp.org Americans with Disabilities Notice Persons with special access needs should contact the Township Clerk at 269-795-7202 no less than 72 hours before the hearings. Cincfy Ordway, Thomapple Township Clerk 9am- 4pm Americans with Disabilities Notice Persons with special access needs should contact the Township Clerk at 269-795-7202 no less than 72 hours before the hearings. Cindy Ordway, Thomapple Township Clerk 3“ r * ..xs ■l I * % K > 4;; A. IB3 J > aw A Kjgf J. > f I 1 d’ V * ■ Jt.A’ > .1 ♦ I* . / I 1 !• J f . ’I 3^ I * ( .'t k ■ *** - * -r* .A A A tf z*** * * J I I *rF r r % • •Rr> • ) I I r .J. •$ ^3 e zilM The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is planning to modify and improve a dam on Hall Lake in Yankee Springs Recreation Area. (Photo by Michigan Department of Natural Resources) has a crest width of approximately 35 feet and forms Gun Lake Road. It consists of a 24-inch diameter corrugated metal pipe (CMP) spill­ way consisting of a riser and bar rel, according to a report from GEI Consultants of Michigan, which is working with the DNR and EGLE to address safety concerns on the dam. The principal CMP spillway outlet failed in 2020 at the downstream extent of the pipe. The outlet pipe was temporarily repaired by replac­ ing several feet of the failed pipe, but the remainder of the outlet pipe remained in poor condition, “war ranting lining or replacement of the pipe and accounting for the over­ all poor condition assessment for the dam,” EGLE Dam Safety Unit Supervisor Lucas Trumble wrote in a December 2021 report to Ron Olson, who headed up the DNR’s parks and recreation division. Before the dam was built. Hall Lake was a natural lake that was only about eight acres in size and had a maximum depth of six feet. When the Barry County Road Commission built Gun Lake Road, the outlet culvert was placed high enough to flood 42 acres. The addi­ tion of the dam made the lake deep enough to stop fish kills during the * S8S«S3ZS57 J * *• winter, James Dexter of the DNR wrote in a 1992 report. The dam helped raise the lake to a maximum depth of 18 feet and expanded the surface area to 46 acres, Jandemoa said. In May, the DNR received a $ 1.6 million Dam Risk Reduction grant from EGLE to address infrastructure concerns with the Hall Lake Dam and potential impact on the surround­ ing environment. Hall Lake was one of 22 dams across the state to receive grants totaling $14.1 million designed to reduce the risk of dam failures. In the Hall Lake Dam case, the grant funds would be used to remove “all water control structures, placing a properly sized culvert to restore local hydrology, and restor­ ing the area with native vegetation,” according to an EGLE news release. “The Michigan Department of Natural Resources had been plan­ ning to replace the spillway, but costs came back very high, so they’ve decided to remove the dam and applied to us for a grant to do so,” EGLE spokesman Jeff Johnston wrote in an email. For more information on the Hall Lake Dam, contact Jandemoa at 269-795-9081 or email JandemoaJ@ Michigan.gov. �www.sunandnews.com I| ll ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ■ I> Saturday, July 6. 2024 11 . I l»^’ CSl « V ♦ --- » « > Phone: 616.H91 .0070 Fa.x. 616.89L0430 CTCW>5H1P aledonia I A* N’ •4*1 I 45^ 8196 Broadmoor Avc. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA s I MICHIGAN •% qualified electors OF the charter township of CALEDONIA OF THE AI M . U u 6, 2024 SPECI AL ELECTION IS hereby given that a SPECIAL ELECTION will be held in the Charter township ol Caledonia on August 6, 2024, from 7:00 a m. to 8:00 p.m. Local Time, in conjunction with the State primary election, to vote on the following Ballot Proposition: 1 f / » r.t •t 4 CHARTER TOW NSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN --W' lA* •< <1^ Kiu mUL .vc-Ifrenewal proposition ’Jhnil n, department AND LAW ENFORCEMENT SFRVICFS Shall the previously approved increase ' r.ivir.rN , mskvicES Township of Caledonia tax rale limitation be renewed in the amount of 1.9236 mills ($I .9236 per $1,000 of taxable val ue) on taxable propertv in the Township for the years 2024-2029, both inclusive? The purpose of the millage levy is to provide fire protection services in the Township, including the operation of the Township Fire Department and the acquisition and maintenance of fire and rescue vehicles, apparatus and eaiiinm.*nt equipment, and real 1 property and improvements used for fire protection purposes, and to provide law enforcement ser\'ices within the Township. It is estimated that a lew of 1 .9236 mills would provide ^his miHaJe of $2,059,599.00 in the first calendar year. The revenue from ^^s^millage levy will be disbursed to the Charter Township of Caledonia. k First Lady visits Middieviiie JAYSON BUSSA Editor The First Lady of the United States of America made a brief visit to Barry County on Wednesday when Dr. Jill Biden visited YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin in Middleville. Biden took a tour of the camp, vis­ iting with kitchen staff, speaking to a small group of visitors and then visit­ ing with campers. Flanked by Michigan’s Senator Debbie Stabenow, Biden touted vari­ ous food assistance programs cham­ pioned by the Biden Administration that have helped to feed kids especially during the summer months. President Joe Biden is facing re-election this November and Michigan is considered a swing state by pundits. Jill Biden’s visit occurred during the Sun and Ne\vs ’ publication dead­ line, so watch for additional coverage in the upcoming issue. NO List of Polling Place Locations: Precinct 1 250 S. Maple Street, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Precinct 2: 7240 68'^ Street, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Precinct 3: 6201 Whitneyville Ave SE, Alto, Ml 49302 Precinct 4; 8655 Whitneyville Avenue SE, Alto, Ml 49302 PredS 6- 7R3ft Ml 49316 Tu K, * Broadmoor Avenue SE. Caledonia, Ml 49316 Cledonia. Staff Writer The Village of Middleville is going forward with a proposed change to the North Country Trail section that will run through the village. The proposed trail would be a natural surface pathway (not paved) and is planned to connect Sheridan Street to West Crane Road. Jim Bronson, part of the North Country Trail Association said the new path would provide a more scenic, natural experience for walkers while still taking them close to Middleville’s downtown corridor. Once in place, the trail would be maintained by vol­ unteers trained through the National Park Service. The proposed path will run primar­ ily through approximately 20 acres of village-owned property, currently housing the Department of Public Works wastewater treatment facility. c A small portion of the path connect­ ing it to a trailhead near Sheridan Road will be on private property. Alec Belson, director of public works, said the property owner in question is willing to provide access to the project. “They have an agreement tenta­ tively in place for private property owners that will take (the trail) over to Crane Road,” Belson said. Belson said a small section of fenc­ ing would need to be installed at the wastewater treatment facility before the trail could be established. “Once that’s finished, I would be in full support of doing this,” Belson said. “Then our immediate facility would be closed in for safe travel.” The private property could be used for the project under a variety of agreements, depending on what the th July Auction Estate Sale f •7 * “5s 1 r' J Caledonia, Ml 49316 1 -6651 wwwl137AuDtioo.com 1 * z L1 ***J 1 .V • • I•ol 4 1 & c. See TRAIL on 14 i "" Joni Henry, Township Clerk Charter Township of Caledonia village moves forward with proposed change to North Country Trail path HUNTER MCLAREN This Notice is •J I*. ..a *• «• •* 4 �12 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Saturday, July 6, 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to install ground mounted solar panels for residential use in the Agricultural/ RuralResidential (A-R) zoning district. Property Address: 10648 Eastern Avenue, Wayland, Ml 49348 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-32-300-045 Josh Saladin, Homeowner Applicant: www.sunandnews.com Date and Time of Hearing: July 25th, 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on July 25th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. Yankee Springs Fire Department to host blood drive Versiti Blood will be holding a blood drive Thursday, July 11 at the Yankee Springs Township Fire Department from 1 to 5 p.m. The fire station is located at 1425 S. Payne Lake Road in Wayland. Anyone who is at least 17 years old and weighs more than 110 pounds may be eligible to be a donor. No money is involved; the only cost is only time. In return, donors leave knowing they have helped sustain someone’s life. While all types of blood are needed, Type 0 blood, especially, is routinely in short supply and in high demand by hospitals. Anyone attempting to donate will be entered for a chance to win a grill and accessories. All donors will receive a “Starve a Mosquito” shirt. Questions may be directed to Versiti Blood Center, 866-MIBLOOD, or 269795-9091. Appointments are preferred and may be made at donate.michigan. versiti.org, but walk-ins are welcomed. BARRY STATE Conservancy and the DNR. “The addition of the property not only protects vital wetland ecosystems but also strengthens our commitment to conserving Michigan’s natural resources for future generations,” said Mills. “We’re grateful to have worked closely with the Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy and other partners to ensure this area’s ecological integ­ rity is maintained and hunting and outdoor recreational opportunities can be enjoyed by all.” Continued from Page 7 parcels to protect in the Glass Creek Watershed due to its extensive wet­ land complex and significant frontage on Podunk Creek and Glass Creek. “Conserving this property fills in a critical puzzle piece for biodiversity within Barry County,” Winkler added. This collaboration represents a successful partnership between the Southwest Michigan Land GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: PUD Amendment to allow for a 1,400 square-foot addition to the Dutton Mill Village Marathon, architectural modifications, and a change in current setbacks. Property Address : 3495 68th Street, Caledonia Ml 49316 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-02-377-006 Applicant: Adam Bryant, Irish Design & Build Inc. Date and Time of Hearing: July 25th, 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on July 25th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. '' SURVEY Continued from Page 7 from community members, healthcare providers, and community partners, to better understand the health concerns impacting Barry County. The survey covers a wide range of topics, including but not limited to access to care, barriers to receiving care, health concerns, community resources, social determinants of health (housing, neighborhood, transportation and education), and emer* gency preparedness. The previous findings from the community health assessment (2021) have shed light on critical issues affecting the wellbeing of Barry County residents. This has included the following. Healthcare access: Nearly onethird of the community members sur veyed indicated that access to afford­ able healthcare is a pressing problem in the community. Around 20 percent of Barry County adults reported not having a primary care provider, underscoring a gap in fundamental — healthcare services. Mental health services: Barry County faces a shortage of mental health providers, with only one pro­ vider available for every 821 resi­ dents. Affordable housing: One in five community members identified affordable housing as a key factor in defining a healthy community. BEDHD and Corewell Health Pennock encourages community members, partners, and healthcare providers to participate in the survey. The Community Health Needs Assessment Survey is available online at bit.ly/barryhealthsurvey and will remain open until Aug. 5. To complete a paper survey, please visit the BEDHD Hastings Office at 330 W. Woodlawn Avenue. For more information about the sur vey or to request accommodations for participation, contact Sydney Nicholl at SNicholl(^bedhd.org. To learn more information on the Community Health Needs Assessment process, or view reports from previous cycles, visit barrycountychna.weebly.com. �»>ll lb I »iej a I i SU) 15 ?1 0 5 B www.sunandnews.com ... . .. ------------ - ------- ------- Staff Writer I ♦ ♦ the sun and NEWS 13 viliagypitfanr.. . “ priorities -------- ------------------------ ------------------ " Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg went over findings of a recent strategic plan discussion with village council members during Tuesday’s committee of the whole meeting. The discussion included repre­ sentatives of the village council, Middleville DDA, Middleville Parks and Recreation, Thomappl e Township and school board members. The various boards worked .uv together to conduct a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and strengths analysis to prioritize and plan future projects in the vil­ lage. Stolsonburg said he planned to present the findings to local government boards and service organizations in the coming V weeks. Throughout discussions, Stolsonburg said the group of Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg presented the findings of a recent varied stakeholders largely held (PhSS council members Tuesday. many of the same priorities. (Photo by Hunter McLaren) • K- • •J* * Av1 \ 1 AW 1 (AW AV "•r w .-w A > J. ri fix ,^3i .J* r., —tsAht 'S •t GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to allow for a home occupation in a residential accessory building in the Agricultural/ Rural Residential (A-R) zoning district. Property Address: Parcel Numbers: Applicant: 9515 Hanna Lake Avenue, Caledonia, Ml 49316 41-22-27-200-037 Mark Pyper, Homeowner Date and Time of Hearing: July 25th, 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on July 25th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. ♦ ♦ Infrastructure, housing, public safety, parks and recreation and economic development were ranked as the collective’s top five priorities. Infrastructure was ranked as the top priority for the village going forward. Stolsonburg said infra­ structure discussions included road and street maintenance as well as broadband internet servic es. The maintenance of water and sewer services came up as an area of concern as well, he said. Council member Kevin Smith said during the discussion, he was struck by how closely aligned the many different boards were on several issues. I think that was one of the rare occasions that we’ve had in the last four years where we all came together and agreed on what I think is the consensus of our community,” Smith said. “I think everybody really wanted all the exact same things.” GAINES charter TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to install ground mounted solar panels for residential use in the Agricultural/AgriBusiness (A-B) zoning district. Property Address: 4142 92nd Street, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-25-100-006 Applicant: Jeff Williams, Homeowner Date and Time of Hearing: July 25th, 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard proposal. Information ! ® inspected, by appt., during regular business hours aj the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Townshin Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on July 25th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility visual or any other assistance. -0 �14 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 MDARD reminds owners to help keep their animals cool and safe ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunanclnews.com As we enter the hotter days of sum­ mer, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is reminding owners of some of the best ways to keep animals cool and safe. “When temperatures rise, keeping Your local agent insures your Lake Estate Jason Parks 121 E Mam Street Downtown Middleville 4 jparkx^binsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com 9 Jr I ** a I Antenna Men A Give us a call! 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmall.coni wwwxeilsignalproft.com HABs form due to rapid growth of cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae, which are naturally found in lakes, rivers and ponds. To prevent ill­ ness in animals, keep them out of areas with scum or discolored water, rinse them off after contact with any lake water, and bring clean, fresh water for them to drink. If an animal becomes sick after contact with a suspected HAB, call your veterinarian right away. Also, animal illness due to HABs is An animal’s age, breed, type of coat and health his­ tory can all play a role in their ability to tolerate the heat. Keep an eye on them for signs of heat stress— like increased panting or drooling and being more lethargic. If they are show­ ing these signs, it is time to immediately move them to a cooler area. Also, consider talking • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems /SursC^ Look Before They Splash: Avoid harmful algal blooms (HABs) in bod­ ies of water Know Their Limits: An animal’s ability to tolerate heat varies .8^ I Surfaces like asphalt, concrete, and sand can really heat up in the sun. which can bum paws or at least make a walk very uncomfortable. To test if a surface is too hot, touch it with the palm of your hand. If it is too hot for you, consider taking a different route that is mostly grass or waiting until the evening when everything has had a chance to cool. Just like people, animals can quickly get parched in hot temperatures. No matter the species, animals should have access to unlimited cool, clean, fresh water to prevent dehydration. Also, if out in public, bring along some hydra­ tion options for your animal and avoid using shared/communal water bowls. (269) 795-8827 AaWtwmMt** Happy Paws: Test surfaces to make sure they won’t burn paws Let it Flow: Provide unlimited cool, clean, fresh water FMII9 BVKFAU INSVBANCE^ ® A fl til to your veterinarian. They will have a greater knowledge of your animal(s) and be able to give more specific guid­ ance on how to best handle them in hot weather. animals cool and hydrated is essen­ tial to their overall health,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. “While it is important to recognize the signs of heat stress in animals, it is even more criti­ cal to prevent this stress from occur­ ring. Michiganders can follow six easy steps to help keep animals cool and safe.” Keep animals safe from the heat by following these tips: J*' TRAIL Continued from Page 11 village and property owners find most suitable. Belson encouraged the village to avoid options that might be hard to change in the future, like obtaining an easement, in case the path of the trail changes in the future. Much of the village property in the area is undeveloped. “1 would like to make sure, look­ ing out for the village’s best interest, 4 . 4 lassifieds F^SV*' * 41 ^1 • T* 4 4 r 'A 4 <?« A GARAGE SALE GARAGE SALE; JULY 12TH & 13th, 9-5. 8327 W. Crane Rd., Middleville. Tools, boxes of complete door knobs, door hinges, large mirror, clothing jackets antique tools, Stihl chainsaw, home decorations, some furniture plus much more Large drywall pieces cheap, all priced to sell. BUSINESS SERVICES BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability &• workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. SHELLER & SONS LLC Fencing (Insured) is offering installation and removal. Please call Chris 231-5196313. CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC; Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 Pets Get in Gear: Parked vehicles are not places to park pets Even when temperatures feel more moderate, vehicles can heat up very quickly, creating dangerous conditions for the animals left inside. Leaving windows cracked open and/or parking in the shade does little to improve the situation. In these conditions, it is best to leave pets at home when you need to go out and about. A Place to Chill: Make sure ani mals have a place to cool down that we don’t do anything 100 per­ cent permanent right away, simply because we still don’t know the end result for that property,” Belson said. Bronson said the trail association was open to considering any of the options available and would hope to work toward a permanently estab­ lished trail path in the future. “We can certainly talk in the future about the best way to do that,” Bronson said. “But our long-term goal is to make anything we do as permanent as possible.” • Annual July Sale Off Fabrics (excludes sale items) S». .9K ••c; 'sS bX iK• * ♦ 6^ Ij* ’ h Sale ends July 31st TroucC to 6e an Timericanl Tr QUESTIONS: ASK US • • • ■TOTWIMI ■A T 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-96 V r k Ml Animals know when they are too hot and will usually try to find a place where they can cool down. Make sure they have access to shade, fans, misters, pools, cooling mats, and/or air conditioned spaces to help them stay comfortable. Following these tips can help keep your animals cool and comfortable through any heat wave. If there are any concerns about your animals’ health either now or throughout the summer months, talk to your veterinarian. *■» f DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269- reportable to MDARD. To report cases, submit a Reportable Disease Form or call 800-292-3939. In addition, to report any suspicious-looking algae, please email algaebloom@michigan. gov. OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station �♦ ♦ vvww.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 15 ♦ ♦ Candidates vie for seats representinq Gaines Township in Aug. primary election I lAUICC nCMMCI I JAMES GEMMELL Contributing Writer i e J 11 I With the Aug. 6 primary now about a month away, candidates for various elected positions in Gaines Charter Township are ramping up their cam­ paigns. The township clerk’s office mailed absentee ballots to residents in late June. The required public accuracy test will take place on July 16 at 7 p.m. in the community room of the township hall. The test is done to demonstrate that the program and the computers used to tabulate the elec tion results have been prepared in accordance with the law. “That’s when the public can come here and watch us test a couple of the machines,” Clerk Michael Brew said. “So, we’ll be testing the machines for early voting. And we’ll also be testing a couple of the precinct machines.” Voters approved a constitutional amendment in Nov. 2022 for early voting in every statewide and federal election on the nine days beginning the second Saturday before the elec­ tion. In Gaines, that will take place in the township hall July 27 through Aug. 4, with regular precinct voting on election day. As the Sun and News reported in its June 29 edition, the supervisor’s posi­ tion is the only one on the township board that is actually being contested. After eight years on the job, incum­ bent Supervisor Rob DeWard decided not to run for that position again but will be running for a trustee’s seat instead. Other candidates are treasurer Laurie Lemke and clerk Michael Brew who are running unop­ posed plus incumbent trustees Dan Fryling, Tim Haagsma, and Kathy Vander Stel. Because there are four trustee seats available, all four incum­ bents will be re-elected. Trustee Bob Terpstra won’t be running for re-election as a trustee. Instead, he will be competing against Deputy Treasurer Jenna Pilkington for the supervisor’s position that De Ward will be relinquishing in November. Some of Terpstra’s comments on his candidacy for supervisor were includ­ ed in the June 29 article. The super­ visor’s job is becoming a part-time, 16-hour-a-week position, instead of the previous 24-hour-a-week schedule. “There is no Democratic candidate running against them in the primary unless a write-in files with the coun­ ty. The one with the most votes is advanced to November’s general elec­ tion,” Brew said. Pilkington served as the township’s deputy treasurer for 11 years before resigning at the end of 2023. She was replaced by Chris Holwerda. “I made the decision to resign as See ELECTION on 16 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA _ • COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN CAMPAU KETTLE LAKE a'^Q^aV^^E^O MK® HEARING SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT No. 1 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Township Board u, of the Charter Township of Caledonia, Kent County, Michigan, has determined to proceed to proceed on Its own motion, to renew the Campau/Kettle Lake Aquatic Weed Controi f *t AI _ ”) to undertake certain public improvements consisting of the control of aquatic weeds and plants in ^ampau/Kettle Lake by means of periodic removal by chemical harvesting and other rnethods (the “Improvements”), pursuant to Act 188 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1954, as amended. The Township Board has tentatively determined that the cost of said Improvements shall be specially assessed against each of the following described lots and parcels of land which are benefitted by the Improvements and which together comprise the following District: Map of Special Assessment District (Includes only those parcels of land having frontage on Campau/Kettle Lake or deeded or dedicated access thereto) -k • €6TH rss WTH CAMPAU/KETTLE LAKE AQUATIC WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 Lots and parcels numbered; 01-351-005 01-351-008 01-351-038 01-351-039 01-351-053 01-351-054 01-351-056 01-351-065 01-351-068 01-351-072 01-351-074 01-351-075 01-351-083 01-351-085 01-351-086 01-351-087 01-351-088 01-351-089 01-351-090 01-351-091 01-351-092 01-351-094 01-351-099 01-351-100 01-351-101 01-351-102 01-351-104 01-354-008 02-476-001 02-476-002 02-476-003 02-476-004 02-476-012 02-476-013 02-476-014 02-476-017 02-476-020 02-476-021 02-477-006 02-477-008 02-477-009 02-477-010 02-477-012 11-201-031 11-201-032 11-201-033 11-201-034 11-201-035 11-201-036 11-201-037 11-226-005 11-226-026 11-226-028 11-227-028 11 -227-038 11 -228-007 11-278-004 11-278-007 11-278-016 11-278-017 11-278-018 11-278-019 11-278-020 11-278-021 11 -278-022 11-278-026 11-278-032 11-278-033 11-278-034 11-278-035 11-278-036 11 -278-038 11-278-039 11-427-005 11-427-006 11-427-007 11-427-008 11-427-011 11-427-012 11-427-013 11-427-014 11-427-015 11-427-016 11-427-017 11-427-018 11-427-019 11-427-020 11-427-021 11-427-022 11-427-025 11-427-026 11 -427-027 11-427-030 11-427-031 11 -427-032 11-427-033 12-101-038 12-101-041 12-101-043 12-101-044 12-101-045 12-101-050 12-101-052 12-101-053 12-101-054 12-101-055 12-101-056 12-101-057 12-101-059 12-101-060 12-101-061 12-107-022 12-107-030 12-107-032 12-107-033 12-152-003 12-152-004 12-152-007 12-152-008 12-152-026 12-152-027 12-152-028 12-152-029 12-300-009 12-300-011 12-300-072 12-300-077 12-300-079 12-300-080 U. > •I z X 5 Boundary of Campau/Kettle Lake Aquatic Weed Controi Special Assessment District TAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on July 17, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. (or shortly thereafter), at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE, within the Township, to hear and consider any objections to the proposed Improvements, the proposed special assessment district, and all other matters relating to said Improvements. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that preliminary plans and estimates of cost for the Improvements are on file with the Township Clerk for public examination PROPERTY SHALL NOT BE ADDED TO THE PROPOSED SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT AND THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATE OF COST SHALL NOT BE INCREASED BY MORE THAN 10% WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE AND PUBLIC HEARING. Periodic redeterminations of the cost of the Improvements may be necessary, without a change in the Special Assessment District, and in that event, such redeterminations may be made by the Township Board without further notice to record owners or parties in interest in the lands in the Special Assessment District, in accordance with the provisions of said Act 188. This Notice was authorized by the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia. Dated: June 19,2024 Joni Henry, Township Clerk Charter Township of Caledonia �2 t I ,I i •h a THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 16 www.sunandnews.com ELECTION Continued from Page 15 ♦ ♦ Deputy Treasurer because I was con­ flicted with how the township was being run and realized that I would need to run for supervisor in order for things to change for the residents and the township environment overall,” Pilkington wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “The only way for things to change is for those who are on the inside to step up and be willing to do what’s right for the people of the township.” Pilkington’s campaign theme focus­ es on transparency and public engage­ ment, and she said she takes issue with the township’s public meetings not being live-streamed and posted online the next day so residents can watch them whenever they have time to. “Gaines is one of the only town­ ships I know that has no social media presence and has been strongly against it,” Pilkington said. She also objects to how the leader­ ship positions in Gaines are currently structured. “First and foremost, I believe that the people we elect should be the ones doing the job. Paying a (non-elected) township manager $130,000 (annu­ ally) to do what the supervisor is elected to do is not what the taxpayers vote for. Especially when that person is not a resident of Gaines Township,” Pilkington said. In a memo to the township board on March 6, DeWard recommended that the supervisor’s hours be reduced next year from the current 24 hours per week to 16. Pilkington also said that Gaines Township lacks an identity of its own. 1 believe that is a disservice to every person paying property taxes and living here,” she said. “With the beautiful (township hall) building and beautiful park and land Gaines has to offer, 1 believe we have the opportu­ nity to create a community identity that makes residents feel like they don’t just live here, but they belong here. Having a passion for connecting people to the place they plant roots is so important if you are taking the oath as a public servant.” Pilkington emphasized the need to build trust through transparency. She said that merely meeting the mini­ mum required legal standards is not sufficient. “If the information isn’t easily ♦ ♦ ♦ fl 4*. .• • ** V * fl'. K % X. . > X..'; ft .k ft . X * A A X X t. * * * » 4 V, * t X ft. 4 I X ft ft ft * 4 V A X X « A A X \ ft % ( If V ft * X M J. •V AJ I A- Jenna Pilkington Roslund Harris accessible and straightforward, I feel it defeats the purpose. At the end of the day, the township exists to serve the people of Gaines. I think some­ times people lose sight of the people they represent,” Pilkington said. As for the Kent County Board of Commissioners’ race in the 10th District, there are three candidates; Republicans Bill Hirsch and Robin Halstead and Democrat Roslund Harris. The district includes all of Gaines Township and Precinct 6 in Kentwood. Longtime Commissioner Emily Brieve announced in March that she would not be running for re-election after nearly a decade of representing the 10th District on the county com mission. Her current term expires Dec. 31, 2024. Brieve has served as Vice Chair of the Kent County Board, as well as chair of the Finance & Physical Resources Committee, among other duties. Hirsch, 55, was first elected in 2009 and served two, two-year terms as a county commissioner. Beginning this election cycle, a change in state law means the position will become a four-year term. “I was asked to run again,” Hirsch said. “A lot of people in the com munity know me, and they’re a little frustrated with some things that have been going on in the county and in the township. Hirsch is a farmer and lifelong Kent County resident. He said the pending development of a large retail/residential complex on farmland along 84th Street east of Kalamazoo has been a source of irritation. “And so, there are a lot of people in the community that are extremely frustrated not just with what’s going on but what’s behind it and how it’s happening,” Hirsch said. He added that some candidates in West Michigan have been elected to local office because they are sup­ ported by big-money contributors to * t ft 1 •SA t % A j . i 3 1 J i 4- M 4 '4 Robin Halstead Bill Hirsch their campaigns. “The (citizens) know that I’m sincere, genuine and know that I’m going to represent them on the county commission,” Hirsch said. According to the website citizensforbillhirsch.com, his platform includes lower taxes, safe communities, pro-family/pro-life values and responsible development, as well as opposition to “sanctuary county” efforts and bloated government budgets. Robin Halstead, 54, has been mar­ ried for 33 years to Pastor Jeffrey Halstead. They have two children. Robin has a bachelor’s degree in busi­ ness administration and has worked in advancement roles at Christian Healthcare Centers and Cornerstone University. In addition, her service included being a church ministry leader and executive director of the Gaines Chamber of Commerce. “My experience spans organization, collaboration, financial stewardship and community engagement,” Halsted wrote in an email to the Sun and News. She said she is most passionate about ensuring public safety, noting that Gaines, Byron and Caledonia townships have some of the fastestgrowing populations in Kent County. “Because safety affects every part of our community I will always strive to see that our first responders have the necessary funding and sup­ port they need to serve our people,” Halsted said. She added that she supports small business and is pro-life and proSecond Amendment, and advocates for the sanctity of life and the right to bear arms. Fiscal responsibility, maintaining the township’s AAA bond rating a limited government and strong eco­ nomic development were cited as other priorities?However, Halstead said that care must be exercised to maintain a high quality of life. “We must balance future growth with preserving our agricultural heritage and maintaining the quality of life for our residents. We need to carefully monitor and adjust our bud­ get to address traffic congestion and safety concerns that come with new developments. By working together with developers and preservationists, studying the facts, recognizing needs and keeping the long-term impacts in mind, we can ensure that growth is beneficial for everyone; fostering a well-rounded township and county,” she said. Her campaign website is robinhalsted.com. Roslund Harris, 51, has more than 27 years of experience in the health insurance industry. She has led in a management role for nearly two decades and currently is a business development manager. She applies skills in process improvement, deci sion making, critical thinking, opera tions management and quality assur­ ance. Harris has a bachelor’s of science degree in healthcare systems admin­ istration and an associate’s degree in applied sciences. She has lived in Gaines Township for more than 20 years and called it “diverse, prospering and, overall, a great community in Kent County to raise a family.” Harris said more housing is needed in Gaines Township, but acknowl­ edged that traffic congestion is a growing concern. As a county com missioner, she said hers would be a voice to ensure traffic safety. “I do feel there is additional need for traffic lights on 68th Street near the subdivision, particularly the entrance to Explorer Elementary,” she said. “I am not opposed to the retail developments. I remember when residents were not in favor of Meijer opening on Marketplace. It is such a convenience and is always busy.” Harris said she is running for the Kent County Commission because of her desire and willingness to represent . Gaines Township. “Overall, I am most passionate about considering the needs and con cems of Gaines Township residents with strong advocacy in mind. Being the voice that drives impactful change for everyone while ensuring all resi­ dents live a full life of quality and opportunity is of utmost importance,” Harris said. More details about the “Harris for a Healthy Kent County” campaign can be found at roslundharris.com. as si .I ] 1 4 I •••» ♦: *1 . J Ab b I o r* IZ' r> 4 I ’a 0 C o Cu u ◄h IZ 3 Ct T <1 c 2 J � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-07-13.pdf c61c220dbafc5dba4956f3aa9886fd4f PDF Text Text k / ri’ I I A-* 4 t i J ri’ ri 9.*! /• I’* J* $ < ..•i t I. b I > i I*. I <• ♦1 ’■'r? A J? iV I 9 r 4 I ii > Lf J ll^lla^■•■l Middleville Veterans Memorial receives substantial donation 9 k the SUN a. I < ■ ? AND NEWS 4 A I, J /otyrHomefown Newspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Games Township Areas * • • ’X ♦•< 9 I Page 14 •• I NO. 15 • - gu^rw; . ♦ •• • ' ^ -. in- I* SATURDAY, JULY 13, 2024 r'. .’3/ * • > m icfl >•1 .**’ * ’V ’S .. L’ ^^9 •■L’ I, •5. hb X A ■ I K" 1 w 7 T » I -tT- s:^ r i I IS r. 4 bs' ." .'>1 V b >ri»> I , J www.sunandnews.com TB .a ;v r* s- hl :r < ♦ • I r ■ li , J, ’S ■ <'• V’ I » .^1 • aw V rii it:J- c Barry County Commissioner Catherine Getty voices her concerns with the Flats at Mid-Villa project and the tax-increment financing plan that is proposed to support it. The Barry County board did not vote on the TIF plan, instead, postponed it a month. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) / I * J J I I ♦ c \ A Ir ?rX *1 w ri I r iMriaiM -11 —I "Am w * ST’ 1 9 ► .'.'r.s J •% 1 T > I i 4 1$ 1 r* J iSt X 4 «»^r •* J ’C* 1 1 . ? i I * Major Middleville housing development stalls after county delays vote on TIF plan Editor A tax-increment financing plan for a major hous­ ing development in Middleville will not move forward at least not yet after the Barry County Board of Commissioners decided not to vote on it during its meeting this week. At Tuesday morning’s board session, one issue dominated the conversation for the hour-and-a half-long meeting: the Flats at Mid-Villa project slated RELATED NEWS for a long-vacant property along M-37 in the Village of ■ Middleville Middleville, the former loca­ council blasts tion for the Middle Villa Inn. county board The developer for the proj­ delay on Mid-Villa ect, Dutch Developers LLC, brownfield TIF has expressed that a makeSee story on page 6 or-break component to the project would be a tax-incre­ ment financing plan ±at would allow the county’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority to collect $4.48 million in new tax revenues waaa that are expected to be generated by uawoisno lVIIN3aiS3H the development of the project ’ s 144 in eiliAUMJO “workforce housing” apartments over sec# jiLUJSd ±e next 15 years. About $1.9 million 8€88> SSMU33 8fW OW’OflOd in ‘d||IAU99J9 3OVlSOd s n ais isHd T ■ w. LJF % I S if X J. ib 1 A 4 I z •• ii 111' i »I b *w •1 rJ' .4 q First Lady Dr. Jill Biden (center) poses for a photo with a group of campers at YMCA Camp ManitouLin in Middleville on July 3. (Photos by Jayson Bussa) First Lady Jill Biden visits Camp Manitou-Lin JAYSON BUSSA aivd * See HOUSING on 2 JAYSON BUSSA Editor I The First Lady of the United States paid a visit to Barry County last week when Dr. Jill Biden made a stop at YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin in Middleville. ?>fOn the eve of the Fourth of July, Biden spent time in Michigan, flying into Gerald R. Ford International Ik Airport the night before and visiting Camp ManitouF J Lin during the day on Wednesday, July 3. She then C' . made her way up to Traverse City for another event in r k t the evening. 1 The purpose of Biden’s visit to Middleville was two-fold to tout summer food assistance programs enacted by the Biden Administration while also visiting with kids who had a parent who was wounded, disabled or killed while serving in the military. Those kids were at Camp Manitou-Lin as part of the Camp Corral pro­ I F gram, which is a nationwide effort to give a free camp experience to kids whose parents had made this pro­ found sacrifice to their country. In the late morning of July 3, Biden’s motorcade crawled into Camp Manitou-Lin where campers, visi­ Dr. Jill Biden, with U.S. Senator Debbie tors and media had gathered for her visit. Biden met Stabenow behind her, walks throughout long-time Democrat Senator Debbie Stabenow at the camp and they toured it together, starting in the kitchen the facilities of YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin in Middleville on July 3. See JILL BIDEN on 3 b - iri ? , IL *-JS- •0 4^ I w .— 4' > ?♦ 'ri-' n . Mri L I A ) 2*“ 1 V «, I J 4 < b I ta q .4 .rit. « 1 » 4 It I? w...^ I % v'f I ' A ',W' > ( S' ' n . ’ > ) / f / f I b **?l*hy? rl �» 2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 HOUSING Continued from Page 1 of that would come from Middleville DDA, which operates with its own tax­ increment financing mechanism where it captures a portion of taxes paid by downtown property owners to support public improvements in the downtown. The money would go toward defraying costs associated with the project and eventually allow developers to provide manageable rental rates for the dura­ tion of the TIP. The TIP request is the result of a change in the state ’ s Brownfield Development Financing Act which has been in place since the late 1990s. State lawmakers last year passed a four-bill package that changes the law Bruce'S Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop • Wheel Alignments • Auto Gloss Installation • Insurance Work Welcome to allow new tax revenues captured through local brownfield redevelop­ ment authorities to fund affordable housing projects. Dutch Developers principal Nate Heyboer has paraded around Bany County for the last several months with consultant Marcus Ringnalda and other stakeholders to seek approval from affected municipalities while educating residents on this relatively complex tax issue. The plan was approved unanimously by the Middleville Village Council and narrowly passed in a vote with the Middleville DDA, which currently has three vacancies on its nine-seat board and is steeped in political turmoil. The county board was the final hurdle, only, commissioners couldn’t come to an agreement and chose to put off a potential vote for another month. A handful of people commented during the public hearing, only Thomapple Township trustee Curtis Campbell residing in that area of the county. He spoke in favor of housing but against this specific project. Commissioners heard from county attorney Mark Nettleton, who fielded questions about the agreement. Commissioners Catherine Getty, who represents the Village of Middleville, and Jon Smelker, who represents Thomapple and Irving Townships, voiced their concerns. Smelker said he was, and continues to be, a no-vote as • Visa & MasterCard Accepted Your local agent insures your Over 40 years experience Lfsfe brucesframe.com t </• 4 i ^-1596. 415 2nd • Middleville I FMtMBVREAV I id If di . s MSVRMICE' f. 1 a ■t^eaA*'- </ Jason Parks (269) 795-8827 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville jparks@fbtnsmi.com FarmBureauInsurance.com he has found most of his constituents are against the project. Getty spoke at length about her con­ cerns with the project. “I, too, have been talking to a lot of village residents who have not been up to speed on what’s happening with the TIF, and it’s complicated. The number one comment I receive from village residents is that their taxes are very Ml don’t mind if we take more time to review this and continue to deive into this but this is an important project for our county and it wiii say a lot about how we move forward with additionai housing projects. Dave Jackson, Chairman, Barry County Board of Commissioners high and they’re struggling to make those payments. ...And then, when they hear about 144 new families com­ ing in and a developer getting a pass on taxes for 14 years, their question to me immediately is if they can afford to provide government services to 144 families for 14 years, well, ‘They should have been able to reduce my taxes. Maybe it shouldn’t cost me this much to live here.’” Getty continued; “The second big­ gest complaint is the proj ect is too large — it’s outsized — for a small town. People wanted to maintain the small-town feel. Part of that is not cutting off growth. But, it’s measured growth. It’s smart growth.” Aside from Smelker and Getty, several other commissioners raised concerns. Commissioners will continue to learn more about the project and its accom­ panying TIF plan and re-visit the issue at the end of August. “Workforce housing is needed. One of the things we have heard time and time again come before this board is where do we get housing, espe cially workforce, affordable housing,” said Chairman Dave Jackson, who also sits on the county’s Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. “The state put the tool in our laps. The developer had a gap and decided to use that tool. There is an opportunity for us.” “I don’t mind if we take more time to review this and continue to delve into this but this is an important proj ect for our county and it will say a lot about how we move forward with additional housing projects,” Jackson later added. Heyboer spoke to commissioners during public comment, voicing fiustration but continued optimism that the project and TIF plan would find a way through. “I’m not saying this to be a bully but a fact that came up is I have been contacted by surrounding counties who are saying ‘Please, come talk to us. Tell us what you’re doing. We see you in the sun. We see what’s going on’. .. .(The project) is exciting to other people,” Heyboer said. “Any hurdle that has been there, we jumped over. The county needs to, hopefully, respect the votes that were before them, especially the unanimous (Middleville) village (coimcil) vote.” If the project does go through, the apartments would be marketed toward people whose incomes are between 80 and 120 percent of the community’s median income, which works out to between $40,000 and $90,000 a year. Rents for the apartments would range from $1,225 a month for one-bedroom to $1,475 for two bedrooms. Also on the property would be a 134-umt self-storage facility and three commercial outlots fronting M-37. pie commercial portion of the project is not part of the TIF plan and would provide increased tax revenue imme­ diately. 4* THE SUN AND NEWS CONTACT US The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept., 1351 ' Bastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser's order. * Editor: Jayson Bussa r, Group jayson@j-adgraphics.com II 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com *' 4 - PUBLISHED BY Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer I brett@j-adgraphics.com I Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com • 4* I « I J J I « » ( J PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Plssse recycle this newsoaper I Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Photed in the LI.S. '0. A. -*■ • <1\ A �rJ •I • + 1 I www.sunandnews.com S THE SUN AND NEWS s 4ILL BIDEN Hi Ji i Continued from Page 1 5 '.dftL t' I 7 9 V ‘.-aW <* I •-'■J CT where they got a firsthand look at the w I lore mey Fourth of July barbecue that campers ’ iZ< would be dining on the next day. J ft Stabenow and Biden both spoke to r a select group before making their way to the dining hall to meet with enthusiastic campers. Biden’s words focused on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s SUN Programs, which launched in late May of this year and are designed to iT provide sufficient food and nutrition ------- . c^*c for kids during the summer months It > when they don’t have access to 1 school breakfast or lunch. The SUN Programs include a vari­ .rz <r ety of components, one of which £ J? F Biden hit on was the SUN Bucks program, which is summer EBT •si 4 ? < that provides eligible families with 4 A an extra $120 per school-aged child r over the summer to help with cover ► 1 ing additional groceries. Biden said that SUN Bucks would • give more food to nearly 1 million 1 children this summer in Michigan, also making free snacks and food During her trip to Camp Manitou-Lin, Dr. Jill Biden visited with members available at various schools and of the Camp Corral program, a program that provides a free camp camps, like Camp Manitou-Lin. experienced for kids whose parents have been wounded, disabled or “Summer should be a time of joy killed while serving in the military. (Photos by Jayson Bussa) and freedom and of growing and learning outside the classroom. But, is helping to ease the stress of demic, instead, took a shot at grocery for too many children, their sum­ higher costs in Michigan and across chains, saying that they have made mers are stolen by hunger,” Biden the country,” she continued. “Joe record profits but still continue to said from a podium. “And during believes that parents shouldn’t have raise prices. the school year, many kids count on to worry about how they will feed “ That ’ s why Joe works every day getting a meal from their school but their children.” „ to make sure all children can grow parents’ pay checks don’t get bigger Biden made no mention of the and learn without wondering where just because it’s summer break.” crippling inflation that has gripped their next meal will come from so “My husband. President Biden, the nation since the COVID-19 pan they and their families can continue reaching for the bright tomorrows r'-. ahead,” Biden said. e In the dining hall, Biden spoke to £ kids, asking them what their favor­ .1 I ite part of camp was before posing 9 for photos. Campers displayed a lot j r IBCWBWB*® . J c of energy for the First Lady’s visit, singing and dancing as she made her rounds. Biden also met with a small group of campers who were working on an art project before she left. Biden did not field questions or address the elephant in the room at that time, which was the fallout of President Joe Biden’s lackluster debate performance against Donald Trump the week before. Biden’s performance one where he occa ­ First Lady Dr. Jill Biden speaks about summer food assistance programs sionally lost his train of thought and to a group of guests at Camp Manitou-Lin in Middleville on July 3. . < A r * * ■iw' ' *7 ** S' “■ I ■ k- . J '■9 ne A- ( T> ♦ * A s .4b ' I I I I s Mfri *• •* t > J « •r l\1 A I * ■ «» % I J I Saturday, July 6. 2024 5 I %\ A* ?/ J if * *. tr X ** -I R • I • V* •*' ? PI X' «<-X A v» % « * * 5A • 4 4 I I ••• -.l’ .1. ;T< ’•t • « *1 I r t. I• ’ • >♦ • • V- i 5^ *w * V •.k -R. £ T .".Sk -J a J jB 4 -,i L ; •JV *s V 4 r* * *>* •i r * > Ms= R • I, r. «< t / r I A •** I -J^T^ <1 X ,F K. • tS’ I r tiT 'If/, a '] 4 I ♦ •l ■s I .TV p ' *■ » J ’jI . "- - *■ < .x'W, •l ♦< ♦ !» w • Summer ■ * *B < ■•li \ r ♦w ( . t A * • J« A t f « ? * ’<1 Vil >J r h ' J I a ^rxikJ ! V [*• ■r •-^ Z"*S< I 1 • I •r i ! -•z i a. r t * t $ I 3 meandered on answers gave some Democrats pause and has since led to inter-party calls for him to step aside and allow someone else to accept the Democrat nomination. While Biden did not field ques­ tions, Stabenow did meet with reporters and emphatically defended President Biden and his ability to lead the country. She said that both her, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, fully support President Biden in his reelection bid. Stabenow also took a shot at the U.S. Supreme Court for its recent ruling on presidential immunity, call­ ing the court “radical” and “out-oftouch.” “First of all, (President Biden is) doing the job,” Stabenow told report­ ers. “He’s engaged on the world stage as well as in the country. He’s got to do it. He’s got to be visibly doing it so that people see what we see behind the scenes.” It’s pretty clear that Democrats are the ones trying to fight for people,” Stabenow concluded. “This president gets up every day caring about peo­ ple and the other guy gets up caring about himself” Hi^h Efficiency I :FURNACE I AIR I I M50 J RUUD OFF * Must present this coupon. Expires 8-1-24 I I I I I V I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. I “The company built by referrals ” « I I • •1 LL ★ . •JL FRONTIER HEATING G COOLING I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I ■ 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 I ■ �4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS » Meet-and-greet, final interviews Monday for Caledonia village manager finalists GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer T he search for a new village man­ ager in Caledonia will go public next Monday night, as three finalists for the position will attend a “meet and greet open house with the community. followed by one final round of interviews in front of the Village Council. begin at 5 p.m. at the Village Hall, 250 Maple St. SE and last about 45 minutes. Village President Jennifer Lindsey said. This will allow the community to get to know (the candidates),” Lindsey said. The council will then interview the three finalists, after which it is expect- An advisory group that has been reviewing resumes and interview ing candidates narrowed the list of can­ didates from four to three on Fridav after a second round of interv iews. I he list of finalists was not available at the time the Sun and News went to press. rhe “meet and greet session will LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham It/'v f hri\iini Hi itttJ.Hn h»in tof <nir (rudiitanal vel vusiial u m >}jip I* smiu'. in pemMi or onhnv. «n *CfK) .mi ?*'() \ mv Slrvt I I i V csUvairi I M6 KVI .h ct*- w • kAoin \ef \ Ifn' 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 alciionul Mf ( .ilcdiiniul S/'. fii-thenitm - till* JMt BAPTIST Middleville Sunday Service 10:30 AM Nh Jr I cornerstonemi.org/weekend ( t/ftnet /inv ri .4' t I III 1 ♦z Llvestream: facebook.com/hrstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 <x co ft. k Good Shepherd " Lutheran Church HOLY FAMILY \J/ CATHOLIC CHURCH 4*1 I,4 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Wbrshipi 9;30 a.m. Pastor; Rev. Peter Berg hlip://goodshcpherdlcms. goo glepages.com ( hurch (269) 795-2391 MPEACE Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00a.m.& 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11.00 AM Lead Pastor. Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, Ml 49333 peacechurch.ee z sf rjj /■ 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School.. Sunday Wonhip .9:30 AM 10:30AM IW our services from our website (see above) ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE; 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch THORNAPPLE VALLEY Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, Ml 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 WMwji(paulcaledonia.org <—/ CHURCH Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. f Whitneyville Church OURNEY K Sc H U R C H Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. r •* We 4 w- CHURCH PEACECHURCH.ee 9?l A1 MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Yankee Springs Bible Church Fellowship Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52''^ & 48^^ Praising Cod through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music Worship Services Sunday ioam&6 pm 99 Shining Forth God’s Light tf Sunday Morning Worship Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:^0 pm & y pm I Group Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhttneyvilleFellowship.org 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankccspringsbibicchurch. org ed to discuss the candidates' qualifica­ tions. It's not known if a vote to hire the new manager will take place that night. The village has been looking for a new' manager since Jeff Thornton resigned in April after nearly five years in the position. Longtime admin­ istrative assistant Lisa Segard has filled in as interim manager during the search process, and consultant Ryan Cotton, himself a former interim man­ ager in Caledonia, has been advising the committee conducting the search. “Our advisory committee has taken a lot of time and put a lot of effort into seeking the right person to take that position,’’ Lindsey said. Tlie advisory committee consists of Lindsey, Council trustees Gerrianne Schuler and Cheryl Miller, Village Treasurer Jennifer Eardley and Planning Commissioner Spike Baird. Segard is also part of the group, but in a non-voting capacity. Some residents have spoken out in favor of finding a new manager who has local ties, preferably someone who either lives in the village or as one res­ ident said, “has an intimate knowledge of this village.” No, we cannot mandate residency. I agree with that,” said Jeff Kusmierz, who is running for the council in this year’s election. “But our selection process can be refined enough that we put a heavy weight on the person that’s going to come in and attempt to man­ age this village, that’s going to have a hands-on (approach). They’re not just going to come and go from some strange place and spend eight hours here and then go home somewhere else.” Lindsey said the committee has con­ sidered three candidates “that either live in Caledonia or are very familiar with Caledonia.” “We’re not taking this lightly,” she said. The village manager position has a pay range of $75,000 to $98,000 per year, a range set recently by council passage of a resolution setting pay for village employees and elected offi­ cials. I 4^ * �♦ s •< t • p b www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 “’S!.?""® C«»"W«8« approves contract with Barry County Sheriff I GREG Staff Writer Staff Writer fl I I A. A longstanding arrangement where the Barry County Sheriffs Office pro vides police services to the village of Middleville will continue for at least the next three years. The Village Council voted 6-0 Tuesday night to approve a threeyear contract with the sheriffs office, continuing an arrangement that has been in place since 1999. BCSO will provide a sergeant and three deputies to provide a combined 160 hours of police presence weekly in the village under the contract. The village will pay the sheriffs office $454,250 in exchange for the police services during the first year of the agreement. “The Police Contract Committee has been meeting over the course of the past year to hammer out some amend­ ments (to the contract),” Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said. Most notable among the changes is an addition to the contract that pro­ vides a procedure for issuing citations and collecting fines for violations of village ordinances. Specifics of how that procedure will be imple­ mented are still being worked out, Stolsonburg said. “This is an added layer for the vil­ lage to enforce our ordinances direct­ ly,” Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith said. The sherifT s office is working with its information technology department to upload all of the village’s ordinanc es into its system for writing tickets, Stolsonburg said. The new contract also includes increased funding for deputy training and gear, and also provides the ability for a deputy to take a patrol vehicle home at the end of his or her shift, Smith said. We’re right-sizing it to match what Barry County already does, for the most part,” Smith said. Trustee Richard Hamilton raised an objection over a contract provision that allows for funding for training to be carried over to the following year if it is not spent by the end of the year. “To me, you’ve got 52 weeks to get training. We’ve got this money set aside. Anybody that can’t schedule in a 52-week period to get the train- f ■ ----------------- - ---------------- -= b--; • .5 < * I \ ■ ■ ■ I. ♦ A ■ • '4 ft • £ V I 4 I ll r 1 I *s » a ** *3' X5 Sw Si*’ _' .1 L . XS"*'. "T 5 - 'B w. . " “■IT W < I. * X I. B < J x L U J— - I •t :< • '-.j •••'4.'’ / b. F« *cJ >*• -T J % «r. 4? w* S Sgt. Scott Ware of the Barry County Sheriff's Office’s Middleville unit goes over details of the new contract between the department and the village, which was approved by the village council Tuesday night. Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg is also seen here listening. (Photo by Greg Chandler) ing they need - they’re going to lose it on Dec. 31 or Jan. 1 of the next year ... I am not in favor of rolling over anything. That opens the door for rollovers for all kinds of things,” Hamilton said. Sgt. Scott Ware, who is in charge of the Middleville unit, said there’s rea son for the carryover option. “This year, I might have a train­ ing that’s going to cost me $2,000 between the training and maybe (if) it’s up in Mount Pleasant, I need lodging, too,” Ware said. “I can afford it this year, but that training comes up next year and I have four people going to other trainings, I may not have enough. So that rollover, if there’s anything left over, allows for that extra little bump for the following year so you can go to that training if we needed to.” Ware also noted that sometimes the department receives news of available trainings at the last minute. “If we don’t have enough, we’re either stuck trying to move funds around, which becomes messy, or having to skip out on something that could be helpful to the village,” he said. Hamilton acknowledged Ware’s explanation. “If you ran into that situation, you’d come honestly here and ask us to help you with it... just come to us and , „, * .1 I s Offi ce ask,” he said. Trustee Makenzi Peters said the vil­ lage can always amend the contract if it s found the rollover provision doesn’t work. “I would say, let’s approve it for now, and if we see that too much is being rolled over, we’re not suf­ ficiently using it or accumulating too much, we can always amend it, Peters said. The new contract has $4,000 in the line item for training in its first year. It’s a number that we think will work, that we think we will use that full amount,” Ware said. “If it shows that we’re not using it, we’ll scale it back. If it shows we need more, we’ll come in front of you and we discuss the possibility of having more ... We think we’re going to use this fully every year.” The council as part of its approval authorized yillage President Mike Cramer to sign the agreement. Cramer, who served on the Police Contract Committee, was absent from Tuesday’s council meeting for workrelated reasons. cornerstone church we re casual, come as vou are. ■9^ t * 1« r♦ > r ’ll * II BF IRT’ I I* One Church • Three Locations Caledonia | Grand Rapids | Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! □ fl I □ MICir IHBr “*• I □U Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! -1 I ! •< ' ■ si- /cornerstonemi 5 @cornerstonemi f �6 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 Middleville council blasts county board delay on Mid-Villa brownfield TIF r GREG CHANDLER it’s very dis all the issues at hand Staff Writer appointing. Middleville village leaders are Smith said the Mid-Villa project voicing their frustration with Barry addresses what was identified at a County commissioners over their strategic planning session in March decision Tuesday morning to post­ that involved representatives from pone a vote on a brownfield tax­ the village, Thomapple Township, increment financing proposal for and Thomapple Kellogg Schools the Flats at Mid-Villa project on the as one of the community’s greatest northern outskirts of the village. needs - affordable housing. It ranked Village President Pro Tempore only behind inffasfructure in a sur­ Kevin Smith, who presided over vey of participants at that strategic Tuesday night’s Village Council planning session as the community’s meeting in the absence of President highest priority. Smith said. Mike Cramer, said he was “greatly “This is the opportunity for afford­ disappointed” by the lack of action able housing,” Smith said. “It aston­ by the county board. ishes me that we sat in a room and “It’s really amazing to me. It is, in agreed to it, and every one of those my opinion, a failure at the local and leaders went back, and somehow county government, in every way, didn’t sell the deal to make sure that shape and form,” Smith said at the continued to be our priority.” conclusion of the meeting. “I hope The council had voted unanimously it’s not a NIMBY issue. I hope that April 23 in favor of the brownfield it’s just they don’t fully understand TIF request, which developer Nate Heyboer of Dutch Developers LLC has repeatedly said is needed to make the project to add 144 “ work ­ I force housing” apartment units affordable. The project was also sup­ ported by the village ’ s Downtown • State & l-CAR Certified Development Authority board. Technicians Businesses such as Bradford White • TOUCH Computerized Corporation have campaigned for the proj ect as a way to help attract Electronic Measuring System employees. • Frame Repair “Mr. Heyboer has been very gener­ ous in his approach. He has spent a "'We go above ana beyond lot of time explaining himself over and over again, and for some strange your vehicle repairs!"" reason, people are not hearing the message that we need affordable housing. Mr. Heyboer is willing to WMBA Lesonal I (TOWS) V NFIB pave the road and do nearly anything he can within his power and financial 616.891.0150 capacity to make it happen,” Smith www.edsbodv.com said. “I implore anyone in leadership that happens across this video (of Tuesday’s meeting) — please under­ stand when we say something is a CAIEDONIA, MICHIGAN priority and we don’t act on it, we’re wasting a lot of time. I ’ m sad to see 110 Johnson Street the outcome today (it ’ s) shocking Owner Ed Pa wioski Jr. and clearly states that we have a lot OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm j^f misinformed or uninformed individuals that are making decisions. STATEIOWmW Ik GOLD CLASS ED’S BODY SHOP Jt, 9^ s 1 I r ■ .1 sc «A*.* 4 1 .2 A B II • I I '-’i 4 V r jr t k r f t I I - ■I 1 A .1 I 4 ; ■ »■ ’nu’* ■*> ar«:< r. .4 •*1 b'Xk. I t JI »•. .. t * > V « -MJ ft . -57^ •A " FZ I 9 1 A X-J tf. ^9 . I I A/ * I. 5 l'*.- -. •s Middleville Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith expresses his displeasure with the Barry County Board of Commissioners for not voting on the brownfield tax-increment financing proposal for the Flats at Mid­ Villa on Tuesday night. (Photo by Greg Chandler) I Council Trustee Richard Hamilton took a shot at Commissioner Catherine Getty, who represents the village on the county board, for what he saw was a lack of support for the project. Hamilton said he wished he had asked Getty her position on the brownfield TIF at a July 2 committee of the whole meeting after she gave her county report to the council. “It’s probably the single biggest issue — not when the fairgrounds are going to be open (for the county fair) or some other dam thing,” Hamilton said. “What is she doing to help us - the township and the village — besides Blue Zones? I’m pretty upset about it, and when I see her. I’m going to ask her (what her posi­ tion is on the brownfield TIF). I wish I would have asked her last week, because she’s done nothing that I know of to promote (the project).” Council Trustee Makenzi Peters pointed out the commercial portion of the Mid-Villa project which includes three commercial outlets to be developed along M-37 and a 134unit self storage facility — would not be subject to the TIF, meaning the village and other taxing imits would gain all new tax revenue generated by that portion of the development. We’d actually be gaining income, not to mention all of the revenue of people living and working in the community,” Peters said. “There’s definitely a need for affordable hous ing for people. It is very disappoint ing, because that is a need. It’s sad to see progress not move forward. We’re being left behind as a village.” In closing out his comments at the end of the council meeting. Smith appealed to the long-term benefits of the Mid-Villa project for the Middleville and Thomapple Township community. “The fact remains that this will make the village of Middleville bet­ ter in 15, 20 years, and the township will benefit almost immediately as soon as Mr. Heyboer starts develop­ ing his commercial spots,” he said. “And all we’re doing is instead of making an ally, we are finstrating the very person that is here to help us accomplish all the goals that we aimed to accomplish when we sat in this room and set those priorities.” 44 •B » I « I �www.sunandnews.com and news_______ Saturday, July 6, 2024 ®®""®“ allocates $10,000 for sidewalk fixes Staff Writer i- ■ f ----------- -------- - || . After numerous discussions on how to handle sidewalk repairs in Caledonia, the Village Council has decided to set some money aside toward that effort. The council voted unanimously Monday night to allocate $ 10,000 per year out of the village budget toward fixing sidewalks that are in need of repair. The council has debated for several years about how to pay for sidewalk repairs whether it should be the village covering the cost, whether it should be the property owners, or some combination thereof. However, up until Monday, the discussions usually ended with no resolution. “We finally got something done, Council Trustee Jeff Niles said. This is what I came here for I’m just so glad it’s going to be taken care of” Council Trustee Dan Erskine, who has long advocated for the village funding sidewalk repairs, made the motion to provide the funding. He didn’t initially indicate a specific amount to be allocated, but later agreed to the $10,000 figure. “We promote walkability in the vil­ lage of Caledonia in everything we do,” Erskine said. “If you go down the sidewalk and trip over a curb that ’ s out of whack 3 to 4 inches and fall on your face how does it (feel)?” Coimcil Trustee Karen Hahn said at a special council meeting June 18 that she had tripped and fallen over a sidewalk that was in need of repair. She asked at that meeting to have sidewalks that were potential tripping hazards to be marked with brightcolored paint. The council agreed to have Erskine and Niles go around the village to mark sidewalks that were a potential hazard. Prior to the vote, President Jennifer Lindsey shared a memo from Village Attorney James Scales, which indi­ cated that the village can use public 44 We finally got something done. This is what I came here for ■ ■■ I’m Just so glad K’s going to be taken care of.W Jeff Niles, Trustee, Caledonia Village Council 64 f^ds to repair sidewalks in the pub­ lic right-of-way. “We can determine if we want to pay part or all (of the cost), and it only requires a two-thirds (majority) vote by council,” Lindsey said. Quoting Scales’ memo again, Lindsey said that making the abut­ ting property owner pay the cost of repairs is “an option also, authorized by statute, but it’s not the only way to take care of sidewalks.” “While it is true that public funds cannot be used for private purposes, as recognized by village law, side­ walk maintenance is a public pur­ pose,” Lindsey quoted from Scales’ memo. A portion of the village’s ordinance regulating sidewalk construction and repairs gives the council the authority by resolution to “direct EUCHRE at the Butcher r Block Social sidewalk; Insufficient slope to adequately drain water; — Other conditions or kinds of disrepair, as determined by the pub­ lic service director and approved by council. Interim Village Manager Lisa Segard suggested having a limit on how much funding should be allo­ cated for sidewalk repairs and setting priorities for which sidewalks should get the most attention. “We can look to our ordinance for the specifications of what is a hazardous sidewalk versus a falling­ apart (sidewalk),” Segard said. “We can look to that ordinance for the specifications, and then we could put an annual limit where we would work our way through the village, so we don’t say ‘fix ‘em all’ and put a hole in the bottom of our checking account.” No decisions have been made yet on which sidewalks will be targeted for repairs. Vote for Proven Leadership 1 r b 4 f I f u t 4 I. 0 1 r. Catherine GETTY JR VOTE AUGUST 6th M-37 & 100th Street (next to Ace Hardware) County Commissioner Every Tuesday Night Registration starts at 6 p.m. Game starts at 6:30 p.m. “Catherine is the right person at the right time for County Commissioner.” Pay Per Euchre. No Partner Needed. Paid for by the Committee to elect Catherine Getty, 11835 Lakeridge Or., Wayland, Ml 49348 ioV k and require” sidewalks be rebuilt or repaired if they are in disrepair. Within 10 days of passing the reso­ lution, the council or public service director (currently there is no such person filling that role) must provide wntten notice to the affected prop­ erty owner, requiring the sidewalk be fixed. The ordinance further gives the village the authority to have the side­ walk rebuilt or repaired if the prop erty owner does not do so “and the expense of such work shall be spe­ cially assessed to the person refusing or neglecting to construct, rebuild or repair the same, such expense shall be charged against any such lot or premises.” The ordinance says a sidewalk is considered in disrepair if it has one of the following conditions; — Potholes of one inch or more in depth; — Loosened, crumbling or break­ ing surfaces; — Differences of one inch or more in height of adjoining sections of Mike Bremer, former Thornapple Township Supervisor & Barry County Commissioner �J 4 f *; k / 7 b r Saturday, July 6, 2024 8 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Former TK Learning Center torn down GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer The building that served genera­ tions of Thomapple Kellogg Schools from high schoolers dur students ing World War II to preschoolers in is no longer. more recent years Demolition crews this week began demolition work on the district’s former Learning Center. Crews from X-Treme Demolition of Grand Rapids tore down the district’s oldest building, which dated back to 1938. “Most likely we’re looking at next week before it’s completely down,” TK Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie said. The building was originally home to Thomapple Kellogg High School, then later the middle school. In more recent years, the Learning Center housed the district’s preschool and child care programs. However, those programs moved when the TK Early 1 Staff Writer A 58-year-old Middleville man is dead after a two-vehicle crash in Thomapple Township Sunday after­ noon, according to the Barry County Sheriffs Office. The crash occurred shortly before 3 p.m. at the intersection of Cherry Valley Road and Gackler Road. A preliminary investigation showed a truck, driven by the Middleville man, was turning from Gackler onto 'A- ^fll 9 * L ’k J 1^-^- r - 4 <•1 ♦ V A’. /, < JI 4<i> « 1? A. Iki I 'i: 41 J A) . «•* t • I 4 L ♦i a •* irrS A f ?»ss^ 3 zb* tr i n K rr • ' <'r* ■ 1 5^: r f r-ef I I V A •I 1 *1 V• •w £ 1 i •F I » I t < * - 4 I ir ) TT * f--- /• e « 4 W>- • - I * ►/ fl T i** / ' iBi .* .XJ' F* *•' ••• * RPR** t J •• Grand Rapids-based X-Treme Demolition worked to tear down Thornapple Kellogg’s former learning center building this week. (Photo provided) Childhood Center opened on Bender Road in the fall of 2022. The TK Board of Education Middleville man killed in Thornapple Township crash GREG CHANDLER >% ’*• f approved the contract for demolition of the Learning Center in January to X-Treme Demolition, which submit­ ted the low bid of $72,400. Funds for the demolition work came from the $42.8 million bond issue that district voters passed in November 2019. While earlier plans suggested the Cherry Valley when he failed to yield the right of way to a car headed southbound on Cherry Valley. The two vehicles collided and both became engulfed in flames, Sgt. Barry Brandt of the sheriffs office said in a news release. The truck driver was airlifted from the scene to Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids by Aero Med. He died several hours later, Brandt said. site could be used for additional parking for McFall Elementary School, the district is now planning to have the site be turned back into green space, LaHaie said. A memorial wall that depicts the building’s original use as the high school will remain, LaHaie said. < 9 * 3 • w •> * A ( » I •B 4 . . *£ • • See CRASH on 10 * .tie . J b Off Fabrics (excludes sale items) *'» I '' Sale I, ► , TK Junior Equestrian Team shines at Barry County competition Sale ends July 31st «-• ■■ * . Pick up station for Linus Project & Hulst Cleaners -f ■0* T^fian^fuC to 6e an ‘Americanl QUESTIONS: ..,i^SK US... VISA !mmh r L a 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 OPEN; Mpnday-Friday 8 am-5;30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm Hulst ; Cleaners Pickup Station ♦ . ■' A'Xv •( '.r ■ T*- 4 The TK Junior Equestrian Team earned the Reserve Champion honor at a recent Michigan Interscholastic Horse Association District District Fairgrounds. Team members (pictured rJ hi^ DWilliams. Riley McKeown. Anna Kenyon. Taylor Buehler. Brystal Vos. and Emily Coe. The team is coached by Ally Quist, along with Assistant Coach. Leah Mokma �9 www.sunandnews.com 9 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6. 2024 9 9 ♦ Street project 11 Staff Writer I I I Construction work is underway on a mile-long stretch of 100th Street in Caledonia Township, from Patterson Avenue to Kraft Avenue. Work on the federally-funded proj­ ect got underway this week, with 100th completely closed to through traffic from Patterson because of the installation of a new box culvert, Kent County Road Commission spokeswoman Maura Lamoreaux said. The $1,975,000 project involves reconstruction of 100th to an allseason standard, with the work to include removing the current asphalt surface, earthwork, drainage, stump removal, culvert replacement, paving of new asphalt, pavement markings and site restoration, according to a memo the road commission sent out to property owners. The project is slated for completion about Sept. 20. During the construc­ tion, 100th Street will be closed to through traffic, but access to homes and businesses will be maintained to allow people directly impacted by the construction to get where they need to go, the road commission wrote in the memo. The suggested detour route for the project is Patterson Avenue north t Si,511,000 in federal aid funding, with the remaining $464,000 of the cost to be picked up by the road commission, Lamoreaux wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Brenner Excavating ot Hopkins is the project contractor. The project construction schedule will be 7 a.ni. to 5 p.m. weekdays with possible Saturday work necessary to get the project done on schedule, according to the road commission memo. Anyone with questions on the 100th Street project is asked to call the Kent County Road Commission’s engineering office at (616) 2426910 or visit kentcountyroads.net. — f I if ♦ Jr . <>• ROAi) CLOSE t> J* 4 Ml *91 L I • > * ’ Tree Removal. Tree Trimming. Excavation, Lot Clearing r Over the Top Clearing Services 9^ ❖ ’ (269) 953-3366 t David Case Crews have blocked off a mile-long stretch of 100th Street in Caledonia Township has they embark on a project with an estimate completion date of Sept. 20. (Photo by Greg Chandler) 9 Owner Overthetopclearing@gmail.com t 9 from 100th to 92nd Street, then east on 92nd to Kraft Avenue, then south on Kraft to Johnson Street in the vil­ lage of Caledonia, according to the road commission memo. The project has received * * 9 Io □ JI ' ■ ,• i ■ • • nW ■ h * Ol ip^ ,I V J ’•<1 '•S • f r Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! d TK Schools invites people to get behind the wheel of a school bus I, J School district officials are hoping that this opportunity could lead to new members of the TK transporta­ tion team. Benefits include; — Competitive pay — Paid holidays and time off — Health and vision benefits available — Guaranteed hours with overtime opportunities The district will train any new driv­ ers and pay all costs associated with obtaining a CDL. Interested candi­ dates must be 19-plus years old with a valid driver’s license. Questions can be directed to the district’s bus garage at 269-795-5540. s >1 *• > J r ■■ f I » *• «» 9" "b. TP 1 <•- •<- . I— N. . •.1 « t « » I / b • i. v Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. PRINTING BY www.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting .com > > I *» > / 9 fe s I. « Have you ever wondered what it would be like to drive a school bus? Are you concerned they seem too big to drive? Thomapple Kellogg Schools is providing a chance to gain real hands-on experience by getting behind the wheel. Those who are interested in this opportunity are asked to stop by the Thomapple Kellogg High School north parking lot off Green Lake Road in Middleville, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. or 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday July 23 for a free opportu­ nity to get behind the wheel of a bus and try it out in a safe environment with a trainer. ■< ♦ �10 ♦ ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 Bids for state-funded road project in Caiedonia exceed budget GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Bids for a state-funded road improvement project in the village of Caledonia came in much higher than what engineers had expected the project to cost. The Village Council Monday voted to award the contract for the patching and overlay work on Emmons Street, Maple Street, Duncan Lake Road and Casey Court to Michigan Paving & Materials Co., which was the low bidder at $419,421. Three companies submitted bids for the project, with the competing firms offering bid prices of $572,571 and $631,713, according to village documents. The engineering firm Fleis & VandenBrink had earlier estimated the project cost at $375,000, accord * ing to a memo from project manager Jon Moxey to the village in May. Caledonia was chosen last fall to receive a $ 184,000 grant through the state’s Community Service Infrastructure Fund (CSIF) Category B program, which is aimed toward projects in communities that have less than 10,000 residents. The vil­ lage had planned to use the Category B funds toward patching and thin overlay work on streets in the Glen Valley retail area of the village. covering such streets as Glengarry Drive, North Rodgers Court and Dobber Wenger Memorial Drive. However, Michigan Department of Transportation officials determined the asphalt on the Glen Valley streets was in too poor of condition for this type of maintenance work, and gave the village the option to change where to have the overlay work done, according to the memo from Moxey. Although bids for the project exceeded the budget, Fleis & VandenBrink project manager Peter Tierney said that the engineers have structured the contract in such a way to bring the project in line with the budget. “We set up the project to be flexi ble, so we can adjust the scope of the project to match the budget,” Tierney said after Monday’s council meeting. The remainder of the project cost will be covered by the local street portion of the village budget. The project is slated to take place in a 45-day window from Aug. 5 to Nov. 1. “We are still working with the con­ tractor to determine the days within that timeline they will be working,” Tierney said. I * Classifieds BUSINESS SERVICES BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Loqqino (269)818-7793. SHELLER & SONS LLC Fencing (Insured) is offering installation and removal. Please call Chris 231-519-6313. www.sunandnews.com CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 I4 > MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 The July 8 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. Two fish jumped into the fishbowl, one fish jumped out. Club members held several discussions throughout the meeting. The club’s picnic will be held on July 29, immediately fol­ lowing weigh-ins. Members say they are happy with the current structure of the club and its officers, and all current offi­ cers were approved to serve another year. Club bylaws were reviewed as well; no Three hurt in Gaines rollover crash GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Three people from the Caledonia area were injured in a rollover crash Monday afternoon in Gaines Township. The crash occurred about 1:30 p.m. in the 2100 block of 76th Street SE, near Breton Avenue. A preliminary investigation by the Kent County Sheriff’s Office showed a 54-year-oId woman was driving a red Chevrolet CRASH Continued from Page 8 The driver of the sedan was taken by ambulance to Corewell Health Butterworth with non-life threatening injuries, Brandt said. The names of the drivers have not been released. The accident remains under investigation, Brandt said. The sherifT s office was assisted at the scene by Thomapple Township Emergency Services, Caledonia Fire Department, Aero Med and Barry County Central Dispatch. The accident was the latest in a string r 7*' ETS DOG GROOMING. UALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. REAL ESTATE WOODED BUILDING SITE: Sandy soil, 1.3 acres between CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, Middleville & Hastings on Buehler REMODELING, Rd., 1 mile north of Algonquin Lake. Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks.^ 616-893-1872 Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937. changes were made. Linda lost the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the club recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. UGHTTRUCK PARTS naNiTs*nnm*i«Ti«*nK*sm*iBs>«Hs f4 FULL SERVICE & YOU PULL IT J 9 f I 269-381-2300 1 > {? A - F USED FARTS h USED TIRES IBU LAKE ST, KUAHIAZOO Equinox westbound on 76th when she began to slow down to turn into a driveway. A silver Nissan Rogue, driven by a 17-year-old girl, was behind the Equinox and attempted to pass it. The Nissan struck the Equinox, causing both vehicles to overturn, Sgt. Kailey Gilbert of the sheriffs office said. Both drivers suffered minor injuries in the crash, as well as the 15-year-old son of the Equinox driver, Gilbert said. of recent fatal accidents on Barry County roads. On June 5, a two-vehicle crash in Orangeville Township resulted in the death of a 34-year-old man from Plainwell, who suffered deadly injuries when he was ejected from his motorcy­ cle after striking a van that was complet­ ing a turn. Speed was deemed a factor in that accident. On June 14, a two-vehicle crash in Baltimore Township resulted in the death of an 84-year-old woman from Middleville, who was riding as a pas­ senger in a vehicle that was struck as it completed a turn. About a week later, another Baltimore Township accident resulted in a death. In that incident, Michigan State Police Troopers stationed at MSP’s post in Wayland were summoned to the scene of a single-vehicle crash at East Ickes near Bird roads. Police received an auto­ mated alert from an iPhone that indicated that a potential crash had transpired. According to MSP, when troopers amved on the scene, they observed a pickup truck that had crashed into a tree and was fully engulfed in flames. The occupant of the vehicle, who was unidentifiable, was found deceased inside. �1 !i. c J I * ¥ I 1 I I k r I a I I f www.sunandnews.com _ -SUN AND NEWS 1 _______________ 2024 11 i ''®’* officers, adds probationary firefighters .» “T®'”’ ® Staff Writer ’I r K. The Thomapple Township Fire Department has promoted several of r its members to leadership positions and added three probationary fire­ fighters. * The promotions were made official with a pinning of the bugles ceremo­ ny during Monday night’s Township Board meeting. The bugle is a sym­ bol of leadership in the fire depart­ ^'rl ment. The new officers also were sworn in by Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer. r Pattrick Jansens becomes the new deputy chief. Jansens has been with the department since September Joe Johnson received his bugle as 2003 and became full-time in the new EMS coordinator from his September 2022. Last year, he added brother Matthew, who was home on the responsibilities of being a from the Navy. training officer for the department. Fire Chief Bill Richardson said. “Pattrick put in for the deputy Services (ISO) rating, which rates chief s position. It was a pretty long, the ability of fire departments involved test, I think it was twoto serve their communities. An and-a-half hours per person with a improved ISO rating translates into couple of months pre-planning lower fire insurance costs for homes multiple fire scenarios and a lot of and businesses, Richardson said. stress put on by three area chiefs,” Jansens has also taken over Richardson said. responsibility of maintaining “They were really impressed with the department’s ambulances, ... his attention to detail, and anyone Richardson said. that knows Pattrick, knows that’s Jason Preslar, who has been with (important to him).” the fire department since September Jansens and Richardson are work­ 2011, was promoted to captain. He ing together on an effort to improve has been in charge of building and the department’s Insurance Office grounds for the department. ^Br I’jj” W Ig I. -.js r •* 1 W • ;: t •./ 1^ '5^'” I c f X > !.•» A •K . >• J£LX^ k I ' ¥ C ?! ............ p 4iM J 31- *JI L fIMI *— . > ? ♦ 1 p. ?* X V. J <1^ 1 < ♦ •’ I •.•. ■ , J 4 k *•> .1/1 Ml Preslar is part of a family of fire­ fighters. His father was a firefighter, and his daughter McKenna is a Thomapple firefighter as well. Joe Johnson, who has been with the department since March 2016, becomes its EMS coordinator. He is the department’s only full-time criti cal care paramedic, and he has been an instructor coordinator for the state of Michigan, Richardson said. Currently, the department has seven officers Richardson, Jansens, two captains and three lieu tenants. Richardson expects to add a fourth lieutenant this fall, he said. “When I came here (two years ago), we had three officers in the department besides myself. We had one retirement last year,” Richardson said. “Just to give you a span of control over the membership that we have here, we should have at least eight officers.” The new probationary firefighters are Kevin Bull, Dade Landon and Chase Maslonka. All three received a yellow shield to add to the front of their helmets. *• 1 I : . A . ?: K' • tV A < »«• IB ** • k s L_ r fl* > I Fr 4** > *• I w z. 1b 9 * >• b w: <7* Pattrick Jansens has his deputy chief bugle pinned on his uniform shirt by his wife. Amber. “We had an emergency here - a pipe broke in a (fire truck) bay, we lost some ceiling. Jason got that taken care of right way,” Richardson said. Preslar has responded to 52 calls this year, the most by any depart­ ment officer, Richardson said. : 't ■' ‘jfBi fc 1 J . .& k K • 4 ♦ 1% . <7 ■3 X rrr'- I ' -r-’ 7T f fl "T^ges^K^ k Ji. •A 't .•T^ M ■ • -y-ti THE 4I| 11 e*- I i Noon .7^ ■ >.' A / ' I V.-.. >I •* M Mj r M Ifl Wlii wfl i- -it. Cl a * t 7^ > rS ' r 'J •u* f ;.FC- A ir 1 <? V E F_ h I i I * ' r; >a // I < I 'k :t. 1 tsas X tt " t * « St , A* ■'. r» • ■ . IR *■» f *e R * ' 1 > >€ *»<4’ '' • “ . Vb k -i 4 i'j ik <i .1 <h t L 11 M I « U' I A *1 s if I, f ’.?! I f A y *? «• 1 ’A r k ..'A .7 x’C* •» 'I k 5 f I W I *v fl.e* 'h .i’ tromgeggji fo ’•"•■tcS '*-^x k. * <>h' iT I k 1 * I ^’*«.' -f <« < > B . 45 I f *Av > ifc?" L A.* * •J .1.«3^ ' ; 5? *T.» «. r 9 ft r* •CVlIIJ. . Vb. •is A I fl V -KL( » » fl » *I -7 ^ • .Vi^ *■ : *'k >•. t ™73&/. I* ‘Xr"* ■- V •4 6-»p fl ** . A s*-* «'M > * >iaCi^ •r I . fl» % e ’*1 I ••I B * >7^ k> » '•®r t*V, f » I •^ I ' -V?; ' <■!« 7-k Ik » I >. F V I ■ * » B «Z' I c 4 W*IB K « ’ *«“ • —X Ai t ^S< L-S* 1 • » »> .<£^ - '■ I '■’. 9 4 I ‘7^ 1 • '-4 w BRT" ■< < t .'’4- .•uS f: s k 5 r»*’' b***. -S'. > « . <4.7 i»r i« t ' 't 4^B > A' ( » 7 < A. ■g e> • KC* 'J ^4 h- >* 1 •> , » - 1 Ka 9 • I« fl ‘ > A A Jason Preslar is pinned for his captain bugle by his wife, Lindsay, as their daughters look on. (Photos by Greg Chandler) * B..^ 4 U^iU ?T ‘X’ TJ- •vA'** . J f r »k 4 f « • un >* r >. > S b I r ”7 » B •» s » J f s 'T" 1 g k f I i' « 4 . • T"’ • I .. Ab*..bi 5 > • I r s ■ 'r.’-4ii H <1 1 s 1 z A < . .< a » ♦ ♦ �9 12 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS -Saturday, July 6, 2024 Gaines Township Board approves update to Alexander Trails housing plan JAMES GEMMELL Contributing Writer The first phase of a major residen­ tial development in Gaines Charter Township is on pace to begin next spring following unanimous town­ ship board approvals Monday night of a Planned Unit Development and ordinance amendments for Alexander Trails. Both votes were 6-0. One trustee was absent from the meeting. The 404-unit mixed-use devel­ opment would be built in various phases over several years along 76th Street east of Hanna Lake Avenue. Signature Land Development Corp, is the project applicant. It sells property lots to its partner. Eastbrook Homes. Signature’s plan­ ning manager, Kelly Kuiper, gave an update at Monday’s meeting. She noted that Signature Land and Eastbrook Homes originally hoped to begin installing infrastructure for the development’s first phase nearly five years ago. That was after the township board had approved the original PUD layout. But then the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and the original site-plan approvals expired a year later. The housing project will require an extension of municipal water lines about a mile along 76th Street, at the developer’s cost. Kuiper said the goal is to get all the necessary utilities, including a lift station and other infrastructure, installed as soon as possible. On May 23, the planning commis­ sion voted 6-0 to approve the new site plan, which includes changes to the photometric plan so that softer lighting will be used on the site. The commission also recommended in May that the township board approve the ordinance and PUD amendments. At its June 27 meet­ ing, the planning commission rec­ ommended that the township board approve the PUD amendment. After Monday night’s board vote, the developers are ready to begin construction at 2451 76th St. SE as part of the first phase, with a revised layout and some new con- WE ’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS W’- Residential & Commercial I r'\ c- Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers -MX Conditioners Heat Pumps V|ater Heaters Humidifiers KS MH r «• r.' 1 I) 4 I ■4 n 1 ■II Ilf -iaSpS DEW^RDHTG.COM 269-792-223 -— r T *♦ r a a * * *' e. VJ DeWeerd (68) HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. .KA I* * —t •k Of' I Since I9SS LENN, - ■» >• A+ a BBB. ACCfiEDireD BUSINESS cepts in mind. They will be able to start submitting individual plat pro­ posals to the planning commission in August. Community Development Director Dan Wells said Monday night that the PUD zoning that was approved for the project four years ago remains in place, but the PUD itself had to be updated to reflect current market conditions. The tentative preliminary plats for each phase of the project will all have to be considered by the plan­ ning commission. Signature Land already has submitted phases 1 and 2 of the first platted sections of the single-family homes for review at the July 25 planning commission meeting. The small townhome por­ tion in the center of the develop­ ment also will be reviewed. After that. Signature will bring those first two phases to the township board for consideration and approval at its August meeting. “There will be subsequent applica tions for each phase, depending on whether it’s a plat or a site condo, however they divide the land up,” Wells said. The updated plan calls for 404 units to be built on nearly 150 acres, instead of the original 397 units. The change allowed Signature Land to introduce two new building types to the development. The project includes 190 single-family detached homes, and 40 condominium “ter­ race” homes with detached garages. The total number of detached homes will be 230. “The reason that these are a very cool product is because it functions like a condominium,” Kuiper said. “Every unit is fenced, so you have a dedicated green space even though you live in a traditional condo ... you can put a patio in, a garden in, have that private space for an ani­ mal (pet).” The gross density for the overall site would be 2.7 units per acre. The net density, which factors out the land on the site that is not develop­ able, would be 3.1 units per acre. The plan calls for 66 condomini­ um attached single-story ranch-style homes and 108 condominium twostory attached homes (townhomes). Nearly 50 acres of land will be z Im preserved as open space, with more than five miles of sidewalks and seven park activity areas. There will be 16.7 miles of roads. Eastbrook Homes President Mike McGraw recently said the first phase would mainly entail construe tion of single-family homes on the first 29 acres of the development. Kuiper gave a presentation to the township board on some of the plan updates. She said that, as people enter the development from the main access road, the new plan no longer envisions one long continu­ ous row of homes. Instead, the road ends at a drainage basin. “Your terminating view is now a pond instead of more houses,” she said. “It just provides for a much better feel for the community. The new layout also features some condominiums east of the pond. The idea of placing them there is to provide more shared green space instead of having private lots. That will allow for an ADAaccessible loop to be constructed in the central area of the PUD. “So that there can be at least viewing space for all abilities to see and access that Plaster Creek corridor. Then, there will be some natu ral walking paths,” Kuiper said. She mentioned that the two-story townhomes will likely be in the $300,000 to $400,000 price range. The terrace homes will run any where from $350,000 to $450,000, the ranch condos will cost in the range of $375,000 to $500,000, and the single-family houses will be at least $475,000. Kuiper said a sin­ gle-family home and lot package in Alexander Trails will cost between $400,000 and $800,000. “They have a real wide variety of home types,” Wells said. “They really are looking to include more variety in their housing develop ments so that folks who are in different phases of life can move around within a development rather than having to pick up sticks and move somewhere else or outside the township to find a place to live.” “I do think it’s really important with housing costs and interest rates the way they are to really diversify price points for people,” Kuiper added. w Ml MM �% ' J I We '«!} if !(■ 1 k r b I I www.sunandnews.com 1. THE SUN AND NEWS ---------------- — _____________ . - _________ Saturday, July 6, 2024 A, 7 Contributing Writer Some Gaines Township planning commissioners say traffic safety already is a major concern on bus­ tling 68th Street, so they are hesitant to approve a proposed childcare cen­ ter being built near the township’s busiest intersection. They voted 4-1 at their June 27 meeting to table further consideration of a requested special use permit for construction of the 13,533-squarefoot Child Day Care Center at 1688 68th St. SE. Commissioners Tim Haagsma and Brad Waayenberg were absent from the meeting. Commission Chairwoman Connie Giarmo cast the dissenting vote. The commissioners said they first want to hear Haagsma’s input on the proposal, because he also is traffic safety director for the Kent County Road Commission. The project applicant is Berkley, Mich.-based 814 Development. Mark Kellenberger is its director of devel­ opment. Under the proposal, there would be a single-drive entrance to the site. However, Kellenberger said that 814 would consider the engineering fea­ sibility of building an alternate drive­ way entrance west of Kalamazoo Avenue. Developers would like to start construction on the 1.6-acre parcel as soon as possible and have the daycare facility operating by the spring of 2025. The existing building on the site would be demolished to make way for the new development. It would include a 57-space front parking lot, fencing and playgrounds. The opera­ tors would employ about 27 people. It is licensed to accommodate a maximum of 202 children. “I see this as kind of a critical economic-development issue. If the parents can’t have their kids in a safe place during the day, they can’t work,” Community Development Director Dan Wells told commis sioners. He acknowledged that the daycare facility would generate more vehicu­ lar traffic, but noted it is about 450 ■M ♦ r» -A ^'•S* .-*1“ •> • •*’ > I• • < • • • > 4’. ___ 4 3i b •«^- 4 p* p •M 4 4 'id 1 .< *1 vj WF.J f c. w *. t4 J » • < Wi • X • ’?ff An overhead view of the property where a new childcare center is proposed to be built 450 feet from the intersection of 68th Street and Kalamazoo Avenue. (Source; gainestownship.org) - ••» I* .i r -liTi '___F- ■( ; 1, i IC__ f p w I <■ ! ' r* >. «» I •^5 ’•4^J I X ■' R *1 • Ji. P s hte"' I* — b >♦ s I » Jr- I -f'.“ 1^ H • ri w « 4* I*-- £i;. I Jsl 'r."T J J .2 rT I * 4 T?= f 9 I 5H*: r* ■ V <1 K J di1-^ fT TTW li J ♦• A u^ r ktAi B 4 J r • r. I p ♦ s ’"HT IJ ■ - r I * A iiL .r p F ..^avi I* Hi! f*****^ I I •••• 4 ?? .B* ,te~ * 0 b»«if =iJ J A T* I t;. » J -A'*: ^BSBF s Ft. * I ., T Ti =* £ .v« . * >I J r p * r.i* mr.l ..j-ii' >'2E‘ 9 y jjT ’ •' I r X b I J* *•“1 s^ » I Ab I f *< '•'. r ? 4? •• w A sr? «= T > giUI ■r •t Br ng^ 'Till ^'af •.nr z I .-i * 1 3© r. : 4 R r.f • “ 7-:-. 31 I I .WW . ■ Z J- T v i S"’ •i .T M . *1 / • I . ■r* s: * —JjJM L- "P; fl* IJ^^ f-- V A >»• Sid. -'I * ? ; -as.. lS •’ CfiS «| » a: Bb I • < J*’ r. ii« -r I feet away from the Kalamazoo/68th Street intersection. And because parents pick up and drop off their children at different times of the day, there would not be a lot of traffic congestion at a given time. But some commissioners did not agree. “68th Street is so busy now, I can’t imagine what it’s going to be like,” Vice Chairwoman Ronnie Rober said. “I know (the pickup and drop­ off) is staggered, but there are a lot of cars coming in and out of there. And it is close to the (southeast) cor­ ner, I don’t care what anybody says.” Giarmo pointed out that the speed limit is 55 miles per hour, but vehi­ cles often zip along that corridor at much higher speeds. “That’s the scary part,” Rober said. Grand Rapids-based Nederveld Inc. is the design engineer for the development. The company’s project manager, Steve Witte, said he understands that concern. But he told plan ning commissioners that maximum «■ I traffic would be about 50 to 60 vehicles during the peak rush hour, or about one vehicle per minute. < “It’s not like a school where (the children) are dropped off all at the same time,” he said. “And a lot of parents have more than one kid. So, it’s not like there are 202 vehicles going there in a day. 68th Street, good or bad, is a major road, so it’s got the capacity there.” Commissioner Lani Thomas asked why the driveway on the proposed site plan must be so close to the road. See CHILDCARE on 15 * ra ri I ArtteriAo Men ** 1e <** ■ js’ 1 Antenna Men' Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers Cellula^r Enhancement Systems > I ?- ///Surg^ cl^r^ 1 CELt(W) S'O’B n G« www.cellsignalpros.com . Give us a call! 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com k J ♦ ♦ 13 Township planners table decision on proposed childcare center until traffic safety addressed JAMES GEMMELL •? THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP BOARD 128 HIGH ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml 49333 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING MINUTES Monday, July 8, 2024 The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. with six mem­ bers present, Clerk Ordway was absent. Items approved: 1. Printed Agenda approved as amended with the removal of New Business F. Resolution 112024 Tax Sharing Agreement. 2. Consent Agenda ap­ proved as presented. 3. Approved motion to pur­ chase a meeting OWL and perch for a cost NTE $1,000.00. 4. Approved motion to pur­ chase 10 - BOOMhz pagers for a cost NTE $6,000.00. 5. Approved motion to hire one part-time firefighter EMT-P. 6. Approved motion for professional development for a cost NTE $3,750.00. 7. Approved motion to accept the bid from BR Construction LLC for the columbarium dec­ orative concrete path and circle in the amount of $12,250.00. Meeting adjourned at 8;12 p.m. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Amy Brown. Approved by Town­ ship Supervisor, Eric Schaefer. Copies of the meeting min­ utes are available upon request from the Township Clerk or by visiting our website at https:// LhQrnapple-twD.org/meeting-minutes/ Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. ♦ ♦ �d < b 4 14 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 I CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF GAINES KENT COUNTY, Ml ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ I N S « »— J • P NOTICE OF PUBLISHING - ORDINANCE TO APPROVE A MAJOR PUD AMENDMENT FOR ALEXANDER TRAILS PUD FOR SITE AND LAYOUT AND SETBACK CHANGES I I M I 1 At a regular meeting of the Township Board of the Charter Township of Gaines, held Monday, July 8, 2024, the Township Board adopted an Ordinance to approve a major PUD amendment for Alexander Trails PUD for site layout and setback changes. The PUD is legally described as: Part of the Southwest 1/4 and part of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 10, Town 5 North, Range 11 West, Gaines Township, Kent County, Michigan, described as: Commencing at the SW corner of said Section 10; thence N89°50’33”E 208.00 feet along the South line of said Section 10 to the Point of Beginning; thence N00°11 ’38”W 683.50 feet parallel with the West line of said Section 10; thence S89°50’33”W 208.00 feet parallel with said South line to the West line of said Section 10; thence N00°11 ’38”W 1979.94 feet along said West line to the West 1/4 corner of said Section 10; thence N89°57’24”E 561.79 feet along the East-West 1/4 line of said Section 10; thence N00°16’34”W 1048.92 feet along the West line of the East 760 feet of the West 1/2 of the NW 1/4 of said Section 10 to the SW corner of Unit 69, Sienna Pointe Condomini­ um, Kent County Condominium Subdivision Plan No. 414; thence N89°43’18”E 320.05 feet; thence S56°50’00”E 136.62 feet; thence S00°16’42”E 181.95 feet; thence S30°45’34”W 107.66 feet; thence S50°40’22”E 152.30 feet; thence S31°02’05”E 69.28 feet; thence S46°59’43”E 204.95 feet; thence N43°00’17”E 115.92 feet (previous 8 courses being along the Southerly line of said Condo­ minium) to the SE corner of Unit 56 of said Condominium; thence S00°16’34”E 489.79 feet along the East line of the West 1/2 of the NW 1/4 of said Section 10 to the East-West 1/4 line of said Section 10; thence N89°57’24”E 1321.79 feet along said East-West 1/4 line to center of said Section 10; thence S00°11 ’50”E 1786.97 feet along the North-South 1/4 line of said Section 10 to a point being N00°11’50”W 871.20 feet along said North-South 1/4 line from the South 1/4 corner of said Section 10; thence S89°50’33”W 400.00 feet parallel with the South line of said Section 10; thence S00°11 ’50”E 871.20 feet parallel with said North-South 1/4 line; thence S89°50’33”W 137.50 feet along the South line of said Section 10; thence N00°11 ’50”W 418.85 feet; thence S89°50’33”W 104.00 feet; thence S00°11’50”E 418.85 feet; thence S89°50’33”W 112.00 feet along said South line; thence N00°11 ’50”W 200.00 feet; thence S89°50’33”W 217.80 feet; thence S00°11’50”E 200.00 feet; thence S89°50’33”W 350.57 feet along said South line; thence N00°11 ’44”W 941.68 feet along the East line of the West 1/2 of the SW 1/4 of said Section 10; thence S54°56’05”W 451.16 feet; thence S89°50’33”W 200.00 feet; thence S00°11 ’44”E 683.50 feet to the South line of said Section 10; thence S89°50’33”W 543.71 feet along said South line to the Point of Beginning. Contains 152.26 acres. Subject to highway right-of-way for 76th Street over the most Southerly 33 feet thereof. Also subject to easements, restrictions, and rights-of-way of record. A true and complete copy of the PUD amendment for modifications to the Alexander Trails PUD can be inspected or obtained in the office of the Township * Said ordinance shall be become effective seven (7) days after publication. Charter Township of Gaines 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 616-698-6640 Charter Township of Gaines Michael A. Brew, Clerk k 1 I X * * ■flue' / k } J- 1 ik w I J I I •I” aS w «- J F vntfiMis •1 r MIDDLEVILL I » t i: J X* A - 11 Mar V w * if F c- ' €> <♦ * -J i H r t * 4r J 9 r < r^i# '1 I I ___ _' % Au ^9 Ltr9 9 An anonymous donation of $10,000 will go toward maintenance of, and enhancements to, the Veterans Memorial in Middleville. (Courtesy photo) Middleville Veterans Memorial receives substantial donation GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer The Veterans Memorial in the vil­ lage of Middleville has received a significant donation to be used toward the upkeep and maintenance of the memorial, as well as provide additional enhancements to the site that honors those who served their country. The donation was at least $ 10,000, which falls under the category of “partner patron level” for the memo rial, which was completed in 2017. The donors are local residents who have asked to remain anonymous, said Jerry Welsh of the Veterans Memorial Committee. “This came out of the blue,” said Welsh, noting that the donation occurred in late June. The donation is the first “partner patron level” gift by individuals to the Veterans Memorial. Past gifts of this type have been donated by such companies as Bradford White Corporation and Flexfab, Welsh said. One of the donors’ fathers served in the Navy during World War 11 and came to Middleville after the war. The donors had always wanted to see the memorial continue to honor local veterans, Welsh said. The donation will be used “for upkeep, maintenance and any future projects we want to accomplish around the area,” Welsh said. In addition, the gift will be used to purchase a picnic table to be placed near the memorial, as well as a cou­ ple of trees, Welsh said. See MEMORIAL on Page 15 �i www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS CHILDCARE Continued from Page 13 “We originally actually showed it in the middle of the property,” Witte replied. “The reason is, 68th Street slopes down as you head west. By moving it to the middle, it changes the grading dramatically. There’s also a utility pole in the middle of the property that would have to be relocated.” Giarmo told Witte and Kellenberg that the planning commission has been very resistant over the years to allow any intense developments on the south side of 68th Street near the Kalamazoo Avenue intersection. “I understand the grading issues for you are more difficult, but the safety issues are a lot more difficult, at least for me, with it that much closer to the intersection,” Giarmo said. She added that she never wanted all the curb cuts that exist today for the many businesses along Kalamazoo Avenue between M-6 and 68th Street, and she is worried that kind of development could occur on 68th Street. She mentioned that construc­ tion of some major housing develop­ ments will soon be getting underway in Dutton and Caledonia. “I’m going to be really blunt with MEMORIAL ments that are planned in the town­ ship because of her concerns about traffic safety. “We don’t have the ability to change that,” she replied. “But there is a situation where something is right for development. And right now, it is my opinion that this area isn’t right for something more than residential. And that’s what it’s zoned. It’s zoned RL-10. Thomas suggested the developer consider moving the daycare drive­ way on 68th Street as far east as possible. That would be about an 80-to-90-foot difference in location between the curb cut that develop ers originally proposed and the one Thomas suggested. Kellenberger said moving the pro­ posed driveway entrance would pose an engineering challenge because of the change in grade and elevation. “Bringing the driveway up on that east side raises that entire site. So, trying to do this development with a bunch of retaining walls around the edges of the property or around the comers of the development is going to be extremely difficult,” he said. “I do have legitimate concerns that changing it to the east side is going 15 to be somewhat prohibitive from a financial standpoint.” Commissioner Talimma Billips said she would like to hear Haagsma’s input on the proposal at the July 25 planning commission meeting before making a final deci­ sion. And the other commissioners agreed. But Giarmo said moving the driveway would not sway her oppo­ sition to the project. “Pretty much at this point, until we get some idea that we can control the speeds on that road a little bit more, and the safety isn’t as much of an issue It’s the speed limit through there and the number of cars we are adding on there,’’ Giarmo said. Wells reiterated that childcare is a necessity in the township. “There’s a huge demand for it. And as our township grows, we have a lot of working parents who can’t stay at home and just take care of the kids so this is really kind of critical. We’ve had the (recent) childcare expansion at (Kentwood Community Church) and now this. This (would) do a pretty good job of helping to expand the services in the township, he said. ♦ • • • I 1 I Continued from Page 14 The anonymous donation comes on top of another close to $3,000 that was raised in June through a “round­ up” campaign at Harding’s Market, where shoppers could donate to the Veterans Memorial by rounding up their purchase to the next-highest dollar, Welsh said. The most recent addition to the memorial was the erection of a 35-foot-high flagpole that took place in May, shortly before Memorial Day, which allows for a larger American flag to be flown. The flag pole that had been part of the memorial since its inception was moved to Mount Hope Cemetery in time for Memorial Day. The new flagpole was purchased with a combination of reserve funds and donations, Welsh said. The Veterans Memorial contains * the names of I3.aieiLfi3oni ihe you, because we are not really inter­ ested in adding to the traffic. We’re (already) going to add to the traffic significantly with all the housing developments we’re putting in that are going to access the township at Kalamazoo (Avenue). They’re all going to be coming through there,” Giarmo said. She and Thomas talked about sev­ eral serious and fatal accidents that have happened over the years in that area. They said they would prefer a larger development with fewer curb cuts on the south side of 68th Street. Giarmo noted that 68th Street has traditionally been somewhat of a dividing line between commercial development to the north and resi­ dential development on the south. That is the way it is currently zoned along that corridor. “With properties to our east and west being residential and the desire of the township to keep that residen­ tial, why would there be more curb cuts to the east and west of us?” Witte asked. Giarmo responded that although the daycare property would only have one curb cut, “You’re adding a (traffic) intensity that I’m not com fortable with right now. Wells asked Giarmo if she also would oppose other larger develop- Saturday, July 6, 2024 Middleville area who lost their lives while in military service, dating back to World War I. They are, by name, military branch and year of death: — Arthur Finkbeiner, Army, 1918 — Robert Corson, Navy, 1942 — Bernard Fighter, Army, 1943 — Raymond Lewis, Army Air Corps, 1943 — Melbum Donovan, Army, 1944 — John Strumberger, Army, 1944 — Steve Hula, Army, 1945 — Patrick Reynolds, Army, 1945 — James Johnson, Army, 1950 — Allen DeVries, Army, 1969 — Rogers Gordon, Army, 1969 — Dane Carver, Army, 2005 — Nicholas Roush, Army, 2009 The Veterans Memorial Committee consists of Welsh, Jim French, Ed Schellinger, Rich Jenkins, Lee Shumway, Bob Buys, Bob Roush and Scott Palmer. Three founding committee members have died - for­ mer Village President Charlie Pullen, Walt Eavey and Lois Bremer. T ■‘•‘J > i ► p I NOTICE PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Public Accuracy test for the August 6, 2024 Primary Election will be conducted on July 15, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Gaines Township Community Room, lower level, located at » r » I 8555 Kalamazoo Ave SE., Gaines Township, Michigan The Public Accuracy test is conducted to demonstrate that the program and computers that will be used to tabulate the results of the election have been prepared in accordance with law. Michael Brew, Clerk Gaines Charter Township I 'S �•l 4 1 » X i. 4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6_. 2024 16 ~I www.sunandnews.com .................... Boys entertain Sunday evening crowd Them Coulee ♦ ♦ BRETT BREMER Sports Editor ♦ ♦ Them Coulee Boys’ new song “Up Close” isn’t about pickleball. They played another song Sunday evening during their Caledonia Concert Series performance at the Community Green amphitheater the crowd of a couple hundred was assured was “not about golf carts,” pulling some inspiration for their banter between songs from the action going on around the area. For all the songs the not about sports, the opening song of their set, “Knuckleballer,” certainly was at least in part about baseball. “My daddy was a knuckleballer in the minor leagues. We’d head to the park and holler for some kind relief. He had half a shot at stardom and he had half of me,” sang lead singer Soren Staff of the five-pice band playing their style of folky American < f * < • • V 1, t » ■.I*— > ♦ It ! ar 1 lb T. fl * g » If I .%■ 4 A ** iln f*p* IBV H .Av J '.'■f - ...» t. J Ih 4 ♦’raw f t .^. •- y "X 1 I te A i •i b P < ' 7*" I f J* t a 8^^ I % f »>• •*-. BLUE ZONES it- 4 c > u. f I t ACTIVATE BARRY COUNTY r X’ fl JOiN US FOR THE < b I -r, i I . I J J BARRY COUNTY BLUE ZONES I J I WALKING GROUPS Hz JUNE lOTH-AUGUST 16TH □ I*.: □ r-* I I a * Learn more ar acttvatebarrycounry-.com :so : a. 1 r* “ I 4 I •> I* Them Coulee Boys, made up of members (from left) Jens Staff, Beau Janke, Soren Staff, Stas Hable and Neil Krause, perform during the Caledonia Concert Series Sunday evening show at the Community Green amphitheater. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Powered by Corewell Health rock-n-roll. Most songs featured Staff on guitar. Beau Janke on banjo, Jens Staff on the mandolin, Neil Krause on bass and Stas Hable on drums. The band calls Eau Claire, Wise., home, and that is where the band­ mates worked throughout the pan­ demic to put together their third fulllength album, “Namesake,” which was released in 2021 and includes the title track, “Knuckleballer,” and the bouncy tune “Just Friends” about giv­ ing up on “mutually self-destructive” relationships. The band released the EP “Ten Years Tall” in 2023 and is in the pro cess of putting together their fourth full-length album. The band shared a couple new tunes with the crowd, although based on a show of hands of who had seen the band before most of the songs were new to those in the crowd. In the end remembered to celebrate the day’s opening act Plain Jane Glory and the evening’s sponsor Michigan Pipe and Valve encouraging them to keep “piping and valving.” The next Caledonia Concert Series event is a performance by Ashes and Arrows Monday, July 22, as the country/rock band takes a brief hiatus from a tour of the southeastern United States to perform at the Community Green. * CM rx in rx, DO YOU LIVE OR WORK IN BARRY COUNTY? 'O z z WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! z Q. s o Take the coipinunity health jurvev to share your insights and help improve the health of your community. Complete the survey for a chance to win a $20 gift card. Winner selected randomly. (Z) k >» co TD O c •sz Q. .1? ±*; .I Barry-Eaton District Health Department •:* Survey closes on Aug Sth. Corewell Health t*4 s J Paper copies available at: 330 W. Woodlawn Ave. Hastings, Ml 49058 bit.ly/barryhealthsurvey .••I ! f r IX r f r J h c a � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-07-20.pdf 76d3d576b526ee5e5da0ef8b75ed759f PDF Text Text f I f JT / * ” > r ■y > r •t I I 1 A » J ' I * 4 A 1 > I 1 b 1 i 1 ; '/VZ' s I b I. 1 ) 1 I 1 h 5 « •» • 4 1 I I I i * I L i I I b » K i. 4 • > s I i % b* < I I I I s I .X-. <ot'< Hometo k'r rr\. •i 1 t / ‘ 4e 1 J /!*» A • 1 b « V •l ... wspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Gaines Township Areas r i -.4 p“ b Rockies select i Thelen In 15th round A * the sun and NEWS^ f « •t r Page 16 r f NO. 16 > I > r k 1 1 r* J- 1 i' > aa b * k 4 * staff Writer I It took three votes, but the Caledonia Village Council has picked a former Caledonia fire chief to be the village’s ns, new manager. > . w '4^ Brian Bennett, who served for I 27 years on the Caledonia Fire I Department, including 13 and a half years as its chief, received a condi •ifl t K. i! tional offer for the manager’s position i Monday night. r “I’m excited to be here, to be back 1 : V> in Caledonia,” Bennett said in a tele^ b' phone interview with the Sun and tv* J News Tuesday. Council Trustee Jeff Niles called > *-rrI Bennett “one of my hometown heroes” • in stating his support for the new man­ sc it « ager. 5 “I had a house fire, and he was ±e ST i first one ±ere,” Niles said. “He had my back the whole time, told me Caledonia Fire Chief Brian Bennett (left) meets with residents Spike everything I had to do, and he’s done and Lynn Baird prior to his village manager interview on Monday. Bennett was it for everybody for years. I have never offered the manager job later that night after the Village Council interviewed seen him ever get into an argument four finalists for the position. (Photo by Greg Chandler) s re I J b < 4 - -- 1 jL, . : .1; ^7 k c w f> I -X MW J .1 > J -4* » / . J r ♦ \A* fA w > i I I 4» :=zi 1 p 4 t s J ¥«« ' J !:s V ■’'J-’. ii > s * 1 t sS • • r >'-’^;ji::' '-V < i -w _____ ] ’t*’ s ■5 I > A< > ® •> - ’-.'I- \ T r < 1 ?I i •=^ «*■ A rt >7. •A r 1 '.“I ’P * I i >. a x4 A 40 WB» I J 9 f "> ?1 •^^; » ■Mv 1.4 I p •< A.Z 4 ’.: with anybody. He always tries to work everything out.” “He knows Caledonia,” Trustee Gerrianne Schuler said. Bennett was selected from among four finalists who were interviewed by the council Monday night. The other finalists were Tom Grasman, a landscape foreman at Harder & Warner Landscaping and a former manager in the supply chain industry; Shana Spinney, executive director of the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce; and Aaron Thelenwood, director and manager of the West Michigan Regional Airport in Holland. Voting was conducted with each council member writing down his or her preferred choice. Council members were asked to rank their top two choic­ es on the first ballot. Bennett was the top choice of three council members on the first ballot, but did not receive * ^^9 * "“f manager job _ _ _ _ _ _ _ :_ _ _ _ _ I !►! i * I Former fire chief offered Caledonia village GREGCHANDLER AB V » • fc•• SATURDAYT^LY 20, 2624 -I'aflte’ti e t IWI f I 5* r r / rr I* > A ( f any second-choice votes. Grasman received two first-place votes and See MANAGER on 2 I, Old Boys and Girls Club camp now part of state game area GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer A 200-acre property in Rutland Charter Township that once served as a summer camp for the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kalamazoo is now state land. The property at 2451 Erway Rd. is now part of the Barry State Game Area. A celebration on Monday afternoon marked the official addition of the land to the game area, which now has 17,318 acres under the management of the Michigan Department of Natural Moaa Resources. uaiuoisno iviiNaaisau “We own it. This land is owned by the people of the 8Ce# l!iuj9d state of Michigan, ” DNR 8€88> '9||IAU9eJ9 Southwest Region superviSSMH03 eewb IW 'aillAuaajo QKMO8 Od aivd aovisod s n ais isdd sor Matt Mills said. “That’s exciting. We own It for us, and future generations.” The Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy purchased the former camp in February from the Boys and Girls Club for $1.25 million, then donated the land to the DNR. “These properties are so important to us, and so hard to get, because of how fast these parcels sell,” DNR wildlife biologist Randy Heinze said. “If this property would have went up for devel­ opment, there would have been housing through here and a main road and a culde-sac. It becomes (a trespassing) issue for us, as well as lots of habitat loss, and lots of... (land) lost for species of conSee CAMP on 3 T. 7 r r [«^£ I 4 **b’* • V 1* I « V lii "* t I >*• -.k «b I? 4 Q«r nr->—— •v < f • rf^^**^^*’***’®"* 7^.* X •T n** $ -X s » £5 iT”' pt-* •% r*. * y t d * r*t •v, f- ■ * . • .-i I I A'. T u- V« tit 1 r* I: M «a »•> 72a I Lz *1^ * * •t .w b* I « bM* . '^.*V -• L • ’’S • .f •. -K a** V MH ■ ffI r ; ’.vT 5 p 15 I J, **'•. & .J w 'T. -i w ' \'«S • • ' Ip •.1 w. •>— A •< > Sr. •«« a. jmI V I X i t « •* t rz 41 i: AiA ><1 A di • « r<«r— *k3 «• *,P. k •<* I ^-* &«* ?£2^ hl * ’ *’ < •**! . — .. I f : i * After a ceremony to celebrate the addition of a 200-acre property to the Barry State Game Area, visitors were given a chance to take part in trail hikes guided by DNR staff. (Photo provided) �Saturday, July 6, 2024 2 THE SUN AND NEWS MANAGER Continued from Page 1 three second-place votes. Thelenwood received two first-place votes and two second-place votes. Spinney received two second-place votes. On the second ballot, council mem bers voted for their top choice, with Bennett and Grasman each receiving three votes to Thelenwood’s one. The ballot was then narrowed to the top two candidates. Bennett received four votes and Grasman three. Once it was determined that Bennett had the most votes, the council voted unanimously to extend an employment offer to him. A resident of Byron Center, Bennett joined the Caledonia Fire Department in September 1989. He worked in * STAWOWra® • State & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair go above and beyond your vehicle repairs!" GOU) CLASS the tool and die industry for 21 years before becoming a full-time firefighter in 2002. Bennett was appointed the depart­ ment’s first full-time fire chief by the Caledonia Township Board in November 2002 and served imtil June 2016, when he was named fire chief in the city of Wyoming. During his ten­ ure in Caledonia, he oversaw the move of the fire department from the current Department of Public Works building on Maple Street to its current location next to the Township Hall in 2005. “I really think that was great, but that’s not just me, either. That was due to a lot of people that helped along the way,” Bennett said. Bennett served as Wyoming ’ s fire chief until March 2023. Most recently, he had worked as a land­ scaper at Kloosterman Landscaping in Caledonia. During his interview, Bennett described himself as energetic and hands-on, and said he wants to make it pleasant for people to come to work every day. He also spoke about engag ing residents face-to-face to resolve problems. “(I’d) sit down with them, let them know that we imderstand their prob­ lem, and maybe try to offer some solu tions for them ... and let them know we have ordinances and other things here that we do have to follow. But let’s try not to get to that point. Let’s I fl www.sunandnews.com try to solve that issue (beforehand),” Bennett said. Niles spoke of Bermett’s organiza­ tional skills. If you go to any of his fire stations, which I’ve been to two of them, every­ thing is in place — perfectly in place, very thorough,” Niles said. “He’s always got safety first.” Bermett is a graduate of Thomapple Kellogg High School and the Riviera Technical Trade Institute in Kentwood. Grasman, who lives in the Glen Valley area of the village “about a 9-iron from (the Village Hall)” — worked in the logistics and sup­ ply chain industry for about 20 years before moving into his current role as landscape foreman at Harder & Warner. In his interview, he spoke of the importance of communication and collaboration in solving problems. “My job (in the logistics industry) was mainly (being) a third party, a middle man,” Grasman said. “I spent a lot of time talking to CEOs and a lot of time talking to truck drivers, and trying to talk the same language and making everybody see eye-to-eye.” ‘iMy preferred method (of dealing with a situation) is just get in front of somebody and have a conversation. I like to sit down and make sure every­ one’s on the same page. To get a full buy-in is ultimately the goal, whether it’s a small project or a big project or WMBA Lesonal EUCHRE 616.891.0150 www.edsbodv.com EO’S BODY SHOP at the Butcher Block Social M-37 & 100th Street 1 (next to Ace Hardware) CAIEDONIA. MICHIGAN VW 110 Johnson Street 4 Owner Ed Pawloski Jr. OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm VS Every Tuesday Night Registration starts at 6 p.m. Game starts at 6:30 p.m. Per Euchre. No Partner Needed. even a lunch order,” he added. Spirmey has been executive direc­ tor of the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce since last November. She had previously owned a fitness center, worked as a real estate agent and held several other management roles. In her interview, she spoke of wanting to make the village a destination. “I have the idea of trying to preserve the historic part of downtown and the village, maybe carving that out into a specific district to showcase that and market that to the rest of Caledonia and surroimding areas,” Spinney said, adding that she’d also work on beauti lying the downtown. Thelenwood has been director and manager of the West Michigan Regional Airport since January 2021. Prior to that, he had served as the airport authority’s operations man­ ager and as solid waste/recycling and sustainability coordinator for the city of Holland. He interviewed for the Caledonia village manager job in 2019. During his tenure as arrport manager, Thelenwood served as the project lead on a $24 million runway rehabilitation project at the Holland airport. ‘It was a matter of coordinating con suitants, engineering contractors, subcontractors, as well as key stakehold ers on the field,” Thelenwood said. “It was a critical project because it was a rimway rehab, so during that time our airport was effectively closed. It was crucial to ensure that all parties were coordinating in unison to minimize the downtime to the airport.” Prior to the interviews, residents got a chance to interact with each of the four finalists in breakout-style conver­ sations, with the candidates scattered throughout the Village Hall. The new manager will replace Jeff Thornton, who resigned in April after nearly five years with the village. Longtime administrative assistant Lisa Segard has served as interim manager since Thornton’s resignation. Ite THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. IVI-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunanclnews.com CONTACT US Editor: Jayson Bussa jayson@j-adgraphics.com PUBLISHED BY 4? 1 Group Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed In the U.S. PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper News is subject w the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are n" News aS DeS 1 Ss! ' Hastings. Ml 49058 ( 269-945* newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this t have newspaper and only : publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. l< �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS CAMP )'! *1 2 1 * J» A Continued from Page 1 4 / "3 4 I *» > ' I * ’ ♦> ♦ ■j^. ti' r* -» A >«» 4 -V >% « -w 77 I « if:- A t.ff L I r*J-- * I I % *- t 4 I 1 t “The property is super-attractive already to deer and turkeys, and there are resident beavers on the property, which have in the past backed up Glass Creek and pro duced a nice wet area that attracted some waterfowl ... From a hunting aspect, hunters have been super­ excited to get on this property. They just can’t wait. It’s going to be a huge addition to Barry State Game Area that way,” Heinze said. Some of the buildings that have been part of the camp are being tom down or moved, Heinze said. Mills presented an award to SWMLC for its efforts to acquire and preserve land. He noted that the conservancy has been involved in several other recent land acqui­ sition efforts in Barry County. Since its inception in 1991, SWMLC has acquired approxi­ mately 8,000 acres of land in Barry County to be preserved in a natural state. That’s the most of any coun­ ty in the conservancy’s nine-coun­ ty region, SWMLC development director Miko Dargitz said. After the ceremony, visitors were given a chance to take part in trail hikes guided by DNR staff. cem. This is a great addition for •Ay * A us.” .» MA< SWMLC president and executive k sx; director Mike Larson said that the 3&>l >•* Boys and Girls Club property had x.’hh been identified for some time as a ?t? 4 potential addition to the game area .wir.Si. «■ since it was surrounded by other * /Vi protected land. The conservancy’s Freese Preserve is just south of 1 •> the property, while the Michigan Audubon Society’s Warner Sanctuary is immediately to the north. When Larson learned that the site was owned by the Boys and Girls Club, he sent a text to Matt Lynn, An aerial view of a portion of the 200-acre property in Rutland Charter the club’s chief executive officer. The two had previously worked Township, which is now part of the Barry State Game Area. (Photo provided) together at a United Way agency. ing, peace of mind, assist people in “By the next day, he (says), nected to Glass Creek, which is a finding answers to lingering ques­ ‘oh, we’re about ready to list the known trout stream. There’s about tions, and most importantly, con­ property Larson said. “I’m like 1.3 miles of frontage on the two tinue to create lasting memories ‘Whoa, hold your horses.’” creeks. It’s also home to the blue for generations to come.” That first communication racer, a type of snake that has been Tom Groos of Tyden Ventures, occurred in November of last year. in decline in recent years, as well who serves as vice as the Eastern box turtle, which is It took just three chairman of the months for the on the DNR’s threatened species M It ’ s so important SWMLC board, land conservancy list, Heinze said. that we protect these said the property to close on the property, Larson types of areas, and that f«prese"ts “one of 5^ the ... largest wild said. co me join u s for we expand these types areas left in the “It took a lot of of a reas, beca use we southern Lower individuals and Peninsula. ” organizations to have to make sure It ’ s so imporcome together, to tant that we pro that we are resilient vi create a partner­ tect these types ship that allows for coming climate I.. , of areas, and that this to happen,” Change that ’ s going to we expand these Larson said. types of areas, The Boys happen In our area. 99 because we have 9309 Dobber Wenger Memorial Dr and Girls Club Tom Groos to make sure that of Greater Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy Caledonia we are resilient Board Vice Chairman Kalamazoo had for coming cliused the prop mate change that ’ s erty as a summer going to happen in our area,” said camp for more than 50 years. The Groos, the ^eat-grandson of leg * club last used the site for a camp endary Hastings industrialist Emil in 2018, Lynn said. I WP Tyden. “We have to make sure that “We at Boys and Girls Club 'M.'O we preserve species diversity, and are so grateful in knowing that we also have to make sure that all the land will continue to remain of us have that sense of wonder, <w> a place for people to enjoy, to and of feeling small when we go Check out the Caledonia r explore, to evoke curiosity, to ven­ out in the woods. Because if we ill » A : Hi 4 ture and traverse through, as they I Community Green Park I lose track of how important nature a choose to,” Lynn said. “Not only is in the world, we’re all going to facebook page for more that, we’re also grateful that this be in worse trouble than we are information 3 experience to interface with the today.” L J land will continue to build spiritual X—r I I I I I The property includes Podunk I 1“ 1 I I r ■■rW I r I ■ connections, support personal heal r ■ j' -r — 1' _ rrrJ _ r j'_'; Creek, a tributary that is conJ. r--j' „ r-~i’ f’-l _ r1 r •J _ e-j I « ' 1 It L * « •4 k • * f < «* ArV • I > *>' 1 I. • ^•,t fi *-» ■V b I 3 Saturday, July 6, 2024 y >- , •e < . *, > ./ s * s Ir i «A J J 5 I lA > <tf • • -r* t * t L r > * *T I i Ti p> > * » 7 f-. < t ) •s A * rfA tL L k I r > tt 4 4 S» t f k\ t i © « -I 1 J I » I 1 1 »• 9 » 'fe lb ■ f y i « » t. i «r4 .< L < *.l' H ) Lr. } t * JS‘ 1j L&# ( • m8♦* A. ' / ♦ » •X if! %*«; A r ' 1 r k A ’ < r» < ** Mt 999 9 *- • z* I ^* I:=rs.*^: 9; I »*1 I . f b i \ t u I V ► L 64 F •f > MW; ” OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT! _ a» ■®f 4 r . -sr ■ I 1 \ Caledonia Community Green Park •c*' ♦’ t I ♦? August 2,2024 at 9:00pm * k’ I. r <«» '■ • -^ <• J •? r? 7 f 3^ a, »?T > *<>4 fc A *» k. I V. • .♦ I I *, J I I ♦*/ . s. 1 ■IM ■» * I% A *• «. J. A’ M I t * l' I I ■ I w I �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6. 2024 4 ♦ ii ♦r* ♦ Obituaries y 1 I She graduated valedictorian from Shore High School in Euclid, OH and attended one year at Cleveland College/Case Western before transferring to the University of Michigan where she graduated in 1945 with a business accounting degree. Mary met and dated her future husband the late Edward (Ted) Weatherhead while at Shore High. They were married September 8, 1945. After college graduation, Mary worked as a bookkeeper as they started their family with the first of 13 I Mary Agnes Weatherhead Mary Agnes Weatherhead of Wayland, Ml and Englewood, FL. age 101, fought the good fight, kept the faith, and finished her race Monday July 8, 2024. She was born April 10, 1923, in Cleveland, Ohio, the daughter of Herschel and Marie Driver, sister to Martha Driver. L * I. www.sunandnews.com children born in July of 1946. She would experience steady home employment where she managed the Li “family business,” overseeing exponential growth for the next seven decades. Later she partnered with Ted to run the consulting company £ Weatherhead Associates. Mary was a devout Catholic dedicating her spiritual life to Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and the Church. She penned a memoir in recent years titled Faith First. Mary served on many committees and volunteered at each parish S’ ' -I 4* r * !V ■ i 1 Tit LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch Ml' Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham ReM. C hri.snne Hfaudntn J<ftn us for our tradtiional yet casual worship BAPTIST Isdiddleville Sunday Service 10:30 AM service, in person or online, at 9;0(J am. ?S0 Viiic Street 616- KM I 1675 84th st. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 ('aIciiontalJMC.org Livc^lrcatn: I »eebouk.C(im'C«lcdofual IniUdMclhodti^i Sirengthtnin^ ('onm cfing cornerstonemi.org/weekend $ t III r* I <b « mu * • • —. Livestream; facebook.com/ftrstbaptistmiddlevilk* FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 M//? Good Shepherd Lutheran Church ex o> I HOLY FAMILY )/CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://good$hepher(llcms.googlepages Church: .com (269) 795-2391 iCApeace Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. w Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & II a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 (o 10:45 a.m. CHURCH PEACECHURCH.ee •> Sundays at 8:00,9:30. and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville. MI 49333 peacechurch.ee @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, Ml 49316 Office 616-891 -8688 • Preschtx)! (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledoniax>rg F a. * OURNEY CHURCH 4^- ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE LEARN MORE! thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES; Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street. Middleville. Ml ! www.tvcweb.cQm ff- ■K Whitneyville * Church f—/ Fellowship Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"^ & 48^^ 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Praising God through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School Sunday Worship 9.30 AM 10:30 AM Watch our services from our website (see above) Worship Services Sunday wam&6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bibie Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & y pm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFellowship.org Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 Shining Forth God's Light Sunday Morning Worship.............. Community Group..................... James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankecspringsbiblechurch. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. she attended. She prayed daily for her family, church, country, the world, as well as complete strangers. Another passion of Mary’s was the maize and blue of the University of Michigan Wolverines. She was delighted to see her team win the national championship in football in January of 2024. Despite the trials of their season, she somehow saw “signs” her team would prevail. Mary saw motherhood as a calling and is survived by her 13 children, Jim (Diane) Weatherhead of Middleville, Ml; Pete (Barb) Weatherhead, of Grand Rapids, Ml; Mike (Jean) Weatherhead, of Woodhaven, Ml; Joan (the late Michael) Holmes of Grand Rapids, Ml; Charlie (Sharon) Weatherhead, of Woodhaven, Ml; Bill (Carol) Weatherhead, of Newaygo, Ml; Martha (John) LaVoie, of Grand Rapids, Ml; Tom (Deby) Weatherhead, of Mesa, AZ; Andy (Cathy) Weatherhead, of Grand Rapids, Ml; Bob (Shelly) Weatherhead, of Hicksville, OH; Madelaine Jones, of Traverse City, Ml; Steve Weatherhead, of Phoenix, AZ; Mary' (Chris) Overbeek, of Murrells Inlet, SC. She is also survived by 44 grandchildren and 63 great-grandchildren. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Edward (Ted) Weatherhead; grandson, Bryan Weatherhead; son-in-law, Mike Holmes; and granddaughter-in-law, Francesca Weatherhead. Mary enjoyed watching her children and grandchildren in their sports, music, and other activities. Her drive for competition seemed limitless, as she enjoyed playing, watching, following, analyzing, and keeping score of the many games in which she, her children, and her grandchildren competed. She was active playing games with others on her iPad. She also enjoyed many games that were invented before the screens came on the scene - Cribbage, Scrabble, Bridge..., you name it, she played and usually won! She especially enjoyed her annual family reunion (40 plus years) which she would host each summer at her home on Gun Lake, Ml. So beloved, she was thrilled by the 90 percent attendance at each reunion, which always made for a large crowd. Memories of Mary will remind those who knew and loved her to fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith. And always keep your chin up. A funeral Mass was held Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, 159 131st Ave., Wayland, Ml 49348. In memory of Mary and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.kubiakcookwayland.com in Mary’s online guest book. Arrangements made by Kubiak-Cook Funeral Services (Wayland Chapel), 312 N. Main St, Wayland, Ml 49348. �www.sunandnews.com I THE SUN AND NEWS !f DDA board contributes $3,000 toward closing on former DesignWear building 1^ y I BCMCA recognizes Barry County first responders and EMS personnel The Barry County Medical Control Authority recognized EMS person­ nel and first responders during their second annual awards dinner. The board met last Tuesday to celebrate the honorees. Those recog­ nized included MFR Provider of the Year Chris Jozwik, Johnstown Fire Department; EMT-B Provider of the Year Shelby England, Thomapple Township Fire Department; and EMT-P Provider of the Year Joe Johnson, Thomapple Township Fire Department. EMT-B honorable mentions included Cody Eister, Mercy Ambulance; Sara Visser, Castleton Maple Grove Nasvhille Area (CMGNA) EMS; and McKenna Preslar, Brandon Lux ford and Xavier Estrada, Thomapple Township Fire Department. EMT-P honorable mentions included Garrett Lennon, Hickory Comers Fire Department and Lifecare Ambulance; Patrick Alleman and Sandra Egleston, GREG CHANDLER i I it would be open,” Heinzman said. That wall was right on the property A $3,000 contribution from line, so that caused its own issues the Middleville Downtown Then when the beams came Development Authority will help the off, they opened up the roof, so it’s Barry County Land Bank Authority flooding in there now. close on the purchase of the former Once the property is in the hands DesignWear building at 118 W. of the land bank, the building will Main St. be demolished using leftover funds The DDA board Tuesday approved from a blight elimination grant that the contribution toward the purchase was used for the Baby Bliss demoli­ of the vacant building, which was tion that took place in late Febmary, left standing after the adjacent Baby Heinzman said. Bliss building was tom down earlier “They can’t do the infill (on the this year. Baby Bliss project) until we decide The Barry Community Foundation what to do with this building,” and the Barry County Economic Heinzman said. Development Alliance have been The land bank will move “as soon putting funds together to allow the as possible” on closing on the for­ land bank to make the purchase, mer DesignWear building. An exact said Jennifer Heinzman, execu­ date for demolition hasn’t been tive director of the alliance as well determined. as the Barry County Chamber of “This was the last step, and now Commerce. we can go ahead and schedule “We were just $3,000 short, so closing,” Heinzman said. “Pitsch we asked (the DDA) to help us with (Companies, which handled the that,” Heinzman said. demolition of the Baby Bliss build­ The total cost of the purchase ing) still has all of their equipment is $103,000. The Community out there, so they are just waiting on Foundation is loaning $75,000 to the us to say ‘go.’ We just have to get alliance toward the purchase price the permits again (for demolition). while the land bank is contributing The contribution was approved on $25,000, Heinzman said. a 6-0 vote of the DDA board. “We didn’t know that we would “This would go toward (address­ have three walls when we tore down ing) blight, getting rid of an eye­ Baby Bliss. We had to leave the sore,” DDA board Chairwoman Kim fourth wall up, because otherwise Jachim said. staff Writer f I I *J1 LA k * S*=?» Ik I. From left to right, BCMCA Medical Director Jennifer Mervau; EMT-P Provider of the Year Joe Johnson from Thornapple Township Fire De­ partment; and MFR Provider of the Year Chris Jozwik from Johnstown Fire Department (Photo provided) CMGNA EMS; Kathy Velthouse, Wayland Area EMS; as well as Pattrick Jansens, Cas Vugteveen, Mike Powell, Collin Chrenka, Bryn Lymbumer and Kevin Bull, Thomapple Township Fire Department. F* * f F• I • *, * * i ^w22-26 J , r Noon the ‘MAf z r> Cf M a I 4 bb r 5 V 4 4* *• J Ax * J -<• ■ A e>«A » I .4 A to; i » M* A* I Alto • »*W * Bl. to 4 Mb- I A T . .J A I — It * «b< 1 •a* JT tt - r - >r73£2 • '■Wn * J. ' »i tob.« * ! *W 'to d * to 1 .* '*tov'»er . 41 1 ».♦ H- * ■A'l 9 J L." I • * 'kV*: •• t J -!S» 4r«4 h '-v. '-to.,. ’ .it 4 •-*" K lwJ A / « to» . . . *• • ••’t.a . I 4 ‘®’'< ^wi '-«f kb lU « '^***'>*1 > ' • • ?»■ J . ^’JS» *» 41 < L'.,Z *. 4 •A- * > A B ■F i* -I J B » > * • ’ % <■ 1 •.n- 4-?? ITT r * * t * A M ' Xto BIX- A •■ to*b fcu-* 1^ ©^T - <^3 J . ’>» % * - ^-1 * k Wto «4B *4 4 .t I X I 1 i: ♦ * I e 4 ••-Wtototo . >1 ?•• *> T <r-r ~ t '.I t5 1 ’*L • > ’ ’’t * * 1 « » A ..r 1 * ^■- *1 A « 4 " • •• J r» z • n • t i i 1 a ** t L *i<'* ‘ %b IB 1 w V -jB '« •1 r 4 J ♦ 9 .’4*1-jjti, =«7^ •I I \S ■-Tb f .A -------- "T .1N t iMk I I » •Vv 5 Saturday, July 6, 2024 « •. *>w I V T '.xS Sr W ••■?,; riivrr- -1 4 > I 1' r r k •• / Mitot' :X rt • e’ ( . ..J* ■MMMBMBMBr ne W Main I J — *1. .1 Ctutse €rOM Genesis t • I I • ' .^ia i' |I■■I^>I1•», J -J ’ I. I to« . ? C 'I FuS •^2 * Ml * *Wv » C J 4 5ie^ *> .k < ( «« s- *• — IA >s 2 T . I T. 4 4 m I., BaP^dd/ejS I >• *•- TX . I « to s I . X 'r ^!sr’ * •IT j 1 ’J' 4 X 1 r'--i »X‘ .J % V V M I w. * * •- >r • 1 • k 1 '! s’ 'J ?-J I J > t , V « I. T *r ~ .' ^ ' to * < 4, IfWt-*"- ■ 1 A ' ^■ bl.^ ' -> 4 4 1 4. M « «- LuJt z: -4 "V** The former DesignWear building in downtown Middleville, located next to the site of the former Baby Bliss factory. (Photo by Greg Chandler) J » P I* 4/f P-:2 if, 1 J I& /* '—I ■ •'!| A "t 1 s IStoi* n * mz, t .■ p. I• I T • ? '.4 —I Register for VBS at FbcMiddleviile^net^ ;<r s:^■’* v ■ i • K . .-'’W * T -•f 1. i. n SI 85? r' J* $•- i •R r< <• • d 4 . A k s «•. tM < • .» y 'I ;? �6 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 Caledonia Village Council says yes to buying more signs to track speeders GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Caledonia is adding two more radar speed signs to track how fast people are driving in the village. The Village Council on July 8 unanimously approved the purchase of the signs at a cost of $6,850, but not before questions were raised about the effectiveness of the village’s two existing radar speed signs. Council Trustee Dan Erskine asked people who attended the meeting whether they thought the signs were effective in getting drivers to slow down. “Do they do any good at all, or is it just an expenditure another $6,000, almost $7,000? And what do we do with the information that we get?” Erskine asked. Interim Village Manager Lisa Segard said there is a way for the vil lage to get information on how fast drivers are going and possibly use that data for enforcement. * in (the ordinance),” Village President Jennifer Lindsey said. Village Attorney James Scales out­ lined the rationale for the amendment in a memo to Lindsey earlier this month. “Deputy sheriffs are trained and sworn law enforcement officers, who have the power to require that persons stop and identify themselves,” Scales wrote in the memo. “The village manager or president do not have that legal authority. This makes it difficult to enforce ordinances such as the golf cart ordinance, peddler’s ordinance, disorderly conduct, and fireworks ordinance, which are based on behav­ ior, not on the condition of property or operation of a business. Trained law enforcement officers also may be better equipped to handle volatile because it’s (encouraging) that aware­ ness in a very distracted world,” Baird said. Resident and council candidate Jeff Kusmierz suggested a message that could be flashed to motorists even if they are a couple of miles above the speed limit “Tickets: when you least expect them.” He added the sug gestion of periodic enforcement by the Kent County SherifFs Office. “That’s what’s gonna throw people off,” Kusmierz said. On a related note, the council on July 8 on a 6-1 vote approved an ordi­ nance amendment authorizing a Kent County deputy sheriff to issue cita­ tions or appearance tickets for viola­ tions of village ordinances. “In the past, our ordinance has read just the village president and man­ ager may issue citations. I’m not sure why the sheriff was never included “There is software where you can download that information and you can look at where we have our high­ est (speeds), and perhaps ask for the county sheriff to do a speed trap,” Segard said. Speed radar signs have most recent­ ly been posted on Kinsey Street and Main Street, although the utility pole on which the Main Street sign was attached fell over this week. Trustee Gerrianne Schuler, who lives near the Kinsey Street speed sign, has observed the behavior of drivers on both streets in response to the signage. “They see the sign, they slow down for awhile, and then they speed up,” Schuler said. Downtown business owner Lynn Baird, who frequently drives on Kinsey, thinks the signs do make a difference. “I personally think it’s a good idea. See SPEEDERS on 7 Hi^h Efficiency FURNACE J ®150 RUUD OFF [ I*» k ‘ Must present this coupon. Expires 8-1-24 II •i I r ^^7 / "CRYSmiLI^ * • *■ I f \ a 14 V 1 f hl * -V ««6 9B» k f I IA 9. I "I ■V 4 1.^ :#^’urKwn * i r >» 4 7 •K ’i I ) a ♦ 4 i.- f Hi* / SUI 1 I . ‘No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. ‘‘The company built by referrals ” FRONTIER HEATING 6 COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 IBr I Cl 4 ■ » per * —- ■»_- t < .■ I WJ ■ 9 a FINANCING AVAILABLE Pk r r I n 4 'oU 5- ■ 00' •« a fc; 171st Barry County Fair is in the books night, severe storms some rough weather early �! I' A www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Gaines trustees to hold workshop to discuss ARPA funding I JAMES GEMMELL Contributing Writer I I ’ f I mg 68th Street and M-37 (Broadmoor Avenue) corridors. Rumors have been Gaines Township trustees will roll floating around about an international up their sleeves Monday evening to technology company potentially eye­ discuss how to spend the township’s ing a site near Broadmoor and 76th remaining ARPA money and to Street for the future development of a review its cemetery ordinance. major data hub. However, nothing has They will hold a public workshop been confirmed. meeting at 5:30 p.m. on July 22 in the Another possibility discussed in lower level of the township hall, 8555 the past for ARPA funds would be Kalamazoo Ave. to establish a backup water supply Two years ago, the federal govern­ for the township. That would require ment allotted Gaines Township about making a second connection to the $2.7 million dollars in American City of Wyoming’s water system Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. through the Byron-Gaines Utility Every municipality in the United Authority (BGUA). Right now, States was given a designated amount Gaines has only one major connection of funding based on its total popula­ and a limited water backup supply tion. The money stems from COVIDfrom an elevated water tower and a 19 pandemic relief funds and was ground-mounted water tank. designed to help local governments Township trustees have also dis­ invest in key long-term infi-astructure cussed leveraging grant money projects. The federal government has through the DNR to help develop since relaxed the rules on how the some new park spaces. Many resi­ money can be spent. dents in an online survey conducted Local government boards must in 2022 expressed a desire for more report to the federal government how park space, playgrounds and recre­ they intend to use the funds by Dec. ational opportunities. Their vision 31, 2024, and the funds must be spent was included in the township’s Parks by Dec. 31, 2026. & Trails Master Plan, adopted last In March, the Gaines Township year. The tOAvnship owns a lot on 84th Board voted unanimously to dedicate Street west of Kalamazoo Avenue $1.2 million in ARPA dollars toward that it has been eyeing for potential the $1.7 million cost of a new plat development of a park called Cody’s form fire truck for Cutlerville. The Mill. rest will come from the general fund. Trustee Kathy VanderStel recom­ The 100-foot aerial ladder truck mended recently that the township is scheduled to be delivered to the devote half of its remaining ARPA township from Appleton, Wisc.-based funds to parks and trails, including Pierce Manufacturing Inc. in August possible land acquisition. 2025. It will replace a fire truck that is “If we don’t grab it now, we’re more than two decades old. The new going to lose that opportunity,” she truck will enable firefighters to access said, referring to all the recent resi­ the tops of larger buildings in the dential and commercial development township from a platform. in the township that has made open That still leaves about $1.5 million space less prevalent. on the table to be spent. The township board also had dis­ One discussion Gaines trustees had cussed at one point milling and filling a couple years ago was to possibly the township hall parking lot for about use some of the funding to build a $170,000 and new carpeting for the water tower, perhaps near the grow­ township offices at a price of $75,000. SPEEDERS Continued from Page 6 ordinance violation situations.” The council also passed an ordi­ nance addition that requires the vil- lage attorney to authorize the issuance of a civil infi-action citation if it’s not based on the personal observation of the officer issuing the citation, such as one based on the report of a com­ plaining witness. Saturday, July 6, 2024 FINANCIAL FOCUS Provided by Andrew McFadden and Jeffrey Westra of Edward Jones Whom should you choose as trustee? When drawing up your estate plans, you might find it useful to create a revocable or irrevocable trust, either of which can help your estate avoid pro­ bate court and give you significant control over how and when your assets are distributed. But who should oversee your trust? As the person who established the trust — known as the “grantor” or “settlor” — you can also name yourself as trustee. However, this may not be the best move, particularly if the trust is irrevocable. An irrevocable trust pro­ tects the assets in the trust from creditors and civil judgments, but if you serve as trustee, this protection will disappear. It might be more advantageous for you to be the trustee of a revocable (living) trust, which can be modified without much trouble and allows you to move assets in and out of the trust and to change trust beneficia­ ries . You should work with a qualified estate-planning attorney to determine which type of trust, if any, is appropriate for your sit­ uation, and to get some guidance on the wisdom of serving as your own trust­ ee. If you decide to choose someone else as trustee, you’ll want to consider the following factors: • Trust - In thinking about whom you might want to serve as your trust­ ee, the most important attribute is trust. Do you trust that this individual will always act in your best interest? If so, then they may be a good trustee can­ didate, but you’ll also need to look at other consider­ ations . • Financial management skills — The person you choose to be your trustee doesn’t have to be an accountant or a finan­ cial professional — but they should be skilled at managing their own finances. And they should be well-organized and good with details. • Mental and physical fitness - Your trustee could serve in that position for many years, so you’ll want to name someone who is in good physical and mental health. Of course, things can change over time, so if you observe that your cho­ sen trustee has begun to suffer physical or mental decline, you may need to name a successor trustee in your trust document. • Conflict of interest You want your trustee to cany out your wishes in a fair manner — so, you should pick someone who doesn’t have a conflict of interest with any of the beneficiaries you’ve named in your trust. Of course, this can be tricky if you want to name a family member as trustee. So, if you do, you’ll need to spell out your wishes clearly — to the trustee and to other family members. Here’s something else to think about: Instead of choosing an individual, you could name a corpo­ rate trustee. By doing so, you can receive some key benefits, such as objectivi­ ty and potentially avoiding some of the family-related disputes that can arise when an estate is settled. Also, corporate trustees have the expertise and resources to navigate the various tax and inheritance laws affecting living trusts. Whether it’s a trusted individual or a corporate entity, the right trustee can make a big difference in the effectiveness of your living trust — and, by extension, the outcome of your comprehensive estate plans. So, start your search, get the help you need and take the steps necessary to arrive at a choice for trust­ ee that’s right for you and your family. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Einancial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC I �t * THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 8 www.sunandnews.com Yankee Springs to review fire contract with Wayiand GREG CHANDLER communication with the board of trustees a better back-and-forth and understanding of what their goals are, actually look at how the department is being run, the things that they need, the support we give them,” said Township Trustee Dave VanHouten, who serves on the town­ ship Fire Committee. The township supplies the build­ ing and equipment for the Yankee Springs fire station, and pays Wayland for its operating expenses as well as administrative fees. Township Clerk Mike Cunningham said. The current five-year contract between the township and Wayland was approved by the Township Board in February 2023, and was subsequently approved by the Wayland City Council. The contract calls for a minimum staffing level of 10 part-time paid on-call firefighters at the Yankee Springs fire station. The leadership of the station is provided by Deputy Fire Chief Dan Miller, who works 30 hours a week and reports to the Staff Writer Yankee Springs Township is tak­ ing a look at its fire services contract with the city of Wayland. The Township Board last week approved two motions tied to the fire services contract - one that calls for a special board meeting with management of both Wayland and Yankee Springs fire as well as the Wayland city manager “to review how the departments are being man­ aged today.” The other, potentially a little more controversial, directed the township Fire Committee to review Wayland’s services and costs, compared to a potential standalone Yankee Springs Fire Department. That motion passed on a 3-2 vote. Yankee Springs has contracted with Wayland for fire services since April 2016, and has its own station at 1425 S. Payne Lake Rd. Before contracting with Wayland, the town­ ship had contracted with Thomapple Township for fire service. “The chiefs would like to improve K.lly J 7 4^ I ► ■ kl .. '.T I, r 4 I •f > JC A 1 * « v, 1 I « ’*• I * i r . * • I II T •i- T I i Lr Fl H *■0 A 1 ■ t ^leair >8 "Mom, I think 46 V with Thomapple and changed to Wayland. Now are we having a fall­ ing out with Wayland and we need to change?” “Is this a solution looking for a problem? This is a solution, and I haven’t heard what the problem is,” Cunningham added. VanHouten shared concerns with personnel guidelines and staffing for the department, and the implications for the township budget. “I want to make sure that we are aware of what the costs will be,” he said. Cunningham’s view is that those concerns should be brought up when the Township Board meets with fire officials and the Wayland city man­ ager. He added that he has a good idea of the township’s costs. “I pay the bills. I see everything and approve them all. A lot of it is by contract and the rest is stuff Dan (Miller) orders and buys,” Cunningham said. “The board approves every purchase. We know our costs.” Township Supervisor Rob Heethuis said he has been approached about having a standalone fire department in Yankee Springs. “I’m not sitting here saying we should do this on our own. We have a contract with Wayland. I think, though, if this group goes out and does a dive into this and looks at the X’s and O’s they’ll have information to bring back to the board,” Heethuis said. The contract gives the township and city the ability to terminate the agreement with 120 days’ notice, according to the contract document. MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 f I Wayland fire chief. Cunningham said there had been some recent difficulty with Wayland over the past six months regarding billing and invoicing for the fire services after the city lost its finance director. He added that the township had been looking at having a meet­ ing with Wayland officials before Fire Chief Jim Stoddard was hospi­ talized with a heart attack in April. Stoddard is recovering at home and has not returned to duty since his hospitalization. Deputy Chief Jon Timmers is serving as Wayland’s interim chief in Stoddard’s absence. With regard to the township Fire Committee reviewing Wayland Fire Department services and costs, VanHouten said it was being driven by “just a matter of good business procedures, and understanding and knowing what our costs are. That’s what we are responsible for.” Cunningham questioned the neces­ sity of the committee review. I am very much against this. I don’t know why we’re looking at a standalone fire department,” he said. “I should have added that this is not just a focus on wanting the Yankee Springs Fire Department to be a standalone fire department, but to look at the options and what is best,” VanHouten responded. “There’s no decision made already that we’re going to have a stand­ alone department. That’s not at all what we’re after.” “My feeling is that a decision has been made,” Cunningham said. “What problem are we solv­ ing? About seven or eight years ago, this township had a falling out are taking a little too Mich with you to the senior iM'ng couMfiUnity. Let's drop so^ne off at M3 7Auction.cow Afd Qit you SOI^ Wfniyr* The July 15 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. One fish jumped into the fishbowl as another fish jumped out. Maiyellen’s program was titled “No Cheating.” Her program focused on how “cheating” on one’s diet can lead to self­ sabotage and low self-esteem. She encour­ aged club members to employ P.A.C.E. —Positive Attitude Changes Everything. Thinking positively during a weight-loss journey is crucial. Matyellen said once one identifies what leads them to eat, the term cheating goes away. She encouraged club members to plan what they eat ahead of time to help support their weight-loss goals. Linda won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maiyellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. 4 j * II II <1 I �s’ i I » www.sunandnews.com TK Alumni _______ THE SUN AND NEWS ___ - H ssociation Young students eagerly peeked into the new Little Free Library excitedly looking for just the right book to take home and read. The brightly colored orange Little Free Library with black “TK” letters on the doors, was made possible by efforts of the Thomapple Kellogg Alumni Association. Several members of the TK Alumni Association, TK Board of Education, and families with young students gathered in the Early Childhood Center parking lot Monday night for a ribbon cutting ceremony. Located on the south­ east comer of the parking lot of the ECC, the Little Free Library is easily accessible to families who want to “take a book, leave a book.” “The establishment of this Little Free Library represents more than just a place to store books. It sym bolizes a commitment to literacy, community and the joy of learning, said Brenda Hess, a trustee of the TK Alumni Association as well as a member of the school board. “The 95 * • * » ♦ t > L 4r * •** 2" r JB A new summertime event is com­ ing soon to the village of Caledonia. Celebration On Main will take place Wednesday, Aug. 7 in the heart of downtown. Promotional yard signs and flyers have sprouted up around the community in recent weeks to spread the word on the event. Some local businesses are working with the village to put together the celebration, which will include a return of “A Taste of Caledonia” a sampling of food from local res­ taurants that had been part of past celebrations of Western Week, the traditional Caledonia festival which did not take place this year. “There were no events planned for this summer, so we wanted to put together something for our commu­ nity to come together,” said Lynn Baird, owner of Caledonia Hair Co., «r> r 1 x< lb ' L t** L I •' * f *•< * A 4 a <*> ' 4 -* < ■ ' « ■*r< ■■ _* Z ’’. I •« - b> 5 Y V s I-Esr'i J I •l I t •« 1 i 4t T ! f 1' t *1®^ 1 f f B« ft ' r V s b*/ :V-. '».• 4 f 4m ft' 7 ’ •l 0 1b 1 __ i-r =aWr>»<^ ' > I A * >* i * •<" •« K\‘ fK I I B_ L I B Members of the Thornapple Kellogg Alumni Association and several young students join in the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Little nw lid Free Library located n the parking lot of the Early Childhood Center. (Photo provided) concept —-t'* of ‘take >^v a book, uuuR., leave a book encourages a cycle of sharing and discovery, where every book exchanged enriches a child’s life.” The Alumni Association is not only committed to alumni, but also to current students as well as teach ers and staff,” added Hess. “It is * Plans taking shape for Caledonia Celebration on Main next month GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer -s • I L ^w==-X - * r ’ ft I r«ar who is part of the committee that is putting together the celebration. Celebration on Main will also include a Cruise-In car show, put on by the Caledonia Family Tavern. The tavern usually holds a classic car show the first Wednesday of the month during the summer, so it was natural to connect the events together. “She does car shows in the sum­ mer, so we kind of tagged onto her night and opened up the whole street, and then added the Taste (of Caledonia),” Baird said. Family Tavern owner Jodi VanderVelde is excited to have the car show connected to Celebration on Main. “YOU gotta get the new people here,” VanderVelde said. “The reg ulars will always come. We want to get new people to the community.” Celebration on Main will begin at 5:30 p.m. and run until 8:30 p.m. their hope this library will help fos­ ter a love of reading amongst our youngest future alumni.” She extended thanks to the school district for supporting and allow­ ing the Little Free Library to be placed at the ECC and to TK alumni George French for building and ♦ ♦ ♦ * $ Jr 4 • + □ >• ; *jr r* F' .fl I K Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! .T t I •- - I i •l jif r ■ I .. *, 1 k . r • I . % I -1 1 > f rcii d r <<-**.1. MT . M V. IF % I— I 4 + <* ,s- < s * ’W ‘ *! •I » '' ' bM' % . V-4-- » - tfl * 4 * *• \ / ‘I f*'-' : "w- Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. * PRINTING BY www.printingbypennylane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting .com K . 9 donating the Little Free Library. Hess said French’s attention to detail ensured the Little Free Library is not only functional but also a beautiful addition to the ECC. Members of the TK Operations Department were also thanked for installing the Little Free Library and making sure it is securely in a place where it can easily be accessed. Hess noted the operations department also used materials already available to them, so there was no additional cost to the TKAA or the district for the installation. Finally, she thanked the many fam­ ilies who attended the ribbon cut­ ting ceremony and the children who were the first to take books from the library. “Let us celebrate, not only the opening of this physical structure, but also the endless possibilities it represents for learning, imagina tion and connection,” said Hess. “Together, let’s continue to build a community where the love of read­ ing knows no bounds.” J f ♦ * Saturday, July 6, 2024 dedicates Little Free Library IT * r ♦ ♦ ♦ *■ t �10 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Primary races will decide Barry County commissioners for Districts and 2 JAYSON BUSSA Editor Seats on the Barry County Board of Commissioners will be hotly contested in Aug. 6’s Republican primary. In fact, six of the board’s eight seats will be decided through a primary race as there are no Democrat challengers waiting for them in the general elec­ tion. Below, you will find insight from the candidates running in District 2 (Village of Middleville and the northern portion of Yankee Springs Township) and District 4 (Thornapple and Irving townships, excluding the Village of Middleville). DISTRICT 2 CATHERINE GETTY Incumbent Village/township of residence: Yankee Springs Township Occupation/profession: Executive Director, Blue Zones Activate Barry County How many years have you lived in Barry County? I have lived in Barry County cumu­ latively for 34 years. I was bom at Pennock Hospital and spent a few years away during school and young adulthood but came back to raise my family in my hometown. Past experience in local govern * ment (if any): Barry County Commissioner for two 2-year terms; Thomapple Township Planning & Zoning Administrator (14 years). Other applicable experience: I feel very strongly about giving back to the community that I love. I have been volunteering my time for more than 20 years to help make my commimity a better place not just for current residents but for generations to come. Some of my current and past volunteer roles include the Thomapple Trail Association, Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission (TAPRC), Barry County United Way, Middleville Bark Park Committee, Yankee Springs Township Parks Committee, Bany County Parks Classifieds GARAGE SALE GARAGE SALE FRIDAY, July 26, Saturday July 27, and Sunday July 28. 9am-5pm. 7027 Bouman Drive, Middleville. Hunting and fishing gear and collectibles, clothing, lids toys, home goods, and other misc items. BUSINESS SERVICES BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Loqqinq (269)818-7793. CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937 SHELLER & SONS LLC Fencing (Insured) is offering installation and removal. Please call Chris 231-5196313. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496, Kam Kidder (269)838-8313 PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. and Recreation Board, Middleville Heritage Days Committee and the Village of Middleville Downtown Development Authority (DDA). What are two or three of the most pressing issues in Barry County right now that the board of com missioners should treat as a high priority? We need to adopt a solar ordinance for Barry County to provide for the local control of solar development sit­ ing standards. Another high priority is to complete the construction of the new Commission on Aging (COA) facility. This is long overdue and will serve our seniors’ growing needs as well as provide local production of our Meals on Wheels meals, which so many of our Barry County seniors depend on. We also need a plan for a new jail, where it should be located and a plan to finance it with the least cost to taxpayers. Over the past year or two, state legislators have passed laws that have been met unfavorably by many county residents. What recourse does the county board have in these situations, if any, and what action would you suggest the board take to push back against the state? I think it is crucial for us to stay in our lane as county commissioners. Our main focus is to manage the offi­ cial business of the county. I objected when the state legislature veered into our lane and pre-empted the local control of alternative energy facilities because that took away the county’s Your local agent insures your Retiirement Ask about our annuities and IRAs REAL ESTATE WOODED BUILDING SITE: Sandy soil, 1.3 acres between Middleville & Hastings on Buehler Rd., 1 mile north of Algon-quin Lake. 616-893-1872 I FARM BUREAU . INSURANCE’ — Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 previous authority to regulate solar projects in the county. I joined my fellow county commissioners, and we voiced those concerns to the governor, our legislators, and other state offi­ cials. Talent attraction and retention has been a key issue for local govern­ ments for a while now. How do you suggest Barry County become more competitive in attracting and retain­ ing bright, capable employees? It is important for the county to keep up with competitive compensation as well as accurate job descriptions. Employees should be appreciated and appropriately paid for the work they are doing. In today’s economy, people can often choose to work almost any­ where so it is essential to create and maintain work environments where employees can thrive and see a future for themselves. Quality of life is a major factor in retaining and attracting quality employees. We are very lucky Barry County is such a beautiful place to live with parks and trails, quality school districts, and rural lifestyle that attracts many people to Barry County. We need to continue to be a county where people want to live, work and play. DAVID LAANSMA Challenger Village/township of residence: Yankee Springs Occupation/profession: Executive Director, Blue Zones Activate Barry County How many years have you lived in Barry County? I graduated from Michigan State University in 1978 with a degree in Animal Science, with an emphasis on bovine genetics and reproduction. My entire career, since graduating, has been in the agriculture industry. Upon completion of my in-class stud­ ies, I finished my college career with two internships through MSU. My first internship was in the panhandle of Texas, where I worked on a large Jparks@fblnsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com See PRIMARY on 11 �s www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 11 I ♦ I I PRIMARY Continued from Page 10 r las II O' J [ 1 I cattle feed yard. The second was in western Wyoming on a large cow-calf ranch. After the internship, I worked on the ranch for another three years. The recession of the early 80s brought us back to Michigan. In 1984, we settled in the Yankee Springs area and I started and grew a successful business which involved genetics and reproduction programs for dairy and beef operations. I worked across several West Michigan coun­ ties and eventually throughout the state doing training and management. I am still self employed working as a consultant for dairy and beef produce rs specializing in genetics and reproduc­ tion protocols and data analysis. How many years have you lived in Barry County? My wife and I have lived in Yankee Springs for 40 years. Our children attended Thomapple Kellogg Schools from kindergarten to high school. Past experience in local govern ment (if any): My wife and I were elected as Yankee Springs precinct delegates in 2022. Precinct delegates are the first level elected position in our govern­ ment. We have applied ourselves fully to the precinct delegate responsibili­ ties, which include active participation in the meetings of Yankee Springs and Thomapple Townships, the Village of Middleville, Thomapple Kellogg School Board and County Commission meetings. We serve to help get out the vote and to educate our voting con­ stituents. In our role as precinct del­ egates, we serve as an advocate for our constituents representing their interest. concerns and values. We have gained enormous insight into the workings and importance of our local govern ment and school board. Other applicable experience: I have served on different boards of a major cattle genetics company either as a board member or as a consultant. I have also served on various church boards and multiple committees. From 1985 to 2000, our family managed the horse program at the YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin. This included the train­ ing and management of a large herd of horses and the farming operations for growing their feed. Most importantly, was the safety, training, and rides for hundreds of children each summer the management of the wrangler staff and the responsibilities of the budget. What are two or three of the most pressing issues in Barry County right now that the board of com­ missioners should treat as a high priority? We need to shed the overreaching and burdensome effects of overly aggressive state and federal policies as well as the overt influence of sev­ eral non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that work to influence our local decision makers for the interests and agendas of the NGOs. We need to reestablish the importance and value of local control in decision making and implementing policies that truly reflect the needs and values of our communi­ ties. Barry County needs a new jail and these plans need to be finalized and executed in a timely fashion with no more delays. It is past time for our health department to be separated from Eaton County. We need to focus our tex dollar investments regarding health issues on what truly serves our county, our culture and our beliefs. DISTRICT 4 JON SMELKER Incumbent Village/township of residence: Irving Township Occupation/profession: Retired rural mail carrier in Middleville; life­ time farmer. How many years have you lived in Barry County? 74 years. Past experience in local govern­ ment: I have been a county com­ missioner for 11 years, currently I’m on the Judicial Council, Security Committee, 911 Vice Chair, Transit Board, Airport Board and Community Corrections Committee. Previous boards and committees include Health Board, Barry County Resource Network, Grievance, Public Works and Animal Advisory. Other applicable experience: Veteran, a volunteer fireman for 30 years 20 years in Freeport and 10 years in fire and ambulance on Thomapple Township Emergency Services. Had officers positions in both services. Member of the Freeport Historical Society for 25 years, presi­ dent for the last five years. What are two or three of the most pressing issues in Barry County right now that the board of commissioners should treat as a high priority? Not in order of importance — 1. Hiring a new county administrator; 2. Getting our solar ordinance approved; 3. New jail — getting it in the right location and financed; 4. Finishing the new Commissioner on Aging building. Over the past year or two, state legislators have passed laws that have been met unfavorably by many county residents. What recourse does the county board have in these situations, if any, and what action would you suggest the board take to push back against the state? I stay in communication with our state senator and representatives about legislative matters we can send resolutions that we vote on to the state, that lets them know how we feel about new laws. We also can voice our opin­ ions' to the Michigan Association of counties for their help. Most important is that we vote for the right people to go to Lansing to represent Barrv County. Talent attraction and retention has been a key issue for local govern­ ments for a while now. How do you suggest Barry County become more competitive in attracting and retain­ ing bright, capable employees? We Challenger Village/township of residence: Thomapple Township Occupation/profession: County Republican Party School board member at Barry County Christian School Middleville. What are two or three of the most pressing issues in Barry County right now that the board of com missioners should treat as a high priority? * Finding a cost-effective resolution for our county jail; Cut and reduce unnecessary spending by implement­ ing optimization of county operations; Stop increasing taxes for funding unfa vorable or unnecessary projects. Keeping local decisions close to the people improves accountability and should be the effort of our govern­ ing bodies. Large governments create large waste. Keeping government small reduces waste and loss. County decisions should be made by county officials within the restraints of mor­ ally sound and constitutionally valid laws. 'j0e - Men 71 a ■ i :/• I tB - 1 Antenna Men • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! CEu(W) signal * Over the past year or two, state legislators have passed laws that have been met unfavorably by many county residents. What recourse does the county board have in these situations, if any, and what action would you suggest the board take to push back against the state? Having realistic expectations for job duties, providing competitive compen­ sation and benefits for employees is key for employee retention. Creating a working environment that allows for meaningful growth financially and career growth is important. Having a work life balance and evening out workloads is key. JOHN GALLAGHER How many years have you lived in Barry County? 11 years. Past experience in local government: Barry Other applicable experience: Talent attraction and retention has been a key issue for local govern ments for a while now. How do you suggest Barry County become more competitive in attracting and retain­ ing bright, capable employees? have competitive wages and benefits with our comparable counties. To attract employees, we need to be flex­ ible with starting wages and benefits, also be flexible with hours and work­ ing from home when possible. Information technology project management, tele­ communication construc­ tion manager. United States Marine Corps Veteran and small busi­ ness owner. member. no* J V a> 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.celi8ignalpros.com as �I THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 12 www.sunandnews.com Yankee Springs board approves Barlow Lake weed treatment ♦ ♦ GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer 4 ♦ The Yankee Springs Township board has approved the creation of a special assessment district to cover the costs of the latest round of treat­ ments to control aquatic plant growth on Barlow Lake. At its July 11 meeting, the Township Board approved plans and cost estimates for the Barlow Lake weed control program, as well as the creation of the special assessment district. They also set a second pub lie hearing for Thursday, Aug. 8 at 6 p.m. on finalizing how much each property owner in the district will pay for the treatment through 2031. Progressive AE’s Water Resources Group, the consultant for the lake, has proposed a herbicide treatment program that would attack such invasive plants as starry stonewort, Eurasian milfoil and curly-leaf pond­ weed. Progressive has estimated a proj ect cost of $125,600 over an eight­ year period, starting this year, or an annual cost of $15,700. However, a ♦ ♦ I* It * 7 —r I * • g A ■ w i 1 t •4 .. - CW * A3 .Ci^M t % -A M ■ I’-i 1 3K* * -A a * S *9 ♦ 4 v’rfie* . J * ♦ A* J 4h> J V .WW ■ •w 4^ AE ‘ a* ' 2 ">■> •V'’ ■ k ’A .*L. * . V 4*- •Jir t«F J 7 . X Progressive AE’s Water Resources Group, the consultant for Barlow Lake, has proposed a herbicide treatment program to attack invasive plants. (Courtesy photo) I * portion of those costs will be offset by reserves from past lake treat­ ment programs. Lhe plan is to spend •r r i ♦ z* > ► I, A !■ r WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS r * V •• < s* ’-: ■ pl Residential & Commercial 4 n t I* • *5^ J * Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers MM 4< •j 4 A - s I 1 .7. z •f 4 ' * I •z i 12 f J W V w 1 p—' 4 '4* * Ml * _, I I k.; < I 7 L I 1 * a ■ R ^5; DeWeerd (S8^ HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 Since 1955 I BBB. High bid prices force delay on Yankee Springs park improvements GREG CHANDLER ■5^i 4 1 $30,000 of the estimated $50,000 in available reserves. “Quite often in the past, once (the treatment program is completed), if there’s money left, the residents get ACCREDITED BUSINESS J. a couple of free years where they don’t pay anything, and we start up the assessment again,” Township Clerk Mike Cunningham said. “Our attorney has told us that’s not the technically, if right way to do it you do it that way, you would have to go through the whole process maybe with petitions and everything. It’s better to run it as a continuous (assessment).” Because of the use of savings, property owners are expected to see a 10 percent drop in their annual assessment for the treatment program — from $60 to $54 for those who have frontage on Lake Barlow and from $30 to $27 for backlot property owners, Curmingham said. The special assessment district will have 243 properties, an increase from 229 under the previous special assessment district. There will be 203 properties with frontage on the lake that are in the district and 40 backlot properties, according to township documents. Progressive AE’s Water Resources Group will contract with a company to conduct the herbicide treatment to control weeds in the lake. Staff Writer Plans to install four new pickleball courts and convert an existing pickle­ ball court to a full-length basketball court at Yankee Springs Township Park have been put on hold, after bids for the project came in more than $100,000 higher than what the township had budgeted. The Township Board last week voted unanimously to rebid the proj­ ect early next year. The township received three bids for the project, which had been approved for a Michigan Department of Natural Resources Recreation Passport grant of $ 131,200 in December 2023. The township had budgeted $175,000 for the project, which had been slated to get under­ way Aug. 1. But the low bidder, Grid26 Construction LLC of Grandville, came in with a bid amount of $276,563 58 percent higher than budgeted. Two other bidders came in with bids in excess of $290,000, according to township documents. “We recommend not awarding the project and waiting for a more favorable bidding climate by rebid­ ding the project this winter,” Fleis & VandenBrink project manager Don DeVries wrote in a memo to Township Supervisor Rob Heethuis. The Recreation Passport grant would have covered 75 percent of the budgeted cost, which is the maximum allowable under the grant program, with the township fund­ ing share to be 25 percent. But had the township chosen to accept the Grid26 bid, its funding share would have increased to 53 percent. Clerk Mike Curmingham said. �f a a www.sunandnews.com ■■ THE SUN AND NEWS ----------- ----------------------------------- - Saturday, July 6, 2024 ____________ FTrebepartmenttakeFeffectJ^^ JAMES Contributing Writer f I 13 I Byron and Games townships have been part­ ners in mutually operating the Cutlerville Fire Department since 1950. But that will formally come to an end on July 26. The Byron Township Board stunned Gaines trustees in July 2023 when it announced that it had voted to break off the 73-year partner­ ship. Under an Intergovernmental Operating Agreement, Byron Township was required to notify Gaines Charter Township one year in advance of the split, which it did. That split takes effect later this month. Both townships signed a Termination Agreement recently that spells out the terms of the separation. “And lists the amounts of the (fire depart­ ment) assets, who will be the future owner of the assets, and the payment arrangements made for the assets,” Gaines Township Manager Rod Weersing said. Byron Township Supervisor Amos Tillema said the rapidly growing population in Byron produced the need for that township to own and operate its own fire station in Cutlerville. Earlier this year, Byron Township purchased the Michigan Department of Transportation property behind the McDonalds restaurant on 68th Street at US-131. “We are currently in the process of engineer­ ing and planning to build a new fire station on that property,” Tillema said in an email to the Sun and News. “Once the new build­ ing is completed, Byron Township Fire will respond to calls on the west side of Division, Cutlerville (Gaines) Fire will handle calls on the east side of Division. Cutlerville Fire will be operating out of the same building that they are in today. The Gaines Township Board decided earlier this year to exercise its option to retain owner­ ship of the Cutlerville Fire Station at 11 68th St. SW, which is just west of Division Avenue and, therefore, in Byron Township. Gaines is paying the remaining equity portion of the fire station to provide fire services primarily on the Gaines side of Cutlerville, which is an unincor­ porated area that lies in both townships. At its July 8 meeting, the Gaines Township Board voted 6-0 to adopt a resolution formally establishing the Gaines Charter Township Fire Department, effective Jan. 1, 2025. One trustee was absent from the meeting. The fire sta­ tion at 11 68th St. in Cutlerville will become known as Station 1, and the station located at 3471 68th St in the Dutton area of Gaines Township will be called Station 2. The township already had voted in March to change the name of the Cutlerville Fire Department to Gaines Charter Township Fire •X 'W •'i t' > ( *r »» . 'A' \is r 1 f tr' V 4 4 . -V' * i r> J— I J 1 4 .V 4 .4 < / * w * * •r • i r I a ’ITS f *»' 9 ' c l» » < s - * r » II ^Ka: mil V - •»** ____ .’t f ' W 'Hi 1 * .4 n IK ••1^ I ■ * « Bl J— f— * * a •* ; -I fc ->• «a- .JIV I 1^1 ► • - r-J t.. V ■i • •• > I ■; m' V *i X * rz .-a: A I ‘H P *i f * .»2 •• *.Z < • •?A< ** J 11 • 4 2 > •f b* ** an ( « r<^ ♦* • AV If / J V ✓ 4^/ ' X* *5 r ( * V > " 1' 7 The Cutlerville Fire Station at 11 68 St. SW in Byron Township. i ■» »'■* a • t 1— - i 4 • ** X. I ■ ‘ -I •• iSs 1 4ai; •• ' (File photo by James Gemmell) ■‘i*. M C •• * 1 • .< I I **l I r < > J.* •I 1 E 4 . I J .4.. •v .iA* Mi . -J 2^^ 1 I f 1 1 . I Department. The July 8 vote merely formal­ ized the name change so the township can legally proceed with some licensing changes pertaining to box-card data used by fire dis­ patchers. Gaines is retaining all the firefighting equipment in the Cutlerville Fire Station except for a 2014 mini pumper truck. Gaines Township is required under terms of the Intergovernmental Operating Agreement to provide at least a one-year contract for fire services to Byron Township, because Gaines will become the sole owner of the fire building. Gaines will charge Byron Township $800 for every call it responds to in Byron Township. The two townships had been splitting the cost of fire operations in Cutlerville on a 50-50 basis over the years. Both townships recently signed a Fire Service Agreement that sets the terms for Gaines to continue fighting fires on the Byron Township side of the Cutlerville ser­ vice area — at least until Byron has its own fire station up and running. “It is a one-year agreement that is renew­ able, and it has a six-month cancellation notification,” Weersing said. Tillema added, “There has not been any problem with the operation or service of the Cutlerville Department. They have always been very professional and have done a great job taking care of the residents in Cutlerville. With the growth in Byron and Gaines Townships, we felt it was time for each township to take care of their own area. At the same time, we have the opportunity to increase the service for the Cutlerville area.” Gaines Township Supervisor Rob De Ward said it “makes good sense” for Gaines to continue to operate out of the build «■ .1. ing on 68th Street in Cutlerville, even though it is located in Byron Township. “We’re not going to spend $4 million to $5 million to build a fire department j ust because they (Byron Township) decided to walk away, without any involvement with us. It was a unilateral decision on their part,” DeWard said. Bruce's Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop • Wheel Alignments • Auto Glass Installation • Insurance Work Welcome • Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com Irving Township Board Meeting Synopsis June 16 2024, 3425 Wing Rd. Hastings, Ml 49058 Meeting Called to order at 6:30 PM with the Pledge of Allegiance. Doug Sokolowski, Jamie Knight, Mike Buehler, Dean Bass and Sharon Olson present. 5 members of the public were present. Motions passed: 1. approve agenda 2. approve Minutes from June 18, 2024 3. pay Thornapple Township Fire Department contract in the amount of $12,471.50. roll call. 4. pay bills $16,681.24. Roll call. 5. to adjourn at 6:46. Upcoming dates: July 27, 2024, Early voting August 6, 2024, Primary Election August 20, 2024, Town­ ship Board Meeting J' 4 • e >»r t I 7.9_5-9596 ' : « A? 4' R 415 2nd • Middleville Full minutes are available at lrvingtownship.org or at 3425 Wing Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058. Prepared by Clerk, Sharon Olson. Attested to by Supervisor, Jamie Knight. ♦ ♦ �' M * ► ► t THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 14 www.sunandnews.com Sporting V . ■ ' ‘ri 9 ,•*4 t . r.: 9 4R Middleville flag teams compete at U of M BRER BREMER SUPPORTS YOU Sports Editor Colin McKay opened things up with his best Blake Corum impres­ sion. Corum set a University of Michigan football record with 58 career rushing touchdowns including 23 during his 2023 senior season in which he helped lead the Wolverines to the National Championship. He was selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft and is prepping for his first NFL training camp. McKay is a third grader. He’s a Thomapple Kellogg third grader who has scored a few touch downs in the “Big House” now too, BXSSSSSflSSSS&S fiXsSSsSBSS BSS5i58B5 sss I ■Mi MB WHXSIIk * *9 9>- ■M ■r I I .»*»S I t r iU 'L> M5 *• w d V < M 1 4 ? J , ^71 I ' h t rp. % ■fi '4 X - 5. I t t, > ■S' k* L« 4 I M' -J w A* 1 »; \ •f \ F St. 1 I I 9 .f-. * X:* - V r. f > < /?? » AI M I Ar5r f. .«>> 1 es >> & £•<. * t 't ATA 4 4* 'X IX > r* sr r 5 » * 3^ e»» *w • V" x« .-r 3^ V sS ‘r, •A* Middleville Youth Football players, coaches and fans gather together during the Super Hero Sports (SHS) Road to Disney 5-on-5 flag football tournament at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor Sunday. MYF sent four flag football teams to compete in the tournament made up of teams from Michigan and Ohio. Village of Caledonia County of Kent, Michigan NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES Public notice is hereby given that on July 8, 2024, the Caledonia Village Council adopted two ordinances amending the Caledonia Code. The principal provision of these ordinances are summarized as follows; Village Manager Ordinance. Ordinance number 016-24 amended Section 2.15(3)(b) of the Caledonia to provide that the Village Manager may appoint, suspend, remove, direct, and supervise all employees of the Village, not including the Village Clerk and Treasurer. Ordinance 016-24 shall become effective 45 days after adoption, or if a petition signed by not less than 10% of the registered electors of the Village is filed with the Clerk within that period, then it will become effective if and when approved at an election held on approval of the amendment. Au±ori to Issue Citations/A earance Tickets. Ordinance 017-24 amended Section 1.7 of the Caledonia Code to authorize the Kent County Sheriff or Deputy to issue citations for civil infi'actions for violations of the Caledonia Code designated to be as a municipal civil infraction, and appearance tickets for violations designated to be misdemeanors. Section 1.10 was added to the Caledonia Code to reflect a requirement of State law that the Village Attorney must authorize issuance of a civil infraction citation based on a report of a witness, not the personal observation of the issuing officer. Ordinance 017 24 becomes effective immediately upon publication of this summary. A complete copy of these ordinances are on file and may be inspected or purchased at the office of the Village Clerk, Village of Caledonia, 250 S. Maple Street, Caledonia, Michigan, during Village office hours. Dated: July 20, 2024 VILLAGE COUNCIL VILLAGE OF CALEDONIA «• including one on his very first run Michigan Stadium. Middleville Youth Football sent four teams, an 8U, a lOU and two 12U teams, to participate in the Super Hero Sports (SHS) Road to Disney 5-on-5 flag football tourna­ ment at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor Sunday, July 14. The four teams of Middleville players were put together in the spring, spent a few weeks practicing and then were off to compete in their first tourna­ ment against teams typically made up of seasoned, select players with travel tournament experience. The tournament included 48 teams in all from Michigan and Ohio. MYF 8U head coach Ryan Terpstra and his team were scheduled for the first game of the day, at 8 a.m., against what he’d been told before­ hand was a seasoned, strong oppo­ nent. “We want to just start a series and a game like that with a simple play that we know we run well,” Terpstra said. “It includes a fake to our wide receiver [Bronson Nagtzaam] to get the defense moving in one direction and then a handoff to our running back. Our running back is a third grader, Colin McKay, and he is by far our smallest player, but he is also by far our most difficult player to tackle. He juked the entire opposing defense and then outran them down the field. As they were diving after him, I knew he was going to score a touchdown. The MYF 8U team finished the tournament with a 3-1 record. It won its first two match-ups and then won its opener in the bracket play before bowing out in the semifi­ nals. The top team in each division earned the chance to play in bigger regional tournaments and a spot in the 2025 Youth Flag Football World Championships that will be held at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Fla. “The Middleville fans, we had absolutely by far the most fans for all of our teams of anybody out there,” Terpstra said. “We had coaches and fans of the older teams, 1 Ou and 12u, they were there, parents were there, friends and family were there. They (4 9^ See FLAG TEAMS on 15 �www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS FLAG TEAMS Orange squad along with flag direc tor Ben VanderHulst and Mike Witt. Mike Mahon coached the 1 OU Middleville squad with help from Jeff Green and Jay Lantinga. Terpstra was joined in coaching the 8U team by Brandon Rinnels and Lloyd Skiba. Their squad included Terpsta s son Holden Terpstra and Rinnels son Louie Rinnels who shared time at center. Being a 5-on5 tournament, the centers get their chances to go out into pass patterns too. All the rest of us, we fought our butts off,” Jeremiah Bossenberg er said of the older MYF teams. “The win we got was the glow. These kids were having so much fun. You would have never thought they lost a game. We had tunnel access, full locker room access, our teams’ had their own cubbies. Between games we’re in the Michigan locker room sitting with these kids under pictures of Bo Schembechler.” The coaching staffs had the chance to select eight players for their teams and then opened the final four ros­ ter spots on each team to the MYF community. Having rosters of play players allowed for an offensive unit and a defensive unit on Terpstra’s squad, something he thought was an advantage as the day wore on over teams with a number of kids playing both ways. Coach Terpstra said the Thomapple Continued from Page 14 were so loud cheering for us in that first game I absolutely think it made a difference for our kids. “When [McKay] scored and our fans started roaring and clapping, I know it gave them a ton of confi’ dence. They played with their hair on fire the rest of the game. We had fans they could hear and they had energy from that.” Certainly, all the Middleville play­ ers were playing to win, but that wasn’t necessarily the ultimate goal of the day. “The idea behind this is build­ ing the program,” MYF president Jeremiah Bossenberger said. “We have seen nothing but positive growth and support from the com­ munity over the last two to three years. Each season we are attempt­ ing to find opportunities to raise the bar at Middleville for the most part, providing more opportunities, more training opportunities, more growth opportunities and more ways to get them involved in competitions that can give them some drive, give them something to aspire to.” Bossenberger coached the pro­ gram’s 12U Black team at the tour nament along with his son Blake Bossenberger and Glen Brock. Ben Ybema, the TKMS eight grade coach, led the Middleville 12U II J 'J 1 rr Mk 4 I » Kellogg athletic department allowed the teams to practice on the turf inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville to prepare for their games at the “Big House.” He said his players asked him how much big ger the Ann Arbor stadium is com­ pared to TK’s home field. He told them it was twice as tall as the light towers. So many kids on the team are Michigan fans,” coach Terpstra said. This was a surreal experience for them. We started the day by getting to go into the locker room. We fin ished registration. We walked into the tunnel. We got to walk into the locker room and they all got to take pictures an videos. We were in there for probably 20 minutes before they called us out on the field.” Then they got to walk through he tunnel out into the stadium. The players all acknowledged right away that their coach had undersold the size of the Wolverines’ stadium by quite a bit. Michigan Stadium is the largest stadium in the western hemisphere and the third largest in the world. Attendance at the “Big House” reached 115,109 for the Wolverines’ fcr- I** --5 • . ♦’ • . e* I 1 » > ^^5 J 4’- ( $ ! I K. ft B' * rw J * a: I ft f 1 * 4* I ’tf-w— w’ U__ L!J Will 'C '-I I > • t.r t 1 4 a 2013 victory over Notre Dame, an NCAA record for the largest oncampus crowd ever. The crowd at 8 a.m. Sunday wasn’t nearly that big, but the Middleville fans certainly showed up. MYF had special maize and blue club shirts made up and they dominated the crowd on the visitors’ side of the sta­ dium that was open to fans. “We have never seen this much of our apparel go out,” Jeremiah Bossenberger said. “There was a sea of Middleville shirts everywhere you went for every game. We took a huge group photo. The support was overwhelming.” Bossenberger and coach Terpstra both noted that more than one tour­ nament regular came up to ask where their teams were from intrigued by the crowd and their performance on the field. Registration for the MYF fall tackle season for third through sixth graders and fall flag football for first through sixth graders is going on now. Regular registration ends Sunday, July 21. Late registration runs from July 22 through August 20. More information can be found a middlevilleyouthfootball.com. Caflicrine 3 * r* GETTY p 7. -? J t I rfc JB VOTE AUGUST 6th I •B' L B- F 1 r; f A I I 1?^^- * r" » •’ ** r X' . » ; -4 - \ >J T— .a..... •I -T’J V»Wb --W. ?br*7B7 « S~~v 7.9 «* ***v »■ ap- .• V* - Till • ) ■-MW — « tr *. M >• J • 1. ........ County Commissioner 9 e yt '1 The Middleville Youth Football 8U Terpstra team takes comes out of the tunnel to take the field at the Super Hero Sports (SHS) Road to Disney 5-on-5 flag football tournament at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor Sunday. The team went 3-1 reaching the semifinals of its 16-team division at the tournament. 15 ♦ Vote for Proven Leadership an a* . -I*; • Saturday, July 6, 2024 “Catherine is the right person at the right time for County Commissioner.” M/ke Bremer, former Thornapple Township Supervisor & Barry County Commissioner Paid for by the Committee to elect Catherine Getty, 11835 Lakeridge Dr.. Wayland, Ml 49348 ♦ �* n r* 1 ' 16 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 6, 2024 '4 «4 f ♦ ♦ ■e sporting News ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com *d 5 I A 4 ♦ *1 r i f I s ft V* .* * f.«r y .I «l» ■ ■ < t I t- • 4 -1 s. a J . ..‘v > Rockies select Thelen in 15th round A s won an MHSAA Division 1 District Championship imder head coach Pat Gillies) to be chosen in the MLB Draft. His high school teammate, Andrew Taylor, is currently playing for the High-A Asheville Tourists in the Houston Astros organization. He was selected by the Astros with a compensation pick at the end of the second round of the 2022 draft out of Central Michigan University. Playing for the CMU Chippewa’s rival Broncos in Kalamazoo, the 6-foot-5 righty Thelen turned from a starting pitcher into a top reliever for Western Michigan as a red-shirt junior this spring. Last offseason, he went to work training and improv­ ing his mechanics reportedly upping BRETT BREMER Sports Editor Luke Thelen got his degree in December. He was on the mound for the Western Michigan Broncos as they clinched their second ever Mid American Conference Tournament Championship at the end of May. He was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 15th round with the 483rd overall selection, in the 2024 Major League Baseball Draft Tuesday. It has been a good run. Thelen, a 2020 Caledonia High School graduate, becomes the sec­ ond member of the 2019 Fighting Scot varsity baseball team (which 0ur*Bigge8UEver* IFFW and^XW o GtfingaonalUM/l^ Motorcycles ATVs UTVs Generators Snow Blowers Lawn Mowers ■ Eph. 6:10^:18 I• •/ u < u >»l * I .*»■*'* k <£ I / -•*M t .. r-I v i.- c \k I r * A. f ww the max velocity on his fastball from 94 miles per hour to 100 miles per her. He struck out 5 8 batters in 43.1 innings for the Broncos in 2024 while posting a 3.53 ERA and hold­ ing opponents to a .233 batting aver age. Thelen did all that while cutting his walks dramatically. He walked 48 batters in 37.1 innings in 2023. That number was down to 23 walks in 43.1 innings in 2024 Thelen was named a College Sports Communicators Academic All District honoree this season. He struck out more than ten bat ters per nine innings even as a starter with the Broncos in 2023, getting ten starts on the season. Thelen was a three-time Academic All-MAC selection with the Broncos while working to a degree in Accountancy. Coors Field in Denver, home of the Colorado Rockies, is a notoriously tough place for pitchers with the thin air at a mile high elevation changing how pitches spin and move while also allowing batted balls to sail. To compensate a bit, designers gave Coors Field some of the deepest outfield walls in all of MLB. 4 J f : •u ,1 A 1 i L* - / ♦ K’ •e. 4k I • —J r •S * Ib > A .4? s*| f •. -^ibr • • ’ «s A. f I i 1 4 > .- f . ■ A i i t 4 Luke Thelen (pictured pitching for Caledonia High School in the spring of 2019) was selected in the 15th round of the 2024 MLB Draft by the Colorado Rockies Tuesday. Thelen drew MLB teams’ interest with a stellar performance as a red-shirt junior reliever for the Western Michigan University Broncos this spring. 1 CM / r 1 Track athletes honored for efforts in classroom r c f tOfl j r » L J I •■*:*** LOUU Rebates, or JJ /a ‘ Rflancino ^vailabh ' I I * Visit our Website k. V ,• p^ www.Fullarmorpower.com ------ .1 \ • .J* ACL • rc »>' V 9240 Cherry Valley Ave. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 (Next to Speedway) 616.536.2063 OPEN Daily 10am-6pm. Sat 10am-1pm I f f 3T’\:-2 - . . I The Caledonia varsity boys’ and girls’ 2024 varsity track and field teams and the Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ track and field team have all earned Academic All-State honors from the Michigan Interscholastic Track and Field Coaches Association. The teams were honored by MITCA for their performance in the classroom. Only two varsity girls’ teams in Division 1 had a higher GPA this spring than the Fighting Scot girls’ mark of 3.941. The TK ladies were fourth on the Division 2 list with a GPA of 3.9627. The Caledonia boys were honored for their team GPA of 3.885. While the Thornapple Kellogg boys’ team didn’t quite make the cut, the four members of the Trojan 4x400-meter relay team that finished fourth at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Track and Field Finals, seniors Ethan Bonnema, Lucas Van Meter, Jaxan Sias and Kyle VanHaitsma, and their junior teammate Jacob Draaisma all earned individual academic all-state accolades in Division 2. Draaisma was a state qualifier in the 800-meter run in Division 2 this season. Sophomore Mia Hilton and junior Brooklyn Harmon from the TK girls’ team earned individual academic all-state honors in Division 2. Harmon and Hilton were both a part of the TK girls’ 4x400-meter relay team that placed fourth at the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Track and Field Finals and Harmon also placed third in both the 100-meter hurdles and the 300-meter low hurdles. Hilton placed eighth in the 300-meter hurdles at the state meet. Caledonia senior thrower Ian Fedewa was named individual academic all-state in Division 1. He placed eighth in the discus this season at the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Track and Field Finals. 4 rx. I '■O z z a 0. (A >co ■Q (D C •c o_ � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-07-27.pdf dd988e9b85d2762202c18b2145b61248 PDF Text Text r ■ I OLSEN AND THE EAGLES OPEN OLYMPIC RUGBY SEVENS PLAYja SUNDAY . thesUN AND NEWS Your Homo to *r'n t • , ‘''^^^5papefServ/r7pfZ7eA//dd/ev/Z/e. Caledonia and Games To^vnship Areas a, f>^2r '.r- .1^: 4-* I PAGES NO. 16 • •Jr SATWDAY, JULY 27, 2024- R« « b www.sunandnews.com — -1^' J nH >• Middleville to keep stagecoach logo as it embarks on rebranding effort ♦r . . r Jmr • *•, n •« I * J A ?7 p -r ■*.*< ■-r 11 f .y^r / •SSr'*’. ?> < </ :V '< \ J.1 c s Ik2«v* .* & J ^w • I *v ^7 ♦ H I* Vs V J!lf I^B •* I ♦ * It S iS J ?&•■■ .■ Hi W r avkKvt' .jij. • 4 1 f. I X. • V > sLi z 1 ♦ f . “*=X A*. ■jr>‘ f T“^:a A 4 Cfc *1 n. -J, Ay»« <3^ T GREG CHANDLER 4 * 2-, b* The village of Middleville will keep the familiar stagecoach as part of its logo. The Village Council agreed Tuesday to narrow its logos to include the stagecoach that has been associated with the village for generations. The council will approve a resolution soon to ratify its position. The council’s action comes three years after the village and its Downtown Development Authority worked with a South Carolina-based consultant on a rebranding project that produced a new slogan “Well rounded. Perfectly centered” - as well as a new, round, colorful logo that sought to draw in elements of the community’s nature. “As a guy who likes history, and why Middleville is where it is, I like See STAGECOACH LOGO on 13 » £ • t Sl'i ! I t w I C f -■ V.tUACt I ( • i • • J .! f I • \ • M I < H ♦ O A WEU.RCL'-3^ . peRFECTLr»“fc-^SPeD. As the Village of Middleville works with a consultant on a rebranding project, it looks to implement the longstanding stagecoach image in its waas uawoisno new logo while also ivuNaaisau ssMuoa dceet in 'aniAUdajg incorporating the slogan orexogod “Well rounded. Perfectly 8£€# WLUJQd 9888^ centered.” (images provided) 1^ '8||iAueaJ9 QlVd ■r* 4 . A •I’-l T-^ H d * f * * * «w JIB * I l-H* <• I > '•.i^ I >• • r I 4 jS**'- '■: V »k 4’ t * «k.llf ' "i!* I •h • *K I I r- I 4^ —iW F-/ T ■ : k I. - f r •nTJ'i ^r c •f. cI 1 ■KS •r £ ’T I. V: L «* I -w V » I < »7 I I. I 1 r !nr.< 9 J : ?r. TV.S X —— ll ll > > r > .._^4iri r • X-'. 4 I Ip M p» I f" ’ ?^‘ a I I PI J II •.’Jw' .9 r I T C A * • •* R* r J 1^ Nt > 6* rJ •? !> • / > V>I b J » 4 I* < > *1 Ct XV A r I ""' <• *. t •^— S,Li , '°"P®™Pdiscuss the budget and other matters at a workshop meeting Monday in the lower level of the township hall. (Pholos by James Gemmell) ’ Gaines trustees discuss plans for spending remaining township ARPA funds f' Contributing Writer * 1 I i X •• I I •r rl JAMES GEMMELL w i ? i- K :h' h Staff Writer i I WM • Z 1.. d5<’4- The City of Wyoming is requiring the Byron-Gaines Utility Authority (BGUA) to increase its water-stor­ age capacity, and Gaines Township is considering the purchase of a ground-mounted water tank to help meet that requirement. But Gaines Township board members are not considering using any American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the water tank. The cost was not mentioned at a special workshop meeting on Monday, July 22 in the lower level of the township hall. The trustees met to discuss, in part, how they will spend the township’s remain­ ing ARPA money. Congress passed ARPA in March 2021 to help municipalities across ±e country offset losses suffered dur­ ing the COVID-19 pandemic. Each governmental unit was allocated a specific amount of stimulus funding based on its total population, as esti­ mated by the 2020 U.S. Census. Municipalities have until December 2024 to declare how they intend to use their ARPA funds and until December 2026 to spend the money. The U.S. Treasury Department has allowed municipalities to use their ARPA funds for investments in infrastruc­ ture projects such as water, sewer and broadband. Gaines Charter Township’s ARPA allocation was $2,873,651. It has slightly more than $250,000 left from that total and must declare 3OVlSOd s n ais isdd to the federal government by December how it will be spent. To date, the township has obligated $2,623,643 of the ARPA funding. No action was taken by the town­ ship board at Monday evening’s workshop meeting. It will make a final decision on the fiscal year 2025 budget in November. “The idea that was thrown out tonight was to use $50,000 for road repair and $200,000 for public safe­ ty,” Treasurer Laurie Lemke said. “That would be for the fiscal year budget that takes effect on Jan. 1, 2025. The $250,000 that we talked about tonight would be speculating for next year’s budget.” I can tell you we’ve got a lot of roads coming,” Township Manager See ARPA FUNDS on 3 66 I r h 4 b * r A > r » 1 —• �I > 2 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 27, 2024 GIVE US YOUR SCOOP! If you see news happening, or if you just want us to know about something going on... EMAIL US! eilitor@i-adgrapliics.com Caledonia man accused of providing alcohol, vape pens to teen girls for sex •4 X I, I J I t 1 .4, s■ Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser Help us support veterans and community functions. * Saturday, Aug 3, 2024 FAMILY TAVERN CRUISE NIGHT and the First Saturday of each month Serving 8 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. LOCATED ON CALEDONIA’S MAIN ST sr?? Fggs, sausage links or patties, potatoes, biscuits and sausage gravy, pancakes, milk, OJ, coffee. BSI AUGUST 7TH Bl? E €5 * Menu subject to change Adults $13.00 • Children 10 & under $5.00 For more information call the Post at 616-891-1882 -^4 :30 I J 17-year-old girl having sex with an adult male in exchange for alcohol. Further investigation found the suspect had been communicating with teen­ age girls in Caledonia, Lowell, Forest Hills and Byron Center, allegedly offer­ ing alcohol and vape pens in exchange for sex and nude pictures, Sgt. Kailey Gilbert of the sheriff’s office said in a news release. It is also believed Elam video-recorded sexual acts that took place while in his home, Gilbert said. The Kent County Sheriff’s Office works alongside Crisis Aid International’s Child Anti-Exploitation Program and has an in-house advocate. The team mentors teens engaging in risky sexual behavior and provides sup­ port to teens and their families. “These advocates work in the same office as detectives and work handin-hand with our Human Trafficking Task Force to provide a victim-centered approach when caring for those involved in sex trafficking or sexual-related crimes,” Gilbert said in the news release, Elam is being held in the Kent County Jail on a $500,000 bond. Detectives from the sheriff s office are continuing to investigate Elam, with the possibility of additional charges being filed, Gilbert said. abuse activity, aggravated Staff W rite r distributing and promoting A child sexually abusive mate­ A 42-year-old Caledonia I rial, aggravated possession of man is scheduled to appear J < child sexually abusive mate ­ in court next week on charg­ f rial, using a computer to com­ es he offered alcohol and .Z"”" ’ I mit a crime and capturing and vape pens to teenage girls a distributing an image of an in exchange for sex acts and Scott Elam unclothed person. nude pictures. Scott Michael Elam is Kent County detectives scheduled to appear for a probable arrested Elam July 17 at his home after cause conference Wednesday morn­ executing a search warrant. Detectives ing in 63rd District Court before Judge working in the Human Trafficking Jeffrey O’Hara on five felony charges. Task Force of the sheriff’s office They include aggravated child sexual received a tip in late June about a GREG CHANDLER TASTE OF CALEDONIA ♦ www.sunandnews.com :30PM PAYMENT REQUIRED FOR 0 0 Coffee Donated by * ■ CUr r E E In last week’s Sun and News, we included in error when highlighting Barry County Commissioner candidates David Laansma and Catherine Getty. Getty’s occupation — executive director of Blue Zones Activate Barry County — was inadvertently listed under Laansma’s biography, as well. We regret the error. I Caledonia Memorial Legion Post 305 Family Tavern Brink's Ice Cream Express Caledonia Hair Company Buer Well Drilling Alpine Events Caledonia Farmers Elevator 9548 Cherry Valley, Caledonia, MI BROUGHT TO YOU BY Fox Cheverolet Caledonia The Village of Caledonia BK Motor Sales IT Solutions Frontier Heating & Cooling Cal Wear on Main Inspiring Home Yoga Zen Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce LUNCH M-TH 11 AM-8 PM; FRI 11 AM-2PM; FRI BUILD A BURGER 4-8 PM The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com Editor: Jayson Bussa jayson@j-adgraphics.com <1 I I Group Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com L‘ Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher PRINTED ON 1C»% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper 4 I Copyright 2024 IM 2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. I i I - > .. PUBLISHED BY I I I THE SUN AND NEWS CONTACT US I I CORRECTION FOOD VENDORS s. I All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-945 9554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. * I •* nA b J �www.sunandnews.com arpa funds I I I THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 27, 2024 aerial ladder. water tank on Eastern Avenue near Continued from Page 1 ITe agreement between Byron and 92nd Street, and one in the 9300 block Gaines townships to mutually operate of Division Avenue. The three water­ Rod Weersing told the board the Cutlerville Fire Department was storage tanks hold a total of four mil­ rnembers after looking at the town­ discontinued by the Byron Township lion gallons of water. ship’s PASER rating. That stands Board, effective July 26, 2024. Gaines “Right now, the authority does not tor Pavement Surface Evaluation Township has decided to buy the have enough storage for the summer & Rating system, which is used to remaining equity in the Cutlerville months, so (the City of Wyoming) grade the condition of paved roads Fire Station at 11 68 St. SW. It was is requiring us to add storage,” in Michigan on a scale of 1 to 10. appraised at $1.88 million, and Gaines Weersing said. Everything in the northwest coris paying $940,000 over five years ner IS a 1 right now,” Weersing Details about where the water tank 1 to buy out Byron’s equity share. The would be located, size and cost were said. It s not high-traffic areas, but township will make 20-percent pay • Wheel Alignments not disclosed. we re going to have to start getting ments over each of the next five years. Gaines Township only has a single into that area.” • Auto Gloss Installation Byron Township is planning to build water pipe connection with the City of In the current (FY 2024) budget, its own fire station in Cutlerville along Wyoming, from which it receives its $340,000 was dedicated to public • Insurance Work Welcome US-131, north of the McDonalds resmunicipal water. Township Supervisor safety services. Nearly half of the taurant on 68th Street. Rob DeWard said in 2021 that a break • Visa & MasterCard Accepted township’s general fund budget has The township board voted earin the Wyoming connection some day gone for public safety in recent years, lier this ye^ to change the name of could shut down the water supply for or nearly $2.5 million annually. So Over 40 years experience the Cutlerville Fire Department to about 40,000 residents.” that mounting public the Gaines Charter The cost for a second intercon­ safety expenses will Township Fire nect to the Wyoming water system brucesframe.com not outpace yearly ^^The idea that Department, effective would cost at least $20 million, but revenue, the town­ 1 Jan. 1, 2025. The fire it would provide a second source of was thrown out station in Cutlerville ship board approved a water supply. 15-year special assess­ tonight was to will be called Station 1 The trustees also reviewed at the ment levy for public LSffiRa and the fire station in workshop meeting the township ordi­ use $50,000 for Dutton will be named safety (police, fire/resnance regulating the township ’ s two cue) services in 2021. road repair and Station 2. cemeteries, Dutton and Blaine. A It is designed to help Besides public safety, $200,000 for number of changes will be made later 415 2ncl • Middleville offset the rising costs Gaines Township has this year to update the rules there. of public safety. pubiic safety. spent ARPA money The township can Laurie Lemke on new benches and assess up to 1.5 mills Treasurer tables outside the town­ r Co ITS G Jo in us for annually. It started at ship hall, on streets and A 0.6 mills in 2022, was raised by trust­ sidewalks, and a parking lot paving ees to 0.75 mills in 2023 and 1.0 mills outside the township hall. are being levied in 2024. Trustee Bob Terpstra said he would J* Gaines Township consistently ranks like to see more township money as the first- or second-busiest town­ going into parks and recreation. ship in Kent County in calls for public “Once we get into 2025 and see how safety. Trustees have given high marks the public safety side shakes out, I Cutlerville/Dutton Fire Chief Ken Van think that’s when we really start look­ Hall for managing both departments, ing at planning for the future of the 9309 Dobber Wenger Meitiorial Dr including overseeing the Dutton Fire parks,” Weersing said. “I think that’s Department going to a 24/7 staffing Caledonia when we can start thinking about set­ model in Januaiy. Gaines trustees also ting money aside to build up a pot.” approved funding the addition of five A He added that land acquisition for full-time firefighters in Dutton. Van park space and development of the Hall said last year that there had been Cody Mills Park on 84th Street near a 35 percent increase in call volume the BGUA facility could be consid­ * since 2015, with the average time for ered at that time. L., I firefi^ters on scene doubling during “I think it’s hard right now to cre­ <o ^9that time. ate that plan with the upheaval still I The township committed $ 1.2 mil that we’ll see on public safety next I 1 lion in March toward the $1.7 million year. Once we get through that and ©heck out the Ga led onia cost of a new platform ladder truck • V s get separated with our service agree that will be delivered to the township ment, then I think we can really start g ComiTT^nity Green Park I ft next year from Appleton Wisc.-based focusing on the future of other things, facebook page for more Pierce Manufacturing Inc. The truck Weersing said. information will replace a 23-year-old fire engine As for the municipal water situation, ■f UJ in Cutlerville and enable firefighters to the BGUA currently has a water tower I I r I I I I I —I^i reach taller buildings from a 100-foot on 60th Street, a ground-mounted l'_Cc=j‘_r tI ^4 r-- 3 Bruce's Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop J s J I • T I '•w 1.7J5-I596 • r 1 4! < Hu V. •'t *1 I t •i J > r--* iV • R I 4 2 • 'J • PUTDOOR MOVIF NIGHT! 4 .• r I % * n IT t'T’ ll u .. v i V •> - da* r <• ' « iI ", « — T7 4 * •K I Hr ■1“ * ♦1 1 J •• .4 • J * • I t S' ! C a I e d 0 hi a C d miti u n i ty G ree n Park 4 5 I M * • fc A A % •I de* t J f f • > August 2,2024 at 9:00pm J -5 -r. >' V* 1 1 t A 1 ♦ fc?’ & 4 I < ■ 3*.— ■■ 4 k- I. s )>r fc 'y r > J* : *r <7 I, k< > *. X ft I r '■ 'T c; r 4 ft 4 YS. ft >* • , < f A • I •«T* : w J I I J r a a i I .*i .4 t It — ----- 1 1 |M J I 1 T- A i J* I ,4 f 4 » I i 1 z- • fc -' 2‘>: A i' ,■ . > >• < « Tfc >• 4 •aiw — ■„* I I I r- I I �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 27, 2024 4 V www.sunandnews.com I I s mother, Evelyn Stoner. A 1957 graduate of Pontiac High School, Carol *• earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Michigan State University. She dedicated 30 years of her life to educating young minds as an English and reading teacher in the Thornapple Kellogg school system. Her commitment to service extended beyond the classroom: she served in the Peace Corps in Russia from 1995-1997 and volunteered for many years with the “From Houses to Homes” Obituaries Carol Sue Bender Carol Sue (Cox) Bender of Middleville, Ml, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2024. Born on September 1,1939, she is survived by her devoted husband of 65 years, Robert Bender. Carol’s vibrant spirit and dedication to family and community touched many lives. She is also survived by her sister. Sue '5 Bowie (Bob), and her children, Cheryl Hemond (Michael), Julie Cleary (Kevin), and Greg Bender. Her legacy extends to her beloved grandchildren, Cal Cleary (Lynsi), Hannah Chesser (Dan), Sydney Johnson (Peter), and Gabby Hemond, as well as her cherished great-grandchildren, Margo Chesser, Remi Chesser, and Peter Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Jesse Cox, and her birth LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY I Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch t Rev, Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham BAPTIST Middleville i 616-891-8669 CalcdoniaUMC.org Livestream: Faccbook.com/CalcdoniaLJnitedMethodist Seeing Strengthening Connecting Good Shepherd .</ Lutheran Church 1, <x CO 4. J -I > r• 4 * Vb ’ • ' 1 Church: (269) 795-2391 i^PEACE CHURCH s "Lil 11 Livestream: facebook,com/firstbaptistmiddleville 1 HOLY FAMILY (/CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org A arr Wi< Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. <- I 'r • r PEACECHURCH.ee @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 OURNEY A' . .1 organization in Guatemala. Upon retiring from teaching, Carol continued her passion for literacy by volunteering at the Hastings ^5 Public Library. Her love for running made her a local legend, earning her the title of Michigan’s Female Runner of the Year, twice. She competed in Grand Rapids’ prestigious 25K Riverbank Run 30 times, winning her age group on several occasions and setting national records along the way. An adventurous traveler, Carol, along with her husband Bob, hiked and camped in nearly every National Park in America and enjoyed several European trips. They also treasured their summers spent on Mackinac Island. Carol’s life was a testament to the power of dedication, adventure, and love. A memorial service will be planned for Wednesday, July 31,2024, 11 a.m. at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, Middleville with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. Private burial will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to “From Houses to Homes” Guatemala at www.Fromhousestohomes.org Carol’s enduring spirit will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral. com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Carol’s family. ir 1 ♦ *1 I J i J t I 1I 1 i I ! 1 J I I CHURCH ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE LEARN MORE! ANNIVERSARY ANNOUNCEMENT I I I 1 thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. - Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee Jr • Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. http://goodshepherdJcms.googlepages.com ■ I FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter f’Crg * t cornerstonemi.org/weekend 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship. . . Sunday Service 10:30 AM •p .•’"A' 1675 84th st. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 J 4 service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street I I 1664 M-37 @thejchurch Ledbetters celebrated 70th wedding anniversary Gentry and Elise Ledbet­ ter celebrated their 70th wed­ 4 ding anniver­ sary on July 17, 2024. They were united in marriage in Livingston, TN. Their children include Darryl Ledbetter, de­ ceased: Kevin Ledbetter (Desiree) of San Mateo, CA: Beth Ledbetter of Henderson, NV: and David Ledbetter (Arlene) of Caledonia, Ml. They have 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grand­ children. There was a celebration hosted bv the*r children on July 13. 7 ■■'V. THORNAPPLE VALLEY ^CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE * 4 V* 4 ' •*! 1 I I i T 79 I .4' I I -ir k i X ? SERVICE TIMES; Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tveweb.com www.stpaulcaledoiiia.org Il • >»• » J ( I 1 I 9 I 1 T > A*’ I Whitneyville I Church Fellowship Church 8655 Wiitneyville Avenue, Alto 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"“^ & 48^^ 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org ■r ri— Praising God through Hymns • Reading God's Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School „ Sunday Worship Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm .9:30 AM Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm & 7 pm I 10:30 AM Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 I ’e- * e *• . w I a V Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 t J -< "Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship............................ 10:00 a.m. Community Group........................................ 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison^ Pastor nkreenri n f’cb* h I erh it rch crc' 4 I 1 J >. * I 1 I �I .A S' www.sunanclnews.com • s THE SUN AND NEWS 5 Saturday, July 27, 2024 • s 1 I r. ■****" ♦ ♦ sH“ «A.' 5 1 fc: • 9i !• iwi < .4 >&. • k '•) I.- t J r *1 •*.T ‘P !l ■^«'Llg7fc Il • <r^ 4* >! * • * • ♦ ♦ T__ _ / •• — * I Is; . a* r» * I I • !!©??* f “NI '' I • t> * I I !»■ I r^x - s 1^ I .. . f •T?-. • «f **C"7 •^•v*jt*' * a* BTr J • .-^ «•.:* *n*^ •- 'a .M. K ■ r & 0) A A ~ ar^ I • •a *-Tr< fci>^ -v r, i »a .<W Iigb< —.^ 4 T,at' -^• i» riliJr ■¥-*•!** 5^ • *4^ L >v rk’’ .iJi ’ .«►» I• * I .*77 . -A. . X. 4 ri—^’* .cyx I K • ?«¥* »♦ >* J c . bA < I t ' I IT**J ' I • ♦ -4 Xfl* ' . ■ • ■■!. 1 r ,4 SS^S?!] I l'Ak I — :> ^r?T . “A ' t*’*-'* 4 A J tr 7k i^sfcur • >- J <•*<* a- •i^ M- s • *•. '•. irjri aME r** *f i f «€ ••» F J U ;t - 4 A 4 » 4 »» Z • A^a rt >Mt’li ’I f > kA BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, VVhite Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. In­ sured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. ► < •> 4 ? * 4 r V f Z V* .> I i. z« ■V^ r f > •99^K af. . r ".X s * 59* JI WK5• ^74 >1^' I fp 4^ 4 ( .f 4 ' -I » iuA-’ v- v-^ • \ .4 JlW •' ' .r ■VW* w iFia --- wf-j- ■ . '. \ir, , - 1 I 4" c 4-* • '■S’>*«. A A H - •> •«#r .• £ nr s • 4‘ • BUSINESS SERVICES 4. 1 •i K ( *^7 .’/^ aT^H A/S?^ a \ **v I Bl « ■; • •.**:• Uf ' /> ♦ k 1ti I •*“—XT/ *• > $ ’ • t <. •'««!>? . Mumigyrr^ I I "BllM 7^-< 1. -i ^.4l »** « •I? *9 1 1 I I ii » r b GARAGE SALE: AUGUST 1,2, &3, 9am-5pm. May misc items. 3 families. 132 Grand Rapids Street, Middleville. -?k^/ 1 I i .A . 2-?s« SwMBs-,;. •. ---^• w f * •r:=at >G*^ w z \d J- _-b» > t " I IM .^ib- •> 3 i-<r_ ur ■ > 4»«. Ka t I r i r--. 'm .• ■.!.** ....... .? ' -' . •^1—.'‘i r **. »«• * . 2.^*. I GARAGE SALE < -=.X w *~*** '. C*' .< '*W*I I •*•. • £ K ' V 1^^ 1 r/.v > V. I f, I Classifieds >R mu A' L ' -' *1 % f <A -'J' Sti %r < /■ >/. '.'^M A 9, •z . s:.IT S'"'-. Jr ijS 7 4Z >i CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. al X Caledonia Twp. board tables Campau-Kettle Lake GREG CHANDLER 9z *■' CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496. assessment “ I have to spend a considerable Staff Writer $22,000 to $27,000, according to amount of money on trolling motors, township documents. The Caledonia Township Board batteries, things like that, to be Campau and Kettle Lake have is expected to decide next month able to access the lake through the been treated for aquatic weeds since whether to approve continuing a weeds because it isn’t treated,” 1982, lake association representative special assessment district for conOesch said. “It’s really difficult to Cooper Scavo said. trolling aquatic weeds and plants in say that I enjoy any sort of benefit “ The lake has been in the same Campau and Kettle from this.” ecosystem for 50 years. If we change Lake. Trustee Greg the way we do things (with treat ­ The board on July I did speak with Zoller rebuffed ment), it would change the ecosys ­ 17 tabled a deci Oesch ’ s objection. tem, ” Scavo said. representatives sion on whether to “You have a ben­ The lake is popular for kayaking approve plans by from the lake efit to using that and fishing, Scavo said. PLM Land and Lake lake that I don’t association, who The July 17 public hearing was part Management for her­ have, he doesn’t of a multi-step process for approv ­ were confident that have, but you do. bicide treatments on ing the special assessment district the lake starting next the vast majority You can absolutely and determining how much property year and continu­ go on that lake, ” owners in the district will pay for the of their lakefront ing through 2040. A Zoller said. “If we lake treatment. total of 129 proper residents would do no weed control, “ I did speak with representatives ties around the lake then you ’ re going from the lake association, who were be in favor of this would share in the to have a weedy confident that the vast majority ... special assessment lake that you’re not of their lakefront residents would cost of the treatment program. going to enjoy.” renewal. 99 be in favor of this special assess ­ One resident PLM has proposed ment renewal, ” Township Treasurer Richard Robertson objected to being an aquatic weed and Treasurer, Caledonia Township Richard Robertson said. included in the plant control pro The last time the Campau and assessment district. gram with projected Kettle Lake special assessment dis­ Dan Oesch, who owns nearly 15 costs over the 15-year period rang trict was updated was 2018. acres of property on 66th Street, ing from $238,000 to $285,000, The Township Board is expected complained to the board that the including legal and contingency to address the special assessment channel from his property isn’t treat­ costs. The cost of the program district at its next meeting on ed, hindering his access to the lake. in its first year would range from Wednesday, Aug. 7. SHELLER & SONS LLC Fencing (Insured) is offering installation and removal. Please call Chris 231519-6313. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates 269-331-9999. «» REAL ESTATE WOODED BUILDING SITE: Sandy soil, 1.3 acres between Mid dieville & Hastings on Buehler Rd., 1 mile north of Algonquin Lake 616-893-1872 * a B ■ * *• ' P2 l<3 J liSA‘Pickard :?A’ 5 iJbC' kt 5 i ^V€/. V ■» Cblbo^, r . , 'J4 11 I ru^< * A < z s.» k 73 �6 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. July 27. 2024 former Middleville fire barn Council wants updated site plan for n GREG CHANDLER Staff Wrrter I I Two years have passed since Middleville busi ness owner and then-Village Council member Johnny DeMaagd received approval from the council to acquire the former fire bam property at 115 High St. However, very little has changed with the build­ ing since the council entered into a development agreement with Acorn Treehouse Ventures LLC, a company that DeMaagd is principal for. Now the council is giving DeMaagd until September to put together an updated site plan for redeveloping the 90-year-old building, or face the possibility of having the structure revert back to the village for not following through on the devel­ opment agreement. DeMaagd is the owner of Left Field Cafe in downtown Middleville and served on the Village Council from November 2022 to October 2023. He was absent for Tuesday night’s Village Council meeting. The development agreement that was entered into in July 2022 gave a timetable for the build­ ing to be renovated. Work on the 115 High site was to begin in January 2023, a site plan was to be submitted to the village in July 2023, with sub­ stantial completion by January 2025 and an occu­ pancy permit to be approved in July 2025, Village Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers told council members. “The proposal was for a mixed-use commercial property, including a cafe, bakery, coffee roasting and canning operation,” Powers said. On July I, DeMaagd was notified that the peti tion would not be considered at a planning com mission meeting the following day because a site plan had not been received. On July 2, DeMaagd sent a memo to Powers that included a site plan, as well as a request for a content waiver. He wrote in the memo that he intended for the parcel to be used as a hospitality-based business. “In order to ensure economic viability of the project, and to also comply with the council’s pre­ vious desire of an expeditious remodel, develop­ ment will occur in two stages: first into a rentable * < f . ", Mm Antenna Men I fl v>.-^ • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! ///s^sQir /I ' • • a I I • 9 > < • i' IA -Llfr J f t $ f. r* BC.J 4 A The former fire barn property located at 115 High Street in Middleville. (Photo by Greg Chandler) small-scale event space to be completed by the timeline in the development agreement, then later into a sit-down restaurant once the space is able to be utilized,” DeMaagd wrote in the memo. Powers told the council that there had been plans to repair the roof of the building, but otherwise hadn’t received any other documentation on the project. “I was in the hopes that we could get enough documentation that the Planning Commission could make an informed decision, but being that the developer may be deviating from the develop ment agreement, I wanted to bring this before (the council) to see whether you were possibly inter­ ested in amending the development agreement,” Powers said. At no point during Tuesday’s meeting was DeMaagd’s name mentioned, with council members and staff referring to him as “the developer. Council members expressed opposition to the updated plans for the building. Trustee Richard Hamilton called the proposal “too vague” and “wishy-washy.” “I think this is in trouble. If it wasn’t in trouble, he’d stay on line, honor Doug, honor this council,” POLICE L J Monday, July 29,2024 • 9:00 AM 1997 Buick LeSabre 1G4HP52K8VH559021 ////_/ . 269-967-8241 no* www.theantennamen.com antennament^g mail, com www.c«tbignalprot.com j I s k MIDDLEVILLE • 500 Arlington Street • 269.795.3550 Hamilton said. “I have no sympathy, to bend over backwards for someone who is late on everything and incomplete on what we ask him (for).” In May 2022, the village received two propos als for the acquisition of the fire bam. Acorn Treehouse Ventures offered $40,115 cash for the building, while a competing bidder. Leading Construction, offered $50,000. The council voted 6-0 to accept the Acorn Treehouse Ventures offer. “This property was nearly given away — sig­ nificantly under property value,” said Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith, who is one of only two members of the council Village President Mike Cramer being the other — remain­ ing from the May 2022 vote. Smith was absent that night, according to the minutes of that meeting on May 24. “I believe it was a really good gesture from the village to encourage development, and certainly provide a financial padding, so that the upfront costs were not going to be so substantial on the development. I have personally toured this build­ ing. In every way, shape and form, it looks to be like a $300,000 to $400,000 investment to get it up to speed maybe not necessarily for an event center, but I think certainly for a restaurant.” “At what point do we reconsider this agreement and say, we’d like it to follow a plan, and the plan is that there are conditions that need to be met for this agreement, and hold the person accountable for that,” Smith added. Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said that he and Powers have both reached out to DeMaagd to invite him to come to a meeting to provide an update on the project, without success. Cramer proposed setting a September deadline for an amended site plan, calling it “something that would be fmitful for all parties involved.” The path forward is having the amended site plan come before the Planning Commission, as well as a tentative project timeline. After review by the Planning Commission, the council could review the tentative timeline. Powers said. “If you want to amend it, we would need to have it approved by Planning Commission before it comes to us,” Cramer said. “I feel like the best course of action will be to let this go, let Doug handle it, see what happens at the September (Planning Commission) meeting. If that does not come to fruition, then we’d want to get Mark (Nettleton, village attorney) involved,” Cramer added. The village had owned the former fire bam prop­ erty since 2005, when it purchased the 0.126-acre parcel from Thomapple Township for $13,500. It is zoned C-1 central business district. DeMaagd responded to the Sun and News’ request for comment, saying: “We’re working with the village to comply with all areas of our purchase and development agreements and to fulfill our responsibilities.wftlii V timeline,agme:d.qpon.” * �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 27, 2024 7 .--^1 * 9** Cal schools add security cameras, speakers with state grant I 1 '4**.*- •U.-** *■ I« ■ ‘ GREG CHANDLER J r 1, ± Mgr. m ♦ < s I I 'f’r ■ L• I Caledonia Community Schools are adding more security cameras to their buildings. The district’s Board of Education on July 15 approved the purchase and installation of 91 security cameras and 11 ingress protec­ tion (IP) speakers to be added throughout the district. The board approved awarding the contract for the purchase of the cameras and speakers to New York-based B&H Photo in the amount of $95,069, and the contract for installation of the devices to Grand Rapids-based Shareco in the amount of $37,010. In a memo to the school board, CCS Technology Director Scott Vugteveen wrote that the project enhances areas of school safety that were identified in a recent assessment that was conducted by the local consulting firm Secure » * Al r* •r 4k I' ►? fe. * V- « I III I 1 nvi r-x LI < 1 « t JI I % . Il mi 1 ■4 L>. •, A « 1^ A. ,_ K I <_k^« ! t I 11 MC^ 4^ » J'V J t r I '>«F -sir Ute. it-* A 1 :j,.. *T k < I ' .z < I* 5; S. ' » •s 1 R The annual free 'Movie in the Park’ outside Gaines Township Hall will be the animated children’s film, “Migration.” (File photo by James Gemmell) s 4 IF k'-K k p R 1 X J k I 9 k * I F '4 * I I ■ ■■l!'- .. ~ * Education Consultants and in dis­ cussions with building administra­ tors. “All buildings will receive addi­ tional cameras while speakers will be added at Duncan Lake (Middle School), Kettle Lake (Elementary School) and Paris Ridge (Elementary School) to cover exist­ ing dead zones,” Vugteveen wrote in the memo. Having additional security cam­ eras will increase visibility both inside and outside of buildings and integrate into the district’s existing camera system. It will increase cam­ era coverage of areas not previously monitored and replaces many aging cameras that have low image quality, Vugteveen wrote in the memo. Funding for the technology pur­ chases is being covered through a state grant program approved last year known as Section 31 aa, which provides funding for school safety and student mental health initiatives. Staff Writer I Gaines Township to hoid annuai ‘Movie in the Park’ on Aug. 23 JAMES GEMMELL The Gaines Chamber of Commerce also is co-hosting the Movie in the Park. It serves as a chamber business networking event, as well. All pro­ ceeds benefit the Community Food Basket food pantry. The movie will start at 8:30 p.m., but on-site activities will get underway at 6:30 p.m. Movie-goers usually bring blankets or lawn chairs. A separate popular event on the lawn of the township hall will take place Saturday, Oct. 12. The Gaines Heritage Festival traditionally features all kinds of arts and crafts, kids’ games, fall foods and a petting zoo, among other things. Last year’s festival was canceled due to inclement weather. There will be no admission fee to attend the festival, which was launched in its present form in 2011. Contributing Writer Gaines Township officials are pre­ paring to show a free film on Aug. 23 outside the township hall. The ninth annual “Movie in the Park” night will take place on the lawn facing Prairie Wolf Park. The location is 8561 Kalamazoo Ave. The family movie is Universal Pictures’ 2023 animated adventure comedy film, “Migration.” It is 83 minutes long and features the voices of actors Kumail Nanjiani, Danny DeVito, Elizabeth Banks and others. “We’re partnering with the Gaines Library,” Township Treasurer Laurie Lemke said. “(Kent District Library) will be doing kids’ games. Maybe mak­ ing balloons. We’ll have some food trucks here. Just a whole fun night.” ** t. GIVE US YOUR SCOOP! If you see news happening, or if you just want us to know about sonnething going on... ! •9 4 ' . •• V • 1 A ;• ; • •*. /* # ^C5i1 » 4 I. ■ I >. osi nuns *neK ITS'ONE IMS* wills *sinrs*j^<«Hs J ' 1 I V ‘I** 4' 't V • J 'USED nuns h USED TIRES editor@j-adgraphics.com L 57- i, 1811UKES •f AZOO 1 1 '■ « r '■6 e •. '"K £ u*• * •*-«- 'i *Jl V <r;25g> ( »> fc?5c:S MWM •w ■ k* * 't 4 LEfmm . V-: ■ J- 1 DEWEERDHTG.COM » s .• 1 TT HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. 269-792-2234 I Since 1955 A+ J ^r» BBB. 4" ACCREDITED BUSINESS I I tt t I J, <68) S’ J 5 r./ EMAIL US! *0 >«' < -g'* DeWeerd 0 : I > '' • M' A. «e . % >*k Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers utiir TRUCK nutrs? 269-381-2300 .p I < L\ * 1 Residential & Commercial ■"''’’•El -y F8U SEmnCE & YOU PUU IT WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS •■ 'JiV' JDJ'.»' i 4' V -M �► THE SUN AND NEWS _ Saturday. July 27 2024 8 www.sunandnews.com Uncertainty continues over future of CHS dean of students . w oaid dean “will support efforts to improve GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer 'The future of the dean of students position at Caledtmia High School remains uncertain, as school board members continue to debate whether to retain the position or not. Meanwhile, Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer has proposed replacing the dean of students with an assistant prin cipal position at the high school, Ifie Cl IS dean of students position had been slated for elimination under the Caledonia Community Schools’ 2024-25 budget. However, the board last month voted 6-1 to reconsider cutting that job, as well as a safety officer at Duncan Lake Middle School and a safety paraprofessional at Kraft Meadows Intermediate Sch(X)l. Ilie board also voted to restore $50,(XX) in funding for a contract with Max Effort Fitness for the fitness cen ter to provide a staff member to assist in strength and conditioning classes for student-athletes. Ifie school board in June approved about $2.3 million in spending cuts that included eliminating more than * STATEIOFjTHE/ART SYSTEMS r 1 I • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair "We go above and beyond your vehicle repairs!" GOLD CLASS i leSONAl NFiB I mBA I two doz^ positions, largely through tures, WeeioreyCT miu. District resident Eric VanGessel retirements and resignations. However, called on the board to eliminate the that still left CCS with a projected dean of students job, calling it “ a poor budget shortfall of more than $2.32 use of money. ” He handed out a job million when the budget was adopted, description for the position to board which would have left the district members. VanGessel said that the indi with a fund balance of 11.2 percent vidual has not performed according to at the end of the 2024-25 fiscal year, the criteria of the job. W'eeldreyer said. “ This is not a personnel issue, this Since the passage of the district bud­ is a position issue, ” VanGessel said. get, state lawmakers approved an edu'These criteria were cation budget that not followed. It ’ s an freezes the district's This is not a expensive position, foundation grant at personnel issue, this and as a continu ­ $9,608 per student. ing taxpayer for the However, Caledonia is a position issue. district I want that will receive a one These criteria were money kept in the time influx of $345 classroom. 1 don ’ t not followed. It ’ s an per student from the want it spent on stuff Michigan Public expensive position, that has like this School Employees and as a continuing not done, that has not Retirement System fulfilled. I was disap­ for previous other taxpayer for the pointed at the deci­ post-employment district, I want that sion that was made at benefits, as well as the last board meet ­ a slight increase in money kept in the ing.” funding for at-risk classroom. 99 Derek Pennington, students. who is also the var­ Eric VanGessel The thing that Caledcfnia Community sity football coach at makes us nervous is Schools district resident CHS, is the current that this is a one-year dean of students. thing. They have not yet acted to permanently reduce tliat 'The dean of students position costs rate. We'll see where this goes moving the district $149,682 in pay and ben­ forward,” Weeldreyer said. efits, compared to $59,191 for the The district will also see a reduction Duncan Lake safety officer position in payroll costs of about $105 per stu and $23,876 for the Kraft Meadows dent Weeldreyer said. safety paraprofessional position, As a result of those changes, the pro­ according to the PowerPoint presenta­ jected deficit for the 2024-25 l?udget tion Weeldreyer gave to the board at has been reduced to a little more than its July 15 meeting. $1.35 million, reducing the district’s ^ard Secretary Katie Isic, who was projected fund balance at the end of *«’e lone board member to vote against 2024-25 to an estimated $9,02 million, reinstating the dean of students and representing 12,6 percent of expendithe safety positions at Duncan Lake and Kraft Meadows last month, said her vote was more about the dean of Your local agent insures your students than about safety- and security issues, noting that the cost for the dean's position was much more than the other two positions combined. From my perspective, I didn’t think it w as a safety and security position, FARM BUREAU INSURANCE and now' glancing at most of these (job descriptions), it reads as much a safety and security position as every teacher, 9 counselor, lunch supervisor, etc.,” Isic said. Jason Parks (269) 795-8827 Caledonia schools established the 121 E. Main Street jparks@fbinsmi.com dean of students position in 2021. Downtown Middleville FarmBureaulnsurance.com According 4o tlie job description, tlie * * Business 616.891.0150 www.edsbody. com I ED’S BODY SHOP • CUIDBNM. MICMISaN 1 fc 'V IKrdohnsOn Street Owner Ed Pawloski Jr. OPEN: M thru F; 7:30 am - 5.00 pm ft « —3 . achievement behavior. attPn. student achievement, behavior, atten dance/truancy and enforce school policies and procedures while creating and maintaining a safe and welcom ing environment at CHS. In addition, the Dean of Students will organize, manage and supervise extracurricular programs and activities.” Some of the essential functions and responsibilities for the job include, according to the job description docu­ ment: — Proactively circulating throughout classrooms and hallways during the day to gain valuable context on student behavior and help support positive school culture. — Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents. — Leading breakfast, lunch, dismiss­ al and other schoolwide transitions. — Assists in developing policies and practices to ensure building security and safety. — Serves as the district Truancy and Attendance officer tasked wifti advising all buildings on compulsory attendance laws while developing and implementing intervention strategies to improve student participation in the educational process. — Assists the Athletic Director with the supervision and management of the athletic program. Board Trustee Tim Morris, who supported reinstating the dean of stu­ dents position, continues to advocate for its retention. “This is a student support position as much as anything, where we have building principals that aren’t always in the building,” Morris said. “You have to have a fallback there, and 1 think the dean of students performed that.” Currently, CHS has a building princi­ pal and two assistants - one for grades nine and 10, the other for grades 11 and 12, according to the district web­ site. Weeldreyer expressed concerns about the high school administra­ tion being “stretched,” and proposed replacing the dean of students job with an assistant principal. “An assistant principal position pro­ vides us with much more opportunity * * -See CHS DEAN on 0 A ,4 . J M A I < I. ( 9 a �! '22222^:^^2^2^2^2:1^_______________ Caledonia Twp. board holds off on landscape equipment purchase * Ki J 1 X- GREG CHANDLER 8 o u Staff Writer K Ml s •Vx X. s. s \ J s1 . • T* s «» •x V“ 4 I Sf *» w— w '> ■ a♦ ■ ■i ■I r •• ■t I »* if •» kk I the sun and news With the maintenance building at Caledonia Township’s Community Green park close to being finished, township officials were looking into the idea of purchasing landscaping equipment to be stored in the new building. However, they’re putting those plans on hold for now. Township Manager Alison Nugent met recently with Jeff Patterson, who does maintenance work for the town­ ship, to discuss ideas for equipment for landscaping work. “When I started talking to Jeff, I asked him to find a piece of equiprnent that can take care of a lot of different things, like mowing and sweeping and the things we usually do,” Nugent told board members at their July 17 meeting. Nugent and Patterson each came up with quotes on zero-turn mowers. But Township Treasurer Richard Robertson said the township is get­ ting ahead of itself by looking into purchasing equipment. “As far as I know, we don’t have a plan a property management plan,” Robertson said. “Right now, we have several classes of property and we have contracts. We have a separate contract for the utility areas, separate contract for Community Green, we have the newly-expanded trail system that we have no provi­ sion for at all. But as far as I know. we have no plan. “I think the plan needs to come before the shopping list. You need to decide what you want to achieve,” CHS DEAN stated policy. Doing so would have meant $2.7 million in cuts, Weeldreye r said at an earlier board meeting. “We did ask our administrative team, and they did exactly what we asked them to do,” White said. “They came back with cuts across the board. Nobody’s happy when cuts are made.” With the start of a new school year less than a month away, the school board could schedule a special meeting to look at the dean of students position, Weeldreyer’ s proposal to replace it with an assistant principal and restoring funding for the Max Effort contract. The next regularly scheduled board meeting is Monday, Aug. 12, one week before the first day of classes. Continued from Page 8 to use that person in a wide variety of ways, including (having) another person who can do teacher evaluations, who can be an instructional leader in the building,” Weeldreyer said. “In a building that big and spread out, hav­ ing another person in that role would be helpful, and quite honestly, I don’t know that the cost would be much dif­ ferent than what it’s at right now.” Board President Marcy White said that the board had directed administra­ tion to put together a budget that would leave the district with a fund balance of at least 13 percent, which is the board’s ,, , Robertson added. Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison says a plan is in the works. “Those discussions are tak­ ing place, so it’s not that it hasn’t occurred to us,” Harrison said. “I know the manager has met with our maintenance staff person and discussed what that care might look like, but we don’t have a plan.” Nugent said there’s no rush to pur­ chase equipment. She also dropped the suggestion of a township parks and recreation department that could handle maintenance of facilities like Community Green and the township trail system. “As we continue to grow and build trails ... you have to put more and more into maintenance and potholes and making sure things are getting done, and you’re managing people to make sure things get done,” Nugent said. Township Trustee Tim Bradshaw suggested comparing the costs and capabilities of having a private com pany handle the maintenance work as opposed to in-house. Harrison said the township is set for the rest of this year “to take suf­ ficient care” of its facilities, and will address the issue another time. “We’ll take a look at that and come back,” he said. Construction on the Community Green maintenance building, located at the end of Higley Street, is expect­ ed to be finished in the next couple of weeks. We’re going through the final punchlist,” Township Trustee Greg Zoller said. 9 Saturday, July 27, 2024 t: F CALEDONIA^ ^5 u AMPHITHEAT^ > I 1 ■a * V 8/5 6:30pW < i f , I . <r J . I •1 • »• I 4: I I r *■ Ll¥£ . r J I ■ ■> t ' '* '^a •T • ■ 1*^ Li )k •» ‘ i I’ d >r* • i 1 w« ' • ■ 1♦ ■: i ■*— ' n*. n ^7' f v:J 5 h» < » > .lai . I >» ; AM ;mF'. J ’•» •>. •< •S. tn STI CM I J M nBnl I •l •s. • J? •v 1 > *F-** I f SI .i A ^uv< e < ’ ri I v> 4 ----- Eiiz * I : Til *1^ I? ■1 J w .'fi! 8 9 4 k 64 ' 1' t I t : I > L r 1• I L * r *1 ♦ ; et- ¥ vw; J * B 1 r Lur I ■VA'' bvi * r* I 4 tr, J • I I I I A 4 4 t- I Annual July Sale :\Xi£ F ■* ■ c■r j■ ■ «< I B. ' / Ui* ' Bi t. ■ ✓ ■i, Off Fabrics (excludes sale Items) <• •) i s I > » ~ I fl I 4" I • R iw F. '..i .•i ‘i k. ■ e< *' k t < ■,’ i ' Pick up station for Linus Project & Hulst Cleaners 'f Tra or our countr > f J I * -1 .■MM kZS4 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 1- f r ’ k Mailer • J k OPEN; Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm Hulst Cleaners Picknp Station . ‘5 I ••“I. . •i r QUESTIONS: ASK US... Id i, Sale ends July 31st 9 B >' •♦ ’*^1 .... |n££7 /9>a V -r O' - " < "It's true that o^e pmoyi's trash is aether's treasure. Have M37Auct!oh.cci^ sell your treasures hr you!" V A •■* - I I * <« «» — '.^ < » w I .1 * B I I I* . �10 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 27, 2024 Sporting I FROM CALEDONIA TO PARIS: Olsen and the Eagles open Olympics, Rugby Sevens to play Sunday going there for an education. ” (Maria Olsen) was very hesitant about teammate Alev Kelter added the con­ Olsen eventually settled on attend ­ me playing rugby because she didn ’ t Sports Editor version attempt to put the U.S. in front ing the University of Michigan, which want me to break any fingers, ” Alena by two. Maybe the most memorable moment just so happened to be where her friend said with a laugh. Olsen took a pitch shy of the half­ of Alena Olsen’s decade as a rugby and classmate ‘ Bina ’ Veerakone was The Fighting Scot varsity girls ’ way line at midfield and headed to player came against France in her first headed to continue her education and soccer team won a district champion ­ her right, a bit of hesitation appeared tournament with Team USA. play for the women ’ s soccer team. ship and reached the regional finals to give the French the impression she Now she is in France hoping to make They kept that connection beyond their in Division 1 during Olsen ’ s junior was going to toss the ball to a team ­ this a memorable 2024 Paris Olympics time in Ann Arbor, and Olsen is now spring in 2013. She would say she mate near the touch line (sideline), but for the United States of America’s based out of San Diego, Calif, where wasn’t a star on her varsity teams, instead she surged forward past the Women’s Rugby Sevens squad. the US A Rugby team has its national but she was named all-conference in French line, up the side and eventually The Eagles, as they’re nicknamed, residency program. She has been in the OK White at the end of her junior across the goal line. It was a moment will open the competition for knock­ San Diego for about six years. and senior seasons. that has been hard to beat since. out round seeding in Pool C taking on Olsen still holds on to some strong “The soccer team was so good my There have been a lot of impact Japan at 10:30 a.m EDT Sunday, July ties to her hometown here. freshman and sophomore years,” Olsen fill moments in my career, playing in 28, and then face Brazil Sunday at 2 said. “We had a power roster from top “Amazingly, my soccer coaches and larger events like the Rugby 7s World p.m. Pool play wraps up for the Eagles Caledonia high school teacher, Steve Cup, winning gold at the Pan American to bottom which was a blast. Honestly, Monday at 9:30 a.m. against host I did not stand out on that team, there Sanxter and Carlie Cook, will both be Games in Chile, which is really cool France. were such good athletes. [Rubina in Paris watching the games with other “I still can’t believe it,” the Caledonia because it’s a multi-sport event simi­ Veerakone] was and still is my family members,” Olsen said. “They lar to the Olympics, and we’ve native Olsen said from France last best friend, we keep in very racked up a fair amount of were some of the first people to watch week. close touch. me play rugby when I started in college “The whole team received the (roster) World Series medals, each 1 L “At that time I loved being tournament having a speand are still some of my biggest sup­ news via email. We knew the day and active, but didn’t necessar cial place in my heart,” time it was coming out (back in mid­ porters today. It will be so special to ily think of myself as an Olsen said. have them there. June) so I got out of town, and actually athlete, so although I went we had some running that needed to be Olsen is a 2014 grad­ “I learned so much from my years in to some scouting events, uate of Caledonia High completed that day so I got the news in 4-r sports, but what I remember the most I wasn ’ t very actively the middle of one of my workouts. School. She played from Sanxter’s coaching is a mantra I “I grew up watching the Olympics. pursuing college sports. volleyball and soccer hear more commonly today, ‘control My memory is of watching Michael I only wanted to play if in high school while the controllables.’ It’s an important les­ Phelps in 2008.1 was a big Phelps it opened up opportuni ** also being a mem­ son in being intentional about where fan, he was all over my room, and ties to go to a school ber of the National you put your attention and focus you dreamt of it, kind of like you Honor Society, that I wanted to despite all the variables of life. would dream of becoming president the featured X go to. It was Another one of my longtime friends or an astronaut, but [competing in the Ik really imporsoloist on from high school, Steven Sammons, i •r * Olympics] wasn’t a real, real goal until tant to me that will be at the games as well. I am very |H sports didn ’ t I was much later in my rugby career.” for the lucky to have a group of friends from CAS r She made her first cap for Team USA Caledonia ^^^Hl become a Caledonia that is still fairly close.” |he ^018 USA Women ’ s Sevens High limiting fac She is very appreciative of all the •' V __ tournament in Glendale^Dolo. The School tor on which support she has received from people in USA women squeaked through pool orches­ schools I the Caledonia area since the Olympic <1 play to take on Australia in the Cup tra and could attend, rosters were announced. Rugby wasn’t c quarterfinals and took a 26-5 win, named the ■ because ulti high on the list of popular sports in —U ysaaalljM ■HTJ and then they faced France in the Cup Caledonia * mately I was See OLSEN on 11 semifinals. Trailing the French 19-14 High School beyond full time, Olsen scored her Orchestra first tiy — the equivalent of a football •/ J Student of the Alena Olsen and the USA Women ’ s Rugby Sevens team will touchdown on her team ’ s final pos Year as a senior. open their competition at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games with session to knot the score at 19-1 % and . “My mom pool play contests on Sunday? Photo by Corey/Kennedy/USA Rugby BRETT BREMER 4^ * -f •F JL L L •f ii’; f ••5 66 '.I t » Am •s-; 5 > •ft A f n ** i I '*7. A toe < M * • •— I, ■ > A Ti . 1 *far Tx I > ^3 !J A » «kl. ■is*’ A ! b u �A ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ ______ __________ THE SUN AND NEWS OLSEN Continued from Page 10 Caledonia when Olsen was in school, but she may inspire a little boost now. Olsen didn’t even start playing rugby until she was in college. The game wasn’t completely new to her though. She had two cousins who played at Grandville High School. “One of them went on to play at U of M, and he had such a fun experience there that it encouraged me to try it,” Olsen said. “I had always been inter ested in a sport with more contact and was motivated to try a lot of new things in college, as everyone should, and honestly it almost immediately clicked that I had found something that really resonated with me. “I loved it because I could be aggres­ sive and powerful and those are things that are celebrated in rugby, it’s one of the only full-contact team sports for women. It’s also well known for having incredible culture. Where other sports, especially soccer, can be more com­ petitive and hostile, rugby teams have a more social aspect where they want to share the sport with you, they want you to play it and to love it and become friends after, even with the teams you’re playing against.” At the University of Michigan, Olsen participated in the women’s rugby club from 2014-18. She was an AllAmerican in 2015 and 2016 and was nominated to the Collegiate Rugby Championship Dream Team in 2016. Rugby Sevens is made up of seven players on each side playing two sevenminute halves. Advancing ±e ball past the goal line and touching it down is a “tiy” and gains a team five points. The scoring team then gets to follow up the try with a conversion attempt for two points by kicking the ball over ±e crossbar between the goalposts. Those are the main ways teams score points. Si X*. 4 JUTT, V ’5^ isi . I li, fc.' Ik 'at: 1 6: fe, J' Mv*. r £ r 1 r a I » r J As an All-American, Olsen had the chance to participate in a scrimmage against the national team before the selections were made for the USA ros ter for the Rio Olympics in 2016. That was the first time Rugby Sevens was included in the Olympic Games. She said that competition was the first time she began having thoughts of realisti­ cally being an Olympian herself some day. “They were miles and miles more polished than us, but you were still on the field with them thinking like, I could be on the other side of this one day,” Olsen said. Olsen had some hopes of earning a spot on the Eagle team for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, but missed the cut and for a time debated moving on from rugby. Those Tokyo Olympics were eventually played out in the summer of2021 with the Eagles winning their pool with a perfect 3-0 record before falling to Great Britain in the quarterfi­ nals of the medal playoff. New Zeeland beat France in the gold medal match in Tokyo and is back to tiy and defend its gold medal in Paris. “The process of getting to this point has given me both some of my best days and some of my worst days,” Olsen said. “The year leading into Tokyo was difficult, and I just felt like I had more to give to the sport and some unfinished business. And for sure, I think something would be wrong if I didn’t say I was a better player than I was three years ago. I’m faster, stronger and fitter. That’s hard for me to say, but by our metrics, I am. Although Rugby Sevens games only last for seven minutes a half, it is a sport that requires strength, speed and endurance. Teams can be tasked with playing as many as three games a day at a tournament. The entire 12-team Olympic competition will be wrapped up by Tuesday, July 30. Pool play ends ♦ Saturday, July 27, 2024 11 ♦ »z ' ■* ( J T ri J »■ 11 u ■ ' It ♦ k u 1 -I 4 1 * 1 r X r ? z 9 * ...r Alena Olsen in action for the Caledo­ nia varsity girls’ soccer team in the MHSAA Division 1 Regional Finals as a junior in the spring of 2013. Photo by Brett Bremer Monday morning and knock out play begins Monday afternoon. “YOU can stay in the village after you compete, so I’m hoping to take the time to get the most out of it after our tourna­ ment. Soak in the excellence of all the athletes around you, and be in a place where it’s like a mini world, so many countries represented by their people,” Olsen said. “It’s exciting because France is a big rugby country so the crowd should have a lot of energy. And then being able to share these moments with my teammates and my friends and family.” While rugby is taking Olsen around the world, she is doing her best to save it. She earned her degree in environ­ mental science from U of M in 2018. Rugby takes up much of her time, but she is also working to pull the rugby world in the right direction. “I’ve held a few different roles, all environmental sustainability related. Most recently I’ve worked with World Rugby, USA Rugby and our training facility to see how we can make rugby greener,” Olsen said. “We’ve imple­ mented permanent food waste sorting in the dining halls, tree planting and zero waste initiatives, and encouraged World Rugby to create their first 10 year sustainability strategy.” Olsen became an EcoAthlete Champion supporting the group work­ ing to inspire the people of the world to work to fight climate change. She said her focus on learning about and work­ ing preserve the environment came to life when she first learned about climate refugees and the public health impacts of extreme weather events. “This was years ago, but the most recent story is of the Brazilian climate refugees just a couple weeks ago,” Olsen said. “Over 200,000 people were relocated after experiencing five months of rain in two weeks. EcoAthletes has helped me meld my athletic career with my environmental responsibility and join a movement of professional athletes that want to bring more awareness to the climate crisis. “Spending my childhood on the Thomapple [River] I fostered a deep love for nature, and beyond that, a deep love for people and the climate crisis puts both of those at risk.” Playing professional rugby, train­ ing to be an Olympian and working to save the planet doesn’t leave much free time, but somehow Olsen is able to keep playing the violin even with the fingers of a rugby player. “I still try to play when I can though,” she said. “I made a friend, his name is Gerhard, he’s a very talented, 95-year-old pianist, and we get togeth­ er to jam every couple weeks. It gives me some balance in my life, something to pull me away from the chaotic, all consuming life with rugby.” I I « ♦ 1 * > < *No one works harder for their community than Catherine!’ - David Hatfield, Vice-Chairperson, County Commissioner VOTE FOR PROVEN LEADERSHIP ‘Catherine is one of the hardest working people I know. I endorse Catherine 100%* - Bob Teunessen Ca^f^missioner J? f 4 •4 * *4 ** 5 V Working Together for Barry County » ■ k VOTE AUGUST 6th fit iV'i COUNTY COMMISSIONER Paid lor by the Committee to elect Catherine Getty 11835 Lakeridge Dr. Way’and Ml 49343 tj Catherine has been extremely effective as a county commissioner and as a community leader because she is involved in every aspect of her district. Vote for proven leadership.” -Dave Jackson, Board Chairman, County Commissioner a * b i 'b •> k ♦ p ■n * D I am iisfftbssBd wiSiber over20 years of dedication and can't believe the eflort and time she puts in. She is an asset to her constituents 9 ■> ' - •> _K .r^. L n % - Jan SaiBlIiK l^ty&mmissime 'T •f I ’I* 4<-'’Tattiennegoes ABOVE arrt BEYOND to make things happen. She is wortc^g to help oa^ peopie's Bns better! • .fir. • I■ I . .Mf? Mike Callton,j^)WTty^mmissioner r. ■I X*'* • M 47*> TL *» ■Nobody out worts «is more Evolved in her community and county wide than • Commissioner Gettjr She has earned my ftdi support'« . - BruceCampbelL^Cou ' ~ 5 • - '■V »«A«. *■ b ' .—J ♦ �4. 12 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 27, 2024 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN ♦ ♦ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR ♦ ♦ TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: Q8-16-125-035-00 08-16-050-017-00 08-16-055-043-00 08-16-125-036-00 08-16-045-055-00 08-16-008-016-00 08-16-050-018-00 08-16-055-044-00 08-16-125-037-00 08-16-050-018-10 08-16-115-001 -00 08-16-125-039-00 08-16-055-025-00 08-16-008-024-00 08-16-055-001-10 08-16-115-002-00 08-16-125-040-00 08-16-Q55-QQ2-QQ 08-16-115-003-00 08-16-125-041-00 -Q15-QQ PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor and Assessor have prepared and filed in the office of the Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll covering all properties within Barlow Lake Aquatic Plant Control Special Assessment District No. 31-24 benefited by the proposed aquatic plant control project. The roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing the costs of the project within the aforesaid special assessment district, which district is more particularly shown on the plans on file with the Township Clerk at Yankee Springs Township Hall. The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate of costs on file with the Township Clerk at Yankee Springs Township Hall. The project cost is $125,600, including administrative costs, which is the amount of the assessment roll. The amount assessed against each property in the district will be approximately $54 per year for a front parcel and $27 per year for a back parcel. The term of the special assessment will be eight years, 2025 through 2032 inclusive. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor and Assessor have further reported to the Township Board that the assessment against each parcel of land within said district is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land in said district as the benefit to such parcels bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said District. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board will meet at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Michigan on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of reviewing the special assessment roll, hearing any objections thereto and confirming the roll as submitted or revised or amended. The roll may be examined at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular business days until the time of the hearing and may further be examined at the hearing. Any person objecting to the assessment roll shall file objections thereto in writing with the Township Clerk before the close of the hearing or within such other time as the Township Board may grant. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an owner or party in interest, or his/ her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment or may file his/her appearance and protest by letter before the hearing, and in that event, personal appearance shall not be required. The owners or any person having an interest in real property who protests in writing at or before the hearing may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessment roll. -045-058-00 08-16-008-017-00 08-16-125-000-01 MIO 08-16-008-027-00 08-16-008-027-10 08-16-055-002-02 -16-125-001-10 08-16-008-029-00 08-16-055- 08-16-125-042-00 * 08-16-125-005-00 08-16-008-036-30 08-16-055-005-00 08-16-115-007-00 08-16-125-048-00 -008-036-40 08-16-055-005-10 08-16-115-008-00 08-16-125-049-0 08-16-125-008-00 Q8-16-QQ8-Q42-0Q 08-16-055-006-00 08-16-115-009- 08-16-125-009-00 Q8-16-0Q8-40Q-QQ 08-16-055-007-00 Q8-16-115-Q1Q-QQ 08-16-200-00308-16-125-046-00 08-16-045-001-50 08-16-055-008-00 Qarl6-1.15-Q11-QQ 08-16-200-006-00 08-16-125-047-00 108-16-045-003-10 08-16-055-009-00 08-16-115-012-00 08-16-200-008-00 -16-125-167-00 108-16-045-003-20 08-16-055-010-00 8-16-125-199-00 31511 -021-00 108-16-045-003-51 08-16-055-011-00 08-16-008-0068-16-050-014-00 08-16-115-014-00 021 08-16-115-015-00 08-16-200-010-10 08-16-055-012-00 08-16-115-01608-16-055-013-00 08-16-115-017-00 08-16-200-014-00 8-16-Q45-QQ5-0Q 08-16-055-014-00 08-16-115-018-00 08-16-200-015-00 -045-006-00 08-16-055-015-00 08-16-115-019-00 08-16-200-017-00 Q8.-:16-125-028-00 108-16-045-007-00 021 Q8-16-Q45-QQ8-QQ 021.16-2QQ- Q8-16-Q55-Q17-00 * 08-16-125-004-00 08-16-200-020-00 5-018-00 08-16-125-007-00 08-16-200-023-00 Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary, reasonable auxiliary aids and services at the meeting to individuals with disabilities upon seven (7) days' notice to the Yankee Springs Township Clerk. 02-16- -200-024-00 02-16- 8-16-005-001-0 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP Mike Cunningham, Clerk 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 08-16-115-004-00 * 08-16-125-014- 2-16-QQ5-QQ1-1Q 08-16-045-014-00 08-16-0 8-16-005-001-15 108-16-045-015-00 08-16-0 -200-026-00 -200-028-00 * -016-00 108-16-200-030-00 116-Q45-Q BARLOW LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 31-24 -200-034-00 08-16-050-003-00 1Q6Q-QQ 08-16-125-024-00 8-16-050- 116-125- £116-005- 08-16-045-000- -16-125-019-00 08-16-055- 21121 -037-00 116-125-021-00 1125-027- -008-006- * -044-00 5-001-45 08-16-050-008-00 108-16- -200-036-00 1011-00 * 08-16-005-003-00 I* -16-125-001-30 «• 1001-40 -125-114-00 02116-0 02116-1 1040-00 -125-034-00 Continued on next page * �www.sunanclnews.com A THE SUN AND NEWS STAGECOACH LOGO 2021 vote. There was a lot of ambiguity about the whole thing, and ffanklj’, now that I take a step back and digest it there’s a lot of signage in our town that would need to be replaced with the new logo,” said President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith, one of the turn council members involved in the 2021 decision. “We have a lot of references to the stagecoach. I really feel (that) in the spirit of our residents who really love this community and iterate they’d like to keep it small and have that Continued from Page 1 uHij anything with a stagecoach in it,” Council Trustee Richard Hamilton said. “I don’t want to do away with the stagecoach ... It’s the center­ piece, the center of our town.” The Village Council hired the firm of Arnett Muldrow in February 2021 at a cost of no more than $15,500, with two-thirds of the funding com­ ing from the DDA and the reset from the village. Only two members of the council remain who were part of the TO I >lo ■-E N Payne Lake Rd Saturday, July 27, 2024 small-town feel, I feel like we would be doing an injustice if we remove the stagecoach completely.” Arnett Muldrow came into the Middleville rebranding project after having done similar rebrand­ ing efforts with the city of Wayland and the Kalamazoo Downtown Partnership. The newer wheel-like logo, which featured pie-shaped cutouts in the circle with various hues of blue and green, was meant to reflect the Thomapple River and Paul Henry Thomapple Trail. It also included an all-encompassing orange I therrx^Valley Bass Rd 4^' i5ii( IH Si ■w 0 UJ Shaw Lake Rd 1. Laham Ln d BARLOW LAKE TO C j r S' </> I L I L GO z I Barlow Lake Rd I I I 1 I 1 I I I I <2> CDJ ♦ circle on the perimeter, reflecting the main color of Thomapple Kellogg Schools. Arnett Muldrow got input on the new logo from elected and appointed officials, representatives from local civic clubs and the school district, as well as through an online survey where residents could offer their views. “The new circular logo is already being used by other towns. The stagecoach sets us apart,” Tmstee Makenzi Peters said. “It’s a shame we spent that much money.” Council members agreed to keep a hexagon-shaped logo featuring the stagecoach and the words “The Village of Middleville Michigan” underneath for letterhead, while using a standalone large stagecoach as a watermark on all village documents. The script lettering of “Middleville” that was adopted as part of the rebranding would continue to be used for the vil lage website. Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said. “Mistakes were made. I think this is a wonderful opportunity to move beyond that,” Smith said. Ai I really feel (that) in the spirit of our residents who really love this community and iterate they’d like to keep it small and have that small-town feel, I feel like we would doing an injustice if we remove the stagecoach completely. -o or TO <]• .@1 *“3 oo * # Kevin Smith Ct President Pro Tempore Bowens Mill Rd CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES earfo^. I a> _ (-1-® _ £< I f Xi ! -------------------- ^5 4 ■i Barlow Lake Aquatic Plant Control Special Assessment District 6/27/2024 BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN Yankee Springs Township N Barry County Lund Int or manor Services •• 4 X r* A. V > t •« This map is netther a Jagalty EBcofxJed map nor a survey and is fx>t interwSed to be used as such The infonnaOon on Barry County maps is distributed and transmitted ‘as is' without warranbes of any kind, either expressed or tmplied, including without limitations, warranties of tide or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Barry County does not guarantee the accurmn'. timeliness, or completeness of the information on this map. 9 13 - Meeting Minutes The minutes for the June 19, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting which were approved on July 17, 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the web­ site at www.caiedoniatownship.org. ♦ �14 ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. July 27, 2024 Caledonia Two. approves residential zoning enforcement policy GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Ihc Caledonia I ownship Board has approved a formal policy to address zoning violations for residential proper­ ties in the township. I hc board adopted the policy on a 6-0 vote at its July 17 meeting. It had approved a zoning enforcement policy for commercial and industrial prop­ erties in November of last year, but tabled passage of a residential zoning enforcement policy pending an ordi­ nance review. Township Manager Alison Nugent worked on drafting the policy Ian guage with Building and Zoning Administrator Lois Dekens and Building Official Gary Campbell. Nugent said the intent of the policy is to educate and encourage residents to keep up their properties, not to punish. We’re not out to find issues in the township, we’re just out to help * ja people get back to where they should be," she said. Under the new policy, when the township receives a complaint, it is for warded to either the zoning administra tor for ordinance review or the building official to see if there is a building code violation. The complaint is logged with details of the alleged violation and the ordinance that addresses the complainL according to the policy document. rhe zoning administrator will then W I - 2^^ 2»« N BRIGGS HOA» MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 2*9-795 9091 / FAX 269-795-23IMI YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS; PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on August 15, 2024, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville Ml, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commission's consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (joeshea@yankee3pringstwp,org). Letters and emails are due one week before the hearing date; or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. 3. SEU 24-06-08: Parcel ID 16-370-011-00, 2740 Sandon Circle #11, Wayland, Ml 49348. A request by Dan VanSuilichem and Amy Johnson, the property owners, for a special exception use permit to operate a commercial Short-term rental pursuant to the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance, Article X, Short Term Rentals. Such other business as may properly come before the Planning Commission. Anyone Interested In reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or. if an electronic meeting Is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (7) days’ prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION -• f By: Shana Bush, Chairperson Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 * _* * * conduct an initial inspection to see if an ordinance violation exists. If a viola­ tion is found, a letter will be sent to the property owner that details the violation, the ordinance that it addresses and pho­ tos depicting the violation. The zoning administrator would then conduct a fol­ lowup inspection within two weeks after the initial notification, according to the policy document. The township can adjust the time frame “based on the severity and nature of the ordinance violation,’’ as well as grant extensions if the resident has contacted the township and is making efforts to correct the violation, according to the policy document. “I think this is a more balanced approach that gives some discretion to the escalation,’’ Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison said. If the violation still isn’t corrected dur ing the followup inspection, a second enforcement letter will be sent to the property owner, giving a final date for compliance and warning that a civil infraction citation will be issued if the violation isn’t corrected. Again, the township can grant an extension if the resident is making efforts to fix the violation, according to the policy document. Should the violation remain after two compliance letters and the final date for compliance pass, the zoning enforcement officer will visit the site. If the officer finds the violation is still present, the matter will be forwarded to the township manager. Upon direction of the township manager, the zoning enforcement offi­ cer will issue a civil infraction citation to the property owner and file the cita­ tion with 63 rd District Court, according to the policy document. The township may ask for either an informal hearing in front of a magistrate or a formal hearing in front of a judge. “Citations for significant violations such as health, safety (and) Planning Commission conditions, will always be requested for a formal hearing because of the lack of corrective action and the court’s unwillingness to issue higher subsequent fines,” the policy document reads. A civil infraction carries a minimum fine of $ 100 for a first offense and a maximum of $500, while subsequent infractions can result in a minimum fine of $250 and a maximum of $1,000, according to the policy document. * 1 A �rk ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com B B____ ■ _ _ . THE SUN AND NEWS -------- --------------------------2---------------------------------- iiuYva__________________ Saturday, July 27, 2024 15 Barry County; fixes made quickly Editor Hi, Hi, hi J Hl 4 {» 1 I if. I J 1 . A global technology outage late last week was felt in Barry County, disrupting county operations for about a day and making for a long weekend for its IT staff. In the early morning hours on Friday, this outage took its toll on a worldwide scale, grounding flights and knocking systems offline for essential institu­ tions like banks and hospitals. While many feared that this might have been the byproduct of a mas­ sive cybersecurity breach by a for­ eign actor, the disruption was caused when cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike deployed a faulty update to comput­ ers running Microsoft Windows. The company provides software for global businesses and quickly acknowledged the error. Crowdstrike was quick to develop a fix, but not before hours of relative chaos. The problem affected systems with Windows as their operating systern Mac and Linux systems were not impacted. Reports of problems with 9-1-1 ser­ vice in areas throughout the country also came to light, but that was not the case in Barry County. Stephanie Lehman, Barry County Central Dispatch director, said that when the department’s phone system couldn’t connect to the service provid­ er, it rolled over to a back-up system — albeit, a more primitive one. “Once it was determined that our call handling solution was nonoperational, we immediately rolled over to our back­ up system but the challenge for that is it’s picking up a handset and in our live environment our normal environment everything is computerized.” The department forged ahead on the backup system before its primary sys­ tem was restored later in the day. “We have some redundancy built into our system and, where it is defi­ nitely not as efficient and effective as our normal operating system, the individuals that had to call here for assis tance were none the wiser,” Lehman concluded. Similar disarray played out in all the other departments in the county, including the clerk’s office. Senior Deputy Clerk Sarah VanDenburg, who was out of the office weekIQ servers ^j^ejrinA aloh«i 4 tendent of one of the 4-H bams at the Barry C°^ty County Fair, said she came came in in on on Friday to help with the fallout. “By the afternoon (staff) was over­ whelmed. I came in for a while Friday afternoon. It was a disruption to us,” VanDenburg said. “...However (we could) make copies for individuals because we still have paper (records) in the office.” “I will tell you that IT had us up and working by the end of the day Friday,” she added. Barry Countv Director of . „. . Information Technology Matt Ward recounted his department’s efforts dur­ ing Tuesday morning’s county board meeting. “We got a call from our sheriffs office at about 1:15 a.m. Friday indi eating they were having trouble with their computer systems,” Ward said. “Pretty quickly we were able to identi­ fy the nature of the problem and begin working to resolve it. By the time most of our staff arrived here at 8 a.m. we i, i begun implementing solutions on their computers.” The time-consuming component of the problem was the fact that Ward and his team had to visit each of the 250-plus workstations throughout the county, an effort they forged ahead with over the weekend. Ward said that he is only aware of fy^o workstations that are not function­ ing at this time and they belong to individuals that don’t work regularly in their office. u • n "It f -eg; g«HK 4 Yanlgee Springs Township 284 N BRIGGS ROAD - MIDDLEVILLE. MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: nA DOX, residents and PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a special public hearing will be held on August 13, 2024, commencing at 6:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township i Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville Ml, Zon'Ing OrdiX'e and the PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the ZBA’s consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the ZBA for receipt prior to the meeting,, in _____ _ in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (jQe^e^atay^oke^esfiringslwpjjrfi). Letters and emails are due 3 days before the meeting date, or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. further notice that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. 2. Ie-l25-215-00, 1931 Heritage Bay Drive, Middleville, Ml 49333. The property is zoned Residential Single Family, and the property owner, Sara Sanders, appeals from the decision of the Zoning Administrator denying her application for short term rental, pursuant to the Yankee Springs Township Zoning Ordinance Article XShort Term Rentals. ZBA 24-06-05; Parcel ID: 16-030-040-51,2173 Mac Drive, Wayland Ml 49348. The property is zoned Gun Lake Residential Lakefront, and the property owner. Erick Leep appeals from the decision of the Zoning Administrator denying his application for site plan review for a storage structure consisting of two shipping containers spanned by a trussed roof, pursuant to Article XII of the Yankee Springs Zoning Ordinance 3. Such other business as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals. Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon seven (7) days’ prior notice to the Township Supervisor. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Supervisor at the address or telephone number listed below. Rob Heethuis, Township Supervisor Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville. Michigan 49333 A * 4* W •w • w* * * MP ♦ ♦ �16 ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 27, 2024 Gaines Chamber recognizes Don Hiiton with Outstanding Person of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award ♦ JAMES GEMMELL Contributing Writer The Gaines Chamber of Commerce recently honored former Gaines Township Supervisor Don Hilton as its “Outstanding Person of the Year,” presenting him with a plaque for “Lifetime Achievement.” The chamber says it gives the award to “those that demonstrate outstanding personal character, com munity involvement and business leadership.” It was presented during the June 11 Gaines Chamber Awards & Scholarship Luncheon at the Crossroads Conference Center, 6611 Clay Ave. SW. Various chamber businesses and owners also received awards. Township Treasurer Laurie Lemke had recommended Hilton for the award and Chamber President Barb Nauta presented it. When Miss Nauta called me, I said ‘I really don’t need any other ^4 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 A • K 1 i ♦ I •t H a 1 t t I it - / » % w •'*«*** / 4* '4 9: >4 » k T I 4 I I . 'll - I A« • % 4^ Uy I I 1 I •v rs i a 1 V I 9 I • I « 9 \ *. 9 V !• Fi > A :x 1 f XTl^ s f 11 % Ei Al 4S- 'Jtz X • > i U* I TV : f t, VSIH t; I ■ I / 9 R * r J I A 3..n V A 94* « -* K* / *A < Lib ^1 J c o 1 1 Be ''^ih IT d V Q C‘ * I► • =^'35 3 4 C I M 4^ t'i 4 4 e J I*. k vS r? 4.« T X. » \ \ h - I u 44 * I 1 J *' 4 : X h •kl C ■r. a R . e 4- y“ • S i iai» 1.“ li 1 t >*>■ ■<> f - 4 I *- .1 L c • < I *r iA ft s : t 7 I f 1 w-» L t * I o Q 1 i f ' e * » « \4 e 4 L \ 1 I fi. 0 ! * / —• '. * ■ , L- 4^ A Don Hilton holds his Lifetime Achievement certificate plaque in a family photo. (Photo by Luke Hyde/Atlas Video) awards, Hilton said. “I’ve had enough of them over the years and I’m just basically doing my job. C aledonia • TOWNSHIP . Phone: 616.89L0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA 9 COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF POSTING OF TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed Caledonia Charter Township Ordinance being Amendment No. 15 of the Foremost Corpora­ tion Planned Unit Development (Kraft Lake Office Park) has been posted in the office of the Township Clerk at the Caledonia Charter Township offices, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, for review by the public during Township office hours, and have also been posted on the Township’s website, the address of which is www.caledoniatownship.org. The Ordi­ nance would permit indoor recreational uses in a defined area of Phase II of the Foremost Corporation Planned Unit Development, along with related terms and conditions of the use. The above stated ordinance was considered by the Caledonia Charter Township Board on first reading at a public meeting of the Township Board held on July 17, 2024 and is expected to be considered on second reading by the Township Board at a public meeting on August 21, 2024. This notice is given in accordance with the Charter Township Act and is authorized by action taken by the Caledonia Charter Township Board. Joni Henry, Township Clerk Caledonia Charter Township She kind of insisted that I consider it more, and my family said that I really needed to go ahead and accept it, which I ultimately did.” Hilton, 89, is a semi-retired Caledonia farmer. He also is a Caledonia High School graduate and studied agriculture at what was then Michigan State College. He served on the township plan­ ning commission for several years, including as its chairman in the 1980s before being elected township supervisor in 1992. He replaced for­ mer supervisor Jim Uyl. “Jim is a very talented guy; very smart,” Hilton said. Hilton served as township super­ visor for 24 years before stepping down in 2016. Rob De Ward, who was elected supervisor in 2016, is not running for re-election this year as township supervisor but is running for a town­ ship trustee position. “A lot of credit goes to Don for this (township hall) building,” DeWard said. “I actually chaired the committee that was looking at a new location. We landed on this spot ... I think we built this building for $4 million.” De Ward served on the planning commission for 24 years. “While in his awesome role of Gaines Township Supervisor, Don spearheaded the purchase of the 84 acres on 84th Street and Kalamazoo Ave,” Nauta said, referring to the current location of the Gaines Township Hall and Kent Coimty Sheriffs Office South Substation. Hilton said the township had run out of room at the old township hall on 68th Street, east of Kalamazoo Avenue. “We had remodeled it a couple of times, but we just did not have enough room. And I asked the (town ship) board if it would be alright if I formed a committee, which I called the 2020 Committee. Looking at what the township was going to look like in the year 2020. And they agreed, and so we did that,” Hilton said. After the 2020 Committee identi fied a possible location for the new township hall more than a quarter century ago, Hilton worked with the landowner to negotiate the even­ tual purchase of the property on the southwest comer of the 84th Street/ Kalamazoo intersection. That included the adjacent land that was devel oped into Prairie Wolf Park in 2001. “It obviously was a new facil­ ity looking out for the future of the township with the park. And I had a See GAINES CHAMBER on 17 w «• �www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS GAINES CHAMBER K“ ♦ F 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, Mi 49316 A 44 1 A St I k ■ Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CATOWNSHIP leixmA I* -A 4 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN « ♦ 4 t rZ 4 V I ^9 20i4 I I f Cer ’ d tiCvAe of B'ciinc?* .A<itse. rn.T'iH 1 ii’- t. f OCTMC lOniVtUChT UHM ,1 < ' ■•*s. -UTZ. .1 > ■.'I . *A 1 Former Gaines Township Supervisor and Planning Commission Chairman Don Hilton accepts the Outstanding Person of the Year/Lifetime Achievement Award at Gaines Chamber of Commerce awards luncheon on June 11. (Photo by Luke Hyde/Atlas Video) PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on Monday, August 19, 2024 at 7:00pm at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, SE, Caledonia Michigan, 49316. The request is for a rezoning of a combined 29.4 acres from C-2 and RR to c-2 General Business with Overlay and I-l Light Industrial on parcel numbers: 41-23-07-276-001 and 41-23-07- 276-004. Parcel 41-23-07-276-001: Current Zoning, C-2 and RR. Proposed Zoning: C-2 with Overlay and I-l. Parcel 41-23-07-276-004: Current Zoning, C-2 and RR. Proposed Zoning, C-2 with Overlay and I-l. I WOT r» \ •S *4 I r OPOtCCJWTB CTACVISW zcubfliTn » 1‘Hb I I \* ' i GCM*K«aiiBOCM.r(vricc ; Uf>a& In addition, Hilton served a couple years as chairman of the Michigan Township Participating Plan, which is the largest municipal insurance program in the state. He was on the plan board for several years. Hilton has run a doughnut and apple cider operation for many years in the fall. “I hear that it is extremely popular and successful,” Nauta said. She added that the township has been “honored and blessed” to have Hilton serve the community for so long and thanked him for his efforts. Nauta said one unnamed employee of the cider operation delivered some comments about Hilton at the Gaines Chamber Awards luncheon. “He is very kind and has a heart of gold, reaching out to friends old and new, checking on people bringing soup to someone who is ill .. So many considerate and wonderful things he has done for this commu­ nity. “He is an inspiration for me to leave our township better for the future residents that will live and work here in Gaines Township.” M• 1 KX/S7VK1 Z3Nl>C> PLA.*ifiKri f'.vrt 0/CVEiZiPSkfK.Vr \ UWAMe X X XJ.K t 17 ♦ Continued from Page 16 board that was very forward-looking into the future,” Hilton said. “The park draws thousands of visi­ tors each year to walk and enj oy the trails in a natural landscape,” Lemke said. “(Hilton) took care to secure the two historical bams on the property, as well. Don also was instrumental in securing the county Sheriffs substa­ tion with the township building. This provides an added safety benefit for our township, as well as our neigh­ boring communities.” “There was also 40 acres on the opposite side of the street that I had an option on. The board chose to purchase that, as well,” Hilton said. The Byron-Gaines Utility Authority now is located on 84th Street west of the township hall, and a section of that neighboring land is being con­ sidered for the development of the future Cody Mills Park. Township Trustee Tim Haagsma has served on the Gaines Township Board for many years. “Don cares a lot about Gaines Township,” he said. “He had Gaines Township in his heart. He cared about the township and the residents. This (township hall) building we’re in now was because of Don and his forethought. His vision for the future.” He was very encouraging when I came to him asking how I could be involved in the community,” Township Clerk Michael Brew said. “He started my involvement by appointing me to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Years later, when I heard of the opening for township clerk, Mr. Hilton was very honest with what my duties would entail and the commitment it would take - not only for myself but my wife and children, also.” Hilton is still a member of the Gaines Zoning Board of Appeals and the Board of Review. He chaired both boards at one point. Hilton also has been a vice chairman of the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council and a mem­ ber of the Kent County Farmland Preservation Board. In addition, he was elected to the Michigan Townships Association in 1996 and later became its nresident. He is now Saturday, July 27, 2024 % ! 1^ r */ K V MOT \ .PlWC&flMRM •OMBWBUWOa. MaWMMDQAWCMX Ct c« tac«4». «r< 7OMSSa tHCLUDOn KOV} 7Z9 ACJWJ/lUiCUffWO JIO») 1 5 % t. . U 9 * 'C \ f /• t * 4 c c % uNDtae. I. LiOHTMajffrmAL 197 wo I I ^T>MPr»i./qgg vnMMxnowlUY ^wiao I I< *•^1 f. e i r % I fl \\ ♦♦ i f' A « Aemit («iim MW S5 lOTWOMC CTMiWX aWCilJT; * i; V’ .%r I V5 V « t *f I7 UJ co i 7* I ll UJ ZA z < £ *•'» All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed rezoning. Written comments concerning the requested rezoning may be submitted to the Township office, at the above-stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Dated: July 22, 2024 PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA i. . 1 I �♦ ♦ Barry County seiects new administrator Hi^h Efficiency I I I I I I ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 27, 2024 18 FURNACE AIR r Editor I ..V 4 • r* 4♦ 1 . in* fe.. * Must present this coupon. Expires 8-15-24 I I I I I I I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. I “The company built by referrals” I B 3 % f 7 T ■ * r I ; I S’ » A rt I* I I 1 /A I * J * QTnTnTT ■ I Eric Zuzga fields questions from the Barry County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday morning during a second-round interview. The board voted to extend a conditional offer for Zuzga to take on the job next month. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) B 1 HEATING & COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Request for a dimensional variance to reduce the front yard setback of the northern property line from the six ty-foot (60’) requirement in the Ag/Rural-Residential zoning district to thirty-four (34’) feet to construct an accessory building. Property Address: 9375 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids, Ml 49508 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-30-200-037 Applicant: Michael Hoffman I Date and Time of Hearing: August 14th, 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information I related to this request may be inspected during regular business hours Monday through Friday, at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices or contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells® gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written com­ ments must be received by 5 PM on August 14th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact info® painestownship.org or (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. A * A * * ’T -* was a revolving door. “So, at the time, we worked with commissioners to contract out to the sheriff s department. It saved a lot of money and we got a more professional service. We didn’t have to deal with the day-to-day .. .It didn’t work for the community. The service wasn’t there. As the community, we decided we had to bring it back in-house. To say ‘This is the way we’re going and stick with it,’ we quickly realized that’s not the right thing to do thing. We tried some­ thing and it didn’t work, let’s move on to something else.” Zuzga said he stays busy in his role in Marshall right now, one of the blockbuster proj ects in the city being the 500-acre Ford EV battery factory in progress there. “I will tell you, it has been an amaz­ ing project and process. A $2 billion, 1,700-employee factory is a once-in-amany-careers opportunity for people,” Zuzga said. “The economic develop­ ment and community development side of me. I’m loving every minute of it.” He also acknowledged the pushback from some residents in that area over the project, saying that the division underscores the importance of effective and proactive commimication when it comes to economic development. In his current role, Zuzga has seven employees who report directly to him and another eight in his department. He’ll be dealing with a much larger staff in Barry County. “As an administrator, if I was here, 280 employees, no way I could be hands-on with everything,” Zuzga said. “I learned that lesson early. We had 13 on staff in Quincy and still, to be hands-on with everything it doesn’t work. Learning to delegate is a tough skill. But it’s something I’ve learned over the years. Of 20 candidates that applied for the position, search firm GovHR whittled the list down to 11 and commission­ ers chose to interview five candidates initially before one dropped out due to medical reasons. In addition to Zuzga, commission­ ers interviewed former Portland City Manager S. Tutt Gorman, former Ionia County Administrator Stephanie Fox and the county’s own David Pelon, Deputy Court Administrator. , JAYSON BUSSA M50 iSUUO OFF Y www.sunandnews.com * J*. * *w-«. * ' After two separate days of inter­ viewing candidates, the Barry County Board of Commissioners has zeroed in on the man they hope to take the reins of the county next month. During Tuesday morning’s meeting of the county board, commissioners conducted a second round of inter­ views with three candidates before agreeing to extend a conditional offer to Eric Zuzga, who currently works as the Director of Community Services for the City of Marshall. Zuzga is a resident of Barry County and on Long Lake, specifically said he and his wife plan to make that their “forever home.” Zuzga brings administrative experi­ ence from a smaller level, having served as the city manager in Quincy prior to taking on his role at the larger city of Marshall. Commissioners in general were impressed with his bud­ geting skills and the economic devel­ opment experience he is flexing on the job currently, saying they are confident he can take the step up to the adminis­ trator of an entire county. The county will now negotiate with Zuzga in hopes of having him fill the shoes of Michael Brown, who is set to retire at the end of August afl;er serving the county for 30 years. Brown came to the job with no experience, and by all accounts, has flourished in the role for the last three decades. During the interview process, Zuzga acknowledged the leap he will have to make to meet the demands of the county job. “Obviously there are certain aspects of the county — courts, I don’t really have a lot of background in courts, so that’s an issue I’ll have a steep learning curve,” he said. In touting his accomplishments in an administrative role, Zuzga talked about the trials that came with being a fairly new city manager and dealing with the recession of 2008 and 2009 and how it impacted the budget and budget-mak­ ing process. This even included some admitted missteps along the way. “In my tenure at Quincy in 2008 and 2(309, we were trying to be really cre­ ative,” Zuzga told commissioners. “If you know anything about small police departments, they’re tough to run ...keeping sfafSng, k^epipg chi^f^ t-v it <4 r �4 ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS I •<l' I 7?^ 11 f r u r ♦ I ♦ I i; f. t. V I ff :i/* -1 . **< - ' jf,Ar • r* > r r - ^?W’ I 'ji • f f i f 4 X • I I 4 Mr* J 19 Saturday, July 27, 2024 I r « « 4 ’* ■ I f f I* jj < 1 * i' $* • - * *- J •4 ■I S/? I Ij •ii .k d « <}> • *»1 ’ '^'1' •e^ ssx=;?=^ r..- ,* ■ CT”j2? «&v .U' •7 r. k > I A N S n» aa '■l■lJ7 P * e 1 - NOTICE EARLY VOTING i t ■J/-- li. '. .1 *. A " < 111 r ’pi ll<l ■ u V 4 I* '4 J • ?• J p c. >x The Freeport Homecoming Car Show runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, July 21. Reg^tration is $10 and opens at 8 a.m. Awards will be passed out'after 2 p.m. (Photo by Brett Bremer) k I i I, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Early Voting for the August 6, 2024 Primary Election will be available to Gaines Charter Township voters beginning on July 27, 2024 through August 4, 2024 from 8.30 AM to 4:30 PM each day in the Gaines Township Community Room, lower level, located at 8555 Kalamazoo Ave SE., Gaines Township, Michigan. Parking is on the lower level on the North side of the building. Freeport adds Kiddy Car Show to homecoming events I BRETT BREMER Sports Editor A Hot Wheels Corvette or a Matchbox Batmobile could be a car show winner in Freeport today July 27. Youth 16-and-under are invited to bring their favorite matchbox size car to be displayed on a model size replica of downtown Freeport on Main Street Saturday during the annual Freeport Homecoming. Kids can drop off their toys at the Kiddy Car Show between 9:30 and noon to be displayed and awards will be pre­ sented at 2 p.m. Youngsters can pick up their car at 2 p.m. or get them later during nor mal business hours at the Freeport Library. * “0 2. □ a co x: V) i £; />■ 4 nmiR SKCUU. A - >11 * . «»• ■ iB***!^- ■ • »- • • • b;;b O' ■' ■n O :o ' Bill n Iff Pl •0 r>L--4.i»r ttu < :d z w zo <x XJ tn 5 Freeport Homecoming will include a Kiddy Car Show Saturday, July 27, where youth can enter their matchbox size cars to be displayed on a mini model of downtown Freeport. Photo provided 1 •I Participants in the Kiddy Car Show will also be voting on their favorite full size car in the annual Homecoming Car Show. The main Car Show on Main runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, with awards to follow. Registration is $10 to enter a vehicle and runs from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. Freeport Homecoming will begin with the Fireman’s Breakfast from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. A Swap Meet runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be vendors on Warren Street from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. A pie Sale by Gathering Place on Main Street begins at 9 a.m. and lasts until the pie runs out. A Turtle Derby will be held begin­ ning at 10 a.m. with turtles provided at Blough Automotive. A comhole tournament starts at 10 a.m. and a horseshoe tournament begins at noon. Teams may sign-up at least half an hour before the start of the comhole and horseshoe tournaments. The Freeport Historical Society/ Museum will be open from noon to 3 p.m. There will be kids games, a bounce house and rock wall at the Community Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Freeport Goodworks will have food on Main from 11 a.m. imtil it is gone. Karaoke, live music and dancing on Main begins at 3 >15 p.ms - Michael Brew, Clerk Gaines Charter Township a’ r TT" ft* k □ •A J - ’ 1^ □ •I I ■■ W. » ' =^. • V X V 1, *•. ^TTT TO •’ri r K ILry f □ ■ Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! !:a k I •' L. 4 1 ."l . J 4* <1* ♦ .F ’ J 't J I ft *« I » • * 1 'a ( * 1 • f ft * •! I * > I ( » * < <' \ • » ' 4 • 1 ,T’’ »« ‘^4^ * •f M> 43 ' X r«,« ||i u . ILS 4 1- a____ > I -< • X ** V .W—•; 4 7 I—ift I'll" r ' *' ’>*-M X Simply Perfect £ .* WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. .. A/ PRINTING BY *< www.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com 4 ■A' —- . W . '*"1^ I « - W.!. I amm2 —IR.-A.g- .t - - I S' X X J *• «i r=>. �Ww* . I • «a .t • < «. • Tj... •. % 4 s 20 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, July 27, 2024 H ANNUAL ‘TEE UP FOR SCHOLARSHIPS ♦ ♦ % 9 GOLF OUTING THE CALEDONIA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE'S ANNUAL GOLF OUTING IS A FUNDRAISER TO AWARD SCHOLARSHIPS TO CALEDONIA AREA STUDENTS. ♦ ♦ ♦ "V s HANK ' ♦ it • I Tf I ■ — BIRDIE SPONSORS ■'z. — k T f SPONSOR .7 •• • 1. I 1♦ A i ■ > i A • ?! ♦J I J • I estate Farm si L t - •• David Smith Agency • AM r GREEN RI DGE REALTY CALEDONIA ’S Par Sponsors: PFCU, Bamboo Financial Advisors, CFE, Glen Valley Dentistry, Parking Lot Maintenance of GR. Course Sponsors: Arbor CU, LMCU, Dutton Automotive, Ridgeview Farm, A to Z Realty, Caledonia Township, Fox Chevy/Cal, ServPro SE GR, Edward Jones/Casey VanEngen, The Landis Agency/Farm Bureau, Bell Title Agency of Hastings. -I* Hole Sponsors: 707 Winery and Brewery, Arbor CU, Angela Rigas - State Representative, Big O’s Smokehouse 9 Duke’s Doggie Services, Farmers Insurance/David Gregwer, Caledonia Living Magazine,Huslt Jepsen PT, Jeff Bryant Painting, Jerry’s Body Shop, LMCU, Ml Mitten Property Consultants, Mike Meyers, Newhof Construction, 9 Perspective 3D, Polished Dental Care, Proper Eu, Saladino Smoke, The Yoga Zen, State Farm - David Smith, Oscar 9 Scots, Sief Chiropractic, ServPro SE GR, Vriesman and Korhorn Civil Engineers, United Bank. Beverage Sponsor: 707 Winery and Brewery Lunch Sponsor: Thom Kohl - Greenridge Realty J ..s Breakfast Sponsor: Biggby Coffee Hole in One Sponsor: Fox Chevrolet Raffle Donations: Brann’s Steakhouse, Ed’s Body Shop, NightHawk Bar & Grill 9 Saskatoon Golf Club, Orchard Hills Golf Course The Meadow at GVSU, Vanguard Fire and Security, Maple Hill, Great Lakes Insurance, Duke's Doggie Seivices, Caledonia Athletic Department, Caledonia Resource Center, Harder and Warner, Ridgeview Farm MEF Fieldhouse, Dutton Automotive, United Bank, Yoga Zen, Caledonia Farmers Elevator, Greenridge Realty Ace CM rx. <»».s»a,pin. Grounds Play Cafe, Rossana's Table, Functional Kids therapy. Joint Chiro , Cal Dance &Music, Floral Expressions. I 'O 'O (9 Z »z S Q. rX (Saskatoon Golf Club), Monique Brennan (Caledonia Resource Center), Greg Anthony (McDonald s of (Jaledonia), Thom Kohl (Greenridee Realtv). KvIp Pik^^prt n ^/lrl n o:____ z.. . . . X dge Realty), Kyle Pikaart (LMCU), Kristina Simons (Hulst Jepsen PT) 9 Mike Lamson (New Ground Church). s •o *F-' 0 -rr: c •C CU Area Chamber of Commerce K b. V ? I 4.A ------------ ** A. lei' '■ J A 4 ’I i * r ( J t I fa f < ” L'--« A < ! 1 4 4 F . J• < 4 4, < « ■ •'■' J 1 . I ♦, * < r » 4 1 f I * I � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-08-03.pdf e2c9e8d328de3edab650d27c33f775ea PDF Text Text t * I 4 t f < f V « V A 9 ♦ -9 9 » 1 ’i % « < -i ’A « < s % b A <> ♦ * r I > ft S «k A s r f I f 9 > h WQ p V J 5<-' r OLSEN ANO EAGLES GET jMSTSEfONB I theSUN AND NEWS Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville. Caledonia and Games ' wv '■' w .is 1Is^ $ K * 4 I ?► BRONZE NO. I f b 1 *,> >’ *.v 4 J SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2024 I f? t.7 »e T< i f F*Ty <.’. 4 4 Y’>ab XV, I <r'^ f . 4 ----------------------------- ---------- .r » 4 r w J 4 w b, ' a. J;. r-IW: 4?' w I V“ b r s> SPRINT Township Areas *1 • S vtjlsu^rtSindne J com * From Nashville to Michigan, Caledonia grad eager to show off talent, band JAYSON BUSSA ; 5 A- • _________ _______________ __________________________________________________________ Mystique Niles was bit by the music bug in her sophomore year at Caledonia High School, and she hasn’t looked back since. The Caledonia native has dove head-first into the industry, forming a supporting band this summer, and making their roimds aroimd the local area with a steady slate of gigs. And when she returns to school this fall, her relentless grind isn’t going to stop, either. -• . -af' J .^nr V w « fU JT^ V s 1*1 ? R '.^ a •* I 1 jl T* I >: .’i ' F^ ',' i d** -4» •s. 1 Wfl* >_ • .1 1« ' , • See TALENT on 2 fl . X J • pC3 . T“ I I "■ I 1 r % /♦ < 9 JI -•T«l I « I • A* r w . / '. / s k.L ■■■fei bR* V «. < b I? f« <^■1- » X <A: * .^L. HIGH SCHOOL I J •J \y.i 4- • F 1 Thorn APPLt KeIJjxjo jrf f;« A, fry s « 4 L I, > ’U 9 t t s !» . »4< V ^MAIHb r. I I *1* j b^’ 1 •a . *.* * »'■. ■ 4., .t^ ft >1^ M •*1 1 £ I w ^4; ic T ■’tA w.* b -4r= •'» 1 S»A e< V V I ii 3 - s♦ Vt I K- I, • a4 .■ TM <■ ‘•A . . 4u Caledonia graduate Mystique Niles has spent the summer performing with her band and will host a music showcase at Community Green Park on Monday. (Photos provided) 4 V . J € d . < r9= ■ ■"’^ V s > V •%■-'■ *x; I ^■' •• . 'f'-. I K _*• * b' *Si. •» 1' a '*. 21 \ p 1^’ V ’• 1 fi- « Z-S' ,. ..- u -k • •*w 1 f A ■ g»h * J.t \ ‘T :V<X r I ■ «r -V*; 1 t. •V r.L k a viL r<’ b> l4 j . •> f; s W 17< b T —I - - e ■.. •M b. •*fSj 4" » I I .I 4 I r .*1^ •'f « • • . «, ,. i A• ’Hat I '4f I a •»<». I •* ’• I w I 1 r- f' . 1 ¥• w. 1 \\ 4 */•!* i »•> 4 *■ u I • ts'i n > J I mifs “Wr-i I M- r * b L KRONOS t I 1 » c £ I I I k .’n 1 b I MjHbW 1 4 When students at Thomapple Kellogg High School and Middle School retiuTi to classes later this month, they’ll have to shut off aivd - J »e •* See CELL BAN on 3 b . I aiiiAuaaJo r VL1A» ki GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer yrr K- Thornapple Kellogg schools ban student cell phone use (KM 6 *1^ Students at both Thornapple Kellogg High School and Middle School will not be allowed to carry or use cell phones during the school day as part of a new policy adopted by the district. (Photo by Greg Chandler) gee# liuued eeeet' '.'vV •T tn fcA-4 k%lc KSSttR a««um9 OKioaOd /> • •J.«« • r*4iz* * Maoa «3W01Sn3 wiBoaisau SSMU03 1. J* 9 * AJ (. >.u^' T I -i'. *♦»-■-** • £ I I Mystique Niles performs on stage at Butcher Block Social in Caledonia at a previous gig this summer. 3OV±SOd s n OLLS ISUd •i s d p i;’ » 0 % » b •b A •* I I t JI > h 1 f A » ft •i ft b ? V / b » > a » p J •t �« I I > 2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 3, 2024 and $5 for kids. TALENT Not only does the showcase serve Continued from Page 1 as an affordable evening of entertain­ ment for residents, but Niles said Ihat’s because Niles attends that her team has invited a variety Belmont University in the music of festival promoters and restaurant Nashville, capital of the world owners in an attempt to land more l enn. There, she studies commercial gigs next summer when she returns music, giving her an intimate look at from school, the technical side of her craft. Niles currently has a single out “It’s kind of crazy — in high — a song called “Who Are You?” school (music seems) kind of easy,” which is accompanied by a music Nile.s said. “ T hen you go to college video that was shot downtown in and, oh my goodness. Music theory Grand Rapids. She has another single is a bunch of technical things, all the on the way, which will be promoted notes and putting music together. on her social media, including her It’s super hard and you can’t just Instagram page at pass by listening in instagram.com/ class. You have to study.” originalmystique. AWith acoustic Niles will be Performing with (sets), you can really leaving this fall a band is a fairly get to know the artist, new concept for to complete her sophomore year Niles, who worked whereas with a band at Belmont. While with a co-writer it is about more of the to assemble the she’s back in Caledonia, she has collective. Your voice group. Before that, been working hard she performed like can be a little hidden to get on stage at most sing-songwritplaces like Butcher (with a band) so it’s ers do with just Block Social in her guitar. nice to have acoustic Caledonia and the “I was raising sets here and there. money to go to a Park Theater in Holland to flex her GO Broadway pro But, I really enjoy (the talent. gram in New York. band). They’re super I originally wanted Niles and her band will be per­ to go into music talented. 99 forming one last theater, ” Niles said. Mystique Niles summer hurrah “I performed at musician on the evening of Family Tavern to Monday, Aug. 5 raise money to go right on her home turf of Community there and then. after that, I decided I Green Park in Caledonia. This sumliked pop music and rap music. I met mer showcase kicks off at 6:30 p .m. with a co-writer who reached out and and attendees can catch Niles and wanted to write more music. After her band performing both covers and that, we created the band this sumoriginal songs. mer and performed around town and There will be food trucks on site plan on continuing that.” for the performance, which kicks off Niles’s music lands more on the at 6:30 p.m. There is no admission pop and rock spectrums of music and required at the gate but there is a her writing has been described as suggested donation of $10 for adults “fun, playful and energizing.” Summer Music Showcase Classifieds Featuring Mystique Niles and her band AUTOMOTIVE Monday, Aug. 5 6:30 p.m. 1998 HARLEY DAVIDSON Fatboy; 33,000 miles, very good condition, rides great, $3,500 obo. (248)9096461 Community Green Park 9309 Dobber Wenger Memorial Dr •» Caledonia BUSINESS SERVICES CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. She doesn’t shy away from per forming in a stripped-down acoustic format, either, enjoying the best of both worlds. “With acoustic, you can really get to know the artist, whereas with a band, it is about more of the collec­ tive,” Niles said. “Your voice can be a little hidden (with a band) so it’s nice to have acoustic sets here and there. But, I really enjoy (the band). They’re super talented.” Going to school in Music City, U.S.A, certainly has its perks for a budding musiciain, as well. While Niles spent most of her freshman year getting acclimated to college life, she did hit a couple of open mics and plans to be more active in the scene this coming year. She plans to apply for the Belmont Showcase Series, which is a series of genre-specific showcases put on by her school and features full stage production and a bevy of up-and-coming talent. “There’s this pop showcase where a bunch of students audition to be in this big performance,” Niles explained. “You have the lights, you have the sound system, you have the huge stage and the huge audience. I’m going to auction to be in that and that will be a great opportunity to get my name out, as well.” CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496. BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Pay­ ing Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diam­ eter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, li­ ability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. SHELLER & SONS LLC Fencing (Insured) is offering installation and removal. Please call Chris 231519-6313. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. REAL ESTATE WOODED BUILDING SITE: Sandy soil, 1.3 acres between Middleville & Hastings on Buehler Rd., 1 mile north of Algonquin Lake. 616-8931872 Visit us online at mihomepaper.com THE SUN AND NEWS CONTACT US The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunanclnews.com PUBLISHED BY ------ - • '■ r* Editor: Jayson Bussa jayson@j-adgraphics. com I I I Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com « 1 ■ i b I« t Group Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher < . t’ , I j Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Mi 49058 ( 269-945 9554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser's order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the -f- advertiser's order. 4» i- PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER Please recycle this newspaper ’■*-rs-- » �I / t » 4 r 1 • I > 1 > « / * www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS CELL BAN Continued from Page 1 I « I. f f J 5 I their cell phones and leave them in their lockers. Thomapple Kellogg Schools Superintendent Craig McCarthy on July 25 sent out an alert to district parents, telling them that when classes begin on Aug. 26, TKHS and TKMS students will not be allowed to carry or use cell phones during the school day. In the memo, McCarthy wrote that he hoped the new policy “will result in an increased focus on learning and a safer school culture.” We’re making this decision to do what’s best for the students, McCarthy said in an interview with the Sun and News on Monday. “Anybody in education should be asking themselves, what’s best for students. That’s how we’re making this decision. McCarthy wrote that with all TK students having access to a Chromebook laptop computer, cell phones are no longer needed as a tool for enhancing learning. In addi­ tion, he cited research that shows a negative correlation between cell phone use and academic perfor­ mance, as well as student mental health. The district’s Board of Education did not vote on the ban. In May, McCarthy presented a draft of the letter that went out last week to the board, saying he was looking to move ahead with the policy. He said the board hired him to make deci­ sions such as this. “I am charged with increasing the academic success of our students,” McCarthy said. “If cell phones are disrupting the educational process, it s my responsibility to make sure that the educational process gets back on track.” Under the policy, cell phones and all other personal electronic devi ces, such as headphones or wireless earbuds, must be powered off and stored in the student’s locker duri ng the school day, between 7:35 a.m. and 2:20 p.m. Cell phones arc not permitted during lunch. They may be used before and after school, McCarthy wrote in the letter. Headphones or wireless earbuds are not permitted during the instruc­ tional day without prior permission of the classroom teacher or admin­ istration unless they are required for online coursework or are included in a student’s individualized education program (lEP), McCarthy wrote. Phones are available in the school office should a student need to call their parent or guardian. Parents or guardians who need to get a mes­ sage to their student can do so by calling the main office, McCarthy wrote. The new TK policy is similar to a cell phone ban adopted by the Hastings Area School System in 2020. At the time, Dan Remenap was superintendent at Hastings. When Remenap became superinten­ dent at TK in January 2021, discus­ sions began on instituting a similar policy, McCarthy said. The HASS student cell phone policy bans their use during the school day, but allows them before and after school in common areas of Saturday, August 3, 2024 the building. Use of cell phones for McCarthy has already begun making threats, sending unauthor­ receiving a response from the com­ ized photos, “sexting,” or cheat­ munity to the ban. As of Monday ing are considered “unacceptable morning, the superintendent said he at all times.” Students that use a had received six emails on the topic cell phone to record and/or trans- four in favor of the ban and two mit audio or video opposed. on campus or at Other West 4^Cell phones school-sponsored Michigan districts events are subject to are a distraction. have adopted simi­ disciplinary action lar cell phone bans, When they ’ re used that could include including Forest inappropriately, suspension or expul­ Hills and Lowell. sion, according to they can be used Other districts such the district policy as Byron Center for social shaming, document. and Wayland are social media TK teachers have considering similar pushed for a cell bullying, you’ve policies, McCarthy phone ban. said. got inappropriate “Cell phones are In some states, pictures being a distraction. When legislators have they’re used inap­ shared, which taken up the issue propriately, they can of cell phone use then are also be used for social in school. Florida distractors. shaming, social became the first Craig McCarthy media bullying, state in the country Super i n tendent you’ve got inappro­ to ban cell phones in Thornapple Kellogg Schools priate pictures being school last year, and shared, which then Indiana lawmakare also distractors,” McCarthy said. ers passed a similar bill earlier this The use of cell phones has also year. At least four other states have been linked to increased incidents pending legislation to crack down of vaping among TK students. on cell phone use. McCarthy calls the issue “pervasive.” Details on how to enforce the ban “Students are using their cell and disciplinary procedures are still phones to schedule times with being worked out, McCarthy said. friends in the building, to meet up “We have asked for additional at the bathroom to vape,” the super­ input from staff, because we don’t intendent said. “Last year, we did want this to be onerous on the so much investigating of vaping in staff,” he said. our bathrooms, that we found that’s Details on disciplinary procedures what students are doing. (They send are expected to be shared with par­ texts saying), ‘hey, meet me here at ents later this month, before classes this time. begin, McCarthy said. n • I •z <• SHOP LOCAL INVEST IN YOUR COMMUNITY. ^<1 I ■ I ' I J AnUnno Men t u. CALEDO AMPHITHE IW 8/5 6:38sffi Lr« « * * • A A I Antenna Menf «3 - L-'W .* J I "5 • b Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers 4 *■?/ *1 > • Cellular Enhancement Systems I MUSI 1 cellM) lil — < ▼ . t • “1 r T I, b R •a u. l1 -1. d' ■si '<7 •4« J • SI p •s 269-967-8241 V I I. s I •.X’" :L r" r ’ tn^STICUS f > I •A .c ' -U n T Tz t i * fe- 5^.5 .». 1 •A KL: antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpro5.com □ *1 h www.theantennamen.com Group I, I ."i •* V Give us a call! ^EW A - ,z i f TL • ‘H • >>>Su,SSsl 3 V •. 'C. •< W W I . ..11 J 4 • t « I f 1 . “ r I’ J? �w. * 4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 3, 2024 4 www.sunandnews.com Obituaries brother, Leon, and sister. Rosie. Iva is survived by her daughter, Cathy (Jerry) Peters; son, David (Julie Phillips); grandchildren, Chad Peters, Kristi (Mike) Hanson, Dalton Phillips and Dakota Phillips; great grandchildren, Zach, Graceyn, Ellie, Brooklyn and Nataleah. Iva always worked hard along with her husband Bob to meet the needs of her Iva Mae Phillips Iva Mae Phillips, age 89, of Hastings, Ml, passed away July 27. 2024. Iva was born on January 1, 1935, the daughter of George and Clara Chapman. She was a member of Thornapple Valley Church. Iva was proceeded in death by her husband, Bob who she shared 59 years of marriage with; her son, Jerry; her parents; her family dearly and was happy anytime they all got together. Going out to lunch with family and friends was always special to her. Iva spent winters in Florida for over 20 years and always looked forward to seeing her ^1? family and friends there. Visitation will be held on Monday, Aug. 12, 2024, at Thornapple Valley Church, 2750 S. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 from 10;30-11:30 a.m. with the celebration of her life immediately following. A luncheon will follow the service. Memorial contributions can be made to Spiritual Care Consultants. Services provided by Girrbach Funeral Home, Hastings, Ml. To leave online condolences visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. family. Her love for God was evident to all who knew her. She taught Bible studies and was a part of the Spiritual Care Consultant team as a prayer partner. If you met Iva, you were w probably asked one of two ^.1 questions at some point IW in the conversation, “Have you asked Jesus into your heart?" or “How old were you when you got saved?” She knew her purpose in life was to take as many people to heaven with her as possible. She loved I' 5 a L ' ■I'M IT;. >• • 4. LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham I Hev. Christine Beaudoin Join u* for our tradition»l yet casual worship Sunday Service 10:30 AM Middleville » < Il service, in person or online, at 9.tX) am. 250 Vine Sfreel 6I6-X9I-K669 CalcdoniaUMC’.org I ivcMrcam I accbook com/CalcdoniaUnUcdMcthodisI Serving Strengthening - Citnnecitng 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend ot 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. I’asior: Rev. Peter Berg Saturday Evening Mass 5:(X) p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Church: (269) 795-2391 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & II a.m. .^Tau/ CHURCH 6 Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. B Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00. 9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee i r /I BIRTHDAY Li vestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville ss OURNEY ANNOUNCEMENT CHURCH —5 • i 4 J ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS *• « http:/! goodshcpherdlcms.googlepages.com tfXPEACE III V FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 HOLY FAMILY Good Shepherd Lutheran Church IV/CATHOLIC CHURCH '••It// «I t' 4 @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, Ml 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 wwwjiitpaulcaledonia.org CALEDONIA: 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE LEARN MORE! - thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch 'I THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH 1 MIDDLEVILLE JLa ■Mi * •f f * Ft ri 0 { SERVICE TIMES: e rs z «< * Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml ! www.tvcweb.com a .« t } 4 f It A 'x* t It V» /, vMe' Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM Walch our services from our website (see above) 4 4 i tR Whitneyville J Fellowship Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52'"*^ & 48^^ Praising Cod through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyvilleFeHowship.org Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 Shining Forth God's Light Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... rr 10:00 a.m. 11 ;00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankecspringsbiblechurch.org Barbara (Willyard) Velthouse to celebrate 90th birthday Please join us for a 90th Birthday Celebration/Open House for Bar­ bara (Willyard) Velthouse on Sun­ day, Aug. 11, 2024 from 1-4 p.m. at the Caledonia Community Green (9309 Dober Wenger Memorial Dr., Caledonia). « '■ • VA. �ri I J 4 4 « I I % jk. t 'I X I !i www.sunandnews.com —----------- -------------------- the sun and news , August 3, 2024 5 Early voting in full swing across the state Nine-Day Early Voting Period Ends on Aug. 4 J-r t9 JAYSON BUSSA ment and the new processes. Some questions and conftision persisted With a previous run through the leading into the February’s presiden­ process already under their belts, tial primary election and even during township clerks and poll workers the election process. A variety of assembled this weekend to kick off procedural issues at polling locations early voting across the state. — mostly insignificant — under­ The nine-day early voting period, scored that confusion. which started on Saturday morning, This time around, staff is feeling a will lead up to the Aug. 6 primary bit more confident. election. This election is pivotal for “This has a different type of report­ a county like Barry, where it ulti­ ing that it generates every day and mately will decide many races in the you don’t close the poll at the end of Republican-dominated county. each day you just suspend it. So, pro­ TTie early voting period is a byprod­ cedurally, yes, the second time it’s a uct of the 2022 Michigan Proposal 2, little more comfortable,” said Sharon a state constitutional amendment that Olson, who is wrapping up her term aimed to provide broader access and as clerk in Irving Township this year. ease when casting a ballot for state Still, even confident poll workers and federal elections. were met with some immediate but This week marks the second early temporary adversity on the first day voting period, as the same process of early voting when the state’s early was utilized earlier this year for voting check-in system was plagued the presidential primary election with an outage. in February. During that nine-day According to the Secretaty of State’s voting period, many Barry County office, the spike in activity caused the residents questioned whether the problem, which made the electronic process made financial sense, as each poll book unavailable, leaving workers polling location required a new set to switch to paper records. of equipment and must be staffed Longtime Rutland Township Clerk by a minimum of three poll workers Robin Hawthorne said, during this for the duration of the early voting. span, all the other equipment, includ­ Polling locations — even townships ing the ballot-on-demand feature that that consolidated their locations to prints out ballots for voters as they try to spare expenses saw a very visit, was still operable. sparse turnout. “So we were having to go to paper This time around — even when poll books... logging voters in with the primary and general elections are the paper poll book, printing them a expected to draw greater numbers ballot and they voted,” Hawthorne compared to the presidential primary said. “We did put them in as soon as — polling locations are not seeing the computers came back up. They anything resembling droves of voters were able to vote and the rest of the by any stretch. machines work fine.” Late Monday morning, Irving Sarah VanDenburg, the county’s Township Hall had assisted three senior deputy clerk who is also running voters, bringing its total to 18 vot­ unopposed to be the next clerk, said ers after the weekend. In Rutland that the previous experience with early Township, which is the polling loca­ voting has proven beneficial and vot­ tion for Rutland, Hastings Charter ing has been smooth out of the gates. and Hope Townships, 19 voted on “We did some more training in the opening Saturday and 14 on Jime and July and we had some sea­ Sunday. The location had 125 vot­ soned election inspectors that came ers vote in all of early voting in to training and new people, as well,” February, putting them on pace to at VanDenburg said. “There hasn’t been least eclipse that total. a lot of questions. The clerks have a The previous run through early vot­ really good handle on the new equip­ ing allowed clerks and poll workers ment. They’ve done a great job.” to become acquainted with the equipProcedurally, VanDenburg said it’s Editor ) 4 t I t' 9 & A ./J A r I I ?? I TX-^.T . ' V 1 IL I 11 t • ■^1 p♦ I A I Jr*? g r 4x4..^. NOW r J: 1^ ♦•’’A'n II J .7 / t > V’ pr I t *5 I A A ST:X . C J iSsfiuS I' I- a:>; ►J 7k Lr * { I 1 • >• ?. > I isSSS 5*.’ a \. *1 ■X-'* vipr’ix.” A sign sits in front of Irving Township Hall on Monday morning welcoming in voters for the early voting period. (Photo by Jayson Bussa) important for residents to note that early voting simply collects votes; they are not counted until elec tion day, just like absentee ballots. Results won’t be available until elec- tion day on Aug. 6. There is still opportunity for a resi­ dent to register to vote, but that must be done at the individual’s respective township hall. Vote for Proven Leadership Catherine * »• % t 3t 4.^ GETTY t J* r ’• ■ *'■' r li t I M VOTE AUGUST 6th A f County Commissioner “Catherine is the right person at the right time tor County Commissioner.” Mike Bremer, former Thornapple Township Supervisor & Barry County Commissioner Paid for by the Committee to elect Catherine Getty, 11835 Lakeridge Dr., Wayland, Ml 49348 4^ > r 5 f • 9' �6 r J THE SUN AND NEWS Aixjust 3 2024 Thornapple Twp. seeks parage of combined fire service millage GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer ■fhomapple I own.ship voters will be asked I uesday to approve a single millage proposal tor fire protection and emergency service-, in the township, including the purchase of equipment. On the ballot will be a six-year, 2.25-inill levy, from this year to 2029. If approved, the tax will generate $993,565 in its first year, according to the ballot language. I he 1 ownship Board voted in May to put the proposal on the ballot. It will replace two separate lax levies that arc expiring. The change has con­ fused some township residents, I ire ( hief Bill Richardson said. We’ve had people calling here and saying ‘why are we doubling our mill age? Richardson said. Ihat’s not what if is. It’s the same millage, it’s just been combined into one because they were (of) vary ing (lengths). In August 2020, voters passed a 1.7169-mill renewal for fire protec­ tion and emergency services for four <1^ www.sunandnews.com years, including funding to support the purchase of fire and emergency equip­ ment, wi th 1,151 yes votes to 469 no votes, fhat levy' has since been rolled back to 1.6742 mills because of the I Icadlee amendment. Two years ago, township voters said ves to an additional 0.5662 mills for fire and emergency services by just 93 votes 1 ,(X)6 yes to 913 no. That tax ha.s been rolled back since then to its current level of 0.5629 mills because of the Headlee amendment. The proposal comes before town­ ship voters at a time when die fire department is as busy on calls as it has every been. Ilie department saw an 18 percent increase in the number of calls it responded to last year to 1,848, according to its annual report. Seventy percent of the revenues generated by the millage goes to fire services, 20 percent goes to ambu­ lance and 10 percent goes to capital improvements, according to town­ ship board minutes. See MILLAGE on 14 Allegan County Fairgrounds 150 Douglas Ave, Allegan Ml 49010 August 16 - 18, 2024 1 Public safety millage renewal on the ballot in Caledonia Two. GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Caledonia Township is asking voters to approve the renewal of the township’s public safety millage at the polls on Tuesday. On the ballot is a proposal to renew the existing public safety levy of 1.9236 mills for a period of six years, starting this year. F unding from the tax goes to sup­ port both the township fire depart ment and law enforcement services from the Kent County Sheriff’s Office. If approved, the levy would go into effect with the December 2024 tax bills and remain through 2029. “We are actually asking the com­ munity to renew our millage at a lower rate than we did six years ago,” Caledonia Fire Chief Scott Siler wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “Times are tight for everyone and our Township Board recognizes that. With this 2024 public safety millage renewal and general fund supplements, Caledonia Township will be able to continue to provide the same level of police and fire protection to the community.” Township voters in August 2018 approved a 1.993-mill, six-year tax for public safety, an increase from the previous levy of 1.5 mills. About 70 percent of voters who turned out for the election approved the levy. Since its pas­ sage, the millage has been rolled back to its current level by the -118 Vendors with Yarn, Fiber, Equipment & Handcrafted Items-Great Christmas Gifts! •108^^ Quilt BacksNew Calico -Drop-in & Registered Workshops -Fiber Arts Demonstrations • Lydias Lace by Moda ® Animal Shows, Farm Booths & Demos (Sat & Sun) • Threads^ Zippers^ Trimsetc, Mid-West’s Largest Fiber Festival! Friday & Saturday 10-5; Sunday 10-4 Admission: $5/person, Kids 14 & under FREE Sunday Special: $5/car Details at: www.michiganfiberfestival.info Headlee Amendment. The owner of a $300,000 home with a $150,000 taxable value would pay $289 annually for pub­ lic safety services under the levy, while the owner of a $325,000 home with a taxable value of $162,500 would pay $312.59 annu ally, Township Manager Alison Nugent said. The levy is expected to gener­ ate $2,056,398 in its first year, of which $400,000 will go to the sheriff s department. The funding for the sheriffs department helps to pay for the school resource officers for Caledonia Community Schools, Nugent said. The Caledonia Township Fire Department saw a 2.3 percent increase in the number of calls for service it responded to last year, to 1,219. About 75 percent of the calls were for medical emergen­ cies. The department has eight full time firefighters and 15 part-time on-call firefighters, Siler said. Meanwhile, the seven members of the Township Board are run­ ning unopposed for re-election to four-year terms on the board on the Republican primary ballot. They are Supervisor Bryan Harrison, Clerk Joni Henry, Treasurer Richard Robertson, and trustees Tim Bradshaw, Dale Hermenet, Richard Snoeyink and Greg Zoller. Harrison has been township super visor since 2000. '3' 7*3 eftronicQs 7:14 (Tray) 'll* QUESTIONS: ASK US... * 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm Hulst Cleanerg Pickup Station �www.sunandnews.com IB JAMES GEMMELL I L r f Saturday, August 3, 2024 7 Games Charter Township expects another large turnout for National Night Out on Tuesday night I AI THE SUN AND NEWS __________ _______ __________________ ____ ___ __________________ Contributing Writer s * .<• One of the most popular events of the summer in Gaines Charter Township takes place Tuesday, Aug. 6 from 4:30 to 7;30pm. The annual South Kent National Night Out takes place on some large parking lots outside of South Christian High School, 7979 Kalamazoo Ave. This will be the third year that the Night Out activity has been held there. The community policing event raises awareness about crime pre­ vention. It began in the suburbs of Philadelphia, Penn, and grew to become a tradition across the country, starting in 1984. Originally, neighbors simply turned on their porch lights or sat in front of their homes. That is still done, but even tually block parties and backyard barbecues became part of the tradi tion, and even live entertainment in some neighborhoods. About 40 mil­ lion residents participate nationwide, according to national law enforce­ ment. The Kent County Sheriffs Office has been hosting the local event since 2010. Deputy Jason Vander Molen said the South Kent Night Out will feature many of the KCSO’s specialty units. “These would include our Technical Services unit (drone program), Tactical Team vehicle and equipment, K9 unit. Dispatch, Marine Patrol, Mounted Unit (hors­ es) and much more,” he said. The Michigan State Police will be participating, as well, with their dive truck and helicopter scheduled to be at the location a few blocks south of 84th Street. Some area fire departments will have trucks and fire equipment on scene. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport often has vehicles on display, as well. Many businesses participate in the South Kent Night Out. Some staff members from the Gaines branch of the Kent District Library usually have tables set up. “There will be free pizza donated by (Peppino’s Sports J i'tj t I 1 1 I I *• '-A., . f t’ f r t t I ■*«**,>^------- •» u’ I / « a t .1 1. r • to■W ■ . «•I * * I "JA .*• - f -A'i I % • * f a I »r ■fl J « > 1 $ I < I t 'I > r. "0<. - 1 I I I »:L. J -V J \li r k? 'T a I ' •••> ' ■ T ;J • J » . y • • T . Jl? ♦ k-^fe V <b iT ( t IJ * < -t- V 5 J. 1 « > a*W< * 4 * I I ti •: ■jr S Ab r* I « J t W| < * T I .J V> 5 X' J i A ;4 ** if 4n .u W- ' j •f . -J * • '^1 * B t» « < 4 b1 Vt f . I r— A I f. 4 w <* )■ v S^’ 6.- I r I L S • 1 -1 .* J A ♦ ♦/ c t > 4 f t •. ■ i *:. X r a> J *3 1 H :I r *1 I » i b* pL A r. r IT a I r f -V ' at i > 4 X i ■^' 1 J -t- ’Ufa Til < ff- - ♦ / »x r ?** A * < >: Residents enjoy interacting with the Kent County Sheriff’s Office mounted patrol and horses during the South Kent Night Out. (File photos by James Gemmell) I 4« .\.»r fl ♦ 4 1 u '-i *-*:*', r 41 *• 41 J ri t*. V I rfi WI y I 1 I 4 V,I *, ..i *1 '« Miftw • * i ‘ 4k-« * ♦ -BJJ .'J W; ‘5 ■fi f L>. (‘S' -'/I . .4^ <n '3«( 1^- I k u 4 Bruce's Frame and Alignment w’ f" -I .* ) I «A > a a n f -i 3/’ 1 p I Di >x. *^'i ‘4' J V ' < 1 / •. .J g- Full Service Body Shop r nti 4 V*-* * -•' f { >1 1 ft •>•— T •. * J r s> • Wheel Alignments • Auto Gloss Installation • Insurance Work Welcome • Visa & MasterCard Accepted t y ft i r t* / J? a Firefighters Michael Olthof, Brent Cummings, Mark Lenger stand in front of a Dutton Fire engine during last year’s South Kent Night Out f -• A Yr YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. You’re our friends, our family our neighbors...and our future f •• 51^ .I'./ 1 See GAINES CHARTER on 9 - 9^ * t _ X 4 X I brucesframe.com ■ > ,•« •A* 121 E, Main Street Downtown Middleville '.Sta n*>’ .**«*** I• Ta5-|596 :i I Jason Parks b I (269) 795-8827 □ I >, 415 2ncl * Middleville jparks@fbinsmi.com Farm6ureauinsurance.com J •4 J F. •1 I % W «« I c < I -I I * a *< I /n^ur«ittce> Group . % Over 40 years experience FAHM BUREAU INSURANCE' < • 4- Is C/ops r;* s Your Community Connection Your local agent insures your *u >wr.X- J I It : •» • a a a 4 » a .1 b » 1 9 * �4 * J THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. August 3, 2024 8 www.sunandnews.com FORE!: Caledonia chamber celebrates 14th ‘Tee Up for Scholarships’ annual golf event our future leaders.” This year, the chamber awarded eight Caledonia area high school seniors with scholarships; Addison Rapa, Olivia Seif, Dana Langdon, Grace Bryant, Brenden VanGessel, Alexa Pearson, Wyatt Vliestra, and Alyssa Burch. Each of these students demonstrate character and leadership in the Caledonia community. The day’s activities concluded with an awards ceremony and luncheon, where participants celebrated their achievements and networked with fellow community members. Darrell Kingsbury spoke on behalf of the Caledonia Community Schools and two grant recipients spoke Grace Bryant (Caledonia) and Dana Langdon (South Christian). The winning team, McDonald’s of Caledonia, was awarded the grand prize, with other prizes distributed for second and third place teams along with numerous raffle win ners and a silent auction for an autographed jersey from the Detroit I’he Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual golf event this past weekend, drawing in a record number of participants and supporters. Held at the Saskatoon Golf Club, the event marked another year of camaraderie, competition and com­ munity spirit. A total of 32 teams participated in the event, enjoying a day of excellent weather, challenging play and friendly competition. The tournament featured a shotgun start, with teams of four competing for top honors. This year’s event also included various contests such as marshmallow longest drive, closest to the pin and a hole-in-one challenge. “We are thrilled with the turnout and the level of enthusiasm from all participants,” said Shana Spinney, executive director of the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce. “This event not only showcases the great talent and sportsmanship within our community but also helps support the Chamber’s initiatives and supports Hi^h Efficiency I I I I I I I I I I I !B!!!iS OFF I • Must present this coupon. I. Expires 8-15-24 I I I I I I I I r I I I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I ‘No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. I I "The company built by referrals ” I ri I HEATING 8 COOLING I STATEOTHEJA'RTSYSIEMS’ ;FURNACE AIR « • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair *150 I "W go above and beyond your vehicle repairs!" '’'.ja I GOD CLASS ! b •s I f ( If i . Ik Lesonal l(^^)^NFIB * I ’ 1 616.891.0150 www.edsbodv.com ED'S BODY SHOP FRONTIER CAIEDONIA. MICHIGAN 110 Johnson Street 210 East Main Street. Caledonia I Owner Ed Pawloski Jr. OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm 616-891-8900 I ■* *» WMBA L ' 1 <1^ A V A * r » •* 7 ’ .r. 1 V fV* * # * V i'- Awr*' i ♦ *• * *7 A r t I .'Cl Ip rr/ aft.* • |»V . S • VTi’ '>* V.**. ‘ I*! .^L •l 9 . *•'1 s** V j> 1 K > '■ I »** V^». * I • I* i k * ■ » i> < •l ■ AM S r ■•’.Jsk.- ' r - •4 .J « X Golfers took to Saskatoon Golf Club last weekend for the 14th Annual ‘Tee Up for Scholarships’ golf event. (Photos provided) The winning team, McDonald's of Caledonia, was awarded the grand prize, with other prizes distributed for second and third place teams along with numerous raffle winners and a silent auction. Lions’ Sam LaPorta. In addition to promoting local busi­ nesses, the event raised funds for the chamber’s ongoing projects, which aim to enhance economic develop­ ment, provide networking opportuni­ ties, and support community initiatives. “We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors, volunteers and participants who made this event a success,” said Spinney. “Their sup­ port and generosity are what make our community events possible and help us continue to thrive.” Plans are already underway for next year’s golf event. For more information about the chamber and upcoming events, visit caledoniachamber.com or contact director@caledoniachamber.com. The Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting and supporting local businesses and fostering a strong sense of communi­ ty. Through various events, programs and initiatives, the Chamber aims to enhance the economic vitality and quality of life in Caledonia. i£ V. - L fil MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 The July 22 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. There was no new activity in the fishbowl. Virginia’s program was titled “Exercise to Manage Your Blood Sugar.” Physical activity done every day helps manage blood sugar. It helps your body use insulin, helps prevent complications of diabetes,and is a great way to ease stress. Walking is a good way to make your heart and lungs work hard, Virginia told club members. Move every day, walk with a friend and make it a daily activ­ ity. Many short walks make your daily goal more attainable. Strength training strengthens your muscles and helps them use insulin better. Blood sugar may drop faster than normal, so always carry iden­ tification when outside, carry your cell- t»/ y phone, check your blood sugar before, during and after any activity. Wear a medical ID bracelet saying you are dia­ betic, keep hydrated, dress correctly for the weather and bring a snack or glucose tablets. Linda won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. I —“■ -• ' » ■ "r' I r I 4» A *■* ’4, "-I Ma* z V « ,* I < ^5 ♦ 4 r r 4 �www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 3, 2024 YMCA of Barry County capital campaign projects move along steadily Editor Over a year after purchasing a for­ mer county-owned building across from its headquarters of Camp Algonquin, the YMCA of Barry County continues to embark on its capital campaign and bring a transfor­ mational vision to fhn'tion. Last week, Jon Sporer, executive director and CEO of the YMCA of '* r 41 I I r »jr ftr “-wri 0 I Li ■ •211 I 'fl- *» ■*1 A .4 41 A Bany County, provided an update on how the organization’s projects were progressing. In May 2023, the YMCA closed on purchasing a building that once housed day programs for Barry County Mental Health Services. The struc­ ture is across the street from Camp Algonquin and seamlessly fits into a larger campus of sorts for the YMCA. Onginally, the organization was hop­ ing to move the Y Time childcare pro­ gram and recreation/outreach offices in by the fall of that year. After a few community volunteer days that summer and evaluating its childcare licensing goals, Sporer said the organization recognized the value of making greater building improve­ ments. In the fall, as the YMCA began to work through some renovation chal­ lenges, it was apparent that it needed to start from square one with a new interior design to fit the Y’s programs. Sporer said the design is just about finalized, and engineered drawings will be completed this summer. “Our goal now is to completely renovate the interior and exterior, and do our best to be open for the summer of2025 programming,” Sporer said. “Much of the prep work has occurred, thanks to early campaign success.” We’ve raised just over 90 percent of the $3.25 million capital campaign goal that we launched at the end of 2023,” he added. Some things that have been com­ pleted at the site include; — New half-mile nature trail with educational signs connecting the camp with the building f t |V $ f Jt * • ’I * ** /• 1 In addition to the YMCA of Barry County’s efforts to renovate its newlypurchased facility, it also has made improvements to Camp Algonquin, such as new signage. -r ■ ■ ■ 'f t. AJ. I I > I ♦ 1 •• <• « •* A V I Continued from Page 1 Grille & Pizzeria), hot dogs from SpartanNash, chips from Frito Lay, and water from Speedway,” Vander Molen said. “Many of the other busi­ nesses will be playing games with kids and doing other fun things like passing out popsicles, coloring and giving away prizes.” Kids can expect some special action figures to also be there, such as Paw Patrol’s Chase and Marshall, plus Bluey and Bingo. National Night Out increases awareness about public safety pro­ grams such as neighborhood watch, drug prevention and other anti-crime programs. “A special shout out goes to the area businesses that participate, and the community that comes out every year,” Vander Molen said. “They are what make this event so successful, and it’s what I love about this community.” <> W ft ' t y. V kii •’j>* C .x. « » 1 - ,;w~ - 1' / : i •* V * ♦ w ** 1 * » 1 J* IX • 'I n. I *^491 <• •• / * • ^4 ft I*« ' I f • J* '4^ - < V % ..A / ■>r- *. ••ft- . .M*. L * i7- 4 VI •t ■ ■ * 4. J .• Y • ** w ♦ * A » WM» » > X. c:i •> A A new half-mile nature trail with educational signs connecting Camp Algonquin to the YMCA’s new building nearby are one of the handful or projects that have already been completed. (Photos provided) Site clearing and driveway grad­ ing at the new building — Interior demolition of walls and structures to prepare for construction — Replacement of the roof with a metal roof (almost complete) Some improvements and plans for Camp Algonquin are also in the works, including; — Security cameras on site — New exterior signage — A new floating dock system — New metal roofe on the cabins and lodge — A new high ropes course planned for 2026 The projects have also received a boost from some recent grants, which include; Walmart Spark Good Local Grant, which provided new lifejack­ ets for campers; Barry Community Foundation Healthy Community Grant, which initiated the new nature trail; YMCA of the USA Strategic Initiatives Fund Matching Grant for financial assistance to new camp­ ers; YMCA of the USA Strategic Initiatives Fund Matching Grant for new cabin and lodge decks provid­ ing improved safety and accessibility (planned for 2025). • 'T I I ♦ • I I T K , * Aa -c fl •‘7*. s WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS -s ) "1 4 a- t Residential & Commercial / •k>_ * ♦1 e I -Gas Furnaces e w’ . • i I a —1 I '■I 4 ss- u prr A, ' Sv. .1 I. 7. saa. «1 • Gas Boilers II -Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers < GAINES CHARTER '*r r: I*;* s.-* « 46 4^*. “ .'It® 34 &e JI I I * T' '■ ♦ • t £ ♦ v... J, t♦ JAYSON BUSSA 9 ,'1 I ’•f. -._4 ■a .^.k •' r *»• i 11. r. 11 TS3 • ir»* I** C rr:^ ■MB A. •1 * K - n . ■■■■ r. V » r i- ± "A I. I DeWeerd (68^ HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM r Since 195S A 269-792-2234 ,BBB. I ACCREDITED ’. j BUSINESS I**•!**«* K •T t / I 1 �.A A ♦ < > ► THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 3, 2024 10 Smith to challenge Cramer for Middleville village president ♦ ♦ GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer 2020 and became president pro tem­ pore late last year after the resigna tion of Johnny DeMaagd. Four candidates, including two recent council appointees, are run­ ning for three four-year terms on the council. Trustees Robert Bishop and Steve Baldry are joined on the ballot by Tracy Gillhespy and John Osterbaan. Bishop was appointed to the coun cil in April 2023 after the resigna­ tion of longtime council Trustee Mike Lytle, while Baldry was cho­ sen to fill an opening in November 2023 to replace DeMaagd. Gillhespy ran unsuccessfully for the council in 2022, and interviewed for both council openings last year. Osterbaan is running for the council for the first time. * The two most senior members of the Middleville Village Council will face off against each other for the office of village president in the November election. Incumbent Mike Cramer is seek ing a second two-year term as president. He is being challenged by Council President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith. Cramer is the longest-serving member of the council, having been first elected as a trustee in 2014. He was re-elected to the council in 2018. He then won the village presi dency in November 2022, defeating Fran French 798 votes to 598 votes. Smith was elected to the council as a write-in candidate in November w * * / Visit US online at mihomepaper.com Our* Biggest Ever ATVf OTV, and XTV* SALE Motorcycles ATVs UTVs Generators Snow Blowers Lawn Mowers n Going onNOW! eph. ezio-eMo www.sunandnews.com Thornapple Kellogg board president won’t seek re-election * -* ■ GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer The president of the Thomapple Kellogg Schools Board of Education has decided not to seek another term on the board in this year’s election. Matthew Powers, who has been on the board the past six years, chose not to file by the July 23 deadline for school board candidates to run on the November ballot. Powers has been president of the TK board since October 2021, when he was voted in by his fellow board mem bers following the resignation of previous president Kristen Cove. “I have always planned on serv­ ing one term on the Thomapple Kellogg School Board. My young est daughter graduated last spring,” Powers wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “I love K-12 education. I have a lot of respect for school boards, administrators, educators and, of course, students. Every one of those levels is feeling pressure to perform. TK Schools (are) doing an amazing job and they are tak ing positive steps forward at every opportunity.” Powers recently took a teaching position in the Grand Ledge Public Schools near Lansing, after having been an elementary teacher at Maple ? Valley Schools. Three candidates are running for two six-year terms on the TK board, while a fourth is unopposed for a two-year term. Current board Vice President Krissy Hooson is running for one of the two six-year terms. She is joined in that race by Katie Stanton and Keara Hilton. Mark Price is running unopposed for a two-year seat. Hooson was appointed to the school board in July 2021, filling an opening created by the resig­ nation of Sarah Alden. She was then elected to a two-year term in November 2022. Stanton finished third among six candidates for six-year terms in the 2022 board election, missing being elected by just 47 votes. She also interviewed earlier this year for a board opening after Anne Hamming resigned her seat. Price and Hilton are each running for the board for the first time. Price took part in the same interviews as Stanton for the board vacancy ear­ lier this year. Jeff Dickman, who was appointed to replace Hamming and serve until the November election, did not file to run again. 'if Five running for three trustee *>r. jriil / B » x** •• Jif •i- seats on Caledonia council o r;- I * ** I I M GREG CHANDLER ‘Wik. « Staff Writer r Up to or :M,500 ‘I I !• I F Rebates Visit our Website k 0 www.Fullarmorpower.com 9240 Cherry Valley Ave. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 UI J r f I I (Next to Speedway) 1 T. A .5 r 616.536.2063 t a •1^. A* ■ivc-'' OPEN Daily 10am-6pm. Sat 10am-1 pm / ing • ... ’ v- r *• 2 J u J Five candidates, including three incumbents, have filed to run for three available trustee seats on the Caledonia Village Council in the November election. Village President Jennifer Lindsey is running unopposed for a third twoyear term. Lindsey was elected presi dent in November 2020, when she defeated incumbent president Todd Grinage, 469 to 351. She ran unop* - • • years ago. Longtime Trustee Dan Erskine is seeking to retain the council seat he has held since 1980. He is believed to be the longest-serving council member in the village’s history. Also running for re-election are trustees Karen Hahn and Cheryl Miller. Hahn has been on the council since 2004, while Miller was elected as a write-in candidate in 2020. Challengers Jeff Kusmierz and Nikki Daley are seeking to oust the incumbents. The council trustee seats are four.X^^’'.P9sjtions. jr �1 www.sunandnews.com f ♦ _______ THE SUN AND NEWS .-----------------------------—_____________________ . 11 Saturday, August 3, 2024 _______ Townshipjplanners ponder change in sign ordinance Contributing Writer r ’ J. h A Gaines Township planning staff are considering a change to the township’s sign ordinance to make it easier for passersby to read business signage along the roadway. The township planning commission discussed the matter during its July 25 monthly meeting. All seven commissioners were present. No action was taken on the signage policy. “We’re really looking at ways to try to change that sign ordinance so that people can see a sign no matter what distance it is from the roadway. Community Development Director Dan Wells said. The township has had what Wells describes as “very stringent” restric­ tions on the size and placement of signs. Planning staff is looking at the industrial and general commercial dis­ tricts of the township. One example of where it might be beneficial for a change in the signage ordinance is language that states that 1.5 square feet of signage is allowed per linear feet in a retail bay. rr ua FT’? * K *9 .’aI ■ T’' \ • ft . ■ I*' > t I, U- Gaines Township Planning Commissioners And that is applied whether the building is right up close to the road or whether it’s hundreds of feet away ” Wells said. To solve the problem of determining allowable sign sizes. Wells suggested to planning commissioners that the township staff be allowed to explore using a simple mathematical equation based on a distance ratio. He noted that the farther away a sign is from a road or sidewalk, the smaller it appears from a visual perspective. So, the township could consider allowing a sign that is placed 200 feet from a right NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: A tentative preliminary plat featuring 20 single-family dwellings for Phase 2 of Alexander Trails, a Planned Unit Development. Property Address: 2701 76th Street, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-10-300-009 Applicant: Michael McGraw, Signature Land Development Corp. Date and Time of Hearing: August 22nd, 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on August 22nd, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. met July 25th at the township hall. (Photo by James Gemmell) of way to be four times larger than if it were placed 50 feet away. “It’s (simple) math,” planning com­ mission member Brad Waayenberg said. In the township ’ s new neighborhood xommercial zoning district, buildings generally are not going to be set back far from the road. But in the general commercial district, they are. For instance, a so-called “big box store recently sought approval from the township to make some signage changes. “And I was just thinking it’s ridicu lous that we’re having to go through this whole amendment process for something that’s so acceptable as (the corporation) swapping out their signs,” Wells said. Using a scale to determine the allowed size of a sign based on its dis tance from the road would simplify the process considerably. “I’m constrained by the ordinance sometimes to the point where it drives me crazy, too. Sometimes, residents get crazy by how constrained it is. But I do, too. I get frustrated by if” Wells said. “So, I’d like to find solutions to things like that where it just kind of makes sense and it’s easy to do. And I can tell developers, ‘This is a pretty simple ratio. Multiply it by however many feet away your (business is) and you get that.’” The Gaines Planning Commission began approving individual chapters of a new zoning ordinance last year. One change defined the difference between office-service (O-S) and neighborhood commercial (NC) and general com­ mercial (GC) zoning districts in the township. The idea was to rezone several prop­ erties in the township’s general com mercial district into a new neighbor hood commercial designation to entice 99 * ! « vs . GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP t r. more walkable, neighborhood-type services that people can more easily access close to home. The township began updating its overall zoning ordinance and master plan after being sued by a developer over the Prairie Wolf Station project in 2022. Indianapolis-based American Kendall Properties had sought town­ ship approval for what was proposed to be a $100 million town center project on 84th Street farmland east of Kalamazoo Avenue. The township board rejected the 82-acre mixed-use development in 2022. Prairie Wolf Station would have consisted of 127 single-family homes and 258 multi-family apartment units. Plans also called for 44 attached single­ family townhome units, 34 mixeduse apartment units atop retail space in the plaza area, and 36 traditional neighborhood-design condominiums. In addition, there would have been 110 senior living units, six commercial buildings, two out-lots and 10 acres of green space. An entity called Caleydonia LLC turned around and sued the township for $4 million, noting that that the development was allowed by right under the old zoning ordinance. The township relented in Kent County Circuit Court and signed a consent agreement. Utility groundwork recently began on the town-center site, which will be scaled back considerably from the originally proposed layout. Gaines Township recently was informed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy that the wetlands portion of the prop­ erty cannot be redeveloped, under state protection guidelines. There is no word yet what the revised layout will look like. ♦ �V t t www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. August 3, 2024 12 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN ♦ ♦ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR ♦ TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Township Supervisor and Assessor have prepared and filed in the office of the Township Clerk for public examination a special assessment roll covering all properfies within Barlow Lake Aquatic Plant Control Special Assessment District No. 31-24 benefited by the proposed aquatic plant control project. The roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing the costs of the project within the aforesaid special assessment district, which district is more parficularly shown on the plans on file with the Township Clerk at Yankee Springs Township Hall. The costs of the project are as shown on the estimate of costs on file with the Township Clerk at Yankee Springs Township Hall. The project cost is $125,600, including administrative costs, which is the amount of the assessment roll. The amount assessed against each property in the district will be approximately $54 per year for a front parcel and $27 per year for a back parcel. The term of the special assessment will be eight years, 2025 through 2032 inclusive. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Supervisor and Assessor have further reported to the Township Board that the assessment against each parcel of land within said district is such relative portion of the whole sum levied against all parcels of land in said district as the benefit to such parcels bears to the total benefit to all parcels of land in said District. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Township Board will meet at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Road, Middleville, Michigan on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of reviewing the special assessment roll, hearing any objections thereto and confirming the roll as submitted or revised or amended. The roll may be examined at the office of the Township Clerk during regular business hours of regular business days until the time of the hearing and may further be examined at the hearing. Any person objecfing to the assessment roll shall file objections thereto in writing with the Township Clerk before the close of the hearing or within such other time as the Township Board may grant. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that an owner or party in interest, or his/ her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment or may file his/her appearance and protest by letter before the hearing, and in that event. personal appearance shall not be required. The owners or any person having an interest in real property who protests in writing at or before the hearing may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the State Tax Tribunal within 30 days after confirmation of the special assessment roll. 1161045-049-00 Q8-16-Q08-Q12-QQ 08-16-050-015-16-045-052-00 108-16-008-015-00 Io8-16-050-017- * 8-16-045-055-00 -16-008-016-00 08-16-045-058-00 -018-10 -16-055-025-00 -027-10 -125-001-10 08-16-008-02908-16-125-001- 08-16-125-005-00 * 08-16-115-001-00 8-16-Q55-0Q3-QQ -16-125-044-00 * 08-16-008-036-30 8-16-115-008-16-115-009-00 5sQQ7-QQ -045-001-50 108-16-055-008-00 -125-047- 08-16-115-010-00 Qa.-.16-115-011 -00 108-16-200-006-00 116-045-003-20 108-16-055-010-00 08-16-115-015- QzQ.12-00 -055-014-00 -16-045-006- -16-045-007-00 08-16-115-019-00 116-055-016-00 108-16-125-002-00 08-16-1 * 1655-QQ2-Q1 08-16-045-011 -00 -005-001-00 Io8-16-045-013-nn 1055-020-00 -024-00 -16-125- 0-026-00 -021-10 * zl.6-125- «• ■V w * * 8-16-045- -050-010-00 108-16-008-006-03 08-16-008-010-00 Continued on next page 1011-00 08-16-Oi I & * I * 08-16-115-018-00 10Q1-60 f 08-16-200-0 -51 108-16-055-0 100 Q8-16-115-017-QQ 08-16-050-003-00 l08- 1-70 08- * 08-16-115- BARLOW LAKE AQUATIC PLANT CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 31-24 1000-23 * -16-115-012-00 125-199-QQ IQ8-16-045-003-50 108-16-055-011-00 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP Mike Cunningham, Clerk 284 N. Briggs Road Middleville, Ml 49333 * * -16-115-005- -008-00 108-16-008-042- 08-16-200-021-00 08-16-125-039-00 08-16-055-002-00 08-16-115-003-00 08-16-125-041-00 08-16-055-002-02 08-16-115-004-00 Io8-16-125-042-00 08-16-125-006-00 108-16-008-036-40 08-16-125-167-00 08-16-125-036-00 5-001-10 108-16-115-002-00 * 1027-00 * -018-00 08-16-055-044-00 08-16-125-037-00 08-16-200-007-00 Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary, reasonable auxiliary aids andservices ____ at the meeting to individuals with disabilities upon seven (7) days' notice to the Yankee Springs Township Clerk. * J * 4 �J J k www.sunandnews.com ♦ -------------------------- ------------- - ------------ the sun and news ~--------------------- —_______ -______________ o . Saturday, August 3, 2024 13 ^Sencies respond to manure spill at Swisslane Farms in Alto ♦ ♦ >k JAYSON BUSSA *v < *• * K 4 Hd 'r cw * , fc________ '/frr*?«** o 4- <* .*-**-*«• 9 c I < *• oJ •*’ -x~ ~- J 7 'W « C -^fe* 1 -9 •' •>.X S-x > — K <»• *- i « -x— vA •*^ ' r- t <1 *9 .< V . « manure spill stemming from Swisslane FarmQ in Aitn , ^wissiane harms in Alto last week prompted a response from EGLE and the DNR. J- Photo by Jayson Bussa a> S or s N Payne Lake Rd ass R une R^ ol alley >I < IP K 4^ $ I rr R Shaw Lake Rd iii/ - ' Laham Ln Dr "O or n TO BARLOW LAKE a> c •oor I <» i 1 o> o> ’CX z z Badow Lake Rd t-J TO e rSi t xkX a ■^1 <C col iFriendship Ct Bowens Mill Rd re Ite- o I LL. Q CD |to 4^ 111 ■I qJ T3 Si or ©7— 6/27/2024 Barlow Lake Aquatic Plant Control Special Assessment District BARRY COUNTY. MICHIGAN Yankee Springs Township e ThJs map Is neither a legally recorded map nor a survey and is not intended to be used as such. The Information on Barry County maps is distributed and transmitted 'as is' without warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied, including without limitations, wananties of title or implied warranties of merchantability or fitr^ess tor a particular purpose. Barry County does not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, or completeness of the information on this map N Barry County Land Information Services Editor Representatives from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and the Department of Natural Resources vis­ ited the area last week when a manure spill stemming from Swisslane Farms in Alto was detected. On the afternoon of Friday,------------------------July 26, EGLE released an announce­ ment saying that they, along with the DNR, had responded to a manure spill that originated from “a malfunc­ tioning valve at Swisslane Farms, into Tyler Creek near Alto.” Swisslane Farms is located in Bowne Township, just outside of Barry County. Also in the announcement, EGLE stated that it had alerted the owners of nearby Tyler Creek Golf Course and Campground, who, in turn, advised campers to avoid contact with the creek as water samples were taken and analyzed. The state organizations also informed the Kent County Health Department of the effort. This week, EGLE detailed the severity of the spill, which turned out to be only relatively minor. “A walking survey downstream indicated limited impact to aquatic life one dead trout observed along with some dead crayfish and cad disflies,” Hugh McDiarmid Jr., com­ munications manager for EGLE, told The Banner. McDiarmid also said that testing downstream showed that the stan­ dard for body contact for E.coli was exceeded. “Swisslane contained the release, soaked up the remaining liquid with sawdust and removed impacted topsoil,” McDiarmid explained. “Staff from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) were on-site during the cleanup. No problems were reported to EGLE.” The farm is currently compiling a report to submit to EGLE. After that report and finalization of the inves­ tigation, determinations on potential fines or penalties will be made. Members of Swisslane Farms did not respond to a request for comment. I 4 'M ■ I, ! I t �i t » >4 1 f• 4 ♦i — 9 14 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 3, 2024 Freeport celebrates 150 years at annual Homecoming ♦ ♦ ♦ BRED BREMER ♦ www.sunanclnews.com WF'- 7 * *'t4 t I •.I I ( 4 0* I <f I Ji iW:' .i •w 4. T f l>w« * ! •k? I 44- . i I :-W I * : •%*<“ » / r* i: rj r } V ** 5»**i- f I ( -?■ See 150 YEARS on 16 -Tt Ml** / wX A The 2020 Decennial Census put the Village of Freeport at 542 residents, the largest recorded census population since it was founded and the first time the census topped 500 residents since the 1970 census. It’s a big leap from the village’s first recorded total of 166 in the 1880 cen­ sus after being established as a com­ munity in 1874. Freeport celebrated 150 years dur­ ing its annual Homecoming Saturday, July 27. At least that many people traversed the downtown streets for the annual celebration which included the annual Car Show, Turtle Derby, Kiddy Car Show, a Fireman’s Breakfast, swap meet, a Comhole Tournament hosted by L&J’s and a Horseshoe Toumament hosted by the Shamrock, live musics, youth activities like bounce houses and rock climbing and more. • X r J Sports Editor I'J'rTTr IL"-- I ' V 1‘ «• i I . • ?«*4 1 . 5^ . < n r J 2^^ ,av K •k *. •( 1 I* * 7 L‘ . 'r« ^1 i n *• * 1^0“ fc 1 Classic vehicles line Division Street for the Freeport Homecoming Car Show Saturday, July 27. Freeport celebrated 150 years at the annual celebration. « < r » * ' SHAMfWt' TAveRM: * • » ■ . I t t *V •* I Jl il Tr * e z >% 3: •* r 1 g •X a* ft « . .LW.' ► P* A ?*** 4 -**•!•*. M t I f I v** • ifazidB e, I I i A r M w fI :s 1 Addy Mullen accepts her championship plaque at the end of the Turtle Derby outside Blough Automotive in downtown Freeport Saturday, July 27, during the Annual Freeport Homecoming. - 1f V r »S^ i I t ■'.•'A • t*-’; 6 ims? > an^ —I i. I. <4 1 * A. -* s. y 5 3^ h % *>» Photo by Brett Bremer r /IflBla I X Sr. • •‘’t Lt <* GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP i 1 X ) I. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: A tentative preliminary plat featuring 25 single-family dwellings for Phase 1 of Alexander Trails, a Planned Unit Development. Property Address: 2701 76th Street, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-10-300-009 Applicant: Henry Rodriguez gets a boost from Mike Hiemstra in placing his little Dodge Challenger on the replica of downtown Freeport for the Kiddy Car Show along Division Street Saturday, July 27, at the annual Freeport Homecoming. Photo by Brett Bremer MILLAGE ^0 Michael McGraw, Signature Land Development Corp. Date and Time of Hearing: August 22nd, 2024, at 7.00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. In order to be entered into the public written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on August 22nd, Persons- ...... with disabilities needing special accommodations should iiocuiiiy t>peuicii accommoaaTions snould contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility. visual or any other assistance. COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the June 25, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on July 9. 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villa qeofmiddleville.org. -**■ <» ♦ Continued from Page 6 Without the millage, there is no fire department. The township would have to come up with another plan of some sort,” Richardson said. The ^omapple department has 42 members, including seven full-time firefighters. It also handles medical emergency calls in the township as part as the western portion of Irving Township, In addition to the fire services tax proposal, town ship residents will see candidates for the Republican nomination to the township board. Supervisor Eric Schaefer is running unopposed, as is Treasurer Laura Bouchard and Clerk Cindy Ordway. Incumbent trustees Curt Campbell, Ross DeMaagd and Sandy Rairigh are joined on the GOP primary ballot by David Stanton for four available four-year terms. Incumbent IGm Selleck is running as an independent trustee candidate in November. ■* ^•!i4 /..rar I k M % L • 5^u.j£jiA£ '.-t c'. �Ct^ I I I * ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS J Saturday. August 3, 2024 I 15 ♦ ♦ Sporting News w MtW 'f 4 VC 4': I 2!^" Eagles get last second sprint for bronze DntI I DntiVitn It was a sprint they won’t ever forget. USA back Alex “Spiff” Sedrick juked through the grasp of Australian forward Shami Smale and barreled over Teagan Levi all in the shadow of the Americans’ own goalposts. At that point, all that stood between Sedrick and a match-tying try was about 80 meters of Stade de France grass. The second half clock ticked past 0:00 as she crossed the midfield line and her smile grew as she neared ±e goal line with Australian star Maddison Levi running out of time to keep closing the gap between them. The sprint ended with Sedrick diving in for the try that evened the Women’s Rugby Sevens Bronze Medal match at the 2024 Paris Olympics at 12-12. Anxious teammates like Caledonia native Alena Olsen and US Army Captain Sammy Sullivan looked on from the sideline as Sedrick, with the team’s top kickers all having been subbed out, booted the conversion through the goalposts herself to clinch the 14-12 victory for the Eagles evening earning the USA its first-ever women’s or men’s Rugby Sevens medal. An emotional Olsen told reporters in the immediate aftermath of the match, “I don’t what just happened. It doesn’t seem real. We knew we could do it. I’m sorry. I have nothing. We just did it. That’s it. Moment by moment we took it and all our values shined through. We just defied the odds I guess.” “I just never through I would get a bronze medal,” she said fighting back tears. “The doubt that creeps into your head in a competition is so strong. You don’t want to put yourself out there, but we put ourselves out there for heartbreak. But that is the only way you can get joy like this, get the success like this is if you also put your heart out there to be broken.” The Eagles went 2-1 in pool play at the Olympic games, defeating Japan _ See ______ ___________ V A I * ♦ ■w»*» * « » t f IW 9^^ r XlTBT? Bn B iTB — J CS^ I I * ' 1 k iUmfM BCl hitctni ♦ 2PI * A UHl! ts(Yu ft r /♦ ’V^ t- 4 I vv 1 t :< V s .4' T▼ t Av k«^- YA \ vX % K* » r ■ r* 1 t • < I f B B » I k -c s . c I I *' % < * ft » i-. A A k e <• • -Av 1 A it Lh 1 1* y- ' k « J VI IL w* P^TL ./ I . r; I « r. ► ,l< 9, J J J -y 4 A hf * IB s w ^jBSK: A , iv .•*k /f * A Vir T •— T’ ■£ k ► 4M 1?^ ► c 4 9 * > I > 4 • i X* J ^4 4U ••'. f ' •‘.V .5t I r 4 ( i 9^WW« I I r I ft * J **' t The USA Women’s Rugby Sevens team, including Caledonia native Alena Olsen (front, second from left) celebrates with its bronze: medals in the Stade de France following their third-place finish at the 2024 Paris Olympics Tuesday evening. The Americans were 2-1 in pool play, beat Great Britain Vi ^0 in the quarterfinals, fell to the eventual vi^ gold medalists from COUNCIL New Zealand in the REGULAR semifinals, and then MEETING beat Australia in MINUTES the Bronze Medal Match at the threeThe minutes of the July 2024 day tournament. The 9, Regular Council Meeting, which last time Americans were approved on July won Olympic rugby 23, 2024, are posted at medals was in 15s the Village Hall at 100 competition at the E Main Street and on 1924 Paris Olympics the website at www. 100 years ago. USA villaqeofmiddleville.orQ. < “• I J □ w □ •I I las □ k I « p I, I I fl k ) I ft L fl 1 I' • M ' fl •l Jl •• • ■J “ft '*w '> •>• I » •t a ' Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! 4.i li I * « « V > ' 1' .. JB.. A r Simply Perfect . *I fl I s • A i • T WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. • fl (* PRINTrNG BY I vvww.printingbypennylane.com gin3d@pennylaneprinting.com �> t f Division Street (aka Main Street) was filled with full-size Car Show specta­ tors throughout the morning. The show included a special honor for Donald J. Dutcher, who passed away two days before the Homecoming event His metallic blue 1970 Ford Mach 1 150 YEARS Continued from Page 14 ♦ ♦ Chicken “poop” bingo raised funds for Freeport Goodworks with one com­ petitor each round really hoping for the caged chicken to take a number two on the number two on the game board even if it took some coaxing from blue­ berries or a little chicken feed. Y oungsters cheered on their painted turtles in the Turtle Derby outside Blough Automotive with youth also getting the chance to help paint Volkswagen Beetles across the street. Addy Mullen took the Turtle Derby championship, urged on by her grand mother, in her first ever turtle derby competition. She found the perfect combination of a fast turtle, a sunny spot and a loud yell while bouncing her green bucket on the driveway cement “as hard as I could..” More than 60 youngsters took part in the Turtle Derby heats. Soon after the Turtle Derby was completed organizers had to stop tak­ ing entries for the Kiddy Car Show as Matchbox, Hot Wheels and other small vehicles had filled the model Main Street near the Homecoming stage. ♦ ♦ I / THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 3, 2024 16 Mustang sat just outside the doors of the Village Hardware and Supply. “Don had a love for classic cars,” reads his obituary. “His 1970 Mach One was not just a vehicle but a piece of history that he cherished and loved showing at car shows. His enthusiasm EAGLES •» Continued from Page 15 V: I I < 1 « ■■ •* 9• TP' V r * » • < •I• 1 .. •TP' . “I • b ) r I a I I« Li « b !• s ts I aJ 7 I f •» kt 4 J ! Kt Youngsters urge a chicken to do its business on their square in the chicken “poop” bingo contest at Freeport Homecoming Saturday, July 27. Photo by Brett Bremer p6-7) and Brazil (24-5) before fall­ ing to the host team from France (31-14). Team USA bounced back from the loss to the French Monday by opening the knockout rounds with a 17-7 quarterfinal win over Great Britain. Back on the field Tuesday, the Americans were bested by defending gold medalists from New Zealand 24-12 in the semifinals. New Zealand went on to win its second consecutive Olympic competition by outscoring Canada 19-12 in the Gold Medal Match Tuesday evening. Canada won the silver thanks to a 21 -12 upset of the Australians in their semifinal contest Monday eve­ ning. Australia beat New Zealand in the Gold Medal Match at the 2016 games in Rio de Janeiro in what was Rugby Sevens inau gural appearance in the Olympic Games. The United States win over Australia in the Bronze Medal Match was considered by many a fairly significant upset as well. We say in rugby a lot that we want to pass the jersey (to the next generation),” Team USA star Ilona Maher said on her Instagram page following the medal win. “I think today we really made the jersey better so that other young girls can grow up wanting to play rugby.” The United States and Australia were tied 7-7 at the half of thenBronze Medal Match. Maddison Levi scored a try 65 sec­ onds in and the conversion from Tia Hinds had the Aussies in front 7-0. It was a lead that held up through much of the first half until Alev Kelter scored for the US at the 5:59 mark and followed up with a con­ version kick that evened the score. Olsen started the match at scrum half for the Americans. Steph Rovetti came on for her two and a half minutes into the second half as both ^4 FAMILY TAVERN CRUISE NIGHT LOCATED ON CALEDONIA'S MAIN ST AUGUST7TH I \ *■4*1 **«4,*r A 5:30 ((QC I r;l J K <• 4 u- * < J * y k r % 4 _■ Ir The Village of Caledonia Fox Cheverolet Caledonia IT Solutions BK Motor Sales Cal Wear on Main Frontier Heating & Cooling Yoga Zen Inspiring Home Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce <4 I f BROUGHT TO YOU BY .4 t :30PM PAYMENT REQUIRED FOR FOOD VENDORS Family Tavern Brink's Ice Cream Express Caledonia Hair Company Buer Well Drilling Alpine Events Caledonia Farmers Elevator * * / A. ( i t . for Harley-Davidson motorcycles was equally evident, as he was an avid rider who found freedom and j oy on the open road. Posters on the windshield remem bered Dutcher as a loving spouse, father and grandfather, “a great man.” □ TASTE OF CALEDONIA 7^ f www.sunandnews.com Oli / k / M • < ** A p 4 T < 4 4 / teams really began rolling through their replacements. The Australians had just ben penalized for a high tackle on Olsen which gave the Eagles a solid field position boost. but die U SA women remained play ing most of the second halfback on their own half of the field. The Australians won a scrum started by the Americans with 1:41 remaining on the clock and put a charge towards the Americans byline 25 meters ahead. Teagan Levi gave a quick restart and raced towards the right comer of the pitch. She flipped the ball to her sister Maddison Levi as the American defense closed in and Maddison put Australia in the lead 5:35 into the second half with her second try of the match. This time though, Hinds’ conversion from out wide was missed leaving the U.S. the opening to win without going to extra time. Australia kicked deep. Eventually Maher was taken down with the ball in the center of the field 10 meters from her own try line as the clock went under 15 seconds. Ariana Ramsey picked up the ball for the Americans and pitched it back to her right to Sedrick who started her medal-winning run. That’s my roommate!” shouted Olsen after the match. The replacements were out on the field as Sednek kicked her conver­ sion. Soon Olsen was leaping on top of a scrum that included Sedrick, Rovetti, Kristi Kirshe and captain Lauren Doyle in front of a stadium filled with around 66,000 rugby and Olympic fans. Rugby 15s was played at four Olympic Games, in 1900, 1908 1920 and 1924, The United States men won gold in 1920 and 1924, So, when Olsen and the Eagles had their bronze medals placed around their necks late Tuesday evening it was the first time any Americans had won an Olympic medal in rugby since those games 100 years ago also in Paris, 64 9 CM r>s. I "TT rx. I o ■ O z z QC o, O£ U. co <D _C (X 9 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-08-10.pdf 456d6e8e0c764380fef647d87f5cab4b PDF Text Text 4 « t f «* r a 41 t k f > t I 4 7 K w- f t J A t t 1^ % t ! / I « t f if f •' > I z « > r f 4 4 * I * * t < t A t I C» I > t 5 k J A. I* 9 • 1 T « *■ r f B 1 , Ai r .r I AND NEWS the SUN J Your Home:o • 9 r> J Newspaper Serving the Middleville. Caledonia and Games Township Areas TUITION-FREE GUARANTEED * J kellogg.edu/ccg f’'- k ? "*1 NO. 18 •■st* A ' '* :■ I SATURDAY, AUGUST 10, 2024 www.sunandnews.com :r COOL CARS AND HOT EATS; Caledonia holds Celebration on Main JAYSON BUSSA Caledonia, filling a void left behind when after the on-again, ofiF-again Western Week didn’t take place this year. Celebration on Main brought together two universally loved elements food and cars. The Caledonia Family Tavern held a Editor Hundreds of people flocked to down­ town Caledonia on Wednesday evening to celebrate a newly minted event. Dubbed Celebration on Main, the event was a collaboration between a handftd of local businesses and the Village of r 5 ' 4 W* i r* • ? *• e ’»• 7 ' ‘'rrA.h^*'. Xa.-- 'A. a. 'V A VCfM4 I ■b«* _ •l f ( •« gr»| *> •t •-p * >. <x - - . < « I, 5| ' « I -*i ■ ■ » > R ♦ r: 4 A . 4 T K .. 1 > 9 «J^' , »• «a< *• 9 A a MT • f -1 9 .«. >•. See CELEBRATION on 3 Li: r * r 1. *1 i4 I >A -N*’ rv i ♦ (Left) Caledonia Township Fire Department set up a hose to allow kids to cool down during Wednesday’s Celebration on Main. s *; t 2:^ 45 A •V, V •i > ? • Ji. > A. A stretch of Main Street through downtown Caledonia was blocked off on Wednesday evening as the village hosted the first ever Celebration on Main. (Photos by Jayson Bussa) "r School board to consider CHS dean, new positions at Monday meeting GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer The Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education is expected to decide Monday night whether to replace the cur­ rent dean of students position at Caledonia High School wi± an assistant principal position. The school board is expected to consider the change, as well as a recommendation to add seven new positions to address r I academics and security, when it meets at 6 p.m. in the board­ room of the district’s adminis­ trative offices, 8948 Kraft Ave. SE. The CHS dean of students posi­ tion had been slated for elimina­ tion under thedistrict’s 2024-25 budget, but the board voted in June to retain the position pend­ ing further board review. Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer first proposed replacing the dean of students with an assistant principal last month, then went into greater detail on the proposed change at a special board meeting Aug. 1. He proposed the assistant princi­ !■ pal position in response to new 2K' state requirements for evaluating teachers. “Among other things, (it) really lengthened the time that each The Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education evaluation observation must take. is expected to make some personnel decisions during See DEAN on 2 an upcoming meeting on Monday. Photo provided I > ■> ♦-d ' J y ■ k 4 *«b U I'l (• r k ■.^- ■> . i* •5-*3. 7 X. * Al k A b > *• . «4 aMMI-ia I k 4O» I - '^a Li For high school students wh(Msi. graduated in 2023 or later * jr.— *v 1b FU >• kellogg.edu/cc I;"r; ■’> > 1 t/ J s ■ © j? “1 a I \bb>* I LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COMMUNITY COLLEGE GUARANTEE AT OKxoaod see# iiLUJsd 8e88^ 1^ ‘ailiAuasjQ aivd aovisod s n □IS isyd rii ir/' A. SSMU33 8E88fr in aiiiAuaajg V ► i; V'b iAiAft k* •^4. jC, •V * • ? r. N r •1 *1 w .« Naa3 usNOisno iviiN^Qisau ' 'h 1 ••• 4& -L . JJLz* I WL «aAdA « “-1 ' ♦ 3* i k *> *1 s I < * it 1 2 I ( •f A 1 > I r- ri I’ • .T:- • ri • vjr I •4 4' 9 » I p“» M ri b— 4 I •t A 4 J ■ I® ,1 ••V 1 ri •"ol • r ♦ f » .•\ ■T Sfc^ b ;.* zjQ -—1 ■<r‘ > *•• > . «. ?i •-.• b T* . .J . J c A ri« t V *> ri •X‘ A. J / J* •a ri L.*-i .* s > iri Y-f �JI A * > 4 A $ / I k www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 10, 2024 DEA^I Continued from Page 1 There are a host of other details associated with each of the evalu­ ation processes,” Weeldreyer said. “That puts an additional strain on our administration.” “Right now at the high school, we have four administrative positions, three of which carry the label of prin cipal, which means they are able to evaluate. We have one that does not, and that’s the current dean of students position,” the superintendent added. If approved, the new assistant prin­ cipal job would be posted and open to anyone to apply, Weeldreyer said. “By doing so, it is our hope that we are then able to provide more flexibility within the administrative ranks for our staff at the high school, Weeldreyer said. CCS established the dean of stu­ dents position at the high school in 2021. According to the job descrip­ tion, the dean “will support efforts to improve student achievement, behav ior, attendance/truancy and enforce school policies and procedures while creating and maintaining a safe and welcoming environment at CHS. In addition, the dean of students will organize, manage and supervise extra curricular programs and activities.” The dean of students position is currently held by Derek Pennington, who is also the varsity football coach at CHS. District residents on both sides have sounded off on whether the posi tion should stay or go. One resident last month criticized the position as “a poor use of money” and said ♦ • • OB GO ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM * 1 f I 2 « Pennington had not performed accord­ ing to the criteria listed in the job description. But at the Aug. 1 board meeting, several residents backed Pennington and retaining the position. “If you want to look at job descrip­ tions and see what job descriptions do, I suggest maybe the board look at every person that’s employed by Caledonia (Schools) and rewrite their job description,” Andy Backus told the board.“My sons have had excel­ lent teachers that do a lot more than what their job description says. So if we’re going to look at job descrip­ tions and decide whether someone should have a title, based on what is said or not said in the job description, I think that’s wrong.” While not mentioning Pennington by name, Weeldreyer said that if the dean of students job was eliminated at Monday’s meeting, he is still under contract and will have a position with­ in the district. “Any administrative staff is on an administrative contract. Their contract is their contract, so we are obligated to pay them. We will have a position for him,” the superintendent said. Weeldreyer proposed creating five intervention paraprofessional jobs, one at each of CCS’ five elementary buildings. Each of the parapros would work a 27.5-hour schedule per week, he said. It is our belief that by having these positions back, this will assist our staff in providing additional inter­ vention resources for our students,” Weeldreyer said. The district eliminated more than two dozen positions when it passed the 2024-25 budget in June, many of them intervention paraprofessionals whose salaries had been paid through federal COVID relief funds that are expiring this fall. The new paraprofessional jobs would be less expensive than the positions 44 that were eliminated in June, because the prior positions were held by fully certified individuals, Weeldreyer said. In addition, the superintendent pro­ posed adding five hours per week to 14 parapro positions serving in special education classrooms in specific cate­ gories across the district, such as emo­ tionally impaired. It would increase their schedule to 32.5 hours per week and allow the people holding those jobs eligible for health care benefits, Weeldreyer said. “That has been a challenge to staff (those positions), and has caused stress on the system and stress on services ... for students who need that extra assis tance,” Weeldreyer said. “The hope here is that it will make those positions more attractive in this labor market, and encourage people to apply for those positions so that we have a fully-staffed situation,” the superintendent added. Weeldreyer also proposed establish ing a district-wide security coordi­ nator position and a safety monitor position at CHS to address security concerns. He also recommended increasing the hours for the security paraprofessional position at Kraft Meadows Intermediate School from 27.5 to 32.5 hours per week, making the person filling the job eligible for health care benefits. The proposal to add new posi tions came after the state legislature approved an education budget last month. While the district’s per-pupil foundation grant remains the same at $9,608 per student, the district will receive an additional $345 per student from the Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System for pre­ vious other post-employment benefits. District employees are required to pay 7.06 percent of their salaries into the MP SERS retirement system. Under the agreement reached by law­ makers, the state will return 5.75 per- cent of the 7.06 percent contribution, Weeldreyer said. “That’s because the liability, that past expense, is now more than fully funded,” Weeldreyer said. The district will receive $456,214 in additional revenue as a result of the state’s action, Weeldreyer said. The board approved about $2.3 mil­ lion in spending cuts in June after district officials projected a $4.7 mil­ lion deficit in the 2024-25 budget. The proposed security positions would add $193,330 to the district’s expenses, while the additions for elementary intervention parapros would result in another $ 120,960 in spending. Replacing the dean of students posi­ tion with an assistant principal at CHS would add $ 10,031 in expenditures, Weeldreyer said. If the board approves the new posi tions, the expected budget shortfall for the 2024-25 fiscal year would be $1,783,948, reducing the district’s gen eral fund reserves to $8,593,192, rep­ resenting 11.9 percent of the district’s expenditures. However, that general fund balance number could improve based on the outcome of the district’s audit for the 2023-24 school year. We have a good idea (of what our final expenses will be), but there are definitely still some unknowns. We tty to have it as tight as possible. We do know quite a bit, but we don’t know everything yet,” district Chief Financial Officer Sara DeVries said. The school board has had a long­ standing policy of maintaining a gen eral fund balance of 13 percent. The board normally meets the third Monday of the month, but this month’s meeting was moved up to the second Monday to address any issues that might arise before classes begin in the district Aug. 19, board President Marcy White said. * 44 THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Mi 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 • www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US Editor: Jayson Bussa SiiJJaJjjI *'••• a * -F MJ ♦ fc 1 1 > jayson@j-acfgraphics.com brett@j-adgraphics.com ads@j-adgraphics.com Group Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer Advertising: PUBLISHED BY PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER, Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser's order. �A.* 77 .* **. 4 r>’•; f r r X ’f '»’•'J r www.sunandnews.com .Ml . .y>/' $ - w* * *. * n « V A t tn ■> 1 '■ f •» * * A / 9 •0 r. 'J s". k .'< t . / C5‘ ’•y 4 4 / < I f X r R THE SUN AND NEWS >> Saturday, August 10, 2024 */' ' £ » *•? ™ >1 'Sit \ 1 ’W . 54 •I 9 I » <*x z I •< •* b I*. V r .. i’C 4 r < fe -4 4 I >5* * ' > • < .* -1 ^1 If J r • 1^' \ V K 1” h' Ic if, wri '■ we < .. *1 % I*' r L OTE i r f* 1 ofliT f->/ / V 5* Xr ♦T K I I? ;.i \ as r I' «! r - - _A / 3r5 (• V .-4AA .-A' /■ V A \ 1 The Easy Idle String Band set up in front of the Caledonia Farmer’s Elevator and performed music during Wednesday’s Celebration on Main event in downtown Caledonia. CELEBRATION t f if Continued from Page 1 ( X ' !. * *1^ t * *«* - A <-/•' V V ( ' 2/i8y Sbipg )* K K 1 e e * w J II il z "esE /A TfJ f » ii f", ’:r !f'. S3 P ’<K «i a * < V rrt « % < FA >. 5^ Tuesday was election day for this year’s primary election. Voters made their way to local polling stations across the area, including here at Thornapple Township Hall. (Photo by Brett Bremer) Thornapple Twp. voters approve combined fire service levy GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Any concerns of potential voter confusion about changing from two separate millage levies to a single tax for fire protection and emergency ser­ vices in Thomapple Township proved to be unfounded Tuesday, as township voters passed a six-year, 2.25-mill levy. With 29 percent of ±e township’s registered voters going to ±e polls, the new combined fire service millage was approved wi± 61 percent support - 1 ,'2.1'^ votes to 806 no. The proposal received at least 60 percent support in all three township precincts. The new levy, which goes into effect this year and will run through 2029, will generate $993,565 in its first year, according to the ballot language. Seventy percent of the revenues from the tax will go to fire services, 20 percent will go to ambulance and 10 percent to capital improvements, according to recent Township Board meeting minutes. “We’re excited to be able to contin­ ue to serve the community,” Township Fire Chief Bill Richardson said. “This will allow us to maintain operations as we have and maintain the service level that the community has come to appreciate.” b < A« » C I % A / ;; 1 * 4 % vp i . M > jf f r: s I KJ I t* ? . * • “We’re happy the citizens see the value of our operations,” Richardson added. Richardson said prior to the elec­ tion ±at he had received some calls from residents complaining about the proposal, thinking that it was an addi­ tion to the already existing millage. He explained that this was a replace­ ment for the two prior separate levies, which were expiring this year. In Augi^t 2020, voters passed a 1.7169-mill renewal for fire protection and emergency services for four years, including funding to help pay for the purchase of fire and emergency equip­ ment. That measure passed 1,151 -469. That levy had since been rolled back to 1.6742 mills because of the Headlee amendment. In 2022, Thomapple voters narrow­ ly approved an additional 0.5662 mills for emergency services by 93 votes — 1,006 yes to 913 no. That tax has since been rolled back by the Headlee amendment to its current level of 0.5629 mills. The passage of the new fire and emergency services levy comes at a time when the fire department is as busy as ever. The department saw an 18 percent spike in the number of calls it responded to last year, to 1,848 calls, according to its armual report. cruise-in car show in its parking lot, spilling out down Main Street, which was blocked off for the event. The show brought together everything from classic hot rods to a Tesla Cybertruck, which pass­ ersby paid special attention to. Celebration on Main was also host to the return of A Taste of Caledonia, which had been part of Western Week. Local restaurants and eateries — from chains like Jet’s Pizza and Biggby Coffee to local restaurants and food trucks like Butcher Block Social and Saladino Smoke were serving up food on an evening that was accompanied by the perfect weather. The first installment of Celebration on Main was meant to be a pilot of sorts, and depending on the turnout, organizers said they may bring it back for future years. t FESTIVAL Allegan County Fairgrounds 150 Douglas Ave, Allegan Ml 49010 August 16 - 18, 2024 -118 Vendors with Yarn, Fiber, Equipment & Handcrafted Items-Great Christmas Gifts! -Drop-in & Registered Workshops Fiber Arts Demonstrations M* -Animal Shows, Farm Booths & Demos (Sat & Sun) Mid-West’s Largest Fiber Festival! Friday & Saturday 10-5; Sunday 10-4 Admission: $5/person, Kids 14 & under FREE Sunday Special: $5/car Details at: www.michiganfiberfestival.info 3 A �r t V 4 t A 9 0 ; $ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 10, 2024 4 s * .V J 4 tl .A A www.sunandnews.com Public safety millage renewal easily passes in Caledonia Twp. Scott Siler said. “We strive to exceed standards, and we’ll continue to pro vide the best fire and medical protec­ tion to our community.” Funding from the tax goes to sup­ port both the Caledonia Township Fire Department and law enforce­ ment services from the Kent County Sheriffs Office. The levy is expected to generate $2,056,398 in its first year, of which $400,000 will go to the sher­ iffs office. The funding for the sher­ iffs office helps to pay for the school Support for renewing the public safety levy was widespread across all six precincts in the township, including three where at least 80 percent of voters cast “yes” ballots. The largest support came in Precinct 1, where 85.9 percent of those casting ballots voted “yes.” Precinct 4 showed the weakest level of support, but the tax was still approved by 71.7 percent of voters. “We’re very thankful to the commu­ nity for their continued support of our fire department,” Township Fire Chief GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Caledonia Township voters Tuesday overwhelmingly approved a renewal of the township’s public safety millage for the next six years. More than 78 percent of the vot­ ers who turned out for the election approved the 1.9236-mill levy that goes into effect with the December tax bill later this year and will continue through 2029. A total of 2,983 voters cast “yes” ballots to 822 that voted “no.” LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY I •a Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch 11 . 1 Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship BAPTIST Nliddleville A A * service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 Caledonial_JMC.org Livestfeam: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUniicdMethodist Strengthening Serving Connecting Good Shepherd ’ Lutheran Church oc 00 !• 908 W Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http:/igoodshepherdlcms.googlepages. com Church: (269) 795-2391 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. PEACECHURCH.ee @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledoniax)rg —f Watch our services from our website (see above) CHURCH ■ - I i‘* ONE CHURCH - TWO LOCATIONS CALEDONIA: LEARN MORE! 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE thejchurch.com MIDDLEVILLE: 616-217-2161 1664 M-37 @thejchurch THORNAPPLE VALLEY BIRTHDAY ANNOUNCEMENT MIDDLEVILLE Barbara (Willyard) Velthouse to celebrate 90th birthday CHURCH SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml ! www.tvcweb.com 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 Praising Cod through Hymns • Reading Cod’s Word • Special Music Sunday Worship OURNEY Fellowship Church 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org .9:30 AM 10:30 AM Livestream; facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleviHe Yankee Springs Bible Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"^ 8148*^ Sunday School < Whitneyville 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto Pastorjonathan DeCou 7 t ' MH s O HOLY FAMILY J/CATHOLIC CHURCH CHURCH Church tit 7 Jki FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 MPEACE Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee « Sunday Service 10:30 AM Worship Services Sunday 10 am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online; VVhitneyvilleFellowshlp.org resource officers for Caledonia Community Schools, Township Manager Alison Nugent said prior to the election. The owner of a $300,000 home with a taxable value of $150,000 will pay $289 annually for public safety services under the renewed levy, while the owner of a $325,000 home with a taxable value of $162,500 will pay $312.59 per year, Nugent said. Township voters in 2018 passed a six-year, 1.993-mill public safety tax, an increase from the previous levy of 1.5 mills, with 70 percent of vot ers supporting the proposal. Since its passage, it had been rolled back to its current level of 1.9236 mills by the Headlee Amendment. The passage of the public safety millage renewal comes as the Caledonia Township Fire Department sees an increasing number of calls for service. The department saw a 2.3 percent increase last year in calls to 1,219, with about 75 percent of calls being for medical emergencies. Meanwhile, the seven incum bent members of the Township Board ran unopposed for four-year terms in Tuesday’s election on the Republican Party ballot. Supervisor Bryan Harrison will retain the office he has held since 2000. Also run­ ning unopposed were Clerk Joni Henry, Treasurer Richard Robertson and trustees Tim Bradshaw, Dale Hermenet, Richard Snoeyink and Greg Zoller. "Shining Forth God's Light'' Sunday Morning Worship....................... 10:00 a.m. Community Group............................ 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org Please join us for a 90th Birthday Celebration/Open House for Bar­ bara (Willyard) Velthouse on Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024 from 1-4 p.m. at the Caledonia Community Green (9309 Dober Wenger Memorial Dr., Caledonia). i 4 I I I j I t J 4 I 1 j J J i f I i I I 1 �J 9 d I 9 9 r I ( I » A I > r < 9 k Z5 I 1 I I * 9 THE SUN AND NEWS Obituaries I s 9 Stanley Alan Nederhoed I Is 9 I M, •I I www.sunandnews.com Stanley Alan Nederhoed, age 86, of Holland, Ml, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2024 He was born on March 11,1938 to Cornelius and Nellie (Bill) Nederhoed, in Portage, Ml. After graduating from Portage High School, Stan went on to study business at Western Michigan University. After college, Stan worked as a sales manager for Superior Business Forms and continued working there for his entire working life until retiring in 1996. In 1960, while at WMU, he met Carol Green and the two were S' married the following year. Stan and Carol moved from ' Portage to Grand Rapids and went on to have three daughters. Stan was an active member of his church and served as an elder and a deacon as well as helping with Cadets and other various ministries. He also spent many active years with Bible Study Fellowship. After retiring, Stan was able to focus on his hobbies which included fishing, vegetable and flower gardening, and golfing. But his greatest joy was in being able to spend time with his grandchildren and family whom he cherished. Stan was preceded in death by his parents, Cornelius and Nellie (Bill) Nederhoed, as well as his brother, Ron (Mary) Nederhoed. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Carol (Green) Nederhoed; daughters, Deborah Nederhoed, Mary (Ariel) Guzman and Michelle (Jason) Sweers. Grandchildren include, Andrew Guzman, Aaron Guzman, Austin (Brooklynn) Sweers, Lauren (Ryan) Stephenson, Cameron (Sophie) Sweers, and Benjamin Sweers, great grandchildren, Henry Stephenson and Archer Stephenson, as well as his brother, Dennis (Kathleen) Nederhoed and sister Sharon (Nederhoed) Hannon. Stan’s family receive dfriends on Thursday, Aug. 8,2024, at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home. Stan’s funeral service was conducted Friday Aug. 9,2024 at One Church GR in Caledonia. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for his family. I I I I I I ♦t .1 » I t V 4 it V r V 9 < « I J I r < t ' Wi » 7 « Saturday, August 10, 2024 Classifieds Conrad R. “Connie” Beeler Conrad R. “Connie” Beeler passed away on August 2, 2024, at the age of 101 in Middleville, Ml. Connie was born on October 21, 1922, in Caledonia, Ml, the son of L. Russell and Adah (Klump) Beeler. Connie was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, where he served as a Pharmacist’s Mate during World War II. After his military service, he pursued his passion for mortuary science and graduated from Wayne State University. He maintained his funeral directors license for over 75 years, and took great pride in helping others during their time of need as a funeral director. Connie’s work was more than a profession: it was a calling that allowed him to provide comfort and care to countless families. He dedicated over 60 years to the family business, Beeler Funeral Home in Middleville, which he owned and operated alongside his beloved wife of 67 years, Henrietta M. (Jakubielski) Beeler, who ’ preceded him in death in 2014. His commitment to his community was evident through his involvement in various groups, including Free and Accepted Masons, Shriners, Scottish Rite, Rotary, Caledonia American Legion, and Wayland VFW. Connie’s love for the outdoors was unparalleled. An avid hunter, he looked forward to his annual black bear hunting trips to Ontario, Canada. Connie also enjoyed deer hunting, a passion that never waned, even as he passed the century mark. His farm was a source of solace and joy, where he enjoyed spending time and creating memories with his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love and strength. Surviving are his devoted daughter, Sharon (Walt) Jalowiecz, and his son, Conrad W. (Diane) Beeler. His grandchildren, Jason, Brandon (Brittney), Conrad Russell (Amanda), Rachel, Aubrey (James), Kyle, and Courtney, along with his great­ grandchildren, Isiah, Blaire, Bear, Briggs, Theodore, Conrad, Otis, Georgina, and one on the way, will fondly remember their grandfather’s guiding presence and unwavering support. Several nieces and nephews also survive. His life was enriched by the companionship and care of his special friend, Rosamond Herzbrun, who stood by him with kindness and dedication. Connie was also predeceased by his parents, and his sister, Betty Beeler. Connie’s family will receive friends at Beeler Funeral Home, Middleville where his funeral service was conducted on Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024 with Jody Pratt. Connie was laid to rest next to his wife at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions to Friends of Rolling Rock Ranch Corp., C/0 Tracy Pyles, 7585 Herrington Ave. NE, Belmont, Ml 49306 will be appreciated Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Connie’s family. MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 The Aug. 5 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. One fish fell out of the fishbowl. Virginia’s program was titled “In the Moment: Mindfulness Training.’’ A “DASH” diet encourages eating fruit, vegetables and whole grains, avoiding saturated fats. Mindfulness is the prac­ tice of focusing on the present moment. You are more aware of what is going on inside and around you when being mindful. Mindfulness training includes yoga, meditation, and self-awareness. Increasing physical activity and taking blood pressure medication helps lower blood pressure. A study of 200 volun­ teers with high blood pressure took part in a training. Half were treated with their normal blood pressure meds, and the other half did mindfulness train­ ing and followed the DASH diet. After 6 months, the group on mindfulness training had a big drop in blood pres­ sure and were very aware of their body signals. The diet makes heart-healthy changes that lower blood pressure and reduce the risk for cardiovascular dis­ ease. Maryellen was the biggest loser for the month of July. GARAGE SALE GARAGE SALE: 6312 S. M-99 Hwy, Nashville. Thursday, Friday Saturday, August 15, 16, 17th. 8am-3pm. Tools, lamps, hutch, pie safe, wall table. Many household items. BUSINESS SERVICES BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Paying Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diameter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. In­ sured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. HELP WANTED ANIMAL CARE/KENNEL ASSIS­ TANT: Seeking part time help (1015 hours/week) for a private show dog kennel. Responsibilities will include cleaning kennels, feeding/ walking dogs and other daily care. Flexible working around school/ sports schedules, weekends/occasional holidays will be required. Will train on all tasks! Pay is competi­ tive with other entry level jobs. Lo­ cated south of Middleville. Please contact by email, kaybelter@gmail. com or text 616-808-6460. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. 5 �s / y 6 * 7 1 W J 4 L • -V « If 4 * * ♦ A «■ I #• ■ C- < < »• * J \ A- r i 4 **• V > s«- z i * 4 •> A* I s* V 4 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 10, 2024 After debate, Gun Lake board moves ahead with herbicide treatment program also includes the drain commission­ ers from both counties, one repre­ sentative from each county board and a representative from the Gun Lake Protective Association. GLIB has come under criticism over the last couple of years from some residents who oppose the use of copper-based herbicide treatments to try to rid the lake of such invasive aquatic weeds such as Eurasian milfoil and starry stonewort. However, during public comments at Saturday’s hearing and in letters written to the board prior to the meeting, there was more support for such treatments than opposition. Sixteen property owners, either ver­ bally or by letter, expressed support for using the copper-based treat­ ments, while seven property owners were against it. Jim Sobel, one of the residents in favor of continuing the treatments, says returning to the copper-based herbicides has made “a world of difference.” He said before those GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer The Gun Lake Improvement Board will continue a 20-year-long effort to control invasive aquatic weeds on Barry County’s largest lake. The board on Saturday approved a resolution to continue efforts to manage nuisance aquatic plants in Gun Lake for the next three years, as well as monitor its water quality and manage the watershed. The 7-0 vote followed a public hearing of practicability at Gun Lake Chapel. The board also approved the assessment roll for about 1,700 par­ cels of property in four townships that surround the lake, including Yankee Springs and Orangeville townships in Barry County, to pay for the program. The nine-member board consists of appointed representatives from Yankee Springs and Orangeville townships in Barry County and from Wayland and Martin town­ ships in Allegan County. The board cornerstonechurch we re casual, come as vou are ?K- I One Church • Three Locations Caledonia | Grand Rapids | Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! □ a a a Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! /cornerstonemi o I @cornerstonemi L Mb treatments were resumed, he couldn’t fish off his dock without bringing in algae and seaweed. “For the first time ever, I saw a school of 10 largemouth bass, right never by the end of my dock seen that before,” Sobel said. “I can look at the end of my dock and I can see the bottom.” In a letter to the board. Bill Bonzheim wrote that he was “very impressed” with the results of the copper-based herbicides. “My grandchildren can once again enjoy swimming in the channel. I hope any changes made to the cur rent treatment program are met with scrutiny because we really enjoy the results of the current program, Bonzheim wrote. Doug Vrieland, a lifelong resi­ dent of Gun Lake, praised the board for its efforts to try to con­ trol invasive plants. “We live in an environment of no trust in anything governmen­ tal. I think we’ve got to get past that We have to trust. We gotta trust,” Vrieland said. “My grand­ kids can now swim the same lake I did growing up, and that’s what’s important to me. That is your mis sion, I think you’re doing it well.” GLIB in June approved a con tract to retain SOLitude Lake Management to continue treat­ ment programs on the lake through the end of 2027. However, the board changed its consulting contract away from SOLitude to PLM Lake and Land Management Corporation. The SOLitude con­ tract was approved on a 5-4 vote. PLM has not yet signed a con tract with GLIB, but would do so after Saturday’s meeting, board Chairwoman Vivian Conner of Orangeville Township said. SOLitude representative Michael Kroll gave a report explaining his company’s work at the start of Saturday’s hearing. “Invasive plant life, if (left) untreated, will overtake natives and destroy fishing structures and the property values of your area,” Kroll said. Kroll went on to explain that his company does a survey of the lake every month. uiit: 1 I I 'orship th e 2 r'-hfiS 1 "ft • W: I ness; **. ! 4 I *3 A£ vithjoyful; I 4 A- 1 < * IV a t Vh * f 4 Michael Kroll, a representative from SOLitude Lake Management, explains the company’s process of treating a lake during a meeting last Saturday. (Photos by Greg Chandler) “We inspect the shorelines for invasives and any sort of navigable issues with natives. We propose a treatment plan based off that sur­ vey to the board,” Kroll said. “The board then hears our opinions on how to go about it. The board approves the treatment. Then we’ll come back to do a treatment. Then three weeks post (treatment), we’ll do another survey of the treatment (area) and any sort of new (plant) populations that may have grown (and) do another proposal.” SOLitude also does testing of water quality, getting information on levels of phosphorous, nitrogen, dissolved oxygen, alkaline and pH levels to determine the health of the lake, Kroll said. Opponents of the treatment pro­ gram said the use of copper-based herbicides has done more harm to the lake than good. Bill Bryker, who has been publicly outspoken in his opposition to the use of copper. See GUN LAKE on 7 �J I •» 9 4 9 I 4 a a ♦ \ f k-. « % I www.sunandnews.com ♦ t t 1 % r e 1 « 4 r 4 "JT' * f 9 9 * I >• r 9 * 9 » THE SUN AND NEWS GUN LAKE ' 1 / Continued from Page 6 for aquatic plant control oversight and $10,000 for water quality moni­ toring. By comparison, this year’s board total budget was $ 190,000, including $127,500 to pay for herbicide treatments, according to board documents. To offset a portion of GLIB’s costs in its new budget, the board in June voted to use $100,000 from a certificate of deposit it has with Highpoint Community Bank. The CD had more than $173,000 left over from previous treatment programs, according to board docu­ ments. Only four objections were raised for assessments to pay for the GLIB improvement project during the hearing to set the assessment roll. Residential property owners with lots that are on the lake will pay $133.45 each year for the next three years, with residential back lot property owners will be assessed $66.67 annually for the three-year period. Commercial marinas and commercial waterfront properties will each be assessed $266.90 per year, according to board documents. r > -1 r r J ( said he “strongly disapproves” of the lake management plan for the next three years. “We should open (the contract for I* lake management) up for all poten­ xs tial lake management companies, I, and hopefully give a public presen­ tation so we all understanding what ..a-. each company has to offer,” Bryker Bk z said. “I think our budget, the pro­ ’ posed budget, is heavy on aquatic -MV herbicides and light on testing. We R • should be taking several more samIB*. A. pies, which should include . sediJ t. F —?FS *•-2 ment analysis, macroinvertebrates, copper, a survey of native plants in the lakefront.” 9 L A “The goal is to have a high qual­ ity lake with a vibrant ecosystem, *► that we all can enjoy, and will also 1 continue to increase our property rvalues,” Bryker added. T 1 'i• Ann Nolan, who lives on Elmwood Beach, expressed similar objections. Gun Lake resident Bill Bryker, who opposes the use of copper-based “We have no turtles, no minnows herbicides in treating the lake, says the board should have been more public on our beach anymore,” Nolan said. and wide ranging in its search for consultants. “Of course, there’s not as many weeds, which is nice, but weeds are The board also approved the use there for a reason, to keep our lake of chelated copper in several other healthy. I would like to have more channels. accountability and transparency for Doug Geurink favors the use of the board.” copper-based herbicides, but ques­ Eric Hannapel, who has lived on tioned whether short-term rental Gun Lake for 50 years, called for properties should be treated as a pause in the treatment program, commercial lots for purposes of the proposing a study of other lakes assessment. and how treatment programs have “Based on the research that I’ve affected their quality. done, short-term rentals are a loop­ “Let’s look at those lakes. What hole. They are not assessed at a were they treated with?” Hannapel ri commercial rate. They are assessed asked. “None of our property is Gas Furnaces at a residential rate, ” Geurink said. worth anything if our lake dies. The board decided to assess short­ Let’s be scientific about it. We -Gas Boilers ♦x term rentals earlier this year as resi­ know chemicals are not good, in dential lots, and has always done our food, in our lake, in our water.” Air Conditioners i so. Conner said the board decided Over the last year and a half, to hold off to see how Barry County SOLitude moved away from cop­ Heat Pumps decides to handle short-term rent­ per-based treatments toward perox­ s= als before making any changes, ygen-based algicides. Water Heaters as Orangeville Township is under However, the board in June gave IB I county zoning. Yankee Springs the go-ahead for SOLitude to start Humidifiers I Township passed a ban on new a new round of treatments that sig­ commercial short-term rentals ear­ naled a partial return toward using lier this year. copper-based herbicides. The board GLIB has approved a $273,000 approved using copper sulfate in a HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. >^,^^.7?^ f budget for next year that includes 15-acre area of the lake, mostly in Since 1955 DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 $189,500 for SOLitude to continue the Gun-Ho channel, to treat nui­ its herbicide treatments, $20,000 sance algae and starry stonewort. I • • ■* ir i s >4 V— 1 X- I f 9 ! 4 < < k • L > 4 I r ■ i". t ? I 3^.'' u. • S'/’.' I . I» ,b I I I I I / Saturday, August 10, 2024 ?* Rm •r’ s 4 s 4 s ■ •>. .•> • • tX\ .• ji I T Ob 4 .^•T 5 f •< ♦ V A TTH K L^n > •*r j >♦ I C «.« . -^ IM ? >iiF* •+ n < b I 1“ .^4- rx >• I: 1 ** • V* / * I, J « * f L ' * r V' « vI t 2 1 ’ T •< r ii • V4j ft• -n 1^*- * • d ’ ♦ . « S k Z fr 4 ^kk-- b --------V.•q,f&S4-«= <w ’.•Jl WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS r J I Residential & Commercial o 1 . 3 / I > in I es ' 't, r Lx Ii 2 n 4 Z* I i. A 1^: ■ 1 I A** - '/* 1* ’ 4 f t\.>. 72 " •• f ■’ •< I 'k ’f- ' y :> 4 I. V • a n * r* • . I I• r, DeWeerd <68) t* I X * H J «>. I i, u Jr^ A' L 4 ..Wa » 4 -• LENNOX £; A+ S IB :)» fes I BBB UmiU s I t �t; ft 4 I .• ft-' / > 4 J W ft t 4 8 \ > J » J t t « I < ft A s i ft M % 4 * X ft g •• 'ft - • ■ 4 T •t *“ * t / .1. i f ft A. ' X < ft ft 'I \ vvww.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 10, 2024 KCSO hosts a special ‘Night Out’ in Gaines Charter Township JAMES GEMMELL Contributing Writer The day began with thunderstorms, but the sun was breaking through by the time the annual South Kent National Night Out event got underway late Tuesday afternoon in Gaines Township. The Kent County Sheriffs Office has been host­ ing the event since 2010 to raise awareness about community policing, public safety and awareness about crime-prevention programs. It has been held the past three years in a large parking lot outside South Christian High School, 7979 Kalamazoo Ave., and has grown into one of West Michigan’s largest Night Out events. “I love this event,” tfK ’ s nice that Mary Traxler said. She is with the we can get the Stevens Pointe and whole community Cooks Crossing out here and see neighborhood groups. “It’s my what the public fourth year coming, service sector and it’s fun to see all does. We can the big trucks and the kids having fun. hand out some I I just love it.” information That seemed to be about fire safety, the general consen­ sus, with smiles on especially with just about everyone’s children. w faces. Even the dogs Brian Bollone and horses that were Leighton Township Firefighter there seemed to be enjoying themselves. KCSO Deputy Dan Forman is also the school resource officer for the Kentwood Public Schools. “CNight Out) is fantastic. I love to see the com­ munity out here having a great time. I’m glad the weather participated and kind of dried up at the last minutes. It’s been great,” he said. Area fire departments such as Dutton and Cutlerville had their trucks on display and fire­ fighters greeting the public. The Sheriffs Office See NIGHT OUT on 16 Sp a* f JU * • JL I' T w • •s ( r>‘ a * 14 ’ Jbf . % 9 ■ r ij *M S' •» ft y •f I I 1 ft ' B > J / * eSE 1. B x ft 4 I b > c 4^ T tfr k‘f 'S k * ;w-* • r I s i rr’ b* .p a*> • I 1 • I* *• <1 a I *•-. •. *1 **' ■ 'l >5 ♦ . z• * I Tr •l • / !rc r i r 1 A Among the action figures that made appearances at South Kent Night Out were Darth Vader and Stormtrooper. (Photos by James Gemmell) Deputy Tanner Frederick with KCSO Mounted Unit hung out with horse Jess, which gets a pet here from a young admirer. « ♦ z» •^- ^■ • • > f ^• _ i, •• r~‘ < 4^ 1 t * g—a A • 1 ‘ I p .*>« bl u_ • t^. I r p 4 .S w- .V 4 'S*P T X I p- « r ? g' 1 C-. “' I J 9 « X • < . 1 Be* B I t I L £ ""W* ♦ t- ^Saoc « I « AnC^nno ----- r- ow Men I ' •■^o H-Ji" 1 \ e - *1 I *> J?’ e’. V fc *•’ ___ 7/ b *' 1 Ibel •fc Antenna Men j .»►_. 1 r •r-* r « 1 •l r , X tL’ ft K V H r t /.'ll 4^ I I LX/ r v r XSi / I 1 9 ■ Sn .1 > v • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems u t V-B fi f.’ *M WF I * • J « * I' f. ir ie? T I ! Give us a call! 1 CEtdW) >»SSii IJG* j 5^ www.celfsignalpros.com ft- <«. -•“ft 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com • \ I "•nn e «• ! �[ « r. p■ 4. f s ' >1 *0. <r * 4 1 i I L ♦ ♦ ♦ 4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 10, 2024 9 4 J * -■A' 4 4 * 9 > > > •s3* k • 5 , * J t * T L rV^’ V*. ^'1 I f • W.« 4 "• ... & 1 . F« Ik / I J t-r * - f « » \ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE FOR M-37 REBUILDING AND WIDENING PROJECT CALEDONIA, KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN f- 4 From Ann Hoekstra and Annette Scheidel play a hand at euchre night at Butcher Block Social in Caledonia. (Photo by Greg Chandler) Euchre nights a new hit at Butcher Block Social GREG CHANDLER Resource Center, the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Wayland, or St. Sebastian Catholic Church in Byron Center. American Legion Post 305 in Caledonia has a euchre tournament one Saturday a month. “If there’s somewhere we can go (play), we go,” said Bonnie Hoekstra, who enjoys going all over to play. “It’s a senior life. You just meet wonderful friends all over. Every place has its own group of people.” DeWitt approached Butcher Block Social management several months ago to inquire about the possibility of using that social room for euchre nights. “They were very agreeable. We just worked out the logistics,” DeWitt said. “They’ve been very accommodating. I really appreciate their assistance.” Currently, DeWitt does not charge players to come play, although he is considering instituting a small entry fee when fall rolls around. He has thrown little twists into the games. “If you get euchred, you and your partner have to pay 50 cents (total) into a cup,” DeWitt said. “If you go alone and you don’t take all five tricks, you have to pay 50 cents into the cup because your partner didn’t have anything to do with it.” “At the end of the night, I divide everything up and reimburse every­ body. We’re not here to really madce money at this point,” DeWitt added. Registration on euchre nights at Butcher Block Social begins at 6 p.m. and the games go on until about 9 p.m. Staff Writer On Tuesday nights, Dan Christenson can usually be found in the social room of Butcher Block Social in Caledonia, playing euchre. Christenson loves the social aspect of the card game that has become synonymous with Michigan. “I just like (playing and) talking to people,” the Caledonia resident said. “I’ve been playing it since I was a kid. Since early June, Caledonia resi­ dent Kerry DeWitt has been hosting a euchre night on Tuesdays in the social room of Butcher Block Social on M-37. Christenson has been com­ ing every week since the beginning. On this particular night, 16 players played - four to a table. Some nights, DeWitt will have enough players to fill up to eight tables. “Eveiybody will sit down. Initially they just sit at a table, and we just try to fill tables,” DeWitt said. The players rotate partners through­ out the evening, with DeWitt using numbered poker chips to match part­ ners with one another. While a traditional euchre game is played up to ten points to win, in this format players change partners after two complete rounds where each per­ son gets to deal twice, regardless of how many points they have scored. Each player has a scoresheet to write down how many points they scored with each partner, and those points are added up at the end of the evening. For many of the players, they will travel to play. Some will go to the Moose lodge in Dorr, the Caledonia a I 9 7 / I The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has prepared an Environmental Assessment (EA) and Preferred Alternative (PA) for the proposed rebuilding and widening of a 2.7-mile section of M-37 (Broadmoor Avenue/Cherry Valley Avenue SE) from south of 92nd Street to north of 76th Street m Caledonia Charter Township and the Village of Caledonia, Kent County, Michigan. MDOT will conduct a public hearing on Sept. 10, 2024, at the Caledonia Christian Reformed Church, 9957 Cherry Valley Avenue SE, Caledonia, MI 49316 to receive comments on the EA document. Three sessions are available for public participation; 10-11:30 a.m. 1 - 2:30 p.m. 5 - 6:30 p.m. The same information will be shared at all three sessions. The presentation will begin approximately 15 minutes after the session begins. There will be opportunities to ask questions of staff, view a presentation and publicly share your comments. A court reporter will record the hearing’s formal presentation and public comments and will be available to take comments in private for inclusion in the public hearing transcript. The EA document is now open for public review and comments at Michigan.gov/M37Project. Printed copies of the EA document are also available for public review at designated locations listed on the project website. The public may also complete a written comment form at the hearing, or e-mail or mail their comments to MonsmaM@Michigan.gov Monica Monsma VanWagoner Building B245 425 W. Ottawa Lansing, MI 48933 Attendees who require mobUity, visual, hearing, written, or other assistance for effective participation should contact Orlando Curry at 517-241-7462 or CurrvO@Michigan.gov. preferably at least five business days prior to the scheduled meeting. Forms are located on MDOT’s Title VI webpage: www.Michigan.gov/MDOT/Programs/Title-VI. Requests made after this timeframe will be evaluated and honored to the extent possible. Comments must be e-mailed or postmarked on or before Sept. 24, 2024. A copy of the complete transcript, including all written and recorded oral comments received, will be available for public review at Michigan.gov/ M37Project. All comments from the public hearing and those received by Sept. 24, 2024, will be included in the official record. The EA describes and analyzes the proposed work and measures taken to minimize harm in the area. MDOT has encouraged public involvement throughout the study. View a map of the PA at Michigan.gov/M37Project. �1 * Z ’ 4 I 7 < A % > S' X t: / X. 4 r r I « I 4 > V * '< 0 •X V •V V A* ■ * > ) f iy > ft •ft I r 43 ft > k > www.sunandnews.com i T ♦ Thornapple Kellogg prepares for start of 2024-25 school year ♦ ♦ ♦ Thomapple Kellogg Schools will welcome students to the first day of school Aug. 26. District administra­ tors, teachers and staff are looking forward to a year filled with positive energy in all buildings, celebrating student achievements and accom­ plishments, building relationships and encouraging and developing the greatest potential of each student. Prior to the first day of school there will be some important dates for families to remember for high school registration and middle school and elementary open houses. Registration and open house information High School 9th and 10th grades: Aug. 13: 8 to 11 a.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. 11th and 12th grades: Aug. 14: 1 to 6 p.m. All students will come in for their school and identification photos, parking registration, meet with coun­ selors if needed, check schedules and lockers and update demographic information. SIAIiOTBEWHS w • state & l-CAR Certified Technicians • TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System • Frame Repair k I GOLD CLASS Z) Lesonal nfib WMBA 616.891.0150 www.edsbodv.com ED’S BODY SHOP CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN 110 Johnson Street Owner Ed Pawloski Jr. OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm ■t LA F A I All elementary schools will have their open house events Aug. 22. Families are asked to attend at each building during time slots assigned by the first letter of their last name. Page Elementary • Aug. 22: 4 to 4:30 p.m. Families with last names beginning with M-R • Aug. 22: 4:30 to 5 p.m. Families with last names beginning with S-Z • Aug. 22: 5 to 5:30 p.m. Families with last names beginning with A-F • Aug. 22: 5:30 to 6 p.m. Families with last names beginning with G-L Lee Elementary • Aug. 22: 4 to 4:30 p.m. Families with last names beginning with S-Z TH '>T IHOUMAPPie KFLLOGG HIGH SCHOOL I ) • il* * i ( k r os J r j r r .Jtf IIHI A. < I ft *1 cs J Wr. - - J r Il F rfO T > • • ■ ? J ft k’ * Elementary Schools 1 ♦ s* St t i I Students at Thornapple Kellogg Schools are invited to various open house and registration events before school starts. (File photo) • Aug. 22: 4:30 to 5 p.m. Families with last names begirming with A-F • Aug. 22: 5 to 5:30 p.m. Families with last names begirming with G-L • Aug. 22: 5:30 to 6 p.m. Families with last names begirming with M-R McFall Elementary • Aug. 22: 4 to 4:30 p.m. Families with last names begirming with A-F • Aug. 22: 4:30 to 5 p.m. Families with last names begirming with G-L • Aug. 22: 5 to 5:30 p.m. Families with last names beginning with M-R • Aug. 22: 5:30 to 6 p.m. Families with last names begirming with S-Z Preschool Preschool begins Sept. 3 and fol lows the district elementary calendar. Open houses: Aug. 28: 4 to 6 p.m. Early Childhood Special Education Open House Aug. 22: 4 to 6 p.m. School starts Aug. 26 GRSP GRSP begins Sept. 9 Local fire departments awarded grants for new turnout gear GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer "'We go above ana beyond your vehicle repairs!" V Middle School 6th grade only: Aug. 20: 9 to 11 a.m. All grades: Aug. 20: Noon to 5 p.m. These are drop-in events for fami­ lies. Students will have their photos taken for their IDs, receive their schedules and locker assignments and be able to tour the building and walk through their schedule. Two area fire departments have received state grants that will allow them to purchase additional sets of turnout gear for its full-time fire­ fighters. Caledonia Township Fire Department and Thomapple Township Fire Department were among 187 fire and safety agen­ cies across the state to receive grants through the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). Caledonia Township received a grant of $24,500 while Thomapple Township received $21,000 in fund­ ing, according to LEO. Overall, the department awarded more than $14.9 million in grants to be used for turn­ out gear purchases. “Ensuring the safety and well-being of our firefighters is paramount,” LEO Director Susan Corbin said in a press release. “This grant will provide essential gear that allows our firefighters to respond more effectively to emergencies, protect­ ing both themselves and the public. We are committed to supporting the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. The Firefighter Turnout Gear pro­ gram seeks to assist full-time fire departments with purchasing an addi­ tional set of turnout gear for full-time career firefighters. The additional set of gear consists of coat, pants and boots. The gear will provide firefighters with a clean set of gear I i ! THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 10, 2024 4 . - Kv •«> ^•.•^. r » 1 ✓ u. t 10 « * to switch into after a fire, instead of waiting until the end of the shift to properly clean the gear, which will improve response time, Corbin said. Firefighters are often called on consecutive runs, leaving them little time to properly clean and decon­ taminate gear,” said State Rep. Angela Witwer, D-Delta Township, who chairs the House Appropriations Committee. “These equipment grants will allow firefighters to continue keeping the public safe while pre venting them unnecessary exposure from hazardous chemicals.” The grant will allow the Caledonia Township department to purchase seven new sets of turnout gear, while Thomapple Township will purchase six new sets with its grant, Caledonia Chief Scott Siler said. 46 �» [ % I I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Yankee Springs commercial short-term rental ban I Ii i I ! I I. I GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Nearly five months after the Yankee Springs Township Board approved a ban on commercial short­ term rentals in residential-zoned areas, township officials say the measure is working. The ban, which was approved on a 4-1 vote March 14, prohibits new commercial short-term rentals as a special exception use in the Gun Lake residential lakefront, residential lakefront, residential single-family and suburban residential zoning dis­ tricts. Owner-occupied short-term rent­ als, which are defined as “traditional short-term rentals,” are allowed in all residential-zoned areas, including those aroimd Gun Lake. “Changing the ordinance to restrict where they could be was a big thing, and a really good step that the board took,” Township Zoning Administrator Joe Shea said. “There are a lot fewer (STRs) now than there would have been had they not changed the ordinance.” The township took a stand on commercial short-term rentals in response to complaints it received about noise late at night, drunk and disorderly conduct, illegal parking and littering, particularly near Gun Lake, during the summer months. “The bulk of our township is made up of lakes, and they are big lakes,” Township Supervisor Rob Heethuis said. “More and more, the houses on those lakes are very expensive hous­ es, and people want to protect that. (This ordinance) is protecting what we have here in Yankee Springs.” The township passed an ordinance in March 2021 requiring short-term rentals to be registered with the township. A total of 32 properties were registered with the township last year, but a review of vacation rental websites such as Vrbo and Airbnb by Granicus found a lot more properties were not registered. “They found 54 units and 65 list­ ings for (unregistered) STRs, but we know there were a lot more than that,” Shea said. And in a lot of instances, the own­ ers of the properties had little or no ties to the Gun Lake area. Saturday, August 10, 2024 11 ♦ working, officials say We had owners who live in become cooperative, ” he said. “ Brad Chicago, New York, Detroit, Florida. has been able to negotiate a settle­ 1 hey re not township residents, ment for a much lower fine, and then they’re not even from this region of they admit responsibility and sign the state,” Shea said. “Some of them the consent order to give to the court. are (limited liability corporations), The consent order says that they ft s strictly a commercial investment agree never to operate an STR again. for them. They don’t have a stake in We get compliance, they get a lower the quality of the neighborhood or fine, and everybody’s happy.” the quality of life So far, Williams here.” says he has writ ­ ^^The bulk of our The town­ ten up 17 cita­ ship earlier this township is made up of tions. The first year retained citation, which lakes, and they are big occurred in May, Granicus, a private com­ lakes. More and more, involved a short­ pany that assists term rental where the houses on those municipalities the owners rented in enforcing lakes are very expensive out their home short-term rental to a couple. The houses, and people want ordinances, to couple then sublet to protect that. (This conduct ongoing the home to their monitoring of ordinance) is protecting kids, who decided vacation rental to throw a rave, what we have here in websites to find complete with a out what proper­ Yankee Springy, deejay, and sold ties in the town­ more than 100 Rob Heethuis ship are being tickets for the Supervisor, Yankee Springs Township made available party. Police were for rent. called to the party several times that night because of Grancius did another search earlier noise complaints, Williams said. this spring and found 24 properties “They did a whole bunch of dam­ in the township that were advertis­ age to the house. (The owners) were ing on vacation rental websites that unaware of what was going on — at were not registered to the township. least that’s what they’re telling me Shea put township code enforcement anyway,” Williams said. officer Brad Williams on the task A hearing on that citation was of addressing those non-compliant scheduled to take place Thursday properties. in Barry County court before Judge “When we first got into these (STR Michael Schipper, Williams said. cases), we didn’t know how much In other cases, the township work was going to be involved with has brought the violation before this,” Williams said. “There is a ton Magistrate Jan Otto. Township offiof work that goes into each one of these cases, in order to bring it to court if we have to go to court.” Your local agent insures your A violation of the ordinance is a municipal civil infraction that could result in a fine of $2,500 per viola­ tion, Shea said. “The people who have decided not to get an STR permit and who are FARIH BUREAU running STRs, they are given a cita­ tion, and it’s for either leasing and/ ftteU/HyiCe' CompOK^ or advertising. It could be for both,” Williams added. But the goal of the ordinance is not Jason Parks to collect fines, but rather to achieve (269) 795-8827 121 E. Main Street compliance. Shea said. jparks@fbinsmi.com Downtown Middleville FarmBureaulnsurance.com “When they see that number, they cials praised Otto for her handling of citations. “She’s really on top of things. She understands the ordinance really well. She and her staff have just been really cooperative. We’re really grateftil for that,” Shea said. While new commercial short-term rentals are banned in residentialzoned areas, they are permitted in all other zoning districts. The township Planning Commission last month approved short-term rental applica­ tions for three properties at the for­ mer Whispering Pines resort. Those properties fall into a zoning category called “resort and recreation.” “It operated as a resort until 2006. It was owned by a single owner who would rent out the cabins. He owned the whole deal. It was zoned resort and recreation, which was appropri­ ate for that use,” Shea said. But in 2006, the owner changed the use to condominiums, and indi­ vidual cabins were sold off as condo units. In 2013, a new developer * See BAN on 12 Hi^h EtRciency I !FURNACE! I I " AIR I I $150 RUUD OFF ' I * f I I I I I * Must present this coupon Expires 8-15-24 1 4 I UD ■ I I •h I I. 'l s- -i r J I I I .I 11 FINANCING AVAILABLE * No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. “The company built by referrals ” e Xi । ■I FRONTIER HEATING & COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 646-891-8900 I I I I I I I I I �W * I t 4 i I 12 < I < % i- - •>. t A I I. I 4 4 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 10, 2024 Gaines planners to consider proposed Dutton Center mixed-use development at Aug. 22 meeting JAMES GEMMELL Contributing Writer The effort to move forward with a proposed Dutton Center project in Gaines Charter Township will come back to the township planning com­ mission at its Aug. 22 meeting. A final site plan may be presented at the 7 p.m. meeting at the township hall. Dan Larabel, a land manager with the applicant, Allen Edwin Homes, presented an updated overview of the project plan to the planning commis­ sion at its June 27 meeting. A public hearing was held, as well. The 232-unit mixed-use develop­ ment would comply with the new township master plan that was approved last year in terms of the vision for a Village Center in Dutton. The master plan foresees a village center along 68th Street that is congru­ ent with the historic character of the village. The village-center concept aims to create a blend of commercial and residential structures that accom­ modate a walkable neighborhood. Larabel applied earlier this year to the township’s planning commission to have a nearly 30-acre parcel at 3316 68th St. at Hanna Lake Avenue rezoned to a Planned Unit Development. That would provide the applicant with more flexibility in laying die properties out. The western elbow of the proposed PUD covers a parcel currently zoned Office-Service. It would be futurezoned Village Center. There is also some property that is zoned residential and Neighborhood Commercial that the developer would like rezoned to a PUD. Larabel apprised planning com­ missioners recently about significant changes that have been made to the proposed site plan for Phases 1 and 2 based on input earlier this year from y 1 * i. 9 «f 9; •99 * ‘MT $ ;* ■ 'W UGHT TRUCK nins RO nuns'nHin'HE IMS* UIS* sirs* HETS >«HS nusnwcEtrHnuiT 269-381-2300 1USED nuns r used tires R. ptm lAKE st•» niiJtMiizoo f: t 9 V *-• •• 9 .« * 4^ b; • 1 5 8 commissioners. The updated design includes more amenities such as a paved pedestrian path, a tot lot and a dog park. At this point, future Phases 3, 4 and 5 are only conceptual. The Dutton Center would be a mixed-use residential and commercial site designed to integrate with the tra­ ditional Dutton community. It would indirectly tie into a future residential subdivision just to the south called Thomapple Farms that was approved last fall by the township. That proj­ ect is immediately north of Dutton Shadyside Park. A traffic study recently was complet­ ed, and it was reviewed by the Kent County Road Commission. It stipu­ lates that a center left-turn lane will be required on Hanna Lake Avenue, and streetlight sequencing will be neces­ sary at the Hanna Lake/68th Street intersection. The request for the Dutton Center project was made on behalf of the J & A Post Family Farm, LLC. The developer is Michiana LLC., which is a subsidiary of Allen Edwin Homes. Larabel presented proposed revisions to the planning commission on June 27 for the first phase of the five-phase development. Only the initial phase of BAN Continued from Page 11 acquired the property and pro­ posed a planned unit development to turn it back into a resort, but the developer couldn’t meet the conditions for approval from the township. Shea said. “The zoning never changed. It still remained resort and recre­ ation. That’s why these people who have these condo units there, they can still get an STR permit,” Shea said. Last year, five units at Whispering Pines were approved for STR permits. Those units were allowed to renew their per­ mits, Shea said. The township has had appeals from property owners challeng ing its rejection of requests for STR permits. Those appeals come before the township Zoning Board of Appeals. GO the proj ect was reviewed at the pub lie hearing for site-plan compliance. Phase 1 calls for townhouses and veranda-style homes to be built under a single ownership and management. Veranda style usually has a porch attached to the outside of a building. Developers say the proposed home types would meet the township’s goals of having a pedestrian-friendly neigh­ borhood that connects residential and neighborhood uses. The project’s other four phases are only preliminary in terms of their lay­ out. J he second phase would be for single-family detached homes on plat­ ted lots. The final three phases are con ceptual right now. Phase 3 would be multiple-family apartment buildings. The fourth phase would have mixeduse buildings facing Hanna Lake Avenue. And Phase 5 calls for com mercial buildings facing 68th Street. The overall PUD would include 233 dwelling units, although that estimate is only preliminary. There would be 14 veranda homes and 48 four-unit and two-unit attached townhomes in the project’s first phase. Phase 2 calls for 51 detached homes with minimum lot sizes of 5,800 square feet. Phase 3 calls for 120 multiple * 4* “I don’t think I’ve been reversed yet. I have a couple more pending,” Shea said. Yankee Springs is the first of the four townships that surround Gun Lake to adopt a ban on com­ mercial short-term rentals, and its neighbors may soon follow suit, Heethuis said. “It’s been brought up to the board in Orangeville (Township), it’s been brought up to the board at Wayland (Township), and >9 they are starting to look into it, Heethuis said. As the commercial short-term rental ban is making an impact in the township, officials are concerned their ability to control STRs could soon be taken away. Legislation has been introduced in the state House that would move registration and enforce­ ment of short-term rentals to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs and restrict the ability of local * family apartment units, which would consist of 10 buildings with 12 units each. Phase 4 envisions two, twostory 15,400-square-foot buildings along Hanna Lake Avenue that would include commercial, residential and office buildings. Phase 5 would have two, one-story commercial buildings of 6,350 square feet along 68th Street. Newly proposed public parks spaces would include a playground for chil dren ages 2 to 5 years old, a concrete athletic court for basketball or pick* leball, a pavilion with picnic tables, a sidewalk, a water fountain as part of a storm-water detention plan, and a nearly 6,000-square-foot dog park. “It would be nice to have a desig­ nated trail through there,” Community Development Director Dan Wells said. A couple of residents expressed con­ cerns about traffic safety in the area. Jim Blehm mentioned heavy traffic from the nearby Amazon Fulfillment Center on 68th Street. “It’s a two-lane road that narrows to one lane each way,” he pointed out. Similarly, local business owner Steve VanLaan told commissioners that the roads are not built to handle the extra traffic that will be generated by the Dutton Center development. municipalities to enforce regula­ tions on them. “It failed last year, and I hope it fails again, because if this goes through, then all our hard work that we’ve done here will have been for naught,” Shea said. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Joey Andrews, D-St. Joseph, would also put in place a 6 per­ cent tax on units that are rented 15 days or more in a year. An eight-member subcommittee that recommended approval of the commercial short-term rental ban earlier this year is expected to recon­ vene later this year to evaluate how the ordinance has gone over. “We will talk about the bumps that we’ve had, things that we like, things that we’d like to change it’s been a work in progress,” Heethuis said. �I * 1 I * I I, 4 1 4 I b 4 www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 10, 2024 13 ♦ b { I •V- J Girls wrestling continues to boost MHSAA Participation in Michigan High School Athletic Associationsponsored sports rose for the thirdstraight school year in 2023-24 - this time by nearly one percent - and continued to do so despite another two-percent decrease in school enrollment among the MHSAA’s 754 member high schools. Wrestling reported the largest increase in participation for the second-straight school year, this time by 12.8 percent with 11,814 athletes - and the rise again mostly attribut­ able to the rapid growth in girls par­ ticipation in the sport, which jumped another 39 percent with 1,216 wres­ tlers this past season. Thomapple Kellogg had six girls compete in the MHSAA Girls’ Wrestling Regionals at the end of the 2023-24 winter season and Caledonia had three competitors at regionals. Caledonia’s Maddie Hayden wres­ tled her way to her second straight undefeated state championship as a sophomore in March at Ford Field. Girls tennis enjoyed the next larg­ est participation jump, increasing 9.1 percent with 8,911 athletes, that sport’s most since 2018-19. A total of 270,664 participants were counted across the 28 sports for which the MHSAA sponsors post­ season tournaments - a 0.97-percent increase from 2022-23 and despite a 1.8-percent decrease in MHSAA member school enrollment. Boys par ticipation rose 1.1 percent to 158,260, despite a 1.8 percent decrease in boys enrollment. Girls participation rose 0.7 percent to 112,377, while girls enrollment dipped 1.9 percent from the previous school year. MHSAA participation totals count students once for each sport in which they participate, meaning students who are multiple-sport athletes are counted more than once. The boys participation total for 2023-24 was its highest since 2018-19, predating the sharp decrease brought on by «w J The MHSAA added girls' wrestling championships at the right time for Caledonia junior Maddie Hayden who wrestled her way to state championships in 2023 and 2024. More than 1,200 girls competed in high school wrestling in the state of Michigan during the 2023-24 season. > b • .*> 4 te * r % t .w i ft i*A-- 9 A * if- I * « f t 4 I* • » i A * 4 *• ■5 n 1 1 Ct* participation numbers V r I b L f.. « CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES I \ sr the COVID-19 pandemic during the 2020-21 school year. Only 11 sports saw increases in participation during 2023-24 - com­ pared to 18 sports that reported increases between 2021 -22 and 2022-23. However, two sports set participation records this past school year. Girls golf reported 3,936 ath­ letes, an increase of 6.2 percent from the previous year and that sport’s most since 2002-03. Girls lacrosse broke its record set in 2019-20 with 3,245 athletes, up nine-tenths of a percent from the previous year. Both girls and boys track & field increased for the third-straight year, girls by 5.2 percent to 17,325 com­ petitors and boys 2.9 percent to 23,888. Boys lacrosse (up 3.9 per­ cent to 5,236 athletes) and boys golf (up 3.3 percent to 7,222) also joined their girls counterparts in those sports in trending upward. Boys soccer (up 5.1 percent to 13,953 athletes), girls competitive cheer (3.9 percent to 6,172) and foot ball (11 and 8-player combined - 0.5 percent to 35,174) also showed increases. Football remains the most-played sport statewide with more than 11,000 more athletes than the next highest, boys track & field, and the 2023-24 football par­ ticipation total was that sport’s highest since 201819. Boys basketball (20,199 participants), girls volleyball (19,119) and girls track & field ranked third through fifth, respectively, among the state’s most-played sports this past school year. Although 17 sports saw lower participation in See WRESTLING on 16 Meeting Minutes The minutes for the July 17, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting that were approved on August 7. 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave • > and on the website at www.caledoniatown shiD.ore. Notice of Public Hearing Gun Lake Area Sewer Authority will hold a public hearing for the proposed sewer rate increase for the purpose of providing information and receiving comments from interested persons. The hearing will be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at the Yankee Springs Township Hall located at 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, MI 49333. Comments on the proposed rate increase may be made at the hearing, by mail, or e-mail at: Gun Lake Area Sewer & Water Authority Attention: Mr. Larry Knowles 12588 Marsh Road Shelbyville, MI 49344 E-mail: glasa@gunlakesewer.org �www.sunandnews.com I h• b inw! Hastings Area Sch I J I * M «• «*• *«* i 4' a »—Bl M 4 I f I •*? MiI w Rbw MU 4) III W»4Kxa r, ' a >• f. c ** * Ri ^.IHI RI » « r' u > .s >*«B» i IM Ma MA n w» t. ' I. ' !■»— W1 .f ’ ■ "MM* ■SP* Mr 4» ■ - 4 *MM > £ I c 2saw*cr •««» R* «v 3L 4 • "F J« ". *► « J t -A M*. J t ^*1 I V / 7 I rt^* AA 1 > • * ‘ t •» 5 *- I k_k • J 1 v< 2 S0 4 4 1 « “i ■ 4 ’ ?* n 1 TT^-’r > 5 > 4 r K A 4 X Ar r p I ♦ nMr>^ 4 !< . M '1* A . s '■***•*» r •I >■ -5 J f ?- J 4 > « J 1? 4 / • lA . J.. , |u I 4-* The team record performances by Delton Kellogg/Thornapple Kellogg/Hastings varsity team swimmers (from left) Sophia Marcukaitis, Abby Marcukaitis, Preslee Hall, Jack Kensington, Riley Shults, Jameson Riordan and others were celebrated with updates to the record board at the Community Education and Recreation Center pool at Hastings High School Friday. Photo by Brett Bremer Bruce'S Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop • Wheel Alignments • Auto Glass Installation • Insurance Work Welcome • Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com I w, e 415 2ncl • Middleville n Trojans among honored on CERC record board BRER BREMER Sports Editor Members of the Delton Kellogg/ Thomapple Kellogg/Hastings var­ sity boys’ and girls’ swimming and diving program from the 2022-23 season, before they’re all officially gone off to college, were honored during a small ceremony to show off the updates to the pool record board Friday evening. The group getting updates on the program record list at the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings included Abby Marcukaitis, Sophia Marcukaitis, Preslee Hall and Holly Carpenter from the girls’ program and Jameson Riordan, Riley Shults, Devin Pacillo, Jack Kensington and Fetch Jan-Id from the boys’ team. The foursome of Riordan, Shults, Pacillo and Kensington capped off an OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Meet Championship, the first one ever for the DK/TK/HHS boys, by winning the 400-yard freestyle relay in 3 minutes 25.74 seconds in the CERC pool at the end of the 2023 season. A replay of the race played on the video board as three of the four members of the record-setting relay and friends and family looked on with smiles from the pool deck. Steve Shults, Riley’s father, hosted the event and thanked the Kensington family, who in turn gave a shout out to Jennifer Haywood, for making sure the new record boards were ready to show off on the wall. “I just think it is really important for the kids that swam here and swam their guts out right here in this pool,” Steve Shults said. “All the names that are up there from before and are up there now have done amaz ing things here. From my perspective, hopefully there are still amazing swims to be had here in this pool.” Van-Id set the boys’ 100-yard breaststroke record in a fourth-place finish at that conference champion­ ship meet in 2023 with a time of 1:06.20. He noted that the 400-yard free style relay the boys set the record in *■ IM was the only event the DK/TK/HHS boys, known as the Barry County Barracudas, won while taking the team championship at the conference meet that winter. “It is nice to have the Marcukaitis sisters here because, quite honestly, there is a big chunk of that record board that has got their names on it. It says a lot about the greatness of their family and the girls’ contribu­ tions to the school here,’’ Steve said. The Marcukaitis sisters, Abby and Sophia, dominate the DIUTK/HHS girls’ team record board with their names missing only from the 200 yard freestyle relay record among the 11 swimming events. Sophia, a 2024 Thomapple Kellogg High School graduate had her lone solo record displayed for the first time Friday. She set the program record in the 100-yard breaststroke with a seventh-place time of 1:06.18 at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals in the fall of 2022. See CERC on 16 w �*1 I r R- 5 4 I R I ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com *4 g THE SUN AND NEWS 15 Saturday. August 10, 2024 ♦ TK finds its new aquatics director, giris’ swim coach BRETT BREMER y Sports Edito w I SET^ “Hoping by the end of August.” That is the latest update of when the refurbished pool at Thomapple Kellogg High School in Middleville mi^t be ready to open for public activities according to new aquatics director Jeff Saltzgaber. Saltzgaber is taking over two posi­ tions at TKHS. He’ll not only be the new aquatics director, but he is also going to be the new head coach for the Grand Rapids Gators varsity girls’ swimming and diving team which this fall will be a co-op with Grand Rapids West Catholic, Hopkins and West Michigan Aviation Academy student athletes. The plan is for the girls to open their 2024-25 season with practice in the new TKHS pool Aug. 12. Saltzgaber said the pool recently passed its inspection by the health department and the Gators will be test subjects. The water is ready to swim in and he’ll be monitoring how the new chemical distribution system reacts to humans in the water before opening to the public. “I want to make sure we’ve crossed all the “T”s and dotted all the “I”s before it is back open. You don’t want to half do something. You want to make sure you’re giving your all. I know this has been very much antici­ pated, but we’re going to to do it the right way,” Saltzgaber said. No one had official pool dimensions to share with the new aquatics direc­ tor, so early on in his tenure this sum­ mer he took his own tape measure to the pool to find that it is 25 yards long - the length of a high school competi­ tion pool in Michigan. Both the aquatics coordinator and swim coaching jobs are part-time positions. Saltzgaber will remain an art teacher at Godwin Heights Middle School. He swam for Byron Center in high school and twice earned all­ state honors in Division 1. He placed eighth in the 50-yard freestyle at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Boys’ Swimming and Diving Finals as a senior in 2012 and seventh in that race at the state finals as a junior while also contributing to Bulldog relay teams and competing in the 100yard freestyle. ♦ ♦♦ >* * * a" |P» • s * 1^' . _ii... “K, ( . '*Ni t V I < it < w 1 “’Tp *>*4 *4^ t. 4A •<. s 'ISA® *A’ X > 4 •< a L • b s i •• 1 Ti St'*•* f > re • .4 •: . I fl 4 7 i: * b A■ A ¥ ^9 •- .* r ir i S *• ' •• 1 I ? a ■.1/ ■ --a. I •J#’. 4 . • «’l’ -^-4' ..•■?r • « •sr r (• * “J" * I > rz r ><• 3< r Y > "k* I • b •• ¥ I S' 1-: R > t *• f • V 4 I*• aij^- * 4 • >4 i f" ■IM^ a t 5^ a > . 4 The updated Thornapple Kellogg High School has a new aquatics director, Jeff Saltzgaber, and he is hoping that he will be able to open the pool to the public by the end of the month. Photo by Brett Bremer >* •< Mil «M H •■L <* I 1 n A t A □ »r> I □ W I •X '> B L Saltzgaber went on to swim for four years as a member of the Notre Dame College Men’s team near Cleveland, Ohio, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree and eventually coached while earning his Master of Education. He coached for two years at Orange High School in Pepper Pike, Ohio, on the eastern edge of the Cleveland area. “It will be a lot of scheduling and creating that glue between the facility itself and the community, and learn­ ing what things they want to take part in,” Saltzgaber said. “I want to make it accessible to the community,” he added. “I know the community has been waiting for some time for the doors to open back up.” There are plans for swim lessons, water aerobics, times for lap swim­ ming and open swim times. He expects in the future to plan different community events like movie nights. Saltzgaber said he got re-certified See AQUATICS on 16 .1 Scan our OR code to find your perfect invitation! t .1 1 t i. * J s I t ^^9 J ’ L~—111 • > bl 4 •T I I t • a I •« * \ * .1 «»ik H| » ? U «. 6T^ Ih 1 *A ‘4 ’ •* ** I ^7* — 3 I• A. -a Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly nnatch your style. PRINTING BY www.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com 4* �Vw I'i. 16 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 10, 2024 NIGHT OUT Continued from Page 8 had various vehicles, information booths and equipment set up. Deputy Dillon Ruthven’s table was one of the more popular ones with spectators. He had different pieces of electronic equipment on display, including drones from the KCSO Technical Services Unit. “This is a DJI 300,” he said pointing to a commercial-grade drone on the table in front of him. “We use this for multiple things, including searching for missing persons and suspects. It can fly for about 30 minutes and at a height of 400 feet out to sev­ eral miles.” The Michigan State Police and the Gerald R. Ford International Airport also had rescue or other vehicles on display at South Kent Night Out. The Kent District Library and the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office had representatives on AQUATICS hand, including Prosecuting Attorney Chris Becker. Peppino’s, SpartanNash and Speedway were among the compa­ nies that had food tables set up. Action figures like Darth Vader, Stormtroopers were big hits with the children. The KCSO Mounted Unit also went over well with the kids, who got to pet horses like Jess, and meet his handler, Deputy Tanner Frederick. Captain Brett Windsor with Davenport University Public Safety brought along the K9 Onyx. “It’s nice that we can get the whole community out here and see what the public service sec­ tor does,” Leighton Township Firefighter Brian Bollone said. We can hand out some information about fire safety, especially with children. Being able to make a plan in case there’s ever a fire in their house. Nowadays, when houses catch on fire you have just seconds to get out.” Continued from Page 15 as a life guard this summer and is in the process of hiring life guards. He expects there to be water aerobics staff at the pool. There are also plans for the Hammerheads Swim Club, which has been operating exclusively out of the Community Education and Recreation Center pool in Hastings since renova­ tions began at TKHS, to move more club activities to Middleville. Saltzgaber planed to start hang­ ing signage in the pool area Tuesday afternoon and had a shipment of new CERC Continued from Page 14 46 ThornappI I• 1 "Back to School Special" I I. FREE Lenses for students with a purchase , of a new frame. She also got the chance to cel­ ebrate the team’s 200-yard medley relay record she holds along with sister Abby, Preslee Hall and Holly Carpenter. That foursome raced to a time of 1 ;51.70 at the state finals in 2021 Abby, a senior in 2021, capped off her stellar high school swim career with a team record time of 55.07 sec­ onds to win the state championship in the 100-yard backstroke. Abby went on to set what was then the freshman 100-yard backstroke record at 54.32 at Purdue University. She swam to a time of 53.57 in that race at the Purdue Invitational last fall the fastest 100-yard backstroke by a Boilermaker all season. Abby also turned in the top 200yard backstroke of the season for the Boilermakers at the Big Tens with a mark of 1:56.96, and led off the fastest 400-yard medley relay and 800-yard medley relay races for her collegiate squad as a sophomore. As a freshman in high school, www.sunandnews.com pool equipment arriving. He said the TK Schools administration has given him the green light to equip the pool as he sees fit. “I got to jump right in,” Saltzgaber said. “We have great administra­ tion here at Thomapple Kellogg that said, hey we want to get this going for Middleville and we want to do it right. Whatever you feel is best for getting us going - let’s do it.” “I’m excited about being here,” he added. “I love Middleville, the area, I grew up here. I swam my whole life at Barlow Lake, which is just a stones’ throw from the schools.” Abby teamed with Grace Beauchamp, Daisy Nowinsky and Kate Haywood to set the DK/TK/ HHS 400-yard fi'eestyle relay record, and individually she also holds the program 200-yard fi"eestyle, 200-yard individual medley, 50-yard freestyle, 100-yard butterfly, 100-yard fi-eestyle and 500-yard freestyle records. Thomapple Kellogg is no longer a part of the co-op with Hastings and Delton Kellogg. The Saxons and Panthers formed a co-op of their own beginning with the 2023-24 school year. The Thomapple Kellogg girls will swim as a part of the Grand Rapids Gators for the second straight season, during the 2024-25 school year, joined by Hopkins, West Michigan Aviation Academy and West Catholic in the co-op that has plans to practice in the newly refur­ bished Thomapple Kellogg High School pool. The CERC pool at Hastings High School has some refurbishments of its own this summer, most notably during a ceremony on the pool deck on an August evening was the new humidity reduction system making the environment a bit more hospitable. 4 »I I• .I .• 11 u? I c 2 h 2 1 Q Q thornaDDlee ecare.com (next to Harding s Market) 4624 N. M-37 Hwy. Sfe E, Middleville, Ml 269-213-8108 I WRESTLING Continued from Page 13 2023-24 than the previous year, five experienced decreases smaller than the overall 1.8-percent loss in enroll ment at member schools — boys ice hockey (-0.03 percent with just one fewer participant than in 2022-23), girls soccer (-0.3 percent), girls vol­ leyball (-0.8 percent), boys tennis (-1.2 percent), boys cross coimtry (-1.3 percent) and girls softball (-1.5 percent). Girls cross country just missed that line with only a 1.9-percent decrease from the previous year. The participation figures are gath­ ered annually from MHSAA member schools to submit to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) for compiling of its national participation survey. c a G u u <z > CC T a c 'C o. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-08-17.pdf 24531f95c02eae07b693a40c4af74f14 PDF Text Text f 1 <1 1 I K 4 * I V I • / S. I c 5 « I X z r n s I'VtMH cRju 101: INTRODUCTION ToHkijc Libra I the SUN AND NEWS V- CRIMINiik yuSTIGE * s y-our Hometown Newspaper Serving the Midaieville. Caledonia Caledonia and and Gaines Games Township Tnwnshm Areas z„;,c ti t I 1T<i s tatar- ** P -r*^ •% f*’* ** I J c IT- M 1 I I i ( • ?7ti NO. 19 it k '-.A' J ..■J 'M • r I Si?-”**. - SATURDAY, AUGUST 17, 2024 ■■ ■ 4 •* - 1 A JgJ--- I ♦ ‘^1 w« f 1J www.sunandnews.com z j. I • ^r- tr KENTCOUNTY LABBSnf xjl • • kw J “7f; c s “ i* «J^ L / T- F' % J < > 4 A X'j T f• •l >* I, t S* \ *. ♦Z V I » 1*^ * \ 4 Xt f ./ Y OI > 4 t ♦ w 4 6*^'' J, I ■1^ > I Si^ir te* •1 i .. . t t.. i .K I * r *« w •l », a fl < ^7^ M; i^. I Bm* 1 1! r i Jp 3 > I > .4^ It— -I b f zl<y •;a . I » K. -^, SMemlVU VhflRKET EWE 4l w ^Caledonia Township residents got ea preliminary look at what the M-37 .project will look like in October of last year when MOOT hosted two input sessions at the Township Hall. ^M3fl wnwE EWE fe 4 <1 1 t 9 . I M ?1WE * > p r < ia;?5 A 4» * b * 4 •** <t*- ; • >»? K V t ... /A**’ L * •< < 1 V r • t k * Zl c r’ ' * ■* .1 V- ' M A V >• 2> -f’ s < «» ..<4 * *<•'I t* V .w I 7 p* A’ J tt «.4 » -R' V - *1 (. • * ♦• 'v/' .4»^ Sept. 10 public hearing set in Caledonia on M-37 project A. r - -.SbM* 'Xi « J —I •— * •** *• 5^<*- I -It 1 J ••s File photos by Greg Chandler ■<.- • R- / Z 'jr XT r 1 1^ P B I, w I I ii • T* I r*' £ > sK • w x:. € r a * f *« s» A r 54x^ R •c * V < *> 1 *** •* 4 V '-' Yx’. s«r. ■ . C'* •icv<W4l* - »^ f -x iJ.. «« •w? r •e. A. t >>' ♦ < >.i>A t4 • SU. ‘ .t'^ » y rr 1^. > •A-, 5JK> \A S’!? •*. 5 <T <- lX* . \ .•^ « •*.1 c*^v*tr* -'C T Natalie Van Laan, Emily Van Laan, Wyatt Van Laan and Harper Van Laan, all fourth generation, showing top placing ewe lambs at this year's Kent County Youth Fair. Photos provided Family legacy continues at Kent County Youth Fair GREG CHANDLER GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer I... T^ J, ■ Staff Writer The Michigan Department of Transportation will hold a public hear­ ing next month on the environmental assessment and the preferred alterna­ tive for rebuilding and widening M-37 through the Caledonia community. The hearing will take place on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at Caledonia 'Christian Reformed Church, 9957 Cherry Valley Ave. SE. There are three sessions scheduled for the pub­ lic to attend: 10 to 11:30 a.m., 1 to See M-37 on 3 * .r John and Anna Van Laan started a dairy farm on 80 acres of land on 76± Street in Dutton in 1927. Seven years later, in 1934, the Van Laan’s oldest child, 11 -year-old Roger, showed dairy cows at the first Kent County Youth Fair. “He said ±ere was a race track, a horse race track in Lowell, so ±erefore ±ere was a horse bam next to the race track,” said Kim Pyper, a granddaughter of John and Anna Van Laan and grand-niece to Roger Van Laan. “They actually stayed in the horse bam, in empty stalls. Their animals were in the other See FAIR on 5 I* 9 ' *V I kt I 1 iJl :3-r 4.- r*- » 4 ev: 4 i / r f ||l^| Bl •K 1 A '. I f si fl> '1 r R- Ju Lincoln Jonkman, fourth generation, showing his market gilt. Lincoln won Reserve Grand Champion Novice Showman and his gilt placed second in its market class at this year’s Kent County Youth Fair. •.Ti* I § i 4* I 7. I V w 'b T t b. m ''' * t « '' Jk ' 41 lb ’'f?^Y-1 i IR^ . ■ > Y * -•^ A I sa .1. 9 I Big 1 i i * bi** - < I feta. t -p' J > k* sV * .=^:^ •-F— •I I I,’ > r t. iT I i> I 11 itp a CRJU 101: INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE wac c uawoisno wiifoaiSBu SSMU33 8£89> in ‘SHpuiaaJO O*€n>SOd 8€e# )Jiui9d 8C88> IkM '©lIiAueejo QlVd aovisod s n » . ^?rac**:s£L« < 1 H *4 <f 4" b —a I i' . _| p A great intro course for future attorneys, police officers, corrections officers and more! Email davisc@kellogg.edu for details! fe^HI^*-* 1 I , . ' > '.' KELLOGG COMMUNITY COLLEGE ab^ak ais isdd ll I 1 f I I J �r % / I Saturday, August 17, 2024 2 THE SUN AND NEWS www.sunandnews.com Heritage Days celebration set in Middleville; former township supervisor to serve as grand marhsal A full day of activities will be on tap next Saturday in Middleville as the village holds its annual Heritage Days celebration. The day’s activities will be high­ lighted at 10 a.m. with the annual Heritage Days parade through the downtown area and will continue throughout the day. Former Sun and News publisher and former Thomapple Township Supervisor Don Boysen will be the grand mar­ shal for the parade. Middleville was once a midpoint on the Good Intent stagecoach lines between major cities and served as ED’S a place for passengers to find hospi tality and refreshments. The village also has a rich history of agriculture that dates to the late 1830s. Even though the stagecoach lines are no longer active, we still remember their significance in our community. Additionally, many of the genera­ tional farms are still key influences in our community today. With respect to Middleville history, there’s been many people who have served the community to preserve its heritage but also guide it into the vibrant town everyone knows today. One of those remarkable individuals wo ■tU i| i SHOP CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN j Your trusted Body Shop for over 32 years Why Choose Ed’s? I I 9 4 T—• EQS 4 . . 80fir I I I r’ I VJ r I I ft 1 - a- » A * AM*' M 1 I * C. 4 I ♦ I • • 't'. 1 » •».. * 4 1 *<► * A * u rt * •<T> ' • Free Estimates • Repair all makes & models • State of the Art Refinish Facility •state & I-CAR Certified technicians TOUCH Computerized Electronic Measuring System Frame Repair * OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm k Lesonal iQ9 li/atertae Sysfem NFIB 110 Johnson Street 616.891.0150 WMBA CWW) GOtD CLASS Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner www.edsbodvxom is Donald E. Boysen. Most that know him call him Don. He was bom in Allegan on May 7, 1932. His fam­ ily began farming onions and other vegetables in 1914 and was known as B&G. His father then went on to build a grocery store in 1927. After high school, Don went off to Albion College and graduated in 1955. He and his wife, Joanne, moved to Middleville in 1956 after purchasing the local newspaper known as the Sun and News. He owned the paper until 1986 before he sold it to J-Ad Graphics. But Don never stays idle. He began his public service career as a Thomapple Township trustee in 1976, then was elected township supervisor in 1980. Once he won, he loved it and went on to serve the community as supervisor for 32 years before retiring in 2012. Don has also been a Middleville Rotary Club member since 1956 and has contributed to many of the public works Rotary has done through the years. With all these achievements, he states that he’s honored to have served the community and is proud to have been part of the growth in the community with projects such as building the new fire station and the sewer system in Duncan Lake. However, he stated that his proud­ est achievement was raising a fam­ ily in Middleville with his wife Joanne and having the titles Dad and Grandpa. When asked what he loved most about Middleville, iviiuuicviue, his ms answer was simple: “It’s the love and cama­ raderie that people show each other m our community.” Other activities for Heritage Days include the Charlie Pullen Vintage Car Show that honors the late vil­ lage president who died in 2020. The car show will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on East Main Street. Anyone < Jt T ri 7 .1 ■■K^A 5* I Chw Hayden Biermaker (right) and Rose Biermaker make slime in downtown Middleville during the annual Heritage Days celebration last year. Photos by Brett Bremer wanting to show their classic car can still sign up, the registration fee is $ 10 and the form can be found through the Middleville Downtown Development Authority website at middlevilledda.org. Also on the schedule is a comhole tournament put on by the Thomapple Kellogg High School football pro­ gram from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking lot of Middleville United Methodist Church; a craft show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. under the Sesquicentennial Pavilion; conces­ sions, kids activities and a cooling station from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; live music at the DDA amphitheater from noon to 3 p.m.; tours of the historic train depot that recently underwent renovation work, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; the Duck Race sponsored by the Rotary Club at 3 p.m. on the Thomapple River; and the Thomapple Township Fire Department’s fourth annual turkey dinner fundraiser, which will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. at the fire station, 128 High St. THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US ‘■W23ia}iia0A2/ PUBLISHED BY Editor: Jayson Bussa All advertising in The Sun and News Is subject jayson@j-adgraphics.com Group Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer b rett@j-adg raph ic s. com Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 '2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. or applicable rate card '? The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 ’ Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-945arcpnt Ln®oH®'^!Eaper reserves the right not to nS JShorih ® ad takers have publicSino! newspaper and only puDiication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order N M 4? 2? ."a i'-i r -V A I fl’ �4 « * * V 4 * >1 I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS M-37 k 1 J J ■ •» Continued from Page 1 2:30 p.m. and 5 to 6:30 p.m. The same information will be presented at all three sessions, MDOT spokes­ man John Richard said. “At the hearing, there will be opportumties to ask questions, view a presentation and publicly share your comments,” Richard said in a news release. “A court reporter will record public comments and the fonnal presentation, and will also be available to take comments in private for inclusion in the public hearing transcript.” MDOT has proposed extending the current four-lane boulevard on M-37 from just north of 76th Street to 92nd Street. It also widens M-37 from Emmons Street to 92nd and provides median crossovers north and south of 84th and 76th to service left-turn movements, according to an execu tive summary of the environment assessment published by MDOT. “The purpose of the proposed improvements to M-37 . is to improve traffic flow, reduce heavy congestion, enhance traffic safety and reduce the rate of crash incidents in the area,” a portion of the executive summary reads. “The project will improve mobility in the rapidly grow­ ing areas of Caledonia Township and the village of Caledonia.” After years of lobbying by local leaders in the Caledonia community for expanding M-37, state lawmak ers approved allocating $40 million to the project in 2022 as part of a $4.8 billion infrastructure package. Current state Sen. Thomas Albert, who at the time chaired the House Appropriations Committee, was instrumental in getting the funding for the M-37 project included in the package. Caledonia Township residents got a preliminary look at what the M-37 project will look like in October of last year when MDOT hosted two input sessions at the Township Hall. Four alternatives were considered for detailed study, including a fivelane option, a five-lane option with an extended boulevard, and baseline option where the road would remain in its current configuration. “The other three alternatives were dismissed due to their inability to address long-term traffic and safety needs,” the executive summary reads. * A ttWl^ « ' 'f ■’ I 4 A.--. 'r sr’ .**'.t * IL i r .t 1 t *»ZJ •A <1 .I * r *i 4 t tz« f *4 r Saturday, August 17 2024 Community police officer leaving Gaines Township after promotion JAMES GEMMELL I never knew that after Contributing Writer rr becoming your com­ For the past five-and-amunity policing officer half years, Kent County in 2019 that I would Sheriff’s deputy Jason love that even more, ” 4 VanderMolen has served VanderMolen said. Gaines Township with He added, “Gaines has great passion as a com­ always held a special munity police officer. place for me in my heart, But now, his promotion because I was bom and to sergeant means he will raised here. And when I be required to serve else­ was selected by you all to where in the county. Deputy Jason become your community VanderMolen made the VanderMolen policing officer, it was emotional announcement an absolute honor and a to the township board at privilege.” its meeting Tuesday night. On Aug. 5, VanderMolen accepted He began his career with the KCSO a promotion from deputy to sergeant. in Februaiy 2002. He spent some He will not be able to stay with Gaines years on the road patrol before work­ Township because of his new respon­ ing with the Traffic Enforcement sibilities as sergeant. Unit. VanderMolen switched back to the road patrol in 2010. He put in for It’s a little bit bittersweet for me a field training officer position and because, like I said, I absolutely love stayed in that role until 2019. Gaines. I love everybody that lives “I loved my time in traffic, I loved here. And I really just wanted to come my time being in the FTO. However, See POLICE on 12 r ) I f J 4 . I* A -M 'T- .'F ■. s - t. I V / i - J ■' 1 4 .. * 1 '.V t 4‘ « << >*** a An I It RSfc— 1 T \ ' 1 7 i - MDOT has proposed extending the currentfour-lane boulevard on M-37from just north of 76th Street to 92nd Street. At those public input sessions, some residents expressed concern that the project would only push the problem of M-37 congestion further south to 100th Street and beyond. The environmental assessment document is now open for public review and comments at michigan. gov/M37Project. Printed copies of the document are currently available for public review at the following locations: — Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Kent District Library Caledonia branch, 6260 92ndSt. SE — Kent County Road Commission, 1900 4 Mile Rd. NW, Walker — Grand Valley Metro Council, 678 Front Ave. NW, Suite 200, Grand Rapids — MDOT Grand Region office, 1420 Front Ave. NW, Grand Rapids — MDOT Grand Rapids Transportation Service Center, 2660 Leonard St. NE, Grand Rapids — MDOT Central Office, Van Wagoner Transportation Building, 425 W. Ottawa, Lansing The public may also complete a written comment form at the public hearing or send comments via email or physical mail to Monica Monsma, Van Wagoner Building B245, 425 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48933 or to MonsmaM@Michigan.gov. Comments must be e-mailed or postmarked on or before Sept. 24. A copy of the complete transcript, including all written and recorded oral comments received, will be available for public review at michigan.gov/ M37Project. All comments from the public hearing and those received by that Sept. 24 deadline will be included in the official record. 3 ,1 » -Thornapple "Back to School Special" FREE Lenses for students with a purchase of a new frame. thornappleeyecare.com (next to Harding's Market) 4624 N. M-37 Hwy. Ste E, Middleville, Ml 269-213-8108 I �.J < f t <• ,1 i 9 Saturday, August 17, 2024 4 THE SUN AND NEWS www.sunandnews.com Yankee Springs considering water rate hike GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer Yankee Springs Township resi­ dents who are part of the township water system could soon be paying more for their service. The township board at its Aug. 8 meeting voted to set up a public hearing where representatives of the Michigan Rural Water Association will present findings of a recent rate ‘nay’ (on increasing rates). In its recommendation, MRWA is proposing a 6.4 percent increase in the water system’s fixed rates. The quarterly cost for a 3/4-inch meter, which is a common size for residences, would rise from $86 to $91.55, while the rate for a 1-inch meter would increase from $101.36 to $107.90 each quarter, according to study and its recommendation to raise rates. As part of the 5-0 vote, the board authorized the township Water Advisory Board and Trustee Larry Knowles to coordinate with MRWA and the township to set the hearing date. “If the advisory board is going to recommend what’s in front of them, they will do that after the public hearing,” Knowles said. “Then it will be up to this board to say ‘yea’ or Classifieds GARAGE SALE GARAGE SALE- 6312 S. M-66 Hwy, Nashville. Thursday, Friday Saturday, August 15, 16, 17th. 8am-3pm. Tools, lamps, hutch, pie safe, wall table. Many household items. See HIKE on 11 BUSINESS SERVICES CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496. LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY ... Caledonia United Methodist Church f^ev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our iradilional yet casual worship cornerstone ch u rch BAPTIST Nliddleville Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham Sunday Service 10:30 AM service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaIedoniaVMC.org Livestream; Faccbook.com/CalcdoniaVnitcdMcthodist Strengthening Serving Connecting 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia. Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend % I ( III Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 1 co 'C I Good Shepherd Lutheran Church * -*.11 I HOLY FAMILY 'CATHOLIC CHURCH .J 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship...................... 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter ' J erg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: (269) 795-2391 7 iKk CHURCH 7 J c c Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11.00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., MiddleviUe, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee I 1 t @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 _________ W2^-®tpaulcaledoiiia.org I 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou •«•••«•••••••• 9:30 AM Sunday Wonhip »• IFCS^ 10:30 AM Watch our services from our website (see above) f—f Whitneyville Fellowship Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52"'* & 48'^ Praising God through Hymns • Reading God's Word • Special Music Worship Services Sunday 70 am & 6 pm Prayer Meeting & Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online; WhitneyvilleFellowship.org BUYING ALL HARDWOODS; Pay­ ing Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diam­ eter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, li­ ability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. ■I 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am w Middleville Location 1664 M-3 7 9:30 am and 11:00 am PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. I1 i ) HELP WANTED 1^ THORNAPPLE VALLEY ^CHURCH .''Jr MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES; Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State street. Middleville, Ml / - 'Church Sunday School Caledonia Location Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. •Apeace peacechurch. JOURNEY (CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a. II Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. CONSTRUCTION. ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 "Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship......................... 10:00 a.m. Community Group............ 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankecspringsbiblechurch. org HANDYMAN- SASKATOON GOLF Club. Must have own tools. Flexible schedule, 3 or 4 days per week. Please apply in person. 9038 92nd Street, Alto. ANIMAL CARE/KENNEL ASSIS­ TANT; Seeking part time help (1015 hours/week) for a private show dog kennel. Responsibilities will include cleaning kennels, feeding/ walking dogs and other daily care. Flexible working around school/ sports schedules, weekends/occa sional holidays will be required. Will train on all tasks! Pay is competi­ tive with other entry level jobs. Lo­ cated south of Middleville. Please contact by email, kaybelter@gmail. com or text 616-808-6460. I �I < 1 w z / www.sunandnews.com I MI 1 k k 11 II I iv if ! I I s THE SUN AND NEWS FAIR Continued from Page 1 stalls. He said (they showed) mostly Jersey cows, because that was pretty common then, to have dairy farms. Some (participants showed) pigs. He said lambs weren’t very popular at the time. “They would stay right there, the whole group of 30 to 40 kids that were participating that year would go to a local restaurant and eat and come back and then take care of their animals and show. There wasn’t any­ thing like a midway or those type of things at that time.” Roger didn’t know it then, but this was the beginning of a family legacy that continues 90 years later. During the recent Kent County Youth Fair in Lowell Township, 20 descendants of John and Anna Van Laan, represent­ ing eight different families, showed animals at the youth fair, said Jenny Jonkman, another of John and Anna Van Laan’s granddaughters. “It started as dairy. The kids have shown so much more than dairy, ranging from dairy to rabbits to beef to pigs, lambs, horses. I don’t think anyone has ever taken chickens ... Someone has had a love of agricul ture and has just wanted to learn how to raise and show that animal,” said Jonkman, a social studies teacher at Caledonia High School. Pyper’s sons, Brandon, 19, and Gabe, 17, were among those showing at the fair this year, as well as Jonkman’s sons, Brennan, 11, and Lincoln, 10. They were among the 20 descendants of the Van Laan family to show ani­ mals at the fair, which was held July 29 through Aug. 3. The youth fair and the local 4-H programs that participate in the fair provide opportunities for young people to develop values such as hard work, responsibility, resilience and self-reliance. “What I observed from my dad and his siblings and what they passed down to US when it came to agriculture the generosity, the service to others, you just help people,” Jonkman said. “If someone’s cows are out, you go help them, you don’t ask any questions. “Kim’s oldest son, Brandon, men­ tored my son Brennan as he started. Brandon had nothing to gain from this. But through his generosity and service to others, took my son under * his wing. He got to leam from him, I don’t think they would have made a connection without 4-H and without the county fair. They’re too far apart in age. Brandon’s 19 and Brennan is 11. Now Brennan looks up to Brandon and sees his work ethic and he just wants to emulate — cleaning up the aisles, sweeping up the aisles, shoveling out the pig pens. He sees thaL and I saw that from older cousins, and I saw that from my dad and his siblings. Those lessons get passed down.” More than 1,000 exhibitors took part in this year’s Kent County Youth Fair. Today, some of the Van Laan’s descend^ts show their support for the youth fair in the businesses they run. “They are pouring money back into the fair by buying a lot of animals at auction. Tom is the youngest of the second generation and he founded Van Laan Concrete. He was a very gener­ ous donor for many, many years ... Harry’s second-to-youngesf Gord, owns GVL Excavating, and they buy a lot (of animals at auction),” said Pyper, an occupational therapist with Caledonia Community Schools. “My dad (also named John Van Laan) has Great Lakes Utility & Concrete Construction, which is a much smaller concrete company. They purchase animals, but they also donate to the new fairgrounds - pouring con­ crete, donating matenals for the fair ... A lot of these skills gave these guys the ability to be entrepreneurs and start a business,” Jonkman said. Two of John and Anna Van Laan’s six children are still living. Roger, who showed at the first youth fair, is now 101 years old and living in Maryland. Mike, the second-youngesL is 90 years old and lives in West Michigan. The following is a listing of genera­ tions, provided by Jenny Jonkman, from the John and Anna Van Laan family and their participation in the Kent County Youth Fair over the years; Second generation John Van Laan. John’s dad was a first generation exhibitor, John showed dairy, John’s children showed beef and pigs, John’s grandchildren show beef and pigs. John was active in Caledonia FFA and still raises livestock to this day in Caledonia. Gord Van Laan. Gord’s dad was a first generation exhibitor, Gord showed dairy, Gord’s children showed beef, pigs and lambs, Gord’s grandchild showed pigs. Gord raises livestock in Caledonia. Saturday, August 17, 2024 5 I t *T I I h lC L L fa. k < Mb « I I II I I ii Seated is John and Anna Van Laan. Standing, from left to right, is Thomas Van Laan, Stuart Van Laan, Roger Van Laan, Ruth Van Laan Fynewever, Harold Van Laan and Lawrence Mike Van Laan. Harry Van Laan. Harry’s dad was a first generation exhibitor, Harry showed dairy, Harry’s children showed rabbits, beef, pigs and lambs, Harry’ s grandchildren show beef, pigs and lambs. Harry lives in Caledonia. Mike Van Laan. Mike’s dad showed dairy at the fair, Mike’s children showed horses, Mike’s grandchildren showed beef, lambs, and pigs. Third generation Philip Van Laan. Philip showed rab­ bits, pigs, dairy and beef. Philip was active in Caledonia FFA and graduated from Caledonia High School, and he attended Michigan State LFniversity in the agriculture program. Philip’s children show beef, pigs and lambs. Philip’s family currently lives in Caledonia and raises livestock and Philip is a 4-H leader. Joshua Van Laan. Joshua showed rabbits, pigs and beef at the Kent County Fair. His children show pigs, beef and lambs. Jenny (Van Laan) Jonkman. Jenny showed beef and pigs at the Kent County Fair. Her children show pigs and beef. Jenny helps with Caledonia FFA as needed, her children live in Caledonia. JT Van Laan. JT showed beef and pigs at the Kent County Fair. His chil dren show pigs. JT’s family lives in Caledonia. Kim Pyper. Kim’s children showed rabbits, dairy, beef and pigs at the Kent County Fair. Kim has been active in Caledonia FFA as a parent and interim % I ■ -♦'•kf M F f L John Van Laan, second generation, showing a dairy calf at the Kent County Youth Fair in 1976. John Van Laan is a 1977 graduate of Caledonia High School, Caledonia FFA Alumni, and current Caledonia resident raising livestock. advisor. Kim’s son, Brandon, gradu ated from Caledonia High School and was active in FFA. Kim and her family live in Caledonia. Holly (Van Laan) Van Ryn. Holly showed beef, pigs and lambs at the Kent County Fair. Holly’s daughter showed pigs this year and Holly and her family live in Caledonia and raise livestock. Mike Van Laan Jr. Mike showed horses at the Kent County Fair. His children show beef, lambs and pigs. Mike Jr. and his family live in Caledonia. w» » �I 6 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. August 17, 2024 fH ? I. ♦ www.sunandnews.com I I I Middleville council hires consultant for library study ’W t GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer ■ **■' *>a^ Tlie Middleville Village Council Tuesday night voted unanimously to hire a consultant who will conduct a needs assessment to determine whether there is enough commu­ nity support for a standalone public library. The council approved retaining Ada-based Hopkins Fundraising Consulting to put together the feasi­ bility study and authorized Village President Mike Cramer to sign the contract. Hopkins will be paid $25,000 to conduct the study, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. fhe village and Thomapple Kellogg Schools will each contribute $2,500 toward the cost of the study, with the remaining $20,000 coming from the Friends of the Middleville Area Library through a grant from the Barry Community Foundation and funds that were previously raised, said Kate Bynski, president of the friends group. * . t ** * r r. 1i I Kate Bynski, president of the Friends of the Middleville Area Library, addresses the village council prior to its vote to hire consultant Keith Hopkins to conduct a feasibility study to see if there is support for a standalone public library. Photo by Greg Chandler '^4 WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Residential & Commercial -Gas Furnaces -Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers •r M- 4? *11 * I a t * I s « 7^ Pt > I ‘ * ’t y_ an email earlier in the year. As part of the study, Hopkins will work with the leadership team to develop a document making the case for support of the new library. The document will detail the history of the plan, current library needs, proposed solutions and a campaign budget, Hopkins wrote in a memo to the village. In his memo, Hopkins wrote that he would also assist the leadership team in identifying “opinion leaders” who have an interest in the project and the ability to support the cam­ paign with a gift or pledge. He would then present a final report detailing the findings of the feasibility study, which would include the following: • Reaction to the proposed case for support • Reaction to the project budget • Strengths and weaknesses of the case • Suggestions regarding campaign leadership • Personal interest in being involved in an organized campaign effort • Suggestions regarding other com­ munity donors who might support the campaign • Willingness to support the cam paign with a personal, corporate or foundation charitable gift • Timing of the campaign • Provide recommendations regard­ ing moving to a campaign with an identified and achievable goal, or delaying a campaign until a more appropriate time. As part of its approval, the village agreed to provide necessary clerical support needed to “effectively imple­ ment this feasibility □44 PS' Q 1 study,” including researching pro ­ f spective interview contact informa ­ • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink installs • Towers tion, coordinating • Cellular Enhancement Systems mailings, sched­ uling of leader­ Give us a call! ship meetings and ‘fSureC^ 269-967-8241 scheduling of study z www.theantennamen. com^ ir o jQ ^*^^**^ interview appoint ­ 3ntennamen@gmail .com wwwxefWgnstfirosxom ments, according to cpie with th© Rtoht Co bnettioruJ i Hopkins’ memo. Keith Hopkins, the principal for Hopkins Fundraising, had been picked last year to work on a feasibility study by a community group that served as a precursor to an ad hoc vil lage committee that was appointed in September of last year to work on the library project. Bynski said the earlier group wasn’t registered as a nonprofit organization, so it could not legally enter into a contract with Hopkins, who did consulting work on the 2009 campaign that led to construction of the Caledonia branch of the Kent District Library. “The library building itself needs to be held by a government entity, whether that's a township or a vil­ lage,” Bynski said after the council vote. “Going forward, we knew somebody would need to hold that study with Keith. The village is the logical (entity) because the school district is based in the village. If we’re going to move apart and keep those library lines the same, it made sense that it be in a central location.” The current TK School and Community Library, located inside Thomapple Kellogg High School, is open to the community only 12 hours a week during the school year - 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday nights, and 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays. According to statistics from the Library of Michigan released earlier this year, the library ranks in the bottom 10 of Michigan’s 394 librar­ ies in terms of the number of hours it is open to the public each year, at only 804 hours for the 2022-23 fiscal year. It also ranks at the bottom for the size of community it serves, com­ mittee member Josh Mosey wrote in 1 •i*. laii w I n» > Men * «J a I. t r 1 >■ I • •1 A •I ‘ V e 1 « • ‘J * * ms I 3 4*. • * . 4 i f. .*.« E ’* u * » .^4 " JB0 4. ■ A* A J3eS^erd_ (68) re«z« HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. ' Siacr i9fS LENNOX * « 1A+ •* . if* ett Fl I r ?4»* * ' 9 k' 1 « aBB ; ACCREDfreO BUSINESS rTTi si r . 1 *V- J K �9 4 J t I ’’ I 1 ? •b J *1 www.sunandnews.com ____ SUN AND NEWS II _________ _______ Saturday, August 17, 2024 z Thomapple Twp. approves Mid-Villa TIF; Barry County board next 1 b GREG CHANDLER \ Staff Writer J ' < ' Two weeks ahead of an expected vote by the Bany County Board of Commissioners on the fate of a tax-increment financing agree­ ment for a major housing develop ment in Middleville, the Thomapple Township board Monday night voted 5-0 in favor of the agreement. County commissioners are expected to vote Aug. 27 whether to approve the TIF plan to support the construc­ tion of 144 “workforce housing” apartment units on a 13.3-acre portion of the Flats at Mid-Villa project on the village’s north side. The site at 4611 N. M-37 Hwy. has been vacant since 2015, when the former Middle Villa Inn was tom down. If approved by the county board, which held off on taking action on it last month due to concerns, the TIF would allow the county Brownfield Redevelopment Authority to collect $4.48 million in new tax revenues that are expected to be generated by development of the apartments over the next 15 years. Those revenues would be used to reimburse the developer, Hudsonville-based Dutch Developers LLC, for expenses such as infi-astructure improvements that are tied to project development. Some township leaders had expressed reservations about the TIF earlier this year over con cems that it would affect funding for the Thomapple Township Fire Department. But those concerns have been alleviated. “We will not have to surrender our emergency services fimd to the Brownfield (Redevelopment) Authority,” said Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer, who made the motion for approval. As the TIF plan stands now, all of the revenue generated from the 2.25-milI, six-year levy that town ship voters approved Aug. 6 will go to fire and emergency services. Schaefer had voted against the TIF in May when it was brought up before the Middleville Downtown Development Authority board over concerns that the agreement would impact such funding. T^e Middleville Village Council in April unanimously approved a reso* V 1 s », I < I i. r I r I m-R-^ t I r > * y ; A. * * r> I ’L I - f 'J i r I * r • ■ ■ < a • t < ..g! » I » I f > I u 1 I -• •': 2 !• tv I *»wri n «« 4* I II» .1^-^ >A r •S r. t. w 11 '< * -*■-<■* - • ■ |^"W. X <*> ig2 w> Tf z*r s* —**•.** • - >Lb«t ;x Sf* z .> * -*. L :>s u The Flats at Micd-Villa project calls for construction of 120 twobedroom apartments and 24 onebedroom apartments, along with a 134-unit self-storage facility and three commercial outlets fronting M-37. File photo lution supporting the TIF proposal, while the DDA board voted 3-2 to pass a similar resolution. The Flats at Mid-Villa project calls for constmetion of 120 two-bedroom apartments and 24 one-bedroom apartments, along with a 134-unit self-storage facility and three com­ mercial outlets fronting M-37. The self-storage facility and commercial outlots are not part of the TIF, and any new tax revenues from that por­ tion of the project will go to the usual taxing authorities, including the village, township and county, developers said. Nate Heyboer, the principal for Dutch Developers LLC, has repeat­ edly said throughout the process that the TIF is needed for the apart­ ments to be built and offered at an affordable rent. The apartments would be marketed to people whose incomes are between 80 and 120 percent of the community’s median income. Rents for the apartments would range from $1,225 for one bedroom to $1,475 for two bed­ rooms, developers said. The TIF request is the result of a change in the state’s Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act that has been in place since 1996. State lawmakers last year passed a four«• bill package that changes the law to allow new tax revenues captured through local brownfield develop­ ment authorities to fund affordable housing projects. Some area residents aren’t sold on the TIF. Township resident Curt DeKam spoke out against the pro­ posal at a county board meeting Tuesday. “The issue I’m addressing is the TIF money we’re talking about with Mid­ Villa. These threats of overflow, lack of employment and strain on emer­ gency services are in direct conflict to what the developer for the Mid-Villa project has said his proposal will solve,” DeKam told the board dur­ ing a public comment period. “He states they are putting up this housing because there is such a demand for employment and the possibility of volunteers for emergency services, not the fact there is a strain on it.” DeKam went on to mention the narrow passage by the DDA board, and that residents have spoken out against the project at both the village and township. “I as a taxpayer have a difficult time saying that my property taxes are leveraged for a private invest­ ment by this developer,” he said. “We are socializing the risk to priva­ tize his profit.” DeKam authored an essay in a recent Barry County Republican Party newsletter where he called the Mid Villa TIF request “a money grab.” That commentary drew criticism from Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith at a committee of the whole meeting on Aug. 7, who called the information in the essay “erroneous in its facts and its opinion.” Smith pointed out that the origi nal legislation that created brownfield redevelopment authorities and the ability to create tax-increment financing was passed in 1996 with support from Republican lawmakers six of whom Smith named. The fact of the matter is, is that when there is somebody interested in investing in our community, there are tools that they can take advan­ tage of, and in this particular case, the TIF program, its origins came from a group of Republicans that said, ‘hey, we’ve got this land, we want to add tax to our tax roll, and we’re going to do that through eco­ nomic development or development of land, and provide opportunity to generate wealth from the top down,” Smith said. “You can rest assured if (Heyboer) doesn’t invest here, he’s going to take that money and invest it some­ where else where they are going to see the value of top-down, trickledown, Reaganomics, call it whatever you want — it is a heavily conserva­ tive perspective and the reality is that it should be getting our party’s vote,” Smith added. The current taxable value of the Mid-Villa property is $380,600. Upon completion of the project, the estimated taxable value is expected to reach $6.6 million, according to an estimate from the Barry County equalization department that is included in a proj ect report from the county Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. If the county board approves the TIF agreement, it would go to the Michigan State Housing Development Authority for final action. Editor Jayson Bussa contributed to this story KNOW SOMETHING INTERESTING? Your local agent insures your «» We‘d love to hear about it! Email jayson@j-adgraphics.com THE SUN AND NEWS Group Hi^me « FARM BUREAU INSURANCE' CoiRf>ojf^ Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 Jparks@fbjnsfni.com FarmBureautnsurance.com �8 r ♦ J / J 4 4 : t / ► ' t www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS t •4 Cal school board OKs replacing CHS dean, adds academic and security jobs GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer I he Caledonia Community Schools Board of I ducat ion unanimousiv voted Monday night to replace the dean of students position at Caledonia High Seh(K>l with an ass is tant principal position. The school board also approved the addition of seven new positions to address academic and security needs as part of its vote to update the district’s 2024-25 budget in response to additional state funding that was approved after the board adopted the original budget in June. (I he new positions) are going to be an increase to the budget, but we think that the cost-benefit ratio here is very good, and will be able to help our programming, both on the safety and security side and the instructional side with these posi tions, C'C'S Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer said. The CHS dean of students posi­ tion, which has been in existence since 2021, was originally slated to 1 44 44 Hi^h Efficiency I I I I I I I I I I FURNACE AIR M50' IBMiie OFF 'I I I I ' I I I I * Must present this coupon Expires ft-30-24 I I MU) I I I I' I J FINANCING AVAILABLE I ■ ’No monthly inlera«rtpatd wrthm 18 mo. I I The company built by referrals ’ I I I I 14 4 **4 I * 4 H V 1 A K a FRONTIER HEATING 8 COOLING 210 East Main Street. Caledonia 616-891-8900 r I work out a good transition w ith that, be eliminated when the budget was Weeldreyer said. “The way w'e would first proposed earlier this spring. start the school year next Monday However, when the board adopted would be to have the dean of students the budget in June, it voted to hold in place, along with our two (current) off on making the cut pending further assistant principals, and then as we review. bring these other positions online, we A month later, Weeldreyer pro­ would see where (and) how we realposed replacing the dean with a third locate those (responsibilities). assistant principal in response to new Pennington is under contract with stale requirements for evaluating the district and would be assigned to teachers. other responsibilities once the new ”1 hat position is able to assist assistant principal is hired. in a whole variety of other things. particularly related to All of our current instruction, in addition staff are under contract. That position to the safety (issue),” This would not be any­ is able to assist body losing their job,” Weeldreyer said. According to the dis Weeldreyer said. in a whole variety trict’s job description. Board Treasurer of other things, Jason Saidoo asked the dean of students’ responsibilities includ­ Weeldreyer about the particularly ed supporting“cfTorts timetable for finding the related to to improve student assistant principal. The achievement, behavior, superintendent said it instruction, in attendance/truancy and would likely be at least addition to the enforce school policies six weeks before that and procedures while safety (issue). position is filled. creating and maintain­ “I think we would Dirk Weeldreyer ing a safe and wel­ hope to have it (filled) CCS Superintendent coming environment sooner than second at CHS. In addition, the Dean of semester, but of course we are going Students will organize, manage and to do it the right way,” Weeldreyer supervise extracurricular programs said.“We will post these (positions), and activities.” we’ll conduct interviews properly The dean of students position is and we’ll make sure we get the right currently held by Derek Pennington, people hired for these positions. who is also the CHS varsity football We’ll keep you informed as we go as coach. He will continue to remain to how that process is going and what in that role as the new school year the timing is looking like.” starts next Monday and as the district The board also approved the estab­ begins searching for the new assistant lishment of five instructional inter­ principal. vention paraprofessional jobs, one at This (assistant principal job) will each of the five elementary schools not be a position that would be in in the Caledonia district. Each of place right away, so it’s our intent to the parapros will work a 27.5-hour schedule per week, Weeldreyer said. The school board eliminated more than two dozen positions when it passed the 2024-25 budget in June, many of them intervention parapro­ fessionals whose salaries had been paid through federal COVID relief funds that are expiring this fall. by the or The board also approved adding five hours per week to 14 parapro positions serving in special educa­ Chopped 16”-18” tenth tion classrooms in specific categories across the district, such as emotion­ ally impaired. The move will increase their schedule to 32.5 hours per week and allow the people holding those 44 44 SLAB WOOD FOR SALE Bundle $100 / Full cord 517-983-8916 jobs to receive health care benefits, Weeldreyer said. The board also established a distric­ twide security coordinator position and a safety monitor position at CHS to address security concerns. In addi­ tion, the board increased the hours for the security paraprofessional posi­ tion at Kraft Meadows Intermediate School from 27.5 to 32.5 hours per week, making the person filling the job eligible for health care benefits. The addition of the new positions comes after the state Legislature approved an education budget last month. While CCS’s per-pupil foun dation grant remains the same at $9,608 per student, the district will receive an additional $345 per student from the Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System for pre­ vious other post-employment benefits. District employees are required to pay 7.06 percent of their salaries into the MPSERS retirement system. Under the agreement reached by law­ makers, the state will return 5.75 per­ cent of the 7.06 percent contribution, Weeldreyer said at a special board meeting Aug. I. The district will receive $456,214 in additional revenue as a result of the state’s action, Weeldreyer said at that special board meeting. The board approved about $2.3 million in spending cuts in June after district officials projected a $4.7 million deficit in the 2024-25 budget. The security positions will add $193,330 to the district’s budget, while the new elementary interven­ tion parapros and expanded hours for current parapros will result in an additional $120,960 in spend ing. Replacing the dean of students position with an assistant principal at CHS will add $10,031 in expendi­ tures, Weeldreyer said. With the approval of the new posi­ tions, the expected budget shortfall for CCS for the 2024-25 fiscal year is $1,783,948, reducing the district’s general fund reserves to $8,593,192, representing 11.9 percent of the dis­ trict’s expenditures. However, that fund balance number could improve depending on the outcome of the dis­ trict’s audit for the 2023-24 school year. The school board has had a Ito * longstanding policy of maintaining a general fund balance of 13 percent. �5 I ■z * 1 / / 4 ! www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 17, 2024 9 Classic cars shine at car show named for former Bradford White CEO ♦ ♦ GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer r , I J. I I K K !| fj ■ 't ■ ht w F I i I I s I I 1. / •I i I iM Jim Lancaster began working at Bradford White Corporation in Middleville in 1968. “When I hired in here, it was noth­ ing but a dirt parking lot that would swallow a car,” Lancaster said. Lancaster worked as an arc welder in the manufacturer’s commercial water heater division until he retired in 2012. During that time, he saw expansion after expansion, to where it became Barry County’s largest employer. On Aug. 8, Lancaster was back at his former employer, displaying the gleaming 1956 red-and-white Chevrolet he has been restoring over the past several years, during Bradford White’s Bob Carnevale Memorial Car Show. The Oievy was given to him by his father-in-law. Jack Shovan, who him­ self was a longtime Bradford White employee - 45 years in the shipping department. Shovan had purchased the car after seeing it at a car show at the Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival. But after Shovan began to experience signs of dementia, he was looking for someone to take care of the car, and decided to give it to his son-in-law. “He didn’t want the grandkids to get a hold of it because he was afraid they’d just wreck the car. He 1 lew I’d take care of it,” Lancaster said. After taking possession of the Chevy, Lancaster stri •J lliLl1 the vehicle down completely. “When I got done with it, there was no engine, nothing on the front. no windows at all, no chrome, no headlight, no nothing,” he said. “I put brand new wiring harnesses on it, all LED, all the lights and stuff, head­ liner, seats, engine.” When it came time to paint the car’s exterior, Lancaster’s wife had only one request. “It went back to the original color that Dad had on it My wife says you’re not changing the color,” he said. “She said, ‘you can do anything else, but you’re not cha ingthe color. Lancaster did change the color of the inside, painting the dashboard and the inside trim black. It (originally) had a red dash, and it > < 4..^ 10 years rebuilding the frame, replacing the dashboard, putting in a new rear end, adding air conditionmg “whatever I feel like doing, he said. This year, Brookmeyer put in a new front end on the Corvette. Taylor Alberts, an engineering man­ ager at Bradford 'White, and her hus­ band Kevin brought their green 1957 Pontiac Star Chief, which they found in November of last year. “We found it in a storage locker. It had been sitting there for 20 years,” Taylor Alberts said. The Star Chief was considered the high end of Pontiac cars of that era See CARS on 10 « - * •» ■ - 4)^ >• . •* •> - ^5 c C z * I • |V9 •♦• .■4 1 - 4 « / I* * •r-5 5^ * *• J • I . r_*TL r 1 4 P b Retired welder Jim Lancaster with the 1956 Chevrolet he has restored. Lancaster who displayed his car at Bradford White’s Bob Carnevale Memorial Car Show, worked at Bradford White from 1968 to 2012. was red in the engine compartment. I like throwing off the contrast because it catches the people’s eye,” he said. Lancaster also installed bucket seats in tile front and bench seats in the back. He found a lot of the parts to r^ore the car in Danchuk, a magazine that lists items for sale specifical ly targeted to people restoring Chevys from 1955 to 1957. He figures he has invested at least $15,000 in restoring his father-in-law’s car. This year marked the 1 Sth year of the car show and the second since the event was renamed in honor of Bob Carnevale, who served as Bradford White’s chief executive officer from 1991 to 2009 and was its chairman of the board until he died in March 2019 at the age of 79. Carnevale had a clas­ sic car collection that included a 1955 Ford Thunderbird, according to his 2019 obituary. The car show returned last year after a four-year hiatus that included reconstruction of the plant paiking lot and tile COVlD-19 pandemic. This year’s show featured 45 classic cars an increase of eight from last year, said Mike DeHoog, an engineering man­ ager at Bradford White and one of the event organizers. “We find out what woiks. We add on more to what works (from the pre- vious year) and get rid of some things that maybe didn’t. We tune it as we go. It’s heavily supported by (corpo rate) leadership This is a cultural thing (for our company).” DeHoog said. This year’s event offered expanded tours of the Bradford White plant. While tours at last year’s show were for retirees, this year organiz­ ers expanded it to include employee families and kids if they were at least 10 years old, DeHoog said. Jim Lancaster’s friend, John Brookmeyer, brought his white 1964 Corvette to the show. Brookmeyer has been slowly restoring the car back to its original condition over the past -■ y 1 .t ' *r?. ->• ,1. IL •t’’ t « V— « 1 i PK 1 9 The engine on Jim Lancaster’s 1956 Chevrolet has been fully restored. Photos by Greg Chandler 4 • Fabrics by Moda®, QT, Nathan, Mayufood, & Others • Zippers, Thread, Trims, etc. • Burlap, Canvas, Demim, etc. • Lmt^c Sale Table ■3* Trayfor our Tfation 3* 9 J 1 'iK 4 • •4 • QUESTIONS: ASK US... MSA 218 E. State St.. Hastings • V 945-9673 OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-530 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm : Cleaners : Pickup Ldfeut SMion I ... ■ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ �’• -W' *1 ■ • ■ -J. - t ..J * 5- - A * ■A II !■ i* . . t *__T - Lfrtowi^ \ f♦ tL _<:=-. r ••• r _. «. \ K A <1 •x__ -.2- Xi*. I* w < 4 A* « 3P - *■ I •J 6 * 10 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 17. 2024 99 ' 1^ •>. .4 J k x- k L < ♦ ► ► « » > ;’n Gaines Board approves hiring fire marshal A X « r I * e . 1 ' I JAMES GEMMELL Si » IB I * • A * ► ■'' A A. • r IL 2I Sr VX- ii*_ .> 1 f f 55^* 9 r r i • >.•I e^r VO H-A 4 —-• •« . *• < I t J J z f- k T •Mf-J ,1 4 ■s^ t;\ 4 1 A t. .w t :3» L< •' ■> A .•k / >•1/' 1 'K* * 1 * f t* 4. ?1 ?» S 5 ' i T. r< I «* 4 J ■■ *.4 I /• /J I < r f I A fI 4^: G; ■ 1 ( * I*-,■‘7 * .1 i► 1 r < i- « » * f .< A U'J'- I I 1 i 4< II • •l I— • *-• -.fI < I E. A J >• •• V? T t 1 Tv •r • •I <T A ____ Kevin and Taylor Alberts pose next to the 1957 Pontiac Star Chief they have restored during last week’s Bob Carnevale Memorial Car Show. Taylor is an engineering manager at Bradford White. CARS Continued from Page 9 — “(It had) a lot of cool trim, a lot of cool chrome,” Kevin Alberts said. “We’ve cut the paint, we’ve cleaned it up and took a lot of the ugly rust off, and left the patina to be pretty,” Kevin Alberts added. “We added race car wheels and tires The reason (we did ±at) was because ’ 5 7 was when Pontiac entered NASCAR and dominated. I believe Cotton Owens VIEW was the driver that made ’57 Pontiacs pretty famous on the circle tracks.” Taylor Alberts said for now, they don’t plan to do much more to the exterior of the Star Chief. “We want to keep it pretty much how it is,” she said. “We’ll do the interior, make that nicer, maybe some mechanical imder the hood.” In addition to the classic cars and plant tours, the car show included food trucks, bounce houses, ice cream and comhole. / ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View * Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer’s Guide 810-664-0811 mihomepaper.com 1521 Imlay City Rd. Lapeer, Ml 48446 • 1 I 1^ Contributing Writer ? 'y y ► > •T^• Group V ■ Jeffersonian ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Trj-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News M The Sun and News ■ The Reminder Gaines Township has selected Kentwood Fire Marshal Patrick Quick as its first Deputy Fire Chief of Prevention/Fire Marshal. He was recommended by the township’s personnel commit­ tee and the township board voted 4-0 Tuesday night to approve the hire. Three board members were absent from the meeting in the township hall. Quick has 23 years of experience in the City of Kentwood and has been the fire marshal since August 2021. Before that, he was the fire inspector for two years, and worked as an engine operator from July 2006 until September 2019. Township Manager Rod Weersing said Quick is well known to Cutlerville/Dutton Fire Chief Ken Van Hall, who reached out to several people with the nec­ essary qualifications for the fire marshal position. Earlier this year, the township board authorized changing the fire inspector position to a full-time job, given all of the duties it now requires. That, after longtime parttime Dutton Fire inspector Dave Van Putten moved to a different position last year. The township posted the job publicly in January seeking a full-time fire inspector and began receiving applications. We had one person that we interviewed that we really liked,” Weersing said. “We made an offer that was subsequently turned down. It was a newer fire inspector, not as fully creden­ tialed as we would have liked. But somebody that could have helped us out and could have grown with the township.” After that, township staff increased the salary for the fire marshal position and re-posted the job availability publicly, but had no response. “Then, we decided to do some individual searching and reach­ ing out to some candidates who we identified ourselves that we r ' i-1 7a I r^ 1 h % A."" r £ 'J V J • • « I \ . » r» Pat Quick thought would be good employees for the fire department,” Weersing said. He added that Quick was “very excited” about the opportunity to become the township’s first fire marshal. “He has a lot of great ideas. A lot of things he thinks he can bring to the table to help out both the fire department and the build­ ing department. And with all the development that’s going on in the township, really get us to where we need to be,” Weersing said. There has been a 3 5-percent increase in call volume since 2015, with the average time for firefighters on scene doubling dur ing that time. “We’re behind right now with these big (residential and commer cial) developments we have com­ ing in,” Weersing said. “Our guys are kind of under water.” The Dutton Fire Department went to a 'l^n staffing model in January and Gaines trustees approved funding for the addition of five full-time firefighters for the department. An annual special assessment for public safety that was approved by the Gaines board is covering some of the additional cost. Quick will be paid $45 per hour and receive four weeks of vaca­ tion annually. o* �www.sunandnews.com _____ _________ the sun and HIKE I news Saturday, August 17 2024 11 New manager takes reins in village of Caledonia Continued from Page 4 township documents. MRWA is also recommending a usage rate increase of 5 cents from $2.25 to $2.30 per 1,000 gal­ lons, according to township docu­ ments. If approved, the new rates would likely go into effect as of Jan. 1, Knowles said. After the meeting adjourned, board members gathered outside to join members of the Yankee Springs fire station to take a look at the station’s new fire truck. The township last month made the second and final payment on the new unit of $396,679 from its fire equipment purchase fund. The final total cost of the new truck was $766,979, Township Treasurer Deb Mousseau said. The township board approved the purchase of the fire truck in December 2022. The board allo­ cated $150,000 out of the town­ ship’s funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to be used toward acquiring the truck. In other business at the Aug. 8 meeting, the board: — Approved the assessment roll for the latest round of treat­ ments to control aquatic plant growth on Barlow Lake. Property owners around the lake will see a reduction in what they pay in their aimual assessment for the treatment program through 2031 - from $60 to $54 for those who have frontage on the lake and from $30 to $27 for backlot property owners. The reduced assessment was made possible because of a township decision to use $30,000 in reserves to offset a portion of treatment costs, which are estimat ed at $125,600 during the eightyear period, or $15,700 annually. — Approved renovation of the kitchen in the township hall at a cost of $30,860. A local com­ pany, Koval Constniction, was contracted to perform the work. The project was delayed after a new supplier of cabinets had to be found after a previous supplier was destroyed by fire. — Approved the purchase of four new steel entry doors for the fire station at 1425 S. Payne Lake Rd. from Walker-based West Michi 2an Door Co. at a cost of $7,711. ♦ ♦ GREG CHANDLER ( Staff Writer The new village manager of Caledonia is now on the job. Brian Bennett began his duties with the village on Wednesday, two days after the Village Council approved an offer letter that had been crafted by a three-member committee. Bennett replaces Jeff Tbomton who resigned in April after nearly five years with the village. Longtime admin istrative assistant Lisa Segard, who had served as interim manager since Thornton’s resignation, will retire Sept. 5 after 26 years with the village. The council on July 15 voted to extend a conditional employment offer to Bennett, a former chief of the Caledonia Fire Department. He was was selected from four finalists who inter­ viewed for the manager’s job. Bennett will receive a starting sal­ ary of $75,000. The committee, which consisted of council trustees Dan Erskine and Karen Hahn and Planning Commissioner Spike Baird, recom­ mended the new manager receive quar­ terly performance reviews his first year on the job, as well as a pay raise of up to 2 percent after six months of employ ment at the discretion of council, and up to 3 percent at the start of each new fiscal year in July. Council Trustee Gerrianne Schuler pushed back on the pay raise recom­ mendation, saying that instead of lim­ iting Bennett’s pay raise to no more than3 percent, it should be up to the cost of hving. “What happens if the cost of living goes up to 4.5 (percent)? Schuler asked. brskine said that Bennett agreed to the committee s pay raise recommenda tions“We agreed that it was (up to} 2 per­ cent with a satisfactory review after six months, and (up to) 3 percent on top of all that at the end of 12 months, with a satisfactory review,” Erskine said. Nobody’s guaranteed COLA, I don’t be J ieve. Schuler pointed out how expensive it is to live in Caledonia. “If you don’t own your house, if you have not been living here for 30, 40 years, it’s expensive,” she said. “I think we need to treat our employees with the respect that they deserve. Giving them a cost-of-living raise is appropriate ... You’ve got to pay people what they’re worth.” Segard said she could see entire council what they a potential problem with would like to put in,” offering the manager one Village Attorney Kathryn type of raise separate from W Stegink said. other village employees. z Bennett will be an at-will 1 “To have one (position) be employee, meaning either different is just setting us up he or the village can end the for difficulty. They should employment relationship at all rise and fell together,” any time, according to the Segard said. letter of offer. Village Treasurer Jennifer Bennett served 27 years Eardley said that the vil­ on the Caledonia Fire lage’s history has been to Department. He became the keep raises consistent across New Caledonia department ’ s first full-time the board. Village Manager chief in 2002 and served in “When we meet as the Brian Bennett that role until 2016, when financial group, we go he became fire chief in listens to the Village over the raises for every­ Wyoming. Council ’ s discussion body, and we try to keep The council Monday also on the letter of offer them all in line, the same. voted to make Bennett the for his employment Whether that be a COLA village clerk on a temporary raise or a certain percentage, on Monday night. basis while it decides how that’s what it needs to be,” Photo by Greg Chandler to permanently fill the posi Eardley said. tion. Thornton and Sandra In the end, tire council Stelma, another former vil­ amended the letter of offer to give lage manager, also held the office of itself the discretion of awarding an clerk during their tenures as manager. annual increase up to the cost of living. The clerk position pays $3,750 a year, It may be given (by the council). and is responsible for recording the This isn’t a guarantee. It is on the minutes at council meetings. • 4 •* L * ^^CHIGAN «• VWWKS! < ^1. •« I L I, S \ 4 B' '*4 . 4 * J Take the next step to a better paying job! 1* k IT • rw: ’ I V Learn about free: • Computer skills training • Career coaching Job search services A IL t. 1 Ji ■T firA .M r * » a r -T .V • *» A * A ■ I ■» u* C1.* Trade Adjustnienl Assistance 5^ f TA 4 A V **5 r V’ f ,4 PLUS: Ask us if you qualify for Trade Assistance Act benefits! X. r »• 4 * I 4 A l^» * I i 5 t « 4 A * • XKf*. • •<' 1 ▼ • 4 * »■ a .. •«> . if . > ' ^4 J '■rtris^s >c * X. 4* ■ Call 1-800-285-W0RK (9675) or visit westmiworks.org/job-seekers, •* ' b> ■« e I* 11 f ♦ I -J 3*.. ■ A"’ ♦ ♦ �12 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 17, 2024 Gun Lake Women’s Club, Orangeville Twp. install sculptures by local artist at township park * r w ( nn 4 id y ■♦ I ■ r -V - . I j V * « «R If,. V >» ♦' <\ X # f ?/*55** ■ 1 A As I * 'it; A < • •* V ■V • ZT f > V A 4 •r ,*• I s w.' ,1. ? I * A .A < « +• I 1 ITm; .*1. J A «v 4 * * I « --a U T '• ** 4 Ei? » i I > ♦ T V. <1 (’'•V t »* * •• bt; r* • 1 I Frequenters of the Orangeville Township Park may have noticed some new scenery. Orangeville Township, with the help of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs - Gun Lake Women’s Club, purchased metal sculptures created by Orangeville artist Allie Watkins (pictured). The sculptures, made from recycled materials, have been placed along the walking path at Orangeville Township Park. Walkers can look for the several hidden sculptures throughout the park—with one pileated woodpecker sculpture hidden in a tree. Photo provided POLICE Continued from Page 3 up here tonight to personally thank each of you as a resident myself— to tliank each of you for your service to our community,” VanderMolen said. Trustee Bob Terpstra, who was elect ed in the Aug. 6 primary to become the township’s next supervisor in November, told Sgt. VanderMolen he is “very good” at community policing. He definitely has a service attitude for the community,” current Supervisor Rob De Ward said. “And we appreciate that. We’ll see what the future holds here and where things land. “We had several community policing offi^frs before Jason. Some went dif­ ferent ways. But Jason came along and r* • • Gaines Township primary election voters choose Bob Terpstra as next supervisor more money in the budget to devel­ op the parks and trails - maybe pur­ Contributing Writer chase some land, even. I ’ m excited Bob Terpstra has been a Gaines about making Gaines Township Charter Township trustee since more outdoor friendly and recre ­ the 2020 election, and in mid­ ation friendly, ” Terpstra said. November he will become its new There has been a lot of supervisor. discussion about develop ­ Terpstra, 65, defeated ing Cody Mills Park along . the township’s former 84th Street adjacent to deputy treasurer, Jenna the Byron-Gaines Utility Pilkington, in the Aug. Authority building, which 6 primary election, is west of Kalamazoo 2,159 votes to 897. That Avenue. The Gaines is according to elec­ Township Parks & Trails tion tracking website Bob Terpstra Committee has been dis­ Ballotpedia.org. Terpstra cussing ways to link the collected 70.6 percent of township’s parks via a trail network. the vote to Pilkington’s 29.4 per­ “It will connect. You’ll be able cent to win the part-time supervi­ to get from Cooks Crossing (sub­ sor’s position. division) across to Prairie Wolf He will replace current Supervisor Park and, hopefully, we’ll continue Rob DeWard, who decided not to to put more trails in. Because you run for that position after serving can’t get yet from Prairie Wolf more than eight years on the job. over to Dutton on a trail. But side­ De Ward was one of six township walks are going in, as well, so that board members who ran unopposed will help,” Terpstra said. in the primary. He will become a Another priority of his will be to trustee, essentially swapping posi­ improve the township government’s tions with Terpstra. The other communication with its residents. uncontested incumbents who were “If you look at how many re-elected were trustees Dan Fryling, people voted in this past election, Tim Haagsma and Kathy Vander Stel, as well as treasurer Laurie it’s pretty bad. It’s pretty low. I Lemke and clerk Michael Brew. think we need to do a much bet­ ter job of communicating with A pastor’s son, Terpstra and his wife have moved across the country our residents, pushing informa­ a couple times, but he claims the tion out to get them excited about Grand Rapids area as his “roots.” more stuff. And inviting them to “Because I spent ages 12 to whatever it is. If we can engage age 23 in the inner city of Grand Gaines Township residents more, Rapids. I left for 10 years, and I think the voting will go up, too,” my wife and I came back to the Terpstra said. south end. So, I’ve been here since He mentioned one goal trustees 1993,” Terpstra said. recently gave to Township Manager One of Terpstra’s priorities will Rod Weersing is to improve the be to focus more on developing township’s website, gainestownship. parks in Gaines Township. org. Strides have been made recently “It clearly is a vision and a in that direction. But Terpstra said it goal of the trustees. But we may still is not user-friendly. have to wait a couple years to get “We don’t use it anywhere near through this piece first,” he said, enough. You have to work too referring to the township board’s hard to find information,” he said. current primary focus on ensuring Rob De Ward and other trust­ long-term financial stability when ees congratulated Terpstra at it comes to funding public safety. Tuesday’s board meeting on his “We we are committed to putting victory in the supervisor’s race. JAMES GEMMELL 1 4 • J «. www.sunandnews.com stuck with us It’s been good. I know he served on the South Christian High School board the past few years, and you served your church community, as well,” DeWard said. Among VanderMolen’s many accomplishments in Gaines Township was organizing the annual South Kent Night Out event every August. “It was a huge success this year, the tumouL” DeWard said. It has become one of the region’s largest Night Out activities. He also provided timely information to report­ ers to keep the community abreast of what was going on with local sheriffs office activities. After that, VanderMolen received a round of applause from the audience at the meeting. « I �1 www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 17, 2024 2252 ^2 C»“n»y Commission candidates Halsted, Harris advance to general election ♦ ♦ Bruce's Frame and Alignment JAMES GEMMELL more than 27 years of experience in the health insurance ' industry, Voters in Gaines Township_ has led in a management role for and part of the City of Kentwood nearly two decades and currently — will have the choice of is a business development selecting Robin Halsted manager. or Roslund Harris as their Only about 200 people new District 10 Kent turned out to vote in the County Commissioner nine days of early voting come Nov. 5. in the township, or about Harris was uncontested 30 more than showed up in the Democratic pri­ to vote early during the mary last week. In the presidential primary in Roslund Harris Republican race, Halsted February. defeated former commis­ Voters approved a con­ sioner Bill Hirsch, 1,931 stitutional amendment in votes to 1,753 votes. Nov. 2022 for early vot­ That translates to 52.4 ing in every statewide and percent of the tally for federal election on the nine Halsted and 47.6 percent days beginning the second for Hirsch, who was first Saturday before the elec­ elected in 2009 and served tion. Ahead of the Aug. 6 two, two-year terms. primary, that occurred July District 10 includes all 27 through Aug. 4. of Gaines Township and “Early voting made up Precinct 6 in Kentwood. only 5,063 votes out of all Longtime Commissioner Robin Halsted the votes cast. Less than Emily Brieve announced 1 percent of registered in March that she would voters in Kent County not be running for re-elecutilized early voting,” tion after nearly a decade of repre­ Kent County Clerk and Register of senting the district on the county Deeds Lisa Posthumus Lyons said. board of commissioners. Her cur However, she did point out that rent term expires Dec. 31, 2024. this was only the second election “I thought the (primary) election locally where early voting was was run fairly safe and accurately. held. Overall voting in the county Township Clerk Michael Brew was slightly lower than in the past said. “On the ones that happened several August primary elections. here in Gaines Township, it was “But when every vote counts, a rather close race between Mr. it matters. We ended up with just Hirsch and Robin Halsted. But I about a 26 percent voter turnout. think a wide enough margin that it You compare that with 29 percent shows the will of the people.” in August of 2022, 31 percent in Halsted, 54, has a bachelor’s August of 2020, 30 percent in degree in business administra­ August of 2018,” she said. tion, and has worked in advance­ All of the reforms made in ment roles at Christian Healthcare Michigan to make voting more Centers and Cornerstone convenient for citizens have not worked, so far. University. In addition, her service included being a church minis­ “It really didn’t seem to trans­ try leader and former executive late to this election. Although that director of the Gaines Chamber of could be because maybe people Commerce. weren’t necessarily driven to the polls. And we’ll see. I do expect Harris, 51, has a bachelor’s there to be a high turnout in the degree in healthcare systems 70s (percent) for the November administration and an associate’s election,” Posthumus Lyons said. degree in applied science. She has Contributing Writer “We’re hoping that early voting picks up in November,” Brew said. It certainly is good for people who don’t want to wait in line, who for whatever reason would like to put the ballot through the tabulator themselves. Who really don’t want to wait in a line. Many of our senior citizens take advantage of it.” He added, “It’s a great way for people who know they’re going on a business trip or something like that to be able to put the ballot through the tabulator themselves, instead of putting it in an envelope and waiting for us to open it up.” As reported by AccessKent.com, 136,656 ballots were cast in Kent County, which has 520,926 regis­ tered voters. That is a 26.23 per­ cent turnout. V I t ■0. I 13 Full Service Body Shop • Wheel Alignments • Auto Glass Installation • Insurance Work Welcome • Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com A 7X5-1596. •• rL- f- f ir "--T; 415 2nd • Middleville I I q I r I I d Kin •J / I 'W 4 4 I VS A • Mb Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! k m\ .-t /mb A c, *« ♦ T AM r*. • * 4 t n.: I ( ■ jfi ., s slX,. -f. • A I >• J I ( K 1 ) J ■ —I I * it • 1 Fk . > 5 I « ««»<»> * V » a. Ml X k A M • kb Ma**. «--4>s,V -UM » • V < •f I 5 — ri* s •4>t I! T?'W" a* '•V * 1^1 I mI *•. —Li— I A .a’;’ !r< 1 r ■R»f Simply Perfect * 1 . J a WEDDING INVITATIONS • •• Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. E*' < I PRINTING BY www.printingbypennyiane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting.com t *• I �ft W IM S-. t r •w rt• -k bl ( * I Z s V - I, 1». 1 4 s s 14 Saturday, August 17, 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS 1 ♦ ♦ J I J ♦ 4 www.sunandnews.com 284 N. BRIGGS ROAD- MTODLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a special public hearing will be held on September 3, 2024, commencing at 6:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, Ml, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for I the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE in addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the ZBA’s consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the ZBA for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (joeshea® yankeespringstwp.org). Letters and emails are due 3 days before the meeting date, or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. ZBA 24-06-03, Parcel ID: 16-030-003-10, 2737 Russell Drive, and 16-030-003-00, 2751 Russell Drive. The owner of the properties, Benjie Vista, is appealing from the decision of the Zoning Administrator denying his application for commercial short-term rentals at the above addresses pursuant to the Township Zoning Ordinance, Article X, Short Term Rentals. 2. ZBA 24-07-07, Parcel ID: 16-215-034-00, 11299 Oakleigh Drive, Middleville. The property owner, HoneyB Holdings LLC, c/o Angela Cassiday, is appealing from the decision of the Zoning Administrator denying her application for a commercial short-term rental pursuant to the Township Zoning Ordinance, Article X, Short Term Rentals. Cal school board approves contract with bus drivers bus drivers as well,” Kingsbury said. “We need to be able to remain com­ petitive with our neighbors, competi­ tive with Dean Transportation that does provide services for other dis­ tricts in (Kent) County.” Employees in the transportation group will receive an average pay increase of 2.5 percent under the new pact, Kingsbury wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Teachers in Caledonia are entering the last year of a three-year contract with the school district. The contract expires on June 30 of next year. Support staff, such as paraprofes­ sionals, administrative assistants and custodial workers, are in the second year of a three-year contract that began in July 2023, Kingsbury wrote in the email. GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer As bus drivers in the Caledonia Community Schools pick up stu­ dents for the first day of classes this Monday, they will be working imder a new contract. The district’s Board of Education this week approved a one-year contract with the Caledonia Transportation Association, the bar­ gaining unit representing bus drivers and transportation aides. The contract covers more than 40 bus drivers, two mechanics, a dispatcher/router, and two bus aides, CCS Assistant Superintendent Darrell Kingsbury said. It’s very competitive. It’s very difficult to find teachers in a lot of con­ tent areas. It’s very difficult to find 44 GFWC-Caledonia Women’s Club lends a hand at library ‘Wonder Bash’ »> * V >s * 9. I ';*« •»»*?; 3*2 YW p u L 1 '4*' TS—j J « I ■ 23? >- I * 3. ZBA 24-07-06, Parcel ID 16-217-015-00, 12491 Park Drive, Wayland. The property owner, Gerald L. Spoor, Jr., is appealing the decision of the Zoning Administration finding several violations at the Township Zoning Ordinance: Section 3.8.1C Permitted Uses, 3.8.1G Docks and other Temporary Boat Shelters, and Article XII Zoning and Building permits Required, and Setback Requirements. - . t*.' ir^' <• -' ■ 1. 1^ t ‘7‘ Mm A J -I / I c V"J • 1 ♦ .* r / I .'^ 4 fe f* * r •* . z > J— 4* K. ■ ' < 1 *r** r f -k A M.’- J ■j"'. . i' « »* *>r-. 4 4 1/ 4. Such other business as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals. •z I 4 / r4 ’»• J • • I •> Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. \ X*' *3 Z£i^ »< VJ ir<. . .4 9 'V k A »• t » I ■* * V.. ■4 t Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days’ prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Jake Welch, Chairman Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 ■ * T V D, J ,, a.' I •? r k A r ** 1^ S’ X 4 ‘V|k' The GFWC-Caledonia Women’s Club participated in the Kent District Library — Caledonia Township Branch’s end-of-summer “Wonder Bash’’ last week. The bash celebrated a full summer of reading and learning for children in the Caledonia community. Kids were able to decorate rocks to go in the club’s Kindness Garden. The Caledonia Women’s Club next meets on Monday, Sept. 9 at the Caledonia Resource Center, 9749 Duncan Lake Ave. The meeting begins at 11 a.m. and is followed by a potluck lunch. All are welcome. Photo provided �s www.sunandnews.com iI ♦ ♦ 17 2024 1 •’ickssmgs the blues under blue I Sports Editor ♦ ♦ skies Vi >A c 0 j ai'l I®. «i. J h' to 1 a 1 The Caledonia Concert Series keeps knocking it out of the park - or rather the Community Green. A couple hundred folks gathered under blue skies Monday to hear the blues of King Solomon Hicks, who grew up in Harlem and now resides in New York City. His latest album, “Harlem” was selected as the Best Emerging Artist Album award winners at the 2021 Blues Foundation Blues Music Awards. A guitarist, vocalist and composer, Hicks got toes tapping throughout the evening even if he couldn t quite encourage the crowd to spring into a dance party no matter what the driving beat of “Have Mercy on Me” deserved. “Drove all night screaming out her name. My heart was spinning like a hurricane. How can a woman cause so much pain. Lord, I’ll never know,” Hicks sang with what felt like an ever increasing tempo like a train picking up speed.” “Headed down Highway 61, looked for the devil on a midnight run, cut a deal and signed with blood, lord I’ll get her home. “Have mercy on me Hicks closed his July and opened August with a few shows in Spain, returned to the United States for the Lincoln Center’s Summer for the City concert in Manhattan Aug. 7, then made the stopover in Caledonia Aug. 12 before jetting back to Europe. He’s got a show in Belgium planned for Sunday. He started playing guitar at six years old, and over the years has shared stages Buddy Guy, Tony Bennett, Jeff Beck, Ringo Starr, Mavis Staples and many others. “Harlem” is Hicks’ second full-length album. He released “Carrying On the Torch of the Blues” in 2015. There are plans for a new album to be released later this year. Local musician Josh Rose, who emceed the event Monday, likened Hicks’ sound to that of Leon Bridges. Joe Johnson & the Bluebacks opened the evening’s entertainment, which was sponsored by Union Bank. The folks from Union Banks also provided free popsicles for those in attendance and had a face painting station. Hicks launched into his song “Help Me” while bass player Kirk Yano got it' ■w < ■ in 3'S I ■>. A Vi. 'J. * k ■■ TT^ -- is - ••_ I- I • * 'a 1 ' ( lU I t ii ’ '9^ * * s: < I 1 ? : T ** v> •• :t ' ' sb*^ r,''* j*^i :&• 4 »9 • . - - - - ,™ I'” I S' H«{ ? ’W r t '•’^ I K -’ I If: t « r <• ^CJ0 > '"iL-’. ;»«• « .V rJbM * V) f.'r t >• t 4* "Vr 5**' ▼4 .. G a ..rS' Of 1 « ' •r 1 / s. A .. •*-<s .t •♦ » 4? A’ — T 7- ♦ 4 >*<C 4 ^> 4 ? 1 1 t I.. rr*> * * 4»> J r I > * • ’’ 4 •r. K> .» 4- The minutes of the July 23,2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on August 13, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the \N\N\N. website at yillaqeofmiddleville.org * b "W <♦*< COUNCIL REGULAR meeting MINUTES 9 ** 1 ■ Wr.r f-l- ^ «»«««^ *• X 1 '•n r. T •'X V B * K I r* X if =». • THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP OARD 128 HIGH ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml 49333 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING ’ MINUTES Monday, August 12, 2024 ■-^. W- A ....... <j v * •• 4_ * iaar 4 U «•<!9 r 1 ¥ ’Zi- Grammy-Winning engineer/producer, plays the bass Monday It ^he^omm'^^rt Caledonia Concert Series show Monday at the Community Greenspace amphitheater. Photo by Brett Bremer ^inn/^H°’ some technical assistance. Yano is a three-time Grammy Award-wirming engineer/producer playing alongside Hicks. “Help me, I can’t make it all by rnyself;” Hicks crooned as he flickered licks off his guitar. “Some body help me. I can’t make it all by myself. If you don’t help me darlin’, I’ve got to find, find somebody else. “Might have to wash, I may have to sew. I might cook. I might even mop your floor. Somebody help me. I can’t make it all by myself” While many of his tunes were new to the folks in Caledonia, ears certainly perked up at his rendition of Chuck Berry’s “Memphis, Tennessee.” The band Magnolia Boulevard, a five-piece outfit from Lexington, Ky. is slated to close out the 2024 edition of the Caledonia Summer Concert Series with a performance Tuesday, Aug. 20, mixing their style of country, Americana and the like. The band is fronted by lead vocalist Maggie Noelle who did most of the writing on the band’s five-song 2023 EP “Things Are Gonna Change” with guitarist/keyboard player Ryan Allen. 9 > • << I f < ( The meeting was called lo order at 7:00 p.m. with six mem­ bers present, Clerk Ordway was absent. Items approved: 1. Printed Agenda approved as amended with correction of spell­ ing of names in July minutes. 2. Consent Agenda approved as presented. 3. Approved motion to approve Resolution 11-24. 4. Approved motion to create an eBay account for the sale of fire department/township surplus. 5. Approved motion to repair the Plymovent at an amount not to exceed $8,600.00. 6. Approved motion to move New Business B (Implementa­ tion of Compensatory Time) until September meeting. Meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Brenda Hess. Approved by Township Super­ visor, Eric Schaefer. Copies of the meeting minutes are available upon request from the Township Clerk or by visiting our website at httDs:/Ahornan- ; ple-twp.org/meeting-minutes/ Office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. » < i r #• *4 .. e J’’ 4 X I «4* t A* 13U'I' > s ,1 k M AC r V ' •* r-** B||^ I ' < •. f-? •••J M "I* •+ ■ Z' *?> ? . h-*! B B r 1 « ( i-. . I ' bx. t 0 J II ip> " I- 7 i-' .‘"fte.' ' King Solomon Hicks plays his guitar during the Caledonia Concert Series show Monday at the Community Greenspace. Photo by Brett Bremer 1 �-'A ■*— > ► r*i Z* 4 / 1 K V ‘I \ ♦ ♦ X 11 -9 i ' T' 4 t A * www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 17, 2024 16 .1 .▼ Fall practices kick off around the state ♦ ♦ footbalEswimming sports into the OK Green Conference along with Jenison, Byron Center, Mona Shores, Reeths-Puffer and Muskegon. The first contests of the fall season were scheduled for Friday, Aug. 16, the first day allowed by die MHSAA. The Caledonia varsity boys’ ten­ nis team was set to host its annual Dobber Wenger Invitational while the Caledonia boys’ golf and Thomapple Kellogg boys ’ tennis team were scheduled to be in action Friday too. Soccer, cross country, golf and tennis teams across the state were allowed by the MHSAA to open competition Friday. This Wednesday, Aug. 21 is the opening day of competition for volleyball and girls’ swimming and diving teams. BRETT BREMER Sports Editor The 2024 MHSAA sports season kicked off Monday with the first practices of the “fall” sports season. Thomapple Kellogg and Caledonia student-athletes opened practice in football, volleyball, cross country, boys’ tennis, girls’ golf, boys’ soccer and girls’ swimming and diving Monday. The Thomapple Kellogg High School football program was a couple hours into its Wednesday practice, the first of the season with shoulder pads on, when the fields surrounding the high school prac tice fields started filling with the Middleville Youth Football tackle and flag practices for the evening with still a couple hours to go. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity football team opens the 2024 season on the road against rival Hastings Thursday, Aug. 29. Caledonia kicks off its 2024 season hosting Holy Names Catholic from Windsor, Ontario, Aug. 29. It’ll be a different football season for the Trojans facing off against new OK Black Conference foot ball foes East Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Catholic Central, Northview, Ottawa Hills and Holland Christian. Caledonia’s OK Red Conference football slate remains unchanged. With the exception of swim con­ ferences this fall, the rest of the Thomapple Kellogg student-athletes will compete in the OK Gold Conference along with Northview, South Christian, Grand Rapids Union, West Catholic and Wayland. Caledonia will move its non w. . 1 -I** * a V 1 1 * : I ■■ [ Ti .H • -< * < I J 4Wr IS ite « ▼ I f * t. L 3^* >- * A f v‘ < V A -1 * I ft r* .^1 I r < Si I • A ,1^ A n ) s V .V d I - < 4,^ <• “ III II r — 4 ------------- • i T -- |fe • .H .V t _±t.- r J X P-' A k e> Ml .. - .U tL ir - *♦ 4 •J £ .The Trojans run through some offensive plays during their Wednesday ^evening practice in Middleville. Photo by Brett Bremer 1 t A. 9I T” Tl . V 4 > r ' V TH ♦A A . ■M t • r’ *** ’ l< t 1 J « ,.i L I * n i 7 4 / » r^: ' I *• I J «» M J I s' t I 1 It 1 L •. •A 1*9 k * J ' St A. b •• > -I A I r 5 - <. t I 4 rR I * V .i aa Thornapple Kellogg varsity football coach Jeff Dock, beginning his eighth season leading the Thornapple Kellogg program, runs guys through drills during Wed nesday’s practice in Middleville. Photo by Brett Bremer u I* 4li V •* ««■< f :r s J • ' Il ’- f JI Thornapple Kellogg defensive linemen work on their technique on the Rev sled during their Wednesday afternoon practice in Middleville. The Jrojan varsity football team opens the 2024 season Thursday, Aug. 29, at Hastings. Photo by Brett Bremer CM — I HERITAGE DAY FESTIVAL DOWNTOWN MIDDLEVILLE AUGUST 24TH. 2024 THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS! i I ♦ i i HER5TA6E -1 THORNAPPLE EYECARE* CARVETH VlUAGE + FIRST REHAB SPORT & PHYSICAL THERAPY • Craft Show 9am-3pm • Turkey Dinner 4-7pm I o' oe £ • Kids Games + Charlie Pullen Car Show + DJ 11 am-2pm • Cornhole Tournament 11 am-3pm UI 03 I “ol • Historic Train Depot Tours + Food Trucks 11 am-3pm cl ■Ci Q. ADVANCED STONE + BRADFORD WHITE THORNAPPLE CREDIT UNION • Touch a Truck 11 am-1 pm • Live Music 12-3pm :f > • Parade at 10am al HISTORIC MIDDLEVILLE ON THE THOPNAPPLE COAAMUNtTY WEST CREDIT UNION ♦ HIGHPOINT COMMUNITY BANK + MY SISTERS CLOSET ♦ • • Concessions -i-Kids Activities + Cooling Station 11 am-3pm r 4 ! ! < r: %» I � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-08-24.pdf ced9b1e5fd10ec15ba82d34997940cee PDF Text Text icn TfTa> I ^’r b*^ r 'i^«S t THE SUN AND NEWS More local grads choose nJ L» Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville. Caledonia and Gaines Township Areas I than any other college or university in the state! I, NO. 20 b 1 •5^ :jb>^ b ♦ •» Kf-dU-AlSk *Jbife:H H 4 £ N< f grJ^j^ . • SATURDAY, AUGUST 24. 2024 .com ! k Middleville council to review State Street development proposals at upcoming meeting The sun rises on new school year r .;a 9 ■G' ‘ •^Tt .J - a. ‘t. ••«L I V 1 f ’ GREG CHANDLER A w. r --i Tj * > 4r r m. ■ < <*. > The Middleville Village Council will review three proposals for devel­ opment of village-owned property at 36 State St. when it meets next Tuesday. The village earlier this year requested proposals from developers who might be interested in the 3.4-acre site, which is currently a parking lot. Three proposals were received by the July 31 deadline, and they were reviewed by the village Planning Commission earlier this month. Proposals were sub­ mitted by CopperRock Construction, Thomas Lyons and Thomapple Valley Church. The 36 State St. site was recently rezoned into a newly-created zoning category called “transitional indus­ trial.” The category had been recom­ mended when the village last updated its master plan in 2021, Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers said. The Village Council asked the Planning; Commission for a recommendation on the proposals, based on how they fit with the master plan and zoning ordinance. Two of the three proposals were for residential develop­ ment. CopperRock Construction proposed two three-story woodffame apartment I I lb.** * Staff Writer n I* rf f w I ‘'a r < * * » c*— «« * * A kA b L X . b ,J A wv J» XT' : V^ T "A *0* r >» > X X *p<* f b 4 A w«» i % rt s 1 4 *r^ 'I .ebZ •I ♦ t 1 I. J 1 I r w '' L& iw * I I >» yI ( * i >5^\* •I T Zf 5 j * - •U 1 s 7/. *' I 9 * ' (• .1? * : t I if*- ■ . "^. I Ja - s *»*b «b. *'** y t jF A *ii4l * b.MC .&« J* ’ • . J** . t * ■ ‘4 5^ »ib « R» T, b > 9 •r^j c. *.. 9 .Ji •* 4 I •A' M JS"- tip* I 4 4 ?< “3 He ih. i * '» #e 9 I —* • », . 5 »b » ’• ’^*7 -4.V' TBT « 5'; •«^ ■ •< f < ? • ;i> • > a ■“ •^-. .. * s *-r. . < r ♦h b ■ r.r^T^ HbT’ A new school year for Caledonia Community Schools kicked off on Monday. At Caledonia High School, seniors gathered early for the traditional Senior Sunrise. The Class of 2025 enjoyed donuts and coffee provided by the Caledonia Biggby coffee shop as they watched the sun rise on the start of their final year of high school. «t < 1 9 e I*-. f I 4 I ^abk i T “ I VkX -« 4 1 jg T' k J I• < * a'' b \ ) 5 •I ' *** '• I *>* t Jt » b r >* 4 / p b I I 1 v* - I’ ✓ T 7 ' I < • *• b 4 u 1 A* . 1b S' _z I ■ / -K •up J»^ t 4 •^ 9<v I*..J ?• < « % I I k' i if ♦ r .A z :♦*** I? f 1? » S5 ' 4 4^ .V ■ » 3 c • r • .> '. V 1, w* « I %*«* ■pr i » IB c’ IL Photos by Heather Moore i- 'Vi/’' o'' \ 9 V r •* ' J; •r iaPife. r ^’’1 « 4 X 4« cvMSu .xi IV I'Oi i-'va I . ' •. t M' I _ » Y -Oic. W » «4 t 9WAUWJ«) k '■ see# Jiujued sess^ lb<M ‘©ltwu»9J0 aiVd aovisod s n * EIS ?* 111 mi \ * uu V n; »t r * i^psW ' W' t ' t-^JniT© I b 4 r b-" > > b t I I » I * 1 1 « 4.. I ■ * I > '& .> 1 't t b » p \ * '•r ’ - i > ♦ 4 I a « r i I >• '► si Ai^s? ► ’ ■ 'A '■ z I < ? kellogg.edu 1 i? 4 '7'*5R^ e •» i. .* » t, 4 I -b <. e I ' •I ■I * I* «l I "s* > r ft B z •i” « r v/.W** * ' 1^"*' * ^jFJwrrr V * - c . ’TA; 4 » <> ■ ■ *J.iBI»1>L4 . 'e > I « • s .A I s } Sm r ••J I « - ■■ K^GISTERNOW! 1 f otexodod J z IJ b ?$MU33 * t 'i,' WOOS aawoisno iviiNaoisau a <1 t • I t b * I I b b* 1 P b Jt* I b s .J. * b 1 I .1 ’I A-'^W I d k fl I b ■f... L z' r % K » «>w. A See REVIEW on 2 a UV1 .* cv; 4i^ PCSSP IN I J i. rt. p* • & 5 �2 “ REVIEW council meeting. “The plans were complete. They could start today. It really looked good to me,” Hamilton said. Planning Commissioner Di Wilke opposed the CopperRock proposal. “I don’t agree with putting another apartment complex in here when we haven’t even filled one that’s supposed to be built,” Wilke said, referring to the Flats at Mid-Villa project that will be discussed at Tuesday’s Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting, where they will decide whether to approve a tax­ increment financing agreement to sup­ port the construction of 144 “work­ force housing” units at the M-37 site. Lyons, who presented a proposal earlier this year for the 36 State St. site for 10 rental units and nine owneroccupied condominiums, is now pro posing construction of six duplexes that would be owner-occupied. While the CopperRock project would likely require infi’astructure improvements such as construction of a lift station to handle the expected flow of sewage from the site, the Lyons proposal can be handled within the village’s current infrastructure. Powers said. Holzhausen said the Lyons project fits the spirit of the master plan for the site, but had some reservations. “It will have very little impact on the infi-astructure that already exists there, but it may not use the parcel to its full potential,” he said. TVe, which currently uses the 36 State St. site for overflow parking for its Sunday worship services, has offered to purchase the property at a cost of $120,000. The church has proposed construction of a larger audi­ torium and a “compassion center” that would house counseling services and a food pantiy, TVG senior pastor Keith Brown wrote in the church’s proposal to the village. TVe currently has 54 parking spac­ es. About 100 to 120 vehicles park at the church during the first worship service on Sundays, TVC representa- Lofts in the next month or two. The apartments for the 36 State St. project would be a combination of one-bedroom, two-bedroom and threebedroom units, and would be rented at market rates, Taylor said. “I think that housing units would fit more with the spirit of the master plan for this parcel, because this parcel was specifically called out in our master plan for redevelopment, and that dis­ trict is ripe for additional housing,” Planning Commission Chairman Jason Holzhausen said. “The only question is how well it would fit the spirit of the master plan back there. Council Trustee Richard Hamilton, who is the council’s liaison to the Planning Commission, praised the CopperRock proposal at the Aug. 13 Continued from Page 1 buildings, totaling 42 units, along with a playground area and greens pace. CopperRock is currently in the midst of developing the Hastings Riverwalk Lofts, consisting of 135 apartment units and a community center building, along the Thomapple River. “We’re very familiar with this pro­ cess, and we expect our process here in Middleville will go much faster than it did in Hastings,” Greg Taylor, a senior construction and development specialist for CopperRock, said at the Aug. 7 Planning Commission meeting. CopperRock expects to break ground on the Hastings Riverwalk w I 3. V t * I I f. r* WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS •■■kt 7^ j: s » • Residential & Commercial K 1 L- I H — * lb r • “r r ( I-. X • * S-' **. I I i Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers Th s• * .V ■hi 4 12 1 % I • kfj Oi ** * 1 4- Is. *7530 r r 9 It I I >, ► - 4 DeWeerd (68) ---------------------------------- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM I—. . b v-UiiAtt*'- s A A’ ■s 1 I I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 24, 2024 269-792-2234 LENNOX^ y year, Since J955 V lU * ' A+ IBBSJ ACCREDITED BUSINESS I ♦ live Andrew Beck told planning com missioners at the Aug. 7 meeting. “Without the parking lot, what it would do essentially is force us to park on the street,” Beck said. Under the current village ordinance, the maximum allowable parking for TVe is one space per four seats. The use of the 36 State St. parking lot would put the church at 350 percent of what is allowable for the site. Under the ordinance, any request for parking beyond 130 percent of the maximum allowable amount would require a variance to be granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals, Powers said. Lyons offered an alternate proposal that would address both his interest and TVC’s interest in the site. “What if we were to drop a few of those western (duplex) units off, work with the church to secure their parking, increase just a little more greenspace inside of the condominium - everybody would be happy,” Lyons said. A development agreement would have to be crafted by the village for either of the proposed residential uses, Holzhausen said. “My opinion for the parcel is that it gets developed. (During) our strategic planning sessions we had with council and countless other government bodies and community partners the top priority was labeled as additional housing,” Holzhausen said. One of the other issues that may affect development of the site is that part of it is within the 100-year flood plain. Ryan Brown of CopperRock said he would seek to have an updated study to see exactly how much of the property is within the flood plain. “You can’t put occupied buildings in a flood plain,” Brown said. “You can put parking areas, green areas, walk­ ways that if it were to flood, they’d be protected and not damaged longterm.” The Village Council meeting starts at 7 p.m. at the Village Hall, 100 E. Main St. THE SUN AND NEWS I CONTACT US The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 PUBLISHED BY Editor: Jayson Bussa .1J, ■ 5 / Group jayson@j-aclgraphics.com 1351 N. M-43 Hwy, Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Advertising: 1 ads@j-adgraphics.com — PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. recycle this newspaper T- • I t > I 1 t J > I I I ) I i » t *- « I 1 » 4 I * I I J 1 5 V T Copyright 2024 '2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the ILS. ,,.. . I I t J I J » > I I All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 ’^QStings, MI 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser's order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. fc. — *5.. . _____ '--■■wi ■- _ ' ■ w**.*.ibak > < �( I I L \ - ---------- - ------------------ -l,,- * SUN AND NEWS_______________ _________ Saturday, August 24, 2024 3 Second extension granted for Patterson Place townhouse development GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer I I I 1 II I i www.sunandnews.com A Hudsonville-based develop er has been granted a second one-year extension for a townhouse project at the northeast comer of 76th Street and Patterson Avenue. The Caledonia Township Planning Commission Monday night extended approval of the site plan for the Patterson Place project at 7528 Patterson Ave. SE through Sept. 19, 2025. The planning commission had approved the site plan for Patterson Place, which is being developed by Mark Pung, in September 2022. The project, which is located near the new Dutton Elementary School that is under construction, consists of 112 units. “Over the course of the last year, we have worked with the applicant. We’ve had conversations and meetings with them about financing structures that they are exploring to produce and implement their development plans,” Township Planner Lynee Wells told commissioners. “They have met with the township manager and myself. They’ve spoken before the township board about their project. They’ve also submitted their plans and put them out to bid, to gather a better understanding of what the pricing is CORRECTION: The Sun and News incorrectly reported in its Aug. 15 edition that the Thomapple Township Board approved a tax-increment financ ing agreement for the residential portion of the Flats at Mid-Villa project in Middleville. At its Aug. 12 meeting, the Township Board unanimously approved a revenue sharing agree­ ment whereby revenues generated from a tax levy for fire and emer­ gency services in the township of 2.25 mills over a six-year period that was approved by voters on Aug. 6 will not be subject to for this type of development in the current marketplace.” Pung submitted a letter to the township last month asking for the extension. “The delay in starting site work is due to high interest rates, elevated construction costs and other factors,” Pung wrote in his letter. “We are not requesting changes to the site plan or building elevations. Everything is as previously approved by the planning commission.” Pung was granted the first extension of the site plan approval for Patterson Place a year ago. Our market conditions are still shifting, interest rates are slated to change perhaps in September, and we know from the applicant that they’re still very interested in pursuing a project,” Wells said. Township ordinances allow the planning commission to approve up to two one-year extensions of a site plan approval if developers run into challenges in construction or development of a project. The ordinance states that during the extension period, “development and construction shall commence.” “After that, there are no more extensions,” Wells said. Commissioner Jodie Masefield asked if there had been any changes in township ordinances that might . Community Schools and Allen Edwin Homes contributed toward the cost of the water main. “Patterson Place is now proposed to be constructed in phases. It is currently understood that they will contribute to the cost of the 2023 watermain project upon the commencement of Phase 1,” Township Engineer Todd Boerman wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “The water main extension north along Patterson (from 76th) to Whispering Stream will be constructed as a part of a later phase.” ThB buck stays hers! ■< 8|Nnd it hare. Koop it hare. ♦ r Invest In Your Community. t Group I ^MICHIGAN •X WiORKS! Take the next step to a better paying job! j » • «d T\ I * (• 4 tax-increment financing capture by the Barry County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, nor will any tax such revenues be returned to the developer of the Mid-Villa project, Dutch Developers LLC. The Barry County Board of Commissioners is expected to vote at its Aug. 27 meeting whether to approve the tax-increment financ­ ing agreement, which was ear­ lier approved by the Middleville Village Council and the village’s Downtown Development Authority board. The Sun and News regrets the error. ..'‘J . 5 1 affect the project since the site plan was approved three years ago. Wells said there have been several text amendments to the zoning ordinance, but none that she felt would affect the Patterson Place project. A watermain project along Patterson Avenue from 68th Street south that would have served the Patterson Place project was built last year, but the township rerouted the project along Whispering Stream Lane to connect with the Morgan Woods 2 development after Pung would not commit to funding a share of the project cost. Caledonia t Learn about free: 1 Computer skills training Career coaching Job search services 4 i Ml V I 4 »* A L W L* • r • -•» Trade Adjustment Assistance PLUS: Ask us if you qualify for Trade Assistance Act benefits I ) • r •. f < J Call 1-800-285-W0RK (9675) or visit westmiworks.org/job-seekers/ r c I “d I ’I -V 1 �Saturday, August 24, 2024 4 SNYDER MONUMENTS, LLC i « V xk* .?r. Obituaries I iF* M «r ? ■ . X ■- K .TtL. -- I . Order NOW r3 'J* - >1/ Respectful, Quality IVIemorials •fr b www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS p • c her unwavering devotion to Cindy J. her family. Palazzolo She is survived by her loving children, Joseph Cindy J. Palazzolo, age 69, nk (Courtney) Stevens, Elizabeth of Middleville, Ml, passed *♦ * (Kara) Stevens, and Thomas away peacefully on August (April) Stevens, who will 13, 2024. Cindy was born on i t3 forever cherish her memory, August 17, 1955, in Grand F Rapids, Ml, to Joseph and a She also leaves behind her Caledonia, MI • 616-291-2425 • snydermonuments.net Joyce (Champion) Palazzolo. adored siblings, Terry (Sue) Cindy’s life was marked by Palazzolo, Nancy (Jerry) Lipscomb, and Joan Hermenitt, as well as several grandchildren who were the light of her life. Cindy was preceded in death by her nephew, Mike King, and her parents, who instilled in her the values of family and faith. A woman of many passions, Cindy Sunday Service relished in the joy of ceramics, the 10:30 AM excitement of a day at the casino, and the Middleville J o comfort of watching old westerns. She Rev. Chri.^tine Beaudoin I found pleasure in playing board games ;9;3O & Ham Join us for our traditional yet casual worship and cards, and her love for music filled sen ice, in person or online, at 9:00 am. i^’ her home with melody. Cindy’s faith was 1675 84th St. SE 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org T a cornerstone of her being, guiding her Caledonia, Ml 49316 III X i Livcstreain: Paccbook.coin/CalcdoniaUnitcdMeihodisl through life ’ s journey. Her community in cornerstonemi.org/weekend Serving Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville Strengthening Connecting Middleville was dear to her heart, as she FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 loved living and working among friends and % neighbors. Cindy will be remembered for at. her generous spirit, often found cooking co forthose she loved, leaving a legacy of compassion and kindness. 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia 908 W. Main Street, Middleville Relatives and friends met with Cindy’s Phone: 616-891-9259 (Missouri Synod) family on Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024 at the Caledonia Location www.holyfamiiycaledonia.org Beeler-Gores Funeral Home. A Celebration Sunday Worship 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:30 a.m. of Life service will be held at a later date. Saturday Evening Mass 9:15 am and 11:00 am 5:00 p.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg Sunday Masses Memorial contributions may be made to 9:00 am. & 11:00 am. http: //goodshepherdlcms. googlepages .com Middleville Location the Corewell Health Fred and Lena Meijer Considering becoming Catholic? 1664 M-3 7 Church: (269) 795-2391 Heart Center. Call or see our website for information. 9:30 am and 11:00 am Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a message for Cindy’s family.25K Riverbank CfiuttH Run 30 times, winning her age group on Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. several occasions and setting national records along the way. Sunday School PEACECHURCH.ee 10 to 10:45 a.m. An adventurous traveler. Carol, along with her husband Bob, hiked and camped in nearly Sundays at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 AM @ St. Paul Lutheran Church every National Park in America and enjoyed Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel several European trips. They also treasured 616.891.8119 & Preschool SERVICE TIMES: their summers spent on Mackinac Island. 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 8436 Kraft Ave.. Caledonia. MI 49316 Sunday at 9:30afn & 11:00am Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 Carol ’ s life was a testament to the peacechurch,cc 20 State Street. Middleville, Ml / www.tvcwebci •Ill ________ www^tpaiilcaledoiiia.org power of dedication, adventure, and love. h memorial service will be planned for Wednesday, July 31. 2024. 11 a.m. at the ri Yankee Springs Bible Church Beeler-Gores Funeral Home. Middleville '^Church 8900 Duffy Road with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. Private Middleville, MI 49333 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52^^ & 48^*^ burial will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery. 616.891.8661 In lieu of flowers, donations can be made Praising God through '"Shining forth God's Light" www.whitneyvillebible.org in her name to “From Houses to Homes’’ • Reading God’s Word • Special Music PastorJonathan DeCou Guatemala at www.Fromhousestohomes.org Worship Services Sunday Morning Worship Prayer Meeting & Bible Study 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 AM Sunday wam&6 pm Carol’s enduring spirit will be Community Group Wednesday 6:^o pm&ypm IFQff^ 1 1:00 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 AM remembered and cherished by all who knew Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 James L. Collison, Pastor Watch our services from our website (see above) her. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral. Sermons online: VVhitneyviHeFellowship.org www.yankeespringsbibicchurch. org com to share a memory or leave a I • A condolence, messa^. for-CafoRsJaraily. ► A J* * •=. :c f**?' I J < I- ns, I *• J t t ' ,1 I *' ar • *«» * *«». t/' ••Tm / a .1 ’I > . L| . f I I I 2024 '5 J, ..*b L '4i I rl delivery. I « Hl*ok fora J T-* * - r I J Ms A* Ml -3 4 X * a rv. LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church * ................ I cornerstonechurch • BAPTIST IT ' ■! !••• A.j y, 7-x’ I I i "J L Good Shepherd / Lutheran Church “1 - • 1 '1 ■* ▼ HOLY FAMILY Y/CATHOLIC CHURCH JOURNEY ) CHURCH Mpeace i -rr? Y* THORNAPPLE VALLEY il ®CHURCH CHURCH 1 1r,1 16 Kim MIDDLEVILLE Whitneyville Fellowship Church ftff ATld^l ” « I 1 ♦ » .*• ■ i * 1 A I I I ** > r t I •< b .A. • r » �'o*. www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Caledonia Village Council turns down EV charging station at Village Hall GREG CHANDLER » - ; li’ * Classifieds 1 . h w rA." $ Staff Writer t Saturday, August 24, 2024 1 A proposal to have a charging sta­ tion for electric vehicles installed in back of the Caledonia Village Hall was recently rejected by the Village Council. On a 4-3 vote, the council on Aug. 12 turned down the recommendation from Interim Village Manager Lisa Segard to have the ChargePoint EV charging station installed. The proposal involved the instal lation of two Level 2 charging ports that would be compatible with most electric vehicles. “As a user of an electric car, there are times when we are going from Point A to Point B and we need just a little bit more juice to make the trip complete,” Segard said. “We usu­ ally consult one of the websites that shows where the charging ports are available and we make a little detour and spend an hour in those towns.” A one-hour charge at a ChargePoint station would be enough to drive about 25 to 30 miles. Segard said that the nearest ChargePoint sta­ tion is in the village of Middleville, in the parking lot behind the Village Hall - 6.7 miles away. Two other stations are at Meijer stores 10 miles away from the village. “We are basically in a charging desert,” Segard said. Caledonia was eligible for a $7,500 community charging rebate from Consumers Energy to offset a portion of costs for installing the charging station. The station would have to be within one to three walkable blocks from at least one multifamily hous­ ing development. “The idea was that we would be able to support people who would want to visit Caledonia, people who live here, people who are in our multi-family housing projects who do not have access to any sort of charging,” Segard said. There are 184 apartment units within a three-block distance of the Village Hall. Segard recently spoke with developers of the Hanover apartment units just southwest of the hall, and^he said they had no plans / <* i •I » 1 6 •f- e y ?. 5 4* ■* % A The ChargePoint electric vehicle charging stations in Middleville, behind the village hall. The Caledonia Village Council earlier this month rejected a proposal to install a similar charging station in back of its own village hall. Photo by Greg Chandler to install a charging station for EVs. The estimated cost of the project, factoring in the Consumers rebate, was $20,929. In addition. Consumers could offer another rebate of up to $ 10,000 to make sure there is enough power supply and a dedicated elec trie service meter onsite for the chargers, but “available funds were dwindling,” Segard said. “If we do it right, we will draw people who don’t normally come here into our village,” she said. Council Trustee Gerrianne Schuler said electric vehicles and provide places to charge them were the sub­ ject of much discussion at a recent conference she attended. She favored the project. “We need to get in front of it,” Schuler said. But there were skeptics on the council. Trustee Jeff Niles quoted the website treehugger.com, saying that EVs make up less than 1 percent of cars in the U.S., and account for 2 percent of the new car market. Trustee Dan Erskine called for tabling the motion and suggested ±at it be a topic for new Village Manager Brian Bennett to review ■ w ■—» with Segard. “I don’t think (the Village Hall is) the spot for it,” Erskine said, adding that it should go “where traffic is really concentrated, where the shop­ pers are really concentrated.” Erskine, Niles, Karen Hahn and Jean Soest voted against approving the installation of the charging sta­ tion. Schuler was joined in favoring installation by Village President Jennifer Lindsey and Trustee Cheryl Miller. Downtown business owner Lynn Baird expressed disappointment with the vote. “I personally think that having an electric charging station is a great idea, because we want to pull people in and offer them (reasons) why they want to come here,” Baird said. In final council comments, Niles did not entirely rule out having a charging station in the village in the future. “We just have some questions we want to be able answer before we (commit to anything). We still are looking at it,” he said. The Middleville Village Council approved the installation of two ChargePoint units behind the Village Hall a year ago at a cost of about $23,000. “We average between four to six drivers charging at the station each month, generating $35 to $100 in revenue to the village each month,” Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg wrote in an email to the Sun and News. COMMUNITY A SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 3:00-6:00 p.m. (Rain or Shine) GARAGE SALE HUGE GARAGE SALE- August 23 & 24, 9am-6pm. August 25, 9am-4pm. 361 E Hickory Rd (Fine Lake) Battle Creek, Ml. Sale fea­ tures furniture, TOOLS, hunting ap­ parel, fishing, sewing, paper crafts, year round decor/collectibles, kitchen items, gorgeous Lowrey Serenade Organ, clothing for men/ women, lawn/garden, exercise and medical equipment, baseball cards, books, misc. BUSINESS SERVICES CRYSTAL CLEAN & CLEAR LLC: Window cleaning and soft wash pressure washing. Brian Ellens (269)953-5496. BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Pay­ ing Premiums for Walnut, White Oak, Tulip Poplar with a 2ft diam­ eter or larger. Call for pricing. Will buy single Walnut trees. Insured, li­ ability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Logging, (269)818-7793. CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. HELP WANTED HANDYMAN- SASKATOON GOLF Club. Must have own tools. Flexible schedule, 3 or 4 days per week. Please apply in person. 9038 92nd Street, Alto. CALEDONIA TOWNSHIP SEEKS part time Administrative Assistant starting immediately. Send Resume and Cover Letter to anugent@caledoniatownship.org. Leighton Church 4180 2nd Street, Caledonia (Corner of 2nd Ave. & 142nd St.) Carnival Games, Inflatables, Dunk Tank, Free Popcorn 8f Ice Cream Food available for purchase from Hoggs Nest BBQ Visit us online at mihomepaper.com 5 �6 Saturday, August 24, 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS www.sunandnews.com Commercial site condo project planned between Kraft, M-37 GREG CHANDLER (the Michigan Department of Staff Writer Environment, Great Lakes and A West Michigan developer has Energy) to the site, and has been proposed a commercial site condo­ working with the township engineer minium project on a 17.5-acre parcel on how to mitigate wetlands to the of property between Kraft Avenue greatest extent possible,” Wells said. and Broadmoor Avenue (M-37) in Plans drawn up by project engineer Caledonia Township. Steve Witte of Nederveld Inc. show The Township Planning seven lots, ranging in size from 1.7 Commission Monday voted unani­ to 3.5 acres, surrounding a cul-de-sac mously to recommend approval of drive that would proceed south off the project proposed by Grandville­ the access drive. based developer Greg Kerkstra to Some allowable uses within the construct seven buildings on the site current zoning and Broadmoor over­ at 7330 Kraft Ave. SE, with an east­ lay district include automotive sales, west service drive that would link garden center, offices, pet shops, Kraft to M-37. The proposal now restaurants without a drive-thru and goes to the township board. retail businesses. Other uses that The property is located just south would require approval of a special of the Gilden Woods day care center land use from the township include a and preschool on Kraft. It is heavily hotel, church or other center of wor­ wooded and includes wetlands, is ship, hospital, gas station, car wash, zoned for general business use and is or restaurants with a drive-thru. within the Broadmoor Avenue over­ Wells said. lay district. Township Planner Lynee One lot has been spoken for so far, Wells said. for a dentist office. Other uses have “The applicant has had not yet been determined, Witte said. “I don’t know of any other proper­ ties that are under contract,” Witte said. The process for getting approved for a commercial site condominium CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN is a two-step process, the first of Your trusted Body Shop for over 32 years which was completed Monday. WHY CHOOSE ED’S? “(After planning commission approval), the applicant goes back Free Estimates • and does all of their detailed engi­ neering plans, finalizes their master • Repair all makes & models • deed and bylaws, has the attorney ,7 State of'the Art Refinish Facility review — after all of that is done, they go to the township board to state & I-CAR Cer t ifi e dTeofin I c I ah^s*'' have final review and approval,” TOUCH Computerized’EiSStfSHiS* Wells said. “So there’s a bit of’a lag between the preliminary plans that Measunng'Sysf^* you see and the final approval. “Our ordinance says that the plans that they submit to the township board at the final stage have to be the same as the ones that you see (at plarming commission), except that they can incorporate any conditions that you attach to it.” Among the conditions in the plan ning commission’s recommendation include construction of 5-foot-wide sidewalks along the south side of the access drive and along M-37, and construction of an 8-foot-wide pathway along the east side of BCraft. Also, the service drive would be treated as frontage when it comes to applying township architectural stan­ dards and clear vision areas. If the township board approves the site condo plan, the plarming com­ mission would then review site plans for each of the seven lots within the development. We have one shot to get this parcel right, and then we have a lot of little shots to make it work within a first vision of it,” Planning Commission Chairman Doug Curtis said. “We have to get the bread on the plate before we can make the sandwich.” ED’S BODY SHOP »<« I J ? Frame Repair The August 19 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. One fish fell out of the fishbowl and one new fish jumped in. Virginia’s program was from the July/ August TOPS magazine titled “Peggy’s Rules: Motivation, Determination, and Commitment for Weight Loss.” Rules include setting a weight you refuse to go over once you start your journey and making up your mind Ufi d to be done with the weight gain and being determined I to gain control. You didn’t gain weight overnight, and I you will not lose it overnight. • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers Make a plan as to how you • Cellular Enhancement Systems want to lose weight. Make an I eating plan and avoid eating foods not on your plan. Put Give us a call! $10 in an envelope before 269-967-8241 n G* J eating anything you have a www.theantennamen.com hard time resisting. Don’t antennamen@gmail.com <1 •J J Anvenno Men fl % u 1 -I •"T * -A 4 i2bSSS9BBS!S; k t • OPEN; M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Lesonal k’HFIB 110 Johnson Street 616.891.0150 ccira Al Ed Pawloski Jr. www.edsbocly.com Antenna Men" ft > •> « » ' »«>«l II GREG CHANDLER 4 Staff Writer •* ' i -p— ■ .1 , I The village of Caledonia * will hold a coffee gathering this morning honoring longtime Lisa Segard administrative assistant and former interim manager Lisa Segard. The coffee will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at the Village Hall, 250 Maple St. SE. Segard is retiring Sept. 5 after 26 years with the village. She had planned to retire in July, but those plans were pos^oned when she was appointed in mid-May to serve as interim manager while the village looked for a permanent replacement for former manager Jeff Thornton. Segard has recently been involved in training her replacement, Lisa Sonday, as well as new Village Manager Brian Bennett. Segard served as deputy treasurer for the village in addition to her administrative assistant role, and also held the office of village clerk during her tenure as interim manager. JWMX .a ft - 1 ftft 1 ; • tft MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 f 9’ Coffee today honoring retiring Caledonia village administrative assistant eat something you shouldn’t. Weigh yourself and record it every day. It takes at least 20 pounds before anyone will notice it. After a 15- to 20-pound loss, is your bra getting too big? You can eat something on your plan if you plan for it on special occasions. Plateaus will happen but won’t last if you continue to do what works for you. Be proud of yourself. Are you happy with your new weight? Buy new clothes. No one’s opinion matters on what you weigh. Remember, the more you weigh, the longer it takes to lose it. But it will be worth it. Alice Lost the Ha-Ha Box The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with Questions: mav rail virrr 1 I I 1 I I I J I �s, www.sunandnews.com gea in Ottawa County road rage fatality e* _ I k I I »• X w* ? e I * 41 3 s* k • .. orewell Health W! Q Corewell Health GREG CHANDLER vehicle driven by 27-yearStaff Writer old Sha-Tera Coleman of I A 23-year-old Middleville Grand Rapids. Coleman man is scheduled to appear was killed as a result of the for a probable cause hearing crash, Capt. Jake Sparks of next week in Ottawa County the sherifTs department said in connection with a road in a news release. rage crash that left a Grand An investigation by Rapids woman dead earlier Ethan the sheriffs office this summer. Traffic Services Unit and Oosterhouse Ethan Luke Oosterhouse Investigating Services Unit is scheduled for a hearing showed that the Oosterhouse at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday in 58th and Perez vehicles were involved District Court in Hudsonville before in a road rage incident, and were Judge Judith Mulder on charges of driving aggressively, recklessly and second-degree murder, manslaughter speeding while traveling eastbound and reckless driving causing death. on Lake Michigan Drive. Results of He is one of two men who have been the investigation were presented to the charged in connection with a June Ottawa County prosecutor’s office, 25 crash on Lake Michigan Drive and charges were filed against both near Trillium Lane in Tallmadge suspects. Both individuals were taken Township, in the eastern portion of into custody Aug. 15, Sparks said. Ottawa County. Also charged in the Both Oosterhouse and Perez are crash is 42-year-old Denis Noel Perez being held on $250,000 bonds in the of Grand Rapids. Ottawa County Jail in West Olive as According to the Ottawa County the case makes its way through the court system. SherifTs Office, Oosterhouse was driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee eastbound on Lake Michigan Drive, while Perez was driving a Dodge I High Efficiency I Charger in the same direction. The I two vehicles crashed, causing the Perez car to collide with a westbound I I Q Corewe«HMirh I ■ J L f A L * 13 |T 2 '9 1 *J Q Cor«w»ll Health ()<:«««« Hr •■'J .. * Sir ' rlaa < ( I J -1 •, : Staff at Corewell Health held a ribbon-cutting ceremony last month for the newCorewell Health Pennock Hospital Walk-In Clinic-Gun Lake. Photoprovided Corewell Health Pennock Hospital sees steady traffic at new Gun Lake walk-in clinic JAYSON BUSSA patient of Corewell Health to visit Editor the clinic. Corewell Health Pennock Hospital The clinic provides a range of recently opened a walk-in clinic, services for non-emergent care for adding it to its existing care facility conditions such as allergies, sprains in Gun Lake. and strains, colds and more and will Representatives Ifom Corewell held provide summaries back to primary a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new care providers. Corewell Health Pennock Hospital Welker added that patients can Walk-in Clinic — Gun Lake on come to the clinic to have lab Monday, July 29. It took place at the work drawn and staff at the clinic clinic, which is located in the same is also offering sports physicals building as the existing Corewell for students. Vaccinations are also Health primary care services, at available at the clinic. 12851 Michigan 179 in Wayland. “We mirrored our care model after Corewell Health Pennock Hospital the walk-in clinics that are open in Walk-In Clinic — Gun Lake staged our Caledonia and Ionia locations,” a soft opening in June and initially Welker said. “And it’s really an arm operated on limited hours. On or a branch off from the primary care Aug. 5, the clinic expanded those clinics. We found success in that hours to operate Monday through model. We’ve kept it affordable. It’s Wednesday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. the same co-pay amount as a primary and Thursday and Friday from 8 care visit versus an urgent care visit.” a.m. to 5 p.m. Health care resources can often be “We are averaging over 10 difficult to maintain in rural settings, patients a day right now (at the but Corewell has been intentional in clinic),” said Emily Welker, director providing access to care in these types of operations, primary health for of communities. Gun Lake’s walk-in Corewell Health. “(After ±e soft clinic is additional proof of that. opening), we expanded to five days “Dialing into our rural a week and with extended hours communities is really important,” into the evenings on Monday, Welker said. “We know there Tuesday and Wednesday, so we’re aren’t a lot of services right in the working right now just to make sure backyard for everybody. Knowing eveiyone knows lhi.s is available.” patients need same-day care options Corewell Health Pennock Hospital — and a lot of times they don’t have Walk-In Clinic — Gun Lake is the time or ability to drive to a larger open to the public. All ages can city or town we wanted to make access services at the clinic with sure patients can walk in, receive ±e no appointment necessary. Patients non-urgent care they need when it do not need to be an established fits into their schedules.” * * V w w w i FURNACE I &A1R I CELEBRATE SUCCESS! Send your student achievements or personal milestones to Email jayson@j-adgraphics.com THE SUN AND NEWS Group w * m I I I I I * Must present this coupon. Expires 9-2-24 I I I RUUD I I "Mi "I I e I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I ‘No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. “The company built by referrals ” I I «150 jiwup OFF I I I I I I I I I I I ) I I t 1 r v» f fl fl * 3a L Ui Ik K t I ♦ / t A * f. r r ill I I i ( s i J p I J FRONTIER HEATING & COOLING 210 Cast Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 �New building owner seeks DDA facade grant GiWK YOUR iCOOP! the for the renovation. Pennington owned had Newmyer has also met with village planning building, which is at the northwest staff about changing the size of the comer of Main and High Street, 1982, Pennington said, since windows in front of the building, “Let’s just say it is brick DDA Director Gretchen James said. (underneath), like not cinder brick The DDA’s facade grant program but actual brick, and provides funding ” DDA it’s usable to building owners kk Let ’ s just Board Chairwoman within the DDA say it is brick Kim Jachim said. district who would like “I would be all for (underneath), iike to upgrade the exterior (restoring) that. of their buildings. not cinder brick Pennington responded. Typically, the DDA “That would be my but actuai brick, awards up to $10,000 goal, because most and it’s usabie. w toward a facade of our buildings that Kim Jachim improvement. but we’ve helped ... are DDA Board Chairwoman because the building really nice colors. is on a comer lot, They stuck to the it’s considered eligible for two front (original) historical (constmction) facade improvements, making the as much as possible,” Jachim said. potential grant award up to $20,000. Pennington said he would like to begin the project in September. Applicants must invest at least 50 Board members asked to see percent of the total project cost to examples of materials he may use receive up to 50 percent from the DDA. GREG CHANDLER Staff Writer A new downtown property owner in Middleville is asking the village’s Downtown Development Authority for funding toward restoring the exterior of the building he just purchased. Steve Pennington came before the DDA board Tuesday, seeking a $20,000 grant from the DDA’s facade grant program to restore the building a 127 E. Main St. Pennington purchased the building earlier this summer from local chiropractor Eldon Newmyer, whose practice once operated in that building. The DDA board tabled a decision on Pennington’s request. Among the questions the board had included whether there was brick underneath the current exterior of the building. “We think so. We don’t know 100 percent (if there is),” Pennington said, “From what Eldon told me. it’s block, it’s not brick.” If you see nev^s happening, or if you just wont us to know about something going on... Email jayson@j-adgraphics.com THE SUN ANO NEWS Group uT www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 24, 2024 8 99 7 k- I > k Williamson honored for service on Housing Commission . A r' t ♦ V • t I of JU I > 3 d r > ■ I A I Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! t is i sr J I 1 1 •rt 1 1. 11 B w ft1 •^4- * 1 >5 K. • k ♦ A’ ’’4 • M’ I * T t ’ IT • ?•* t J ■S* pl ‘It A ... .J* - r ■>f ■ • I ,e\iI—■ ’Si r 4 I -Ji i I k •> ■>. * • » A V *cHH- ha 4 ’ •l Jr J ft') "r S.- " > ,W—u II JL ; 4 J Ft r 9 i’/ I A I ( J It r I J I f •; Simply Perfect •M 4 I if I 'tfT: • L' I t • r F I WEDDING INVITATIONS •.a. • a I * W i IJ .1 vC.. I I . J I ?• Lx *k 3. •• - r L* Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. •I.. . -‘*— i V Middleville resident Don Williamson received a certificate from the village last week thanking him for 15 _ __ . . . years of service on the village’s Housing Commission. The Housing Commission anartmor.to f -j oversoos the Lincoln Meadows s the federally subsidized housing for seniors and those who are disabled in the village. Photo by Greg Chandler PRINTING BY www.printingbypennylane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting.com < » I f r V 1 4 I I I I 4 t t I I I I I I < I t I i ( t I I w • > w �www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 24, 2024 9 .V . 1. •* s I • ♦ ♦ T /• * / t I 4^ •. r •, ■4- F. * J «. 6 jtmT - ♦ VI I / 1 ► 1 ' - CRITICS .1 . Jr l/ I» 1 9. • F «. * tX f ■ .. ♦ If Syt * .t. iL V *] f 4 * 9 ** * 'A, . y •4 •>v 1 «4. i? A ilr *»•/ s LIFE. FAITH. FREEDOM. “How can you support Trump!?!” “Trump is a grotesque human being, with no decency or moral standards!” “I may hold my nose and vote for him, but no Catholic org should defend him... These are just a few of the emails I have received in recent days. Fm not suiprised. Some Catholic Vote members are divided over whether Trump deserves I \« r’ K I o’? enemy of everything we hold sacred as Catholics. Four more years of Biden would be catastrophic. Yet many CV readers remain conflicted flaws. Our critics include many friends anrs’up^rters®"'^" personal and policy And they deserve a response. btz XT"”’- XXeTXXtoSito. We will always be Catholic first. But something much bigger is afoot. And we all know it. Today we face a political movement that seeks to destroy our entire way of life 2024 IS no longer just about Trump. „X RPPPblicns, Or DemocraK. Neither was 2020 for tot ® shocking victory in 2016, the progressive Left declared open war on open war on our way Afte^ S expecting their permanent majority to arrive After 8 years of Barack Obama, their long march through our institutions to transfer^ America and humanity itself, was well underway. America, And then 2016 happened. Don’t believe me? Look around you. What do you see? Not too long ago, we at least pretended to esteem things like the Declaration of Independence, our National ^them our motto “In God We Trust,” and our Judeo-Christian ethos. Not anymore Americans today no longer respect and share anything resembling a common cultural heritage Remember when Nike was scolded for having a Betsy Ross flag on their shoe? How about when Colin Kaepemick took a knee during the National Anthem? Today neyly every tnajor university faculty, mainstream media outlet, and large corporation believes that the entire foundation of the country is rotten to its core and must be replaced and re­ S^7**®y country needs an extreme makeover, and not the kind offered on V... Just a few months ago we were lectured that the time-honored claim that our “rights come from God” is the problem! How easily we forget that our cities were looted and burned, only to be told these “peaceful pro­ tests were legitimate and justified. Or that nearly half the country agreed that their fellow cit­ izens should be fined, confined, or imprisoned for refusing COVID vaccinations. Yes, 48% of your fellow citizens believed jailing Americans for refusing an experimental vaccination was necessary. Millions of illegal immigrants are now flooding our country. Dangerous criminals, terrorists human traffickers, and suspicious migrants from places like China are flagrantly breaking out­ laws, and infiltrating our country every day, while decent hard-working Americans cannot afford to buy a house or raise a family. And then people wonder why the younger generation is no longer getting married, having chil­ dren, or going to church. Traditional concepts of morality, family, marriage, children, religion, and even biology are now deemed offensive. We have the lowest birthrate in our nation’s history. Our churches are closing by the thousands. Suicide rates, anxiety, depression, and loneliness are soaring. Our children (and military) have been reduced to social experiments, with parades and drag queen pornographic shows promoting the chemical and surgical disfigurement of young children now subsidized by you and me. Meanwhile, when they aren’t calling for the genocide of the Jewish people, angry mobs on col­ lege campuses and elsewhere are tearing down our statues, and canceling their opponents, or jusHCjI y of 8o,''e™ment to hunt down and punish their adversaries. Pro-life protestor? Straight to jail. And the latest? It all started 17 months ago, when the Biden Department of Justice sent their third-highest ranked Attorney Alvin Bragg in order to prosecute where'“owneverh.vebeenbrbugh,elsewhere in front of a judge who personally donated to Joe Biden and a “STOP REPUBLICANS campaign effort, in direct violation of the law. 2^, J?'.’’ u” ‘“’P^ o^or a paperwork violation — which rightly should only be considered a misdemeanor. If of our country is not happening by accident. The most radical and once unthinkable ideas, such as trans surgeries on 7-year-olds, anti-white racism, and the full weaponization of the longer fringe ideas of the radical Left reserved to the tefchersUounSs at Be^rkeUy^ They^^e the s'SS ■>“ p-<i sr '‘P Omar and AOC are not some outliers The maina”jPemocratic Party holds these same opinions unanimously Donald Trump is not the problem. They hate Trump because he is standing in the way of everything thev are implementing and hop “ ““nTpIlsh. For tom m succeed, toy are conn,Ing ™ f.cMessVeto;;" . ­ as th^k^’ decency!), ^pp that they refuse to apply to ^emselves luring many good people into thinking they have no choice but to stay silent . or apologize for anything that resembles support for Trump - in essence, anything that resembles opposition to their dark agenda. So where does this leave us? It s simple: a vote for Joe Biden is a vote to destroy America. A vote for Trump is a chance to hold back the coming catastrophe, build reinforcements, and re ­ awaken in our people a desire to change course. thiXX® of working-class voters are flocking to Trump. And it’s not because they love or excuse his moral flaws. It’s because they understand what far too many of our preenmg citizens and leaders refuse to acknowledge they understand the stakes of this election. Perhaps a nuclear conflict or war with China would prompt fence-sitters to reconsider their doubts. Or maybe a knock on the door from the FBI would provide some needed clarity. It’s not Trump using us. It’s us using Trump. Because we must. Brian Burch President - Catholic Vote RS Maybe I persuaded some of our skeptics. Maybe not. Regardless, we are not slowing down \A/^» ve \z/:* got rrnir an on election to win. AndJ a country to save. * We And we definitely need your help to make it happen. •wvIm a Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. At the time of the original writing of the article. Joe Biden was the Democrat nominee. CATHOLICVOTE | PO Box 3310 | Carmel, IN 46082 | (317) 669-6127 Submitted and paid for by Gail WadeU, 5112 E. Maple Rapids Rd., Elsie, MI 38831 r LIF6. FAITH. FRBCOOM. Editors Note: The views and opinions expressed in this political advertisement are those of Gail Wadell and do not reflect the views or positions of View Newspaper Group. View Newspaper Group has not fact checked any of the claims made and the advertisement may contain disputed claims or misinformation. > �♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 24, 2024 10 www.sunandnews.com Gaines trustees listen to annual Kent District Library report JAMES GEMMELL Contributing Writer The Kent District Library has racked up some national awards in the past several months, and KDL representatives talked about those accomplishments in an annual pre­ sentation to the Gaines Township Board on Aug. 12. Christina Tazelaar, who in January was appointed by the Kent County Board of Commissioners to the Kent District Library Board, was the first to address the board. She represents the townships of Caledonia and Gaines, and the City of Kentwood. She said one of the things she most appreciates about the library is the support of childhood literacy. For example, a program called “Mission; Read” that is designed to help children build a habit of read­ ing every day. The goal is for them to read for 1,000 days. “Misson: Read is actually getting \ S' — bi Jaci Cooper from the Kent District Library leadership team discusses two national awards the Gaines branch recently won. Photo by James Gemmell redesigned and re-launched next month so that it’s less of an exten­ sive time commitment, to make it more accessible to more kids,” Tazelaar said. The kdl.org website says 600 Booster Packs tailored for kids in kindergarten through third grade were distributed to all 20 KDL branches. The packs contain books educational games and activities. It is designed to meet requirements of the new “Read By Grade Three” initiative that took effect Feb. 13 in Michigan. “There are loads of different pro­ grams like this from story times for toddlers all the way through STEM programming during the summer,” Tazelaar said. Jaci Cooper from the KDL lead ership team also spoke. She is the director of projects and plan­ ning. She said that KDL Executive Director Lance Werner recently went to the White House to receive the Institute of Museum and Library Services’ National Medal for Museum and Library Service. That is the nation’s top honor given to libraries that contribute to their Bruce's Frame and Alignment Full Service Body Shop 9 • Wheel Alignments • Auto Glass Installation • Insurance Work Welcome • Visa & MasterCard Accepted Over 40 years experience brucesframe.com 115-15^ « nntt' I? 415 2nd • Middleville * w * W f I I f « > 9 » I » I 4 I » I / I ) a J I s I » / I I f I J 1 J ♦ i ! ♦ « ! w * communities. KDL was one of five public libraries in the United States to win the medal. “So, we are brainstorming ideas to really bring the community in to celebrate that with us,” Cooper said. KDL also won the Library Journal’s Jerry Kline Community Impact Prize last fall. “(It) is given to one library every year that has shown a huge commu nity impact through partnerships, through programming, and through having a very strong and felt pres ence in all of the communities that it serves,” Cooper said. A $250,000 cash award was given to the Kent District Library. So, we are now planning to do a community scholarship award that goes back into the community,” Cooper said. KDL has 20 branch libraries in 27 municipalities in Kent County, and its service area covers more than 400,000 residents. It ranks 49th globally in terms of digital circula tion in terms of the purchase and use of audio books. “So, we see a strong focus in that area. But we also see a huge bounce back with our program­ ming,” Cooper said. “We’ve been at fire code capacity for a lot of our spaces this summer because our programs have been so popu­ lar. In fact, compared to our peer libraries which we have data for — we are far ahead of them. Our programming increased 46 percent over the last year alone.” Next to speak was Kiosha Jeltema, the branch manager at the KDL branch in Gaines Township. “One of the things that we’ve done over the last year is we start­ ed a puzzle library. So, it’s really cool to have a table and puzzles where people can take one they want or just borrow and bring it back. We’re really kind of helping to foster that sense of kind of being ...a branch that they can come to whenever they want, and feel comfortable and feel welcome,” Jeltema said. Township trustee Bob Terpstra asked whether the library’s recent awards and national recognition could be parlayed in a grant appli­ cation for funding to upgrade the local KDL branch. “We, as a library, don’t own the buildings. But that does not mean that we don’t want to work in part­ nership on how to seek out grant funding for capital expenditures,” Cooper said. “I know that right now Walker and Cascade are both in the works with that But yeah, having that positive news affiliated with the system as a whole would probably increase our chances for some capital funding.” Supervisor Rob DeWard said the township would be interested in expanding the Gaines branch of the KDL at 421 68th St. at Madison Avenue to the east, at some point in the future. “It’s that or relocate. But it’s really a perfect location where it is now, meeting the community there. People come on their bikes, they take buses, they walk,” DeWard said. “You’re in a great spot. You are doing a great job. So, we appre­ ciate that.” Tha buck stays bars! Spand it horoL Knop it hara. I I I . w* »■ I c i Invest In Your Community. Bl 1 J J Group �AT ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 24, 2024 Gain©s board to focus on allocating last of ARPA funds before mTimT. up in- 11 JAMES GEMMELL tion with the special assessment Contributing Writer Township Manager Rod Weersing The Gaines Township Board will said. be discussing budget priorities Instead, $200,000 in ARPA fund­ extensively this fall. ing will be used next year for public It already has been a prime topic safety expenses. Another $50,000 of conversation this summer. likely will go for road resurfacing One of the priorities will be to during the current fiscal year. meet the federal deadline to allocate The township only spent $25,000 the township’s remaining American of the $75,000 it had allocated for Rescue Plan Act funds. All munici­ additional road repairs last year, palities in the United States must so that remaining $50,000 balance declare by Dec. 31, 2024, how they means $300,000 in ARPA fund­ intend to spend their ARPA mon­ ing can be allocated this year, not ies. They must spend the funds the $250,000 that was originally by December 2026 or lose them. expected. Gaines has about $300,000 left to “At what point do you want to allocate out of the $2,873,651 it approve this?,” supervisor Rob received from the U.S. Treasury De Ward asked. Department starting in 2021. “Whenever you’re ready,” The amount of funding each Weersing replied. municipality received from the “My thought is you want to know federal government was based on soon enough so you can do your its population size, as determined budget based on knowing that those by the 2020 U.S. Census. Congress things are coming,” trustee Tim approved ARPA in 2021 to help Haagsma said. stimulate economic development He made a motion for the town­ after the COVID-19 pandemic. ship board to direct Gaines staff Municipalities were encouraged to members to outline final budget invest in infrastructure and long­ recommendations in a memo to term impactful community projects. the board ahead of its next regular The township board approved in meeting in September. The recom­ 2021 a 15-year special assessment mendations will be based on input levy for public safety to help offset received at the board’s July work­ the rapidly rising costs of police shop meeting and listed as an action and fire/rescue services in Gaines. item on the September meeting Fire Department statistics show the agenda. township receives more calls for As part of the recommendation, public safety than any other in Kent I would like to see staff tell us how County. The assessment allows the that $200,000 is going to impact township to levy up to 1.5 mills the public safety special assess annually. ment and, then, how that’s going The special assessment began to impact the projected budget,” Haagsma said. at 0.6 mills in 2022, the township board then voted to raise it to 0.75 The township voice-voted unani­ mously in favor of the motion. mills in 2023 and it went up to 1.0 Although the 2025 fiscal year mills in 2024. The board dedicated budget won’t be hammered out until $340,000 for public safety services November, Haagsma said the town­ in the fiscal year 2024 budget. ship board needs some input soon They had talked about it in so it can have an idea how much the original public safety special money will be needed from the pub­ assessment. They had planned to lic safety special assessment. use $190,000 of the ARP A dollars “Because, to me, that’s a signifi for 2025 to help offset the transi 44 44 cant amount of money. And if that means we don’t need to raise the special assessment we can help out our residents by reducing the amount they have to pay,” Haagsma said. “Or not increasing (the special assessment),” DeWard said. “It also gives us another month (for calculating costs from) the Byron separation,” Clerk Michael Brew said, referring to the split that took effect last month between Gaines and Byron townships in jointly operating the Cutlerville Fire Station. “And we’ll have a clearer idea of expenses * • • and what we’re going to be billing them for services and what’s going to be coming in.” Byron plans to build its own fire station along US-131, north of 68th Street. Until that is built and opera­ • » • tional, Gaines will be providing Byron with fire services, as needed, for an established fee. Gaines Township has agreed to purchase from Byron Township the remaining equity in the existing Cutlerville Fire Station at 11 68th St. SW. Gaines will pay $940,000 over five years in 20 percent annual payments to buy out Byron’s equity share in the building. De Ward agreed that it is a good idea to work through Gaines Township’s fiscal budget and the ARPA budget at the same time. “So then, we can see what we really do need,’’ he said. The township committed $1.2 mil­ lion in March toward the $1.7 mil­ lion cost of a new platform (aerial) ladder truck it will receive from Pierce Manufacturing next year. -W cornerstone ch u rch we re casual, come as vou are. Martig *L L « IL F 1 • c• X r . * J One Church • Three Locations Caledonia I Grand Rapids I Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! ■ ■J % ■ ■ Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! s ♦ ♦ �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 24, 2024 12 www.sunandnews.com Middleville shows improvement in funding village pension plan ► System (MERS) said that the village had funded 87.8 percent of its defined benefit pension plan at the end of last year, an improvement from 80.2 per­ cent at the end of 2022. The village had valuation assets of $2,472,489 and actuarial accrued liabilities of $2,815,651, leaving its unfunded accrued liabilities at $343,162, according to a written MERS report to the village. GREG CHANDLER ► “You have made great strides in that time, and that is even taking into con­ sideration those market losses from 2022,” LaBar said. “It’s really (about) the direction you’re going in, with what the village has been doing. You’re all moving in the right direction,” she added. The Village Council in August of last year approved a resolution to move $200,000 out of the village’s Staff Writer A decision by the Middleville Village Council a year ago to use reserves from its general fund and major streets fund to bolster the vil­ lage’s pension plan is paying off. In a report to the council at a com­ mittee of the whole meeting earlier this month, Veronica LaBar of the Michigan Employees Retirement CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of 4 Caledonia will hold a public hearing on Monday, September 16, 2024 at 7:00pm at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, SE, Caledonia Michigan, 49316. The request is for special land use for an outpatient medical clinic at 4910 60^'' for Corewell Health. The request is for an endoscopy clinic, approximately ,13,225 square feet in area and zoned Highway Commercial. I .atf >lk * OiCtP'/A -r Va k I r A I KBC £ « J t I .f A B I IT: I 4 U t r* 4* * 1 9^ * I 3 I •J I .» >• r r i I •> ^■■W**!* a A* *4 i * I* A r. - i kt t I I . -. 4- 9, >' II ) •< r / 7 1 ■t ■ • e- 7- ■ •> r- b 4 /a^ I ‘ I ■ 5^^ •'T *■* :S' - ■ . O QJ w u ■ X ’i‘ < I I f 4 d9sa I. 11 I 5* Ih ■ t ,« e W 1 9 ./W' '•’A 1 ’.•5^ ■" t ’ r ■ { 'i f i*. ) 'i I*", < I I -i i; fUSR J ***,c*^ kt •» I 4 •f Jr *1- • i •r* ♦ ‘5 % r J 9 1 A n I imJ rc .V 4‘4 a * ■ Xt I % I' I r/ < { 17 Ef •f a' r 1 > '.»i- >I rit » F r?; ■■li i G I, V ** I ■T.’ iM J*- 5 .1 « ■wxx I I « >> «i • » V’4 ♦ 4k I I i; 89-3 ^4 >e •4'; I k t ■*' 4 9^ » L lll A * s r ^^9 I 1*^4* ■ i.ii .^1 A 5?,«* e.?! >• ■f p ■—• , •J. •' Sir • < . fl 1 f ..V ..^ •> • ’JS- : I ' ’ 7/ l.’fc 4^ 71 ’ yjT?r< k;.> B«* * •J. » ia k •tai « ■4 *•« .k. -Air-* -■*-* t k' 1 ,* S»'-; IS 4.1 >st tt I 1 •V I ri I •*<1* i^rL Ml » V All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the proposed request. Written comments concerning the request may be submitted to the Township office, at the above­ stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. 6 . < Dated: August 12, 2024 PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA f •* ) MS • •A .'i e. r ’ 4 I *“• - f. general fund reserves and $50,000 from savings in its major streets fund to make up a portion of its unfunded liabilities to MERS. Fimding pension plans has proven to be challenging for many municipalities across the state in recent years. Village employees hired after January 2015 contribute 4.5 percent of their wages to the pension plan, while the village makes a contribution each year based on annual actuarial figures, along with 4.1 percent of each employee’s pay to the plan. Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg wrote in an email to the Sun and News. A retiree’s benefit from MERS is their determined by three factors final average compensation, multiplied by their years of service, and multi­ plied by a benefit multiplier, LaBar said. “Anecdotally, if you’ve got a career employee working for the village ... and I define career as 30 years, with that formula, it will provide them with about a 43 percent income replace­ ment rate if they worked here for that full career time,” LaBar said. “Retirement planning professionals generally tell you to anticipate 70 to 80 percent of your pre-retirement income being something that you need in retirement to maintain that same standard of living. So that 43 percent plus Social Security and any other per­ sonal savings that they have is a good step in that direction.” Employees become fully vested in the pension plan once they have completed 10 years of service to the village and are eligible to begin col­ lecting payments from the pension once they reach age 60, according to the MERS report. The Middleville pension plan has 35 members, including 14 retirees and their beneficiaries, 13 active employ ees, three former employees who are vested in the plan but are not yet eligi­ ble to collect benefits and five former employees who are seeking refunds for what they paid into the system when they worked for the village, according to the MERS report. MERS is an independent, profes­ sional retirement services company that serves cities, townships, counties and villages across Michigan. �i www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 24, 2024 13 ♦ ♦ I I A f •..4 . r* ' .r •• 4 > • T Scots prep for season at annual open scrimmage BRER BREMER Sports Editor ri4 Fans got their first chance to get an up close look at the 2024 Caledonia varsity football team during the program’s annual Purple and Gold Scrimmage at “The Ralph” Friday, Aug. 16. It was a first look at a new look Fighting Scot varsity team as head coach Derek Pennington and his coaching staff are working to build back up after winning 30 ballgames over the past three seasons. There aren’t many guys remaining who saw the field for the Scots as they took on Belleville in the MHSAA Division 1 State Final at Ford Field at the end of the 2022 season. Spectators got the chance to check­ out raffle items for the following night’s Scots Kickoff Social at Butcher Block Social in Caledonia, and the chance to check out and MR 4—- Si______________ f ' * —■ I • \ 'W M ' ■■!■ I> 9 -■■■■ r**- ' a' I Ik) ^,*<0 . L> K) / I I ___ > ’ » » e J >w Ml <» f 'IB J - > F" iw >* VJ I •>r f- «T I< ii * w i^Wi . •* ; * VI * .4'3'*^ 1 ft - ** *.? ^ •—*. •• S '• '> ” .rV «. • -4 w • ... /L*5 t 1• n t >i,-> ^7 u The Caledonia first team offense goes up against the second team defense Scrimmage inside Ralph E. Myers Stadium in Caledonia Friday, Aug. 16. Photo by Brett Bremer purchase new Caledonia Football “Energy” gear for the 2024 season. Senior returning quarterback Brody Betser rolled the CHS offense through is playbook direct ed by Pennington on the sunny, Middleville council approves downtown parking lot repaving GREG CHANDLER Director Alec Belson told council members that the village’s parking lots as a whole needed attention. Resurfacing of both lots had been in the village’s capital improve­ ment plan for a couple of years, but the projects were not in this year’s budget, Belson said. The lot behind Village Hall was originally installed in the early 2000s and is starting to have exces­ sive cracking and some potholes,” Belson wrote in a memo to the council. “The lot at 101 E. Main Staff Writer The village of Middleville will dip into its general fund reserves to repave two of its downtown parking lots. The Village Council on Aug. 13 voted to repave the parking lot between 101 and 115 E. Main St. and the entire lot behind Village Hall and the businesses on the south side of Main Street, at a cost not to exceed $95,261. Department of Public Works I * I « « I . « 9 t I / * warm evening. Caledonia played in a district final for the fourth consecutive season last fall, but saw Byron Center dash its hopes of a long play-off run with a last minute touchdown drive for a 31-28 upset win over the Scots who ended the season ranked third in the final Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Division 2 poll. The Scots are once again classified as a Division 2 team this fall. The 2024 season starts for the Scots when they play host to Windsor Holy Names Catholic Thursday, Aug. 29. has needed repair for several years. This lot has loose asphalt, cracking, and numerous patches throughout.” While the repaving work was not initially in the budget for this year, village staff took a look at complet­ ing the work after the village audit was completed earlier this spring. After ±e audit, village staff deter­ mined there was enough general fund balance to cover the cost of the project, Belson wrote in his memo. The motion to repave the parking lots passed unanimously. 6a 9 * A* .<■*« *.« — w * — T—-f ■I -I— ‘ ■ ■ ■ |» II ^1 (>- «** ^1*. II— I *• ** —— <r •tfr ☆ 1^ I Village of Middleville - Accepting Bids - The Village of Middleville will be accept­ ing sealed bids for the following eguioment. 1997 Johnston Street Sweeper The Village of Middleville will be taking sealed bids starting on August 26, 2024, at 8.00 a.m. and ending on September 6, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. The bidder is required to turn in a sealed bid for the equipment along with their contact information. This equipment can be seen by appointment only at the Village of Middleville Department of Public Works building, 601 Sheridan Street, Middleville 49333 start­ ing on August 26, 2024. The sealed bids will be opened on September 9, 2024, at 10.00 a.m. The equipment will be sold as is with no implied warranty. The successful bidder will be notified within seven (7) days after the closing bid date and payment for the equipment is requested by cash, money order, or cashier’s check payable to “Village of Middleville" within 7 days of notification or the equipment will be sold to the next highest bid. Contact: Alec Belson, 601 Sheridan Street, Middleville, Michigan, 49333; phone # 269-795-2094. —■^-S’ *** *- ------------- - * �14 ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 24, 2024 Top three TK singles players win at Holland Quad *□9. BRETT BREMER ft s Jr I ♦ ♦ Sports Editor Holland won five flights and Thomapple Kellogg won three, and in the end the Dutch outscored the Trojans 19-17 to win their own Holland Quad Saturday. Thomapple Kellogg won the top three singles flights and had a run­ ner-up finish at number four, while the Dutch won that fourth singles flight and all four doubles flights. Coopersville was third on the day with 10 points and Fruitport fourth with 2 points. Senior Kameron Nichols, starting his third season at first singles for the Trojans, mostly breezed through his flight for three wins in eight-game pro-sets. His closest match of the day was an 8-5 win over Aden Spaak of Coopersville. Nichols defeated Holland top player, Floyd Webb, and Sebastian Sweet from Fruitport both . * #• % •T 5 KI ;; '■r? * *7 ."W KI B k. • < fl*. I S l * eJ r •« * n ' f F I •• 5? ^4 I S I* L Jri — -3^ . . r* • I 4 I •» •V t A 5 r V lUV 41 M8 rJt r% I It • •I ■V Kameron Nichols, Franklin Wilkinson, Evan Liu, Anson Verlinde and Max Lepper were among theTrojans’ medallists as the Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ tennis team took a runner-up finish Friday, Aug. 16, at the Holland Quad. Photo supplied GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing to consider the following: Summary of Request: Public Services Special Assessment July 12, 2021, the Township Board of Trustees passed Resolution No. 2 0 2 1 11, stating each year, on or before September 30, the Township Board would ascertain the Public Services costs for the coming year. Upon determining and establishing the amount to be assessed (based on unexpended funds, cash on hand, and the estimated projected costs for that year) shall hold a public hearing on the estimated costs and expenses, for police, public safety, rescue, and fire protection and on the distribution of the levy for the coming year (2025). by 8-1 scores. Senior Aidan Dudik, who spent his sophomore season at second singles before splitting last fall between third singles and first doubles matches, won the second singles flight for TK Saturday. He pulled out an 8-6 win over Coopersville’s Joel Sanford, beat Holland’s Ethan Byrd 8-4 and handled Fruitport’s Remy Parker 8-0. Junior Franklin Wilkinson, who spent the past two seasons at fourth singles for TK, swept his way through the third singles flight in Property Address: All real properties in the Charter Township of Gaines Date and Time of Hearing: September 09, 2024, at 7;00 PM Location of Hearing: Township Hall, 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. Current MIOSHA COVID guidelines will be followed. Any interested party may appear and be heard. Information related to this request may be inspected at the Gaines Township Hall, 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, or contact the Township Manager’s office at 616-698-6640. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5PM on September 09, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at 616-504-4332 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. SUB WOOD FOR SALE Bundle or $100/ Full cord by the Chopped 16”-18” lenth 517-983-8916 Holland with three 8-0 victories. After a couple seasons in the dou­ bles line-up for TK, Anson Verlinde held down the fourth singles spot for TK in Holland and went 2-1. He beat his opponent from Fruitport 8-0 and his foe from Coopersville 8-5. Peyton Lehman from Holland won the flight in part things to his 8-4 win over Verlinde. TK got two wins each from the second doubles team of Cole Novak and Evan Liu and the fourth doubles team of Mark Gielincki and Samuel Teachout. The Trojans’ first doubles team of Brady Laven and Layne Schilthroat and the third doubles team of Benjamin Scott and Max Lepper had one win each. The Trojan team was back in action Tuesday sweeping its way to an 8-0 win at Lowell. The four TK singles players, Nichols, Dudik, Wilkinson and Verlinde, only gave up a handful of games in the dual with the Red Arrows. Laven and Schilthroat at first doubles, Novak and Liu at num­ ber two, Scott and Lepper at number three and the fourth doubles team of Mark Gielincki and Samuel Teachout all won in straight sets. YOUK SCOOP! If you see news happening, or if you jusf want us to know about sonnething going on... Email jaysonf^j-adgraphics.com THE SUN AND NEWS Group �I ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ -------------------------- ------------------- ------ ----------- THE SUN AND NEWS __________________________ Saturday, August 24, 2024 15 Derengowski wins flight for CHS at Holland Tri BRER BREMER Sports Editor Junior Hudson Derengowski, opening his second season at third singles for the Caledonia varsity boys’ tennis team, won the third singles flight for the Scots Saturday at the Holland Tri. Derengowski pulled out two close matches to win the flight champion­ ship. He fell 6-3 to Hackett Catholic Prep’s Jimmy Kennedy in their opening set, but rallied for a 7-5 win in the second set and then pulled out a 10-4 super tiebreaker for the win. Derengowski also outscored Holland’s Christian Ramirez 6-3, 6-3 in his other match Saturday. The Caledonia team finished the day in third place. Holland took the team championship with 11 points ahead of Hackett 9 and Caledonia 4. The Fighting Scot second doubles team of West Larson and Isaac Robotham split a pair of touch matches. They split sets with ■ lb * f ir > V C I < t ■,r.. Il ai I 7 a r< Caledonia's West Larson reaches out to hit a volley in front of second doubles teammate Isaac Robotham during their dual with Allegan Friday, Aug. 16, at the Scots' own Dobber Wenger Invitational at Caledonia High School. Photo by Brett Bremer Hackett’s David Darner and Noah Ray 6-3, 6-7(5) and then won an extended super tiebreaker 12-10. In its other match, the Caledonia duo fell 6 -4, 6-4 to Holland’s Owen - s ♦ .r oxs^ . ft.'. V •S X * z zzz y 3^z z 1 z /. LZ^ Zv;^’ Z^_ M iV < V A .\ V J I XA k I Sa' ft k- k. \ fe\ ‘ V 1 J ffl .ti' A c;< A s. in > t:4 L.sr; % <M I .n AV '< I*. A. \ '^V w » • r •< 6 J A t* .4 » I / I rr I J*! r Ci^ 9 f / Baer and Hank Webb. At third doubles, the Caledonia team of Will VanderWeele and Neal Hargrave took a 6-2, 6-1 win over Hackett, but fell in a super tiebreaker of its own at the end of a match with the Holland duo at their flight. The Dutch team of Will Lubbers and Mason Hart outscored VanderWeele and Hargrave 4-6, 6-3, (10-6). Junior Colin Martin has settled into the first singles spot for the Fighting Scots so far this season after play­ ing second singles as a sophomore. He is still hunting his first win at the top spot, but got off to a good start Tuesday as the Fighting Scots took on former OK Red Conference foe Grandville in a non-conference dual. > ■T 1 / A / / The Bulldogs took an 8-1 win. Martin pushed the Bulldogs’ top player, Isaac Renkema, to a 7-5 first set, but Renkema closed out a 6-0 win in the second set. The Scots’ one victory in the sin­ gles flights came from Malte Fisher at number four who outscored Zayne Sorokin 7-5, 6-2. All four singles matches were competitive ones between the Scots and Bulldogs. Evan Mann took a 6-4, 6-4 win over the Scots’ Garrett Fales at number two and at number three Ethan Zuidema just beat out Derengowski 4-6, 6-0, (10-5). The Caledonia boys opened their fall competition slate by placing fourth at their own Dobber Wenger Invitational Friday, Aug. 16. The Scots were bested 8-0 in duals by Byron Center and Mason. Allegan took a 5-4 win over the CHS boys on the day. In that dual with Allegan, the Scots got wins from Derengowski at third singles and Cooper Sowerby at fourth singles. On the doubles’ side, VanderWeele and Hargrave outscored the Tigers’ Oliver Burnett and John DeLaet 6-4, 6-0 and the Scots got an 8-0 win from the number rive team of Quinn Cook and Isaac Judd in a pro set. The Scots were scheduled to head to St. Johns for the Under the Lights Tournament Friday, Aug. 23. They will be back in action Monday at Thomapple Kellogg. ! f I.** ?7 • * t *** X «* « \ I » 4 V V St \ la > ‘■»I w, \ k •< .V • • s f nsfli nuns *ncK BPS • INE nils* VMS *sm*iEErs<«Hs r‘ / .• L2: T T' V b A 7r... v IFUU SERVICE & YOU PUll IT r r * »» xt '«' /X- ^L ■; ' as h L/JU, X*; •%. .tJP fcc » ?• st .-r ‘^ Fighting Scot third singles player Hudsen Derengowski chases down a shot from his Allegan opponent during their match-up Saturday at the Dobber Wenger Invitational on the courts at Duncan Meadows Middle School in Caledonia. Photo by Brett Bremer S \ > fw A' •■• Lake Estaxe FARM BUREAU f^SURA^CE^ * 3>* . ..4*4. L-. Jktf * i 269-381-2300 ia ■ t •l T I Your local agent insures your IIGNT TRUCK MRTS F ■, '► . * -«a.' -SU.-. •t USED PARTS V USED URES I i 1811UKE ST, KAIAHUZOO \ «v J 1 b—^.. 'ft ■' Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.coni FarmBureaulnsurance.com ♦ ♦ �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, August 24, 2024 16 www.sunandnews.com \ I f? F- 54. ♦ ? isw OUR COMPANY IS GROWING DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY ♦ .4* 44 • . ? • •l z '<s< ..• w* ;u • h• . I* ; z*; ■ r’.- t I 4; r :i:i ;Ti J. !Ss • TO. A J r *9 **'c Bi'» a* X •' . ' Al 4 <•'1.' r; ♦ k ‘ T . ♦ > * . 4 ♦ I I I •v $ il I -"-‘M ■ % ■* 4^' ? 44 <*6- ? V . ' I . We’re ■ring I .Z I V J •J,’/ . i •• < k. b 1 < I r 1 A > 4. % r *z. ♦ ? The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ soccer team celebrates its championship at the Muskegon Oakridge Invitational Saturday. The TK boys were 3-0 on the day outscoring their opponents by a combined 10-0. Photo supplied R - •I •» 1 ill V V W i 4 « I. Trojan boys shut out three opponents at Oakridge % • I J 1 BRETT BREMER Sports Editor The Trojan varsity boys’ soccer team is the first into the new OK Gold. West Catholic took a 1-0 win over the visiting Thomapple Kellogg boys to open the 2024 OK Gold Conference season. The reworked conference this fall (for sports other than football) includes West Catholic, South Christian, Wayland, Northview, Grand Rapids Union and Wyoming. The loss Wednesday drops the Trojans to 3-2 overall this season. The TK boys opened the year by sweeping their way to victory at die Marketing Specialist Responsibilities include: • Advertising sales • Account management • Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts • Attend networking events Are you the one? I Oakridge Invitational in Muskegon Saturday. They knocked off Howard City Tri County 7-0, beat Ottawa Hills 2-0 and then scored a 1 -0 win over Williamston. In their first full length match of the season, the TK boys were downed 2-0 by visiting Zeeland East in Middleville Monday evening. The Trojans were scheduled to visit Otsego Friday evening, Aug. 23. They continue the OK Gold Conference schedule in the week ahead going on the road to face Northview Monday and South Christian Wednesday. The next home game for the TK boys is a contest with Union Sept. 3. *K <3 •l . w». .w • ’< I I r '.X I I I 4 i. > > » I. f^***'*^ .J * 4 r k -M 1 s Hb -T > .f • •4 s fV •r 4 5 L.? ' r ■ r -1.' 1 i , 1 I I -fcl. < ' w. < ' r * *4 ** T* •r*' 't .'I X » ** f *-4*/ Group email wsmith@mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer's Guide ■ Jeffersonian *r 1 ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Peview ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ The Lowell Ledger The Hastings Banner Buyer's Guide & News Ad-Visor & Chronicle Battle Creek Shopper News The Sun and News The Reminder t > I I I 1 k * BREH BREMER Sports Editor 257-yard, Par-4 number one. Juniors Katie Honhart and Codie O’Krangley tied for seventh overall The Caledonia varsity girls’ golf for the Scots with 45 s and senior Mva team tee’d off on the new OK Green Burgess was tenth with a 46. Another Conference season Monday at CHS senior, Ellie Hudson, was right Railside Golf Club. The Byron Center Bulldogs played behind with a 47. host to the first j amboree in the Byron Center junior Holly Lawrence reworked conference and took the was the runner-up individually with a day’s victory with a score of 171 39. The Bulldogs also got a 42 from that beat out the runner-up Scots’ Autumn Kartes, a 44 from Izzy Tawoda total of 174. and a 46 from junior Natalie Grit. Reeths Puffer was third with a score The Bulldogs were ninth and the of 192 ahead of Mona Shores 201 and Scots 11th at the MHSAA Lower Jenison 206. Peninsula Division 1 Girls Golf Fighting Scot senior Copelin Finals in the fall of 2023. Hudson, O’Krangley was the day’s individual Burgess and the O’Krangley sisters champ with a score of 38.She opened were all among the Scots’ five at the her round with a birdie on the 195state finals a year ago and Copelin yard par-4 number three and had a finished her 2023 with a top ten fin­ second birdie late in the day on the ish at the finals. •/ <• f I ^k.A' r\ ■* A > r •■ Bulldogs top Scots by three at first Green golf meet I I 1 < ! « 4 I « ( 4 t I « f I t < ( 4 I f 4 < 4 4 4 < < ( I 1 r *« rr o r> I If r*I V w 4 I* s c c C Q c u u ◄ h a I <3 £ •s Q � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-09-07.pdf c15183aceb67f1cd2509f3e47e4ecce5 PDF Text Text 3ET •w I <r ♦ %• V 1 J £ 4 4 1 b > s 5 « I 4 * . ? I * 4 I * • k J • » H • » 1 t > » >* r r J b I* p I *1 ] I V I > 1 1 3 1 *• b 1 I 4 I •l b •l i h I s i ll I % I, I I > > I b 1 R * * s * 1 < t > > V .» •*". T’ >• * 1 * r s I b I 9 1 4* A I b -I k’ > •3?) 1 CHS BOYS, TK GIRLS WIN EARLY aMORNING b-' f.' DUALS C < « b* E. THE SUN AND » d NEWS Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Gaines 4 F” •v’ 'i n t t Township Areas i b A *w r 1 ** c £1 > A 9 I r ^ai--’ < <> b 7<^ t ■ H ' I* ?>> t •t-*. 1 - > ' I K NO. 22 GE 9d < »p* r^ SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7,'2024 I f •L Barry County Land Bank to purchase riverfront building, demolish it . 4 .,.<:•» •1*1.^'' ’b •w— w . A/ *• < » w 41* V « W/ w i* < f * 'I* JL^ ■ JTA* I. r J. < aL^ ft' See RIVERFRONT on 2 4 4 ll A^«aa±£ «E e £ The Barry County Land Bank plans to leverage a short-term loan to purchase a vacant, riverfront building in Mid­ dleville and immediately demolish it. Jennifer Heinzman, President and CEO of the Barry County Chamber and Economic Development Alliance and a member ofthe Barry County Land Bank Authority Board, spoke to Barry County commissioners on Tuesday morning during their meeting of the committee of the whole. She asked for them to recommend that the county board sign off on an agreement between the land bank and the Barry Community Foundation for a $75,000 loan to help purchase the former home of DesignWear, a local f I J ^<J / Jayson Bussa Editor k \.r -2 I I * "wv/w.sunandnews.com •7S? 4 « I "* —»»• '4- L* X* ) I yi^- A '' .. Jr I * ’* ■' rv J 4 ?♦ L ”1 I K> **^**4^" *p .•? & f w<;; j: • -i/r; '^S b b R ? I I • v* 1< » b 4 A ♦'I b « V X 4 .-r;>^c. 4 I si F< *.*»*’ 1 * 4 r J 4r Asi ST; r*i <itf :W <fc' b L4 <‘1 • tA ■ 7- r. J I -4 ••• L^: Bl b 7* J, Im'*’ ’♦ I > r * 'a 'I 4 -t A . -* s T « ** < dS*. Si -'M tv I n Jr* “ S* 4 I w d> • ; ** I b f X P I *r * b1 4* I ry p* ;^x I. <: •< .#« -ik / 1 sB 1 •+ ■ ■ • V V"j 1 •’jifiR IF ’ K * >* •V.vb i-A k **.. ' .'■ I •b >L .t *e »t («.; A b &* J ♦* 1 xfl r p t I A f♦ z a **-i I « .. -fc b ? r A well-used stretch of 68th Street between Whitneyville Avenue and Thornapple River Drive in Caledonia Township is now open two months after the oroiect project was slated to wran wrap im up. Phntn Photo hu by Rron Greg PhanHior Chandler •> J ■ HE OPEN ROAD: 68th Street project wraps up after lengthy delay Rrf * w' > * * I p I b J *>r’* Ai ai^jSoMaBI f JW*' k •. g^"r * I .. -W . J L, r r b 1* Greg Chandler Staff Writer A ***-w A 1.25-mile stretch of 68th Street e T 4.^ ) The former and now-vacant DesignWear building at 118 W. Main Street in Middleville will be purchased by the lAiaas U3N01$n3 Barry County Land iviiNaaissu SSMU33 in '«HiAuwjo Bank and torn down on OK Sept. 12. Photo by Greg 8CC# Jiujjsd e£99> xogod 8€8eb in 'e||IAU99J9 aivd BOViSOd s n ais isdd Chandler in Caledonia Township is back open to traffic after a Kent County Road Commission project to rebuild the road ran into significant delays. The section of 68th from Thor­ napple River Drive to Whitneyville Avenue, reopened at the end of last week. The project, which began in early April, had been slated for completion on July 6, but was delayed “due to multiple utility conflicts that necessitated working with various utilities to relocate their facilities,” Road Commission spokeswoman Maura Lamoreaux wrote in an email to the Sun and News. The project, which received about $950,000 in funding from the Ameri­ can Rescue Plan Act’s allocation to Kent County, involved removal ofthe old asphalt and concrete pavement, removal of trees, application of an aggregate base, culvert extensions, storm sewer work, concrete curb and gutter and paving, according to the Road Commission website. The project budget was $1.9 million. The project was a continuation of a 2021 road project on 68th from Cherry Valley Avenue to Thomapple River Drive that also included a wid­ ened paved shoulder to accommodate non-motorized traffic, Road Com­ mission Deputy Managing Director Wayne Harrall told the Sun and News earlier this year. J&N Construction of LeRoy was the project contractor. f< K �2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7, 2024 Five teens charged in Middievilie crime spree back in March Greg Chandler RIVERFRONT than $200, and one count each of re­ county’s juvenile court. ChiefAssistant Staff Writer ceiving and concealing stolen property/ Barry County Prosecutor David Banis­ ter wrote in an email. motor vehicle, conspiracy to commit re­ Five teenagers have been charged ceiving and concealing stolen property/ Kelley has been charged with four in connection with a crime spree last counts of unlawfully driving away an motor vehicle, breaking and entering spring in which at least 30 vehicles in of a vehicle to automobi le, four counts ofconspiracy to four residential neighborhoods in the commit UDAA, steal property village of Middleville were broken into, six counts of including four of which were stolen. ^^1 don’t think we’ve ever ofbetween $200 An 18-year-old Battle Creek man, breaking and en(earS) at OnCG Stolen. and $ 1,000, and termg a vehicle conspiracy to Azavion Cordell Kelley, is being held I don ’ t think we ’ ve ever had to steal property commit break­ in the Barry County Jail on multiple ofless than $200, this many houses affected. ing and entering charges stemming from the crime spree four counts of of a vehicle to that occurred the night of March 11. His Typically they hit one conspiracy to steal property next court hearing is Oct. 9 before Judge neighborhood, they ’ re in and commit break ­ ofbetween $200 Michael Schipper. out. This is by far the worst ing and entering and $1,000, Four juveniles from Kalamazoo a vehicle to steal Banister con­ I’ve seen. w County are also facing charges in the property of less firmed. case. They are being tried through that Sgt. Scott Ware Barry County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Scott Ware of the Barry County SherifTs Office Middleville unit told Village Council members at a March 12 meeting that the incidents occurred in /—, « the Seneca Ridge, Rolling Oaks, Towne A \ A ■ Center and Misty Ridge subdivisions. “One car was recovered close by 12" 1 Topping Pizza $10.99 home, due to it being a non-drivable vehicle, yet they managed to get it t 14" 2 Topping Pizza $14.99 started down the road a little bit • ♦ • One f vehicle was recovered after a pursuit,” 16" 2 Topping Pizza $16.99 Ware said at the time. Ware went on to say that “all these were unlocked vehicles and vehicles with keys (inside).” 11446 Chief Noonday Rd It was the third instance in Ware’s two Middleville. Ml 49333 years in charge of the Middleville unit PIZZA BY THE SLICE Gun Lake Area that deputies had faced a case of people entering into cars and stealing them. 11am-3pm “ I don ’ t think we ’ ve ever had four MON, WED. THURS & FRI 269.205.2042 (cars) at once stolen. I don’t think we’ve ever had this many houses affected,” Order Online at www.csplzzamiddlBvllle.eom the sergeant said at the March meeting. “ Typically they hit one neighborhood, INDOOR SEATING & BBQ : ui ■ ... COMING SOON! they’re in and out. This is by far the worst I’ve seen.” I ! I / LuncH Special Continued from Page 1 clothing, screen printing and em broidery operation that was once located at 118 W. Main Street. The business has since relocated to 402 Thornton Street, also in Middleville. The loan from the community foundation will be very short-term as grant funding will be used to repay it right away. Meanwhile, the land bank’s time­ line for the vacant property would be to close on the property Sept. 11 and tear the building down on Sept. 12 in order to meet the required timeline for grant funding. Not only is the building vacant, but it was left with a missing wall after the demolition of the former Baby Bliss facility back in February, which is adjacent to DesignWear. Unknowingly, the facilities had a shared wall, which was demolished. In July, the Middleville Down­ town Development Authority voted to contribute $3,000 to help the land bank inch closer to closing on the property. The total cost of the purchase is $103,000. The Community Foun­ dation is loaning $75,000 while the land bank is contributing $25,000. Demolishing the DesignWear building frees up prime, riverfront real estate. Heinzman said that there is already a developer interested in the property and she will be meet­ ing with them in the coming week. The department was able to identify the suspects with the help of video foot­ age it received from at least 10 Ring home security cameras. Ware said. Kelley is being held on $45,000 bond. THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US PUBLISHED BY Editor; Jayson Bussa Group jayson@j-adgraphics.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Advertising: ads@j-Sdgraphics.com PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card, or advertising contract, copies of which are from The Sun and News Ad Dept., 1351 QKcz’ I^^stings, Ml 49058 ( 269-945ybb4). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. �* www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7 2024 Middleville council moves toward reacquirlnglormerfirTbarn k I .fl s SI if. ‘A t 4 Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Middleville Village Council is moving closer to reclaiming the former fire bam property at 115 High St., after village officials said the developer, a former Village Council member, did not respond to a request for an updated site plan for the property. The council voted 5-0 at its commit­ tee of the whole meeting Tuesday to direct Village Attorney Mark Nettleton to prepare documents to have owner­ ship of the former fire bam revert back to the vi Hage because Acorn Treehouse Ventures LLC has not followed through on a development agreement that was reached in July 2022. Those documents are expected to be presented to the council at its next committee of whole meeting in early October, Village Presi­ dent Mike Cramer said. Former Village Council member Johnny DeMaagd is principal for Acorn Treehouse Ventures. The owner of Left Field Cafe in downtown Middleville, DeMaagd served on the council from November 2022 to October 2023. The council on July 23 called for DeMaagd to present an updated site plan for redeveloping the 90-year-old fire bam. Village Planning and Zon­ ing Administrator Doug Powers told the council that he tried to contact DeMaagd the following week to ask about the status of the project. “I have not received any response or anything (in the way of communica­ tion) since then,” Powers said. Powers said he received an opinion from Nettleton on what next steps the village should take. “(He said) the village can provide notice of termination of the agreement, where the developer fails to perform in accordance with the timetable set forth in (the agreement) and the developer is required to reconvey the property to the village upon tender by the village to the developer of the purchase price of the property of $40,115,” Powers said. “The developer has not requested an extension, and they haven’t met their timeline. So the conditions put forth being that he is in breach (of contract), would allow for the village to potentially acquire that property for the purchase price,” he added. ■■ . ----------------------------------------- --- “In order to ensure economic viability of the project, and to also comply with the council’s previous desire of an ex­ peditious remodel, development will occur in two stages: first into a rentable small-scale event space to be completed by the timeline in the development agreement, then later into a sit-down restaurant once the space is able to be utilized,” DeMaagd wrote in the memo. Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith agreed that the village’s next step should be to get its attorney involved, but questioned whether any investment DeMaagd has made into the building should be considered, not­ ing there had been roofing work done on the building. But Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said the contract language was “pretty clear” as to what was expected of the developer. “It’s so unfortunate, because of any investment made, regardless of how big or how small, is still an invest­ ment,’ Smith said. “But I also know we have a stake in the sand and I want to i , ‘•I ; 4’ [2 I* I J ifwJ RI ft ■ , —■ I 'kail . J r 1 1 ♦ k J. I. J Middleville Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers addresses the Middleville Village Council on the fire barn at 115 High St. during Tuesday’s committee of the whole meeting Photo by Greg Chandler In May 2022, the Village Council voted 6-0 to accept the bid of Acorn Treehouse Ventures of $40,115 to acquire the fire bam, passing up a more lucrative bid from a competing bidder. Leading Construction, who offered $50,000 for the site. DeMaagd had proposed a mixed-use commercial de­ velopment at the fire bam that included a cafe, bakery, coffee roasting and canning operation. Powers said. Under the development agreement between the village and Acorn Tree­ house Ventures, work on the 115 High site was to begin in January 2023, a site plan was to be submitted to the village in July 2023, with substantial completion by January 2025 and an occupancy permit to be approved in July 2025, Powers said. On July 1, DeMaagd was notified that the petition would not be considered at a planning commission meeting the next day because the village had not re­ ceived a site plan. On July 2, DeMaagd sent a memo to Powers that included a site plan, as well as a request for a content waiver. He wrote in the memo that he intended for the parcel to be used as a hospitality-based business. honor that... That property is certainly valuable to somebody that’s going to develop it.” Council Trustee Makenzi Peters agreed with Smith. Iri my opinion, we’ve gone above and beyond with attempts at communi­ cation,” Peters said. “We extended this a month and half ago . to give him even more of a cushion, and even those communications we sent out haven't been reciprocated. Let’s figure out what we need to do get that property back on the market for development.” Once again, at no point during Tuesday’s meeting was DeMaagd’s name mentioned, with council mem­ bers and staff referring to him as “the developer.” The village purchased the 0.126-acre parcel at 115 High from Thornapple Township in 2005 for $13,500. It is zoned C-1 central business district. DeMaagd did not return a text message seeking comment on the village’s action. WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS • -S’' 'vn,? Residential & Commercial -Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps -Water Heaters Humidifiers HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. f ,■ Ik-k* I. ( 1 DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 c. 4 * .A' * .J r « ’T jC I *< st* A I t T _ _ << I •* -w- ^,172 • • I I T'« ;J I ir * -A * HS Bi '/f. 68 Since i95S LENNOX •l T 4 A* 1 J** ACCREDITED -5 BBB. BUSINESS �Saturday, September 7, 2024 4 w I ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS •> Obituaries I Fitzsimmons, Kelly Martin; 14 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren: two great-great grandchildren; brother, Kenneth (Cheryl) Fitzsimmons: sisters-in-law, Joyce (Richard) Hawkins, , Nancy Fitzsimmons, Mary Cook; brother-in-law, Ray (Mary) Cornell; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Eethel Fitzsimmons; brothers, William and James; sister, Marge (Peter) Baker; and brothers-in-law, Thomas Cornell and Charles Cook. Al •• * J** r ■SL I ■MT •F^ f Jack R. Fitzsimmons Jack R. Fitzsimmons, Sr., age 89, of Caledonia, Ml, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024. Jack was a lifelong resident of Caledonia where he attended Caledonia Schools. He operated his own excavating business for years, digging many basements and putting in driveways for the residents of Caledonia. He enjoyed trips up north to the cabin and hunting. Jack retired from GM Diesel after 22 years of service. He was very proud of the three grandsons who served in the military. Jack will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 68 years, Margaret; children, Jack Fitzsimmons, Jr., Michael (Ginger) Fitzsimmons, Patrick (Jackie) .5 A memorial service will “W be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 6, at Gaines Church, 1612 92nd Street SE, Caledonia, with an hour of visitation prior to the •w* service. Rev. Brian Harrison will officiate. The family wishes to thank the Home Care workers for the wonderful care they provided to Jack. A private interment will be held in Alaska Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Corewell Health Hospice. Arrangements made by Stroo Funeral Home. 4 I 44 * * I **r 4 <.•. >»x|r ' I I I I i I .4 I 1 LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch STTr-'-' . I *■ JT" J I * • * Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship BAPTIST Middleville Sunday Service 10:30 AM 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com'CaledoniaUniledMcthodist Serving Strengthening Connecting «*Sr^ ■ ♦z A ih I f 9' Livestream: facebook.com/fjrstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 * >• Good Shepherd Lutheran Church J c^OC co '•>.51 V < HOLY FAMILY J/CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfanulycaledonia.org 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: (269) 795-2391 Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. •Apeace CHURCH >♦ V 5? — r cc A p J- peacechurch, Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. A i Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. I i Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee i ar. '^Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyviilebjble.org PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday School... Sunday Worship .MO AM 10:30 AM IFCg) iWTf gATl^^l " M/ofc/? our services from our website (see above) @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, Ml 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 _______ www^tpaulcaledonia.org IH^ Whitneyville <—/ Fellowship Church 4935 Whitneyville Ave, between 52^*^ & 48*^ Praising Cod through Hymns • Reading God’s Word • Special Music Worship Services Sunday ioam&6 pm JOURNEY CHURCH Caledonia Location 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9; 15 am and 11.00 am IB I Middleville Location 1664 ivi -3 7 9:30 am and 11:00 am THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Dufiy Road Middleville, MI 49333 'Shining Forth God's Light" Prayer Meeting Sl Bible Study Sunday Morning Worship Wednesday 6:30 pm&ypm I Group Pastor Ed Carpenter - 616-868-0621 Sermons online: WhitneyiHlleFellowshiD.org j 4 r service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 1675 84th st. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend Yankee Springs Fire Department hosting blood drive Sept. 11 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankecspringsbiblcchurch. org Versiti Blood will hold a blood drive Wednesday, Sept. 11 at the Yankee Springs Township Fire Department from 2 to 6 p.m. The fire station is located at 1425 S. Payne Lake Road in Wayland. Anyone who is at least 17 years old and weighs more than 110 pounds may be eligible to be a donor. No money is involved; the only cost is only time. In return, donors leave knowing they have helped sustain someone’s life. While all types of blood are needed, Type O blood, especially, is routinely in short supply and in high demand by hospitals. The upcoming blood drive falls on the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. Organizers hope for a good turnout —donors can help honor the lives of those lost on 9/11 while mak ing a life-saving donation. All who attempt to donate will receive a 9/11 remembrance T-shirt while supplies last. Questions may be directed to Versiti Blood Center, 866-MIBLOOD, or 269 795-9091. Appointments are preferred and may be made at donate.mivchigan. versiti.org, but walk-ins are welcomed. * Visit us online at iTiihomepaper.com 9 1 1 I ft I i I 1 �•r>.. eih ’7* www.sunandnews.com > '0 Alto’s Harvest Festival returns for 43rd year Sept. 14 s I C' % S ; I I r I S ; 1 ■w h I I I 1 The small town of Alto is celebrat­ ing its biggest event of the year next weekend: the 43rd annual Alto Harvest Festival & Car Show. The event takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Satur­ day, Sept. 14, with activities slated for all ages. The event will kick off with the Alto/ Bowne Township Firefighters’pancake breakfast at 7 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14. The breakfast will run until 10 a.m. and will be located at the Alto Fire Station, 6260 Bancroft Ave. Golf cart shuttles will be available to and from the breakfast. Opening ceremonies for the festival begin at 10 a.m. at Veterans Park with the national anthem, a formal flag­ raising ceremony by the Girl Scouts and the presentation of colors by the Alto American Legion Post 528. The car show is expected to pull in around 200 hot rods from the community. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and the show runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Goodie bags and dash plaques for the first 150 entries will be provided. The top 50 entries will be awarded. Those interested in showing off their cars will pay $ 15 to enter. Those registered in the show may be treated to door prizes, a grocery guess and awards. The Alto American Legion will be open to the public throughout the day, serving coffee and donuts in the morn­ ing and burger baskets from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Lions Club will also be serv­ ing hungry festivalgoers with walking tacos, popsicles and lemonade. Faith Bible is providing hot dogs, Polish sausage, chips and beverages while Hubbert’s Kettle Com will offer a va­ riety of kettle com and pork rinds. Last but not least. Kindred Roots will be at the Harvest Festival offering chicken salad; ham and cheese and turkey Havarti wraps along with beverages, baked goods and more. During the day, attendees will find contests and activities for everyone, in­ cluding returning favorites such as the Blue Ribbon Baking Contest and Bak­ ing Bingo, which is a new twist on an old game. Instead of prize money. Bak­ ing Bingo contestants can win baked goods and baking essentials. This is a tme Alto Harvest Festival original. The THE SUN AND NEWS >3 Saturday, September 7, 2024 r J Area students named to KCC honor lists II > I • Lt; 5 4*.’ ‘£- Kellogg Community College officials are proud to present the president’s list and dean’s list of all students, full- and part-time, who have earned high or highest honors for summer 2024. * fiT 4 * ■t 1^2^. 1 • •; 1 4’ 7 'W’J »y,Y > ffltl **> I 1 I ? r. ^1 n K &• Mn> kJM • 4 V *u-’ ■ The dean’s list recognizes students who have earned a semester grade point average of 3.50 to 3.99. Local students on the dean’s list include: Middleville - Richard Heikkila Jr. Wayland - Kristin Kwiatkowski, Courtney Riva. V /• JI 4U4 r< ♦ «* Dean’s list ft A 2j’’ I A. > , 1 -^4“'' M*'' ’ 4 -A < JI President’s list 1 J ■ «n ** • The president’s list recognizes degree-seeking students who have earned a 4.0 GPA for the semester. Area students who qualified for the president’s list include: Middleville — McKenna Bazan, Taylor Johnson. Shelbyville - Angela Gillihan, Kathryn Sipes. Wayland - Paige Shepherd. •% 1 * A ?U»'* Lowell-based country band Prior Noon will provide the soundtrack for this years Harvest Festival in Alto. The band will perform at Veterans Park beginning at 11:30 a.m. craft and vendor show will feature up to 20 booths, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Meanwhile, the Alto Library will be conducting its gently used book sale from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., as well as a scavenger hunt during the festival. Children will be able to enjoy a variety of activities at the Kids Zone, located on the green at the Alto Bap­ tist Church with inflatables. Cheek to Cheek face painting and a petting zoo. The Alto Lions Club will have free vi­ sion screening on-site as a part of the Lions of Michigan Foundation Project Kidsight, with a focus on preschool and elementary children. One of the more popular oldfashioned competitions at the Harvest Festival is the Pie-Eating Contest. Organizers invite anyone to come join the fun. Participants will compete ei ther in the kids or adult category, with kids eating a smaller pie. Winners will receive $10 and a trophy. Sign-up for the Pie-Eating Contest begins at 10:45 a.m. on Sept. 14 and the contest begins at 11 a.m. Live music starts at 11:30 a.m. and runs through 2:30 p.m., featuring Prior Noon, an up-and-coming band from Lowell. Music will take place at Veterans Park. Audience members are asked to bring their own chairs. emus WmSCOOF! ED’S BODY SHOP If you see news happening, or if you just want us to know about something going on... CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN Yot/r trusted Body Shop for over 32 years WHY CHOOSE ED’S? I VT Email jayson@j-adgraphics.com 4 *:r ^»FrWEstir^ ^.tSLr«r Repair all m®s^?W^dS r I « .* I I 1» THE SUN AND NEWS I* state of the Art Refinish Facility J • iz 9 State '& l-CAR Certified te^tinicio^ Group «»I ^^^OUCH Gomputerizecl'EI^tro^ni^’ ' I t <A» • Frame Repair • 11 F * .. I I a 1 ft Bundle or $100/ Full cord by the * J I• *** < r" A. .1 > » > I M c tA' Y: I lx."* A r « t t. 2^ « OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Chopped 16”-18” lenth 517-983-8916 « Measuring'System SMB WOOB FOR SALE V4 r USONAL ^NFIB lOSa. OOtOOASS Walsf Bourne i J cjiun 110 Johnson Street Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner 616.891.0150 www.edsbody.com �Saturday, September 7, 2024 6 THE SUN AND NEWS Middleville council rescinds ORV ordinance; another vote needed to follow county law Greg Chandler Staff Writer village streets. “We’re rescinding our ordinance because having our ordinance causes A Middleville village ordinance that confusion and makes it difficult to banned the use of off-road vehicles on local streets is no more. enforce,” Village President Mike Cramer said. However, it does not mean the viHage Cramer added that even with doing is now under a Barry County ORV ordinance. Not yet, anyway. away with the village ordinance, the state still requires ORVs to have license The Village Council last week voted unanimously plates and insurance to strike down the to operate on local 2021 ordinance that streets. M We’re rescinding I i m ited the operation The council our ordinance because of ORVs to private would have to hold having our ordinance a separate vote on property unless whether to have they have proper caUSGS COnfUSlOII and equipment installed. village residents makes it difficult to a valid Michigan abide by the county’s enforce. w registration and ORV ordinance. license plate and Mike Cramer, President “You’d have to proof of insurance opt into the county Village of Middleville to be operated on ordinance,” Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said. “ It does not affect villages unless they I I opt into the county ordinance.” Stolsonburg was chairman of the county Board of Commissioners when the board adopted the county ’ s I ordinance in January 2016. That ordinance allows ORVs to operated on a designated road in the county at speeds of no more than 25 miles per hour, unless a lower speed is posted, I ’ Must present this coupon. and can only operate on the far side I Expires 9-14-24 I of the maintained portion of the road. I I I I However, the ordinance also states I I that an “ORV may not be operated Hi^h Efficiency i FURNACE! ' &AIR ■ — ®1501 !B«!B off ' t I I I a' i .> » . 1 J ■ f i 4 I j I I I , FINANCING AVAILABLE ' ■ I I ‘No monthly interest if paid within 18 mo. “The company built by referrals" r i-f* k'. BSD MRTS • rax VS • ME TMS • VMB • SITS • IBS • 4K4S 269-381-2300 I ' 4' 4 i. » # 9 > * 9 9 # * L-- J 4 s 9 g g , 9 „ 9^9 9 a . - t 't Ta USED PARTS 0 USED TIDES jp •*b 'ram, I 7 FIIU SERVICE ft YOU POU IT * 9 210 East Main Street. Caledonia 616-891-8900 I* . LIGHT TRUCK PARTS I FRONTIER HEATING 8 COOLING r wr 1811UKE ST 00 i www.sunandnews.com Judge reduces bond for Caledonia sexual assault suspect Greg Chandler Staff Writer A Kent County judge has ap­ proved reducing the bond of a 42-year-old Caledonia man accused of offering alcohol and vape pens to teenage girls in exchange for sex acts and nude pictures. Circuit Judge Paul Denenfeld on Aug. 23 approved reducing the bond for Scott Michael Elam from $500,000 to $250,000. Elam is awaiting trial on five felony charges, including aggravated child Scott sexual abuse activity, ag­ gravated distributing and promoting child sexually abusive material, aggravated possession of child sexually abusive material, us­ ing a computer to commit a crime and capturing and distributing an image of an unclothed person, according to court records. Kent County detectives arrested Elam July 24 at his Caledonia home after executing a search warrant. Detectives working in the Human Trafficking Task Force of the sherifTs office received a tip in late June about a 17-year-old girl having sex with an adult male in exchange for alcohol. Further investigation by the sherifTs office found the suspect had been communicating with teenage girls in Caledonia, Lowell, Forest Hills and Byron Center, allegedly offering alcohol and vape pens in exchange for sex and nude pictures, Sgt. Kailey Gilbert of the sherifTs office said in a news release at the time of Elam’s arrest. It is also alleged Elam video-recorded sexual acts that took place while in his Elann home, Gilbert said at that time. In approving reduction of bond, Denenfeld ordered that Elam wear a GPS tether, forbade him to have contact with anyone under the age of 18, and banned him from using a computer or any computer functions on a cell phone, according to court records. As of Wednesday, Elam remained held in the Kent County Jail, accord ing to jail records. No trial date has been scheduled yet. He is scheduled for a status conference on Oct. 21 in 17th Circuit Court, according to court records. on any city or village road surface, Andrew Beck, a village resident who roadway, shoulder, or right-of-way led the petition drive and who was part ... unless allowed by city or village of the ad hoc committee, supported ordinance.” rescinding the ban. Council members have debated the “ It would give the Middleville (unit village’s ORV ordinance over the last of the) SherifTs Department defined couple of years, with some saying it guidelines to police accordingly, ” Beck was unenforceable. A petition signed said. “We’ve been working on this for by more than 50 business owners last a couple of years. The village lawyers year called for legalizing ORV use in said that it can be done with no liability the village. An ad hoc committee earlier this or burden to the village.” year introduced an ordinance languag e Businesses have clearly expressed change that would have allowed the use their support (for allowing ORVs in the of ORVs, provided the operator was at village). The Middleville sheriff has least 16 years old and held a driver’s added a line item to track tickets issued license. But that proposal never came to side-by-siders, and to this point there to a vote. have been none,” Beck added. 1 1 I I I j I �www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS I Middleville council addresses Calvin Hill Park security camera misstep bi tllj I ll 9K Ik Greg Chandler Staff Writer When the Middleville Village Council last November approved using funding from the American Rescue Plan Act to purchase security cameras at Village Hall and other village-owned sites, some of the money was planned to go toward having security cameras installed at Calvin Hill Park. However, those cameras were never installed. “When we received the proposal originally for the surveillance cam eras for our main campus and what I thought was Calvin Hill Park, the contractors mistook Calvin Hill Park for East Bank or Sesquicentennial Park,” Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said. “They did not in­ clude a quote for Calvin Hill Park. However, the village and the contractor, K-Group, is fixing the problem. The Village Council at its Aug. 27 meeting unanimously approved a quote to have cameras installed at the pavilion of Calvin Hill Park, at a cost of$ 19,253. Fund­ ing for the purchase will come out of the parks and recreation line item in the village general fund budget, Stolsonburg said. Calvin Hill Park had been identi­ fied as a location where the village wanted to have cameras installed because of vandalism issues there, Stolsonburg said. “In years past, it’s been a problem area - a lot of complaints,” Stolson burg told the council. “Since we ve installed (cameras) over here around this campus area, we’ve really — knock on wood - not had much of anything as far as vandalism or any trouble at all. I think they’ve really * !? 8 I J I I * proved to be a deterrent, which was the intention of that (installation), and I think they would do the same over there.” The Village Council last Novem­ ber approved spending no more than $ 162,000 out of its ARPA allocation to purchase 16 security cameras, as well as related wireless technology. The village’s Downtown Develop­ ment Authority also contributed $30,000 toward the project, cutting the final funding share out of ARPA to $ 132,000, Stolsonburg wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Five cameras were installed at the Village Hall, while three were installed at the Department of Public Works building. Additional cameras were installed at and near the train depot, as well as just south of the wastewater treatment plant. The cameras that were planned for Cal vin Hill Park were instead installed at the Sesquiccntennial Pavilion and the restrooms near the pavilion, Stolsonburg wrote in his email. The Village Council had allocated $ 100,000 for parks and recreation in this year’s budget. As of last week, the village had only spent $ 1,539 out of that line item, Stolsonburg said. Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith called the camera sys­ tem “amazing” and the purchase of cameras for Calvin Hill Park “a good investment.” “I think this is good that we re investing in that park. I think it’s kind of a crown jewel that we really never pay much attention to. It’s cer tainly an important move forward,” Smith said. Saturday, September 7 2024 Cal schools seek strategic plan input at town hall meetings Caledonia Community Schools will hold two upcoming town hall discussions as part of the district’s ongoing cT forts to refresh its strategic plan. These sessions offer a unique opportunity for parents, staff members, students and community members to contribute ideas and help shape the future of education in Caledonia. The first town hall will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 6 p.m. in the Caledonia High School South Cam­ pus Learning Commons. This session will focus on the pillars of teaching and learning and whole child/whole community. Participants will engage in discussions around climate and cul­ ture, academic achievement, student programming and the social-emotional supports essential for student success. The second town hall is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 30, at 6 p.m. in '^MICHIGAN WnRKS! 'll Take the next step to a better paying job! Learn about free: ’* rf* s iBir . 4■ *7 <1. • Computer skillstraining • Career coaching ? B 7^ 5 Job search services -i J b. •r I IB * V. Trode Adjustment Assistance t 5 t • r f J t • * V W - fl -fl Ji Group 4 SunAndNews.com the same location. This session will address the pillars of organizational cohercncc/systcmic improvement and fiscal sustainability. Key topics will include discussing the physical and fi­ nancial infrastructure that supports our overall mission and vision of providing the highest quality system for learning. These town hall sessions arc dcsigned to be open and collaborative, ensuring that every voice in our com­ munity is heard,” CCS Superintendent Dirk Wccldrcycr said. “We encourage everyone to attend one or both of these discussions as wc work together to refine and strengthen the direction of our district. Community members arc cncouraged to RSVP to assist with planning. Additional information, including a llyer, will be available on the district’s website at calschools.org. * PLUS: Ask us if you qualify for Trade Assistance Act benefitsi VIEW Proud to be YOUR COMMUNITY CONNECTION 1 » Call 1-800-285-W0RK (9675) or visit westmiworks.org/iob-seekers/ �Sall 8 THE SUN AND NEWS ffiber 7. 2Q2A J 1/ www.sunandnews.com Barry County administrator works to meet people, understand the organization Jayton Busta Editor 1 7 A I ric Zuzga’s first week on the job was both simple and busy. Week (»nc was really just trying to suck every thing out of Michael’s brain and understand what’s going on and what he's done over the last 30 years. It was a full week. Zuzga said with a laugh, referring to long-time Barry County Administrator Michael Brown. Il's not an easy feat to pick the brain of someone who ha.s been in a position for 30 years, but that was the objective for Zuzga last week a.s he spent his first week as the new Barry County administrator. As outgoing administra­ tor, Brown stuck around for a week to make himselfaccessibic and work with Zuzga on the hand-off of the county. Zuzga was flying solo this week as he takes on day-to-day dut ies of the county while working to become acquainted with the county that he now holds the reins of, and also lives in. I his week is really getting into the T 1 7 J ^4 J A flt 1 / ? s « e f * '3F i % r I 1 New Barry County Administrator Eric Zuzga chats with county commissioners during a meeting last month. Photo by Jayson Bussa organization. said Zuzga, who lives on I .ong Lake. “Obviously we have the budget going on right now, so making sure I understand all of that. It’s about getting out and meeting the department 4 □ I Di I • t t I □ .1 k J II Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! J e J .A: % r F 1 4 f t > ; w* • ,.4 * 5 J ..a * r" r heads, judges, all the staff. Really, it’s about understanding the organization. I think over the next 120 days 1 will try to get out and go to some of the town­ ship board (meetings) and city council (meetings) and just meet people.” Following on the heels of a long­ time administrator like Brown can be beneficial when tapping in to his vast institutional knowledge but can also be considered a draw back when it comes to filling a predecessor’s shoes. While Zuzga admits he’s not trying to be Michael Brown 2.0, he did say that, in his interactions with Brown, he does notice some parallels. There will be differences 1 think that’s inherent to the process where you get different people in there and things will change a little bit,” Zuzga said. “However, from what 1 saw of Michael and heard about him, we have very similar styles. Open doors and working to make sure everyone’s on the same team. I’m not coming in trying to say ‘Hey, I’m the boss, do everything.’” Zuzga comes to the county after €4 J r * z t * % ► 1 r •* f Xi"’ 1 4 t I .* — Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. PRINTING BY www.prir1tingbypennylane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting.com five years serving the City of Marthree of those as Director of shall Community Services. Being on the planning, zoning and developing side of government, Zuzga said he expects to be more active in that facet of the county than maybe Brown was. 1 have difl'erent interests than Michael, so 1 might be more involved in some areas than he was. Zuzga said. “Obviously, there are certain things (you have to do) w ith the job but the development side of the county, that’s my background and 1 love that stuff. So, you’ll see me at the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (meetings), at the land bank and working with the chamber. The biggest learning curve for Zuzga will come with the size of the organization. Before his work with the city of Marshall, Zuzga was village manger for the Village of Quincy for 15 years. Moving up to Marshall was a big step for Zuzga and the move to Barry County could be considered an even bigger leap. However, whether it is Marshall or the Village of Quincy, Zuzga said that the issues remain largely the same across all communities. “They’re a lot of the same issues. Jobs, people want jobs. How do we afford keep providing the level of ser­ vices we provide? It’s the same things every community faces. Some are in better situations than others. Michael left a great situation here. Marshall’s in a good situation.” Meanwhile, Brown’s retirement was very short-lived. The Barry County resident is now serving as the Vice President of Finance and Accounting for the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM). Brown links up with a familiar face at SBAM, whose president and CEO is Brian Calley, former Ionia County commissioner, state representative and lieutenant governor. I YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. You re our friends, our family, our neighbors... and our future. VI Group Your Community Connection 1 4 r I I I �ik, www.sunanclnews.com I THE SUN AND NEWS fl) ■ Saturday, September 7, 2024 9 Lots of fun planned for Gaines Heritage Festival on Oct. 12 I k * ^1;. ‘ I r. > A ^5; lit. f; I James Gemmell Contributing Writer Live music, antique tractors, arts and crafts, food, a historic fishing encampment and a petting zoo are some of the features planned for this year’s Fall Heritage Festival on Oct. 12 in Gaines Charter Township. And organizers are hoping for good weather for the festival, which is held every year on the second Saturday of October. Or, at least it is supposed to be. Last year’s event was canceled due to rain, as was the case in 2019. The festival, in its present form, launched in 2011 and is run by the Gaines Historical Society. Its presi­ dent, Shirley Bruursema, has chaired the free, family event for several years. “We’re really looking forward to good weather this year. If we have that, it will be a given that it will be a good time,” she said. The festival will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the lawn outside the Gaines Township Hal 1, at the southwest comer of Kalamazoo Avenue and 84th Street. Bruursema said Cutlerville and Dut­ ton fire trucks and firefighters will be there. Mary’s Country Critters out of Wayland Township will have a mobile petting zoo set up, which is always a crowd favorite. The Kent County SherilTs Office will have a table set up and may bring its Mounted Unit of horses, if its schedule permits. There will be various food vendors and homemade goods. Bruursemausu ally makes plenty of homemade bread in different varieties that is available at the Historical Society’s booth. The Historical Society typically sells apple cider and doughnuts, as well. The festival harkens back to a by gone era of more than a century ago when the original fall festival was held in the area. The free hayrides on a trail through Prairie Wolf Park will be running again. Rich McConnell of Gaines Township will be driving the tractor that pujls a long wagon through the park. A farmers market and kids’ games are other planned activities. “The hayrides are an outstanding attraction,” Bruursema said. Jerry Berg’s crew out of Comstock Park will return. He runs a mobile *■ as the demonstrations Jerry Berg’s crew does. As for the live country music, Doug Smith of Hastings will be performing on stage at the township hall campus from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Nick Bruurse­ ma will be playing in the afternoon. The antique tractors that will be on display will arrive from places like Gaines and Byron townships, Alto and Dorr. Antique fire trucks will come from Alto and Dutton. “And they’re really, as far as I know, turning out this year better than ever,” Bruursema said. “We’re looking for­ ward to that.” Russ Vos Tree Farms out of the Moline/Wayland area will be partici­ pating/ as well. Bruursema said she expects Byron Center Television (BCTV) will have a crew at the Heritage Festival to video-record the event for airing on Comcast cable channel 25 in Gaines and Byron townships. 11^ • 4.- o. & own Prairie Wolf rk Fall Heritage F tival K 4 (' K ^^turd(ty tn October The annual Fall Heritage Festival in Gaines Township draws people mainly from southern Kent County, northern Allegan County and Barry County Photo by James Gemmell fishing museum and cultural center. Some years, his company has set up a Historical Michigan Lumberjack En­ campment, with participants dressed up in period clothing from the midto-late 1800s. There has even been a small-scale Civil War re-enactment. And this year, Berg said he may set up a traveling fishing museum on the township grounds. “Because Michigan history goes hand-in-hand with fishing or logging, we find that people are so into the history we’re sharing,” Berg said. “Because it’s very relevant to them, to their region and to the local history and heritage. Whether they’re conscious of it or not, everyone’s connected to it.” Doug’s Good Time Pig Roasting & BBQ Shack out of Shelbyville may be returning this year, as well. At the time of publication, Bruursema was waiting for business participants and food vendors to get their applications in ahead of the festival. The, Historical Society gets partial financial assistance from the township to help pay for some ofthe set-up costs and for the entertainment acts, such I ilW H 7I !;'i yay: / Il I ^41 « - “KHlOAM . - VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE COUNTY OF BARRY, MICHIGAN r* I NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECTS THEREOF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Village Council of the Village of Mid­ dleville (the “Village”) adopted Village Ordinance No. 2140 (the “Ordinance”) on August 27, 2024. The principal provisions of the Ordinance are summarized as follows: Section 1 of the Ordinance amends Article VII of Chapter 66 of the Village’s Code of Ordinances regarding the regulation of Off-Road Vehicles, to repeal Article VII in its entirety. Section 2 of the Ordinance provides for the severability of the Ordinance in the event a portion of the Ordinance is determined to be unenforceable. Section 3 of the Ordinance provides for the repeal of all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the Ordinance. Section 4 of the Ordinance provides for the publication and effective date of the Ordi­ nance. Village Ordinance No. 2140 will become effective on September 7, 2024. A copy of the foregoing Ordinance, Ordinance No. 2140, may be examined or purchased at the Village offices, 100 East Main Street, within the Village, during Village office hours. Dated: August 27,2024 VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF MIDDLEVILLE �v 10 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7, 2024 f"' M-37 project public hearing to be held Tuesday in Caledonia I OUR COMPANY IS GROWING DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY J I I www.sunandnews.com Greg Chandler Staff Writer We’re Hiring Marketing Specialist Responsibilities include: • • • • Advertising sales Account management Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts Attend networking events Are you the one? 1 , . lb* 4 I 1 r I * 1 4 f I » * I •T • •*. 4 it J I I 'e * 4 s I I $ ' 5• h-1 ♦ I Group email wsmith@mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer's Guide ■ Jeffersonian ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen <* ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder The Michigan Department of Trans­ portation will hold a public hearing Tuesday on the environmental assess­ ment and the preferred alternative for rebuilding and widening M-37 through the Caledonia community. The hearing will take place at Cale­ donia Christian Reformed Church, 9957 Cherry Valley Ave. SE. There are three sessions scheduled for the public to attend: 10 to 11:30 a.m., 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 5 to 6:30 p.m. The same information will be presented at all three sessions, MDOT spokesman John Richard said. “At the hearing, there will be op­ portunities to ask questions, view a presentation and publicly share your comments,” Richard said in a news release. “A court reporter will record public comments and the formal pre sentation, and will also be available to take comments in private for inclusion in the public hearing transcript.” MDOT has proposed extending the current four-lane boulevard on M-37 from just north of 76th Street to 92nd Street. It also widens M-37 from Em­ mons Street to 92nd and provides median crossovers north and south of 84th and 76th to service left-turn movements, according to an executive summary of the environment assess­ ment published by MDOT. “The purpose of the proposed im provements to M-37 is to improve traffic flow, reduce heavy congestion, enhance traffic safety and reduce the rate of crash incidents in the area,” a portion of the executive summary reads. “The project will improve mo bility in the rapidly growing areas of Caledonia Township and the village of Caledonia.” After years of lobbying by local leaders in the Caledonia community for expanding M-37, state lawmakers approved allocating $40 million to the project in 2022 as part of a $4.8 bil­ lion infrastructure package. Current state Sen. Thomas Albert, who at the time chaired the House Appropriations Committee, was instrumental in get­ ting the ^ding for the M-3 7 proj ect included in the package. ««• Caledonia Township residents got a preliminary look at what the M-37 proj­ ect will look like in October of last year when MDOT hosted two input sessions at the Township Hall. Four alternatives were considered for detailed study, in­ cluding a five-lane option, a five-lane option with an extended boulevard, and baseline option where the road would remain in its current configuration. “The other three alternatives were dismissed due to their inability to address long-term traffic and safety needs,” the executive summary reads. At those public input sessions, some residents expressed concern that the project would only push the problem of M-37 congestion further south to 100th Street and beyond. The environmental assessment docu­ ment is now open for public review and comments at michigan.gov/M37Project. Printed copies ofthe document are currently available for public review at the following locations: — Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE — Kent District Library Caledonia branch, 6260 92ndSt. SE — Kent County Road Commission, 1900 4 Mile Rd. NW, Walker — Grand Valley Metro Council, 678 Front Ave. NW, Suite 200, GrandRapids —MDOT Grand Region office, 1420 Front Ave. NW, Grand Rapids —MDOT Grand Rapids Transporta tion Service Center, 2660 Leonard St. NE, Grand Rapids — MDOT Central Office, Van Wag­ oner Transportation Building, 425 W. Ottawa, Lansing The public may also complete a written comment form at the public hearing or send comments via email or physical mail to Monica Monsma, Van Wagoner Building B245,> 425 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48933 or to MonsmaM@Michigan.gov. Comments must be e-mailed or post­ marked on or before Sept. 24. A copy of the complete transcript, including all written and recorded oral comments received, will be available for public re­ view at michigan.gov/M37Project. All comments from the public hearing and those received by that Sept. 24 deadline will be included in the official record. �u, •f ’ www.sunandnews.com I ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7 2024 11 ♦ ♦ I < I . * * t -r A** s 4 •r <■ r- r-’ > >.• ^<4: kA ! s • • 1 ii «> » 4 * •..-T ..• *• s s, 10 «5i( Brett Bremer Sports Editor ^****-*’«» I T' > -• 4* "• -r The Thornapple Kellogg varsity A boys’ soccer team got its first win in 4 w the new OK Gold Conference Tuesday /r inside Bob White Stadium in Mid­ dleville. r ■IK r Trojan senior Simeon Biltawi fired i a set piece low at the Red Hawks’ net. The Union keeper made the initial save, butjunior defender Nathan Shoemaker pushed up from his center back position 1 I was there to tap in the rebound in the i final minute of the first half. — The Trojans have been working to be *• * • better at finishing offensive opportuni­ •• •u •, ties. TK head coach Andrew Kiel has y always been happy to get Shoemaker Mt r pushed up on the attack. T I “Nate is a go-getter when it comes to f that,” Kiel said of Shoemaker’s ability 'A to finish the ball through a scrum in the 9 ’ **■'»*» offensive end. -t 9! -H #A» The Trojans are also happy to use .X I £-f ».A ■WiT fellow center back, senior Jordan .. "Ji Rowley, as an offensive weapon with >< •*1^ t:his throw ins. IS **•# » t “It is nice, but we have not been able to really convert on that, last nigh. We •?• <; •> J _li. Ill could have maybe had two or three, maybe even four more from Jordan’s Thornapple Kellogg senior Jayce Curtis pushes through the throw-ins that we weren’t able to con­ midfield with the ball during his team ’ s 1-0 win over Grand vert,” Kiel said. Rapids Union in Middleville Tuesday. w. I r * • i I sa I V or)!?' * 0(5^ I I »!51 wr 1 s r -.... . i ^:. £ i 9^. H I I J - * .A I .'1 • 9 / -- * / * IL I * 1* LT 4 I ta I . ■ «..'u 4 & ‘ , r* “V V f .. • • ** 4^ ’ > ♦ ___ r .4fl I w i ? rz m; f- I * » I I I 11? * * I I ks f ■’Tliib >4 • I J Jl A' JT’T *■* * J “We had some good overlapping runs from some outside backs and our wingers, being able to connect with them, Kiel added, “getting those opportunities for Jordan to have those throw-ins. There was good connectivity from our center-mids and outside-mids and got balls to the middle to create opportunities and 4* « I draw fouls. Ryan Skidmore managed a couple solid opportunities on net for TK, but the they were just a bit too near the Union keeper to get through. The goal Tuesday was just the second in four confer­ ence matches so far for TK this fall. The Trojans were shut out 1-0 by West Catholic, scored once against Northview and then fell 4-0 to South Christian last week, Aug. 28. Kiel said his guys played better than the score indi­ cated in that loss to the Sailors, but South Christian’s size on set pieces was something they did not find a way to overcome. “The me hardest naraest part night now is our team is just a defensive minded team,” Kiel said. “We don’t have a go-getter scorer, someone whose main mission is just to finish. We have players who are at­ tacking minded and can be involved in that but aren’t that all out striker/striker so to say.” The Trojan defense was outstanding Tuesday and the amount of possession TK had limited the Red Hawks’ chances too. Senior keeper Owen Comer did make a couple strong saves on Union’s two best chances. The TK team was scheduled to host Hastings Thurs­ day, Sept. 5. The OK Gold Conference season resumes at Wyoming Monday, Sept. 9. TK will also face confer­ ence foe Wayland in Middleville Sept. 11. I I I I * TK soccer gets first win in reworked league ’’ i " •.* Compassion. Care. MKD has been a trusted neighbor and advisor for West Michigan families for more than four generations. COMMUNITY. Caledonia location I ▼ ■ 4 L Matthysse I Kuiper | DeGraaf FUNERAL • CREMATION • PRE-PLANNING As a family-owned funeral home, we know how important it is to create a personal experience that honors loved ones. We’re more than funeral directors; we’re trusted friends who serve Grand Rapids area communities with a full array of services to celebrate lives. r 1 mkdfuneralhome.com ■ - 616.724.1800 �* 12 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7, 2024 CLS girls win 11 events, win by 11 at FHC fl fl fl fl fl —t Brett Bremer Sports Editor 4 * f 2 1 I What a start for the Vikings. The Caledonia/Lowell/South Chris tian varsity girls’ swimming and div­ ing team is already ticking off MISCA qualifying times and even MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Finals qualifying times. At least as fun, the Vikings scored a 98-87 win in a dual hosted by Forest Hills Central Tuesday in Grand Rapids. The CLS girls won 11 of the 12 events including a sweep of the three relay races in the dual with the Rangers. Senior Bella Treib, junior Sophie Gaylord and sophomore Mya VanderZwaag won two individual events each for the Viking team and spread their talents across the relay victories. The team of Treib, VanderZwaag, Taylor Cole and Aliya Van Hofwegen opened the meet with a winning time of 2 minutes .45 seconds in the 200-yard medley relay for CLS. 4 * I i (■ ■> X I t * R * I I I **l I y a 7 » *••••> JT * .a 4* *4^* K V •V A .**1 L'W *• .J w 4* •Si ' > ' X I, * iSl-’ S’ *u *** 1 -i • Y/ I ' r •r< 4-5 J* ^4 r. f r4 -AS 9 9 d• •----- «T I s Jf r• J • « 0* —' ... h. $ >. GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request; Summary of Request: Stoneco 2024 Annual Review - Jeplawy Parcel. Property Address: 10287 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Number: 41-22-33-100-008 Applicant: Garrett Singer, Stoneco I Date and Time of Hearing: September 26th, 2024, at 7:00 pm I Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at tee Planriing Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township J Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written ^ comments must be received by 5:00 PM on September 26th: « • iV > I I • --•X’ J X* CLS junior Sophie Gaylord (left) and Bella Treib (right) keep adding state qualifying performances this fall and already have earned spots in the 2024 MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals in three individual events apiece. Gaylord was up nest winning the 200-yard freestyle in 2:03.46. VanderZwaag added a winning time of 25.54 in the 50-yard freestyle and 1:12.34 in the 100-yard breaststroke. Gaylord won the 100-yard freestyle in 53.80. Treib won the 100-yard butterfly in 1:04.46 and the 100-yard backstroke in 59,89 seconds. The CLS win in the 200-yard free style relay came thanks to a time of 1:46.86 from the team of VanderZ waag. Van Hof Wegen, Gaylord and Amelia McCann. Gaylord, McCann and Treib teamed with Anneka Schuur­ mans to win the 400-yard freestyle relay in 3:57.39. McCann picked up the six first-place points for CLS in the 500-yard freestyle «A Persons with viooMiHuca dSsabilities iiocuiiig needing bpeciai special accommodations should contact Kim . I prior to the meeting to request mobility. visual or any other assistance. 'i*- with a time of 5:49.32. Senior Elise Miller put together a score of 224.80 to win the diving competition for CLS and sophomore teammate Ella Rigley was third in that event. The lone victory for the Rangers came from junior Allison Meny in the 200-yard individual medley. She turned in a time of 2:23.74. The CLS girls celebrated women in sports last Thursday, Aug. 29, in a three-team meet with Rockford and Forest Hills Northern/Eastern. All three teams are coached by women with CLS led by Amber Pearson, Rockford by Samantha Veiling, and FHNE by Sara Fredricks. Velting’s girls came out on top with all 9-67 win over the CLS team and a 113-73 win over FHNE. The FHNE girls edged the CLS girls 104-82 in their contest. Gaylord had a stellar swim in the 200-yard individual medley to win that race in 2:15.17. Treib won the 100-yard freestyle in 54.17 in another outstanding swim. Gaylord also took the 100-yard breaststroke in 1:11.12. The times from Treib in the 100-yard freestyle and Gaylord in the 200 IM were good enough to meet the D1 state qualifying times in those races. The CLS girls were set to take part in the West Michigan Relays in Zeeland this weekend. They will head to Wayland for a dual Thursday, Sept. 12. YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors and our future B fl B fl Group Your Community Connection �www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7, 2024 Gator girls settling in to new edition of Brett Bremer Sports Editor Holland Aquatic Center Tuesday, Sept. 3. The Gators, made up of swimmers The Gators are really helping their from Thomapple Kellogg, Hopkins, new head coach Jeff Saltzgaber West Catholic and West Michigan settle in. Aviation Academy, were 0-2 in a tri The team voted on who should be with Holland Christian and Byron captains on a Tuesday, notified the Center. The Byron Center girls were girls of the honor on Wednesday and 2-0 for the day with a 160-135 win over by Thursday come changes were tak­ Holland Christian and a 193-90 win ing place as the captains facilitated over the Gators. The Holland Christia n ' Sk ideas from their teammates to their girls bested the Gators 190-82. coach. The captain trio for the Grand s4 It was no surprise the diving com­ Rapids Gator varsity girls ’ swimming liia petition was one of the top events for and diving team this fall includes Au­ the Gators. Sophomore Lydia Slagel brey Hawks, Malia Hamby and Mia ■All won the diving contest with a score Bergman. II of 225.60 points. The Gators also “ They have really taken a lot of re ­ fori had senior Abigail Dumond third and sponsibility off my plate, as well as the Eh sophomore Kya Bender seventh. group of seniors “ I could re ­ and the team ally go on about as a whole,” a how great our am there to facilitate. Saltzgaber said. St divers are, ” I am of course there to “They are really Saltzgaber said. self-sufficient. coach and advocate for He is very ap­ Right off the bat It preciative of them, and adhere to their they have start li diving coach wants and needs and most Todd Bates and ed to do their own stretch KI importantly build great the work he and circles.” the girls put in charter for them in and Ir» He said the as a part of the outside the pool, yy li girls requested Hastings Com­ time out of Jeff Saltzgaber munity Diving head coach practice to work 8 Club in the off­ on some cheers, season. J and on their first Hawks had a Thursday as captains addressed their couple of the top finishes in the pool coach to give him a little reminder to for the Gators Tuesday. She was fourth fit a little fun in the yards and yards in the 500-yard freestyle with a time of and yards of practice. 6 minutes 18.31 seconds. She was also “After our meet on Wednesday, the sixth overall in the 200-yard freestyle girls were like, ‘I know we’re really in 2:20.66. training a lot and that’s great, but every The senior group on the team this now and then it is nice to have a fun fall also includes Rika Feldmann, Eli activity to take the hot air out and enjoy Herold, Jolee Schumacher and Leah each other.. Saltzgaber said. Schumacher. The group of seniors as They worked some “buoy ball” into a whole has some good goals to push Thursday’s practice to have some fun for in their signature events through last week. the season. “I am there to facilitate. I am of Coach Saltzgaber said the group is course there to coach and advocate “great at building each other up and fo­ for them, and adhere to their wants cusing on the good rather than having and needs and most importantly build people think they have to be perfect or great charter for them in and outside have the best times. They’re enjoying the pool,” Saltzgaber said. each other and cheering each other on.” The Gator team followed up that Among the youngsters looking to training with a couple of contests at the make a splash for the Gators are freshI 4^1 13 ♦ ♦ program man Eloise Nichols who is new to com­ petitive swimming, but has worked on her strokes over the years. Coach Saltzgaber has been impressed by her willingness to take up the challenge of the 200-yard individual medley. The Gator coach is also seeing good things so far from freshman McKenna Hawks, sophomore Lucy Krug and freshman Scarlett Hilzey. McKenna swam to a time of 1:31.13 in the 100yard breaststroke that put her sixth in that race Tuesday. On an additional note, Saltzgaber who is the Thomapple Kellogg High School aquatics director, said the newly refurbished pool at the high school in Middleville is ready to go. The process of hiring lifeguards is go­ ing on now to get it open to the public. Employment inquiries can go to his email at jsaltzgaber@tkschools.org. The Gator team was scheduled to visit Forest Hills Central Thursday and will be at Ottawa Hills for a dual Tuesday evening. Classifieds f' ■ & s > Sv •l •v CT I J s BUSINESS SERVICES CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to allow for a Group Child Day Care Home with the capacity for up to 12 children in the Crystal Creek Estates PUD. Property Address: 7514 Melinda Court SE, Byron Center, Ml 49315 Parcel Number: 41-22-08-351-029 Applicant: Heather Duff Date and Time of Hearing: September 26th, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on September 26th 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. �14 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7, 2024 Scots have no trouble with squad from Windsor Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity football team shot out to a 35-0 first half lead and went on to a 48-7 win over Windsor Holy Names Catholic in the 2024 sea­ son opener Thursday at “The Ralph” in Caledonia. Senior quarterback Brody Betser, opening his season season as the Fighting Scots’ starter, tossed four touchdown passes in the first half. Sophomore Bryce Backus came on to connect for a fifth Scot touchdown through the air in the fourth quarter on a 31 -yard connection with sophomore wide receiver Lincoln Senti. Reed Vogeler and Aaron Collins had two receiving touchdowns apiece. Betser connected with Collins on a 25-yard touchdown pass for the only points of the first quarter. The Cale­ donia quarterback also had a 14-yard touchdown run in the second quarter and then fired a 50-yard TD pass to Vogeler before the half. Betser also rushed seven times for 54 yards. He was 8-of-12 passing for 201 yards overall. Backus completed all three of his pass attempts for 57 yards. Backus tacked on two rushes for 38 yards. Christian DeYoung had a 19-yard TD run on his only carry as the Scots rotated in a number ofrushers. Juniors Andrew Hanna and Ryne Wysocki both went over 20 yards rushing. The Caledonia team had nine different guys credited with a rushing attempt and Parker Little didn’t get an official rush, but ran in a two-point try. Fighting Scot head coach Derek Pen­ nington called it a great team defensive effort as well as the Scots held Windsor Holy Names off the scoreboard until the fourth quarter. Vogeler had a team-high three total tackles including two for a loss. Wysocki, Colin Kowatch, River Swanlund and Peter Paarlberg had two tackles each. Holy Names closed the night with just 35 total yards of offense with -9 yards rushing. Vogeler had a big night receiving the football. He had four catches for 150 yards and the two scores. Collins finished with three receptions for 71 yards and his two TDs. Send closed the game with two receptions for 41 yards and the one score. The Fighting Scots were scheduled go on the road to face Reeths-Puffer Friday, Sept. 6, in Muskegon. The Rockets were bested by the defending Division 3 state champions from For­ est Hills Central in their season opener Thursday, 21-10. Caledonia will be at home Friday, Sept. 13, to open the OK Red Confer­ ence season against East Kentwood. Those Falcons opened the season with a 21-0 win over Hartland and were slated to visit Byron Center last night. It was a wild opening week for the OK Red Conference squads in non­ conference play last week. Grand Ha­ ven fought olf Stevensville Lakeshore for a 28-21 win, and Rockford did the same to Detroit Cass Tech winning 30-23. Pickering North from Ohio knocked off Grandville 53-51. Jenison earned a 14-0 shut out of Kalamazoo Central. West Ottawa and Hudsonville both fell in three-point ballgames, the Panthers 36-33 to Grand Ledge and Hudsonville 20-17 to Howell. Rockford entered the season ranked second in the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association pre­ season poll and the Fighting Scots ranked number two in Division 2. Grandville, the only other OK Red Conference team among those polls was tied for tenth in D1. Visit us online at ■ mihc^epaper.com GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request; The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to build a 500 square foot accessory building in the RL-10 zoning district. Property Address: 7114 Cornerstone Drive SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Number: 41-22-09-252-001 Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to build a 506 square foot additional dwelling unit onto a primary building. Property Address: 6844 Rosecrest Drive SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Number: 41-22-10-227-003 Applicant: Michael Resma Applicant: Date and Time of Hearing: September 26th, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at ffie Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on September 26th’ 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. ’*1“ — — I Vinton and Sheryl Hubbard Date and Time of Hearing: September 26th, 2024, at 7:00 pm I Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on September 26th Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. �♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS CHS boys beat Red Arrows start OK Green Monday Olio Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ tennis team went into the Labor Day Holiday *4 with a win at the St. Johns Under the Lights invite and have come out the other side with their first dual win of the season. & The Fighting Scots took a 7-1 vic­ tory at Lowell Tuesday. !»!• The Scots took two of those points in St«i super tiebreakers following split sets at second singles and second doubles. ill Garrett Fales got the second singles win for the Scots against Lowell’s Evan Deeds. Fales took the first set 6-2, had Deeds battle back for a 3-6 win in set two and then Fales rallied for a 10-6 win in the super tiebreaker. At the second doubles flight, it was a similar story with Isaac Robotham 1 and Quinn Stanley scoring a 6-2, 3-6, (10-7) win over the Lowell duo of Rowen Eldred and Eli VanGroningen. Lowell first singles player Gavin Stewart picked up the lone point for his team with a 6-1, 6-4 win over the Scots’ Colin Martin. Hudsen Derengowski and Malte Fischer won the other two singles Io matches for the Scots in straight sets. Derengowski took a 6-1,6-3 win over Ct Micah McDonald. Fischer beat Riley Haynes 6-1, 6-0. West Larson and Luke Athearn teamed up for the first doubles win for Caledonia. They bested Liam Kondor and Nick Rokos 6-2, 6-1. Will VanderWeele and Derick Prich ard at third doubles and Neal Hargrave and Cooper Sowerby at fourth doubles took 6-2, 6-2 wins for Caledonia. 1 Fighting Scot head coach said he I has liked the camaraderie that his guys have displayed so far this season, and I is excited that they are eager to get better. The Caledonia boys were scheduled to host East Kentwood Thursday, Sept. 5, and will be back in action hosting their own Caledonia Invitational to­ day, Sept. 7. The OK Green Conference sea­ son starts Monday when the Scots visit Byron Center, and Reeths-Puffer comes to Caledonia for a conference dual Sept. 11. Byron Center enters the season as the favorite to finish atop the conference standings, and is one of the few teams in the new league that the Fighting Scots have faced before. UJIi Saturday, September 7, 2024 15 ♦ ♦ Caledonia boys win big at Muskegon The Caledonia varsity boys’ soccer team improved its OK Green Conference record to 2-1 with a 9-0 win over Muskegon on the road Tuesday. The Scots also shut out Jenison 1-0 last Wednesday, Aug. 28, in conference play. The Scots were set to one of the toughest tests of the conference season on the road at Byron Center Thursday, Sept. 5. In the week ahead the Scots play host to Mona Shore in conference play Sept. 10 and then host former OK Red foe Grandville Sept. 12. The Scots have a road match next Saturday, Sept. 14, at Portage Central. fl 5 TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN CAMPAU/KFtS F I filing OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL CAMPAU/KETTLE LAKE AQUATIC WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT notice is hereby given that the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia. Kent County, Michigan, having resolved its intention to proceed on Its own motion to make certain public improvements consisting of the application of herbicide treatments and/or harvesting for the eradication or control of aquatic or control of aquatic weeds and plants in Campau/Kettle Lake (the “Improvements”) in the Township, has made its hnal determination of a special assessment district which consists of the following described lots and parcels of land which are benefitted by the Improvements and against which all or a portion of the cost of the Improvements shall be specially assessed: Campau/Kettle Lake Aquatic Weed Control Special Assessment District No. 1 Lots and parcels numbered: 01-351-005 02-476-013 11-278-032 12-101-044 01-351-008 02-476-014 11-278-033 12-101-045 01-351-038 02-476-017 11-278-034 12-101-050 01-351-039 02-476-020 11-278-035 12-101-052 01-351-053 02-476-021 11-278-036 12-101-053 01-351-054 02-477-006 11-278-038 12-101-054 01-351-056 02-477-008 11-278-039 12-101-055 01-351-065 02-477-009 11-427-005 12-101-056 01-351-068 02-477-010 11-427-006 12-101-057 01-351-072 02-477-012 11-427-007 12-101-059 01-351-074 11-201-031 11-427-008 12-101-060 01-351-075 11-201-032 11-427-011 12-101-061 01-351-083 11-201-033 11-427-012 12-107-022 01-351-085 11-201-034 11-427-013 12-107-030 01-351-086 11-201-035 11-427-014 12-107-032 01-351-087 11-201-036 11-427-015 12-107-033 01-351-088 11-201-037 11-427-016 12-152-003 01-351-089 11-226-005 11-427-017 12-152-004 01-351-090 11-226-026 11-427-018 12-152-007 01-351-091 11-226-028 11-427-019 12-152-008 01-351-092 11-227-028 11-427-020 12-152-026 01-351-094 11-227-038 11-427-021 12-152-027 01-351-099 11-228-007 11-427-022 12-152-028 01-351-100 11-278-004 11-427-025 12-152-029 01-351-101 11-278-007 11-427-026 12-300-009 01-351-102 11-278-016 11-427-027 12-300-011 01-351-104 11-278-017 11-427-030 12-300-072 01-354-008 11-278-018 11-427-031 12-300-077 02-476-001 11-278-019 11-427-032 12-300-079 02-476-002 11-278-020 11-427-033 12-300-080 02-476-003 11-278-021 12-101-038 02-476-004 11-278-022 12-101-041 02-476-012 11-278-026 12-101-043 Map of Special Assessment District (Includes only those parcels of land having frontage on Campau/Kettle Lake) I TAKE 65 TH ! NOTICE THAT 66 TH' r CJL----- 1 THE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF o ; THE CHARTER J TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA U.J WILL HOLD A PUBLIC I HEARING ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2024, AT == 7:00 P.M., OR SHORTLY w THEREAFTER, AT THE TOWN­ SHIP HALL, 8196 r BROADMOOR A AVE SE. CALE­ I I DONIA, MICH­ I s* I I IGAN, IN SAID i, TOWNSHIP, TO REVIEW THE SPECIAL ... ■ =•/ ASSESSMENT ROLL AND TO HEAR AND CONSIDER ANY OBJECTIONS Boundary of Campau/Kettle Lake Aquatic THERETO. t-.; t i I I I ’ I s5 Cl £ □ I NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN THAT the Township Supervisor of the Charter Township of Caledonia has made and certified a special assessment roll for the spe­ cial assessment district, which roll sets forth the relative portion of the cost of said Improvements which is to be levied in the form of a special assessment against each benefitted lot and parcel of land in the special assessment district. Pursuant to the resolution of the Township Board adopted on July 17,2024, the costs of the Improve­ ments are to be periodically redetermined on a yearly basis in accordance with the resolution. NO. 1 ) u: I L 5 I r-Ji I I r c 'i K»«te f * -r A* Weed Control Special Assessment District TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the special assessment roll as prepared has been reported to the Township Board and is on file with the Township Clerk at the Town­ ship Hall for public examination. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT AN OWNER OR A PARTY IN INTEREST IN A LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SUBJECT TO A SPECIAL ASSESSMENT MAY FILE A WRITTEN APPEAL OF THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT WITH THE MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF CONFIR­ MATION OF THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL, BUT ONLY IF SAID OWNER OR PARTY IN INTEREST APPEARS AND PROTESTS THE SPECIAL ASSESS­ MENT AT THIS HEARING. An appearance may be made by an owner or party in interest, or his or her agent, in person or, in the alternative, an appearance or protest can be filed with the Township by letter prior to the hearing, in which case a personal appearance at the hearing is not required. This Notice was authorized by the Township Board of the Charter Town­ ship of Caledonia. Dated: August 21, 2024 Joni Henry, Clerk, Charter Township of Caledonia �16 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7, 2024 Bulldogs nip Scots at another jamboree Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Fighting Scots were three strokes back of Byron Center at the first OK Green varsity girls’ golfjamboree. They cut that deficit down to one at the conference meet-up hosted by Mona Shores at Muskegon Country Club Tuesday even without their top player in the line-up. Byron Center did win for the second time in two tries finishing with an over all score of 184 strokes. Caledonia was second with 185 ahead ofReeths-Puffer 188, Mona Shores 198andJenison213. Caledonia and Byron Center both had three girls among the top seven on the day. Junior Codie O’Krangley and senior Ellie Hudson both shot 44 to lead the Caledonia team and tie for fourth individually on the day with Byron Center sophomore Izzy Tawoda. Caledonia senior Mya Burgess fired a 45 tying with Bulldog juniors Holly www.sunandnews.com Lawrence and Natalie Grit for seventh. Byron Center got scores of 50 from senior Aubrey Grutter and Madison Bouman while the Scots’ fourth score was a 52 from sophomore Emily Walbeck. Junior Halle Stout and senior Jenna Clapper were right behind the top four for the Scots, both shooting 54. Mona Shores senior Mayson South land and Reeths-Puffer sophomore Sophia McCollum tied for the top individual spot on the day with scores of 39. Reeths-Puffer also got a 42 from senior Rowan Bluhm. O’Krangley bogeyed her first six holes before going birdie, bogey, par to close out her day. Her birdie came on the 470-yard, par-5 number six. While Codie led the Scots they were without the assistance of her senior sister Copelin O’Krangley at the meet who has been the team’s No. 1 for the past few seasons. GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to allow for an Adult Foster Care Small Group Home with the capacity for up to 12 individuals in the RL-10 zoning district. Property Address: 7174 Martin Avenue SE, Grand Rapids, Ml 49548 Parcel Number: 41-22-07-280-012 Applicant: Stephen V. Forkpah Date and Time of Hearing: September 26th, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 9806188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on September 26th’ 2024. * Jenison teams win at first OK Green jamboree 17:35.49 and senior Ethan Buer also finished in less than 18 minutes with a 12th-place time of 17:55.40. The top five for the Scots also included senior Mason Morrell who placed 19th with his top time of the season, 18:14.47. Juniors Noah Johnston and Kaden Van Ryn closed out the Scots’ seven scorers. Byron Center was second in the girls’ meet with 48 points ahead of Caledonia 65, Reeths-Puffer 107 and Mona Shores 137. Caledonia senior Hannah Dupuis led her team with a fourth-place time of20:26.50. Jenison’s top three were the only girls ahead of her. Sopho­ more Paige McMeans won the race in 19:47.01 and she was followed by freshman teammate Maddy Aleisa who crossed the finish line in 20:19.70. Senior Naomi Diekman was just behind Aleisa with a thirdplace time of 20:24.10. Byron Center was led to its runnerup finish by a pack of four girls who finished in spots 7-10 in the stand­ ings with another trio not far behind in 14th, 15th and 16th. Caledonia split up those packs of Bulldogs a little bit. Senior Kiley Bommarito was 11th in 21:42.86 and senior Keira Bommarito 12th in 21:52.23. Sophomore Akaela Daman was 19th overall for the Scots in 22:23.12 and senior Adysen Daman 26th in 23:06.37. Sophomore Cora Draft and senior Leah Williams rounded out the Scots’ top seven. The Caledonia teams will head to Thomapple Kellogg’s Coach B Invi­ tational at Gun Lake Monday, Sept. 9 and then head to the Ottawa Hills Invitational Sept. 13. The next OK Green Conference jamboree will be at Caledonia High School Sept. 25. Brett Bremer Sports Editor Jenison is fast and getting faster. The Wildcats swept the first meet­ ing of the new OK Green Conference varsity cross country teams at ReethsPuffer High School in Muskegon Wednesday. The Jenison boys won the conference jamboree with just 20 points and the Jenison girls scoredjust 25 points in victory. The Wildcat teams had the top three finishers in both the boys’ and girls’ races. The Caledonia boys were second to the Wildcats with 50 points ahead of Byron Center 64, Reeths-Puffer 130, Mona Shores 134 and Mus kegon 178. The first six guys across the fin­ ish line were all seniors and they all came in at under 17 minutes. Cale­ donia was led by Kort Thompson who was fifth overall in 16 minutes 41.74 seconds. Jenison senior Seth Conner, who led the Wildcats to a seventh-place finish at the MHSAA Lower Penin­ sula Division 1 Cross Country Finals in 2023, won the race Wednesday in 16:17.83. Senior Parker Strelecki was second in 16:27.77 and Mason Lucas third in 16:28.83. Strelecki was a scorer for the Wild cats a year ago, but has shown a good jump already this season. He joined Conner and Lucas in the Jenison group of guys who have finished a sub-16-minute varsity race. Byron Center senior Mitchell Jeruzal was fourth in 16:33.48. Jenison also had senior Mathew Schwartz sixth in 16:48.73 and junior Nolan Wenglikowski eighth in 17:19.08 to win the meet. Caledonia’s seven scorers were all among the top 23 in the race. Junior Eli Velting placed ninth in 17:35.28, senior Aidan Edgar was tenth in a* 4 Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. Visit us online at mihomepaper.com V •s •l < 1 t . r •> ;r' KM. : .x*?; 4* ■ �I I J 4 I I I r I L fl 1 L.; ^1 J of tj » fii I 0 ■ 1 { ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS _ _________________ __________ 17 Saturday, September 7, 2024 CHS boys and TK girls win early morning duals Brett Bremer Sports Editor There weren’t any fireworks, moon light or star light. There were some dark gray clouds just a couple raindrops at the end. The Caledonia and Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ and girls’ cross country teams had to motivate them­ selves through an early Friday morn­ ing 5K on the grounds of Caledonia High School at their annual Labor Day weekend dual. It was the second race of the season for both teams, who opened the season the previous Friday at South Christian’s Under the Lights Invite - races with a much different atmosphere where they competed with close to 300 runners in their separate divisions. With just the Scots and Trojans toe­ ing the lines Friday, the Caledonia boys took a 19-44 win and the TK girls took a 26-29 victory. “We just look at it as an additional time to practice, and learn a little bit more about what it is to race, and that is why we have always set up this race with Caledonia for that purpose - to have the kids have that chance to learn what its like to put the spikes on and really how to measure their energy over the course,” TK boys’ coach Josh Reynolds said. “I think really for ev­ erybody, they had those moments of success on the course. We really wanted to work these downhills today and not get caught up on going too slow in the woods, but at the same time we had those gaps where we kind of fell asleep and needed to overcome those. For us, there were a few moments where kids were just running by themselves, but we need to overcome that whether it be our own group ofthe kids we’re rurming against. There are still some learning opportunities we need to get to.” Fighting Scot senior Kort Thompson, a returning state qualifier, pulled away from Thomapple Kellogg senior Jacob Draaisma, a first-year varsity cross country runner, in the final mile to win the boys’ race. Juniors Eli Velting and Noah Johnston were next in for the Scots. Thompson earned a time of 17 min­ utes 2.3 seconds and Draaisma finished f I ,*S55j b wv . 1&' n \.4. •W' r J 4 ri0 u 4. »»w J. :s'. « <A o' * • *• * ■H w started, I was like I should probably just do it,” Gater said of joining the cross country team after an inj ury shortened sophomore track and field season where she managed to get healthy just in time to help the TK ladies to a state medal in the 4x400-meter relay. “I had a lot of friends on the team, and everybody was like, oh my gosh everybody is so close on the team and I was like yes, that sounds so fim ... I am dualing with sideline (cheerleading) and that’s a little collision. It’s a little hard to balance it out, but I have two good coaches who make it work out.” "* I See DUALS on 20 A k. The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ cross country team takes off down hill at the start of its dual with the Fighting Scots at Caledonia High School Friday, Aug. 30 Photo by Brett Bremer if iZ i '4 L •f I a* * «w * u t in 17:13.5. It was just Draaisma’s sec­ ond varsity cross country race. He was the runner-up in the 1600-meter run in the OK Gold Conference during the 2023 spring track and field season and finished 14th at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Track and Field Finals in the 800-meter run. Draaisma had been faster than Thompson in a different heat in the races at South Christian. I wasn’t sure how that was going to go, and I thought Kort ran a really strong race,” Caledonia boys’ coach Ben Thompson said. “He just kind of bided his time and went in the last mile there.” “I know that [Draaisma] is a really good 800 runner in track, and miler. I told Kort, he’s faster than you if you let it get down to the last . 1 or whatever. So, if you want to win the race, you’d better go sooner than that. I thought he ran strategically, a really good race.” Coach Thompson said he thought Velting and Johnston both ran an excel­ lent race too. Coach Reynolds said he thought Draaisma learned a lot about racing at the front of the pack. Draaisma said he learned he was not prepared for running through the woods behind Caledonia (4 V 1 . > High School. The trees whizzing by made him feel like he was moving at a much faster pace than he actually was and he also said it felt a little odd run­ ning in the big swarm of purple jerseys at the front of the pack. “I am glad I did it. This wasn’t my best race, or how I was exactly hoping, but I am definitely glad I switched to track and cross coimtry. It has been a blast,” Draaisma said. “When I started doing track, it was in the back ofmy head that I was probably going to do cross country, but I didn’t really say anything or tell anyone in case track didn’t go the way I wanted. Track went way better than I wanted it to, so I was like I really want to do cross now.” Draaisma did run cross country in middle school, but spent the fall of his freshman year playing football and then spent the past two fall seasons as the third singles player for the TK varsity boys’ tennis team. The TK girls’ team added a track and field state medalist too this fall in junior Payton Gater. In her second varsity cross country race she was just outside of the TK scoring group finishing in the eighth spot for the Troj ans and 14th overall Friday. “Two weeks before the season I » •yr.±-^W u . V. •V4 ••' c ( iXV* ■rt' •< 1 'I I ■ .•-< * ; 5 s’- S>- r»’ I 4 —f « =r:r- . I y • • • U. lur**- 4A 4K » ’I* - I Ft rf d « Caledonia junior Noah Johnston, a new varsity runner for the Fighting Scots this fall, rounds aturn during thefinal mile of his team's dual with Thornapple Kellogg at Caledonia High School Friday, Aug. 30. Photo by Brett Bremer Your local agent insures your T' Returement Ask about our annuities and IRAs « Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville FAHII9 BUREAU INSURANCE^ (269) 795-8827 jparksi^insmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com J ♦ ♦ �A 18 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7, 2024 a Youngsters step up for IVojans and Saxons ♦ ♦ Brett Bremer ♦ Sports Editor ♦ The big hits didn’t make it to the ball carrier with a little over four minutes to go in the fourth quarter inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field Thursday night. Saxon sophomore fullback Tyler Frazer flew by a block from Grady Reed at the line and managed to outrun everyone 5 5 yards to the end zone to put Hastings ahead of Thomapple Kellogg for good in the first game of the 2024 varsity football season. “1 saw a little safety and I sprinted for my life,” Frazer said. “Gotta get to the end zone. End zone, that’s all I think about.” Frazer had just enough wind, and adrenaline, to carry in the two-point conversion attempt too that put the Saxons up by the final margin of 38-30 in a ballgame in which they started five sophomores. “It was just a quintessential smash­ mouth football game, both sides of the J i /J A t :9«i .ttk •■ 4 1 H *4 f 1 r ♦ r’J pr *• 45? ri > J I •.1*1 ••■. t w *< . • \ < J <.v.‘ ' I * i I _ *‘1’ I B ■ > I V r I r tf <♦ • -4 I * xv ' - I 5* I I I cornerstonechurch »- we’re casual, come as vou are. 3* PV .4 r 1 r* ■s ♦* 4 One Church • Three Locations Caledonia | Grand Rapids I Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! □U ■ ■ Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! @cornerstonemi Thornapple Kellogg senior Spencer Ybema avoids a hit from Hastings’ Jack Webb as he races up the sideline during the Saxons’ 38-30 win over the visiting Trojans in the season opener Thursday. Photo by Brett Bremer ball,” Hastings head coach Jamie Mur­ phy said. “So much fun. And I would have said the same thing if they were up by a touchdown at the end. I would have said the same thing. So much fun.” The hard-hitting rushing attacks from both teams proved to not always be fun. TK senior quarterback Brody. Wiersma went down with an injured knee on the Trojans’ first drive and was unable to return. That gave another sophomore the spotlight on the field, Micah Dock, who did a solid job of keeping the Trojan option offense moving. The son ofTK head coach Jeff Dock, Micah finished off that first TK drive with a nine-yard touchdown pass to senior teammate Draven White and led the Trojan offense the rest of the evening. It is quite the legacy the Dock family has going. Denny Dock won over 250 football games in 33 years as a varsity head coach, including a few with his son Jeff Dock at quarterback. Jeff went on to quarterback at Grand Valley State University before settling into to teach­ ing and coaching duties in Middleville. “I got to experience it with my dad,” Jeff said. “Having him experience it with me is pretty special and I was super proud with how he handled the situa­ tion. It was cool. That was a cool deal.” “They have been competing and Brody outright won the job across the board,” coach Dock added. “Micah has been taking, the way we practice basi­ cally the first and second groups get a lot of reps on offense through practice. The rep component is there for a reason, for a situation like this. I was pretty proud of the way Micah came in and played a pretty good football game.” “I’m excited for the future with him.” The two teams Friday went into the half tied at 16-16 and were knotted 30-30 before Frazer’s final TD run. Mich Dock scored on a four-yard run and added the two-point run to tie the score there at 30-30 with 4:58 left in the fourth quarter. Frazer’s final TD came just 50 seconds later, two plays into a Saxon drive. Murphy said he could feel all the highs and lows ofhaving a young squad out on the field. “You notice, I didn’t relax at all even in victory formation,” Murphy said. “We haven’t done that yet. Starting five sophomores, there are a lot of things that we haven’t done yet. Any time in the game, anything can happen, and we tell them that. It doesn’t matter if you make a mistake, we’re kind of expect ing you to make a mistake, but get right up and make the next play. We’ve got to move on. Short memories.” Deondre Mathis took over at full­ back for a bit after Frazer had some little struggles in the opening quarter. Frazer had one missed assignment that stuck out in his mind, and Murphy said it looked like things started slow ing down a bit for Frazer as the game wore one. It’s a lot faster than JV football,” * ■M See YOUNGSTERS on 19 �Ute ’<1 ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS YOUNGSTERS ♦ Saturday, September 7, 2024 19 ♦ ♦ ♦ Continued from Page 18 T Murphy said. “As a collective team we were a little nervous tonight. We had the jitters coming out and a little pressure was on us being so young, and even our *»tii seniors knew it.” Wijf Micah Dock’s touchdown pass to White on the opening drive of the game was followed by a twoI . point pass from Dock to Debo Robinson, after the ''t ■4^’ snap on a kick attempt went awry; Hastings answered with a ten-play, 65-yard drive that ended in a 19-yard touchdown run by Draven iitii. Pennock. Pennock ran in the two-point carry too to even the score at 8-8. Micah Dock tossed his second touchdown pass with 4:47 to play in the first half, at the end of a long Trojan drive. ON a fourth-and-5 from the Saxon Ins nine-yard-line. Dock hit senior Spencer Ybema in the & end zone for the score. Zach Eldridge took an option 11 pitch from Dock to score the two-point conversion J. and put TK up 16-8. n Mason Tossava saw his first big varsity quarterback ft' action too for the Saxons, and coach Murphy said he really settled in after connection on a couple throws. It helps having a massive senior receiver like Jett Bar­ num on the outside. Tossava connected with Barnum for a 12-yard score with 44 seconds left in the half, I and then Cardale Winebrenner ran in the two-point try to tie the score at 16-16. Tossava closed the game 3-of-4 passing for 44 yards and the one TD. Barnum had all three Saxon receptions. The Trojan offense completed a couple passes and got out of bounds to move into Saxon territory before the intermission, but Mathis picked off a heave by Micah Dock at the goal-line making a nice play to really take the ball away from teammate Jack Webb who was also there with the TK receiver Ybema a step behind the play. The Saxons picked up one fourth down conversion near midfield on the opening drive of the second half and then another connection between Tossava and Barnum kept the drive alive, but left their team with a fourth-and-2 at the TK 43. With the Trojan defense geared up to keep the Saxons from getting two yards, Winebrenner burst through the middle to take all 43 on a touchdown run that put the Saxons up for the first time at 24-16 following Isaiah Wilson’s two-point conversion. Eldridge scored on a 29-yard run, taking a late op­ tion pitch from Micah Dock around the right side with 3:24 to go in the third quarter for TK. A bobbled snap on the two-point try left the Saxons up 24-22. Pennock finished the next Saxon drive with a four-yard TD run, but the two-point try was stuffed and the Saxons led 30-22 there one play into the fourth quarter. TK followed up with a 13-play, 80-yard drive that ended in Mich Dock’s TD that evened things at 30-30. The TK team is as young as the Saxon one. Sopho * ^••*^**'** * A I .1 X . * 4 s\l. 0 4 'f-' • M ■ ■ M A •IT •• t > J?tr ’ fc-. . V r* .^2 I - I, e* aJ B=' > 4 I I I a I I h I I ’t-s J Thornapple Kellogg sophomore quarterback Micah Dock looks to flip a pitch out wide as he runs the option to the right during the second half of the season opener at Hastings High School Thursday, Aug. 29. Photo by Brett Bremer more Brody Hammer started at left guard. Isaac Fleischmann started at defensive tackle and Elliott Neff played some key plays in the Trojan secondary. Other sophomores, Abraham Dutcher, Camden Peter and Jackson Smits got some plays in too. “Their young quarterback didn’t miss a beat when he stepped in. They’re going to have a really good team,” coach Murphy said of TK. “I told them when we were going through the line. Don’t hang your heads. This is only the beginning for you guys. This one hurts, but they’re going to have a good season. They’re going to surprise a lot of people.” Coach Dock was able to find plenty of bright spots. He was pleased with the plays White and Ybema made and senior Jayce Brummel’s running at fullback. Senior CJ Lennert and senior Connor Dombkowski continued to be leaders on the Trojan defense. Play­ ing both ways coach Dock said Dombkowski and Eldridge played a lot of snaps, and he was happy with the effort of all of his guys overall. TK was set to open its home schedule against former conference foe Kenowa Hills Friday night, Sept. 6, and will be back in action inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville against Wayland Sept. 13. 4 < “ 4»«iOfcW4r» ♦ 41 * **!• ' I yf. Thornapple Kellogg senior Draven White leaps up to pull in a touchdown reception in front of Hastings’ Spencer Wilkins during the first quarter of the season opener inside Baum Stadium at Johnson Field in Hastings Thursday, Aug. 29. Photo by Brett Bremer YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR REAOERS. You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors and our future. Group Your Community Connection I ■> J .s^-. -i'. ■ It Antenno M<n - Wwte* ■i T/a Antenna Men c I s'« •w k • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems tffSureCaB Give us a call! 3< CELFI . .lA. • cetdw) .^1 n gsignAl www.cellsignalpros.com 1 j 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com St'' �s 20 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 7, 2024 Cl DUALS Continued from Page 17 ♦ ♦ She said she was a little stressed Thursday night waiting for the adrena­ line of cheering on the TK varsity football team during its season opener in Hastings to wear off so she could get to sleep to charge back up for her Friday morning cross country race. Gater ran cross country in eighth grade, but said she couldn’t quite con­ vince herself to join the high school team at the start of her freshmen and sophomore seasons. She said she hadn’t paced herself for anything longer than an 800-meter run between eighth grade and the season-opening cross country race this fall at South Christian. Thornapple Kellogg senior Ava Crews, a returning cross country state qualifier for TK, has been leading the TK varsity pack since she showed up as a freshman. She pulled away from everyone early on in the girls’ race Friday and went on to the victory with a time of 19:11.5. The Caledonia girls were led by the senior duo of Hannah Dupuis and Ki ♦ ♦ ♦ I ley Bommarito. Dupuis placed second in 21:18.4 and Bommarito third in 21:47.5. TK had a trio of sophomore girls come across the line next. Peyton Hardy was fourth in 22:06.7, Meghan-Jane Skidmore fifth in 22:11.5 and Alaina McCrumb sixth in 22:19.0. Junior Madison Kietzman rounded out the TK top five with a tenth-place time of 22:48.9. Junior Megan Schuurmans and sophomore Carmen Reynolds were the sixth and seventh scorers for TK, just head of Gater in 12th and 13th respectively. The Caledonia girls’ scoring group also included junior Hannah Bennett seventh in 22:26.1, senior Adysen Da­ man eighth in 22:28.8 and sophomore Akaela Daman ninth in 22:33.9. “I think the big thing is, they have to learn to run without the excitement of ‘Under the Lights,”’ Caledonia head coach Ben Howell said of revelations about his team from Friday. “That was a new change. There is a big differ­ ence between running under the lights and then running in a dual meet. Many kids were lacking that energy, which Fighting Scot, senior Aidan Edgar, beat the 18-minute mark with a fifth-place time of 17:45.9. Senior Ethan Buerwas sixth overall to close out the Scots’ top five. He came in at 18:13.0, with team­ mates Luke Smith and Andrew Tava the last two in the Scots’ scoring seven. Sophomore Elijah Frazer was the j second TK guy in. He was 20th overall in 19:36.4. The Trojan team also had senior Hunter Tietz 22nd in 19:47.5, sophomore Grady Galaviz 25th in 20:12.1 and senior Case Dykhouse 26th in 20:48.3. •3 The six and seven for the TK boys ••'a were freshman Wyatt Richardson who was 32nd overall and junior Alexander Frizzell who was 33rd. They both ran J their best times yet. I *4 I S' 1 A p 4 -1 J •t 1 " A .J ■1 I • I < *A 11 •> 1 -V I » •* ! * V. F r I. D WT .X' ■ p I * I -ta- 4 4 -L • I 4^ .C“. IbX ■' *5 Caledonia senior Kiley Bommarito cruises towards a third-place finish during the Fighting Scots’ dual with Thornapple Kellogg Friday, Aug. 30, at Caledonia High School. < a ► <aik I. - S L I ,1 % *1 Photo by Brett Bremer .'?i F l< -w. 1 I 43rd Annual Alto Harvest Festival & Car Show Ie 1 is a good teachable moment moving forward, because if you want to run fast at the end of the year you have to run well when there are fireworks going and when it is humid and 74 and it is early in the morning and all of your fnends are sleeping in. “Still, I saw girls pushing themselves and pushing their teammates, which is good.” Draaisma was the only TK guy among the first 19 guys across the fin­ ish line in their race. Velting finished in 17:31.4 and Johnston, a transfer into Caledonia from West Michigan Aviation, came in at 17:35.4. A fourth Saturday. September 14 2024 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pancake Breakfast 7«00 AM - 10:00 AM Atto Fire Station - 6260 Bancro^ e SI • Food Booths ■'•TW ■ r^iMi * Car Show ‘c,- Featuring Live music by PPIOK NO ON 11=3 0 - 2:3 0 4 * Baking Bingo 3 * Pie fating Contest I It • Arts A Crafts Booths 7Tw r. •* .1 4 4= I s j" I r> r •l I * Kids Zonal Games. Inflatables. Face Painting. Petting Zoo * Plus A Whole lot More Family Friendly Fen! Best Fall Festival In Alto...Honest! *: IT: r MT. < 4 J? <1 s < » y • I, <* * »5‘ Bepot st A Linfield Ave SI MrMyW«k.cpn-i »• /r I liV / : I A .n ■ k . t rt i: IiV 1 » ♦m s. .. ,4 J t sarr' ”» • •K ♦ .< i. > 7 4 -rj p ^6 • *?te•s *WF i- b4 ill * . ^3 I V r* * p ^9 -«r V irz?— s * V ? ■* * b« 4* I £ 111 TK junior Madison Kietzman closes in on the finish line as the Trojans’ number five runner Friday morning, Aug. 30, during her team’s win over Caledonia in a dual at Caledonia High School. Photo by Brett Bremer < ♦u s • J I • < < r< * • r- J- -a- BwmtewnAtto I • 1 ? Uri •Alto Library Gently Used Book Sate &■ •) F ‘4 t— q 1 * •I*. A *Blue Vibbon Baking Contest I 5 I Spend it here. Keep it here. j K '«> r t **■ J V • € ./i i VIEWL^ Group SHOP LOCAL INVEST IN YOUR COMMUNITY. s I I ■ 1 *. 1 I « * 12 I 10310^032 * 12 .-leer i. * > ■1 'I * 4 f 1 d I I 4< ( I I r r'"•'.''■fftfc; 11 i4rTil-niAirtir. fj-,L4--^-; £ .. ••. iwTA s . •? 4 f i ■I •I 4 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-09-14.pdf 055d2505d1e57d6ca82f5f4545a6abde PDF Text Text * 4 f > 1 * --*7 t S > > «r. V A s. • ¥ V >. ♦ r * * z ' — .1 z k f •* 7 «r i 4' t f' A I •> k W' ■ I • •_ < > ..Vk^ i t / V « « > I >■ I } ♦ * <* ' •W ... » / > 4 > * ? <1 ' -^’« I I* t V, •q. k • X ,V /• •• A I < % «A « t . 'V ?» ‘4 > • *• - s ♦ ♦/ ( 1 t X T i. « * I 7 4 • r 4 I ' .'*• ¥ 1 \ k. I .1 I I * J \ ' > X, p *1 ’ i h» s— •23 X e’ I f the SUN t CALEDONIA .. COMMUNITY TURNS OUT TO CELEBRATE LOCAL OLYMPIC MEDALIST , PAGES3 AND NEWS yoor Hometo^A'n Newspaper Serving the Middleville. Caledonia and Games Tnwnshm and Games Township Areas NO. 23 r f I ^^URDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2024 Middleville council sets joint meeting with DDA board as president proposes its elimination A I ♦ •• « ♦ • ♦• •, .1 r ’ ,1 a ft I: S 4J k f 4 •*W I z • i. *• * W- www.sunandnews.com IT n'luB LS^', PO UNDED 1834 I . -3E 3 J ;Mr< 14 z I I 71 ■ -f'- f 4 * •» > Ml t b*IZ s; J o ll s r *ri»? <r 4 • L F * .►?. A P r^' * •• h •• .1 9 ? b. i«: I • •a >1 : b *<' X .• ■■■■i >1 I > if 4^ .-1^ I t I .*w M I f , J. ’• t' .■u^I 2 Li- ZJ I* •-I La RI, 'j^ R I 9 rf The Middleville Village Council will meet with the board of the village’s Downtown Development Authority before the council decides on a recommenda­ tion from the village president to disband that board. The council voted 5-2 Tuesday night to set a joint meeting of the council and DDA board for Tuesday, Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. at Village Hall to discuss issues between the two entities. The vote came after heated debate between Village President Mike Cramer and several of his council col­ leagues over Cramer’s recommendation to eliminate the DDA board and have the village planning commis­ sion take over responsibility for downtown develop­ ment activities. I A’ • I I?’ B 4 J ’ .r .f • I ; • I I 1 *,Ftl A Greg Chandler Staff Writer F r I, hr & J Csm «UB. ' i I I r iU s» J* > H, :< I 1 1 * « • I —a * I -* ■I I I : * w 4^ < I • *f ♦ R • A * . < r T TI I» L J. •! .. > -•T i_r>£kML« .. V .y - A • 4* .' ir* gk^- Middleville Village President Mike Cramer (left) and Trustee Ann Williams (right) go back and forth in debate during Tuesday night’s meeting. Photos by Greg Chandler See DDA on 6 I < rea residents turn out for M-37 project hearing Greg Chandler Staff Writer ♦ ?♦ *^ Jim Seymour has seen it coming for years - increased traffic volumes on M-37, coming south from the Grand Rapids area to Caledonia and further south toward his home. “I’m on the road as early as 6 o’clock in the morning, and I’m (on the road) at the dreaded time about 3:30 (to) 4 o’clock when M-37 is a nightmare,” said Seymour, who has lived in Thomapple Township for the past 22 years. Seymour was one of about 200 people who turned out throughout the day Tuesday for public hearings on the environmental assessment and the preferred waaa alternative for rebuilding uaMoisno TViiNsaisau and widening M-37 through the Caledonia commimity. 9C£# litujSd The Michigan Department of 8£88¥ ||i^ '8||IAU09J9 Transportation held three identical SSMU33 8C88k IW '9»!AUdaj9 Orexosod aivd * w “I I’ V M > k* 4 .> .•^ ‘9 •h X T. lb' 41; ,•» i II •b •• 1 'fll < . •• s *4^ f’ 4 •V t'*1*. > ■ ■ 1 w« !>• ’ *^A.s. p^’' / 9£r I* .*■ -41^ r Ilk «• 4.. Area residents look over plans for the transformative M-37 construction project. Around 200 people turned outthroughout the day. Tuesday for public hearing on the environmental assessment associated with the project. Photos by Greg Chandler sessions at Caledonia Christian Reformed Church - one in the morning, one in the afternoon and one in the early evening - to allow the public to get the latest information and offer their opinions on the project that is slated for construction in 2026. The sessions involved both an informal opportunity for area residents to meet with MDOT officials one -on-one to review plans for the project, as well as a formal hearing where people could speak out. Seymour was one of the few people who took the opportunity to speak publicly. The public hearing was required under a 1970 federal law that requires an assessment of the environmental effects of federallyfunded transportation projects before they receive final approval to begin construction. “For the M-37 project, an environmental See M-37 on 2 aovisod s n ais isdd a . t. < J s �♦ % \ 1 ✓ 1 < (• i 2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 14, 2024 M-37 Continued from Page 1 was prepared because assessment the significance of environmental impacts was uncertain at the outset of the project planning,” said Thomas Sabin, a staff engineer for MDOT’s Grand Region and M-37 project manager. MOOT has chosen as its preferred alternative a four-lane boulevard that would run from just north of 92nd Street to the existing boulevard north of 76th Street, with directional median crossovers north and south of 84th Street and 76th for left-turn movements. The project would also add a center lane south of 92nd Street to Emmons Street, Sabin said. “The purpose of the proposed M-37 project is to improve traffic flow, reduce heavy congestion, enhance traffic safety and reduce the rate of crashes in the area,” Sabin said. “On a larger scale, the proposed project will improve mobility in a rapidly-growing area of Caledonia Township, the village (of Caledonia), Kent County and Barry County. Regionally, the proposed project will also improve access to the Grand Rapids metropolitan area, since M-37 serves as a main trunkline.” M-37 currently carries more than 20,000 vehicles per day, Sabin said. “M-37 is unable to accommodate the current high level of traffic with the increasing residential and commercial growth in the area,” he said. “M-37 will not meet the area’s future capacity needs for transportation. In addition to traffic congestion, (the highway) has poor pavement conditions, safety issues, segmented sidewalks and paths, and undefined or hidden driveways.” Sabin went on to say that culverts on M-37 are undersized and do not meet current MOOT standards. used from an existing bank to offset the loss of those wetlands, Wittig said. The Michigan State Historic Preservation Office concurred with the team’s findings that no historic properties will be impacted by the project, Wittig said. The team also evaluated 10 spots in the project area that were considered for potential noise abatement barriers. Only two of them — one on 76th Street west of M-37, another on the west side of the highway just north of 92nd Street - met the standard for feasibility, but were not considered reasonable given a cost-benefit analysis for the amount of noise reduction that would occur, Wittig said. “For the noise abatement to be feasible, the barrier must provide a five (decibel) or A-weighted decibel noise reduction for 75 percent of impacted receivers in the design year. Noise abatement measures were considered reasonable if the cost of building the abatement (barriers) is less than $52,248, and/ or provides a traffic noise reduction of 10 (decibels) for one benefitted unit and at least a seven (decibel) reduction for 50 percent or more of the benefitted units,” Wittig said. The M-37 project will also result in a non-motorized pathway being shifted to the east. The current path will be closed during construction with no detours. A public notice will be issued to alert the public of the temporary closure. There will be a grass buffer between the relocated path and the shoulder of M-37. In addition, grading is planned for a future path on the north side of 84th Street from M-37 to Cherry Valley Avenue, and on the west side of M-37 from 84th to about a half-mile north to serve a future residential development, Wittig said. He also said that current driveway access along the highway is not well-coordinated with adjacent developments, “resulting in driver confusion and safety issues.” State lawmakers in 2022 approved $40 million for the M-37 project as part of a $4.8 billion infrastructure package that was signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Current state Sen. Thomas Albert, who at the time chaired the House Appropriations Committee, was instrumental in getting the M-37 project included in the infrastructure bill. Seymour says the project is long overdue and needs to be done, but he has concerns about what will happen with traffic as the road is rebuilt. “I don’t know if the (nearby) surface streets, if we have a detour situation, are going to be able to accommodate the flow of traffic - that’s number one,” he said. “Number two, people always find an alternate way to get around (the construction). I drive on Patterson Road, and that is proving to be quite a nightmare, too, as far as traffic is concerned. People are always going to try to find a short cut. “My concern primarily is the length of the project, what’s going to happen as far as the surface streets are going to have to accommodate such a flow of traffic. I don’t know if that’s been addressed.” Steve Wittig, an environmental planner for AECOM, an MOOT consultant, said the project team evaluated the impact of the M-37 project on wetlands, property and cultural resources in the area. He said the project will involve the acquisition of 19.1 acres of rightof-way and 2.6 acres of temporary easements, and that about 1.6 acres of wetlands will be affected. Wetland mitigation credits will be The Federal Highway Administration is expected to issue a ruling by the end of the year on the environmental assessment. “We expect that FHWA will issue a finding of no significant environmental impacts,” Sabin said. “At that time, we will formally begin real estate acquisition and work to finalize the design of the project by mid-2025. MDOT will seek bids from interested contractors on the project in August 2025. “Once a contractor is selected and the contracts awarded, we anticipate some construction prework in the fall of 2025, with the majority of the construction taking place in 2026,” Sabin said. The environmental assessment document is available for review online at michigan.gov/M37 project. Printed copies of the report are currently available for public review at the Caledonia Township Hall, the Kent District Library Caledonia branch, the Kent County Road Commission headquarters in Walker and at the MDOT Grand Region and Transportation Services Center offices in Grand Rapids. Those who weren’t able to make the public hearings Tuesday can still offer opinions on the project. Comments will continue to be accepted on the environmental assessment through Sept. 24. You may submit a written comment through the project website at michigan.gov/M37Project, emailed to Monica Monsma of MDOT at MonsmaM@michigan.gov or through physical mail to Monsma at Van Wagoner Building B245, 425 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48933. A copy of the complete transcript of the assessment, including all written and recorded oral comments that are received during the process, will be available for public review at michigan.gov/M37Project. THE SUN AND NEWS J** The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. IVI-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com . k CONTACT US PUBLISHED BY > * Editor: Jayson Bussa •1 -Kf jayson@j-adgraphics.com brett@j-adgraphics.com ads@j-adgraphics.com Group Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer Advertising: ^^1 PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. AH advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or adyertising contract, copies of which are from The Sun and News Ad Dept., 1351 Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-945 yoo4). This newspaper reserves the right not to Our ad takers have to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. 4 / = » I «• > ,y 1 I I 1 ■ �I \ 4 I % * > •s. f .’S I I 9 » * .2 r 5 't * I » I 4 %l www.sunandnews.com AND NEWS______________ ____________ Saturday, September 14, 2024 ■ 3 I Caledonia community turns out to celebrate local Olympic medalist \ r ■ Greg Chandler . 1 Staff Writer •>* ifl y I S' being so true to who she is. She really hasn’t changed.” When she wasn’t competing at the Olympics, Olsen made it a point to check out other sports at the games. Her favorite was the new dance event known as “breaking.” “It was so fun to see athletes in their element, doing something that (caused me to exclaim), ‘Oh my gosh, I don’t know if I (could do it).’You try to imag­ ine yourself doing it — breaking was so cool. It’s the only time that they’re going to be able to compete at the Olympics right now,” Olsen said. Olsen is on break from Team USA for now, but will soon resume training with her teammates to prepare for a new season that will begin in October. Team USA will play against other countries in a series of eight tournaments to be held throughout the next year, she said. Olsen hopes that the success of Team USA at the Olympics will carry over to growing women’s rugby as a sport in the U.S. “Our whole goal was to put rugby on the map,” she said. “We want people to know what rugby is in the U.S. that’s the first thing. We want people to play rugby, we want them to love it, we want them to watch it. We’re just hoping that we were able to give it a little bit more exposure, to give it the resources to be successful at the youth level, so we can start getting younger kids playing, start getting those pathways going, so that there’s more infrastructure around supporting the progression to the na­ tional team.” ’X I They came from all around - family, friends, high school classmates and BIB .^f * teachers, well-wishers from the Cale­ 0 donia community. More than 100 people turned out at Butcher Block Social the evening of Sept. 5 to celebrate Olympic medalist .w if and Caledonia High School graduate 1 Alena Olsen. S’ L Wearing her bronze medal that she won with the USA women’s rugby sevens Sil V^? «> team at the recent Summer Olympics in i A-i y T •\ Pans, Olsen hugged visitors, posed for countless pictures and autographed shirts I dunng the meet-and-greet. ,4 “I’m so happy to see all my friends and > V family. There’s a lot of people I wanted I to go and celebrate with who have been •f supporting me,” Olsen said. A The event was put together by Butcher Block Social co-owner Justin Heyboer, with assistance from Carlie Cook, one of Alena Olsen, a Caledonia native and member of USA women’s rugby, chats with Olsen’s teachers from CHS, and Cook’s husband. Matt. supporters during a Sept. 5 even at Butcher Block Social. Photo by Greg Chandler “(Heyboer) reached out to Alena directly right after (the Olympics) and “It’s been event after event, super so­ bronze-medal match with Australia in offered to celebrate (her accomplish­ cial,” she said. “It’s like anon-stop party heart-stopping fashion, as Alex Sedrick ment) as a community,” Matt Cook said. with my community .. . It’s definitely dashed the length of the pitch with time The last several weeks since the Paris 59 running out to score a try - rugby’s tiring, but so much fim. games have been a whirlwind for Olsen, equivalent of a touchdown to tie the After losing to New Zealand 24-12 in who graduated from CHS in 2014 and match at 12-all. Sedrick then kicked learned the sport ofrugby while she was a semifinal contest at the Paris games. the two-point conversion following her a student at the University of Michigan. Team USA bounced back to win the try to give the Americans a 14-12 win s a I rf*. 4 t jfl *4 Tr #B 1 4 r ' ki e • ar > ‘J f/*' > z s •.-5^ ■A. \ lb kt 4 ysf^' g 1 LA r •Ji I j t *• r J O" i .■^' I J v* I < X '»• J ' >► 4 A X i» -J SK z* r £ IVS t > - .7 J t s if 1’ V c w •*>> i JI 1 A f •l s •l •I n C'JZ •w*»»wKj ft d wlaB to <JP* f nr ♦*• r % • “•X <e 4• t < 1. X u k f .>»v . - iv >\ At / *T; A ^■511 5 .» A? XI i k Wr^i £^J »l > V Sfcet •V •n4 1 * ** t, 1 » •ywi^2 *, •w* •« 1 I * A« PR f 7^ I « * * LX 7 / *** hMix* .r u-x;A wVTtWTX :<»?. u . - / I / 1 I, Hl • It* • L-i m ><• I I <vM w I' 5^ -1. • . V’*'\ "£>iK ! q Milr' * '» * •.-A ( r’ f. I •VT s? ri' :.l I ■i 's 'S'* -: r . »»’jCf ; I‘ J :jaEs:**^2e^ \ <.• • r.^ >/ a ■■ f - I ■A r -T, K' > ■»* >« A A? t w A. 7? 1 Elsa Mason of Grand Rapids has her T-shirt signed by Alena Olson during last week’s meet-and-greet event. Photo by Greg Chandler ' I I » I and their first Olympic medal ever in the sport. Olsen’s aunt, Elsa Mason of Grand Rapids, watched the final match on television. She screamed with excite­ ment as she watched Sedrick’s scoring dash and the subsequent conversion. Mason, who wore a red T-shirt with the words “Olsen’s #1 Fan” on the back, tells of her niece as a respectful, family-oriented person, especially close with her cousins. “She’s very kind, sweet. She’s a very sweet girl. She moved a lot (when she was younger). She was a hyperactive kid. She was always running, always on the go - go, go, go,” Mason said. Carlie Cook spoke ofhaving Olsen as a student in her biology class at CHS. “Alena has always been passionate and really intelligent,” she said. “It’s so cool to see her having success, but also • • I * .< ✓ I, I Your local agent insures your Businass FARM BVREAV INSURANCE* /%s^<2A«’ Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville t '^- GjfKpo^ (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com �I < ! I / I I t 4 a, I, < ( 5 4 * 1 % •s 4 t I * A ✓ ( Saturday, September 14, 2024 4 Thomas Lehman passed away peacefully at home on September 8, 2024, at the age of 75. He was preceded in death by his son, Jeff. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sharon; his brother, George (Kathy); his sons, David (Caroline) and Steve (Stephanie); and his grandchildren, Morgan, Max, Reese, Madison, and Harper. Tom was a teacher, coach, and athletic championships, nine regional championships, two state runner-up finishes, and a state championship in 1996 when his youngest son, Steve, wrestled for him. Tom was voted Michigan Regional Coach of the Year 11 times and Michigan State Coach of the Year four times by his peers. Tom was a finalist for National High School Coaches Association Coach of the Year in 1999 and 2010. In addition to his high school coaching duties, Tom served as the head coach for Michigan’s USA Wrestling program, coaching five teams to national runners-up, two national A Obituaries Thomas Lehman www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS > 4 * director over his 37-year career at Thornapple Kellogg High School. He began coaching at TK when he took over as the head coach in 1972 for a wrestling team that had never won a match. By 2009, he had recorded a record of 710-234-7, making him one of the country’s winningest high school wrestling coaches at the time of his retirement. Under Tom’s leadership, the TK wrestling team compiled 17 league championships, 13 district LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstone church • 5 A Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship Join us in person or onlirSe Sundays 9:30 & Ham BAPTIST IMidcileville Sunday Service 10:30 AM service, in person or online, at 9;00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream; Faccbook.com/CaledoniaUniledMethodisl Serving Strengthening Connecting GC CO I Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church; (269) 795-2391 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 iTB HOLY FAMILY j/CATHOLIC CHURCH JOURNEY 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Caledonia Location 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am 9) Middleville Location - Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. MPEACE 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am Y T":, '•’T. **v 5CTaur, CHURCH If f PEACECHURCH.ee CHURCH Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. I Sundays at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor; Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 _________ www,stpaulcaledonia.org THORNAPPLE VALLEY Yankee Springs Bible Church CHURCH 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 MIDDLEVILLE Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM KfczteZ? our services from our website (see above) "ShiningForth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Group......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankecspringsbiblechurch.org championship teams, and numerous individual national champions and all-Americans. Tom also served as team leader for two international cultural exchange trips to A 1 ■ Japan. In 1997, he was voted pTw '’iS USA Wrestling Junior Leader of the Year. Tom is a member of the Middleville-Thornapple Kellogg Coaches Wall of Fame, the Owosso High School Wrestling Hall of Fame, the Michigan Wrestling Association Hall of Fame, and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. Tom was a state champion wrestler at Owosso High School and wrestled in college at Western Michigan University. A dedicated teacher with a tremendous sense of humor (so he claimed), Tom never worked a day in his life. Students remember “Coach Lehman” as someone who roamed the hails with a big smile and a quick wit. Tom taught physical education, health, and biology and was athletic director at TK. In addition to the classroom and wrestling, Tom coached football, cross-country, and track and spent summers teaching driver’s training. In 2002, Tom was awarded the Commitment Award by the Thornapple Area Enrichment Foundation for his efforts to support youth and the community. As a husband, father, and grandfather, “Pops” was loved. With time off in the summer from teaching, Tom and Sharon would load up the family station wagon for camping trips, weekends at Cedar Point, and, not surprisingly, to travel to World Cup Wrestling tournaments and the Olympic Trials Tom played softball with the “Hogs” and developed lifelong friendships with many of the families from the team. Tom loved spending time at his small cabin in Lake City and riding his quad “with the boys.” Tom and Sharon often traveled to visit David and his family in Idaho and enjoyed spending time at Gulf Shores during the winter months. Always active, Tom planned to attend an annual golf trip with his teammates from Western Michigan University, was getting ready for another trip to Idaho, and was plotting the stops he and Sharon planned to make on their way to Alabama after Christmas. Tom will be missed by his family, friends, colleagues at TK, and the thousands of students whose lives he touched. The family will receive friends for viewing at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home in Middleville on Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, from 4 to 8 p.m. The funeral will be held at Peace Church on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, at 1 p.m., with a reception to immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to support the TK Wrestling Program. Checks can be made to “TK Schools - Wrestling” and mailed to: TKHS, Attn: Athletic Department, 3885 Bender Rd. Middleville, Ml, 49333. Please visit www. beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Tom’s family. f k B'. K I I i I I 1 I I I I 1 i s 1 1 4 �1 www.sunandnews.com s r. THE SUN AND NEWS % Saturday, September 14, 2024 f I LaHaie resigns at TK assistant superintendent Obituaries » Greg Chandler staff Writer that were made possible by voter approval of a $42.8 million bond issue in November 2019, Thomapple Kellogg Schools will soon begin including the completion of the TK Early looking for a new assistant superintendent. Childhood Center that opened in the fall of JI Chris LaHaie, who has been TK’s No. 2022. 2-ranked administrator for the past two-and-a-aA former teacher in Jenison Public Schools, half years, has aimounced that he has resigned LaHaie was hired as TK assistant superin­ from his position. LaHaie has accepted a new tendent in February 2022, shortly after Craig Chris LaHaie job as associate superintendent of business McCarthy was promoted to his current role and fiscal services with West Ottawa Public as superintendent. He came to the district Schools in the Holland area. from Cedar Springs Public Schools, where he had been “It was the toughest professional decision I think I’ve deputy superintendent of finance and operations for two ever made, ’ LaHaie told the school board in making the years. He also previously held school finance adminis­ amouncement toward the end of their meeting Monday tration positions in Grand Rapids, Comstock Park and night. “I have nothing but gratitude. Thank you all for Portland. the opportunities. It’s been a wonderful two years, and Board President Matt Powers thanked LaHaie for his this district is a special place and it’s headed in the efforts during the past couple of years. right direction.” We appreciate the financial (updates we’ve LaHaie was the primary person responsible for over­ received). It’s just never been a question in my leader­ seeing TK’s budget. According to a recent audit the ship on the board (on how we’re doing as a district),” district ended the 2023-24 fiscal year with a surplus of Powers said. $1,260,267 on a general ftmd budget of $47,263,020. Powers also thanked LaHaie for providing levity to That boosts the district’s reserves to $9,140,356, a fig­ board meetings. LaHaie even exchanged a fist-bump ure that represents 19.7 percent of its expenditures. with board member Tyler Wenger after making his LaHaie also oversaw many of the building projects announcement. 'I c I ♦ s ( < Steven Gerald Holcomb 1 bI I I ! It •l I I f I $ i 1 Steven Gerald Holcomb, passed away on September 7, 2024. Steven was born on February 12, 1956 in Grand Rapids, Ml the son of Gerald and Joyce (Menardie) Holcomb. Steven is survived by siblings, Thomas (Barbara) Holcomb and Mary (Brian Hughes) Douthett; nephews, Ed Rumbergs, John (Peggy) Douthett; aunts. Rose (Don) Marcott and Judy Menardie, and numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. For 30 years, Steven dedicated his professional life to Pomp’s Tire Service. He relished the freedom of riding his Harley, the thrill of water skiing, the patience of fishing, and the warmth of gatherings with family. Steven’s infectious spirit and hearty laughter will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Steven’s celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Red’s Sports Bar and Grill. Burial will take place at Coman Cemetery. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral. com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Steven’s family. Steve, this Bud’s for you! Caledonia announces new high school assistant principal Greg Chandler Staff Writer student support coordinator for Caledonia mental health Community Schools and the district’s has named Katie multi-tiered system Dorband its newest support (MTSS) high school assis coordinator. She has tant principal. 20 years experience Dorband has been Katie Dorband in K-12 educa with the Caledonia tion, including five district the past six years in years as an administrator in a a variety of roles, includ­ Detroit-area school district. ing high school counselor. “Her extensive back* * Family Fun at Caledonia Harvest Festival on Sept. 28 The annual Caledonia Harvest Festival takes place on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free family event is held at the cor­ ner of 92nd Street and Dobber Wenger Drive, in front of the Caledonia Library. Everyone is invited to join in the fun. Sponsored by the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce, the Harvest Festival brings together area businesses and organizations to offer fami ly-oriented activities for all ages. Planned activ­ ities during this year’s event include hayrides, pumpkin decorating, face painting, games, live music, food trucks, and a fall family photo spot. The 5th Annual Amateur ComHole Event is again a highlight of the festival. Teams will play a minimum of five games, including three games of round robin play for seeding and then a double elimination tournament. The tournament costs $10 per person ($20 per team). Trophies will be awarded to the top three teams. Check in is at 9 a.m. and bags fly at 10 a.m. This event is limited to 32 amateur teams. For more information about the festival, visit caledoniachamber.com or call 616-690-2719. ground has honed her expertise in foster­ ing strong relation­ ships, implement­ ing evidence-based systems and utilizing data-driven approaches to enhance student out­ comes,” CHS Principal Bill Martin said in a prepared statement. Dorband replaces former assistant princi­ pal Danelle Scott, who took a position out- k DE! Antenno Wen * X X A Antenna Meri . > I Will Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers r ’ • Cellular Enhancement Systems —1 I Give us a call! •tfSuiSlCaS 1 cellCM) B J 269-967-8241 www.theantehnamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpros.com 9 side of the Caledonia district. She has three boys who attend Caledonia schools. The district continues to search for an addi­ tional assistant princi­ pal that would replace the dean of students position at Caledonia High School. The school board voted last month to create the additional CHS assis tant principal job. 1 1 J �6 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 14, 2024 DDA Continued from Page 1 Under Public Act 57 of 2018, a municipality of less than 5,000 residents may designate its planning commission to be the DDA board. The Village Council would have to pass an ordinance to make that designation. Village Attorney Mark Nettleton wrote in a Sept. 4 memo to the council. Cramer has clashed with several council members and DDA board chairwoman Kim Jachim over the past year, claiming the board has not lived up to its responsibilities to encourage economic development Middleville DDA board chairwoman Kim Jachim speaks during Tuesday downtown, choosing to focus more evening’s village council meeting. on events. He credits the planning commission for getting the village certified as a Redevelopment Ready law is intended to work instead of his appointment of David Sklarin to the Community, which allowed the vil personal agenda and perception.” DDA board, even though Sklarin lage to secure Michigan Economic “We do not have to agree on never applied for an opening on that Development Corporation grants for everything to do what is best for the board. He applied to be on the plan­ the Lofts of Middleville project at village, but we owe it to the people ning commission. However, Cramer 101 E. Main St., as well as the com­ of this village to at least have an liked Sklarin’s business experience mission’s work on overhauling the upfront, honest conversation like and cited that in his appointment village master plan and its backing of adults. Meeting with the village recommendation. But the council the Flats at Mid-Villa development lawyer, meeting in closed session, blocked the appointment. Since then, on M-37. doing this in secret behind the DDA Cramer has not submitted any names “Realistically, the DDA function and public is not being transparent,” for the three current board vacancies. would not change (if the planning Jachim added. In a sharp verbal exchange with commission took it over),” Cramer The Village Council discussed the Cramer, Council Trustee Ann said. “It would just refocus on devel­ proposal to have Williams opment, which is where it should the planning defended the We are functioning with have been all along.” commission DDA board and what we have been forced Cramer has also argued with coun­ take over DDA past members cil over appointments to the DDA functions at a to. i can fiii these board like Mancini, board that has led to an impasse that closed-door ses­ who is her positions if Mr. Cramer wiii has left three current open seats on sion during its father. She said follow normal protocol and the nine-member board. The presi­ Sept. 3 commit­ for some board dent says state law gives him the tee of the whole appoint the way the law is members, “it is right as the village’s chief executive meeting, Village their life ” to be intended to work instead officer to make appointments to the President Craig involved in the of his personal agenda and board, while some council members Stolsonburg downtown. say a more collaborative process is said. Later perception. “ They are a needed. that night, Kim Jachim, Chairperson board, they are Jachim appealed to the council Stolsonburg told Middleville DDA their own gov shortly before the vote, urging a planning com­ eming body. delay in a decision on whether to dis­ missioners of the proposal. They could do as they please, just like band the DDA board until after the The debate over DDA appoint we. Why is that okay to just fire them November election. ments heated up in February when without talking to them about it? ” “Why would you change the board, the council approved replacing two Williams said. based on the fact that the village incumbent board members, Joe “ We had this discussion, and it president will not work with the DDA Mancini and Andrew Beck, with was met with hostility, ” Cramer shot board and appoint new people based Derek Dean and Kortney Lull. At back. “ The refocusing of this board on his opinion and not the full Village the time, both new appointees were was met with hostility. ” Council?” Jachim asked. “We are involved in downtown businesses. “ I disagree, ” Williams said. functioning with what we have been However, Lull recently closed her “ You were in this meeting when I forced to. I can fill these board posi­ downtown business. The Hive, and got screamed at by Kim (Jachim), ” tions if Mr. Cramer will follow nor­ Dean no longer works downtown. Cramer said. “ The reality is we have mal protocol and appoint the way the Later, Cramer proposed the a responsibility to our taxpayers. In H— liV . r W - a: 4 < -r. * I* Hi * order to reduce the taxes in this vil­ lage, we have to grow responsibly.” “So where’s the responsibility of spending lots of lawyer money on closed sessions and doing this behind everyone’s back and springing it not only on the DDA, but us?” Williams responded. “Lawyers cost a lot more money than what we’re spending on everything else.” As debate continued, some council members spoke in favor of having a meeting with the DDA board before making a final decision on whether to disband it. “This conversation needs to take place before any decision is made,” President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith said. “I think we have a lot of vary­ ing opinions. I don’t think that we’re all aligned on what the actual out * 99 come IS. “It’s difficult to agree or disagree with something and throw the DDA aside, and make a decision to do one mechanical thing, which is to just move the authority over to planning and zoning, without actually know­ ing what the ramifications of that are,” Smith added. Trustee Makenzi Peters made the motion to set up the joint meeting with the DDA board, but with the idea that if the issues between coun cil and DDA are not resolved, she would support having the planning commission take over the board’s responsibilities. “We’ve all said multiple times on this board that we have a pretty strong board here,”’ Peters said. “So we should show strong leadership and at least attempt to resolve issues versus past issues. If that doesn’t work, this is a great plan, especially to resolve decades of dysfunction.” Peters asked that council mem­ bers submit emails to Stolsonburg expressing their concerns and have DDA Director Gretchen James direct her board to submit similar emails proposing discussion topics. Peters’ motion was supported by Smith and Williams, along with trustees Richard Hamilton and Steve Baldry. Cramer and Trustee Robert Bishop voted no. “I think it’s a bad idea. I think we’re prolonging the inevitable,” Cramer said. Jachim thanked the board for hold­ ing off on a decision during the final public comment period. * I �1 V 4 4 * r* Ji 4 I I 4 i • ■ '. I ^1 ■ / » tt X. t « V 1 « > ' k K •T . •< »> ( c I ^x> ♦s www.sunandnews.com It Ak V r r..* ■I I I' A ■> 5.' I I -n' I V > > w. THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 14, 2024 V( i 4 A 1 A » * ’fe* • ♦ *. K. •J s t * ♦ A ^t- rX > * «1 « « TKHS Students Named National Merit Scholarship SernifinSists Two Thornapple Kellogg High School students have been named as National Merit Scholarship semifinal­ ists according to an announcement issued this week by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Seniors Cole Novak and Lukas Wal­ ters earned the honors. I m very excited. It makes me feel vety accomplished,” said Novak. I m happy and very surprised,” said Walters. Both students are active in jazz and symphonic bands and each are taking several advanced placement classes at TKHS. Novak enjoys being in the bands, reading. Science Olympiad and being Ci. 2*^ J •4 i T 7 1 MA ♦ i f .* *T ■w £ * 4 T A« ( T st 4 v: I ( > k.. . J f ♦ /. ; ifc- 1 to* ^9 A I i •> t A-'h' i Jtd < fe * *•> ? •• * * "A a; IJi % * "-bi T ' ►k yi R i . -t ’*.{•?* A 1 4 * I •» .*. A* X* * s R I ■ } • -4^ • » 1 T •H I ■f ( se^ X-'-^ 4 > .. J '«V * 4 4CT> I'u OiJ' ■4 \ .-f. J* I ’ I ?* ■ « 9 X 4-? * r ,Z.|- A' J I • J I • c * T ( :r^'' I y•- • k t * t* * .X r, I * ' *• J f to I M’ *• 9'*^./' * . S‘4^2 "•t st • 1^* •. » A* «r« n ■y ST^^jih ♦e ♦♦. X X saH" 4.* 4 s'- f'l -J 4j*’ «• -A %• 3 f 1 ,r J •1 .:t *• V r '-1 n 4 w s V 4 M' t. h. £ •c ♦ »• 4 Fv I ■•W c . «•* tx ’ * 4 tr4 4 ** v* >\' » s 5- s b« r* I Seniors Cole Novak and Lukas Walters of Thornapple Kellogg High School were named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. Photo provided A Deputy Bylsma becomes Gaines Township’s new community policing officer James Gemmell a member of the tennis team. He is considering attending the University of Michigan to study some type ofbiology. Walters enjoys playing bass and acoustic guitars as well as the trombone in the bands and in his worship band at church. He also has been in TK theatri cal productions since the fourth grade and loves to read in his spare time. He <w Gaines Charter Township has a new community policing officer. Kent Coimty Sheriff's deputy Jeff Bylsma has taken over the position after the township's longtime officer in that position, Jason VanderMolen, accepted a promotion on Aug. 5 from deputy to sergeant. In the new role, VanderMolen has been assigned to duties primarily outside of the town ship. He was Gaines' community policing officer the past five-and-ahalf years. Township Manager Rod Weersing introduced Deputy Bylsma at Mon­ day night's township board meeting. He worked with Sergeant VanderMolen last week. And this week, Sgt. VanderMolen has moved on to his new posting. And Deputy Bylsma is on his own as our community polic­ ing officer," Weersing said. Bylsma told the board he has been with the sheriffis office for about one year. Before that, he worked at the Kentwood Police Department for nearly eight years. "I grew up in southern Kent County," he said, "And I've lived here ever since. I'm very eager and excited for this opportunity and to -’-<y 4 I,* I J ? Cf?w .1 1 i >> ** ^MICHIGAN l^V WtWS! «» •s is considering attending Western Michi­ gan University to study law. According to information from the National Merit Scholarship Corpora­ tion, the students were selected as two of the 16,000 semi-finalists for 2025. The program gives the semifinalists the opportunity to continue in the com­ petition for some 6,870 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million to be offered next spring. More than 1.3 mi Ilion juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2023 SAT/National Merit Scholarship qualifying test. The nation­ wide pool of semifinalists, representing less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors, includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state. The number of semifinalists in each state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors. Of more than 16,000 semifinalists, more than 15,000 are expected to ad­ vance to the finalist level. National Merit Scholarship finalists for 2025 will be announced in April through July 2025. Kent County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Bylsma poses for a photo inside the Gaines Township Hall on Sept. 9. Photo by James Gemmell work with you all to see what I can do to make the community better." Bylsma pointed out he has big shoes to fill in replacing Sgt. Vander­ Molen. "I'll look to Jason, too, as a mentor as I begin this job," he said. Deputy Bylsma's general hours will be 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, but he said that is subject to change, depending on what matters arise that may require his attention. "I can be pretty flexible," he said. Weersing said the township staff interviewed five people for the posi­ tion before choosing Bylsma. L. % > T—------------- -n*— W**—*r' • r> * Take the next step to a better paying job! 4 : * -*i| Lr 5 ll*. Learn about free: • • Computer skillstraining Career coaching & w Job search services •*w • J*- P* •“ AmV-. « A k A t % k 1-^ Trade Adjustment Assistance PLUS: Ask us if you qualify for Trade Assistance Act benefits! i\- & r 1-3 ••te-.SaAzS' ‘ ’ •••. 4 Call 1-800-285-WORK (9675) orvisirwestmiworks.org/job-seekers/ I « i I « �» 8 > Saturday, September 14. 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS www.sunandnews.com Campau, Kettle Lake residents speak Classifieds out against sewer district expansion Greg Chandler Staff Writer Some residents who live near Kettle and Campau lakes in Caledonia fownship are unhappy with the township over a recent decision to expand the sanitary sewer district that serves that area. Several residents came before the township board at its Sept. 4 meeting to speak out against expanding the sewer district to include the recentlyapproved Kettle Preserve project and other nearby housing developments, expressing concern about the system’s capacity to handle the additional sewage to be generated by the new homes. Township officials say the system has enough capacity to take on additional users. With a short meeting agenda. Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison granted the residents more time beyond the usual two-minute limit for initial public comment to share their views. The township board on April 17 voted to expand the sewer district to accommodate the 63-home, 78-acre Kettle Preserve development at 7153 Whitneyville Ave. SE. The board also approved the site plan for the Kettle Lake project that night. Cynthia Pell, who has lived on Kettle Lake for 37 years, said the sewer project was meant to serve the residents who live around the lake. She said it was built in 1995 because there were issues with seepage from nearby septic systems and drain fields into the lake. “It was originally put together for the benefit of the people around the lake, and the lake’s health,” Pell said. “The people that were to be on the system were those addresses that were right there in the immediate area ... Each homeowner was told they had to hook up. It wasn’t an option. So we all had to bite the bullet and hook up. We were told that we were not only paying for our portion, but we were helping to finance the project altogether. That’s what we were told we needed to do, and the amount would be dispersed between the homeowners.” Pell’s parents, Bernard and Patricia Langerhorst, were approached by Tom Garbow, who was the township supervisor at the time, and the Kent County Department of Public Works in 1995 about acquiring an easement on their property on Kettle Lake Drive that would allow the township to construct a pump station that would connect to the sewer system. The parties reached an agreement whereby an easement was granted. Pell said that she and her neighbors around the lake were never informed about plans by the township to expand the sewer system, and were never told about the Kettle Preserve development proposal when it came before both the township planning commission and township board earlier this year. “How would you feel to see all these other areas getting put on your sewer project that you agreed to an easement for the lake?” Pell said. “My dad’s been gone seven years my mother. she’s 88. She would have been here if she could. She literally said to me, ‘we never would have sold (the easement) to the township if we knew this was what they were going to do. Pell said that the original property owners who paid as much as $ 10,000 per property for the sewer system to be constructed should be compensated by the township for the cost burden they undertook to build it. “I think there should be some accountability for who made the decision, who decided there was room for those homes to be added - what has been done to upgrade the system to show us that there’s room for this?” Pell said. Pell’s neighbor, Paul Marckwardt, expressed similar concerns about whether the system has enough capacity to handle the additional developments. “My house is the end of the line,” Marckwardt said. “If it’s going to back up into my house, I ask, one, is the township going to compensate me for my problems, (and), two, has a study been done has a study been done to see if the system can actually do it, can handle the extra plumage? Is there enough drainage away from the pump station to push it towards the eventual end spot of the system?” The Kettle/Campau Lake sewer system has a capacity of95,000 gallons of sewage a day. At the present time, it usually processes an average of 63,000 gallons per day, with that total approaching 70,000 gallons per day on high usage days. Township Engineer Todd Boerman wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “Caledonia Township will manage its service area to avoid the need for expansion,” Boerman wrote. (The Michigan Department ofEnvironment, Great Lakes and Energy) permitted the expansion to the Kettle Lake Preserve project.” Under the development plan that was approved for Kettle Preserve, 48 of the 63 lots will be served by the sewer system as well as public water, while the remaining 15 lots will be served by individual septic systems, according to the resolution document. The township’s medium-density residential zoning ordinance requires lots in areas to be served by sanitary sewer to be at least one-halfacre and have a minimum width of 100 feet, while lots on septic systems must be at least one acre and have a minimum width of 150 feet. Harrison recalls the issues that led to construction of the sewer system -“it was a crisis situation,” he said - and then the controversy that came later when it was determined the system would also serve developments away from Kettle and Campau lakes. “It was one ofthe first times I saw this community tom apart... deciding what land should be included,” Harrison said. “The lake land was easy, because there was a need. But in order to make the math work (financially), we started to add the Blackstone (development) and Tom Garbow’s property and others like that, and we saw the board room at the time filled with angry people. It was an eye opener for me, and it was one of the reasons I decided to get involved (in township government), not because of (I favored) either side of the issue, but because I thought we HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. TREE SERVICE BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. need to work together as a community.” Harrison went on to say there is adequate capacity in the system to accommodate the Kettle Preserve project. He said the project will take up “less than half’ of the system’s remaining capacity. “We have 30 years ofuser experience. We have seen that (usage of the system is) generously under what the system can handle. There is capacity in the system. That we know from 30 years of operating it,” he said. “We also know it’s a 30-year-old system, that it’s going to need upkeep, so we’ve made substantial investments into that system. Just like back in the original design when we had to decide who to add to the system, if the pipe’s right in front of your house, it might make sense to add additional users so that the economy of scale and additional contributors can pay for the upkeep and operations.” The new homes to be developed in Kettle Preserve will have to pay a connection fee of about $6,600 per lot to hook into the sewer system. Harrison See SEWER on 9 �J 4 4 > % 4 I 5 t 4 IIJ J . - ,----- y- * • k •• < www.sunandnews.com M ^7 THE SUN AND NEWS « .1 Saturday, September 14, 2024 * r, '£ ?®partment receives FEMA grant for fire station sprinkler project Greg Chandler staff Writer ,, The Caledonia Fire Department has received a $95,238 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to go toward the cost of installing sprinklers at its fire station. Fire ChiefScott Siler toldthe township board at its Sept. 4 meeting that the FEMA grant is through its Assistance to Firefighters Grant program. “AFG will allocate up to $100,000 for this type project, with a 5 percent buy-in from the guarantee,” Siler wrote in an email to the Sun and News. The board at that meeting gave the go-ahead for the fire department to accept the FEMA grant, with the township to supply $5,000 in matching funds. However, there’s still a potential funding gap of about $30,000 that needs to be addressed for the project to move ahead. When Siler went to seek quotes for a sprinkler project a year ago, he was given a price tag of .s I I K nnn SEWER Continued from Page 8 said that adding more customers to the system will spread out its operating and maintenance costs. “Your system will receive about $400,000 (in connection fee revenues) to go toward the benefit of that system,” Harrison said. “I see people online saying ‘they’re doing it just for the money,’ but they (are) you. You will be the beneficiary, whether you want it or not, of their investment into the system, and they will be the beneficiary of the excess capacity that system adds.” fire station and all their vehicles in one incident.” In addition, adding the sprinklers provide a level of safety that cannot be measured with a price tag, Siler wrote. By protecting the people who are on watch to aid the community in times of emergency, we ensure that apparatus and personnel will be available when needed by our citizens,” Siler wrote. Caledonia Township was one of 26 departments across the state and the only one in Kent County to be awarded grants through AFG this year, according to the FEMA website. FEMA has had the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program since 2001. The program has helped firefighters and other first responders obtain criticallyneeded equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources needed “to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards,” according to the out $ 130,000. The grant program to add sprinklers at the fire station will serve to benefit both firefighters and the Caledonia commimity, Siler wrote. “The Caledonia Fire Station is an older industrial building converted into a fire station. There are currently no fire sprinklers in the building,” Siler wrote in the email. The fire department has two firefighters on shift 24 hours a day, and there are seven items of apparatus housed at the station, including tankers and pumpers, Siler wrote. Sprinkler systems are the first attack of fires in sprinklered buildings,” the chief wrote. “They respond to heat, activating near the fire which assists with containment. Many times sprinklers will have the fire out before the fire department arrives. This can greatly reduce total property loss that would be detrimental to the safety of a community that potentially loses its ^4 SF < 84th Street construction work underway * FEMA website. The next step in the fire department’s process is generating a scope of work to be performed, so that the project can go out for bids. “I am working to keep this process moving forward as quickly as possible,” Siler wrote. □ ' 'I* -1. r a 9 ■ , K • & r I f■ I X . I 4/ 4* J •. < we w J I I Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! | * > A <■ Construction is underway on a Kent County Road Commission proj ect on 84th Street in Caledonia Township, from Kraft Avenue to Broadmoor Avenue/M-37. The $1.8 million project will rebuild 84th to a two-lane, allseason road. The project includes earthwork, ditches, culvert work, retaining walls, paving, pavement markings and restoration. Road Commission spokeswoman Maura Lamoreaux said. During the project, 84th will be closed to through traffic, but there will be access to properties within the work zone. A detour has been posted, with the route being Kraft from 84th to 76th Street, then east on 76th to Broadmoor/M-37, then south on Broadmoor/M-37 to 84th, Lamoreaux said. The proj ect received $1,167,000 in federal aid funding, with the local share of funding coming from the Road Commission, Lamoreaux said. The project is slated for completion Nov. 15. Dean’s Excavating of Sand Lake is the project contractor. ■ E . I/ Greg Chandler Staff Writer .1 '-J L s k- I .. h I * r 4^ 1 M aF > 5 tn* s • t ;' J L s T^; > <l4 « / « p rm * r i! I . ...... -.7* >)>«*>» M« ■ M * W I *** s X •*f J •i >< >«1 .7 s F Simply Pi^rfeet W E DOING i N V I T AT IONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. r PRINTING BY vvww.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com 0 Visit us online at mihomepaper.com k x<^ • V \ \ X * K K t * K I. \ \ nr? . *4 * ;a •• ~ 1 * 1 ■V « 1 '» «A •* r- 4 XI k’: r I 9 9 �I 4 « I 4. I « 9 *»ai 4 b^" -‘S < ii * & i / % *M t u *-- w * ft r n 4 . r< ‘ 3. Jtf' >. ^jShe < V-* > e :^L •l ?' www.sunandnews.com R THE SUN AND NEWS ) 10 Saturday, September 14, 2024 i^:& '5!^, I < ♦4*** >•* ’-ii.. . •• ' f:-: / OUR COMPANY IS GROWING DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY >>> A hl • .• 1g. . «. ' a. I W^n^Vl --------- 4b. * -t «riW 1 4^ r 0 Mb I, 4‘ »<* y BHiji ll • r •• £ ' • .Jf V 1 Ir J» ■ 1 We’re Hiring i 1 LT w -'9^. \ P’. w * . .> .A 4 . M / fc ■ !e .w 4^. ♦ 4L 4^ I I ^7 J w h...* J .. * r I s I I * » ♦ lx. •• I 1^ £ ft Tsf^ I t ."2 ♦ ♦ % K ,•. ; // r 141^ I 4i A. look at the newly-constructed pool at the Caledonia Community Center. Photo provided Responsibilities include: Cal schools offer update on Community Center • Advertising sales • Account management • Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts • Attend networking events Are you the one? 1 I ! * * ♦ V 1 ' t *<r-» » y •t • ’^, *4 s Marketing Specialist X ^-t Group email wsmith@mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen ‘y t 1 ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer's Guide ■ Jeffersonian '1 ► t.rJT^ ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer's Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder » 4l» Caledonia Community Schools are getting closer to the completion of the new Cal Community Center that was made possible by voter approval of a bond issue in May 2020. With a grand opening approaching later this fall, the district has released an update on the project that answers questions some in the community have posed about the new facility. The facility will be home to a wide range of programs offered by the Cale­ donia Resource Center, and through a partnership with the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, the district will be able to bring even more opportunities to its residents. The center offers every­ thing from the opportunity to join a fitness class, enjoy a swim, or simply engage with others in the community. Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about the partnership between Caledonia schools and the YMCA: How can I join? The YMCA will be managing mem­ berships and programs in a shared arrangement with the district and will be opening membership opportuni­ ties soon. There will also be special and drop-in rates for programs such as group fitness, swim lessons and day camp. Please note that although a membership will be required for general use, membership will not be required to enter the facility for those accessing Caledonia Resource Center programs or school district activities such as swim meets. Do local taxpayers receive a dis­ count? Yes. There will be a 10 percent discount on the YMCA “branch only” membership rate at the Cal Commu­ nity Center for taxpayers of Caledonia Community Schools. Please note that the YMCA has six other branches throughout the greater Grand Rapids area and a full YMC Amembership gets you access to all the branches, while a Cal Community Center “branch only” membership applies to the Caledonia Community Center location. Will Silver Sneakers memberships be accepted? While Silver Sneakers memberships won’t be accepted at this facility, there are discounted rates for seniors. The district hopes to have alternative op­ tions in 2025, potentially partnering with insurance providers. Continue to monitor future coverage on the Commimi^ Center project and its opening in the Sun and News. �.J! ■' f • V i' Th f’ I •w w 4 » & ▼ .> •A i * I ♦ www.sunandnews.com ■ <1 THE SUN AND NEWS I c R» Saturday. September 14, 2024 J 11 >11 ♦ << ♦ o 4.\ 'F- Sporting News M* i » M » .w e .J 'T J b ♦ A IS| I I r t I n i I I I f I Draaisma gets first cross country victories Brett Bremer Sports Editor More than once Thornapple Kellogg senior Jacob Draaisma glanced back over his shoulder during the final few hundred meters of the 2024 Coach B Invitational on Murphy’s Point at Gun Lake. There wasn’t anybody there. Draaisma won the individual championship in the boys’ race with a time of 16 minutes 29.70 seconds. He kept pace with Caledonia senior Kort Thompson and the Scots’ leaders throughout much of the course and then pulled away over the final mile. Thompson, who bested him on the Scots’ home course the Friday before Labor Day by pulling ahead earlier in the race, ran to a runner-up time of 16:45.58 Monday in the event hosted by Draaisma’s Trojans. rhere won’t be any tiebreakers ahead on a neutral site. The Trojan.s have the rest of the OK Gold Conference season to close out and the Scots are at it in the OK Green. In the postseason. the Fighting Scots are once again a Division I squad and the Trojans a D2 team. rhe win Monday was the second straight win for Draaisma who also finished first at theOK Gold Conference jamboree at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids last Thursday, Sept. 5. In a rare occurrence, somebody outran the Caledonia boys at Gun Lake in the meet honoring former Thornapple Kellogg head coach Tammy Benjamin, who was there along the course cheering everyone on. The Grand Rapids Track Club Peregrines won both the boys’ and girls’ competitions in the Thomapple Division for the larger schools at the meet. The DeltonKellogg girls and Grand River Prep boys won Kellogg Division titles in the contest between ’W 1 Ei * f. > K 'V t J < . r V / ( <? » £ ♦ k k J • - 1 * J 1 A F* I w 1 J . 44’>A B •4 - \ 1 c k 1 •Ft f * t ; 1%i A I'll a I WB I ( 794 BO * r* k __ r «• % w ' .z' ' 1* If I I r:i ' • ’Ha r'l > ' ■< was 58th overall in 20:47.80. TK senior Hunter Tietz turned in his best time of the season, 19:15.76, to place 34th overall. The TK team had sophomore Elijah Frazer 41st in 19:39.90 and sophomore Grady Galaviz 45lh in 19:45.72. Rounding out the top five for TK, senior Case . 1^ I s^? was 54th in 20:36.09. The Caledonia program put 15 guys in between Draaisma and Tietz. Junior Noah Johnston ran to a sixth place finish as the Scots’ number two. He came in at 17:21.20. Senior Mason Morrell ran his fatest race of theyear for Caledonia to place 11 th in See DRAAISMA on 14 -rt *-.. L « 1 A X I I » I 4 B. K •fc k ED’S BODY SHOP ’ •46--r* t. t <« ft ■ CaiCBONIA MICN16AM A. v* (t Your frusM BofJy Shop for over 32 yoars *4, * 4 WHY CHOOSE ED’S? «* > 4. » * « f f .a > if 2 ' < 1 K s t a €1 • 4* •k - .. t A> % z L<\ I » . ■’ Repair all makes & models 0 state of the Art Refinish Facility * -«rr* - 1* « w 1* A ~ a' 9 » 'K'-aV*'* i :r A a. * XM I ••'Free Estimates • > 4* * .ru. t Jt I i* u ■■ >'■4 ♦ PT Sophomore Peyton Hardy works through the crowd a little over a mile into the Coach B Invitational at Gun Lake Monday on her way to leading the Trojan girls' team across the finish line. She placed 13th overall Photo by Brett Bremer • stale & l-CAR Certified te'chniciS^ JTCuCH ComputeTSea Elect^Sni?* Measuring'System’ • 9^ I the smaller schools. The Peregrine boys’ outscored the Fighting Scots 30-40 at the top of the Thomapple Division boys’ standings. West Michigan Aviation was third with 86 points ahead of Thomapple Kellogg 102 and West Catholic 128. Junior Brendan O’Donohue led the Peregrine boys with a third-place time of 17:12.03 and his junior teammate Caleb Willard set his PR at 17:12.84 to place fourth. Wayland senior Dylan Pallett was fifth in 17:19.45. The Peregrines had five guys in the top ten. Caledonia had six in the top 14 with junior Kaden Van Ryn (13th in 18:21.09) and freshman Jake Potgeter (14th in 18:24.30) both setting a new PR. The Thomapple Kellogg boys’ team got a PR from its number six runner, freshman Garrett Holzhausen who Frame Repair • > a I* r'«»* A 77 . ■ **■*■ ■ *. fMn M^lieU V^UMA ’ OPEN MtrwuF: 730 am - 5W pm k'Nni 110 Johnson Street 616.891.0150 . nu .’I Powto$*i Jr t^.vner www.edsbody.com �'J / < I / THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 14, 2024 12 www.sunandnews.com fi-oians have four-game win streak going ♦ ♦ 1 Brett Bremer Sports Editor ► ' tr p I 1 f •} !Aa.' i*r t * .*’-^k -7 .t .c On the scoreboard, a goal is a goal. The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ soccer team came out of last week still hoping to find some ways to score in the flow of play, but they kept to their 2024 style so far in a 3-0 shut out of visiting Hastings in a non-conference match inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville Thursday, Sept. 5. “It’s interesting, we’re not the biggest team in the world, but we’re organized,” TK head coach Andrew Kiel said. “Those set pieces are very organized and things are very planned and meticulous so that we can get people open. We are lucky to have [Ryan] Skidmore and Simeon [Biltawijwho can play in a good ball. For kids their age, I bet they’re above 50 percent on accuracy with where they want to go which if you think < •4^. A’ F ,W< ' . iT I ise (ft • vl »• 5 I 4 9 i t 1 4^ I -•i. i *7; n / it' I- % 7 < A 4 % I 4 C; .<.<>-■ 1 < f I t> •• ' tx e» 6 >' g • >- 4 * V .1 4 F I L « - • g t **v« • t» >* a ■ *. ■ r 'n ■ Jsr l.'f « ■ silBi t ; 4' • r k < Wr- H 4 Jk. 4 Jr- I iSTs A I 1 9 I >1 r t < ------- ---- -4i^r * “A ? J r r •c •r •• xw* » I ■ R r• k *> TR I 4. f ► M “c I I I I ~J. J I ■ • - •■r. I I I I I R I I fej I * I ^1 * I I I 1^ I FINANCING AVAILABLE I 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments I on qualifying equipment I I I *’1 « b > 1* . / r i ■ I' k .4 f J-** V . *1. I t'. V 'J r / t Zi J] T.*. J •:t' r r «s , *? I r. FRONTIER HEATING 8 COOLING 210 Cast Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 X i±k J-;- I about it is a good ratio in the game. So, when we’re able to get those guys open, and we make those runs and they hit it, we have those opportunities.” The Trojans scored on a long throwin from senior Jordan Rowley, a comer kick from the senior Biltawi and a long free kick from sophomore Milo McCormick against the Saxons. Defender Nathan Shoemaker finished off a long throw-in from his fellow back Rowley to put TK in front 1-0 early in the second half. Senior Nicolas Hervas headed home a comer kick coming in from right to left by Biltawi to move TK in front 2-0 with 23:07 left in the game. TK iced the contest with sophomore Mason Chivis putting home a long free kick from McCormick with 4:40 to go. “Threegoalsoffsetpieces,”Kielsaid. See TROJANS on 13 <• < I !TOUDM • V Thornapple Kellogg’s Nicolas Hervas celebrates his goal during the second half against Hastings with teammates Isaac Ruth (15) and Jordan Rowley (16) inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville Thursday, Sept. 5. Photo by Brett Bremer i I < 1 [■ ■ ' TtlNR'R^ 1 V *1 *1fv I URN ACR r— e* I "Si r r , < 1 9 h > * A* I <* - * v> 99' 1V ^I'li^ - .. ..I..* I , JI I / K ' 7 ”SW ** 3*’ •r—** ♦ I A 9 *k*r <1111 m .^K* efi 1 J^-' .* * ,< r ,.1 < K * - 'I I * RV 1 >> •& * >»«*« w I •’ v^BSTTr ri» ir * .< '9i 'A.’'*S.: •>-,W * * /«r * 4t4- p I 1 'i t ■h ^-'t t; -a* V 4 i Thornapple Kellogg junior Diego Rodas sprints to try and get to the ball before Saxon defenders AJ Kohmescher (front) and Aden Armstrong (back) during the first half of the Trojans’ 3-0 win over the visiting Saxons in Middleville Thursday, Sept. 5. Photo by Brett Bremer ‘ A •- « - «■» A* . «.-s • T* 99 « J ' 1 ** « �’J, 1 • r A 1 1 4 1 9 I II www.sunandnews.com I i I 9 ..I - .■ > . •—> t < r *I I «i.:^ jaF,._____ I !■ . Wi T e<T^ ' ■¥ . • ■ .-fe. V' A 4^ I r F •W^--.. - % Mbiiav I i P9MF^j A •». . ■. ' ’MH L 1I • -1 < 3l * 1 'U-** -3 i ***^ >J« f TX » !• % A' *■ '-^ M tWv’. 3^ Ki a w* if: M < X » A 'Tit A ( 5.'«* T • •: -X AUi ' t t ar I. *»t . ,} i. “i** .'• :Tj» * VS * < '•H t X * 4* . kV - Saturday, September 14, 2024 13 pleased with the success of their set pieces this fall, the Saxons realized they have some work to do on the defensive end in those situations last week. The Trojans found too much space between Saxon defenders around the Hastings net in those instances. A couple of the Saxons’ best scoring opportunities came late in the match. TK senior keeper Owen Comer managed to thwart a break in by Saxon senior Troy Hokanson with the contest still a two-goal game with ♦ eight minutes left in the second half. Comer also smothered a free kick on frame from the Saxons’ McKinney Jiles in the closing seconds to finish off his team’s win. “Owen had to come up once tonight, and he did, which was great. Other than that, we played a solid defensive game,” Kiel said. “A win is a win and a goal is a goal, but we need to diversify a little bit.” Hastings was 4-3 overall this season heading into a Sept. 12 match with I (, O J»lTli —-^ Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Mason Chivis maneuvers through the midfield with the ball during his team’s 3-0 win over visiting Hastings Thursday, Sept. 5. Photo by Brett Bremer Parma Western in the Interstate-8 Athletic Conference. The Saxons bounced back from the loss to TK with a 5-2 win over Portland Saturday and a 6-0 win in their conference opener at Jackson Northwest Tuesday. TK starts its second swing through the OK Gold Conference with three consecutive home matches. The Trojans take on West Catholic Sept. 16, Northview Sept. 18 and South Christian Sept. 23. CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN PUBLIC HEARING AND FILING OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL CAMPAU/KETTLE LAKE AQUATIC WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia, Kent County. Michigan, having resolved its intention to proceed on Its own motion to make certain public improvements consisting of the application of herbicide treatments and/or harvesting for the eradication or control of aquatic weeds and plants in Campau/Kettle Lake (the “Improvements”) in the Township, has made its final determination of a special assessment district which consists of the fol­ lowing described lots and parcels of land which are benefitted by the Improvements and against which all or a portion of the cost of the Improvements shall be specially assessed: Campau/Kettle Lake Aquatic Weed Control Special Assessment District No. 1 Lots and parcels numbered: ' 01-351-005 02-476-013 11-278-032 12-101-044 01-351-008 02-476-014 11-278-033 12-101-045 01-351-038 02-476-017 11-278-034 12-101-050 01-351-039 02-476-020 11-278-035 12-101-052 01-351-053 02-476-021 11-278-036 12-101-053 01-351-054 02-477-006 11-278-038 12-101-054 01-351-056 02-477-008 11-278-039 12-101-055 01-351-065 02-477-009 11-427-005 12-101-056 01-351-068 02-477-010 11-427-006 12-101-057 01-351-072 02-477-012 11-427-007 12-101-059 01-351-074 11-201-031 11-427-008 12-101-060 01-351-075 11-201-032 11-427-011 12-101-061 01-351-083 11-201-033 11-427-012 12-107-022 01-351-085 11-201-034 11-427-013 12-107-030 01-351-086 11-201-035 11-427-014 12-107-032 01-351-087 11-201-036 11-427-015 12-107-033 01-351-088 11-201-037 11-427-016 12-152-003 01-351-089 11-226-005 11-427-017 12-152-004 01-351-090 11-226-026 11-427-018 12-152-007 01-351-091 11-226-028 11-427-019 12-152-008 01-351-092 11-227-028 11-427-020 12-152-026 01-351-094 11-227-038 11-427-021 12-152-027 01-351-099 11-228-007 11-427-022 12-152-028 01-351-100 11-278-004 11-427-025 12-152-029 01-351-101 11-278-007 11-427-026 12-300-009 01-351-102 11-278-016 11-427-027 12-300-011 01-351-104 11-278-017 11-427-030 12-300-072 01-354-008 11-278-018 11-427-031 12-300-077 02-476-001 11-278-019 11-427-032 12-300-079 02-476-002 11-278-020 11-427-033 12-300-080 02-476-003 11-278-021 12-101-038 02-476-004 11-278-022 12-101-041 02-476-012 11-278-026 12-101-043 ! « i’A- '♦* *. \ * ♦ “We clearly had a lot of opportunities in open play, and we weren’t able to convert. It has been the kind of story of our season so far. Typically, when we can get one of those set pieces to go things will open up. We’re a solid defensive team, but that open play is just that final puzzle. I don’t know how many shot we had tonight, but it was over 15 and probably eight to ten of those were on target. When we re doing that, we have to find a way to convert.” The Trojans are now 8-4 overall and 3-3 in the OK Gold Conference this season. They followed up that victory over the Saxons by besting Wyoming on the road 2-1 Monday and Wayland in Middleville 2-0 Wednesday in conference matches this week. While the Trojans have been pretty u« I THE SUN AND NEWS Continued from Page 12 I 9. t ♦ TROJANS I I NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN THAT the Township Supervisor of the Charter Township of Caledonia has made and certified- a special assessment roll for the spe­ cial assessment district, which roll sets forth the relative portion of the cost of said Improvements which is to be levied in the form of a special assessment against each benefitted lot and parcel of land in the special assessment district. Pursuant to the resolution of the Township Board adopted on July 17,2024, the costs of the Improve­ ments are to be periodically redetermined on a yearly basis in accordance with the resolution. s Map of Special Assessment District (Includes only those parcels of land having frontage on Campau/Kettle Lake) Il 66TH TAKE NOTICE THAT THE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF H THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF 'o’ CALEDONIA 5 WILL HOLD A PUBLIC HEARING ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER : 18, 2024, AT 7:00 P.M., OR SHORTLY THEREAFTER. AT THE TOWN­ SHIP HALL, 8196 BROADMOOR AVE SE, CALE­ DONIA, MICH! IGAN, IN SAID i C"*" 1 < (Z) I 1 ikl a-' ■ 9 1 1 ■■ r ■ k’ .: I Ui« W 1 t * i r <' A f ■. 1« /a fe. I I J t f t r kU X9 -r I 1 .A l> > z I S' I I t I ♦ iS^-.. ( ■-J I -I: I I Boundary of Campau/Kettle Lake Aquatic Weed Control Special Assessment District I TOWNSHIP. TO REVIEW THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL AND TO HEAR AND CONSIDER ANY OBJECTIONS THERETO. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the special assessment roll as prepared has been reported to the Township Board and is on file with the Township Clerk at the Town­ ship Hall for public examination. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT AN OWNER OR A PARTY IN INTEREST IN A LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SUBJECT TO A SPECIAL ASSESSMENT MAY FILE A WRITTEN APPEAL OF THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT WITH THE MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF CONFIRMATION OF THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT ROLL, BUT ONLY IF SAID OWNER OR PARTY IN INTEREST APPEARS AND PROTESTS THE SPECIAL ASSESS­ MENT AT THIS HEARING. An appearance may be made by an owner or party in interest, or his or her agent, in person or, in the alternative, an appearance or protest can be filed with the Township by letter prior to the hearing, in which case a personal appearance at the hearing is not required. This Notice was authorized by the Township Board of the Charter Town­ ship of Caledonia. Dated: August 21, 2024 Joni Henry, Clerk, Charter Township of Caledonia �14 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 14, 2024 DRAAISMA V Continued from Page 11 17:50.56. Senior Ethan Buer was the Scots’ next guy in with a 12th-place time of 17:55.81. The standings were similar in the Thomapple Division girls’ race. The Peregrines won with 20 points ahead of Caledonia 64, West Michigan Aviation 88, Thornapple Kellogg 93,West Catholic 121 and Wayland 170. The Trojans were without their three-time state qualifier Ava Crews at the front of their pack Monday as well as sophomore Ailana McCrumb who has been a regular part of the scoring group, but head coach Sam Wilkinson was fairly pleased with how his girls performed. TK junior Madison Kietzman ran her fastest race of the fall to place 17th in 22:16.67. She was the third Trojan across the finish line and inched closer to her early-season goal of finishing in less than 22 minutes. The TK ladies were led by a pair of sophomores. Peyton Hardy was 13th in 21:46.06 and Meghan-Jane Skidmore 14th in 21:52.12. The TK team had sophomore Carmen Reynolds 31 st in 23:48.66 and junior Payton Gater 39th in 24:17.77. “Subjectively, it looked like everyone was either working hard or were doing their best to get through a tough go ofthings,” Wilkinson told his girls after the race. “I’ll take a strong effort every time and I’m proud of what you girls did today. Objectively speaking, without having two of our top runners on the line today, our chances ofplacing high as a team were noticeably decreased; and sometimes that’s just the way it is. So, I was happy to see that you girls didn’t just shrug your shoulders and throw in the towel, but rather you gave a genuine effort to do the best you could on the day.” With a championship not likely in the stars based on the talents of the competition, Wilkinson asked his girls to find a new way to challenge themselves Monday, and the Trojans felt like that achieved that and learned somethings about themselves. The first 11 girls across the finish line included eight Peregrine runners. Sophomore Stephanie DiPiazza was the individual champ in 18:14.72. It wasn’t until the clock hit 20:11.28 that 1 w -*iRL I WB M «?> l JI •4£' f 4 X 9 L 72^ J 4 *' t r< 4 i4r 4 %/Tfc * . j ■tkw -b«. >• i 2r* .T < ./-.'t 4 /• <* —-“-f b. P*' ***• > t A f ■ ri r. * V *« X i F -s- 1 •5 -r^ I r.t I i 4 ft r t •>V V S AC • r * b* a, A (< 4 fI -f 1 n • I JI* I t A "YU ■J C||i^ » t. i 1 > I< r I ? 1 4 < t *r•l . F. ' z* f* r f J A’- ■7 4' X * •* v? r/ I ■ r.'? Ty • • 1 r *’ 5 r i 1 •• . 4 B F *9 n t*~7 -1 * -1 *A'^ J T \ % Ziv s< T* *■» »•, '4 »4 » r -w w* £ . 11^ to iiwgs^ <4 Fighting Scot senior Mason Morrell picks up the pace as he closes in on the finish line at Thornapple Kellogg’s Coach B invitational at Gun Lake Monday. Morrell was 11 th overall with a season best time helping the Scots to a runnerup finish in the Thornapple Division boys’ contest. Photo by Brett Bremer her senior teammate Sinead Noonan cross the finish line in second place. West Michigan Aviation sophomore Ahna Woltjer set her PR at 20:19.20 to place third. SeniorHannah Dupuis led Caledonia with a fifth-place time of 20:35.71. Senior Kiley Bommarito came in 12th for the CHS girls’ in 21:44.58. Scot senior Keira Bommarito raced to 15th in 22:02.00. Rounding out the top five for the Scots were senior Adysen Daman 1 Sth in 22:22.07, junior Hannah Bennett 20th in 22:45.35 and sophomore Akaela Daman 21st in 22:47.99. The top ten Caledonia boys and top seven Caledonia girls were all medalists finishing in the top 25. That group for the CHS girls outside the top five for the team included sophomores Akaela Daman and Olivia Hawkins. Medalists for the CHS boys outside the top five for the team included Potgeter, Eli Veiling, Grant Feldpausch, Luke Smith and Cameron Wright. •r 4p Jr* t 9 <* Caledonia senior Hannah Dupuis races to a fifth-place time of 20 minutes 35.71 seconds in the girls’ race at Thornapple Kellogg’s annual Coach B Invitational at Gun Lake Monday. Photo by Brett Bremer Gator divers have another big day at Ottawa Hiiis I A lb* Brett Bremer Sports Editor .•r } A T 5 *^'/ . t r* I ** F * I I r H I** i •it. .<*■ A •4 • ’A' z-^ * ( jr* ' iy ( >' Ab f > < I J > I , r I > i.Y I* BC^bz* p M’ : * » I .J * £tw*( I I / •*»/ ri > «.WT • ■^. a** ’'*4 ? >* < ,. Thornapple Kellogg senior Hunter Tietz and sophomore Grady Galaviz race side by side a little over a mile into the Coach B Invitational near the boat launch at Gun Lake Monday. Photo by Brett Bremer Grand Rapids Gators diver Lydia Slagel had a huge day at Ottawa Hills Tuesday as she put up a winning score of 255.95 points in her team’s conference dual with the Bengals. It wasn’t quite enough ofa boos to get the Gators in the front in the end though as the Ottawa Hills girls took a 107-69 win. Slagel’s teammate Abigail Dumond was the runner-up in the diving competition with a score of 226.70 points. Aubrey Hawks chipped in a runner-up swim with a time of 2 minutes 22.29 seconds in the 200-yard freestyle against the Bengals and a runner-up time of 6:23.64 in the 500-yard freestyle. See DIVERS on 15 I — — �♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 14, 2024 15 ♦ ♦ JT * Knights knock off Tkojans for third straight season Brett Bremer Sports Editor Kenowa Hills made just enough plays to fend off the Trojans for a third consecutive win over the Thomapple Kellogg varsity football team Fridav in Middleville. The Knights took an early lead and never trailed in a 28-12 victory in Bob White Stadium. Kenowa Hills got a one-yard touchdown run with 4:20 to go in the opening quarter, moments after nearly ripping the ball out ofthe hands of the ^ight quarterback short of the goal-line before he was on the turf. That one touchdown lead held up until late in the first half as both teams TK teams second to South at first OK Gold jamboree Brett Bremer Sports Editor South Christian was first and Thomap­ ple Kellogg second in both the boys’ and girls’ races to open the 2024 OK Gold Conference varsity cross country season. The first ten girls across the finish line at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids led by Thomapple Kellogg senior Ava Crews who won in 19 minutes 43.90 seconds. Sophomore teammate Peyton Hardy was the runner-up in 21:19.04. Thomapple Kellogg senior Jacob Draaisma won the boys’ race in 16:3 7.66 as the only guy to hit the finish line in less than 17 minutes. South Christian won the girls’ race by DIVERS Continued from Page 14 McKenna Hawks was second in the 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 1:32.16. Teammate Mia Bergman got the runner-up points in the 100-yard backstroke with a time of 1:35.16. Last Thursday, Sept. 5, the Gators competed against Forest Hills Central and Grand Rapids Christian in a trio hosted by the Rangers. Slagel won the day’s had drives die out in the opponents’ end of the field. TK came up short on a fourth down run near the Knights’ 15-yard-line and an interception by TK senior Caleb Summerhayes killed a Knight drive at the Trojan 20. TK got its first points of the ballgame on a nine-yard touchdown run by sophomore quarterback Micah Dock. He faked to his fullback and then found room to run around the right side with two minutes left in the first half. Somebody missed a block on a Knight defensive end on the two-point try however and the Trojans were down 7-6 at that point. The Knights didn’ t miss their blocks on the kick return, the set up a reverse after pulling the kick out ofthe air and raced own the visitor’s sideline for an 89-yard score that helped them lead 14-6 at the half. Both teams turned the ball teams had fourth down conversion attempts come up short throughout the third quarter, and it wasn’t until the Knights hit a deep pass down the middle early in the fourth quarter that they were able to break out of their own end of the field. The Knights added another short TD run with 8:41 to go in the game to lead 21-6. Trojan junior back Malachi VanEngen busted a big run into Kenowa Hills’ territory soon after that score a score of27-34 over the TK ladies. West Catholic was third with 78 points ahead ofNorthview 120, Wayland 141, Grand Rapids Union 157 and Wyoming 205. The TK girls’ team had sopho­ more Meghan-Jane Skidmore sixth in 21:47.59, sophomore Alaina McCrumb tenth in 22:20.22 and junior Madison Kietzman 15th in 22:55.03. South Christian had girls place third, fourth, fifth, seventh, eighth and ninth. Freshman Tiffany DeMaagd led the Sail­ ors with her third-place time of21:25.76. West Catholic junior Katherine Klooster was the fastest girl not from South or TK. She placed 11th in 22:36.25. South Christian won the boys’ race with 56 points ahead ofThomapple Kel­ logg 79, Northview 82, Grand Rapids Union 93, Wayland 117, West Catholic 123 and Wyoming 131. diving competition with an overall score of243.30 points and Dumond and teammate Kya Bender placed fourth and fifth in the competition. It has been a busy stretch. The Gators were bested 101 -69 in a dual at Allegan Saturday. The Gator team, made up of girls from Thomapple Kellogg, West Michigan Aviation, Hopkins and Calvin Christian, will be at the Ma­ son Invitational Saturday, Sept. 14. The Gators head to Wayland for a conference dual Thursday, Sept. 19. .3 « to give the Trojans a last, best shot at clawing back into the bailgame, but an option pitch got away setting up a fourth and long and a deep pass down the middle was knocked down as the clock ticked under six minutes to go. Less than a minute later the Knights connected on a 57-yard touchdown pass to seal the win. TK tacked on an 18-yard run by Summerhayes off an option pitch from Dock with 1:13 to go to close the scoring. The 0-2 TK team was set to host Wayland Friday night, Sept 13, and will go on the road this week for a Sept. 20 contest at Grand Rapids Catholic Central. Northview junior Caleb TeBrake was second in 17:00.64 behind Draaisma. There were just five guys total who crossed the finish line in less than 18 minutes. That group included two Sail­ ors, Josiah Rozema who was fourth in 17:34.17 and junior Thad VanderLaan who was fifth in 17:46.85. * ♦ s* sT 4 Sophomore Grady Galaviz ran his fastest race of the season to place 15th in 19:23.30 andTrojan senior Case Dykhouse ran his fastest race ever to place 19th in 19:37.97. The TK boys’ team also had sopho­ more Elijah Frazer 21st in 19:42.73 and senior Hunter Tietz 23rd in 19:46.97. b WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND r COOLING NEEDS V.- ■ b I A* J.* ♦•l 1 Residential & Commercial .Jbi r -P. r J* « * 5, • • ,I ' . -Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers . I 7v* % -. 5 * 4 '4C A L> • I* l^ Ur ‘ . < »■ * •« ■ . fess >•* DEWEERDHTG.COM I imp HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. > 269-792-2234 £ -vs DeWeerd (iss) I AIR rnMniTinwiMn k • f ATING w Since J 955 f LENNOiry . I A+L^ ACCREDITED BUSINESS �*, 16 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ • 1* * www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 14, 2024 Scots regroup with shut out win over Mona Shores Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Fighting Scots varsity boys’ soccer team closed the first half of the 2024 OK Green Conference season ____ _ '.A with a 3-2 record by outscoring Mona Shores 5-0 at Scotland Yard Monday. “It was great. It was a great morale team booster,” Caledonia head coach Luke Dishnow said. “It is one ofthose games where some of those guys didn’t play much before, or haven’t played in every game, but yet they stepped up and made the most of their moments.” “The guys that play a lot are pumped for the guys that don’t play a lot that scored. It’s such an overall team boost.” The Fighting Scots got their first goal about nine minutes into the game. Senior Drew Diebolt took a through ball along the right side and found the space, with a defender on his back, to get a shot off from an angle by the Mona Shores goalkeeper. The win moves the Scots to 5-2 overall this season, but it was just the second time since the opening Scot­ land Yard Invitational that the team has scored more than one goal in a game. The Fighting Scots’ Gage Helinski (4) tackles the ball away from the Sailors’ Coach Dishnow said that early goal Charles Woolery (22) in the first half of their contest Tuesday night at Scotland really takes the pressure off. Yard in Caledonia. Photo by Perry Hardin Before the night was up junior Rob­ ert Day scored his first varsity goal, Puffer team is also ahead of the 3-2 a team effort.” junior Noah Moberly scored his first Scots in the conference. The Scots altered their formation a varsity goal and junior Charlie Doan “It met the expectations of a big couple times late to try and push the scored his first varsity goal. Senior game,” Dishnow said of the contest attack forward, and had one of their Brody Siler scored once for the Scots with the Byron Center boys. “It was best opportunities of the night with too. back and forth, it was not one-sided. a little over five minutes to go, but Day, Garrett Ruehle, Mason Lange­ They had chances, we had chances. It the Byron Center keeper was able to land and Silas Haan each recorded an was physical. All those types of things make a finger-tip save on a long shot assist in the win. of a big rivalry game psychical, fast, by Ruehle. The big lead gave the Scot the chance back and forth and chances on both “We thought that was going to be the to get starting keeper Simon Hilton a sides. one,” Dishnow said. break and to get sophomore Nicholas Caledonia thought they had a goLong between the posts for the final 20 Byron Center has scored more than ahead chance early, but was surprised minutes. Neither of them were chai one goal in every other game it has by an offside flag. The two teams went lenged much as the Scots controlled played so far this season. A win over into the half tied 0-0 and it was the the possession and created scoring Jenison Tuesday, Sept. 10, ran the Bull­ Bulldogs who finally found the net chances of their own at the other end. dogs’ overall record to 9-0. They have first with about 25 minutes left in the The Scots could feel the pressure of scored 34 goals in those nine contests. second half. trying to get a first goal all evening last The Caledonia defense was stout but Thursday, Sept. 5, in what turned into a “It was just a rebound put back in,” for that one miscue that allowed the 5-0 loss to the Byron Center Bulldogs. Dishnow said. “ We didn’t track our ball to find the net. The Bulldogs close the first half of the runners, lots of mistakes all over the “Both Parker [Chapp] and Silas conference season at 5-0. A 4-1 Reeths field. Always a team effort. Goals area [Haan] have been our rocks in the back, a team effort and all goals against are and they played like studs, total studs,” »«■ I', r'1. J I 1. 1 A 7 9 b <1 * I A * ■ X f i Dishnow said. “Parker and Silas have just stepped up immensely. I have been so proud of Parker’s game, honestly since the Reeths-Puffer game. He has just stepped up his game to another level.” The CHS coach said that Chapp has really started to see the game well. He is reading plays early and getting to loose balls first and beating attackers in one-on-one situations. “Mentally, he is so locked in,” Dishnow said. The Scots get another shot at the Bulldogs at Scotland Yard Oct. 1. Cale donia was slated to host Grandville Thursday night, Sept. 12. The Scots are at Portage Central for a Saturday con­ test and then will host East Kentwood Tuesday, Sept. 17. The second half of the conference season starts Sept. 19 as the Scots try and avenge an early season loss against Reeths-Puffer. *1 See SCOTS on 20 t I / (» :♦ 1 •a Caledonia senior Drew Diebolt (10) muscles his way through Mona Shores freshman Colin Rourke (5) to gain possession of the ball during the Scots’ OK Green Conference win at Scotland Yard Tuesday. Photo by Perry Hardin w T �4 www.sunandnews.com I kas !k Jis lit It » n. I I At full strength, the Caledonia varsity girls’ golf team finished on top of the OK Green jamboree it hosted at Saskatoon Tuesday. The Caledonia team put together a score of 164 with Byron Center shooting a 175, Mona Shores 184, Reeths-Puffer 198 and Jenison 20(1 Copelin O’Kjangley and Codie O’Krangley finished as the top two golfers overall leading the Scot team and finishing as the only two girls under 40. Copelin fired a 37 and Codie a 38. Mya Burgess shot a 44 for the Scots and Emily Walbeck and Ellie Hudson both scored 45 s. Byron Center sophomore Izzy Tawoda led her team with a thirdplace total of 40 strokes. The conference was set to get together again Thursday, Sept. 12, at The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ golfteam took a 208-212 win over visit­ ing Lakewood in a dual on the Red nine at Yankee Springs GolfCourse Tuesday. Ailana Leos led the TK team with a two-over-38. She opened her round with five straight pars and had seven on the round. The Trojan team also got a 50 tfom senior Rae Borrink and a 55 from se­ nior Kyra Casteel. The highlights of Casteel’s round included a part on the 282-yard, par-4 number two. Junior Kara Smith rounded out the TK top four with a score of 65. Junior Galatea Archbold led the Lake­ wood team. She shot a 48. Lakewood got a pair of 54s from senior Ellie Benham and Grace Grosshans and the Viking team also added a 56 from freshman Kaitlin Barker. Last Thursday, Sept. 5, the Trojans faced Zeeland East in another dual at Winding Creek Golf Course. The Chix took a 188-196 win. Leos once again had the day’s top / ► / » % r 5 4 THE SUN AND NEWS The Meadows for the conference’s Mid-Season Tournament. Last Friday, Sept. 6, the Caledonia girls were a part of the Russ John­ sen Tournament hosted by Kenowa Hills at Cedar Chase Golf Course and shot their way to a fourth-place finish in a field of eight teams. Spring Lake won the day’s title with a score of 341 ahead of Lowell 343, Sparta 354, Caledonia 355, Forest Hills Northern 370, Forest Hills Eastern 380, Lowell ‘B’ 404 and NorthPointe Christian 412. Copelin fired a 79 to lead the Scots. That score put her in fourth individu­ ally. Codie shot a 90 and the Scots got 93s from Hudson and Burgess. Spring Lake’s Zoe Dull was the individual champion with an evenpar-72. FHN junior Chaille Payne was second with a 76 and Sparta’s Katelyn Vanderwerff fired a 77 to place third. TK wins dual with Lakewood ladies Brett Bremer Sports Editor / 1 > ' i A ♦ ♦ Caledonia golfers on top of OK Green standings at Saskatoon Brett Bremer Sports Editor > individual round with a 37. That round included an eagle on the 22-yard Par-4 number 11 and a birdie on the 329-yard, par-4 number 16. Borrink shot a 49 for the TK team, which was the fifth best overall score of the day. Sophomore Vivian Hanson contributed a 52 for TK and junior So­ phia Lahaie shot a 58. Junior Taya Schanski and sophomore Ashleigh Pomeroy led the Dux with a pair of 45s. Ximena Knittie added a 47 for the Chix and Lucy Ehinger shot a 51. The Thomapple Kellogg girls have OK Gold Conference jamborees on the schedule for Wednesday, Sept. 18. The slate says the TK girls will be at The Mines Golf Course for the meet hosted by West Catholic at 8:30 a.m. and then play the jamboree hosted by Grand Rapids Union there beginning at 1 p.m. TTie TK ladies also have plans to host Calvin Christian for a dual at Yankee Springs Thursday, Sept. 19, and to be a part of the Lakewood Invitational at Morrison LakeCountry Club Friday, Sept. 20. Saturday, September 14, 2024 17 Scot spikers top D2’s No. 1 at Rockford tourney Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity volleyball team tested itself against some of the area’s top teams at Rockford High School Saturday. The Fighting Scots won two-set victories over Traverse City West and Division 2’s top ranked team. Grand Rapids Christian, and fell in two sets against former OK Red Conference foes Jenison and Rockford who are ranked sixth and tenth respectively in the MIVCA Division 1 poll. “We had a solid showing this weekend, going 2-2 at a very competitive tournament,’’ Caledonia head coach Ashley Brown said. “The highlight was definitely our win over Grand Rapids Christian, a ranked team. That victory showed what we can do when we stay focused and execute our game plan.’’ For the day, Cambria Gaier led the Scots in kills with 39, aces with seven and digs with 24. Aubrey Reynolds chipped in 23 kills. Jessica Maier put up 37 assists. Defensively, Reynolds added 21 digs, Maier 18 and Avery Seif 18. At the net, Josie Noble had 11 blocks, Kayla Charles eight and Reynolds five. “We’re really focusing on building our mental toughness and maintaining consistency throughout each match,” coach Brown said. “It’s not just about physical skill, but having the mindset to stay locked in from start to finish. That’s an area we’re working hard to improve, and it’s going to make a big difference in how we perform going forward.” The Scots are set to host their own Macayla Kohn Memorial Invitational Saturday, Sept. 14. The OK Green Conference season starts when the Scots visit Reeths-Puffer Sept. 14. Caledonia hosted its own quad last Thursday, Sept. 5. The Scots fell in three sets to Grand Rapids Catholic Central and took twoset wins over Grand Haven and Forest Hills Northern on the day. “Our team’s resilience stood out. After struggling to get into a groove early on, we found our momentum and played some of our best volleyball to close out the day with two big wins, Brown said. Gaier had 34 kills, 11 aces and 21 digs. Reynolds led the Scot team in digs with 22 and Blocks with four while adding 12 kills and six aces. Maier put up 60 assists in the three games. Seif had 22 digs, and Noble and Maier had three blocks each. YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors^. .and our future. Group Your Community Connection VETERAN’S TRUCK LINE INC. In Marshall, Ml is now accepting applications for: TRUCK DRIVERS • Night Drivers • Paid health benefits • Hourly rate $24.00 hr. after 6 months $25.00 hr. • Time & 1/2 over 40 hours • • • • • 401 (k) w/contribution Drive newer equipment Paid vacations/holidays Paid life/disability Must have Class A CDL and pass medical/drug screen CALL NOW DIRECT (262) 539-4460 ASK FOR DON Go to www.vetstruck.com for applications. ♦ ♦ �J. I I r / t / 1 i 1 t I I* J A < 1 ♦ I I \ 4 i I . * » I % a z 18 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 14, 2024 TK wins first Goid duais Nichois to Brett Bremer Sports Editor Spending four to eight hours a day all summer long working on one’s tennis game provides the chance for some drills that might not get into the regular varsity routine. Thornapple Kellogg senior first singles player Kameron Nichols chased a shot that got by him from Wayland’s top player, Theo Eddy, late in the first set Wednesday afternoon on the Thomapple Kellogg High School tennis courts in Middleville. With his back still to the net, Nichols swatted down to fire the ball between his legs, a shot with more velocity and accuracy than many high school tennis players can hit facing in the right direction. Eddy managed to get Nichols’ shot returned and eventually beat the Trojans’ number one on that point with a little lob that Nichols just couldn’t quite get to. The between the legs shot, aka a “tweener,” is something Nichols taught himself. “I just toss the ball over my head and go for it, just messing around,” he said. Nichols still managed to out-duel Oddy 6-2, 6-0 on the afternoon as part of a 6-2 OK Gold Conference victory for the Trojan team that bumped it to 2-0 in conference play so far this fall. The TK boys also shut out Grand Rap­ ids Union Monday afternoon. The Trojans’ top player said he was “spinning the ball good” in the win Wednesday. Nichols is now 12-0 overall this season. He was the undefeated OK « J »c *s 4. k 4« ,1 n I sr _ -». if fv ■— .• a v ! * 1 > r. r. 7 4- • > 1 - yrif ,- , I* J 1 te'v< 9 I MHIGHVtk 4 ■ ""Bb -»r ■f n' I / 'IT .A' { t H - Wi/Z » s » , \ f 1 T 1 A ) J 1 I I 1 I ■f t 1 1 I I I 9 1 A I I k t J < r t r V I I 1 1 t « F * y r % t & t 1 ? t r < z *" >■ z - I V 1 I t 1 I *B* 1 A * t 11 r I ft Thornapple Kellogg seniorfirst singles player Kamden Nichols fires aforehand back at his opponent from Wayland during their OK Gold Conference match in Middleville Wednesday. Nichols improved to 12-0 on the season with his straight set win. Photo by Brett Bremer Gold Conference first singles champ in 2023 too meaning he hasn’t fallen to a conference opponent since the first singles finals at the conference tourna­ ment his sophomore year in 2022. I roll the ball forward, my footwork has gotten better and my willingness to suffer has gotten better,” Nichols said describing his “willingness to suffer” as a willingness to stay in points. “Not giving anything up,” he said. He amped up his workouts this summer. “A normal day was four to eight hours, and four hours was an easier day,” Nichols said. A routine he per­ formed seven days a week when he could. “Frank Wilkinson was there with me for a lot of sessions and Evan Liu, a couple seniors would come up and hit with us like Aidan Dudik. They would all be there with us too. Actually, some­ times Frank’s cousin Max [Lepper] would come up. Graham [Eden] would come up too. He plays JV, but he’s like on the fence with varsity and JV. “Honestly, every time I’d come up here I’d see one or two guys come up and hit, like the Scott brothers.” Wftkinson, a junior for TK, is 12-0 at third singles this season. He bested Wayland’s Chesney Hudson 6-3, 6-2 with some consistent play. The senior Dudik at second singles for the Trojans moved to 10-2 on the year with a quick 6-0, 6-2 victory over Wayland’s Cam Sieffert. “His footwork has gotten better. He is starting to control him self a little more, like he doesn’t miss as much any more. We have both progressed in the same kind of way,” Nichols said of Wilkinson who took the win on the court next to him Wednesday. Senior Anson Verlinde fought into the evening to try and make it a singles sweep for TK over the Wildcats. He fell 6-1 in the first set to Jacob VanDuine, but then rallied for a 7-3 win in a tie­ breaker at the end of the second set to keep his match going after all the other varsity courts had cleared. VanDuine managed to pull out a 6-3 win in their third set to get the point for Wayland. “Anson decided to join the band, and he has realized what he has to do to compete. It has been really helpful and he has been doing great,” TK head coach Philippe Sylvestre said. “My one doubles, two doubles and actu ally all of the doubles are starting to find their way. It is not always pretty, but they’re finding their way around the marker. They’re listening, paying attention to what we need them to do, positioning and not overplaying their hand all the time. “It’s good. It has been a fun ride to watch them play. Like this, it’s cool. It’s a nice gladiatorial match. It’s nice.” TK won second, third and fourth doubles matches with Wayland. Cole Novak and Liu outscored Grant Dunkle and Dawson Babiak 6-1, 6-1 at number two. The other two Troj an teams had to rally for three-set wins at three and four. Benjamin Scott and Lepper outscored the Wildcats’ Spen cer Miller and Brycen Rookus 6-1,1 -6, 7-5 at third doubles. Mark Gielincki and Eden, up to the varsity as a fill-in Wednesday, shook off a rough second set of their own to outscore Wayland’s Asher Hendricks and Malcolm Sheffer 6-3, 1-6, 6-3. Wayland got a 6-1,6-2 win from the first doubles team of Mason Babiak and Brayden Tomson over TK’s Brady Laven and Layne Schilthroat, but the Trojans’ top pair showed off some of their improving chemistry on the court See DUALS on 20 4» • •“ - ♦ *<■»■ I I A« •« ’W •lb«» * I • '' K K-/>> . » 9 A J �/ * < > •i I 4 I A * ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS 19 Saturday, September 14, 2024 TK ladies fall to talented Northview team to start Gold play Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Northview girls followed that up by out-dueling Lakewood, Plym­ outh Christian Academy, Hudsonville and Holland Christian to win the East Kentwood Invitational Saturday. The TK girls followed up the tough match with Northview by compet­ ing in the Cereal City Invitational in Battle Creek Saturday and then hosting their own tri in Middleville Tuesday evening. ANorthview team placed among the honorable mention nods in the most recent MIVCA Division 1 state rank ings bested the Thomapple Kellogg varsity volleyball team in the first OK Gold Conference match of the season Thursday, Sept. 5, in Middleville. The Wildcats got by the Trojans in three sets winning 25-6, 25-9, 25-13. a e Ml 1 I The Trojans were bested 25-23, 2517 by Loy Norrix to open play at home on Tuesday and then fell 26-24, 25-17 to Comstock Park in the second match of the night. It is into the teeth of the OK Gold schedule now for the Trojans. They were slated to visit Wyoming Sept. 12 and will return to conference play in the week ahead hosting West Catho­ lic Tuesday and Wayland Thursday. Looming beyond those duals is a match against the No. 3 ranked South Christian girls Sept. 24. * 1 » 1 X pe-cor- A -X A •» ' T- -wWilli r 4 Thornapple Kellogg senior Brooklyn Harmon hits a serve during her team's match with Comstock Park at a tri hosted by the TK ladies in Middleville Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer Al -Ji -•l * .♦ f » *’-.r ■^' - J * . i 4 5’ ti-T. • ►#* 1*'^ V,1 •. A *. 4 ■' ? » ' V :>• r'» / » •. V I I 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 1 4 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 Caledonia I < CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA, COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF POSTING OF TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE .V f 1 r > I ' '^'****•’>< I I J L*'' A*! A • « •'Bt W-' 1» \S n •b. V ar * .5^ J . r •» u _____ tn. r k s k 7*^ ( Bl >5 * 1*< “D 3. □ --j . r.i J s • .< At — o Q. co *< m K* .I 7 ..K . i_3 I A < « • ', - e |_ (Z) 'k .. - •-'A- I'W'• A ^'•4FVM(b ’-.J o g >»« *A .< 4 t >ie- »?• .. . t t. > • • r ' .• 4 .*- J t •' K >• Z o mT * / 4. o. M I hO . .".C I z ?VJ Cn • •! -wur • ' M' VKu .T TJ :**-K J'- “•^7 » * r Wi TOWNSHIP : aZ. f .1 fcl*. - zji .s iTt .•r A* • r* ^'2.^ L* -4 c t' / Trojan junior setter Tealy Cross puts a pass up during her team’s dual with Comstock Park at a trio hosted by the TK varsity volleyball team in Middleville Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed Caledonia Charter Township Ordinance which would amend Section 4.2 of the zoning map, has been posted in the office of the Township Clerk at the Caledonia Charter Township offices, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, for review by the public during Township office hours, and has also been posted on the Township’s website, the address of which is www.caledoniatownship.org. The amending ordinance would rezone two parcels of land. The first parcel of land, commonly known as 6949 Broadmoor Avenue SE, which is currently zoned C-2 General Business District on the eastern portion of the property and zoned R-R Rural Residential on the western portion of the property, would be rezoned SO that a portion of the western property would also be rezoned to the C-2 General Business District. The amending ordinance would also rezone lands commonly known as 7005 Broadmoor Avenue SE from its current zoning of the eastern portion of the property being zoned in the C-2 General Business District and the western portion of the property currently zoned in the R-R Rural Residential District, so that the entire parcel would be zoned in the C-2 General Business District. The above-stated ordinance was considered by the Caledonia Charter Township Board on a first reading at a public meeting of the Township Board held on September 4, 2024 and is expected to be considered on second reading by the Township Board at a public meeting on September 18, 2024. This notice is given in accordance with the Charter Township Act and is authorized by action taken by the Caledonia Charter Township Board. Joni Henry, Township Clerk Caledonia Charter Township i ♦ ♦ I �% A. •< < f A A I 4. * V % « x.* ' *?• I K ■ X •>' ♦ ■=^ Ik *'---- r > • M Ml I, I^B* I K •e* J4rt « ■H r V, f 4 1 K I fc' «: X « * 1 V t I > i « 4 4 s 1* • >w^ >u «v *•/ • •*** 8 ‘WUi t:—. A ta i "a < • \ *^v* A. . A x* . » ' Ws A 1» 1 < X I * '* 1 A I J < Sfi--- • • « .,- a \ t> I. r» t XL -) -H f X J_ X ■ t i •.r J 5^^ 20 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 14, 2024 , ! =h V’j I • rc www.sunandnews.com 1 •" r b 'A Ii ? . <•’ 7 T* Ly'jv I K £4:^ I A• >*^<*. «i J DUALS I ■ w- ► r 4,^ * X e . t Ms . / ,r .I r I' tSl' I •- . <«. s ^1 ll 2 »•, ’•S'! * 5r .t*.' ■& Caledonia sophomore Sophomore Brecken Byrd (18) fights for position as Mona Shores sophomore Jordan Webster (17) gets his head on a loose ball in the first half at Scotland Yard Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer SCOTS Continued from Page 16 While the Scots got a morale boost oftheir own on the field Tues­ day against Mona Shores, they’ve been doing their best to boost their community lately too. The Scots are taking turns refereeing AYSO games in Caledonia throughout the fall and CHS players took time out this week to read to kindergarteners at Emmons Lake Elementary. River VB end '<iS **9. a-r^ . \ Yoga for all levels New Local Students Get ONE WEEK FREE 269-512-5039 218 W. Main St., Middleville, 49333 rbyogastudios.com f * at. 4» 5 * I b-; 7^ • « .'■f 'iff ■ ? / I ► iv,-vx^ jy V *1 k. 4 .« -.*1 H> * f i I ihbiKu z Va' J throughout the match. In the dual with Grand Rap­ ids Union Monday, the Red Hawks forfeited three flights. Nichols took a 6-3,6-0 victory over Union’s Anish Kulkarni. All six TK wins on the court came in straight sets. TK got a 6-1, 6-1 win from Aidan Dudik over Nigal Doyle at second singles. At third singles, TK’s Franklin Wilkinson outscored Dominik Laminga 6-1, 6-3. The top two Trojan doubles teams swept to double-bagel victories, 6-0, 6-0. Brady Laven and Layne Schilthroat got the win at number one for TK and Cole Novak and Evan Liu took the second doubles win. 4 s ...f* Continued from Page 18 . > «Mi»aM«i|i » I «- r*4* V. J C •V • « »’ !£ ‘n rf ■A '4 b H 4 v?i •M ?« 1 V b ^•*pi I. z I ' "♦? i f ".-f: L n r*^: 9 A' /A a s *1 >4 ■ I iV * **;• - A* :Z I > ,1 t *1: ♦ . C »i. * -rt % r ♦♦ J. H* Vv. ... 1 t, ^4 4? 9 - r f •d T 1 -^1- - . I p*< A n 6 ■ ^;r i •*jM I 4- ll< / « n » -*x- ' -k '•• . .■^-»r 1^ « i w Z PM V 9 k A k. X » j i r al -9 w rt CT J C*< ■’IF** A* Ar. . • »' * /'Ta .r *v a 4 le .•S. b* 4 '.T^ A I • t 4 4 C^B ■ik a J .j,ir ^2 .r -1 4 * *I I ' I e s I •4 •I .Ab fcp Tu a K b— M 4 I «»^ . MV*- -t’i I •Sf I > • I. r < _____________ •7 0^’rKi^^A*^ •s K" . ^.V I M J. ■< I -X ■< 6 U.. ■ «• V :i£* > •r * i I a * v * r’-A- X ..uK. x- ^1 « X 5. •- » 0- r > » k * 4 •x f X A » * 4 « « •> ** I a X X » I ■ h*:**?’ 4 > A f .n 1 »«> * *• * % ?!• ' k p r V IV b * e> -% £ s t 0 f I 9 X 4 > } ► » « » > » *' • •->- '. .• 4 4 1 *• < TK freshman Graham Eden stretches out to hit a forehand volley back at the fourth doubles team from Wayland as his Trojan teammate, junior Mark Gielincki, looks on from the baseline during their team’s OK Gold Conference win over the visiting Wildcats in Middleville. Photo by Brett Bremer 4 R .' -.1 J CHS boys finish in 4-4 deadlock with Reeths-Puffer tennis team Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ ten­ nis team finished in a 4-4 draw with Reeths-Puffer in an OK Green Conference dual Wednesday at Caledonia High School. Out of the eight matches, three were decided in three sets and two of the two-set wins were 6-4, 6-4 contests between the two evenly matched squads. Caledonia’s lone singles vic­ tory on the day was a three-setter. Malte Fischer was bested 6-4 by the Rockets’ Adam Miller in the opening set at number four. Fischer rallied for 6-0, 6-1 wins in the final two sets to pick up the point for his team though. Caledonia also got a three-set win in an extended third-set tiebreaker from the third doubles team of Will VanderWeele and Derick Prichard. The Rockets got the early lead in that one with a 6-2 win in the open­ ing set. The Caledonia duo surged for a 6-3 win in set two and then J •it I outscored the Rockets 8-6 in a tie­ breaker at the end of the third set. Isaac Robotham and Quinn Stanley took a 6-2, 6-1 win at second doubles for Caledonia over Reeths-Puffer’s Adam Schrumpf and Henrik Ketner. At fourth doubles, the Caledonia team of Neal Hargrav3e and Cooper Sowerby outscored Reeths-Puffer’s Preston Singleton and Kaden Marshal 6-4, 6-4. In the singles line-up, the Rockets had Ethan Frang best the Scots’ Colin Martin 6-3, 6-2 at number one; Quin Alderink top Garrett Fales 6-3, 6-1; and Cory Judd outscore Hudsen Derengowski 6-4, 6-4. The Scots are now 0-1-1 in OK Green duals so far this fall. Byron Center took an 8-0 win over the Caledonia team in Byron Center Monday. The talented Bulldogs only gave up a few games all afternoon. Caledonia took third at its own Caledonia Invitational last Saturday, Sept. 7. Grandville won the day’s title with 23 points ahead of Vicksburg 14, Caledonia 12 and Wayland 5. Fischer won the fourth singles flight with three tough victories. He split sets with his foes from Wayland and Grandville and had to win super tiebreakers to pull out those victo­ ries. The Scots’ fourth doubles team of Hargrave and Sowerby was also 3-0 to win its flight. The Scots saw one former OK Red Conference foe Saturday and faced off against another last Thursday, Sept. 5, taking a 6-3 win over the East Kentwood Falcons. Fisher took the fourth singles flight and five Caledonia doubles teams won matches. West Larson and Luke Atheam at first doubles took a 6-1, 6-2 win. Robotham and Stanley at second doubles and Quinn Cook and Russell Grandon at number five for Caledonia split sets with the Falcons and then pulled out super tiebreaker victories for the doubles’ sweep. VanderWeele and Prichard took the third doubles win against East Kentwood and Hargrave and Sowerby won at number four. I •<a A' r 1 r CM rs rx I■ » h Z z (X CL s u. (/> >. eO *a o c •c Ql. V <1 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-09-21.pdf 7abd2361fb9a7f108febf3fa6e775dc7 PDF Text Text I f r I I Ji n 1 I si*- GATOR DIVE WJN BVO EVENTS AT INVITATIONA • 5 • \,^^s , 1.. AND NEWS /J * spsper Se^^ira * I A * k r* w- « Caiedc r^. ia a>nes iQwnst-ap fire r X ■t-ljf t' NO. 24 ‘W ‘A SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2024 * Longtime Caledonia farmer named CHS honored alum, to be recognized at Calapalooza celebration A longtime farmer in the Caledonia area has been named Caledonia High School’s honored alumnus for this year. Gerald Kayser, who graduated from CHS in 1943, will be honored Friday night during the Caledonia Education Foundation’s annual Calapalooza event in the parking lot of Ralph E. Meyers Football Stadium. CEF raises funds for grants that support teachers, staff and students in Caledonia Community Schools. Gerald Max Kayser of Pleasant Acres Farm is a prominent farmer, entrepreneur, and Caledonia community member. He has lived all of his 98 years on or near the farmland that his parents acquired in 1912 from Charles Defray. The family and farm are both significant parts of Caledonia history. The fifth of six children, Gerald was bom on April 20, 1926 to Max, a German immigrant and I - I / www.sunan<5news?c6m 7 ________ - !• I* 1 /> Nora, a young school teacher. Their decision to settle into a career of farming on the 80 acres near the comer of 100th Street and East Paris Avenue influenced Gerald’s journey of lifelong farming. Gerald attended the one-room Defray School, located right next to his home, through fifth ’ grade and then middle and high school in the building that used to be located where the current stadium parking lot is today. Later in life, Gerald bought the property where the Defray school resides and in 1990 Gerald generously gifted the Detray school to the Gaines Township Historical Society. During his school years, he played drums in the band, had his share of chores, and helped raise cucumbers and strawberries. Gerald enjoyed being involved with the Future Farmers of America (FFA) which helped I I . 5 . • y- I S5Z Io 55 - • - fl:' V T •I' I ll iq scssicvi' C^rlo^c Deiitu/ tecc/kr t 4 ■SS-hy sd^ t>rq de^-pn’iaaf sJjxi csqitructed * I sT P5? - 5c I QC,Q. E I1 k Cl/e- I ,4* 5 Ft"- C.TC 4 Pi^Q' x \u. b k r I /• U' ■ - Ctk7>'> w«' Aj - ” ' "^W ¥ I> J »- . C*w L I cXa.f KaliyOerala 9 •J. f' I % Jk t I c cU"#^ M. •T •••* L .1 •> k '7 *• J s *4» J J 1 r 1. 1 * ii ‘fl. • Gerald Kayser of Pleasant Acres Farm, a prominent farmer, entrepreneur, and Caledonia community member, attended the one-room Defray School, located right next to his home, through fifth grade. Later in life, he bought the property where the Defray school resides and in 1990 he gifted the school to the Gaines Township Historical See FARMER on 3 Society. Photo provided Community donor to provide new scoreboard for TK stadium Greg Chandler Staff Writer Bob White Stadium in Middleville is about to get a major scoreboard upgrade, thanks to a community donor. Thomapple Kellogg Schools have secured a donor that will provide funding for a new scoreboard system at the stadium that will include a video screen. The district’s Board of Education Monday approved the fabrication and installation of the new Daktronics scoreboard at a cost not to exceed $308,320. Choice Concrete will cover the full cost of the project. Assistant Superintendent Chris LaHaie said. “The donation agreement waaa has been prepared and signed uawoisna TvuNsaisau by both parties,” LaHaie told the school board. ’^£e#j!LUjad The project will initially be paid for out of TK’s capital '9||!AuaaJ0 « projects fund, with Choice Concrete to be reimbursed in three equal increments. The first reimbursement would be made this month, w ith subsequent reimbursements in March of next year and January 2026, LaHaie said. Commitments are also in place for donations of steel pillars, concrete and an electrical update to support the new scoreboard, which would be installed in the early spring of next year, LaHaie said. The new scoreboard will provide opportunities for sponsors to purchase advertising, as well as for students in high school digital media classes to provide content for the video screen, LaHaie said. Named for the Hall of Fame coach who directed the TKHS varsity football program from 1962 to 1980, Bob White Stadium hosts football and soccer games as well as track meets. It also is where high school commencement exercises are typically held. ■ 9 —f > a «r «Um AKMQA tUM* M<HO» •*W«I 9 ... * < F r >< I i 'TS. 4b * «■ w f I I Ll laajaNS I 4 » I I jut 1 »• to J 1 ? 1 C * ? AMCMM ( I AMCmM 3 «*t 3 $MM$ 3«ii 4 amcmm IM 4 I J IJ ■r. ri .5 9 U ’* j > •>* •Y a.’ r * A. 4 1 F** \\ w *4 » PT.^i r:«4 € Li* IM T/* I « .e A S; SSMa33 eC98r in ‘aoiAUMJO OW^ogod 8€88> VfHTn ■'■' —II—-'-->> 'V '< A rendering of what a new scoreboard with video screen will look like in Bob White Stadium. Rendering provided aivd 39VlSOd s n ais iSHd > I. i V I s '•>1 I V ri / t I* A •v �\ * 2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 Caledonia Twp. planners approve Corewell outpatient clinic Greg Chandler Staff Writer Corewell Health has been given the go-ahead to break ground on a 13,225-square-foot outpatient medical center in the northwest-most portion of Caledonia Township. The township Planning Commission Monday voted 6-0 to approve a site plan and special land use for the endoscopy clinic at 4910 60th St. SE, at the southeast comer of 60th and Patterson Avenue. The 20.6-acre property is zoned for highway commercial use, and outpatient medical clinics are an allowable special land use in that zoning area. Township Plan­ ner Lynee Wells said. While it is a medical facility. Wells said the new clinic shouldn’t have a serious impact on traffic usage or stormwater runoff in the 60th and Patterson area. “Because this is an outpatient clinic, you’re not Yankee Springs to survey residents for master plan update use in the future. The Township Board on Sept. 12 gave commissioners the go-ahead to proceed with the 15-question survey as part of the township’s master plan update. The approval included the printing and mail­ ing of 2,400 postcards to residents at a cost not to exceed $2,000. “It’s one of the avenues (we want to use) to get some public input,” Planning Commission Chairwoman Shana Bush Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Yankee Springs Township Plan­ ning Commission wants to hear from residents about what they would like to see in the township in the way of land //ADEPTSEPTIC SER VICES Free Quote ©Competitive Pricing O24-Hour Service ©Licensed & Insured going to see the emergency services or emergency room type of frequency of ambulances or care that’s needed,” she said. As a condition of approval, planning commission­ ers are requiring Corewell to install an 8-foot-wide non-motorized pathway along 60th from Patterson to M-37, and to provide a pedestrian and bicycle crosswalk at M-37 that will lead to the Michigan Department of Transportation park-n-ride lot on 60th, east of the highway. The recommendation for the path is consistent with both the township master plan and the Four Comers Plan, as 60th and Patterson is where Caledonia, Cascade and Gaines townships meet with the city of Kentwood at the same comer. “This is similartohow we addressed the crosswalk at Circle K, and also the Meijer/Taco John’s area. They were also required to do their crosswalk on M-37,” Wells said. SEPTIC PUMPING, CLEANING, TANK REPLACEMENT, SYSTEM INSTALLATIONS 10% OFF NEW CUSTOMER COUPON ADEPT SEPTIC SERVICES 888-800-1472 I I I I I I Hastings, Middleville, Caledoni^ Battle Creek, Grand Rapids, Grand Ledge, and surrounding areas. adeptseptic.com Contact 888^0-1472 MDOT has agreed to improve the traffic signal at 60th and M-37 with pedestrian accommodations if connecting routes are built in the fall of2025, Town­ ship Engineer Todd Boerman wrote in a memo to the Planning Commission. A 5-foot-wide sidewalk will also be installed along Patterson, south from 60th. Project civil engineer Whitney Pizzala ofKalamazoo-based AR Engineering expressed concern about requiring the crosswalk on M-3 7. But Planning Commission Chairman Doug Curtis was unfazed. “We’re pretty non-negotiable on pathways,” Cur­ tis said. “We make everyone do it.” The clinic is expected to have 35 employees, and will have 69 parking spaces, according to township planning documents. said of the survey. “We’ll do the survey, and then the intent is to also do some in-person public input and have an open house-type meeting for people to come in and talk about what they’d like to see in the township.” Yankee Springs last updated its master plan in 2019, Bush said. The postcards that will go out include a link to the to'wnship website as well as a QR code that can be scanned to take residents directly online to the survey. The survey includes a question on how important certain characteristics are that make Yankee Springs a desirable place to live, such as recreation opportunities, natural resources, mral character, and fire and police services, according to township documents. Other questions will include whether residents support limitations on farm­ land being turned into residential areas, whether the township should place greater priority on maintaining and enhancing the township park or acquir­ ing and developing new park sites, and what type of new retail and service businesses residents would like to see in Yankee Springs, according to township documents. “It seems to me that master plans give you a sense of what the community wants,” said Township Supervisor Rob Heethuis, who has attended several recent planning commission meetings as the survey was being put together and had a chance to review the survey questions. “You certainly get a sense of what people want.” Township Clerk Mike Cunningham expressed skepticism that a majority of Yankee Springs residents will respond to the survey. “When I looked at it and read it, I got a sense that this is what some ofthe people said they wanted not all, not a maj ority in the township and that’s the main thing I don’t like about surveys that are used to develop policy or to influence policymakers,” Cunningham said. The board voted 4-1 to move ahead with the survey, with Cunningham dissenting. Responses to the survey must be sub­ mitted no later than Oct. 3. THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US Editor: Jayson Bussa Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Advertising: Vs . ..x- I p t JL Group jayson@j-adgraphics.com ads@j-adgraphics.com e PUBLISHED BY til* PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertisirig in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order . I ' I. . I <; V. 1 J �r / www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS FARMER and more efficient ways. There was no internet to simply search topics on milking processes or what type of seed to plant. Two fellow farmers, Elton Smith and Jerry Good, gave Gerald advice on the best crops to plant and animal husbandry. One of the biggest challenges farmers face is unpredictable weather. Gerald recalls many years, such as 1988, when it was so dry that the crops were poor and money was lost. Farmers also work around the clock taking care of animals and harvesting. Gerald is grateful for more modem tools, machinery, and equipment as he recalls the time and effort it took to cut down trees with a two-man saw before chain saws were available. Purchasing a tractor made working the fields much easier and more efficient. Many local boys worked on the Kayser farm over the years, including his children and grandchildren. They worked hard, learned a good work ethic and watched as Gerald ran the farm. He taught them how to save money and be frugal. He took good care of his workers, including sharing good farm meals prepared by his wife, Maxine. Gerald took the time to mentor other stmggling farmers. Over the years, it was not unusual for smaller farmers to come to him for help with their failing farms. Consequently, many of these young men went on to own their own farm or business due to his influence. Dale Clement, who was an employee for 25 years, recalls, “I learned a great work ethic working for Gerald on the farm. He was loving, caring, generous and kind. I have no regrets.” A strong faith and faithful church attendance has been central to Gerald’s successful life. His family attended St. Paul Lutheran Church where Gerald was baptized at the age of 4 and confirmed at the age of 16. His faith Continued from Page 1 I t t\ \ s* ik 4 I Ik s I influence his interest in farming. His knowledgeable agriculture teacher was a mentor to Gerald and challenged him to find better, more efficient ways of farming, such as purchasing a wheelbarrow to carry manure, rather than hauling it out of the bam with pitch forks. Gerald also suggested buying a milking machine to increase the number of cows that could be milked in a shorter time. Building a milk house enabled more milk to cool and be sold in bulk. On June 3, 1943, Gerald, along with 44 other students, graduated from Caledonia High School. Gerald farmed with his dad, who expanded the farm to 125 acres. He received a deferment from World War II in 1944 to stay home and farm for our country. Gerald rented land from his dad and bought a John Deere tractor, a combine, and a com picker. A few years later, on Aug, 11, 1948, Gerald married a young lady from the CHS class of 1945. Maxine Lois Clement from the nearby neighboring town of Dutton became his lifelong partner. They took over the operations of the farm and his parents retired. The couple had three children — Paul, Kathy, and Doris from 1951 to 1956. The farming was done with family members and several employees. Gerald took great pride in cleaning up and improving his land, which enabled the farm to progress over the years. While working with alfalfa, soybeans, wheat, com, and oats, his stellar crops earned numerous awards. At its peak, Gerald worked 1,000 acres that he owned. He started with 10 cows but the herd grew as more improved ways of milk production were incorporated. Milking parlors were built and a 2,500-gallon bulk tank was installed in 1980. (rr HA a i The dairy herd grew to 250 cows. Gerald was driven to be financially successful so he could Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers pay the bills, provide for his family, and buy • Cellular Enhancement Systems better farm equipment. Give us a call! Farming has its IC ,ffsu,sSaK challenges. Gerald was 269-967-8241 V3 G* J cell CW) www.theantennamen.com a progressive thinker SIGN^ antennamen@gmail.com who looked for better www.cellsi9nalpro$.com ! AntcAdo Men in Jesus Christ grew from an early age and affected all aspects of his life. “My dad has been a great role model for me and showed me how to be a Christian example in the community,” his daughter Kathy said. Gerald served as the church treasurer and his young family served together counting the church offering for a number of years. He’s continued as a faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church for all of his life. Many family members were invested in the business over the years and aided in making it a success. Together in 2015, Gerald and his family celebrated 100 years of Pleasant Acres Farm becoming a Michigan Centennial Farm, a recognition from the Historical Society of Michigan. Gerald is proud of his faithful and loyal marriage to Maxine for 73 years until she passed away in November 2021. He was thankful they had a good life together and were able to enjoy many special vacations. Their three children, five ^andchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren are all very special blessings who gleaned character traits from the way Gerald lived his life. k K 6R1LLE 4 S AR Polish Dinner I Friday, October 4^*^ only Dinner begins at 4:00pm 4--- I 1^^ MA; I J' , « k k t' AM* 1 1 is J* I ( fc‘ I 4' 00 DINNER INCLUDES: Cabbage Roll Polish Kielbasa Kapusta Red Potatoes Pierogies Rye Bread *» c • « X?' . -■ * I ■ GET YOUR POLISH ON AT THE HAWK!!! FOLLOW US ON 1 Nighthawkfoodcatering.com 6950 WHITNEYVILLE RD. ALTO • 868-6336 facebook : I A ♦ % A 3 Having generations of family living close is a rarity these days and Gerald does not take that for granted. “Grandpa taught me what hard work and dedication looks like,” said Andrew Kayser, Gerald’s great grandson. In his retirement, Gerald still enjoys traveling and loves to visit the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. He gardens and does puzzles. Many mornings, you can find him meeting friends for breakfast at the local restaurants. He also spends time mowing his large lawn or driving around his property on his John Deere Gator. You can see Gerald Kayser Friday in the homecoming parade at 5 p.m. and at the 2024 Honored Alumnus award presentation at 6:10 p.m. He will also be honored at halftime of the 7 p.m. football game between the Fighting Scots and West Ottawa High School. The public is invited to this free community event featuring food trucks, kids activities, sponsor booths, and a pep rally. For full event information on Calapalooza, visit caledoniacef.org/ calapalooza. I Antenna Men * Saturday, September 21,2024 I �* 4 4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 www.sunandnews.com 1 t Middleville DDA board agrees to split cost for mediator for upcoming session with council Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Middleville Downtown De­ velopment Authority board Tuesday agreed to split with the village the cost of a mediator who will be present for an upcoming joint meeting between that board and the Village Council. With only four of the current six members of the DDA board present, the board voted 4-0 to contribute 50 percent of the cost for the mediator, up to the $1,525 available in a DDA budget line item for conferences. The council is expected to vote next Tuesday on whether to contribute the remaining half of the cost. On Sept. 9, the Village Council vot * ed 5-2 to set up a joint meeting of the council and the DDA board to discuss issues between the two entities. The meeting was suggested in response to a proposal by Village President Mike Cramer to disband the DDA board and replace it with the village planning commission. The joint meeting had been origi- LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY • • Caledonia United Methodist Church Rev. CRrixiine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship cornerstonechurch Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am BAPTIST ISdiddleville * Sunday Service 10:30 AM service, in person or online, at 9;00 am. 6I6-K9I-8669 CalcdoniaUMC org 250 Vine Street I .ivcMlrcam; racebook.ooni/CaicdoniaUnitcdMcthodi^^l Serving Sfrt 'ngth ening Connecting 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend .'I t 9 I a]! •I-** Livestream: facebook.com/firstbapt istmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages •com Church: (269) 795-2391 J HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH A \ JOURNEY ) CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Caledonia Location 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am m MPEACE CHURCH * I f ****"^*^* * / ■r 1 PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee Sunday Worship: 8:50 a.m, & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www,stpauicaledoniax)rg THORNAPPLE VALLEY Yankee Springs Bible Church CHURCH 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 MIDDLEVILLE e Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30am & 11 Warn 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb com Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM iw Watch our services from our website (see above) 5 "Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.............. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankcespringsbiblcchurch. org nally scheduled for the next regularlyscheduled DDA board meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 15. However, mediator Marilynn Semonick cannot attend that night, so DDA Director Gretchen James and Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg are trying to find an alter­ nate date, most likely in late October, when Semonick will be able to attend^ “The DDA and the village council and a lot of other parties worked with her earlier this year to build the vil­ lage strategic plan. She provided us with some dates in October (where she would be available),” James said. “Craig and I want to convene with everyone to see what (date) would work best.” The dates Semonick would be available are Oct. 26, 27, 29 and 30. Emails are being sent to DDA board and council members asking for which dates they prefer, James said. In addition, James and Stolsonburg are asking for a 1 ist ofthe pros and cons of maintaining a separate DDA board for purposes ofthe upcoming meeting. “We’d like to have it beforehand so that we can prepare adequate materials (for) that meeting,” James said. Cramer, who sits on the DDA board, was absent from Tuesday night’s meet­ ing. He was one of the two council members who voted against setting the joint meeting, saying at the time, “I think it’s a bad idea. I think we’re prolonging the inevitable.” Under Public Act 57 of 2018 y a municipality of less than 5,000 residents may designate its planning commis­ sion to be the DDA board. However, Village Attorney Mark Nettleton wrote in a memo earlier this month that the village council would have to pass an ordinance to make that designation. Cramer claims the DDA board has failed to live up to its responsibilities to encourage economic development downtown, saying the planning com­ mission has done a much better job in that capacity. He has also battled several council members over ap­ pointments to the DDA board, which currently has three vacant positions. 1 �bh 1. 1 I J 4 www.sunandnews.com Classifieds € THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21, 2024 Middleville ODA honors two for train depot tours at Heritage Days nn^--- -------------- Greg Chandler Staff Writer « K-: * Hl TREE SERVICE \ • '4 I t I I I » J ? i t buying all HARDWOODS: Walnut, Oak, Hard MapI©, Cherry Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. I HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. PETS 9 WEEK OLD KITTEN. Grey with black spots and stripes. Shy but sweet and playful. Needs a forever home. FREE. 269-331-7242. DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE - Friday, Sep­ tember 27, 9am-5pm. Saturday, September 28, 9am-12pm. 11875 Jackson Rd., Middleville. House­ hold, clothes, vintage, lots of misc. No burning allowed in Barry as dry weather persists As the sun and unseasonably warm temperatures continue to bake Barry County, residents have been asked to hold off on burning brush and yard debris. This time of year is typically ide­ al for cleaning up yards and burning the debris, but because there has been no measurable rainfall for the entire month of September, local departments are asking residents to avoid burning yard debris and will not be issuing bum permits for the time being. The ban as in place as of late this week. Camp and cooking fires are still permitted. 5 The Middleville Downtown Devel­ opment Authority Tuesday honored two local residents for their recent work presenting tours ofthe village’s historic train depot. Don Williamson and Richard Ashley gave tours ofthe former Michigan Cen tral Railroad depot during the village’s Heritage Days celebration on Aug. 24. The two shared the story of the depot and the railroad that served Middleville for so many years. It was one ofthe ma­ jor highlights of the daylong festival. “(They) put in a lot of time, energy and money into one of the projects that the DDA has been working on,” DDA Director Gretchen James said. “As you know, we’ve been restoring the train depot, both on the interior and the ex­ terior. We’ve invested a lot ofour funds into it, in order to bring it to life, and bring new purpose to a building that’s been a cornerstone of this community for a long time.” James’ voice cracked momentarily with emotion as she went on to de­ scribe Williamson’s contributions to the depot. “Don grew up in Middleville, and he grew up riding the train, and has shared so many stories about it. It’s really been cool working with you I’ve read so much (about the depot), and I’ve just appreciated everything you’ve put into this project,” she said. Ashley is James’ step-grandfather. “He found out about this project, and he had so many pieces from the original MCRR collection that was his own passion project that he had previously worked on ... to keep things like this alive in other communities. He stepped up and donated so many cool original artifacts to this museum,” James said. James and DDA board Chairwoman Kim Jachim presented Williamson and Ashley with small plaques thanking them for their work. “I think (their work) is a testament to the statement that it takes a village,” James said. The depot was built in 1906 and was named to the National Parks Service’s National Register of Historic Places in April 2022. It has undergone nearly $96,000 worth of repairs and restora tion work, performed by Hastings based Vintage Building & Restoration, w «■ 4 i i K * I ♦ V. %W| C-* * ♦ t 7,- . * J i 4 X.•4 A i;V*^**' >1 -n •A i 4^. a * C t’ * • -T-’; 1.« 9^ * T z Lt ♦. 4> •• f >b 1^' « ► iS’ts 5S’ 1 •J 4’1 W-3 K i . 1 •"2: “Sfe* e* I n ■ > £ 1 L -.'=v r* Middleville DDA Director Gretchen James presents Don Williamson with a 3^ appreciation for his work on the recent train depot tours, which he A Village’s Heritage Days celebration. DDA Chairwoman Kim Jachim (right) looks on. Photo by Greg Chandler over the last couple of years. Passenger train service to Mid­ dleville was discontinued in 1959, and freight service ended in 1972’ The MCRR tracks were abandoned in 1983. After several decades of private ownership, Thomapple Township ac­ quired the depot in 2002. The village of Middleville acquired the depot from the township in 2017. r k cornerstone church * we re casual, come as you are ' T . I .’ IkZ ’t: One Church • Three Locations Caledonia | Grand Rapids I Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! ■ □U 5= Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! •• r' , I �► [ I 6 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 1 I I I I » Cal schools seek bids for stadium renovation, approve new lighting A. . Greg Chandler Staff Writer The stadium that is affectionately known as “The Ralph” is getting a makeover. The Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education Monday approved the awarding of contracts for new LED-based lighting to be installed at Ralph E. Meyers Football Stadium. The board voted to award the contract for the lighting project to Iowa-based Musco Sports Lighting in the amount of $282,259. CCS Superintendent Dirk Weeldrey er also announced that bids for the rest of the stadium renovation opened this week to interested contractors. Bids for the project are due Oct. 8, and it’s expected that recommendations on bid awards will be presented to the board at its Oct. 21 meeting, Weeldreyer said. “Construction then will be scheduled to start immediately after the conclu­ sion of the 2024 football season,” Weeldreyer said. “We hope that we’re hosting playoff games. If we don’t, that t -ar. I .•w LV • •K.! .1 * w * k s * I v TX 2^* A. ft I ’S V. would be a week or two quicker head start on (the project). “It is a very tight construction time­ line. I think it’s giving our construction management firm a few ulcers as they try to think about getting everything sequenced well to get everything ready Take the next step to a better paying job! * .5’. ■ I. ■ • I. k r L.J'- •i ’■.A' 5. . I Zb •. z •• r *J 1 ’ ** 1 . IHpi 'A- '3r>. I 4 1 I I • i A AT J -V 1 4 ft Ik ' c• a:r * V •» Ji . .. . /■I V ■1^ A PLUS: Ask us if you qualify for Trade Assistance Act benefits! 4 1 Jv n for the 2025 football season. The stadium project, which has an estimated cost of $6.5 million, was made possible by approval of the May 2023 bond issue by district voters. It includes new bleachers on both the home and visitor sides of the field and a new press box. The current bleach­ ers are at least 30 years old, and must be removed before the new stadium lighting is installed, Weeldreyer said. “When this construction is happen ing, we have very limited access to the poles. So the new lights need to go up as soon as those bleachers come down, and they can get trucks in there to get the lights on the poles,” the superin tendent said. While the stadium is getting new lights, the existing poles that support the lights will remain, Weeldreyer said. The stadium renovation also will inelude new jjedestrian walkways, a new spectator entrance on the south side, expanded concession and bathroom facilities, a new team room on the south side, a new north building that includes a team room as well as training and officials rooms, a new concrete stepped area on the south bank near the flagpole and an expanded area for field events north of the stadium, Weeldreyer said. We are not increasing a single seat (m terms of bleacher size), and yet we Will essentially be tripling our toilet tacihties (to meet code),” Weeldreyer said. There will also be a major in­ crease in the capability of the conces * i’J Trade Adjustment Assistance I A view of Ralph E. Meyers Football Stadium following the installation of synthetic turf in 2023. File photo by Brett Bremer I F3 J & '> • • A t I ^MTCHIGAN Learn about free: • Computer skills training • Career coaching • Job search services X. 1 ' -’’Ar. f f’ Call 1-800-285- WORK (9675) or visit westmiworks.org/job-seekers/ Ml sion stand, doubling the number of sales windows.” Because of the stadiiun project, no home meets will be held next spring for either the high school or middle «!P.hnnl school track teams, Weeldreyer said. “The current arrangement will be al lowing them to be able to practice, but we will not be having any home track events in the spring because there will be no bleachers,” the superintendent said. The first phase ofthe stadium renova­ tion took place last year, when the new turf surface was installed in time for the 2023 football season. The project brought Caledonia in line with compet­ ing schools in the 0-K Red Conference. * J YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors and our future. I I 4 • • • ! I VlEv^r Group Your Community Connection I �I www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Caledonia village considers alternate site for EV charging station I Saturday, September 21, 2024 J Greg Chandler staff Writer k hi k I r «r* ■ ‘Si 'iA; e"" h •s I :S: 1: 4 * 1 ft * M- r<'. 'f. ?- k. 4 c i OUR COMPANY IS GROWING DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY i 5 The village of Caledonia is taking a second look at having a charging sta­ tion for electric vehicles. And that may include consideration of an alternate location for the charging station than the originally-proposed site behind Village Hall. The Village Council last month on a 4-3 vote rejected a recommenda­ tion from former Interim Manager Lisa Segard to have the ChargePoint EV charging station installed behind Village Hall. The council resumed discussions on the proposal last week. Village President Jennifer Lindsey floated the idea of having a charging station installed at the Caledonia Vil­ lage Center along M-37. “I think potentially that maybe we could partner with D&W (the shop­ ping center’s anchor tenant) and put it there,” Lindsey said. “I think it would get more use out on M-37 than in the village parking lot.” The village had looked at having two Level 2 charging ports installed behind Village Hall, with incentives from Consumers Energy to offset a portion of the cost. The village was eligible for a $7,500 community charging rebate from the utility for installation of the charging station because of its loca­ tion within three blocks of at least one multifamily housing development, and possibly a second rebate of $10,000 for infrastructure upgrades to accom­ modate the project. “I‘think having a charging station anywhere in Caledonia is going to bring people to Caledonia,” Council Trustee Gerrianne Schuler said. “I don’t own an electric vehicle, but I know people who (do) and specifically go to those places because there are charging stations. We’ve got to start looking forward for Caledonia. I know they’re not as popular as people think, but I do think electric vehicles are in our future. If we can get in front ofthis, that’s something that can bring people to Caledonia.” Schuler expressed concern about not taking advantage of the Consumers Energy rebates to have the charging station installed at Village Hall. But Lindsey said that perhaps someone else 4 - B We Hiring *t e- *y •* ' . A ► A •' aL “> * •- -r Is 4- I 1 <! V r- -1ft » * • ‘i. ■ 1 I I V- ■^.' 10 »1 • -1 » w*» •’T f A; r I* I J 4 V• . 4 ar A Marketing Specialist rw.3. 'J ;5=r^\ Responsibilities include: Caledonia Village Council continues to mull installing an EV charging station and its potential location. The station would be similar to this one, which is located in Middleville. Photo • Advertising sales • Account management • Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts • Attend networking events by Greg Chandler can work with the village if the station is at the Caledonia Village Center. “I would ... like a partnership where that partner would pick up that $ 10,000 that we would miss out on the (Con­ sumers) grant,” she said. “Ifthe Village Station (condominiums) count as a multifamily, we may not miss out on that $ 10,000. It may cost us even less because we would then get the $ 10,000, plus then we would have a partner.” The estimated cost of installing the charging stations at Village Hall, fac­ toring in the first Consumers rebate, was $20,929. The council tabled a decision Monday on the charging sta­ tion, with new Village Manager Brian Bennett directed to look into potential project partners as well as determining whether Village Station would qualify as a multifamily housing project for purposes of the Consumers grant. Segard told council members in Au­ gust that the nearest ChargePoint sta­ tion is in the village of Middleville, in the parking lot behind the Village Hall - 6.7 miles away. Two other stations are at Meijer stores 10 miles from the village. There are 184 apartment units See CHARGING on 13 Are you the one? •di*u***^'' >5 i •• ,11 J I Fenton & U ■ f■ I 1 t 1 *9 5 J 9^- I 4 4 V*«^ 4 I A »*k •* * rivt kb A I fl 55 Ovu/* • '‘A** AHU «< ' ‘ iftib .• 1 ,rr I t 2 »▼ ? . T --- ?'• SI kV .« i . -1! ) k'-'-T «■» > k W t • ‘-XJ ? 0A * 19* :.f M A / *> "U- • * «h k )■ f> 5, CJ •A. 1ft 4 **** :4 I ■JI J V .-; -.9^ I Group email wsmith@mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 3 ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer's Guide ■ Jeffersonian ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder M �8 Saturday www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS r/er 21 2024 Cal school board reviews survey results ahead of strategic plan town hall meetings Greo Chandler Stan Writer A» ( aledonia ( ommunitv Schools prepare for two upcoming town hall discussions a.s part of its process of updating its strategic plan, parents, staff and students are oflering their thoughts on the things the district d(x:swell and areas where it could stand to improve. Ihe first of the town hall meetings will be held al 6 p.m, Wednesday in the learning commons of Caledonia High ScIhmiI’s south campus and will focus on Ihe pillars of teaching and learning, and whole child/whole community. I hese are Iwo of the four pillars of the strategic plan that was adopted by the scluM)l board in 2019. We’re refreshing the strategic plan rather than going back from Square ()ne,” Superintendent Dirk Wecldreyer said at Monday’s Board of I ducation meeting. I he four areas that were part of (»ur strategic plan (that) just 44 4 44 wrapped up are really excellent and well-thought out.” Ihe focus behind the refresh is continuous improvement,” building upon the successes of the last five years. Since last spring, CCS has con­ ducted four different surveys, taking in comments from parents, staff and students, to gel a sense of where the district is. More than 3,000 responses were received through the surveys, Wecldreyer said. We feel good about that, and feel it’s a very' good starting point for us, Wecldreyer said. More than 650 Caledonia parents took part in a parent climate and culture sur­ vey last spring, llicy say the district is doing well in terms ofsetting high stands for achievement, with 93 percent of respondents saying they “strongly agree or agree” with that statement. About 92 percent of parents say they strongly agree or agree that teachers work hard to 44 44 44 44 44 WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Residential & Commercial -Gas Furnaces -Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers * "A z ' Ai I ■4t 4 I ► I t 12 ---- J I 4♦ I Me- a. make sure students are doing well, and a similar percentage say they strongly agree or agree their child feels safe at school, according to survey result docu ments supplied by the district. Some areas that saw larger numbers of parents register comments of'“disagree or “strongly disagree” include children being recognized for positive behavior (18.9 percent said they disagreed or strongly disagreed with that statement), school rules being consistently enforced (16.2 percent), staff at the school com­ municating well with parents (17 per­ cent), and school breakfast and lunch options are healthy (31.6 percent). On the latter question, the survey was con­ ducted before the district changed food service contractors in June, switching from Aramark to Chartwells. These are areas we want to particularly look at,” Wecldreyer said. Meanwhi Ie, teachers and other district staff generally feel supported by their peers, as 94.3 percent said they strongly agreed or agreed with that statement. However, 21.5 percent of staff said they disagreed or strongly disagreed that the district’s systems and structures pro­ moted academic success for all students, and 20 percent said they disagreed or strongly disagreed that students in their buildings demonstrated behaviors that allowed teachers to teach and students to learn, according to survey documents. Students took part in a student per­ ception survey that is generally given to students throughout the Kent Interme­ diate School District. The district paid particular attention to responses from students at the high school, Duncan Lake Middle School and Kraft Mead­ ows Intermediate School. CHS students ranked themselves slightly below their KISD peers in 44 44 44 1 1 I ■ A. DeWeerd (68^5 HEATING a AIR CONDITIONING. INC. OEWEERDHTG.COM tenns of feeling they can do well on tests, even if they are hard, with an average score of 3.39 on a 5-point scale to a KISD average score of 3.45. Of the high school students, 46.8 percent said they felt “almost always or “often' they could do well on a test, according to survey documents. On the other hand, DLMS students rated themselves above similar stu­ dents from throughout the ISD, with an average score of 3.75 on a 5-point scale compared to a KISD average of 3.47. About 62 percent of middle school students said they felt “almost always” or “often” they could do well on a test, according to survey documents. When it comes to students caring about the feelings of others, both high schoolers and middle schoolers ranked themselves slightly higher than their KISD peers. About 80 percent of high school studentsand 78 percent ofmiddle schoolers said they “almost always” or “often” think care about the feelings of others, according to survey documents. The second town hall meeting is planned for 6 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 30, in the CHS south campus learning commons, and will address the pillars of organizational coherence/systemic improvement and fiscal sustainability. “These town hall sessions are designed to be open and collaborative, ensuring that every voice in our community is heard,” Wecldreyer said in an earlier news release. “We encourage everyoneto attend one or both of these discussions as we work together to refine and strengthen the direction of our district.” Community members are encour­ aged to RSVP to assist with planning. Find out more about the town hall meetings on the district website at calschools.org. 269-792-2234 ^ncT /».<< < LENNOX A+ 1R The buck stays herel taucT '. . .. c ! X: -.7 Spend it lure. Kmp it hero. Invest In Your Community. ' I -I G rou p '1. �4-. www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21, 2024 9 Gaines trustees set special assessment rate for public safety “ I 1 11 1 I 4 I I James Gemmell Contributing Writer Gaines Township trustees say they are doing the best they can to keep an annual special assessment levy for pub­ lic safety services as low as possible. But for the fourth straight year, the township board voted unanimously at its meeting Sept. 9 to hike the dedi cated levy for fiscal year 2024. That is because the costs of providing public safety in Gaines have escalated in lockstep with the township’s booming population - and the rising number of calls for police, fire and rescue services. No residents spoke at a public hear­ ing that was held during the meeting. The roll-call vote was 6-0 to adopt the Special Assessment District rate. One trustee was absent from the meeting. So many citizens had been speaking out at board meetings in 2021 when the township-wide special assessment district was originally proposed that overflow crowds were spilling out of the board room at the township hall and into the lobby. Most residents a the meetings voiced their opposition to a special assessment being levied rather than putting it to a public vote. In anticipation of another large crowd, the township board met for the first time ever in the South Christian High School auditorium in Oct. 2021, and that is when trustees voted 5-2 to approve the annual special assessment. It was at that meeting nearly three years ago that the board agreed to implement the 15-year adjustable as­ sessment with the maximum allowable levy of 1.5 mills annually. The original levy began at 0.6 mills, generating $600,000 in the first fiscal year, 2021. The township board voted to raise that rate to 0.75 mills for fiscal year 2022, to 1.0 mills for fiscal 2023, and now it is raising the levy to 1.25 mills for the 2024 fiscal year, more than double what it was three years ago. The 1.25 mills will generate about $ 1.6 million for public safety. “That will be on the 2024 tax roll,” Township Treasurer Laurie Lemke said. “The revenues are received next year.” Staff had recommended before Sept. 9’s meeting that the township board increase the special assessment rate to 1.5 mills, but some trustees reminded the board about its promise to residents in 2021 not to raise the rate up to the maximum annual level, if it could be prevented. Given that the average tax­ able value for residential properties in the township is $ 128,000, the proposed 1.5 mill levy would have cost the aver­ age residential property owner about $192 per year. The 1.25 mill rate will, instead, cost about $160 annually. It was Lemke who motioned for the township board to set the public safety assessment at 1.25 mills for the winter tax roll, up from last year’s rate of 1.0 mills but less than the 1.5 mills that township staff was recommending. “When we initiated this special as­ sessment, we did say we were going to do it gradually,” Lemke said. “This kind of keeps it in line with our prom­ ises that were made to our residents ... I just feel like it’s a win for everybody.” Taxable values have gone up by 5 percent each of the past two years. Gaines Township is projecting ex­ penses of $3,507,480 in fire and res­ cue services for fiscal year 2025, and $ 1,428,500 for police services through the Kent County SherifTs Office. Pro­ jected revenue will be about $1.6 mil­ lion from the special assessment levy, with more than $2 million coming from a General Fund transfer, potentially $200,000 from a transfer of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, and $564,000 from Byron Township. On a separate matter, the board voted unanimously to set the township’s operating millage for fiscal year 2024 at 0.8048 mills. That will be reflected on the v/inter tax bill that will go out to residents in December and be due in Feb. 2025. Although it is technically for FY 2024, the millage rate effectively will raise tax revenue for the township’s 2025 budget. The millage rate had been 0.8162 mills the past two years, but it is being rolled back to the lower rate under a provision in the 1978 Headlee Amend ment to the Michigan Constitution. It requires millage rates to be scaled back if the tax base of a local government increases more than the rate ofinflation. The township board also voted 6-0 to approve the $54,736 purchase of a new «■» r -i * L •l • « I '■^7* A A i; . M J i . l"- T| ■ip? A •> L* *s’ I, I . It •l S, *V I > r 2 I. R• The Gaines Township Board discusses the township millage rate and the special assessment rate for public safety during its meeting Sept 9 at the township hall Photo by James Gemmell ’ fire marshal’s vehicle. Additionally, the board approved paying up to $20,000 to retrofit the vehicle with firefighting equipment and accessories. “It will go to an outfitter to be pre­ pared for fire marshal use,” Township Manager Rod Weersing said. The township hired Patrick Quick last month to be its first Deputy Fire Chief of Prevention/Fire Marshal. He had been the fire marshal for the City of Kentwood since Aug. 2021. Earlier this year, the township board authorized changing the fire inspector position to a full-time job. Beginning in January, the Cutlerville and Dutton fire departments will both fall under the new Gaines Charter Township Fire Department moniker, and be known as Stations 1 and 2, respectively. As of July, Byron and Gaines townships no longer jointly operate the Cutleville Fire Department. Gaines is buying Byron’s equity share of the fire station on 68th Street and Byron Township is working on plans to build its own Cutlerville fire station along US-131 north of 68th Street. The township board also voted 6-0 to approve a three-year subscription to purchase software to improve the township website, gainestownship.org. Weersing said the $4,000-a-year pur­ chase will make the meeting agendas more user-friendly. “It’s a more enhanced agenda center to allow people to jump to the specific spots in the agenda they want to see. without having to scroll through many pages of PDF,” Weersing said. The township board will hold a bud­ get workshop meeting Sept. 23 down­ stairs in the township hall. It likely will be scheduled for 5:30 p.m, but that had not been confirmed at press time. ED’S BODY SHOP I CALEDONIA, MICHIGAN Your trusted Body Shop for over 32 years WHY CHOOSE ED’S? I •l * a. t ^•1 >^*/FreTEstim f •.. f Repair all make?TmOTels^W V 1 Staf^of 'th^Art Snisi^Facil^y^ ^tate^& J A I-CXr Certified teehnicidn^ ^TOUCH Computerized’El^tronic Measuring‘‘§ystem•" * 1 • ' Frame Repair I J p K $ a • . »/•' Ku * ■« h A&wc Md. ie/tfottd tfowi ve/tieit tepoMA OPEN: M thru F: 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Lesonal IWBomeSyslem ^MFIB GOPOAS ciaaa 9 no Johnson Street Ed Pawloski Jr. Owner 616.891.0150 www.edsbody.com f �1 r ( X 10 * * t. I s / ri f *b www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21, 2024 Flocks of volunteers tackle projects around Barry County Jayson Bussa Editor Most local charity and non-profit or­ ganizations will tell you that residents in Barry County aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and help out on virtually any day of the year. But for a couple of days a year, they give a little extra oomph. On Thursday and Saturday, the Barry County United Way and Vol­ unteer Center held its annual Day of Caring event, which also kicks off a new fundraising campaign where the organization is striving to raise $800,000. The Day of Caring event, which regularly draws over 500 volunteers, is consistently one of, it not the, larg­ est Day of Caring events in the state. This year was no different as volun­ teers worked to overwhelm projects to benefit various organizations. “I think the coolest thing is, if you were anywhere in Barry County on Thursday, you were likely to see a red ‘Live United’ T-shirt no matter where you went, said Morgan Johnson, director of outreach and community engagement for the Barry County United Way. This year, volunteers sported the same red T-shirts. “It’s always special to see that com munity pride. Whether you were at the library picking weeds or at the Com­ mission on Aging filling shelf-stable meals, I think there is pride. I think when people drive by, they see that. Regardless ofthe number ofpeople we have we could have 50 people and I would still have the same pride as I would have with 500 people.” *W * *<K. to I •• •wrt. \U• I f .1 4.* Ik r 1 w, -.J sr A r* 3l - 1i & I > s: - «* 4, f >2 *4 ♦ 1 • < •i 4 * 4k i*. .A * 1 Day of Caring volunteers work at the Barry County Commission on Aging holding a pop-up produce distribution while also packing 200 boxes of three, shelf-stable meals to be given away. Photos provided Normally for Day of Caring, the United Way provides only volunteers to carry out the needed work. This year, they introduced a mini-grant program, allocating a total of $ 12,000 that orga­ nizations could apply for if they had some expenses tied to their projects. Johnson said that some of the projects may not have been possible without the funding. While the hoards of volunteers logged thousands of hours of labor, Johnson also said there are still a few projects yet to be wrapped up at places like Habitat for Humanity Barry County, Delton Elementary and the Bernard Museum. The United Way will be accepting volunteers to help finish off those projects. Any inter­ ested parties can contact their office. Jon Sporer, CEO and executive di- I. * # Caledonia location H*—-— •*: - i ,7 k -r L ♦ft tf r‘. J I ft fe- •l - y fT X .’*9 «1^ 4 : > F •l .“lai 4 V -f:^ * •> -fL: <. ) A '•^ X 1 f 4 a <3 L xJ r r* * 1 K< '' '«'• •’ a . *to TV >'4. * -•tf’ > .J-K*** •>.. «---MT. n •* r I 'i*? •*' f ■FT* • Xx Ato* 1^'-. J •* € ’^€rx. ■ « k V? •• • • 4 X7 X .v* • r zar eJi •.t F r k'* * « > W s V • FT 4' ■ft I ■s »*. jr » ■J •t A * Z - > J i *** • > w ■ i■ L * I - W1 I *-r' k. J I I « X 4*»' S“ 4r: 5^% t <. Mt 9 Students from Thornapple Kellogg High School work at Camp Algonquin last Thursday as part of the Barry County United Way and Volunteer Center’s annual Day of Caring. FUNERAL • CREMATION • PRE-PLANNING MKD has been a trusted neighbor and advisor for West Michigan families for more than four generations. As a family-owned funeral home, we know how important it is to create a personal experience that honors loved ones. We’re more than funeral directors; we’re trusted friends who serve Grand Rapids area communities with a full array of services to celebrate lives. !*■ I r •* ♦ ■ II * C •.Jt *w ( ♦ 4 < 1 Matthysse | Kuiper | DeGraaf I; Ar-<- / 4 z k* it •r w QBia / 4 •* • *• • Compassion. Care. . O M M U f-- i IT Y. J.■^ rector of the YMCA of Barry Country crunched the numbers. With a steady flow of around 70 volunteers during Day of Caring, volunteers completed work that would have taken two of his own staff members several months to complete. The YMCA had volunteers remov­ ing deck boards from cabins as they prepare to build new ones. All materi­ als will be repurposed by Hammond Hill Disc Golf Course. The YMCA also utilized the mini­ grant program to secure safety glasses, gloves, hammers and a dumpster rental to complete the project. “We don’t have quite as many staff in the offseason so the work those groups completed was such a huge help,” Sporer said. mkdfuneralhome.com 616.724.1800 �J s www.sunandnews.com 4 4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 4 4 * • 11 . kjA 11 I, it*’*' I • . ■ k s ®^Svei*s win two events at invitational kA kI r I u Brett Bremer Sports Editor /I Abigail Dumond and Kaya Bender teamed up to win the synchronized diving competition for the Grand Rapids Gators Saturday and the Grand Rapids Gator team had three of the top four scores in the re^lar six-dive competition too. Lydia Slagel took the regular diving competition with a score of248.15 points for the Gators. Dumond was second in that contest with a score of 216.20 points and Bender placed fourth with a score of 159.70. Grand Rapids Gators’ diving coach Todd Bates said Dumond and Bender had about ten minutes in practice on Friday to prepare for the synchronized event. He has been pretty impressed with Bender’s progress so far this season as a new diver. As a team, the Gator co-op squad was seventh in the day’s overall standings. Mason won the meet wi± 532 points ahead ofSturgis 419, Marshall 398, Cold- f . . rV* I 1. * 1 Ii ■gLl / •H !■ 1. s «* ) • «' f •• 4 U - A •M A, V- s * ; r > The Grand Rapids Gator 400-yard freestyle relay team of Aubrey Hawks, Mia Bergman. Mckenna Hawks and MaliaHamby celebrate their fourth-place finish at the Mason Invitational Saturday along with head coach Jeff Saltzgaber. water 355, Mount Pleasant 279, Ionia 275, Grand Rapids Gators 202 and Charlotte 128. In the water, senior Aubrey Hawks had the top finish of the day for the Gators. She was third in the 200-yard freestyle in 2 minutes 19.88 seconds and had a runner-up time of 6:16.79 in the 500-yard freestyle. It was a strong finish for the Gators. The team of Aubrey Hawks, Mia Bergman, Mckenna Hawks and Malia Hamby placed fourth in the 400-yard freestyle relay with a time of 4:31.36. Gator head coach Jeff Saltzgaber said all of his girls accomplished either a personal best or season best time at the meet. The Gator team, made up of swimmers from Thomapple Kellogg, Hopkins, West Catholic and West Michigan Aviation, was slated to swim Thurs­ day night, Sept. 19, at Wayland and will head to the Spring Lake Invitational today, Sept. 21. The Gator ladies go to Grand Rapids Union for a conference dual next Wednesday, Sept. 25. **-e' c >* 9 * • 4* * .4 LF ^21 0 r fl hr I 11446 Chief Noonday Rd Middleville, Ml 49333 Gun Lake Area W' . w t I I J f- ? 4.’ Stttk— I r? J r . «k »> t 1 k I I < -♦ < f 1 < •'34 I I 4^ - * .t 1 *— A . n r f > Lfe *<• Fall Harvest Festival and Tractor Show 269.205.2042 — A at HisrroRic Charlton Park i J J September 27-28, 2024 Friday 8am-Dusk • Saturday Sam-Dusk, i I •< I I L• IL^ ««) Demonstrations and Exhibits L C:-*. w I X « / ^apr- ) BBSWa® I n d po r/Sea ti Visit for all info I4 C- V m ihg op n! e. 4 3 '> I* *• .•FJ- www.cspizzamiddleville.com ! • • • • e • e • • • • • • • L Pancake Breakfast - Saturday 7:00-9:30 am ^ '''3p Meet Shingles Sawed and Branded Spaces - $20 > Swap Meet / Flea Market ^^f^Pmg-SiQQQ Garden Tractor Pulls Kids Pedal Pull Sat 10am Tractor Pull-Sat 9 am 3nd Saturday Mini-Horse Pull Sat 4 pm Daily Tractor Parade 1 pm J Ka . * Rope Making (Saturday) Admission Cider Press Adults (13 and over) - $7.0 I Children 12 & younger are FRE Tractor Games Admission is FREE for exhibit Saw Mill ■P (wrist band required n Pumpkin Painting Food Vendors On-Site f I f *>i. X ,f it Activities and Times Subject to Change** 2545 S. CHARLTON PARK RD. • HASTOIGS, W 49659 « J �i ♦ ♦ 12 ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 Scots put forth best effort yet against Rams Brett Bremer ♦ ♦ Sports Editor — To get a fourth shot at them, the Cale­ donia girls would likely have to win their way all the way to the MHSAA Division 1 State Semifinals. Improbable maybe, but not impos­ sible. The Caledonia varsity volleyball team was bested in three sets by former OK Red Conference foe Rockford Sat­ urday in the finals of the Scots’ annual Macayla Kohn Memorial Invitational at Caledonia High School. It was the third meeting of the season already between the two teams. The Rams mostly handled the Scots in the end in the first two meetings. They rolled to a 15-2 win in a third set when the two teams met back in late April, and then won in two sets in a Sept. 7 tournament meeting. Caledonia took three set wins over Forest Hills Eastern and then Grand Rapids Christian to meet up with Rockford again in the finals Saturday. T 0 W N S H I ; J. I P U riT ’.' * a• i,M| *.k’ h' •r •• 1 r?Br— i. *• ri' • •> v. Mt/ .«A -11 s Iihto 3^ »T I S'’ V r t*' * wI? It J* to • y k < 4^ J V it iff e f uT »• 'fl * I ------.sa-'*-* > Af * r JI r- T J ! X I **> I 1 wx ( J •J - f. *w. to 4 > t’ '•r T I if! y I ■ ■ > ■ • ■ ? • I I 4 c J *\*w * >to fl J I / F r. ■' • ■j J o 1 w ♦» 1 if •w -I *. ♦ k r ■k It r ’ J I t.* , Fighting Scot senior setter Jessica Maier puts a pass up during her team’s win over Grand Rapids Christian in the semifinals of the 2024 Macayla Kohn Memorial Volleyball Invitational Saturday. Photo by Brett Bremer NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AS PROVIDED IN CHAPTERS 27 THEREOF AMENDING THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP. At a Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Charter Township of Gaines, held on Monday September 9, 2024, the Township Board considered the approval of the proposed Ordinance to amend the Dutton Center Planned Unit Development (PUD). The legal description of the overall property being; PART OF NW 1/4 COM 610.50 FT N 89D 52M 09S E ALONG N SEC LINE FROM NW CORNER OF SEC TH S OF 09M 345S E 165.0 FT TH S 89D 04S W 610.50 FT TO W SEC LINE TH S OD 09M 345 E ALONG W SEC LINE 643.41 FTTH N 89D 52M 04S E 660.0 FTTH S OD 09M 34S E 682 44 FTTH N 89D 50 M 26S E 162.77 FTTH S 77 D 36M 32S E 72.12 FTTH N 89D 24 M 24S E 226.47 FT TH N 89D 51M 03S E 66.0 FT TH N OD 08M 57 S W 70.38 FT TH N 89D 24M 245 E 130.0FT TO SW COR OF C H DEMING’S ADD TH N OD 08M 575 W ALONG W LINE OF SD PLAT 1010.85 FT TO CL OF DUTTON AVE TH N 36 D 22M 34S W ALONG SD CL 523.59FT TO N SEC LINE TH S 89D 5SM 04S W ALONG N SEC LINE 395.97 FT TO BEG * SEC 11 T5N R11W 30.82 A. The Township Board will hold a public hearing, Monday, October 14, 2024, to consider the approval of the proposed Ordinance to amend the Dutton Center Planned Unit Development (PUD). A true copy of the proposed Ordinance to amend the Dutton Center Planned Unit Development may be obtained at: Charter Township of Gaines 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Michael A. Brew, Clerk I I N S H » Rockford won the first set 25-20, but the Scots rallied to win set two 25-18 and then battled in the third set before falling 16-14 in the end to the team ranked eighth in the state in Division 1 coming out of the weekend. “We talk about ebbs and flows, and in the past we have had it not go our way,” Caledonia head coach Ashley Brown said. “I feel like we really had some mental toughness to finish in some of those earlier games where we had to go to three, and not just finish but kind of with authority. I think, even this loss to Rockford it just shows that you have to do the little things and take care ofbusiness and if you can do that more than the other team can then you’ll come out on the other side of it. There are a lot of good things. We’ll take this and grow from it and keep getting better.” The Scots had two match points in their favor late in that third set with the Rams. Senior middle Josie Noble hopped off the bench to start a rotation across the front row with the teams knotted at 12-12 after a kill by sopho­ more teammate Aubrey Reynolds from See SCOTS on 13 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AS PROVIDED IN CHAPTERS 27 THEREOF AMENDING THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP. At a Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Charter Township of Gaines, held on Monday September 9, 2024, the Township Board considered the approval of the proposed Ordinance to amend the Dutton Mill Village Planned Unit Development (PUD). The legal description of the overall property being: PART OF E 1/2 SW 1/4 COM 566.62 FT 90D OOM W ALONG S SEC LINE FROM S % COR TH 90 D OOM W ALONG S SEC LINE 115.0 FT TO E LINE OF WEST MILL RUN/76 FT WIDE/TH N OD OOM ALONG SD E LINE 200.0 FT TH 90D OOM E 155.0 FT TH OD OOM 200.0 FT TO BEG SEC 2 T5N R11W0.71A. ★ The Township Board will hold a public hearing, Monday, October 14, 2024, to consider the approval of the proposed Ordinance to amend the Dutton Mill Village Planned Unit Development (PUD). H proposed Ordinance to amend the Dutton Center Planned Unit Development may be obtained at: Charter Township of Gaines 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Michael A. Brew, Clerk �I .■^5 % ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 SCOTS ♦ - Continued from Page 12 A -A iT' s s SISitf losill fllsi. ’tij Jfta the right side. Noble and Reynolds teamed up to stuff an attack by the Rams’ Liv Hosford to make it 13-12, and then Noble had a kill in the middle to push her team’s lead to 14-12. Hosford had the space on the left side of the net to slam three kills in the next four points though to clinch the tournament championship for her Rams. Hosford and Noble both had 15 kills in the championship match. Rockford also got 12 from sophomore Mallory Wandel. Coach Brown said some slightly improved court awareness could have A t t .... -. ryjni. h- ■'« r 1 ‘.t ill fe i I ) a X f 411 1 • & J i' r I lJ - jjsr S. »■ * •f Ff fu r4 LI I f u * > . Continued from Page 7 within a three-block distance ofthe Village Hall, Segard said. In other business — The council voted to approve sidewalk repairs, primarily on Main Street. The council approved a proposal from Great Lakes Util­ ity & Concrete Construction for replacement of sidewalks at 304 and 311 Main St., 115 and 227 South St., and 304 Church St. It also approved a proposal from Concrete Lifters Inc. for the lift­ ing of sidewalks to even the joints and cracks at 118, 308, 314, 404, 425 and 504 Main St. The council earlier this summer voted to al­ locate $10,000 out of the village budget toward sidewalk repairs. The village will look at additional locations for sidewalk work next spring, Bennett said. — The council also approved the purchase of a Chevrolet 3500 pickup truck with a dump bed, plow and safety/waming lighting at a cost of $68,940 and a Chevrolet 2500 3/4-ton pickup with plow and safety lighting for $56,748, as well buying a Boss 8-foot box plow for the village’s Kubota for $4,650. The new trucks will replace a 27-year-old Ford dump truck and a 16-year-old Chevy pickup, Ben­ nett wrote in a memo to the Village Council. J*. X CHARGING lit 13 .n«> •R •5 Ti — v® A A *r 1^: * !• 4ru 5 f b • r * V. Y •V f V ___ n,-. J _ t/* b*.. A Fighting Scot sophomore outside hitter Aubrey Reynolds looks to flip a shot over the net in front of Rockford’s Liv Hosford (14) and Grace Crelly (12) in the championship match of the 2024 Macayla Kohn Memorial Volleyball Invitational at Caledonia High School Saturday. Photo by Brett Bremer helped late in that third set. Rockford has some really big, power hitters and it is important to know where they are because the last three points they really just ate us up because we had like no block out there. I think we have to be aware of who we have to shut down and do it,” Brown said, adding that overall though for the day she was really pleased with the block her girls put up. Senior all-state outside hitter Cam­ bria Gaier had eight kills in the match for the Scots and senior Eliza Pehrson and Reynolds had four each. Noble said she thought that the very first point of the match with Rockford really set the tone. Gaier passed a serve up to senior setter Jessica Maier, and Maier got the ball right to Pehrson for a kill. Pehrson stepped right to the service line and ^4 I H* J' i ■- w .« •l 4 t r r « JU "W' .5 * •P ..r Caledonia senior Eliza Pehrson awaits a Rockford serve during the championship match of the 2024 Macayla Kohn Memorial Volleyball Invitational at Caledonia High School Saturday. Photo by Brett Bremer fired off an ace for a quick 2-0 CHS lead, even if Rockford did come back to win that opening set. “Eliza Pehrson, she is my fire­ cracker,” coach Brown said. “She has high energy, if you watch her, whether she is on the bench or on the court and I think it is starting to be more contagious to some of our other girls. I also think that Josie Noble ... she is just powerful and I think by just establishing herself on the court it brings everyone else up. I can hear her working on her vocal skills to be a good leader. I think those two are the ones that kind of pull us together.” Noble said she can’t help it, when she makes a play her eyes tend to go to Pehrson first looking for a reaction. “I think our energy on and off the court is getting a lot better,” Noble said. “We kind of struggled with that before - kind of putting it all out there. We kind of did that today, especially in that last game. I think if we continue to do that we’ll be set for the rest of the season. Even though that game didn’t go how we wanted it to, I think the energy and the enthusiasm that we have is going to carry us really far in districts and the rest of the playoffs.” The Scots are currently one of the teams receiving honorable mention accolades in the MIVCA Division 1 rankings. The Scots swept through pool play Saturday morning with two-set wins over Forest Hills Central and Cadillac. They defeated Forest Hills Eastern 25-18, 21-25, 15-3 to open bracket play and then knocked off Grand Rapids Christian 25-23,17-25, 15-5 in the semifinals. Noble had a team-high 53 kills for the day. Gaier added 41, Pehrson 23 and Reynolds 20. Gaier blasted 17 aces and also had a team-leading 41 digs. Sophomore libero Avery Seif had 40 digs. Reynolds finished with 27 digs and five aces. On the block. Noble had 15, Reynolds 11 and junior middle Kyla Charles 11. Maier put up 102 assists in the five matches. The Scots were scheduled to open OK Green Conference play at ReethsPuffer Thursday night, Sept. 19. They will be at home against Jenison next week, Sept. 26, in conference action. ♦ �b ► ► b I 4 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 14 a Caledonia comeback just short against EK Brett Bremer Sports Editor East Kentwood had a 34-0 lead late in the first half and wanted more. It turned out to be the spark the Fighting Scots needed, but they even­ tually ran out of time in their OK Red Conference opener at “The Ralph” in Caledonia Friday, Sept. 13. East Kentwood held on for a 41-35 win over the Fighting Scots. Caledonia defensive back Logan Fink intercepted a Falcon pass late in the first half and returned it for a touchdown to get momentum going in the Fighting Scots’ direction. Brody Betser threw three touchdown passes in the second half for Caledonia and scored on a six-yard rush early in the fourth quarter. His rushing touch­ down cut the East Kentwood lead down to 34-28, but that was as close as Caledonia would get. Betser finished the night 21-of43 passing for 285 yards and three touchdowns. He was picked off once. Parker Little had eight catches for 103 yards and a touchdown and Aaron Collins had four catches for 103 yards. Reed Vogeler had six catches for 56 yards and as score and Logan Senti chipped in two catches for 20 yard and a touchdown. A pair of fourth quarter touchdown passes had the Scots within 34-21 head­ ing into the fourth quarter. Down big, the Scots went to the air often, and didn’t find much success on the ground when they tried. Vogeler had eight carries for 20 yards. Betser led the Scot ground game with 12 rushes for 29 yards. Vogeler had a team-high six tackles for Caledonia and senior defensive line­ man River Swanlund added four tackles. Caledonia falls to 2-1 with the loss. The Scots were scheduled to visit Grand Haven Friday night, Sept. 20. The Scots will be home for their next two contests beginning with a homecoming contest against West Ottawa Sept. 27. s r ■\ A u • > r 1 ?'-^- •i .’.T I Zi I I I • e *•1 *5-: - Z « 7 "i < t: i b ■■ < ♦ •• ? ♦I ♦ • •• •l ' fUf. > ' < S • *- -■ J < 1“^ .4 a r> 1 I L M T > •1 A < -:i “l •l* R I »a /• ■K* •i w. 'Sji we T-, _<s **. b V r- IJ 4 S T- “I* -^4 t .V Tl- r • I F* •* a.£. ■'P. sw^ V CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on Monday, October 7th, 2024 at 7:00pm at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, SE, Caledonia Michigan, 49316. The request is for a conditional rezoning of two (2) acres from R-R to C-1 commercial to allow for a “nursery school, preschool or day care nursery” 8546 Whitneyville Avenue on parcel number: 41-23-23-200-041. ( •I?*-*'. r « I • f _ .«*• I A i ■f • • r‘ 1 \ i5 •s > ir »«•. -» i* r 4 '. •f r*-' I •1 ^Kk 1^5 A 4 / b 4 < Caledonia sophomore Aaron Collins drags down an East Kentwood ballcarrier Friday inside Ralph E. Myers Stadium. Photo by Perry Hardin r . I I . J ■ 6 9f *■ .(■ I '- L £i w - 14V z f <• f. iI < £ V 2-»» > <1 1 - It '*'z ( J, Y** ( 4 ft -4 I .< --- •• ►I VIEW r c t >.A I * b*- • « t U ~«t ' -c X . K- Group ,1 5 I• >« J y f » • /*• I II. -w ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer's Guide j ’f *1 All interested persons may attend the public hearing and, comment on the proposed conditional rezoning. Written comments con­ cerning the requested rezoning may be submitted to the Township office, at the above-stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Dated: September 9, 2024 PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA 810-664-0811 mihomepaper.com 1521 Imlay City Rd. Lapeer, Ml 48446 t ■_ Jeffersonian < ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder 5 TA •t I X V* 4 * Htt-* 5' ,v »< .>' «> r 4 \W r T p *» 4j f’ ’ .1 T.Ti-: •X s '‘S& 1 J 4 / I I 4\ {k 'e^a-w A Fighting Scot quarterback Brody Betser gets an extra second to get a throw off thanks to a block from running back Colton Sheely on his blindside during their OK Red Conference opener against East Kentwood Friday, Sept. 13. Photo by Brett Bremer �www.sunandnews.com a a THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 15 Trojans win wild one with Wayland a a a 'H 'Si ri. It II) ri ri 5 s I r Brett Bremer Sports Editor There were four offensive touch­ downs , two for each team. There were three attempted punts turned into tremendous swings for the defense. There were two fumbles that turned into touchdowns, and one that turned into a touchback and one that turned into a safety. There was an onside kick, a Hail Mary, and there were fireworks to celebrate a Trojan victory. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity football team bested former confer­ ence rival Wayland 28-22 for its first victory of the 2024 season Friday inside Bob White Stadium in Mid­ dleville. TK improved its record to 1-2 with the win over the previously unbeaten Wildcats. The Trojans were in a 12-0 hole at the end of the first quarter, but dug them •a selves out to take a 28-15 lead with 2:32 to play in the fourth quarter on a 29-yard fumble return for a touchdown by Jayce Brummel. Wayland, down 22-15 at the time. had quarterback Carson Reurink run aa ning an option play to the left. A pitch bounded ofiT the turf right into the arms ofBrummel who took it in for the score that pushed TK’s lead to 13 points. That was the largest lead of the night for either team. It still turned into the third straight one-score game between the Trojans and Wildcats. Wayland answered that defensive score for TK with a quick drive that ended in a oneyard TD plunge by Reurink. The extra point had Wayland within 28-22 with 25 seconds to play. The Wildcats recovered an onside kick following the touchdown at the TK 37-yard-Iine and with six seconds left for one final play, Reurink heaved a Hail Mary towards the south end zone that turned out to be too long for anyone to chase down. “Malachi VanEngen and Debo Robinson were huge spark plugs for us on offense,” TK head coach Jeff Dock said. “CJ Lennert and Caleb Summerhays were great on defense. It was great to get a back and forth win. We need to continue to improve in all three phases of the game.” Wayland built a 12-0 lead in the first quarter. Reurink tallied the game’s first points on a 45-yard touchdown run on an option play in which he was hits for the first time at the TK 40-yardline, rambled into a pile of defenders and blockers at the 35 and somehow pushed through it to break free for a run to the end zone. The extra point had the Wildcats up 7-0 1:13 into the bailgame. The score stayed there until the 3:28 mark of the first quarter when the Trojans lost an attempted punt in the end zone and recovered it for a safety. Wayland tacked on a 345-yard field goal a few minutes after getting the ball back. It was a miscue on a Wayland punt that helped the Trojans get their first points. The kick was blocked by the Trojans and Debo Robinson scooped up the loose ball and raced 28 yards for a touchdown. A two-point run by Brummel had TK within 12-8. Wayland managed another field goal as time expired in the first half to move its lead to 15-8. VanEngen scored twice to put TK in the lead. He finished off a quick TK drive at the start ofthe second half with a counter that opened up the 15 yards he needed to get into the end zone. TK was within 15-14 after the two-point YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors... and our future. Group 60 try was no good. About eight and a half minutes later VanEngen scored on a 14-yard run and Robinson carried in the two-point try for a 22-15 Trojan lead. The Trojans might not have had to worry about on-side kicks and Hail Mary’s if they’d been able to add one more score to their total. Early in the fourth quarter TK blocked another Wayland punt to start in good field position. Brummel had a run at the end zone from 15 yards out, but was hit at the four-yard-line. He kept rambling forward but the ball came out just be­ fore he got to the goal-line and rolled out of the side of the end zone. After a quick conference about where he had lost the ball, the officials deemed he was short of the goal-line resulting in a touchback and it was the Wildcats’ ball ta the 20-yard-line. The two teams were back and forth from there until Brummel’s fumble return for a TD. 1 a COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the August 27. 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on September 10, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villa qeofmiddleyillenrn h* I /uticCedc. V HELP WANTED Department of Public Works (DPW) Equipment Operator The Village Public Works Department is seeking to expand its team! We are looking for a qualified applicant to fill the position of DPW Equipment Operator. Specific areas of duty include maintaining water and wastewater systems, streets, sidewalks, parks, equipment, refuse, and other areas as assigned. A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required. Minimum qualifications include a CDL or ability to obtain the license within ninety days of hire, one to two years of ex­ perience in a maintenance environment, knowledge of standard construction practices a solid mechanical aptitude, and a clean driving record. The position requires residence within a thirty-minute recall time, starting pay is S23.92-$24.42 per hour with a top out rate of $25.92-$26.42 in two years -depending on qualifications. The selected candidate must pass a pre-employment physical, including a drug screen. The position will be open until filled. Interested applicants must submit a resume, cover letter and completed Village of Middleville employment application in a sealed envelope to Alec Belson, DPW Di­ rector, 100 E. Main Street, PO Box 69, Middleville, MI 49333. Applications and a job description are also available at the Village office, 100 East Main Street, Middleville, Michigan 49333, or on the Village website: www.villageofmiddleville.org. �4 > 16 ♦ ♦ www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21.2024 TK ladies hoping to get back to full strength 9 ♦ ( Brett Bremer > * I. Sports Editor 1 With a quick check this weekend. Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country coach Sam Wilkinson confirmed that half of his high school roster has been out recently with either illness or injury. The ones who were able to run Saturday in the Blue Division race at the Sparta Invitational hosted at the Fruitridge Hayrides complex were moving fast. Sophomore Peyton Hardy led the Trojan team, that has been without senior state qualifier Ava Crews since the opening OK Gold Conference jamboree of the season, for the second race in a row with a season-best time of 21 minutes 17.49 seconds. That time had Hardy fifth overall Saturday in Sparta with junior team­ mate Madison Kietzman right behind > 4 IM t *.«1 1 I A f j’ »» • Ii « 4* I L I t * I p5 f r V* k 'A • * I f J •v 4 . X '"ii •t 1 .1 4 zjT CTOWNSHIP aledonia a IP 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 X t e iV K CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on Monday, October 7, 2024 at 7:00pm at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, SE, Caledonia Michigan, 49316. The request is for special land use for a light manufacturing use in the I-l district, located at 5265 68th Street on parcel #: 41-23-06-300-051. The applicant is Kerkstra. All interested persons may attend the public hearing and comment on the pro­ posed request. Written comments concerning the request may be submitted to the Township office, at the above stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Dated: September 9, 2024 PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA Wilkinson said he was happy to see those youngsters’ improvements and said Schut really went for it cutting about a minute off of her former PR. The girls did great,” coach Wilkin son said. “They are such hard workers and they have a lot of fight in them. They are always such a joy to watch go to work.” The Trojan coach is looking forward to hopefully seeing everything come together at some point this fall, mean­ ing the youngsters keep improving. Crews and sophomore Megan Skid­ more return fairly healthy to the front of the pack and new addition Amaya Gater shows off her speed. The TK boys were fifth on the day in the team standings. Cedar Springs won the boys’ Blue Division title with 25 points. The Grand Rapids Track Club was second with 83 points ahead of Grand Rapids union 86, Greenville 87 and TK 92. TK senior Jacob Draaisma ran his fastest race yet to win in 16:07.95. Greenville junior Preston VanOeffelen was the runner-up in 16:38.00 well back. The next seven guys across the finish line behind VanOeffelen were Cedar Springs runners. That group was led by jimior Aiden Weller who came in at 16:51.96 and sophomore Peyton Ferrell who finished in 16:55.60. Draaisma was one of five TK guys to set a personal record Saturday and two others had their best time of the season. Senior Hunter Tietz improved his PR to 18:35.36 to place 15th overall for the Trojan team. Garrett Holzhau sen improved his PR to 20:04.44 to place 31 st. The TK team got season best runs from sophomore Grady Galaviz who was 19th in 18:48.47 and junior Noah Donker who was 35th in 20:18.94. Senior Case Dykhouse filled out the top five scorers for the TK boys with a 26th-place time of 19:44.15. Freshmen Wyatt Richardson and Isaac Kaboos rounded out the TK pack with PR runs of their own. Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Peyton Hardy is at the front of a little pack during the Blue Division race at the Sparta Invitational Saturday. Photo provided with a season-best of her own at 21:31.33. That duo led the Trojan team to a runner-up finish in the four-team division Saturday. A talented Cedar Springs girls’ team took the title with 35 points. TK was second with 45 ahead of the Grand Rapids Track Club Peregrines 68 and Greenville 75. TK junior Megan Schuurmans also had her best race of the season turning in a time of 22:07.55 that put her in ninth overall. She reached that time doing her best to break up the Cedar Springs pack in the top ten. The top five in the scoring group for TK Saturday also included sopho mores Alaina McCrumb and Carmen Reynolds who were 13th and 14th respectively. McCrumb was 13th in 22:35.70 and Reynolds 14th in 22:53.56. Teams could enter eight runners in the varsity races Saturday. The TK girls’ team got personal records just a little further down the standings from junior Payton Gater, freshman Breanna Schut, sophomore Raylee Preston and freshman Karsvn Boersma. * River VBend Yoga for all levels New Local Students Get ONE WEEK FREE 269-512-5039 218 W. Main St., Middleville, 49333 rbyogastudios.com M ■* �www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ Saturday, September 21,2024 17 ♦ ♦ of tennis See and 1 aj :eis Ik Id »• It I r i I Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ ten­ nis team earned its first OK Green Conference victory Tuesday in Muskegon. The Fighting Scots outscored the Sailors 6-2 and are now 1-2-1 overall in conference play this season. It was a long afternoon in Mus­ kegon with three of the eight flights going three sets and all three of those contests lasting more than two and a half hours. Caledonia won one of those three with the duo of Isaac Robotham and Quin Stanley outscoring Mona Shores’ Micah Bement and Vaire Vanderwall 2-6, 7-5, 6-2. The Scots won three singles matches and three doubles matches on the day. Both Mona Shores wins came in three sets — at number two singles and first doubles. Colin Martin outscored Mona Shores Landen Hall in the first sin­ gles match 6-1, 6-2. Hudsen Deren * gowski outscored Mona Shores’ Benjamin Warren 6-2, 6-1 at third singles and Malte Fiseher beat Cas tor Dempsey 6-1,6-0 for the Seots at fourth singles. On the doubles’ side, Caledo Ilia’s Will VanderWeele and Derick Prichard beat Toby Judson and Alex DuRose 6-2,6-0 at number three and Neal Hargrave and Cooper Sowerby won 6-3,6-1 over the Sailors’Cormor Knop and Lucas Higgins. At second singles, Jackson Hurley from Mona Shores won his opening set 6-1 over the Scots’ Garrett Fales, and then Fales rallied to win set two 6-4. In the end. Hurley took a 6-2 win. At first doubles, Mona Shores’ Amilia Pena and Luka Ivanov beat out Caledonia’s West Larson and Luke Atheam 3-6, 6-2, 7-6(0). Caledonia head coach Scott Bont said it was a long week of tough matches for his guys. He said Fischer, Hargrave, Sowerby, Robotham and Stanley led the way through though. The Scots fell 5-3 in a dual with visiting Jenison in conference play Wednesday. Fischer had a 6-2, 6-0 win over the Wildcats’ Calvin Soukuup at number four. Hargrave and Sowerby had a fourth doubles lead when their opponents from Jenison I retired. Sowerby and Hargrave pulled out a three-setter against Jenison at second doubles. They won by the scores of 6-4,3-6,7-5. Their match lasted over two hours and Derengowski had an extended third singles match that lasted about as long before he was finally bested 6-1, 7-5 by Jenison’s Samuel Giere. “We have a few more matches in the next few days yet before we get geared up for the conference tourna­ ment,” Bont said. The Caledonia team was scheduled to host Hamilton Thursday. The Scots head to the Vicksburg Invitational today, Sept. 21, and will goto Portage Northern Monday. PR’s fall for Scots at Riverside Park race Brett Bremer Sports Editor Seeded eighth in a race preview, the Caledonia varsity boys’ cross coimtry team flew to a fourth-place finish in its session of the Ottawa Hills Invitational at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids Friday, Sept. 13. Senior Kort Thompson ran to a runner-up time of 15 minutes 59,10 seconds. It is the first time the former state qualifier finished in less than 16 minutes for the first time ever. “The course was running flat and fast and the team took advantage ofit,” Cale­ donia head coach Ben Thompson said. The only guy ahead of Kort was Ka­ lamazoo Central juniorAndrew Wright who finished in 15:51.05. Portage Central won the boys’ race with 72 points ahead of Traverse City Central 85, East Kentwood 101, Cale donia 131, Kalamazoo Central 144, Tra verse City West 186, West Ottawa 196, Forest Hills Central 196, Zeeland West 241 and Rockford 260 in the top ten. The top four Caledonia guys all ran «■ their fastest race of the season. Junior Eli Velting placed 16th in 16:35.55. Noah Johnston and Aidan Edgar set their personal records both finishing in less than 17 minutes for the first time. Johnston, a junior, placed 31st in 16:58.32. The senior Edgar was 33rd in 16:58.91. The Scots’ fifth scorer was senior Ethan Buer who placed 49th in 17:17.71. The three fastest Caledonia girls, all seniors, all set a new personal record. Hannah Dupuis led the team with a 17th-place time of 19:35.93. Keira Bommarito clocked in 53rd at 20:52.41 and Kiley Bommarito was 55th in 20:59.86. The top five for the CHS team in eluded sophomore Akaela Daman 69th in 21:21.56 and senior Adysen Daman 83rd in 21:53.57 too. The Caledonia girls were 11th in the 17-team standings. Zeeland East won their Session 2 contest with 70 points. Rockford was second with 94 points ahead ofTraverse City West 112, * Portage Central 112, Hudsonville 166 9 Ottawa Hills 207, Traverse City Central 230, Unity Christian 238, Grandville 240 and Portage Northern 256 in the top ten. The Scots finished with 267 points. The rest of the teams were at 300 points or more. Zeeland East senior Emma Dmek outran the pack to win in 17:58.96. Rockford sophomore Daisy Cox set her PR at 18:23.92 to place second. The Caledonia program will host the next OK Green Conference jamboree Wednesday, Sept. 25. kJ• : IC I I I — LJ ■ EtSRNACE 4 I jSUUM I J I I 1 1 * r I I < I 11^ Your local agent insures your C/ops F4AM Bt7«£4i; fMSI/R4MC£* ■ I I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments on qualifying equipment I J * a: 4 - 5 ! T I I I I I I I I FRONTIER HEATING & COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia Visit us online at mihomepaper.com Jason Parks 121 E, Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795*8827 Jparks^fbinsmi.com FarmBureauinsurance.com 616-891-8900 HI �1 I THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 18 www.sunandnews.com Scot soccer winning streak No. 1 breaks up ► Brett Bremer ♦ Sports Editor It’s OK Green Conference titles the Fighting Scots are chasing now, but they’re doing pretty good against their former OK Red Conference rivals this fall. The Fighting Scots took a 2-0 win over visiting East Kentwood Tuesday night at Scotland Yard after besting Grandville 6-0 in Caledonia last Thursday, Sept. 12. “We’re continuing to find where the players play their best,” Caledonia head coach Luke Dishnow said. “You go as far as, the classic, last player. Also, you go as far as how tight the guys are, how tight knit they are and how much they love each other. Digging into games, you’ve got to trust each other in tough moments. “These games just continue to bring them closer together.” 4 • * X • t it t i I J I u a« 1: 'A / J .•p > The Fighting Scots work to get sophomore Trey Curnow off the turf in Scotland Yard Thursday, Sept. 12, after leveling him following his goal that put the Caledonia varsity boys’ soccer team up 3-0 in the first half against Grandville. The Scots went on to a 6-0 victory over the Bulldogs. Photo by Brett Bremer 1 I f 1 - I 4 ?l I ♦ t- , »*»*■—It J * Z n I •Li rA l« t Lb lU * 1*^ w . X 'Mbiji- .T V Fighting Scots senior defender Silas Haan looks to get the attack going for his team during its win over visiting Grandville Tuesday, Sept. 12. The Fighting Scots’ chemistry was evident as they knocked sophomore teammate Trey Curnow to the turf and swarmed him in celebration of his spectacular goal against Grandville. University ofMichigan bound senior Drew Diebolt scored the Scots’ first two goals in the 6-0 win over visiting Grandville last Thursday. He scored in the opening minutes and then upped his team’s lead to 2-0 with a shot from a tough angle coming in on the left side. The second Diebolt goal started long before his final strike. The Scots cleared their defensive end and got a fine give and-go between senior Garrett Ruehle and Curnow to move the ball through the midfield. Diebolt combined a well timed run with a solidly slotted pass from senior Brody Siler to create the opening for the shot. It was the 3-0 in favor of Caledonia at the half after a goal by Curnow. Diebolt ripped a shot in from the left that the Grandville keeper punched away back to Diebolt. From the top of the 18, Diebolt rolled a pass to the center to Curnow who blasted a perfect shot curling into the upper left 90, glancing off at least one piece of frame before shredding the back of the net. That’s when he was barreled over by his teammates. “I had the perfect angle, and I’m seeing it is going outside the post,” Dishnow said, “and then it just kept curling, curl­ ing, curling and we all just went ‘wow.’ Our jaws dropped that was special.” The Scots carried the momentum all the way through the second half. Curnow assisted on a goal by Siler ten minutes into the second half and then Siler scored again with 27:59 to play. The final Caledonia goal came on a comer kick by junior Noah Moberly that bounded off a Bulldog head into his own net. “We’re continuing to find where the players play their best,” Dishnow said. “You go as far as, the classic, last player. Also, you go as far as how tight the guys are, how tight knit they are and how much they love each other. Digging into games, you’ve got to trust each other in tough moments. “These games just continue to bring them closer together.” Caledonia also defeated Jenison in their first OK Green Conference match up of this season as the Wildcats made the conference switch with the Fighting Scots. The Scots and Wildcats meet up again Tuesday, Sept. 24, in Jenison. Caledonia was looking to get the sec­ ond half of the OK Green Conference season started Sept. 19 at Reeths-Puffer. In between those Grandville and East Kentwood matches, the Fighting Scots tested themsevles against a Portage Central team ranked No. 1 in the state in Division 1. The Mustangs took a 3-1 over the Scots in Portage Saturday. I* ♦ 1 < •• f js=i*' • p t V A 74 1 1 1! « 4 b““ i ' **«*» rj 9 It •iV • .t 4' * L I * •J f LIGHT TRUCK HRTS 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 r ’iC: .A I, «Jlk. * t V nu SBMCE a >01 rau IT £ » I 7 ‘"W 269-381-2300 7 » if ■’fr -i' ■0 it « ■£ * ' '2' 'll •75 I - i :: Hulst " Cleaners Pickup Station Mas:''! * L ■I OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm s: USED FAITS USED TIRES •f 1811 lAKE st KAUMAZOO 5 1 . 1 BSD run * nei IPS * Off nHs * IMS • sirs * iSK * 4IHSI I r Ha r'» • _ * I / I* • •• u - 4 li* See^ (jod’s 'Wisdom 1? QUESTIONS: ASK US I » Ifl Fabrics For Every one, It^s Time To Start Christmas Projects. •"a *2 r Caledoniasenior Brody Siler pushes by a Grandville defender in the offensive end during their non-conference match at Scotland Yard Thursday, Sept. 12. Photo by Brett Bremer �4 *— 4 I * - * z / I www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 19 ♦ ♦ .-J*AW Green Mid-Season, keep battling Bulldogs I I Sports Editor Byron Center beat out Caledonia by a single stroke as Reeths-Puffer hosted the OK Green Conference at Lincoln Golf Club Wednesday. The Bulldogs outscored the Scots 168-169 at the top of the standings with the host Rockets third with a score of 180 strokes ahead of Mona Shores 182 and Jenison 193. Caledonia senior Copelin O’Krangley was the day’s individual champ with a two-under-34. She birdied a pair of par fives, number two and number five, and shot par the rest of the way. The Caledonia team got a 43 from senior Allie Hudson, a 45 from senior Mya Burgess and 47s from juniors Codie O’Krangley and Katie Honhart. Bulldog junior Holly Lawrence and sophomore Izzy Tawoda both shot a 39 to lead their team. The Byron Center squad also got 45s from sophomore Autumn Kartes and Natalie Grit. Reeths-Puffer senior Rowan Bluhm was the day’s runner-up, four strokes behind Copelin with a 38. That contest came on the heels of last week’s OK Green Mid-Season Tournament at The Meadows where the CHS girls took the victory. The Scots shot a 336 there to beat the Bulldogs’ 352, Reeths-Puffer 368, Mona Shores 383 and Jenison 408. Copelin won there too. She shot a four-under-69 that included pars on 14 and 15 followed by an Eagle on the 343-yard, Par-5 number 16. It was her second eagle of the day as she opened her round with a three on the 348-yard, par-5 number one. She also had birdies on the other two par fives on the front nine. In all, she was seven under on the course’s five par-five holes. Codie shot an 86 for the Scots, Hudson an 88 and Honhart added a 93. Bluhm was Copelin’s nearest competitor on the day. She shot a 78 "W? Trojan tennis team upended by West Catholic in Gold > • • rt ■r to finish nine strokes back. Byron Center got an 80 from Lawrence and an 84 from Tawoda. Mona Shores’ Mayson Southland was fifth indi vidually with an 85. In between those conference out­ ings, the Scots won a dual with Thor nappie Kellogg at Yankee Springs Monday and outscored everyone but Hudsonville to finish second at the 20-team Greenville Invitational. Copelin finished fifth in the indi­ vidual standings at Cedar Chase Golf Course with an 83. Codie and Ellie Hudson both scored 92s and the Scots added a 96 from Honhart. • > ♦ 4 Visit US online at mihomepaper.com Brett Bremer TJ 3. □ Q. CD T1 0 Q TJ 2 z -I z o O'. Cr, VJ K) * :-'3i ♦ -f •• > •A . I Sports Editor West Catholic ended the Trojans perfect start to the OK Gold Confer­ ence boys’ tennis season Monday in Grand Rapids. The Eagles took a 7-1 win over the Trojan team, dropping TK to 2-1 in conference play. Franklin Wilkinson at third singles picked up the lone win for TK by beat­ ing Kyle Carpenter 6-2, 6-3. Trojan senior first singles player Kameron Nichols was bested in a conference contest for the first time since the end of his sophomore campaign as he fell 6-1, 6-0 to the Falcons Oliver Caldwell. There were close scores throughout the dual, but the only other set the TK boys won came at number three doubles where the team of Benjamin Scott and Max Lepper took a 6-4 vic­ tory to start off the afternoon against West Catholic’s Alex Devries and Alex Bartish. The Falcon pair rallied to take set two 7-5 and then closed out its vic­ tory by taking set three 6-1. TK is scheduled to be a part of the Vicksburg Tri today, Sept. 21, and will close out conference duals hosting Wyoming Monday and South Christian Wednesday. pH ' • > . i. >1 • ’M"* ’ I y ar •-4 VETERAN’S TRUCK LINE INC. GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP In Marshall, Ml is now accepting applications for: NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TRUCK DRIVERS CALL NOW DIRECT (262) 539-4460 The Gaines Charter Township Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to consider the following request; Summary of Request: Request for a dimensional variance to increase scale of two directional signs along Ridgebrook Dr. from four (4) square feet to sixteen (16) square feet. Property Address; 1200 60th Street SE, Grand Rapids, Ml 49508 Parcel Number: 41-22-05-201-007 Applicant: Curtis Thompson, Kentwood Community Church Date and Time of Hearing: October 9th, 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected during regular busi­ ness hours Monday through Friday, at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices or contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5 PM on October 9th, 2024. ASK FOR DON Go to www.vetstruck.com for applications. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact info@gainestownship.org or (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. • Night Drivers • Paid health benefits • Hourly rate $24.00 hr. after 6 months $25.00 hr. • Time & 1 /2 over 40 hours • 401 (k) w/contribution • Drive newer equipment • Paid vacations/holidays • Paid life/disability • Must have Class A CDL and pass medical/drug screen J �z b i I .1 # < k 4 [• I f 4 4 < 1. r www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 21,2024 4 z !>3k Gold doubles up at the Mines, TK’s Leos leads league •yj !► ♦ ♦ < I 4p % f % i’ 20 I I J > i ♦ ♦ ♦ Caledonia Community Schools CAREER OPPORTVNmES Bus Drivers Caledonia Community Schools is searching for dedicated individuals to join our Transportation Team • Starting pay of 520.52 for applicants for regular routes without experience. • Paid training and CDL testing • Sign-on bonus of up to S1500 for qualified applicants • Field trip supplemental opportunities • Up to 10 sick &. 1.5 personal days • S Paid holidays • 12 Paid days during school breaks • Flexible schedule (Split shift AM/PM routes) • Medical, dental, and vision insurance is avaitabie to qualified employees. • Join a professional community-oriented team! • Sub bus driver rate is $20.52 per hour i Brett Bremer Sports Editor The OK Gold Conference played 18 holes at The Mines Wednesday with South Christian coming out on top in the day’s standings with an overall score of 370. Northview was second with a score of 379 ahead of West Catholic 394, Thomapple Kellogg 406, Wayland 457 and Grand Rapids Union NTS. Thomapple Kellogg senior Ailana Leos had the bets overall score of the day, an 80. She was six strokes in front of Northview’s Allison Hale who was the runner-up. South Christian had the next three best individual scores with Avery Koster shooting an 87, Anna Marcusse an 89 and Kaylee Quist a 92. The Thornapple Kellogg team had Vivian Hansson shoot a 102, Jordan Price 107 and Rae Borrink 117. The TK ladies hosted Caledonia at Yankee Springs Golf Course Monday and fell 172-203 to the Fighting Scots in a non-conference dual. Caledonia senior Copelin O’Krangley was the day’s top scorer with an even-par 36 on the red nine. Codie O’Krangley shot a 40 for the Fighting Scots, and their team also got a 47 from Rosalyn Vanstrien and a 49 from Jenna Clapper. Leos shot a 39 to lead the Trojan squad. Kara Smith tallied a 54 and Hans­ son and Borrink both shot 55 for TK. s'5 •V p "•l r s •’ >.4 I 4 GO ONLINE TO MIHOMEPAPER.COM I * ?I •l r I . 4 •> s u Li> 1* 1I I z L b» T• : d 4 * I' 4 r J »■» I f. > Additional Opportunities I I ♦ Scan our OR code to find your perfect invitation! . TTV^' I b I Is AJ. II w * *r?* Caledonia Community Schools has vacancies for the following positions: sJ-. b • 1 - "^5 > >’l— *1^ _LflJ I, I I* 4 ^ij 4' 1 1 <4* R ■ • ParaProfessionais (Part-Time): Starting Pay 515,51 per hour • Custodians (Part-Time):. Starting Pay 515.40 per hour • Bus Mechanic (Full-Time): $23.58 or more depending on experience Easy Online Applications! www.calschools.org/employment w* □P—• ••e—• -pV— ah w ■; ■ (!• s I, s •T 'Vb •u I ■/> Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS CM hv. I ’M* in rs.. I o >o O z z £ Q. D Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. Questions? 616-891-8185 (A >. co vwvw.printingbypennylane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting.com "O 0) c •c: Q- � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-09-28.pdf fd2d08e4653af195e93cda137c9bc71b PDF Text Text ■ r / I DUPUIS WORKS TO PUSH TEAMMATES AT JAMBOREE the sun and news Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville. C^edonta end Geine, Tnwnrh.n a and Games Township Areas NO. 25 A t 5 h 1 V? •1 T PAGES 17 A- TL; 4 — c J r* < * .« www.sunandnews.corn •l > SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2024 I L A l» > I k 4tl IS Caledonia students contribute to ArtPrize entry Greg Chandler staff Writer A Caledonia family has enlisted the help of local students in creating an entry for this year’s ArtPrize competition in Grand Rapids. Local veteran James Dentler and his wife, Kelly, and their children, Camden and Marin were assist­ ed by about 1,800 West Michigan students, includ­ ing students from six buildings in the Caledonia Community Schools district, in creating the piece titled “Celebrating America,” which is on display at the Veterans Memorial Park on Fulton Street ill Grand Rapids through the end of the annual art competition this weekend. The Dentlers’ entry was part of an overall initia­ tive between Kent County Veterans Services and Pamela Aiderman Art called Art for Honor. “Students were given the following prompts: ‘What does living in America look like to you? What does it mean to be an American? What is something in America that I am thankful for?’ They were then tasked to create a drawing/painting that represented their answer,” Kraft Meadows Intermediate School visual arts teacher Candi Price wrote in an email to the Sun and News. In a narrative for their entry, the Dentlers wrote that “our project aims to celebrate the diverse ? * * ; ' f'A r~ * « r I •.A « >. 4 r -.1 i I li 1* ** If t 4 1 r b > I u b. i'O i I ■0*1 Ja { nl. ( hlW s® $ I 4 { & 1 m, . V t b I £«* k I” K? M A* J I- r r > I t 4 ] r ■ '' -xd i b •* > .*1 Ji «1 b c ■• *• .* • •* :« James and Kelly Dentler stand in front of their ArtPrize submission called 'Celebrating America.” The couple was assisted by about 1,800 West Michigan students, including students from six buildings in the Caledonia Community Schools district, in creating the piece. Photos provided beauty and cherished elements of America through the eyes of its youngest citizens.” About 1,800 students in grades 2-8 contributed to the project. Participating students from Caledonia included students from Caledonia, Kettle Lake, Dutton and Paris Ridge elementary schools, as well as from Kraft Meadows and Duncan Lake Middle School. One of the students. Blessed Karageya, painted a flag with the word “freedom’ written across stripes as her contribution to the project. She remembers a time when not everyone in this country could experience freedom. “Back in the 1800s some people were not treated as nice as others,” Blessed said. Claire Abraham painted a waterfall to represent the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. My grandpa likes to go there a lot and I want to go there with him someday,” said Claire, adding that she was going with her family to see the ArtPrize display. “This is my Mona Lisa,” Janessa Munger said in describing her painting. Students from Walker Charter Academy and Schoolcraft Elementary School, as well as summer campers from VFW Camp Trotter in Newaygo also contributed to the Art for Honor project. “By inviting children to paint what they are proud of or what they love most about America, See ARTPRIZE on 3 Barry County’s personnel committee works to set salaries for elected officials t I / 4 4 kJ X’ fl Id • 1 ’ fe b -- .ts/. Jayson Bussa ft: Editor A handful of Barry County commissioners, along with the county’s administration office, have spent significant time in the past week crunching numbers to determine appropriate pay for elected officials in 2025. This is a newly inherited duty for county com­ missioners that was once handled by the Elected Officers Compensation Commission, waa3 uawoisno which was tasked with setting fair lVliN3aiS3H SSMH33 pay for elected officials. The third9C8e> ‘91IIAUM19 owixoaod party commission offered a number ”^ee# JILUJBd 8€88> of benefits, including the fact that 'B||IAU99J9 aivd commissioners did not have to set in their own salaries, thus, erasing any perception of a conflict of interest. However, the county board grew frustrated with the limitations that were in place by hav­ ing the compensation commission. On the heels of COVID-19, during a period of massive infla­ tion, the county board was able to green-light pay increases and one-time bonus payments to county employees, but elected officials missed out on them because the compensation commission worked in two-year increments. The county board voted to scrap the compensation commission last year, and this week they took on the work that the commission otherwise would have. Discussion on pay for elected officials took up aovisod s n t *A I bc -—1 •T.' 5^ ’ 1 i I sSj — •M av(d Hatflei? jicS ? AH *5 •• t* I • >Vi« <1 David Hatfield (left) holds up a spreadsheet that outlines salaries and salary increases for county employees and elected officials during Tuesday morning’s special meeting of the Personnel and Human Services Committee. Photo by Jayson Bussa I a major chunk of last Thursday’s Personnel and Human Services Committee meeting and then the See SALARIES on 2 ais iSMd I p 1 r I . I s •I .k f •> f -s b r f- �I 9 I Saturday, September 28, 2024 2 THE SUN AND NEWS Middleville planners to consider fire barn site plan update Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Middleville Village Planning Commission will consider an updated site plan for the former fire bam prop­ erty at 115 High St. next Tuesday. Village Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers said at Tuesday s Village Council meeting that Acorn Treehouse Ventures LLC has submitted an updated site plan for the property, which was reviewed earlier this month by the Planning Commission’s site plan committee. Left Field Cafe owner Johnny DeMaagd is the principal for Acorn Treehouse Ventures. He s addressed all the comments and concerns that the site plan com­ mittee had,” Powers told the council. If the site plan is approved by commissioners next Tuesday, the Village Council would likely con sider extending a development agree­ ment between the village and Acorn Treehouse Ventures that was reached in July 2022. “An approved site plan would defi­ nitely make it really easy to say yes to,” Village President Mike Cramer said. The original agreement called for a site plan to be submitted to the village in July 2023, with substantial comple­ tion by January 2025 and an occu­ pancy permit to be approved in July 2025. Powers said that one issue of concern was that there seemed to be a discrepancy on what constituted “substantial completion” of the project. “When I reviewed the develop ment agreement, there wasn’t a clear understanding in regards to what sub­ stantial completion is,” Powers said. The council had been preparing to consider documents to have ownership of the 115 High property revert back to the village after DeMaagd did not respond to requests for an updated site plan for the proj ect earlier this summer. The council at a committee of the whole meet­ ing Sept. 3 voted to direct Village Attorney Mark Nettleton to prepare documents to have ownership of the property revert back to the village. DeMaagd, a former Village Council member, was at Tuesday’s See MIDDLEVILLE on 5 Your local agent insures your Caledonia Community School FA/tM BUREAU . INSURANCE" • iiteunnx. 1 I * r .*^4 8^ X Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 Fa rm B urea uhisu rance xom Caledonia Community School has posted an RFP for Caledonia Stadium Improvements. All RFP information can be found at the district bond website; tops;//www.calschools.org/bnnd/ www.sunandnews.com SALARIES Continued from Page 1 committee held a special meeting on Tuesday morning to continue that discussion. Administrator Eric Zuzga and Deputy Administrator Luella Dennison provided information to the four com mittee members to help guide their decisions. This included an informal survey of comparable counties to determine what those were paying their elected officials and to see where Barry County landed on that spectrum. Some of the counties included Cass, Clinton, Ionia and Montcalm all with comparable populations. Another guiding piece of informa tion was a thorough look at the raises that county employees got through­ out 2023 and 2024, comparing them to the raises received by elected offi cials, which were set in stone by the compensation commission. In June of 2023, employees got an additional 3 percent increase in pay, which was in addition to the raise they received from 2022 to 2023. Employees saw an additional 5 per­ cent increase in their wages in 2024 and are slated to receive another 3 percent increase in 2025. Meanwhile, elected officials were granted 2 percent increases for 2023 and 2024 by the compensation com­ mission. According to data compiled by county administration, if elected offi­ cials had received those same raises, they would be making roughly 4.6 percent more. To catch up with coun­ ty employees, the personnel commit­ tee IS proposing an 8 percent increase in pay for 2025. Salaries would be: $121,596 (current 2024) to $131,009.36 (in 2025) • Sheriff: $100,048 to $107,793 61 ’ to $82,804.12 • Clerk: $79,327 to $85,469.12 • l^ram commissioner: $73,465 to * • Register of deeds: $73 557 to $79,252.25 These amounts still need to be approved by the full board of com­ missioners. Compensation for these elected officials can also be adjusted but not reduced. ’ County commissioners were in the same boat, but setting their compensa­ tion was a bit trickier. Compensation for commissioners must be set before the start of their four-year term, and it must cover all four years — no adjustments during the term. The personnel committee sug­ gested the same 8 percent raise for 2025 to catch up. This bumps a com missioner’s salary from $13,646 to $14,702.03 and the chair’s pay from $14,729 to $15,869.13. Moving forward through their term, they’ve suggested 2 percent raises each year. “A large part of our decision to elimi­ nate the compensation commission was our frustration and displeasure over not being able to make the same adjustments for elected officials that we were making for everybody else,” said David Hatfield, who chairs the Personnel and Human Services Committee. ‘So, that’s the historic part of what we’re dealing with. That was our pri * mary justification.” “Secondly, we talked about, or we asked, a sub-group that was an ad hoc committee to look at how we might best behave going forward without having the compensation commission. That group reported back that our thinking (should be that) ... anything we did going forward would be to basically mirror what all of our other employees were getting. It was the idea that we need to continue to refer­ ence what everyone else is doing and we don’t want our elected officials to fall behind that.” Hatfield added that the county is overdue for a formal compensation study, as the most current one is from a decade ago. * THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 CONTACT US Editor; Jayson Bussa A I / i Sports; Brett Bremer Group I I Advertising; A* I brett@f-adgraphics.com •W ad§@j--aa^raprri(*s:t:Crn t f ■ I I « I XiJ jayson@j-adgraphics.com 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 ''’W'zSMPandnews.com • » a • • a A— A PUBLISHED BY A* a* PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. 'P4€aee<9eyole4hiB -newspaper Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. Sun and News is subject or applicable rate card Which are N M '^®ws Ad Dept. ,1351 . Hastings. Ml 49058 ( 269-945"®wspaper reserves the right not to no K®®^’® ^sve ®:Uthority to bind this inewspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. �♦ « » ) .1. J / * « I t t « 4 4 5 t www.sunandnews.com % THE SUN AND NEWS i% ;y.. •I f ✓ II . ' r z 5.C > .wr • ( « * “• r r •I I X-* 4. I <»> Greg Chandler Staff Writer V X *». J Lv . / I t V •I M ••fl 1 < ' * ill * tri -* vl I *'VV' r / &>5£ ♦A The Middleville Village Council will split the cost of a mediator for a joint meeting of the coun­ cil and the village’s Downtown Development Authority board that will likely take place next month. The council voted 6-0 Tuesday to contribute up to 50 percent of the cost, up to $1,500, for retaining Marilynn Semonick for the meeting with the DDA board, which will likely take place Oct. 29 or 30. The DDA board approved spending a similar cost share last week. The joint meeting was set earlier this month by the council to dis­ cuss issues that have divided the two entities. The meeting was sug­ gested in response to a proposal by Village President Mike Cramer to disband the DDA board and have V- -. «»' * 2'^ s, .»« I ^'**1 13 ' If, PJI^J nI 1 9 < «r< '>* it -115:1,,1LI \ •—r*' V r z* f > 4, 4 I b { • / X ftifi '‘Ji •^r. I J J A K « l<4 I -IM I * •.1 i« w. A LI 9 » t Wb *1 Students were given the following prompts; “What does living in America look like to you? What does it mean to be an American? What is something in America that I am thankful for?” They were then tasked to create a drawing/ painting that represented their answer. «fl ARTPRIZE r » t unite us as a nation. In a world filled with challenges, these small paintings serve as a reminder of the beautiful landscapes and diverse cultural elements that make this great nation. For more on the Dentler’s entry, visit artprize.Org/entries#l7579. Continued from Page 1 we hope to foster a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the opportunities and blessings that this country affords us,” the Dentlers wrote in their narra­ tive. “Adults are surrounded by social media and constant news coverage, which can negatively shape our percep­ tion of our country. Political differences divide us. We forget the values that 3 Middleville council OKs funding split with DDA for joint meeting r r ii Saturday, September 28, 2024 the Planning Commission take over responsibility for downtown devel­ opment activities in the village. While Cramer has not changed his opinion on the DDA, he did vote in favor of funding for the joint meet­ ing Tuesday. DDA Director Gretchen James and Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg have asked their respective boards for a list of pros and cons of main­ taining a separate DDA board, so that they can prepare adequate mate­ rials for the joint meeting. Under Public Act 57 of 2018, a municipality of less than 5,000 residents can designate its planning commission to be the DDA board. However, Village Attorney Mark Nettleton wrote in a memo earlier this month that the Village Council would have to pass an ordinance to make that change. POLISH MEAL FUNDRAISER Editor’s note: The reporter wishes to thank Kelly Clark from Caledonia Community Schools for her assis­ tance on this story. PROCEEDS BENEFIT COMMUNITY REBUILOERS HOMELESS VETERANS PROGRAM r. "‘-r FRIDAY OCTOBER 4 - PULASKI DAYS - S15.00 -LX .'t'f 1 t rr *r FRESH KIELBASA KAPUSTA (Sauerkraut) RYE BREAD GOLAMPKI (Cabbage Roll) PIEROGIES (Potato & Cheese * -••p 1 • *♦ *1 * •I V I y- -yi* V « 4 . ■ / k. « t < ■4 iV^l •V 'J Sryi MP> .. I *» Sf 5 I JB^***’ ■ ** ■ d aK « vn <1? A 1 L-^ u « <«. *• *! « X* *»• z »• \ -A.*. Hr > * A’ iA. * SERVING NOON - 7PM (Until Gone) - DINE IN OR TAKE OUT REGULAR KITCHEN MENU NOT AVAILABLE OPEN LICENSE ISSUED ►Y THE M.L.C.C. FOR THIS DAY PERMITS ADULT BEVERAGE SALES TO NON LEGION MEMBERS a t I Ww k Dumplings) « « T 7 » l'* I V I 4 a a ■ i 4,' 1 ■ *-<’1 ;'' • .* Ai ;-t?a S' 1 w* h • 1 - . A s t 'x >, i L . > A ••X . tA < '' > *1* * f >* % w j •, «(*: «4 »* :V *** 4“ »» JI ??* <• IJ 2ND PRIZE PITBOSS WOOD PELLET GRILL & SMOKER 4TH PRIZE 50 INCH SMART TV STH PRIZE 50 INCH SMART TV 1 »• " I From left to right, Janessa Munger, Claire Abraham, Blessed Karageya, Ashton Smith. A .-\l..‘ 01b ja 3RD PRIZE BLACKSTONE 30" GRIDDLE WITH HOOD 2 BURNER LIQUID PROPANE FLAT TOP GRILL a I X '••< >4 . I - 4 ■TK fr; *<• s* 4 c . • % -*r/ 4 Sp h.-* 1ST PRIZE $500.00 MEIJER GIFT CARD ~ i i BLZ RAFFLE PRIZES - TICKETS Sl.OO EA V. f •f ’ I ' L r* / • * ► JI 4 t ' f V SVv”’ ' i» •«*" I '*-' * I , 1 < Sz C >1 I 4 ! I •4 �I Joan was devastated and in-shock. She then walked herself down to the local funeral home to see her mom’s name on the posted sign and waited on the steps there, until someone who knew her found her and said “Joannie, what are you doing here? You can’t be here. After the funeral, there was no place for her to stay, so she was sent to stay with an older half-sister in the rural country side of Cedar Lake, IN. The big city girl did not like the country Obituaries Joan Terry Bednarsky Joan Bednarsky, age 84, from Green Lake, Caledonia, Ml went to be with her Lord, mother, and son suddenly onSeptember 17,2024. She was the proud daughter of a singlemom, Agnes Hanley (deceased August 1955) from Chicago, IL. Joan was a street-smart big city girl when she was orphaned at 15. Her mother and she lived in a one-bedroom upper apartment on the south side of www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 28, 2024 Chicago, near the stock yards. She slept with her mother, using her mom’s arm as a pillow until she was 14. This created a great bond between them, and she loved and adored her mother immensely. When she was 15, they were finally able to upgrade to a two-bedroom place. She was so excited to have her own room! However it was only a few weeks later that her mom passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack. I I I I I V I I I I I I I I I ■ t- f-. - . ■ V’ 4i^ r V*' t'- .-r and missed her city and her mom. It was there that she met Frank Bednarsky, who gave her a ride to school in his Lincoln * * .................. Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham r: 1 i-r BAPTIST Nliddleville Sunday Service 10:30 AM J 7^ ) I service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 6I6-89I-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream: Faccbook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMcthodist Serving <x CD Strengthening Connecting Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: (269) 795-2391 1675 84th st. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend •t I I lit r ■ •A. 9 r Livestream; facebook.com/firstbaptjstmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 HOLY FAMILY jIcATHOLIC CHURCH ■» JOURNEY 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:16 am and 11:00 am Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am w MPEACE I CHURCH . . f 1 Hr' B *p ........ • * PEACECHURCH.ee J Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee CHURCH Caledonia Location - Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. :a Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE Yankee Springs Bible Church ^Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30ani & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Sunday School.... Sunday Worship. . 9:30 AM 10:30 AM IFC®> Watch our services from our website (see above) t 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 tt Shining Forth God*s Li^t rr Sunday Morning Worship Community Group......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L, CoUison, Pastor www,yankeespringsbiblcchurch.org J % I cornerstone ch u rch I I LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church Continental, so she didn’t have to ride the school bus. Shortly I* after, they were engaged and married in November of 1957 in Cedar Lake, IN. She was 17 years old. They had three children within tour years, all born in Indiana hospitals. After that they moved for job reasons to Kansas City, Kansas for a 9^ short time. Mom loved it there and enjoyed being a housewife with three beautiful kids, and a brand new builder’s home. After that they moved to New Buffalo Ml, and finally to Green Lake, Caledonia in 1966. Two more children were born there, completing a family of seven. One of Joan’s greatest passions was gardening and landscaping, especially with her eldest son. She had a love for everything green and colorful in the yard, which she passed on to her son, Frank Jr. Together this summer they worked tirelessly side by side making the grounds look more amazing than ever before. She also loved updating and maintaining the house. And with her grandson, Frank III, being a professional painter, they together kept freshening up the house room by room. He adored Grandma Joan and felt it an honor to work with her on improving her place. Doughnuts were often involved! She looked forward to wonderful homemade Sunday dinners at her eldest daughter. Fawn’s home. She also enjoyed shopping, beauty appointments, and casino trips with her youngest daughter, Amy, with a cocktail on her beautiful waterfront porch afterwards. Joan’s biggest joy was going to their home on Fort yers Beach, FL. Especially happy hour on the lanai watching sunsets. She loved sunbathing, walking the beach, collecting shells, and chatting with people by the pool. Many fond memories of her and Frank Jr.remodeling their condos and always re-doing the decor. She loved having visiting children from Michigan, and occasionally the grand (and great grand) children. At 57 she was beating everyone else at doubles tennis! She was very active well into her 70s. If you had the gift of being able to meet Joan you would agree that she was a tiny lady with a big personality and a wonderful smile, not to mention a great tan. She was the life of the party and loved telling her stories about a life well-lived. She will be missed enormously and is survived by her husband, Frank Bednarsky (88): daughter. Fawn and Robert Cichoski, five children), son Frank Bednarsky Jr., grandson Frank Bednarsky III (wife Regina) and great-grand children Brody and Jersey Bednarsky, granddaughter Holly Bednarsky, daughter Amy Bednarsky-Genther, son Tom Bednarsky (wife Sarah) and grandchildren Jonathon Bednarsky and Samantha Graham (husband Shayne). She was preceded in death by her mother, Agnes Hanley (1955), son Jon Bednarsky (2015), two half-brothers and a half-sister, and many aunts. Cremation has already taken place and the family will have a private celebration. 1 I i I J I I ] �4 4 ♦ I 9 4 A « * i I I t •Ik www.sunandnews.com Ik d 1; t i station for Grand Rapids water line extension to Caledonia Twp. OK’d Greg Chandler I r It !) II I THE SUN AND NEWS Staff Writer A pump station that is planned to be the first phase of connecting Caledonia Township to the city of Grand Rapids water system has been approved by the township planning commission. Commissioners last week approved a site plan for the pump station at 5160 60th St. SE. The 2,200-square-foot building will store and maintain utility equipment for the city’s water system within the township. The project is slated for completion in the fall of2025. Township Engineer Todd Boerman wrote in a memo to commissioners. Township officials have been in discussions with Grand Rapids for close to a year about connecting to the city’s water system. The Grand Rapids system uses water entirely from Lake Michigan, which goes through a filtration plant just south of the city of Grand Haven, in Ottawa County. “Connecting our water system to a neighboring water system has been a goal of the township for many years due to the poor aesthetic quality of Caledonia’s wel 1 supply and the need for additional capacity,” Boerman wrote. The pump station is needed because Caledonia’s water system is at a higher elevation than the Grand Rapids system in Cascade Township, to the north of Caledonia, Boerman wrote in the memo. “With other system improvements planned in the coming year, the pump station will be able to pump enough water from the Grand Rapids system to meet peak irrigation demand so that odd/even irrigation restrictions will no longer be needed,” Boerman wrote. According to a memo published in Saturday, September 28, 2024 Obituaries January by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), the station would Keith Leroy contain two pumps that can each process 1.5 million gallons of water Bergy per day. Also needed for connecting to I Keith Leroy Bergy, age 97, the Grand Rapids water system would of Caledonia, Ml, went to be be a new 24-inch diameter water main with his Lord and Savior on on East Paris Avenue between 40th Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024. Street and Broadmoor Avenue (M-37) He is survived by his children. Bob and Cheryl | to improve capacity to the south, and a new 12-inch diameter water main Bergy and Betty Caskey; I crossing Broadmoor near the station seven grandchildren and I to provide a second supply line, the their spouses; 15 greatI EGLE memo said. grandchildren; and many I Township Manager Alison Nugent nieces and nephews. said in January that there were no issues He was preceded in death by his wife of with water quality in the township, but 78 years, Barbara Jean Bergy; son-in-law, Township Trustee Greg Zoller disagreed. Norm Caskey; great grandsons, Isaac and He said the water at his residence was Luke VanRegenmorter; siblings, Bernice “corrosive without the softener.” and Harry Botruff, Cliff and Shirley Bergy, The pump station will be owned Howard and Marie Bergy; extended family and operated by the city of Grand and friends. Keith proudly served his country in the Rapids. The city received a low-interest US Army. He was a charter member of Drinking Water State Revolving Loan the American Legion Post 305. He retired from EGLE for the project, which will be paid off over a 20-year period by Caledonia’s water system through its rate structure, Boerman wrote. the township. The system has a current Extending the water system to rated capacity of2.3 million gallons per day, township records show. Caledonia will come at a cost. According to the EGLE memo, users of the The township water system set Caledonia system are expected to see an another annual production record last increase in the commodity charge, based yearwith274.1 million gallons ofwater on usage, of about $ 16.96 a month. produc ' T a 10.2 percent increase from Caledonia Township’s south water the pre ioLis record of 248.7 million system was installed in 1994, and gallons in 2022. The system produced the north water system went online nearly 35.8 million gallons ofwater last in December 2002. The two systems month. The record daily output was set were interconnected along M-37 in on July 19 of last year in the amount the spring of2004. A private company. of 1.995 million gallons, according to a Infrastructure Alternatives, operates memo from Inffastmcture Alternatives the water system under contract with to the township. wa t •J * J J p*’ * I « 1 after many years as the owner of Caledonia Oil Company. He enjoyed riding his tractors, Farmall tractors in F particular, and observing and participating in the Mackinac Bridge Antique Tractor Crossing and Show. He loved and cherished spending time with his family and he will be greatly missed. A funeral service was held Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024 at Caledonia Christian Reformed Church, 9957 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia, with Rev. Kyle Fennell officiating. Burial was held at Lakeside Cemetery. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Interim Hospice or American Legion Post 305. Condolences may be sent online at www. mkdfuneralhome.com. —— ■ K, | । •» ■ I I WNE-VJP JHUUM 1 f I I I ’N RUilD I I «s I I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments I on qualifying equipment I I 7 A >1 I 4 * J MIDDLEVILLE Continued from Page 2 council meeting to provide an update on what has happened wi± the 90-year-old bam. He apologized for “a perceived gap in communication or understand­ ing” with the village on the project. He said while there has not been a lot of exterior work on the project, “there’s over six figures of work in the building already internally,” including a new water heater and heating units. In May 2022, the Village Council 5 i voted 6-0 to accept the bid of Acorn Treehouse Ventures of $40,115 to acquire the fire bam, passing up a more lucrative bid from a competing bidder. Leading Constmction, who offered $50,000 for the site. At the time, DeMaagd had proposed a mixed-use commercial development at the fire bam that included a cafe, bakery and coffee roasting and canning operation. The updated site plan for 115 High calls for development of a fusion/ American restaurant at the site. DeMaagd plans to continue to operate Left Field Cafe at 124 E. Main, with the kitchen at Left Field to serve the new restaurant at 115 High, he said. If the Planning Commission approves the site plan update, the council could extend the development agreement that to have a certificate of occupancy approved by August 2025, Powers said. The village purchased the 0.126-acre parcel at 115 High from Thomapple Township in 2005 for $13,500. It is zoned C-1 central business district. * r 1 I r /r 3t V f . FRONTIER HEATING 6 COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 I I I I I ! I I I* �J * / I 6 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 28, 2024 www.sunandnews.com Village Council taps consultant to develop specs for replacing Paul Henry Trail bridges Greg Chandler Staff Writer Henry Trail have been in disrepair for some time and need to be replaced in order to continue serving the residents of the village and surrounding communi­ ties,” Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg wrote in a memo to the council. “The cost to replace the bridges continues to rise, making it necessary to complete the work as soon as possible before costs make the project prohibitive.” Williams and Works principal Brandon Mieras, who will serve as manager for the bridge project, said that part of his role will be to find sources of fimding for replacing the bridges. Potential sources of The village of Middleville will retain its longtime planning consultant to develop design plans and specifications for replacing two pedestrian bridges on the Paul Henry Thomapple Trail south of the Village Hall. The Village Council Tuesday voted 6-0 to contract with the firm of Williams and Works for construction management services for the bridge replacement project. “The two bridges south of town along the Paul c •l n u4 .X J • r VH 1 10:00am - 2:00pm id ■XOrt' Annua/Z/ Platinum Sponsors GUN LAJOS CASTXr J biiiigiiig biisuiesses it conuuiinity together FREE • Admission Parking Kids Vision Testing • Kids ID Kits • Vendor Items • Chair " Massages • Blood Pressure Checks • & MOREN /• * ,f J *' > Complimentary food samples from the Big Green Egg, and a chance to WIN prizes, at Myitown Aoe Hardwara's booth a * <« T « V / Wayland Union Middle School" 701 Wildcat Drive Magic Show by Alan Kazam 10:30am & 12:30pm - Enjoy this exciting presentation by _________ Aten Kazam, Magician - Sponsored by KOVAL CONSTRUCTION FREE Children's Vision Testing FREE Children’s ID Kits FREE KIDS Home Depot building kits & aprons FREE Children's Take Home ID Kits: Courtesy of Michigan Masons. Each kit includes an inkless fingerprint kit, DNA collection kits, and wallet information cards. FREE Children's Lions partner with medical ----- ——-- Vision Testing: 1.IVII5 por trier wiin meuicai professionals and community leaders to screen young children, and primary school students, to'identify those at risk for vision loss. to the first 100 kids Exhibits Will Include • Retail & Service Businesses • Local Schools • Churches • Local VFW Post 7581 • Organizations/Clubs Emergency Officials Arts & Crafters Market Free Kids Crafts Check out NEW businesses in our area! • And MUCH MORE! • • • • MZ7A, Groceries - Courtesy of Ed Koehn Ford MZ7AI Gift Cards - The first 500 adults will receive a "Vendor Bingo" card for a chance to WIN a gift card. ENTERTAINMENT WILL INCLUDE 10:30am & 12:30pm - Magician Alan Kazam 11:30am & 1:30pm - Improy by WUHS Expo Proudly Hosted By: '* LIVE MUSIC • APEX Clean Energy • Booth Hiiaski Grevenstuk Insurance Agency • Full Potential Chiropractic • Greenridge Realty _. „ . Wayland Pre mi er Sponsors • • • • • Hopkins Propane Huff Pool & Spa ITC Laurels of Sandy Creek Less Stress In Life The Chamber would like to graciously thank Wayland Union Schools and all Expo *- ^Cl Ccrninftip J X • MyTown Ace Hardware - Dorr • Sable Homes • United Bank www.waylandchamber.org exhibitors for their continued support of the Expo f fimding include grant funding through the Michigan Department of Transportation’s Transportation Al­ ternatives Program (TAP) and the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund. The village and Thomapple Township could jointly seek grant fimding for the project, Mieras said. “We’ve had trail projects where the city and the local township or two townships each applied for one (grant), because it’s not as competitive, it’s capped at $400,000,” Mieras said. Mieras displayed an example of a trail project from several years ago he worked on in Lowell that received a $2.9 million TAP grant, as well as fimding through the DNR Trust Fund, as part of an overall $6 million project. The city of Lowell and neighboring townships contributed matching fimds to the project, which is scheduled to begin construction next year, Mieras said. Stolsonburg has proposed a capital campaign to raise fimds for the bridge replacement project, as well as reaching out to neighboring municipalities such as Thomapple Township. Grants through foundations and through federal con* gestion and air quality mitigation fimding are potential sources offimding for the proj ect. Funding through trail organizations is another possibility. The village would be expected to provide some matching dollars for any grant fimding that is awarded, Mieras said. One of the bridges to be replaced would be 60 feet long, while the other is 55 feet long. Both are expected to be prefabricated single-span steel truss bridges, supported by reinforced concrete abutments. Both structures would be 12 feet wide, according to a memo from Mieras to the council. Tentative estimates from Williams and Works put the cost of replacing the bridges at $1,430,000. Adding in the cost of repaving the trail, the potential proj ect price tag is about $2 million, Stolsonburg said. Cost of the engineering and design work has been estimated at $151,000, according to a memo from Mieras to the council. Stolsonburg said he has met with Thomapple Township leaders to see if they have an interest in partnership with the village on the project. “There is an appetite to assist us (with fimding) at some point, but I’m not sure exactly what that looks like yet,” Stolsonburg said. Once design plans and specifications are developed, Williams and Works will seek bids from interested contractors on the bridge project, Mieras said. 1 60 ONLINE TO SUNANONEWS.COM I I �www.sunanclnews.com ------- SUN AND NEWS_________________ Saturday, September 28, 2024 7 7 Aquatic weeds showing up on boardwaik at Campau, Kettie iakes Greg Chandler Staff Writer Kk' 1» <1 > •f I Zi . % \ J 4 Users of the boardwalk around Campau and Kettle Lake in Caledonia Township have noticed an unwelcome visitor of late. Aquatic weeds have been found growing through the boardwalk on 66th Street and on apart ofMcCords Avenue, Township Manager Alison Nugent said at a recent Township Board meeting. While the Kent County Road Com­ mission has agreed to cut weeds and maintain the trail around the lake for the rest of the season at no cost, Nugent began looking into options for trying to prevent weed growth next year. She contacted PLM Lake & Land Man agement Corporation, which already has the contract with the township for conducting herbicide treatments on the lake, to see what could be done. PLM recommended holding off on any sort of treatment program until year. The company could perform at least two treatments around the board walk and underneath the boardwalk during the year, as far they can reach underneath. The cost of the treatment would be $970 for the two treatments, *il S’ . V- <• * r ( < ' 'W- - •’ J* b. ■k * \ k «4 V* **1'• •T 1^ 4^ 4* a ■ -gia. »*•. • r I ■ t* X L > • k I 4 ’4t->r J Residents on Campau/Kettle lakes (pictured) are contending with aquatic weeds. File photo by Jayson Bussa which would include the cost ofgetting a permit from the Michigan Depart­ ment of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, and another $445 for any additional treatment, Nugent said. “It will help to prolong the life of those bridges and boardwalks, and not have to replace the wood as often,” Nugent said. Township Supervisor Bryan Har­ rison asked Nugent if she knew what other communities did in addressing similar weed issues on boardwalks. WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS I *» bl I* J . I fl?-.- M ' / u»/ J J > I * — .. % « * *• t M'* ’X * : I 4 -4^ r — .-Jr35'' VI I 4 < sA.’ Jr' —-ti' y . I Residential & Comme ^-A V 4 1 . < • . ’Si 3^ •A’* Jr r 1^ fc’ ■I. •I- T’ClT • .4 < • r « ' « • . r *X 1 t ' s r 'T tx I 5,. «■» N.* W ?• 1 9 : h L.\ < A -7^ I t ) I A- t ' f-' I 1 I I a- < * J J. ! J n * «*>:■ I * ? '• 7^ t 5 4'. ■rb I -J -- r ;-c **> t *4 • / # V 1 M. X9L. 7 '♦ 1: 1 J f L fc ■>-- iX-' Vs a . 'T* I 4 Pictured here is this year’s Thornapple Kellogg High School homecoming court, which will be honored on Friday. They include— Seniors; Brooklyn. Harmon, Lucas McNabnay, Brooke Kimbel, Ryan Frizzell, Emma Geukes, Connor Dombkowski; Juniors: Sophia LaHaie and Trey Hilton; Sophomores: Isla Tillema and Ethan Strait: Freshmen: Anna Romph and Colton Stahl. 4 n . I # .« r > » • ?u s-- * « P'r '' < * '!S • t <9 ) ( ■,A > T f b t. t t * *• k Cu** I • •r Vf 4*./ .• 1 !, 1 . DeWeerd <68) HEATING ATING & AIR CONDITIONING, CONDITIONING. INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM I I ■ .♦ i 4 •? •rr *•. .•t. .'-r . 'A , ♦• .«?r f I U 1** 'JU '• y e f- :;5Si 2 •> 3b:.. ?is 9. . .1.4/ 4 IK— ’s I :• (7 J I r '■ L E-Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers -Air Conditioners Heat Pumps -Water Heaters Humidifiers r 'i. * i't » e ■ A F ’ > 4 I J' r J > - s f V’ 9 Court is in session I t. T* M fl -Jr at ‘ c w : i- V >* M* X 4 I «■ < b “I certainly want to protect our investment there, it’s even a safety is­ sue, if you see how quickly the weeds started to encroach back in on the trail for the users,” Harrison said. But Harrison is also a little leery about using chemicals to treat the weeds. He proposed the township hold off on any action until it can explore other alternatives. In the interim, Nu­ gent said she would speak with Scott Post, a trail consultant with Prein & Newhof, on ideas for dealing with the weed problem on the boardwalk. On a related note, the board at its Sept. 18 meeting finalized the assess­ ment roll for treating aquatic weeds in Campau and Kettle lakes through 2040. The meeting provided one final chance for property owners to object to their assessment. No one spoke at the public hearing. A total of 129 property owners will share in the $285,000 cost of the treatment program over the next 15 years, with each parcel being assessed $170.54 annually. . r ■f 269-792-2234 Since » 1955 LBVNOX « f A*|I BBB. 55ifc2i^ ( . ACCREDITED BUSINESS �•J u, r v 8 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 28, 2024 I Caledonia Twp. holds off on local solar ordinance Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Township is taking a wait-and-see attitude as to whether it should adopt some type of ordinance regulating smaller-scale solar energy projects. The Township Board held a discus­ sion at its Sept. 18 meeting on the topic, in light of legislation that passed the state late last year that allows utilities to bypass local municipalities and seek approval from the Michigan Public Service Commission for solar and other clean energy projects that will generate 50 megawatts or more of energy. Bar­ ring a court challenge, the law goes into effect Nov. 29. “That has obvious implications, given that we are usually the first stop for compatibility and harmony within our community, when it comes to neighboring uses, whether that’s a farm next to a subdivision or a subdivision next to a shopping center, we try to -* b * nZ s.: Ek *, —,* I* .SV I Caledonia Township currently does not have any ordinance language on the books that would regulate solar energy projects. Stock photo manage those (conflicts),” Supervisor Bryan Harrison said. Township Manager Alison Nugent said at present, the township has no ordinance language at all regulating solar energy projects. “The (Michigan Townships Associa­ tion) is against this law, but what the state has said is that the townships can make CREOs, which are compatible renewable energy ordinances, but if they’re not compatible with the state rules, not only can the townships be overridden, but we could also poten­ tially lose funding in those areas as well,” Nugent said. “They’ve put a lot of limitations on local control here. The township could still create ordinances on solar projects that are under 50 megawatts. We could create a CREO.” Nugent outlined several options for the board to consider - to craft its own ordinance for the township, adopt a similar,ordinance that is being devel­ oped by Kent County commissioners, or do nothing. She has also reached out to Gaines Charter Township, which does have an ordinance regulating consumer-scale solar projects, and other nearby communities. “Most of the townships around us are kind of holding tight until this law goes into effect to see what steps they should take,” Nugent said. Apetition drive to block the law from going into effect failed to gain enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot by the June deadline. Township Trustee Tim Bradshaw, Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser Help us support veterans and community functions. Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024 and the First Saturday of each month Serving 8 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. bacon, sausage links or patties, potatoes, biscuits and sausage gravy, pancakes, milk. Of, coffee. • Time & 1/2 over 40 hours • 401 (k) w/contribution * Menu subject to change Adults $13.00 • Children 10 & under $5.00 For more information call the Post at 616-S91-J8S2 • Drive newer equipment • Paid vacations/holidays • Paid life/disability • Must have Class A CDL and pass Coffee Donated by medical/drug screen ASK FOR DON Go to www.vetstruck.com for applications. III If J after 6 months $25.00 hr. CALL NOW DIRECT (262) 539-4460 II • e 7* A TRUCK DRIVERS • Hourly rate $24.00 hr. 9 In Marshall, Ml is now accepting applications for; • Paid health benefits b 11 VETERAN’S TRUCK LINE INC. • Night Drivers J r r. .. i > I i BIGGBY • » r C O F F EE Caledonia Memorial Legion Post 305 9548 Cherry Valley, Caledonia, MI LUNCH M-TH 11 AM-8 PM; FRI 11 AM-2PM; FRI BUILD A BURGER 4-8 PM i w '-Iv L k ►^'g:63V< t who is the board’s representative on the Planning Commission, has serious reservations about the state law and how it might impact the township. “I don’t have a lot of trust that the MPSC has Caledonia Township’s vi­ sion for how we want our township to develop in mind. Personally, 1 would prefer to retain as much local control as we can,” Bradshaw said. Harrison expressed mixed views on the law. “I’m not entirely opposed to having these sorts of (large-scale) facilities in our township,” he said. “I do believe it’d be nice for us to thoughtfully adopt regulations with them becoming more likely to be developed in areas. I don’t appreciate having our authority (to decide on projects at a local level) taken away . I’d welcome it in some locations, but I don’t trust the Michigan Public Service Commission to put our interests first and our citizens’ interests (first).” “The irony (is), under the current law as it’s about to take effect, we lose control as (the size of the project) grows, is pretty backwards. If it’s on a smaller scale, we’re not likely to have incompatible uses as likely as they are on the large-scale. That’s where we’ve lost any input or authority. I think that should be changed,” Harrison added. Township Trustee Greg Zoller said that about 500 acres of land would be needed to produce at least 50 mega­ watts of solar power. Nugent said there is a way the town­ ship can try to create limited ordinance language to address large-scale solar proj ects. “It cannot be stricter than the state,” the manager said. “It would (regulate) setbacks, but it’s minimal. We do have some control, but we have to be very careful about (being in conflict with state law).” Harrison said the township may want to decide how to address requests for home-based solar power systems. “Do we care if people are setting them up in their yards, or on their rooftops?” he said. “Do we encourage multifamily (buildings) to have it on See SOLAR on 9 1 4 /,_ 4 ' a? •.. ,1 -1 t. Mb* V i > t 9 1 �> www.sunandnews.com I I I A % I I THE SUN ANO NEWS SOLAR Continued from Page 8 their rooftops? I know we have friends who are quite committed to solar energy and they have 30 panels, and they own 20-30 acres.” Zoller said that he couldn’t see the township getting an ordinance passed before the state law takes effect, and Clerk Joni Henry pro­ posed waiting until early next year to revisit the issue. “We can wait and see. My con­ cern is more on the residential as we see housing developments going * 1 ® m, Harrison said. The village of Caledonia in No­ vember 2023 passed an ordinance regulating small-scale home-based solar energy systems. Anyone want­ ing to put up a solar system at their home must present a site plan and obtain a zoning compliance permit from the village before they can start the project. Some projects could be referred to the Planning Commission for approval, according to Section 3.43 ofthe village zoning ordinance. The ordinance also requires any consumer-scale solar units to be sited in the backyard or side yard ofthe residence. Building-mounted units carmot be more than 3 feet higher than the maximum build­ ing height allowed for that zoning district, while ground-mounted units can be no more than 12 feet high, according to Section 3.43 of the zoning ordinance. T T_________ • _ * 9 Saturday, September 28, 2024' County road agencies release 2024 ‘don’ miss’ list of local roads for fall colors Michigan in the fall is like a scene out of a painting, and residents across the state are its observers. What better way to appreciate the fall colors than to take a leisurely drive down a scenic county road? “Taking a fall color tour down a county road is a great way to spend an afternoon,” said Denise Donohue, CEO of the County Road Association (CRA) of Michigan. “Michigan’s colors are among the best in the country, making fall the perfect opportunity to go out and enjoy the state’s natural beauty.” “This list of‘don’t miss’ fall color drives reflects the best suggestions from over 30 county road agencies who know the best fall color vistas in their area,” she said. The full list may be found on CRA’s website at micountyroads.org/mibackroads. Several routes in Barry County are featured on the list. Peak viewing conditions are expected from September 25 to October 23 .Northern Lower Michigan and Mid-Michigan are expected to experience peak colors in the same two-week period (October 2-16) as are West Michigan and Southeast Michigan (October 9-23). Here are a few of the nearby highlighted routes: BARRY COUNTY — West State Road from Hastings to Middleville — Gun Lake Road from M-179 (near Gun Lake) to M-179 (near Hastings) —Yankee Springs Road from M-37 to Delton Road South of Middleville KENT COUNTY Honey Creek Avenue from Pettis Avenue to Cannonsburg Road Bailey Drive from Vergennes Street to Lincoln Lake Avenue — Fallasburg Park Drive from Lincoln Lake Avenue to Gavin Lake Avenue — 5 Mile Road from Lincoln Lake Avenue to Gavin Lake Avenue — Gavin Lake Road from 5-mile Road to Belding Road — Wabasis Avenue from Belding Road to 12 Mile Road Ramsdell Drive from 5 Mile Road to 11 Mile Road MUSKEGON COUNTY — Scenic Drive from Memorial Drive to Michillinda Road — Along Lake Michigan shoreline and Duck Lake OTTAWA COUNTY — Lakeshore Drive from Grand Haven city limits to Ottawa Beach Road/Holland State Park — Hayes Street from M-11 intersection to Berlin Fair Drive/the Berlin Fairgrounds in Marne — Leonard Street from intersection on Leonard Street/S. Lake Avenue in Village of Spring Lake to Lamont — Mercury Drive/Green Street/N. Cedar Drive from Grand Haven to Riverside County Park S® STEAK DINNER ED’S BODY SHOP SATUBDAY.OCT. 5™ 5:00-7:00 pm CALEDONIA. MICHIGAN ypur trusted Body Shop for over 32 years WHY CHOOSE ED’S? I JU * Free Estimates J >• 1 Repair all makes & models IB I i •1 "state of'ttT^rt*Re?inistTFacility’^J •Y 1* State’S’l-CAR’Certified t^hniciaf^ 1 VIEW 4 i *• Group SunAndNews.com Proud to be YOUR COMMUNITY CONNECTION TOUCH (Tomputerized'EIgEtrS'ni^ . _ I Measuring’Systern** Frame R^air Includes: Potatoes, vegetables, & homemade dessert. 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J 1 .»* •>f .’1 •Ks* Get one-on-one Medicare help: I I h (877) 875-9615 (TTY; 711) x; •b < H April 1- Sept. 30: Oct. 1 - March 31: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday- Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Seven days a week n Learn more about Medicare at hap.org/learn Health Alliance Plan (HAP) has HMO, HMO-POS, PPO plans with = ^^OH . Medicare contracts. HAP Medicare Complete Duals (HMO D-SNP) is a Medicare health plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the Michigan Medicaid Program. Enrollment depends on contract renewals. Y0076_ALL 2024 Sept T65 Print C HAP470725 1 J 5 t •w- ik '■_ 9 / »' % ! a I I » a I �www.sunandnews.cofn * I L THE SUM AND NEWS Sporting Wews— ♦ ♦ r Saturday, September 28, 2024 ♦ ♦ OUR COMPANY IS GROWING — 'T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY I k Back-up keeper’s PK save preserves Scot win Barring a massive upset Thursday night, the Caledonia varsity boys’ soccer team will be playing to hold onto the number two spots in the OK Green conference when it plays host to Byron Center Tuesday evening at Scotland Yard. Caledonia went 3-2 in its first run through the conference schedule, and avenged one of those losses last Thursday, Sept. 19, scoring a 4-1 win over visiting Reeths-Puffer. The Byron Center Bulldogs, who are off to a 7-0 conference start and ranked 12th in the state in Division 1, beat the Fighting Scots 1-0 in their September meeting in Byron Center. The Scots moved to 9-3 overall and 5-2 in the OK Green with a 2-1 win over Jenison Tuesday evening. They were scheduled for a second conference match-up with Muskegon Thursday, Sept. 26. With senior goalkeeper Simon Hilton out for the week, sophomore Nicolas Long had to step into the starting spot, and Fighting Scot head coach said Long and his whole team really showed their resiliency in their second one-goal win of the season over Jenison. Long played the second halfof the JV match in goal for the Scots in Jenison Tuesday, and had a ball get past him in the final minute of a Wildcat win. The Jenison varsity then found the net first in the opening 15 minutes of action of Long’s first varsity start in net. Long cleared a long ball in by Jenison that got over his defenders’ heads, but the ball didn’t get all the way out of bounds as a Wildcat attacker crashed into Long. As the Scots’ young goalie fought to scramble back to his net after the collision, the Wildcats fired a cross back in front of the Scot net that they headed in for a 1 -0 lead. Senior Drew Diebolt took care of the finishes as the other end of the field for the Scots, scoring both of their goals. Just past the midway mark of the first half he fired a long shot into the net to tie things up. He scored a second goal early in the second half off an assist from senior Brody Siler. “It was an exciting game,” Dishnow said. “We won 1 -0 the last time, and this time at Jenison it was an intense game. It felt kind of like a playoff atmosphere. It just got a little chippy, there were some yellow cards. It was a hostile environment.” Long overcame that environment, keeping the ball out of his net after the early goal. He even had to face a pen­ alty kick with less than ten minutes to go in the match. The Scots were called for a foul in the scrum of a Bulldog comer kick. Diving to his right he knocked the PK away with an outstretched arm to pre­ serve the varsity’s one-goal advantage. Long is a varsity player, but spends time with the JV in net because of Simon’s regular role in goal. “Unbelievable,” Dishnow said. “All the guys were hooting and hollering, jumping all over Nick and giving him all the praise. It was amazing.” Siler had two goals in the win over Reeths-Puffer last week, with one com­ ing on a comer kick that her curled into the net. Diebolt and senior Parker Chapp had the other two Caledonia goals. Dishnow said the big difference between the first and second meeting with the Rockets was the time the team has had to form its identity over the last month — knowing who plays where, what formations work best and just growing the overall team chemistry. The Scots had their senior night ceremony planned for Thursday night’s match with Muskegon. Caledonia took a 9-0 win the firs time the two teams met this year. We Hiring > "•f - Brett Bremer Sports Editor 11 " Marketing Specialist Responsibilities include: • • • • Advertising sales Account management Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts Attend networking events Are you the one? K --7 J k I i'.v ■ ■ z* b 4 fl V « <1I « 1 * r* a 1 V * I I I I - * I 1 * J# Id I it .r* '* t BiE •< Group « I email wsmith@mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer’s Guide ■ Jeffersonian ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen » i k Jt ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder f ✓ f <■ �« t 9 12x' Saturday, September28, 2024 www.suriandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS 1 w ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ fi’ojans tested by talent at Lakewood Invitational rrra^ Brett Bremer Sports Editor A group of five teams that find themselves in among the top ranked in their division in the state of Michigan, including the host Vikings, took part in the 11 -team Lakewood Invitational Saturday at Lakewood High School. In the end it was two of the top teams in the state in Division 2 battling it out for the championship, and the No. 2 Grand Rapids Christian girls scored a 22-25, 25-19, 15-11 win over the eighth-ranked Hawks. Lakewood, ranked ninth in the state in Division 2, fell to the Forest Hills Eastern girls in the semifinals of the championship bracket after sweeping their way through pool play. The Vikings opened the tournament with a 25-8, 25-14 win over Cedar Springs, a 25-9,25-15 win over Delton Kellogg and a 25-14, 25-16 win over Shelby in pool play. Both champion­ ship bracket matches for Lakewood CTOWNSHIP aledonia 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECT THEREOF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on September 18, 2024, the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia adopted an ordinance amending the zoning ordinance of the Charter Township of Caledonia. The ordinance amends Section 4.2, the Zoning Map, to rezone two parcels of land. The first parcel of land, commonly known as 6949 Broadmoor Avenue SE, which is currently zoned C-2 General Business District on the eastern portion of the property and zoned R-R Rural Residential on the western portion of the property, was rezoned so that a portion of the western property was also rezoned to the C-2 General Business District. The amending ordi­ nance also rezoned lands commonly known as 7005 Broadmoor Avenue SE from its current zoning of the eastern portion of the property being zoned in the C-2 General Business District and the western portion of the property currently zoned in the R-R Rural Residential District, so that the entire parcel was rezoned to the C-2 General Business District. The rezoning ordinance will become effective on October 5, 2024. A copy of the ordinance may be examined or purchased at the Caledonia Charter Township Offices, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, during Township office hours. Dated: September 28, 2024 TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA » A 1 ....Tl V 1 >- F". i; •> * *0 L ■ < ’S t u? • ■t. ■; At* 'i 9 \ I B < I 4 k i * 4 I LI I c A » 1 r i * ?***K.I ■ T i < T fl I t V- 1* 4 7 J. 'jy Si- I >1 A ■I dw hl. b. U V *♦ W jT «< / Li y 1^ ■ * « I I f ( v Lit .4* JU’ 1 :1 I S’.* i 1 I Thornapple Kellogg’s Maria Piccione (left) and Brooklyn Harmon go up to block a Belding attack during the split in pool play Saturday at the Lakewood Invitational. Photo by Brett Bremer went three sets. They fell 22-25 to open things up against Petoskey and then rallied for 25-10, 15-11 wins in the second two sets. Forest Hills Eastern bumped the Vikings from the tournament in the semifinals 17-25, 25-20, 15-13. Senior Abby Pickard had 12 kills, eight assists and eight digs in the Vi­ kings’ battle with the Hawks to close out the day. Junior setter Emma Duffy had 12 assists and three kills as well as six digs. Sophomore Camyla Copelin had a team-high 13 digs and three aces. Copelin and freshman Ahlanna Thomas chipped in three kills apiece. Against Petoskey to open bracket play, the Vikings got 15 kills and seven assists from Pickard and eight kills and 15 assists from Duffy. Copelin chipped in four kills and 11 digs. Pickard had ten digs and junior Eva Stowell had a team-high 19 digs. Thomas added two blocks. Duffy had two aces. Freshman Johanna Duits led the Vikings in kills in their opener against Cedar Springs in pool play, finishing with six. Hayden Bump had six digs and three aces in that one. Payton Federau fired off three aces in her team’s win over Delton Kellogg. Delton Kellogg and Thornapple Kellogg tested themselves against the tough competition throughout the day, and battled with Big Rapids in the silver playoff at the end of the tournament with all three ofthose teams coming out oftheir “bracket” play with 1-1 records. The TK ladies bested Delton, but fell to Big Rapids. The DK beat Big Rapids. “We finished the day with a win over Delton, but not without a fight,” Thomapple Kellogg head coach Tia Cross said. Her Trojans fought off the Panthers 25-14, 20-25, 15-9. “When we find our rhythm and put it all . to- gether we can compete, we just need to develop more consistent game play throughout an entire match.” The going was tough for Delton Kel­ logg against Lakewood, Shelby and Cedar Springs in pool play, but in the end bounced back. “We had great learning experiences over the weekend against some really good teams,” Delton Kellogg head coach Erin Thornton said. “We need to still work on getting a block up, but it’s hard when girls are going over the block to hit. We don’t have a lot of height,, so we need to use our digging to our advantage.” Jalin Lyons had 38 digs on the day for Delton while Izzy Wendland had 3 0 assists, and Keirstyn Kokx had 20 kills. “We kept with Lakewood for a set, which was a win in my book,” Thornton added. “They’re a solid team, starting with the setter, but her supporting cast is great as well. That’s what we need, to see these teams and keep up with them.” Thomapple Kellogg opened its day with a 25-12,25-11 loss to their former OK Gold Conference foes from Forest Hills Eastern, and then lost to a Lowell team among the honorable mention ranks in Division 1, 25-5, 25-9. The Trojan coach. Cross, thought her girls started to find their game in the pool play finale against Belding. The Black Knights took the opening set 25-23, but TK rallied to take the second 25-16. TK fell 25-14, 20-25, 15-9 to Big Rapids to start play in the silver bracket and then closed things out with the win over the Delton girls. All three “Barry County teams” from the tournament were back at it in their re­ spective conferences Tuesday night. The Delton Kellogg girls took a 25-19,25-15 win at Gobles in Southwestern Athletic Conference Central Division play. The Lakewood ladies improved to 3-0 in the Capital Area Activities Conference White Division with a 25-17, 25-16, 20-25,25-17 win over Lansing Catholic back at Lakewood High School. A South Christian team ranked fourth in the state in Division 2 bested the Thomapple Kellogg ladies 25-20, 25-10, 25-11 in OK Gold Conference action in Grand Rapids Tuesday. �a www.sunandnews.com t Ksi .1)11 'lie I of I ' c I on fit Io fl 4 T t I TK team adds two Gold wins during busy stretch Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys tennis team got its fourth OK Gold Conference win of the fall with a sweep of seven flights in a dual with Wyoming Monday in Middleville. The two games Matteo Pagliara got olf of TK first singles player Kameron Nichols were the only two games the Wyoming singles players managed. Nichols took a 6-2, 6-0 win. Aidan Dudik at second singles, Franklin Wilkinson at number three and Anson Verlinde at number four all won 6-0, 6-0. The TK doubles teams only gave up a couple games too with Brady Laven and Layne Schilthroat winning 6-0,6-1 at number one; Cole Novak and Evan Liu winning 6-1, 6-0 at number two; and Max Lepper and Benjamin Scott winning 6-0, 6-0 at number three. The TK team ends the conference season with a 4-2 mark having fallen 6-2 against visiting South Christian Wednesday afternoon. The two TK points Wednesday came thanks to a 6-2, 6-3 win by Nichols at first singles over the Sailors’ Ike Schroetenboer and a 7-5, 6-2 win by Dudik at number two over Joe Maas. The TK team closed out last week with a couple of wins in duals. The Trojans knocked offNorthview 5-3 in Grand Rap­ ids Sept. 18 in an OK Gold Conference dual and then took a 5-3 non-conference win at NorthPointe Christian Thursday. It was another singles sweep in the win over Northview for TK. Nichols bested the Wildcats’ Andy Hinds 6-1, 6-0. Dudik took a 7-5, 6-1 win over Carter Ritsema. At number three, Wilkinson outscored Logan Will 6-1’ 7-5. Verlinde won 6-1, 6-1 at number four over Jordan Spoelhof. TK clinched the win with the doubles team of Mark Gielincki and Samuel Teachout at number four outscoring the Wildcats’ Calvin Towers and Athiya Maheswaren 6-3, 6-4. The other three doubles flights were good battles with the Wildcats winning a long three-setter at number two and a tie-breaker at the end of the third set in another long match at third doubles. Justin Damstra and Cam Witgen pulled out a 4-6, 6-4, 6-4 win for Northview over Novak and Liu in that second double match. At number three, Ryan Maycrost and Micah Wells edged out Scott and Lepper 6-1, 3-6, 7-6(4). In the non-conference dual with NorthPointe Thursday, TK got wins from Nichols, Dudik, Verlinde, the the team of Novak and Liu at number two doubles and the fourth doubles team of Gielincki and Teachout. The TK boys were also in action last Saturday at the Vicksburg tournament, and they came out the victors with 19 points on the day. Vicksburg and Cale­ donia tied for second with 17 points each ahead ofPortage Northern 12, Coldwater 11, Niles 8, Marshall 7 and Pennfield 5. Nichols and Wilkinson both won their flight with perfect 3-0 days. Dudik and Verlinde were 2-1 in the other two singles flights. Scott and Lepper were the 3-0 champs at third doubles and the other three doubles teams for TK each went 2-1 for the day. CHS boys second to TK at Veterans tourney in Vicksburg Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ tennis team finished second to Thomapple Kellogg at Vicksburg’s Honor the Veterans Tournament Saturday. Fighting Scots won three flights on their way to the runner-up finish as a team. Matt Fisher took the fourth I singles flight, the team of Isaac Ro­ botham and Quinn Stanley won at second doubles and the team of Neal Hargrave and Cooper Sowerby won at fourth doubles. TK took the day’s title with 19 points ahead of Caledonia 17, Vicksburg 17, Portage Northern 12, Coldwater 11, Niles 8, Marshall 7 and Pennfield 5. The CHS boys followed that up by outscoring Portage Northern 5-2 on the road Monday afternoon. There were close contests through­ out the afternoon. Hargrave and Sow erby took a 7-5 win in their opening set at number four doubles against Jackson Clemence and then won in a tiebreaker in set number two. Will VanderWeele and Derick Prichard at third doubles for the Scots took a tiebreaker at the end of set one and then pulled away for a 6-2 win in set two against the Huskies’ Gideon Post and Thomas Blind. CHS won three doubles matches. Robotham and Cook took a 6-4, 6-2 win at number two. The Caledonia first doubles team of West Larson and Luke Atheam came up just short in a 6-4,4-6, (107) loss to the Northern top team of Arya Verma and Drew Clyne. In the singles matches, the Scots got wins from Fischer at number four and Hudson Derengowski at number three. Last Thursday, Sept. 19, the Scots fell 5-3 in a non-conference dual with Hamilton with Fischer at fourth singles and the second and third doubles teams getting the victories for their team. •' I f Cl'• r. ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS '«!ti •V Saturday, September 28, 2024 13 ♦ CHS girls handle Rockets in Green volleyball opener Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity volleyball team opened its first OK Green Conference season with a three-set sweep of Reeths-Puffer in Mus­ kegon Thursday, Sept. 19. The Scots won by the scores of 25-13,25-10, 25-16. Senior Josie Noble had a teamhigh 16 kills and sophomore Au­ brey Reynolds chipped in 11 kills. Noble had three total blocks too and Summer Tague chipped in two. Sophomore libero Aveiy Seif had a team-high 13 digs and senior setter Jess Maier had nine digs to go with her 33 assists. Reynolds smacked six aces, senior Eliza Pehrson had four and Maier added three. The Caledonia girls were set for a much tougher test Thursday, Sept. 26, taking on Jenison in conference play. a ’’•1r 9 284 N. BRIGGS ROAD- MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing wUl be held on October 17,2024, commencing at 7:00 p m at the Yankee prings Township Hall 284 N Briggs Rd., Middleville MI, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Mic“ igan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. fo r?re 1 LettLrsTdP"°' ° Min 7 public hearing, members of the public may also provide <>^mmiss)ons consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the PlanningCommission *5 ' cu one Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. Administrator, Joe Shea (joesheai^ankeespringstwp.orgL “'W prior to the^T^th X ° J®‘ ‘he item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the foUowing: ' Ao / Yankee Spnngs Township Zoning Ordinance, Section 20.8 Authority of the Board of Appeab; Re: Determination of practical difficulty justifying a variance. Hearmg: Amendment of Yankee Springs Township Zoning Ordinance, Article X Short Term Rentals ublic Hearing. Amendment of Yankee Springs Township Zoning Ordinance, Article XII General Regulations; Proposed regulations regarding the use of cargo containers and portable storage containers. 4. Such other business as may properly come before the Planning Commission, Anyone interested in reidewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (7) days’ prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabUities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION By: Shana Bush, Chaiiperson Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 �t <_ r 1 1 b- - X t t J / I ► 14 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 28, 2024 Sailors near Gold title with shutout of TK Brett Bremer Sports Editor I , ‘u Caledonia TOWNSHIP • > * J I H <4^*^ 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWNSHIP ORDINANCEAND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECT THEREOF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on September 18, 2024, the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia adopted an ordinance which amends the Township zoning ordinance by amending the Foremost Corporation Planned Unit Development (KraftLake Office Park). The amendment allows indoor recreational uses, such as basketball and pickleball courts and food service in a defined area of Phase II of the Foremost Corporation Planned Unit Development, along with related terms and conditions of the use The ordinance will become effective on October 5, 2024. A copy of the ordinance maybe examined or purchased at the Caledonia Charter Township Offices, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, during Township office hours. Dated: September 28, 2024 TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA A r uSi A* Wayland got one, but otherwise it’s all zeroes for the South Christian var­ sity boys’ soccer team in the OK Gold Conference this fall. The Sailors scored their second shut out win of the season over the Thor­ napple Kellogg boys, Monday in Mid­ dleville, by a 7-0 tally. South Christian, ranked third in the state in Division 3, improved to 12-1-1 overall this season and 9-0 in the OK Gold with the victory. A win over a winless Grand Rapids Union team Monday would clinch the conference championship for the Sailors who have outscored their con­ ference foes 36-1 so far this season. Wayland found the back of the net in a 3-1 loss to the Sailors Sept. 9 at South Christian High School and the other eight conference wins came by way of a shut out. All those numbers match how things played out in Middleville Monday. Will Kupihof and Parker Saladin scored two < ♦r Th Sv J aV < 5 I I, 7J I 1 I r. •A >! J 1 ■ I layrA ‘s : • » I 1'- ■' < ■'Aj S' .bl % J r ‘t-T* •l h • > J * ♦ . • > • * • .1, •-R 7 sK kb'^i j I s I » b * •B?: -•’I A •• '■=? vT K* r : . < •< > t •i AJ rW T^’ • J rf-*. -TT >T. L4 f 7 y r*.. i !• I* .s ’ * , I * L .. ♦ — l" ’ £ 1 .u*. r-*. I • r ♦» 1 b ▼»** I* » 'J |^\ :<4 A 1 ■) >> b ..S i* ^4. < J- ■ •l Zsr-. i’.; V J • K*r V X X i*- 1 5''; 4 ff( *w 1 & I rS IT Thornapple Kellogg senior midfielder Jayce Curtis slides in to try and get the ball off the feet of South Christian senior Bryce Kilbourne during the second half of their OK Gold Conference match in Middleville Monday. Photo by Brett Bremer goals apiece and Bryce Kilbourne, Ca­ leb Kuipers and John Onderlinde added goals while the Trojans were able to put very few threatening chances on the Sailor net at the other end. Kuiphof had a foot in the three Sailors goals that came in the first ten minutes of play. A header by TK senior keeper Owen Comer at the top of his box didn’t quite have the oomph on it required to get it away from danger with the Sailors attack closing in two minutes into the game. Kuiphof con­ trolled the ball at the top of the box and the slid a pass to the right for Kuipers who ripped a shot across the goalmouth into the upper left 90 that Comer had no chance of getting a head, a hand or a finger on. Kuiphoffinished things himselfthree and a half minutes later. Junior Ezra Miller worked the ball through the midfield and sent the ball ahead left for Kuiphof who shook a defender cutting towards his right and fired a shot into the net for a 2-0 Sailor lead. Four minutes later, it was Kuiphof centering a ball in the air from left to right for senior Bryce Kilbourne crashing in on the other side. He took one touch to settle the ball down and another to hit a shot into the net for a 3-0 Sailor advantage. Saladin scored late in the first half and early in the second to up his team’s lead to 5-0, and then Kuiphof man­ aged his third goal midway through the second half. Onderlinde scored his first varsity goal on a header off a great ball in front of the TK net from the right comer. Zander Daley started in goal for the Sailors, and didn’t need to do anything spectacular to keep the 0 on the Troj an side of the scoreboard. Nick Tanui came in to finish off the shut out in net for the Sailors in the second half. The loss to the Sailors was the third consecutive conference defeat for the TK boys saw their record fall to 8-7 overall and 3-6 in the conference. Northview pulled out a 3-2 win over the TK boys last Thursday in Middleville. The Trojan boys were scheduled to visit Union looking for their second win of the season over the Red Hawks Wednesday, Sept. 25, in Grand Rapids. TK will be back in action on the road at Hamilton in a non-conference match Monday. The OK Gold season concludes with a home match against Wyoming Oct. 2 and a match on the road at Wayland Oct. 7 for the TK boys. I, Catholic Central ends game on 41-0 run against TK 1 I. Brett Bremer Sports Editor Grand Rapids Catholic Central took it to the Thomapple Kellogg varsity football team Friday night in Grand Rapids to open the 2024 OK Black Conference football season. Thomapple Kellogg running back Malachi VanEngen hauled in an option pitch from quarterback Micah Dock and mshed into the end zone to put the Trojans in front 6-0 in the opening quarter, and they held that lead into the second before the Cougars took off and went on to a 41 -6 victory Kamall Hillard had six rushes and three of them found the end zone, in­ cluding a pair of second quarter TDs that put Catholic Central in front for good on the Cougars’ homecoming night in Grand Rapids. The Cougars entered the ballgame having been defeated 42-0 by Pontiac Notre Dame Prep the previous week, which was just the second time since the start ofthe 2019 season that the Cougars were bested during the regular season by a team from the state of Michigan. The Troj ans were set to host an unde feated Northview team in Middleville for homecoming Friday, Sept. 27. TK returns to action at East Grand Rapids Friday, Oct. 4. a I I J I �www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ♦ Saturday, September 28, 2024 thornapple township Barry County, Michigan ♦ Map-area within the special assessment district: NOTICE OF PUBIJC HF ARiNr. «1J .A ¥ .1 DUNCAN LAKE WEED CONTOOL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT A* A* A L s A '♦ I < A 0* r ry County, Michigan, on its own initiative, ' . I Ji if J I .• Board of ThomappI .. e Township, Barnomappi mtends to proceed pursuant to Act 188 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1954, sisrlng of ,he comrol and parrial emdtataon'^ aquatic plants and weeds within Duncan Lake by means of chemical treatment, biological agents, and/or mechanical harvesting (th e Public Improvements”). The Township Board has tentatively determined that ail of .he costs of the Public improvements shall be speciariy ^s^s dZ.n^ SiS^XSXTe?^ lake frontage on Duncan together comprise the I /. b t > lornappi (Towns J ■1 t 1t J I .1 4d9 J .i. *1 ♦7 w .A r z* CW Siv/ flitfl -J5® I V <• Wr-.. < I J a KM I I I 4 J V I I D Jf . "H V 1 *7 > Permanent Parcel No, 08-14-005-001-10 08-14-005-001-15 08-14-005-001-90 08-14-005-001-91 08-14-005-006-00 08-14-006-002-00 Permanent Parcel No. 08-14-007-001-53 08-14-007-001-54 08-14-007-001-55 08-14-007-001 -56 08-14-007-002-12 08-14-007-002-20 08-14-006-003-00 08-14-007-002-21 08-14-006-004-00 08-14-007-002-30 - Permanent Parcel No. Permanent Parcel No. 08-14-050-004-00 08-14-050-029-00 08-14-050-005-00 08-14-050-006-00 08-14-050-007-00 08-14-050-007-10 08-14-050-008-00 08-14-050-009-00 08-14-050-010-00 I 08-14-006-009-00 08-14-007-002-60 08-14-050-013-00 08-14-006-010-00 08-14-006-011 -00 0^14-006-013-00 08-14-007-002-72 08-14-050-038-00 08-14-050-014-00 08-14-007-002-80 08-14-007-002-90 08-14-050-015-00 08-14-050-016-00 08-14-050-039-00 08-14-050-040-00 08-14-007-002-95 08-14-050-017-00 08-14-007-005-10 08-14-050-018-00 08-14-006-016-00 08-14-007-008-96 08-14-050-019-00 08-14-006-016-10 08-14-007-010-50 08-14-006-018-80 08-14-007-011-00 08-14-050-020-00 08-14-050-021-00 08-14-006-018-90 08-14-050-046-00 08-14-007-011-10 08-14-050-022-00 08-14-006-018-95 08-14-050-047-00 08-14-007-011-30 08-14-050-023-00 08-14-006-431-00 08-14-050-048-00 08-14-007-011-40 08-14-050-024-00 08-14-007-001-10 08-14-050-049-00 08-14-007-011-50 08-14-050-050-00 08-14-007-001-20 08-14-007-011-60 08-14-050-025-00 08-14-050-02'^ 08-14-007-001-51 08-14-050-051-00 08-14-007-012-10 08-14-050-027-00 08-14-050-052-00 08-14-007-001-52 08-14-050-002-00 08-14-050-028-00 08-14-050-054-00 Permanent Parcel No. Permanent Parcel No. Permanent Parcel No. Permanent Parcel No. 08-14-070-001-00 08-14-070-014-00 08-14-080-001-00 08-14-080-014-00 08-14-070-002-00 08-14-070-015-00 08-14-080-002-00 08-14-080-015-00 08-14-070-003-00 08-14-070-016-00 08-14-080-003-00 08-14-080-016-00 08-14-070-004-00 08-14-070-017-00 08-14-080-004-00 08-14-080-017-00 08-14-070-005-00 08-14-070-018-00 08-14-080-005-00 08-14-070-006-00 08-14-070-019-00 08-14-080-006-00 08-14-080-017-IO 08-14-130-001-00 08-14-070-007-00 08-14-070-020-00 08-14-080-007-00 08-14-130-002-00 08-14-070-008-00 08-14-070-021 -00 08-14-080-008-00 08-14-130-003-00 08-14-070-009-00 08-14-070-021-10 08-14-080-009-00 08-14-130-004-00 08-14-070-010-00 08-14-070-022-00 08-14-080-010-00 08-14-130-005-00 08-14-070-011-00 08-14-070-023-00 08-14-080-011-00 08-14-130-006-00 08-14-070-012-00 08-14-070-024-00 08-14-080-012-00 08-14-130-007-00 08-14-070-013-00 08-14-070-025-00 08-14-080-013-00 08-14-130-008-00 08-14-050-043-00 08-14-050-044-00 08-14-050-045-00 r ifTT ■4K r JE’ i & s 4• » .• *1 * »> 1 <y • >• J < . ?! «» r a I s - .U * * AT., !■ II 4 9 /J I ’ B’ L5 '■T; •t d,X.n- first public hearing lAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of Thomapple Township will hold a nublic M Hd?" P Township Hall at 200 E. Main Street iddleville, Michigan 49333, to hear and consider any objections to the proposed Public mprovements, the Proposed Special Assessment District, the proposed special assessTA ri ’"Otters relating to the Public Improvements TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a description of the Public Improvements and estimates of cost for the Public Improvements are on file with the Township Clerk for public examination. PROPERTY SHALL NOT BE ADDED TO THE PROPOSED SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT AND THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATE OF COSTS SHALL NOT BE INCREASED BY 10% OR MORE PER YEAR WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE AND PUBLIC HEARING. Periodic redeterminations of the costs of the Public Improvements may be necessary, without a change in the Special Assessment District, and in____ ____ _ that event, such redeterminadons may be made by the Township Board without further nodce7o"reco7?ownerrOT parties in interest in the lands in the Special Assessment District, in accordance with the provisions of said Act 188 (unless the actual incremental cost increase assessed for a given year will exceed the estimate therefor by 10% or more, in which case notice and public hearing will occur). TAKEJ FURTHER NOTICE that a property , . , , —f'—J owner or VI person I.ZV1OVH in 111 interest lincicbi must iiiusi either eirner anpear and object at the public hearing or submit a letter of appearance and objection to the Township prior to the public heanng in order to preserve the person’s right to appeal the special assessment to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. A record owner of land may appeal a special assessment by filing a written appeal with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within 30 days after written confirmation of the special assessment roll. Should the Township Board determine at the above-mentioned hearing to approve the proposed special assessment district, then thereafter, a second hearing will be held to confirm the tax roll for the special assessment district. This notice was authorized by Township Clerk. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Cindy Ordway Thomapple Township Clerk Thomapple Township Hall 200 E. Main Street Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-7202 -TA V c 08-14-050-041-00 08-14-050-042-00 X •l X. u»n 08-14-050-033-00 08-14-050-012-00 •l w I ifi 08-14-050-036-00 08-14-050-037-00 08-14-070-013-10 f: 1 rI 08-14-050-032-00 08-14-007-002-40 08-14-007-002-50 08-14-006-013-10 "os’-14-006-014-00 I T 08-14-050-031-00 08-14-050-034-00 08-14-050-035-00 08-14-050-035-10 < I 08-14-050-030-00 08-14-006-004-10 08-14-006-005-00 08-14-050-011-00 15 hiATt^t Dated; September 18, 2024 /s/ Cindy Ordway Cindy Ordway, Township Clerk �,S t f y 16 I ♦ ♦ Sports Editor The Grand Rapids Gators picked up their first dual meet victory of the season Wednes­ day outscoring Union 102-76 in an OK Rainbow East meet in Grand Rapids. The victory included 15 new personal best times and all of the Gator divers have now qualified for the MHS AA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Regional Diving competition at the end of the season. Sophomore Lydia Slagel won the diving contest for the Gators Wednesday with an overall score of232.95 points. Senior Abigail Dumond was second with 220.15 points and sophomore Kaya Bender third with a score of 161.65. The first win of the evening for the Gators came in the 200yard freestyle with Aubrey Hawks touching the wall in 2 minutes 21.51 seconds. Team­ mate Jolee Schumacher was the runner-up in that race with a personal best time. Hawks also won the 500 yard freestyle in a personal best time of her own, 6; 16.03. The Gator team of Jolee Schiunacher, Eloise Nichols, Leah Schumacher and Jenna Robinett won the 200-yard freestyle relay in 2:00.04 and in the 400-yard freestyle relay the Gator team of Malia Ham­ by, Mia Bergman, Mckenna Hawks and Aubrey Hawks won in 4:28.15. Jolee Schumacher added a personal best winning time of 1:21.91 in the 100-yard backstroke. Depth was key for the Ga­ tors as they had two of the top three scorers in all but two of the individual events. * YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors... and our future. I I vio^r I] Men 11 • Ar «*„*■•*. i I * Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancemem Systems •tfSurs^ Give us a call! CH-Hr « Sports Editor Caledonia made it four in a row against the Buccaneers while bouncing back from a loss in the OK Red ConferMl ence opener on Friday night in Grand Haven. The Fighting Scot varsity football team moved to 3-1 overall and 1-1 in the OK Red with a 36-28 win over the Buccaneers. Quarterback Brody Betser threw for three touchdowns and ran for two more as the Scots fought off the Bucs. The Scots had to come from behind a couple oftimes in the first half. Finally touchdown passes of seven yards and nine yards, with a couple extra-point kicks, pushed the Scots in front 22-14. The two teams were tied 8-8 at the end of one quarter. The Bucs scored first on a 75-yard touchdown run by Andrew Willemsen and then added a two-point run by Alex Dixon for an 8-0 lead. The Scots answered with a Sports Editor Group Antenna Meri A 5 Brett Bremer Brett Bremer 1 I Scots fight off feisty Buccaneers for first Red win 21-yard Bester TD run and a two-point conversion to tie the same. Grand Haven answered back early in the second quarter with a five-yard touchdown pass from Luke Berry to Will Korsenstra that put their team in the lead 14-8 until the two touchdown passes to close out the half. A one-yard Betser touch­ down run early in the third quarter gave the Scots a little breathing room, but the Buc­ caneers had answers for both the Scots’ second-half TD’s. Berry connected with Ko­ renstra again for a 21-yard score that got their team within 29-21 at the end of the third quarter. A Betser TD pass in the fourth quarter put the Scots back up two scores at 36-21 before Grand Haven cut into that lead again with a five-yard touchdown run by Willemsen. Betser finished the ball­ game with 13 rushes for 98 yards. Reed Vogeler had nine rushes for 51 yards and also caught four passes for 37 yards. Aaron Collins had six receptions for 50 yards and two touchdowns for Caledonia. Parker Little had a team-high 66 receiving yards on four receptions. Logan Senti also caught a touchdown pass. Betser was 16-of-26 throwing the ball for 172 yards. Berry closed the night 16of-22 passing for 230 yards and two TD’s. He was picked off once bv to* the Scots’ Vogeler. Willemsen tallied 165 yards on the ground on 25 rushes. Korenstra closed the night with four catches for 124 yards and Dixon caught five passes for 52 yards. Peter Paarlberg had a team-high nine tackles for Caledonia. The Scots were set to host their homecoming ballgame against West Ottawa Friday night, Sept. 27. They will be back in action at home taking on Rockford Oct. 4. Leos sets school record with 34 at Maple Hill i J www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 28, 2024 Brett Bremer < r Gator team gets its first victory of the season ♦ t Thomapple Kellogg senior Ailana Leos set a school record shooting a 34 on the front nine at Maple Hill Golf Course Wednesday. She was the top player at the OK Gold Conference jamboree hosted by Wyo ming Wednesday. She had four birides and two bogies throughout her two-under round. South Christian won the day’s event with a score of 162 strokes in front of North­ view 173, West Catholic 176, Thornapple Kellogg 180, Wayland 22 and Union NTS. The TK team also got a 47 from senior Rae Borrink and a 48 from sophomore Vivian Hansson. Sophomore Jordan Price shot a 51 to round out TK’s top four. The Sailors had all six of their golfers among the day’s top 11 scorers. Junior Anna Marcusseand senior Avery Koster led their team with a pair of 40s. South Christian also got 41s from Madeline Peacock andKaylee Quist. The TK girls are set to host Byron Center for a dual Monday and then will take part in the Pre-Regional invite hosted by Gull Lake Oct. 1. The OK Gold Confer­ ence Championship is on the schedule for Oct. 3. 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmaiLcom www.cell5ignalpr0s.com * GO ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM �www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ ♦ I 1 ♦ I t » Dupuis works to push teammates at jamboree f I Brett Bremer Sports Editor Not at her best, Caledonia senior Hannah Dupuis made the best of her Wednesday afternoon at Caledonia High School. She was just a stride or two ahead ofher classmate Keira Bommarito and she turned back to urge her on about halfway through the second OK Green Conference jamboree of the season. “Usually, I am a little bit faster, but today I kind of threw up before my race, so I figured it was a good oppor­ tunity to try and help out a teammate today and try to help her give her best ti I I I I i I effort today.” Even not at 100 percent, Dupuis still led the Caledonia team and ran to a seventh-place finish at the con­ ference jamboree. She said she had never thrown up before a race before, and thought that maybe the combined stress of homecoming week and tests and competition might have over­ whelmed her a bit. Just all a part of the high school experience I guess,” she said. Dupuis was fourth the first time the league got together and said since that first conference jamboree only two girls had in the conference had run 4^ j^,', .*6*^ E 1 •a 1-^ K 4 * « * w "vw k I 4 -;jk ' ,9 -X »■ 4:r -.iiL I* V 1 • Ij w t ? k I M4 ♦ .B •r * **-**irfc^ * > . -- A '. s 93a /•> V ■• * > < 1R f' *n 7 ' . * -' A c h 4 1^ V’ * vi ' 5 ’ •a. I * h i k 4* a. tJ r r 1s ? L • > 1 w 4; •«< V. I -•^ * J «» r /** ‘ -^.B’ better times than her this season before Wednesday. Dupuis hit the finish line m 20 minutes 49.45 seconds, almost half a minute better than she was on the same course back in August. That time was a little off the PR she set Sept. 13, at 19:36.0, on the fast track at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids. “I was really excited with that, and so just joyous,” Dupuis said. “I ac­ complished a lot of goals that race. I like to set non-time related goals, but one of my goals was to break 20^ which I did.” Dupuis said she had good teammates ahead of her who urged her on like she tried to do Wednesday—shout ing out Kloe Kimbrell and Alyssa DeFields from last year’s squad. “I think having friendly competi­ tion helps, because they know you and they know how hard to push you, and working with them through See DUPUIS on 20 ♦ r >¥ ■a^ til Mk' r; A . fI 1V.C1 I K Ai 'U ''vu Ri » v/ Caledonia senior Ethan Buer closes in on the finish line late in the OK Green Conference jamboree at Caledonia High School Wednesday. Photo by Brett Bremer 4 X”*wk. I •. .«R •< • r w.. ■>• .'«^ J * . • ?A , ’V :ds A,t < K 4 - --*^2_ f » I I <• k *>• « .4*'JS- to w ^L* Ai> IW > <!- iL xj.^J • >• f **- •• r,’ ■u w. t: r ;i -V w k f 4 * J 4' I if > I*?* ' 4* • >. ? *fr Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! ti r. yj ■' ._i •- •> ' **>—-■ ..•J Jk I * <rt X t ▼il WB % “ -■•V a v»■ I » - •X •> . • P w * R ■* H- —i ■ 'Hi £ *v 7S«fT> 3X I z » « -U r ,19 Wb ni'> « >^»■ • A * Rs *»• t 1 / j L*^ 1 Vi *9 r jvv f^'VH 9 I r .u1 r b /• l3^ n; 4 U-.; «< •1 A r '# 4a- 4 1 . ''4i • J V .V. <. f. J p Is’ ' TK^5 *?*k'#* . i.W --- 5 < • •. .5. .K 4>— c * I -J V ’S ► .• --’I •Pvlh- iV **sfcr •j *** V ■iRB I 1 •> Any I♦ I * •c : r3 'f 1^ WB .** A* > 1 i . 1 " •■4 ** 7t^ irt M J*. '<,• > V & <•' •, -Ui X 1^ I ir il; 1 'A. V. *.2 »%-5«*! A 1 J *1 % s 1 'Mkl .11: 'hl e... •S-- s • 4^' k '<1 » <ll )r •*r W o•I , I!*;! 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K'S?*" 5^jS I * k :S- I i J I Caledonia’s Keira Bommarito (75), Hannah Dupuis and Adysen Daman work their way through the crowd during the first mile of the OK Green Conference jamboree at Caledonia High School Wednesday afternoon. Photo by Brett Bremer PRINTING BY www.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com 9 * JA >bp Bi p k h �t « ♦ I I 18 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 28, 2024 Vikings keep adding state cuts at EK Classifieds Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was some pretty good punc tuation on a victory in the East Kentwood pool Thursday. Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian sophomore Mya VanderZwaag touched the wall at the end ofthe 100-yard breast­ stroke, the penultimate event of a meet, with a time of 1 minute 9.75 seconds. “Lifetime best, like lifetime, club, zones, big meet, lifetime besL” CLS head coach Amber Pearson said. “She has real ly been just pushing to get that state cut. She wasjust a second off at the last meet and just dominated tonight. She was like, I was expecting a 1:10. So, that was so fun.” The Vikings opened the meet earning a state cut and had that one at the end as it scored a 114-72 win over the host Fal­ cons. The team of Bella Treib, VanderZwaag, Sophie Gaylord and Amelia McCann started things off with a winning time of 1:53.28 in the 200-yard medley relay which qualifies the Vikings CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes ------------ ... - - _ The minutes for the September 4. 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting that were approved on September 18, 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at www.caledoniatown ship.org. BUSINESS SERVICES < I I •l TREE SERVICE ■i V ' M— -g-H s * / J * * 5 . A. ■J*' aL A « ■ »- 4' 4k <*‘4^ •> -*5-**' fe V' «*<• ■- iii K * - ---- >-*.•- f 7 I 4i ■ TT: —1^ " » T * CLS senior Taylor Cole races through the water during the 100-yard butterfly Thursday, Sept. 19, at East Kentwood High School. She placed third in the event behind teammates Sophie Gaylord and Bella Treib. I 1 for the MHS AA Lower Peninsula Division 1 State Finals in that race too. CLS has qualified for the state finals al­ ready in all three relay races, returning state medalists Gaylord and Treib both have two individual state cuts reached already, both in the 50-yard freestyle, the 100-yard freestyle, and the 100-yard backstroke and Gaylord in the 100-yard butterfly and the 200-yard individual medley. Senior diver Elise Miller has also already met the MISCA and regional qualifying scores as she attempts to get back to the state finals with her teammates. She won the diving competition Thursday with a score of219.85 points, which was about 60 points better than her nearest competitor. Her teammates Ella Rigley and Samantha Richardson were third and fourth in the event respectively. Gaylord, a junior, set her personal best time in the 100-yard butterfly Thursday with a winning time of 58.38 seconds. Treib, a senior, was just behind that with a runner-up time of 1:03.25. Senior Taylor Cole was third in that race in 1:19.09. Treib had one of her best backstroke time yet, winning that race in 58.94 with Gaylord was second in that one with a time of 1:00.84 at EKHS. “It was just letting the girls kind of race each other and letting our speed race our speed,” Pearson said, “and letting some ofthe middle level girls on our team kind ofshine.” Cole was also the runner-up in the 200- yard freestyle with a time of 2:30.51. It was a good day for the Viking distance crew. Amelia McCann won the 500-yard freestyle in 5:47.32 and teammates Evie DeHaan, Ria Verlin and Lyla Keller set personal bests while finishing among the six fastest times in that race. Keller dropped a minute from her previous best in the race. “It has been a very clean sweep of a meet where we just had all of these events kind of shining,” Pearson said. CLS had the team of McCarm, Ryan Restau, Gaylord and Chloe Kerkstra finish off the meet with a wirming time of4:08.20 in the 400-yard freestyle. Aliya Van Hofwegen took the 50-yard fi-eestyle for the Vikings in 26.72. Kerkstra had a personal best time of 1 ;00.32 in the 100-yard fi'eestyle to place second in that one. Swimmers aren’t always hitting per­ sonal bests, state cuts and team records midseason, but the Vikings were excited to push the pace against one of the larger programs on its schedule this year. Coach Pearson said it was also nice to have a cheering student section in Kentwood, which is a rarity. “It is fun to have this many picked up earlier in the season where you’re not kind of stressing about when you’re going to get that state cut,” Pearson said. “Getting them out of the way early just lets you go into those bigger races with the attitude that ‘I’m just here to race and I’m just here to have success and do what I can. ’ It takes off •J I BUYING ALL HARDWOODS; Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. « * :* 4^ * DUMP TRAILER SERVICES, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing, dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured. 616-389-9496 I HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. 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That has been really fun to see more than just the same kids pushing that.” The CLS girls, like other Caledonia High School programs, made the move See VIKINGS on 19 �- www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS I TK seniors first in both races at South Christian Brett Bremer ♦ A ♦ 3. □ —♦• a 03 >< (/» o :o D 2 z z o o <xI vj Cn ■U I XI I ? t I w?' *r I f » 1 •v t r r 4; R * -I •> * •. J* *F; •X * “ I |B=^. I 3^' ■ Li *« .ia’ Mi^ '. J,* I I A • vC 1 f' ‘■J I 1 i 1 vl h 1 Trojan seniors Ava Crews and Jacob Draaisma finished at the front of the pack in their respective races Wednesday at the second OK Gold Conference jamboree of the season which was hosted by South Christian High School. They’ve tested themselves against the conference, now they’ll test themselves against some of the state’s top runners as they take part in the Otsego Bulldog Invitational Saturday, Sept. 28 and the Portage Invitational Oct. 5. TK is hosting the conference championship meet at Gun Lake Oct. 16. The Trojans welcomed Crews back to ±e line-up Wednesday and she promptly finished first in 19 minutes 47.94 sec onds. The top nine finishers in the girls’ race were either Trojans or Sailors, with South Christian girls placing second, third, fourth, fifth, eighth and ninth. South Christian won the jamboree with 22 points. TK was second with 45 points ahead ofWest Catholic 92, Northview 102, Wayland 139, Union 150 and Wyoming 2-5. The Sailors’ leader was freshman Tif­ fany DeMaagd who came in at 20:26.21. The TK team had the sophomore duo of Peyton Hardy and Meghan-Jane Skidmore place sixth and seventh in the middle of the Sailor pack. Hardy hit the finish line in 21:46.33 and Skidmore in 21:51.93. The top five for the TK ladies also included junior Madison Kietzman 14th in 22;26.15 and sophomore Alaina McCrumb 17th in 22:45.58. Junior Payton Gater was the sixth mem­ ber of the TK girls’ scoring group and she set her PR at 22:52.50. The TK boys had two PRs among its top seven with Case Dykhouse third overall in 19:07.95 and freshman Garrett Holzhausen 33rd in 19:58.85. Draaisma won the boys’ race in 16:46.82. The top five for the TK team also included senior Hunter Tietz 14th in 18:53.31 and sophomore Grady Galaviz 22nd in 19:21.38. South Christian won ±e boys ’ race with 47 points ahead ofNorthview 74, Thomapple Kellogg 82, Wayland 91, West Catholic 120, Union 127 and Wyoming 127. Northview junior Caleb TeBrake was the runner-up in 17:00.52 and Wayland senior Dylan Pallett was third in 17:06.17. «.-i- i > r 4 r 'A t ^■1 U4 r% k * F < I * *# 4 4r -’4 h) < K a I > .- * I . I I bte 4 t♦• J /*• .f. — ?/♦ J * . ««« A":1* » 1. f 4 r* M b S 1 b 1 % fc-.' •r^ ... 9 A « I *** .'wb. X0 h I I « -•* I *• t t. A LT t b 4 ■A” * a L* u ,: te' w■«f •4 <I '▼ i -Si t ; b iBr /4 ';4 > . •• J 3| a a 'X f 4< / .*<• ***** A ... —.J; W • V r > I 1 i I4 ' V .a_> / * J T JS;_K I fcK 2 t I M: . \9 -I .V I I J V•> ’SS lW k r . ’I J J 1 b .> if ■J J* .4 1 4 ri I 1 *f I * 4 . * I ;'. *>•' •> *, J a-. I * nvMgii‘'-Ar ' « I* A" f.I I, » V < :r^ 'ii -> J 1 4 * * ‘U r 5e-' I? I *-A. r ^ •:<*! ■> •% Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian senior diver Elise Miller holds the pike position high above the water at East Kentwood High School Thursday during her team's win over the Falcons. Photo by Brett Bremer <4.4 T b JJ BS ’7W k J- - .J-- CLS swimmers Bella Treib (left) and Mya VanderZwaag look up at the clock after VanderZwaag’s winning 100-yard breaststroke performance at East Kentwood High School Thursday, Sept. 19, that qualified her for the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Swimming and Diving Finals. Photo by Brett Bremer •? <5 r 4* / • J •4 jb 1 3 '* * 1. r.i * "U 19 ♦ Sports Editor I Saturday, September 28, 2024 ^MICHIGAN WhR|«!. f I I Take the next step to a better paying job! I♦ y- •l > ....J Learn about free: 1 r VIKINGS Continued from Page 18 • • • I Computer skills training Career coaching Job search services < > - > .I ■ r-T 1., I & I X . < >1* out of the OK Red Conference this fall. The Vikings are a part of the OK Rainbow East this season along with Grand Rapids Catholic Central, Wayland, the Grand Rapids Gators, Grand Rapids Union and Ottawa Hills. The CLS girls are off to a 2-0 start in the conference and will take on ±e Grand Rapids Gator co-op, made up ofThomapple Kellogg, Hopkins, West Michigan Aviation and West Catholic Tuesday, Oct. 1, at Byron Center High School. / fL-*?a J t»l 4- ’’ I » fcl . Trade Adjustment Assistonce Sy’* PLUS: Ask us if you qualify for Trade Assistance Act benefits! Os I i **' 1 ff r 4 • ‘•f 4 .' X J' .<r; BA • "i - c Call 1-800-285-W0RK (9675) or visit westmiv\/orks.org/job-seekers/ ' r- �t / I• I I •s. _ 4 9 20 V www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, September 28, 2024 • b* 9 DUPUIS c Continued from Page 17 ♦ ♦ •T 4 k M a *« 9 .A' K.- • .■*<r ♦ practice all the time you just want to beat them when you’re friends with them,” Dupuis added. Bommarito wasn’t too far behind Dupuis in the end Wednesday. She placed ninth with a time of 21:08.48. She was three spots better than she had been at the first conference meet-up. The OK Green Conference season concludes with the Conference Cham­ pionship Meet at Riverside Park Oct. 15. That race will be worth 50 percent of the overall conference standings, with each of these first two jamborees accounting for 25 percent. The Caledonia girls were third and the boys second Wednesday, with Jenison racing to victories in both contests. Kiley Bommarito was third in for the CHS girls with a 14th-place time of 21:41.13. Sophomore Akaela Da­ man was 17th in 21:48.25 and senior Adysen Daman came in 21st overall at 22:01.18. Jenison won the girls’ meet with 23 points ahead of Byron Center 52, Caledonia 68, Reeths-Puffer 104 and Mona Shores 124. Jenison had four of the first five finishers. Sophomore Paige McMeans led the way with a winning time of 19:46.42. Freshman teammate Maddy Aleisa was second in 19:54.47. Reeths-Puffer junior Jersi Bilek broke up that Wildcat pack at the front a bit with her third-place time of20:10.26. Jenison took the boys’ race with 20 points ahead of Caledonia 49, Byron Center 67, Mona Shores 127, ReethsPuffer 132 and Muskegon 181. The Caledonia boys’ leader Kort Thompson, who also set his PR at Riverside Park Sept. 13 by finishing in less than 16 minuted for the first time, moved up a couple spots in the standr .I Al f I n ■ -- .A I « *1 •T « I f I * •V I » I I I I I a f 1 J A <ri9Vj r 927 n X J • • 5 «' ■»< f 1 u; ‘'1 1 1 / 9^ I << I T ♦ S > IV V A 4 i ■d lA I I* X 'it w •• -W 4 A < i ir* t*. r“ ? b • - ,«• I t 1. rA' ■ 4 2 Caledonia senior Kort Thompson is a step ahead of Jenison’s Seth Conner during the opening loop of the course at Caledonia High School during the second OK Green Conference jamboree of the season Wednesday. I 2 > VIEW .••f: I I* • V Group I • starting pay of $20.52 for applicants for regular routes without experience. • Paid training and CDL testing • Sign-on bonus of up to $1500 for qualified applicants • Up to 10 sick & 1.5 personal days • 8 Paid holidays • 12 Paid days during school breaks • Flexible schedule (Split shift AM/PM routes) • Medical, dental, and vision insurance is available to qualified employees. Easy Online Applications! www.caischools.org/employment •I w I* b* 7 *• / b p Questions? 616-891-8185 1 • * —* ^9 .’ Is . » .r 4 J I* 4 > r t I CM I -M* rv I >0 O z 0: 0. L I L q: O u. co XJ O .c qZ 4 J X £ s I I "“i 4 <• I V 1. I s J I I i^r^b f I « f 4i YOUR COMMUNITY CONNECTION 1 Regular and Substitute Drivers Needed I 4 *- ♦ *. Caledonia Transportation Department 8944 Kraft Ave SE Caledonia, MI 49333 L •* d *1 • ings with his performance Wednesday. He was fifth at the first conference jamboree and placed third on his home course with a time of 16:50.5. The only guys ahead of him were Jenison seniors SethConner( 16:42.71) and Parker Strelecki (16:49.75). The Caledonia boys team had eight guys finish in the top 20. Aidan Edgar was the team’s number two for the day. He placed tenth in 17:35.01. Noah Johnston, a junior, was third 11th in 17:45.04. Seniors Mason Morrell and Ethan Buer placed 12th and 13th respectively with Morrell clocking in at 17:45.72 and Buer at 17:53.37. The Caledonia teams are back in action today, Sept. 28, at the Otsego Bulldog Invitational and they will run Oct. 5 at the Portage Invitational. ''Wryj e • October 2nd, 9:00 AM-ll:00 AM • October 9th, 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM Photo by Brett Bremer • SunAndNews.com A »it-.': •». T Proud to be ‘>1 Climb behind the wheel of an iconic yellow school bus. Take a spin around the parking lot and experience the thrill of being a bus driver at our upcoming job fair. What a great way to serve your community and start a new or second career. Please join us on one of the following dates: ■ Ab H'*'' W. f- b 3 BUS DRIVER JOB FAIR 1 . •AX •• a * Caledonia Community Schools r “•ft . w» 1 *s. • K r*? 4 .I « » / t '■J ’ I 4 • * I J 4 S. • S • •'*5 A f i � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-10-05.pdf 55681e8af69eed01d0214a8a34fe5bfb PDF Text Text *. K A f 4 J 1 NORTHVIEW OFFENSE PROVES UNSTOPPABLE FORCE AT TK AND NEWS the SUN Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville. Caledonia and Gaines Township Areas A' NO. 26 1 rr4< f * > _ 7 PAGES 11 I iT . V >». * * 'r?*. At- f « SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2024 TKHS honors its 2024 homecomi n royalty www.sunandnewsxom Scots celebrate their 2024 homecoming king and queen I .* / « VT<T , I f ■ r 1 i 4 f A *1 ,* « 3 <» ' ’W lb* < b r* tL r J J >• X 4 r 1 4 ^3 f. v_ . ts IB 4 pb’ Ti 4 i r. .^i ..V' f ( t-. 1 1 J t % » 1 J? ~J' f r n '* * V ! 9 Ml. >r i__ 4 J 4s * I W . I Efi- J “d t 4 ^l>^ V * I Caledonia seniors Ethan Buer and Kiley Bommarito are crowned the 2024 Caledonia High School homecoming king and queen during a ceremony at Friday night’s varsity football game against West Ottawa inside Ralph E. Myers Stadium. The Fighting Scot varsity took a 42-27 win over the visiting Panthers. Photo by Chris Robotham Thornapple Kellogg seniors Ryan Frizzell and Brooklyn Harmon are crowned the 2024 Thornapple Kellogg High School homecoming king and queen during halftime of the Trojan varsity football team's loss to visiting Northview inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville Friday, Sept. 27. Photo by Brett Bremer Chamber holds a busy Harvest Festival celebration Jayson Bussa Contributing Writer * QlVd aovisod s n ais isdd i V » See FESTIVAL on 2 • -T • *•! J* n f AM '-lafc > X F u Dozens of booths manned by local businesses lined the streets near Community Green Park last Saturday for the annual Caledonia Harvest Festival. Against the backdrop of crisp fall weather on Saturday, Sept. 28, hundreds of families turned out to play games, enjoy food and connect with the many businesses and organizations of Caledonia, all in the name of fall fun. Of course, there were fall staples, too, like pumpkin painting, cider and donuts. In waoa Hawoisno the parking lot of the Kent District lVIXN3aiS3U ssMuoa Library’s Caledonia Branch, competi­ BC69> in etiwuew!) ObC *08 Od tors duked it out in a comhole touma"^£C# llUUBd 8€88t^ 1^ ‘ailiAuasjQ I » g 4 .. n I« t 1 i * ft- > i* t ( I •< 5, 1 V 1 F. 4 * *>• I 4 I k f A f < • 1 i .• .,j B 7 I I [ •T* —♦ rh ■, I . t < t Z « i > •< « FX f * * >« >, Ti >r —i-* The Caledonia Harvest Festival last Saturday featured ax throwing but to m.ake it much more kid-friendly, the targets and axes were all inflatable. Photos by Jayson Bussa f «■ X • b i -*>. Among the many activities during Sept. 28’s Caledonia Harvest Festival, kids had the opportunity to paint pumpkins. �2 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 www.sunandnews.com I Middleville council considering use of reserves for street projects in ‘25 budget Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Middleville will consider using some of its savings to upgrade local streets after the Village Council reviewed a report last month that showed most of its streets are in poor condition. Under the budget proposal for next year unveiled by Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg Tuesday, the village would move $200,000 out of its general fund reserves into its local streets fund. “It’s something I want to continue doing as a result of our street study showing our local streets needing work,” Stolsonburg told the council. The village would also transfer $750,000 from its Local Development Finance Authority and $200,000 from its major streets fund to local streets in the budget proposal. Adding in expected gas tax revenues of more than $159,000, the village expects to take in $1.32 million in revenues while spending $851,546 on local street improvements during 2025, according to the budget document. Last month, the Village Council heard a report from Mike Zonyk, a transportation planner for the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council, the regional planning body for West Michigan. Earlier this sum­ mer, GVMC did an analysis of the village’s 18.6 miles of roadway, using what is referred to as the Pavement Surface Evaluation and Rating (PASER) system to grade the condition of its streets. That analysis gave the village an average PASER rating of 4.2 on a lO-point scale, which fell into the “poor” category. About 12.2 miles of the vil­ lage’s streets, or 65 percent of the total roadway. were in poor condition, being given a PASER rat­ ing of 1 to 4, according to the GVMC report. “You’re not alone in the fact that your overall pave ment rating (came in as poor),” Zonyk said during his presentation to the council Sept. 24. “Budgets are scarce, there’s too much need for the money required to improve the overall state of the roads. (The rating) is consistent with a lot of other communities.” The vast majority of the streets that received a poor rating were local residential streets, although it also included the portion of Main Street east of the Thomapple River downtown. Green Lake Road west of Bender Road, Irving Road south of Main and Crane Road from M-37 to Grand Rapids Street, according to a GVMC map of the village. “It’s up to Middleville now to come up with a plan for a mix of fix-it strategies, based on the budgets that you have, which include reconstruc­ tion, (pavement) overlays and capital preventative maintenance, like crack fillings,” Zonyk said dur­ ing his presentation. About 2.7 miles of the village’s streets were rated as “good,” with a PASER rating of 8 to 10, while another 3.6 miles were rated as “fair,” with a PASER rating of 5 to 7. Grand Rapids Street and the portion of Main from the river west to Minsther Drive fell into the “fair” category, according to a GVMC map of the village. By comparison, only 1.3 percent of the 502 miles of federal aid-eligible rated roads under the juris­ diction of the Barry County Road Commission in Barry County are rated “poor” using the PASER system. Of the remaining roads under road commis- * FESTIVAL River VBena Continued from Page 1 •I • t , 4 Yoga for all levels New Local Students Get ONE WEEK FREE 269-512-5039 218 W. Main St., Middleville, 49333 rbyogastudios. com ment. The band Sibling Revelry provided the soundtrack for the event for most of the day. The Harvest Festival is a free, annual event put on by the Caledonia Area Chamber of Commerce. The annual event had a record 70 booths participating, Chamber Executive Director Shana Spinney said. sion jurisdiction, 40.7 percent are rated as “good,” while 57.9 percent are rated “fair,” according to the Michigan Transportation Asset Management Council. Barry County is the top-rated county road system in the state according to TAMC. During its strategic planning process earlier this year, the Village Council identified upgrading the village’s infrastructure, particularly roads, water and sewer, as a top priority. The village this year under­ took reconstruction work on both Dearborn Street and High Street. Stolsonburg has proposed reconstruction of Irving Road from Main Street to the village well as the village’s major road project for next year. Stolsonburg has proposed overall expenditures of $8,794,481 for next year, factoring in all cat egories. The general fund portion of the budget, the one most affected by property taxes, is pro­ posed at $2,537,387 in revenues and $2,469,865 in spending, resulting in a slight surplus of $67,521. That would increase the village’s fund balance to $1,877,948, according to the budget document. The village’s tax rate will remain the same next year at 12.3878 mills - 10.5 for general operations and 1.8878 for major streets, according to the bud­ get document. The budget proposal also calls for 10 percent rate increases for both water and sewer, based on recommendations from a rate study conducted last year, according to the budget document. The council plans to hold several budget discussions over the next couple of months. A public hearing on the budget is expected Nov. 25 with final adoption on Dec. 9, according to the budget document. ■B “It was a day filled with activities like pumpkin decorating, inflatables, comhole tournament, photo ops, a live fitness class, live music, the (Kent District Library) bookmobile, a fire department touch-a-truck and so much more,’’ Spinney said. “All thanks to the amazing support from our community, local businesses, and dedicated committee and volunteers.’’ Spinney is nearing the end of her first year as chamber executive direc tor. The chamber’s next major event is the Halloween Hustle 5-kilometer race and fun run that will take place Oct. 26. Find out more details at caledoniachamber.com. The chamber is looking for people who are looking to join one of its committees for future events. You can reach out to Spinney at dir6ctor@ caledoniachamber.com or through the chamber’s Facebook page. Writer Greg Chandler contributed to this report. THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 ♦ •^351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 'hone: 269-945-9554 vw.sunandnews.com CONTACT US Editor: Molly Macleod mmacleod@mihomepaper.com PUBLISHED BY aw -uJuMbJifcLOj Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.com Advertising: ads@j-adgraphics.com Group PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 '2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. I' I 1• ■ All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser's order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser's order. �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 3 Scots spirit in foil force at Calapaiooza ceiebration I ii'l Ik' Greg Chandler Staff Writer I. \ ’i •fr. Several thousand people turned out a week ago Friday outside Ralph E. Meyers Football Stadium in Caledonia for the annual Calapaiooza celebration to support the Caledonia Education Foundation. The celebration coincided with Caledonia High School’s homecoming football game against O-K Red Conference rival West Ottawa, which the Fighting Scots won 42-27 (see game details in the sports section of today’s paper). “It seemed like all of Caledonia was there,” CEF Executive Director Denise Blunk wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Calapaiooza is the education foundation’s largest fundraiser. Blunk is estimating about $35,000 was raised, mainly from sponsorships and donations from the CAL 100 Club, an organization that chal­ lenges community members to donate $100 each toward CEF to equal a substantial group donation to the education foundation. The Cal 100 Club presented a check for $12,100 to CEF during the event. Proceeds from Calapaiooza go toward CEF pro­ grams to provide grants to Caledonia teachers for various educational initiatives and the foundation’s Essential Fund that helps students with immediate needs, Blunk wrote in her email. Among those honored at Calapaiooza and at homecoming were longtime local dairy farmer Gerald Kayser and Olympic medalist Alena Olsen. Kayser, a 1943 CHS graduate, was recognized as this year’s honored CHS alumnus. Kayser’s Pleas- i 2 f b I J I I b> 4 r * r** t/fl miA € J mJ: 1i 71 IB si \ I y J .< .A I 1 J » •r- 1 T 2 t J .'W r J I / 4, v» Olympic bronze medalist Alena Olsen, a CHS alumnus, joins the Caledonia varsity football captains (3), (9), (4) and (57) along the sideline before the start of the homecoming football game against West Ottawa inside Ralph E. Myers Stadium Friday, Sept. 27. Photo by Chris Robotham ant Acres Farm near the comer of 100th Street and East Paris Avenue has been in his family for more than 100 years. Olsen, a 2014 CHS graduate who won a bronze medal with the United States women’s rugby sev­ ens team at the recent Summer Olympics in Paris, greeted well-wishers and signed autographs during the event. She also served as honorary captain for CHS during the football game, joining the Fight­ ing Scots’ team captains in walking out onto the field for the coin toss prior to kickoff. •l i? J I 'k. n; if £.’5 1 *♦3 <1 t A kj I 1 r. • *. «9 ft' a*. T •'■J*** I Caledonia homecoming 2024 honored alumnus Gerald M. Kayser. Class of 1943, is greeted by the crowd inside Ralph E. Myers Stadium in Caledonia Friday as he’s led across the track Friday, Sept. 27. Photo by Chris Robotham c V I View Newspaper Group “We are excited to pro­ is pleased to announce the mote Molly into this new appointment of Molly Ma­ role,” stated View Newspa­ cleod as editor of The Sun per Group Publisher Wes and News , The Reminder Smith. “View Newspaper and The Hastings Banner. Group always looks to In her new role, Macleod promote from within, and will cover Barry County, when the opportunity arose as well as the Hastings and to name a new editor for Molly Macleod Lakewood communities. our Barry County group of She will also coordinate papers, it was immediately clear that page layouts, assign stories and edit Molly’s experience in the newspaper copy. industry along with her commitment Formerly copy editor for View to community made her the perfect Newspaper Group’s Barry County candidate. publications, Macleod comes to the “I look forward to continuing to new role having covered the area for connect with my community,” said over two years. See SUN on 6 5^ I < J 4 % Molly Macleod named editor of The Sun and News < .0.= flH }NE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS 40* « I I w Ue «* I F r The CHS homecoming celebration was marked by the annual parade, which originated at Holy Family Catholic Parish and wound its way through the village, and the crowning of this year’s homecoming king and queen, Ethan Buer and Kiley Bommarito. -J >1 I < I, •1 s !♦ It r Al »u > s it: 1 A I '■ -I. I .K Residential & Commercial I I « r ^4 .X Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps -Water Heaters Humidifiers 5 1 .‘{ .X . 'ft- t t Jt I A .3. k . Tr . • 4 k. «al l« s I "***! ** w. 12' Ibi.-?! * c* K K •> ' •> J .-.'•S'l o ' 2^ teg I . Lii. *<•< I DeWeerd (68) DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 V •t « At V- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. .V • u t iW< 5-1 1' r Since 1955 LENNO^ A+A ^1^ BBB. ACCREDITED BUSINESS ' »• �f Saturday, October 5, 2024 4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS warmth and kindness to her endeavors. Family was the cornerstone of Jane’s life. She leaves behind a legacy of love and 1# devotion in her children, A Nancy (Bud) Geren, David (Mary) Rudd, John (Kim) Rudd, and Dan (Erin) Rudd; 10 grandchildren; 18 great­ grandchildren; and two great­ great-grandchildren, all of whom she cherished deeply. Jane also leaves behind her brother, Dennis (Bobbie) Peterson, and several nieces and nephews. Her life was enriched by lasting bonds and c n I Obituaries I V I. J • > I. ♦ ft * Jane E. Rudd Jane E. Rudd passed away peacefully on September 25, 2024, at the age of 86, in Grand Rapids, Ml. Born on January 12, 1938, in Grant, Ml, Jane’s life was marked by her unwavering faith, dedication to her family, and a generous spirit that touched everyone she knew. J J "rto. Jane’s early years were spent in the small town of Grant, where she graduated from Grant High School in 1956. Her thirst for knowledge and desire to serve others led her to attend Davenport University, where she pursued a career in nursing. Jane’s professional life included valued years at Pennock Hospital, and she invested many years working alongside family in their businesses, always bringing X’ '4«* h*_— •> LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaIedoniaUMC.org Li vestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitcdMethodist Serving Strengthening Cotuiecting (X co ^»ao 5^ Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Pastor; Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: (269) 795-2391 cornerstonechurch BAPTIST rviiddleville Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am 'C «■ jwl f st; 1675 84th st. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 ll t F-' >w »■ cornerstonemi.org/weekend Ik ____________< HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH JOURNEY 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. t 4 . F' I Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11.00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee CHURCH 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. PEACECHURCH.ee i I • if 1 i' « to- . ’5-c;^ J r' 1 r @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org THORNAPPLE VALLEY Yankee Springs Bible Church I e Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml ! www.tvcweb.cnm . aih Caledonia Location - / Sunday at 9:30am & 11 ;00am I ^ »■ ■■ ‘ FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 J SERVICE TIMES: • Livestream; facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE Ay • t 1 MPEACE CHURCH Sunday Service 10:30 AM “ .T , f ■fTt * A J • L'T shared memories with each of them. Jane was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, -Y William Rudd; her dear * z daughter, Sharon Drake, and her siblings, Linda and Peter. A woman of deep faith, Jane was actively involved in several church communities, including Hastings Baptist, First Baptist Church of Middleville, Orangeville Baptist, and Whitneyville Bible Church. Her love for singing was evident as she raised her voice in the church choir, and her hands worked wonders as she crocheted beautiful pieces for her loved ones and those in need. Jane’s garden was a testament to her patience and nurturing, blooming with the same love she gave to her family. Throughout her life, Jane exemplified the virtues of a dedicated and loving mother and wife. Her interests extended to garage sales, where she found joy in the simple pleasures and the company of friends and strangers alike. She was a constant source of encouragement, writing letters to uplift those around her, and her home was often the heart of family gatherings. Relatives and friends met with Jane’s family on Tuesday, Oct. 1,2024 at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home where a funeral service took place. Rev. Dave Tanner officiating. Burial took place at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Continental Baptist Missions or The Medical Team Hospice. Jane’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of faith, family, and service. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind, and her teachings will continue to guide them. Her unwavering commitment to her family and faith serves as an inspiration to all. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Jane’s family. k Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM WatcKourservices from our website (see above) 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 J s Wfc’ Ub "Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Group......... I 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org I ff’-, * sJl ► GO ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM * S ■ A �I 4 I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Fall Heritage Festival in Gaines Township set for Oct. 12 outside township hall Saturday, October 5, 2024 1 /J* I" »S James Gemmell Obituaries^ I ^x.* '•‘1 Contributing Writer 1 J <1^ / -** - */ .4 1 t e One of Kent County’s largest fall festivals will take place Saturday, Gaii|es'TdT4^i Oct. 12, in the Caledonia area of PraineWbif rk Gaines Charter Township. « Fall Heritage F The annual Heritage Festival will tival run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. outside Satiirday Jn October _ the township hall, 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., at the southwest comer of Kalamazoo Avenue and 84th Street. A banner adorns the lawn outside Live music, antique tractors and the Gaines Township Hall where fire trucks, a petting zoo, a farmers’ the annual Fall Heritage Festival market, arts and crafts, food trucks, will take place Saturday, Oct. 12. a historic fishing encampment and The banner rests in front of Hardy hayrides through adjacent Prairie Pond. Photos by James Gemmell Wolf Park are some of the festival highlights. “We have a surprise fire truck com­ The Gaines Historical Society ing,” Bmursema said, referring to a has run the festival in its current vintage 1959 Chevrolet vehicle that form since 2011. Historical Society was originally purchased by Gaines president Shirley Bruursema chairs Township that year. “Somebody the free, family festival. Bruursema found it on a lot in Detroit. Daniel said there is plenty of room for more Kamp (recently) bought it, and he vendors. They may phone her at 616and his son brought it back to the 698-8464 to reserve a spot. There is township,” no fee for vendors to set up at the Kamp has been with the Dutton festival. Fire Department for 32 years. He said “We have a lot of homemade stuff, it may have been the second truck with knitting, crocheting and sew­ purchased by the township. ing,” Bruursema said. “Doll clothes, It was built by American Fire wood crafts. Any craft item, you Apparatus in Battle Creek,” he said. name it we’ve got it.” See HERITAGE on 14 B- I w .K *?4‘ iV r i ■ «» ». 4 < ; > >> p ri I r • «fe « «« r *1^ Ill and his brother, Wayne McCulligh. Herb is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Diane (Baldry) McCulligh; his children, Tamara (Kevin) V. Lambert and Timothy (Tami) t McCulligh; grandchildren, Haley (Chad) Tyndall, Bradley Martin, Ryan Martin, Lauren McCulligh, and Emma (Reed) Rotman; great-grandchildren, Landon and Emersyn Tyndall; siblings, Linda Higgins, Karen (Jason) Watson, and David (Vicki) McCulligh; and brothers and sisters-inlaw, William Baldry, Steve (Patti) Baldry, Linda (Steve) McDuffee, Sherry Kane, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions in memory of Herb can be made to the Wounded Warrior Project (https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/) or the American Legion, Post 45, 2160 M-37, Hastings, Ml 49058. A Celebration of Life is being planned at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. -f ■ 1 t? A , I ft i - J'' t u * ' «• r '! J* & . ( e. ’ V comerstonechurch we’re casual, come as vou are. ■ Hl I r A 1.1^ J 0 ■w z. Ate i Middleville TOPS 546 self by taking your shoes and socks off and concentrating on the feel of grass or sand. Feel every sensation. Try to make these a routine to keep yourself stress-free. Maryellen lost the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. I I- ' > •* ..Hr . The Sept. 30 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. One new fish is in the fishbowl. Virginia read the itinerary for the Fall Rally in Battle Creek on Oct 12. Virginia’s program was from the Sept/Oct TOPS magazine on well­ being and stress relief. Do you feel that life is really hard? The club discussed practices that can help you feel more grounded and nourished. If you are more at peace, you will make healthier food choices. First, find comfort in nature. Open up all your senses and feel everything about nature as you sit peacefully outside. Tiy to close your mind to everything else. Next, practice deep breathing. Finally, ground your- V i' % i* ■ •>» Herbert Ray McCulligh passed away on September 27, 2024. Herb was born on April 20,1948, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ml, the son of Clarence “Bud” and Faye (Tolman) McCulligh. Herb was a 1967 graduate of •*> Hastings High School. Shortly after, he married the love of his life, Diane Baldry, on May 18,1968. Herb proudly served his country during the Vietnam War from 1968-1969. Upon returning home, he began a long and distinguished career at Bradford White, from which he retired in 2010 after 43 years of committed service. Herb’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. He was an avid bowler and took great pleasure in walleye fishing. He also enjoyed NASCAR races, camping trips, woodworking projects, and watching westerns on TV. Above all. Herb was a family man. Since retiring, he dedicated his time to making memories with his grandchildren and great­ grandchildren. Whether it was watching Peppa Pig or simply spending quality time together, these moments were the highlights of his days. He was preceded in death by his parents > '.t i^rV >-a' ■J ■» V J. 1 5 k ,1 V 'A K5 4 'T*. <s ac. One Church • Three Locations Caledonia | Grand Rapids I Wyoming 3j Join Us In Person or Online! □ ■ Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! U I a 6 B El r. >•«'<»* .1 /.IV •* \ v» J> ♦ *• I er I f /cornerstonemi ®cornerstonemi c "U. .*K - --- ’A — I "au* I �6 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 SUN Middleville planners OK fire barn site plan update Greg Chandler Staff Writer An updated site plan for the former fire bam property in Middleville gained approval from the village Plan­ ning Commission Tuesday. Commissioners voted 6-1 to ap prove the site plan for the 90-year-old building at 115 High St. that was sub­ mitted by Acorn Treehouse Ventures LLC. The Village Council is expected to decide later this month whether to extend a development agreement between the village and the developer that was reached in July 2022. Left Field Cafe owner and former Village Council member Johnny DeMaagd is the principal for Acorn Treehouse Ventures. He is proposing a hospitality-based business at the 115 High site. “The eventual goal is to have a full-service kitchen built out of there, utilizing our assets (that) are already in the area,” DeMaagd told commis­ sioners. “We plan to do that in two steps ...The second step would be a fill I-service restaurant, the first step * being an off-site dining room facility utilizing our kitchen as a commissary (to serve Left Field Cafe).” The first phase of the site develop­ ment would also call for two rentable event gathering spaces, one on the west side ofthe building and another on the east side, with a lobby or staging area in between. In addition, the upstairs portion of the building will house an 840-square-foot, two-bedroom apart­ ment, DeMaagd said. The 0.126-acre site is zoned C-1 central business district. The vil­ lage’s zoning ordinance allows coffee shops, banquet facilities, mixed-use developments and restaurants as uses by right, meaning no special land use designation is needed from the Plan­ ning Commission. The Planning Commission’s Site Plan Committee had reviewed devel opment plans for the site on Sept. 11. The three-member committee at that meeting requested that DeMaagd pro­ vide information to the full commis­ sion on such issues as egress, lighting, signage and hours of operation. The Continued from Page 3 developer submitted revised plans to the village on Sept. 24, Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers said. DeMaagd plans to limit the capac ity of the gathering spaces to less than 200 people total, which he said would negate the need for him to add exits leading out from both gathering spaces. DeMaagd also submitted proposed hours of operation for the business: Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 4 to 11 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 10 p.m. Commissioners agreed to eliminate a parking requirement for the site as part ofits approval. The village zoning ordinance would normally require 53 parking spaces on the parcel, which DeMaagd said is impossible given the existing space. “We’d have to demolish half of the building to build a parking garage,” he said. The only available space forparking See BARN on 12 * KCSO investigates latest report of shots fired near EKHS in Gaines Township James Gemmell Contributing Writer Kent County SherifTs Office detec­ tives are trying to figure out who fired gunshots on Friday, Sept. 27, near East Kentwood High School. It happened just east of Kalamazoo Avenue on 60th Street, which is the border between the City of Kentwood and Gaines Charter Township. The KCSO said it happened on the Gaines Township side on Campus Park Dr. No one was injured, but police found Your local agent insures your Hi^me ) FARM BUHEAV . MSVHANCE' Jason Parks '121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsini.com FarmBureauinsurance.com multiple shell casings at the scene. The sheriff's Public Information Officer, Sgt. Kailey Gilbert, told the Sun and News this past week that no arrests have been made yet. However, the KCSO detective bureau is continuing to investigate. “While the reason for the shooting remains unclear, there is currently no indication that anyone else in the community is in danger,” the sherifFs department said in a news release. It added, “The KCSO is working closely with East Kentwood Public Schools’ Security Team and our School Resource Officers to ensure an increased presence around the school campus this (Friday) morning, providing reassurance and safety for students and staff.” The public was asked to report any tips to the KCSO at 616-632-6125, or anonymously through Silent Observer at 616-774-2345. The shots fired last week were the latest such incident reported in the past few years along the 60th Street corridor east of Kalamazoo Avenue. On Nov. 7, 2023, police reported a shootout between people in two vehicles near the high school, which went into a Macleod, who was bom and raised in Woodland. “As a Barry County native, I am very grateful to be able to tell the stories of my neighbors. This commu nity is special and it deserves recognition.” Macleod takes over for outgoing edi­ tor Jayson Bussa. Bussa began his new role this week as Hastings Area School System’s public relations specialist. “Over the course of managing The Banner and Reminder, I really enjoyed reporting on the news and telling the stories of Barry County. That's what appealed to me so much about going to work for Hastings Area School System — I'm able to continue with that work but do it in a different venue and for a different audience,” said Bussa. After graduating from Lakewood High School in 2018, Macleod earned a de^ee in public policy from the Uni­ versity of Michigan in May 2022. She has minors in German language and culture and history. In June 2022, Ma­ cleod was named copy editor for The Banner, The Reminder and The Sun and News. In addition to copy editing, Macleod has spent much of her time in the last two years covering the Lakewood area. From human interest pieces to hard government news, Macleod has cov­ ered a little bit of everything. “You never know what’ll come your way in this job,” said Macleod. “I al­ ways try to keep an open mind.” Some of Macleod’s writing interests include nature, government and schools. “I'm so excited to see what Molly can do at the helm of these newspapers,” said Bussa. “We worked side-by-side together for over two years and her fingerprints have been on the papers the whole time. The local paper is defi­ nitely in good hands.” Founded in 2003, View Newspaper Group is a locally-owned, locally connected community newspaper group covering 13 Michigan coimties. As one of Michigan’s largest independently owned newspaper groups, the company publishes 21 newspapers with print editions reaching more than 335,000 households each week, plus an addi­ tional 500,000 monthly online readers. For more information, visit mihomepaper.com or contact View Newspaper Group Brand Manager Emily Caswell at ecaswell(^mihomepaper.com. precautionary lockdown that day. No one was hurt in that incident, either. Deputies said two vehicles were traveling on 60th Street when the shots were fired. In Nov. 2022, the KCSO reported up to 50 shots were fired along Cam­ pus Park Drive south of 60th Street. Deputies figured three vehicles were involved in that driveby shooting. A house was hit by bullets, but no one was injured. Police later recovered a stolen vehicle. In July 2022, a woman inside a house at 60th Street and Campus Park Drive was shot when bullets were fired from one of two vehicles that drove by the residence. In May 2022, two innocent bystand ers were shot on a campus parking lot at East Kentwood right after a graduation ceremony for Crossroads Alternative High School ended. The bullets were fired from someone inside a car. A 16-year-old boy was shot in the wrist and a 40-year-old woman was shot in the abdomen. They both recovered from their wounds. Multiple suspects were later charged in connection with that incident. ■■ I 1 I * * I I I A a �B t www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS I Saturday, October 5, 2024 Strategic plan input at Town Hall meetings I s I b < K k I I ,1 I Caledonia Community Schools are getting input from residents on how to do a better job of serving their students. The district held two town hall meet­ ings over the last couple of weeks to get feedback from residents as part of an update, or “refresh,” as district officials call it, of its strategic plan. The first of the sessions, held Sept. 25, focused on the pillars of Teaching and Learning and Whole Child/Whole Community that were part ofthe plan the district adopted in 2019. About 35 resi­ dents attended that session. On Monday, about 20 residents came out for another meeting at the Learning Commons of Caledonia High School’s south build­ ing focused on two other pillars of the strategic plan - those of Organizational Coherence/Systemic Improvement and Fiscal Sustainability. “Rather than starting all the way back at square one, what you often see in organizations that do well is you keep moving forward,” CCS Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer said at Monday’s town hall.“You keep moving, moving, mov­ ing. As you get through a period, you assess where you are at and evaluate your progress, and then you set new goals for yourself. That’s what we wanted to do.” Weeldreyer pointed out where the 2019 strategic plan resulted in specific changes that have changed how the dis­ trict does business. For example, CCS implemented changes in elementary school boundaries and reorganized bus routes in an effort to achieve greater ef­ ficiency in getting students to and from school, a move that saved the district $198,000 in transportation costs annually, the superintendent said. Another example was the 2021 reorga­ nization ofschools to convert Kraft Mead­ ows into an intermediate school serving fifth- and sixth-grade students, leaving Duncan Lake as a middle school serving students in seven± and eighth grades. Weeldreyer went over results of a survey that had more than 600 responses tied to the pillars of fiscal sustainability and organizational coherence. Nearly 75 percent of respondents either agree or strongly agree that the district has been transparent with information about its finances, while 2 5 percent either disagree or strongly disagree. About 69 percent consider Caledonia schools “an effective investment in education,” but nearly 31 I with that statement. The survey also found 82 percent of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the district’s communications are clear and relevant, with 18 percent dis­ agreeing or strongly disagreeing. About 85 percent agreed or strongly agreed that the district adequately addresses student safety and security and 87 percent agree the district provides reliable and efficient transportation to its students. During the town hall meetings, participants would break down into small groups around tables that were set up throughout the Learning Commons and asked to come up with topics and ideas the district shouldaddress as part of the strategic plan refresh. Parents such as Kiley Radel and Erin Newell wondered why the district’s enrollment numbers have remained relatively flat over the last decade despite continued residential development in the Caledonia area. Their group suggested some type of exit survey of families that Recent Cal grad honored with scholarship award J « L» Iff 1 J ♦te- I *1 5 _____ U X * • H. '?>’u 1^4*: r A , ... •f • ■ I I v 4 * I I A ' r„ I rr^Kf ♦4 I - iA v*’ ♦ 7. B T» > > u Tar* - l\1KV 11 i. J .V IL I * I . I nrr . "J? >.*1* Ju^ k- Ir I '^■■r T.TJ AT ( "i. lY I >.5^. L s>-* I K A. 4 » 5 4 *4 •^1 J"»?■. c"*? -c '4 ' •-S X T’* J * 4'' t• KZ '•I .'4 t --jixriIP T 1 i LV r*-.' • * % .Vk . 4. r. r iaMS* t,- ' A .w ** 1 I I •'f k I MO** bl AoiH''’'’’' '4 1 ,*-■■ A 99^ r V. A . I Jr n I li w I ( J V L IS FDR m -> I -waz? - » 3* I 4 w. • *• V :•. C' TRUCK DRIVERS J 9 « 1/4 J- vTvS t 46^. ■ XL X 7 • I 4^^ « Li ” — .f- > H B ■ >.'V t 1 ^’'wvprrffC-' / IK Alyssa Bursch, a recent graduate of Caledonia High School, was awarded this summer with the 2024 Senior Leadership Award from Caledonia/ Middleville Area Right to Life. Bursch was honored with the scholarship in recognition of her leadership to the local Students for Life group. She also completed an internship with Protect Life Michigan in her junior year. The award was given to Bursch earlier this summer, along with a check for $500. Bursch now attends the University of St. Thomas in Houston, Texas. Here, Bursch is pictured with Caledonia/Middleville Right to Life President Pete Murray. Photo provided ••f. r* In Marshall, Ml is now accepting applications for: A* ♦ n, tl 2008but had it in mind all along that it would eventually be developed for recre­ ational purposes. About $3 million from the bond issue district voters approved in May oflast year will be used for develop­ ing the second phase of CalPlex. Ideas proposed by other groups includ­ ed improved communications with dis­ trict residents who don’t have children, improved education on how financing the schools work and making it more acces­ sible to taxpayers, and finding creative ways to generate additional funding for schools. The idea of corporate sponsor­ ships was floated. Weeldreyer mentioned the example of how Amazon Inc. pro­ vided a check of $40,000 toward the construction of the playground at the new Dutton Elementary School that is scheduled to open next fall. The district plans to meet with students next week to get their input toward the strategic plan update. A presentation on the strategic plan refresh is expected later this month. For more information on the update, visit calschools.org/strategic-plan-refresh. VETERAN’S TRUCK LINE INC. .< - r II T the property along lOOthStreet since • A- jy* ™ II i' r •c 3 2 -•,s 4 f are leaving leaving the the district, district, seeking seeking to to find find out why they are pursuing educational options elsewhere. “Is it athletics? Is it emotional (needs not being addressed)? Is it educational?” Radel asked. “If we could collect that data, maybe we could formulate a plan to maybe start retaining some of the families that live within the district.” Their group also inquired ofwhether the schools can work more closely with Cale­ donia Township on recreation programs. “We do provide so much of that (rec­ reation activity) as a community around here. What is the planthatwe can give the township to be a better partner with the schools and maybe do some of those things together ... be working more together as community partners? We’re all right here,” Radel said. The Caledonia school board and Cale­ donia Township reached an agreement late last year on the transfer of 20 acres of land to expand the CalPlex sports and recreation area. The township hadowned disagreed Staff Writer •I • Night Drivers • Paid health benefits • Hourly rate $24.00 hr. after 6 months $25.00 hr. • Time & 1/2 over 40 hours • • • • • 401 (k) w/contribution Drive newer equipment Paid vacations/holidays Paid I ife/d isa b i I ity Must have Class A CDL and pass medical/drug screen CALL NOW DIRECT (262) 539-4460 ASK FOR DON Go to www.vetstruck.com for applications. �THE SUN AND NEWS www.sunandnews.cofTi Abortion Fables There is a plague haunting this nation that is destroying the very fabric of unity that we all need. This disease is of epidemic proportions destroying millions of the helpless. Today unwanted pregnancy Is completely preventable and should be rare. But it Isn’t is it. Abortion affects us all not only the woman involved but the men, doctors, and the politicians. It affects even those who are not directly involved in this gristly practice. In this nation we are destroying about 20% of all unborn or about 1 million per year, in Russia about 50% of the unborn are aborted. Russia, caught in Its vortex of hate has made life in that nation almost meaningless. Is that the direction we want our nation to follow? Do we want to be like them? What bothers my mind more than anything Is how men are not being held responsible for this carnage. The response of most of these impregnators is, it’s your problem. Just go get an abortion. It’s no big deal. It’s just a bunch of cells. How stupid one had to be to believe that nonsense! We all started as a cluster of cells. These adolescent "men" are not real men but just selfish predators who soon are looking for another vulnerable lonely woman who will believe their lies of love. They are much like the type of men pushed as ideal In Hollywood. The vast majority of men are not like that, for they are honest, hardworking, loyal and love their spouses. They take responsibility for their actions. Their love is real, not just a way to conquer the next woman. We hear It all the time, "It’s my body and no one is going to tell me what to do with my body.” Yes, it is your body and you indeed can be used by that reasoning for drugs, prostitution, or even suicide. However, that cluster of life of the unborn that you harbor is not your body. Every woman, from the most delicate to the most coarse who have had an abortion are affected their whole lives. They become less sensitive, have more anxiety, and are less trusting of men. Most carry the stigma of losing their unborn the rest of their lives always filled with "what if I hadn’t done this." All are affected In some degree, some are crushed. It Is never not a big deal. Many later do become good mothers. Doctors are also negatively affected by the abortions that they do. They themselves become less sensitive and less receptive to the wishes and dreams of those they serve. They are always caught between balancing two evils. Oh, they appear nonjudgmental as we were taught in medical school but they are Indeed affected. The new killerpills now out don’t make it any less traumatic to the doctor. No doctor Is filled with joy and happiness when faced with abortions. They certainly don’t go home proud about doing multiple abortions that day. Must I remind those who are under 50 years of age that when their mother found out she was pregnant, regardless of her circumstances, she made a decision based upon her love of you. Real love is always costly, but she was willing to bear that cost so today you have a voice. Of the multiple millions who were lost, what do’you hear from them? Just a deafening silence. I consider it extremely gross that many politicians are using abortions as a political football, again asking you as a voter to share In the blame for the slaughter of additional millions of our unborn. These politicians will say anything to get your vote. This is not an issue between Pro life vs Pro choice, Democrat vs Republican, men vs woman. It is strictly an issue between a woman and her conscience, where it belongs. Even in cases of rape, incest, less than perfect unborn, or even the life of the mother it is e her conscience and creator. Now, you have a voice. No matter where you stand, VOTE Vote with a clear conscience that you can be proud of. . vwi q. vote wicn a ciear W. C. Trowbridge MD r 3877 Spencer Rd. SE Kalkaska, Ml 49646 I I I 1 �s I I ► www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 9 Gaines Township residents express concerns about an adult foster care home James Gemmell Contributing Write Some neighbors are expressing con­ cern about the possibility of more resi­ dents being allowed to move into an adult foster care home in Gaines Township. The planning commission heard com­ plaints from five residents at the township planning commission’s monthly meeting on Thursday, Sept. 26. Applicant Stephen Forkpah is request­ ing a Special Use Permit to increase the occupancy capacity from the current state-licensed limit of six residents to 12 people inside the split-level home at 7174 Martin Ave. SE. fhat is near Eastern Avenue and 72nd Street. The property is about a quarter-acre and is zoned Resi­ dential RL-10. The owner is Kingdom Rest Center. Forkpah addressed the planning com­ mission briefly, explaining his request for the special use permit. A public hearing was then held at the meeting inside the township hall. Melissa Maxson lives in a home on 72nd Street with a backyard that abuts the backyard of the group foster home. She said one resident of the foster home is startling neighbors with his loud voice. ‘ ‘We have a person that screams al 1 times of the day and makes you jump. And you wonder who’s hurt and if anyone needs help,” she said during the public hearing. Maxson also expressed worry about the potential for increased traffic flow due to the increased pickup and drop-offs of residents that would occur. Another resident, Jana Johnson, also voiced concern about the loud neighbor who lives at the home. “I can’t be in my backyard and be quiet in my garden without the thought of, ‘When is he going to explode?”’ she said. “This man is a big guy and he banged on a refrigerator that they have outside the door. And all of a sudden, it’s this explosive screaming voice. Someone will come out and talk with him a bit. And he’ll do it again and again. They’ll take him inside and shut the door and you can still hear him scream. “Am I supposed to call emergency because this man is screaming in the house, ‘Don’t touch me?’ I don’t know what I legally or morally should do. I realize he’s handicapped, but what’s my responsibility hearing it?” Johnson asked planning commissioners. A neighbor who lives across Martin Avenue from the foster home, Lilalee Mumper, said the residence is quiet compared to the past. She has lived in the neighborhood since 1979. “Right now, it’s at a very quiet level and I really appreciate that. There has to be a home for people who need it,” Mumper said. However, she told the commission­ ers that she would prefer that the foster home s residential capacity be kept at six people. She cited past issues that required police responses there. “I will certainly confirm (that),” Com­ munity Development Director Dan Wells said. “There’s a long histoiy of lawenforcement issues at this house prior to this owner. It ran the gamut, (to) put it that way. But we haven’t had as many com­ plaints since (the new owner) took over.” Vern Johnson, who lives on 72nd Street, said there are definitely noise problems. ‘‘We have some issues with what goes on there right now in regard to the noise that they do. Because they don’t seem like people that are just in foster care. They seem like people who should be in memory care,” he said. Jana Johnson said another man lives in die foster home who laughs “hysterically” in the backyard. “And the next day, he’ll be cussing and vulgar,” she said. “I don’t feel comfort * able back there, fenced in or not.” “This guy is scary that’s walking around in back,” Dale VanderMolen said. He lives in a home on Eastern Avenue with a backyard that is kitty comer from the foster facility. “I have kids who live on each side ofme in houses,” he said. “I can only imagine what they’re thinking, what they’re feel­ ing with that guy doing that. If we up this (capacity) number. I’m very concerned about that.” VanderMolen asked if the township ordinance regulating noisy, boisterous and disorderly conduct can be enforced in this situation. Wells replied that the planning commis­ sion has no jurisdiction over that. He said it would be a police-enforcement matter. Vern Johnson mentioned that some old furniture in the home had been placed out side by the curb and left there for several months last winter. Wells noted that township staff do periodic inspections on a two-year cycle. Another 72nd Street resident, Lois Elzinga, said she is uncomfortable with the thought of 12 people potentially living in the foster home with only one staff person on site. Wells saidthat state regulations de•B termine the number ofstaffpeople who are spections are made and pennits for those needed per a given number of residents. secured. And until the township attorney After the public hearing closed, Plan­ can inform the planning commission ning Commission Chairwoman Connie about what its role and authority can be Giarmo noted that there are some tech­ in considering the requested special use nical questions concerning building and permit. fire inspections that need to be answered “Every individual has the right to safe before the commission can take a vote and secure housing under the law,” Wells on the request for the special use pennit. said. “ They ’ re not violent people; they “But we also have the overall issue ... don ’ t have that kind of disability. So, about where the state is going to have however disconcerting the yelling is, those the jurisdiction and where our ordinance individuals are not deemed to be a threat to would be able to be considered. And I’m the community by (the Michigan Depart ­ not sure we have a good handle on that ment ofLicensing & Regulatory Affairs).” right now,” Giarmo said. He acknowledged that the purported Because of that, the planning commis­ noise problem must be difficult for neigh­ sion may not be able to take a vote on the bors, but loud behavior should not be a special use request until later this fall. basis for denying them a place to live. Dutton Fire Chief Ken Van Hall also “(If that were the case), these people said a sprinkler system is required to be wouldn’t be allowed to live anywhere,” installed in a foster home with five or Wells said. “They’d be locked up in a more residents. mental institution or on the streets. And “I have a question and concern about so, what do you do in this case? I don’t what I’m seeing on this (inspection report) have a good answer. I feel for the neigh­ from the State of Michigan. I have a big bors, I understand what they ’ re saying. concern,” Commissioner Ryan Wiersema But there are legal issues that we have to said, pointing out that the home currently be cognizant of in terms of making sure is licensed to allow up to six residents. that the law is adhered to here. ” “There are state regulations that come into play here,” Wells said. “The state will be doing the inspections and having " discussions with our fire department to I I make sure that the fire safety in the build­ I ing is up to date and adequate.” I Commissioner Brad Waayenberg said the township attorney should research the law on what the township staff can do if ■ a foster home is having adverse impacts on neighbors. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act) protects people from discrimination in housing. ¥ Wells said the township will need to I review how its standards ofproofmay ap­ I I ply in a possible nuisance situation. That I■ £could necessitate getting an opinion from I the township attorney about what facts *: nr I I Lt) the planning commission and township I I board can and should consider. “And these kinds of care facilities in I I general, because we’re seeing more of I them,” Wells said. : FINANCING AVAILABLE Wells added that the township is in the ■ 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments I on qualifying equipment process of updating its ordinance, which I I will focus more on looking at the findings of fact when the planning commission considers requests for special use permits I in the future. HEATING & COOLING “But our current ordinance falls some­ 210 East Main Street, Caledonia what short,” he conceded. A motion was made to table the matter until the required building and fire in [■ 3 URN ACE TVNE'EP < t • < I N A P FRONTIER 616-891-8900 ■ �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. October 5, 2024 10 www.sunandnews.com Sporting News 1 A. Trojans usher in homecoming in style with parade I ^nBF •* I J I I 9 > •u. A i-' Fi k B I vL 99^ ; t « F "'•S • JLwa * w 7^ ' < It Z . 9 4 * *« J 1 ft f c *1 I I* V A Ak t w I «iBni -Mb r s.'.,. — A • ? 7 ■.a ..ft- Vfr d 'Ki HV Tl ;^rr>— Thornapple Kellogg junior setter Tealy Cross puts a set up as the TKHS volleyball program makes its way along Bender Road during the annual homecoming parade in Middleville Friday, Sept. 27. Photo by Brett Bremer .S^ The Thornapple Kellogg High School marching band makes its turn onto Bender Road in front of the high school library during the 2024 TKHS homecoming parade Friday, Sept. 27. Photo by Brett Bremer « ■H^'- 4"* a r ■<V r «** A* z I \ r f Jj J s Z’ 1 > L A. ■K TK freshman class representatives Colton Stahl and Anna Romph ride atop a convertible in front of the crowd gathered along Bender Road in Middleville for the annual TKHS homecoming parade Friday, Sept. 27 Photo by Brett Bremer i u J, ^iS; Al t •r 4 r f p « 't a •K •» I J?. 4 I >' 1*^. j 'f •< fc. •’t: I 9 T. .« & k » st I9 J. J / 4 .J « * * 5s.' am If «1 »<-- je t* & r is ~s 3' r-. .9 K * r i ‘5^ t f® Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! .£S * w w r « .I *1 *~w> /* J » V >w. -'• r> « TTrt « fi . . * »■a e !-■ «* * T 1 I i I > • *< t *w l» T- 4 k, 1 K. ? V >' t.L Ilk k_ T1 % V «l^ « \ z *' J a&< A Simply Perfect Createcd just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. I w . I A <- 3F’ A ■' ’•r 'T > .K A > < WEDDING INVITATIONS T**': 3 .I -4 « -:k h Wf > .*• •wa . jMip ■? I F'-’ A « I » 5 N 1 <» ' .41 PRINT 1/4G BY I www.printingbypennytane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting.com w •t .=. ■a *w * .. ♦ -i<B If 4?; p V * ’•w V 'W •' * 1 a I a jr“ . Mk I * '*'.•■ *W r^iP J.U T ' a The Thornapple Kellogg High School Tro-zone student cheering section is fired up for the homecoming football game against Northview Friday. Sept. 27, inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville. Photo by Brett Bremer I I ■’S �9 1 IL ♦ www.sunanclnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ♦ Saturday, October 5, 2024 11 Northview offense proves unstoppable force at TK Brett Bremer Sports Editor Northview led 30-8 at halftime. That 22-point deficit was down to 20 after a 61 -yard touchdown run by junior Zach Eldrige ^d a two-point run byj unior back Malachi VanEngen with 3 ;28 to go in the third quarter, but that was as close as TK would get and the last time the fireworks would fly in the southern sky. The Northview offensive line ofAndre Johnson, Carson Ginn, Lincoln Chalm­ ers, Tyler Duby and Brayden Taylor dominated the bailgame. Wildcat backs Jalen Gant, William Seniura, AJ Johnson and others proved too elusive or too pow­ erful to bring down much ofthe night, and senior quarterback Armaan Irving was rarely off target. The Wildcats improved to 5-0 on the season and 2-0 in the OK Black Confer­ ence with the win. TK fell to 1 -4 overall and 0-2 in the OK Black. The Trojans were slated to return to conference action at East Grand Rapids Friday, Oct. 4. Robinson scored TK’s first points ofthe game with 8:16 to go in the first quarter on a one-yard TD plunge and then added the two-point run too. It pulled TK within 16-8 atthetime. TheNorthview lead grew to 37-8 before TK found the end zone again with VanEngen taking a pitch to the left 38 yards for a score. Robinson again ran in the two-point try with just See NORTHVIEW on 12 Junior running back Debo Robinson got pats on the back from a couple stripeshirted officials he went up to chat with after the clock had run out. Having made his way over to the Bob White Stadium student section with his teammates, on his crutches, senior quar­ terback Brody Wiersma got a pat on the back from head coach Jeff Dock as the Trojans joined in one last playing of the of school fight song. There wasn’t a lot more that Robinson, who pounded his way through the middle ofthe line as hard and often as he could, or Wiersma, who was injured on the season’s first drive in Hastings back in August but has been there to support his teammates. could have done to help Friday. The Trojans fought back as often as they could, but couldn’t overcome the Northview offense which outscored the Thomapple Kellogg varsity football team 72-24 in an OK Gold Conference bailgame on homecoming night in Mid­ dleville. Northview went 45 yards on three plays on its first drive of the ballgame and a three-and-out on the Wildcats ’ third drive of the bailgame was the only time that a Northview possession did not end in the end zone. A I #• n Jr-i *4 « I I’ I >• V ■'S, •&. A 4r 1.^7 SF . -X I ■f ■« -J * t I / ■t: 1 Ito r ♦ OUR COMPANY IS GROWING DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY i” ’• ♦ 1 '.to I • > I ’ll 4 / « * i / y •J' 'A ’’’1^ I J I I I •r4 TJ 'X 1 I ■ z* t * * > I NOW HIRING l/Zeif Newspaper Group is seeking a MARKETING SPECIALIST • Advertising sales • Account management • Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts • Attend networking events k •.J ♦ Responsibilities include: J i*' Kt> 4 r., VIEW'eiespafie^ G rou p *« J I L 1 J A V i«£ rbc. 0 * 4 rV email wsmith(a)mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 A i. ' m 11 » 4 ■I- ■ T - . 31- Thornapple Kellogg junior Zach Eldridge works to bring down Northview running back Jalen Gant with some help from his teammates in the pile below during the first half of the Trojans’ homecoming contest inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville Friday, Sept. 27. Photo by Brett Bremer ♦ ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer’s Guide ■ Jeffersonian ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Tri-County Times Daily News Tri-County Citizen Oxford Leader Lake Orion Review Clarkston News The Citizen ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder > I �* 4 4 t I THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 12 t 1 * « '•. •v:'. www.sunandnews.com ■ • *4 I I •• ♦ ♦ 41 ♦ L * ^1 ' £. A ■ 1 * r' AT t -y » 1 .4 1^ /* 4 * I t 1 i 7, 4 > J 1 afife aJi 1 in I * * » 4A I' T1 ,J . r t I ‘^6 V Lt A ja * r i 4 .M I % 4 u/ Bremer w♦ *J ‘y -/.J •w ♦• 'I <1 ( 7^'* s ( NORTHVIEW / *Y J .-:9' 9-\ . Li: jil 7« i# Continued from Page 11 % Are you creative? — NOW HIRING — GRAPHIC DESIGNER View Newspaper Group is seeking a iull-time graphic artist tor our Fenton location MONDAY THRU FRIDAY • IN OFFICE • NO WEEKENDS This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about graphic design with a keen eye for quality graphics. Must have working knowledge of Adobe InDesig n and Photoshop (PC) - Illustrator a plus! Responsibilities include: • Newspaper advertising design • Some newspaper composition/layout IVe love what we do and we know you will loo! Are you the person we need? Send your resume to Graphics Manager Jennifer Ward at jward@tctimes.com and iet’s find out! Group The County Press Lapeer Area View Genesee County View Huron County View Sanilac County News Your Buyer’s Guide Jeffersonian Tri-County Times Daily News Tri-County Citizen Oxford Leader Lake Orion Review Clarkston News The Citizen The Lowell Ledger The Hastings Banner Buyer's Guide & News The Sun and News Ad-Visor & Chronicle Battle Creek Shopper News The Reminder We are a grovving company of 21 community newspapers serving 15 Michigan counties that are delivered weekly to more than 335,000 households widt an additional500,000 monthly online readers. « < 1 * .1. f Thornapple Kellogg junior running back Malachi VanEngen takesan option pitch 62 yards up the visitor sideline for a touchdown during the second half of TK’s homecoming loss to visiting Northview in OK Black Conference action Friday, Sept. 27. Photo by Brett f 4 ■ w"' over five and a half minutes to play in the third quarter. Seniura, AJ Johnson and Gant had two touchdown runs apiece and Irving threw two touchdown passes. A14-yard touchdown run by Gant and a 14-yard touchdown pass from Irving to Jake BARN Continued from Page 6 on site is a small gravel area just south of the building that the village owns. “The site physically can’t handle any parking requirement from our ordinance,” Planning Commission Chairman Jason Holzhausen said. “We have the ability to simply waive that (requirement). There are ample public... spaces within walking distance from this facility. I don’t think there is a reason we can’t waive the parking requirements for this parcel and this site.” Commissioner Di Wilke expressed concern about what she sees as a lack of parking close by the location. ‘I get that it’s walkable. We all live in the village,” WUke said. “Do you guys see a lot ofpeople walking? I walk the village every day and I see very few people walk­ ing. I don’t see people wanting to park over here (in the village lot) and walk over to a restaurant.” Wilke was the lone no vote on approv ing the site plan. Earlier on Tuesday, the Village Council approved plans to rebuild the parking lot next to the bam and shore up the retain­ ing wall at the rear of the lot. The council retained the consfruction firm Katerberg VerHage to undertake the project at a cost of $167,696. In May 2022, the Village Council voted Johnson had the Wildcats in front 16-0 in the opening quarter. TK defensive back Camden Peter had solid coverage on Johnson’s touchdown catch in the comer of the end zone, but the Wildcat receiver just went over him to haul in the score. frving’s second TD pass covered 30 yards to Logan Tyson in the second half. The Wildcats’ Lucas Golembiewski and Orland Vasquez had touchdown runs in the fourth quarter. 6-0 to accept ±e bid ofAcorn Treehouse Ventures of $40,115 to acquire the fire bam, passing up an offer from a compet ing bidder. Leading Consfruction, who bid $50,000 for the site. At the time, DeMaagd had proposed a mixed-use commercial development at the fire bam that included a cafe, bakery and coffee roasting and canning operation. The original agreement called for a site plan to be submitted to the village in July 2023, with substantial completion by January 2025 and an occupancy permit to be approved in July 2025. Earlier this summer, village officials considered hav ing ownership of the 115 High property revert back to the village after DeMaagd did not initially respond to requests for an updated site plan. The council at a committee ofthe whole meeting last month voted to direct Village Attorney Mark Nettleton to prepare docu­ ments to have ownership of the property revert back to the village. DeMaagd has since apologized for what he termed “a perceived gap in communication or un derstanding” with the village. Commissioners directed DeMaagd to submit a detailed lighting plan and a sign permit application as conditions of the site plan approval. DeMaagd is also expected to apply for a facade grant with the Downtown Development Authority to replace a garage door on the building. ■M �4 f ♦ www.sunandnews.com , <5! « ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS __________ _______ __________________________ ______ ______ Saturday, October 5, 2024 13 ♦ A Gators dive into senior night against CLS Vikings Brett Bremer a score of 255.45 points. CLS senior Elise Miller wasn’t far behind with a score of 235.55 and and the Gators’ Abi­ gail Dumond placed third at 200.80. Kaya Bender finished in the fourth place spot for the Gators with a score of 158.00. The CLS girls had the top time in each of the evening’s swims. The Gator team did get the first place points in the 100-yard breaststroke and the 400-yard freestyle at the end of the evening. Mckenna Hawks took the first place points in the 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 1 minute 29.68 seconds. The Gator 4x400yard freestyle relay team of Malia Hamby, Mia Bergman, Mckenna Hawks and Aubrey Hawks took the first place points in that race in 4:36.08. The CLS girls had already wrapped up 2024 state cut times in all the events that they qualified for in the pool in 2023, and added their first new individual state cut for somebody this fall with Sports Editor For those that have stuck around long enough, the Thor­ napple Kellogg girls are on their third new collection of teammates in four seasons. The Grand Rapids Gators celebrated their seniors from TK, from West Catholic, Hopkins and West Michigan Aviation as they hosted the OK Rainbow East leading Cale­ donia/Lowell/South Christian girls at Byron Center High School Tuesday. The Vikings took a 109-68 win over the Gators. Those seniors started as members of the Delton Kellogg/Thornapple Kellogg/ Hastings co-op and then be­ came Gators as juniors teamed with West Catholic, Hopkins and Calvin Christian a year ago. It was another tremendous night of diving with three state qualifiers at the top of the standings. The Gators’ Lydia Slagel took the victory with i 3 'eoce Sept Sit il aer Iff I I J 1 K* XI » u.-' I W» >L^ . I . w- <w J V 0^ >" S* • J I J. c* w XT '^n : n T, < 1 II I M ci' Sp •T ) I •ar >’ta2 y t T / < 1,^ A J 4 5* A j i I PC I 4. 1 1 .*1 *4L' I t ltA:"Wa.. w W* ' 1^ ■av J • -’ lb • .«k t i * 5 • c: •r . > J :*• b •» » » < d. % >* V ? •««. V, •> <**> V '• •' f \ > i r » ■ TTr •. ■ IS’I • > •l •*- ipfv 4 ! a M IM 6*^ ;fx .b 11 .-iS. 1 ; ■• ►. >•*31 11 I’rT '■’^ I •i I \ V V- -*l I Jj 'HU I JI . <r ksv I t Grand Rapids Gator Jenna Robinette races to a personal best time in the 200-yard individual medley during her team’s senior night dual with Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian at Byron Center High School Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer ♦ ♦ ■r 1 ?1 t. I • < 4 •.p . A' 11’ i* ♦ A |.' I I c — « '•’4- V M Christian’s Arnelia McCann collects her breath after finishing the ?h?rrAnri plniH Winning time Tuesday during her team’s OK Rainbow East dual with the Grand Rapids Gators at Byron Center High School. Photo by Brett Bremer Mya VanderWaag hitting the qualifying time in the 50-yard freestyle. She won that race in 25.13 seconds. Freshman teammate Amelia McCann also had her fastest freestyle yet to qualify for the MISCA meet in that race. She turned in a time of 25.90 to place second Tuesday and has also already hit her MISCA cut in the 100-yard freestyle and the 500-yard freestyle. It wasn’t nearly as fast, but the Gator girls finished off the night with a 50-yard senior swim that started with cannon balls into the pool and a couple divers flipping in the background. McCann made a big jump in her 500-yard freestyle at the Loy Norrix Invitational last weekend, an event where CLS head coach Amber Pearson was happy to report Miller also met the All-America qualifying score for a diver in an 11 -dive competition. A Viking team filled with state qualifiers and those still chasing state qualifying times, had the Gators chasing it much of the night. In the 200-yard individual medley CLS junior Anneka Schuurmans won with a personal best time of 2:40.8. The Gators’ Jenna Robinett I improved her personal best time to place fourth in that race in 3:22.27. Aubrey Hawks was the runner-up in the 500-yard freestyle in 6:20.43, just fight­ ing off CLS’s Taylor Cole who was third in 6:22.71, a personal best time of her own. Amelia McCann won that race for the Vikings in 5:36.91. CLS had seven different girls win individual races. Chloe Kerkstra took the 200yard freestyle in a personal best time of 2:17.38. Anneka Schuurmans swam a personal best 2:40.80 to win the 200yard individual medley. Mya • v< P ■"W*« I ^11 ^sSs saasn w^s J n Antenno Men rtE Ml » MAU mil pr** . I» 9 w Mi: Grand Rapids Gator diver Kaya Bender reaches towards the water at the end of her back somersault dive in the straight position Tuesday at Byron Center High School. Photo by Brett Bremer <r * ! • V See GATORS on 14 »r p« V. A* * V *»3rt. *•. • .'7 I \6 L f f KS-* Antenna Men * k' • • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems * J. • "> tffSureCaB Aua Give us a call! rA.T. J.J 1 cell (M) ♦5^1 S.GN&^ SIG I no* www.cellsignalpros.com J 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com �> ft t 4 1 14 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 I 4 ' J 4^4 A V * • '¥ A * *1 f .IV A ■r V•' »■ Hr^ RI g r I V »:■ J J F * < * • JB* I -w 4 ! “It was the kind of night where girls could focus on what they’re training for, whether it is chasing those MISCA cuts ... We’re coming in and we’re having fun with it and we’re cheering on our team,” Pearson said. She said Treib typically would say the 100-yard breaststroke is her least favorite race, but Treib asked to com­ pete in it Tuesday and she turned in an exhibition time of 1; 17.98, her best ever in the race. It was a race where the Gators had Leah Schiunacher and Lucy Krug set personal best times and the - Lfr V* & * •l 9 Arf « —J ' » • Sft. . 9 4j.> J* 5^ t «. ■ ^^WOMe^ * -— ? 1 A 4^ tz »- J "• B I X •• I A{ > * .. <1^. I^< B* « . 4* » 1» J ? , "Wa 41 * ****J P^F > Grand Rapids Gator Malia Hamby shoots across the water on her way to a fourth-place finish in the 100-yard butterfly during her team’s OK Rainbow East dual with Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian Tuesday at Byron Center High School. Photo by Brett Bremer Vikings had Addison Hoekwater, Lily Klein and Isabella Kazmierski do it too. The CLS girls are now 3-0 in OK Rainbow East duals with wins over Wayland, Grand Rapids Union and the Gators. They’ll face Ottawa Hills in what just might be the biggest confer­ ence showdown of the season Tuesday, Oct. 8, in Grand Rapids. The Gators are now 1 -3 in conference duals. They will be a the Ottawa Hills Invitational today, Oct. 5, and the close out conference duals at Grand Rapids Catholic Central Oct. 10. ? ■ v; _ ■*!. “ J«!l_,. -sM» •r f ~ T w* t • r *i f 'M ■ A, I --^ iM JV.1 T w. % . a *3 >- . .« '>F Ml GATORS Continued from Page 13 VanderZwaag won the 50-yard free­ style in a personal best time of 25.13 that met the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 state qualifying time. Sophie Gaylord won the 100-yard butterfly in 59.35. Bella Treib won the 100-yard freestyle in 54.79. Kay Hurst won the HERITAGE Continued from Page 5 Other Dutton Fire trucks and fire­ fighters will be at the Fall Heritage Festival, as well. Some antique fire trucks will be coming from the Dutton area. Bruursema said Alto will bring either an antique fire truck or a tractor. She confirmed that antique tractors will be coming from Byron and Gaines townships, as well as Dorr. The Kamp family will be nmning the hot dog roast this year. V Z»L rJf : ■> ft <c « 4 «.' UGHT TRUCK MRIS KfB NITS > PUK VPS • ME TMS * VMS * SnrS * JKPS * 4X4S FUU SERVICE ft YOU POU IT ! 100-yard backstroke in 1:20.21. The CLS girls won the 200-yard medley relay and the 200-yard free­ style relay as well. The team of Treib, VanderZwaag, McCann and Kay Hurst won the 200-yard medley relay in 2:00.24. It was Izzy Leason, Schuur mans, Kerkstra and Miller teaming up to win the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:52.61. “The money (raised) will be used to repair the (vintage) fire truck,” Bru­ ursema said. Mary’s Country Critters out of Wayland Township will be running the mobile petting zoo again this year. It is owned and operated by Mary Tegethoff. ^That’s the highlight for kids. She brings a nice variety of animals. That is something that everyone looks forward to. This will be her fourth time there,” Bruursema said. “I’m bringing a mini horse, a miniature donkey, a Mini Rex rabbit, a chicken and a duck. Also, two sheep and two goats,” Tegethoff said. “, When you come to a heritage festi* —V* val, you see what happened in the past and the animals were part of the past,” she said. As for the free rides through Prairie Wolf Park, Rich McConnell of Gaines Township will drive the tractor that pulls people in a long wagon on a trail through the park. Doug Smith of Hastings will be ~ TTxx wkz Y w • /» I I V7 t * r jr r > 4- isi.f r • ■*_ * f J A X w. r ^^9 S/®'. ■ F .» 4 4 ft K, > ^^^*'^*****^<^^**^*t»'--^.*>| w, WMJI M « ,• ',*5WO '»irwBn fW-r* rfwii>4.< ^USED PARTS hUSED TIRES 4 4 s < i >• A Si 9 ■’7^ X* * . r* -x "T t /*« •.$ *♦ ,. . *» ' 1 •eT*, i* * « Wft * ’f J* 1 Il 4 *• *• ■ -JL lW. .r> < - ‘'WM - rtr*** **r« —X 1 Mb 4^ * .'4 ' z ’ Grand Rapids Gator Mia Bergman swims to a fifth-place finish in the 50-yard freestyle during her team’s dual with Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian at Byron Center High School Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer the afternoon. At 12:30 p.m., Brian Diemer, the for­ mer Olympic track star, will read from a book he wrote about the history of the adjacent 45-acre Prairie Wolf Park. Also, 50 copies of a booklet writ­ ten by the Historical Society’s Linda Crumback about the history of the William J. Hardy family also will be available for purchase at the Historical Society booth. The 68-page soft-cov­ ered tome is titled, “William J. Hardy & His Family.” The family came to Gaines Township in the 1840s and William Hardy be­ came the area’s first African-Am erican landowner when 95 acres >vftii4X5^wiivi wiicii he lie bought uuugni yj of township farmland. He became the first Black elected official in Michigan * 1 « • when he was elected the township _ *1 J SU- pervisor in 1872. Hardy Pond in front of the township hall is named after him, and a marker was placed on site in 2015 during a dedication ceremony there in 2015. There will be a lot of food at the 1811 lAKE St RAUMAZOO country music live on Stage Heritage Festival ------- I fro™ 1> a-™- <0 12 p.m. And then, TheHistoricalSocietywillbeselling Mick Bruursema will be playing in apple cider and doughnuts donated by 269-381-2300 w <,4 « « -r 74 ». ••w- • r" • « I I ll.- 4 7 ^■1 ' •: « L* t w t A rw - > ’ ' •» t'> tr**^ '7 4 • the Meijer store in the Gaines Mar­ ketplace Shopping Center. Bruursema said she plans to make 22 loaves of bread. Some examples include homemade applesauce bread, pineappl e carrot bread and banana bread. Doug’s Good Time Pig Roasting & BBQ Shack out of Shelbyville will be one of the vendors present. Jerry Berg plans to set up a historic fishing encampment at the festival. He runs a fishing museum and cultural center in Comstock Park. The Kent County SherifTs Office will bring its Moimted Unit to the Heritage Festival. “They’re bringing their stallions, which we’re really excited about,” Bruursema said. Russ Vos Tree Farms out of the Moline/Wayland area will bring a trailer full of trees, plus crafts. The Gaines branch of the Kent District Library will be hosting games for kids. Bruursema said Byron Center Tele vision (BCTV) will video-record the Fall Heritage Festival for airing on Comcast cable channel 25 in Byron and Gaines townships. I I 1I J II i «4 I I, I G �www.sunanclnews.com t ’'ii it 'i I I It I I ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP 616-891-0150 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request; Summary of Request; Special Land Use request to build a 2,600 S‘he Agriculfural/ Kurai Residential zoninn o totalI of zoning diQtrinf district for a 3,015 SF of accessory buildings on the property. Property Address: 1587 108 th Street SE, Caledonia, Ml 49315 Parcei Number: 41-22-32-400-006 Applicant: Seth &amp; Renee DeHaan Date and Time of Hearing: October 24th, 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard Information related to this request may be 'iniiStJedTVXCdS appt., during reguter business hours at the Planning Department winLw located in in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information luwiiaiiip u»mces. t-or intormation related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells©gainestownship.org. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on October 24th , 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at 616-698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. BODY SHOP * GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to install ground mounted solar panels for residential use in the Agricultural/ Rural-Residential (A-R) and Agricultural/ Agri-Business (A-B) zoning districts Property Address: 9443 Meadow Valley, Caledonia, Ml, 49316 Parcel Number: 41-22-26-200-028 Applicant: Brendan Pugh OBO Mid-America Solar Date and Time of Hearing: October 24 th 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestown ship.org. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on October 24th , 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should con­ tact Kim Triplett at 616-698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. 10 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Your Body Shop -for over 32 years GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Request to rezone from Agricultural/ RuralResidential (A-R) to Planned Unit Development - Open Space Preservation (PUD-OSP) for a development by the name of Caledonia Meadows that will include 30 single-family homes. Property Address: 3805 92 nd Street SE, Caledonia, Ml, 49316 Parcel Number: 41-22-23-401-002 Applicant: Duke Suwyn OBO DHS Holdings LLC &amp: DAS Holdings LLC Date and Time of Hearing: October 24 th 2024, at 7:00 PM Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells@gainestownship.org. In order to be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on October 24th , 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should con:_ . tact Kim Triplett at 616-698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. 1 J > 15 �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 16 www.sunandnews.com Scots look to stay perfect at Scotland Yard Saturday 1’ j ♦ Brett Bremer Sports Editor rJ ♦ I r. ■ f . V *1* I I i T J t 4 J * 3r it r • K 1 t ' ■ s- <. A > ,1 s ■■ 5*;' 'f I, f 7*- t I ««» • itoU 4 4 V « *. t * ** * I * r * * J * f J. «r .& 4^ k . / > ? -;W-- . ' 4. ' * I m ■! ♦9 <4 • i1 ■fclii to 2>»| A-___ _ s m; Senior defender Parker Chapp (22) and the Caledonia varsity boys’ soccer team will look to finish the 2024 season without a loss in their home stadium of Scotland Yard Saturday, Oct. 5, as they take on East Grand Rapids beqinninq at noon. File photo N $ P - I Opponents are not finding it easy to put the ball in the net at Scotland Yard, or in any net the Fighting Scots are defending for that matter. The Caledonia varsity boys’ soccer team, with a defense being led by espe­ cially strong play from senior Parker Chapp lately, earned its eighth shut out of the season Tuesday with a 3-0 victory over visiting Byron Center at Scotland Yard in OK Green Confer ence play. “Our defense has been so good, Parker Chapp, that kid has been just a rock in the back. Huge plays, huge stops, just he has been huge for us,” Caledonia head coach Luke Dishnow said. The Scots are 9-0 at home this sea son and host East Grand Rapids Oct. 5 at noon to close out the regular season. The Division 1 state postseason starts for the Scots with a district opener at Northview Thursday, Oct. 10. “It’s just pride, your pride of your home field. You can just see it. They say, ‘home field we have to keep the record going.’ They know it,” Dish­ now said of his guys. The Bulldogs came into the contest ranked 12th in the state in Division 1 and they took a 1-0 win over the Caledonia boys in their first confer ence meeting back in early September. Dishnow said his team has learned a lot about itself and done a lot of grow ing in that last month. One of the things the Scots have learned is that they really, really want to make Scotland Yard a place oppo­ nents don’t want to play. So far this fall Caledonia has outscored opponents 34-2 on their home turf. Limiting goals against has been a thing the 11 -3 Scots have done pretty well everywhere to be honest. Portage Central, the top ranked team in the state in D1, is the only squad to score more than two goals against Caledonia this season. The Mustangs beat the Scots 3-1 in Portage on a Saturday afternoon in mid September. The win over Byron Center, now 13 •to 4M NOTICE PUBLIC ACCURACY TEST NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Public Accuracy test for the November 5, 2024 Primary Election will be conducted on on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Gaines Township Community Room, lower level, located at 8555 Kalamazoo Ave SE., Gaines Township, Michigan The Public Accuracy test is conducted to demonstrate that the program arid computers that will be used to tabulate the results of the election have been prepared in accordance with law. Michael Brew, Clerk Gaines Charter Township * ( ■< 4 4 4 3, pulls the Scots to within one game of the Bulldoes in the OK Green Confer ence standings as of Tuesday night’s contest. The Bulldogs still held the top spot at 8-1 while the Scots sat second at 7-2. Caledonia was slated to close the conference season at Mona Shores Oct. 3. The Bulldogs had Jenison on the slate for Wednesday. “That was pretty awesome. It was so awesome,” Caledonia Luke Dishnow said of the win over the Bulldogs. “It just felt like we were ready for the challenge and we went out there with the pride of keeping an unde feated record at home. We did it. We have one more game on Saturday that we need to win to complete the home field record of being undefeated,” Dishnow said. Drew Diebolt scored the opening goal for the Scots in the win over Byron Center, off an assist from Trey Curnow. The game was 1 -0 at the half. Diebolt added an assist and a goal on a penalty kick in the second half. Goal number two came with a cross rebounding in front of the Bulldog goal and Garrett Ruehle was there to finish it off for the score. “Such a fun win, to win against a big, tough opponent that is a top 15 team in the state,” Dishnow said, acknowledg­ ing that his team is excited to know it can not only compete a team of that caliber but beat one as well. Last Thursday, Sept. 26, the Caledo­ nia boys took an 8-0 win over visiting Muskegon in OK Green play. CORRECTION: The first two goal scorers for the Fighting Scots were incorrect in the Sept. 21 Sun and News story about the Caledonia varsity boy s ’ soccer team’s win over vis­ iting Grandville. Senior Brody Siler scored three goals in that 6-0 Fighting Scot victory and senior teammate Garrett Ruehle scored once. I I, II 4 I 1 �4 _ _____________ THE SUN AND NEWS « r Hop oji Jse Is u 4 ? .+>• J* , J I 1*1 BUSINESS SERVICES Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing,dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured 616-389-9496 ) f TREE SERVICE Saturday, October 5, 2024 17 Trojan team ties Wyoming on senior night atTKHS k Siieof <er. Sil’s 4 re * BUYING ALL HARDWOODS. Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION. ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. FARM, YARD & LIVE STOCK Farm- 1,700 Bushell organic rye cleaned, 50,000 lb. of spelt. Works great for work and show horses and calf feed, in bulk .15 each lb. in 1200 lb plastic totes or bulk in your wagon or truck. Call Archie for more information 269-908-6213 PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. OTHER 2022 Ice Bear Moped 3 wheeler less than 50 miles. $1800.00 616-299-2536 EMPLOYMENT BARN HELP WANTED Must have experience with horses. Full and part time positions available with competitive pay. Please call 269207-4218 or email at zipowell® yahoo.com if interested. MOVING SALE MOVING SALE - Everything must go! 6700 Hannah Lake Ave SE, Caledonia. October 4-5-6.10am6pm. Loads of Tools, furniture. The Thornapple Kellogg varsity soccer team celebrates its seniors before the start of Its senior night bailgame against Wyoming Tuesday in Middleville. The group includes (from left) Simeon Biltawi, Ayden Meek Juan Aguiar, Isaac Ruth, Kylan Pratt, Ryan Skidmore, Owen Comer, Nicolas Hervas Jordan Rowley, Blake Hardy ^d William Nathan. The TK boys tied Wyoming 1 -1 to move their record to 107-1 overall this season. They’ll conclude the regular season with a match Monday at Wayland. I ’Tr*' 4 4 4.- J J > T ••• t A < 4. - *w * I 1 T .1 I J I I I • f t-k- 1 'A *t X. - .a a t ♦I • ** A 4 J I *T nl 4 ' 4 M r 4 4 lo A A r -.A . 'A 4 4 4 ■> K t •< -w ■ -r* 7-4*? .--f 54 WK & I I Betser tosses four IDs as Scots beat West Ottawa Brett Bremer Sports Editor Brody Betser ran for a score and connected on three touchdown passes with sophomore Lincoln Senti as the Caledonia varsity football team cel­ ebrated homecoming with a 42-27 win over visit­ ing West Ottawa at “The Ralph” Friday, Sept. n. The Scots moved to 2-1 in the OK Red Conference with the win and 4-1 over­ all this season. Caledonia was set to host Rockford for an OK Red Conference bailgame Friday night, Oct. 4. The Rams are off to a 1 -2 OK Red start with tight losses to league­ leading Hudsonville and a Jenison squad. The Scots took the lead for good in the homecom­ ing bailgame with the Panthers on a four-yard touchdown pass from Betser to Senti - their first scoring hook-up of the night. Betser scored on a two-yard run to open the scoring and West Ottawa answered with a one-yard TD run by Kayden F orbes to head into the second quarter knotted at 7-7. Betser and Senti con nected on a 15-yard TD pass to up the Scots’ lead to 21-10 late in the first half and then started the third quarter with a 47yard touchdown connec­ tion that upped the Scots’ lead to 28-10. Betser fired a 25-yard TD pass to Aaron Col­ lins, and Collins returned a West Ottawa kick-off 50-yards for a score in the fourth quarter to seal the win. Betser had 13 rushes for 94 yards in the game and was 14-of-23 pass­ ing for 176 yards and the four touchdowns. He was intercepted once. Reed Vogeler had 17 rushes for 82 yards for the Scots. Senti had five total receptions for 88 yards and the three scores. Col lins had six receptions for 55 yards. Vogeler also led the Caledonia defense with nine tackles. Colin Kowatch had eight. Forbes finished the night for West Ottawa with 20 rushes for 129 yards and two touchdowns. Caledonia will be a part of Jenison’s homecoming on the road Oct. 11. «■ I I CHS boys end duals with loss to Rockford Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ tennis team tested it­ self against former OK Red Conference foe Rockford Monday and fell 9-0 to the Rams to close out the regular season duals in Caledonia. The fourth singles match was the tightest of the after­ noon on the scorecards with The Scots’ Malte Fischer coming up just short 6-4, 7-5 in a pair of sets with the Rams’ Grayson Campbell. The Rams won all nine flights in straight sets. The loss snapped an eight match win streak by Fischer who is 18-6 overall this season heading into the OK 4 YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors • • • and our future. VIEW Group Your Community Connection Green tournament. He was 3-1 against OK Green foes dur­ ing the regular season with a three-set loss to Byron Center’s number four his only defeat. The Caledonia boys were set to head to Byron Center Friday, Oct. 4, for the OK Green Conference Champion­ ship tournament and wi 11 be in action Tuesday, Oct. 10, at their NffJSAA Lower Peninsula Di­ vision 2 Regional Tournament hosted by Portage Central. COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the September 10, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, which were approved on September 24, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villa qeofmiddlevijie nrn e �I t r I 18 Saturday, October 5, 2024 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Map-area within the special assessment district: THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP Barry County, Michigan ♦ ♦ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ♦ ♦ I ? I 1 < • I I * r 1V I DUNCAN LAKE WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT A' F >< k"'' I’ . . J®’. ’2 ? ' •* t : lT"'^ 4, "'•4 - • o 4 * nt * NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Township Board of Thomapple Township, Bar­ ry County, Michigan, on its own initiative, intends to proceed pursuant to Act 188 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1954, as amended, to make certain public improvements con­ sisting of the control and partial eradication of aquatic plants and weeds within Duncan Lake by means of chemical treatment, biological agents, and/or mechanical harvesting (the “Public Improvements”). The Township Board has tentatively determined that some or all of the costs of the Public Improvements shall be specially assessed against each of the following described lots and parcels of land (all of which have lake frontage on Duncan Lake), which are benefitted by the Public Improvements, and which together comprise the proposed Duncan Lake Weed Control Special Assessment District, and which parcels and lots are as follows: *J • ft.-,T < « IT* n'-. I nean Lai^o J / <V Permanent Parcel No. Permanent Parcel No. Permanent Parcel No. 08-14-005-001-10 08-14-005-001-15 08-14-005-001-90 08-14-007-001-53 08-14-007-001-54 08-14-007-001-55 08-14-050-004-00 08-14-050-005-00 08-14-050-029-00 08-14-005-001-91 08-14-005-006-00 08-14-006-002-00 08-14-006-003-00 08-14-006-004-00 08-14-006-004-10 08-14-006-005-00 08-14-006-009-00 08-14-006-010-00 08-14-006-011-00 08-14-006-013-00 08-14-006-013-10 08-14-006-014-00 08-14-006-016-00 08-14-006-016-10 08-14-007-001-56 08-14-007-002-12 08-14-007-002-20 08-14-007-002-21 08-14-007-002-30 08-14-007-002-40 08-14-007-002-50 08-14-007-002-60 08-14-007-002-72 08-14-007-002-80 08-14-007-002-90 08-14-007-002-95 08-14-007-005-10 08-14-007-008-96 08-14-050-006-00 08-14-050-031-00 08-14-050-007-00 08-14-050-007-10 08-14-050-032-00 (] I 08-14-050-033-00 08-14-050-034-00 08-14-050-035-00 08-14-050-010-00 08-14-050-035-10 08-14-050-011-00 08-14-050-036-00 08-14-050-012-00 08-14-050-013-00 08-14-050-037-00 08-14-050-038-00 08-14-050-039-00 08-14-050-014-00 08-14-050-015-00 08-14-050-016-00 08-14-050-017-00 08-14-050-018-00 08-14-050-019-00 08-14-050-040-00 08-14-050-041-00 08-14-050-042-00 08-14-050-043-00 08-14-050-044-00 08-14-050-045-00 08-14-006-018-80 08-14-006-018-90 08-14-007-010-50 08-14-007-011-00 08-14-007-011-10 08-14-050-022-00 08-14-050-046-00 08-14-050-047-00 08-14-006-018-95 08-14-006-431 -00 08-14-007-011-30 08-14-007-011-40 08-14-050-023-00 08-14-050-024-00 08-14-050-048-00 08-14-050-049-00 08-14-007-001-10 08-14-007-011-50 08-14-050-025-00 08-14-050-050-00 08-14-007-001-20 08-14-007-011-60 08-14-050-026-00 08-14-050-051-00 08-14-007-001-51 08-14-007-001-52 08-14-007-012-10 08-14-050-002-00 08-14-050-027-00 08-14-050-028-00 08-14-050-052-00 08-14-050-054-00 Permanent Parcel No. Permanent Parcel No. Permanent Parcel No. Permanent Parcel No. 08-14-070-001 -00 08-14-070-014-00 08-14-080-001-00 08-14-080-014-00 08-14-070-002-00 08-14-070-015-00 08-14-080-002-00 08-14-080-015-00 08-14-070-003-00 08-14-070-016-00 08-14-080-003-00 08-14-070-004-00 08-14-070-005-00 08-14-080-016-00 08-14-070-017-00 08-14-070-018-00 08-14-080-004-00 08-14-080-017-00 08-14-070-006-00 08-14-070-007-00 08-14-080-017-10 08-14-070-019-00 08-14-080-005-00 08-14-080-006-00 08-14-130-001-00 08-14-050-020-00 08-14-050-021-00 08-14-080-007-00 08-14-070-008-00 08-14-070-020-00 08-14-070-021 -00 08-14-130-002-00 08-14-080-008-00 28-14-070-009-00 08-14-130-003-00 08-14-070-021-10 08-14-080-009-00 08-14-070-010-00 08-14-130-004-00 08-14-070-022-00 08-14-080-010-00 08-14-070-011-00 08-14-130-005-00 08-14-070-023-00 08-14-080-011-00 08-14-070-012-00 08-14-070-013-00 08-14-130-006-00 08-14-070-024-00 08-14-080-012-00 08-14-130-007-00 08-14-070-025-00 08-14-080-013-00 08-14-130-008-00 n •»« 1J • u' i fl f '' *4 f4-. I .. lyamcR'. K iJ * Nh'A » . J- I't • 4 4 r * - fj*-. z- I Ik ; »•’ fp-- -1*4 i ST -k • >1 «• • X V '•I 4 ..'t ♦•♦***> ’ ^5^ w. • -4 ■ST* •» • * iOrmcar? f A*- 1 I 1 »• t 1 I ) '•Ji* r .M- r r* “ k.l ** xaos i* 4^ A FIRST PUBLIC HEARING TAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of Thomapple Township will hold a public hearing on October 14, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Township Hall at 200 E. Main Street, Middleville, Michigan 49333, to hear and consider any objections to the proposed Public Improvements, the proposed Special Assessment District, the proposed special assessment, and all other matters relating to the Public Improvements. TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that a description of the Public Improvements and esti­ mates of cost for the Public Improvements are on file with the Township Clerk for public examination. PROPERTY SHALL NOT BE ADDED TO THE PROPOSED SPECIAL ASSESS­ MENT DISTRICT AND THE ORIGINAL ESTIMATE OF COSTS SHALL NOT BE INCREASED BY 10% OR MORE PER YEAR WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE AND PUBLIC HEARING. Periodic redeterminations of the costs of the Public Improvements may be necessary, without a change in the Special Assessment District, and in that event, such redetermi-^ nations may be made by the Township Board without further notice to record owners or parties in interest in the lands in the Special Assessment District, in accordance with the provisions of said Act 188 (unless the actual incremental cost increase assessed for a given year will exceed the estimate therefor by 10% or more, in which case notice and public hearing will occur). TAKE I^RTHER NOTICE that a property owner or person in interest must either ap­ pear and object at the public hearing or submit a letter of appearance and objection to the 1 ownship pnor to the public hearing in order to preserve the person’s right to appeal the special assessment to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. A record owner of land may appeal a special assessment by filing a written appeal with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within 30 days after written confirmation of the special assessment roll. Should the Township Board determine at the above-mentioned hearing to approve the proposed special assessment district, then thereafter, a second hearing will be held to confirm the tax roll for the special assessment district. This notice was authorized by Township Clerk. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Cindy Ordway Thomapple Township Clerk Thomapple Township Hall 200 E. Main Street Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-7202 Dated: September 18, 2024 « ornappli owns /< 'w 08-14-050-008-00 08-14-050-009-00 08-14-070-013-10 < 08-14-050-030-00 J T 1 Permanent Parcel No. • /s/ Cindy Ordway Cindy Ordway, Township Clerk �www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 19 PRs galore for Fighting Scots at Bulldog Invite Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ cross country team was just five points out of second place thanks to a stellar day in the Division 1 race at the annual Otsego Bulldog Invitational Saturday. The Fighting Scots had five guys finish in less than 17 minutes for the first time this season in their third-place finish. CHS leader Kort Thompson finished in less than 16 minutes for the second time as a varsity runner. He hit the finish line in seventh place with a personal record time of 15 minutes 55.71 seconds. The time puts him sixth overall in the Scots’ Top 15 list of alltime fastest runners. The rest of the top five all had PRs Saturday too for the CHS boys. Junior Eh Velting was 11th in 16:11.75. Junior Noah Johnston came in 23rd in 16:38.29. Senior Aidan Edgar was 27th in 16:52.17 and senior Ethan Buer, who was crowned homecoming king the night before, hit a PR of 16:54.36 to place 30th. The Scot had a ‘B’ team place 11th too in the boys’ race with freshman Sean Thompson leading that squad with a PR of 17:21.89 that had him 48th individually. A familiar foe, Jenison senior Seth Conner, was the day’s individual champ with a time of 15:16.68 - his fastest time of the season. West Michi­ gan Homeschool senior Luke Long was the runner-up with a PR of 15:31.40. Jenison won the team title in the DI boys’ meet with 37 points ahead of Kalamazoo Central 88, Caledonia 93, Portage Central 101, West Ottawa 158, Battle Creek Lakeview 163, Jenison ‘B’ 165, Byron Center 180, Kalama­ zoo Loy Norrix 245, Mattawan 245, Caledonia ‘B’285 and North view 302. The Caledonia girls ran well too with four new personal records set and two other girls who turned in a season best time. Senior Hannah Dupuis led the way for the Scots with a 32nd-place time of 20:04.31. CHS senior Adysen Daman improved her PR to 20:07.33 to place 33rd. Senior Keira Bommarito was 45th in 20:36.81 to place 45th, and her sister Kiley Bommarito, crowned homecoming queen the night before, was right behind in 46th with a personal record run of 20:38.61. Akaela Daman, a sophomore, round­ ed out the Scots’ top five with a time Run of big meets starts with Otsego Invite for TK Brett Bremer Sports Editor “U 3. □ —► Q CL CP (Z> Tl O 90 O •D Z Z O o. I Cn XJ Nearing time to be at their peak, the Trojan runners showed they’re in pretty good shape Saturday. The four fastest Thomapple Kellogg guys ran their fastest race of the 2024 varsity cross country season Saturday in the Division 2 boys’ race at the Otsego Bulldog Invitational. TK leaderJacob Draaisma ran to a sev­ enth-place finish in a personal record time of 15minutes 51.48 seconds. He bested his former PR by 16.5 seconds to finish in less than 16 minutes for the first time. Fellow Trojan senior Hunter Tietz set his PR at 18:32.32 to place 92nd. Fresh­ man Garrett Holzhausen turned in a PR time of 18:49.97 to place 102nd. TK sophomore Elijah Frazer had his best time of the fall, 18:53.33, toplace 105th. Sophomore Grady Galaviz wasn’t far behind in 111th with a time of 19:02.75. The top seven guys in the race all had their fastest race of the fall. Dearborn Divine Child senior Colin Murray won the race in 15:23.15. Holland Christian senior Will Engbers was the runner-up in 15:29.76 and Grand Rapids Christian se­ nior Simon Triezenberg third in 15:30.64. That 2-3 finish was a big one. Engbers and the Maroons wound up beating out Grand Rapids Christian for the day’s team championship by two points, 109-111. Otsego was third with 210 points ahead of Three Rivers 216, Harper Creek 227, Ka­ lamazoo Home School 243, Zeeland East 245, Adrian 259, Grand Rapids Christian ‘B’ 261 and Hamilton 265 in the top ten. The TK boys were 19th in a field of 22 full teams with 408 points. Sophomore Peyton Hardy led the TK ladies placing 69th in 21:20.74 in their race. Sophomore Alaina McCrumb ran her fastest race ofthe season to place 77th in 21:38.44. The TK ladies had junior Madison Kietzman 90th in 22:09.61. Fellowjunior Payton Gater improved her PR to 22:32.32 to place 98th. The TK team also had sophomore Carmen Reynolds 108th in 22:53.49. Otsego junior Emma Hoffman was the individual champion in the D2 girls’ race with a personal record time of 17:22.54. Zeeland East senior Emma Dmek was the runner-up in 17:45.74, a PR for her that made her the only other girl to finish in less than 18 minutes. Hoffman’s Bulldogs won the team title on their home course with 78 points ahead of Zeeland East 84, Grand Rapids Chris­ tian 95, Adrian 117, Holland Christian 95, Unity Christian 161, Sturgis 188, South Christian 194,Plainwell285andPawPaw 297 in the top ten. The TK ladies were 18th in a field of 22 full teams with 432 points. The TK teams have another big invita tional today, Oct. 5, racing at the annual Portage Invitational. TK will host the OK Gold Conference Championship meet Oct. 16 at Gun Lake and then it is on to regionals Oct. 26. SB Trojan golfers getting in last rounds of the fall of 20:52.58 that put her in 52nd place. That was a season best time for her. Junior Hannah Bennett set her PR in placing 54th and sophomore Anna VanderWal had a season-best time to place 80th. West Ottawa won the girls’ com­ petition with 32 points ahead of Ann Arbor Pioneer 53, Portage Central 120, Jenison 123, West Ottawa ‘B’ 124, Hudsonville 172, Byron Center 174, Caledonia 208, Portage Central ‘B’ 253, Kalamazoo Central 301, Byron Center ‘B’ 316, Battle Creek Lakeview 319, Loy Norrix 322 and Mattawan 341. The Scots are at the Portage Invitation­ al today, Oct. 5, and will go to Riverside Park in Grand Rapids for the OK Green Conference Championship Oct. 15. the schedule for Oct. 3 at Kaufman Golf Course in Wyoming. The Trojans head to their MHSAA Division 2 Regional Tournament at Bedford Valley Tuesday, Oct. 8 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ golf team placed ninth at PreRegional Tournament hosted by Gull Lake at Bedford Valley Tuesday. Trojan leader Ailana Leos shot an 81 to finish sixth individually at the 18-hole event. Rae Borrink fired a 96 and TK also got a 117 from Jordan Price and a 128 from Vivian Hansson. Gull Lake took the day’s champi­ onship with a score of 349 ahead of St. Joseph 358, Grand Rapids Chris­ tian 364, Plainwell 377, Stevensville Lakeshore 379, Mattawan 392, St. Joseph ‘B’ 395, Portage Northern 404, Thomapple Kellogg 422 and Gull Lake ‘B’443. Grand Rapids Christian Lillian O’Grady was the individual cham­ pion with a 76. Mattawan senior Charlotte Stenger, St. Joseph sopho­ more Marley Walters and Gull Lake junior Charlotte Boudeman each scored a 79. Sophomore Ayla Jaeger from Plainwell was fifth with an 80. TK was scheduled to retiim to ac­ tion in its conference with the OK Gold Conference Championship on Caledonia TCWNSHIP 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 PUBLICNOTICE Charter Township of Caledonia Kent County, Michigan NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Public Accuracy Test for the ' November 5, 2024 General Election has been scheduled for Friday, October 18, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. at the Caledonia Township Hall located at 8196 Broadmoor Ave, Caledonia, Michigan. The Public Accuracy Test is conducted to demonstrate that the computer program used to tabulate thevotes cast at the election meet the requirements of the law. Joni Henry, Clerk, Charter Township of Caledonia ♦ ♦ �I • p- 20 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 5, 2024 Wildcats rally to survive Scots’ bid for an upset ♦ ♦ 9 ♦ ♦ ♦ 9 Brett Bremer rA SB ?.:j * Sports Editor Caledonia Community Schools BUS DRIVER JOB FAIR / Climb behind the wheel of an iconic yellow school bus. Take a spin around the parking lot and experience the thrill of being a bus driver at our upcoming job fair. What a great way to serve your community and start a new or second career. Please join us on one of the following dates: • October 9th, 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM / 1 J So close. Second-ranked Jenison rallied to win the final three sets at Caledonia High School Thursday, Sept. 26, for a 3-2 victory over the Fighting Scot varsity volleyball team. Caledonia took 25-19 and 25-16 wins in the opening two sets of the match, but the Wildcats rallied to win set three 2519 and then pulled out a 25-22 victory in set number four. In the end, Jenison closed out a 15-4 victory. Fighting Scot senior middle Josie Noble had 19 kills and hit .420 to lead the Caledonia attack and she also had four total blocks including three solos. Senior outside hitter Eliza Pehrson added 14 kills and sophomore right side hitter Aubrey Reynolds had 11 kills. Caledonia Transportation Department 8944 Kraft Ave SE Caledonia, MI 49333 It J •W F I Regular and Substitute Drivers Needed » £ ■v I * s 1 r' 4 J V I, 4 I R * I ■,1 . I •JI I S'-J J’j: A * I J T*. « w u Fighting Scot libero Avery Seif digs a shot against Jenison as teammate Aubrey Reynolds looks on in the back row Thursday, Sept. 26. Photo 1 1 •• I s. < 1 r * /’ b w. by Perry Hardin I • ?. ./S t <• J" • starting pay of $20.52 for applicants for regular routes without experience. • Paid training and CDL testing • Sign-on bonus of up to $1500 for qualified applicants • Up to 10 sick & 1.5 personal days • 8 Paid holidays • 12 Paid days during school breaks • Flexible schedule (Split shift AM/PM routes) • Medical, dental, and vision insurance is available to qualified employees. I ! I i « w ;3 a- Reynolds led the Scots in digs with 25 and aces with three. Freshman Quinn Ziegler stepped in to fire two aces for the Scots. Sophomore libero Avery Seif had 22 digs. It was the third win of the season for the Wildcats over the Caledonia girls, with Jenison taking 2-0 wins at tourna­ ments earlier this season. The loss moves the Scots to l-I in OK Green Conference play so far this fall. They were scheduled to visit Muskegon for a conference match Thursday, Oct. 3, and will be at it in the league twice in the week ahead at By­ ron Center Tuesday and home against Mona Shores Thursday. Caledonia gets one more conference rematch with the Jenison girls in Jeni­ son Oct. 17. 5 1, X^KSSfl s f I f st I i,M <1 w c A •V * J? 4 •T rwi - ■K-i?'-. • I •“T .•ft* t t * I s mT* ...^ T>S tS 4 r > "I ft *« ■♦ ¥ f 1 .*’• •\*** ^. "a r V F' ■t. •'<' 1 ‘ i. * ♦ •sb % 7 ft.' 9^ ^lO 4 > r= t’ 1 JV Easy Online Applications! www.calschools.org/employment I’®** <: I > Caledonia, junior Kyla Charles hits a serve in the opening set of her team’s OK Green Conference match with Jenison at , Caledonia High School Thursday, '{ Sept. 26 Photo by Perry Hardin Questions? 616-891-8185 H •l•. < i* « — i': t •<5 •O z z ■ (/) • I >. oo ■a 0) c ■ £ f < i-L’ .. .•» •I I ■ 4 ■ f Ir s < .1? r' 4 ft • /. t’ *4 < < / 4 4 S’ ii t I J A •i’ * q: Cl O QC O Visit usonline at mihdmepaper.com u < t A’ CM r-s, V* 4 4 ii 4 < 4 • »I � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-10-12.pdf 61eaf78f783ce2d9d1f4f03e882d071e PDF Text Text F t I I 1. •l I ► s > I I I, k r 4 t P 1 S I, •l X I 1 -^ometo .\eiv5 > I 1 •l I 1 I I, I EARLY OPPORTUNITIES COME UP MOSTLY EMPTY FOR SCOTS 1 /*T I s I the SUN h I AND NEWS ■g ihe Midd’eviHe. Caledonia and Games iownsh>D. I I I I * J 5S!.. I I I s 1 I 1 I I R «. V ?T V- z* I Vil i«Z WB /l > •X a ■u’ X .« **^**21^* >»M PAGES 11-12 NO. 27 » r' "^3 fl .r«* **•«**•’-«»&* '9&J*' *^.<*«w T UbA SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2024 -JU’ ♦? Getty recognized as TK-area Hometown Hero at annual dinner Greg Chandler Staff Writer • www.sunahdnews.com k** Fall Fest set in Middleville 1 H»»w - 1 Greg Chandler Staff Writer I Catherine Getty had a script all writ­ ten out for what she would say as she accepted the recognition of being the Thomapple Kellogg-area Hometown Hero for this year. But then as soon as she took the podium, she went off script. “As I look around this room, it’s emotional,” Getty said. “I look at every single table, and I see hero after hero after hero after hero. This room is filled with people that give back to our community, in little ways and big ways. I had some things to say Tm not going to say them, because it literally gives me goosebumps to look around and see so many faces here that have inspired me, that have supported me, that have lifted me up when I was down, because we all hit walls from time to time.” About 160 people turned out at the Barry Community Foundation on Oct. 3 to recognize Getty for her involve­ ment in the Middleville-area com­ munity over the past 25 years. The Hometown Hero dinner is organized by the Thomapple Area Enrichment Foundation (TAEF) to honor area residents for outstanding community I I I • 1 Carveth Village and the Middleville Lions Club are teaming up to present Fall Fest next Saturday, Oct. 19, at the Sesquicentennial Pavilion downtown. The event will run from noon to 4 p .m. Activities for the festival will include a bonfire and making of s’mores by Boy Scout Troop 105 of Middleville, hayrides provided by Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, scare­ crow building provided by Bradford White Corporation, a craft market organized by Apothecary on Main, pumpkin decorating by Advanced Stone, duck fishing by the Middleville Rotary Club, and “touch a truck,” provided by Thomapple Township Fire Department. Snacks will be provided by Carveth Village and the Lions Club. The Fall Fest also includes a “tmnk or treat,” presented by the Lions Club, from 1 to 3 p.m., as well as a costume contest, presented by Outcastz. The Lions Club is looking for people will­ ing to host a tmnk, anyone interested can contact the club at lionsclubmiddleville@gmail.com. If fl * J * 1 ai. ■■ f' * », K tVt 7 A*’ w >1 iB * 1^^* A. f _■ lk > * 4 •• s*- R T b r KI w i 1 I V %' z s Lr I I, f ST" t' ••i s** / / " & ■ Catherine Getty was honored last week as this year’s Thornapple Kelloggarea Hometown Hero. Here, she is pictured with her family at the event honoring her. Photos by Greg Chandler service. “Catherine is tested, proven, reli­ able, energized ... she’s resource­ ful, committed to our community,” said former Thomapple Township Supervisor and past Hometown Hero recipient Mike Bremer, calling Getty “a humble woman of integrity” and “the perfect Hometown Hero.” Getty hired Bremer to be the first director of the Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Commission more than 20 years ago. Bremer would return the favor years later as township supervisor, hiring Getty to be the township planning and zoning administrator. “The real reason she’s so deserv­ ing is her humble heart and her atti­ tude. In (the apostle) Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he exhorts them to do nothing from selfish ambition See GETTY on 2 Proposed Dutton Center development awaits final Gaines Township Board approval r ■l •. I » • I* i < 4 ► '• w ■ James Gemmell Contributing Writer Phase 1 of a proposed 232-unit Dutton Center mixeduse development goes before the Gaines Township Board on Oct. 14 for a second read and waa3 u^woisno potential final approval. iviiNaoisae A public hearing will be held at Monday night’s meeting, which gets underway at 7 see# jiujjad o ’ clock in ±e township hall board room. sess^ ‘d||iAUdaj9 The project applicant is Allen Edwin SSMU33 K:00^ in 'oillAUMjg OW xoflOd aivd aovisod s n QIS isad V Homes, and the request is being made on behalf of the J & A Post Family Farm LLC. The developer is Michiana Land Development LLC., which is a subsid­ iary of Allen Edwin. They are proposing to build a mixed-use commercial and residential development that will blend in with the Dutton’s historic urban fabric on a single, 29.32-acre parcel at 3316 68th St. and Hanna Lake Avenue. Dan Larabel, a land manager with Allen Edwin, 4 •£: See DUTTON on 3 — I Wm TVH’'.’ .'fl I ■» * •» v</ I.— lS* fl 'Tfl* .< This aerial photograph shows where the 31acre Dutton Center development would go along 68th Street. Photo provided by Gaines Township. •1 I �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 2 www.sunandnews.com TK parents advised: Stay home during shelter-in-place situations GregCfcaRdlw a possible threat The sheriffss office was contacted and an im estigation by deputies found there was no oedible threat to the school, its students or staff But the next day, the same information about a possible threat was circulating again on social media. That led school officials to declare a shelter-in-place while the sherifiTs department investi ed die claim. The inv I resulted in a similar outcome to the day befixe. There was no threat to the school. diere was no threat to any student, there was no threat to any staff or die com­ munity as a whole,” Ware said. But what was disconcerting for Ware was that during the shelter-in-place Staff Writer The head of the Barry County SherifTs Office Middleville unit is issuing a plea to parents of students at Thcxnapple Kellogg Schools in the wake of a threat that was repexted to the district last month: Stay home unless you are qjecifically contacted by die school ex' law enforcement to pidr your child up. Sgt Scott Ware shared his con cem during his monthly report to the Village Council Tuesday night On Sept 24, administrators at the high school received infrxmation about r r 4 €4' GETTY “This woman does everything she does because she cares so deeply about Continued from Page 1 our community. None of this (is) about her,” Dock said. “It was all about us or conceit, but in humility count oth­ II so grateful for the contributions ers more significant than yourselves. she has made to our community. She That’s the definition of Catherine,” Bremer said. tirelessly works to make Middleville and all of Barty County a better place. Getty played a leading role in craftThat is why it is so fitting that she is mg a master plan for a countywide trail system, which Bremer says helped our Hometown Hero, The daughter of a former Thomapple result in the awarding of grants from the state to expand the Paul Henty Township trustee who was instruThomapple Trail In July 2020, the mental in starting up the Middleville county received a S350,000 Natural Downtown Development Authority, Resources Trust Fund grant to acquire Getty was part of the DDA for 10 26 acres of land to extend the Paul years. She helped redesign the village ’s Henry Trail in Thomapple Township downtown streetscape and sidewalks including 2.5 miles of abandoned rail and started up the popular Riverbank bed toward the goal of linking the Music Series. She also has been a north end of the trail in Barry County longtime member of the Barry County with the south end of Kent County’s Parks Board and serves on the boards section of the trail. of Barry Cotmty United Way and the A current Barry County commis­ Pennock Foundation. sioner, Getty served on the TAPRC More recently, Getty has worked as board for more than 20 years, nearly part of the Barry County Blue Zones all of the time either as chairwoman project to encourage county residents of the board or as program director. to pursue healthier lifestyles, first as She launched the organization’s annual a volunteer and now as its executive used equipment sale with Emily Dock, director. who also spoke at the dinner. The first geographic affiliate of the Barry Community Foundation,5 TAEF 4 I t 4 *3^ % •ft**- $ V'' A 4 ’ ftJ' . 1i I I I'g i ii •- I "J • 1 ■ 1. 6 > ;1, ■ l * < 1 .-if- ?. r ■ JI L &FUN RUN Costumes pr/re: otiordeef! i t *■ ; f Beil G’&'jp Ccityne "ICih't BfrT' ft ft ?Tat: 'Ji' h!;-:.';, • ... I • Vi,*'. k. fun. Hij4ween-the*T-f; rzzi tbf {r.fe wfeiirFur Rue. Rwiect fgr fV.'rne-ts 10 uncer; ft I I di/- Ttif* *6 A 4 • 4 SATURDAY OCTOBER 26 -I ’. <1 ?■* V ifc ' Wljvrr > Ci'nrn.Mvrti 44 St, I. Y J V f:J i ; helping. It’s hindering us. It’s blocking the driveways, it’s blocking the parking lot, so if something were to go down, we have no way of getting our e H ergency vehicles in diere.” Ware added that if there were ever to be a trophic event, the scl 'Is and all iers have protocols in place to reunite students with their: KJIIIilies. “These reunifications take place off campus. Notifications will be sent out via phone calls, text message, email, social media and the news nI la,” Ware wrote in a rqiort to the council. Ware plans to share that same mes­ sage with the Thomapple Kellogg Board of Education Monday night. IIO J I 1 - ft advisory, several parents showed up at the high school seeking to pick their students up because they had heard about the possible threat “That hinders us in our ability to do what we need to do while we’re there,” Ware said. “You’re not going to be able to get your kids out Your kids are in the safest place in the county at that time. If we’re in a shelter-in-place that means die threat is outside, if there evai is a threat There was nothing internally that we had to worry about. “We were there investigating, making sure that if somebody or something did show up, that we were there already (to deal with it). You showing up is not ’FO • lib tfl / *; ’ ’FU I T J * 1 ft ■ % was formed in 1992 with a S32,000 gift from Fem Poland Trouyout, a former Middleville resident who wanted to do something to support Thomapple Kellogg Schools. The first scholarship fil was established with Trouyout’s donation. The foundation has since grown to include nearly 60 funds with total net assets of close to S2.8 million, TAEF President Travis Alden said. TAEF awarded $ 14,000 in grants to the TK school district and commu nity this year, with grants awarded to projects such as new batting cages for TAPRC’s baseball program, the pur­ chase of kinetic sand learning materi­ als for students in the district’s Title I program, a professional emotional sup­ port counseling library at TK Middle School, and Spooner Balance Board trainers for physical education classes at McFall Elementary School, Alden said. “These investments have positively irnpacted over 3,000 young people just this fiscal year,” Alden said. In addition, TAEF awarded 47 scholarships to 2024 TKHS graduates, total­ ing more than $59,000, Alden said. “Just think about those numbers, that See QETTY on 6 Il« 1 i ,— • V *• THE SUN AND NEWS I ■ I CONTACT OS The Sun and News Proudly Pttolished Since 1,870 ■5 4 C -■ 4 ! 4 f Editor Molly Macleod i * ■ .. * ■ -J _ 1 i t r G roup mmacleod@mihomepaper.com 1351 N. Hwy. Hastings. Ml 49058 Ptwxie: 289^45-9554 www.Mnafxlnews.e<mi Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer b rett@j -adg raphics. com Advertising: < ads@]-adgr3^hics.com PUBLISHED BY PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. PJfi^e fecyde this newspaper I Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in, the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept, 1351 N. M-43 Hwy.. Hastings. Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad epnstitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order I J �I I L 0 I s 'k I I y u • k I I s I I 4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 3 Preschool, day care proposed in Caledonia Twp. Greg Chandler Staff Writer A new preschool and day care facil­ ity could soon be coming to Caledonia Township. The township Planning Commission Monday voted 6-0 to recommend approv­ al of a conditional rezoning for a 2-acre site at 8546 Whitneyville Ave. SE from rural residential to neighborhood business district. The Township Board must still sign off on the new zoning designation. The new preschool and day care center, to be known as Horizon Learning Center, could serve as many as 90 children. The ’ school would use an existing building that was once part of Whitneyville Bible Church, which is located nearby. It was formerly a church building and historically there has been a day care,” Township Planner Lynee Wells said. DUTTON Continued from Page 1 applied earlier this year to have the land rezoned to a Planned Unit Development, so the developer would have more flex­ ibility in laying the properties out. A western comer of the PUD covers a sec­ tion that was zoned Office-Service and would be rezoned to Village Center. Phase 1 of the five-phase project calls for townhouses and veranda-style homes to be built under a single owner ship and management. “The new development will provide much-needed housing and retail oppor­ tunities for small businesses serving the community,” Gaines Community Development Director Dan Wells said. The original project design was presented to the planning commis­ sion in March, but Larabel was told by commissioners that it needed more public park space amenities. An updated design was submitted this past summer for Phases 1 and 2 that was based on that input froth commis sioners. It includes plans for a nearly 6,000-square-foot dog park, a 60-footby-105-foot concrete sport court for basketball and pickleball, a pavilion with picnic tables, a paved pedestrian path, and a tot lot playground area for children ages 2-5. Plans also call for a water fountain to be installed as part of a stormwater detention plan. There is an extra 1.5 acres of open space in the Thomapple Farms plat to the south, which connects to Shadyside Park. “However, over time, circumstances have changed on that property, and it necessitates a zoning approval process because it is not a permitted use in the (rural residential zoning) district.” Wells and township Building and Zoning Administrator Lois Dekens * researched the history of the property and how it has been used over the years. “There was a day care, a home-based day care operating because there was a residential component (to the property),” Wells said. “Over the years, that parcel has been divided and that house (is) sepa rate now from the former church prop­ erty ... The path forward is a conditional rezoning.” The site offers ample parking and plen­ ty of room for outdoor play. Wells said. “It represents an important reuse of a building that’s been in the township for The PUD potentially could be con­ nected to a marked bike path or trail that could connect to Shadyside Park and the Paul Henry Thomapple Trail. Phases 3 through 5 are only in the conceptual stage at this point. Because Allen Edwin Homes is a residential builder, the developer may partner with another company to build the apartment and commercial areas. The Dutton Center would indirectly tie into an adjacent future subdivision called Thomapple Farms which was approved last by the township and is being built immediately north of Dutton Shadyside Park. Wells noted that it will complement the Thomapple Farms neighborhood to the south. “It reinforces Dutton as a historic cen­ ter of commerce and provides a variety of housing for new and current town­ ship residents,” he said. The village-center concept is designed to create a mix of commercial and residential buildings that accommodate pedestrians in the neighborhood. “(It) creates a safe, walkable corridor for residents to get to the businesses,” Wells said. In regard to vehicular movement, some citizens expressed concern at earlier township meetings about traffic safety. Jim Blehm cited heavy traffic from the nearby Amazon Fulfillment Center on 68th Street, which narrows from two lanes to one in each direction. In August, the planning commis­ sion voted 7-0 in support of a resolu­ many years,” she said. Day care facilities and preschools are a permitted land use under Caledonia Township’s neighborhood commercial zoning designation. However, a condi­ tional rezoning to that designation would limit use of the site only to a day care or preschool. Wells said. “No other use in (that district) would be permitted unless they amend their conditional rezoning,” Wells said. If the property was no longer used as a preschool or day care, it could be grouped with other nearby parcels for a larger residential development, but that property would have to be rezoned back to the rural residential designation. Wells said. Commissioner Jodie Masefield raised a question about the conditional rezoning request since it represents an apparent departure from the township master plan. which shows the property retaining its rural residential zoning in the future. “The conditional rezoning is an important tool that the state of Michigan allows. I think they recognize sometimes that there’s unique circumstances, there’ s times when you have existing develop­ ment, existing buildings, or unique areas of a community where perhaps that future plan doesn’t comport with what’s around it,” Wells said. The preschool and day care would be owned by Brandy Murray, who has owned the Horizon Daycare Center in Ionia since 2011. Kayla Hall would be the director of the Caledonia Township location. If the Township Board approves the conditional rezoning, Murray hopes to open the new facility before the end of the year. Planning Commission Chairman Doug Curtis was absent for the vote. tion approving the project, if all of the stand^d conditions are met, such as fire safety, environmental and traffic. A center left-turn lane will be added on Hanna Lake Avenue and streetlight sequencing will be installed at the Hanna Lake/68th Street intersection. In the Dutton Center’s first phase, there would be 14 veranda homes and 48 four-unit and two-unit attached town­ homes. Phase 2 calls for 51 detached homes with minimum lot sizes of 5,800 square feet. Phase 3 calls for 120 multi­ ple-family apartment units, which would consist of 10 buildings with 12 units each. Phase 4 envisions two, 2-story 15,400-square-foot buildings along Hanna L^e Avenue that would include commercial, residential and office build­ ings. Phase 5 would have two, one-story commercial buildings of 6,350 square feet along 68th Street. “The proposed Dutton Center project is the fulfillment of a vision that has been desired by the township for over a decade,” Wells said. “The concept for new development in Dutton was envisioned in 2008 during a Master Plan public input process, and with the growth of the township it is finally coming to finition.” A separate, unrelated project is also one step from final approval in Dutton. The Gaines planning commission voted 6-1 at its Sept, 26 meeting to recom mend the township board approve a PUD amendment for the Marathon gas station at 3495 68th St. Adam Bryant with Irish Design & Building requested approval to build a 1,400-square-foot addition for a refriger­ ated walk-in cooler. The township board will reconsider that request after a public hearing at Monday ni^t’s meeting. Your local agent insures your Lake Estate River VBena 1 Yoga for all levels FWN BVREAV mSVRANCE’ * New Local Students Get ONE WEEK FREE 269-512-5039 Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com 218 W. Main St., Middleville, 49333 rbyogastudios.com *1 �4 ♦ Saturday, October 12, 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS Obituaries meals for anyone who crossed his path. Known for his generosity, Jesse was the kind of person who would come to your aid no matter what. Jesse’s greatest pride and joy was his son. Carter. He took immense pride in raising such a fine young man and imparted his love for cooking and food to Carter from an early age. A celebration of Jesse’s life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024, at the UAW Local 1002, located at IrT I I ♦4 f. Jesse Joe Bardwell his mother, Barb Pullen; his brothers, Jamie Bardwell and Jason Bardwell; his sister, Amanda Pullen; his special friend, Lauren Bostedor; and many close family members and friends. Jesse lived life to the fullest. He cherished spending time with his friends and had a profound love for music. He was an enthusiastic chef, always eager to prepare Jesse Joe Bardwell, born May 23,1972, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on October 3, 2024, in Grand Rapids, Ml. Jesse was preceded in death by his father, James Elbert Bardwell, and his step-father, ’ Charlie Pullen. He is survived by his beloved son. Carter; www.sunandnews.com I < ♦I r I, .r* •X •*T f ’Ip t * Sa 308 Washington Street in Middleville. We will welcome visitors at 2 p.m, with a celebration service commencing at 3 p.m. In memory of Jesse Joe Bardwell, let us gather to honor a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and generosity. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Please visit www. beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Jesse’s family. .J f LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church cornerstonechurch Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC. org Livestreani: Facebook.com/CaIedoniaUnitedMethodist Serving ex co r I I Strengthening Sunday Service 10:30 AM The Oct. 7 meeting opened with roll Join us in person or online call and the secretary’s report. Nlidcileville Sundays 9:30 & 11am One new fish is in the fishbowl; one fell out. 1675 84th St. SE i^BBi Sue read an article from the AARP Caledonia, Ml 49316 III magazine titled “ The Good Stuff Liv 1 J-**-. cornerstonemi.org/weekend ing Inside You.” It discussed how FBCMIDDLEVILLE.IMET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 doctors are discovering how microbes can help fight disease, lower weight HOLY FAMILY and extend life. Most people believe CATHOLIC CHURCH JOURNEY CHURCH your gut lies under your ribcage, but 9669 Kr^ Ave., Caledonia the largest area is in the large intestine. Phone: 616-891-9259 As we age, our ecosystem ages too, but Caledonia Location www.holyfanulycaledonia.org if we know how to eat to protect the 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE Saturday Evening Mass microbiome, we can put the brakes on 5:00 p.m. 9:15 am and 11:00 am Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11.00 a.m. to stay healthier longer and stay more Middleville Location Considering becoming Catholic? robust longer. Feed your microbiomes 1664 M-3 7 Call or see our website for information. by eating whole foods, not processed 9:30 am and 11:00 am foods. Fruits, veggies, whole grains, w Sunday Worship: nuts, seeds, and legumes pass through 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. the digestive tract, and the fiber is Fellowship used to create anti-inflammatory com9:45 to 10:00 a.m. pounds that lower our risk of aging. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a. Eating a variety of plants every day maximizes your microbiomes, and you @ St. Paul Lutheran Church have a happier, healthier life. & Preschool Alice was the best loser for the month 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 of September. Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Virginia lost the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching iin Yankee Springs Bible Church place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. 8900 Duffy Road TOPS, a weight loss support group, Church group Middleville, MI 49333 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is 616.891.8661 "ShiningForth God's Light" vmw.whitneyvillebible.org from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed PastorJonathan DeCou Sunday Morning Worshi immediately by the meeting. Press the 10:00 a.m. Sunday School.. Community Croup . 9:30 AM 11:00 a.m. white buzzer for entry. Sunday Worship 10:30 AM Jumes L. Collison. Postor Anyone with questions xuijuiic wiin may call Watch our^rvices from our website (see above) www.yankeespringsbiblechurch. org Wyinia, 269-908-8036, or Maiyellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. 4 Rev. Christine Beaudoin BAPTIST Middleville TOPS 546 ■ - • •k’’ A * Connecting Good Shepherd ’ Lutheran Church 1'^. A •* % 3 73:- 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodsbepherdJcms.googlepages. Church: com (269) 795-2391 AAPEACE CHURCH bJ i PEACECHUR C H . C C Sundays at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry VaUey Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES; Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.cQfn •4 i u k * A • Ji • • i i;. II it t P mrcRMATi 9 1 i tf' 1 ♦ ( » 1 t > g �X ( www.sunandnews.com ■ I I f 1 I ___ ---------------------- —------------ ---------- Staff Writer I 5 Four candidates vying for two spots on Caledonia school board Greg Chandler I SUN AND NEWS_________________ ______ Saturday, October 12, 2024 This week, the Sun and News begins a series ofelection previews where we ask candidates their stand on various issues. Four candidates are running for two available six-year seats on the Caledo nia Community Schools Board of Edu­ cation. On the ballot are one incumbent, longtime board President Marcy White’ and three first-time candidates - Shawn Collins, Jessica Kohn, and Earlina Veil­ ing. Incumbent board member Jason Saidoo did not seek re-election. The four candidates responded to an identical questionnaire sent out by the Sun and News this week. . The Sun and News will have a pre­ view ofthe Thomapple Kellogg Schools Board of Education election in its Oct. 19 edition and the Middleville Village Council in its Oct. 26 edition. Name: Shawn Collins Occupation: Physical Therapist and Athletic Trainer 1. Why are you running for school board? What are your priorities? As simple as it sounds, I’m running for the school board simply to serve and give back to the school district and community. My wife and I have three kids that have graduated from Caledonia Schools, and we have two kids that are still in the school district. We have met a lot ofgreat teachers and staff members throughout the four school buildings our kids have spent time in. They deserve to have a school board made up of people who provide a stable and supportive presence for the district and who are not in it for themselves. My priorities are honesty, transparency, accountability, responsibility, humility, and efficiency. We need to have a culture in which teachers and support staff are valued, respected, and not micromanaged. We need a culture in which staff members support and value each other. We need to have an environment in which our kids have the right amount of quality teachers, counselors, and other support staff in appropriately sized classrooms. We also need to create an environment in which our kids can be challenged and truly prepared for life after graduation. This cannot happen when we soften standards and lower expectations for them. 2. What skills and experiences do you bring to the table that have prepared you to serve as a board member? I am part-owner of a locally owned and independent physical therapy pri­ vate practice. I am currently one of 13 owners, and although we’re not set up as a board, it’s very similar. I’m one member of a group that is responsible for decision-making, vision/direction, problem-solving, fiscal responsibility,’ and culture, to name a few, that not only affects our company as a whole, but also our co-workers, patients, referral sources, and the communities we serve. We all have our personal stories and somewhat different backgrounds, and we have different views on a lot of top­ ics. We have different political views and opinions. But we do our best to put those aside, to work together to do what’s right, and to make the best deci­ sions that will benefit everyone. My wife is a former teacher who has worked in both inner city and rural schools. She’s also a former Caledo­ nia Schools employee. So, I have the perspectives and experiences of these roles as well. I am approachable, a good listener, and believe in servant leadership, I have no intention of using this position as a political stepping-stone or to make a name for myself. 3. What do you see as the role of the board in providing a safe school environment? What changes would you propose, if any, to improve the safety of the school environment? The board is in an oversight role of many aspects of the school district, and safety is definitely one of them. The board has approved the hiring of safety and resource officers. There are firewalls on the school computers to prevent the access and sharing of harmful material. There seems to be proper measures in place for entering and exiting the building, who’s able to check kids in and out, etc. The board’s job is not to run the school district but should be making sure that everyone involved in some aspect ofschool safety is doing their job properly and consis­ tently as well as make sure they are held accountable if they are not. Challenges come in the forms of cell phone usage, artificial intelligence abuses, and social media. I support the current cell phone policy that the schools have implemented this year, There also needs to be update policies on any type of abuse through social media and artificial intelligence if there hasn’t been already. 4. What role do you feel parents have in relation to the board? What can be done, as a board, to address concerns parents may have about a particular issue? The board itself is made up of parents who have either had kids go through our school district or who currently have kids in the district, so there’s one direct connection. Parents, of course, are an important demographic in the makeup of a school district who deserve to have their concerns expressed and heard by the board and other members of the school district. There are already meth­ ods set up for parents to communicate directly to the school board members via email or during the public comment section of monthly board meetings. The board is both the link between the public and the school district and the last step when dealing with concerns and complaints. Parents should be ad­ dressing their concerns with teachers first and then administration. If things /o + r> « M/ still haven’t been addressed properly, then they should come to the board’ Unfortunately, the board cannot control public gossip and rumors in the com­ munity that infiuence and cause some parental concerns. The board could perhaps look into other ways of dis­ seminating information to the public to help cut down on this to some degree. 5. The schools have implemented policies and programs supporting See CALEDONIA on 7 » -I I, HE I ► • “I I , \x ^■j <_ L • ■ I I — r * ?a • J «4 Cove, (mom & CRMa, I West Michigan is a great place to live. but It can feel a bit lonely If you ... .. are a Democrat, a progressive, or an unhappy Republican. .. believe science is on our side and insults are beneath us. .. want schools to teach without fearmongering. .. love Jesus but accept the separation of church and state. .. are devoted to American ideals and rule of law. .. or wonder, "Who are all these down-ballot candidates? // YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Caledonia Democrats Welcome You! :S Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaledoniaMIDems Contact: caldems24@gmail.com Caledonia Democrats identify, gather, and promote a Democratic Party presence in Caledonia, Ml. We educate on campaign issues and elections, facilitate discussions by candidates, and mobilize volunteers for opportunities in local, country, and state level causes. Celebrating democracy with like-minded Americans. Paid for by Caledonia Ml Democrats Club �I THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 6 www.sunandnews.com Short police chase in Gaines Township ends with two arrests, gun and drug roundup James Gemmell « I ♦ ____ '-------- —I. Contributing Writer •* K. i J Kent County SherifTs deputies say they confiscated a loaded Glock pistol, a significant amount of cash, plus marijuana and packaging materials after a traffic stop in Gaines Township on Saturday, Oct. 5. It happened on South Division Avenue at Green Meadow Street. That is north of M-6 in the Cutlerville area of the township. Sgt. Kailey Gilbert told the Sun and News that a deputy tried to initiate a traffic stop after observing the vehicle make some “abnormal movements.” But it took a while for the vehicle to pull over. Some additional deputies arrived to assist the officer who was already there, and placed spike strips I*. r J - • M J VV * * •A * * < * i *»« MW. V' • '6- . 1 5 ? The Kent County Sheriff's Office says it found this loaded 10-millimeter Glock pistol inside a vehicle after a police chase in Gaines Township on Saturday. Photo provided by KCSO r. <« 4 ’ t > ) I .1 f ■ Greg Chandler Staff Writer * •> r'" » i 4 . I > • F Residential & CommeOd I I t ■5 i A* ..r-; •V'r-ta f t r “Even though it’s still legal i WE'RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS r illegal. from a dispensary, you can’t be dealing it on the street. And this amount that was in the vehicle was well over the legal amount,” she said. The number of drug-related arrests in Gaines Township has risen significantly in recent years. “We do have several deputies assigned to our south area. So, I think it’s just a combination of an increase in population and our increased presence in Gaines Township. We have the availability to do this proactive police work. So, everything, altogether, it just kind of adds up to more proactive police work and more crime being discovered,” Gilbert said. Public safety open house in Caledonia Twp. happening today 1 > _ I 1 GO ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM .JW-- *1 under the rear passenger tire just before the vehicle sped off. After a brief chase, it stopped and the driver took off running. Deputies say they caught the 23-year-old man and also took the 20-year-old woman passenger into custody. At the time ofpublication, their names had not been released pending formal charges. Police say they later found inside the vehicle significant amounts of marijuana, a scale, packaging materials, a large sum of cash, and a loaded Glock pistol. Gilbert explained why the alleged marijuana possession is • -Gas Furnaces -Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters ; -Humidifiers S I f I I I Ik F* Caledonia Township will hold a public safety open house today, Saturday, Oct. 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the township fire station, 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE (M-37). The family-friendly event will allow kids to be able to tour all of the Caledonia Fire-Rescue Depart­ ment’s fire trucks. Vehicles from the Kent County SherilTs Office and Life Ambulance will also be » I present at the open horise. In ad­ dition, kids will be able to take a jimior firefighter ability course and boimce around in the bounce house. Donuts, apple cider, coffee and hot dogs will be served. The event will also include a rope rescue demonstration at 10 a.m., a Jaws of Life dem onstration at 11 a.m. and an arrival of an AeroMed helicopter at noon. The Kent County Tactical Apprehension & Confrontation (TAC) Team will also be present for the open house. WB . * < I } i-- { I t GETTY 12 I T ( ' r.-T I r r Continued from Page 2 MB k: i r/ I. t.4 t \ IIII III I f J r J -J t. * k t »• ‘ c I I t-'- ,1 . I 1 T I t r 1 t * DeWeerd (68) HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 i ■; » I <*• < Since J9SS A LENNOX^ • • t' A+ « BBB. ACCREDITED BUSINESS ■ impact, especially when you multiply it across the 32 years that TAEF has been around. That’s a whole lot of positive impact in the community,” Alden said. In closing her remarks, Getty urged the community to give back to TAEF, Barry Community Foundation, and Barry County parks. Getty has cho­ sen the Barry County Parks Fund to receive donations in her honor. The fund helps support the needs and operations of parks across the county. Donations to the parks fund may be made online at barryef.org/fimds/ bany-county-parks-fiind, or mailed or dropped off at the community founda­ tion offices at 231 S. Broadway St. in Hastings. Our community is truly special. I think we know that. We know that from United Way, we know that from the community foundation, and I’m just blessed to serve,” Getty said. �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS CALEDONIA Continued from Page 5 I p diversity, equity and inclusion and social-emotional learning. What is your view of such programs? I* r A In the simplest and purest form, these programs are supposed to be about looking at each person as a unique in­ dividual and treating (or educating) the whole person. We all have different life experiences and learning styles, come from different backgrounds, and have a variety of traits and characteristics that are part of who we are. If kept in their truest form, there should not be a prob­ lem with these programs, and they can be a way that we learn more about each other. However, in their extreme forms, they become about identity politics, spreading ideologies, and creating vic­ tim or guilt mentalities. These types of programs do not belong in our schools. They do more harm than good by teach­ ing people that one aspect or quality of their lives are their primary identities. They become divisive and are a waste of money, which is why schools and businesses are dropping them. I Name: Jessica Kohn Occupation: Wealth and Asset Management-Private Banker 1. After earning a Business degree from Central Michigan University, my husband and I made Caledonia our home nearly 25 years ago. While just 20 minutes outside of Grand Rapids, Caledonia had a small-town feel and, more importantly, an excellent school system. Over the years, we’ve seen some changes due to new laws and standards at the state and national levels, but the core values of the community remain strong. I am running for school board because of my deep love and commitment to both Caledonia and its schools. This community has supported me and my family during our darkest times, espe­ cially after the loss of our 16-year-old daughter, and for that, I will always be grateful. I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact our teachers have had on students and am passionate about continuing to foster an environment of collaboration that ensures our children receive the best possible education. It would be an honor to serve on the school board as I look for ways to continue to give back to the community that has given so much to my family. Some of my priorities include: Focusing on the Fundamentals: We need to maintain high standards of excellence, ensuring proficiency in Math, Science, Technology, English, and History which are all essential for learning other subjects preparing them for future careers. Promote Life Skills and Trades: Aligning education with real-world needs prepares students for various challenges in adult life. Classes in managing money, time management, basic home repairs, and cooking are practical life skills that can be used after graduation. In addition, not all students will choose to attend college. We need to provide career diversification and accessibility to alternative pathways for kids that thrive in practical, hands-on environments. Uphold Fiscal Responsibility: This means managing money wisely to pro­ vide a quality education while staying financially healthy. Caledonia needs to continue budgeting and planning for the future, ensuring transparent financial reporting, efficient resource allocation, and stakeholder involvement. Working together, I know we can achieve this! 2. With over 31 years of banking experience. I’ve assisted clients with financial planning and gained a strong understanding of financial statements I’ve also served and volunteered in the Caledonia community on various boards and committees for the past 25 years. Some school related positions in­ clude: _ •♦ ♦z • Parent volunteer in the classroom, field trips, PTOs, and various roles • Caledonia Education Foundation • Caledonia Athletic Boosters • Junior Achievement • 2024 Senior All-Nighter Fundraising Committee • Hold Me Back! Mac for the Ma cayla Lee Kohn Scholarship Other volunteer activities include: • Caledonia Kiwanis • Caledonia AMBUCS • Ele’s Place Community Board in Grand Rapids • Brightside Church —Finance Team Leader and Worship Team Leader I aim to gather facts, listen to differ­ ent views, and foster cooperation to benefit our children. With my banking and management background, along with my organizational, leadership, and listening skills, I’m ready to work hard to earn the trust of students, teachers administration, and the community. 3. The school board plays a vital role in ensuring a safe environment for stu 9 * ♦ I ■ ■ I I dents, staff, and the broader school com­ munity. One of its key responsibilities is policy development, where it focuses on establishing guidelines for school safety, covering critical issues like bul­ lying, harassment, discipline, mental health, and emergency preparedness. Resource allocation is another crucial responsibility. The board must ensure adequate funding is available for secu­ rity measures and staff training. This includes investing in security systems, hiring resource officers, and providing counselors who are well-equipped to support students, helping them thrive in a conducive learning environment. Collaboration with stakeholders is also essential. The school board needs to work closely with administrators, teachers, parents, law enforcement, and mental health professionals to identify safety concerns and develop effective strategies to address them. Teachers, in particular, play a pivotal role in setting the tone for their classrooms. They’ve done ah excellent job of creating wel­ coming spaces and building rapport with students, which helps foster a car­ ing and inclusive learning atmosphere that supports the well-being of each student. Caledonia has recently conducted sessions that have involved the community for feedback. These sessions need to continue along with an annual review from a safety and security expert to re­ evaluate and test the security measures that are in place. 4. Parents need to stay informed, in­ volved, and engaged in their children’s education and school environment; therefore, they play a significant role in relation to the board. They should have a voice to advocate for transparency, communication, parent participation, school choice, and opt-out options. Par­ ents must feel that the board represents the community’s values and that poli­ cies regarding discipline, curriculum, and other areas positively impact their children’s futures. As a board, we need to be accessible to parents and the community to listen and gather feedback on various issues. This can be achieved through email, phone calls, and other communication meth­ ods. Public comment at school board meetings should continue to be encour­ aged. I have been holding open forums for parents and community members to express their thoughts regarding the school and education. Additionally, I want to create forums for teachers to share their needs in helping our students Saturday, October 12, 2024 succeed. This initiative is something I would like to continue if elected. I aim to ensure we can share ideas and solu­ tions from diverse perspectives so we can work together to develop balanced solutions. 5. I am committed to educate all students equally and to do so in a safe learning environment to thrive. I recognize the Board of Education is facing growing student mental health issues resulting from the COVID-19 mandates. The Federal ESSER funds have been depleted with almost no new support from the State leaving the district with a greater student mental health problem within a tight funding environment. My goal is to look at how the board can most effectively and sustainably address the social and emotional student needs and keep politics out of the curriculum. I will also actively participate in policy solutions to bullying, which is another social emotional issue students and families are dealing with. With that, I want to thank you for your consideration on electing me to the Caledonia Board of Education. If you need additional information, please See CALEDONIA on 8 616-891-0150 BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 am to 5 pm BODY SHOP *r.. ; * t 110 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 your frus-kd Body Shop for over 32 years �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 8 CALEDONIA Continued from Page 7 visit my website atjessicakohn.com. Name: Earlina Veiling Occupation: Bookkeeper/School volunteer 1. After much reflection and prayer, and with seven of our beloved grand­ children currently attending schools in the Caledonia School District, I felt a profound calling to give back to the educational institutions that have shaped not only my children’s lives but now those of my grandchildren. Our family’s deep roots in the Caledonia Community School district run strong, with our eldest grandchild proudly graduating as a ‘Fighting Scot’ this year and beginning an apprenticeship with a local plumbing business. This journey has deepened my ap­ preciation for the vital role trade schools play in equipping students with valu­ able, life-long skills. 1 am passionate about advancing this area within our schools to ensure more students can thrive through diverse pathways to success. It would be an honor for me to serve our incredible community. Priorities: I I I I I I J ■ URNACE — ■ I I RUU r I I I I I RUUD I I z I I I I I I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments I on qualifying equipment I I N J t .4 I I I 1 J z I T I I ■ FRONTIER HEATING 6 COOLING 210 East Main Street. Caledonia 616-891-8900 www.sunandnews.com I CREATE: New learning opportuni­ ties at every level DEVELOP: Students’ talents, pas­ sions, and purpose PROMOTE: Lifelong learning via skilled trades and college prep BUILD: Relationships between parents and schools to support students PARTNER: With community and industry for valuable student events NURTURE: A healthy, positive envi­ ronment for students 2. For over two decades, I have proudly served as CFO of our family’s local busi­ ness, while also building a robust back­ ground in healthcare administration and political campaign finance management. This unique blend of expertise in orga­ nizational leadership, financial oversight, and strategic planning has allowed me to successlully navigate complex environ­ ments and drive meaningful outcomes across key sectors. Caledonia Community Schools hold a special place in my heart, as they have been instrumental in shaping the lives of both my children and now my grand children. If elected to the Caledonia School Board, I would be honored to contribute my skills and experience to help shape the educational environment and policies that will not only impact my family but benefit the entire community. I am deeply committed to fostering a school system that empowers every student to thrive and succeed. 3. The school board plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all students. This involves establishing and enforcing policies that prioritize safety while maintaining open communication among teachers, parents, students, and community stakeholders. Effective communication is key to addressing safety concerns. By listening to teachers who understand classroom dynamics, parents who want assur­ ance, students who need protection, and community members invested in our schools, we can create a collabora­ tive approach where everyone shares respionsibility for safety. In addition to communication, our schools need proper tools and resources to safeguard students. This includes physical security, mental health ser­ vices, and training for staff to recognize and address potential threats. If elected, I would push for regular reviews of our safety meq^ures, keeping them up to date with erherging challenges. Safety is a required foundation for learning, and by fostering a culture of transparency and preparedness, we can ensure that students feel secure and supported as they strive to reach their full potential. 4. Parents play a crucial role in relation to the board as advocates for their children and the broader school community. They provide valuable insights and perspectives that can guide decision-making. To address parents’ concerns, the board should establish open communication channels, such as regular forums or surveys, to gather feedback and foster dialogue. Addition ally, involving parents in committees or advisory groups can ensure their voices are heard and considered in board dis­ cussions. 5. Many of the district’s difficulties, including lawsuits and divisions, could be reduced or avoided if leaders prac­ ticed courage, clear communicati on, and sound judgment. Our focus should be on putting smdents first, valuing parental involvement, supporting educators, and prioritizing academic achievement. We need to foster a diversity of opinions and promote equal opportunity, ensur­ ing that schools remain fair, balanced, developmentally appropriate, and free from political agendas. •A Name: Marcy White Occupation: Homemaker 1. I have lived in Caledonia since 2004, and our family has five CCS graduates. As we look forward to the next generation of our family attending CCS, I remain engaged and person­ ally invested in Caledonia Community Schools. My focus is on ensuring that our schools provide the quality education that each child deserves. To continue supporting a thriving commu­ nity, we must advocate for the financial resources necessary to offer exceptional education. This requires regularly eval­ uating programs and staying innovative in our approach. Budget demands will always present challenges and tough decisions lie ahead. However, within the scope of education, we must maintain a balance ofstaffing and respurces to meet the needs of all students. It is important to regularly assess all programming, including arts and athletics, as they can motivate students and keep them engaged. Overall, ensuring that sufficient resources are available to support safe and innovative educational environments remains a priority. 2.1 am a Registered Nurse by educa­ tion in the State of Michigan, although I am not currently working in the field. I have served on the Board of Education since May 2010 fulfilling roles as a trustee, vice-president, and president. Throughout my time on the board, I have focused on listening to the community’s concerns and work­ ing collaboratively with the board to find consensus-driven solutions. Before my work on the BOE, I contributed in various ways including as a classroom volunteer. Junior Achievement instruc­ tor, student mentor at Kraft Meadows, Key Communicator, member of the Bond Project & Growth Committees, sports representative for the Athletic Boosters, and active participant in PTOs across multiple buildings. As both a par­ ent and grandparent, I remain involved in CCS as it continues to be the heart of our community. 3. Safety and security are top priori­ ties for everyone. We know that a secure environment is essential for teachers to teach effectively and for students to learn. Our district has made significant investments in enliancing safety mea sures, and we are constantly reviewing these systems for improvement. I be­ lieve it is critical to remain vigilant and proactive while continually assessing what more can be done to ensure our schools remain safe. 4. As members of the Board of Education, we are the voice of the community. Our responsibility is to represent the entire community which requires understanding, compassion, and a willingness to find compromise in difficult situations. To achieve this, open and respectful dialogue is essential and while differences may exist, we mu stall work together toward the common goal of providing an excellent education for our students. Ifconcerns arise, the board has established procedures and policies to ensure that issues are addressed ef­ ficiently and fairly. It is important that concerns follow the appropriate chain of command, so we can maintain organizational coherence. 5. Ensuring the mental and emotional well-being of students can be just as im­ portant to their academic success. When students feel supported and understood, they are more likely to succeed in school and in life. Programs that focus on cre­ ating a positive environment can help address the mental health challenges many students face today. It’s essential that we continue to provide resources that support our students, helping them build resilience and learn valuable life skills. In doing so, we create an atmo­ sphere where every child can thrive both inside and outside the classroom. •to i I i I J I I �«A www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS CHS boys finish perfect season on home pitch Ik 9 Saturday, October 12, 2024 ’/ <v c”-' V' r Jf X Brett Bremer < I* . 4 The Scots did it. The Caledonia varsity boys’ soccer team finished off an undefeated home slate, a perfect 10-0, with a 3-0 win over East Grand Rapids at Scotland Yard Saturday. The win puts the Scots at 13-3 overall this season. They were set to open the MHSAA Division 1 state tournament at Northview Thursday, Oct. 10. The win­ ner of that one will move on to face the district tournament’s top seed, Rockford, in the district semifinals at Byron Center High School Monday at 5 p.m. The shut out of the Pioneers was the fourth straight shut out to close out the regular season for Caledonia and their tenth shut out overall. Caledonia closed its first OK Green Conference season second to the Byron Center Bulldogs in the final conference standings. The Scots were 8-2 in confer­ ence play ±is fall after a 4-0 win last Thursday, Oct. 3, at Mona Shores. Byron Center closed the conference yi ±1. A A •4* I] * « 1 •h r V7 / ;r A ii r . T 9.r If I 1. I c \ f •1 w* F;r>!> J d It 1 z ';4 1 V f '(i ■5^ ■? i: •l (S -S’ I <> • 4 I• • * •2> , I rZxvJ > 5 9 Ibu, Are you creative? ♦ •H Jl . .r < * - •■ s w I 4 — NOW HIRING — Caledonia’s Robert Day (12) intercepts an East Grand Rapids pass during the second half Saturday at Scotland Yard. Photo by Perry Hardin GRAPHIC DESIGNER season at 8-1 -1 with its only loss against the Scots at Scotland Yard Oct. 1. View Newspaper Group is seeking a fuii’time graphic artist. Ik .JiV* MONDAY THRU FRIDAY • IN OFFICE • NO WEEKENDS — 5 • ■ >.' * This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about graphic design with a keen eye for quality graphics. Must have working knowledge of Adobe InDesig n and PhotoShop (PC) - Illustrator a plus! I Responsibilities include: BFTTr« • Newspaper advertising design • Some newspaper composition/layout II 1 ttiii't**' Aa d « ' •i We love whal we do and we know you will too! I Are you the person we need? Send your resume to Graphics Manager Jennifer Ward at jward@tctimes.com and let’s find oud 5 *ir f \I w J ■ .\^r ' ■.^ 4 J ) Vk* S< 4 ?T -? w A' "«• 1« I t .r. >< I k . • 1 t I t 'T. I b*. • I. •. I*’ Mmbsk^ ^ig - *« . . '- V.*< wr: « , • iL'« * Group < * ca-i*? UtUti 9 <■ uu iZ> »T 4?^ ;> ■ 1 I2 4^ .. in . vUMt •* 1^ " The Fighting Scots’ Omar Aganovic (13) gets his head on ball with Garrett Ruehle (23) in support during Caledonia’s match with East Grand Rapids at Scotland Yard Saturday. Photo by Perry Hardin The County Press Lapeer Area View Genesee County View Huron County View Sanilac County News Your Buyer’s Guide Jeffersonian Tri-County Times s Daily News Tri-County Citizen Oxford Leader Lake Orion Review ■" Clarkston News • The Citizen V The Lowell Ledger - The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer's Guide & News The Sun and News Ad-Visor & Chronicle Battle Creek Shopper News The Reminder We are a growing company of 21 community newspapers serving 15 Michigan counties that are delivered weekly to more than 335,000 households with an additional500,000 monthly online readers. *rT �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 10 www.sunandnews.com • b 1^^': #. JXf * ■V. 'iA :7> f I ’t V. > '•Vfi •w ■ LIH t .4^ c«i II 111 r IM W1O1‘ !11 LBB! - .WB r-* ' •1/' f i *.* « Michigan’s home I r> I -W* A *''• A < at Ji. / .w u* 7 w H ■ k X V K- X / e v I r $ Z k A U. 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I .* -• ('; /• •»' I V *«Wl A w A« 4 A* »' r f 4 K f Or visit hap.org/decide for more information. .t 4 s^.r** « T v- r ★ w A lb You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Health Alliance Plan (HAP) has HMO, HMO-POS, PPO plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment depends on contract renewals. . y^. •, ..i ■Q HAP498r4110/2024 K > I �J ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS r Sporting News ♦ Saturday, October 12, 2024 11 4 ♦ ♦ o OUR COMPANY IS GROWING DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY *> I ■ 1 >♦ 'K' I A ,z ,1 < I * ; IK*. krf ■—A r IS*:b V b -■w * •• f Early opportunities come up mostly empty for Scots * 1 V f I .d I 5 f Brett Bremer Sports Editor Rockford is only gonna give you so many chances. The Caledonia varsity football team got the ball first and drove as far as the Rockford 1 O-yard-line before the drive petered out and it turned the ball over on downs. An interception by Colin Kowatch gave the Fighting Scots the opportunity for a drive that got to the Rockford 14-yard-line, but came up empty. Reed Vogeler smothered the foot w ball after a strip sack by teammate River Swanlund, but that ensuing drive couldn’t get any closer than the Rock ford 8-yard-line eventually ending in a blocked field goal attempt. Three early drives inside the Rock- ford 15 yard line, and the Scots came away with zero points in what would eventually be a 34-14 OK Red Confer­ ence loss to the visiting Rams inside Ralph E Myers Stadium Friday. That first Caledonia possession end­ ed with a missed blocking assignment or two on an attempt at a throwback screen pass. Rockford took over on its 11-yard line and on the very first snap put the ball in the hands of running back Isaac Foot. He found room to run around the left side, spun out oftackle at about the 30-yard-line, and kept going to the end zone for an 89-yard score. The Rams led the rest of the night. Poot added a 1 -yard touchdown run five minutes into the second quarter for a See SCOTS on 12 -J? I I \ I A 4 .* « t 4 n A I I I*'* •es . a ■ < 4 A k :£ “6 t fe .A u k • .A. • i A. R' . V- < t r & I » R r t » 9 W « •<>* :^-« > -T * b «r • 1 'w * « K I 4b « • < 11 ■ ■0 a. I 11 ■■ .st; .. I» s*? NOW HIRING view Newspaper Group is seeking a b ’Al "Z . * S ^**1 • J MARKETING SPECIALIST J 7’t< ••s b ,4 4 k« I I Responsibilities include: Ir A Ifflfl* • Advertising sales • Account management • Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts • Attend networking events 4 'vrV A* T;, \ * '4,. >1. 4 s :I ’ »'.' .M. t % I r t. . * . « <*.., .JC*^** * £ -Wt < ' \4 J< e I. • 4 r-* ' . •* * 4 *T«- 7^ .r email wsmith@mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 , ’I 4 % « *«• V 4^. I*' - » n 4 Group .J V. ► I I .* 4 <* •< • A’ •*. b* r lAI X .. H sr If r ** 'jH 1r’ f « * 4 ’ t. » I V I'.■ ’Ik > % I L b L •*. -' rj I * i<4b^ «s.«aii^. « «r <■. Caledonia senior receiver Aaron Collins looks up field with the ball after breaking away from Rockford defensive back Michael Dekuiper during their OK Red Conference ballgame in Caledonia Friday, Oct. 4. Photo by Brett Bremer ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer's Guide ■ Jeffersonian ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ The Lowell Ledger The Hastings Banner Buyer’s Guide & News Ad-Visor & Chronicle Battle Creek Shopper News The Sun and News The Reminder �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 12 wvvw.sunandnews.com EGR holds TK off the scoreboard until late f I 9 A • 9 ** 9 1 ? 3 ’J * b r A 4 by a couple fumbles throughout the evening. Thornton closed out the scoring with a 16-yard TD pass to James Wiener in the third quarter that helped the lead grow to 35-0. Thornton threw for 91 yards. Tyler Blake had seven carries for 59 yards and rushed for three touchdowns, for the Pioneers’ and Leighton Kolk rushed seven times for 80 yards. The Trojan defense forced a turn­ over on downs early in the fourth quarter, and the TK offense started a drive at the Pioneer 31-yard-line that ended in a 3 3-yard touchdown run by Zach Eldrige and a two-point conversion. Brett Bremer Sports Editor East Grand Rapids celebrated its homecoming Friday with a 35-8 win over Thomapple Kellogg. Pioneer quarterback Carson Thorn­ ton scored on a three-yard TD run early in the first quarter and then a two-yard TD run by back Tyler Blake with with four minutes to go in the first. The Pioneers led 14-0 after one quarter. It was 28-0 at the half. The Pioneers added a three-yard TD run by Blake with three and a half minutes to go before the break and then a five-yard TD run by Blake in the final half minute of the first half. The Trojan offense was slowed A « ( «l < A 4 « I •z rI W.W '■' - <r "T J •* J LVWtoi — w ^4 I Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we 've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. / PRINTING BY www.printin9bypennylane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting.com 13-0 Rams lead. “You have to finish drives against Rockford, Caledonia head coach Derek Pennington said. “The first half, we should have been up. I don’t know what it is, the first running play against us three or four times this year has gone for a touchdown. We have to fit to runs early and play defense on the first play of the game. And, we have to finish drives. I thought Betser played a gutty performance. He got dinged up late, his ankle. [Aaron] Collins had a bunch of catches but you can’t play football and just make some good plays. You have to execute and finish drives. We had some missed assignments on the o-line, but we’re playing literally, after [Jackson] Olin, got hurt with no seniors on the offensive line. I would say there are growing pains up there. We took in a game plan that we thought was going to give us a chance, but we were going to have to execute and catch and complete balls and finish drives and we just didn’t do it. We completed a lot of balls, but we didn’t score a lot of points.” Caledonia was able to turn one Rock­ ford turnover into points in the first half. Aaron Collins made a tremendous break on a ball in the air and snagged it in fi’ont of the Caledonia sideline for an interception just over two minutes to go in the half. Collins added a 34-yard reception on a fourth down pass from quarterback Brody Betser, and two plays later Betser tossed a 12-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Lincoln Senti. The Scots yyent into the half down 5^ 1 / 1 «• I, I Continued from Page 11 •> * • % SCOTS w 4 > •«Wl . *1 . *« I p« •X♦M —■ ■ • < * •• Photo by Brett Bremer 1 ..4 ■ V Fighting Scot senior Reed Vogeler (4) eyes the bouncing ball as teammate River Swanlund hauls down Rockford quarterback Brayden Daniels during the Rams’ win inside Ralph E. Myers Stadium in Caledonia Friday, Oct. 4. A • *-* ' K a. -•Vi r ’*85,*. ri »u 1 i *4 « . • • I •• i« £ • >1 I I » » s. ( rr. -pu, > . *• V A.V > ■I ff A MT J Scan our QR code to find your | perfect invitation! | X.»|. S •? 4**^ T: •I A w* ria i > ’PC — • 4 w « 60 ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM •T w • r tl I <’.r 13-7 feeling like maybe they should have been in front. A couple passes in the red zone narrowly missed their mark, and a few more went just off the hands of Caledonia receivers. The Rockford offensive line controlled the second half, with the Rams only at­ tempting one pass early in the third. Poot scored on a 4-yard run with 2:13 to go in the third quarter. Poot closed the game with 15 rushes for 205 yards. Things went from bad to worse for the Scots fi'om there. Betser was sacked on third-and-long deep in the Scots end, injuring an ankle on the play. Rockford’s Oliver Sweezer blocked Caledonia’s punt on the next play and his teammate Corbin Starkey recovered it for a touch­ down. The Ram lead was suddenly 27-7. A six-play, 50-yard Ram drive early in the fourth ended in a 1 -yard TD by Thomas Becker IV. Sophomore quarterback Bryce Backus took over for the Scots after Betser’s injury and in the end led a 69 yard scoring drive that culminated in a 1-yard TD run for the Scots’ back-up. Betser was 19-of-35 passing for 227 yards. Backus was 9-of-12 for 99 yards passing. The Caledonia offense couldn’t get anything going on the ground, but Collins had a huge night offensively and defensively. He had a game-high ten receptions for 185 yards. Senti finished with eight catches for 82 yards. Both Caledonia and Rockford were 4-2 overall leaving the field. The Scots were back at it in the OK Red Confer­ ence at Jenison Friday, Oct. 11. They will be back inside the Ralph in Caledonia Friday, Oct. 18, to face the OK Red Conference leading Hudsonville Eagles. «• �6 ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS 13 Saturday, October 12, 2024 OK Green champion Scots going back to Finals Brett Bremer Sports Editor and East Kentwood 539. The three individual state qualifiers from the regional were Lakeview’s Amiyah Gibson with an 83, Jenison’s Kylie Coffey with an 84 and Grand Haven’s Colbie Livingston with an 88. At Saskatoon last week, the Scots won the OK Green Post-Season Tour­ nament with a score of 322 ahead of Byron Center 332, Mona Shores 338, Reeths-Puffer 344 and Jenison 378. Copelin was the individual champ with an even-par 71. Codie shot an 81 and the Scots got 85s from Burgess and sophomore Emily Walbeck. Hud­ son and Honart were the Scots’ fourth and fifth scorers for the day but both joined their teammates among the top 20 scorers overall. Hudson shot an 88 and Honhart a 91. In between those two tournaments, the Scots were fourth in a field of 14 teams at the Katke Classic. Copelin shot a 75 on day one and a 77 on day two for a 152 that was just five strokes over par for 36 holes. Codie shot a 175, Walbeck 199, Hudson a 200, Honhart 205. Northville too the Classic title with an overall team score of 647 ahead of Grand Rapids Catholic Central 688, Brighton 705, Caledonia 721, Petoskey 757, Whitehall 786, Montague 787, Hartland 815, Traverse City West 832 and Remus Chippewa Hills 847 in the top ten. Northville had four of the top seven overall scorers for the weekend led by freshman McKenzie Stevens who ended up six strokes back of Copelin for the individual title. Catholic Cen­ tral junior Kelsey Preston was third individually. •i- ■ • A •I The Caledonia varsity girls’ golf team brought back four of its five players from the team that placed 11 th at the 2023 MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls Golf Finals this fall, and it shows. The Fighting Scots captured the OK Green Conference Championship at Saskatoon GolfCourse last week, spent two days testing themselves againsttop competition at the Katke Classic in Big Rapids last weekend and then scored a runner-up finish at the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Regional Championship to earn themselves the right to return to Katke for the 2024 DI Finals next weekend. But wait, there’s more. On top ofthe team accomplishments, senior Copelin O’Krangley shot a 71 to win the OK Green Conference Post-Season Tournament at Saskatoon Oct. 3, was the leader after both 18hole rounds at the Katke Invitational and then won an individual regional championship at the A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort in Kewadin Wednesday with a score of 81. “It’s all experience,” Caledonia head coach Veronica Van Wagoner said of her team’s success this fall. “We know what to do and how to do it. We handle pressure better. We handle all the bad stuff that can happen on a golf course better. We make smarter plays on the golf course. I also think we put together a more robust schedule this season where we had to play some challeng­ ing courses. Those challenges helped us grow in our abilities and the ways that we think about attacking the golf course.” O’Krangley won as regional cham­ pionship and coach Van Wagoner said she even may have left a few strokes out on the course thete in Ke wadin. “Copelin has been building all sea son,” Van Wagoner s^id. “The last two weeks I have seen a massive push on the gas pedal.” Hudsonville won the regional title with a score of 357, but the top three teams and top three golfers not on those teams at regionals across the state this week earn spots in the state finals. The ■i 47 4 to* r. ■ J-*7 4^ J * 1... A- - * •• n % a - 4 .J A 4 ♦>* -J » r 9^ - i t I h 9 J 4J F »r y *y MJ J •a A z < ►C.. I A h Z •< I r 1 2 Je’ 85^ .. i - - 4- U. 5 1 • » • . * to f' ? A 1 J ■ 5^' z ■ ’4. Z-: ) I RI 4 t 'J I I t; * I « v «• 9 <. 49 . > 4^^ e V, A* I ♦ T? J * HI 'tfi . J I-' •> :C”. ZT’ X V kL* .J* rit''', I s 4 I ♦ *1 T 4 * f * r I •• 9 • •i IX.. • --.*3 — A X. ■— • ri v< I Caledonia varsity girls’ golf team members Copelin O’Krangley, Codie O’Krangley, Ellie Hudson, Mya Burgess, Katie Honhart and Emily Walbeck celebrate their OK Green Conference championship after winning the conference post-season tournament Oct. 3 at Saskatoon. The CHS girls followed that up with a runner-up regional finish to earn a spot in next weekend’s MHSAA D1 L.P. Girls Golf Finals. Photo provided DI Lower Peninsula Finals will beheld fired an 85 at the Post-Conference Tour­ Oct. 18-19 at Katke in Big Rapids. nament, a score Van Wagoner is fairly O’Krangley finished in a tie for tenth certain is her best 18-hole round yet. individually at the 2023 Finals at Forest Portage Central was the third state Akers West East Lansing. qualifying team from the regional with The CHS team earned the trip back a score of 363 ahead of the Scots’ new to the 2024 Finals with junior Codie . OK Green Conference rivals from O’Krangley shooting an 88 at region­ Byron Center who just \ ' als, senior Mya Burgess a 92 and junior missed out on a team Katie Honhart a 99. The Scots’ fifth state spot with a fourth­ l<t 1 scorer for the day, senior Ellie Hudson, . place score of373. Battle was right there too with a 100. Creek Lakeview was “Codie and Ellie have just been super fifth with a score of 384 ' • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers consistent all season long,” Van Wag­ ahead of Rockford 390, • Cellular Enhancement Systems oner said. “They are reliable scorers Traverse City Central and always put up something that can 397, Traverse City West Give us a call! be counted on. Both have been manag407, Grand Haven 411, >ffSure<2aH 269-967-8241 ing the pressure better this season. Jenison 412, Grandville www.theantennamen.com SIGN^ The CHS coach * I said Burgess had 420, West Ottawa 429, antennamen@ginail.com I www.cellsignalpros.com really cranked things uf too. She Kalamazoo United 442' r Si • • -1 C’-s - *> Arintsnno M<n * r . ' A - T 1 V * A 1 « • < •. l1 Xi % «ui> aAM CEL-n 1 5^ Bl G* * •l j « • ♦ ♦ �14 ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 State Finals another shot at Leos earns ever and Mattawan senior Charlotte Stenger won the individual regional title with a score of 77. The regional champs were led by a 78 from junior Charlotte Boudeman. St. Joseph qualified for the state finals with a team score of 358 and so did Plainwell with a 372. Stevensville Lakeshore was fourth with a score of 393 followed by Mattawan 408, Thor­ napple Kellogg 416, Zeeland East 426, Portage Northern 439, Allendale 442 and Zeeland West 450 in the top ten. The Trojan team got a 106 from se­ nior Rae Borrink. The rest of the TK line-up was made up of sophomores. Vivian Hansson shot a 109, Jordan Price scored a 121 and Sydney Martin a 124. They were all among the day’s top 50 scorers. See LEOS on 15 Brett Bremer Sports Editor There was a pre-regional tournament last week and an extra practice round for Thomapple Kellogg senior Ailana Leos at Bedford Valley Golf Club over the weekend. She kept detailed notes on each hole and strategies overall. But maybe best of all, she knew when to ignore them. Leos qualified for the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Girls’ Golf Finals for the second year in a row by shooting an 80 that put her in third place individually at the Division 2 Regional Tournament at Bedford Valley Tuesday. The top three teams and top three golfers not on those teams at the 13team regional earned spots in the Oct. 18-18 state finals which will be held at The Meadows on the campus of Grand Valley State University. Leos was comfortably in state qualifying posi­ tion throughout her 18-hole regional round, but she has talked with head In Marshall, Ml is now accepting applications for: • Night Drivers • Paid health benefits • Hourly rate $24.00 hr. after 6 months $25.00 hr. • Time & 1/2 over 40 hours • 401 (k) w/contribution • Drive newer equipment • Paid vacations/holidays • Paid life/disability • Must have Class A CDL and pass medical/drug screen CALL NOW DIRECT (262) 539-4460 ASK FOR DON Go to www.vetstruck.com for applications. T I * -L I 'V ft' t.. •« •* 7 - H - •* T" 23 Jit- :! q 7 1 I as. 1 "■mt' fli 4 11 (Pl 4 rr A •-* ,< r..*- '■ J* *31 J VR*^ * $ >• t. ** • 4 •r" I **-*^i*—A • I Ml —•♦V 1 • i ’•" X *9 T r.4 <1 • *1 fl I 1 —t coach Bob Kaminski about the need to take some risks here and there to shoot scores good enough to really compete with the very best golfers in the state. On the par-5, 419-yard number seven, her 15th hole of the round, Leos blasted her drive close to 275 yards into a valley below the green safely away from the pond to her right on the west side of the fairway. “I was like 145 out, but I will say, in my notes from my two practice rounds here, I kid you not, in all CAPS it says do not go for green in two. Lay up, get a wedge in your hand and two putt for par. I even looked at dad afterwards and I said, I have to go for it. I am 150 out. I have a seven-iron in my hand. I can’t not go for it right now.” Her seven-iron flew to the back side of the green, giving her a chance at a long eagle putt. The risk didn’t quite pay off. Her eagle putt rolled close to the hole, but then she missed a birdie putt she would have liked to have had another shot at. She tapped in a par putt and went on to close out her round with TRUCK DRIVERS » * b TK senior Rae Borrink sends a shot flying from the fairway on number seven at Bedford Valley Tuesday during the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Regional hosted by Gull Lake. Photo by Brett Bremer VETERAN’S TRUCK LINE INC. .1 1 < •4 r A » • ( I c « a pair of bogies on eight and nine and then finally another par on number ten. She said a two putt on nine got her back on track and then she knew a par on 10 would pretty much seal her return to the state finals. Leos missed out on a trip to the state finals as a sophomore, coming up short in a three-person playoff for two state qualifying spots on the Trojans’ home course at Yankee Springs Golf Course. She qualified for the finals for the first time last fall, as a junior and placed 12th just two strokes back of a spot in the top ten. “This was my goal, come here, qualify, get to states and then states is where I would really like to medal and do well, because I think I really can,” Leos said. “That is the bigger goal, just states, go out there and dominate, two days, just play good.” The Thomapple Kellogg varsity girls’ golf team gave the top teams a run early on at the regional and eventu­ ally placed sixth in a field of 13 teams. Gull Lake won its first regional title 1 .t >•. ? -•-'5 r. ( k «a a^rT* M. •4<>..x 4 I ■ X ••ft i,: ’’ dr 4 4- . 4 .t r.r. .1 f I 'll; t*'« '< Ai ■w I 1 « i - ♦ » » nt * ,k Jr* f I Thornapple Kellogg senior Ailana Leos fires a shot from the fairway on number six at Bedford Valley Tuesday during the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Regional Tournament hosted by Gull Lake. Leos placed third to qualify for the state finals for the second year in a row. Photo by % I-* I, V 'J Brett Bremer ( (• t ► •l I *B 1 ** 1 K ’’ •4 **• b �% www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS LEOS Continued from Page 14 “I thought they played really well,” !»jj| coach Kaminski said. “When we first started out, we were pl ay ing the toughest part of the golf course and we were still there near the top. But it is a long 18 holes'' Siti too. I thought they really played well. “We had three sophomores today. That’s young. I think we’ll be good. They’ll be more experienced next year. You have a bad hole and you let it seep into the next one sometimes. They’ll be better at that.” The TK team wrapped its OK Gold Conference competition last Thursday at Kaufman GolfCourse, placing fourth. It was the first time all season that Leos ’ was bested in an OK Gold competition. » South Christian junior Arma Marcusse won the 18-hole event with an 83 and Leos was second with an 85. Leos was still the conference’s top scorer for the season—earn all-conference and confer­ ence tournament medals. Of the six girls who shot 90 or better, four were Sailors. South Christian won the conference championship with an overall score of3 51. West Catholic was second Thursday with a 380 ahead of Northview 388, TK 419, Wayland 438 and Union NTS. Bomnk shot a 103, Hansson 111 and Martin 120 to score for the TK team. Coach Kaminski said having Leos and Borrink at the top of the line-up made the Trojan team competitive in most of its contests this fall, and that’s something that should help motivate the youngsters for future seasons. The regional champs from Gull Lake also got an 85 from sophomore Allison Vanhuysen, an 89 from senior Ella Schaberg and a 93 from senior Aubrey Crowley Tuesday. Sophomore Marley Walters and senior Rachel Cox tied for the St. Johns team lead with 85s. Plainwell was powered to its thirdplace finish by an 82 from sophomore Ayla Jaeger. Stenger and Lakeshore sophomore !0f It 1! Ella Roberts were the other two indi­ vidual state qualifiers along with Leos from the tournament. Roberts was tenth overall with a 101. The to ten was filled with seven Gull Lake, St. Johns and Plainwell golfers along with the three individual state qualifiers. “I played my first nine really, really well and then I will say the windy con­ ditions got so much harder on the front nine, which was my [second] nine, so that was difficult,” Leos said. She shot a 38 on the back nine and then a 42 on the front. The wind played havoc with an approach shot on number six coming in towards the clubhouse, but wound up being beneficial on her long drive on seven. Leos has learned to put trouble shots behind her. While she said she is tak­ ing better lines this year and chipping better, it is her mental toughness that has really started taking her game to the next level. She has been tournamenttested over the years, both with the Trojans and this summer when she fought her way into and then through a playoff in a Steph Curry Underrated Tour qualifier in South Bend. “I have started to learn that I can trust myself to react the right way under pressure, because beforehand when you’re never in like big pressure situations you can’t reenact a pres­ sure situation,” Leos said. “You can’t make it. It’s never the same, not with the adrenaline and the heart pumping. All those different experiences, now I know what to do and I know that I can do it because I can trust all the practice I had. That was really good too. Out here, I knew I could m^e a par on the last hole. It was just a matter of making the four different shots their own to do it.” She was happy to play the regional on a familiar course, and is excited that the state finals course in Allendale is another one she gets to play at least one or twice a year. It just makes things so much more comfortable - but expect her to know when to challenge her own comfort level too. YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. r. .ft VIEW ft ft THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 THORNAPPLE KELLOGG ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS PTO WALK-A-THON SPONSORS! BRADFORD WHITE WATER HEATERS CHOICE CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION GRAND RAPIDS CARVERS BUIST ELECTRIC DEWITT PACKAGING CORP. THORNAPPLE EYECARE PLLC CALEDONIA VISION CENTER THORNAPPLE CREDIT UNION TRIPP, TAGG & STORRS ATTORNEYS AT LAW EDWARD JONES, ANDREW COVE AAMS™ COMMERCIAL BANK LUMEN ELECTRIC, INC. FLEXFAB HORIZONS INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS OF HASTINGS PHILLIPS TAX & CONSULTING, LLC THORNAPPLE FINANCIAL CENTER U.A.W. LOCAL 1002 MICHELLE & OLIVIA GAUDREAU GREENRIDGE REALTY, INC. CHEMQUEST INC. RIVER CITY GRANT WRITING LLC SOUTHSIDE PEDIATRICS PC MIDDLEVILLE ROTARY CLUB JIM’S PICKUP SERVICE CHRISTOPHER J NOAH, MD. MIDDLEVILLE FAMILY PRACTICE BIG O’ SMOKEHOUSE INC. TOTAL FIRE PROTECTION / You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors... and . ** our future Group * 1 Saturday, October 12, 2024 ALL FUNDS RAISED SUPPORT OUR TK ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS’ STUDENTS & STAFF TK STRONG! �16 www.sunahdnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 Short-handed TK can’t keep comeback rolling ♦ ♦ Brett Bremer Sports Editor ♦ ♦ I Stopping goals with 11 guys on the field has been a fairly successful endeavor for the Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ soccer team this fall. Scoring them with 11 guys has been a challenge against top opponents. Scoring them with 10 is even tougher. Scoring them with nine is near impossible. Grand Rapids Christian ended the Trojans’ 2024 varsity boys’ soccer season with a 3-1 winintheMHSAA Division 2 District opener at Grand Rapids Christian High School Wednesday. The most talented fellow on the field, Christian senior John Cassiday scored all three Eagle goals. His team led 2-0 in the first half before senior midfielder Simeon Biltawi curled a shot into the left side of the net from the top of the 18 for TK late in the first half. The Eagle lead was just 2-1 at the intermission. The Trojans for the most part defended well, containing the Eagles while they held a COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the September 24, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, that were approved on October 8, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villa qeofmiddleville-orn Classifieds 1 'A ■f -t I b ■ T it' > 11 1 f J 4 f ♦ BUSINESS SERVICES t ft 1 : jl.. Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing,dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured. 616389-9496 t I 4 * y —n I K • s \ * •«r ,,i I V / I A 4 t • e TREE SERVICE I. T ■ I I ' ngfi aMu 2> •• •• I*!*** t t .9 . h •l jf J*** 1 *c .s; a * r r • Z / t♦ ? |^~ I >»* * I u. I * * •X . %♦ X.Xk J '•T V •if A T- .^1 ia*.’' -ei ■ .*' J -C A t *4 i *• 4> % • Mj T s Thornapple Kellogg senior Isaac Ruth (15) leaps in to try and get the ball off the feet of Grand Rapids Christian’s Liam Jansen during their D2 District opener in Grand Rapids Wednesday. Photo by Brett Bremer clear possession advantage. “The boys played well going in at the half 2-1, the first 20 minutes we were a little slow, but the boys got the pressure and got what they needed and put it up and Sim hit a beautiful strike at the end there to put us up there in a good spoL” TK head coach Andrew Kiel said, “but the first 15-20 minutes we didn’t get good enough pressure and maybe we gave them too much respect. They were able to get a couple through balls and get a couple things in, but the boys never gave up and fought. It was kind of like the season. “We have had a couple tough losses. There were a couple of times we didn’t start the game well, but the boys fought back in and something didn ’t go our way. That is life at soccer.” Biltawi’s senior season was a few minutes shorter than he would have liked. He was shown a yellow card after tripping up an Eagle from behind midway through the first half wound r:-. sf-'-TT B I > I rir^ • I« «« • fl 'fl'T rr rt • ■* up getting a second yellow (thus a red card) with about six minutes to go. His exit cut the Trojan numbers to nine on the field at that point in their comeback bid as sophomore Brandon Velting had already been shown a red card after colliding with Eagle senior Peter Borst who was breaking in mostly free on the Trojan net after what proved to be a supremely well-timed run onto a ball ahead from Cassiday. TK senior goalkeeper Owen Comer dove to his left to swat away the PK attempt awarded to Borst at that moment 14 minutes into the second half, and then lunged out onto the rebound. The Trojans managed to not allow another goal when down to ten or even nine guys on the field, but chances on their own offensive end were few and far between at that point. Cassiday had already scored his third goal of the game nine minutes into the second half, knocking a lasered centering pass from teammate Liam Jansen by Comer. Kiel said Biltawi likely ends the season as the Troj ans ’ top goal scorer and leader in assists. A natural distributor, he had to become more of a scoring threat this fall for TK with a collection of mostly defensive minded guys around him. “We gave up significantly less goals this season than last season, Kiel said. “Defensively, Nate [Shoemaker], and Jordan [Rowley], Juan [Aguiar], Kylan {Pratt] and Peyton [Forman], all those guys back there, Owen, they did a much better job this season and it was just more cohesive and better.” The TK boys had five shutouts defensively and finished the year with a 109-1 overall record. 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OTHER ? 2022 Ice Bear Moped 3 wheeler less than 50 miles. $1800.00 616-299-2536 �www.sunandnews.com ♦ —----------------- ----------------------- ----------- the sun and news _______________________ Saturday, October 12. 2024 17 Thompson now second fastest Scot harrier ever Brett Bremer Sports Editor I And it’s quite the history. Caledonia senior Kort Thompson ran the second fastest time in the history of Caledonia varsity boys’ cross country at the annual Portage Invitational Saturday at Portage West Middle School. Thompson placed 12th in the Division 1 boys’race with a time of 15 minutes 43.4 seconds. Only Tim Ross has ever been faster for the Fighting Scots with his time of 15:03.60 that made him the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 State Champion in 2001. Thompson beat his pervious PR, which he set the previous Saturday at the Otsego Invitational, by about 12 seconds. He jumped four guys on the list of the fastest Fighting Scots ever with his run in Portage. Thompson was one oftwo Caledonia medalists on the day. Junior teammate Noah Johnston placed 46th in 16:24.4, which is a new PR for him too. The Caledonia boys were 12th as a team and head coach Ben Thompson noted that they were third among the teams they’ll see in Portage later this month at the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Cross Country Regional. Northville won the DI boys’ title Saturday with 83 points ahead of Jenison 106, Brighton 164, Grand Haven 179, Saline 257, Kalamazoo Central 268, Traverse City Central 313, Yorkville 323, Ann Arbor Pioneer 348 and Forest Hills Central 405 in the top ten. Grandville was 11th with 406 points and the Scots 12th with 432, just ahead of the hosts from Portage Central who finished with 442 points. Pioneer sophomore Kamari Ronfeldt won the boys’ race in 15:02.3, a new PR for him, while Jenison senior Seth Conner raced to a runner-up time of 15:05.8 which is a season best for him. The Scots also had senior Ethan Buer 116th in 17:15.3, senior Aidan Edgar 125th in 17:20.2 and junior Eli Velting 138th in 17:26.9 among its top five on the day. Senior Hannah Dupuis led the Scots in the DI girls’ race with a time of 20:21.8 that put her in 90th place HW J m * J- overall. Senior Keira Bommarito improved her personal record to 20:33.2 to place 103rd for the CHS girls. The top five for the Caledonia ladies also included sophomore Akaela Damn 134th in 21:02.2, senior Advsen Daman 146th in 21:08.5 and senior Kiley Bommarito 159th in 21; 18.4. The Caledonia girls were 24th in a field of 39 scoring girls’ teams Saturday. Romeo outran everyone to the DI girls’ team title with a score of 46 points. Saline was second with 154 points ahead ofAnn Arbor Pioneer 159, West Ottawa 164, Brighton 180, Yorkville 266, Rockford 277, Portage Central 300, White Lake Lakeland 304 and Grand Haven 316 in the top ten. West Ottawa senior Helen Sachs won the girls’ race in 17:04.6 with Pioneer freshman Natasza Dudek the runner-up in 17:46.6. Romeo senior Natalia Guaresimo was third in a PR of 17:54.2. C- * J / K. * 1 * I I L - T/ z J ft ft I ) IT « ax XV • ‘JtL * ** *r * Ft .J X V? X t 9 « I L r*. II A 1 fl f = \ I 1 9 r ■ ..a i 1 ‘ /v ' 9^- .. J <T 1 L $ I > < X R' /J C-'‘S 7' V 1 1 .—I.V - T“' * < '* i X * . u A -tJkJ <- z < a2 Caledonia juniors Eli Velting (left) and Noah Johnston (right) make their way along with the crowd during the Division 1 boys’ race Saturday, Oct. 5. at the Portage Invitational. Photo by Brett Bremer ■VC . I J '. ’'Ji ( L'i X ,l i ! < ? .k t . 1< I ■' f ( ’ I > € • 7 > » A 5 • < If <4 I r* I I *u, > . i Z TTi s (rain date of October 24th) » 4 MICHIGAN IfOO AM - 300 PM X A t *1 F/lLl COLOR TOUR 2024 OCTOBER 23, 2024 KTi ► y. ♦ e ,1 ’1 X VILLAGE » I ;h sjtr.. t 4 I - n k □*i.b < •» r I •J I J / ’“* I f 1 ki ft' r .1* » r ’i • 1 ■ I s Come enjoy a golf cart ride along the beautiful Paul Henry Thornapple Trail. Refreshments will be served in the Sesquicentennial Park Pavilion across from the Village Hall on East Main Street. S « ■— ' I»'" 4 For more information, please visit our website: www.villageofmiddleville.org. Facebook, or call 269-795-3385. ♦« K »• r ( Q '■ Caledonia sisters Adysen Daman (left) and Akaela Daman work their way up hill together during the Division 1 girls’ race Saturday at the annual Portage Invitational. Photo by Brett Bremer b 1 Special thanks to this year’s sponsors: Harvest Sponsor ($^oo-e donation) BOCO Bradford White I BoCo PW Pharmacy C ire a Clfn 4652 North M-17 Highway M kid lev ilk. Michigan 493J3 T «» Ml PumPkin Sp^onsor ($150^$299 donation)_ First Rehab &. Sport Physical Therapy Pharmacy Care bimimacmd WHrrE CANMABtS OiarKHAABT 'I I i 1 « » A 1 4 1 4 ♦ ♦ �1 18 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 TK tennis third at OK Gold Conference Tournament Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ tennis team closed out the OK Gold Conference season placing third at the conference tournament in Middleville last Thursday, Oct. 3. South Christian took the tournament champion­ ship with 16 points followed by West Catholic 15, TK 13, Wayland 11, Northview 9, Wyoming 3 and Grand Rapids Union 1. Trojan senior Kameron Nichols took a 6-0, 6-2 win over Northview’s Andy Hinds and a 6-0, 6-1 win over South Christian’s Ike Schroetenboer GO ONLINE TO SUNANONEWS.COM Irving Township Board Meeting Synopsis July 16,2024 3425 WING RD HASTINGS Ml 49058 Meeting Called to order at 6;30 PM with the Pledge of Allegiance. Doug Sokolowski, Jamie Knight, Mike Buehler, Dean Bass and Sharon Olson present. 5 members of the public were present. Motions passed: 1. approve agenda 2. approve Minutes from June 18, 2024 3. pay Thornapple Township Fire ' Department contract in the amount of $12,471.50. roll call. 4. pay bills $16,681.24. Roll call. 5. to adjourn at 6:46. Upcoming dates: July 27, 2024, Early vot­ ing August 6, 2024, Primary Election August 20, 2024, Town­ ship Board Meeting Full minutes are available at lrvingtownship.org or at 3425 Wing Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058. Prepared by Clerk, Sharon Olson. Attested to by Supervisor, Jamie Knight. to get a rematch with West Catholic’s Oliver Caldwell in the first singles championship match. Caldwell has been the only guy to beat Nichols this season. The Falcons’ number one bested Nichols in their conference dual and then won the tournament championship by the scores of 6-3, 6-0 on Thursday. TK second singles player Aidan Dudik was a runner-up too. He beat Northview’s Nigal Doyle 6-0, 6-3 and South Christian’s Joe Maas 6-4, 6-1 before falling to West Catholic At third singles, TK’s Franklin Wilkinson was 2-1 too with a tough three-set loss to Kyle Car­ penter from West Catholic his one blemish. Anson Verlinde had one win for TK at fourth singles. On the doubles side, TK got two wins each from the fourth doubles team of Samuel Teachout and Mark Gielincki and the first doubles team of Layne Schilthroat and Brady Laven. Cole Novak and Evan Liu at second doubles for TK and Benjamin Scott and Max Lepper at number three had one win apiece for TK. The Trojans were scheduled to head to Holland for their MHS A A Division 2 Regional Tournament Friday, Oct. 11. CHS equestrian team chasing state hardware The Caledonia High School eques­ trian team is back at it this fall. The Fighting Scots, the 2023 Divi­ sion A Reserve State Champions, are once again a part of the Michigan Interscholastic Horsemanship Associa OB tion State Championships this weekend at the Midland County Fairgrounds. Opening ceremonies of the finals were planned for 10 am Thursday, Oct. 10. The Scots won their MIHA District 19 Division A Championship this fall at the Barry County Fairgrounds to qual­ ify for the regional round of the state tournament and followed that up taking the reserve championship in Berrien Springs at the end of September. CHS boys fourth at their first OK Green Conference tennis tourney HELP WANTED Department of Public Works (DPW) Equipment Operator Brett Bremer Sports Editor Caledonia placed fourth at the OK Green Conference Champion ship Tournament Friday. The Byron Center Bulldogs took the con­ ference title with 16 points ahead of Jenison 10, Reeths-Puffer 9, Caledonia 7 and Mona Shores 2. Scot first singles player Colin Martin split his two matches, falling to Jenison’s Eli­ jah Kind and knock­ ing off Mona Shores’ Landen Hall 6-2, 6-3. Garrett Fales at sec ond singles, Hudson Derengowski at num­ ber three and Malte * The Village Public Works Department is seeking to expand its team! We are looking for a qualified applicant to fill the position of DPW Equipment Operator. Specific areas of duty include maintaining water and wastewater systems, streets, sidewalks, parks, equipment, refuse, and other areas as assigned. A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required. Minimum qualifications include a CDL or ability to obtain the license within ninety days of hire, one to two years of ex­ perience in a maintenance environment, knowledge of standard construction practices. a solid mechanical aptitude, and a clean driving record. The position requires resid within a thirty-minute recall time, starting pay is $23.92-$24.42 per hour with a top out rate of $25.92-$26.42 in two years -depending on qualifications. The selected candidate must pass a pre-employment physical, including a drug screen. The position will be open imtil filled. Interested applicants must submit a resume, cover letter and completed Village of Middleville employment application in a sealed envelope to Alec Belson, DPW Di rector, 100 E. Main Street, PO Box 69, Middleville, MI 49333. Applications and a job description are also available at the Village office, 100 East Main Street, Middleville, Michigan 49333, or on the Village website: www.villageofiniddleville.org. * Fischer at number four were all 1-1 on the day too. The Fighting Scots picked up three doubles points throughout the day. West Larson and Luke Atheam at num­ ber one beat Mona Shores’ top duo 6-3, 6-2. In the third doubles flight, the Scots got a 6-1, 6-3 win from Will VanderWeele and Der ick Prichard over Mona Shores. The CHS fourth doubles duo of Neal Hargrave and Cooper Sowerby pulled out a 5-7, 6-3, (10-4) win over Reeths-Puffer’s Preston Singleton and Erik Trulsen. �Bi www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ -----------— SUN AND NEWS______________________ Saturday, October 12, 2024 19 Top TK runners medal at Portage Invite Son I I. Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Trojans hit the finish line in Portage and now it is officially cham­ pionship season. Thomapple Kellogg will host the OK Gold Conference Championship at Gun Lake Oct. 16. The Trojans will be a part of the MHSAA Lower Pen­ insula Division 2 Regional hosted by South Christian High School Oct. 26 and then the TK team will be in action again at Charlton Park Oct. 28 for the Barry County Invitational. Those who qualify will compete Nov. 2 in the MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Cross Country Finals at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. There are those expecting more than hoping to qualify from the TK teams, and they showed off their quality at the big meet in Portage Saturday. In his first high school cross country season TK senior Jacob Draaisma has led the Trojan pack all fall. He placed 19th in a D2 boys’ field of288 runners in Portage Saturday. He hit the finish K! s I I ID DJ line in 16 minutes 14.1 seconds, his third fastest time of the season after getting under the 16-minute for the first time the previous Saturday in Otsego. TK boys’ coach Josh Reynolds thought it was as great time for Draaisma on the dusty course in the warm afternoon conditions Saturday in what was the biggest race he has run in yet. “Jacob got out really well during the first mile, which is needed with the level of talent in the front pack,” coach Reynolds said. “He faced a little adversity over the next halfmile losing a few spots but settled into his race over the second half with a solid per­ formance ... Large races like this are important as we learn to race against some phenomenal student-athletes and learn to balance our energy from mile to mile. It can be tough when everyone around you is talented, pre­ pared, and motivated to do their best.” Trojan senior Ava Crews had the top finish of any of the local runners See INVITE on 20 ;*5p-'. if / 1f* V.’s 2? Ifs 9^ f>1^4 . . fnr*< «• ! " -1 I s r I ■ s •t* <’>3 1 4 4 V*,' I 4 f'W A -It ( 'r >. I**- . . A < V I I- .F ,» s 1 - * ,•' -^r ? 1 S' •1- 'c V u* 1 * f I li ,h V ■ ' • *( -<rr; 'IF h .-.'K . « fc ? I r k - ■■ F f * 1 MD' « 41■4’ ’1 b« e * V r* *4 f Wa' > *r f . *«K •h if f V'.-.' ► * ? •1 . 4 |L k • i > >* ” •r *.. 4 # r ; 4 ( I ■' *•*.'.. 2 I 70 K I ^«4.« «« V 4 <> 1 i / V X •ta 1 . £ I V tr’ t tw nZu > t 1'- r .J s ♦ <- 9. 1 " a * r► 7 « J *• 1 I A.. » •• ii '’I ’« V "•w * I « "Mfe must be able to have open dialogue I << '■^^' Ic I tj*. ■•w ? ft J r ■21 ? >>• I .1 . F. 4 ft. '1^ z <.,5> I'Hm 4 If ;u ■* I TV .^s < r ’’x I e* **^ ik / * ii 4>t * V*. *> I * 4 -1 i V♦ » K ' Ri f X y** » > ( t > r 5 SLir >, r. r W R* t S • 4^. I if •4 Board of Education *> 7 :k V1 b'. 'w F* - rf* 2-X -e - |t;^. Lt, 4 II ft L •> I I ) I L r. * < h*> v»t. ' !**>' M 1 <1 '.' •5 I 5 n t, i. fe'V. . r< ? i'r V) •» J 4 • L s I : . i —- a : 1 V'. 1 s •:*A .•■ J ■ Mzt:. b<« k ;* + , d I. XI n .< ’’ r•i I 1’ r« ' A * M* ■» . a I I • • 0 d t J ♦........................................................................ =^^5 A JJ % I • = I* V 4 I* “kJ M *- J 4. I p 4 >4 A 4’ I I A a k I r * r f 1 ’?► f T«' 5’ <T> Q. CD *< < ' bVt -I r fl b V \ I I . > while respecting differences that may exist. In the end, the outcome we are all striving for in everything we do is to provide the highest quality education system so that all students can achieve their highest potential..." WT* • e / I . a a V A o :6- ■^- A 4 * » r ’• ? I*. • d 1 *pr^v .J b». » Q ■’■• — . f k o kl I < <a > s .•T7T .• J z Z 5 •f I r I F 1 > ■ .*•* .V • ..-I A r •-2.' 14 ’k> ■^4^/ 7 1 I*. & 3> I <. ■0 I • I I. K . g i» 4 •* • A i f“ X. I xul < 1 !• •. f S dl u r k R 'k—’ .. f >. » . - .^- •• ' - » A- ’a; 2iZ. •• ^iiTb'fc tficv* > I* I 9^ * , F a J 3 4 F POMMUNIIYHORISTRQNGTSCHOOLS I "xj Cn I K) Thornapple Kellogg junior'Noah Donker (right) outruns Coldwater freshman Parker Hetrick to the finish line at the end of the Division 2 boys’ race Saturday, Oct. 5. at the Portage Invitational Photo’by Brett Bremer • t 1 I r. Honest & Transparent I. I L 1 « t f * t r cs X •I 'J a a a a a i e ft *. •s X'. . ♦ ♦ li �20 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 12, 2024 INVITE olds 208th in 23:41.7. Allendale won the boys’ D2 meet with 90 points followed by Grand Rapids Christian 152, Holland Chris­ tian 190, Forest Hills Eastern 228, Lexington 237, Alma 241, Shepherd 342, Fremont 369 and Pinckney 373 in the top ten. The Thornapple Kellogg boys were 34th, one spot better than the Hastings team they’ll challenge for a Barry County championship later this month, in a field 41 full teams in Continued from Page 19 in Portage. She placed 17th in 19:22.5 in the D2 girls’ race. That competition included 295 finishers. The TK girls’ team was 17th on the day in the D2 girls’ contest that included 43 teams. The Hastings girls finished in 40th place. Zeeland East senior Emma Drenk pulled away to win the D2 girls’ race in 18:03.5. Gaylordjunior Katie Berk­ shire was the runner-up in 18:12.4 and Carleton Airport senior Courtney Bovair was third in 18:19.1. The Trojans’ 17th-place finish had them sixth among the teams that will be a part of their regional later this month behind runner-up Grand Rapids Christian, sixth-place South Christian, ninth-place East Grand Rapids, the 14th-place Forest Hills Eastern girls and 16th-place Gull Lake. Drenk’s Chix won the girls’ meet with 72 points. Grand Rapids Chris­ tian was second with 109 points ahead of HollandChristian 161, Lexington 224, Spring Lake 266, South Christian 272, Adrian 320, Unity Christian 338, East Grand Rapids 342 and Shepherd 349 in the top ten. Junior Madison Kietzman was the Trojans’ number two finisher in the girls’ race Saturday with an 89th-place time of 21:20.5, a season best time for her. TK got PRs from the Gater sisters. Junior Payton placed 151st in 22:28.3 and freshman Amya was 180th in 22:55.8. Sophomore Peyton Hardy placed 100th overall for TK in 21:31.1 and sophomore Alaina McCrumb was 168th in 22:46.5. TK’s top seven also included sophomore Carmen Reyn- I»K t>.- « * * ' & If ■T A I M < L.* i. w VJ I I I ^■r r. ■tl I 4 • • ■i 4 '«»> * 3^ * « II * fc"» 4 r ' . F r 1 ■« •r < —ta 4 rI L •• s * 1 ■ -J* a** J V I .* -y Thornapple Kellogg senior Ava Crews works her way up the first big climb of the Portage Invitational course Saturday at Portage West Middle School. Photo by Brett Bremer Portage. Lexington senior Chance Basilone ran his fastest race yet to win. He came across the finish line in 15:16.8. Hol­ land Christian junior Will Engbers set his PR at 15:26.2 to place second and Parma Western junior Edison Lope man was third with a PR of 15:29.4. Allendale was led to its win by se­ nior Kilian Whalen who ran a PR of 15:38.4 to place seventh. Thomapple Kellogg’s two through six runners all finished within a minute of each other. Senior Hunter Tietz was the team’s number two. He placed 184th in 18:37.1. Sophomore Grady Galaviz was 208th in 19:04.8 and sophomore Elijah Frazer 222nd in 19:18.7. Case Dykhouse closed out the top five for TK with a 229th-place time of 19:27.6. Freshman Garrett Holzhausen was right behind in 230th with a time of 19:28.2. The TK team also had Noah Donker come in 264th with a time of 20:17.5. “Hunter, Grady, Elijah, Case, Gar rett and Noah got out the first mile well, but 1 would have preferred them to be out a little quicker just because there are so many runners running at that pace,” coach Reynolds said. “We discussed prior to the meet about get­ ting out quick and if you can’t you need to be focused and confident about continuing to move up and pass people over the remaining 10-12 minutes of the race. “At the half-mile mark the course was seven runners wide. Hunter, Grady Elijah and Noah made some great efforts over the next mile remain­ ing focused on keeping gaps from runner to runner to a minimum and looking ahead for runners to chase down. Hunter, Grady and Noah con- * tinned to move up in the field passing a few more runners over the last mile, and Case found his footing in the last mile moving up 10 spots. The Trojan boys’ coach said some of his guys were disappointed in not setting personal bests at the meet, but overall he felt like it was a great day of racing for his guys. “All the boys competed today,” Reynolds said. “They knew that the hilly Portage course and the size of the field would present them with some challenges, but I felt they did a great job staying active in the race, not set­ tling on their positions, and moving up in the field where they could.” J >9 k L I I J t ri J 4 4 » •4' > l» -:* - L&i ■ ■■ imiimoitt '■W- 1117 w ?.i- 1 • * .— Thornapple Kellogg freshman Amya Gater races to a personal record time Saturday in the Division 2 girls’ race at the Portage Invitational. Photo by Brett Bremer rx « 4 rx Compassion. Care. MKD has been a trusted neighbor and advisor for West Michigan families for more than four generations. COMMUNITY, ' Caledonia location 1 Matthysse | Kuiper | DeGraaf < FUNERAL • CREMATION • PRE-PLANNING I ■ I As a family-owned funeral home, we know how important it is to create a personal experience that honors loved ones. We’re more than funeral directors; we’re trusted friends who serve Grand Rapids area communities with a full array of services to celebrate lives. ■i '•o O z Z S 0. QC O (/) >W CD ■o • 1 o i mkdfuneralhome.com 616.724.1800 •c 0. ? ■ . ■'^ I i ’’ * I 1 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-10-19.pdf 83fac349ef4473b14342a1fd6f08e2f2 PDF Text Text •TzT/ ••• k ¥ >4 A. A r t •* s L * T • - >.* 1 « 4 • ’a « » . I > » ■4^ ^1 # » -Sl.n ‘ Rt* f > ’ 3 * « • » » h. < % •>. A • >A > < f c « »" V ’ A * •' i « f J I k' u r <i * r e * r. < »1 4 ' i s iT5 * 9 •A & THE SUN AND J > .•r I .TO- NEWS Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville. Caledonia and Games Township Areas p. U CREWS AND DRAAISMA COMPLETE OK GOLD SWEEP A r bk / 4» y J PAGES 13 • r9 - . jto c> .t .*1 NO, 28 •<z -A* . ... €► i. % •i- ----------------------- SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2024 -«(& s -’W-------L._.. . I www.sunandnews.com J He V T L i^ipfir —-------------------------- I* . p«.* jS .' f wr ■ Middleville DDA director resigns; reorganization of duties proposed « Z’V £ .5^ -MB" z 9^- V > • » • fl >f s Greg Chandler Staff Writer f h « / F J .■s I » 9 1 9 7 1 /• 1 I i The director of Middleville’s Downtown Development Authority is stepping down, shortly before an upcoming joint meeting of its board of directors with the Village Council on the future of the organization. The DDA board I'uesday accepted the resignation of Gretchen James, who had served as DDA director since June 2023, effective next Wednesday. Board President Kim Jachim said that James had accepted “an excellent opportunity that cannot be released.” James said after the meeting that she could speak publicly about her new position in another week or so. “I’m just doing what’s best for me (at this time),” she said. James becomes the fourth DDA director in less than four years to leave the village. Nichole Lyke stepped down from the role in March 2021 to return to the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance as its economic development director. Katherine Bussard followed Lyke, serving for nearly two years I. « i *♦ ■ ■ I u 4 I <* i r > I I r I f V Thornapple Kellogg Schools Superintendent Craig McCarthy announced he u • ■.UT.ZC , ” ' ---------- - will retire at the end of this year. Here, he is seen with TK board president Matt Powers (left) at Monday's board meeting. Photo by Greg Chandler t McCarthy to retire as TK superintendent Greg Chandler Staff Writer Thomapple Kellogg Schools Superintendent Craig McCarthy will retire at the end of this year. The district’s Board of Education Monday voted unanimously to accept McCarthy’s letter stating his inten­ tion to retire from the district he has served since July 2018, first as assistant superintendent, then later as interim superintendent and finally, the top administrative position he has held since January 2022 This is my 32nd year in education. 1 have 37 years in the retirement sys­ tem, and I’m not getting any younger, McCarthy said in an intei-view prior to Monday’s board meeting. My wife has been asking me for the last couple of years, ‘when are you going to retire?’ She’s not working and wants me to be around and avail­ able to do things. We’ve got five gi'andkids tJiat we are tiying to see at their events. It makes it dif­ waoa usNoisno ficult to be busy in here 1VllN3aiS3U SSMH33 (at ±e oftice). I’m here 8e8e> iw WAtwwo orc xoe od at 6:30 every morning. ^ee# liLUjed Unless there is nothing 'dt|iAua9J9 on, I ’ m here later GlVd ^v« • aovisod s n QIS ISdd at night. Just a few week.s ago, when we had all these security issues, I was emailing parents at (close to) 11 o’clock at night. I got a 4 a.m. phone call on a power outage, and then after that, we had the shelter-in-place issue (at the high school),” McCarthy added. McCarthy, 60, said during the interview that his plan to retire has been in the works for some time. “It doesn’t have anything to do with Chris (LaHaie, former assistant super­ intendent) leaving or elections or anything like that The timing, I thought, was going to be just right,” he said. Board President Matt Powers praised McCarthy’s work during his tenure at TK, calling him “a wonder­ ful asset to our schools.” “Under Mr. McCarthy’s leadership, he has made every component of Thomapple Kellogg Schools better. I cannot praise him enough,” Powers wrote in an email to the Sun and News. “He is self-driven and often takes initiative to solve problems early. He is also wonderful at looking to the future, collaborating with stakeholders and de\ eloping a plan to proceed forward in a calm and positive manner. Former board president Kristen • * « Cove expressed similar sentiments. Craig is incredibly fiscally literate with a strong passion for school finance,” Cove wrote in a text mes­ sage to the Sun and News. “There is never a good time to retire from pub­ lic service. However, it is my sincere wish that he have a fulfilling retire­ ment and that he enjoys this next season in life with his family.” McCarthy came to the TK district from Cadillac Area Public Schools, where he was director of business operations. He was recruited for the opening of assistant superintendent by Rob Blitchok, who had just taken the TK superintendent job in the spring of 2018. Blitchok was working with the school board on putting together a bond issue to address facility needs in the district and was familiar with McCarthy’s work. At the time, McCarthy was working on a $65.6 million bond issue in Cadillac. McCarthy asked Blitchok if he could wait until after the election in May of that year to discuss coming to TK. The Cadillac bond issue passed. During a celebration party to mark the passage of the bond issue later See MCCARTHY on 2 < See MIDDLEVILLE on 3 W"* I 4 f .f a. > t L 9 . / 7 e Gretchen James addressed the Middleville Downtown Development Authority Tuesday night. She announced she is stepping down as director of the board. Photo by Greg Chandler I 1 si t* �♦ •e Ir I 9 A I 1' 4 9 g' L 1* "■^7 Sb - << . A S 2 CHS senior’s artwork picked for MOOT Paint the Piow campaign 4 * wr- I f / Greg Chandler Staff Writer A Caledonia High School senior’s artwork will be featured on a Michigan Department of Transportation plow ■ 9 I 9 Caledonia High School senior Josie D. Burns was selected by the Michigan Department R ■ I Ey of Transportation to have her art piece displayed on a plow truck this winter. Photo by Greg Chandler truck this winter. Josie D. Bums’ piece, featuring a snowman lying on a beach, will be on the plow of an MDOT mainte­ nance truck based at the department’s f See PAINT on 5 * • rt 1 . •» MCCARTHY Continued from Page 1 Congratulations to Tom and Jeri Otto! * 'V .4^ I#-- II v r** V <4 *•* f> * I, I I -a W s> •S* fi 4 ❖ ^1 1, I Caledonia Farmers Elevator would like to recognize and congratulate Tom and Jeri Otto on being inducted into the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame! Thank you to the Ottos for having such dedication to their community and :u riculture. I > J*-, •J a a’’ O’* 1. • b ■5 aS I s ■P ‘xi I 1 A T* • •l . r’* al’ *1 T 1 £id »< k riTr v’—J.- .•____ ST# I?' • J. Lk f « I J H a . & A that night, McCarthy got a phone call from Blitchok. “(He said), ‘Congratulations. Can you talk now?”’ McCarthy said. “I think it made sense to him to hire somebody that had that experience (of working on bond issues).” Two months later, McCarthy started working at TK. He would play a piv­ otal role in district voters passing a $42.8 million bond issue a little more than a year later. That 2019 bond proposal made pos­ sible the construction of TK’s Early Childhood Center on Bender Road which opened in ±e fall of2022 , as well as the addition of 14 new elementary classrooms across the district. It also paid for the addition of air condi­ tioning in all learning areas, cafeteria improvements and renovations of the swimming pool at the high school and new tennis courts at the middle school. In September 2021, McCarthy was appointed to step into the role of interim superintendent after the resignation of former superintendent Dan Remenap. In • > 'T t January 2022, ±e school board unani Hi mously voted to make him the district superintendent. During his interview for the superintendent’s job, McCarthy told the school board that he intended for the position to be his last before retirement. “It was always my intent to retire from here. I wasn’t looking to job-jump or go to another position,” he said. “I was going to finish out my career here.” Now that virtually all of the proj­ ects that were made possible by pas sage of the bond issue are complete, McCarthy is ready to step aside. “I said (to Blitchok), ‘I’ll be here as long as it takes to finish the construc­ tion work of that bond campaign. ’ I feel that I’ve done that,” he said. McCarthy pointed to where the TK district has grown and improved dur ing his time as an administrator. “I think the district is very strong academically. We are making improve­ ments regularly. We’ve added all kinds of different opportunities at the second­ ary level for students - AP courses, environmental science courses, the (return) of FFA. I think academically we’re very strong. If you look at the physical facilities, we are very strong there. Everything has been updated If you look at things economically, we have a very strong fund balance (more than $9.1 million in the general fund, representing 19.7 percent of expendi­ tures, according to the district’s most recent audit). When I started here, we were just shy of 11 (percent).” McCarthy’s professional life began as a staff accountant at a firm in Southfield. He then took a senior accounting position at Spartan Stores in Grand Rapids. In the early ‘90s, he moved into the field of education as a business service technologies instructor at the Kent Career Technical Center, a position he held for 14 years. In 2007, McCarthy was hired by Northview Public Schools in suburban Grand Rapids as assistant superinten­ dent and stayed there for nine years before being hired by Cadillac Area Public Schools in 2016. He holds an associate’s degree from Grand Rapids Community College, a bach­ elor’s degree in accounting from Michigan State University, a second­ ary teaching certificate and vocation­ al teaching certificate from Aquinas College and a master’s degree from Western Michigan University. The board Monday discussed next steps, including what to do about hiring an interim superintendent and bringing on a consultant to assist the board in hiring a permanent replace­ ment for McCarthy. Board members agreed to have Powers meet with former TK superintendent Tom Enslen regarding a possible interim role. They also will likely set up a special meeting to meet with consul­ tants from the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) and Michigan Leadership Institute to discuss a search process for finding McCarthy’s permanent successor. “We’ve used both and we’ve been successful with both (consultants),” board member David Smith said. “I think it’s worth meeting with both and getting comfortable with the consul­ tants. I think it’s as much, if not more, about who the consultants are than it is which of the services (they’ll provide). McCarthy expressed gratitude to the TK community for its support of the district during his tenure. “Every district has its challenges, but I think TK, by and large, is one of the most supportive communities I’ve been involved with - great people,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed work ing with our staff and being involved with the students. Over the last three years, I ’ve had the Coffee With The Superintendent days and had a lot of great conversations with really good community members. “Those are things (that I will miss). It’s the people. It doesn’t matter what your bricks and mortar look like. If you’ve got great people, you can do great things.” e 1 > •s I. • X. • 1 k !>. I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 19, 2024 I• THE SUN AND NEWS A The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US PUBLISHED BY Editor: Molly Macleod mmacleod@mihomepaper.com Group Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer brett@j-adgraphics.conri AdvertisMg: ads@j-adgraphics.com PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. ’z*v All advertisirig in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept.. 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser's order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. ID it Pi k �1 t * 9 t I % 4 I ( •> t X * » 4 * 9 % r 4 * t I 4 I t". > A $ 1 li It www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS MIDDLEVILLE I it I k. V 1 > f 4 Continued from Page 1 Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Middleville Village Council bolstered its local street fund by $250,000 last week by approving the transfer of reserves from its general fund and major streets fund. On separate unanimous votes, the council voted to transfer $200,000 out of savings in the general fund and $50,000 out of major street fund reserves so that the village will have additional funds to take on local street reconstruction projects next year. Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg had recommended the $200,000 trans­ fer from general fund reserves to local streets in his 2025 budget proposal last week. Stolsonburg said Tuesday he would like to complete at least one local street project per year in response to a report last month from the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council, the regional plan­ ning organization for West Michigan, before resigning in Januaiy 2023. Emily Lee was hired for the position in March 2023 but resigned three weeks later for personal reasons. In response to James’ resignation. Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg has proposed a reorganization that will split up the DDA director’s duties, with Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers being offered additional responsibilities and a new job title: Director of Community and Economic Development. Stolsonburg has also proposed creating a new event coordi­ nator position who could have respon­ sibilities for community events like the Riverbank Music Series. “I’ve spoken with both the president of the Village Council (Mike Cramer), the president pro tempore (Kevin Smith), and also with Lee Young from the Michigan Mainstreet (program), who said that this could align with their mission, so that we could still move forward with becoming a Michigan Mainstreet community if both the ±e DDA board. The appointment was DDA and Village Council would be recommended by a three-member interin favor of moving in this direction,” view committee. One of those commit Stolsonburg said. tee members, Justine King, who still Powers is already working toward sits on the DDA board, said at the time maintaining the village’s status as a that she thought James would “bring a Redevelopment Ready Community fresh energy around here that we really Stolsonburg said. need.” The acceptance of James’ resignation But Cramer publicly criticized the came two weeks before a scheduled hire because James is Jachim’s niece. joint meeting of ±e DDA board and Jachim did not participate in the Village Council on Oct. 29 with a interview process and recused herself mediator to discuss issues between the from voting before the board voted to two entities. The meeting was proposed approve the hire. in response to a recommendation by Over the last few months, James has Cramer to disband the DDA board and been leading an effort to gain public replace it with the village Planning input on the future direction of the Commission. downtown area through a series of “pop­ Cramer has clashed with some up” planning events at Sesquicentennial council members over the past few Park during the Middleville Market months over appointments to the DDA and Riverbank Music Series. Among board, saying state law gives him as the most popular suggestions raised in the village’s chief executive officer the those events include encouraging more authority to make such appointments, park and greenspace improvements and while others on the council have called better promotion and marketing of the downtown. for a more collaborative approach to “The results highlight a communityfilling three existing vacancies on the driven preference for beautification board, which is supposed to have nine and recreational enhancements within members. the DDA and downtown area,” James A 2019 graduate of Hastings High wrote in a report to the board. School and 2023 graduate of Grand James will lead a similar input ses­ Valley State University with a bach­ sion with local businesses on Monday elor’s degree in anthropology and as one of her last responsibilities as public and nonprofit administration, DDA director. She thanked the board James was hired for the director’s posi for its support during her tenure in her tion on May 26, 2023, on a 5-0 vote by Saturday, October 19, 2024 that showed nearly two-thirds of Mid­ dleville’s 18.6 miles ofroadway were in poor condition. “Similar to the condition of our streets, our savings to maintain the local streets through the local street fund is in signifi­ cantly worse condition than our ability to maintain our major streets,” Stolsonburg wrote in a memo to the council. “To that end, I recommend shoring up the local street fluid by transferring additional funds from the general fund whenever the village is in good financial condition to do so.” Stolsonburg has proposed reconstruc­ tion of Irving Road from Main Street to the village well as the village’s top local street project for next year. The village ended last year with au dited general fund reserves ofmore than $1.82 million, while its local street fund had an audited fund balance ofmore than $555,000 at the end of last year, accord­ ing to village documents. The village is also proposing to trans- closing comments. “I’m really appreciative and grateful for this opportunity,” she said. “It’s been a positive experience, in learning 3 fer $750,000 from its Local Develop­ ment Finance Authority to local streets, according to the 2025 budget proposal.’ The Grand Valley Metro Council ear­ lier this summer performed an analysis ofthe village’s road network, using what is called the Pavement Surface Evalu­ ation and Rating (PASER) system to grade the condition ofits streets. The vil­ lage received an average PASER rating of4.2 on a 10-point scale, which fell into the “poor” category. About 12.2 miles of village streets were rated “poor,” defined by a PASER rating of 1 to 4, according to the GVMC report. The vast majority of streets that re­ ceived a poor rating were local residential streets, although it also included the por­ tion ofMain Street east ofthe Thomapple River downtown, Irving Road south of Main, Green Lake Road west of Bender Road and Crane Road from M-37 to Grand Rapids Street, according to the GVMC report. how to grow in my professional self. I’m very excited for my future endeav­ ors, but I would be remiss if I didn’t See MIDDLEVILLE on 8 9 _L ■!" at A Iz • JgS is ill S’ h*6 _______ f vjT.^H . • •JZl— lllfi w. r 1 - 15 * 1^* V k OCTOBER 3f^ r r w--.^ L7-J Free INDDDR Trick er Treating fbcmiddlEville.net FIRST 15215 N M-37 Hwy. BAPTIST Middleville ** < ' S: I» ■ » I ^*7 f 1 I isgfi 1^ ISA* 1^ t 1 ). w* I " I* II U 3- e '< 1 ( i Middleville council taps reserves to bolster funding for local street fixes !}* 17 < « �<1 4 I 4 ««•' 'a 1 - A.. For over three decades, Dave contributed his skills as a machinist at Ventra, where he Obituaries S-, . A David William Thorington, age 66, of Middleville, Ml, passed away unexpectedly on October 10, 2024. He was born to the late John and Shirley (Cole) Thorington on March 5,1958, in Grand Rapids. Dave’s life was one of commitment and joy, exemplified by his loving marriage to Catherine I k_ 4' s was not only a valued employee E but also a friend to many. An avid outdoorsman, Dave found solace and excitement in nature and Up North. He was happiest with a fishing pole in hand, while tracking wildlife through the woods, or riding his side-by-side on the trails. His passion for the outdoors extended to tending to his yard and taking joyrides on his Harley. Dave’s enthusiasm for outdoor adventures was only matched by his love for r . .’’^y S,. David William Thorington ■ I i < ■ft ■'4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS___________ > y r # A Ul Saturday, October 19, 2024 Ann Riley, whom he married on August 21, 1993. Together they raised a family that includes, children Jarrod (Brandy) Thorington, Camron (Jen) Thorington, Jake Thorington, and Molly Slagel. He was a cherished grandfather to Garry, Gracelynn, Adalynn, Skylar, and Lucas. He is also survived by his siblings John (Vai) Thorington, Terry (Julie) Thorington, Pam (Mike) Salamore, Sue Smith, Rick (Kim) Thorington, and many nieces and nephews. . -.J ' ■■ J the Detroit Lions and Tigers, whose games he never missed. Dave’s infectious laugh and zest for life made him beloved by many. He was a man who loved deeply, from his family and grandkids to his wide circle of friends. Dave’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Please visit www. beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Dave’s family J- A 35^0 1 At’’ I 1 ^ir*i LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY ,*7 .4 < * 4^ J A ALASKA BAPTIST CHURCH Caledonia United Metho dist Church -■« cornerstonechurch www.alaskabaptist.org 7240 68th Street SE. Caledonia FIRST BAPTIST Middleville Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist Connecting Good Shepherd ^3^ Lutheran Church HOLY FAM ILY jr CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) 7 III t' t 1 1. Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville A A e 4 Me __ _ __ ___ FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 JOURNEY CHURCH 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages.com Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Church: (269) 795-2391 MPEACE CHURCH «» Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. r a: X. I wn <-<. I * Caledonia Location PEACECHURCH.ee 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee Middleville Location * 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: Sunday School Sunday at 9:30ain & 11 «)am 20 State Street, Mickfleviile, Ml ! w^/^.t^cweb.co Sunday Worship IL @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Yankee Springs Bible Church e •• 9:30 AM 10:30 AM iBar Watch our services from our wetxite (see above) i I ? p •• 7 >3 .1 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend ^4? I W I t 4 r 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Sunday Worship 1; 4^4 I .Y'- Sunday Service 10:30 AM .. .1 *2 A service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. Strengthening * Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & nam Join us for our traditional yet casual worship Serving I V r’c;-.’ X 250 Vine Street 9 I «• > —i Rev. Christine Beaudoin Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM r'' 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 ”Shlnsng Forth God's Ligfit Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... f* 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.oi^ I 1 i Michael Kilmartin Michael Kilmartin, age 68, of Caledonia went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, Oct. 9,2024. Michael was a loving husband, father, and papa. Michael cherished the memories he had with his family, from coaching his boys in sports when they were little, to hunting and fishing, and more recently playing dress up with his precious granddaughters. He was a member of HolyFamily Parish for many years. He also was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Michael was known for his kind heart and was able to touch so many lives. Michael was a joy to be around and always had a smile on his face. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosemary Kilmartin. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Judy; children, Corey and Laura Kilmartin, Matt and Markesa Kilmartin; grandchildren, Paige, Reese, Logan, and Giorgina; two brothers; two sisters; father, Edmund Kilmartin; many nieces and nephews A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024 at Holy Family Church, 9669 Kraft Ave. SE. Caledonia, with Rev. Michael R. Cilibraise presiding. Burial was held at St. Joseph Cemetery. Th()se who wish may make memorial contributions to Holy Family Catholic Church or a charity of your choice. Condolences may be sent onliqp at www.mkclfuneralhome.com. Arrangements made by Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home. 616 E. Main St. SE. Caledonia. Ml. �.J 1 r I I ' f t I * 1 J *» I i www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS PAINT rs s I L *. • < I k 11 4 Continued from Page 2 Obituary maintenance garage in Hastings. Her entry was selected as part of a contest for MDOT’s Paint the Plow campaign, which gives high school students from around the state an opportunity to create artwork that would adorn one of its plows. The contest promotes a selected safety theme that MDOT wants to highlight. This year’s theme is “Go hands-free. Just drive. It’s the law,” which encourages drivers to refrain from using their cell phones while they are behind the wheel in response to a law passed last year that makes it illegal to hold and use electronic device while driving in Michigan. CHS art teacher Evan Chamberlin saw an email from MDOT promot­ ing the contest earlier this year and encouraged Bums to apply. “When it came around to submit (entries), he was (suggesting), ‘you should submit a design.’ I didn’t think that I would win, so I thought ‘whatever. I’m bored, I’ll do it,”’ Bums said. J r i .• to _ r I I’ 3 < 5 »<v r -U ii * 'C J ' Herbert Ray McCulligh A Celebration of Life Gathering for Herbert Ray McCulligh, who passed away September 27, 2024, will be held Saturday October 26, 2024, at 2 p.m., Bradford White Union Hall (UAW Local 1002, 308 Washington St., Middleville, Ml 49333). Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. Leave a condolence at www. girrbachfuneralhome.net. Middleville motorcyclist killed in Caledonia Twp. crash Saturday, October 19, 2024 Chamberlin said that he often receives emails from different organi­ zations that hold contests to encourage students to submit art entries. “We get a lot of those (emails) throughout the year, different contest opportunities where kids can use their skills and advocate for different causes or bring attention to something important,” he said. Bums, who turns 18 next Saturday, says she doesn’t like winter, so she didn’t want to create a “super-wintry” theme for her project. So she came up with a beach-themed design and included a snowman lying on the sand. Bums said she spent 45 minutes to an hour after school, 2-3 times a week over a period of four weeks to com­ plete her entry. She also got a little help from her friends along the way, as seniors Alexis Hammock and Bailey Postema and junior Ella DeVries assisted her in finishing the project. “She did a really great job with it,” Chamberlin said. Launched last year, the Paint the Plow program is open to all Michigan high schools, including technical and vocational education schools. Students are invited to sub- Greg Chandler Staff Writer A 66-year-old motorcyclist from Middleville is dead after a crash last week in Caledonia Township. David William Thorington was killed in the crash that took place shortly before 5 p.m. on Oct. 10 at the intersection of 68th Street and Patterson Avenue. Deputies from the Kent County Sheriffs Office, assisted by the Caledonia Fire Department and LIFE EMS responded to a two-vehicle crash at that intersection. A preliminary investigation by KCSO showed a 68-year-old Hudsonville woman was driving a silver Chevrolet Impala westbound on 68th when she turned southbound onto Patterson. As she turned southbound, she collided head-on with an eastbound HarleyDavidson motorcycle that was driven by Thorington, Sgt. Kailey Gilbert of KCSO said in a news release. Life-saving measures were attempted, but Thorington was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Impala suffered minor injuries, Gilbert said. This incident remains under inves tigation by the KCSO Traffic Safety Unit, Gilbert said. * cornerstonechurch we re casual, come as vou are fl f 1 * W-. •i f One Church • Three Locations Caledonia | Grand Rapids I Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! □ □ □U ■ I ■ B Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! mit a creative and original design, reflecting their individual school while promoting driver safety. “We’ve got nicknames for our frucks. This one (that will have Bums’ design) is ‘Snobodies Business,”’ MDOT Grand Region spokesman John Richard said. For more information about the pro­ gram, visit michigan.gov/mdoL/travci/ safety/road-users/winter-safety/paintthe-plow. 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OTHER I /cornerstonemi @cornerstonemi 5 2022 Ice Bear Moped 3 wheeler less than 50 miles. $1800.00 616-299-2536 �I ♦ 4 6 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 19, 2024 Four candidates running for three seats on TK school board Greg Chandler Staff Writer This week, the Sun and News con­ tinues a series of election previews where we ask candidates their stand on various issues. Three candidates are running for two available six-year seats on the Thomapple Kellogg Schools Board of Education, while one candidate is seeking a two-year term on the school board. Runing for a six-year term are incumbent Krissy Hooson and challengers Keara Hilton and Katie Stanton. Newcomer Mark Price is run­ ning unopposed for a two-year seat. Incumbent board president Matt Pow­ ers did not seek re-election and another incumbent who was appointed to the board earlier this year, Jeff Dickman, also chose not to run. The Sun andNews had apreview ofthe Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education election in its Oct. 12 edition, and will preview the Middleville Village Council in its Oct. 26 edition. Name: Keara Hilton Occupation: Franchise deal coordi­ nator for Fortune 500 company Why are you running for school board? What are your priorities? As a 20-year resident and a mother of five daughters, I have vested interest in the success ofour school district. I have always been involved in my daughters’ academic and athletic endeavors and feel that, with my youngest graduat­ ing in 5 years and my career having provided more availability, this is the perfect time to seek election onto our board of education. I have the unique ability to be able to compare where we, as a district, once were to where we currently are. We have drifted from a standard of excel•1^ > ■ f t ..i A ♦ *• Si LIGHT mCK PUTS I / J? USED nUTS • FIM OPS • WE TUNS • VMS • SOTS • IHFS • 4X4S 3 269-381-2300 I USED PARTS USED TIRES I.-/ 4» *. A .7^ >T ’ s ■ A^fenno Men * Antenna Men • ' * J*. T I 1011 LAKE ST, KALAMAZOO » / * » F FULL SERineE & YOU PULI IT 1 . lent brand standards. I hope to bring my diverse skillsets and experiences to our district. What do you see as the role of the board in providing a safe school environment? What changes would you propose, if any, to improve the safety of the school environment? As a board member, ensuring the ut­ most safety and security for our district is a top priority of mine. In research ing options of safety measures, and in speaking with other board members tl^oughout the state of Michigan, I would like to discuss contracting a se­ curity firm such as Fortis Group, which hires local retired military and retired law enforcement officers to work in our buildings on a daily basis, pos sibly with concealed protection while in plain clothes, and interacting and building relationships with our students and staff. This daily presence would give these officers the unique ability to bond and become trusted resources for our children and staff. Direct access to information and early detection of warning signs is crucial in the district’s security as a whole. I believe in a proactive approach to protecting our children. I feel that, if banks and politicians can be protected by regularly present professional secu­ rity, then our children most definitely deserve the same care, ifnot more focus on the protection of their lives while in our care. Security should be one of our top priorities when budgeting and I hope to share my ideas with the board if elected. What role do you feel parents have in relation to the board? What can be done, as a board, to address concerns parents may have about a particular issue? Ifelected, I will take my oath ofoffice seriously, which includes my adherence to follow our state and federal constitutions. In 2022, a bill signed into 0 law by Gov. Whitmer was 1 passed acknowledging parents’ rights and in­ cluded a clause from the • Digital TV Antennas • Stariink installs • Towers Michigan Constitution on • Cellular Enhancement Systems the role of religion and morality in education. Give us a call! *//Su,Sfef The law says parents and 269-967-8241 CBufrfP)) WG- , guardians have a “ natural www.theantennamen.com SIG antennamen@gmail.com fundamental right” to di www.cellsignalpros.com rect their children’s edu- lence that made us stand out above the rest. My goal is to bring the focus back to the basics, while investing our time, energy, and funding on academic advancement. My hope is to help our staff feel honored, heard, and respected by their leadership team and for our admins and teachers to have the best possible tools and resources available to them to achieve their highest optimal level ofperformance and achievement. It’s time to get TK back on track! What skills and experiences do you offer that have prepared you to serve as a board member? My many years of work experience, both within the district and throughout the state of Michigan, qualifies me to represent our district as a member of our school board. Serving on multiple boards has given me insight and experience that adds to my qualifications. I proudly serve as a member of the TK Reproductive Health Advisory Board for the past two years. In addition, I am the Secretary for the Board of Directors with the Alpha Women’s Center, where my adminis­ trative experience has helped us during a time of transition. Furthermore, I proudly served on the Thomapple Area Parks and Recreation Board. For 17 years of running an interna­ tional student exchange program, I was the acting Michigan Director, working closely with high school administra­ tors, counselors, and teachers at TK and schools throughout the state of MI. My collaboration with Michigan high schools helped to ensure the best academic outcomes for the hundreds of students who studied under my care. I currently work remotely, as a Fran­ chise Deal Coordinator for a Fortune 500 company, helping franchisees across the U.S. reach their entrepre­ neurial goals while maintaining excel- * 8. ■. r w - * I cation. Article Eight of the Michigan Constitution says, “religion, morality and knowledge” are necessary to “good government.” In taking my oath of office, I fully intend to embrace the level of authority given to parents in the education of their children. Without the support and guidance of the parents, our teachers are left carrying a responsibility that was not intended for them to uphold. Let’s make space for teachers to use their unique skills and knowledge to foster a positive environment for every child, while providing support of parents and administrators. At times, parents have felt a barrier between themselves and the TK Administration for critical deci­ sions being made about our children. I plan to prioritize a culture of part nership and respect. This starts with much-needed transparency. The schools have implemented policies and programs supportive of diversity, equity and inclusion and social-emotional learning. What is your view of such programs? I feel that our schools are better served when teachers are allowed to teach the subject matter that they are entrusted to teach such as reading, writ­ ing, comprehension, science, math­ ematics, technology, arts, and the like. If our extremely talented teachers were allowed to focus their full attention on teaching the subject matter at hand, our children could flourish academically and be better prepared for their futures. Why should we vote for you? As a Middleville resident for 20 years and a devoted wife and mother of five amazing daughters, I am eager and passionate about seeing our district improve and grow. I am grounded in my love for Christ and am eager to serve my community in this capacity. Name: Krissy Hooson Occupation: Director ofOperations, Helen De Vos Children’s Hospital 1. Serving on the Board of Education these past 3 years has been a privilege. TK is an incredible school district, and I feel immense pride in our Middleville community, which continues to call me to serve as a school board member. I enjoy giving back to the district that has poured so much into my children. These next few years will be challeng­ ing to navigate with the new admin­ istration in central office and adding See SEATS on 7 * ( �I II I, f I www.sunanclnews.com SEATS Continued from Page 6 two new members to an already young board; strong, experienced board lead­ ership will be critical to the district. As Thomapple Kellogg Schools continue to grow, academic excellence should be a priority, along competitive wages to maintain and recruit talented staff. Setting goals that support our robust strategic plan and hiring a dynamic leader to replace Mr. McCarthy will continue this progress. Ifre-elected, I will continue to ensure that Thomapple Kellogg School dis­ trict is serving the needs of all students. I am committed to our mission, “En­ couraging and developing the greatest potential of each student.” 2. I have been in healthcare for 23 years, with the past 18 of those years in a leadership role. The experiences I bring to the board table include, but are not limited to, policy development ^d implementation, listening to learn, in-depth knowledge of budgets and fmancial statements, contract negotia­ tion, facility improvement and growth, and active engagement in leadership accountability. I am actively involved in the hiring process as well as participating in crucial conversations to bring team members up to their highest potential. I was appointed to the TK board ofedu­ cation in 2021 and elected in 2022.1 have f educational credits through the Michigan Association of School' Boards ~ ' (MASB) and have attended several webinars and conferences to gain additional knowledge and skills. I am also a board trustee for several local non-profit orga­ nizations and bring numerous years of board experience. 3. The district makes all schools safe and secure for students and staff by in­ vesting resources. Currently, the district has two retired police officers serving as school resource officers monitoring all the buildings. In 2021, the district up­ graded building security by adding ad­ ditional cameras and narrowing points ofentry into buildings. In 2022 the board approved the addition of cameras in the school buses as well as upgrading the wireless infrastructure in the middles school and high school. In 2023, the board approved an investment into the wireless infrastructure of the remaining school buildings. In addition, all staff receive ALICE active shooter response training on an armual basis. Investment in resources for the security of our students and mental I I » fl I 4 » n I 9 9 4 r A 4 THE SUN AND NEWS security for all students and staff is implemented effectively and with fidel­ essential. TK has done an incredible ity is essential. This involves providing job doing just that these past few years adequate training for teachers and staff, by investing in additional counselors, creating a supportive school culture, and licensed social workers and behavioral involving families in the process. inten/entionalist. As a board member, I believe that DEI and SEE programs it is important to recognize these needs have the potential to significantly im in our district, ensuring that resources prove students’ lives and enhance a are allocated in the annual budget; and, positive school environment. once decisions are made, endure that Name: Katie Stanton the superintendent executes the plans. Occupation: Licensed Substitute 4. Parents are the child’s first teach­ Teacher in Michigan, Board of Review ers. Many studies have highlighted the Member, Community Servant correlation between student success 1. Greetings TK School District com­ and parent and teacher/district col­ munity! I am running for TK School laboration. Everyone should be on the Board Member. Speaking and voting on same team, communicating openly and behalf of our community would be an working towards a common goal. honor. I will dedicate the time and quality To address parents’ concerns, the of work necessary to raise the bar at TK. board of education can inspire the I currently have children who are at­ superintendent to implement tactics tending 2 schools in the district. In addi­ to establish open communication, tion, there are many students who I feel encourage parent involvement, and are like extended family and care about honor transparency. The district has them dearly. It’s a goal that everybody implemented open forums with the at TK will get exceptional education superintendent and weekly newsletters with the resources to thrive to the best from building leadership to establish of their ability. open communication channels. The During my time as a direct care/CNA board should continue to support these worker, it was great to see residents exefforts and encourage additional com­ celling to the best of their ability. While munication venues. One such venue attended college as a double major in is parent advisory committees. These Business Administration and Elemen­ tary Education, I was a substitute for committees can provide a platform for many school districts as a teacher, secreparents to discuss issues directly with tary, paraprofessional, librarian. There, I administrators. To promote parent in­ notice stren^hs and weaknesses within volvement, the board can actively seek input from parents through surveys and school districts. I have always had a car­ ing heart and wanted students to thrive focus groups. to the best of their ability. It is also the boards responsibility A priority of mine is to keep students, to make informed decisions through teachers etc. safe while at school. The research and analysis, gathering data to ability to learn is hindered unless one address the concerns brought forward. feels safe. I have discussed my ideas with This data should be used to inform Sheriff Dar to raise the bar of safety at decisions, propose solutions, and com­ TK.Heagreedandwewillworktogether municate transparently with parents. with other board members to make it By implementing some of these happen. This idea will keep budget lower strategies, the board can build trust while sustaining an environment where with parents, improve the quality of education, and create a positive learn­ ing environment for all students. 5. Implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and social-emotional learning (SEE) in schools is a positive step towards fos­ tering a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. These programs can help to break down stereotypes, promote empathy, FAHI99 BUREAU and create a sense of belonging for all M8URAWE* /Keu/*o^ce> students. They can also equip students with the necessary skills to navigate a diverse world and build healthy rela­ Jason Parks (269) 795-8827 tionships. 121 E. Main Street jparks@fbinsmi.com Downtown Middleville FarmBureauInsurance.com However, ensuring these programs are Your local agent insures your A Saturday, October 19, 2024 7 students and staff can thrive without worry. Elect KT for TK, I have the heart to serve our community, giving it the quality time and knowledge necessary to serve as your representative at TK School Board. 2.1 have always wanted to see every­ body thrive to the best of their ability. While attending college I was a double major in Business Administration and Elementary Education. I learned about fiscal discipline, analyzing spreadsheets, different learning philosophies and styles, the duties of each part of the school system, we created a playground, etc. I enjoy learning and will never stop. While attending college, I became a part time CNA(Certified Nursing Assis­ tant) and subbed as a teacher, paraprofes­ sional, teacher’s aide, secretary, librar­ ian for multiple school districts. This allowed me to acknowledge strengths and weaknesses within different school districts. The experiences in the nursing and educational field along with gained knowledge has prepared me to give out-of-the-box ideas for the betterment of the district. Today, I thoroughly enjoy being very active in the community as a Board See SEATS on 10 I I I I k ?. furnace tLNEEP I r 1 «uu II . ■ A • I ilI I I I I I I I I I I I I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments I on qualifying equipment I I It. f>l e'. •» Ss I ■ 4 • •* t A : J • ■ 'iv iW I i FRONTIER » HEATING 8 COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia - 616-891-8900 ■ �I X. ezrwill 'W ■41— !■ »b. 'J>i •Ssfi. 4 • * v if- * & --S-5 V: * •> .* ■ •* • > 1 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 19, 2024 i/ \ E 8 r> f www.sunandnews.com Gaines Township officials prepare for general election James Gemmell Contributing Writer You can expect a high voter turnout at the polls in Gaines Charter Township on Nov. 5. The township has ordered more than 100 percent of the ballots needed to cover all registered voters. The extra ones will be used if voters choose to spoil a ballot before election day. The polls for the general election will be open Nov. 5 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The voter registration deadline is Oct. 21 for online and mail voting, and Nov. 5 for in-person registration. Early voting will take place at the township hall, 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., each day from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 pm. From Oct. 26 through Nov. 3. The required public accuracy test was held on Tuesday, Oct. 15. “The Public Accuracy Test is re­ quired by law so that the public can observe a set of test ballots go through a tabulator with the results matching a ballot chart that has been created,” Township Clerk Michael VETERAN’S TRUCK LINE INC. In Marshall, Ml is now accepting applications for: TRUCK DRIVERS • Night Drivers • Paid health benefits • Hourly rate $24.00 hr. after 6 months $25.00 hr. • Time & 1/2 over 40 hours • 401 (k) w/contribution • Drive newer equipment • Paid vacations/holidays • Paid life/disability • Must have Class A CDL and pass medical/drug screen CALL NOW DIRECT (262) 539-4460 ASK FOR DON <Go to www.vetstruck.com for applications. are the reasons the deadline to spoil ballots was changed to Friday, Oct. 25. “Scenarios exist where a voter wants to spoil a ballot that has already been ‘voted’ in preprocessing or ‘voted’ in early voting,” Brew said. Earlier this month, Michigan Attor­ ney General Dana Nessel charged four assistant clerks in Macomb County’s St. Clair Shores with altering the State Qualified Voter File. She said they designated absentee ballots that were filled out and returned as being rejected, rather than received. That led to poten­ tial double voting. “A voter who requests, receives and returns their absent-voter ballot — and whose ballot was accepted by the clerk after the voter’s signature was found to match the signature on file with the clerk — cannot request that their ballot be spoiled on election day. This type of voter is not eligible to cast a bal­ lot at their precinct on election day,” Nessel said. New requirements have added more seals on election equipment to ensure ballots have not been tampered with after they have been processed. New regulations stipulate how a voter can use a curing process to cor­ rect signature discrepancies, if it has been rejected. “Clerks do their best to contact voters when their signatures do not match what is on file with the Secretary of State data­ base, voter Master Card, and received ap­ plications,” Brew said. “All ofthe parties involved are working to make sure the latest signature is stored to be matched. Everyone’s signature changes with age and life events. We do our best to make sure changes are noted and stored. It is up to our judicial branch of government to investigate and pursue any indication of a fraudulent signature.” Mid-October is the busiest time for clerks in the election-preparation cycle, as machines are programmed and tested. “It takes many hours to do so - late nights and overtime for hourly employ­ ees,” Brew said. Caledonia jeweler celebrates 75th anniversary erenga does all of its design, custom and engraving work in-house. The company has seven employees. VanderLugt has no plans to retire anytime soon. “I’ve got a good staff, an experienced staff. I love what I do,” he said. Brew explained. He spent several days preparing for that process. That includes making sure that every tabulator, voter-assistance terminal and absentee ballot high-speed tabulator is tested. Only random ones are checked in the public accuracy test. “I usually have someone from the audience choose (them) the night of the test,” Brew said. The election commission tests the chosen machines to verify the clerk staff test.” Three buildings will be used to host two precincts on election day: Gaines Township Hall, Heritage Baptist Church and Ada Bible Church. Gaines Township has chosen not to pre-process absentee ballots this year. “We may preprocess ballots in future elections based on the results of other communities,” Brew said. “We did not feel Gaines Township wouldreap enough benefits from preprocessing this year due to the (many) new requirements and pro­ cedures that would need to be learned.” Early voting and ballot processing Greg Chandler Staff Writer Swierenga Jewelers in Caledonia is marking a milestone anniversary this month. The business located at 9369 Cherry Valley Ave. SE in the Caledonia Vil­ lage Center turns 75 years old this month, with the last 25 of those years in Caledonia. Barney Swierenga started the com­ pany in 1949 on Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids, repairing watches and shavers. The following year, Swierenga hired a young watchmaker named Tu nis VanderLugt and moved the business to the Alger Heights neighborhood of Grand Rapids. Then in the 1960s, Tunis VanderLugt purchased the jeweler from Swierenga when the original owner decided to retire. current owner Tom VanderLugt said. “We kept the name Swierenga be cause it was an established business, and there’s no sense changing the OB name to something unfamiliar,” Tom VanderLugt said. Tom VanderLugt became part of the business at the age of 10. He and his younger brother would help their father by performing such chores as cleaning the glass, vacuuming and emptying waste baskets at the end of the business day. Later, Tom learned how to repair jewelry, as well as engraving and sol­ dering. He also earned certification as a gemologist. In the mid- 1980s, he pur­ chased the businesses from his father. VanderLugt credits the success of Swierenga Jewelers to personal atten tion and building relationships with customers. Sometimes, grandchildren of past customers will visit the shop to purchase jewelry, he said. “We love Caledonia. The community has been very supportive of us, and we want to support the community,” VanderLugt said. In addition to selling jewelry, Swi- MIDDLEVILLE Continued from Page 3 thank all of you as well as all the businesses and the staff and all the individuals who have been of sup­ port in my time with the DDA.” In response, several board members praised James for her perfor mance and said that she would be missed. “I think that you’ve done an amaz­ ing job in the last year,” King said. “Even when I look back in the year prior to that, we went through a lot of stuff, you really got us all back on track and I really appreciate that.” “I wish you all the best,” board member Kortney Lull added. “I think you’re going to do awesome with whatever you’re doing next.” �I I • * £ 1 9 I 1 4. .V y^vjw.swandnews.com 'J 4 • ! THE SUN AND NEWS I lb t ( < I Saturday, October 19, 2024 Gaines Township ceiebrates heritage at sun-splashed fall festival 5^ .'.n 1 9 r. T. 4? X I k I James Gemmell Contributing Writer There seemed to be a little bit of ev­ erything to enjoy Saturday at the annual Fall Heritage Festival outside Gaines Township Hall. Whether it was Gaines Historical Society president Shirley Bruursema’s homemade bread, Mary TegethofTs mobile petting zoo or Daniel Kamp’s vintage 1959 Gaines Township fire truck, there was a lot to check out on a sunny, somewhat chilly and windy day at the corner of Kalamazoo Avenue and 84th Street. Bruursema chairs the annual event, which once again drew steady crowds from its beginning at 9 a.m. until its finish at 3 p.m. “I think it turned out very good, she said. “I would’ve liked a few more tractors ... but everybody is happy to be here. Of course, our highlight is the old fire truck down there.” Kamp, the longtime Dutton firefight­ er, and his son recently bought the 1959 Chevrolet Spartan 100 fire truck that somebody had found sitting on a lot in Brighton. They got it running and drove it back to Dutton. The American Fire Apparatus Company in Battle Creek converted the vehicle into a fire truck. It was built for heavy-duty commercial applications. Donations are being sought to help Kamp restore it closer to its original condition and pay the cost. A hot dog roast was held during the Heritage Fes­ tival to help raise some of those funds. Several other fire trucks from Dutton were on display, as well. Cutlerville/Dutton Fire Lieutenant Darryl Oliver was enjoying the festival. “A beautiful day and we’re just out here passing out some fire safety stuff for the kids and the families,” he said. As always, Maiy’s Country Critters were a big hit with the children and parents. “It’s been very busy all morning. Lots of people,” Tegethoff said. She owns the mobile petting zoo, and brought along two sheep, a mini horse, a miniature donkey, a Mini Rex rabbit, a chick and two goats. One of them has bright blue eyes and is named Bluey. There was live country music, a hot dog roast, and former Olympic track star Brian Diemer even read from a book i *o . * I * X- 1 i - A J « A. 7 £ I: *• ..flB Al > . »/ - • ri •u«A M I 3 h ^4 1 4 r* f r f The 1959 vintage Gaines Township fire truck that Dutton firefighter Dan Kamp and son recently bought was on display at the Fall Heritage Festival. Photos by James Gemmell 1 « 7 I. \Xs > Bl t a I A 111 K i k < • ♦ • '5r/i k. r >- he wrote about a fictional wolf at the adjacent Prairie Wolf Park. Kids’ games, a historic lumberjack encampment, display tables and good conversation with firefighters and Kent County SherifTs deputies all contrib­ uted to the festive atmosphere. Judith Saigeon ofFlorida was in town visiting family. She stopped by the Fall Heritage Festival and talked about what she enjoyed. “I like the petting zoo. I just bought a necklace. I like all the handmade things that people are selling,” she said. Harry Werkema is a local resident who attended. “It’s pretty nice. We thought we’d come over here and see what’s going on. I hadn’t been to one before, so this was the first time,” he said. Gaines Township Clerk Michael Brew, his wife Kimberly and their two sons stopped by the festival. “Nice setup. Nice attendance, a little breezy,” Michael said. “It’s always fun to just get outside and support the people that are running the booths and the community,” Kimberly said. Gaines Chamber of Commerce president Barb Nauta participated in the festivities. “It’s an exciting festival for this community Shirley does an amazing job at putting it together. It’s a little bit windy out here but you know what? Everybody’s having a great time with the music and the hayride wagon going around with the kids (in the park) and a lot of fun vendors out here,” she said. f 'y' Are you creative? — NOW HIRING — GRAPHIC DESIGNER View Newspaper Group is seeking a lull-time graphic artist. — MONDAY THRU FRIDAY • IN OFFICE • NO WEEKENDS This role is ideal for individuals who are passionate about graphic design with a keen eye for quality graphics. Must have working knowledge of Adobe InDesign and PhotoShop (PC) - Illustrator a plus! Responsibilities include: • Newspaper advertising design • Some newspaper composition/layout We love what we do and we know you will too! /Ire yof/ the person we need? Send your resume to Graphics Manager Jennifer Ward atjward@tctimes.com and let's find out! I The County Press Lapeer Area View Genesee County View Huron County View Sanilac County News Your Buyer’s Guide Jeffersonian Group Tri-County Times Daily News Tri-County Citizen ■iS Oxford Leader Lake Orion Review Clarkston News > The Citizen 7? The Lowell Ledger » The Hastings Banner W Buyer's Guide & News The Sun and News Ad-Visor & Chronicle Battle Creek Shopper News * The Reminder IVe a/ie a growing company of 21 community newspapers serving 15 Michigan counties that are delivered weekly to more than 335,000 households with an additional500,000 monthly online readers. '4-*: �•« — < > II I ■ ■ *1 I Ar* ^">T ( »• •tl • 5 >* Ar* ; 4 a » 4* 4 f h 4 « * » w.» J V: J i. jr^ '* • 41 10 • THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 19, 2024 z Continued from Page 7 See VOTE on 19 ’T5 F’ i, 4 ru 1 1 ,< z V 3 ll ♦ ? AV 1 Scan our QR code i to find your perfect invitation! • M' < I V jOa' - ' * A * iti •. *. • ► I HR* ^^S’uVk’ « SEATS company is the largest operator of car washes in the United States, havingjust opened its 500th location nationally, director of project management Chris Campbell said. Some issues that had been raised when the car wash was proposed earlier this summer still remain unresolved, such as the possibility of ice buildup on the road in front of the entrance in the winter, potential stormwater drain­ age problems and the removal of trees from the property. Township Planner Lynee Wells expressed concern about ice buildup on an adjacent road after visiting a Mister Car Wash location in Byron Center shortly after receiving plans for the proj ect last winter. “It continues to be a concern,” Wells told commissioners. “So I think it’s something to discuss and learn more about, since M-37 is ... an urban high­ way compared to 841h Street (where the Byron Center location is).” Greg Chandler Staff Writer With its chairman absent, the CaledoniaTownship Planning Commission deadlocked last week on two different votes on a site plan proposal and special land use request for a car wash next to the Culver’s fast-food restaurant on M-37. An initial motion to reject the pro­ posal for a Mister Car Wash on a 1.66acre parcel of land at 6675 Broadmoor Ave. SE ended in a 3-3 tie. Then a subsequent motion to approve the site plan and special land use deadlocked at 3-3. After that, commissioners voted to table the proposal until a fixture meet ing, most likely in November. The site is zoned for highway commercial use. Mister Car Wash has proposed a 6,500-square-foot building that cars will go through to get washed, with the tunnel being 160 feet in length, and 12 vacuums for its customers to clean out their vehicles. The Tucson, Ariz.-based r*^ ,0 * Car wash project in Caledonia Twp. in limbo after tie vote s www.sunandnews.com ] J I h|. • I K of Review member, TK Reproductive Health Advisory Board member. Memo­ rial Day parade Committee Member vol­ unteer and recently becoming a Rotary member. In addition, it’s always been a joy to me coaching youth basketball for the last few years. Getting to know many family’s values at the board meetings as well as going door-to-door to over one thousand homes, allows me to truly know what TK residents care about. My family and I love our community and want to embrace it by getting involved. 3.1 will embrace the important role of safety to the Board of Education. In order for students to thrive, they need to feel safe at school. After discuss­ ing with Sherilf Dar (Leaf) my ideas to raise the bar of safety standards at TK, he agreed and is willing to work together with other school board mem­ bers to make it a smooth process. Since the state budget lowered the safety budget drastically, we need out-ofthe-box ideas to keep this area of the budget lower, while sustaining a safe environment where students, teachers etc. can thrive without worry. Elect KT for TK to raise the safety bar at TK. 4. The parents/caregivers and resi dents of the TK School District are our stakeholders. Their values should show through the school board members decisions. The school board members should be making it a point to allowing stakeholders voices to be heard. This can be done by sending out a question­ naire, allowing more and or additional time to speak during board meetings, allowing more open dialogue between board members and stakeholders, and last, but not least, providing detailed in formation on agendas so that residents are able to speak before the board mem bers vote. Their voices should weigh on our shoulders as board members and taken seriously when voting. 5. Social-emotional learning will continue to be important at each school. It’s pivotal that students have help coping with stressors by providing a specialized adult for each TK school to facilitate a positively healthy form ofrelief fortheir students’ experiences. For instances of bullying, it would be nice to have an approach tailored to the root cause of the issue, not totally fo cused on the actions that occurred after, though that matters. Getting to the root cause of the negative behavior with the . . parties involved and going over expecta­ «« % & II '•Jt Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. f PRINTING BY A > www.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com tions of how to act appropriately when the students see each other during the school day, are some things that should be addressed. After those concerns are addressed and the daily expectations for interactions are set for both parties, consequences for failing to commit with the daily expectations should be addressed immediately. Follow-up with the students and involved parents from each party, after a specific amount of time, to insure both parties are doing good, is critical. We all need to learn how to act civil towards others. I will keep the focus on exceptional learning in a safe environment. Afterall, that is why we go to school, to learn. Focusing too much on non-educational topics has lead students astray, lacking in basic educational needs. It’s ok to allow students to navigate their unique individual characteristics, strengths and weaknesses, on their own. If there is a student struggling, there is someone at the schools that can help. Our teach­ ers, should focus on teaching students to the best of their ability, doing what they learned in college, to education­ ally prepare students essentially for the betterment of our community. 6. It has been said that I am the most passionate and dedicated candidate. My educational and work background will benefit our schools. I thoroughly enjoy being very active in the com­ munity as a Board of Review Member, TK Reproductive Health Advisory Board member, and Memorial Day parade Committee volunteer. In addi tion, it’s always been a joy to me when coaching youth basketball for the past few years. My family and I love our community and want to embrace it by getting involved. My goal to reach at least one thousand doors has been achieved. Taking this time to distribute literature, talk, and listen to residents is incomparable when it comes to knowing what stakeholders value. In addition, I have gone through all the school board policies, went through multiple school board focused trainings as well as taken time to learn Roberts Rules of Order and the Open meetings Act. It’s a passion to support our community and being prepared is part of that responsibility. I am all in! Your vote this election is greatly appreciated Please fill in the bubble for Katie Stanton to elect KT for TK School Board! Editor’s note: Mark Price did not return the questionnaire that was sent by our publishing deadline. * �/ > k 1 k'. I I* V s I I J V ». www.sunandnews.com 4 I ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS * Saturday. October 19 11 * Wilkinson wins regional tennis championship Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg junior third singles player Franklin Wilkinson won an individual regional title as the TK var­ sity boys’ tennis team placed seventh at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 3 Regional hosted by Holland Friday. Wilkinson knocked off Zeeland West’s Xander Engelsman 6-4, 6-2 in the championship match. Wilkinson was the number two seed at their flight behind South Christian’s Ben Vos who Engelsman upset in three sets in the semifinals. Wilkinson opened his day with a 6-3, 6-2 win over East Grand Rapids’ Asher Pereira and then defeated Way­ land’s Chesney Hudson 6-3, 6-0 in the semifinals. He ends his season with a 24-5 overall record. TK senior first singles player Kameron Nichols finished the season with more than 20 wins too with a record of 22-3. Nichols, the third seed at first singles, knocked off Otsego senior Flo Riquelme 6-4,6-2 in the second round. East Grand I JU 7 *< i • -I kA W' I J* 1 I' f > > ’ •% j k V X 'TEfhns I ,> «! > J ^4 ‘ A •* V r ? I * K i « Ik t < J * * * > * Thornapple Kellogg senior third singles player Franklin Wilkinson celebrates winning a flight championship at the Trojans’ MHSAA L.P. Division 3 Regional in Holland Friday, Oct. 11. Photo provided Rapids senior Andrew Owings beat Nichols 6-4, 6-2 in the semifinal round and then went on to win the first singles championship. TK senior Aidan Dudik at sec­ ond singles put up a good fight in his second singles second round match against South Christian’s Joe Maas, but fell 7-5, 7-5 in the end. At fourth singles, TK’s Anson Verlinde fell in a tough match 6-3, 7-5 with Wayland junior Jacob VanDuine. The fourth doubles duo of Mark Gielincki and Samuel Teachout had the Trojans’ lone doubles victory. They knocked off Ot­ sego’s Simon Pobocik and Dillon Campbell 6-0, 7-5 and then fell to the top seeded team from Holland that went on to win the regional fourth doubles title. East Grand Rapids won three flight championships. South Christian two, and TK, Holland and Unity Christian one each. ♦ South Christian and East Grand Rapids finished tied atop the day’s standings with 20 points each and qualified for the state finals and Unity Christian also qualified for the state finals with 14 points. Zeeland East placed fourth with 13 points ahead of Zeeland West 12, Holland 8, Thomapple Kellogg 7, Grand Rapids Christian 7, Ham­ ilton 4, Wayland 3 and Otsego 2. Zeeland East first singles player Brady Schanski also qualified for the state finals from the regional with his runner-up finish to Ow­ ings at first singles. Owings took a 6-3, 7-5 win in that first singles championship. East Grand Rapids had Mikey Beusse win the third singles title and Unity Christian’s Cole Buskard took the fourth singles title. South Christian won second and third doubles titles. East Grand Rapids won at first doubles. KOHN _ EARLINA VELTING FOR CALEDONIA SCHOOL BOARD * 9 9 r * I C.^*^ » t r1 r % » V I *w » b i, V > I « 9 State Representative Angela I Igas r » 9 9 * State Board of Education Member Tom McMdIin State Board of Education Member Nikki Snyder Af. * • sIV h 1 JessicaKohn.com * 1 9 -IB 0 9 9 0 Earlinqi^OT’ r 9.'MJ Mik. '’j 0 « 0 I -u I*• 0^ com r « * �u. A A w. < t I V i- IX » *, ? '* % - > V I 9 • > ’a “ 1 </ . — "g < S. rT % * » * -A* < • T *■ .-^ A > » NOW HIRING View Newspaper Group is seeking a MARKETING SPECIALIST Responsibilities include: • Advertising sales • Account management • Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts • Attend networking events Group email wsmith@mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen - / www.sunandnews.com Brett Bremer Sports Editor t «The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer’s Guide ■ Jeffersonian .. Gator girls get a few wins in last Rainbow East dual > w.. < « * ♦ ♦ 5te^ A « THE SUN AND NEWS OUR COMPANY IS GROWING DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY ■ f •1 ' Saturday, October 19, 2024 12 > « * x' ;---r:/- ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder Grand Rapids Catholic Central beat out the Grand Rapids Gators 96-77 in the Gators’ final OK Rainbow East Division dual ofthe season Thursday at the YMCA in downtown Grand Rapids. The Gators made up some points late in the meet with freshmen Mckenna Hawks and Eloise Nichols going 1-2 in the 100-yard breaststroke. Hawks won it in 1 minute 29.85 seconds and Nichols swam a personal best time of 1:38.24. Diver Lydia Slagel had a win in her six-dive competition with a score of 238.05 points. Lucy Cotter from GRCC narrowly beat out Gator senior Abigail Dumond for the runner-up spot 207.5 and 206.2.The Gators had Kaya Bender fourth in that diving competition with a score of 164.80. Aubrey Hawks had a runner-up time of 2:21.62 in the 200-yard individual medley for the Gators and fellow Gator senior Malia Hamby put up a personal best time of 2:58.16 to place second in the 200-yard individual medley at the start of the meet and then added a winning time of 1:24.82 in the 100yard butterfly. The Cougar sprinters really domi­ nated with four girls finishing the 50yard freestyle in less than 30 seconds. That pack was led by Mae Braun who won in 26.37 seconds. She was also the only girl ahead of Aubrey Hawks in the 200-yard freestyle with a time of2:05.63. Mckenna Hawks tacked on a runner up time of 1:06.10 in the 100-yard freestyle, a new personal best for her and Aubrey improved her personal best to 6:14.92 in a runner-up finish in the 500-yard freestyle. Jolee Schumacher also had a secondplace time of 1:24.54 for the Gators in the 100-yard backstroke on the night. The Gator team of Hamby, Mia Bergman and Aubrey and McKenna o» Hawks took the first-place points in the 400-yard freestyle relay at the end of the night with a time of 4:34.59. The Gator girls will head to the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings the weekend of Nov. 8-9 for the first OK Conference Rainbow East Division Championship. The Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian girls recently completed an undefeated season of Rainbow East duals with a win over Catholic Central in Grand Rapids Tuesday, Oct. 15. It was a stupendous weekend for the two Gator divers that were a part of the MISCA Meet at Eastern Michigan University last weekend. It was a stupendous weekend for the local divers in Ypsilanti for the annual MISCA Meet. Slagel was the runner-up in a field of 33 of the state’s top divers with an 11-dive score of 372.65 points. She finished behind only Oxford senior Tristan Krajcarski who had a total of 411 points at the end ofthe competition. There were three seniors and two youngsters in the top five at the end of the competition. Hastings freshman Aubrey Yarger, the only freshman to participate in the MISCA diving competition, placed fifth with 348.25 points. Slagel was one of two Gators at the meet. Dumond was 18th with a score of305.30. Kraj carski is the top returning diver from last year’s MHSAA Lower Pen­ insula Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals, which were also held at EMU last November. She was third behind a pair of seniors in the D1 diving competition a year ago. Slagel and Dumond were both state qualifiers too in 2023. The Gator girls will dive at the MH­ SAA L.P. Division 1 Regional hosted by Zeeland next month trying to earn a spot at the 2024 state finals. GO ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM t �* > I www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 19, 2024 13 Crews and Draaisma complete OK Gold sweep •sinthe '«i(lof « •othe Jud of I ^eiice Biship, ^an bed Ulka hod Ttke rtof igaii ‘Ike Li eld an :or 1 0 I Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thornapple Kellogg seniors Ava Crews and Jacob Draaisma wrapped up undefeated OK Gold Conference cross country sensons by running away from the competition at Gun Lake Wednesday during the confer­ ence championship meet. Crews nudged under the 19-minute mark for the second time this season with her fastest race yet on the TK course in the Yankee Springs Rec­ reation Area. She won in 18 minutes 59.81 seconds with South Christian junior Chloe Rinzema second in 19:46.43. South Christian had seven ofthe first nine girls across the finish line to win the girls’ conference championship. The only other runner in that pack was TK sophomore Peyton Hardy who placed fifth with a season-best time of 20:57.78. Draaisma won the boys’ race in 16:13.11. He was about 13 seconds in front of Wayland senior Dylan Pallett, the runner-up who hit the finish line in 16:44.05. They were the only two guys to finish in less than 17 minutes. Both TK teams were second on the day. The TK ladies were second to South Christian at all three confer­ ence contests this fall, and will see the Sailors again at their MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Regional at South Christian High School Sat­ urday, Oct. 26. The top three teams and top 15 in­ dividual runners from regional races next weekend earn spots in the Nov. 2 MHSAA L.P. Cross Country Finals at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, and a minimum of the seven fastest runners not a part of the three state qualifying teams from each regional earn spots in the finals as well. The Sailor pack tallied just 22 points to win the conference girls’ title Wednesday. TK finished the day with 50 points followed by West Catholic 83, Northview 110, Wayland 117 and Wyoming 175. Hardy and sophomore Meghan-Jane Skidmore turned in their best times of the fall for the TK ladies. Skidmore was 14th overall in 21:32.83. The TK 18:21.12. Sophomore Grady Galaviz bumped his PR down to 18:43.80 to place 17th. Junior Noah Donker moved his PR to 19:44.93 to place 30th overall. The TK boys’ team also had sophomore Elijah Frazer turn in a season-best time of 18:49.98 to place 19th overall. TK freshman Garrett Holzhausen was 25th in 19:26.76 and senior Case Dykhouse finished 29th in 19:39.59. Draaisma and Tietz both earned all-conference honors and Galaviz captured an honorable mention all­ conference nod this fall for the TK boys. Crews, Hardy, Skidmore and Kietzman were all-conference award winners for the TK ladies and Me Crumb earned honorable mention all-conference. TK will follow up its regional race next weekend by competing in the Barry County Invitational hosted by Hastings at Charlton Park Oct. 28. JV 1 '2 n ja 4 1 »• 3 Vr & K.> . '-rw. > ■ ** I •T** . li st. •tr’ a; »* 1 I, I.’ .. VJ .e •9 e . •r* 11-? fc» I ©£*.7^ I ♦t * T X’:' 4 B »■** ’A c»v «W? % ** >hl A i*9 • 1 .* « y <£u. J . jC Xi. '<s i Thornapple Kellogg seniors Ava Crews (left) and Jacob Draaisma celebrate their OK Gold Conference individual championships after completing a sweep of the three conference races on Wednesday at Gun Lake. Photo provided team had junior Madison Kietzman 12th in 21:24.24 and sophomore Alaina McCrumb 18th in 22:21.53 among its top five. Rounding out the seven for the TK girls were junior Payton Gater with a 20th-palce time of22:54.09 and fresh­ man Amya Gater with a 21st-place time of 22:56.09. Northview pried the boys’ con­ ference championship from South Christian and the TK boys by winning Wednesday with a score of 52 points. TK was second on the day (and third in the final conference standings) with 73 points ahead of South Christian 78, Wayland 83, Grand Rapids Union 113, West Catholic 130 and Wyoming 159. Northview was led by junior Caleb TeBrake who was fourth overall in 17:12.82. South Christian had junior Thad VanderLaan at the front with a third-place time of 17:08.08. It was a tremendous day for the TK boys with three guys setting personal records. A group of 11 guys in the top 30 finishers overall set new personal records and three of those guys were TK guys.Senior Hunter Tietz ran his fastest race yet to place 11th in />■ s *< . ♦ ♦ I " . * • *4 WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS « c-^ I •» *• * * ‘X WT1B r J tij’s;'4 i }' •* I .V R I o 4 Residential & Commercial & t w 'dL- ** - I 7 Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers I-. r • r. I. A V *r ^**«4d* 7.-J. M/ i k ■ * t Mi I ice?- i, t --'1 ija-' 12 1 DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 ISE* • \ I- 9^ w» riff tt O » —, zS * > g 1 A <68,^ 2/ HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. rr?:^ S/nce i955 - LENNOX A+ IB 1 BBB. iiiUi i �14 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 19, 2024 Northview PK enough to end Scot soccer season Brett Bremer Sports Editor It wasn’t the end the Fighting Scots were hoping for. Northview scored the lone goal of the game on a penalty kick in the second half, a penalty kick that Cale­ donia goalkeeper Simon Hilton got a hand on but couldn’t quite keep out of the net behind him, and the Wildcats scored a 1-0 win over the Caledonia varsity boys’ soccer team in the open­ ing round of their MHSAA Division 1 District Tournament fhursday, Oct. 10, at Northview High School. Northview was set to face Byron Center in the district championship game at Byron Center High School fhursday, Oct. 17, after following up with a 3-2 shootout win over topseeded Rockford Monday in the district semifinals. rhe PK glanced off Hilton’s fist, off the bar and eventually into the net. “The guys bought in,’’ Caledonia head coach Luke Dishnow said. “They did what the game plan was. Soccer I happened. You get all the chances. You make the right passes, and you just don’t get the ball in the back of the net. That can be really difficult and really tough. We had chances and we just couldn’t capitalize. Not to the fault of the players. There is not one person to blame at all. I think that is what makes it harder. They did it right. They prepared. They didn’t overlook them. They played well. “It is one of those things where soc­ cer is weird. If the ball doesn’t go in the back of the net, it doesn’t go in the back of the net.’’ The Scots earned a PK of their own with nine minutes to play, but couldn’t convert. It was just one of many chanc es that didn’t quite find their mark for the Caledonia boys. Coach Dishnow liked the way his boys played in the first half, and was really pleased with the way they executed second half adjust­ ments. He said his guys hit a post with a shot 30 seconds into the second half. “After the game, it was a very emo­ tional locker room,’’ Dishnow said. “These seniors have set up this program in such a good way. They bought in. They won with class. They lost with class. These guys did it the right way, and I just am so proud ofthe seniors and what they did for the entire program. “We were a very talented team and a very tight knit team that had great chemistry on and off the field, and those are the teams that go and make deep runs. That is I think the toughest thing to accept. I am extremely proud of them. We had such a fun season. Just because you didn’t go far in the playoffs doesn’t mean it was a bad season, be­ cause we had so many awesome things throughout the season.” It was another stellar defensive effort for the Scots according to coach Dish­ now. His team allowed just ten goals all season, and didn’t allow a goal in the flow of play Thursday. The back line was solid and coach Dishnow said that junior defensive midfielder Gage Helinski was a “consistent rock in the middle doing dirty work that doesn’t always get seen. He was definitely a glue guy for our team.” The Scots end the year with a 13-4 overall record. Northview was 12-6-2 heading into its Oct. 17 district final in Byron Center. * » NOTICE POSTING: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AS PROVIDED IN CHAPTERS 27 THEREOF AMENDING THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP. At a Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Charter Township of Gaines, held on Monday, October 14,2024, the Township Board approved an Ordinance to amend the Dutton Center Planned Unit Development (PUD). The legal description of the overall property being: PART OF NW ’/4 COM 610.50 FT N 890 52M 09S E ALONG N SEC LINE FROM NW CORNER OF SEC TH S OF 09M 345S £ 165.0 FT TH S 89D 04S W 610.50 FT TO W SEC LINE TH S OD 09M 345 E ALONG W SEC LINE 643.41 FT TH N 89D 52M 04S E 660.0 FT TH S OD OOM 34S E 682.44 FT TH N 890 50 M 26S E 162.77 FTTH S 77 0 36M 32S E 72.12 FTTH N 890 24 M 24S E 226.47 FTTH N 890 51M 03S E 66.0 FT TH N 00 08M 57 S W 70.38 FT TH N 890 24M 245 E 130.0FT TO SW COR OF C H DEMING’S ADD TH N OD 08M 575 W ALONG W LINE OF SD PLAT 1010.85 FT TO CL OF DUTTON AVE TH N 36 D 22M 34S W ALONG SD CL 523.59FT TO N SEC LINE TH S 89D 5SM 04S W ALONG N SEC LINE 395.97 FT TO BEG * SEC 11 T5N R11W 30.82 A. The Gaines Charter Township Board of Trustees adopted an ordinance rezoning the land to the Dutton Center Planned United Development (PUD), it’s associated roads, land divisions, and utilities. The adopted ordinance shall become effective ten days after the publishing of this notice. A true copy of the proposed Ordinance to amend the Dutton Center Planned Unit Development mav be obtained at; Charter Township of Gaines 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Michael A. Brew, Clerk CLS girls perform well at MISCA meet in Ypsilanti Brett Bremer Sports Editor Whoa, that’s fast. Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian junior Sophie Gaylord swam her fastest 50-yard freestyle race of the season to finish second in the event at the MISCA Meet hosted by East­ ern Michigan University Saturday. Gaylord touched the wall in 23.85 seconds finishing behind only Hol­ land Christian sophomoreCamryn Siegers who finished in 23.58. Senior teammate Bella Treib was seventh in that 50-yard freestyle with a time of 24.29 seconds. Gaylord also placed third in the 100-yard butterfly with a personal best time of5 8.24 seconds. Rockford senior won that race in 56.59 and Canton junior Hannah Gurgel was the runner-up in 57.41. The meet started with the CLS team of Treib, Gaylord, Aliyah Van Hofwegen and Amelia McCann placing ninth in the 200-yard medley relay with a time of 1 minute 53.26 seconds. The CLS team of Mya VanderZ­ waag, Izzy Leason, Chloe Kerkstra and Taylor Cole placed 22nd in 1:45.33 in the 200-yard freestyle relay. In the 400-yard freestyle relay at the end of the meet, the CLS four some of of Leason, Kerkstra, Van Hofwegen and Gaylord was 12th in 3:48.43. CLS senior Elise Miller had a solid eighth-place finish in the diving competition with 338 points. Gaylord turned in a time of 59.96 in the 100-yard backstroke that put her in sixth place in that race and teammate McCann, a freshman, was 37th in 1:03.98. VanderZwaag swam to a 26thplace time in the 200-yard individual medley of 2:19.19 and added a 29thplace time of 1:11.40 in the 100-yard breaststroke. The CLS girls finished off an undefeated season of OK Rainbow East Division duals by outscoring Grand Rapids Catholic Central 104-79 Tuesday, Oct. 15, in Grand Rapids. The Vikings will chase the conference championship at the Nov. 8-9 conference championship meet that will be hosted at the Community Education and Recreation Center pool at Hastings High School. I 60 ONLINE TO CLARKSTONNEWS.COM I �H J 1 J www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS I CHS girls win Silver Bracket at tourney in Livonia Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity volleyball team went 5-1 overall and won the silver bracket at the Beasts of the East Tournament Saturday in Livonia. The Scots opened the day with a 2523, 24-26, 18-16 win over Mattawan and then fell 20-25, 25-10, 18-16 to Clarkston in pool play. They wrapped up pool play with a 25-16, 25-22 win over Lapeer. A point-differential tie-breaker left the Scots in the sil­ ver bracket, behind Mattawan and Clarkston in the standings. The Scots beat out Traverse City St. Francis in three sets and then Romeo in two to get to the Silver Bracket final where they scored a 25-20, 25-20 win over Flushing. Cambria Gaier led the Scots with 53 kills on the day. Josie Noble had 43 kills and Aubrey Reynolds 31. Avery Seif had a team-high seven aces on the day and Reynolds and Jessica Maier added six aces each. The Scots were back in action Tues­ day at Caledonia High School taking a 25-10, 25-12, 25-10 over OK Green Conference foe Reeths-Puffer. Noble had 11 kills and Gaier nine in the victory. Reynolds and Eliza Pehrson chipped in five each. Reynolds fired nine aces and the Scots had 15 as a team. Gaier hit four aces. Seif had a team-high eight digs and Maier put up 31 assists. Jenison ground-game gets it done against Scots Brett Bremer Sports Editor J. .. « to 4 to Saturday, October 19, 2024 to TK gives Maroons a scare but falls in final seconds Brett Bremer Sports Editor Anow6-1 Holland Christian team just narrowly managed to pull out a 43-42 victory over a now 1-6 Thor­ napple Kellogg squad in Holland in an OK Black Conference contest. TK scored to go up 42-35 with 73 seconds left to play, but it left just enough time for the Maroons to hit a handful of passes to the sidelines, eventually getting a first-and-goal with nine seconds remaining from the Trojan two-yard-line. Senior Maroon quarterback Evan Abberger connected with senior tight end Gabe Konfara for a touchdown pass at the goal-line, and then with six seconds on the clock the Maroons took the lead on a do-or-die, twopoint pass. The Trojans were chasing the Maroons all evening. A 75-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Micah Dock to Zach Eldridge with a little over four minutes to go in the third quarter sparked the Troj ans who were down two touchdowns before the score, 28-14. The Trojans had 423 yards of offense including 320 yards on the ground, and it could have been more if not for a couple turnovers. The Thomapple Kellogg boys had one last shot at an OK Black Conference win on Friday, Oct. 18, in Middleville as the Trojans were set to take on an Ottawa Hills team that was also 0-4 in the conference so far this fall. TK goes on the road to face Wyoming in the regular season finale Oct. 25. 616-891-0150 BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. tow 4» -«» A M A A ■ A 15 to 1 to Aaron Collins and a Brody Siler extra-point kick. Jenison led 26-13 at the start of the fourth quarter after responding with a five-yard Schuiteman TD run. Schuiteman also scored on runs of seven, four and 3 5 yards on the night. Betser tossed a third TD pass to Leighton Fink, a 56-yard connec tion, early in the fourth quarter, but couldn’t get closer than that 26-20 margin after Siler’s extra-point. Betser was 22-of-27 passing on the night for 218 yards and the three touchdowns. He was picked offtwice. Fink had three receptions for 66 yards and Collins had seven catches for 65 yards. Schuch added six catches for 5 5 yards. Betser also found back Reed Vogeler five times for 31 yards. Vogel er was the Scots’ top rusher with four carries for 48 yards. He also had a team-high eight tackles on the other side of the ball. Wildcat quarterback Eli Zietman was 7-of-9 passing for 84 yards and a touchdown. He opened the second half scoring with a seven-yard TD pass to Charlie Norton. Brody Schuiteman rushed for 201 yards and four touchdowns as the Jenison varsity football team scored a 33-20 win over visiting Caledonia Friday, Oct. 11. Caledonia turned the ball over three times and had a hard time moving the ball on the ground itself in the OK Red Conference defeat. The Fighting Scots fall to 4-3 overall this season and 2-3 in the OK Red Conference with the loss. The Wildcats moved to 3-4 overall and 2-3 in conference play. The Fighting Scots were set to face OK Red Conference leading Hudsonville in Caledonia Friday night, Oct. 18, and will close the regular season on the road at Grand­ ville next Friday, Oct. 25. The Scots had an early lead with Brody Betser firing a 15-yard TD pass to Tyden Schuch, but Cale­ donia didn’t score again until the third quarter when the Wildcats had pushed into a 20-6 advantage. Betser got the Scots within a touchdown with a 26-yard TD pass A to BODY SHOP COMPLETE COLLISION REPAIR 10 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Your -trusfed Body 5hop for over 32 years �J www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 19, 2024 16 Years of work pay off for CHS ladies in GR Brett Bremer Sports Editor The first run through the new OK Green Conference is through and nobody was able to chase down the Wildcats. Jenison won boys’ and girls’ varsity cross country championships at the conference meet Tuesday at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids. It was a pretty good day for the Caledonia squads as the boys placed second and the girls third, right where they were in the standings at this season’s conference jamborees. Seniors Hannah Dupuis and Keira Bommartio from the Caledonia girls’ team earned all-conference honors as did senior Kort Thompson, juniorNoah Johnston and senior Mason Morrell from the Caledonia boys’ team. All seven Caledonia guys earned some kind of conference honor. Senior Ethan Buer, fi’eshman Sean Thompson, senior Aidan Edgar and even junior Eli Velting (who was slowed a bit by stopping to I I - »> t w ’J > ♦ miL: •t > « : I A r . M’ . __ • J Jfe. •"J c "J «* * I, r I t I <• f 4 I 1 •i > V I Fighting Scot senior Ethan Buer and freshman Sean Thompson close in on the finish line together at the end of the OK Green Championship race at Riverside Park in downtown Grand Rapids Tuesday afternoon. Photo by Brett Bremer p NOTICE OF POSTING: ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AS PROVIDED IN CHAPTERS 27 THEREOF AMENDING THE GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP ZONING ORDINANCE AND ZONING MAP. At a Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Charter Township of Gaines, held on Monday, October 14,2024, the Township Board adopted an Ordinance to amend the Dutton Mill Village Planned Unit Development (PUD). The legal description of the overall property being: PART OF E Vi S^N Ya COM 566.62 FT 90D OOM W ALONG S SEC LINE FROM S Ya COR TH 90 D OOM W ALONG S SEC LINE 115.0 FT TO E LINE OF WEST MILL RUN/76 FT WIDE/TH N OD OOM ALONG SD E LINE 200.0 F TH 90D OOM E 155.0 F TH OD OOM 200 0 FT TO BEG * SEC 2 T5N R11W 0.71 A. The Township Board of Trustees approved an Ordinance to amend the Dutton Mill Village Planned Unit Development (PUD) for 3495 BS’” Street SE (parcel 41 -22-02-377-006). A true copy of the Ordinance to amend the Dutton Center Planned Unit Development mav be obtained at: Charter Township of Gaines 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Michael A. Brew, Clerk I -te * St assist an ill competitor) earned honor­ able mention all-conference. Senior Kiley Bommarito and junior Hannah Bennett were both honorable mention all-conference on the girls’ side. Those top four Caledonia girls all set new personal records with Dupuis flying to a time of 19 minutes 5.12 seconds that put her in fourth place overall which matched her top finish from the conference jamborees. Keira Bommarito was tenth in 20:04.44 and Kiley 13th in 20:09.91. Bennet turned in a time of 20:11.83 that put her in 15th place. These four ladies all started their running careers at CHS towards the back of the pack and had first 5K race times of 26:32, 28:17, 30:15 and 25:42,” Caledonia girls’ coach Ben Howells aid. “They have worked very hard to earn their accolades.” Dupuis’ time puts her 17th on the list of all-time fastest CHS girls. Sophomore Akaela Daman had her top time of the season for the CHS girls too. She was 20th in 20:24.39 with senior teammate Adysen Daman 21 st in 20:32.34 right behind her. Anna VanderWal brought up the rear for the Scots with a personal record time of 21:25.84 that put her in 24th place. Jenison took the girls’ competition with just 17 points. Dupuis was the only girl not from Jenison to finish in the top six. Junior Macy Guikema won the girls’ race in 18:47.96 - a new PR for her. Her sophomore teammate Paige McMeans was second in 18:57.91 and Jenison senior Naomi Diekman ran a PR of 19:01.58 to place third. Junior Andrea Schwartz who was fifth and freshman Maddy Aleisa who was sixth also ran PRs for the Wildcats. Byron Center was second with 59 points just ahead of Caledonia’s 62 points. Mona Shores with 109 points and Reeths-Puffer with 130 rounded out the scoring. Morrell and Sean Thompson from the Caledonia boys’ pack set new PR’s on the cool, windy afternoon. Morrell hit the finish line 11th to earn the last of the all-conference spot. He had a time of 16:47.05. Thompson was 13th overall in 17:20.63. Kort Thompson led the CHS boys with a sixth-place time of 16:20.29. Johnston was eighth in 16:38.52. Buer came in 12th in 17:19.87. Edgar turned in 15th-place time of 17:26.57 and See CHSon 17 A" 1 . *4' I A c B7" re * F •I S?^5 F "tepK 9^ T * -» s L •* I J ’ ?♦* < 4 < . > Caledonia junior Hannah Bennett and senior Keira Bommarito race together during the opening mile of the OK Green Championship race at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer �v?3B El I X 1 www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS CHS I f > f 1 I Jenison won the boys’ race Continued from Page 16 with 18 points followed by Caledonia 50, Byron Center Velting was 16th in 17:30.63. 76, Mona Shores 122, ReethsVelting would have likely Puffer 126 and Muskegon 177. finished just ahead of Buer had Jenison senior Seth Conner he not paused just before the cruised to the conference vic­ chute to assist Byron Center tory in 115:1 6.04 and his senior sophomore Memphis Connor, teammates Parker Strelecki who was a likely all-conference and Mason Lucas were second runner if he was at 100 percent. and third. Jenison had five Connor wobbled and went scorers among the first seven down as Velting approached. finishers and all seven of its ABulldogteammate leapt from varsity runners in the top ten. the sideline to assist, disquali­ Byron Center was led by fying Connor, but Velting still Mitchell Jeruzal who was attempted to help him in to the fourth in 15:57.49. finish before finally hustling The Caledonia teams left the in as his team’s seventh scorer. race with a little over a week to “I just thought it was the prep for their MHSAA Lower right thing to do,” Velting said. Peninsula Division 1 Cross “He crossed the finish line Country Regional that will be eventually.” held at Portage West Middle Velting still got his all­ School Friday, Oct. 25. conference honorable men­ Velting said he felt good tion honors and the Scots still Tuesday and has been really finished ahead of the Bulldogs pleased with how things have in the day’s final standings. gone for the Caledonia boys this fall as a whole. “We’ve been doing really good. Hopefully, we can make states. It is looking good,” Velting said. “We have a couple workouts coming and we’ve just got to all stay focused on making that state meet and keep working towards it.” Each of the top three teams at regionals and every runner in the top 15 individually qual­ 4 ifies for the Nov. 2 MHSAA L.P. Cross Country Finals that will be held at Michigan Inter­ national Speedway in Brook­ I lyn. A minimum of the seven I fastest runners not on the three state qualify­ ing teams from a regional will F earn state Fighting Scot sophomore spots, and any Anna VanderWal closes in on fourth place a personal record time of 21 team with at minutes 25.84 seconds for least four run QUESTIONS: ASK US the Caledonia girls’ team at ners in the top the OK Green Championship 20 of a region­ Tuesday at Riverside Park in al qualifies for Grand Rapids. Photo by Brett the finals too.. Bremer Kort was the lone Caledonia state quali­ fier a year ago. He finished 77th in the DI race at the fi­ nals. The CHS boys’haven’t qualified for the finals as a team since back-to-back state runner-up finishes in 2020 and 2021. The Scots are very famil­ iar with the regional course in Portage. “You’ve gotta watch for the hill,” Velting said. “There is a hill you hit twice, and you have to save energy for that. The rest of the way is just cruising.” 5 " - e '.A . -X * < . ’ ,-f K I Xi ’A 'wag**- f i .31 ( ft •»A- T r'* n » >»♦ 4 t. L> bK . •< it'. . > Caledonia junior Eli Veiling (right) tries to help Byron Center sophomore MemphisConnorgetacross the finish line near the chute at the end of the OK Green Conference Championship race at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids Tuesday. rv « 1 J Photo by Brett Bremer f / ... A ♦ Saturday, October 19, 2024 ♦ Scots get a couple wins at 02 regional tournament hosted by Portage Central Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity boys’ tennis team placed fourth at its nine-team MHSAA Lower Peninsula Divi­ sion 2 Boys’ Tennis Region­ al hosted by Portage Central last Thursday, Oct. 10, The top four teams at the regional dominated and all qualified for this weekend’s MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Boys’ Tennis Finals in Ka­ lamazoo. Portage Central won the regional title with 24 points ahead ofMattawan 22, East Lansing 20 and Battle Creek Lakeview 18. Dexter was fourth with five points ahead of Cale­ donia 4, Portage Northern 2, Jackson 1 and Battle Creek Central 0. Junior Hudsen Derengowski took a 6-3, 6-2 win over Dexter’s Gavin Heichel in the second round, but ran into the number one seed. Portage Central’s Matthew Cui, in the semifinals and fell 6-1, 6-0. Neal Hargrave and Cooper Sowerby at fourth doubles for the Scots took a default win over Battle Creek Cen­ tral at fourth doubles in the second round and then fell to the top seeded duo from East Lansing at their flight in the semifinals. •4 ••ft >. - 1 »1 bV’*- IK .■ I 17 1 4 . r tor 0 K 1? ‘Pra^j'or our 2/ation! Ih «■ I• Hulst yCUMer9 ^Kckvp r ^Station i’ 218 E. State St.. Hastings • 945-9673 OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm 'A.' ft' c ' ; ♦ Portage Central sophomore Sam Schumacher was the first singles champion at the regional he took a victory over Nolan Ackerman from Mattawan in the champion­ ship match. The two split sets before Ackerman retired trail­ ing 5-2 in the third. Mattawan took second and third singles titles. East Lan­ sing was powered by wins in the top three doubles flights. Portage Central got the fourth doubles championship and Lakeview got a win at fourth singles. THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP BOARD 128 HIGH ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml 49333 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING MINUTES Monday, October14,2024 The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. with seven members present. Items approved: 1. Printed Agenda approved. 2. Consent Agenda approved as amended correcting draft of September 9,2024 Regular Board Meeting Minutes Item Number 11. Motion also approved amended minutes of the Special Town­ ship Board Meeting, held September 18, 2024. 3. Public hearing for the Duncan Lake Weed Control Special Assess­ ment District was called to order at 7:05 pm. Comments were heard from the public. Public hearing regarding same closed at 7:12 pm. 4. Approved motion to adopt Resolu­ tion 13-2024 to proceed with and make public improvements; approval of the plans and estimates of cost; to defray the costs by special assessment; final determinations of the special assess­ ment district; directive to the Township Supervisor to prepare special assess­ ment roll. 5. Approved motion to adopt Resolu­ tion 14-2024 acknowledging filing and presentation of the special assessment roll to the Township Board and schedul­ ing of the public hearing. Meeting adjourned at 7:28 p.m. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Brenda Hess. Approved by Township Supervi­ sor, Eric Schaefer. Copies of the meeting minutes are available upon request from the Township Clerk or by visiting httpsy/thomapple-twp. org/meeting-minutes/ Office hours 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. ♦ �4 18 Saturday, October 19, 2024 • ♦ ** ♦ * ■ » THE SUN AND NEWS www.sunandnews.com * Scots earn another reserve championship trophy Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia High School eques­ trian team took its second consecutive Michigan Interscholastic Horseman­ ship Association Division A Reserve State Championship last weekend at the Midland County Fairgrounds. The Fighting Scots followed up three state championships from 2020-2022 with their back-to-back 2023 and 2024 runner-up finishes at the finals. It has been quite a run for the CHS senior group which included Elena LaFranca, Carly Vander Roest, Ella Frederick and Aleigha Snyder this year under second-year head coach Kim Frederick. “Our seniors really pulled it off,” coach Frederick said. “It is going to be sad to not have them next year, they pulled in a lot of top places this year.” The CHS girls were the MIHA District Champions in Division A, winning all three district competitions at the Barry County Fairgrounds. They finished as the reserve champions be- V F L Mtfond tafeQvouv* TO rr ------ Sfoboa r T7 - t -. (queitrfon Center I ♦ --fr*-. • State championshiF i<7Lz\o 1IV. IlUKbbM ANSHir MldlXOzvrv ir\ I fc. / z < S X u s 1860 ye.. Midland ^4 F ♦ 1 r * 1 5:iL .4 <* 1 •i K "O r— 1 — ♦* V T I t f r I 1. «I ( V I I 1 F I > « » ¥ ■ A 4 : I # i 4 r i r f I 4 J 1 * a <Ll "I. i I K. •I < i * r K A I -I > Av w < 1 # ■ ■ T. ’i CALEDONIA ;! eqvestri an team I” f• * . t 4 AS t; r* fOCZ AJrs. wzo, ton .« I f I 4 t » IK ‘ t « LSI 1!J92 f 5 *•< A’ ‘K 1 I 4 *<> « < J >♦f 43:. A;,. The Caledonia High School equestrian team celebrates its second straight MIHA Division A Reserve Championship after finishing second to Lowell at the MIHA Championship at the Midland County Fairgrounds over the weekend. Photo provided hind Lowell in their MIHA Regional competition the weekend of Oct. 5. Lowell was also the only team ahead ofthe Caledonia team at the state finals in Midland. The Red Arrows earned their first Division A State Champi­ onship since 2019 by outscoring the Caledonia team 405-324 at the top of the standings. Edwardsburg was third with 256 points followed by Big Rapids 246, Croswell-Lexington 168, Montague 151, Mason 129, Midland Dow 92, South Lyon 72 and South Lyon East 27. Coach Frederick said the Lowell riders are good neighborhood competi­ tors. The two teams see each other at shows and competitions throughout the year including the Kent County Fair. The top classes for the CHS girls at the finals were the saddle seat and speed events. In all, there are 17 classes contested at the state finals. The Cale­ donia girls managed to outscore the Lowell team in six of those 17 events. Coach Frederick was especially excited for the performance from the senior trio of LaFranca, Ella Frederick and Snyder in the saddle seat pattern p PUBLIC NOTICE The Gaines Charter Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed Township budget for fiscal year 2025. The hearing will be held at 7:00 PM during the regularly scheduled Board of Trustees meeting to be held Monday, November 11, 2024, 7:00 PM, at the Township office located at: 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 *The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the draft proposed budget is available for public inspection at the Township office. Any interested persons are invited to attend and participate. Persons with disabilities needing any special accommodations should contact the Township offices one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. * «» 4 class where the trio earned first, second and third place finishes from both ofthe judges. The team tallied 54 points in that class, the most points in one class by any team throughout the entirety of the finals. Those points were a big boost to the squad’s morale Saturday. “Their equation was perfect,” coach Frederick said. “The patterns were very difficult and they performed them flawlessly, one was to pick up some­ thing wrong that your body is trained to do correctly. They were flawless.” The speed team of Snyder, Vander Roest, Khloe Greenly, Nina Stiver, Grace Rabbit and Sophie Bums was outstanding too. Coach Frederick said Lowell man aged to perform better in the Western and showmanship classes, acknowl edging that some of the difference was the talent of the horses rather than the Lowell girls performing much better than her Scots. Frederick was joined on the coach ing staff by Mia Stiver and Jackie Greenly this fall, and as a whole the team was happy to continue the program’s string of success. Coach See SCOTS on 19 «■» �www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ♦ Saturday, October 19, 2024 19 ♦ ♦ ♦ * 1 f -* was?* V * 4 ♦* *< J 4 ’fl J A .. 'it 1 T f _____ tBL k J ^5^ Fl, I I** ■4 > I . > * I jjf- • 1 =4- k I •r *• < 1 u k 4 1*1 1 1 I J r- J 4* i r I •***-—. . * I 1 Ip f 54^ 1 EC * b % : T 'n4 >v a iS fi, ..J K'Y. •.Ml r ■!! '-XV. W: at' V -1 MMb •I - •>» k r I f r [ > W II I 'I .r I I I — A « .■=e< 4W** >•. < Caledonia’s Sophie Burnis and Carly Vander Roest compete in the two-person relay at the MIHA State Championship at the Midland County Fairq rounds over the weekend. Photo provided SCOTS Continued from Page 18 Frederick said they ask the girls before every season if they’re just there just to relax and have fun or if they’re there to push for a state championship — and the answer continues to be to work hard for championships. There is time for fun too certainly at the state finals. “Every night the seiors planned a craft or an activity that we would do together,” coach Frederick said. “We had our Halloween costume party on VOTE Continued from Page 10 “D 3. □ o Q. 03 x: (/) 0 XI □ z Z Cl cs o I XJ Cn VJ K) Campbell said he consulted with a regional manager for Mister Car Wash in Grand Rapids and was told there had been no issues with accidents at entrances to car wash locations result­ ing from ice that had formed from water that had run off from the site onto an adjacent road. “For us, as a membership business, it’s incredibly important that we provide a safe environment for our customers to maneuver through ±at site We certainly don’t want to create an unsafe condition,” he said. Tree preservation is also an issue. There are about 65 trees on the site. “Certainly, with any development we are going to lose trees, but there are a few very large white pine (trees) Saturday. The Lowell coaches were judges for our costume contest. The seniors would decorate their senior hat and the other riders would decorate their own hat Frederick has been coaching in the program since 2004 and took over when coach Kellie Scheidel stepped down after the 2022 season. “I just stepped up to take the role,” coach Frederick said. “It was way easier than I thought it would be. I have a lot ofparents that helped me through. Huge thanks to the parents. They did all the hard work and fundraising events.” along the south property line,” Wells said, going on to ask if there is a way of reconfiguring the vacuum area of the site to make it a one-way so as to reduce the number of trees that would be cut down. “Even (if we preserve) one or two, it does make a difference,” Wells added. CWP West, the developer of the site, had a study done of the trees. According to that study, only one of the trees was identified as being good, healthy, vigorous.” About 25 percent of the trees were labeled as “poor” or “dead.” Most were listed in fair” condition, said Nick Johnson, a project manager for Mister Car Wash. “It has life, but (is) not necessarily healthy,” Johnson said ofthe trees listed in “fair” condition. “We’re doing our best to preserve the See VOTE on 20 4^ OCTOBER 21" - OCTOBER 26" ONE WEEK ONLY. 10%-50% OFF STOREWIDE! BIG SAVINGS ON SPBCTACUtAHiy BEAUnFUL LAB<liEATGD DIAMOND EAIBBNGS $319 1 /2 CTW. (reg $55©) $419 3/4 CTW. (reg $700) $599 1 CIW. (reg $1,000) $899.1112 CV^. (reg $4,450) $1,199 2 CViN. (reg $2,000) V f A * Wl ✓ : < 4^' 4 / 1 I 4 * I% •• A «• YOU COULD WIN — i V .“«>S I A / . 4 » THIS SRMKUMG DIAMOMD ORCLCPEMDANT k. a «. t 1 CT. OF FIERY LAB-CREATED DIAMONDS SET IN PRECIOUS » I Is s 14k WHITE GOLD AND VALUED AT $1,680 Sign *No PURCHASE necessary. up instore by LiMIT ONE Oct 26™* ENTRY PER PERSON. Must BE 18 TO ENTER. 64 SWIERENGA JEWELERS 9369 CHERRY VALLEY SE CALEDONIA, MI 49316 616-891-5750 SwierengaJewelers.com A �£ f www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 19, 2024 1 t I A 20 / TKHS football program recognized for community service IT* SiA ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Caledonia Community Schools BUS DRIVER JOB FAIR Climb behind the wheel of an iconic yellow school bus. Take a spin around the parking lot and experience the thrill of being a bus driver at our upcoming job fair. What a great way to serve your community and start a new or second career. Please join us on one of the following dates: October 23, 9:30 AM 0* 11:30 AM Caledonia Transportation Department 8944 Kraft Ave SE Caledonia, MI 49333 Regular and Substitute Drivers Needed starting pay of $20.52 for applicants for regular routes without experience. Paid training and CDL testing Sign-on bonus of up to $1500 for qualified applicants Up to 10 sick 1.5 personal days Paid holidays 12 Paid days during school breaks Flexible schedule (Split shift AM/PM routes) Medical, dental, and vision insurance is available to qualified employees. Easy Online Applications! www.calschoois.org/eniployment I" • Questions? 616-891-8185 »r u I Greg Chandler Staff Writer Frank Fiala of the Barry County Road Commission and chairman of the county Solid Waste Committee, joined by County Commissioner Catherine Getty, presented a check for $2,000 Monday night to the Thomapple Kel­ logg High School football program to thank them for their service at the county’s household hazardous waste collection events last year. Players from the TKHS team col­ lected tires and electronics at the spring and fall collection events, held at the Barry County Fairgrounds, in 2023. VOTE Continued from Page 19 natural content ofthis lot,” Johnson added. Wells noted that the developer had put in additional evergreen shrubs along the frontage of M-37 in an attempt to mitigate the impact of headlights from vehicles exiting the car wash. Commis­ sion Vice Chairman John Eberly said he appreciated the developer’s efforts toward that end. When 1 look at the landscape plan, there’s a real effort here to bring back as much greenery as they can on the site,” Eberly said. “But the fact is we’re ... being asked for permission to build on a smaller site than we would normally require. Our ordinance would say you need two acres. You’re about a half-acre short.” “The design is based on how the business works . The question is, does it 9 b^:> HI? V 1 9 b I £ i3k a I V* AW ' ill.,? < I < r < ^4 1 •- ■i 'A > I 1 'A 5^ f y- I 1 X'-. About three semi-truck loads of tires were collected at each of the collection events, Fiala said. “When he says three semi-loads full of tires, it’s like a game of Tetris, Getty said. “Those tires are fit in there very precisely, so we can get as many packed in there as possible . We’re trying to take advantage of every inch that’s in that trailer. TKHS varsity coach Jeff Dock says his players have fun with the event and enjoy serving the community in this manner. “We ’re grateful for the opportunity to serve and give back. These guys were awesome,” Dock said. V t ♦ .* rt4’ Frank Fiala of the Barry County Road Commission and Solid Waste Committee and County Commissioner Catherine Getty present a check for $2,000 to the Thornapple Kellogg High School football program at Monday's TK school board meeting for the team’s volunteer work at the 2023 county household hazardous waste collection events. TKHS varsity coach Jeff Dock, far right, received the check, joined by varsity football players Connor Dombkowski, Malachi Vanengen and Brody Hammer. Photo by Greg Chandler I* iKI; Ab W « work on the site or not?” Eberly added. Commissioner Jodie Masefield was not satisfied thatthe developer had done enough to address tree preservation or mitigate ice buildup on the site. “I think that in the conversation before (I got to thinking) you’re potentially in the wrong lot or are out of space,” Masefield said. “It’s not our job to solve those problems.” Masefield made the motion to reject the Mister Car Wash proposal, and was joined by fellow commissioners Stan McLean and Jennifer Lindsey. Eberly, Tim Bradshaw and Diane Cutler op­ posed the motion to reject. The six commissioners then changed their “yes” votes to “no” and “no” votes to “yes” on the motion to approve the project. Planning Commission Chairman Doug Curtis had given notice in adA^ance that he would be absent from the meeting, and the absence was excused. 1 % *V 4 I CM UO ' rx o o z z E Q. o o (Z) >. CQ "O <D .c qI � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-10-26.pdf 06142e07c29402a1e87768216b479d7e PDF Text Text * K r ;f > ' ' I I h » I > I * T r f A J* s ► 4 V I. I b ) 1 I 9 R b ill’’ ’ f I i I J i ' p * A « k 5 p ► ’ A b b Y »r b I k * > « I % • t I 4. 1 ► i I > > It y > 1 J A V * ► i k ••• buiMfc Of I f > 5«J ' ' > / > > • t I J > I > •i V y ’ * t I 1. •c* I > 1- » J .' L r» > J T t i J 1 I LI I L- > ■ k- ' *A 1.: <1, S ; > t ST » rtj^» • s > jp e ' M' .o ? r • / ? I . ’ •#r ‘ b LEOS CAPS TK YEARS WITH 02 STATE MEDAL I and news •J t 1J. - t I Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Gaines Township Areas & •s? « ,«5 r •i i X: •i * a X I z • I 3 F. W < -r* PAGES 23 * ? -r, NO. 29 »> f p r I J s •.51 ' • r iiisiK SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2024 »/• .^tf.T i ■l^ A =*> iiA t Bids approved for Cal football stadium renovation Van Andel Family Foundation donates $8M for Pine Rest Pediatric Center construction Greg Chandler Staff Writer James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education Monday autho­ rized its general contractor to award about $10 million worth of contracts for the renovation of Ralph E. Meyers Football Stadium. The board voted 6-0 to give Rockford Construction the authority to initiate contracts with more than 20 different subcontractors who will work on individual elements of the stadium project, which is expected to get underway at the end of the current football season. Funds for the work will come out of both the 2020 and 2023 bond issues, CCS Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer said. The largest line item on the stadium renovation budget was for new bleach­ ers on both the home and visitor sides of the field, which will replace the cur­ rent bleachers ±at are at least 30 years old. The contract for ±at line item will go to Louisville, Ky.-based Dant Clayton Corporation, whose bid was $2,585,000. See STADIUM on 5 1 — A The David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation is donating $8 million to a firstof-its-kind pediatric behav­ ioral healthcare center in Gaines Township. The gift will help fund the 136,000-square-foot facility that is being built on a 25-acre section of the 220-acre Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services campus in Cutlerville. Construction began in May and the doors to the center near 72nd Street and Madison Avenue are scheduled to open in 2026. It is being built by HollandSee VAN ANDEL or^ 2 T*------ i- e i ' I t; 1» • r p” . *• r—r* -• u T* W 4 »% f .rf* **^ •F? A v^c; .2 wt-UifzixaB r I << 4 >• ■ • *4*- ». •” >» 1 '• t «• r*v A • '.'k 5 I a ir *« /• .A* » t. xiMoaaivo 4* ■ c- • J Ao I w—<11»» .3 itff The Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education this week authorized its general contractor to award about $10 million in contracts for Moaa usMOisno tfie renovation of Ralph iviiNaaisau ssMuoa E. Meyers Football ecee^ in 'amAuwio OKxoaOd Stadium. Photo courtesy of 8CC# JiLUJSd seest 'eiliAueeJO aivd aovisod s n ais isdd A* James Gemmell Contributing Writer > 4 < « Construction on the Pine Rest Pediatric Center of Behavioral Health has been underway for a few months in Gaines Township. Photo by James Gemmell I r-* t; *<« .> ' t. I -r*** Microsoft acquires 316-acre site for development as potential data center V Caledonia Community Scho'ols a*. 1 >;4 i This field at the northwest corner of Patterson Avenue and 76th Street potentially could be the site of a major data center in Gaines Charter Township. Photo by James Gemmell i Fortune 500 technology company Microsoft Corp, confirms it has purchased 316 acres of industrial land in Gaines Charter Township to potentially be developed into a major data center. Crain’s Grand Rapids Business first report­ ed the $45.3 million purchase from Steelcase Inc. Gaines Township officials mentioned at public meetings in June and July that they had heard rumors that a major technology company was looking to buy a potential data center site along the 76th Street cor­ ridor. But they did not know that it was See MICROSOFT on 3 ' *• �) t f ♦ / I I r f I ♦ I I i r t i I » > I J 4 « b I 1 t I ♦ > 4 4 I I t ) I i 1 I 2 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 Middleville celebrates autumn with first annual Fall Fest Greg Chandler Staff Writer 4 Jr p ..' > Ml •r * s. a 4 Hayrides, decorating pumpkins for Halloween, building scare crows, making s’mores - those were all highlights from the first Fall Fest, put together by Carveth Village and the Middleville Lions Club last Saturday. “It was phenomenal,” Carveth Village administrator and Village Council Trustee Makenzi Peters said at Tuesday night’s council meeting. “It was a phenomenal turn­ out, we had a lot of people there. We had a beautiful day for it, and it just came together really well.” The Fall Fest included a trunkor-treat, presented by the Lions Club, as well as a costume con­ test, presented by Outcastz. There was also a craft market at the Sesquicentennial Pavilion, and kids could get up close and touch a Thomapple Township fire truck. The Rotary Club, Boy Scout Troop 105 and several more busi nesses, including Bradford White Corporation, Apothecary on Main, Advanced Stone and Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, sponsored various family-friendly activities. l’T * 441 f " >. I n w H f - “ I II I -If I 1 r, T ♦ 4 • ♦♦ I * -» -If J < X -<5 U’ (■ J 1 Fans of the Hanna-Barbera cartoon franchise “Scooby-Doo” may have recognized Scooby and Daphne at Middleville’s Fall Fest last weekend. Here, they are with the Mystery Machine at the event’s trunk-or-treat. f * I .s. . w < X * >:e > • X>r * g’l k < * e 14 t' > 1 < ( JI 4 1-^2 I * . > p w w* ? >: s 7V F. •c •vli X > n 4 < } ■4^. fl idj ./J VAN ANDEL * ZbA ■./ s < ? a T »■. i I A 1 « Continued from Page 1 ti''» < Carveth Village and the Middleville Lions Club put on their first annual Fall Fest last weekend. These folks enjoyed one of the inaugural hay rides at the event. Photos by Makenzi Peters “I’m hoping to do it again next year, because it was a really great time,” Peters said. Intro to Yoga - 6 week course u/Hiufjiu ' )os uASffifiem sr. • OCIWIII 218 W. Main St., Middleville, 49333 rbyogastudios.com - • « 269-512-5039 'V' •WJ-* 1 $95 V’ u kk Every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Starting November Sth Y 1 « - River VBend 5^ - ’»■ < fttf V 5-8-.}0^ C^. CWPf Cfl£Cie (( 8.^. COFFS. fun FOR f based EV Construction. The archi tectural firm is BWBR. Nederveld & Associates is the land-development consultant. We are tremendously grateful to the Van Andel family for their leadership gift in support of this vital new center,” Pine Rest President and CEO Dr. Mark Eastburg said in a news release. He added, “Too many kids deal with the pain and hopelessness of mental health issues with little or no access to the care they desperately need. The Van Andel family has demonstrated time and again their deep commitment to helping kids return to lives of joy.” The donation is timely because the estimated total cost of the proj ect has shot up from a projected $62 million less than two years ago to the current estimate of $98 million. That is due to a sharp spike in construction costs and building materials, plus more money that Pine Rest said is needed HI 44 to recruit staff at a national level. In July, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the Michigan fiscal year 2025 budget into law. As part of that, a $12.5 million grant was earmarked for a Pediatric Psychiatric Urgent Care facility that is part of the Pine Rest proj ect. It includes specialty outpa­ tient services for about 10,000 children annually. Those include treat ment for eating disorders, substance use disorder and autism spectrum dis order. There will be 66 inpatient beds. The pediatric center also will expand inpatient care to serve 800 more children each year, as well as partial hospitalization programs, same-day psychiatric assessments and telehealth services. It was in late October of 2023 that several residents of the neighborhood just to the east of the future facility expressed concerns to the Gaines Township Planning Commission about the lighting, traffic, noise and impact on wildlife in the area. As a condition of approval, the commission required that trees be planted to buffer the development from neighbors. HI ■F THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US PUBLISHED BY Editor: Molly Macleod Group mmacleod@mihomepaper.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports: Brett Bremer bbremer@mihomepaper.coin Advertising: Chris Silverman csilverman@mihomepaper.com I PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 N M-43 Hwy.. Hastings. Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order e �f www.sunandnews.com MICROSOFT I I I- THE SUN AND NEWS still being worked out. Continued from Page 1 “While project plans, capital invest­ ment and potential employee numbers Microsoft that was eyeing the property. are yet to be finalized, we will provide It is at the northwest comer of the updates as information becomes avail­ Patterson Avenue/76th Street inter­ able,” Microsoft said in response to a section, at the border with Caledonia Sun and News inquiry. Township. Right now, a large field There has been discussion of vari­ occupies that spot, which is directly ous potential uses for the 76th Street/ south of the Amazon Fulfillment Patterson Avenue parcel for a long time. Center at 4500 68th St. SE. “But for the past year, year-and-aDeveloping the site into a large half there’s been talk of maybe a data data-storage site could make the town­ center-type facility going in on that property,” Weersing said. ship a national data hub someday, as Switch Inc.’s iconic Pyramid Campus Microsoft is the latest major cor­ poration to invest in the booming at 6100 E. Paris Ave. already serves Broadmoor and Patterson avenue cor­ as the largest data center east of the Mississippi River. ridors between 68th and 76th streets in Gaines Township. Besides Amazon, Switch purchased the former seven­ Great Lake Coca-Cola Distribution, story Steelcase pyramid building and Siliconature Corp., Alro Steel and Old property in 2017 for more than $22 Dominion Freight Lines have opened million. In 2022, it began expanding plants and warehouses in the manufac­ the 700,000-square-foot campus by turing area. That has produced more adding 940,000 square feet of data than 4,000 jobs, but also increased traf­ center space. fic congestion and added some stress The Microsoft location would be to infrastructure, such as roadways. about four miles southeast of the Another potential concern relates to Switch property. Gaines Township’s rapidly growing “This 316-acre site was identified population, which increased to 28,812 in collaboration with The Right Place as of the 2020 U.S. Census, a 14.6-per(economic development organiza cent increase in one decade. The tion) as part of our ongoing search expanding population is in lockstep for development opportunities in with several new mixed-use residential the Michigan market,” a Microsoft and retail developments that are being spokesperson said. built or proposed to be built in the “Although there’s a lot of speculation Dutton and Caledonia areas between about what Microsoft will do there, I 68th and 76th streets. have not discussed any projects with The growth eventually may result them. Nor have they submitted any in the need for a larger available concept plans (for the site),” Gaines water supply. Community Development Director The township currently has only Dan Wells said. one pipe connection to the Wyoming Township Manager Rod Weersing water system. Although there are three sounded a similar note. water-storage tanks that the township “Right now, the public knows about can draw from, the City of Wyoming as much as the township,” he said. informed the Byron-Gaines Utility Microsoft bought some property. We Authority this past summer that it must have heard rumors about what their plans increase its water-storage capacity. might be, but we have not verified any of Gaines Township opted not to use that with company officials at this time.” any of its federal American Rescue The Right Place Inc. issued a state­ Plan Act (ARPA) funds to pay for a ment about its role in helping Microsoft second interconnect to the Wyoming assess the 316-acre parcel for purchase. water system. Instead, Byron and “The opportunity ahead with Gaines townships are moving ahead Microsoft fits into our 10-year tech with plans for a new water storage strategy to develop the Greater Grand facility that would be jointly funded. Rapids region into a leading tech “It’s been, I believe, approved by hub in the Midwest. With one of the both township boards to move ahead,” leading tech companies in the world Weersing said. “That is something taking notice, we’re well on our way that’s been needed for a long time and there,” Right Place President & CEO is not related to any development on Randy Thelen said. the Steelcase property. It’s related to Specifics about when and how exact­ development overall within the town­ ly the property will be developed are ship and the need for additional storage Saturday, October 26, 2024 3 coming from the Wyoming (water system) plant.” Weersing added that 76th Street, which will serve as the Microsoft prop­ erty’s southern border, eventually will need to be widened to accommodate increased traffic in the future. “With additional growth and devel­ opment along that corridor, it will - 1 believe - lead to rebuilding it. We’re probably several years away from that happening, as new developments take shape in that area. But I w'ould think in the next five to ten years that road will be ready for a complete rebuild, softening the hills and making it a little more user-friendly,” he said. Crain’s also reported Microsoft pur­ chased two pieces of property along US-131 in Dorr. One parcel is located along 144th Ave.; the other is at 4555 14th St. south of 146th Ave. CORRECTION: environments for every child. My non­ partisan approach means that I’m com­ mitted to putting the needs of our stu­ dents first, above any political agenda. I’ve always been a servant leader, working tirelessly to understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing our schools. My experience allows me to make infonned deci­ sions and collaborate effectively with administrators, fellow board members. and community members to create a brighter future for our children. 1 believe that every child deserves access to a quality education that prepares them for success. When you vote for me, you’re voting for a proven leader who will always advocate for the best interests of our students. Due to a copy-and-paste error by Sun and News staff, Thomapple Kellogg Schools Board of Education candidate Krissy Hooson did not receive the full list of questions in the questionnaire that was published in the Oct. 19 edi­ tion of the Sun and News. Hooson did not receive the sixth question we asked the TK board candidates: “why should we vote for you?” The Sun and News regrets the error and has published Hooson’s response to that question. Why should we vote for you? As a highly experienced board mem­ ber, 1 have dedicated my time and efforts to ensuring that our schools provide safe, nurturing, and enriching I T g a ii. ?*s I asM .53K 3*. 1 5 I s iR * I Ito w H B’S I 5*; 1 a fi k < to I OCTOBER I 6-8PM 44 Free INDQDR Trick er Treating ■t 4 fbcrniddlEville.net FIRST BAPTIST Middleville 5215 N M-37 Hwy. T • •. <.^1- » �4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 Dianne’s heart with him to heaven. Dianne and Harold moved their . ar young family out to “the farm’’ in 1967 and soon joined Peace Reformed Church. Dianne poured her love into her family. She was a caring and faithful < wife to Harold, an amazing and loving mother to Terri (Dale) O’Connor, Sandy (Scott) McCarty, and Beverly (Doug) Koetsier. Although she always wished for a boy, she later came to realize that God gifted her with daughters so that she would also gain wonderful sons-in-law. Her blessings continued with each of her seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren who she showered with love. r 1 Obituaries .V :' t_ •0 * 10 J "S • ■ A T I a Dianne Louise Ripley Dianne Louise Ripley of Alto. Ml, passed away on October 21. 2024, at the age of 86, surrounded by her three beloved daughters. Dianne was born in Grand Rapids to Richard and Caroline Harvey. Her early years were challenging while her father was deployed during WWII, but her mother, aunt, and grandmother all loved and cared for her. Their small family flourished once Richard returned safely, but injured, and Dianne grew up in a home that recognized the meaning of family, the importance of helping others, and the love of the Lord. Growing up Dianne longed for a brother, but it took nearly 20 years for her brother, Mark, to be born. Dianne married Harold Ripley in 1959 and soon mother and daughter were raising children together. This led to a unique and close bond between Dianne and Mark. Sadly, he passed away at 17 years old and took a piece of •l LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church ALASKA BAPTIST CHURCH Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM Join us for our traditional yet casual worship BAPTIST Middleville 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org 250 Vine Street Livestream: Faccbook.com/CaledoniaUnitedMethodist Strengthening .V 1 co Connecting Good Shepherd '/ Lutlieran Cliurch i A V- i Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Tam -X 1 ;. -1 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend ri HOLY FAMILY ^/CATHOLIC CHURCH r •9 908 W Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. s% Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg Ill Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 JOURNEY 1 CHURCH http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: (269) 795-2391 MPEACE CHURCH Caledonia Location - 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. w I A Sunday Worship: 8:30 a. II . & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. - ; • J peacechurch, 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am cc I id Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, Ml 49333 peacechurch.ee Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE SERVICE TIMES: ^Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org Sunday School Sunday at 9:30afn & 11:00am Sunday Worship om @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, Ml 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Yankee Springs Bible Church PastorJonathan DeCou 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml ! www.tvcweb cornerstonechurch service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. Serving Sunday Service 10:30 AM e -I Rev. Christine Beaudoin www.alaskabaptist.org 7240 68th Street SE. Caledonia ' 9 10:30 AM Itfcz/cZ) our services from our website (see above) 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 "Shining Forth God's LighC Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankcespringsbiblechurch.org Dianne was a humble, kind and private person with a true heart for giving. She never liked w ( the limelight so she would bake delicious homemade meals and f r ■ cookies and then quietly deliver them to the doorsteps of family, 'WH friends, and those in need. She worked for Caledonia Elementary School as the head cook for 20 i years where she was adored by kids and staff alike. * Upon retirement in 1992, Dianne stayed busy in her vegetable and flower gardens, sewing cross-stitch pictures, and keeping the US Postal Service in operation with her mountains of handwritten letters to family and friends. Dianne was preceded in death by her brother, both parents, her husband of 48 years, an aunt, Marcella Houston, and sisterin-law, Judye Ripley She is survived by her daughters and their husbands: grandchildren, Rachel Pillar, Andrew (Amy) O’Connor, Patrick (Kathryn) O’Connor, Katie (Derrick) Brock, Jacob (Jackie) McCarty, Audrey (Tim) O’Connor, Alex (fiancee, Emily) Koetsier; and brother-in-law, Robert Ripley Per Dianne’s wishes, the immediate family will gather to celebrate her life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Disabled American Veterans P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301 httpsy/www. dav.org/ or the American Kidney Association 11921 Rockville Pike, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20852 https;//www.kidneyfund.org/ A I V s 1 R * r* ■/ I I 1 b I 2 k I MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 The Oct. 21 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. Two new fish are in the fishbowl; one fish fell out. Virginia’s program was from the Nov/ Dec TOPS magazine titled “By the Letters.” When looking to have gut health, we should look at our “F’s” and “M's.” Missing in our diets are the four “F’s:” fiber, phenol, ferments, and good fats. But we need the four “M’s” as well to make the gut healthier. They are molecules, microbes, moving, and mind. Fiber gives bacteria the food it needs. Fermentation bolsters the microbial army in the belly. Phenols boost the “good” bacteria and block the “bad” bacteria. Fats maintain the intestinal barrier. Molecules cover compounds the “F’s” provide support. Microbes are the workers. Mood is also known as the second brain. Movement makes bacteria multiply. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. Thefirst meeting is free. I I �www.sunandnews.com lU' THE SUN AND NEWS * > '1 I . s 5 1 anniversary * t •^ii r ANNIVERSARY ANNOUNCEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT f s J *!•*« ■ 5»^ r < Gaines Board approves Dutton Center project ■ ' ■' ,> i James Gemmell 4 I t , * J . % I h .1 Ia • Contributing Writer T 1 * 4U •11 s' •jt .M ♦ I / •» i' Pl *I < . 1 tr.- & ! * "it- « z i ft *•. i ' ■;. l^' » 1 ’a T *K' •t t ♦ t r « •I r* 1 n: \ X '5 2 I t - * 3 t I . I . S'- ♦ •"4 I r /a f A 4 4 • 1 «• * t -^-'0 ■ J .0 ♦ *7 I « rt * The Gaines Township Board has given final approval for the first phase of the Dutton Center mixed-use commercial and residential development on 68th Street at Hanna Lake Avenue. Foilowing a public hearing Monday, Oct. 14, it voted 5-1 to approve a request by Allen Edwin Homes to I rezone a 29-acre parcel of former agricultural land to a Planned Unit Development. One board member was absent from the meeting. Trustee Dan Fryling was the only board member to vote no against the ordinance change. “This is really a major revisioning of Dutton,” Township Community Development Director Dan Wells See GAINES on 11 f ,• ■to I w r -- 4 k 4 I^rt I ■ 4 1 1 / J t V ;* * ■ • 4 . r I . t J '" .rr t TT ■f’ ''<V fl 9« V I1 r, r * r* k ■ 9 A. . Iz i- r- - - ‘"za * St. It r I .J.- I?MI . 4 ’*n I I* * I I •’< a Kw .1 w 1 .44 *► I I Saturday, October 26, 2024 Sleemans to celebrate 60th anniversary Don and Alice Sleeman will be celebrating their 60th anniversary on October 31, 2024. They were united in marriage on October 31, 1964 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Caledonia. Their children include Laurie (Bill) Howard, Wayne (Lynn) Sleeman, Mat (Kris) Sleeman, Andy (Paula) Sleeman and Carrie (Don) Glasgow. The couple has eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren. To send them a card please mail to 661 Hammond Rd., Hastings, Ml 49058. STADIUM Continued from Page 1 Two other contracts for more than $ 1 million each are expected to be awarded. Burggrabe Masonry, based in Belding, bid $ 1,114,13 5 for masonry work on the stadium, while Grand Rapids-based Shoreline Power Services submitted a bid of $ 1,066,344 for the electrical contract. Williamsons celebrated 60th anniversary Darrell and Joan William­ son celebrated their 60th anniversary on Oct. 3, 2024. Their children include: Brenda Jackson of Middleville, Carrie (Dale) Krueger of Hastings, and David (Kristen) Williamson of Middleville. They have seven grandchildren and three great­ grandchildren. There was a celebration hosted by their children with family and friends on Oct. 6, 2024. Bids were opened on the stadium project on Oct. 8, with a total of 110 bidders submitting bids, district Executive Director of Operations and Transportation Matt Hess said. “(The level of bidder participation) is phenomenal and excellent, com­ pared to some of the recent projects that we’ve had over ±e past couple of years,” Hess said. “It’s great to see the (construction) industry coming back hard and getting back in the game.” In several instances, Rockford Construction and district officials rejected the low bidder in their respec­ tive categories. “That is because they either failed to provide proper documentation in bid bonds or required certifica­ tions or who provided bids based on improper scope or unaccepted alter­ native equipment,” Hess said. “They were reviewed as unaccept­ able or they just couldn’t complete the work.” Because bid prices for most contracts did come in under budget, several alternatives have been added to the sta­ dium proj ect. They include a sidewalk on the west side of the parking lot, a handicap-accessible concrete path and patio work inside the stadium, as well as several areas of site work and pav­ ing for the area north of the stadium where field events will take place dur­ ing track season, Hess said. Other subcontractors expected to receive contracts for the project include (with bid amounts): Demolition: Pitsch Company, $59,900 Concrete: VanLaan Concrete, $698,755 Structural Steel: VanDellen Steel, $579,700 General Trades; JKB Construction $614,765 Roofing: Mikalan Roofing, Inc., $323,400 Metal Panels and Standing Seam Roofing: Reliable Sheet Metal, $159,600 Glass and Glazing: Grand Valley Glass, $301,175 Metal Studs and Acoustical Tile; JKB Construction, $90,163 Ceramic Tile: Sobie Company Inc., $53,025 Painting; York Brothers, $59,960 Track Surfacing: StarTrac, $60,000 Food Service Equipment: StafTordSmith Inc., $201,921 Fire Suppression; Grand Rapids Fire Protection, $85,855 Plumbing: Advantage Mechanical, $537,500 Mechanical: R&R Mechanical $521,475 Site Work and Excavation: Rowland Excavating, $675,691 Asphalt Paving: Lite Load, $89,135 Fencing: Fence Consultants of West Michigan, $148,000 Landscaping: Landscape Design Services, $41,685 The school board last month awarded the contract for the lighting project to Iowa-based Musco Sports Lighting in the amount of $282,259. A new turf surface at the stadium was installed prior to the 2023 football season. The stadium renovation also will include new pedestrian walkways, a new spectator entrance on the south side, expanded concession and bath­ room facilities, a new team room on the south side, a new north building that includes a team room as well as train­ ing and officials rooms, a new concrete stepped area on the south bank near the flagpole and an expanded area for field events north of the stadium, Weeldreyer said at a board meeting last month. Because of the stadium project, no home meets will be held next spring for either the high school or middle school track teams. The stadium renovation is expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2025 football season. �1 J I ) 6 Saturday, October 26, 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS www.sunanclnews.com Middleville village president and trustee spots up for grabs this Nov. Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Middleville will have contested races for both village presi­ dent and Village Council trustee in the Nov. 5 election. Incumbent Village President Mike Cramer is seeking a second two-year term to the position he won in No­ vember 2022. Prior to being elected president, he served for eight years as a council trustee. Cramer is being chal­ lenged by Village President Pro Tem­ pore Kevin Smith, who is completing his first four-year term as a trustee and was chosen by his colleagues as presi­ dent pro tempore in November 2023. Four candidates are seeking three four-year seats as council trustees. Two are incumbents - Robert Bishop and Steve Baldry—both of whom were appointed to their seats after previ OUS members resigned. Also seeking office are Tracy Gillhespy and John Osterbaan. Gillhespy is a past council candidate. VILLAGE PRESIDENT RACE Name: Mike Cramer 616-891-0150 BUSINESS HOURS; Monday - Friday; 8 am to 5 pm BODY SHOP Complete Collision Repair 110 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Yovr kusFed Body Shop for o\^er 32 years Occupation: Union Fire Alarm Electrician - University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 1. Why are you running for village president? I LOVE this Village. I was raised here, went to school here, and raised my kids here. I love giving back to the community that has given so much to me and my family. I’ve served the Vil­ lage residents since 2014, and there’s still work to be done. 2. What are your qualifications? The essential qualifications for your Village President should be knowl­ edge in the four key areas of our local government’s responsibilities: Roads, Parks, Water/Sewer Utilities, and Or­ dinances. I’ve been an electrician for over 25 years, which has earned me a wealth of knowledge in understanding construction projects, costs, and the ordinances that regulate everything the Village is responsible for. I’ve also been involved with Middleville A.Y.S.O. for 11 years, as a coach, ref­ eree, and the Regional Commissioner. It has been incredibly fulfilling to con tinue to bring youth soccer program­ ming to our community (especially through COVID) and to watch both the program and all of our kids grow through the years. I’ve seen firsthand the rising costs of maintaining park spaces and understand the importance of keeping those park spaces safe and available. 3. What do you feel are the biggest issues facing the village? Infrastructure and ordinances. Our parks and streets are overdue for some maintenance. The Village has done a great job planning for and completing essential road construction projects and related water and sewer inffastruc ture, but construction costs continue to rise and our tax base isn’t growing. Which leads into the other issue, our governing ordinances. There is a dis­ connect between the Master Plan and our Zoning ordinance, as evidenced by the MidVilla apartment project. We need to review and update our zoning ordinances to make sure the development that comes in matches the development we want. 4. The village has experienced significant growth over the past 15 years, as evidenced by the popula ■a tion increase found in the 2020 census. There is little vacant devel­ opable land remaining within the village. How do you feel the village should best address the future use of those vacant parcels? I feel the Master Plan still shows the vision of what we would like to see on our vacant parcels. Mixed use commercial/residential parcels in the downtown business district by the river would be a nice addition without overwhelming the small town charm of the Village. Since local government doesn’t develop property, we have to make sure our ordinances reflect the type of development we want to see. The Barry County Chamber and Economic Development Alliance has some amazing tools to help us identify potential businesses for our vacant commercial lots that would comple ment our existing businesses and hope­ fully reduce business turnover. 5. Middleville has had a Down­ town Development Authority for the past 25 years. There are conflicting views as to what role the DDAshould play in the village. Some believe its emphasis should be on events to bring people downtown while oth­ ers say they need to be more active in bringing new businesses to the area. What do you feel the DDA’s role should be? I love our local events as much as the next person, (I even help host a couple) but we shouldn’t be focusing our efforts as elected and appointed officials on running events. Events should be ran by our service groups, like the Lions Club, the Rotary, our local churches, and even our local truck clubs as of late. The DDA is funded by captured tax dollars from local businesses with the sole purpose of fostering the development of our vacant parcels to put them back on the tax role. If we have more businesses contributing to our tax base, it divides the increased costs of paving roads, maintaining utility infrastructure, and building parks amongst more people. If more people are paying, everyone pays less. That’s the return on invest­ ment the Village needs from the DDA. 6. Why should we vote for you? I have the experience, knowledge and passion for the community I call home. Our town is growing, and without proper leadership and direc­ tion we will not be prepared to grow responsibly and maintain our small town charm and heritage. I know our deficiencies that pertain to develop­ ment and have a plan to correct them. I have the experience needed to expedite the process, and the passion to speak up when something doesn’t benefit the whole of the Village. As a former Scout, I was taught to leave things bet­ ter than I found them. While I’ve done that, with your vote in November we can do even better things. Name: Kevin Smith Occupation: Technology Executive in the Insurance and Financial Industry 1. Middleville is experiencing growth and transformation like never before. We all stand on the shoulders of visionary leaders such as Charlie Pullen and Catherine Getty, whose dedication to making Middleville a vibrant place to live and raise a family is still evident in their lasting contribu­ tions. In recent years, however, we’ve lost some of that forward momentum, focusing more on our current state rather than our future potential. With strong, compassionate leadership, we can reignite that progress, and I believe I can help to make that happen. 2. With over 25 years of leadership experience. I’ve had the privilege of forming and leading teams that helped build companies from start-ups to multi-billion-dollar enterprises. I believe this success was driven by my focus on fostering a collaborative environment where I actively sought diverse perspectives and engaged the entire team in creating intentional, pro­ active strategies and managing change. My approach to leadership is rooted in empathy, service, and strategic thinking. I ask the right questions, lis­ ten carefully, and ensure all stakehold­ ers are engaged in forming a collective plan. I’m confident that my experi­ ences, along with my commitment to serving the community, will allow me to lead Middleville with strength and vision as Village President. 3. There is a strong disconnect between our long-term goals and the actions we are taking to get there. We’ve had numerous roadblocks in See MIDDLEVILLE on 7 �I r J / > » I J I / I I I I I I 1 I J < I I www.sunandnews.com I * I I THE SUN AND NEWS MIDDLEVILLE there needs to be a stronger focus on Continued from Page 6 economic development and attracting businesses that want to grow in Mid ­ working collaboratively with our dleville. The Village President is key current community leaders by simply to building consensus between the having no clear plan presented on how Village Council, staff, and the DDA, we should address our strategic priori­ aligning efforts to support new busi ­ ties as identified by each of us during nesses and improve quality of life for a recent planning session [affordable its residents. housing, public safety, events and out­ 6. Middleville has been my home reach, parks and rec areas, etc.]. These for nearly 20 years. I ’ ve invested in roadblocks are evident in the lack of downtown Middleville and my wife cooperation amongst boards which Renee and I have owned a business has stalled numerous efforts to serve here since 2018. I helped raise four the community - which should be our our children who attended and graduated highest priority. We are keenly aware from TK schools. I can ’ t imagine liv ­ ofwhat our problems are but have little ing anywhere else. In short, I am “ all or no discussion on how we should fix in on Middleville and want to see them with input from all community the Village reach its potential today stakeholders. and long into the future as a member Our Village staff are some of the of this great community. One of my best people I’ve had the pleasure favorite sayings is: “ The greatest use working with but, for various reasons, of life is to spend it on something that various leadership are exceptionally will outlast it.” I believe Middleville divided on how we should apply the to be that something. resources we have in serving our com­ VILLAGE COUNCIL TRUSTEE munity through outreach, ordinance, RACE and economic development. These Name: Steve Baldry should be the pillars for which we Occupation: Retired from a Global move forward and today, they simply CNC/Automation Machinery business aren’t addressed effectively. after 35 years. I have a degree in Elec­ 4. During my current term, we’ve tronic Engineering Technology. In 35 made progress by adding vacant land years, I was a field service technician to the tax roll and addressing the lack working in all 50 states, and later a ofaffordable housing with one (andpo tentially two) large-scale multi-family product specialist working with cus projects. We remain focused on finding tomers on solutions, making a machine more opportunities to develop the right spec and working with the manufac­ land for the right purposes. Significant tures in USA, Italy, Germany, Japan in strides have been made in opening the development and build. This also communication with landowners of included project management with the inactive or deteriorating properties, customer and the company, as well as collaborating with Planning and Zon­ managing all peripherals needed. ing to explore development options. I work part time for a local busi­ This is a key step in creating opportuni­ ness now and consider myself happily ties for those interested in investing in semi-retired. Middleville. With the right leadership, 1. As a 25-year resident in the vil­ we can accomplish adding what few lage, a TK grad, I have seen growth remaining parcels we have to become in both residential, commercial and an effective part of our community industrial sectors which are very ben­ purpose. eficial to all in the Village. I want to 5. The DDA has been active in our be a part of the process in help solving community for 25 years, but a major the challenges that the Village growth challenge for both the Village and the brings forward. The previous councils DDA has been a lack of cohesion in made some tough decisions on our in­ their strategic vision. In recent years, frastructure and planned accordingly. the DDA has struggled to share ideas Looking into the 5-year, 10-year and and set clear priorities that align with beyond we need to continue that same current leadership’s intent. While it path. We need to focus not only on plays a vital role in community events today but tomorrow also. business support, and beautification, 2. I currently serve on the Village I I Saturday, October 26, 2024 Council as a trustee. I was appointed last December after a trustee resigned. I have seen in the last 10 months the overall condition of the Village, which is very good, the strengths of differ­ ent departments, facilities we have and what’s down the road to a certain de^ee. I was on the Thomapple Town­ ship Board of Review for several years and the Zoning Board of Appeals, so I have some experience in local government. I won’t tell you I know everything because I don’t, however if I don t know, I will use the resources available to educate myself. Being semi-retired I have the time to devote to the necessary training and research for the council that I wouldn’t have had working full-time. 3. Public safety. We are very fortunate to have an active police department with excellent staff and leadership. Sgt. Ware and his staff are consistently working on solutions to challenges as they surface. The Council needs to support the depart­ ment with the resources they need to accomplish the task at hand. In 2024 the Village installed security cameras 7 in crucial areas to monitor activity in and around the Village. The program has already proven successful. We need to expand programs like this which benefits the Village. Infrastructure. Roads, bridges, side­ walks, water/sewer, facilities, come to mind however it includes everything in the Village. This year alone major street, water, sewer etc. projects have been done or are in process. There are more planned for 2025 and beyond and we need to always look ahead and set priorities of the village needs and budget accordingly. 4. Every business in Middleville needs new employees. Our available housing market is tight, expensive and out ofreach for a lot ofprospective em­ ployees. Currently we have a developer who proposed the Mid-Villa apartment complex and has been approved by the Village Council, Township, DDA and County. When it is finished it will be approx. 120 1 - to 2-bedroom units will be available. When finished the benefit to employers to attract employees and local businesses as goods and services See MIDDLEVILLE on 8 z * * I CALEDONIA ARTS & CRAFT SHOW f I 1 j Free Admission .y 5^ . i L NOVEMBER 2, 2024 10AM - 3PM DUNCAN LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL 9757 DUNCAN LAKE AVE, CALEDONIA, Ml For more info visit www.inspiremenow.org or call 616-891-8117 •• A �1 f 8 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 MIDDLEVILLE Continued from Page 7 will be needed. This presents an op­ portunity for residents to transition to homeowners in Middleville The Village has a developer who is proposing a project on the vacant lot on State St. for 120 approx. 1- to 2-bedroom apartments. The former Baby Bliss buildings have been demolished and removed making this property available for development. 5. The Downtown Development Agency (DDA) has been very good at downtown events which benefits the Village. However, the DDA is much more than that which is evident when you look around downtown you can see the things that they have contrib uted to over the years. Our downtown is more than a functional event center, it promotes Middleville as being alive and well thanks in large part to the DDA. I feel the DDA does and should promote our downtown to new busi­ ness. They help anyway they can for business to locate downtown and have .A V.t I I I I r I f. I URN ACE ■ TtJNE'EP '•e ■RUU I 1 Is I I i I 11 Pi I ■ < * SLA * RUUD * I I J FINANCING AVAILABLE ■ I I I 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments on qualifying equipment FRONTIER HEATING 8 COOLING ■ 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 —IM Ml . 1 I I I I I ' I I F I I I I I the expertise to do so. 6. Hard question to answer. I am a 25-year resident, have background in logical problem solving, always do my own discovery before forming opin ions, keep a focus on cost and budget. Will work on priorities of the Village and residents. I am open-minded and always willing to listen. Being semi­ retired I have the time to devote to be­ ing a trustee, which is considerable. So far this year I have taken/been included in training programs, seminars and workshops. On 10/22/2024 I finished a 2.5-month webinar course given by the Michigan Infrastructure Council on Asset Management and Infrastruc ture which will be a great help to me as a Village Trustee. Also completed Newly Elected Officials, Building a High Functioning Leadership Team, Core Winter Summit, Strategic Plan ning Workshop and MDA Strengthen ing MDDA Training. These courses will really help me and benefit the Village over the next 4 yrs. As well as continuing training for the next 4 years as needed. Name: Robert Bishop Occupation: Currently Unem­ ployed 1. As an Eagle Scout out of local Troop 105, I have always been inter­ ested in servant leadership and helping my community to be a better place. 2. I have been serving in the role since May of 2023 and have been gaining experience directly related to the job through both locally facilitated trainings as well as distance learning. I studied political science at Grand Val­ ley State University where I received a Bachelor of Science in 2006. I also have an Associate’s in computer pro­ gramming from GRCC. 3. Housing is the biggest issue cur rently facing the village. Between the urgent need for housing and the differing opinions of what that hous ing should look like. As the need for rental properties increases, we are increasingly told that the community doesn’t want “those people” living in our town. Those people are our teachers, Bradford White employees, and young people getting their start. We do not have housing for that sector of the market. Without housing we are immediately hobbling the people that make Middleville a community and home and it is a disservice to everyone. 4.1 believe that the best use ofvacant land in Middleville is for housing. We do not have the housing required to support the commimity as it is and we are only expecting more growth. Even with the current housing projects in place, we are hundreds of rental imits behind where we should be currently. In order to maintain the feel of a small town, but deal with the growth ofbeing a bedroom community to Grand Rap­ ids, it would be better for Middleville to focus on housing as it is the least objectionable use of land. Industrial needs are best served by some sort of industrial complex that could be placed in the township. The township would gain a sizable tax base and give Middleville access to local jobs. Middleville is in need of commercial growth that has not yet materialized. I do not see the need to increase com­ mercial property when we can’t keep our highway commercial area filled let alone our DDA district. 5. The role of the DDA is codified by law and should halt property value deterioration, increase taxable value, promote economic growth, and pro­ vide for its own operation. They also have reporting requirements for prov­ ing that they are accomplishing those goals. Our DDA has actively tried to block projects that would accomplish three of their goals. They have been around for 25 years and our taxable value has not significantly increased to anything other than inflation. We have properties that have been vacant for so long that many residents don’t even know what used to be there. Baby Bliss has been out of business for de­ cades and only recently has the land been cleaned up. The hotel downtown burned down in 1981 and has been available in our downtown to develop for the entire existence of the DDA. When asked by the council what they were doing to promote the develop­ ment of these available properties, we were informed that they didn’t know that was something they needed to do. The DDA only started tracking data as to why businesses leave this year. They are currently looking at customer relationship management software to track these interactions. That should have been happening for the last 25 years. If our DDA is incapable of accomplishing the legally required portions of their job, why should we www.sunandnews.com be allowing them to spend taxpayer money on events? 6. As a long-term resident of the village. I’ve seen the growth of the community as well as the set-backs. I will use the knowledge of where the community has come from to best guide it where it needs to go. Name: Tracy Gillhespy Occupation: Caretaker, Home­ maker, Independent Contractor 1.1 would love to serve my commu­ nity and I am a believer in the rotation of elected office seats on a regular basis to keep the positions honest and genuinely by the people for the people. 2.1 am a village resident. 3. Drama and the spending. 4.1 believe the residents need to give their input and it should be a discussion that should be had by as many residents as possible. Housing comes to my mind immediately but I am only one person. 5. New businesses definitely. Our events are pretty much set and regular events you see every year. 6. I am a resident willing and able and eager to serve with my neighbors to fulfill my civic duty. I am a moderately conservative person who puts value in our small town family focused lifestyle that we all enjoy and I believe that is why we choose to call Middleville our home. Name: John Osterbaan Occupation: Self-employed/Small business owner 1. I’m running to help keep com­ mon sense and traditional values in the village. 2.1 have been a resident for 30 years and have a strong work ethic, I know how to solve problems and a desire to keep the village a great place to raise a family. 3. Image, housing and keeping small business in the village. 4. By following a master plan that addresses housing and business concerns, with a goal of keeping the village’s small town feel. 5. The Downtown Development Authority’s primary focus should be on bringing and keeping business down­ town. Activities should only be a tool they use to keep business downtown. 6.1 will work with the other trustees to maintain the village’s small town feel. I will also help keep the village a safe place to live and not to over regulate business. �i I V 4 » ) t I I ( r I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS s' I 1 f * 1 1 I I I Il >• I* I i I I I f ( 4 4 Saturday, October 26, 2024 Middleville council approves _ fire barn i development agreement exfen^on Classifieds 9 i I I I I ■ I r *A Greg Chandler Staff Writer L J I T * « * X 5 SF"’»SE.’. 1 fl 9. «> V.* •V • 4 «▼% portion of the building will house an 840-square-foot, two-bedroom apartment, DeMaagd said. DeMaagd said at the Oct. 1 Plan­ ning Commission meeting that he plans to limit the capacity of the gath­ ering spaces to less than 200 people total, which he said would negate the need for him to add exits leading out from both gathering spaces. DeMaagd has submitted proposed hours of operation for the business: Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 1 a.m., Fridays and Saturdays from 4 to 11 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 10 p.m. 41 >« A downtown Middleville business owner has been given a little more time to complete redevelopment of the former village fire bam at 115 High St. The Village Council Tuesday night unanimously approved extending the development agreement between the village and Acorn Treehouse Ventures LLC for the 90-year-old bam that had been reached in July 2022. The exten­ sion gives Acorn Treehouse Ventures principal Johnny DeMaagd until Aug. 31, 2025, to finish redevelopment of the building and secure an occupancy permit as evidence of that completion. DeMaagd is the owner of Left Field Cafe and a former member of the Vil­ lage Council. The council’s passage of the development agreement extension came after the village Planning Com mission approved an updated site plan for the project on Oct. 1. “"nie site plan was (turned in) after the time that it was originally supposed . to be completed, but the final (project) completion date is within 30 days of what was previously anticipated,” Village Planning and Zoning Admin­ istrator Doug Powers told the council. In May 2022, the Village Council voted 6-0 to accept the bid of Acorn Treehouse Ventures of $40,115 to acquire the fire bam. At the time, DeMaagd had proposed a mixed-use commercial development at the fire bam that included a cafe, bakery and coffee roasting and canning operation. The original agreement for the 115 High property called for a site plan to be submitted to the village in July 2023 with substantial completion by Janu­ ary 2025 and an occupancy permit to be approved in July 2025. Earlier this summer, village officials thought about having ownership ofthe property revert back to the village after DeMaagd did not respond to initial requests for an updated site plan. DeMaagd later apologized to the village and has been in regular contact with Powers ever since, he told the council. This refresh, this extra month or so of the development agreement, kind of eliminates vague terms from the 9 ■^>bl - --1WVMI • .TiT I . I I t*. ba • -‘I? ?3q ST,* i i « I K J I '■I 'A' A I 4 * j IJ**) IX p., 4 r A Sc? k*'.. J t I I t J L 4 t —» ( Johnny DeMaagd earlier this month at a Middleville Planning Commission meeting. DeMaagd was granted an extension this week that will allow him more time to complete a renovation at the former village fire barn at 115 High St File photo original development agreement,” DeMaagd said. “It makes it so that Doug and I are on the same page for having all of the licensing and everything (done) by August of next year.” President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith expressed appreciation to DeMaagd for working with Powers on the updated site plan and development agreement extension. “Doug comes before us frequently. We just want to hear updates in the affirmative (that the project is making progress),” Smith said. “I think that’s certainly a good step in the right direc­ tion. I appreciate you taking the time to do that.” DeMaagd has proposed a hospitality­ based business at the 115 High site, with the eventual goal of having a full-service kitchen operate out of the building which will initially be used as a commissary to serve Left Field Cafe and later a full-service restaurant, De­ Maagd told planning commissioners earlier this month. The first phase of the site develop­ ment would also call for two rentable event gathering spaces, one on the west side of the building and another on the east side, with a lobby or staging area in between. In addition, the upstairs Quick response | SdVGS tPAn ’ Q I if A o«v^o ICCII O Ilie at local tennis tournament Greg Chandler Staff Writer BUSINESS SERVICES r r Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing,dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured. 616389-9496 TREE SERVICE */ BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. 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The teen began to breathe normally after receiving the shock and was taken to a local hospital for treatment, and is said to be doing well, Gilbert said. “KCSO is grateful for the swift actions of the bystanders who called 9-1-1 and provided medical aid until first responders arrived,” Gilbert said in the release. * aa ' FOR SALE: 2015 Lakota Char­ ger horse trailer, Model C839. 8’ wide, 7’8” height, 3 horse slant and 9’6” short wall in Hastings, Ml. Beautiful inside and out, very clean. Purchased new and kept inside when not in use. New tires in 2022. Westinghouse iGen 4500 generator used once. $42,500. 269-945-7180. FOR SALE: 2018 Lakota 2 horse slant bumper pull horse trailer. All aluminum step up trailer with dressing room lightly used. Extra tall 76 feet. Double saddle racks. Trailer grooming bag mounted on rear door. Spare tire. Easy to pull. Stored inside during winter. $14,500. 269-945-7180. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269331-9999. AUTOS 2012 FORD F150 4X4. Super CrewCab with Cap. 5.0 Engine. 178K miles. New tires. $9,000 obo. 269-580-7188. �I ( i < I 1 I J 4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 10 LETTERS FROM OUR READERS Public education under attack SUBMIT A LETTER Editor: There is an attack on public education. Our schools are places where students should be safe, free to think openly, and are cared for. Local board elections are your way to ensure this occurs. Theirs is a movement, headed by selfrighteous people, to interfere with the free-to-think-openly process by censoring the types of information our kids can read, even though deemed OK by national librarians’ groups. If you want to censor what your child reads, that’s fine, but don’t stifle my child’s education with your ideology. I thought we did away with book burning in the 1940s in Germany, but I guess we are going back there. In Middleville elections, the only candidate that truly supports public education is Krissy Hooson. The other choice of the VP two troublemakers would be Katie Stanton. So get out and vote, stop the takeover, stop the movement to the New Republic of Gilead from forming. Steve Zoet Irving Township 1 visit US online at mihomepaper.com I I t I * TO THE SUN AND NEWS AS THE NAME IMPLIES, LETTERS SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE EDITOR, NOT TO ANY SPECIFIC OR BROAD AUDIENCE. THE SUN AND NEWS WELCOMES LETTERS TO THE EDITOR FROM READERS, BUT A FEW CONDITIONS MUST BE MET BEFORE THEY WILL BE PUBLISHED. The requirements are: • All letters must be signed by the writer, with address and phone number provided for verification. All that will be printed is the writer’s name and community of residence. We do not publish anonymous letters, and names will be withheld at the editor’s discretion for compelling reasons only. • Letters that contain statements that are libelous or slanderous will not be published. • All letters are subject to editing for style, grammar and sense. • Letters that serve as testimonials for, or criticisms of, businesses will not be accepted. • Letters serving the function of “cards of thanks” will not be accepted unless it is of public interest, which will be determined by the editor. • Letters that include attacks of a personal nature will not be published or will be edited heavily. • “Crossfire” letters between the same two people on one issue will be limited to one for each writer. • In an effort to keep opinions varied, there is a limit of one letter per person per month. • We prefer letters to be printed legibly or typed 9 Xs I, 4 1 I .1 i-z •I, c 1 1 1 : '■fif a ■ 9 ■i * < I V. 1 •M I J I• ,- * ■ih t Tra^j-or -wisdom} 'O' QUESTIONS: ASK US... 'Si hhvmer w '5!S. I r4jI r MrtS •'» ♦ 3 ■m 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 OfEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm Hulst Cleaners Pickup Station www.sunandnews.com Cal schools audit shows nearly $1.7 million surplus Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Community Schools ended the 2023-24 fiscal year with a general fund surplus of close to $1.7 million, according to an annual audit of the district’s finances. Ian Rees of the Grand Rapids-based public accounting firm Gabridge and Company presented results of its audit to the district’s Board of Education Monday night. Rees reported that the district ended the fiscal year on June 30 with a general fund surplus of $1,688,577, boosting CCS’ overall reserves in the general fund to $12,065,924, of which $11,701,448 is unassigned. That total fund balance represents about 16.4 percent of the district’s annual expen­ ditures and transfers out, Rees said. The district received a ‘‘clean opin­ ion” from the auditor, meaning no major issues were raised during the audit. “It’s the best opinion you can receive,” Rees said. The district took in more than $73.2 million in revenues during the 2023-24 fiscal year and spent more than $71.5 million, resulting in the surplus, ac­ cording to the audit. Shortly after Rees presented the audit results, CCS Chief Financial Officer Sara DeVries gave an update on the current fiscal year budget The district is projecting a shortfall of $1,783,948 for the 2024-25 fiscal year on a budget of $72,093,407 in expenditures. That would reduce the general fund reserves to about $10.2 million, or about 14.3 percent of spending. The school board has had a longstanding policy of main­ taining a fund balance of at least 13 percent of expenditures. The school board eliminated more than two dozen positions when it passed the budget in June, many of them interven­ tion paraprofessionals whose salaries had been paid through federal COVID relief funds that expired last month. The board approved the reductions in response to early projections of a $4.7 million deficit in the 2024-25 budget. The board has since approved the ad­ dition of five instructional intervention paraprofessionals, one at each of the five elementary buildings, and added a districtwide security coordinator position and a safety monitor position at the high school to address security concerns. It also approved replacing the dean of students position at the high school with an assistant principal. “We’re in a better place (fiscally). We’ll look to bring an updated budget amendment (to the board) in December ... as we plan and prep for future years,” DeVries said. Yankee Springs board approves water rate hike Greg Chandler Staff Writer Customers of the Yankee Springs Township water system will see their rates increase as ofthe start ofnext year. The Township Board on Oct. 10 unanimously approved increases in both fixed and usage rates for the sys­ tem’s 265 customers. The board passed a 6.5 percent increase in the fixed rate, also known as a readiness to serve charge. The quarterly cost for a 3/4-inch meter, which is the most com­ mon size for homes, will rise from $86 to $91.55, while customers that have a 1 -inch meter will see their quarterly fixed rate increase from $101.36 to $107.90. The board also approved raising the usage rate from $2.25 to $2.30 per 1,000 gallons. “It’s still a pretty good bargain,” said Greg Purcell, who chairs the township’s Water Advisory Board, of the usage charge. The new rates will take effect Jan. 1, Purcell said. The rate increase was recommended by the Michigan Rural Water Associa­ tion and the Water Advisory Board at a Sept. 24 public hearing at the Township Hall to allow the water system to keep up with its maintenance and operation costs. In addition, the water board rec­ ommended built-in increases over each of the next five years based on the rate of inflation up to 5 percent, Purcell said. In other business at the Oct. 10 meet­ ing, the Township Board: \erty line of Robbins Cemetery off of Chief Noonday Road in the amount See SPRINGS on 17 �1 L, «, % www.sunandnews.com I THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 GAINES •^7 Continued from Page 5 I t * . V f I. ' > » I k I said. “They’re doing a pretty good job of reinforcing the historic bones that are there. Th^ was platted back in the 1870s ... so this is actually one of our oldest urban areas in the township. It does a pretty good job of fitting in and helping to reinforce the local economy.” The rezoning is for the remaining northern portion of the old J & A Post Family Farm, north of Shadyside Park. At its Sept. 26 meeting, the planning commission had recommended that the township board approve the PUD rezoning. The site plan for the property at 3316 68th St. SE was contingent on the board’s approval of the rezoning. This is for the first phase of a pro­ posed five-phase, multi-year devel opment. The project will connect to the Thomapple Farms development that is being built south of the site. It also will conform to the township’s Master Plan long-range vision for Dutton as a vil­ lage center. Project developer Michiana Land Development LLC intends to design the Dutton Center as a pedestri­ an-friendly community center. It will feature four housing types, a lot of pub­ lic spaces and non-motorized pathways. Mike West with Allen Edwin Homes addressed the township board during the Oct. 14 public hearing. “Over the last year, we’ve been working collaboratively with both staff and the planning commission trying to incorporate all of the elements that were envisioned in the Dutton Center area,’’ he said. One housing type included in the site plan is two-story veranda-style homes that feature rear-entry garages. “So, these are homes that are close to the road, porch prominent, with access to detached garages in the back,” West said. The townhouses and veranda homes to be built in Phase One will be under single-ownership condominium and management. There also are some attached two-, three- and four-unit townhomes with rear-loaded garages in the project’s first phase. Rear-loaded means the garages are behind the houses. “So, these townhomes are oriented toward the roadway with parking in the back,” West said. Phase One of the multi-year project will feature 14 single-family veranda * •M ___ 1 4 » ’ » --/ t'I 11 * -e' •4- V if*. . . ? X «e • Ml • ** V X •.i** * I * e III MM I JMi c^* «ir r\ *bt{ ■< a .A' .2. *. w. ■ ■ ■ *1 r « *< 1 I ■ i 4 « I I I "J 1* u • * < V* 5^ < l.. tf-- K •l h A o 4 w 4 * V « t k” • V’ A ¥ 0 e •« • r- II -k at % r» I > A*- 4 3r B * 1 •J V >• * J* 2L ec^ 1 ) * •' M . ri* 4 y . M A I MW I ■ I > I r «• er* I *< * 2 w * $ V i«* V- *1 » The tentative PUD layout for the future Dutton Center uunon Center mixed-use residential retail and commercial development at the corner of 68th Street at Hanna Lake Avenue, image courtesy of gaines1ownship.org style homes, and M two-unit and four unit attached townhomes. Only the first phase has been approved by the township board, so far. A future second phase would include 47 single-family detached homes on platted lots. Phase 3 antici­ pates 96 multiple-family apartment buildings; Phase 4 pictures two, 2-story commercial/residential/office build­ ings facing Hanna Lake Avenue. There would be ground-floor retail space with either housing or office space on the second floor, depending on market desirability. There is the potential for up to 30 additional multiple-family apartment units on the second floor. Allen Edwin is a residential builder. so it may partner with another com pany to build the apartment and com­ mercial units, according to Wells. The fifth phase calls for two single­ story commercial buildings that would face 68th Street. Phases 2 through 5 will require future plat and site-plan reviews before they can be approved. The overall PUD would have 208 dwelling units, with ±e potential for up to 238 depending on how the mixed-use buildings are laid out. The southern portion of the develop­ ment is a traditional plat that will serve as a transition between the Thomapple Farms development that is being built just to the south. And along Hanna Lake Avenue and 68^1 Street the developer plans a mix of commercial, retail and office buildings. “One of the principles of the master riB _ Post entity that owns the parcel. “This property was put under con­ tract for sale over two years ago," he said. “At the time, there was a plan, there was a use. Then came the rezoning. Since that rezoning, there’s been a long collaborative effort between the developer and the township. Lots of meetings, lots of hearings w ith the planning commission. And I believe the result is that we now have a PUD that hits the technicalities of the zoning ordinance. It complies with the engineering requirements of the zoning ordinance. The public safety concerns have all been met. They’ve done what can be done with creating this city cen ter concept, given the sort of changes in the economy since (the pandemic). The public hearing closed after that and the township board voted in favor of the project. The board also voted 5-1 to approve an unrelated project in Dutton at its Oct. 14 meeting. It was for a Dutton Mill PUD amendment that will allow the Marathon gas station at 3495 68th St. to build a 1,400-square-foot addi tion for a refrigerated walk-in cooler. Some upgrades to the parking lot will be made as a condition of the approval. plan envisioned a highly walkable vil lage center, and they have incorporated a lot of walkability in this project. West said. “There are five-foot-wide concrete sidewalks on both sides of all the roads, public and private, as well as along the Hanna Lake and Dutton Avenue frontage. Additional sidewalks will connect Dutton Center with the Thomapple Farms development to the south and to sidewalks along 68th Street to the north. Plans for open-space amenities include, among other things, a small fenced-in dog park near the town­ homes, a sports court for basketball and pickleball, and a tot lot play­ ground area. Wells said the Dutton Center project comes close to the vision that was developed for the site during the town­ ship’s 2008 master plan update. “There was a main street sort of con­ cept, but obviously the economy has changed. In terms of how this is dif­ ferent from that original vision is that it’s really focusing on providing a wide variety of housing types,” he said. The township adopted a new master plan last year that focuses on a neigh­ borhood center concept and walkable paths that connect housing develop­ ments with retail spaces. “I think that they’ve done a pretty good job of meeting the traditional neighborhood design,” Wells said. Steve Tjapkes, a senior attorney with the Foster Swift law firm, spoke to the township board on behalf of the J. A. * «» VETERAN’S TRUCK LINE INC. In Marshall, Ml is now accepting applications for: TRUCK DRIVERS • Night Drivers • Paid health benefits • Hourly rate $24.00 hr. after 6 months $25.00 hr. • Time & 1 /2 over 40 hours • 401 (k) w/contribution • Drive newer equipment • Paid vacations/holidays • Paid life/disability • Must have Class A CDL and pass medical/drug screen CALL NOW DIRECT (262) 539-4460 ASK FOR DON Go to wvvw.vetstruck.com for applications. �4 t 12 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 Yankee Springs eyes short-term rental ordinance changes night, drunk and disorderly conduct, illegal parking and littering during the summer tourism season. The township already had in place an ordinance passed in 2021 that required short-term rentals to be registered with the township. Mark Van Holstyn, who lives on the west side of Gun Lake, owns one short-term rental and manages another, the latter on behalf of an out-of-state property owner who has owned the site for decades. He spoke out in support of STRs, saying they stimulate the local economy by attracting tourists and visi tors. He added that such rentals provide an affordable accommodation option to families who prefer staying in homes rather than hotels and “a more personal, comfortable experience.” “Short-term rentals support small businesses, like restaurants, shops, marinas and many others,” Van Hol­ styn said. “When these visitors stay in our township, they spend their money here, helping local businesses thrive and generate tax revenue, which can be reinvested to benefit the public. “Additionally, short-term rentals pro- included renting such a unit for more than 14 calendar days per year. Zoning Administrator Joe Shea said the current language has been difficult to enforce. “We had some people who were violating the ordinance, who never had a permit and were renting out (their property), but then would use as a defense this 14-day provision,” Shea said. “It made it difficult for our code enforcement officer to go ahead with enforcement and to prove that they had rented for more than 14 days. That’s a suggestion to close that loophole.” The Township Board in March paissed a ban on new commercial short­ term rentals as a special exception use in the Gun Lake residential lakefront, residential lakefront, residential singlefamily and suburban residential zon ing districts. Owner-occupied STRs, which are defined as “traditional short-term rentals,” are allowed in the residential-zoned areas, including those around Gun Lake. At the time, township officials said they were responding to complaints they had received about noise late at Greg Chandler Staff Writer Yankee Springs Township is looking at several changes to its ordinance that bans commercial short-term rentals in residential-zoned areas. But as the township Planning Commis­ sion is looking at these changes, some property owners and local residents say the ordinance is hurting local tourism and businesses that rely on tourism. Commissioners held apublic hearing Oct. 17 on proposed changes that were recommended by a short-term rental ad hoc committee. One proposed change would remove a provision that allowed guaranteed renewal of an STR permit the following year if there were no vio­ lations in the present year. Instead, the property owner would have to reapply for renewal of the permit by March 1 of the next year, regardless of whether there were violations or not. Another proposed change tightens up the definition of an STR as “the commercial use of renting a dwelling unit for less than 28 consecutive calendar days,” removing language that •4 4 r- i i I i • < .H • Arm rrumMr of Commiroi WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS e ♦s V ir II, J 1 » J • ^£C. . IR vrreii SPONSOK s .. ' 'S' WC ’ * 1 * Z-CS; Residential & Commercial I Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers -Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers 4«J ir- 4 id > '"WillFE' T c 4 4 Muimy sroKtm I I I -V “ 1 •,4 V - iwf'- £ K .J t.. » . F t I r ' i-X,* ✓* • I’ ? *1* 4 / •f CHWTSWHSOK 12 IC. or I V.’ • 4 iC.^ . 'J / Ss r ? I 0 i: ♦* J I ♦ --------- Ik : atr r^I* F • if % . I f A f• 4 t «« ■ .1 V * 1 > SPCnU TMHKS: r & ■ •. 4 ’ A k -A I* g-.’ ( l^ftOk'jQtVq !.'<-<•,t Ari I LENNOX^ 'a.< •VW % Fa I r^V ’ * X BBS. t I >ns _ .V I •\ I a 4 * . t I 4 *• VT I I ? Anty ^"•.4 f •. • •V .1. I* J. 1 % Ya i V.n ► T- T < % <4? J* * ! J >A :■« ';r -xz; '’Ji J 1. I 1.^ f I •i IR • n r* •l 9 Hi >■ •-I. makes all the difference! b rz*’ K Xi’i- I' Events fike tWs wouidnt be possibie without, your generosity—whether through your time/ effort, Of financial support Your contribution □ * > ,1 ■?7 .rB" ACCREDITED BUSINESS aZv* t < I Since 1955 r I ‘ I A K r a <•:- •• . I . .J l; " fi * ueWeerd (S8) <- 4 4 nMKiStor-*- «*T.’ I '4 ' HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 { J- "I ' • z t, SARsssaooio ' d 4 i' b\KE MICHIGAN ■OB w t » E AS ->4 I W IH I M I H T t H • - r vide homeowners with a flexible source of income. For many, this extra income is essential for maintaining their proper ties, paying their mortgages, investing back into their homes. This ultimately leads to better neighborhoods, higher property values and a greater sense of pride in our community.” Mark Peets, who lives west of Gun Lake, has a neighbor who has two short-term rental properties, and says he’s never had an issue with visitors who have stayed at those homes. Monday through Thursday, they have to be inside their house by 9 o’clock. Friday and Saturday, they have to be inside his houses at 10 o ’ clock. We never hear them,” Peets said. “They are always nice people, no young kids yell­ ing and screaming. I think it’s good for the community to have these short-term rentals. (It’s good) for the restaurants, the gas stations, the people that rent their pontoons. I think it’s a great thing.” Luke Miller, who owns a bed-andbreakfast near Barlow Lake, said that long-term rentals can have as much a detrimental impact on an area as short term rentals. He said the key is having responsible owners keeping an eye on what is happening with their short-term rentals. “Everybody has a different passion for why they’re doing it. I know there’s other people from other cities buying these places, and that’s what’s causing the problem,” Miller added. “The people that are here representing short-term rentals, speaking in favor of short-term rentals, are the people that care about them. They’re creating memories for other families, they’re creating memo­ ries for new families, sharing the experi­ ence of being on the water.” “I think we have to find a balance in there, but I think it comes down to the homeowner and how we police (the property). It is our responsibility to make sure those people who have been renting are following the guidelines,” Miller added. One possible amendment that has been suggested is allowing an STR in a residential-zoned area ifthe proposed • rental is owned by the owner of an adjoining home. Commissioners tabled any action on recommended changes to the or dinance, and will pick the issue back up when they meet again on Nov. 21. Any ordinance changes would have to be approved by the Township Board. s I I V u �n I i / p I 4 I I f I J k I r J ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS « 13 Saturday, October 26, 2024 ♦ schedules annual Pine Rest Giving Tree Luncheon for business members on Dec. 10 Greg Chandler Staff Writer * _s L The Gaines Chamber of Commerce will hold its 10th annual Pine Rest Giving Tree Luncheon on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at the Pine Rest Postma Center. The quarterly luncheon for cham ber business members will be in Building C on the main Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services campus on 68th Street at Division Avenue. “We are taking donations for the Pine Rest families for Christmas, Chamber President Barb Nauta said. “Pine Rest and the Gaines Chamber will have donation infor mation on our websites, and col­ lection containers at area Gaines < ' ' i t z... T * <• ♦ e' w • s 1.* A • »iiH: HI * chnstine"'5 saion & spa Ta** ** ^ fl ' P1AV>FDOD .. ’■ 4 «dr I Or ft ’ S *5^ Additional donations forthe Pine Rest Giving Tree are typically collected at the Gaines Chamber of Commerce’s quarterly luncheon, which will be held Dec. 10 this year at the Pine Rest Postma Center. File photo by James Gemmell Chamber businesses.” Each year. Pine Rest and the Gaines Chamber collaborate to donate gift certificates to the patients and residents who wake up at Pine Rest on Christmas morning. The executive director of the Pine Rest Foundation, Donald MacKenzie, explained the value of the gifts in a speech at the Giving Tree Luncheon in 2021. “That’s one of those small things that we can do to let people know that they are human, that they don’t need to be embarrassed with what they’re going through. And it just allows them to really try to cel­ ebrate Christmas,” he said. The luncheon will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and attendees must register in advance to attend. You Gaines Chamber to hold luminary walk on Dec. 7 at Prairie Wolf Park fb> You can stroll a lighted path and cel ebrate the holiday season on Saturday, Dec. 7 at Prairie Wolf Park. The Gaines Chamber of Commerce is hosting the inaugural event at the park adjacent to the township hall at 8555 Kalamazoo Ave. That isjust south of 84th Street. The luminary walk will get underway at dusk. “We plan to have some hot cocoa. WeTl have candy canes and, hopefully, some other entertainment,” Gaines Chamber Executive Director Barb Nauta said. <■ Prairie Wolf is owned by the town­ ship. It is a 45-acre passive-use park named after the wolves that once roamed the township freely. There is still plenty of wildlife in the woods, orchards and prairies, plus a creek. There are paved and unpaved trails with benches along the route for resting. The park features a 1.8-mile loop trail that takes about 40 minutes to walk. It is popular for bird watchers and those who like to cross-country ski, snow­ shoe and hike. Nauta expects the luminary walk to be enjoyable for all participants. “Just a stroll on a lighted path along the Prairie path. It should be a lot of fim,” she said. KNOW SOMETHING INTERESTING? We’d love to hear about it! mmacleod@mihomepaper.com THE SUN AND NEWS view^,_c.»,p V R F I □ ■■ .# * '’'L -■ James Gemmell Contributing Writer can do that by clicking on the Events tab via the website address gaineschamber.org. You also can register to sponsor an auction bas­ ket. “WeTl have some baskets with auction items, and all of the money that we collect there goes to the Pine Rest families,” Nauta said. She added that the as-yet-unan­ nounced guest speaker at the busi­ ness luncheon will be talking about the Pine Rest Giving Tree. “WeTl also have a township rep­ resentative talking about what’s going on for businesses within this area. And then, you’ll have myself just kind of talking about what we’ve been doing for the Gaines Chamber of Commerce,” Nauta said. □ .1 I r —■ Ml * i I * > •I I •i VI I ■ 9 * 4 1^ . Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! 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Enrollment depends on contract renewals. Y0076_ALL 2025 Paid Print Ad vl M «ir HAP49814110/2024 �f s 'bOOl I I www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ■(*' .Kit 15 Saturday, October 26, 2024 ♦ ♦ •’"m' "Aw 4 I . ■ 91' 4 r Jenison pulls out a second five-setter with Scots Brett Bremer Cambria Gaier had 23 kills and three aces to lead the Caledonia attack on the night. Aubrey Reynolds added 15 kills and Josie Noble had 13 kills. Fighting Scot setter Jessica Maier put up 44 assists. Gaier also had a team high 20 digs while Maier added 19 and Reynolds, Avery Seif and Eliza Pehrson had 17 digs each. Noble and Kyla Charles had four blocks each for Caledonia. The Caledonia team improved to 6-2 in the OK Green Conference this Sports Editor It has taken ten sets for the Jenison Wildcats to get results in a pair of OK Green Conference wins over the Cale­ donia varsity volleyball team this fall. The Fighting Scots were 6-2 heading into an Oct. 24 match-up with Byron Center with their only two conference losses coming against the Wildcats in five sets. Jenison beat the visiting Scots 27-29, 25-15,23-25,25-23,15-11 in their sec­ ond conference match-up of the season last Thursday, Oct. 17. . •r«^. f -» <*— ■ > fall with a 25-12, 25-1, 25-4 win ovel^ visiting Muskegon Tuesday, Oct. 22, in conference action. Last Tuesday, Oct. 15, the Caledonia girls got win number five in the conference knocking off Reeths-Puffer 25-10, 25-12, 25-10 in Caledonia. Noble had 11 kills, Gaier nine kills and Reynolds five kills in that win over the Rockets last week. Reynolds slammed nine aces and Gaier added four. Seif had a team-high eight digs. The Caledonia girls are scheduled to visit Lowell Monday and then finish off the OK Green Conference season on the road at Mona Shores Wednesday, Oct. 30. I* ! r 1 > .Lu <* I***-!* . W /I • •X^.' '.J X*dK1 1 J >ip*' ’ » * ! L k > I '“Tt * • ■ . u «. < k s ; v-aRk‘2X.* ? - *r •4 fr r ~ ‘.u ■ A »■ I -\-^iasft'*- r _ I <* I •'it -. * t. . I J ♦r *• - : ~ ^li II r L k r ’■e’wf f I :e^ ■ —• I J - - r 7.^ 1 4 k. I I I, E « I MMB W’' 1^ Ute -v I • I . 01'i •4* 9 e* —"■* I' I I h % 4 I > * TT : I Fighting Scots sophomore Aubrey Reynolds attacks the center of the net against the Reeths-Puffer girls Tuesday, Oct. 15, at Caledonia High School. Photo by Perry Hardin Fighting Scot senior Cambria Gaier (9) sends a powerful jump serve across the net during her team’s OK Green Conference win over visiting Reeths-Puffer Tuesday, Oct. 15. Photo by Perry Hardin k t 'A -A.' I ' -^-1 Tb» g ‘ '■'S T“ . r:. I;''II ( r .4 M* .1 •. Ti Thornapple 4 J> I■ a-< ’-i.. : •. A 9 —«> * •. • Buy One Pair of Glasses &Get Caledonia senior Josie Noble (6) tips the ball over the Rockets’ front line as Avery Seif (4) and Cambria Gaier (9) prepare for return during their OK Green Conference win in Caledonia over visiting Reeths-Puffer Tuesday, Oct. 15. Photo by Perry Hardin. > • 4* . ■r ^7^ ♦♦TT «> f t J V 1 .di, ^•r ’ dM* 1 ■« -f-, •4 • '•'■c T' _ I 2 I •• • • f ( •sr' ‘i 1 r ■4 •T * I' a. I I ♦ r; z 4 ^5 ■K J t 4 c I *, 1 & >s» 444 k B f 4 •• • “ ». ii ■ 1 •Sun Pair 50% OFF •Computer (Next to Harding 's Market) 4624 N. M-37 Hwy. Ste E. Middleville, Ml 269-213-8108 •Reading ai I * ♦ *1 I •Driving Please visit our v/ebsite tor more Intonrwrtlon thornaDDleevecare.com �16 ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 TK beats Bengals for first OK Black win Brett Bremer Sports Editor T n ) - u It was the kind of senior night where the scoreboard stays lit up just a few minutes longer after the final whistle blows. The Thornapple Kellogg varsity football team defeated visiting Ot­ tawa Hills 37-20 inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville Friday to close out the 2024 OK Black Confer ence season. Both teams were chas­ ing their first victory in the newly arranged conference. While there were still some crutch es in the senior march from north to south in “The Pit” to greet the rest of the team and the Trojan student spirit section in the south end zone after the game, having a few guys returning from injury the past couple weeks certainly helped the TK program. “It is always awesome to watch them play and compete, and for these seniors to go out with a win on the home turf it is awesome. I am proud of them,” Thomapple Kellogg head coach Jeff Dock said. The Trojans led from the start as their first drive ended in a three-yard TD run by junior back Debo Robin­ son. Junior Malachi VanEngen took a pitch around the left side for the two-point conversion and TK led 8-0. The Trojan offense moved the ball up and down the field all evening long thanks in no small part to some improved blocking on the outside and the return of senior left tackle Connor Dombkowski who’d been < 4 ••••< A ^'4 F* I 1 I f -» « * < 4 r ■ i I ■ k ."4 t I .5 <r •i.. ; Ip L% I. < * Your local agent insures your Returement Ask about our annuities and IRAs FAHM BUttEAU MSVRANCE' f^gUr’AftOB Contpa^ Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 iparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com < A iB c • *e > -I J * **» The offensive line opens up a big hole for Thornapple Kellogg back Debo Robinson to run through during the Trojans’ 37-20 win over the visiting Bengals in OK Gold Conference action inside Bob White Stadium in Middleville Friday, Oct. 18. Photo by Brett Bremer out the previous two ballgames. The only Trojan drive that didn’t end in a touchdown all night was the last one, filled with reserves, which ended at the Ottawa Hills 19-yard-line. “It feels really good,” said Dombkowski, who also plays outside line­ backer on defense. “This feels really nice to be back, especially for senior night,” Dombkowski said. “We knew they had some big guys on the [defensive] line and we just needed to come off low and hard, and play super hard. I mean, it’s my last night, so I mean might as well lay it all out My partner on the line [left guard] A J Dutcher, he’s been fantastic. He’s a sophomore. I know it’s his first year and I think he has been doing great with me, and I really appreciate him for that.” VanEngen took an option pitch, around Dombkowski’s side, from quarterback Micah Dock 46 yards for a touchdown a minute into the second quarter and a two-point run by Robinson had the TK lead up to 16^0. The Trojans recovered an on-side kick following that touchdown and just five plays later Robinson scored on a 19-yard run and added another two-point run for a 24-0 lead. Senior Spencer Ybema, who said he would have really loved for the Trojans to put up even more than the 37 points they did, was one of the key receivers blocking on the outside for TK throughout the night, “50 [points] is nice. Always strive for more than what you get,” Ybema said. “Debo Robinson really ran well today. He does every day. He runs aggressive and hits the gap perfect. Connor Dombkowski led the line great today, I mean, he does every week. We missed him for two weeks and we still moved the ball pretty well, but now that Connor is back we moved the ball even better. He motivates. He blocks well. He does his job every time. He grades at a 90 or above every week. That is all you can ask out of a player.” Ybema said he was pretty happy with one of his own pancake blocks See BLACK on 17 •• r * J- II ’’•r w r'- ■ € 4 f :Z. •‘.4 4 Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Brody Hammer celebrates a defensive stop during his team’s senior night win over visiting Ottawa Hills Friday, Oct. 18, in Middleville. Photo by Brett Bremer �% I ♦ ♦ vvww.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS BLACK that took 11:36 to find the end zone between the end of the third quarter and the start of the fourth. The Trojans were set to finish off their 2024 season at Wyoming Friday, Oct. 25. TK closed the OK Black Conference season with a 1-5 record. The Trojans were 2-6 overall heading into the finale with the Wolves. That win over the Bengals snapped a fivegame losing streak. “It is really tough. We just try to keep our heads up,” Dombkowski said. “We go into every game thinking we are going to win. I mean, some­ times we don’t get the outcome we want, but we try to lay it all out there.” The Trojans had just dropped an OK Black contest by a single point in the closing seconds at Holland Christian Friday, Oct. 11, and while they were disappointed in that defeat Dombkowski said “we came out of that with a full head of steam. We felt really good in the second half of that game, and I think we kind of carried that into the first half of this game.” Continued from Page 16 1 on the outside, a pitch to teammate Zach Eldridge for a good gain, that he got to celebrate with junior teammate VanEngen. “That made me feel very warm in­ side,” Ybema said. “I love Zach and I love Malachi equally as much, but Zach runs to my side, so I love Zach.” The Trojans tacked on a 1 -yard TD run from sophomore Jack Smith in the closing seconds of the first half. They led 30-6 at the break having scored on all four of their first half possessions. Robinson added a 1-yard TD run with 4:06 to go in the third quarter and Dock tacked on an extra-point kick that pushed TK’s lead to 37-12. “We felt like we could do what we wanted [offensively],” coach Dock said. “That is always a good feel­ ing. The offensive line played well. The blocks ran hard. The perimeter blocked. We made the right reads. It is good stuff when that happens. “They’re big guys, but just based on what we have been seeing the last few weeks, I feel like we have improved, improved, improved. We have a lot of young guys out there, so the more football they play the better they get. That has been good to see.” I) Coach Dock added that there has been a big focus lately on the offensive line taking care of the box, sophomore quarterback Micah Dock getting better at his option reads, and those guys on the outside being better blockers. He felt like perim­ eter blocking was solid early on this fseason, but as coaches began empha­ fc sizing some other things for a bit it became something his guys needed to refocus on here late in the season. “For a while we stepped back to ba­ sics and focused on the little things a bit,” Ybema said. “That really helped with everything, because everyone just focused on the little things that needed to be changed. We just kept Thornapple Kellogg senior Connor watching film and seeing things and Dombkowski puts a hit on Ottawa adjusting to the stuff the corners were Hills sophomore quarterback Horace doing.” Williams during the Trojans’ OK Gold Ottawa Hills had its moments mov­ Conference win over the visiting ing the football. The Bengals had a Bengals inside Bob White Stadium nine and a half minute scoring drive in Middleville Friday, Oct. 18. Photo to start the second half and a drive by Brett Bremer Saturday, October 26, 2024 ♦ ♦ Hammerheads can pick practice in either Hastings or Middleville now Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Hammerheads are coming back to Middleville. The Hammerheads Swim Club has opened the pre-registration process for its winter 2024-25 season, and has announced plans to host Monday and Wednesday practices at the Com­ munity Education and Recreation Center in Hastings and Tuesday and Thursday at the Thomapple Kellogg High School pool. The season runs from Nov. 11,2024 through Feb. 14, 2025. The deadline to pre-register is Nov. 1, and those signing up are asked to list their preference for practices in either the Hastings or Middleville pool as both is not an option at this time. Practice time slots will be starting from 6 p.m., and time slots will be finalized once the number of athletes participat­ ing is closer to being known. The cost to participate in the club is $100 for a family ’ s first swimmer, •» 9 SPRINGS Continued from Page 10 / ••4* • 1 I (M 0 ’JB -a I - (■ t •- L & IF 4 « % ««■ * it 1 '*-*-*^ 17 of $22,265, with survey, installation, legal and contingency costs included. A township resident has offered to cover the cost of the 515-foot-long fence. Grand Rapids-based Straight Line Fence will install the fence while Yonker Land Surveys, PC will do the survey work. Approved a farmland preservation and open space application by Joseph and Adrienne Wenger to restrict devel­ opment of their 12.9-acre property on $95 more for a second swimmer and $90 for a third swimmer. Checks should be made payable to the Hast­ ings Swim Club. Anyone between the ages of 8 and 18 who can swim 50 yards of both the freestyle and backstroke proficiently is eligible to participate in the club. Swimmers must be 8-years-old by Nov. 30, 2024 to participate. Send an email to hascmich@gmail. com with swimmers’ names, ages, birthdates and preferred practice location by Nov. 1 to pre-register. A printed registration sheet and pay­ ment will be required the first week of practice. Jodi Hawks will be on deck collection registrations. Hawks is the team administrator and Mike Schipper returns as head coach. Meets are optional and will be an­ nounced once the season has started. There will be forms to purchase op­ tional team logo apparel and optional team caps during sign-ups at early sea­ son practices. No team suit is required. Shaw Lake Road for a period of 10 years. The Barry County Planning Department earlier approved the Wengers’ appli­ cation, but the county Conservation District must still sign off on it before it goes on to the state for final action. The Wengers can seek tax credits if their ap­ plication is approved by the state. Voted to waive the 1 percent increase of deferred summer taxes paid after Feb. 14 and the 3 percent late penalty charge on winter taxes and deferred summer taxes paid after that same date. I r 1 ? 'J. ; A 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Caledonia TCW'NSHIP Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 a (• V ,I * V 5 PUBLIC HEARING ON BUDGET FOR 2025 FISCAL YEAR PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on November 6th, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue SE, Caledonia, Michigan, to hear and consider comments regarding the proposed Township budget for the January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025 fiscal year. A copy of the proposed budget is available for public inspection at the Caledonia Township Office, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue SE, Caledonia, Michigan, during Township business hours. The property tax millage rate(s) proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. All interested persons may attend the public hearing on November 6th, 2024, and be heard with respect to the proposed budget and the proposed property tax millage rate(s). This notice is given pursuant to Act 43 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1963 (Second Extra Session), as amended. �I 4 f I 18 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 Scots fend off top ten teams for trophy at DI Finals Brett Bremer Sports Editor I f scores. Northville took the DI State Cham­ pionship with a 36-hole team score of 646. Caledonia shot a 692 to finish ahead of Macomb Dakota 703, Roch­ ester Adams 704 and Okemos 711 in the top 5. Van Wagoner said she thought that competing in the Katke Classic in the lead-up to the finals really helped her girls gain knowledge and feel comfort­ able on the course. The team also got a practice round in Thursday before the finals, and there the Scot coach said Copelin got to show off a little of what makes her so special. “The leadership she provides the team is invaluable,” Van Wagoner said. She said Copelin helped lead a group during the practice round while Van Wagoner worked with another, and Copelin is able to share knowledge and instill confidence in her teammates. The CHS coach said there are even times out there on the course when Copelin is offering advice that maybe she hadn’t thought of herself. “She is a great human being,” Von Wagoner said. “That helps so much. Sometimes you get girls who are really See SCOTS on 19 'I 4^ The Michigan Interscholastic Golf Coaches Association puts out top ten state rankings. The voters got North­ ville right. Northville started the season and ended the season at the top of the Divi­ sion 1 state rankings and ran away from the field at Katke Golf Course on the campus of Ferris State University in Big Rapids over the weekend to win the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division Girls Golf Championship. The rest of the teams that shuffled through the top ten in the state rankings all season long all found their way to Katke for the Oct. 18-19 State Finals, and all but the Northville girls finished behind the Fighting Scots, who were never among those mentioned in the state rankings during the 2024 Michi­ gan varsity girls’ golf season. The Caledonia varsity girls golfteam pulled away from Macomb Dakota and Rochester Adams to win the state runner-up trophy at the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Girls Golf Finals Saturday. “It was unreal,’’ Caledonia head coach Veronica Von Wagoner said of her team’s celebration at the end of the tournament. “Lots of tears, and I think lots of disbelief. The sense of pride that I have in this team is unmatched to anything that I have felt for a team before.’’ The Fighting Scot head coach said she had in her mind that a great week­ end would be a top five finish, but even that wouldn’t come easy. She did think that her team probably should have climbed higher than 20th in the state rankings at some point during the f •. i e. • • ‘ M 4 .A h i A t t s. * V »«■ 4 1 If . ■) I 4L . I I % 1 B wX •• r* *1 ?i' f The Caledonia varsity girls golf team celebrates its runner-up finish at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls Golf Finals outside the clubhouse at Katke Golf Course on the campus of Ferris State University in Big Rapids Saturday. The Scots had an outstanding day two at the finals to pull away from Macomb Dakota and Rochester Adams to win the runner-up trophy. Team members are Mya Burgess, Katie Honhart, Copelin O’Krangley, Ellie Hudson and Codie O’Krangley. Photo provided season though. CaledoniaseniorCopelinO’Krangley shot her way to a medal-winning score of 152 which had her third individu­ ally over the course of the weekend. She followed up her Friday 78 with a Saturday 74. CHS junior Codie O’Krangley shot 85 each day to place 19th individually with an overall score of 85-85-170 at the 36-hole event. Senior Ellie Hudson was 37th with an 87-93-180. Senior Mya Burgess and junior Katie Honhart shaved multiple strokes off their day one scores on day St two for the Fighting Scots to place 58th and 64th • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers respectively in the field of _______ * Cellular Enhancement Systems over 100 golfers. Burgess shot a 101-90-191. HonGive us a call! hart finished her two-day 269-967-8241 CELlto) Kg* J tally at 100-93-193. The www.theantennamen.com tennanien@gmail.com top four scores each day www.cellsignalpros.com contributed to the overall 40<7 I r CHA * 1 4 VT. ft , 7 • p. X ’J V* “ ? I ■ i . 7 W| * - 4 > 4v A / J t •T T 4 ■ Anf^nno Men Antenna Men I • ' 1 V .7 Caledonia senior Copelin O’Krangley hits her tee shot on number 14 at Katke Golf Course Friday, Oct. 18, during the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls Golf Finals. O’Krangley closed her time as a varsity golfer with a thirdplace finish at the finals. Photo by Brett Bremer �I 20(1) I www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS SCOTS Saturday, October 26, 2024 ♦ ‘S talented at a sport like golf and they don’t always have those leadershin qualities.” Okemos senior Alena Li 73-73-146 to win the individual state champion­ ship. Romeo freshman Tula Puzzuoli was the runner-up with a 76-74-150. Van Wagoner said that Li shooting even par for two days shows just how hard the course was. She made sure she let her girls know on day two that even bogies were going to be successful holes on the Katke 18. Caledonia was tied for second after day one with the Rochester Adams girls. Both teams had an 18-hole score of 350 on Friday, Oct. 18. Macomb Dakota was just a stroke back at 351 and Okemos and Portage Central were within striking distance at 354 and 355 respectively. k. I « r rI I I * *< *•. o' r 4 - X- 7*^ * w 4< 1 4. ' I *»«• < k **■ J r * k k J* *?»* k •» r 1 I it? fe € ■' X I € r i I - ‘71 <* i r — w* * i! 9 I ir/'- V . .>* - i' i. V « 4* <♦ "t 4 X 1 i 5 ' • '7' I i ! {. I * t ( 1 J * * • 9 % 2t I >T<- t ■*rv nr 1 1 I •* rT 4 i . 4. I S’ . •* ‘k., 4- ’ r r. J. » .A 9 % —« T E it 1 • ▼ » 4 « * *« ♦ '>-4 J -4 /> 1 » • ' .I •tu 1.1 * • > 4) t -t / . A* aB> Caledonia senior Ellie Hudson sends her drive flying off the tee box on number 15 at Katke Golf Course in Big Rapids Friday during the MHSAA L.P Division 1 Girls Golf Finals Friday, Oct. 18. Photo by Brett Bremer A •| 1 A V FJ u f r fc*’ I7 ** / ^=‘'■'sa»- > •5:i\ 1 < •* • •• f. •• 4 'A A I . * .i- 5 *r I '-j V. B* I k 4 •4 < At; I 1 Mh* ' 19 ♦ Continued from Page 18 I. I r->. *•: ■? : -. . 4..' • 1 9m 1 i ,j • n ♦ c i* si*s: K f * / « '______ Fighting Scot junior Codie O’Krangley sets up for a putt on the number 14 green during day one of the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Girls Golf Finals at Katke Golf Course on the campus of Ferris State University in Big Rapids Friday, Oct. 18. O’Krangley helped the Scots to a runner-up state finish with a 19thplace individual finish of her own. Photo by Brett Bremer None of them were really in strik­ ing distance at the end of Saturday’s round. Caledonia was ten strokes better than Macomb Dakota Tuesday, with a day two score of 342 for the Fighting Scots. Dakota shot a 352 Saturday and Adams a 354. The rest of the team standings in­ cluded Portage Central in sixth after the two days with a score of 714 followed by Rochester 717, Grand Blanc 732, Hudsonville 735, GrandLedge 737, Brighton 742, Ann Arbor Huron 744, Clarkston 754, Bloomfield Hills 761, Romeo 778, Royal Oak 778 and Detroit Cass Tech 856. Li, Puzzuoli and Copelin O’Krangley were 1 -2-3 individually after day one, the only three girls to shoot in the 70’s Friday, and held their places on day two. Li with her pair of 73’s was the only girl among the top seven state medalists to not improve on her day one score on day two. Copelin shaved four strokes off on the back nine Saturday from her Friday round. She opened her Friday round on number 12 and after finishing on 11 had a 40 on those back nine holes. Copelin played with the lead group on number one to open Saturday and had an outstanding turn. She birdied the 431 -yard, par-5, number nine and then tallied birdies on ten and 11, both par4s. She shot par on all three of those holes Friday. She also cut strokes on number 12 and number 16 on day two. She has now been a state medalist in back-to-back seasons. Copelin finished in a tie for tenth at the 2024 Finals at Forest Akers West Golf Course in East Lansing where the Scots were 11th as a team. They went into this season’s finals with the same line-up but for one - Katie Honhart replaced her big sister Elizabeth Honhart, who graduated last spring, in the line-up. Von Wagoner said that she could see right away Saturday that everyones nerves were in a better place at the start of Saturday, especially Katie whose bounce back at the end of the season has been great for the team. The CHS coach said Katie started the season shooting exceptionally low scores. which surprised both player and coach a bit, but then had to learn to deal with the weight ofexpectations as the season progressed. A^^.< ■■ ..f Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser Help us support veterans and community functions. Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024 and the First Saturday of each month Serving 8 a-m. to 10:00 a.m. . v A e-> Eggs, bacon, sausage links or patties. potatoes, biscuits and sausage gravy. pancakes, milk, OJ, coffee. / A < -te’t hr > r V I UiF *' 4/-. _• « i f: ■ •t Caledonia senior Mya Burgess watches her tee shot fly on number 15 at Katke Golf Course on the campus of Ferris State University in Big Rapids Friday, Oct. 18, during the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Girls Golf Finals Photo by Brett Bremer I♦ * Menu subject to change Adults $13,00 • Children 10 & under $5,00 For more information call the Post at 616-891-1882 Coffee Donated by Bcoffee Caledonia Memorial Legion Post 305 9548 Cherry Valley, Caledonia, MI LUNCH M-TH 11 AM-8 PM; FRI 11 AM-2PM; FRI BUILD A BURGER 4-8 PM r •'ff �20 ♦ ♦ www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26. 2024 TK rallies from fifth-set deficit in Wayland Brett Bremer Sports Editor “We all really wanted to win really bad,” Thomapple Kellogg senior setter Kylec Hoebeke said. But why l uesday? Being very persistent to note it is out of respect for the skills shown ofT on the other side of the net and not animosity, Hoebeke hurriedly revealed why “re­ ally bad.” because Harmony Laker has never lost to IK in her whole life. And we wanted to beat her, in anything.” Wayland senior libero f:mersyn Stroud ripped a serve that just skimmed over the top of the net which Trojan junior setter lealy Cross couldn’t quite handle, and the Wildcats moved in front 14-8 in set number five l uesday on senior night at Wayland Union High School. But Stroud’s next serve, with nearly the same speed and trajectory, caught the net and fell on the Wildcats’ side in the tie-breaking set to 15, in which a team must win by two points. I f: be .JU . p * * "sb V" i J k It zr •a A MU ri Thornapple Kellogg teammates Tealy Cross, Reece Ritsema and Abby Hoebeke celebrate winning a point during their team’s five-set OK Gold Conference win at Wayland Union High School Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer p GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP KENT COUNTY, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING AN APPLICATION FOR A SMALL DISTILLERS LICENSE by Grinning Mitten (DBA Railtown) PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that in accordance with the Gaines Charter Township Liquor License Control Ordinance (Chapter 4 Sec. 4-21 (d)) the Gaines Charter Township Board of Trustees (“the Township") will hold a public hearing at the regularly scheduled Township Board meeting to be held Monday, November 11, 2024, commencing at 7 00PM Games Charter Township Office. 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia MIS to consider public opinion and comment regarding Grinning Mittens (located at 3595 68th St SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316) request for a Small Distillere License. The Township Board will also receive and consider written communications from persons wishing to express an opinion on the issuance of a Small Distillers License to Grinning r comments should be addressed to Rod Weersing, Township Manager Comment can also be received via email at rod.weersing@aainestownshiD.org Persons with disabilities needing any special accommodations should contact the Township offices one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. That was the first match point the Trojans survived. They needed to win five more in a row to even have a chance at winning. Cross got a chance at the service line and the Trojans survived one more match point against them, and another, and another, and another. The Trojans fought off those five straight match point chances for the Wildcats, and then eventually a sixth and then a seventh before finally pulling out a 2018 win in set number five to take a three sets to two win over the Wildcats in their OK Gold Conference dual. The Trojans didn’t just rally late in that fifth set, they’d been battling from behind for quite some time. Things didn’t go TK’s way at the end of the first set and the Wildcats closed out a 25-23 win. The Wildcats took set two 25-17. The Trojans pulled out a 25-23 back-and-forth third set and then won set number four 25-16. “This was the first night I feel like we played a full match to our potential, and this is what we can do when we do. It was just so much fun. The energy was up. The positivity was up, and the play was intense. It was just a lot of fun tonight,” TK head coach Tia Cross said. “Tonight, I just felt we stayed really, really positive. We played over our mistakes, and we moved forward from them. We just kept playing and battling the whole time. The energy stayed up and we did not let ourselves get down even when we were down by multiple points. The mental toughness was there. We had a great practice yesterday, and 1 think that carried over as well. A lot of players stepped up. Reece Ritsema had a great game tonight and so did Brooklyn [Harmon]. Both my middles really took charge, and it was great to watch.” The Trojans needed their middles to be good against the Wildcat attack pow Ml eredbyjunior middle Madi Ludemaand the senior outside hitter Laker. “That was the focus in our practice yesterday,” Cross said. “We knew where 90 percent of their balls went when [Laker] was in the front row. Our focus was how are we going to slower her down, how are we going to stop her. That is what we worked on in practice yesterday, and I think it translated. It went really, really well.” The celebration at the end was worthy of a postseason victory. To be fair, there are a few sports that the TK ladies have struggled to get W’s in against the Wild­ cats the past three seasons - in no small part due to Laker’s efforts and talents. The Wildcat star has been a member of the varsity volleyball, girls’ basketball and softball teams since she was a fresh man and Tuesday’s senior night defeat was her first against a TK varsity team. Tealy’s run at the service line near the end of set five started with a point that Harmon won with a kill in the middle of the net. Wayland struggled with a pass for a TK point, and then Tealy recorded an ace on a ball that may have flown long of the court if it hadn’t been for a touch by a Wildcat defender in the back row. “I was just oh please, over and in, over and in, over and in. That is all I was hop­ ing for,” Harmon said. “I honestly don’t know how we did it though. Everyone thought we were done and we just kept fighting. I feel like the biggest thing we did was pick each other up. During the season, we have had a challenging sea son with a new conference or whatever, and such a young team, but we’ve been playing well together. And, I think to- See RALLIES on 22 �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS f ♦ THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP notice of public hearing to Cou nty, Michigan potentially confirm the special assessment R LL DUNCAN LAKE WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT n I 21 Saturday, October 26, 2024 ♦ I p D ♦ NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Township Board of ThomappI e Township, Barry County, Michigan, haying resolved its intention to proceed to make certain public improvements in the Township, has made its final determination of a special assessment district which consists of the following described lots and parcels of land which are benefitted by the improvements and against which all or a portion of the costs of the improvements shall be specially assessed. NOTICE IS ALSO HEI^BY GIVEN that the Township Supervisor has made and certified a special assessment roll that has been presented to the Township Board for Thomapple To^Xhip Township, Barry County, Michigan pursuant to Act 188 of the Public Acts of Michigan 1954 (as amended) (“aS Map-area within the special assessment district I: I I t c vi t I• J al ■l 'Si ' j. 7 , 9 7 * r • t B A y I A* * *N and weeds witinn Duncan Lake by means of chemical treatment, biological agents, and/or mechanical har..a.vesting (the Public Improvements”), which roll sets forth the relative portion of the costs of said Public Improvements and which is to be levied in the form of a special assessment against each benefitted lot or parcel of land in the special assessment district. Pursuant to an earlier resolution of the Township Board, the costs of the Public Improvements are to be periodically redetermined on a yearly basis in accordance with the resolution and Act 188. Special Assessment Assessment District District shall shall consist of the following J 'U 1 The ; Duncan Lake I r 1 Weed 7; Control special described lots and parcels of land (all with lake frontage on Duncan Lake), against which ail or a portion of the costs of the Public Improvements shall be specially assessed: PROPERTY TO BE ASSES.SF.n- X I k ...... ....... $ r '* ? t taAs I » 1 • * I — -<>44 ^ornappl i^TownGhjti 2 A Permanent Parcel No. 08-14-005-001-10 08-14-005-001-15 08-14-005-001-90 08-14^05-001-91 08-14-005-006-00 08-14-006-002-00 08-14-006-003-00 08-14-006-004-00 08-14-006-004-10 08-14-006-005-00 08-14-006-009-00 08-14-006-010-00 08-14-006-011-00 08-14-006-013-00 08-14-006-013-10 08-14-006-014-00 08-14-006-016-00 08-14-006-016-10 08-14-006-018-80 08-14-006-018-90 ^8-14-006-018-95 Permanent Parcel No. 08-14-007-001-53 08-14-007-001-54 08-14-007-001-55 08-14-007-001-56 08-14-007-002-12 08-14-007-002-20 08-14-007-002-21 08-14-007-002-30 "08-14-007-002-40 08-14-006-431-00 08-14-007-001-10 08-14-007-002-50 08-14-007-002-60 08-14-007-002-72 08-14-007-002-80 08-14-007-002-90 08-14-007-002-95 08-14-007-005-10 08-14-007-008-96 08-14-007-010-50 08-14-007-011-00 08-14-007-011-10 08-14-007-011-30 08-14-007-011-40 08-14-007-011-50 08-14-007-001-20 08-14-007-001-51 08-14-007-001-52 08-14-070-001-00 Permanent Parcel No. ^8-14-050-004-00 08-14-050-005-00 08-14-050-006-00 08-l4-050-007X)0 08-14-050-007-10 08-14-050-008-00 08-14-050-009-00 08-14-050-010-00 08^14-050-011-00 08-14-050-012-00 08-14-050-013-00 08-14-050-014-00 O8’-T4-O5O-O 15-00 08-14-050-016-00 ^-14-050-017-00 08-14-050-018-00 ^-14-050-019-00 08-14-050-020-00 08-14-050-021-00 08-14-050-022-00 08-14-050-023-00 08^4-050-024-00 Permanent Parcel No, 08-14-050-029-00 08-14-050-030-00 08-14-050-031-00 08-14-050-032-00 08-14-050-033-00 08-14-050-034-00 08-14-050-035-00 08-14-050-035-10 08-14-050-036-00 08-14-050-037-00 0^14-050-038-00 08-14-050-039-00 08-14-050-040-00 08-14-050-041-00 08-14-050-042-00 ^^14-050-043-00 08-14-050-044-00 08-14-050-045-00 08-14-050-046-00 08-14-050-047-00 08-14-050-048-00 08-14-050-049-00 08-14-050-050-00 08-14-007-011-60 08-14-007-012-10 08-14-050-002-00 08-14-070-014-00 08-14-050-051-00 08-14-050-052-00 08-14-050-054-00 08-14-080-014-00 08-14-070-002-00 08-14-070-015-00 08-14-080-002-00 08-14-080-015-00 08-14-070-003-00 08-14-070-004-00 08-14-070-005-00 08-14-070-006-00 08-14-070-007-00 08-14-070-008-00 08-14-070-009-00 08-14-070-010-00 08-14-070-011-00 08-14-070-012-00 08-14-070-013-00 08-14-070-016-00 08^14-070-017-00 08-14-080-003-00 08-14-080-004-00 08-14-080-005-00 08-14-080-006-00 08-14-080-007-00 08-14-080-008-00 08-14-080-009-00 08-14-080-010-00 08-14-080-011-OO" 08-14-080-012-0^ 08-14-080-016-00 08-14-080-01^-00 08-14-080-013-00 > A 9 f i 08-14-050-025-00 08-14-050-026-00 08-14-050-027-00 08-14-050-028-00 08-14-080-001-00 08-14-070-018-00 08-14-070-019-00 08-14-070-020-00 08-14-070-021-00 08-14-070-021-10 08-14-070-022-00 08-14-070-023-00 08-14-070-024-00 08^14-070-025-00 « 08-14-080-017-10 O8-14-13O-OoT-OO 4 08-14-130-002-00 08-14-130^03-00 08-14-130-004-00 08-14-130-00?-00 08-14-130-006-00 08-14-130-007-00 08-14-130-008-00 it J * r ♦ I s A I •■x * <•. 9 t J i 9 •k; t «?* * ' *.9* • ■, tt .“V f * > * I ♦ I f PUBLIC HEARING: TAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of Thomapple Township will hold a public hear­ ing on November 11, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Thomapple Township Hall at 200 E. Main Street, Mid­ dleville, Michigan 49333, for the purpose of reviewing and potentially confirming the special assess­ ment roll and also hearing and considering any and all objections thereto. TAKE NOTICE that property shall not be added to the proposed special assessment district and the actual incremental costs shall not be increased by 10% or more over the original estimate for a given year without further notice and public hearing. TAKE NOTICE that appearance and protest at the public hearing is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment or other matters to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. TAKE NOTICE that an owner or party in interest, or his/her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or may file his/her appearance or protest by letter, on or before the close of the hearing. TAKE NOTICE that any person objecting to the assessment roll is requested to file written objections with the Township Clerk before the close of the hearing, ' TAKE NOTICE that an owner or any person having an interest in the real property subject to the special assessment may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within thirty (30) days after the date of the confirmation of the special assessment roll if the owner or person having an interest in the real property appears and protests the special assessment at the hearing held for the purpose of confirming the roll. Michigan Tax Tribunal P.O. Box 30232 Lansing, Michigan 48909 TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the special assessment roll as prepared has been reported to the Township Board and is on file with the Township Clerk for public examination or inspection. This notice was authorized by the Township Board of Thomapple Township. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Cindy Ordway Thomapple Township Clerk Thomapple Township Hall 200 E. Main Street Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-7202 08-14-070-013-10 Dated: October 14, 2024 Cindy Ordway, Township Clerk A �J ♦ 22 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 «i«K RALLIES ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Cl aoiM « Continued from Page 20 - whiiiikIwii mi Wl’*" A 'WM night the biggest thing was keeping our mistakes out of our heads and making it a point to lift each other up.” A Wayland time out was followed by back-to-back Wildcat attacks that sailed long of the back line on the other side. L It was 14-14. “Crazy, I couldn’t breathe,” coach Cross said. “I was trying to just peek 'H. and go okay, we got one. Okay, there’s Fa another one, and as it kept going it was - oh, we’re in this. We’re going to keep going. It was anxious. It was shaky, but we made it through. I was definitely nervous.” Eventually the run ended. Tealy had her sixth serve of the run float into the net. A Harmon kill evened things again at 15-15, and then as things went on Laker fought off a couple match point i opportunities for TK with kills. , The two teams were eventually tied 18-18 with Hoebeke stepping to the service line. The Wildcats just couldn’t quite get a clean pass up to Laker at the right side of the net. Ritsema hit a kill in the middle off a Wayland block and down to put TK up 19-18 and then the evening finally ended with a Wildcat Thornapple Kellogg junior libero Alexa Eden (1) passes the ball as teammates player stepping under the net to clinch, Abby Hoebeke (4) and Reece Ritsema (11) look on from behind during their the final point for the Trojans. five-set win over the Wildcats as Wayland Union High School Tuesday. Photo “Reece had some really good sets by Brett Bremer tonight, and Tealy and Kylee’s sets were also amazing as always,” Harmon said. over Hoebeke and the Trojans as fresh­ “The most challenging part for us was the TK ladies held on for the 25-23 win. men in the spring of 2022. blocking, especially Harmony, since Set four was close too with TK taking a she’s a beast. It’s hard to time it right The TK softball team is 0-7 against 10-9 lead to send Hoebeke to the service and get up there to turn our hands the the Wildcats the past three seasons. The line where she put together a run of seven right way so it doesn’t go out and it goes TK varsity girls basketball team, 0-6. straight points with Ritsema making a back in.” The TK volleyball team hadn’t won a few big plays in the middle of the net on Hoebeke CHARTER match against Laker and the Wildcats the attack and on the block. TK didn’t let is one of TOWNSHIP OF in four season until Tuesday. Wayland the Wildcats get back in that set. Hoebeke those Tro­ CALEDONIA took the team’s first conference meeting said, “Reece was on fire tonight.” jans that has BOARD OF of this season in four sets in Middleville Kylee was also pretty impressed with gotten to a month ago. TRUSTEES junior McKenna Hoebeke rallying to put see a lot of “She is so good. She is their team,” some serves in late after struggling early Laker over Hoebeke said. “If she hits it, it goes on in the match. the years. down. We knew that if we could lock “ We just had energy tonight. We have Both pitch her down we could win. ” been getting down on ourselves a lot this The minutes for the ers, they TK did do some of its best work on September 18, 2024 season, and tonight that didn’t happen. squared off Township Board of the scoreboard when Laker was in the We all really wanted to win really bad, ” as freshTrustees Meeting that back row, where it is tougher for her to Hoebeke said. men on were approved on get the ball to the floor. October 16, 2024, are The Trojans host South Christian the softball posted at the Township Hoebeke had a key service run of her Monday, the sixth-ranked team in the diamond. Offices at 8196 own in the fourth set. Wayland rallied Laker got state in Division 2 and next Wednesday, Broadmoor Ave., and on from 23-18 down to get within 23-22 the save in a the website at www.caleOct. 30, the Trojans close out the OK doniatownship.org. of TK late in set number three as the district win Gold Conference duals at home against Wildcats tried to chase a 3-0 victory, but Grand Rapids Union. 1 «■«* ""■I i aw !■ V. I gas- ■aim WM r-TjB ■»ISS5 '9 'f -4.. J J Mh I U*"’ ^4 » - r - ■ - • 't S IT t? i '' ** a “I .1 ■4 ^1 9 I .• r .V ' *1' AM ? ir T' 3> * 58 t I J 9 5 I •» Ll 'ik. V < V *X 4 * I r .. >. ■I I ’5 A A •1 * 'X 4 <• ' ' U' w •t ? I - -en-jy. I *• < 'J t' k J A w ♦ AX, V ;/ <• . t. S’ <r*: 'A •V A 2i *«r "•■I." > I XU Jto t • t I, K. 4 <4 • * & .» . • c f* ’i ’ —r--1 I J hr * •¥ “K *««w* ' % ^Ts f* * ’! ’H »• rt/>^ b ♦ •• J 1^ w I I * r " £9 t ( I T* *1 X 3. j X U J I 1 Thornapple Kellogg’s Maria Piccione (12) and Brooklyn Harmon (6) go up and try to block an attack by Wayland’s Harmony Laker during their OK Gold Conference match at Wayland Union High School Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer «^^**^* TI /J ; •l ♦ I I / J !Ck I, %• * II f *♦ < I -tc • I «» li I i * T' .4 4 r ,t •• 1 IJ . •• I ‘ -.L_; I •*4 ■ r L"** it A I d• «•> •—r*“ 1 Meeting Minutes ^e’ <» V— t JW*^ ** . •< * ■-^. * ■ •***•>. .1*' ' —*•* i-2 T*. . I *— 4 IT. « « - . - Thornapple Kellogg senior setter Kylee Hoebeke puts a pass up during her team’s five-set win over the Wildcats at Wayland Union High School Tuesday in OK Gold Conference action. Photo by Brett Bremer �dll I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Leos caps TK years with D2 state medal OUR COMPANY IS GROWING — DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY V I I Tt 4 ! )i 23 ♦ ♦ s: X Saturday, October 26, 2024 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The bittersweet was mostly sweet for Thomapple Kellogg senior Ailana Leos at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Girls Golf Finals at The Meadows on the campus of Grand Valley State University in Allendale over the weekend. Leos shot a 78 on Friday and an 82 on Saturday to place sixth at the finals and earn her first top ten state medal at the end of a stellar four years of varsity golf for TK. “It was great. It’s what I worked for for four years now for high school,” Leos said. “The biggest thing was last year to get to states, and this year get to states and medal. It has always been what we have been working for since I was a freshman. It was amazing, and it was just sort of like a dream come true. This is what you worked for, and you deserve it because you worked for it and it paid off.” “It was okay, senior year, let’s go do it,” she added. “You have one last time to go out there in the orange and black and do something extraordinary. Let’s go get it done within the two days. That is what we did. It was exciting, and also sad at the same time that you know it’s your last high school golf tournament, but you want to go out with a bang.” To be fair, it’s been a lot more than four years of golf to get to this point. She rode around Hastings Country Club in her car carrier on her dad’s cart as an infant, and had plastic clubs in her hand the moment she could walk. She closes her varsity golf career at TK as a two-time state qualifier and a two-time regional medalist. She was the OK Gold Conference champion this fall and is hoping all-state honors get added at the end of the season. She set the TK nine-hole school record with a 34 at Maple Hill Golf Course earlier this month, breaking her own record of 36. Dexter junior Avery Manning was the tournament’s individual champion with a two-day, three-under score of 69-72-141. Spring Lake senior Zoe Dull was the runner-up with a two-day total of 146. The rest of* the individual top five ♦ I k 4 /» I r♦ V I M * I ■ t r IB I t 1 I• • •••* *4 2? IM I I 4 * I * VI k » •• ’ * b IS I K. I r <• 3 > ■b; I t * r • if A. t. a s r. * *1 < I ** » to nt I I ■ r *♦ • * ** • r <*» to k< .*47 k _.. * t I ’I I* * 14 •w I > I ) * 1 C: • i* 1 • t » T i A >K ■ Bfc IK > .r- w r r 1 < 9 5 ■ # I ) >•■11 I Z*L*» ■ *4 Thornapple Kellogg senior Ailana Leos raises her arms in celebration of a birdie putt on number two during day one of the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Girls Golf Finals at The Meadows on the campus of Grand Valley State University Friday, Oct. 18. Photo by Brett Bremer included Forest Hills Northern junior Chailie Payne third with a score of 147 strokes. Farmington Hills Mercy senior Maeve Casey fourth with a 152 and Sturgis senior Madison Webb with a 159. Behind Leos in the top ten, Mona Shores senior Mayson Southland shot 162, Mattawan senior Charlotte Stenger 162, Plainwell sophomore Ayla Jaeger 163 and Gull Lake junior Charlotte Boudeman 163. Casey and the Mercy girls won the team state title fighting off a day-two charge from Manning and the Dexter girls. Mercy put together a two-day score of 677. Dexter shot a 682 fol­ lowed by Lowell 688, Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood 693, South Lyon 707, Spring Lake 710, Gull Lake 712, Forest Hills Northern 726, Cadillac 745, Mason 746 and See LEOS on 24 NOW HIRING I view Newspaper Group is seeking a MARKETING SPECIALIST « Responsibilities include: • • • • Advertising sales Account management Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts Attend networking events E Group email wsmith(S)mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer's Guide ■ Jeffersonian ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder I I �24 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, October 26, 2024 LEOS ♦ ♦ ♦ •1 Continued from Page 23 Petoskey 746 in the top ten of an 18team field. Only two members of the top ten, Payne and Jaeger, shot better on day two in some windy conditions than they had on day one. “My ball striking was a lot better [Saturday],” Leos said, “but windy conditions show everybody’s weak­ nesses. To try to accommodate for wind, it is different. The greens didn’t land as well. You land it pin high and normally it would stop, but it would shoot to the back or roll right down to the front. Still, we played well, and putted and chipped well and did all of those things. We were never going to give up. “[Saturday] was hard. I didn’t really have any birdie putts roll in. Some of the shots, I just had a bad break, like on 18 I hit a five iron off the tee and I landed like 20 yards short in the fairway and I hit something and it put me into the hazard 20 yards in front of me. Things like that happen. It’s golf” The ability to bounce back from the www.sunandnews.com approach shot, what can we do moving on. ’ You have like 13 holes left of golf so what can we do with that and I did what I needed to do with it. That was the biggest thing. What she could do was wipe off strokes by chipping in for birdie. She did it on number ten and on number 12. She was happy to have friends and family spectating throughout the weekend, and pleased to have the Kenowa Hills coach, Ed Beickman, swing through to say high to her and Cedar Springs’Aavra Relich who she was paired up with. They were all a part of the same alignment of the OK Gold Conference until this fall. Leos said it was a blessing to have a familiar playing partner in Relich throughout the weekend. They were paired up both days. Relich had a bit of a rough day two to finish 21st overall in the field of over 100 golfers. Leos was also assisted all the way along by TK head coach Bob Ka­ minski, who was named a Michigan Interscholastic Golf Coaches Associa­ tion Regional Coach ofthe Year award winner this fall. :V I I r 99 b ! .■« fl ■ZSJ'" ■ .1 ' *A lb A I fc’ *— « It 5. 4 aLfj.5 w •'2^ I I If' » p r.-' « .1 i/- CHAMPION t t! A .a 9 > <1 ' * " 9 39^ 9 A ( jQ ♦ <* t • w •t* r ri •* irL< i < Thornapple Kellogg senior Ailana Leos (fifth from left) is among the top ten medalists at the end of the 36-hole MHSAA L.P. Division 2 Girls Golf Finals at The Meadows in Allendale Saturday, Oct. 19. Leos closed out her fourth varsity season with a sixth-place finish at the state finals. Photo by Brett Bremer things that happen in golf is key to finishing at the top of the leaderboard. Leos was one-under through her first five holes Friday, starting on number four, but then shot a nine on the 409yard, par-5 number nine. Okay, well you shot a bad hole, you didn’t want a bad hole, but let’s go fix it,” was Leos’ attitude. “We’re goingto be mad about it, but five seconds later we’re done and it’s ‘what can we do on ten tee box, what can we do on ten’s t .iV I* A I.* 1^' f 9• r t r 1 ' Please be advised that a portion of the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail (south of Main Street) will be closed from Friday, November 1, 2024 through Monday, December 2, 2024, reopening on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. s 1 5 1 I*. < / f V 1 1: L?! e. 1> . *1 r* f J? :i J The southern portion of the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail that is within the Village limits (the first one-half mile), including the first two bridges and the Mill Pond, will remain open, as well as the northern portion. » «• * * >< ' A* t «i r^ a r 3 k •* I y u ■4. * 4 < I -i < I I‘ V > a & I NO HUNTING IS ALLOWED IN THESE AREAS R* I' 4 p, *' y V’ li-’* • k 4 < 4* 1 J I Jl» r ,> eri I I .. s. > . •si. • jX. f. W' —% •O a I* L.. —*. The remaining southern portion of the trail, from the Village limits to Irving Road, crosses private property and is closed to the public during the November hunting season. ?• • > '.V /l s^'- '=^1 fSpS it ■?, V I ( v. > i I f. It * t I T. 3 i I I ( I I 4 I 1 ' T* I Thomapple Kellogg senior Ailana Leos watches her tee shot fly on number three at The Meadows on the campus of Grand Valley State University Friday. J ^Liring day one of the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Girls Golf Finals. Photo by Brett Bremer I � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-11-02.pdf 2e82c6a04e5d357f9116b2f228847f38 PDF Text Text 1. I k •l I I I 1 1 V J I I » > s ' 1 ) I t \ \ s k ♦ > 1 1 ) t V's- 1 V t. i > » 1 X T • 4 f I 1 +’ < i 1 i h,- . . *4 b« ll •r I R •i I 9 the SUN AND NEWS 5> ^omerown Newspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Gaines Townshir^ Township Areas r. r DAYLIGHT « SAVING TIME ends ♦ * ^3 rL 1 v 1 • J-< & . a • NOVEMBER 3. 2024 I > NO. 30 '.r- >x SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2024 I ♦ « ♦ Paul Henry trail section closed for hunting season k Greg Chandler Staff Writer s. r I ^Jf ,s * k 9r. I TOTB "file *, H : ■*> 4l I -if W Lf- S 'M ■ < K IV I .f!U, r t r A I Voters are deciding on various waaa congressional, U3N01Sn3 ivuNsaisau state and county 'ei»Au»aj9 races at the polls 8££# JtLUJ9d 8G88> through Tuesday. ivy 'ailiAuaejo SSMH03 9e88> IN mxogod aivd aovisod s n ais isad I, X Si r k s b PT ■ J< The Gaines Township Planning Commission concurs with the 19 residents who spoke in opposition at its Oct. 24 meeting against a proposed Caledonia Meadows residential condominium project. They let their voices be heard at a public hearing after Paul Henderson with the Roosien & Associates engineering firm made a presentation on the project, and after Steve Tjapkes - a senior attorney with the Foster Swift law firm — spoke on behalf of the developer. The residents expressed con­ cerns about significantly more flooding that might result from the development, plus traffic in > A-'i r- •>> «u 'xw !>• ♦ ♦ A aS •Iz ar. Lz re u 7’ ;A.. * A J . 9 I 9 X 4 I A- X. if. j t:. < A V'\ « > 'L'X i /\ nearly packed room of residents attended the Gaines Township planning commission meeting on Oct. 24 in the township hall board room. Photo by James Gemmell File photo In addition to the presidential election pitting Vice President Kamala Harris against former President Donald Trump, area voters are deciding on various con­ gressional, State and county races at the polls through Tuesday night. In ±e U.S. Senate race. Republican Mike Rogers is facing Democrat Elissa Slotkin, with the winner to replace longtime Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow. Slotkin currently represents Michigan’s Seven± Congressional District, while Rogers served in Congress from 2001 to 2015. In ±e races for ±e U.S. House of Representatives, voters in all of Barry County as well as Caledonia Township in Kent County will decide on the Second District race pitting Republican incum­ bent John Moolenaar against Democratic challenger Michael Lynch. Moolenaar, of Midland, has served in Congress since l" 9* 4 £ > the area and the impact on wildlife. The proposed site is at 3805 92nd St., which is west of East Paris Avenue. The parcel is zoned Agricultural Residential for home sales no smaller than 80,000 square feet (1.83 acres), with a minimum width of 100 feet. The average unit area would be 29,862 square feet. The proposed PUD zon­ ing would be for a minimum of 25,000 square feet. The planning commission voted to approve two separate motions to reject See GAINES on 7 Congressional, state and county races to be decided next week Greg Chandler Staff Writer I .1 f 4wr I J A portion of the Paul Henry Thomapple Trail south of the Middleville village limits will be closed starting Friday, Nov. 1, and continuing through to Monday, Dec. 2, in conjunction with hunting season. The southern portion of the Paul Hei^ Trail that is within the village limits, including the first two bridges and the Mill Pond, will remain open, as well as the northern portion of the trail. No hunting is allowed in those areas. The remaining southern portion of the trail, from the Middleville village limits to Irving Road, crosses private property and is closed to the public during the November hunting season. The section that will be closed dur­ ing hunting season will reopen to the public on Tuesday, Dec. 3. I r Gaines Planning Commission recommends denial of PUD rezoninq request for proposed Caledonia Meadows development James Gemmell Contributing Writer k www.sunandnews.com I I 2015. Lynch, who lives in Afrna, is running for the U.S. House for the first time. Voters in Gaines Township, meanwhile, will choose a representative for the Third Congressional District, with incumbent Democrat Hillary Scholten of Grand Rapids seeking her second two-year term in Washington against Republican chailenger Paul Hudson of East Grand Rapids. Incumbent Republican state Rep. Angela Rigas of Alto is seeking re-election to her second term in the state House, represent­ ing the 79th District, against Democrat Jason Rubin of Allegan County’s Leighton Township. The 79th District includes Caledonia and Gaines townships in Kent County, Thomapple, Irving and Rutland townships in Barry County and Leighton Township in Allegan County. In the 43rd District state House race, incumbent Republican Rep. Rachelle Smit of Shelbyville is running for her second term in Lansing, facing Democratic challenger Danene Shumaker of Plainwell. The 43rd District includes Yankee Springs, Orangeville and Bany townships in Barry County. In Kent County, a new commissioner to represent Gaines Township on the county Board of Commissioners will be chosen, as Republican Robin Halsted is battling Democrat Roslund Harris in the 10th District. The winner will replace Republican Commissioner Emily Post Brieve, who did not seek re-election. Meanwhile, in the 21 st commission dis­ trict, representing Caledonia, Bowne and part of Cascade Township, incumbent Republican Walter Bujak of Caledonia is unopposed for re-election. In Barry County, nearly all of the county commission seats were decided in the Republican primary in August. Incumbent Republican commissioners Catherine Getty (2nd District) and Jon Smelker (4th District) won their primary races and face no Democratic opposition. J �V X 5 S k * i I. » Saturday, November 2, 2024 2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Middleville council, DDA board seek to resolve conflicts at joint session Greg Chandler Staff Writer While no final decision has been made as to whether Middleville’s Downtown Development Authority board will continue to remain in its current form, DDA members and the Village Council seem to agree on this: there’s a communication problem af­ fecting both entities. For two hours Tuesday night, the council and DDA board put their heads together, guided by mediator Marilynn Semonick, to try to sort out the issues that have plagued their relationship over the past year. The joint meeting was held two weeks after former DDA Director Gretchen James announced her resignation and Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg pro­ posed a reorganization plan that would assign most ofJames’past duties to village Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers and give Powers a new job title. It also came as Village President Mike Cra­ mer proposed disbanding the DDA board last month and having the village Planning Commission function as the DDA board. Council members and DDA board members split off into small groups, with representation from both entities Your local agent Insures your Businfliss FARM BUREAU INSURANCE* s; •Cl a * Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com in each group, for about 45 minutes State law says regarding downtown of discussion on what they felt were development authorities. Among the main issues. other tWngs, Cramer has long held “It’s not just tone or intent of com­ that Public Act 57 of 2018, the law munication (that’s a problem), but just regulating DDAs across the state, that there really isn’t any (communica­ gives him as the village’s chief ex­ tion),” DDA board member Kortney ecutive officer the authority to make Lull said, representing her small group. board appointments. Some council “We said that there are things that ne^ members have challenged Cramer to be communicated and goals need to on the appointment issue, calling be establi'shed for the ordinances. We for a more collaborative approach. need a communications strategy and The DDA board, which is supposed guidelines as to frequency, who needs to to have nine members, currently has communicate, what they need to be com­ three vacant seats. municating, which leads into direction. Stolsonburg, meanwhile, has pro * “There is no clear direction for the posed a reorganization that will split DDA as to the goals that it needs to up the DDA director’s duties. Planhave or any strategic plan. We were ning and Zoning Administrator Dm ig really hoping and looking for having Powers has been offered additional a strategic plan with actual achievable responsibilities and a new job title of goals, milestones that we can achieve. Director of Community and Economic which comes directly from communi- Development. Powers has tentatively cation, so that during the communica accepted that offer. Stolsonburg has tion it can be discussed whether or not also proposed creating an event coorwe’re achieving those goals and what dinator position that would report to tools we have at our disposal to achieve Powers who would take responsibility those goals,” Lull added. for community events like the RiverCramer, who has clashed with bankMusic Series. The reorganization council members for months over must still be formally approved by both how to fill openings on the DDA Village Council and the DDA board. board, continued to maintain his Stolsonburg said the reorganization long-held position that the authority’s will work with either the DDA board biggest problem is that it has become remaining intact or being replaced by too focused on community events and the Planning Commission. Most of hasn t devoted enough attention to the participants at Tuesday’s meeting economic development. seemedtosunnortcontiniiinfftnmm ‘ n_ seemed to support continuing to main“(I support DDA) reorganization, to tarn a separate DDA board. try to get the board back online with . “I think if we were able to get (new) state law ^d what we should be doing members on our board, to have a full versus what we are doing,” Cramer board, I think we have a fair shot of said. “The XXXV corrective vuucvuvc plan pidii of action acuon making making this this very successful” DDA would provide a pathway that shows board member Justine King said. “I am highlighted goals and achievements confident that we are heading in a good that would get us back that way.” direction at this point and I think that we Cramer went on to add that council can definitely keep that trajectory. It’s members and DDA board members just a matter ofgetting the full board (in alike need to get trained on what place) and being able to work together.” TKHS to hold Veterans Day celebration Thomapple Kellogg High School is welcoming veterans and the commu­ nity to join in the annual Veterans Day celebration at 10 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 11 in the high school gymnasium. Veterans are invited to attend and be recognized for their service. This is a special program for all high school students as well as community members. It’s a morning filled with hon­ oring and acknowledging veterans and their service to our country. The gymna sium, filled with more than 900 students, TK staff, and community members, will grow silent as the American flag is cer­ emoniously brought to the front of the stage. It grows somehow even quieter for a moment of silence to remember veterans who never made it home. The TKHS band and the Honors Choir will perform patriotic songs and U.S. History students will offer prepared read­ ings to honor and support veterans. One honored veteran will be the guest speaker. This special event honors and acknowledges contributions made by men and women who have served in any branch of the armed forces at any time. Veterans are welcome to wear their uniforms and provide a photo (if they haven’t already done so in previous years) to be included in a slide show during the event. Photos can be sent to m wert@tkschools. org. The program will be followed by a luncheon for veterans provided by Thomapple Kellogg Schools. All guests should park in the south parking lot and enter through the Ath­ letic Lobby where they will be greeted by TKHS students. Veterans should arrive early to be seated for the program and to check in at the table just inside the gymnasium. Thomapple Kellogg Schools THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 .V. si, ■ 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US PUBLISHED BY 9 Editor: Molly Macleod rr Group mmacleod@mihomepaper.com Sports: Brett Bremer bbremer@mihomepaper.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Advertising: csilverm aTOncffhomeipaper.com Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are ® News Ad Dept. ,1351 ' Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-945 9554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser's order. Our ad takers have bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of . the advertiser’s order. •0 > �I, I •l 1. I www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS ----------------------------------------------------------- __________________________________ __________ Saturday, November 2, 2024 C3 Tovifnship not pre-processing absentee ballots for general election James Gemmell Contributing Writer Unlike some large communities, Gaines Charter Township is not pre­ processing absentee ballots for the Nov. 5 general election. Under a new state law, local clerks in Michigan municipalities with popula­ tions ofmore than 5,000 residents have the option of getting an eight-day head start on processing mail-in ballots for a presidential election. Gaines has a population of nearly 29,000 residents. The clerks had to notify the state Bu­ reau of Elections at least 28 days in advance to do so. In the past, clerks could not begin processing the mail-in ballots until election day. But many clerks began opening the mailed-in absentee envelopes this past Monday, Oct. 28, and verifying the vot­ er’s signature on the envelope with the signature in the Qualified Voter File. They then checked the bal­ “Fantastic numbers . ablot number and scanned the sentee voter numbers are also ballot through the tabulator. up. We have 4,000 absentee However, votes cannot be ballots that we have received counted until after the polls back, after sending out about close on election day. Be­ 6,000, so we’ve got a good cause all the absentee ballots return,” he said. may not come in until 8 p.m. Kent County Clerk & on election day, the counting Roslund Harris, Register of Deeds Lisa Post­ Democrat process will still take a long humus Lyons had predicted a time in most jurisdictions. voter turnout in the low 20s The polls open on Nov. 5 at 7 a.m. in for the Nov. 5 election. Michigan and close at 8 p.m. “Last that I saw from the Kent Early voting was scheduled to take County clerk, we were at about 22 place in the township hall each day percent turnout by early voting and from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Oct. 26 absentee combined (for the county),” through Nov. 3. Oct. 25 was the dead­ Brew said early in the week. line for absentee ballots to be spoiled. Some municipal clerks are con­ Clerk Michael Brew was pleased cerned that pre-processing absentee with the voter turnout earlier in the ballots could result in them being week, especially compared to the early leaked, thereby compromising elec­ voting that was done in February for tion integrity. That, even though every the Michigan presidential primary, and absent voter counting board election in the August primary election. worker in Michigan must take an oath J- / Township board seats up for grabs in Nov. election Greg Chandler Staff Writer Voters in Thomapple Township are deciding on trustee seats on the Township Board in Tuesday’s elec­ tion. Five candidates - four Republicans and an independent - are on the bal­ lot for four four-year trustee seats. Four of the five are incumbent board members - Republicans Curt Campbell, Ross DeMaagd and Sandy Rairi^, along with Kim Selleck, who is running as an independent. Republican David Stanton is running for office for the first time. Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer is running unopposed for re-election, while Treasurer Laura Bouchard and Clerk Cindy Ordway are also unopposed. Both Bouchard and Ordway were appointed to their respective positions last year after the resignation of their predeces * * sors. Deb Buckowing (treasurer) and Cindy Willshire (clerk). In Caledonia Township, all seven sitting members of the Township Board are unopposed for re-election for another four years, including Supervisor Biyan Harrison, who has held the job since 2000. Also unopposed are Treasurer Richard Robertson, Clerk Joni Henty and trustees Tim Bradshaw, Dale Hermenet, Richard Snoeyink and Greg Zoller. All are Republicans. In Yankee Springs Township, all five members of the Township Board are unopposed for re-election: Supervisor Rob Heethuis, Treasurer Deb Mousseau, Clerk Mike Cunningham and trustees Larry Knowles and Dave VanHouten. All but Knowles were elected to the board for the first time in 2020. All five are Republicans. of office. Revealing any election re­ sults before the polls close is a felony. However, clerks in some commu­ nities say not processing the mail-in ballots early could lead to a delay in posting the unofficial election results. And that could lead to the public scru­ tinizing whether something is amiss in the election process. Brew recently said that the many new requirements associated with preprocessing ballots were the main reason Gaines is not doing it this year. But he said the township may do so in a future election, depending on how the process works this year in other communities. Early processing requires more equipment and volunteer election workers. But the chance to get a lot of the work done early is considered by many to be of great benefit, accord­ ing to the Michigan Association of See GAINES on 6 Baked Potato Dinner Saturday, Nov. 2"*'- 5-7pm Fl $15 per ■I*' f- *v , person I t ..I J • F IF • P cs t ,* t r '’S'-' '• I k ■ t. • ♦ 1 • ' r' I.. •I-* > w^- ■ V **i >« '-;r X. •*> , w I* Includes: Baked Potato with toppings • Rolls • Coleslaw Cookies Ice Cream • Drink BOWNE CENTER UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 12051 84TH ST SE, ALTO, Ml 49302 corner of Alden Nash (M50) & 84th Street, Alto 4 �I 4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 2, 2024 •.Kt Middleville United Methodist Church hosts annual Octogenarians Dinner • www.sunandnews.com * -». ■. V ■ > * 7^ 9 <• i ■".r e ‘ •* .A vs *^1 ..^^1 The Middleville United Methodist Church hosted its annual Octogenarians Dinner earlier this month, honoring Middleville residents 80 years old and older. Sixty-five of Middleville’s octogenarians, nonagenarians and even a handful of centenarians came out for the annual event. Pictured here are Beverly Eimer, 101, and Jack Spencer, 102. Photo provided ft. ■ ♦ • =y ( *7 f * V( I .A . ■1 u A 1 1* t V k K'S! ^E£r-4g 7^ 'J, ;t -I a? -7 t * 9 • taJ I I, yacjt t. >1 L .1 .w ,1;.. 9'^ V’ -•-if .. t • kT r M t •i: . xU LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Holy Family hosting blood drive Nov. 12 Versiti Blood Center of Michigan is partnering with the Caledonia community churches for a blood drive at Holy Family Catholic Church on Tuesday, Nov. 12. The church is located at 9669 Kraft Ave. in Caledonia. The drive will be open from 1 to 6:30 p.m. Organizers hope to reach 61 pints ofblood donated in next week’s drive. Anyone 17 or older is eligible to donate blood. 16-year-olds are eligible to donate with parental permission. Donors next week will earn the chance to win four tickets to the upcom ing Thanksgiving Day game between the Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears. The Lions are playing from home that day, at Ford Field in Detroit. Those interested in donating blood can sign up at bit.ly/Novl2CCC or by calling Char Mello, chairperson, at 616-901-2803. Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are accepted. The blooddrive is open to thepublic. —Molly Macleod * Caledonia United Methodist Church ALASKA BAPTIST CHURCH cornerstonechurch •v Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM Join us for our traditional yet casual worship Join us tn person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am b- 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend 616-891-8669 CaJedoniaUMC.org 250 Vine Street Livestream: Facebook.com/CaIedoniaUnitedMethodist Strengthening Connecting I Sunday Service 10:30 AM Middleville Good Shepherd 9' Lutheran Church G> <• 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http.7/goodshepherdicms.googlepages Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 CHURCH HOLY FAM ILY Jf CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship JOURNEY I* 1 . t k- service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. Serving FIRST BAPTIST •> 7 Rev. Christine Beaudoin www.alaskabaptist.org 7240 68th Street SE, Caledonia *x .com Church: (269) 795-2391 MPEACE CHURCH www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Sunday Worship 8:30 a.m. & 11 aj Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. 11 r -XM ; • J* % ( Caledonia Location 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am J peacechurch, cc Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Yankee Springs Bible Church Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool Sunday School *•••••••»<•••• 9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM \/^Qtch our services from our website (see above) 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 "Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison^ Pastor WWW, yankeespringsbiblechurch.org I 1 MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 The Oct. 28 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. One new fish is in the fishbowl; one fish fell out. Virginia led a discussion on reflection. No matter where we are in our weight loss journeys, we need to reflect as to how far we have come so far this year. We may have been on a gaining streak lately, but the overall picture is a much brighter picture. So, concentrate on the greater accomplishment and not the short-term picture. Alice lost the Ha-Ha Box. Maryellen was the best loser for October. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-3183545. The first meeting is free. ( s �www.sunandnews.com 1 I I V I A Five candidates running for three Cal Village Council seats Greg Chandler Staff Writer 1 I THE SUN AND NEWS Five candidates are running for three available trustee seats on the Caledonia Village Council in the election that concludes Tuesday night. Three incumbents and two chal­ lengers are running for four-year terms on the council — incumbents Dan Erskine, Karen Hahn and Cheryl Miller, along with challengers Nikki Daley and Jeff Kusmierz. Erskine is the longest-serving council member in the village’s history, having served on the council since 1980. Kusmierz is a former council trustee who served back in the late 1990s. Village President Jennifer Lindsey is running unopposed for a third twoyear term. Name: Nikki Daley Occupation: Firm Administrator at Stonehenge Consulting, PLC Why are you running for village trustee? I am running for Trustee to be a voice for the residents of Caledonia. I want to ensure that our community remains a place we’re all proud to call home. With your support, we can continue to make Caledonia a wonderful place to live, work, and grow. What are your qualifications? With 17 years of experience managing operations at a local CPA firm, I bring strong organizational and financial skills, essential for effective community leadership. I’ve also led teams, made strategic decisions, and cultivated a collaborative work environment all qualities that I believe are valuable for serving Caledonia. What do you feel are the biggest issues facing the village? One of the biggest challenges facing our village is managing growth in a way that maintains Caledonia’s unique small-town feel. I am committed to pro­ moting strategic development that re­ spects ourcommunity’scharacterwhile fostering economic opportunities. Why should we vote for you? As a longtime resident with deep community ties and extensive profes sional experience, I’m dedicated to PAID ADVERTISEMENT In 2024 how will YOU vote? • . • • maintaining Caledonia’s welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. I will work to pro­ mote growth that protects our village’s charm, advocate for transparency in local government, and encourage open communication so every voice is heard. Together, we can help Caledonia con­ tinue to thrive. • . • • • • • • • • • • * • • . • • • Name: Dan Erskine Occupation: Retired from Caledo­ nia Farmers Elevator Why are you running for village trustee? I believe I have one more term of office left (four years) and the needed knowledge and experience to be useful in office. What are your qualifications? I have been a resident of Caledonia for 50-plus years and a village trustee for 40-plus years, all the time looking out for what’s best for Caledonia. What do you feel are the biggest issues facing the village? Keeping our sidewalks, trees and roadways in good repair. Why should we vote for you? • To keep the long-term knowledge of the village available for all who would seek it. Name: Jeff Kusmierz Occupation: Business owner Why are you running for village trustee? I love this place we call home. My amazing wife and partner of 49 years and I moved here 35 years ago from Grand Rapids, raising 3 daughters in this amazing community. She was manager of Sam’s Joint Restaurant (currently Rosanna’s Table) for 23 years. We have a deep and loving con­ nection with this community, and I have the time, the skills, the knowledge, the experience, and the rational sense to maintain the quality of our village—by the residents and for the residents. What are your qualifications? Village resident over 25 years. Live and operate my business in the village. Self-made successful business owner 25 years running. Business and Market­ ing degree, technical engineering and mechanical backgrounds, contract and See SEATS on 13 Saturday, November 2, 2024 When I was a child I used to believe We all walked through this life arm in arm. My family looked out for the family next door And we lived out the words, ‘Do NO Harm’. We knew what was right and we learned what was wrong. My folks’ message rings true to this day... Be kind. Walk your talk. Say your prayers. Do your part Be a light, not a thorn, on life’s way.” Those ‘good old days’ weren’t all so good I know now. There were wrongs needing to be made right. Even Christians’ promoted division and angst, Though all prayed to the same God each night. A vote was not given to all men and women. The ‘crash’ made some folks mighty rich. The Klan, the Self-Righteous, wreaked havoc and pain Integration didn’t prejudice fi X. Who do we deceive when we to believe That it’s ‘them’ and not us’ who should change? We have all played a part, have lost touch heart to heart, When we rant and we rave and we blame. We’ve been given the script and need but to live it To get back on a positive track. These words are quite clear, if we should choose to hear More than words, they are reason to act. * Z € Do unto others.. .thy neighbors do love Tis more blessed to give than to receive... Set your shoulder to plow and your eyes to the sky... Trust in God...be His love...and Believe. Do not judge. Do not hate. Do not blame. Tolerate... For we all are guilty of sin. Welcome all, large and small, to the table you set. For God wants to call all men to Him. * * 2 • • • ♦ • . • • • • • So here s the deal. If lying, bullying, belittling, blaming, buddying up to dictators and not calling out the Klan white supremacists and conspiracy theorists for wrongdoing, if ignoring science, medical research, global warming, long held alliances and the rule of law is now acceptable, then the values I grew up with no longer exist. Or do they? • • • • • . Whatever you are ‘for’, whatever you are ‘against’ in this monumentally important election, choose a leader who in speech and behavior supports and models the values we once held dear. Choose a leader who will honor our heritage and be worthy of the office of President of the United States of America, our already great nation. • * •/ 07 *^****^ VVB A • • • * * * * • • • • • • • * * FOR GOD AND COUNTRY • Paid for by Carol (Bessmer) Cook and Chris (Bessmer) Fitzgerald, Lorrene Cody, Bill and Kathy Simpson sr,cc.charlotte@gmail.com * �6 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 2, 2024 GAINES Zj f-' H11M r Ht 111 y t HI f I Continued from Page 3 Hr '7 J * 4.. iHlfHHlHlTlMHfl 11 ft/ 11 r,. X’ • *> 9 xic- —T- i- Municipal Clerks. Gaines Township has nine voting precincts. Three buildings will host two precincts each on election day in the township: the Gaines Township Hall on Kalamazoo Avenue, Ada Bible Church on 68th Street, and Heritage Baptist Church on 60th Street. Outside of the state and presidential choices on the ballot, Gaines Township voters don’t have a lot of local issues to decide. Township trustee Robert Terpstra is running uncontested for supervisor in the Nov. 5 general election after defeating former deputy treasurer Jenna Pilkington in the Aug. 6 primary, 2,159 votes to 897, per Ballotpedia.org. The District 10 seat on the Kent County Board of Commissioners will be decided Tuesday. After nearly a decade of representing the district, incumbent Commissioner Emily Brieve decided not to run for re-election this year. Her term expires Dec. 31,2024. Roslund Harris was uncontested in the Democratic primary in August. And Robin Halstead defeated for­ mer commissioner Bill Hirsch in the Republican primary, 1,931 votes to 1,753 votes. Halsted, 54, has a bachelor’s degree in business administra tion and has worked in advance­ ment roles at Christian Health­ care Centers and Cornerstone University. In addition, her Robin Halsted, service included being a church Republican ministry leader and former ex­ ecutive director of the Gaines Chamber of Commerce. Harris, 51, has a bachelor’s degree in healthcare systems administration and an associate’s degree in applied science. She has more than 27 years of experience in the health insurance industry, has led in management positions for nearly two decades and currently is a Business Development manager. Early voting began in Michigan on Oct. 26. Un­ der a constitutional amendment approved by voters statewide in November 2022, early voting now oc­ curs in every statewide and federal election on the nine days that begin the second Saturday before the * r * free Estimates • Closed-Cell Foam Insulation • Blown-in Attic Insulation 517-983-0954 Start Saving Today ~ Use Spray Foam . I I 0 I t r n t h 1 ( 9 M3S? -• i^' ** . 9 ** • '••vr « ** I r __ P-¥ n -31,7. I I '■W '■****-if-iasrar, w »*»• ' ■ - »* iWr«« .♦* • ....... Hl, ' ( I > { I H ( < H f H >1 I I * r r«M »i I H< 111 u I »y >*><!> ininttiHytnM ♦<<£»! « < ' ■■ **^**** ill < { It" I BUSINESS SERVICES t ■ ,,'V. K J •*v T4i. /I friitiHi} » i khhhjihl .'tx I rv:nui 9 I * •* s ♦ I**?-;. . J' (IM ) If I inttlHH ■W 4/ . « r*^ *Wlk* W SI -TfS * I •>* I *1.1. J * « w: t < I < *A * kTS^ l.e ' * ««r. I Jp II 5 a 1 ?1 ♦♦ « -T c VA >- ■ --tr » * - L^ f ! TREE SERVICE wn >1 I I i; t i • J • ? • J t Some sample absentee ballots taped to the office windows inside the Gaines Township Hall. Photo by James Gemmell election. This is the third elec­ tion locally where early voting is being held. Early voters or in-person voters on Election Day must show photo identification or sign an affidavit attesting that they are not in possession of photo identification. Voters can satisfy the ID requirement by showing a Michigan driver’s license or a Michigan personal identification card. Other forms that will be accepted are: Driver’s license or personal ID card issued by another state Federal, state, or local gov­ ernment-issued photo ID Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing,dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured. 616389-9496 .-..s .* ' & wv ► 11 -'-aiRf h -.as 9 JW. > rsl I •W* • : • I •e b IM lIlMlUMHHMfMiM < ii HHUirnuHiriiHH 4 HU.lUHUWKHIlt.i Classifieds U.S. passport Military photo ID card Student photo ID card from an educational institution Tribal photo ID card Brew asked voters to “be a little patient with us. The tech­ nology is a little slower because of all the (security) checks that have been put into behind the scenes. So, like printing bal­ lots is a little bit slower, and as it tabulates it takes a little bit longer for the ballot to actually be accepted by the machine because of all the multiple checks.” BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269 838-5937. w HORSES FOR SALE: 2015 Lakota Char­ ger horse trailer. Model C839. 8’ wide, 7’8” height, 3 horse slant and 9’6” short wall in Hastings, Ml. Beautiful inside and out, very clean. Purchased new and kept inside when not in use. New tires in 2022. Westinghouse iGen 4500 generator used once. $42,500 or best offer. 269-945-7180. PETS Hastings man killed in State Road crash Greg Chandler Staff Writer A 23-year-old Hastings man is dead and a 41-yearold Clarksville woman is hospitalized after a two-car crash in Irving Township late last week. The crash occurred at 1:20 p.m. Friday on State Road near Wood School Road. An initial investiga tion by the Barry County Sheriff’s Office showed a Mercury Milan driven by Tristin Prentice of Hastings was traveling southeast on State Road when it crossed the centerline and crashed head-on into an oncom­ ing Lincoln Navigator, driven by Erin VanSpronen of Clarksville. DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. Prentice was pronounced dead at the scene. VanSpronen was taken to University of Michigan Health-West in Wyoming by ambulance, Sgt. Steve Lehman of the sherifPs office said in a news release. Prentice graduated from Hastings High School in 2020 and most recently worked at Hastings Fiber glass. A celebration of life for him will be held at a later date, according to an obituary notice from Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Assisting the sheriff’s office at the scene were the Hastings Fire Department, Mercy Ambulance, Barry County Central Dispatch and the Barry County Road Commission. �www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS GAINES 2I I I Continued from Page 1 the project. The first was a recom mendation to the township board that It deny a Planned Unit Development (PUD) rezoning request. And the sec­ ond was a recommended denial of the final site plan. Both votes were 6-0. One commissioner was absent. The project applicants, DHS Holdings LLC, DAS Holdings LLC and commercial realtor Duke Suwyn, had first approached the planning commission in January 2024 about possibly building 34 units on an 83-acre parcel. The commission voted 7-0 in January to approve a prelimi­ nary review for the PUD-Open Space Preservation process. There are no existing on-site water and sewer services connected to the property. Under the proposal, each home would be serviced by a private water well. If the STEP system were to eventually fail, the township would have the right under its master deed to establish a Special Assessment District to fund repairs and long-term mainte­ nance. For the project to be approved by the township board, 67 of the acres would need to be rezoned to a PUD OS (open space) designation. The other 17 acres would remain under the Agricultural/Rural Residential zon­ ing. About 44 acres is open space, not counting a drain field and some other undevelopable areas. That roughly breaks down as 32 acres of agricul­ tural, plus 10 acres of open space and about two acres of woods that would be set aside. The lots would be on the west end to create as much contiguous open space as possible. JTB Homes was identified in tenta­ tive house plans as the developer. The Vriesman & Korhom civil engineer­ ing firm sent Gaines Community Development Director Dan Wells an email on Oct. 16 saying the developer was proposing to serve the develop­ ment with a community septic system known as a STEP (Septic Tank with Effluent Pump) system. “Our understanding of how this community septic system would work is that each individual homesite would have a septic tank installed on their property,” engineers wrote. The waste * water would be pumped from the tank into a community drain field. “We have reservations recommend ing that the township approve the fl* J i I t t I development based on the information that has been submitted. The plans dated July 22, 2024, provide very little detail on how this system would be designed and constructed,” engineers said in the email. Vriesman & Korhom recommended that, if a STEP system were approved for wastewater disposal, all the homes would be required to use the same equipment. The applicant received conditional, preliminary approval from the planning commission in January for the initial step. One of the conditions was that a secondary access point be included in the site plan, which is required by the Dutton Fire Department whenever there are more than 30 units being built on a site. So, the decision was made to scale the project back from 34 units to 30. The access for the proposed units would be a private In terms of the water and sewer facilities, the township engineer did do the preliminary review,” Wells wrote in a planning memo before the meet­ ing. “It still remains undetermined whether the community septic system would work on this site. We haven’t been provided with enough detail on the system design to make that deter­ mination. So, we feel that does not meet that standard.” Another thing commissioners and township staff have been pushing for is sidewalks to be built on both sides of the road, because it would be a dense urban development. A five-foot­ wide “natural surface” walking path is desi^ated along the east side of the residential parcels and would loop through the northern open space. “If we were to pave that whole trail it would be at great added expense and raise the price of the lots,” Tjapkes said. “I’m not sure how much acces­ sibility that would give. The one sug­ gestion we are willing to do is create that trail cutoff, so that those folks with issues don’t have to face the downgrade. But I think if we have a pathway as it is, I think it meets the standards of the ordinance.” But one resident told commissioners a full sidewalk system is needed for her wheelchair-bound son. Commissioner Brad Waayenberg questioned the public value of not having sidewalks on both sides of the road and public parking. About 48 acres would be set aside for agricultural use outside of the development area. A small playground 44 Saturday, November 2, 2024 area is proposed for the north end, adjacent to the community soil-disper­ sal facility. “I was looking at the trail that a gen­ tleman said there was water on either side. Come on. If there’s water now, what’s it going to be like later?” plan­ ning commission Vice Chair Ronnie Rober asked. A detention system would be created to mitigate flooding issues. Resident Matt Marvin said he lives on 92nd Street and pointed to photos of standing water and massive ponds in the field where the proj ect would be adjacent. “Some of those proposed lots in the PUD would be under water com­ pletely,” he said, if the development is built. Marvin was one of several residents who said they have an issue with the disparity in lot sizes in the proposal compared with those along 92nd Street. “The average size of those lots is 5.9 acres. So that’s like 10 times the size of what would be in this PUD. It just doesn’t fit in this area,” he said. Pat Moll lives along that stretch of roadway. She said she and her hus- 7 band moved to Gaines Township 25 years ago, when most lot sizes were 1.8 acres or larger in her view. “This developer has asked you to rezone this property so he can fill the space with micro-sized lots barely larger than half an acre,” Moll said. Planning Commission Chairwoman Connie Giarmo questioned whether the proposed lot sizes meet the standard that township officials have been seeking. “All of the discussions we’ve been having on the master plan and the zon­ ing ordinance is that the areas of the township where there are not sewer and water (connections) we are going to have larger lots,” she said. A 92nd Street resident, Mike Slachter, mentioned that a percolation test is needed. That is where soil sam pies are taken to determine if the soil can absorb sewage and process it so it does not become a public health risk. “You can’t okay houses until that perc test is done,” he said. Kirk Estrella, a Meadow Valley Drive resident, noted that the town ship zoning ordinance requires that the PUD must be consistent with the zon­ ing ordinance, which states that projSee GAINES on 9 616-891-0150 BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. BODY SHOP COMPLETE COLLISION REPAIR 10 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Your ■frusfed Body Shop for over 32 years �\ \ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 2, 2024 8 www.sunandnews.com I I TKHS students performing ‘The Man Who Came to Dinner’ Nov. 8-9 •> I I ;aL ? L i • 1-4. J -i 4 ,T • ^*4 7 I 4 ■; r IW W! If Is-- • *» a > <?*A' ^Tsr <ib S » J 4 < : * 1 V- B I * I ) I A •* > W. I R "T A A A *4 -k - . / t » ! «■ 1 ;• X’ j A. # - * > t <** V * r I i fr « X / z g >• /.Kn > « A ■< i. ■y. * 7r ’ MN •' • »• k. % ' 4^ i L I V w 5-i J V •»* I 1 w «6> . t I 4 I •* 4 fe • I T * ’*1 *' Ait > r. >• « I IS z s z V f «» •? I JI r L h" • r" I."* F ] I X 1 1 I / J*.’ ■ I ? jk X f c ' «i s ( S’ T dlb* .d i I_ J a / j !■ A A---- •H* I— z f J^. 1^ iTv IIGHT niUCK MRIS •« USED nuns * net OPS * ONE TONS * VMS * snrs * iGEPs * 4X4S 3lB FUU SERVICE ft you PUU IT I 4. f 269-381-2300 I M B -H’- . . 1 L I . s USED PARTS r USED TIRES I r’-*'!’ rr jwmu^ 1811 LAKE ST, KALAMAZOO 4d * 5 --'.A ■1 > !f • < * *- > The cast and crew of Thornapple Kellogg High School’s “The Man Who Came to Dinner. ” Photos provided Thomapple Kellogg High School students will perform two shows of their fall play, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Friday, Nov. 8, and Saturday, Nov. 9. Shows start at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium. This comedy shares the story of a famously outlandish big city radio broadcaster who agrees to dine with a prominent Ohio family while on his lecture tour. After he slips and falls outside their home, he is forced to recuperate for weeks inside the home and wreaks havoc on the family and the lives of those around him. TKHS students performing in the cast include: X* « *—V-: V >• p?* s^r. ^0 * L k •• •V * Lukas Walters as Sheridan Whiteside Chiya Collantes as Maggie Cutler Gabriel Rose as Bert Jefferson Michael Sager-Wissner as Beverly Carlton Valerie Tamez as Lorraine Anthony Sager-Wissner as Mr. Stanley Terrence Gentz as Mrs. Stanley Jackson Lambitz as Dr. Bradley Other cast members are Mist Barnes, Alex Evens, Miranda Ova-Ayala, Lilly Stora, Keeghan Simerly, Leigha Jones, Ellie Baranek, Liam Jones, Morela Gielincki, Aleena Slomp, Erin Kridler, Travis Grabmeyer, Emma Johnson, Sheamus Nutt, Kai Eggers, Lizbeth Lopez and Jennifer Ramirez. Members of the stage, sound and recording crews include Charlotte Riffel, Hannah Gunnink, Evalyn Archambault, Makayla Chapin-Dyer, Raegen Chapman, Cole Novak, Blake Riffel, Cayla Brouwer, Hudson Thom­ as, Maddie Rose, Makayla Dillon and James Walker. Tickets are available to purchase online at TKSchools.ludus.com and will be sold prior to the show each night. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students. Thornapple KeiZogg Schools Thornapple Kellogg High School students will perform two shows of their fall play, “The Man Who Came to Dinner” Friday, Nov. 8, and Saturday, Nov. 9. 18 CHS singers advance to state choir competition •4 I I k f'*— ’. "i«ar F t______ Em r I :SA. k ■! * g a r* T <" I I '« c Sb* r» ■*. k ' ' l&r t r» r rfln s z ft I 4 Choi > IJ? «* <irw* i k J I*' 4i _ iST/1 r• 9 4 1 *1.1 •»y 5 f a'O r lb i ^SSilCTTcT I I 'I f i. • b*:- * »* * >84^ > fti'. . -T*v- ■ ■* V f I Sg^lL J. ’ A*. Eighteen singers at Caledonia High School were selected to the MSVMA R©gion A Honors Choir last week. The honors choir will perform in December. Additionally, these students have the opportunity to audition forthe State Honors Choir. Students from Kraft Meadows and Duncan Lake Middle School were also named to the honors choir: Abby Scott, Becca Burgers, Reese Neil, KoraOuderkirk, Trinity Reed, Scarlett Robertson and Sophia Steenwyk. Pictured are (front row, from left) CHS singers Jordyn Duffy, Lydia Shoesmith, Katelyn Ferris, Lilliana Klein, (middle row) Cerys Smith, Zahara Muriihi, Allison Malone, Sophia Bartuch, Susanna Vire, Christina Waldmiller, (back row) Ayden Taylor, Derick Prichard, Landon Fleming Justin Brown, Cody Winters, Connor Parlin. Christian Moorlag, Dalton Ed. Photo provided • V �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS 9 Saturday, November 2, 2024 Two compete for Irving Township Supervisor spot Molly Macleod Editor Voters in the Irving Township will decide next month who to elect as their newest township supervisor. Mike Bremer and Dan Lydy are facing off in November for their chance at the top spot in Irving. Both would be newcomers to the Irving Township Board. Lydy is mnning as a Republican, while Bremer is mnning with no party affiliation. The Sun and News sent out iden­ tical questionnaires to both candi­ dates asking questions about their stances and backgrounds. Lydy had not responded by press time. Mike Bremer Why are you running for township supervisor? I am running for township super­ visor because I am looking for­ ward to being involved with my “new” community. My wife and I built our home in Irving Township in 2020. I had been a part of local government in Thomapple Township for the previous 8 years and enjoyed the challenges of working with my friends and neighbors. Though I had lived in GAINES Continued from Page 7 ects that preserve natural amenities (land and water) must be built on the urban fnnge of a rural residential area. “I’m not sure I comprehend how this meets the standard. I think it’s the fur­ thest thing from the standard,” he said. Bmce Sterenberg told the planning commissioners, “I don’t know where they could possibly get rid of this water.” Eunice VanderLaan said her prop­ erty along 92nd Street often looks like a lake. She said she worries what would happen if there were a massive sewer spill, and who would pay to clean it up. Wells assured VanderLaan that her land would not be in a Special Assessment District, if one were established. He added that the town­ ship attorney has stated the bylaws and master deed for the condominium apply only to the lots that would be part of the development. Thomapple Township since 1952, there was still much to learn. It was very satisfying to answer questions and help residents with their issues. I hope to be a positive resource for the people of Irving Township. What are your qualifications? Two years of being a Barry County Commissioner. Eight years as the Thomapple Township Supervisor which included: eight years of attending Michigan Townships Association trainings, seminars, clinics and other educa­ tional opportunities; eight years of attending Michigan Association of Township Supervisors trainings, seminars, clinics and other educa­ tional opportunities. What do you feel are the biggest issues facing the township? The budget - how are our tax dol­ lars being spent; high-speed internet service — we have residents who have fiber-optic cable running down their road and can’t access it! That has to change; what I perceive to be a hous­ ing boom — Irving Township is a wonderfully rural area where gazillions of people would love to live. It’s not going to stay “wonderfully rural” if we allow too much development. We need to carefully watch and plan our growth “They’re proposing a shared sep­ tic system on ^ound that’s known to be heavy soi 1. There are to be 3 0 wells, all on 1,000 linear feet,” Mike Fennema pointed out. He is an East Paris Avenue resident. Teresa Sanxter lives along 92nd Street. She said she is concerned about the potential for “60 to 90” additional cars going in and out of Caledonia Meadows, if it is ever built. Another resident on that road, Dale DeWitt, said the development would result in a lot of people in ±e new living units going for a walk along that narrow street. “Sure, they got this little walking trail but most of them are going to go down and want to walk. We’re going to have all that more foot traffic, and it’s going to be dangerous down our street,” DeWitt said. “This probably cannot be built under the zoning ordinance, given that there are at least two pocket areas of wetland that don’t show (on the site plan),” commissioner Tim Haagsma to maintain the surroundings that are so important to us all. I would also like to pursue Paul Henry Trail connectivity across Irving Township. Why should we vote for you? You should vote for me because I am an experienced public servant that will bring a refreshing new atti­ tude to our local government. You will notice that I am running with no party affiliation.” I come with no Republican or Democratic bag­ gage. The Irving Township Board is not going to solve the problems of immigration, abortion, the national debt, etc. Washington - and Lansing for that matter - don’t care if there’s dust control on our gravel roads or potholes in our blacktop roads, if we have enough room in our cem­ etery, what it costs us for emergency services protection, if we all have access to high-speed internet, etc. We have to take care of ourselves and our local concerns. That takes working together as neighbors, which has no need or room for par­ tisan politics. I will be available for, listen to and respond promptly to/for the residents of Irving Township. said after the public hearing closed. He added, “1 don’t think the (appli­ cant) can do this by right, given what’s wet and what is needed for detention ... He’s suggesting he can do this by right with the community STEP system. I don’t think that’s in the ordinance.” “Without the soil borings, this is pie in the sky with this system,” Commissioner Brad Waayenberg said. After the two motions passed recom­ mending the township board deny the PUD rezoning and reject the final site plan. Wells pointed out that the project is not necessarily dead. “The applicant still has the right to proceed to the township board for the PUD rezone . the board can basically override the planning commis­ sion’s decision,” he said. “There is no restriction on reapplying for a new site plan this could come back.” The developer also has the option of withdrawing the project application. wan SCOOP! If you see news happening, or if you just wont us to know about something going on... Email mmacleod@mihomepaper.com THE SUN AND NEWS fc I I I II Group I furnace tune-up k t JRUU * I I Rnu) I 1* RR’'*i ♦ I I t I t I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments on qualifying equipment I u ;«1 . J Eki 4* « I It I f t •i ra ■ > FRONTIER HEATING G COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 ■ �S. www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 2, 2024 10 S Scots win first conference volleyball title Brett Bremer Sports Editor » f' I 41 t'-- [ • I I V k ’’l • ♦In k ^4 pry . k 1*7 iC 4 *1” 1 I k lost once each to Byron Center and Mona Shores. Caledonia will head to East Kent wood Tuesday, Nov. 5, to face the Falcons in the MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinals. Thomapple Kel­ logg and Byron Center meet up in the four-team district’s other semifinal match Tuesday. The district final is planned for Thursday, Nov. 7. The Fighting Scots won six straight points to open the match in Muskegon Wednesday and by 10-2 the Sailors were calling their first timeout. Caledonia head coach Ashley Brown said all her girls rose to the occasion. “The team has been working toward this goal all season, and to see it come to life was incredible,” Brown said. “There was such joy and celebration they really gave everything they had and earned this championship.” Every player was fired up and ready to fight,” she added. “They came into the match knowing what was at stake and played with so much heart. They were thrilled to bring this win home and share it with their school and comSee SCOTS on 11 < s _____ I I K li I ir VT iir 1 t. _ s • z I r nr MP- J J \ T s b • .A J A ' J ( I * iV. :r?» t • K • c <e iL *-<»*> A 'K . Pl“ *► '' *1 jT SX". 9 ^■5 A r J SV *, r r z Pa* •1 % The Caledonia varsity volleyball team celebrates winning its program’s first ever conference championship following a 3-0 victory over Mona Shores in the final match of the 2024 OK Green Conference season. Team members are (frontfrom left) Eliza Pehrson, Ella DeRuyter, Avery Seif. Aubrey Reynolds, Jessica Maier, (back) Josie Noble, Kyla Charles, Cambria Gaier, Quinn Ziegler and Summer Tague. Photo provided » finish the season 8-2 as the conference co-champs. Caledonia’s two losses in the league were to Jenison. Jenison J I 1 -.'fc: , It was a celebration from the very first point. Sophom ore 1 ibero Avery Sei freached back for a hand slap with senior team­ mate Josie Noble. Sophomore hitter Aubrey Reynolds fired her serve over the net at Mona Shores High School. Seif dug a Sailor attack as the ball came back over the net, and she got it up to senior setter Jessica Maier who went straight to senior middle Josie Nobel. Mona Shores couldn’t handle that first big swing from Nobel, and couldn’t handle the 2024 OK Green Conference Champions Wednesday as a whole. The Caledonia varsity volleyball team clinched its program’s first ever conference championship by outscor­ ing Mona Shores 25-13, 25-19, 25-13 in the final match of the regular season. Both Caledonia and Jenison, who defeated Byron Center Wednesday, 7 ?nr i’ 1*' 1 j *• • 4 1 •l I. ■% I, i I I L if* Ib Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! I r >/■ <1 r 1 W' •* J r 1 1'TB .M I* t M k4* - ♦ •• k<* / K*. 9 • I s S 9 1 V tf A T i . It ) .1 •< > riu »*■ b W * I I It I fe « b • X *•» • r • * * n • f » '.'r. a •< • » i, * IlF’O. J n6£ •j ’ '"«M * d A ♦ J i .J ■1 *4* I, 6 < 7 •|5.> . tf p ■ X «J Se-' - 'WBr • .k . •h •l • Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS I / '4 ' I I MT 1%. *.1?; •** v • xS / . v > > .••JC ' Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfec:tly match your style. I* *k '4 PRINTING BY •1 ■» 1 |1^ •• www.printingbypennylane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting .com * A—•»?<■»: ““p,— k .S?« Caledonia senior Cambria Gaier passes a Byron Center serve during her teams OK Green Conference win over the visiting Bulldogs on senior night at Caledonia High School Thursday, Oct. 24. Photo by Brett Bremer * \ 1 I' �www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS li p t i f I, J I Caledonia senior outside hitter Eliza Pehrson punches the ball back over the net during her team’s four-set OK Green Conference win over Byron Center Oct. 24. Photo by Brett Bremer carry with them forever.” Junior Kyla Charles served up that ^cots. Noble and Peb-son put up a block to put the ball back over to the Sailors’ side once and Gaier and Maier had big digs for the Scots before Reynolds finally put __ down a kill from the right side to clinch things. The Caledonia girls celebrated with the OK Green Conference Champion­ ship trophy as the Sailors prepped for senior night. The Fighting Scots celebrated their own seniors during their Oct. 24 victory over Byron Center at Caledonia High School 25-17, 24-26, 25-23, 25-19, 25-19, a night in which the team celebrated Noble breaking the all-time career blocks record at CHS. The Scots followed up that perfor mance with a solid night at the Harper Creek Quad Monday where they took a 25-17,25-20 win over the host Beavers, who are ranked number one in the state in Division 2, as well as a 25-12, 2521 win over Mattawan. Lowell got the best of the CHS girls Monday taking a 15-25, 25=17, 25-21 win. SCOTS Continued from Page 10 munity.” Gaier, who was honorable mention all-state last fall as a junior, had a teamhigh 14 kills while hitting .480 and added seven digs and a block. Senior Eliza Pehrson added nine kills while hitting 400 and had six digs and two aces. Noble closed the night with eight kills and six blocks while hitting 500. “Our serve receive was phenomenal; it allowed us to stay in system, control the ball, and create solid opportunities for our offense,” Brown said “Every pass brought us closer to the win, and our back row was relentless in giving us that consistency.” Reynolds had 15 receptions to go with ten digs and six kills. Seif tallied eight receptions, seven digs, four aces and four assists. Maier put up 34 assists to go with her four blocks and two kills. “Our journey to this point has been one of dedication and growth, and (Wednesday) was the ultimate reward. The excitement and pride they felt after the final point was priceless - it’s why we play, and it’s an experience they’ll lb I> nr-w. 4 b -Strife - ■ f J* Saturday, November 2, 2024 *» ♦ k OUR COMPANY IS GROWING — DON’T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY .V a Ji • bhI 4 A X 4 > 1 I 0 ■ J R r * f t - 9 k 1^* r •» * < 9 Vi « ' * • » > « « . M' w X * k B * • d ft 4 * Ik t A 4 k r:'i R IT: X \/ a V < L i •3. I . » »« r " 1 ■' h * ✓* I > I f a*. <2 . r- 4 *» K 4/ I 5,; — NOW HIRING ~ l/Zeiv Newspaper Group is seeking a I. I Group • T. I « .'..•If s I* b j’ Fighting Scot senior setter Jessica Maier is fired up after winning a big point during her team’s OK Green Conference match with Byron Center on senior night at Caledonia High School Thursday. Oct. 24. Photo by Brett Bremer email wsmith@mihomepaper.com 810-452-2622 ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer's Guide ■ Jeffersonian ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen I k I ' >■ br I • Advertising sales • Account management • Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts • Attend networking events I * Ih Responsibilities include: <.I 11 ♦ MARKETING SPECIALIST t r* ♦ ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder • •• J f �s > V » 12 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 2, 2024 Thornapple Players announce new production ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ■ New dinner-theatre style production of Sondheim Tribute Revue to be held November 22 and 23 Kicking off its 26th season with a new structure, a new board, and a new fall production, the Thomapple Play­ ers are excited to announce Sondheim Tribute Revue, a dinner theater-style production held Nov. 22 and 23, at the Dennison Performing Arts Center on Broadway Street in downtown Hastings. “We wanted to do something differ­ ent and change up some of our pro­ gramming style this year,” said Angie Seeber, president of the Thomapple Players Board of Directors. “Stephen Sondheim made many contributions to American music and theater, so we are really excited to present some of his work to the Barry County community while showcasing local talent.” Stephen Sondheim was an American composer and lyricist who wrote the music and/or lyrics for many wellknown musicals, including “Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street,” “Into the Woods, “Company,” and “West Side Story.” Terry Dennison, long-time Thomap­ ple Player and member of the Board of Directors, said he is looking forward to a great season with the Players and wants to encourage the community to get engaged with the organization. “This is the only place in the county where people past high school age can ^5 showcase their talents on stage,” he said. “We especially would love to see both genders get involved so we can diversify our show selections!” In addition to producing the Sond­ heim Tribute Revue, the Thomapple Players will also present “Ruthless as their spring musical. “Ruthless” is an all-female musical with music by Marvin Laird and book and lyrics by Joel Paley that spoofs Broadway musicals like “Gypsy” and “Mame. Seeber said she hopes the community will show its continued support by at tending the Sondheim Tribute Revue. Tickets are available for purchase at Thornappleplayers.org. Perfor­ mances will be held at the Dermison Performing Arts Center in Hastings, 231 Broadway. — Thornapple Players 5^ 5^ Barry County United Way Community Investment applications now available The Barry County United Way Community Investment applications are now available for the 2025-2026 funding year. Agencies applying for funding must be a health and human service charita­ ble organization 501 (c)3 as determined by the Internal Revenue Service or be a comerstonechurch ■F we’re casual, come as vou are. I ,7^ ■P w * f 7 f 1 i 9 V .J y.i One Church • Three Locations Caledonia | Grand Rapids | Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! □ IM B Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! ■ 4 I*** * • 1 j /cornerstonemi @cornerstonemi J* 'i t A» 4; Bremer honored as MWA Media Person of the Year 501(c) incorporated entity in the State of Michigan. Qualifying not-for-profit agencies must have a proven track record of providing services to Barry County residents in one of the four funding areas: Helping youth achieve their full potential, supporting families to achieve well-being and success, as­ sisting senior adults find support and maintain independence and addressing urgent and emerging needs in Barry C ounty. Agencies have the opportunity to apply for available funding through the Community Investment process that begins with filling out the application. Submissions are due before Thurs day, Dec. 5, 2024, at 5 p.m. and are available online at bcunitedway.org/ our-documents or at the Barry County United Way office located at 231 S. Broadway in Hastings. Each year, over 30 local volunteers on the Community Investment Com mittee meet with the applicants to evaluate the health and human service care programs. This includes how suc­ cessful they are in improving the lives of Barry County residents through measurable results. Barry County residents utilized the services of United Way and its partner agencies over 68,000 times in 2023. In 2024, the agency says it is continuing to see an increased need for the programs * 4 ViewNewspaperGroup Hastings sports editor Brett Bremer (right) is presented with the Michigan Wrestling Association Media Person of the Year award by MWA Tri-City Region Chair Justin Brandel, head coach of the Saginaw Swan Valley varsity wrestling team, during the annual MWA Hall of Fame and Awards Banquet at Cornerstone University Saturday. Bremer has been the sports editor for the Barry County area newspapers, formerly owned by J-Ad Graphics, since 2002. and services provided through donor contributions. “The goal for this year’s campaign of $800,000 is based on what agen­ cies have said they need to continue to provide programming in our com­ munity,” said Community Investment Chairperson Courtney Collison. Currently, the campaign is at $295,517, 37 percent of the goal. Those interested in participating in the Barry County United Way cam pai^ can contact the Barry County United Way office at 269-945-4010. Contributions can be accepted online at bcunitedway.org/donate. 100 per­ cent of contributions are distributed ffiroughout the community thanks to the Florence Tyden-Groos Adminis­ trative Endowment Fund held by the Barry Community Foundation which covers all administrative costs. Questions can be directed to Barry County United Way Executive Director Lani Forbes at 269-945-4010. 8 «a» » > i �V I www.sunandnews.com SEATS I Continued from Page 5 business law experience and raw ambi­ tion to get the right job done. Elected and served as Caledonia Village Trustee in the late 1990s, expe­ rienced with council procedure.’ Well-versed in municipal services and application of Electrical and Building Codes. City of Grand Rapids Wastewater Treatment Plant Instru ment Tech (for) 9 years, both water and wastewater city-wide control systems, service and maintenance of infrastructure. I am a people person and team player—and team leader when needed. Excellent skills as both a troubleshooter and repairman in a variety of situations and subjects. What do you feel are the biggest issues facing the village? I believe the biggest village “issues” are now very capably being taken care of by our new manager Brian Bennett and his staff. I wholly supported his selection, and look forward to working with him. My position as your Trustee is to keep my eyes and ears open and listen to all resident homeowners, rent­ ers and business owners’ voices, as well as those who visit and enjoy our village parks, trails, library and busi­ nesses. I do believe communication with residents continues to be the most important issue. I hope to improve that as your Trustee. Why should we vote for you? I have no agenda to change the vil­ lage. That is for the village residents, the council and our manager to decide as a community, in that order. I do intend to be an advocate to keep this village and its charm and character asis for all the amenities and reasons why we all chose to invest our lives and move here to The Village of Caledonia. Let us not lose that. I will of course work to blend with and work together with the Township as needed for a continued smooth, harmonious and mutually beneficial relationship. I believe in the application ofthe best ideas and solutions, and gathering of informed consensus to implement those ideas anti solutions —from the people who live, work and pay taxes right here. I am, and will always be vigilant for the taxpayers regarding our village infrastructure and municipal services. ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS and be involved with and support projects that maintain or improve our village’s quality of life, thank you. Name: Cheryl Miller Occupation: Quilt Shop Manager Why are you running for village trustee? As there continues to be tremendous growth around our community, we need to be able to adapt to that change appropriately while keeping our iden­ tity as a small country village. As the village continues to evolve. I hope to help create a stronger, more vibrant and inclusive community for all residents. Ifre-elected, I am committed to working collaboratively with fellow board members and residents to imple­ ment initiatives that promote growth, enhance infrastructure, and ensure that Caledonia remains a place where families aspire to raise their children What are your qualifications? Having spent the last four years as a trustee I have learned what it takes to succeed in this role. I like to think that I am approachable, intelligent, and open-minded. These qualities have and will continue to serve me well in my responsibilities as a village trustee. As a former teacher, I feel working with the school district that surrounds our village is vital. My experience as an educator shows that I have the skills to work collaboratively with a committee and problem-sol ve to address concerns and needs in the village. Saturday, November 2, 2024 ♦ ♦ Legal advice offered to Barry County seniors The Legal Services of South Central Michigan-Battle Creek office will conduct interviews for legal advice and possible representation, without charge, to interested Barry County seniors this month. Those who wish to speak with an attorney should visit the Barry County Commission on Aging, 320 W. Woodlawn in Hastings, between 10:30 a.m. and noon on Wednesday, Nov. 6. Legal Services of South Central Michigan-Battle Creek office is a nonprofit organization that pro­ vides legal assistance, representa- Why should we vote for you? My experience, my love for Caledo­ nia, and my transparency will continue to make me a good fit for the trustee role supporting all residents equally. Council incumbent Karen Hahn did not return the questionnaire that was sent to her via email by press time. GO ONLINE TO SUNANONEWS.COM tion and education to low-income people in Calhoun and Branch counties and seniors in Barry, Branch, Calhoun and St. Joseph counties. The agency seeks, through its board, staff, volunteers and pro bono attorneys, to ensure that its clients are given equal access to the justice system. The advice and counsel at the senior sites are fund­ ed primarily by Care Well Services Southwest through the Michigan Bureau of Aging, Community Living, and Supports under the Older Americans Act of 1965. Visit us online at nnihomepaper.com What do you feel are the biggest issues facing the village? I believe that some of the most pressing issues facing the Village are bringing more business to the area, making progress towards a more modem, vibrant, diverse community, and creating a more open and transparent system of communication between the Village board and residents. 13 N S T It P NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO AMEND CEMETERY ORDINANCE At a regular meeting of the Borad of Trustees of the Charter Township of Games, heW on Monday, October 14, 2024, the Townshio Board considered a resolution to amend the current Cemetery Ordinance. The Township Board of Trustees will hold I public hearing at its regularly scheduled meeting to be held November 11, 2024, to consider the adoption of the amended Cemetery Ordinance A true copy of the proposed revised Cemtery Ordinance may be obtained at: Charter Township of Gaines 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Michael A. Brew, Clerk 1... . �14 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 2. 2024 I THORNAPPLE TOWNSHIP Barry County, Michigan < J T 1 I f DUNCAN LAKE WEED CONTROL SPECIAL ASSESSMENT DISTRICT # Mar-maL^ithio tbtipcsifl! a^scssmoiLdistikt; ’< 1 J NOTK T IS HI Rf BY <ilVfl4 that the Township Hoard of Thomapplc Township. Hany ( ounty. Michigan, having revolved iia intention to proceed to make certain public improvements in the Township, has made its firm! determination of a special assessment district which coasisU of the fol­ lowing desenhod lots aruS parcels of land which arc henefitted by the improvements and against which all or a portion of the costs of the improvements shall be specially assessed. NOT Id IS ALSO HI RI BY GIVFJN that the Township Supervisor has made arxJ certified a special assessment roll that has been presented to the Township Board for Thomapplc Township, Barry (Ounty, Michigan, pursuant to Act 188 of the Public Acts of Michigan 1954 (as amended) (^Aa 188") for the purpiFsc of defraying the cost of the control and partial eradication of aquatic plants and weeds within T>uncan Lake by means of chemical treatment, biological agents, and/or mechanical har­ vesting (the “Public Improvements"), which roll vets forth the relative portion of the costs of said Public ImpnTvemcnta arxi which ts to he levied in the fmm of a special assessment against each benefined lot (X parcel of land in the special assessment district Pursuant to an earlier resolution of the Township Hoard, the costs of (he Public Improvements arc to be peruxlically redetermined on a yearly basis in accordance with the resolution and Act 188. The Duncan Lake Weed Control Special Assessment District shall consist of the following dcscrihcd lots md parcels of land (all with lake frontage on TXirx:an I^c), against which all or a por­ tion of the costs of the Public Improvements shall be specially assessed; .7^ fl « a» p rx * + f* L '^X.- J f I ’> 4 I k. 1 J f 4 lb. > « p * < MmfS b4-l ■ — f ■*»* <S' o* napip ewnstaf A ••'t'J ’r }, X * • i 1 V i « i I 6 h* k I 'AM* i Pcnuanent raa^l No. * rcnnanc(]| FarecLNc, nKd44K)7-OOI-53 OK 14-007-001-54 08-14-0074X11-55 OK-I^TixiV-OOf-lb OK 144)054101-10 OK-144X154)01 15 OK 144X154K)i.<M) ifp I WVVI4 - • • V I. « _Uj-- A *« OK-l4-fK)5-OOI-9l OK-I4-005-(N>6-00 OM. 14.006-002-00 OM.|4-006-003-<M) OR. 144)06-004-00 OK-I4-OO6-(MM-IO 0K.|4-O06-(X)5-O0 OK-14-O06-O09-O0 ORI 4-006-010-00 OK-I4-<H>6-OH-{M) OR.|4-Otk>-OI3-OO 0«-l4-fM)6-0n-10 08-14-006-014-00 OK-14-(XXfi^ 016-00 * OK-14-007-002-12 OK.|4-007-002-2f) OK-1 4-007-002-21 4. OK-14-007-002-30 08-14-0074)02-40 08444X174)02-56 I >■u "iw I • 08-144)07-002-60 OK. 14-0074)02-72 08-144X17-002-80 OK-144X174)02-90 68-114^)7^2-95 PoTnanent fxrcdJ&ifl. 08-144)50-004-00 OK-14-050-005-00 OK-14-050-006-00 OK-14-050-007-00 08-144)50-007-10 OK-14-0504X18^ 08-144)50-0094X1 08-14-050-0104X1 08-144)50-01 1-00 OK-14-050-012-00 08^4)504) 13-00 Penxwncnt RmvcLNft 08-14-050-029-00 j OK-14-050-030-00 OK-144)50-031 -00 08-14-050-0324)0 08-14-050-0334)0 OK-14-050-034-00 08-14-050-035-00 08-14-050-035-10 08-14-050-036-00 084 4-05041374X) 08-14-050-038-00 08-1441504)39-00 08-14-050-040-00 08-14-050-041-00 08-14-050-042-00 08-14-050-0434X1 08-144)50-044-00 08-14-050-045-00 08-14-050-046-00 08-144)50-047-00 08-14-050-048-00 08-14-0504)49-00 OK-14-007-001-51 OK-14 (M174H)|-52 08-144170-001-(X) 08-14-050-002-00 08-74-070.014-00 08-14-0504114-00 08-144)504)15-00 08-144)50-016-00 08-14-0504)17-00 OK-14-050-018-00 08-14-050-019-00 08-14-050-020 00 08-14-050-021-00 08-14-050-0224X) 08-144)504123-00 08-14-050-0244)0 08-14-0504)25-00 08-144)504)264X1 08-14-0504)27-00 O8-14-O.‘;O-O28-f*) 0R.144>R0-fX)1.00 O8-l4-(»7O-(XI2-(Mt 08-14-070-015-00 O8-I4-(»8O-(M>2-OO 08-14-080-015-00 08-l4-070-<Mn-(X) OK-I4-O7O-(KM-OO 08.144)704X15-00 OK-14417041064X) 01^1441704107-00 — ■■— . . . —-. .. . 0K-I4-0704X)K4M) 08-l4-0704X)94X) 08-14-070-010-00 084 4-670-01 I -00 OK-144170-016-00 08-14-080-003-00 6177441864)644)6 08-14-0804) 164X) OK-14-080-01 7-00 08-74-080-017-10 M** • OK-14-007-005-10 OK-144X17-008-96 68714-0074)10-50 -L TTL-Ll^, ^*^«^X4W« * OK-14-006-016-10 084 44XX>-0 IK-KO OK-144X16-6 IK-90 »> •«W«VWW«» w OK J 4-006-01 K.95 *** •• OK.|4-(KK>-43I-OO OK-144)07-001-10 * l| > I I •• ♦ S .>11^,.« . . ... ..^■>«^...,».I ..») . -...- — „ I (.. 08-14-007-011-00 OK-14-007-01 I-10 OK-14-007-011-30 (^.747)67-011-40 0R.744Xl74rri^^ 08-144X174)1 1-60 OK- I 47fX)7-OI2-IO .^. .. .. ^.S •*«. 1- -J- I ■■ ■ •— OK-I44)O74MH-?O . ..V . ^,<111 I I |„. . . ft.......... ««>«M.^i 68j7-67O41I7-OO .. 08-14-070-013-10 *» MW 08-74^64)1 K-66 .w 08-14-070-0124X) 08-14-070-013-00 r 1 ■ Ml III OK-14-070-019-00 08-I4-070-0204M) 08-14-070-021416 68-14-070-021-10 08-14-070-022-00 08-14-070-023-00 08-14-070-024-00 08-14-070-025-00 08-14-O8O-(X)5-OO 08-14-0804)064)6 08-14-0804)07-00 08-14-080-008-00 08-14-080-009-00 08-144)80-010-00 08-14-080-011-00 08-14-080-012-00 08-14-080-013-00 '»'">■ 68-I44)5O7o5O-OO » 08-14-050-051-00 0K-14-050-052-(K) 08-14-050-054-00 08-14-080-014-00 Ar 08-14-130-001-00 08-14-130-002-00 08-14-130-003-00 08-14-130-004-00 08-14-130-005-00 08-14-130-006-00 08-14-1304)07-00 08-14-130-008-00 77 ‘tfe*’ €F A ♦ r*' CT r ? •*> A ¥- a I .•V« • «L 1/ •’ 1, 1 » # J 4-r 1' * • w * « I -** «k t Ik. < '7 PUBLIC HEARING: TAKE NOTICE that the Township Board of Thomapplc Township will hold a public hear­ ing on November 11, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. in the Thomapplc Township Hall at 200 E. Main Street, Mid­ dleville, Michigan 49333, for the purpose of reviewing and potentially confirming the special assess­ ment roll and also hearing and considering any and all objections thereto. TAKE NOTICE that property shall not be added to the proposed special assessment district and the actual incremental costs shall not be increased by 10% or more over the original estimate for a given year without further notice and public hearing. TAKE NOTICE that appearance and protest at the public hearing is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment or other matters to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. TAKE NOTICE that an owner or party in interest, or his/her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment, or miiy file his/her appearance or protest by letter, on or before the close of the hearing. TAKE NOTICE that any person objecting to the assessment roll is requested to file written objections with the Township Clerk before the close of the hearing. J AKE NOTICE that an owner or any person having an interest in the real property subject to the special assessment may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within thirty (30) days after the date of the confirmation of the special assessment roll if the owTier or person having an interest in the real property appears and protests the special assessment at the hearing held for the purpose of confirming the roll. Michigan Tax Tribunal RO. Box 30232 Lansing, Michigan 48909 TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the special assessment roll as prepared has been reported to the Township Board and is on file with the Township Clerk for public examination or inspection. This notice was authorized by the Township Board of Thomapple Township. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Cindy Ordway Thomapple Township Clerk Thomapple Township Hall 200 E. Main Street Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-7202 f 1 '*1 I T. Dated: October 14, 2024 1:^ Cindy Ordway, Township Clerk ■a ii I �r t ' I f I www.sunandnews.com SUN AND NEWS ----- ----- —— ~ J J I ♦ ♦ ' Saturday, November 2.2024 -------- ------------- ---------- ------- TK ladies haveTfunln final regular season ,- ---- —__ _ _ _ _ _ _ Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was a sprint to get to their bags in the stands between the second and third sets. Thomapple Kellogg junior Alexa Eden and Paige Abshagen needed to switch out their jerseys with the libero Eden putting on her black #5 to match the rest of her teammates while Absha­ gen pulled on her white #7 to take over the libero role. The Trojans finished off the OK Gold Conference season with a 25-13,25-9 25-7 win over visiting Grand Rapids Union Wednesday at Thomapple Kel­ logg High School in Middleville. The Trojans were 5-7 in the conference this fall. “They had some fun,” TK head coach Tia Cross said. “We mixed up some positions. Girls that don’t normally get to play front row did a little bit. They ■ • »r I. ' V .• ‘ . • ? 4. ’-.A r • J• • *u • • i; I* k B Tv' r 4^ * 72^ ■6 t , I >. , .-f _iV. .y -4 A 1 ♦» ** f \ Bhtfv. T < A 4 > Trojan junior libero Alexa Eden takes a turn as a hitter during her team’s three-set win over visiting Grand Rapids Union to close the regular season in Middleville Wednesday. I1 t S f Y> J 1»X * « —* * *1 . i* 1 ‘*fe B. I I 'h • I of their regular rotations. Eden had aa couple nice swings at the left side of the net against the Red Hawks in set number three. She has a nice swing, but nine times out of ten she doesn’t want to take that libero shirt off, but yeah she has a nice swing in the front row,” coach Cross said. Abshagen had a strong run of attacks early on in the second set before don­ ning the libero jersey. “Paige Abshagen played a little bit in the front row as well and then went and put on the libero shirt. Reese [Ritsema] got to serve tonight. Brooklyn [Har­ mon] played her own back row. Kylee Hoebeke got to play front row tonight. They all just kind of had a little bit of fun with the game this evening. That was good, especially for our seniors on senior night to be able to go in and have a good time.” Union really had no answer when TK got the ball up to regular middles Ritsema and Harmon. Harmon and 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 .V /.... ' u* r I X .s —> i y' 4 7^ A - 1 f?- ✓ 4 i 5i d. • >* *■ •• •'3 Thornapple Kellogg junior setter Veronica Webster puts a pass up during her team’s win over Grand Rapids Union in Middleville Wednesday. Photo by Brett Bremer had some fun. I like seeing them play and have some fun, and that was nice and loose and kind of a good way to end the conference and the regular season.” The Trojans open the state postsea­ son Tuesday, Nov. 5, taking on Byron Center in the MHSAA Division 1 Dis­ trict Semifinals at East Kentwood High School. Caledonia and the host Falcons meet in the second district semifinal of the night Tuesday. Byron Center and Caledonia are both among the teams in the honorable mention list in the state’s Division 1 rankings. “It’s a tough district, for any vol­ leyball program I believe,” Cross said. “We’re going to go in, and we’re going to prepare for the next couple of days. We’re going to look to compete and just play our best volleyball.” It might not quite have been their best volleyball Tuesday, but the Tro­ jans played pretty well even outside win Hoebeke were the only two seniors on the roster this fall for the Trojans. The Trojans were 1-1 in the confer­ ence this week. They fell 25-13,25-16, 25-11 against South Christian, a team ranked sixth in the state in Division 2, Monday in Middleville ''We competed. We didn’t have an answer for their tall outside. We just didn t have an answer for her. We were trying to get our blocks up on her. She’s 6-foot-2 and went right over our blocks. We tried, and they took it to us pretty handily,” coach Cross said. Junior outside hitter Finley Arp led the Sailors with 15 kills and junior middle Colette Plattner addd 13 kills. The OK Gold Conference Champi­ onship was clinched Monday too, by the Northview girls who were unde­ feated through their first 11 conference matches before falling Wednesday to West Catholic, The Falcons were 9-2 in conference duals this season and South Christian finished third at 8-3. CTOWNSHIP aledonia Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 r Photo by Brett Bremer nr TDT 15 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF Rent, MICHIGAN PUBUC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Township Board of the Charter Towns ip of Caledonia will hold a public hearing on November 20, 2024 at 7:00 p m at the r Avnue. within the Township, on the appteion of T4950 7«h7r,7f commonly known as 4950 76th Street from the A Agricultural District to the R-2 Medium npndL to the R-2 Medium Density Single Family District and the PUD Planned Unit Development District, h. in accordance with the proposed final development plan (“Plan”) of the proposed Dutton Preserve Site Condominium Planned Unit Development. The lands which are the subject of the rezoning requests are legally described as follows: That part of the Northwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 5 North, Range ?!Townjhip, Kent County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the West 1/4 Corner; thence S89°01’54”E 1058.98 feet along the East-West 1/4 line of said Section to the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northwest fractional 1/4; thence N00“34’48”W 1340.47 feet along said East line; thence N89<^01’54”W 1028.98 feet to the West Section line; thence S00°42’09”W 1312.18 feet along Said West line to the East 1/4 Corner Section 13, T5N, RllW; th~ence oToo A 7 . oecuon ij, x:5JN, RiiW; thence S00‘>41’43”W 27.82 feet along said west line to the Point of Beginning. Subject to Right-of-Wav nvAr fh^ xATor'f 2 2 ______ i v/ / j over the West 33 feet for Patterson Road. The proposed PUD rezoning ordinance, the R-2 rezoning ordinance, and Plan are on hie and rnay be examined at the offices of the Caledonia Township Clerk, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, during Township office hours. All interested persons may attend the public hear­ ing and comment on the proposed rezoning and Plan. Written comments concerning the proposed rezonmg and Plan may be submitted to the Township office, at the above-stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Dated: October 29, 2024 TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA ♦ ♦ �• • 16 I r THE SUN AND NEWS * 4 . b unand uews. com I Barry County championships go to TKHS teams Brett Bremer Sports Editor I ive individual state qualifiers ran their last race before heading to Michigan International Speedway for the MUS A A Lower Peninsula Cross Country f inals on Monday afternoon at the Barry County Meet hosted by Hastings at Charlton Park. I hat group included three seniors: Jacob Draaisma and Ava Crews from I hornapple Kellogg who won indi vidual county championships and helped iheir I rojan teams to titles too, and 1 fastings’ Brandon Simmons who was the runner-up to Draaisma on the day. I or 17 other seniors, it was their final varsity cross country race and Hastings athletic director Mike Mohn and the local varsity coaches took time to honor those seniors a,s the sun began setting behind the historic Charlton Park village. Crews is now a three-time Barry County individual champion, and a four-time state qualifier. She won r •; V ■f 1 % A ar .’^4 13' < 5»- I•il f e 'f V/ * 1 ‘a f.’,- I » I A A , a I r] L'*4 1 P* w KI96 Broadmoor Avc. SI: Caledonia. Ml 49316 W: 4 % X I w > i ■ iU * I '• / 4- . The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys' cross country team gathers with its trophy after winning the Barry County Championship for the first time since 2020 Monday at Charlton Park. Photo by Brett Bremer Monday’s race in 19 minutes 15.0 seconds. The only girl to ever beat her in a Barry County race, Hastings sophomore Caroline Randall who is a two-time state qualifier herself, was the CaleixmA lOVNSHIP Phone: 6)6.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Thursday, November 21. 2024 at 7:00 p.m., the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Charter Township of Caledonia will hold a Public Hearing at the Caledonia Township Building, 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, Michigan, concerning the application of Philip Vergunst. Ihe applicant is seeking a var­ iance to the watercourse setback, front setback, and lot area minimum requirement for a house to be built on this parcel. Dimensional variances are needed due to the watercourse setback requirement stated in ZO Section 3.45 and the front setback requirement stated in Section 7.5(b)(1). A variance is needed from the lot area requirement stated in Section 7.5(a). Such land is located at 8120 Thornapple River Dr. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 and iIS legally described as follows: PART OF SW 1/4 COM ON W SEC LINE 1728 FT N FROM SW COR OF SEC TH N ALONG W SEC LINE 100 FT TH ELY PERP TO W SEC LINE 140 FT M/L TO LT BANK OF THORNAPPLE RIVER TH SLY ALONG SD RIVER BANK TO A LINE EXT ELY PERP TO W SEC LINE FROM BEG TH WLY 160 FT M/L TO BEG * SEC 15 T5N RIOW 0.34 A. All interested persons may attend the public hearing and be heard with regard to the requested variance. Written comments concerning the proposed variance may be sub­ mitted to the Township Office, at the above-stated address, up to the time of the public hearing. Dated: November 21, 2024 ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA day’s runner-up with a time of 19:44.1 The Thornapple Kellogg girls’ team put nine girls among the 14 All-Barry County honorees including first-teamers Crews, Peyton Hardy (third, 21:42.8), Madison Kietzman (fourth, 21:58.5), Meghan-Jane Skid­ more (sixth, 22:35.5) and Alaina McCrumb (seventh, 22:37.4), and second-teamers Carmen Reynolds (eighth, 23:02.4), Amya Gater (ninth, 23:31.5), Hailey Lee (tenth, 23:28.0) and Avery Hagemann (13th, 23:51.2). The TK team finished the day with 21 points followed by Hastings 59, Delton Kellogg 63, Lakewood 99 and Maple Valley NTS. Randall and the top five Trojans were joined in earning all-county first team honors by Delton Kellogg senior Kylie Main who was fifth overall with a time of 22:09.9. The rest of the top 14 also included Delton Kellogg se nior Jillian Leclercq (11th, 23:29.8), Lakewood freshman Raelin Schrock (12th, 23:39.5) and Hastings junior Berta Fabrega Vivas (14th, 24:09.6). The Maple Valley team was led by senior Isabel Emerick who was 19th overall with a time of 25:34.6. The Thomapple Kellogg girls have won the Barry County Championship for as long as anyone can remember. The TK boys’ victory Monday snapped a three-year winning streak by the Hastings boys. TK last won the county * meet in 2020. The TK team had six of the top 14 finishers in the boys’ race. Draaisma had a winning time of 17:06.2. Senior Hunter Tietz was TK’s number two with a sixth-place time of 18:39.1. The Trojan team had sophomores Grady Galaviz eighth in 19:14.8 and Elijah Frazer ninth in 19:20.4 and senior Case Dykhouse 13th in 20:03.0 and junior Noah Donker 14th in 20:05.7. The Trojans won with 37 points ahead of Hastings 58, Lakewood 67, Delton Kellogg 77 and Maple Valley 110. Saxon senior Micah Johnson was third in his final race. He hit the finish line in 17:54.4. Lakewood and Delton Kellogg both had three guys among the top 14 including DK sophomore Landon Madden who threw out an impressive See BARRY on 17 5< r h 1 I♦ * i : 4 z * 1 J , * W*l 4^4 * * l|Y>' 4 9 * if’* A y A 's 5 to 1 I • 4^ •l I kh — I, • A •l ♦ i r - !> I 1 I* • "4. ?• 1 ik ,r » 4 p 1 if 4. I t V Jr > A .1 J 1^9 oa ' k-' * r fJ ■ r ■■ 1 I I r y — "n * / t: X £i fc?l • s I 4 ri • •-4 . I 4 .4 V • '•’S * • —• 4 I ■ ll Jk.. t ' H w .--M- % If ) * 'I I ‘ .d A .1 ^-4BB •F > « * 5 F.^«= r * Thornapple Kellogg junior Avery Hagemann works her way along the course at Charlton Park during the 2024 Barry County Championships hosted by Hastings Monday. Photo by Brett Bremer �I ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS 17 Saturday, November 2, 2024 ♦ ♦ Continued from Page 16 yv PR at his team’s MHS AA L.P. Division 3 Regional in Allendale to qualify for the state finals in his first varsity cross country season. Madden led the DK team Monday with a fifth-place time of 18:31.3 and the Panthers had junior Nick Muday 11th in 19:35.7 and fresh­ man Jace Hilton 12th in 19:57.9. Lakewood was paced by senior Riley Johnson who was fourth over all in 18:10.2. The Viking team had sophomore Bryce Goodemoot seventh (18:59.7) and sophomore Kaden Rohrbacher tenth (19:25.2). Maple Valley sophomore Tyler Curtis led his Lion team and was just 3.5 seconds behind the last of the all county honorees in 1 Sth place. He hit the finish line in 20:09.2. * z i i tf* V K Caledonia is not in the MHSAA postseason for the first time since 2019 after wrapping a 4-5 2024 campaign with a 49-20 loss at Grandville in the OK Red Conference finale Friday, Oct. 25. The Bulldogs scored a pair of 60yard touchdowns in the first half of the first quarter and led throughout their senior night bailgame. Star running back Jayden Terry went 71 yards for the Bulldogs’ opening score, and then after a three-and-out, the Bulldogs got a 70-yard touchdown pass from Ethan Newville to Easton Suidinski. Aaron Collins caught the first of his two touchdown passes for Caledonia late in the second quarter, a 13-yard re­ ception from senior quarterback Brody Betser, but the Grandville defense was able to get the Fighting Scots off the field for the rest of the first half. The Bulldogs picked off Betser twice in the bailgame. Betser was Caledonia’s leading rusher with nine runs for 32 yards. The Bulldogs led 28-7 at the half. Terry scored on a five-yard run and Brayden Haney tacked on a two-yard TD run before the second quarter was up. I A I* Tfii' r 'B r> Up z rV T rA n t % •X ? I 4 p'* 4 V*. 1 4 rj 1 4 V / S82 * '•V k— » « I* U' < ’1 £J 4 iV ■l % * f < \ I < s.' 9 . r '•.* ■J A . X t A pair of field goals by Grandville’s Jake Keranen and a 32-yard TD run from Suidinski had the Bulldogs in front 42-7 in the fourth quarter. Collins took a pass from Bryce Backus 45 yards for a score for the Scots in the fourth quarter and Backus connected with Ryan Vogeler for a 70-yard score before the game was up. Backus, a sophomore, finished the night 6-of-11 passing for 144 yards and two touchdowns. In between those two fourth quar­ ter scores for the Scots, Grandville’s Miguel Rojas returned the kick-off for a Grandville touchdown. Vogler and Colin Kowatch had six tackles apiece to lead the Caledonia defense. Zachary Mulder intercepted one Bulldog pass Grandville moves to 5-4 with the victory. Hudsonville finished off an undefeated OK Red Conference sea­ son with a 46-8 win over West Ottawa last week. All four OK Red Conference foot­ ball teams that made the state postsea­ son, competing in Division 1, were set to square off this weekend with East Kentwood visiting Hudsonville and Grandville traveling to Rockford for Pre-District match-ups. *4 > fv. 1 * \ ** <• 4 \ J 1‘ * < *% s it •> Thornapple Kellogg sophomore Grady Galaviz closes in on the finish line at the end of the Barry County Championships at Charlton Park Monday Photo by Brett Bremer 1 •3 The Tl^rnapple Kellogg varsity girls’ cross country team celebrates its 2024 Championship after winning the county meet at Charlton Park Monday. Photo by Brett Bremer Bulldogs hit big plays early against Fighting Scots Brett Bremer Sports Editor It TK football team 33rd in final D3 playoff point ranks Brett Bremer Sports Editor Thomapple Kellogg was the last team out in the MHSAA Division 3 Playoff field this season, finishing a little over half a point behind team number 32 in the field, Jackson. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity football team closed out a 3-6 sea­ son with a 49-12 win at Wyoming High School last Friday, Oct. 25. A 3-6 Stevensville Lakeshore team did manage to make its way into the D3 playoff field as the 31 st seed. All six Trojan losses this fall were to state playoff teams including to Hastings, Northview and Grand Rapids Catholic Central teams ranked in the top ten in the state in their respective divisions. Thomapple Kellogg closed the 2024 season against its only two opponents that won’t be playing the state postseason and beat them both convincingly. Up 14-6 late in the first half, the Trojans started to pull away thanks to a couple big plays. TK got a 95yard touchdown run by Malachi VanEngen to go into the halfup 20-6. Three minutes into the third quarter, quarterback Micah Dock connected with Zach Eldridge on a 42-yard TD pass. Dock had a 37-yard TD run himself later in the third quarter. Wyoming ends the season with a 1-8 overall record. I. SHOP LOCAL INVEST IN YOUR COMMUNITY A « D Aatennc Men • ■« 1 Antenna Meri Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! 1 CEudW) K G- j Group 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignatpros.com �18 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 2, 2024 CHS trio headed to race at MIS for the first time ♦ ♦ Brett Bremer Sports Editor ♦ ♦ ♦i It’d be hard to believe if you hadn’t seen the way they worked at it for four varsity seasons. Caledonia seniors Kort Thompson and Hannah Dupuis both qualified for the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Divi­ sion 2 Cross Country Finals for the first time with their performance at the DI Regional at Portage West Middle School Friday, Oct. 25, as did junior Eli Vetting. Thompson and Dupuis were both JV runners for the Scots as freshmen. ITiompson ran a time of 18:14.5 in his first varsity run on the course at Por­ tage West Middle School, placing 43rd overall in the reserve race for DI boys. Dupuis was 13th in that D1 reserve girls’ race in Portage during the 2021 season - 13th on the Caledonia girls’ squad and 186th overall. Shehadatimeof24:58.7. Thompson was two and a hal fm inutes faster at the regional last Friday. Dupuis cut more than five and a half minutes from that first high school Portage race. Thompson placed third Friday with a » . •• '4 •• ‘J -I *•» . I — • * i I ,» ngf*n > ■ *?r '-T~r PVV'**^ ' • - «*- m • st r % K* i I *Tr' ■..A'nV J .f ? I * i X « 1 I 1- r . 4, '■at S’ ■ ► I t’ •I / > . * 4 K F, ► r. A X I “S* *• i. -J h Caledonia senior Hannah Dupuis, junior Eli Veiling and senior Kort Thompson celebrate qualifying for the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Cross Country Finals for the first time after their medal-winning runs at the regional at Portage West Middle School Oct. 25. Photo provided 1? » & •• < a» X b' time of 15:49.45, earning a spot in the Nov. 2 state finals at Michigan Interna tional Speedway for the first time - a fact unbelievable in its own right considering he took over the number two position in the all-time list of the fastest Caledonia cross country student-athletes ever this fall. It is his second-best time yet. Dupuis was ninth at the regional with a time of 19 minutes 24.64 seconds. Veiling is getting to MIS a little sooner in his high school career. He placed 15th in the boys’ race at the regional with a time of 16:21.66 - snagging the last individual state qualifying spot from the regional. The top three teams and top 15 run ners at regionals across the state last weekend earned spots in the state finals. The top seven runners not on the three state qualifying teams were also guar­ anteed spots in the state finals whether they were in the top 15 or not, but there weren’t any additional qualifiers from the DI races in Portage. The Caledonia teams both finished See TRIO on 19 WE ’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS I I > I . -i. £4 KV JI .4 K W * A I K* F Fiqntir T. 1 <lb • * i -Haft.-— Residential & Commercial 11^ «« - J • > . I. J I * * 4b. I / I Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers R... t b- ' W ' ’4 J .f i' I I s. & t k (St j I i - V * > % *■ a 11'-'. - iir J »*? s s S 'Til'' 41 : . ¥e .r*: I »’ • I * Ai-. h 3J ‘i I* > J it:. k ■A. & Bate 'I t * ’f r«- r^5 r« «• ' -J •• ’• 1 t?*. f f ftI *V V I > • Ju. t- «1 J'X' *" i I'l f ■r .“w' I.ST 4 ■ I 4 I *">. 1.1 r < * i >.1 f r. V? * I & . * *1 4 A .v>*A > » A . *<• * J * I ------------- ' ( HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. , DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 <«•*. Va 68^a LCNNDty e AV Since '•^ A+ BBB. ACCREDITED BUSINESS > Caledonia senior Mason Morrell makes his way along with the crowd up hill at the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Regional at Portage West Middle School Friday, Oct. 25. Photo by Brett Bremer Caledonia senior Kiley Bommarito and junior Hannah Bennett race a few steps apart during the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Regional at Portage West Middle School Friday, Oct. 25. Photo by Brett Bremer I I �I i / t f www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS ♦ ♦ Saturday, November 2, 2024 19 ♦ TK senior speedsters are Brooklyn bound Brett Bremer Sports Editor I Ava Crews has never missed qualifying for the cross country state finals. Jacob Draaisma had never run varsity cross country before. They’ll both close their senior season at Michigan International Speedway in the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Cross Country Finals after turning in state qualify­ ing performances at the MHSAA L.P. D2 Regional hosted by South Christian High School Saturday morning, Oct. 26. Crews, East Grand Rapids sophomore Adeline Armstrong and Gull Lake sopho­ more Lane Isom were a trio winding around the grounds of the South Christian Sports Park at the front of the girls’ pack. Crews said she planned to try and put on a good kick at the end, but when Armstrong and Isom started kicking with about 1,000 meters to go she realized that her legs and lungs were thinking “it’s a little too soon for that.” The now four-time state qualifier for TK placed See SPEEDSTERS on 20 TRIO Continued from Page 18 the day fourth, one spot behind the three state qualifying teams. Kalamazoo Central won the boys’ race with 55 points fol­ lowed by East Kentwood 73, Forest Hills Central 96, Cale­ donia 126, Portage Central 140, Battle Creek Lakeview 157, Loy Norrix 171, Forest Hills Northern 194, Lowell 205, By­ ron Center 270, Mattawan 283, Ottawa Hills 304 and Portage Northern 347. Caledonia boys’ coach Ben Thompson said his boys com­ peted well and moved up a spot after going into the race seeded fifth as a team. Portage isn’t always a place for PR’s with its challenging elevation changes. Freshman Sean Thompson was the lone Caledonia runner to set a per­ sonal record on the day. He hit the finish line 48th with a time of 17:15.62. Caledonia junior Noah John- *. I rk *3 t rz 'X ni J -- • • SU .f >1 ' I V u. * p I i- ■ t 5 3 1 * rI r 5* * be 4 ■9 J -""■FT ♦«* I » GIVE US YOUR SCOOP! If you see news happening, or if you just want us to know about something going on... Email fnmacleod@mihomepaper.com 3 >• * THE SUN AND NEWS VIEW.„. Group V s f -A 1 t I < I East Grand Rapids sophomore Adeline Armstrong, Gull Lake sophomore Lane Isom and Thornapple Kellogg senior Ava Crews (from left) race as a trio at the front of the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Regional pack Saturday at South Christian High School. Crews placed third to qualify for the cross country state finals for a fourth time. Photo by Brett Bremer ston was as little over 20 seconds behind Velting placing 27th in 16:43.66. CHS senior Ethan Buer was 40th in in 17:09.17 and senior Aidan Edgar 41st in 17:09.64. The Caledonia boys’ team also had senior Mason Morrell 53rd in 17:22.42. Loy Norrix junior Jackson Lam did run a PR of 15:27.43 to win the boys’ race. Kalamazoo Central sophomore Samuel Baker was second in 15:48.74. Kalamazoo Central and East Kentwood both put three guys in the top ten. The Falcons were led by senior Isaac Tanis’ time of 16:05.72 that had him in sixth overall. Kalamazoo Central’s Andrew Wright, a junior, was right behind Kort Thompson in fourth with a time of 15:55.75. By­ ron Center senior Mitchell Jeruzal placed fifth in 16:04.21. The CHS girls’ team put senior Keira Bommarito 21 st with a time of 20:10.84, senior Adysen Daman 22nd in 20:16.62, junior Hannah Bennett 35th in 20:52.43 and senior Kiley Bommarito 38th in 20:54.13. Rounding out the seven for the Scots, sophomore Akaela Daman was 44th in 21:11.12 and sophomore Olivia Hawkins 48th in 21:27.93. Nearly all of them had solid im­ provements from this fall’s Portage Invitational, andAdysen led the way cutting more than 50 seconds off her time from that Oct. 5 race. Portage Central won the girls’ team title with 60 points ahead ofOt­ tawa Hills 80, Forest Hills Northern 100, Caledonia 125, Byron Center 135, Portage Northern 195, Forest Hills Central 217, East Kentwood 218, Battle Creek Lakeview 219, Loy Norrix 224, Kalamazoo Central 256, Lowell 303 and Mattawan 359. Caledonia girls’ coach Ben How *« ell said there was no reasons for his girls to hang their heads after finish­ ing in that dreaded fourth-place spot. “This group of ladies exceeded expectations throughout the year, moving up and progressing as a re­ sult oftheir hard work,”Howell said. Kalamazoo Central senior An­ nie Alkema was the individual champion with a time of 18:12.06. Potage Central freshman Avery Scott was second in 18:27.34 and Portage Northern fresh­ man Ainsley Keim set her PR at 18:42.29 to place third. Another Portage Central freshman, Gracie Carlisle, was the fourth and final girl to finish in less than 19 minutes. She turned in a time of 18:55.56. 60 COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the October 2024 8, Regular Council Meeting, that were approved on October 22, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villa qeofmiddleville.org. IRVING TOWNSHIP OARD MEETING SYNOPSIS October 15, 2024 Meeting called to order at 6:30pm at 3425 Wing Rd. Hastings, Michigan 49058 Present: Knight, Buehler, and Bass. Absent: Sokolowski and Olson Agenda approved with amendments September 18, 2024 Min­ utes approved as amended September 24, 2024 Special Meeting Minutes approved as presented Approved to pay KCI $1,75135 to prepare and mail Winter tax bills Approved Resolution 2024-10 to adjust newly elected Clerk’s Salary to $23,333.00 Approved to award Snow­ plow Services for Winter Season 2024-2025 to Gog­ gins Construction Approved to pay bills $13,089.25 Fire reports given and on file in their respective de­ partments Treasurer’s report pre­ sented - available online or in Township Hall Gas meter. Generator, and IT Updates provided Upcoming Dates - EarVoting 10/26/2024ly 11/3/2024 8:30am-4:30pm at the Township Hall. Elec­ tion Day is 11/5/2024 (Polls open 7:00am-8:00pm) Upcoming Meeting date November 19, 2024 (Board Meeting) Adjourn 6:51pm Full minutes are available at lrvingtownship.org or at 3425 Wing Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058. Prepared by Deputy Clerk, Shelly Lake. Attested to by Supervisor, Jamie Knight. �•» 20 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 2, 2024 V SPEEDSTERS ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com r r J 4 I / Continued from Page 19 J * 9 « P T 1 A * :-:s^ > IV A * .A * A 1 9 •' ■ MU T r ♦ ♦ ♦ third in a season-best time of 18 min­ utes 50.26 seconds. Draaisma kind of had his sights set on a school-record run, but was really mostly focused on a state qualifying finish. He’s got the 2024 state finals yet to chase Ryan Hesselink’s school­ recordtime 15:39.0 from the 1998 state finals. Draaisma placed fifth overall Saturday in 15:56.53. The top three teams and top 15 in­ dividual finishers all qualified for the state finals at regionals across the state last weekend, and a minimum of the seven fastest runners not on the three state qualifying teams were assured of spots in the Nov. 2 state finals too. “I was kind of hoping for a PR today, and to probably get in the top five which I was happy that I did,” Crews said before the regional medal ceremony on the soccer field at South Christian High School. “I don’t think it was like the best day to race with the cold. I don’t think a lot of people PR’d today. I was kind of close to my PR, but it just didn’t really happen.” Yankee Springs Veterans SATURDAY, NOV. 9 at 11:00 AM at the Yankee Springs Memorial 1425 S. Payne Lake Road Comer ofMrt79 and 5. Paynt Lake Rd. Please join us for Veterans Day Ceremony Lets thank all those who served. Hope to see you there! Free Hot Dogs and Fries Donated by Curley Cone I Music by Mick Lane Annie Van Houten ♦ f • Dress Warm Rain or Shine » . < < ■ O' 9 < »> « < ’W A 1 1 I * > lb Jk •«* Sb 5’z:. -t T 161 .4 < Ik * *■ rg 1^ w A t !4r-' > 4 V. ;::;7 -5 r ••l •r * Ib^ t2 K K L '••.. * X ■r If & T-* wi F ♦ ** w** *x %. Ji-*- k • .9 I •5 4- w 4 ’j! 9 k r. 1 j. ki K 4 •i b _±, ...3 Jt 1 - <. 4. . Ml 7Ji i u 'A9 ^4 t \ ’ 4 9 L ‘c J i 7 9 lu =k, T f /■ ? A ,> >1 t X •S’*? < ;> R W*" ■ ■'i( « * > 1 < b <■ «9 < a*.. i r. • * L. : Thornapple Kellogg senior Jacob Draaisma is cheered on by his teammates as he steps forward to accept his medal following a fifth-place finish in the MHAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Cross Country Regional at South Christian High School The performance earned him a trip to the state finals at Michigan International Speedway this Saturday, Nov. 2. Photo by Brett Bremer b y SfeE It was her fastest race of the season and just two seconds off the PR she set her junior year. In her three varsity season she has placed 34th, 59th and 58th at the D2 Finals. She’d love to really push things at MIS and maybe cut as much as 20 seconds off her PR while shooting for the all-state medal she has been chasing since she was a freshman. “I really tried to up my training this year. I joined a running club, the West Michigan Harriers, and I ran 400 miles over the summer versus 300 to 350 normally. I’ve really upped my mile­ age too and I’ve been working harder throughout the season too. I was injured for about three weeks throughout the season, but I have started to gain my fitness back up again.” Draaisma said he took a bit of a different tact Saturday. He said coach Josh Reynolds convinced him to not look at his watch throughout the run, that it didn ’t matter. What mattered was getting state finals. “cibally I have it on the whole time. and I’m kind of seeing what I am at. . W6b ; I F if I’m on pace or not, and just how far I’ve got left. Today, I just looked at those signs for how far I’ve got left and listened to the other coaches, but mostly I was just knowing I’m in the top 15. I didn’t want to push too hard at the beginning trying to get the re­ cord and then die out in the middle,” Draaisma said. He did end up going out hard, but it was just about going with the flow rather than chasing a number on the clock. “I felt really good. I was like wow, we’re going pretty fast right now and I’m feeling good,” Draaisma said. “And then, there is this guy from Forest Hills Eastern every time we race we’re just so close. We were just always going back and forth the whole time. I was always with someone the whole time, which was nice. I just knew I was going to be able to push more.” As a team, the TK girls were seventh and the boys ninth at the regional. Grand Rapids Christian took the boys’ title in a talented trio of teams at the top. The Eagles finished with 62 points ahead of East Grand Rapids 65 and Forest Hills Eastern 68. Plainwell was a distant fourth with 130 points. There were personal records all around for the TK boys’ team. The TK team had senior Himter Tietz 51 st overall in a personal record time of 18:12.52. The sophomore duo of Elijah Frazer and Grady Galaviz set PR’s too. Frazer placed 54th in 18:17.92 and Ga­ laviz 61st in 18:39.94. The TK team’s number five was freshman Garrett Holzhausen who was 66th in 18:59.80. Forest Hills Eastern senior Henry Dixon set a new course record at South Christian while winning the boys’ re­ gional in 15:16.68. Grand Rapids Christian had a little more of a cushion at the top of the girls’ standings. The Eagles won with 51 points ahead of East Grand Rapids 77 and South Christian 93. Forest Hills Eastern was the last team out of the top three with a total score of 102 points. EGR’s Armstong narrowly won the sprint to the finish with Isom int he girls’ race, taking the individual title in 18:29.9 to Isom’s time of 18:29.35. The TK ladies’ top three all ran their fastest race ofthe season, Crews, soph omore Peyton Hardy who was 35th in 20:56.30 and sophomore Meghan-Jane Skidmore who was 42nd in 21:13.78. TK sophomore Alaina McCrumb ran a personal record time of 21:23.48 to place 43rd. The TK girl’s number five was sophomore Carmen Reynolds who was 48th in 21:38.97. •l T •J 4i I * u k> J .4' r ■•-I • a ri .1 4* : W ‘4 . 1 ' «* '"j* ■'■’L R 1 ?. T A. ■ k •> .. d .1 •jj 3 % j ■« 4 V ri b 4 9 Thornapple Kellogg freshman Garrett Holzhausen nears the finish line at the end of the MHSAA L.P Division 2 Regional at South Christian High School Saturday, Oct. 26, Photo by Brett Bremer ri I I I I I g I ( I � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-11-09.pdf 1f29435be0698db466fe34f4f5ad92a5 PDF Text Text > •l SF 227 ESI I I, >1« r A. % J r“ r !■ w •- .'Z? /our Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Games Township Areas b I 4 •M » ■‘^- a ■/j -it’ *!•" , NO. 30 k*MT* K / < —’ Greg Chandler Staff Writer Voters in the Thomapple Kellogg school district elected three new members to the district’s Board of Education, ousting the board’s sit­ ting vice president in the process. Katie Stanton and Keara Hilton were elected Tuesday to six-year terms on the TK school board, while Mark Price ran unopposed for a twoyear seat. Incumbent Krissy Hooson, who has served on the board since her appointment to fill a vacancy in July 2021, was defeated in her campaign to be re-elected as she placed third among the three candidates running for two available six-year seats. Stanton, a substitute teacher and Thomapple Township Board of Review member who missed being elected to the school board by just 47 votes in 2022, gained the most votes among the candidates for the six-year terms, capturing 5,966 votes. Hilton, a franchise deal coor­ dinator for a Fortune 500 company who was running for the board for the first time, received 4,512 votes, while Hooson, director of operations at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, received 3,792 votes. The final vote tallies reflect fig­ ures from Barry County as well as portions of the district that are in Allegan and Kent counties. Voter turnout in the Barry County por­ tion of the district was 80.7 percent. according to the county wool uawoisna clerk ’ s office. 1VIXN3aiS3U Incumbent board President Matt Powers see# ijiujsd 0C88^ did not seek re-election. IW 'd||iAUdajQ SSMU03 5C9e» in wuwjs OW xog Od aivd aovisod s n QIS ISHd • 'M V SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2024 -t “J- Three new members elected to TK BOE « *-'* S' ^k; V 4 I .\.W SCOTS QUICKLY GET OUT OF FUHK TO WIN BLSTRICTSEMI 33 PAGE 14 the sun and news • <Hp < IB I < f 5 una r dr <c! wsk.com planning commission approves site plan for Switch substation expansion James Gemmell Contributing Writer * F a * PW J. c ■ Las Vegas-based Switch Ltd. has received approval from the Gaines Township Planning Commission to expand the electrical substation on its Pyramid Building campus north of M-6 and just east of East Paris Avenue. The second phase of the utility substation will be built on part of an 89.5-acre section of land at 4200 60th St. SE, south of the iconic Pyramid. The planning commission approved the site-plan review on a 6-0 vote at its Oct. 24 meeting at the township hall. One commissioner was absent. Also formally approved was a new server building that is already under construction. The electrical substation will provide the trans­ formation of the utility’s overhead transmission lines to distribution circuits. See GAINES on 3 • L ff > •*. •<. ><>>B •u I. . s » I g "J 4i r I. ' t « A • \ * <X • < ■ “W^ 4. I o 4 s '•F • * L f J < - ? I TV p 43* I » I »♦ % J .^v* * •h ■a * ■■ w C >• i 1 -* .4 - -** > K T E ’k -i. « I b ' f I ' :s^‘ • ’l J 11 J I W. V 1 tjfet * V s .1 V - IJT’ tr.i ■ Ji d •W 1 S' 9 •V" I . I 4 I A •• I t * *1 i f ir^ ^bI5tiI 1 * k n • I >* >1^ J A ► *i» J L' I!-.! > * R Zt *2 If h X* * :*fc- 1 ** ' 4 •■ « I > ♦ r ■ CL ”5 • ■ 4 . 1^ ri s •^l’’ ■ 2V . »* c V r r »I - /r*’ An aerial view of the Switch Pyramid with the boundary for its electrical substation outlined in red along 60th Street, just north of M-6 in Gaines Township, image courtesy of Gaines Township Smith defeats Cramer for Middleville village president Greg Chandler Staff Writer Middleville voters have selected a new village president and a new trustee to the Village Council. Voters on Tuesday elected Kevin Smith to a two-year term as vil­ lage president, as Smith defeated incumbent President Mike Cramer 943-768. Smith, a technology exec utive who was first elected to the council in 2020, has been president pro tempore of the Village Council for the past year. He becomes the fourth different person to hold the position of Middleville vil- ' '>-^W t lage president since the death of longtime Village President Charlie Pullen in November 2020. Cramer was the longest-serving current member of the Village Council. He served eight years as a trustee before being elected presi­ dent in 2022, defeating Fran French 798-597. Voters also elected Tracy Gillhespy to a four-year term on the Village Council. Gillhespy, who finished fifth among five candidates in the 2022 council election, was the top vote-getter on Tuesday, capturing 904 votes. Also elected to a four-year seat on the council was incumbent Trustee Robert Bishop, who received 859 votes. Bishop had been appointed to the council in April 2023. Incumbent Trustee Steve Baldry, who was appointed to fill a coun­ cil vacancy in November 2023, finished fourth among the four candidates running for trustee with 780 votes, while John Osterbaan finished third with 797 votes. About 69 percent of the village’s registered voters turned out for the election, according to the Barry County clerk’s office. «■<■ I .— �2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 9, 2024 CHS to dedicate veterans memorial Sunday 10 sophomores to represent CHS at MyLead this spring The Caledonia Women’s Club joined together with Caledonia Farmers Eleva­ tor, Caledonia Kiwanis Club, Glen Valley Dentistry, Highpoint Community Banl^ Hulst Jepsen Physical Therapy, Kelly Lloyd Homes, Steenwyk Excavating and United Bank to provide 10 sophomores the opportunity to represent Caledonia High School at Michigan’s Youth Leader­ ship Conference (MYLead) next spring. This year’s Caledonia MyLead repre­ sentatives are Alister Brew, Allison Dry­ burgh, Vivian Fink, Gabriella Henney, Braden Hofstee, Ty Kimbrell, Mackenzie Krentz, Madison Lockwood, Gretchen VanderEide and Meghan Venhuizen. They will join students from across the state for three days next spring, learning tools and building confidence that will help them return as stronger leaders in our community. Following a brunch with their families, the nominees had the opportunity to hear a presentation from last year’s recipients, Al i via Baareman, Peter Calhoun, Peyton DeHom, Gillian Guzman, Landry Hammond, Ian Kimbrell, Derick Prichard, Ethan Snapper and Maya White on ±eir experience at last year’s conference. — ' Caledonia Community Schools * S .: ■TV ** ♦T • «• s > V 6^ ' 'J ■HA, A# * .1 • « * J •X J Tt. 1 4 »5 J .• « *4i«L' > .5 iM p «« J 1» *?- re z- R ii if I ■O .< I r1 I b 4 I r I f. vi * g^l, I f ! * •* •. • » 1- Axr 1 * » - F-t t >>-r *1 BT *P**4 l4 / * V .4 (j r ■rr rl-\ k v X • > *'3^ 1 .J f ^.■- S' 2^ ♦ r r 1 M 4 t ,5/ » Si > X* I J r i V / . ' I. ' J I < r > 4 f J I J •R > f » IF L r <2 I____ i I z . > VA/ i * I CHS’s MyLead nominees with representatives from Steenwyk Excavating, Glen Valley Dentistry, Highpoint Community Bank, and the Caledonia Kiwanis Club. Pictured are (front row, from left) Madison Lockwood, Allison Dryburgh, Mackenzie Krentz, Gretchen VanderEide, Vivian Fink, (middle) Meghan Venhuizen, Alister Brew, Ty Kimbrell, Gabriella Henney, Braden Hofstee, (back) Felicia Steenwyk, Chelsea Hull, Robert Pawloski, Jeanette Elston and Jane Heiss. Photo provided I Your local agent insures your j C/ops J Yankee Springs holding Veterans Day ceremony on Saturday Greg Chandler The ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. The ceremony will feature speakers and special music from Mick Lane and Annie Van Houten. There will be free hot dogs and fries available after the ceremony, provided by the Curley Cone. Staff Writer Yankee Springs Township will hold its Veterans Day ceremony this mom ing at the township veterans memorial, located next to the township fire station at 1425 S. Payne Lake Rd. * FAHM BUREAU INSUHAWE' A Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 60 ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM jparks@fbjnsmf,com FarmBureaulnsurance.com Caledonia High School will dedicate its new Veterans Memorial Wall, an en­ during tribute to honor and remember veterans connected to the Caledonia community, on Sunday afternoon. The dedication ceremony will take place at 3 p.m. at Caledonia High School, with an open house from 2:30 until 4:30 p.m. The memorial is located in the lobby ofthe Peter V. DeLille Fine Arts Center. The community is invited to attend and pay tribute to local heroes who have selflessly served our country. The CHS Veterans Memorial Wall was established through a collabora­ tive effort led by 2024 CHS graduate Brody Woodwyk, who spearheaded this initiative to create a lasting trib­ ute to those who served. CHS social studies teacher Heather Tomes and the CHS Parent Student Teacher Organi­ zation (PSTO) also played valuable roles in making the vision for the memorial a reality. The wall stands as a tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of all veterans with ties to Caledonia Community Schools and the surround­ ing area. For those wishing to submit or up­ date a veteran’s information, please visit the Veterans Memorial Wall webpage on the district’s website at calschools.org/community/veterans. This dedicated page provides easy access to the online submission form allowing the Caledonia community to ensure their loved one’s service is celebrated and remembered. Anyone attending the dedication should enter through the Fine Arts entrance. Caledonia Community Schools 9 s THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phon^ 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US Editor; Molly Macleod k 4 ♦ 1 mmacleod@mihomepaper.com bbremer@mihomepaper.com csilverman@mihomepaper.com ^^1 Group Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Sports; Brett Bremer Advertising; PUBLISHED BY iSJJJjj-LUJjJjj-j » .» PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 ’2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser's order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. I I * i �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 9, 2024 3 GAINES The project will require stan­ Continued from Page 1 dard approvals from the State of Michigan, township engineers According to township staff, the and firefighters and from the Kent substation is needed to meet the County Road Commission and Kent increased demand for electricity that County Drain Commission. will result when new Switch servers Switch received approval in are installed soon. The technology July 2021 to build a second, company offers cloud computing, 3 12,000-square-foot data center on colocation, connectivity and secu­ its Pyramid campus at 6100 East rity management, using renewable Paris Ave. The company has said energy. the data center would have up to “The area is transitioning to light 110 megawatts of power upon com­ industrial and may see additional investment with the increased avail­ pletion. Reportedly, it is the largest ability of power,” a planning com­ such facility east of the Mississippi mission memo states. River. It is one of Switch’s five data It adds that the substation will be center campuses. The others include configured with two 40-volt-ampere the headquarters in Las Vegas, as (VA) transformers. The VA des­ well as Reno (Nevada), Atlanta ignation refers to the wattage that (Georgia) and Austin (Texas). the transformer can handle or draw Gaines Township has the potential from an electrical circuit. to become a major data center hub The substation will include a in the United States. In October, switchyard to direct the flow of Microsoft Corp, announced that it electricity from the power plant to had purchased 316 acres of indus­ transmission lines, plus transformers trial land on 76th Street at Patterson and an underground electrical feeder Avenue from Steelcase for $45.3 to the buildings. million. That is in the Caledonia The substation is on a split-zoned area of Gaines Township. parcel that includes a remnant of It could be developed into a major the property that Steelcase Inc. once data center, based on comments owned. It is zoned as a PUD-LSP, made last month by The Right Place which stands for planned unit devel­ economic development group. opment large-scale phase. That des­ ignation typically regulates land that “The opportunity ahead with encompasses 160 acres or more. Microsoft fits into our 10-year tech The substation was subject to a strategy to develop the Greater site plan review rather than a PUD Grand Rapids region into a lead­ amendment. It is allowed by right in ing tech hub in the Midwest. With Industrial-1 zoning and is allowed one of the leading tech companies in the Steelcase PUD-LSP. in the world taking notice, we’re The project applicant was Kevin well on our way there,” Right Place Wilks, a project engineer with the President & CEO Randy Thelen Spicer Group, on behalf of Switch. said. “There was a Phase 1 that was Microsoft also recently bought approved (in May 2023). This is at an undisclosed price 274 acres kind of the same thing,” Gaines of land in Allegan County ’ s Dorr Community Development Director Township, which is a few miles Dan Wells said. south of Gaines Township. The site A water-detention base will be is along 144th Avenue between established at the east end of the US-131 and 14th Street. Combined split-zoned parcel. A row of ever­ with the site in Gaines, that is 590 green junipers, hollies and spruce total acres purchased by Microsoft trees will line East Paris Avenue to this fall. screen the view of the facility from the west. And a row of existing veg­ Both locations potentially could etation along the M-6 right-of-way be developed into data centers, but will screen the substation from the Microsoft has not confirmed that. It freeway. Much of the area is wet­ has not publicly released any project lands. plans yet. Elam trial set for January Greg Chandler Staff Writer to travel out of state during daytime hours for purposes of his employ­ ment, court records show. Kent County detectives arrested Elam July 24 at his home after ex­ ecuting a search warrant. Detectives working in the Human Trafficking Task Force of the sherilTs office received a tip about a 17-year-old girl having sex with an adult male in exchange for alcohol. Further investigation found the suspect had been communicating with teenage girls in Caledonia, Low­ ell, Forest Hills and Byron Center, allegedly offering alcohol and vape pens in exchange for sex and nude pictures, Sgt. Kailey Gilbert of the sherifTs office said in a news release at the time of Elam’s arrest. As part of the bond conditions for Elam’s release, he is not allowed to have any contact with anyone under the age of 18 and is not allowed to use a computer or any computer functions on a cell phone, according to court records. A Kent County judge has set a trial date for early next year for a 42-year-old Caledonia man accused of offering alcohol and vape pens to teenage girls in exchange for sex acts and nude pictures. Scott Michael Elam is scheduled to go on trial Jan. 21, 2025, in 17th Circuit Court on five felony charges. Judge Paul Denenfeld set the trial date late last month after a status con­ ference at which Elam did not enter a plea, according to court records. Elam is charged with aggravated child sexual abuse activity, aggra­ vated distributing and promoting child sexually abusive material, ag­ gravated possession of child sexually abusive material, using a computer to commit a crime and capturing and distributing an image of an unclothed person. He is currently free on a $250,000 bond but must wear a GPS monitoring device. He is also allowed WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS ** 4. . Residential & Commercial Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers •Z / I 1 k L * J .4 4• C < / r I •J - « i '*4 •J < •4i 12. r I » I, • Jr! t * ZB Ov ■ *•••• 9 r- T' * 9 j5 A* •a a; & J .•1 T rU • DeWeerd (68) HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. . DEWEERDHTG.COM 1 269-792-2234 Since 1955 LENNOX y BBB ACCREDITED BUSINESS �4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 9, 2024 a Russian fighter plane. Vai’s resilience was forged in these early years, as his family sought safety in a world torn * * by war. After a long journey, they eventually resettled in the hi 4 United States, first in Alaska, where Vai began his new life. Vai worked tirelessly to learn English and adapt to his new surroundings. His determination to succeed led him to Michigan, where he worked for a number of years at Caledonia Elementary School as well as in a local laboratory, combining his love of education and science. His dedication to both fields made a lasting impact on those he worked with Obituaries Valdis “Vai” Arins and Jean Marie Conquest Arins Valdis “Vai” Arins; Early Life and Journey to the United States Valdis “Vai” Arins was born on October 19,1938, in Riga, Latvia, to Vilis and Eleonore Arins. He spent his early years on www.sunandnews.com *w 1 his family’s farm near Jelgava, where he developed a love for the land and a deep connection to nature. Vai and his younger brother John enjoyed exploring the barns, orchards and fields, surrounded by the lush beauty of their farm. At the age of six (in 1944), his family was forced to flee Latvia due to the Soviet occupation. Their journey was filled with peril, including a near-miss encounter with i ft * LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church ALASKA BAPTIST CHURCH comerstonechurch iW. 9 Rev. Christine Beaudoin Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM www.aldskabaptist.org 7240 68th Street SE, Caledonia Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. FIRST BAPTIST Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitcdMcthodist €0 Sunday Worship R t' f *1 k- Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 JOURNEY Connecting 908 W Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) jr. 1 k* Strengthening Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Nliddleville p 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org 250 Vine Street Ser\nng Sunday Service 10:30 AM CHURCH •V V A Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: (269) 795-2391 g^PEACE 1675 84th st. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend HOLY FAMILY j/CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone; 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Ki ft CHURCH Caledonia Location 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9; 15 am and 11.00 am Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9;30 am and 11:00 am r* L PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml i www.tvcweb.cnm i @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Yankee Springs Bible Church A '^Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: -3 Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM 1FC<^ IVoZcZ? our services from our website (see abo ve) t 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 "Shining Forth God's LighC Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org and taught. Jean Marie Conquest Arins: Early Life and Love of Children Jean Marie Conquest I!b was born on December 28, 1935, in Flint, Ml, to Thomas 4 and Evelyn Conquest. She shared a special bond with her twin sister, Joyce, t and together they became the community’s go-to babysitters. Their babysitting business was so successful it practically monopolized the town, as nearly every family turned to the Conquest twins for childcare. Jean graduated from Clio High School in 1955 and began her career as a department manager at Woolworth, where she worked for 19 years. Jean’s nurturing nature led her to later establish her own in-home babysitting business, where she continued to care for and impact the lives of many children and families. Her love for children and strong sense of community were central to who she was and her kindness was felt by all who knew her. Their Love Story Vai and Jean’s love story began through a family connection. Jean’s sister Joyce and her husband Steve were neighbors to Vai when he built his home in Caledonia, Ml. Through this connection, Jean and Vai’s relationship blossomed into a lasting love. They were married in 1974 and shared 47 wonderful years together, building a life filled with love, laughter and mutual respect. Their home in Caledonia became a place of warmth and joy, a reflection of their shared passions. Vai’s love for music led him to join the choir at Caledonia United Methodist Church, and Jean volunteered in the nursery, continuing her lifelong devotion to caring for children. They also enjoyed attending local theater and music performances to support the arts in their community. Together, they found happiness in simple pleasures—whether it was dining out at local restaurants, watching movies or spending time with their extended family and members of their church. Together Forever Vai passed away on July 31, 2021, at the age of 82. His passing left a void in Jean’s heart after nearly five decades of marriage. Jean carried on with the strength and grace that had always defined her, cherishing the life they had shared. Jean passed away on October 16, 2024, and is now reunited with Vai. Together forever, their legacy of love, dedication and service to others will live on in the hearts of all who knew them. In honor of Jean’s lifelong dedication to caring for children, the family requests that donations be made to Kid’s Food Basket. A memorial service for Jean and her husband Valdis Arins will be held at Caledonia United Methodist Church on Thursday, Nov. 14, at 11 a.m. Visitation will start at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kid’s Food Basket in honor of Jean’s lifelong dedication to caring for children. • J �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Obituaries Joyce Mesecar <* I Joyce Mesecar passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024. She was 83 years young. J* She was preceded in death by her parents Peter and Jane VanderMolen. Joyce is survived by her husband of 57 years, Marshall; sons, Tim (Mariana) and Doug (Shannon); grandchildre, Olivia, Paige, Wade, Rohwan, and Ellarie; her sister, Myrna Feyen, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Joyce was born in Grandville, Ml and spent the majority of her life in Grand Rapids communities, such as Middleville and Caledonia. For the last two years she resided a Paul Steven Bruxvoort I * I i z 1 time with his daughter and grandchildren, or outdoors, and never missed a weekly gathering at his parents’ home. Paul is survived by his parents, Theodore fled) and Lorene Bruxvoort; brother, Robert (Bob) Bruxvoort; W: his children and their spouses, Corrin BruxvoortBerg and Andrew Berg; Rachael Bruxvoort and Matthew Lopez; and grandchildren Cody and Daisy Berg. His memory is cherished by many extended relatives, including his cousins, Amy (Bruxvoort) Wandrie, and Art Vanderweide. His loved ones held a gathering to celebrate his life on Friday 11/8/2024 at the Bradford White UAW Hall in Middleville Ml. V ■* * Paul Steven Bruxvoort, age 55, of Middleville, Ml, passed peacefully surrounded by family on 10/26/2024. Paul was born on July 3, 1969, in Grand Rapids, Ml. Paul stood at 6 feet and 8 inches, and leaves behind a memory just as large. Paul was smart and compassionate, though better known for his loud and sarcastic sense of humor. After graduating from Caledonia High School, he dedicated many years to the construction industry before moving to Euro Lighting and Designs. Paul had a passion tor bass fishing and was a proud member of the Bass Anglers of Michigan. Paul spent his free i r’ I —2. K I* 5 I at Brookdale Montrose in Akron, OH where she was lovingly known for her artistic talents as the lady who painted rocks. Joyce earned her bachelor’s degree from Hope College and her master’s degree from Western Michigan University. She started her career as a teacher and then transitioned to raising her family and volunteering. Joyce enjoyed painting, reading, and time with her grandkids. She was generous, thoughtful, and proud to be Dutch and from the great state of Michigan. She will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Mel Trotter Ministries in Grand Rapids (https://donor.meltrotter.org). h Saturday, November 9, 2024 ■»* r / I 4 ri MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 The Nov. 4 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. There are no fish in the fishbowl. Virginia’s program was based on an article in the Oct. 14 issue of “Women’s World.” The article details the story of a Texas woman who lost 253 pounds without the use of Ozempic or similar drugs or any weight-loss surgery. She got no help from doctors after gaining weight from depression; The woman tried fad diets and went through the steps needed for bypass surgery. She was declined. After testing, she found her thyroid was barely functioning. If your thyroid is barely working, you gain weight, have hair loss, and are moody. She cut calories gently and made doable choices. If we cut too fast, the thyroid slows down to prevent starvation. Thyroid hormones are 66 percent better if calories are moderate. Sugar and starch don’t break down well, so eating foods rich in selenium are crucial. Function can increase by 18 percent in a few months. Also, add easy exercise. Functioning goes up 76 percent in a few months. Add berberine to your food this is an extract from turmeric and yellow plants. Club members call it "nature’s Ozempic.” Sue won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the apartment 318 button for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-3183545. The first meeting is free. z ► Classifieds , HI 9 ■ • > BUSINESS SERVICES Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing,dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured, 616-389-9496 TREE SERVICE BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Floofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. MANUFACTURED HOMES DOOR MAPLE GROVE Low lot rent. 16x80 3 bed/2 bath home. Large master bed with large mas­ ter bath. Large perimeter lot with new shed. 616-293-2781. T Voters renew operating millage for Barry County lyansit Jayson Bussa Contributing Writer Voters in Barry County agreed to con­ tinue footing its portion of the bill to keep the county’s transit department on the road During Tuesday’s general election, voters passed a renewal of an operating millage for Barry County Transit. The millage, which did not increase from the previous tax levy, will be good for the next 10 years. This was the only county-wide pro posal on the ballot and voters approved it with 20,282 yes votes compared to 14348 no votes. (a It feels so good that Barry County supports and loves its community just as much as Bany County Transit does,” said Mary Bassett, manager and trans­ portation coordinator for the depart­ ment. “Through (the community’s) sup­ port, Barry County Transit can continue to serve its riders without interruption.” The renewal authorized a millage of 0.2357 mill per year upon all taxable real and personal property in the county. Estimates show that for a property with a taxable value of $87,523 in Barry County, the tax bill would be $20.63 in the first year of the levy. Estimates also show that the levy will generate around $717,152 in revenue for the first calendar year. Barry County Transit also receives significant funding from grants. Bassett has worked over her couple of years as manager to expand the services of the department and to more effectively convey to the community that Barry County Transit is available to provide transportation for anyone who needs it it isn’t reserved for the elderly population or for medical transport as some might believe. Under Bassett’s guide, Barry County Transit opened up service on Saturday, which hadn’t been available since be­ fore the COVID-19 pandemic. Barry County Transit has also worked to provide special seasonal events, like its recent haunted trolley ride for Hal­ loween and county-wide color tour. Bassett said that with the operating millage fixed into place for the next 10 years, her department is going to con­ tinue working to provide services for all demographics in the county. “Barry County Transit will continue to serve the community, ensuring availability to any and all who wish to ride,” she said. �6 Saturday, November 9, 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS Cal school board approves strategic plan ‘refresh’ Greg Chandler Staff Writer After receiving more than 3,000 surveys and hearing from residents and other interested parties, the Caledonia Community Schools Board of Educa­ tion has put its stamp of approval on an update, or “refresh,” as district officials call it, on its strategic plan that will guide the board over the next several years. The updated plan continues on many of the same themes that the district fol­ lowed in its previous strategic plan over the past five years and even tightens them up a little bit, such as in the areas of fiscal sustainability, organizational coherence and systemic improvement. “I certainly view a strategic plan as a living, breathing document that we can continue to work on as we move forward,” Weeldreyer said at an Oct. 21 school board meeting when the plan refresh was unanimously approved by 616-891-0150 BUSINESS HOURS; Monday - Friday; 8 am to 5 pm BODY SHOP Complete Collision Repair 110 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Your frushed Body Shop for ov^r 32 yeors board members. The next step in the planning process is that district leaders will provide action steps to build on the goals and strategies identified in the plan, as well as ways to track the district’s perfor­ mance in meeting them. The updated plan identifies three cultural areas that the district seeks to accomplish - promoting a culture of educational excellence, a culture of connections and community, and a cul­ ture of stewardship and sustainability. In the area of educational excellence, the district seeks to “facilitate rigor­ ous and standards-aligned educational experiences that promote continuous improvement and success for all students. For connections and community, CCS “will cultivate a welcoming and engaging environment for all that nur­ tures the whole child and strengthens connections both within the school and across the broader community.” Finally, in the area of stewardship and sustainability, the district will promote “a continuous commitment to responsible stewardship, fiscal sus­ tainability, systemic improvement, and long-term planning.” Each culture area has multiple strategies. For example, in the area of educational excellence, the district plans to “develop a robust system of support and extended learning op­ portunities.” It also, in responding to issues raised both in surveys and town hall meetings, plans on improving and standardizing communication between home and school. In the area of stewardship and sus­ tainability, the district will “explore options for broadening the district’s revenue base” and review and update long-range plans, as well as evolving needs. One area that’s expected to be reviewed moving forward is the at­ tendance boundaries for the district’s elementary schools with the new Dut­ ton Elementary School slated to open at 76th Street and Patterson Avenue next fall. School board President Marcy White thanked everyone who participated in www.sunandnews.com Newcomers elected supervisor in Rutland, Irving townships Molly Macleod Editor Republicans Marti Mayack and Dan Lydy will be Barry County’s two newest township supervisors following Tuesday’s election. Mayack will take the reins from outgoing supervisor Larry Watson in Rutland Township, while Lydy takes over for Irving Township Supervisor Jamie Knight. Mayack faced off against Rut­ land Township Board member Doug Lectka. Lectka, who ran with no party affiliation, came up short on Tuesday with 652 votes. Mayack garnered 1,640 total votes, accord­ ing to vote totals on Wednesday. In Irving Township, Republican Dan Lydy amassed nearly threequarters of the vote in his race against former Thomapple Town­ ship Supervisor Mike Bremer. Bremer ran with no party affilia­ tion. Lydy gained 1,564 votes on Tuesday. Bremer earned 534 votes this week. Former Cutlerville-Gaines Chamber exec elected to county board Greg Chandler Staff Writer A former executive director of the Cutlerville-Gaines Chamber of Commerce has been elected to represent Gaines Township on the Kent County Board of Commis­ sioners. Republican Robin Halsted was elected Tuesday to represent the county’s 10th District, which takes in all of Gaines as well as a small portion of the city of Kentwood. She defeated Democrat Roslund Harris, 9,817-6,815 to win her seat on the county board. Halsted will replace Republican Commissioner Emily Post Brieve, who decided not to seek re-election the process. “It is an incredible process to sit through, to listen to the conversations that are happening, to understand what we re already doing that people just don’t know about, what we need to do better, what we’re not doing, just to hear the ideas that are out there. It’s a great learning experience, and it takes a ton of time to put all of this together,” White said. after having served for 10 years on the county board. Halsted outpolledHarris in seven of the nine precincts in Gaines Township, including a whopping 3-to-l margin in Precinct 1. Harris won a maj ority ofvotes in Precincts 5 and 9 in Gaines as well as in Ward 1, Precinct 6 in Kentwood, according to unofficial tallies from the Kent County’s clerk’s office. There was a lot less drama in the other area district, as incumbent Re­ publican Walter Bujak ofCaledonia ran unopposed for re-el ection in the county’s 21st District, represent­ ing Caledonia, Bowne and part of Cascade Township. “You see the difference in what comes out of it when you take it on and tackle it and make it your own from the beginning, as opposed to somebody else working on a product and giving it to you. I really appreciate the effort that has gone into this, to see this happen,” White added. For more details on the Caledonia schools’ strategic plan refresh, visit calschools.org/strategic-plan-refresh. I �' ' 'www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 9, 2024 Annual gravel road cycling race opens registration this weekend Jayson Bussa Contributing Writer Local cyclists will have the opportunity to enter one of the nation’s largest gravel road races but the window of time to do so is extremely limited. Registration for the annual BarryRoubaix opens up at 9 a.m. on Saturday. The Barry-Roubaix attracts thousands of cyclists to Barry County, where they tackle the many miles of dirt and gravel roads throughout the county. The race starts and finishes in downtown Hastings, which comes to a standstill on race day.’ This year’s event is slated for April 12,2025. While organizers continue to slowly expand the field year by year a field that consisted of over 5,000 cyclists last year—due to the event’s popularity, it’s still extremely tough to reserve a spot. Event co-organizer Matt Acker said last year, the event sold out in under 36 hours. “We’re expecting high demand J. f.A'. * Fnr:- 1 #I .• ■ * 4 fr * 'S‘. * vUlZ L* H? 5 * I J-' i .1 J *TI ViTy’ ’■ Greg Chandler Staff Writer 9' « it 1 U ’F f* > 1 ■««a4 ( * I .. '■'A WM’ 1 (Z I ■ I- **^.'*si : « •» ,1 r; 05 1 J I $ •A- <1 '> - 4>r L. * r * * ** < c- ?!?* c > • J I r..,: I r '• I 5^ ‘ » l« I J H|.-% , ’Z »« 7’ > -.r* < i"—: r ?**■ » Vt t I •V .•) • c. T £ » I Registration for the annual Barry-Roubaix opens up at 9 a.m. on Saturday File photo again,” Acker told the Banner through a text message on the eve of registration. Registration for the event can be made online at Barry-Roubaix .com. The first 1,000 cyclists to register will receive $ 10 off of their registration fee. And, in an effort to promote youth in cycling, the Barry-Roubaix is allowing participants ages 18 and under to run in the 18- and 36-mile races for free. The Barry-Roubaix also features 62- and 100-mile races. Cal re-elects two trustees, adds newcomer to village council Greg Chandler staff Writer Voters in the village of Caledonia returned two incumbent members of the Village Council and elected a newcomer during Tuesday’s election. Nikki Daley, an administrator for the public accounting firm Stonehenge Consulting PLC and a first-time candi­ date for the Village Council, was the top vote-getter among the five candidates who were running for three trustee seats on the council. Daley received 469 votes to win a four-year seat on the council. Two incumbent trustees - Cheryl Miller and Dan Erskine — were re­ elected to the council. Miller, a quilt shop manager who was first elected to the council four years ago, picked up 370 votes to place second among the five candidates. Erskine, a retiree from Caledonia Farmers Elevator who has been on the council since 1980, hung onto his seat by just seven votes as he One newcomer gains seat on Thornapple Twp. Board Greg Chandler Staff Writer Six ofthe seven current members ofthe Thomapple Township Board will return to office after winning four-year terms during Tuesday’s election. The only change will be in one of the trustee seats, as Republican David Stan­ ton will replace Kim Selleck on the board. Supervisor Eric Schaefer, Clerk Cindy Ordway and Treasurer Laura Bouchard all ran unopposed for their seats. Republican incumbent Trustee Curt Campbell was the top vote-getter among the five trustee candidates with 3,790 votes. Also winning re-election as trust­ ees were Sandy Rairigh with 3,751 votes and Ross DeMaagd with 3,690. Stanton, whose wife Katie was elected to the Thomapple Kellogg Board of Education Tuesday, captured the fourth trustee seat with 3,623 votes. Selleck, who ran for re-election as an independent, was fifth among the trustee candidates with 1,230 votes. Voter turnout in the township was 76.6 percent, according to figures from the Barry County clerk’s office. Two new members elected to Cal BOE; longtime president loses bid for re-election received 355 votes. Incumbent Karen Hahn, who has been on the council since 2004, came up short in her bid for re-election as she received 348 votes, seven behind Erskine. Jeff Kusmierz, a local business owner who served on the Village Council in the late 1990s, finished fifth with 241 votes. Jennifer Lindsey ran unopposed for a third two-year term as village president. Lindsey was first elected president in 2020, defeating previous Village President Todd Grinage, and ran unopposed in the 2022 election. //ADEPTSEPTIC SER VICES Free Quote Competitive Pricing 24-Hour Service Licensed & Insured Two new members were elected to six-year terms on the Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education, while the board’s long­ time president lost her bid for re­ election on Tuesday. Jessica Kohn and Shawn Collins won election to the school board, as they received the most votes among the four candidates that ran for two available seats in Tuesday’s election. Kohn, a private banker, topped all vote-getters with 7,745 votes, while Collins, a physical therapist and athletic trainer, received 6,719 votes. The vote totals reflected polling numbers from Kent County, as well as portions of the school district that are in Barry and Allegan counties. Kohn won all six precincts in Caledonia Township as well as Precincts 1 and 8 in Gaines Township, according to election figures from the Kent County clerk’s office. School board President Marcy White, who has served on the board since 2010, lost her bid for another six-year term, finishing fourth among the four candidates with 5,235 votes. Another chal­ lenger, Earlina Velting, placed third with 5,546 votes. Incumbent board member Jason Saidoo chose not to run for reelection. SEPTIC PUMPING, CLEANING, TANK REPLACEMENT, SYSTEM INSTALLATIONS 10% :OFF NEW CUSTOMER COUPON ADEPT SEPTIC SERVICES 888-800-1472 M/e proud/y serve Barry County, Hastings, Middleville, Caledonia, Battle Creek, Grand Rapids, Grand Ledge, and surrounding areas. adeptseptic.com Contact 888-800-1472 �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 9, 2024 8 www.sunandnews.com state reps from Barry County re-elected; Republicans take majority of the House _ ft ►> w *- to advance their agenda over the last two years and quickly. But that appears to be changing as Republicans begin to pull back some of that power at the state level while enjoying a dominating night at the federal level. Johnsen, a Republican from Lake Odessa, will con­ tinue to represent District 78, which kJ includes the City of Hastings in J addition to areas such as Nashville, * Clarksville, Port­ land, Lowell, Sa­ Gina ranac and Ionia. Johnsen In 2022, Johnsen’s stiffest competition came from within her own party during a crowded Republican primary, where she de­ feated Ben Geiger, Christine Barnes and write-in candidate Jon Rocha Jayson Bussa Contributing Writer F or the next two years, Barry Coun­ ty will be represented by the same trio of women that it voted into the State House of Representatives in 2022. I his time, though, it appears as if they will be part of the majority party, thus, wielding a bit more power. In Tuesday’s General Election, State Representatives Gina Johnsen, Angela Rigas and Rachelle Smit all freshmen state reps whose districts include a part of Barry County - were easily re-elected to their posts. On top of their successful re election bids, results that were still developing on Wednesday morning pointed to the fact that Republicans would win over the majority in the State House of Representatives. Previ­ ously, Democrats had held a majority in the State Senate, State House and the governor’s office, allowing them I 1 ♦J k L * t 1 » T Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! ■ "7 * * % 1 i i < > t k 4 V « •"—IB J d E5 * ■ I •w -1^5 *■ X ■ ■Klk ' w I IMb* - 1 11^ A*. * 9 r f. - ■ 1 J \ 'i if‘- Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. !• PRINTING BY www.printingbypennylane .com ginad@pennylaneprinting .com . r r b *>11 ^1^-. w *4 *W n it d. * z . H.’ * M. Ik • •: / J • ** t f t T• • r 'tf * i* *• ■ • < i w * * * -•'x.? •3 » • * f 4 I Xi. W' 1 Ju * I 4 R &* y ■■■ > .9’. to earn the nomination and go on to defeat Leah Groves of Lowell, who participated in minimal campaigning for the seat. Johnsen, who faced off with Ro cha again this year in a Republican primary (Rocha since has thrown his support behind Johnsen), faced a more formidable Democrat in Vermont­ ville’s Christine Terpening, who is an advocate for rural LGBTQ+ youth. Terpening is executive director of the non-profit organization I’ll Be Your Rock, which also organizes the annual Vermontville Youth Pride festival. Terpening was more active on the campaign trail but Johnsen was still able to maintain a comfortable 8,259 votes to 3,711 advantage in Barry County. Results were not available immediately Wednesday morning from Ionia County but Johnsen also enjoyed a 5,618 to 2,981 advantage in Kent County. Rigas, a Re­ -«. publican from Alto who is also k 1 a Hastings native, maintains her seat representing Dis­ trict 79, which in­ cludes areas such Angela as Rutland Town­ Rigas ship, Middleville and Caledonia. In 2022, Rigas breezed through a three-candidate Republican primary * < -W" I f V I before easily de­ feating Democrat v challenger Kim berly Kennedy< • ■■gr Barrington. This year, Rigas faced off against moder Rachelle ate Democrat Jason Smit Rubin of Leighton Township. Rubin is a business owner who focused much of his campaign on bolstering education around the state, helping to create a solid pipeline from high school and college to the busi nesses that are aching for talent. While Rubin probed for common ground with moderate Republicans, he was unable to generate much momen turn, being outvoted 7,351 to 3,207 in Barry County. Rigas received 25,937 votes in Kent County compared to Rubin’s 14,371 votes. Smit, a former Martin Township Clerk, will continue to represent District 43, which includes the west em and southern portions of Barry County. The district extends as far west as Fennville. In Barry County, Smit bested Demo­ crat challenger Danene Shumaker 10,018 votes to 4,482. Smit recorded a 24,559 to 9,308 advantage in Alle­ gan County and won 3,237 to 731 in Ottawa Coimty. I r J 111 5 'w w «■ �( www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS r 9 Saturday, November 9, 2024 ♦ <• 5^ xr’’ “fc *• -2 I ■ I. r a ViL If I . 4*« 3% • •••’•: . 9 <•* c T V I t ft' I I i.' si « t I >«d' .1 I e I * I w < 1 •’a. i I *a: V. £ *■ *4A I bV 4 < i. > •• i; V K > s^«E_>r^ •1 i * I • ,/< I XI »b K r . >- fl *■ . 9 z* i e S •I 7 Si r* < 'IM" A M♦ i I •> •J $ H r tS ■ML- ** 4 i ni T ? Pt •*’ c. 5l^ •**J. Ate * f K t* r *a-. (• *« -•^ : t*i « > T * Hr X. « K *0* ^9r 7'£' . *•*1 a .1 < 9 •«! a s.., JT £3? •*1- 5.S 1*,-^ W*. j7.i 1 d a » I s ■■■ 1 *"'* RI b. if 3^ 1 K » I, n i* • ± 9 » 9» I * J Mils ^•1 9 > r S/ ’Z -t a.M ^' f .»?* t. s"' < • I* ♦ :!-Ji 49 -I • 2^u7 h t Medicare coverage that feels like hmn7 o^d P'®" doesn’t have to be confusing. 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I Y0076_ALL 2025 Nov print_M f . ) . f J it i > 1 9 J r if- .: ' ♦ ♦ HAP489233 �10 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, Novembers, 2024 Irving Township Clerk’s emergency order for hand-counting ballots denied ♦ Molly Macleod ♦ ♦ Editor JF ■rfi J Irving Township clerk Sharon Olson, along with Irving Township Deputy Clerk Shelly Lake, filed an emergency injunction order on Friday, Nov. 1, attempting to receive a judge’s permis­ sion to hand-count ballots following Tuesday’s presidential election. The order was denied; however, the clerk has refiled the case. As of Tuesday, it sits in the Michigan Court of Claims. Had the injunction been granted, votes cast in Irving Township would have been counted by hand in addition to machine­ counting on Tuesday. Hand counts are illegal under Michigan state law. The Barry County Clerk’s Office confirmed to The Sun and News on Tuesday that no hand-counting would take place in Irving Township follow­ ing Tuesday’s election. Olson was serving as Irving Town­ ship Clerk three years ago when state investigators seized a voting tabulator from the township hall. Authorities deemed it had been tested and tarn» ☆ ’ 'T )• *5 <♦ * ♦ s ■ 9 fI M Hw IL *bi b 1 . 1 k.-t “T" ** I HI •«* .5 II ■■'»’ 1 Y . -Aw* t * • F \• t r' ■ t b« «! I .A- *♦ L r 4.1 mwin <1 ii 1 I I fltb—i '-3^ f * r 9 J I, I . b4 * iT" Two Barry County Sheriff's Office deputies are seen walking toward the Irving Township Hall on Tuesday's Election Day. Irving Township Clerk Sharon Olson said the deputies were there to monitor traffic and parking concerns. Photo by Brett Bremer pered with, accusing Sheriff Dar Leaf of coaxing her to hand the equipment over to a group that was conducting its own voter fraud investigation. Charges were filed against parties in that case and are still pending. Olson I t, ■J'v., !‘E I ' I '« >lb^ PUBLIC HEARING The Village of Middleville Council will hold a PUBLIC HEARING on Tuesday. November 26, 2024 at 7:00 pm, or as soon thereafter as possible, in the Council Chambers at the Middleville Village Hall at 100 East Main Street. The purpose of the PUBLIC HEARING is to receive public comment on the proposed 2025 Fiscal Year Budget and Water/Sewer Rates. THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE AND WATER/SEWER RATES PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE THE SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING. The public is invited to attend this open meeting and to offer comments. Alternatively, to participate in the meeting by providing written comment, you may email your comment to the Village Clerk at Lvanpolen^villageofmiddleville.org, or drop them off in person to Middleville Village Hall Written comments received prior to 4:00 pm on November 26, 2024 will be distributed to Council members and it will be noted that such comments were received prior to the meeting. The proposed budget will be available for public inspection at Middleville Village Hall at the address indicated above during normal business hours (Monday thru Thursday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and Friday 8:00 am to noon), and on the Village website beginning November 11, 2024. Persons with special needs who wish to attend should contact the Village Clerk no less than 3 days prior to the meeting. The Village Clerk can be contacted by phone at the number indicated above or by email at rvanpolen@villageofmiddleviJle,org, during normal business hours (Monday thru Thursday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and Friday 8:00 am to noon). Rhonda Van Polen Village Clerk A ft I) 1 M f I>1 la < III and Leaf were not charged, but Leaf’s attorney, Stefanie Lambert, who also filed the motion on behalf of Lake and Olson on Friday, was. Olson and Lake’s injunction would have also denied Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, along with Michigan Director of Elections Jona­ than Brater, from “accessing, allowing access, modifying, or allowing modifi­ cation, altering, or allowing alteration, manipulating, or allowing manipula­ tion, by any means” to voting machines used in Irving township “before, during and after” the Nov. 5 election. Olson and Lake cited “issues discovered with Dominion voting machines late last month in the filing. In a press release issued Oct. 25, the Michigan Secretary of State’s office explained the Michigan Bureau of Elections had discovered a program ming issue with Dominion Voter Assist Terminals (VATs). VATs assist voters with disabilities in marking ballots. The programming issue discovered affected voters using the straight-party ticket option. Normally, Michigan voters using VATs can select the straight party ticket option but override that op­ tion with individual split-ticket votes. “If a voter using the Dominion VAT votes straight party but then splits their ticket, the voter will receive an error message. The voter will need to go back and de-select their straight-party selection and vote for candidates in * the races individually or vote straight party without splitting their ticket. As is always the case, the VAT will allow voters to review their selections before printing the ballot,” read the release. Irving Township’s clerk and deputy clerk assert in their motion that this programming issue with the Dominion VAT machines undermines the validity of the vote count. There is typically only one VAT machine located in e^ch polling place. This Complaint and Ex Parte Motion is an EMERGENCY, as the No­ vember 5, 2024, election is to occur in 3 business days, and the ‘nationwide’ issue with the Dominion voting ma­ chines was only discovered on or about the 25th of October. This was and is too late for the voting machines to be fixed, and in any event the existence of the flaw in the voting machines creates a situation in which they are NOT RELIABLE, because their of­ ficial certification of validity has been voided out and can no longer be used to verify or certify election results,” read the motion filed on Friday. Because a judge denied the emer­ gency order on Tuesday, votes were counted normally, by machine, in Irving Township. Barry County SherifTs deputies were seen throughout the day at the Irving Township Hall, monitoring the scene as voting took place throughout the day. Olson told The Sun and News via a representative that she didn’t have time to discuss the injunction during Election Day. Later, she told a Sun and News reporter that deputies have been stationed there during elections in the past. Olson said the deputies were there to alleviate parking and traffic issues that have cropped up in the past. The SOS did a press release an nouncing the Dominion brand machines had a ‘glitch’which is slang for malfunc­ tion,” Lambert wrote in an email to The Sun and News on Tuesday. “The Irving Township Clerk would like to hand count in addition to the machine count to verify accuracy of the vote tally.” Lambert said Olson wanted to make sure each vote was counted as intended with a hand count. 4^ OB Sports Editor Brett Bremer contrib uted to this report. �♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 9, 2024 11 ♦ 5 ♦ .* 4 M a f Crews earns spot on MIS medal stand Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was cool, but not cold. The sun was shining. There wasn’t much of a breeze. The conditions were perfect to be fast, and there was Thomapple Kellogg senior Ava Crews lining up with 260 or so of the state’s fastest Division 2 cross country competitors ready to take on the course at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn for the fourth and final time. This time the day ended where she wanted it to too - on the awards stand. Crews earned all-state honors for the first time and set a new personal record time of 18 minutes 44.5 seconds to place 26th in the Division 2 girls’ race at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals Saturday, Nov. 2. The top 30 at the finals earn all-state medals, and Crews was just shy of that group with a 34th-place finish as a freshman. She was 58th at the finals as a sophomore and then 59th as a junior with a time nearly identical to her freshman finals race. Trojan senior Jacob Draaisma doesn’t have the MIS history that Crews has, being that this was his first varsity cross country season. His first trip to MIS ended kind of like Crews’ first - chasing a medal and coming oh so close. Draaisma placed 37th in the D2 boys’ race with a time of 16:02.5. He was 13.7 seconds behind the last of the state medalists. “Being all-state is something Ava has wanted from the first time she was on the starting line as a freshman,” TK girls’ coach Sam Wikinson said. “She was 34th her first year, 58th her second year, 59th her third year and by this point she was feeling a little discouraged, but also still determined. She has worked really hard every year, but she added a little spice this summer with additional mileage and intensity. as well as adding more into her train «e s £4? relived that she was able to reach her goal, because even though she put in all the work, she raced the race, and she earned everything she has accom­ plished, I would have felt like I let her down if she hadn’t reached this goal.” In her fourth try, she was 41.7 sec­ onds faster than she had ever been be­ fore on the course at MIS on Saturday. Wilkinson said all the work included summers, time in the weight room, time in practice, and work in meets. “She developed herself in to an amazing athlete,” he said. She mustered all the strength her See CREWS on 13 r A /XI r* -■tiMa zTl L* fr yR i i 7>. i « « 3^-. * 'A • X T^l * • 'SM i»toV Al * A :-A** w I B i 7'^ t 1 c- 5*, >1 I < •c *' to-' M* ^<8 -■ -I 1 >-.■ - 5 z. 'V -1 < z^£* **> I rJ . 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I . f to •i Thornapple Kellogg senior Ava Crews nears the finish line along side Grand Rapids Christian’s Lilah Roel at the end of the Division 2 girls’ race Saturday, Nov. 2, during the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Cross Country Finals at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn. Crews, a four-time cross country state qualifier, earned her first all-state medal with a 26th-place finish. Photo by Brett Bremer ing during the season. She has always been driven, but she seemed even more determined this year. She really wanted to see what she could do and wanted to raise her own bar. “Although it was her final attempt « • l’ • Sz I■ >•> 1‘/* ' A * .'k< A r .5 J 1 X fl * •*■ / [ ’<:•'1 I « I! I I I ! 1 LI i I I FINANCING AVAILABLE I 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments on qualifying equipment I I2 Am.-- •u* -i. ■v*b- > .. I B—ftaci I Ki . \ • I I «■» Bfrr' > . I^ISr J . f f . *» I 'Z « b k 2 i * i I tIBNACE t « \ *1* s *• I 7 r. II *u » ^^1 s’.S. k7 K • «, Y »3; rs I ♦• _?!*• 4 * y. •k . !■ I at getting all-state in cross country, I don’t think she felt a panic, but she did have a sense of urgency or additional determination. “I am proud of her and I am thrilled for her, but on some level I am also I I I I I I B' r,u* 4 4 •' ^<1 .. & $ r I J <** ( £ 1 . * r J i 5 . X. M ’I I t* > t FRONTIER HEATING S COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 �14 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 9, 2024 Scots quickly get out of funk to win district semi Brett Bremer Sports Editor Cambria Gaier, one of three fouryear varsity seniors on the Caledonia varsity volleyball team, said she feels like her team got a big shot of confi­ dence winning its first-ever conference championship this fall. That’s part of why down six points early in the first set against the Fal­ cons at East Kentwood High School Tuesday the Fighting Scots were still smiling, giggling and just having fun playing volleyball. Winning is fun, and Gaier said a quick talk with head coach Ashley Brown helped her get her attack on target and power the Scots to a three-set win in the MHSAA Divi­ sion 1 District Semifinal match with the Falcons. My coach kind of pulled me aside, and she said ‘hey, big girl talk,”’ Gaier said. “I said, ‘yeah I know like I have got to big girl step it up here.’ “She was like, ‘yeah, you need to step it up.’ I was like, ‘yeah, I do.’ “It really kind of helped, that little talk, knowing that she supports me and knows I can do better, and I know I can do better for myself. It was kind ofjust finding the court a little bit. I think I was just, not intimidated, but I wasn’t really fully locked in at first.” Once she was more locked in net, and things were mostly working all around the rest of the court for the Scots too, they pulled even with the Falcons at 14-14 in that first set. The tying point came on a massive spike of an EK overpass by senior middle Josie Noble at the start of a seven-point service run by sophomore Aubrey Reynolds. All Caledonia Community School has posted RFP’s for Caledonia Elementary School Renovations and construction of a School Bus Canopy. All RFP information can be found at the district bond website; https://www.calschools.orq/bond/ t' 4 A A B r k Z. . * r’ r I J wit ■i t ** 4 J.►'.. 'I Al w1 • • I < • .1. J I I I" t r* I i * MA 1 1 as Caledonia sophomore libero Avery Seif dives forward to keep the ball off the floor during her team’s win over East Kentwood Tuesday in the MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinals at East Kentwood High School. Photo by Brett Bremer * of a sudden the Caledonia girls were themselves and their teammates and in front 20-14. their abilities to come together and to The Scots went on to a 25-17,25-11, know that if it is going crazy to take a 25-18 win over the Falcons. breath, count on your teammates and Gaier closed the evening with ten they will get out of it,” coach Brown kills. said. “That is exactly what we did, be“Sometimes she just needs that cause it was a little bit dicey, but they little reminder to dial in just pulled together and and put the ball away,” took care of business. It Our mindset coach Brown said, “and is what we have been it worked.” right now is that talking about all year Noble finished the and it is really exciting we ’ re too good night with a team-high to see it happen. To not to go far. 13 kills and she hit .500 talk about those things for the evening. CHS Cambria Gaier and then actually see Caledonia senior outside hitter senior Eliza Pehrson fin­ it happen, as a coach I ished with eight. Gaier like that.” had a few wicked serves, but didn’t A flurry of kills by Gaier early in the record an ace. The Scots had 11 of second set boosted the Scots to a 9-5 them as a team. Pehrson hit four aces advantage and the lead in set number and Reynolds had three. Senior setter two mostly just grew from there. Noble Jessica Maier and junior Kyla Charles and Gui er really took over at the middle had two aces each. Charles also had of the net in the middle of set number five kills on the night in the middle of three to turn a 9-9 deadlock into a solid the net. CHS lead. A kill by Pehrson and then Defensively up front, Reynolds had a couple aces from the senior outside four total blocks, Charles three and hitter finished off the Falcons in the end. Noble too. Noble and Maier are the other two Reynolds had a team-high 12 digs. four-year varsity Scots this fall. Gaier Gaier added nine, sophomore libero said it hasn’t always been easy for her Avery Seif had eight and Maier and team to pick itself up when it’s down, Pehrson both had six digs. Maier put but it has been getter better and better up 32 assists in the match. at it. Theirj oy and their confidence feed “I think with where we’re at with this off each other. group of girls right now is they trust ‘Something clicked as a team, and I it’s fine. We are just like, we can get out ofthe funk,” Gaier said. “Practicing we’ve just been telling ourselves, okay get out of it now. Our mindsets have really changed throughout the season. We are go-go now. We are ready for the postseason. That is helping us out.” “It has been a whole team thing. All ofour team has come together, stepping up,” Gaier added. Byron Center and Caledonia were set to square off for the fourth time this sea son Thursday, Nov. 7, in the MHSAA Division 1 District Final back at East Kentwood High School. The Bulldogs beat Thomapple Kellogg 25-11,25-12, 25-12 in their district semifinal to open the action at EK Tuesday. The Scots fell to the Bulldogs in four sets in the district finals at Thomapple Kellogg High School last season. This season, the Caledonia girls took a tough two-set win over the Bulldogs at a tournament in Jenison and then had two hard-fought wins over the Bull­ dogs during their run to the OK Green Conference championship. Gaier said she has been hyper­ See SCOTS on 16 w r ’ 4 st •l r I. * ir < 1 :+. < 4 ll ■ -.x e. A —J ^^1 I •X. ■ * ■ Lr*- *• — > Caledonia senior setter Jessica Maier puts a jump set up during her team’s three-set win over the host Falcons in the MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinals at East Kentwood High School Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer �♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ___________ ■ ______ 15 Saturday, November 9, 2024 _ TK ladies fall to Byron Center in districFsemifinal^ Brett Bremer Sports Editor I 4 <■■ "is Byron Center was the better team Tuesday. The Thomapple Kellogg varsity vol­ leyball team was bested 25-11,25-12, 25-12 by the Bulldogs in the semifinal round of the MHSAA Division 1 Dis­ trict at East Kentwood High School Tuesday. Byron Center was set to face Cale­ donia in the district finals Thursday, Nov. 7, back at East Kentwood High School. The Caledonia girls beat the host Falcons in three sets in their semi­ final match-up Tuesday. The Fighting Scots won their first conference cham­ pionship ever this season and took a two-set win at a tournament over the Bulldogs this fall and won both of their meetings in the OK Green Conference in tightly-contested matches. Byron Center built good-sized leads .k>' - ’• * _«A— ■ I — I £4-*: % ' $ * 'J, h I 1 I 1 '5 & * 4J f *. I fl hi sriL_ ?r >■ wz 7* • 4 ! Rgf I .1 F‘ u «ei4HL 4 —* - I -ak* t 5-: -I --- T 4X.V >X a u- K • :>Z » .J J 4—^ J •V1-^ “fSi • t I ZA' - b. V 1 I* V * * t * kV* ,. <a-"» a* r -’J? ,*■ i* 'Siu'' Id I& .'t. A 94 J 9 Ir f ’’•*4 1 J A*" A r VxjI > j:j 1 J 4 4 I ill -A” u ^-•<2 A— .1. hj >• <4 » ■« ^- r-i < > f r 1 .-r ♦ L? fJ ’?r, US ! T JwK £<t •4 '9*^ l4^ « I - 13^*7 I »a— * 1 • t < «flK h -1 •r £.4 1^ * a vr-k. 1* c*4 527^1 ?Si ' VbL. :r ' . J •j; •V i ♦ ■ '4^ L J* r’ I « « T } 4 - > ’1 • * 1, I r I J .i I 5i=»ru-- I k n J t*x 1 t * A • i «E 5< I 9 -I •*' <1 Thornapple Kellogg junior Maria Piccione looks to get an attack by the block of Byron Center’s Quinncey Barr as her Trojan teammates Abby Hoebeke (4) and Reece Ritsema (11) look on during their MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinal at East Kentwood High School Tuesday, Nov. 5. Photo by Brett Bremer V early in each ofthe three sets against TK. They cover the floor very, very well. They had some hard hitters that just got up over the top of our blocks, and we weren’t able to capitalize and slow that down,” TK head coach Tia Cross said. “Basically, our mindset was let’s go out there and play,” she added. “We have faced some of the toughest teams in the state in our league play and we have competed with them, whether it be one set or two sets. It was just, let’s go out and try and put a whole match together and let’s go try and compete. That’s what we worked for.” She said her team had a few great rallies with the Bulldogs, and saw a few things to be pleased with. “We were getting in and covering behind our hitters, and we were pick ing up some of the volleyballs that they thought were going to hit the floor. I thought those were a couple good pluses,” coach Cross said. It is a young Troj an line-up this season with just two seniors, middle Brooklyn Harmon and setter Kylee Hoebeke. The postseason roster included four fresh­ men and sophomore Reece Ritsema, one of the team’s top attackers. TK junior setter Tealy Cross puts a pass up during her team’s three-set loss to Byron Center in the MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinal at East Kentwood High School Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer 64 1 f iS UHTIW f un lEN’WMO EBS' KENIW3C0 T UST HDttWSOB •ri A / t n L yz > ^4 II*. * s w, <» 4 r- r A I J, * f ’ 'A ’ w X“ VI A* » —1 * 1 i V <*■ 4 •^7 4k' A I » 99 t -gA A A •. • / ■■ivikk. •"v. - J w I »,' ’i* 1 'jmI Thornapple Kellogg senior middle Brooklyn Harmon attempts to block an attack by Byron Center’s Caitlin Hartson during their MHSAA Division 1 District Semifinal at East Kentwood High School Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer N P PUBLIC NOTICE The Gaines Charter Township Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed Township budget for fiscal year 2025. The hearing will be held at 7:00 PM during the regularly scheduled Board of Trustees meeting to be held Monday, November 11, 2024, 7:00 PM, at the Township office located at: 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 •» l’ SK*< '-«ar ♦ * The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. A copy of the draft proposed budget is available for public inspection at the Township office. Any interested persons are invited to attend and participate. Persons with disabilities needing any special accommodations should contact the Township offices one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. 4 �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 9, 2024 16 www.sunandnews.com B «r w T I. K » f 1 ♦ ' I ♦ 1. £ *« k ♦ ♦ A ..3 >.• < r A : w •. •i s .I •< - -k I I z > AST KENTWOOD 4 WOOD ! Caledonia Community Schools s L ? S.it EAST KENTWOOD 1 — r* I M I «■ A. { 4 J. • CAREER OPPORTUNmES ' .« •I ’=k’ •IS Vl; I* • !» J 4tf: 5^ I H. *r ’ z ' .* a* *.W ■ Tt‘ $ ■ .1 L52 V 4 r* I (• •‘Al* f Caledonia Community Schools is searching for dedicated individuals to join our Team. Our current vacancies are listed below. T'# . * «*<- . . . T^4. IHTM r- vr J*'* « ■ ■> r• ■ *» I » 1 w H’’*! 4 * ~^***»» 3 r -i’ ''A ■U *♦ — 1 s sX d .t *V I V. i 1 tU!t .s. s < A 1 I ;=se^ I I «< T T*’ J •l Bus Drivers • Para Professionals (Work directly with Students) Custodians Secretary Various Coaching Positions I*** % 1 • 5<^ ?< f $ Lhl 4^'’' ’;.5i % itt Fighting Scot senior outside hitter Cambria Gaier puts down a ball East Kentwood junior Maely Guerrero (2) is trying to put over the net as her Caledonia teammates Jessica Maier, Kyla Charles and Ella DeRuyter look on from behind Tuesday at East Kentwood High School. The victory earned the Scots the right to face Byron Center in the Nov. 7 district final back at EKHS. Photo by Brett Bremer KNOW SOMETHING INTERESTING? Questions? 616-891-8185 Email mmacleoil@mitiomepaper.com I I THE SUN AND NEWS <2 <1 sr I VIEW I kJ 'jr. ,7- > • .1 w SCOTS We’d love to hear about it! <1 \ A Easy Online Applications! www.calschools.org/employmeht ■ * R I 6 . •' C .1 J . <*»' Ok Caledonia Community Schools is a great place to work. The District offers competitive pay and benefits. Depending on the position, training is also provided Start your new career by viewing our vacant positions. Ji. ■ V o 4 *31 z '.'ir'’ z > J*’ J »'* *' A SV I . — i-x> ' Group Continued from Page 14 c aware of the volleyball banner in the high school gym in Caledonia, and is looking forward to the chance to add more numbers. The last CHS district volleyball championship came in 2018. “I’ve been looking at that banner every day,” Gaier said. “Every day. We got the first conference one on it, and we only have two districts, so we really want this one.” The district winner from Thursday will be a part of the MHSAA Division 1 Regional Tournament at Thomapple Kellogg High School in Middleville beginning Tuesday, Nov. 12. “Our mindset right now is that we’re too good not to go far,” Gaier said. r- U h s N »■ c c C 0 cu u h a X ■*< c c 0 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-11-16.pdf a160567ced3fc80ec73e90d873fa4322 PDF Text Text ■ I; I A SL • V X X* * i 4j I ■)' * I the SUN GATOR DIVERS WIN TRIO OF CONFERENCE MEDALS AND NEWS Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Gaines Township Areas -1 ••1 I J I J Y I I) I* t L f Brody Woodwyk wore a U.S. Air Force airman bat­ tle uniform Sunday after­ noon as he saw his vision for a veterans memorial at Caledonia High School finally become reality. About 150 people from the Caledonia commu­ nity turned out for the dedication ceremony for the memorial in the lobby of the Peter V. DeLille Fine Arts Center. “To see this many people here, it means a lot,” said Woodwyk, who graduated in May from CHS and is now in the Air Force ROTC program at Michigan State University. It was Woodwyk who spearheaded a campaign that started more than a year ago to create a memo See VETERANS on 7 MB / 4 I ( ■k r I •It* J I * a I ** a CALEDONIA HIGH VETERANS MEI* 4 * !t| r -t fc.llL 1 I i I ri 1 I 4 B* 1 r ♦ > ‘ J» ' »: i 1 I I L--- I, ★ ★ * I, I r r ry < I* t t. • **A V k k i ) .»> ’*4? <x: 4 ,■7^ MB \ « I *1 r >•— t. a> r t' ® i •l 1 KO I I Zt'v I I 72. t 1 I 4- f I u ..r 4^’ -- • le I * r 1.. k I I Ml I • ? ♦4 I • t ♦ .. ♦ ■i I • -.' '-■?, ' I 4*» I t: ; * . 3 d : JA |. V X •r k I ».<5 IR I I A 1 I _’*R*wir < c >* If *-> 1 # f About 150 people from the Caledonia community turned out for the dedication ceremony on Sunday for the new veterans memorial in the lobby of the Peter V. DeLille Fine Arts Center. Photo provided Former TK superintendent picked as interim leader Greg Chandler Staff Writer Former Thomapple Kellogg Schools Superintendent Tom Enslen is returning to the district to serve as interim superintendent while the school board searches for a permanent replacement for retiring Superintendent Craig McCarthy. Enslen, who was TK superintendent from 2012 to waoa aawoisna 2018, was appointed iviiNsaisau SSMHM to the interim role 8£98^ IPI ‘PHiAusajo OK xoaod on a 5 -0 vote of ±e 8CC# liujjsd school board at its 9€88fr dlfiAuaejo aivd aovisod s n QiS isad meeting Monday night at the dis­ trict’s Early Childhood Center. His appointment is effective Jan. 1, the day after McCarthy’s retirement goes into effect. Enslen thanked the board fol­ lowing the vote for the opportu­ nity to serve and commented on the Early Childhood Center that opened in the fall of 2022. “It’s spectacular. This was our vision way back,” Enslen said. “The way it has come to finition is just amazing I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’m truly excited to be a superintendent again, so bring in <* u/^ "" •. r 1 > 2. ■ ; • Middleville council approves contract 5 raise for manager Greg Chandler staff Writer 4 5 m; ★ I 4 www.sunandnewsxom CHS dedicates veterans memorial Greg Chandler Staff Writer 5 ' iL l> □ SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2024 t. v ^.1 RAGE 15 NO. 31 f. 4 1U it on Jan. 1. I’m going to roll my sleeves up and do all I can to help support this great district.” Enslen spent 17 years in the TK district, starting as a coach before moving into a series of administra­ tive roles, first as assistant middle school principal, then moving to Lee Elementary School as principal and later assistant superintendent before becoming superintendent in 2012. He lived in the district for more than 30 years and saw all three of his children graduate from Thomapple Kellogg High School. See INTERIM on 3 Middleville Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg will get an $8,000 pay raise after the Village Council approved an extension of his contract Tuesday night. By unanimous vote, the council approved the extension after a positive review of Stolsonburg’s performance over the past year. His pay will increase from $98,000 to $106,000 as a result of the performance review. “He’s really transformed, I think, the (village) office and the effectiveness of the staff. He’s opened up training oppor­ tunities. He’s showing excellent qualities of a leader, and I think that this commu­ nity deserves that, and I think it’s worth every penny,” Village President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith said. Council members recently filled out a performance review form. Smith and Village President Mike Cramer went over the results of the review with Stolsonburg prior to approval of the contract. Stolsonburg, a former Barry County commissioner who became village man­ ager in November 2022, was evaluated on 12 criteria during his review. He received an average score of 3.9 from council members on a scale of 1-5, which is considered above average. Stolsonburg scored highest in the areas of professional development, employee rela­ tions, leadership and financial management while scoring lowest on communication, according to a copy of the performance review obtained by the Sun and News. Since taking over as village manager, Stolsonburg has put in place a new office team, hiring Doug Powers as planning and zoning administrator, moving Glorimar Ayala from clerk to finance director and bringing on Rhonda Van Polen as clerk. Now with the recent departure of Downtown Development Authority See MIDDLEVILLE on 7 ■> ♦ .*^ / J �V THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 16, 2024 2 www.sunandnews.com TKHS celebrates Veterans Day with 14th annual program Greg Chandler Staff Writer > • V I 7 % Students, teachers and members of the Middleville community gathered Monday at Thomapple Kellogg High School to honor and thank those who served their country in the military at the school’s 14th annual Veterans Day program. While it has become commonplace in recent years to say “thank you for your service” to veterans, the program’s keynote speaker challenged those in attendance to do more to show their gratitude for those who have served. I I I I R I URN ACE TUNE-tlP ituu I I I I Li I i I I 1 I FINANCING AVAILABLE I 18 mo. No interest. Equal payments on qualifying equipment I ri I HEATING 6 COOLING n p U. 1 I I I i I r FRONTIER 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 51 . •s' <1 C« k I A 7-* *4 • 9 f, Bi * > • ♦ • *» t filH -* Retired Maj. Brian Webb, a former Army National Guard chaplain who heads up a statewide program to assist veterans dealing with mental health issues, homelessness and substance abuse, speaks during Monday’s Veterans Day assembly. b New federal ' charges filed ! against Elam I I I I I I i — Photo provided i I i »■ I “We need to have a dialogue with our veterans,” said retired Maj. Brian Webb, who was a chaplain in the Army National Guard for 19 years and now heads up the Walking With Warriors Veteran Navigator Project, a program of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “When you see them, when you meet many of us wearing our hats and our jackets - yes, thank them, but ask them where they served, ask them who they served with,” Webb said. “They will give you a greater context for their experience, a genuine interaction that demonstrates a value that they bring back to their communities. They are not here to retire, they are here to continue to serve, as many of them still do to this day.” Established in 2016, the Walking With Warriors Veteran Navigator Project that Elam is charged with sexually exploiting four different minors. The in­ dictment alleges that Elam recorded himself having sex with one of the minors on two different occasions and directed the other victims to take explicit photos and videos of themselves and then send them to him. Ifconvicted ofthe charges, Elam faces a mandatory min­ imum of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 30 years in prison on each count. “We are committed to pro­ tecting children from sexual exploitation and holding of­ fenders accountable,” U.S. Greg Chandler Staff Writer A Caledonia man who was arrested earlier this summer on charges of offering alco * hoi and vape pens to teenage girls in exchange for sex acts is now facing additional federal charges. Scott Michael Elam, 42, was indicted on Nov. 7 in U.S. District Court in Grand Rapids on seven counts of sexually exploiting a minor. Court documents show was created to assist veterans and their families, connecting them to federal, state and local resources to address chal­ lenges they face such as mental health, substance abuse and housing. More than 42,000 Michigan veterans have been supported through the program since its creation, Webb said. “As a veteran liaison for the state of Michigan, our project’s goal is to end veteran suicide by 2030 in the state of Michigan. We must believe this is an achievable goal,” Webb said. “We have a plan to accomplish this. Our vital communities like Middleville, can partner in this process by continuing to learn and grow around the language of resilience - post-traumatic growth, not post-traumatic stress disorder. “Yes, veterans suffer from post-trau­ matic stress, but they are not broken. We See PROGRAM onTo Attorney Mark Totten said in a news release. “I am grateful to the Kent County SherifFs Office and the FBI for their investigative work as we prepare to make our case.” Elam was already await­ ing trial in 17th Circuit Court in Kent County on five felony charges, including ag­ gravated child sexual abuse activity and aggravated dis tributing and promoting child sexually abusive mate rial. He was arrested July 24 by Kent County detectives after a search warrant was executed at his home. Detec­ tives working in the Human Trafficking Task Force ofthe sherifTs office had received a tip about a 17-year-old girl having sex with an adult male in exchange for alco­ hol. Elam is scheduled to go on trial on the Kent County charges Jan. 21, 2025. “The Kent County SherifT’s Office is committed to continuing the fight against the exploitation of children through our federal part­ nerships,” Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young said in a news release. “Furthermore, this investigation prompts a re­ minder to our communities to have courageous conversa tions with your children about See ELAM on 5 THE SUN AND NEWS CONTACT US The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 •» 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com PUBLISHED BY Editor: Molly Macleod mmaclood^mihomepapef.com * I* I Sports: Brett Bremer J I J bbremerdmihomepaper. com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Advertising Manager: Chris Silverman csilvGrmandmihomepaper.com I ( I I 1 Marketing and Community Engagement Specialisfc Jennie Yonker jyonkerdmihomepaper.com Group PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper (M hS^ Copyright 2024 2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are ...available from The Sun and News Ad Dept. ,1351 N_ M-43 Hwy.. Hastings. Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser's order. flV I I I » ( I I �www.sunandnews.com INTERIM Continued from Page 1 Enslen later served as superin­ tendent of Elk Rapids Schools in northern Lower Michigan from Febmary 2019 to July 2020. TK Board President Matt Powers reached out to Enslen to see if he would be interested in serving as interim superinten­ dent while the board looked for McCarthy’s replacement. “I talked to him on ±e phone. He was super energetic,” Powers said. “He loves the district, loves the community, and wanted to help out. We set up some interviews. (Board members) just met in small groups. I was in the last group. After three (interviews) and going through everything, he was still super-ener­ getic, he was super-excited.” Board member Jeff Dickman, who was on the board during Enslen’s tenure as superintendent, agreed. “I think his level of experience in the role and his familiarity with our district and many of the administrators that are in place - I don’t think we can ask for a bet­ ter person to fill this role at this level,” Dickman said. Enslen has signed a contract that will run through June 30, 2025, that will pay him $ 110,000 during the six-month period, according to contract information provided by the district. Meanwhile, the TK school board Monday voted 5-0 to retain Michigan Leadership Institute to serve as a consultant to the board during its search for a permanent superintendent. The board con­ sidered proposals from both MLI and the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) for the search process, which will likely take 4-5 months. Powers said. The board previously used MLI as a consultant when it hired Dan Remenap as TK superintendent in December 2020. The base price TK will pay MLI for its services is $7,200. “(TTie final price) will vary as the board opts for different items,” Powers wrote in a text to the Sun and News. MASB’s price for its services was slightly more than $8,000, Powers wrote in his text. THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 16, 2024 3 Quilt presentation highlights Yankee Springs Veterans Day observance Greg Chandler Staff Writer • —• . --. au. _ K T ?*• <r- Carol Ditkof of Yankee Springs Township has a passion for quilting. Six years ago, Ditkof began creating quilts for veterans as part of a national organization called Quilts for Valor. Her first quilt was for her uncle, Gerald Veldheer, who was a Vietnam War vet­ eran and struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder. “That was the only time that he felt comfort, when he would take a nap with the quilt (wrapped around him),” said Ditkof, a medical first responder for Wayland Area EMS. Since then, Ditkof has created 44 more quilts for Quilts of Valor. Last Sat­ urday, she presented three quilts during the Yankee Springs Township Veterans Day ceremony, held at the township veterans memorial near the fire station at M-179 and Payne Lake Road. Receiving the quilts were Bruce Campbell, a Barry County commis­ sioner and Vietnam War veteran; Sue Wolowicz, whose late husband, John, also served in Vietnam and received a Purple Heart for wounds suffered in the war; and Faith Smith, who is com­ mander of American Legion Post 484 in Hickory Comers. “It’s the least I can do (to thank those who served),” Ditkof said. The Veterans Day ceremony featured special music by Annie VanHouten and Mick Lane; the reading of letters written by students from Hastings Middle School a flag-folding ceremony with a local Cub Scout pack, and an address by retired U.S. Air Force Col. Rich Tillstrom. After the ceremony, attendees en joyed hot dogs and fries provided by the Curley Cone. r » BH l' 1 <«• / k 1. I y u y^>i2 B •• T! •% i r. t > » i 9^^ James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Covenant Furniture Ministry will hold a first-ever fundraiser night on No­ vember 18 at the Chick-fil-A restaurant in Gaines Township. The address is 1545 Edgeknoll Dr. SE. That is along Kalamazoo Avenue, just south of M-6. “We provide furniture to low-income See FURNITURE on 4 - b• I ( > 1 7-j- 'Jk 1I '7' ... * • i V *1 .4 ’ ( r • •I4 I * ►I *• * X I• * I V 1. I ■J i 1 iI 'V* t*? r IBU \ 1 t . • sif ... n» • A'*' I > y. I♦ <1 X7 < 4 w. y- c - r.A r *1 * Vj* n ■•t * S 7 “•• . t 4. .7 Lt •• 7 < *• 7 J •w’ ‘I:.’’ I, 1 A •i r I I ac- ,• 1. *.. l“ I ■ i '.... L I, y > •T. • ' •^r • . •—J %♦ M I. < • ,4 P 4k ■* A >• A t J I > W 3> * 5 * «' \ r I \ ► ai • ( s w * * It? * k >’ ' • . > > i < » i— r Mk A ' '. t 1 > J w i f. /. « r ’s. ) k « * A' , -J ':i •k> * >* ** . . k > Carol Ditkof shows off three Quilts of Valor she made at the Yankee Springs Veterans Day service on Saturday. The quilts were donated to three Barry County veterans. Photo provided 616-891-0150 BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. « Covenant Furniture Ministry holding fundraiser Nov. 18 •2 '*11 w flfJR <.y I ^4 I % * I < < r < i >•4' I 1 VT A ^4 W* ' <5 I r BODY SHOP COMPLETE COLLISION REPAIR 10 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Your +rusfecl Body Shop -for over 1)1 years �I Saturday, November 16, 2024 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS I I and guidance lives on through his 14 grandchildren and the r many great and great-greatr'-' grandchildren who had the joy of knowing him. He was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Hazel V (Kaiser) Hurless, grandson David Elliott, daughter-in-law Vai Hurless, son-in-law Pat Elliott, and his brothers Keith Hurless, Gerald Hurless, and Kenneth Hurless Jr. Doyt was a dedicated and active member of the Hastings Bible Missionary Church, generously donating his time and spirit to the church community. He was always eager to » I ~M<> * Obituaries Doyt Ervin Hurless Doyt Ervin Hurless, age 98, of Hastings, Ml, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2024. Born on October 30,1926, Doyt exemplified kindness and humility throughout his life, touching the hearts of everyone he met with his selfless nature. Doyt developed a strong work ethic as a young man that would define his character and become a passion throughout his life. s • > He proudly served his country in the Army during World War II, where he was stationed in Germany. After the war, he returned home and on February 18,1949, he married the love of his life, Esther (Schiedel) Hurless, who preceded him in death in 2015. A devoted family man, Doyt is survived by his children, Sharie Elliott, Phyllis (Dale) Highlen, Mark (Diane) Hurless, Lorraine Buchanan, and Kenneth Noah Hurless. His legacy of love II.. LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church ALASKA BAPTIST CHURCH S9 cornerstonechurch Join US in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am Rev. Christine Beaudoin Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. Sunday at 9:30 AM a 6:00 PM www.alaskabapti8t.org I 1 7240 68th Street SE, Caledonia •’r Serving FIRST BAPTIST Middleville Strengthening Connecting Good Shepherd Lutheran Church OL CO •3 (• 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 i JOURNEY CHURCH Caledonia Location 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am http;/igoodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: (269) 795-2391 Acreage « CHURCH PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee THORNAPPLE VALLEY 4 I 'fi^erriJa/e Church HOLY FAMILY ' catholic church J 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmidcfleville 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend Livestream: Faccbook.com/CalcdoniaUnitedMcthodist i Sunday Service 10:30 AM « A«i 616-891-8669 CalcdoniaUMC.org 250 Vine Street Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. 6 T * Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Yankee Springs Bible Church 4i CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 wvm.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: Sunday at 9:30ani & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Sunday School.. *« Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM Watch our services from our website (see above) 4 £ I- • I Ijl FURNITURE Continued from Page 3 r Service Times ap^ .1 I t embark on new adventures, approaching life with a positive attitude and an open A heart. Those who knew Doyt will remember him as the epitome of kindness, thoughtfulness, and selflessness. His humble and caring approach to life, his unwavering faithfulness to his family, and his readiness to help others have left an indelible mark on the world. Funeral services were held at the BeelerGores Funeral Home on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024M, Pastor Andrew Buege officiating. Interment Mt. Hope Cemetery with military honors provided by American Legion Post 45. Memorial contributions may be made to Pineview Homes, 8444 Oak, Evart, Ml 49631. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Doyt’s family. •• 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 IL T, "Shining Forth God's Light" families, refugees, and families in need. We work with 175 different social work­ ers in Kent County,” Kari Plaisier said. She is the ministry coordinator. Covenant Furniture Ministry said Chick-fil-A will donate a percentage of the total sales on Nov. 18 to the ministry. Customers also can donate new house­ hold items to the ministry such as toasters, blenders, coffee pots, mixers, cooking utensils, bathmats, bedding, pillows, and so forth. Those items will be collected by the ministry at the restaurant and later distrib­ uted to people in need before the holidays. The donations will be accepted between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday, November 18. “We’re not asking for any money that evening,” Plaisier said. “It would just be ifyou purchase food, Chick-fil-Aprovides 10 percent back from our total sales from that time frame — between the morning and the evening. And then, if people are looking to donate an item, any of those Items can range anywhere from just a couple dollars up to $20 — depending on what item they’re looking at donating.” No household items will be accepted during that morning that day, but a per­ centage of the sales proceeds will go to the ministry. “The 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. timeframe would be if you go in to purchase break fast. A portion of our sales will go towards our ministry that we’ve earned. So, when you go into Chick-fil-A you just say that, T’m here for Covenant Furniture Minis try,’ and then we get a portion of that at the end ofthe evening,” Plaisier explained. The Covenant Furniture Ministry is affili ated with the Covenant Christian Reformed Church, 7171 WillardAve SE, in Cutlerville. HB Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Gaines Township Board disburses $15,000 ■n opioid settlement funds to jail ministry James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Reach the Forgotten Jail Ministiy asked Gaines Township trustees at their Nov. 11 board meeting for $1,500 of the township’s Opioid Settlement funds, but received $15,000 instead. The roll-call vote was 7-0. That was heartening news for the ministry’s executive director, Nathan De Ward, who attended the meeting. “We’re delighted,” he said in the town­ ship hall lobby moments later. “We’ll be able to put that to good use for peer recovery and mentoring. And we’ll be providing training for new peer-recovery coaches and mentors to work in the Kent County Correctional Facility, under the Kent County SherilTs Office.” Reach the Forgotten Jail ministiy is a biblically-based, chaplain-led, volunteer ministry. “We provide hope in Michigan county jails by teaching, preaching, and showing the love of Jesus Christ,” the ministry says on its website. “We believe that every inmate that returns home can start a new life, become a productive citizen, and never return to jail.” Gaines Township enrolled as a partici­ pant in various Opioid Settlement Funds programs. In 2021, nationwide settlements were reached to resolve opioid lawsuits that were brought by state gov emments and other 1 itigants against the three largest pharmaceutical distributors; AmerisourceBergen, Cardinal Health and McKesson. Also included in the litigation were Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and parent firm Johnson & Johnson. The distributors agree to pay up to $21 billion over 18 years. Under the settle­ ment, the funds are being distributed to each municipality based on its population size and some other factors. In a memo to staff. Township Manager Rod Weersing mentioned that most of the opioid programs are paying out a portion of the settlement funds annually. There is a set of criteria for how the funds can be used by each municipality. Over the past two years, Gaines Town ship has collected $15,277.57 in opioid settlement funds. Weersing said he reached out to several local organizations and asked them to submit requests for funds and to detail how they would use them. In response, he said he received proposals from Reach the Forgotten and from Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. And he noted that Kent County would be another option. “Pine Rest has an interesting request of a scholarship fund and they wrote it for ZIP codes that touch the township, Weersing told the township board. “It would be people in this immediate area who would be eligible for this scholar­ ship, which I thought was kind of neat.” Pine Rest requested $ 10,000 from the Gaines Township pool of opioid funds, and Reach the Forgotten requested $1,500. Current trustee and Supervisor-elect Bob Terpstra suggested to the township board that Reach the Forgotten might be the better choice for the funds. “I really like the fact (Reach the Forgot­ ten) is a small, hands-on. And we can see the end results. Because we can ask their trainees to come and give a report. If you go to a scholarship fund, it’s going to sit there as a dark hole and you’re not going to have any information about who and what. Or you’re going to have numbers, not necessarily people,” Terpstra said. Trustee Kathy Vander Stel agreed. “I would just recommend Reach the Forgotten for some ofthose same reasons. It’s a smaller organization. I think they’re very careful with their funds,” she said. Vander Stel then made an amended motion to distribute $15,000 in opioid settlement funds to the Reach the Forgotten tenJail Jail Ministrv. Ministry. Weersing noted that the organization is looking to train a dozen peer-recovery coaches and mentors in 2025 to work in the Kent County Correctional Facility. “I’d 1 ike to have us go in that direction,” Terpstra said. Trustee Tim Haagsma supported the motion to give the $ 15,000 in funding to Reach the Forgotten. The township board then passed it unanimously. “Peer recovery mentoring enables lay people - not doctors or clinicians to give training to be able to help facilitate the recovery ofpeople who are struggling with Substance Use Disorder (SUD),” Nate De Ward said. “And one of the ma­ jor drivers of crime is substance use and substance abuse. So, what we want to do is help people deal with their addiction issues so they never come back to jail.” De Ward said Reach the Forgotten also is approaching otlier townships for opioid settlement funds. The organization was founded in 1966. Saturday, November 16, 2024 ELAM Continued from Page 2 the dangers social media presents. The Kent County SherifTs Office and FBI are investigating this case, and Assistant United States Attorney Olivia Ghiselli is prosecuting it. The indictment of Scott Elam underscores the FBI’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and holding predators accountable,” FBI Special Agent Cheyvoryea Gibson said in a news release. “The alleged sexual exploitation of four minors by Mr. Elam is appalling, and such behavior will not be tolerated. I am deeply grateful for the relent less efforts of our dedicated team in Michigan, including the West Michigan-based Child Exploita­ tion Task Force (WEBCHEX) and the Kent County SherifTs Office. Together, we will ensure that those who prey on our most vulnerable are brought to justice and that our communities remain safe from these heinous threats.” * Elam had been out on bond on the Kent County charges, but was ordered held in jail on the fed­ eral charges under a detention order signed by U.S. Magistrate Sally Be­ rens on Nov. 8, court records show. This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney's Office, county pros­ ecutor s offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate lo­ cal communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect them­ selves. For more infonnation about Project Safe Childhood, visit proj­ ectsafechi ldhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement. M e cornerstonechurch r we re casual, come as vou are. T * T' y One Church • Three Locations Caledonia | Grand Rapids | Wyoming Join Us In Person or Online! Scan the code or visit cornerstonemi.org to find locations and service times, plus ways to watch online! @cornerstonemi *< 5 �6 Saturday, November 16, 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS Cramer, Baldry recognized for Middleville council service Greg Chandler Staff Writer Mike Cramer went to bed early on Election Night. At 8:30 p.m., to be exact, he says. While the votes were being counted, Cramer sensed that his time of serving as a village official in Mid­ dleville was about to end, and he was at peace with that realization. “This is the first election where 1 didn’t lose any I think subconsciously, I was ready to be sleep done,” Cramer said at a committee of the whole meeting on Nov. 6, the night after the election where he was defeated by Kevin Smith. Tuesday night’s Village Council meeting was Cramer’s last on the council after 10 years, eight as a trustee and the last two as president. When the council holds its next scheduled meeting on Nov. 26 at Village Hall, Smith will swing the gavel for the first time as village president. Cramer and outgoing Trustee Steve Baldry each received a plaque from Village Manager Craig Stol sonburg thanking them for their service, and their council colleagues shared words of appreciation. Stolsonburg thanked Cramer for advocating his hiring as village manager in the fall of 2022. I want to thank you for fighting so hard to hire me two years ago. I wish you all the best as you transi­ tion to the other side of the state and know you will continue making your community a better place to live, work, and play,” Stolsonburg said. Cramer has been commuting Irom Middleville to Ann Arbor over the last few months for a job in facilities management at the University of Michigan. During his time with the village, Cramer served as the Village Council’s liaison to the Planning Com mission, as well as on the Downtown Development Authority board and the Local Development Finance Authority. He installed the little free pantry outside the Village Hall and while not on village business or at work, held leadership roles for the local chapter of the American Youth Soccer Organization, leading their fundraising efforts. Baldry, who was appointed to the council a year 1 b- free Estimates ! 3 • Closed-Cell Foam Insulation • Blown-in Attic Insulation 4 517-983-0954 Start Saving Today ~ Use Spray Foam * www.sunandnews.com ago after the resignation of Johnny DeMaagd, also served on the village’s Zoning Board ofAppeals, and before his council appointment was on the Board of Review in Thomapple Township. “Thank you for taking advantage of all the edu­ cational opportunities to be a true advocate for the people you serve and will continue to serve at the auto parts store or wherever you find yourself next,” Stolsonburg said. Over the past year, Cramer had battled with several council members over appointments to the DDA board as well as the overall direction of the organiza­ tion. But in council comments both last week and on Tuesday, all seemed to be forgiven. “We agree, we disagree, we’re both passionate, we butt heads,” Trustee Makenzi Peters said of Cramer. “But we also have agreed on serving this community, and I think you do it well and full-hearted and have a servant’s heart, and I’m sad to see you go ... Thank you for your last 10 years of service and helping me grow as a trustee.” Baldry reflected on how much he has learned during the past year that he has served. “It’s easy when you come in (to the council cham­ bers) and sit out there and view a council meeting,” he said. “It’s completely different when you’re here (on the dais) and if you come prepared to the council meeting. From my perspective, it took me 4-5 hours every week to get ready, having done my research and discovery and try to have it all done before I got here ... that’s the old engineer in me. You’re a great bunch of people. “I would implore the residents of Middleville to come sit in these empty chairs (at council meetings). I cannot believe the people that don’t know what’s going on. They think they know, but they don’t. I wish they would come and take part in our village government,” Baldry added. Cramer issued some advice for the council during his committee of the whole comments a week ago, particularly emphasizing the importance of the coun­ cil making decisions based on village ordinances. “We live and breathe ordinances on this board. We really can’t make decisions based on how we feel,” he “That can be part of it, but we need to know these ordinances that govern this community, and when you’re researching these before meetings, you need to know the point and counterpoint to your argu­ ment before you show up. I’m not incredibly smart because I was bom with it. I do a lot of reading, I do a lot of interpreting, I make a lot of phone calls.” Before swinging the gavel to adjourn a council meeting for the final time on Tuesday, Cramer spoke the words made popular by the late village president Charlie Pullen: “Thank you for your time, and thank you for your patience.” Caledonia Twp. passes 2025 budget Greg Chandler Contributing Writer Caledonia Township has set aside more than $ 1.6 million out of its general fund reserves that could be spent on township projects next year. The Township Board on Nov. 6 approved the budget proposal for both the general fund and public safety from Township Manager Alison Nugent after some minor changes. The general fund budget, which is most affected by property taxes, calls for revenues of $2,793,518, along with the use of another $1,631,480 out of re­ serves, according to the budget document. It includes a transfer of $200,000 out of the general fund to supplement the public safety fund, which would be used toward capital ex­ penses such as the pursuit of a new fire truck. The board had agreed earlier in the year when it decided not to pursue an increase in the town­ ship’s public safety millage that it would set aside general fund dollars toward public safety capital expenses, Township ManagerAlison Nugent said. “We like to think of it as a coffee can. We don’t know when or how much a truck will cost but we want to make sure we are planning for it now,” Nugent wrote in an email to the Sun and News. The township has had a longstanding history of fiscal discipline where it has not had to use reserves in the general fund over the last 20 years, Nugent wrote in her email. “Basically, we are in great shape, we have a great fund balance and we have the funds to do proj ects,” she said. “Not infinitely, of course, but the board has been prudent and conservative with how it spends for the last 20 years and they also want to be good stewards of how that money is used.” The use of the fund balance could go toward park or trail improvements, Nugent said. The township tax rate for next year will be rolled back by the Headlee amendment from 0.6660 mills to 0.6640 mills, Nugent said. One of the amet^ments passed by the board sets aside $25,000 each as the salaiy for Township Treasurer Richard Robertson and Clerk Joni Heniy. The original proposal called for a salary of $ 19,063 for Robertson and $20,849 for Henry — figures that Robertson said put them at the bottom among similar-size townships in Kent County for those offices. The board must still approve a resolution setting its salaries for next year, an action that could take place when it is scheduled to meet again at 7 p.m. next Wednesday at the Township Hall. I I I �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS MIDDLEVILLE VETERANS Continued from Page 1 Director Gretchen James, Stolsonburg has proposed assizing most of James’ former responsibilities to Powers and giving him the new title of director of community and economic develop­ ment and creating a new part-time position of event coordinator that would report to Powers. That proposal is still awaiting final approval. While voting to support the raise. Council Trustee Makenzi Peters initially raised a concern about the percent age increase for Stolsonburg’s salary compared to other village employees. “The pay increase is significant .. everyone else that was in that bud­ get plan (for next year) was at a 3-4 percent increase,” Peters said. “I do understand trying to keep (the salary) in line with (other communities), but for me, that’s a very significant increase. I would be more apt to go (with) 3-4, maybe 5 percent.” Smith agreed that Stolsonburg’s raise was “generous.” He said, how­ ever, that the manager’s new salary level is in line with similar positions in similar-size communities around West Michigan. “The flip side of that is that when Craig started, we placed him at the very bottom of the (salary) tier 5 because we wanted to make sure that this was a good fit,” Smith said. “He, of course, accepted the offer. We’ve also done some fairly signifi­ cant raises to key personnel - water treatment, Alec (Belson, Department of Public Works director). There are certain circumstances that when you have key personnel in positions like Craig’s or Alec’s, we want to make sure that we’re competitive so it doesn’t compel them to look else­ where because of money. “Craig did a bang-up job giving us examples (of) two communities that were in some cases smaller than Middleville, where the salary was significantly greater than what he’s asking here. We pined through that data to make sure that we weren ’ t ... on the high end of that salary band. This is actually, I would say quite fi-ankly, somewhere in the middle,” Smith added. Cramer pointed to a rate compen­ sation study that was done for the village several years ago that put the salary range for the village manager Saturday, November 16, 2024 rial honoring CHS graduates who went on to serve in the military. He got the idea after attending an armed forces luncheon in Grand Rapids with several of his classmates and CHS social studies teacher Heather Tomes. Woodwyk worked closely with Tomes on the project, which also received significant financial sup­ port from the school ’ s Parent Student Teacher Organization. PSTO President Kelly Heyboer said the idea for a veterans memorial had been proposed several years before by former CHS principal Joe Lienesch. “At that time, the PSTO had just formed, and while we wholeheart­ edly wanted to see the wall come to fruition, we didn’t have the member ship or the funds to bring that to life,” Heyboer said. But when Woodwyk proposed creat­ ing the memorial in October of last year, the PSTO jumped on board. “(He) was the catalyst that envi­ sioned and designed the wall that you see behind me today,” Heyboer said. The PSTO formed a committee to put together a fundraising effort to support the memorial. The organiza­ tion raised more than $ 11,000 through a variety of events, including a live music event at Butcher Block Social, to cover the cost of the memorial, which includes an interactive video touch screen where visitors can find out information about CHS graduates who served in the military. It was hoped that the memo­ rial would be completed by the time Woodwyk graduated, but the project ran into several delays, Heyboer said. “We ran into a few roadblocks over the last year with installation, push­ ing the (completion) date back several times, but I think it’s very fitting that we’re able to (dedicate) this today, on the eve of Veterans Day,” she said. Woodwyk said tijat the finished product came out much like he had envisioned it would when he first pro­ posed the memorial. “There were some changes (from the original plan), but they actually kept a lot of what my initial idea was - hav­ ing the shadow box, the wording on the entire memorial and the flags ... actually seeing it, it looks very much like how I viewed it (in my mind),” Woodwyk said. Patrick Gillies, a 2019 CHS grad who now serves in the U.S. Marine Corps, called the memorial “fantastic.” “This is something that I wish would have been here when I was in school. I probably would have been looking through it every day I was here, look­ ing at the different stories and the dif­ ferent people in here,” Gillies said. “This is something that is unique to Caledonia. Our community is so patriotic, and I love you guys for that. This is something that is a long time overdue,” Gillies added. Woodwyk thanked everyone who played a role in the project, includ­ ing the PSTO, school board, CHS Principal Bill Martin, teachers, staff, American Legion Post 305 and the Caledonia community. “We live in a great community, and I’m proud to have been a part of this,” he said in closing his remarks during the ceremony. Tomes, whose husband is a military veteran, was thrilled to see the fin­ ished product. “I’m just glad that it’s finally fin­ ished, that we were able to m^e it a reality,” she said. “He’s worked hard. He had this vision, and I’m so grateful that I, along with the PSTO and the Caledonia community, were able to make this happen. It’s a group effort. Local residents can submit informa­ tion about their own or a loved one’s military service through the Veterans Memorial Wall webpage on the district’s website at calschools.org/ community/veterans. The dedicated page provides easy access to an online submission form where a veteran’s information can be shared. The form includes spaces for the veteran’s name, what branch of the military they served in, the era in which they served, whether in war or peacetime, year of graduation from CHS and the highest rank the veteran achieved. sure that he’s well-appreciated and stays here.” In addition to the pay raise, the council added to Stolsonburg’s con­ tract an allowance of $300 per month for the use of his car for official vil- lage business. Stolsonburg thanked the council for its support and the confidence they’ve shown in him. “It’s absolutely my pleasure to serve my hometown,” he said. Continued from Page 1 Classifieds BUSINESS SERVICES Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing,dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured. 616-389-9496 TREE SERVICE BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. position at $93,956 to $117,444. At a committee of the whole meeting last week, the president thanked Stolsonburg for taking the manager’s job “at a very tumultu OUS time and sticking with it.” “There’s still room, based on the compensation study that we had conducted, for advancement before we ’re caught up to everybody else. The revenue you brought in (through grants) more than makes up for the compensation we’re pay ing out,” Cramer said. Trustee Steve Baldry said that Stolsonburg has done a phenom­ enal job as manager and that the raise was justified. “As a 26-year resident of this village. I’m tired of village man­ agers that come, and a year later they go. Two years later, another one goes,” Baldry said. “It seems like we train people to go to Battle Creek and Grand Rapids and all over the place. There’s a certain value of having a hometown vil­ lage manager, and I want to make to 1 Ito �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 16, 2024 8 www.sunandnews.com Sporting News Viking swim team wins OK Rainbow Championship Brett Bremer Sports Editor Senior Bella Treib looked back from the bulkhead where her three 400-yard relay teammates were standing and looked at the crowd of Vikings cheering wildly at the far end of ±e pool and pumped a fist in the air again and again. While they were cheering, there were already some tears in the eyes of her relay teammates Mya VanderZwaag and Izzy Leason above her. The Caledonia/Lowell/SouthChristian varsity girls’ swimming and diving team finished off the full team portion of their season by winning the OK Rainbow Tier II (a.k.a. East Division) Conference Championship in Community Education and Recre­ ation Center pool at Hastings High School Saturday. The victory caps off an undefeated conference season for the Vikings, who made the move into the confer­ ence from the OK Red this fall. “It is crazy,” the senior Leason said. “Doing this for four years, and it is all done in the blink of an eye, you know what I mean. It’s crazy. It all hit me at once, watching Bella do that last 100. Oh my gosh, this is it. It was so much fun though.” Something extraordinary would have needed to happen for the runner-up team from Ottawa Hills to overtake the Vikings in the standings in the last race of the meet, but a Viking victory certainly prevented that from happening. The sophomore VanderZwaag, Leason, freshman Amelia McCann and Treib teamed up to win the 400-yard freestyle relay in 3 minutes 42.44 seconds. The runner-up team from Ottawa Hills in the race was nearly 13 seconds behind. Well, we knew we had to win,” Treib said. “We knew we had to at the very least win this relay and we would win conference. There was a little bit of pres­ sure, but we knew we were going to do good. We just (6 we; n .*1 ** Antenno Men t a i —< • W * 4m i 1 «4 Ma - a MVMav'W' • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! //ZSung^ ceuCM) n®* j SIGf^ V * 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpros.com I « 5^ A * •irt 4r } *. ^■r « I, 4aB WA * 4^ I r A .i. :4 J 1 iM i T p I, 1 t -t > > jB-'.n’ I ( J z ■> 'W f » * f 1 ..t 4 % r .•^ . ■ Bk V. > - f f MB -asr e -I t I r * i Xi >* ■» '4A* > I Sv k.. » 'i 4* I I 5’i »> 1 ****? T’ "3 J > 5* t ♦ .•^ tt fl k>9 •I fl >* L” I* : 'it » J ■ •4 Ifl ikk V- •z Be ' . • t. »d 1 fl - Ilk iw • rjt < *5% -z;.-Mg^ •A >» •l C;' Members of the Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian varsity girls’ swimming and diving team propel assistant coach Libby Carter into the pool to join head coach Amber Pearson after their team won the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Championship by taking first at the conference meet Saturday at the Community Education and Recreation Center pool in Hastings. Photo by Brett Bremer went out there with all the confidence in the world and we tore it up. I think that is when everyone got a little emotional, because that was some people’s last ever swim. But it was really sweet though and I liked it. CLS finished the meet with 491 points ahead of Ottawa Hills 479, Wayland 332, Catholic Central 311, the Grand Rapids Gators co-op 188 and Grand Rapids Union 88. “We were getting a little nervous,” Leason said. “The points were fluctuating throughout the meet, so we’re watching the score go up and down. Overall, we re just here to do our best. It was awesome. It was definitely worth all four years of hard work, and getting in the pool every day. It was great.” “I am so proud, oh my God, I am so happy,” Treib added. “We went from only winning one meet last year to winning conference and it is so fun. I love it.” VanderZwaag and McCann had two of the biggest moments of the meet both finally reaching Division 1 state qualifying times in one of their events. McCann appeared almost in disbelief after seeing her runner up time of 2:00.32 which earned her second place in the 200-yard freestyle during Saturday’s finals that «■ earned her a spot in the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls Swimming and Diving Finals in the race. The very next race, VanderZwaag earned her state cut in the 200-yard individual medley with a runner-up time of 2:14.68. Those times are added to a long list of state cuts the Vikings have met already this season - including all three relay races. “They worked really hard,” CLS head coach Amber Pearson said. “It is definitely due to all the effort that they put in the water. The coolest thing is that we’re seeing that scoring out the psyche sheet we’re supposed to be 40ish points up and so they are getting after the [500-yard freestyle] and they’re like, ‘we’re losing by 31 points.’ So, they re just kind of looking at each other and encouraging each other so much, and getting in each other’s faces, but it is in the best way possible. It’s like you have to have safe exchanges, you can do this, we’re good. It is always so fun to see them positively motivat­ ing each other and all the work and effort paying off.” Treib, VanderZwaag, junior Sophie Gaylord and junior Aliya Van Hofwegen opened the meet winning See VIKINGS on 9 �i ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com » THE SUN AND NEWS VIKINGS Saturday, November 16, 2024 9 p- t Continued from Page 8 ••=t u I the 200-yard medley relay in a new conference record time of 1:47.55. In the 200-yard freestyle relay it was the team of McCann, Leason, Van Hofwe­ gen and Gaylord winning in 1:41.08. Gaylord had an outstanding meet. She set pool and conference records in winning the 50-yard freestyle in 23.87 seconds and in winning the 100-yard butterfly in 57.49. Van Hofwegen was better than nearly everyone else in those two races. She was the rurmer-up in the butterfly in 1:07.09 and placed third in the 50 free in 25.92. “All the girls here, they put so much effort in, Leason said. “Sophie, espe­ cially I see her every day. She gets in the water and she has the best attitude. She is one of our team captains this year. She is great. I am going to miss her a lot. I really strive to be like her, because she is just awesome you know.” Treib set a pool record in the 100 yard freestyle preliminaries Friday and then won Saturday’s final in 52.74. Treib was also the individual champion in the 100-yard backstroke with a time of 58.35. *-. • r ■<'J *< 1 » "W » 5 p* ' W5 < ^■. s ♦ >♦ » > - •T |^J■l.r ; - .Zi » ■f ** ♦ 1 <*• i J A >> ft "I t i k * 4 I « .A r / ft ft. gas . ■ ^1 •J 1 . --^4- . .. » k ? ft i-’ ' •-v.* f. *** .JVt'.' . 1 7 A Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian junior Sophie Gaylord sets pool and conference records while winning the 100-yard butterfly Saturday at the OK R3"^bow Tier II Conference Championship in the CERC pool at Hastings igh School. Gaylord also set pool and conference records while winninq the 50-yard freestyle. Photo by Brett Bremer While the emotional highlight of her weekend might have been cheering on her teammates as they finished their 400-yard freestyle relay, Leason said her own top performance was a per­ sonal record time of 57.43 in those 100yard freestyle prelims. She finished fourth overall in the final, and Leason was also fifth in that 100 backstroke behind her teammate Treib. VanderZwaag added a winning time of 1:09.65 for the Vikings in the 100 w yard breaststroke. McCann wasn’t ±e only standout *■< r. freshman for the Vikings. Lily Klein raced to an eighth-place finish in the A 200-yard freestyle and was seventh in the 100-yard backstroke. The CLS 1 team had four girls in the ‘A’ Final ofthe 50-yard freestyle. Gaylord won it and * Van Hofwegen was third, and the team T also had freshman Chloe Kerkstra sixth ;-^***'' and senior Taylor Cole eighth. Kerkstra s was fifth in the 100-yard butterfly too. < ^JE k Senior Elise Miller earned a runner.:!q)iE£Kr up total of 370.65 points in the diving II ‘we competition trailing only the total of Grand Rapids Gators’ sophomore ’ Lydia Slagel who had a winning total ' of 393.80 points. VanderZwaag was the star of the CLS senior Bella Treib turns to 100-yard breaststroke, but the CLS her teammates cheering at the far team also had freshman Nora DeHaan end of the pool and pumps her fist fourth, junior Anneka Schuurmans after the Vikings clinched the 2024 sixth and Kerkstra seventh in that one. OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Other girls scoring at the conference Championship with a win in the meet for the CLS team included Rian 400-yard freestyle relay Saturday Restau, Ruby Stoepker, Ella Rigley, at the Community Education and Taylor Cole, Evie DeHaan, Kay Hurst. Recreation Center in Hastings. Photo Miller was set to be a part of the Nov. 14 MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division by Brett Bremer * 4«| *» • . -f «»• < 1^; JT- Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian senior Izzy Leason races to a fifth-place finish in the 100-yard backstroke, while teammate Bella Treib swims to a victory in the race behind her, during the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Championship Saturday in Hastings. Treib and Leason were joined by teammates Sophie Gaylord, Mya VanderZwaag, Mia Van Hofwegen, Elise Miller 1 Diving Regional at Zeeland West Hi^ School. The top 11 from that diving regional will join the other state qualifiers at the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Girls Swimming and Diving Finals the weekend of Nov. 22-23 at the Hol­ land Aquatic Center. >r ■ - r ' ft •ft J f : t ' A* 'L ■« > U r * r : **• **«*^ 4 I f Ift > ■■j •'*^4 4 jr J ..s I < 9 Zj 4 V Kr 5 u «: .4 ▼4 ■'-*W' 4k st^:S .» a.' ►. 7. . ’’ c. t I < ft > L** “ «■ * •A* * 1 t i 5 F t* rvAv> t «< iff*. r.ft-* a.* a V w '—I e J *W>a di ’V 1 OT 4' > * •* ». 7 ^Vk Vi £,J — I—, »• l—^ll ' -- •'4** K Ji. / a* •'TF'. ■sr. > <M a / ■I' HIT, • *•^7; .• ;f « rOlW « •a’’ » A. t Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! % i Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to pedectly match your style. PRINTING BY wvvw.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com ♦ �10 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 16, 2024 vvww.sunandnews.com Voters elect some familiar figures in Gaines Township, but some will hold new positions ♦ ♦ James Gemmell Contributing Writer I I 1 All the people elected Nov. 5 to the Gaines Township Board and to the District 10 Kent County Board of Commissioners’ seats are well known to the community. >4 But some of the officials will be occupying different government seats once they are sworn into office. After winning theAugust primary for the Gaines Township supervisor’s posi­ tion, Bob Terpstra was unchallenged in Gaines Township Supervisor-elect the general election. He received 95.59 Bob Terpstra will be sworn into his percent of the tally, or 11,250 votes. new position on Nov. 20, after four There were 519 votes cast for write-in years serving as a township trustee. candidates. Photos provided “I like the level of interest in these civil matters evidenced by the high take over as supervisor. voter turnout,” Terpstra said. Terpstra said one ofhis priorities will He will be sworn in as the new su­ be to focus more on developing parks pervisor during a noontime ceremony in the township, after Gaines officials on Nov. 20 at the township hall. He have completed their efforts to ensure will lead the township board for the long-term financial stability in terms first time when it meets in December. of public safety. Another priority will Terpstra, who has been a township be to improve government communi­ trustee since 2020, said he is “very cation with township residents, and gratified” by the vote count. The part of that will include upgrading the 65-year-old Republican defeated the gainestownship.org website to make it township’s former deputy treasurer, more user-friendly. Jenna Pilkington, in the Aug. 6 primary, 2,159 votes to 897. “I have a page of notes in my freshly anointed work notebook that contains Terpstra will replace current Super­ many items I’d like to be proactive visor Rob De Ward, who decided not to about,” Terpstra said. “I will be work run for that position after serving more than eight years on the job. Instead, ing with the department heads and staff and elected officials to vet some DeWard opted to run for a trustee position. He was one of six township of those ideas and projects. Parks is board members who ran unopposed in certainly on the list and being more the primary and therefore won election proactive about our Master Plan.” in the Nov. 5 general election. Deward The other five township board seats will become a trustee and essentially that were won by re-election were switch seats with Terpstra, who will uncontested: clerk (Michael Brew), treasurer (Laurie Lemke), and trustees Dan Fryling, Tim Haagsma, and Kathy Vander Stel, all Republicans. Gaines Township Manager Rod Weersing said he felt the overall voting KONirs-mms-wnB'iM-sm-Bs-WB went “very smoothly.” “While we will have a couple of seat Foil SERVICE a you POU IT 7 changes, the current township board has been experiencing the tremendous growth that has been happening in the ** if ; : • i • : - ■ « • r township over the past four years, and that experience will be a great benefit as we^move through the next foin years,” he said. 1811UKE sr. KAUIMUOO 6 Weersing added, "While our board oes not always agree on matters. I k. *4 T'. I I 1 I t I •» '» * IIGHT TRUCK PARTS c t' 1^ V, 269-3tT-2300 , * A 'V ■ R USED PARTS I USED URES ( Ti <■ they are always respectful of their colleagues.” Gaines Township Clerk Michael Brew said residents were patient and kind with election workers, and vice versa, with long lines at some locations and a couple of brief paper jams, such as at Precinct 3. PROGRAM Continued from Page 2 need to look at post-traumatic growth, that we can and will move beyond the horrors of war, and we must start talking about suicide protection rather than suicide prevention. The time is right to provide support for our veter­ ans and their families, so that we can put veteran suicide in the rearview mirror,” Webb added. To learn more about the Walking With Warriors project, visit michigan. gov/mdhhs/keep-mi-healthy/mentalhealth/veteran-navigators. In his role as a chaplain, Webb had to knock on the doors of families who lost a loved one while serving their country. “The reality of war is sobering and should never be portrayed that our men and women are invincible. We cannot send that message,” he said. “War exacts a heavy price. I have been to 109 doors as a chaplain and brought the worst news anyone could ever get. We must never forget the price paid.” Webb also offered advice to current TK students who might be considering entering the military once they gradu­ ate from high school: get in shape. “Get in shape - physical shape, mental shape, educational shape, nutritional shape. Be the best at the beginning. Don’t fight to have to get in shape after you get in. Do that before (you enlist),” he said. Several students from George Du­ dik’s AP U.S. history class spoke dur­ ing the assembly. Gage Novak shared the story of his great-grandfather, Reuben Fish of Freeport, who took part as an infantryman in the D-Day invasion in Normandy, France on June 6,1944. Fish will celebrate his 103rd “Although this was the first presi­ dential election with early voting, things went generally well,” Brew said. “Election officials now have concrete things to revise as to process instead of educated guesses having never imple­ mented the process before. If nothing See VOTERS on 12 birthday next month, Novak said. “Veterans are the very thing that allow us Americans to celebrate and take pride in our freedom,” Novak said. “Thus, it is extremely important that we celebrate and rej oice in their virtuous actions today. It is thanks to them that all of us here are not subject to the horrors and devastation brought by war. It is often hard to recognize as normal citizens just how amazing these veterans are.” Another TKHS student, Katelyn Chase, offered similar sentiments. “As we remember the past, we also celebrate the spirit, resilience and courage that defines our veterans,” Chase said in her remarks at the start of the assembly. “These individuals have faced tremendous challenges, often far from home, and have returned to us with stories of bravery and sacrifice.” The Veterans Day program included special music from the TKHS sym­ phonic band and honors choir, as well as several poems read by students. On at least two occasions, students stood up and gave a standing ovation to the veterans who were in attendance. “We’re humbled at the presence of so many incredible men and women who have served our country,” TKHS Principal Tony Petersen said. “Veter­ ans Day is a day that was set aside to honor those who have served, but we should not just honor them today. The men and women who have served or are currently serving are the backbone of this great country. “Our freedoms are built on the blood, sweat and tears of our veterans and those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that we remain free. Let us never forget these brave men and women. Let us honor them each and every day, not just through our words, but through our actions.” �4 www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS View Newspaper Group announces promotions for West Michigan team members and meeting new people to grow those news anchor and minor league baseball bonds and help market their businessplay-by-play announcer in Northern es, said Yonker. “I have never viewed Virginia, about 50 miles outside of selling as a job, it is a way of life for Washington, D.C. He also covered me - as is relationship building.” news in Pompano Beach, Fla. before Silverman is a long-time resident of working as an airborne traffic reporter Barry County. He graduated _____ during most of the 1990s with honors from Kellogg for radio stations in Miami, Community College with a Washington, D.C., Chicago degree in business manage­ Leadership at View Newspaper and Baltimore. After living in ment with a focus on marketj Naples, Italy for three years Group is pleased to announce that Jen­ ing. He began in newspaper 4 ' and then Virginia Beach, nie Yonker has been named Marketing sales in September 2007 Hendler moved to Michigan and Community Engagement Special­ after a long career in the au­ in 2005. After a stint in radio ist, Chris Silverman has been named tomotive sales world. Along advertising sales, he joined Advertising Manager for seven of its with his role in the com- Chris Silverman the Marshall Advisor & West Michigan newspapers and John munity newspaper business, Chronicle in January 2007. Hendler has been named Editor of The Silverman is active in the community He is a Michigan Press Association Battle Creek Shopper News. serving as the director for past winner for Best Sports Feature Yonker is no stranger to the the Nashville Route 66 Busi­ and Best Local Columnist. business — she represents the ness District and as a board “ A community newspaper plays a third generation of her family member for the Sons of the vital role in fostering local engagement in the print newspaper busi­ American Legion, Squadron and strengthens the sense of belong ­ 45 and American Legion Rid ­ ness. Working in sales for over ’Wring and connection with its citizens, ” ers, Post 45 in Hastings. 30 years, Yonker especially said Hendler. “ I ’ m looking forward “ I look forward to being enjoys building relationships. to immersing myself in this dynamic more involved in the com ­ As a child, she would spend community and collaborating with munities we serve within time with her grandmother on Jennie Yonker and highlighting the many exceptional Barry, Calhoun and Kent advertising routes. “Seeing people, organizations and agencies that counties, ” said Silverman. the way she interacted with people made are transforming Battle Creek. ” I enjoy meeting new people and tak ­ an impression on me that has carried ing on new challenges. I want to be a throughout my life in the business,” part of building on the legacies of our said Yonker. local community papers to ensure we Yonker currently serves on the continue to produce the quality news­ Barry County United Way board and papers that our readers and advertisers has had past roles on the Lakewood have enjoyed for so many years.” Educational Foundation. Yonker lives Yonker and Silverman will work in Lake Odessa. She has one daughter, to help businesses and organizations Emilie, who is a senior in college. achieve their goals through print “Since View Newspaper Group advertising in the Hastings Banner, acquired the group of seven papers on Hastings Reminder, Lowell Ledger, the west side of the state, Jennie has Lowell Buyers Guide, Battle Creek been a go-to resource for not only our Shopper News, Marshall Advisor & team as we’ve gotten to know the com­ Chronicle and Sun and News, which munity, but for her own team members covers Middleville and Caledonia. -Gas Furnaces who depend on Jennie for guidance “Chris and Jennie are great leaders and we look forward to all ofthe growth and support,” said View Newspaper Gas Boilers and success they will foster for our cli Group Publisher Wes Smith. “Outside ents on the west side of the state,” said of our offices, J emiie is a great resource Air Conditioners View N^spaper Group Advertising for community members and clients Directo^ete Clinton. “Print media is Heat Pumps looking to grow their business through a proven way to grow your local busi ­ print media. We’re excited to welcome ness and reach your goals. Water Heaters Jennie into her new role.” I encourage area business Yonker said she is looking leaders to contact Chris or Humidifiers forward to the next phase of Jennie to learn more. ” •• her new role with the com­ Hendler has spent the last pany and the friendships she 18 years at the Marshall Ad­ will make along the way. visor & Chronicle, including “I am looking forward to HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING. INC. 14 years as editor. He got his my new role getting more DEWEERDHTG.COM start in broadcast journalism 269-792-2234 involved in the communities John Hendler in the late 1980s as a radio ♦ Smith said the entire editorial team at View Newspaper Group will benefit thanks to Hendler’s decades of experi­ ence. “John brings to the table a wealth of knowledge both of the communities he serves and ofthe profession ofjoumalism. We’re happy to welcome him into this new role within our company and know the community of Battle Creek is in great hands,” said Smith. “Our mis­ sion is to connect communities through our locally-owned newspapers and our entire editorial team does that through their outstanding reporting. John will be a great leader within that team.” Founded in 2003, View Newspaper Group is a locally-owned, locallyconnected community newspaper group covering 13 Michigan counties. As Michigan’s largest independently owned newspaper group, the company publishes 21 newspapers with print editions reaching more than 335,000 households each week, plus an addi­ tional 500,000 monthly online readers. For more information, visit mihomepaper.com or contact View Newspaper Group Brand Manager Emily Caswell at ecaswell@mihomepaper.com. / a '.<4 V .A J * 11 Saturday, November 16. 2024 • WE ’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Residential & Commercial I. I «J« « I I 91 • '.J A '.lA % / 1 I L 4 L» 4 X 4 “k w I, IK I ' > >: • ■; •r Nt £ ' t—- --*« ♦ •A' > l! ni * •J • 9 •I 1.? .1 r * .u .*■ M / >-**** ^»>*^ 4 •• St 31 -'**W 4 I a r I I r▼ r r c*l ’ DeWeerd (68) 4* t. ft 'Aw t, 1 -4. i * * r...: ♦ \ f ^1/"" LENN^^ W' •f. Since t9S5 > 1 a. LBBB. ACCREDITED BUSINESS �12 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 16, 2024 VOTERS Continued from Page 10 ♦ ♦ 7 ♦ ♦ ■ else, with the participation of so many voters, the process was spread out so that it did not occur on one day in each precinct with very long lines.” There were 71 workers on election night, who received compensation for their service. Republican Robin Halsted - a for­ mer executive director of the Gaines Chamber of Commerce - defeated Democrat Roslund Harris for the Kent County Commission District 10 seat, approximately 59 percent to 41 percent, or 9,817 votes to 6,815, according to AccessKent.com. Seventy-seven votes, or 0.46 percent, were cast for write-in candidates. Those were county wide results. Har­ ris was uncontested in the Democratic primary election in August. Halsted defeated Bill Hirsch in the Republican primary. The 10th District includes all of Gaines Township and Precinct 6 in the City of Kentwood, which covers an area just north ofthe Gaines/Kentwood border at 60th Street. Halsted, 54, will replace longtime incumbent Republican Commissioner Emily Brieve in representing the 10th District on the county board. Brieve announced last March that she would not be running for re-election. Her term expires on Dec. 31, 2024. Brieve has been in office since Jan. 2015. Halsted took seven of the township’s nine precincts in the election. She will take the Oath of Office in January. “It was a wonderful surprise! The margin of victory underscored the shared values and priorities we hold dear in Gaines Charter Township,” she said. Her largest margin of victory was in Precinct 1, where she racked up 1,668 percent) compared to 504 for Harris (23.14 percent). That precinct is bound by 84th Street on the north, 108th Street on the south, Pat­ terson Avenue on the east and a section roughly halfway between Eastern and Kalamazoo avenues on the west. Roslund Harris secured 385 more votes in precinct 5 than Halsted, 971 to 586. And Harris had 720 votes in precinct 9 compared to Halsted’s 643. Both of those precincts are in Gaines Township, adjacent to the Kentwood vvww.sunandnews.com r, 4. Ar I A' r c h J & A * Robin Halsted will take the Oath of Office in January as the new Kent County commissioner representing the 10th District, which includes all of Gaines Township and part of Kentwood. border. In precinct 6, which is in Kent * wood’s first ward, Harris garnered 750 votes, compared to Halsted’s 731. Ten tallies were write-in votes. “I want to extend my deepest grati­ tude to everyone in Gaines Charter Township and the surrounding commu­ nity for your overwhelming support, encouragement, and votes,” Halsted wrote in an email to The Sun and News. “The journey to Election Day was filled with inspiring conversations, shared goals, and the chance to connect with so many ofyou. I’m genuinely honored and humbled by the confidence you’ve placed in me to represent District 10 on the Kent County Board of Commissioners.” Halsted ran on a platform of re­ sponsible community development, enhancing public safety and supporting local businesses, plus protecting the • district’s quality of life. “I am so thankful to each of you who supported my campaign and to those who made their voices heard at the polls. Your engagement truly shapes our community,” she said. Halsted added that she will be shar­ ing quarterly email updates to keep residents informed about important issues; community developments and projects. She said you can sign up to receive the updates by sending your email address to Halsted4Kent@gmail. com or by visiting robinhalsted.com. In the presidential race, Kent County voters opted for Vice President Kamala Harris. She won about 52 percent of the tally compared to President-elect Donald Trump’s 47 percent. It was the second straight presidential election that Kent County voters favored the Democratic candidate. In the race for U.S. Senate, Demo­ cratic Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin received 187,411 votes in Kent County to 170,335 for former Republican Con­ gressman Mike Rogers. That breaks down to 50.85 percent for Slotkin and 46.22 percent for Rogers. Libertarian Joseph Solis-Mullen had 4,352 votes or 1.18 percent. In the 2nd District congressional race. Republican U.S. Representative John Moolenaar received 64.92 percent of the vote in Kent County, Michael Lynch had 31.98 percent. Libertarian Ben DeJong 1.82 percent and U.S. Taxpayers candidate Scott Adams had 1.12 percent. In the 3rd District congressional 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 contest, incumbent Democrat Hillary Scholten pulled in 55.65 percent of the county’s votes. Republican challenger Paul Hudson garnered 41.68 percent. Libertarian Alex Avery 1.25 percent and Working Class candidate Louis Palus 1.26 percent. Unofficial results from Kent County indicate there was a 71 percent voter turnout, with ballots cast by 374,656 of 524,457 registered voters. That was the lowest turnout fora general election since 68 percent cast ballots in 2012. Unlike some municipalities, Gaines Township did not pre-process absentee ballots ahead of the election. Under a new state law, local clerks in commu­ nities with populations of more than 5,000 residents have the option of pro­ cessing mail-in ballots eight days be­ fore a presidential election. That entails verifying voter signatures and scanning the ballots through a tabulator. “Pre-processing is a work in prog­ ress,” Brew said. “Gaines Charter staff will evaluate the responses and experiences of other clerks to make our decision on pre-processing for the future.” Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CTOWNSHIP aledc^hA CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA, COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF POSTING OF TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed Caledonia Charter Township Ordinance which would amend Section 2.4 of the Zoning Ordinance, the Zon­ ing Map, has been posted in the office of the Township Clerk at the Caledonia Charter Township offices, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, for review by the public during Township office hours, and has also been posted on the Townships website, the address of which is www.caledoniatownship.org. The amending ordinance would conditionally rezone the lands commonly known as 8546 Whitneyville Avenue SE from the R-R Rural Residential District to the C-1 Neighborhood Business District. The conditions include that the property may only be used and developed for a childcare and nursery school. The above stated ordinance was considered by the Caledonia Charter Town­ ship Board on first reading at a public meeting of the Township Board held on November 6, 2024 and is expected to be considered on second reading by the Township Board at a public meeting on November 20, 2024. This notice is given in accordance with the Charter Township Act and is authorized by action taken by the Caledonia Charter Township Board. Joni Henry, Township Clerk Caledonia Charter Township �♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com __ _ _■ ---------------- JTHE sun and news_____ Saturday, November 16,2024 13 ■rearm deer season began Friday throughout the state Throughout Michigan, hunters have been preparing stands, blinds and camps for the upcoming firearm deer season. which began Friday, Nov. 15. Antler point restrictions (APR) vaiy throughout the state based on the type of deer license and the hunting location. Throughout the lower peninsula, in all but the northwestern comer of the mitten, single deer licenses are good to take one antlerless deer or one deer with at least one antler three inches or longer. A deer combo license can be used to take one antlerless deer or one deer with at least one antler three inches or longer and also an antlerless deer or a deer with four or Sign-up going on now for annual YMCA Turkey Trot more one-inch points on one side. Youth hunters 16 and younger and apprentice license holders are ex­ empt from APRs in all seasons, in all deer management units and under all licenses, which also includes the fourpoint APR on the restricted tag. A legal antlered deer is one with one antler 3 inches or longer. If a youth hunter turns 17 duringthe season (orprior to it), they must follow APRS. The DNR would also like to remind hunters that beginning in 2022, there was a new requirement ofall successful deer hunters to report their deer harvest through the DNR website or mobile Check-in and packet pick-up can be done Wednesday, Nov. 27, at the YMCA Lodge from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. or the morning of race day between Brett Bremer 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Sports Editor Fun Run participants to not reRunners are once again invited ceive a race shirt. to wobble before they gobble at the Parking can be done at the ALC A YMCA of Barry County’s annual Lodge and the New Y Building 5K Turkey Trot at Algonquin Lake at 2350 Iroquois Trail. No public on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28. Parking is available at YMCA YMCA of Barry County market­ Camp Algonquin. ing and communications director The fastest male and female Melissa Fletke shared that there adults will win a turkey from Otto’s were already nearly 300 runners Turkey Farm. Youth winners will signed-up as of last week for the receive a dozen turkey cookies. 16th annual event. There is also There is also a best dressed prize a 1-mile Fun Fun. A 1-mile Fun for the runner judged to have the best festive fall gear. Run is set to begin at the comer of Buehler Road and Iroquois Trail Awards will be given out on the at 8:30 a.m. The 5K starts there as front lawn of Camp Algonquin and well at 8:45 a.m. there will be hot cocoa and water for racers following the competition. The cost to participate in the 5K There is also the annual School is $25 for youth 17-and-under and Challenge happening, and the $35 for adults 18-and-up for those school district with the most partici who register from now through pants in the 5K Run/Walk will be Nov. 20. Those registrants will presented with the turkey trophy to receive a dri-fit, long-sleeve race be displayed for the following year. shirt. Online registration is going That award will be announced the on now at runsignup.com. week after Thanksgiving. Late registration can be done Non-perishable food donations online from Nov. 21 through Nov. will be accepted during the event, 26, but participants will not receive with donation tables in both parking a race shirt. The late registration lots. The YMCA will donate the items fee is $30 for youth and $40 for to the Barry County United Way. adults. There will also be race day More information can be found registration from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. at online at www.ymcaofbarrythe YMCA of Barry County at 205 5 county.org. Iroquois Trail in Hastings. app. The system allows the DNR to have a near real-time estimate of deer harvest as it occurs. The state’s five-day quite period began last Sunday and came to an end at the start of Friday’s firearm season. During those five days, unless hunt­ ing for small game, waterfowl or fur harvesting, it is unlawful to transport or possess a rifle or shotgun with buckshot, slug load, ball load or cut shell in an area frequented by deer. Unloaded firearms securely encased or carried in the trunk of a vehicle may be transported to or from a hunting camp. “Hunters know that they are on the cusp of another Michigan firearm deer season once we enter into the five-day quiet period,” said Capt. Pete Wright, DNR Law Enforcement Division. “Those critical days create a window of time, just before the opener, when hunters can catch their breath and the woods have a chance to calm. “This period is like pushing a reset button, allowing deer to settle back into their day-to-day patterns, which in turn increases the chances of a sue cessful hunt.” Small game or waterfowl hunters and fur harvesters can still carry the appropriate firearm for the season. Small game and waterfowl hunters may carry shotguns with shotshells for hunting small game, but cannot pos­ sess buckshot, slugs, ball loads or cut shells during this time. Fur harvesters may carry rimfire firearms (.22-caliber or smaller) while actively hunting or checking traplines during the open furbearing animal season. The DNR reminds people to contact the Report All Poaching hotline at 800292-7800 to report trespassing, shoot­ ing or other related natural resource violations. -BB GO ONLINE TO SUNANONEWS.COM J V •v7* 9 f 9 ri • * ♦ •• k I I ’I f I I • ♦ > : I* J VI .'H ualiF J iS F I ^•4 J ‘s 1^.“ k Ci J I A 1 I ■A, f JB "Mowij 1 think we are a littli too with you to the senior iMng cawhutryty. Let's drop soi^e off ot M3 7AMCtjOrt.cow and get you so^e nwney!*' ♦ ♦ �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 16, 2024 ♦ ♦ ♦ 4 www.sunandnews.com Bulldogs get first win in fourth try against Scots Brett Bremer Sports Editor It wasn’t the third time that was the charm for the Byron Center varsity volleyball team. It was the fourth time. The Bulldogs took their first victory of the season over the OK Green Conference Cham­ pions from Caledonia in the MHSAA Division 1 District Final at East Kentwood High School Thursday, Nov. 1. The Fighting Scots won a tournament meeting with the Bulldogs this season and took victories in both home and away THORN APPLE TOWNSHIP BOARD 128 HIGH ST. MIDDLEVILLE, Ml 49333 SYNOPSIS OF MEETING MINUTES Monday, November 11,2024 The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. with five members pres­ ent. Items approved: 1. Printed Agenda approved. 2. Consent Agenda approved as amended. 3. Public hearing for the Duncan Lake Weed Control Special Assess­ ment District was called to order at 7:12pm. No comments heard from the public. Hearing closed at 7:13 pm. 4. Approved motion to adopt Res­ olution 15-2024 Noffke Drive Fund Deficit Elimination Plan. 5. Approved motion to adopt Res­ olution 16-24 Duncan Lake Weed Control Special Assessment District. 6. Approved motion to hire 2 EMTs. 7 Approved motion to change pol­ icy regarding vacation earned when transitioning from part to full-time employment 8. Approved motion to renew ex­ isting health insurance plan. 9. Approved motion for mainte­ nance to the Fire Barn boiler. 10. Approved motion to add spe­ cial assessments to Winter 2024 tax roll. Meeting adjourned at 7:59 p.m. Prepared by Deputy Clerk Brenda Hess. Approved by Township Super­ visor, Eric Schaefer. Copies of the meeting minutes are available upon request from the Township Clerk or by visiting https:// thornapple-twp.org/meeting-minutes/ Office hours 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. bouts in the OK Green Confer­ ence, but Byron Center won Thursday’s do-or-die match to take the district championship and earn a spot in this week’s MHSAA Division 1 Regional Tournament in Middleville. The two teams went back and forth all evening in Kentwood with the Bulldogs pre vailing 19-25, 25-14, 21-25, 25-22, 15-10. “We knew Byron Center would be tough competition, but outside hitter Reese Lowe really stepped up in an incredible way. She was relentless and made some big plays when it counted most, and we just couldn’t find a way to fully contain her,” Caledonia head coach Ashley Brown said. “Our team put up a great fight, and I’m so proud of our players for the heart and effort they showed out there.” The Bulldogs saved their season early in set number four, building a 5-0 lead on a service run by sophomore libero Mallory Johnson that had the Scots calling a quick timeout. Sophomore hitter Aubrey Reynolds finally had a swing from the right side for the Scots that ended that initial CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes The minutes for the October 16, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting that were approved on November 7, 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at www.caledoniatownship.org. A. A it •< I ¥■. ' « * 9 - ; ■ •) S’ r * *r $ I A I W 9 .;4 K st I > I L ■ J. y . * >- • Br A-Ab*' J 1 IB Sp Caledonia senior Cambria Gaier bumps a Byron Center serve up to her teammates during the MHSAA Division 1 District Final at East Kentwood High School Thursday, Nov. 7. Photo by Perry Hardin Bulldog run. The Scots rallied, eventually pulling even at 13-13. They had a 19-17 lead after a pow erful swing by senior outside hitter Cambria Gaier found the floor, but then it was the Bulldogs’ turn to surge again. They wouldn’t let the ball hit the fioor and won the next four points to take a 21-19 lead. The two teams ended up tied at 22-22 and then a Caledonia serve flew into the net, giving the Bulldogs’ a one point edge. With Johnson serving again, the Scots had one attack fly long and then another into the net to give the set to Byron Center. Neither team led by more than a single point in set number five until an ace by the Bulldogs’Aly ssa Davis put her team in front 10-8. Another ace eventually had that Bulldog lead up to 13-8. Caledonia senior middle Josie Noble stymied that Bulldog run with a kill that even Johnson couldn’t handle, but the Byron Center libero covered behind her hitters well on the next point to keep things alive for a kill by Lowe that got the Bulldogs the serve back up 14-9. Noble tallied one more kill in the middle before a kill by Caitlin Hartson from the right * side clinched the champion­ ship for the Bulldogs. The Fighting Scots managed to cheer on their conference rivals from Byron Center as they celebrated with their dis­ trict medals and trophy, with senior setter Jessica Maier and senior outside hitter Eliza Pehrson doing their best to console each other with hugs throughout the ceremony. Noble had an oustanding final senior effort with 17 kills while hitting .519 for the night. She added two solo blocks and seven block assists. Reynolds closed the match with 15 kills and six block assists. Gaier had 11 kills and Pehrson finished with seven. Pehrson had a team-high two aces in her final varsity match too to go with three block assists. Gaier and Maier had one ace each. Sophomore libero Avery Seif and Gaier tied for the CHS lead in digs with 17 each. Reynolds had 15, Pehrson 13 and Maier 12. Maier also put up 49 assists. Seif had just two errors on 39 service receptions across the five sets. Byron Center went on to face Battle Creek Lakeview in the regional semifinals in Mid­ dleville Tuesday, Nov. 12, fall­ ing in four sets to the Spartans. ’I -» I i» A A Caledonia’s Eliza Pehrson (7) and Kyla Charles (5) elevate at the net to try and get their hands on a Bulldog attack during the MHSAA Division 1 District Final at East Kentwood High School Thursday, Nov. 7. Photo by Perry Hardin i dl4 Z; r •• > ! * J •1 ML. 1 Fighting Scots sophomore Aubrey Reynolds hits a serve during the second set of her team’s district final match with Byron Center at East Kentwood High School Nov. 7. Photo by Perry Hardin �♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS_________ ________ _______ Saturday, November 16, 2024 _ 15 Gator divers win trio of conference medais Brett Bremer Sports Editor Lydia Slagel is now a two-time con ference champion. Slagel won the OK Rainbow Con­ ference Tier II championship in the *’>• diving competition as a freshman in 2023 and boosted her 11 -dive cham­ pionship meet score by a little over 15 I points to win a second conference title 3 k ^tei Saturday at the Community Education li and Recreation Center pool at Hastings o High School. ■ The Grand Rapids Gator sophomore F.-ys finished the meet with an overall score of393.80 points, and said she is not just better than she was last season but bet­ .«! ter than when the season started back in August. g “My back 1.5 and probably my reverse 1.5 is getting better too,” Slagel 1 STS said of her recent improvements. “I I Tis just worked really, really, really hard. I k was the first person on the board every day. I was the last person off the board Grand Rapids Gator senior diver Abigail Dumond accepts her third-place every day. I did four of every dive and medal from head coach Jeff Saltzgaber Saturday at the OK Rainbow sometimes more.” Conference Tier 11 Championship at the CERC in Hastings. Photo by Brett Bremer She said she has been extending her Monday and Wednesday prac “I do. That’s what I do,” Slagel said. tices to four hours. Practices are a from the Tier II conference meet, were “Because I want it. My goal is to set to be a part of the MHSAA Lower little funky for Slagel and the Gator go to the Olympics, so you’ve got to Peninsula Division 1 Diving Regional divers. Their teammates from the work for it. ” at Zeeland West High School Thursday Thomapple Kellogg/West Michigan The most immediate goal though Nov. 14. The top 11 divers from the Aviation/West Catholic/Hopkins cois getting back to the state finals. The regional qualify for the MHSAA L.P. op have been practicing in the newly Gator divers, as well as a few others Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals refurbished Thomapple Kellogg pool in Middleville with head coach Jeff ss Saltzgaber. The team’s divers practice at the CERC in Hastings. “We practice with the Hastings and « Delton kids. It’s a little bit difficult, '<c < because I want to get to know my team­ I ill i mates and stuff, but we can’t because L we’re not with them,” Slagel said. There are familiar faces there in Hast­ ings though. The Thomapple Kellogg team was formerly a part of the co-op r4i » with Hastings and Delton Kellogg, and Hastings Community Diving Club coaches Todd Bates and Francesca »; *±5 Piled continue to work with all those local divers. at ri7 “She makes us work hard as coach­ 7es,” Piled said of Slagel. “We’re ready Grand Rapids Gator senior Aubrey Hawks swims to a tenth-place time in the to go home and she’s like ‘wait, I have 500-yard freestyle during the OK Rainbow Conference Tier II Championship five more minutes. I can get four more at the CERC in Hastings Saturday afternoon. Photo by Brett Bremer dives in. I tatfir ‘ t ♦ t -Je.. .-'t I r V •♦♦ • f I [I JS l! \ I w I i f 1 < T t f « ,4- «R «>* V <1 > t:. *V’ r • J T. 1 > i V _X I t e>* J « » fl } t ?. II « •< . : ■* t tlA ♦•bin •M w, k . IF • z •♦ I I ♦*.'! * 3 tjnf, ^.. ••» \ K r •4 > I < 9 :t A V I •< t '4 k ■ M?*. 3*. - * '*1^ H 4 ■ «, •. * J r I. I 1 lA / 'X t * f. 1 ilr 1 ...9a « T.*^ i i • 4< 3 rd b ■ **;»■ f 5* <> ■i % Ui I » I i: See GATOR on 16 J 1/ •I > J • *'4 IW’ that will be held Nov. 22-23 at the Holland Aquatic Center. Slagel, teammate Abigail Dumond and Caledonia/Lowell/South Chris­ tian’s Elise Miller were all a part of the DI State Finals a year ago. Miller, a senior, was the runner-up in the diving competition over the weekend in Hast­ ings with an overall score of 370.65 points. Dumond was third at 346.95. The Gator team also had sophomore Kya Bender earn a medal in seventh place with a score of 261.30. Slagel said she was really proud of Bender - seeing her pull off a reverse dive she’d only learned about a week ago. “I was really happy with that,” Slagel said. Miller and the CLS Vikings were really happy to earn a conference cham­ pionship over the course ofthe two-day meet Friday and Saturday. The Vikings swept the three relays, added a couple more Division 1 state cuts and finished off an undefeated conference season by outscoring Ottawa hills 491 -479 at the top of the conference meet standings. Wayland was third with 332 points ahead of Grand Rapids Catholic Cen­ tral 311, the Grand Rapids Gators 188 and Grand Rapids Union 88. The top eight in individual events earned medals and the top 16 scored for their team. The only medalists for the Gators were the trio of divers, but the team had a handful of other top ten finishes. Senior Aubrey Hawks swam to a ninth-place time of 2 minutes 17.46 ft I A *» ‘ > Ik *• <* Ci /* I •r •** 9 1 1 A-*, •*• “ w s k :u J ri bK 1 rr CA; 1 k • i JT« k f"’* w** «. r«b S^.''J •• V. J x35 *s Your local agent insures your .W' * > ST'* *« T > I * 4? Jl .T t « ■T' K rA * 1 M V “ fcT^z" k I < w . JI IWV A z 4-I y V --*« .A» t. 1 fK « X ■^44* *1^ ■ * «< afjs «l BBT A A r. F>nB aiK. ^4 I |P±.J5—.. - - • .f' • ..tJ s r t * < •T •*-; *•)* * ■"-•Z «s«4K •t * •sf- - >4U J f r ■w*^ ■ A *5>TdG& * -i? w; M *!• H I V 4£ s 4 FARM BUREAU INSURANCE^ . ’.A* .'I »»e I» >• ”” » ‘“ . Xfei- 4^ r. .w> 4* -J . r V • s -fc—. • b:*' 'J J.' I b. .* i £S^ 4 < "* pv * '5* '» iJ' It' '• . . » a ink. «'' 'it. ♦» t .•w* f I St ' ’■ I K •i r ? »• WH ■ WB . .M< a it .»- l*- * t‘ « •i.-, Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville G (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsini.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com �J I 1 1 A • 1 I 16 ♦ ♦ < ♦ 4 4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 16, 2024 GATOR Continued from Page 15 seconds in the 200-yard freestyle. That won her the ‘B’ Final and was faster than the eighth-place medalist from the ‘A’ Final of the event. She was ninth in qualifying though Friday. Aubrey’s freshman sister Mckenna Hawks matched that ninth-place finish in the 100-yard breaststroke thanks to a time of 1:23.00. The Gator team had two freshmen score in that race. Eloise Nichols was 15th in 1:33.65. www.sunandnews.com Mckenna was also tenth in the 100yard freestyle with a time of 1:03.83, and senior teammate Mia Bergman was 13th in 1:07.02. Aubrey added a tenth­ place time of 6:19.48 in the 500-yard freestyle. The Gator team had two scorers in the 200-yard individual medley. Senior Malia Hamby was 14th in 2:53.99 and junior Jenna Robinett 16th in 3:11.53. In the 100-yard butterfly, Hamby placed 11th in 1:19.38 and Robinett 14th with a time of 1:35.14. Bergman placed 14th in the 50-yard 1 freestyle for the Gators with a time of 30.22 seconds. Senior Jolee Schumach­ er was 15th in the 100-yard backstroke with a time of 1:24.70 for the Gators. Gator teams were fifth in all three relays ahead of squads from Union. The Hawks sisters, Hamby and Berg­ man finished the 200-y ard medley relay in 2:14.53. Jolee Schumacher, senior Leah Schumacher, Nichols and Robi­ nett were fifth in the 200-yard freestyle relay in 2:13.71. Hamby, Bergman, Mckenna and Aubrey Hawks finished the 400-yard freestyle relay in 4:24.26. s * P. ■r 4 1 .•J *1 i > I « V ' I c.* •’SI n 1 -J VA* k • * 5-' ■ p >• ’IT- •< . s I 1 1 * ki KE* ♦ *4^ >• it ^5, •f I • J ♦ > X’ •l • B Grand Rapids Gator sophomore LydiaSlagel gets into her pike position during a dive at the OK Rainbow Conference Tier II Championship at the CERC in Hastings Saturday. Slagel won a conference title for the second year in a row over the weekend. Photo by Brett Bremer .'•'x ft '’•ft VETERANS TOWNHALL MEETING •’S 1! T 'j; Ci 1 ■s 4^ « < • '.S^' NOVEMBER 20, 2024 6:30PM ■ ':W“ > (i- *r- .f * k. .■^«r,'/s HOSTED BY: CALEDONIA AMERICAN LEGION MEMORIAL POST #305 w? 9. a r 1 W.** « '• r ,J » ♦ >w •J. 9458 Cherry Valley Ave. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 — OPEN TO ALL VETERANS AND SPOUSES !- ii? ♦ T * '?' h b it* -- J II I II .t ^*1 ^1^ —, * *1 Veterns Service Officer (VSO) Patty Breas will be providing information about VA benefits Swi 4 A a. T r T A .e 4 J* .•v* DO YOU KNOW WHAT BENEFITS YOU ARE ENTITLED TO? •X CM 4 -> A ARE YOU RECEIVING ALL OF THE VA BENEFITS YOU EARNED? I 1 B W \• -4 in |->XI X) •k . •* “I r DO YOU KNOW HOW TO APPLY FOR YOUR BENEFITS? 9. - * O S z a & I .», i?’ ATTEND THE TOWN HALL MEETING AND LEARN HOW TO ENSURE —J* 1' ‘ Un w w I H ^7^ YOU GET WHAT YOU EARNED ' * ? ' *? •» > w* > •*T: K * -le < S, • * A 4 ;r€TERAA<^ •t 4 a; O u. I Mb* 9A Grand Rapids Gator senior Jolee Schumacher competes in the ‘B’ Final of the 100-meter backstroke during the 2024 OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Championship at Hastings High School Saturday. Photo by Brett Bremer > co ■o c •c Q. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-11-23.pdf 71c2a3101e44cd35eff3c3ad126a1b2b PDF Text Text r * : >- h* K c - rrai- SI I • *1 the sun and news ♦ b H DIVING CHAMPIONSHIP ^our Hometown A/empaper Semng the MiM/e^/Ze, Caledonia and Gaine.: Tnwn.h.e Caledonia and Gaines Township Areas iwh s -s PAGE 14 ► L, J r h- NO. 32 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2024 Planning commission dispute leads to resignation of Yankee Springs board member Greg Chandler Staff Writer A dispute over whether elected offi­ cials should be allowed to attend meet­ ings of or have input on decisions of a local planning commission has led to the resignation of a Yankee Springs Township board member. Mike Cunningham resigned as town­ ship clerk at the conclusion of the Nov. 14 Township Board meeting after it voted 4-1 to pass a resolution that says board members should not express their personal views on a matter being considered by the township Planning Commission or Zoning Board of Appeals. “The Township Board determines that Township Board members should not attend, participate in or otherwise provide their personal opinion (through written correspondence or otherwise) to the Township Planning Commission and/or ZB A, regarding a matter under consideration by the Planning Commission and/or ZBA, in order to avoid duress being imposed, or per­ ceived to be imposed, on the Planning Commission and/or ZBA,” the resolu­ tion reads. Cunningham, who had served as clerk since November 2020, had just been re-elected nine days before his resignation announcement. His res­ ignation is to take effect Dec. 1. He and the other four members of the Township Board - Supervisor Rob Heethuis, Treasurer Deb Mousseau and trustees Larry Knowles and Dave VanHouten all ran waaa uawoisno unopposed in the Nov. 5 iviiNaaisau election. “This is not just a ranSSMaO3 9£8e^ IN '8||!Aua9)0 O^e xog Od 8£e# jiunad 8e88> IVM '9||IAUd9J0 aivd aovisod s n ais isad See LEADS on 3 I, "www.sunandnews.com ! 1. n■ says yes to acquiring l^c©nse■plate reading camera system I. * Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Middleville will purchase a camera system that will photograph the license plates of every vehicle that comes into the village, a move that could help local law enforcement solve crimes. The Village Council on Nov. 12 unanimously approved the purchase of the six-camera system from Atlanta-based Flock Safety at an initial cost of $39,900. The system will have fixed startup costs of $21,900 for the cameras and their installation, followed by annual recurring costs of $18,000, Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg said. Village officials learned about Flock Safety’s Falcon system and how it works during a mayor’s exchange with the city of Lowell earlier this summer. “It takes a picture of the back of a car and it takes stock of two things - number one, the license plate, and number two, the vehicular fin­ gerprint,” Flock Safety community affairs manager Jonathan Paz said. The motion-activated, solar-pow­ ered system is then connected to the National Crime Information Center, which can supply an alert to law enforcement immediately, Paz said. “If someone is coming in who has a felony warrant associated with their car — maybe it’s a stolen vehicle, maybe there’s missing people involved, an Amber Alert, a Silver Alert - it will provide alerts in under 30 seconds. It’s the bestin-class technology,” he said. Sgt. Scott Ware, who heads up the Middleville unit of the Barry County Sheriffs Office, says the village’s current system of security cameras, which have been set up at various village-owned proper •w “ j;. •L I k 4 I ,4 I. — .1 ..1 7iB. .5 . /J & .1 •l " ♦ •l r -.l R n *’ ^'^11 J4 1 ’J ,1^ 4 '^• A KT s? * ». •• • —- • R f 5 : "At:* ] t <!>••• • 2 ^4 K 4A * bif— J- c^s *4 ' Middleville is investing nearly $40,000 in a camera system that will read the license plates of cars entering and leaving the village. The system could help local law enforcement solve crimes in the area. Photo provided ties such as the Sesquicentermial Pavilion and Village Hall, doesn’t have the capability of providing the type of detail the Flock Safety system does. “The (Flock Safety) technology will read the plates for us, and we can then track the plates of the car, we can track the make and model,” Ware said. “The cameras we have here in the village, I can put in ‘blue car,’ and they can track the blue car through the village camera system, but it’s not going to tell me if it’s a Chevy Malibu ...it’s just going to track every blue car. I’m going to be looking at 30 different (blue) cars without a time stamp.” Paz addressed council concerns regarding potential privacy issues. “It’s not facial recognition. It’s not meant to collect sensitive infor­ mation about individuals. We focus on cars. That’s the information that we’re able to capture,” he said. In addition, license plate numbers are considered public information, Paz said. The information that is collected has been found to be admissible as evidence in court cases. Paz cited a recent case in Flint where the tech nology was invaluable in capturing a driver in a hit-and-run case. “This has been a well-tried inves tigative tool that has been backed in case law across Michigan,” he said. In addition, any pictures that are captured by the Flock Safety sys tern are deleted within 30 days if they are not being actively used in a criminal investigation, Paz said. Council Trustee Makenzi Peters said that given current staffing short­ ages at the sheriff s department, acquiring the system is a no-brainer. If weTe looking at a safe com See MIDDLEVILLE on 2 �2 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 23, 2024 CHS Oct. Students of the Month recognized for accountability Caledonia High School an­ nounced its October Students of the Month recently. In October, CHS students were celebrated for embodying the theme of accountability, these exceptional students were nominated by their teachers for their dedica­ tion, integrity and positive influence within the school community. N inth-grade students Calieb lewoldemedhin and Raylee VanDeWeert repre sented the Freshman class * I 1 this month. Teachers said Te woldemedhin exempi ifies accountability by maintaining a clean classroom, supporting peers, and communicating effectively about missed work as a freshman soccer player. They say Raylee VanDeWeert upholds high standards for herself while fostering accountability in others, demonstrating leader­ ship and active participation in the classroom. Ziaja Phillips was the sophomore class’s honored * Ha* ■ AT Bb * T ■ X A 4 BLACK FRIDAY & ' Small Business Saturday Special f ’A Silver Diamond Pendant t 9 with 18” Cable Chain 9 < . H Sale Price *69 > 5? .4 »> r F'1 Reg. SI20.00 iI ... ■ ?• I SI-.- •X- 9369 Cherry Valley S.E (M-37) Caledonia ♦ Si* 1 S' i •9 616-891-5/so www.swiercngajewelers.coin * >« •«. 1 . I L I .r" V 1 I > » t t'' I I skills. His peers and teachers describe him as dependable and hardworking. Noor demonstrates remarkable ac countability as a mentor, dedicating time each morning to ensure a friend gets to school, exemplifying commit ment and compassion. These students have set a powerful example of accountability at Caledonia High School, inspiring their peers and enhancing their community. The school commends their efforts and looks for­ ward to seeing their continued impact. — Caledonia Community’ Schools J "a Several Caledonia High School students were honored this month for accountability. They include (front row, from left)CaliebTewoldemedhin, Raylee VanDeWeert, Samuel Lusaya, Ziaja Phillips, Ava Rairigh, Jonah Gabrielse, Obaidullah Noor and Eli Veiling Photo provided student. Despite transferring mid­ semester, Phillips has shown maturity and discipline, taking responsibility for her learning and navigating challenges with grace and humility. In 11th grade, Jonah Gabrielse and Eli Veiling were honored recently. Gabrielse is said to be committed to being the best student he can be, holding himself accountable for hard work and positive example-setting since the start of the school year. During a cross-country meet, Velting helped a struggling competitor, prioritizing compassion over competi tion. His selfless actions, coupled with his classroom leadership, reflect true accountability, say CHS staff. Honored seniors include Samuel Lusaya and Obaidullah Noor. Lusaya consistently goes beyond expectations, say teachers, whether by assisting with classroom organization, engaging in discussions, or refining his musical MIDDLEVILLE Continued from Page 1 munity, if we’re looking at returning people’s property, if we’re looking at expansion that is happening inside the village and outside, this is a no-brainer to approve,’’ Peters said. President Pro Tempore Kevin Smith said that the system “sells itself when it comes to protecting our community.” “It’s a high priority for the resi dents of this village to remain safe. As we’ve grown, so have the (crimi­ nal) incidents that have occurred, whether they’re car break-ins or business break-ins,’’ Smith said. “We’re a transient town. this is not a destination, it’s usually (peo­ ple) are passing through. This is a perfect tool to address just that. This had my full support five minutes after I saw it.” Four cameras will be installed on M-37, including one at the north and south entrances into the village, and two more will be installed on Main Street, Paz said. Founded in 2017, Flock Safety cur­ rently serves more than 5,000 com munities nationally with the license­ plate reading technology. * •i THE SUN AND NEWS f' The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com CONTACT US PUBLISHED BY Editor; Molly Macleod mmacleod®mihomepaper com 34M Sports: Brett Bremer bbremer®mihomepaper.com csilverman©mihomepapercom jyonker®mihomepaper,com G rou p Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Advertising Manager Chris Silverman Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist: Jennie Yonker ^^1 PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are available from The Sun and News Ad Dept., 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9459554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. �www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS LEADS enced to change their opinions or vote Continued from Page 1 differently because of Cunningham ’ s ~ J- - I , R, , —status as a board member, but did dom resolution. This is something write “when Mike provided his com­ that’s crafted specifically to stop me ments, it generally, felt awkward.” from talking, stop me from inputting “There are times when the (Planning ideas (and) facts - both as a board Commission) or members of the PC member and as a township resident,” will request input from the (Board Cunningham said. of Trustees) or work together with a At issue are comments Cunningham member (or members) of the board to has made suggesting a change in the develop solutions to issues,” she wrote. township’s short-term rental ordi “Working together to develop a solu­ nance, which is under study by the tion is a collaboration where all mem­ Planning Commission. The ordinance bers of the group can provide input and currently bans commercial short-term discuss pros and cons of the different rentals in residential-zoned areas. options. This is much different than the Cunningham attended and submit­ one-sided opinions that are typically ted written comments to the Planning presented in public comment.” Commission at an Oct. 17 public Heethuis said he was asked by hearing, at which he proposed allow­ Zoning Administrator Joe Shea to have ing an STR in a residential area if the township attorney Catherine Kaufinan proposed rental is close to the principal review whether it was appropriate for residence of the person who owns the Cunningham to make public comments rental and is at that residence each tied to the STR issue. day that the rental is occupied. The In her legal opinion that was the Planning Commission tabled any action basis for the resolution that passed, on the ordinance after that hearing and Kaufman cited a 1973 Michigan law was expected to resume discussions on that prescribed standards of conduct the ordinance on Thursday. for public officials and employees Because we personally live close to and also created a state board of eth­ the issue being discussed, I (had) been ics. One of those standards says “a notified (of the public hearing) - why? public officer shall not represent his Because the township by law had to or her personal opinion as that of an notify me, as a resident of the town agency.” She also wrote that a board ship, and that certainly, along with all member’s attendance and/or partici­ the other Open Meetings Act rules, pation at a meeting of the Planning seems to have given me permission to Commission or ZBA “may potentially attend as a resident, at the very least, lead to a finding of due process viola­ and to speak,” Cunningham said. tion” or otherwise would make any The Oct. 17 hearing wasn’t the decision reached by the Planning first time Cunningham had attended Commission or ZBA “legally vulner­ a Planning Commission meeting and able to challenge.” provided comments to be read into the In addition, the resolution cited a record as public comment. Planning Michigan Townships Association pol­ Commission Chairwoman Shana icy on avoiding undue influence that Bush wrote in an email. states: “because of the value of the “This has occurred several times, and independent advice of boards, com­ Mike has prefaced his comments with missions and committees to the public a statement that he is ‘commenting as a decision-making process, members of member of the public and not a mem the township board shall refrain from ber of the Township Board,’” Bush using their position to unduly influ­ wrote in her email. “After he had com­ ence the deliberations, outcomes or mented in person a few times and then recommendations of board, commis­ submitted written input - not related sions and committee proceedings.” to the STR ordinance -1 discussed the Heethuis echoed the MTA position. situation with our professional planner “When you come on the board, you to get clarification on the rules regard­ become kind of servants. You’re not ing elected township board members just (regular) citizens anymore, you’re speaking as members of the public servants of the township,” he said. during public comment at our Planning Cunningham argued that both the Commission meetings.” legal opinion and the MTA ethics Bush further wrote that she did not policy don’t tell the full story. believe commissioners were influ “The MTA and our attorney have M Mi (4 I* Saturday, November 23, 2024 both said at different times that if a board member is going to do this, they should make sure that they state that they are speaking as a resident, which I have done,” he said. “In all of this resolution, it doesn’t mention that, that you can do that. It’s just plain them saying ‘no, you can’t do it.’ “I’ve been threatened with censure. I’ve been threatened that the attorney will be here and it will be in a closed session to talk about this. It impunes my reputation and I’m very angry about it. I’m very upset about this. Cunningham added. Bush supported the board resolution. “It’s important to avoid situations where the (Planning Commission) or the ZBA could feel pressured by an elected official,” she wrote. “Allowing our elected officials to provide com­ ments and/or written opinions as a ‘member of the public’ has the poten­ tial to result in such a situation. If input from the (Board of Trustees) is requested from either the PC or the ZBA, that input should be provided as a response from the board and not as the opinion of one of its members. Knowles serves as the Township Board’s liaison to the Planning Commission, has a vote on the Planning Commission, and reports back to the board on the commis­ sion’s activities during its meetings. Likewise, Knowles reports back to the Planning Commission on any input the board might offer, Heethuis said. “The liaison should take (our input) to the Planning Commission, the Planning Commission should talk about it, and whatever they do, that ordinance is going to come back to the board, and we would either take that piece up or just sign the ordi­ nance that they passed. That’s how it should work,” Heethuis said. At the Nov. 14 meeting, Knowles said he was taken aback by some of Cunningham’s comments. “I kind of (hold the view) that our Planning Commission was designed to investigate on their own (any ordi nance changes),” Knowles said. “To me, if the thought is if we’re going to tell the Planning Commission what the board wants, I don’t know why we have a Planning Commission.” Cunningham has been critical of what he sees as an over-reliance on unelected committees influencing township board actions. The township has a parks com­ mittee, a fire committee, a veterans 5^ 3 memorial committee, a water resources committee and a recycling committee. In addition, the Planning Commission has been receiving input from a sub­ committee that was formed to look at short-term rentals. “My perception is that many on this board and on our committees and appointed commissions and boards believe that these non-elected posi­ tions within the township are so independent of the elected board of trustees that they do not have to fol­ low any rules or procedures and can work at cross purposes to the elected board,” Cunningham said. “When a board member dares to act and speak as a trustee of the town­ ship, representing the township inter­ ests above those of the appointed offi­ cials, these people, working behind and through some of the elected offi­ cials, place undue pressure on them to fall in line or get out.” The Township Board must still accept Cunningham’s resignation. Once that resignation is accepted, the board must then appoint a new clerk within 45 days of the effective date of resignation. An election could then be held in two years, Heethuis said. Fundraiser Middleville Community Food Pantry December and 7'^ Pasta Bar at 6:00 pm FELLOWSHIP HALL Play "The Poem" at 7:00 pm CHURCH SANCTUARY * * * Middleville United Methodist Church 111 Church St. Middleville Call 269-795-9266 for reservations ATTHE DOOR 100% of proceeds go to benefit Middleville Community Food Pantry �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 23, 2024 Cal school board approves renovation of former admin space Greg Chandler Staff Writer 7 he Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education Monday approved a contract for remodeling of the former district administration offices inside Duncan Lake Middle School. On a 5-0 vote, the school board ap­ proved awarding the contract for the project to Jenison-based JKB Con­ struction, which submitted the low bid Caledonia Community Schools of $345,000. The former office space has been unused since CCS moved its adminis trati ve offices to its current location just north ofthe high school three years ago. According to a memo from district officials, the project would convert two-thirds of the former office space, including the kitchen and mailroom, into an open-format area that would be used by the Caledonia Community Re­ source Center for a variety of programs and services. It would create two new restrooms as well. The remaining onethird of the space would be adapted for YMCA staff offices, and provide new office space and large group space for the Early Childhood Center, the memo said. The district’s administration and operations departments worked with LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church ALASKA BAPTIST cornerstonechurch CHURCH Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham Rev. Christine Beaudoin Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM wvvw.ala8kabaptist.org 7240 66th Street SE. Caledonia Join us for our traditional yet casual worship service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. Livestream: Faccbook.com/CalcdoniaUnilcdMcthodist Serving FIRST BAPTIST Sunday Service 10:30 AM Middleville r. ex co .1 Ik i A* Strengthening Good Shepherd Lutheran Church -7 9:30 a.m. I Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg 9 4 *4 Livestream: facebook.com/flrstbaptistmiddieville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 JOURNEY CHURCH Caledonia Location 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am http:/! goodshepherdlcms.googlepages •com Church: 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. (269) 795-2391 <Apeace CHURCH W --T Cfiuffh 51. A*I PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaukaledonia.org THORNAPPLE VALLEY Yankee Springs Bible Church CHURCH 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 MIDDLEVILLE Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616,891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: 9 HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH J Sunday Worship. . . a. cornerstonemi.org/weekend Connecting 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) ■Midi 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org 250 Vine Street Sunday at 9;30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM Tower Pinkster Architects on the bid­ ding process. Two bids were received for the project, according to the district memo. Construction on the project is slated to begin in January and take about three-and-a-half months to complete. JKB is also working on the renovation of Ralph E. Meyers Football Stadium, CCS Executive Director of Operations and Transportation Matt Hess said. “They have multiple work areas at the stadium, so they’ll be able to work on-site in tandem, moving crews back and forth,” Hess said. The project is not expected to cause any disruptions at the middle school, Hess said. “There’s a private entrance to that area. It is isolated, it is locked off from the rest of the school,” he said. Funding for the project will come from the district’s public improve­ ment fund. ffiS® kkafoZ? our services from our website (see above) "Shining Forth God's Light” Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org Local auction for veterans organization raises $2,800 Greg Chandler Staff Writer A si lent auction to support a nonprofit organization that provides outdoor activities to veterans and first respond ers to help them in their recovery from physical injuries and psychological trauma was a great success in Mid dleville last week. The auction held Nov. 12 at Red’s Sports Bar raised about $2,800 for AHERO (America’s Heroes Enjoying Recreation Outdoors), event organizer Diane Warner said. Based in Alabama, AHERO was founded by a retired Marine Corps officer and Purple Heart recipient who served three tours of duty in Iraq. It links veterans and first responders to re sources and programs, such as hunting activities, to help improve their quality of life. The goal of the organization is to reduce the number of veterans who die by suicide, Warner said. For more information on the organi­ zation, visit aherousa.org. �www.sunandnews.com ■ ■ ■ THE SUN AND NEWS I Classifieds Greg Chandler Staff Writer 1 The Middleville Downtown Devel­ opment Authority board wants a little more time to think things over before deciding whether to sign off on a re­ organization plan that moves most of the duties of the DDA director to the village’s current planning and zoning administrator. The DDA board Tuesday held off on a decision whether to adopt the recommendation from Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg to assign most of the DDA director responsibilities to current Planning and Zoning Administrator Doug Powers and give him the new job title of Director of Community and Economic Development. Powers would be the liaison to the DDA board under the new arrange­ ment, Assistant Village Manager and Department of Public Works Director Alec Belson said. The reorganization would also establish a part-time events coordinator position that would report to Powers. The reorganization proposal, which needs approval from both the DDA board and Village Council, followed the recent resignation of Gretchen James as DDA director for the village. The proposal has been incorporated in BUSINESS SERVICES Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing,dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured 616-389-9496 ■ I 5 DDA board pumps brakes on reorganization proposal f- ■z * Saturday, November 23, 2024 TREE SERVICE BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log ging, (269)818-7793. TREE TRIMMING & REMOVAL. Free estimates. All-American Home & Business, LLC. Call Bryan 616-290-6475. HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. PETS DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. the proposed village budget for next year, which is scheduled for final approval next month. James’ previous salary of $55,000 would be divided up among the director responsibilities that would be moved under Powers’jurisdiction and the new part-time position that will oversee ac­ tivities like the Riverbank Music Series and the Middleville Market. “There would be no financial impact. It would just be line items being modi­ fied in the budget,” Powers said. “There’s zero dollar impact to the DDA. Any financial impact will be on the village through the general fund.” DDA board Chairwoman Kim Jachim raised a concern regarding how the events coordinator would be hired. She would like the board to have input in the hiring process. “I would request we have DDA rep­ resentation on that hiring committee... that we would be able to interview and have input on it, too, with whoever (is going) do that, whether it’s the village president, (or) the village manager,” Jachim said. Belson said he would relay Jachim’s request to Stolsonburg, who was not in attendance at Tuesday’s meeting. Powers has proposed having a board retreat that would likely take place early next year. He also proposed taking steps for finding new members for the DDA board, which currently has three vacant seats. The board normally has nine members. We’re currently not at full capacity as a board. There needs to be discussion in regards to what this board has the capacity to be able to do for getting additional members or retaining mem­ bers,” Powers said. “I don’t foresee having a hard time filling these positions, in any way, Jachim said. “I’ve had people approach me (to express their interest). Board member Justine King said she had a lot of questions about the reorganization and asked for a work session to address them. “I think there’s way too much to dig into, too many details that we need to iron out before I would be willing to vote on it,” King said. The DDA board does not normally meet in December, but will set up a work session next month to dig further into the reorganization plan. 44 4^ 44 616-891-0150 BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 am Io 5 pm Village of Caledonia ends fiscal year with surplus, audit shows Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Caledonia ended the 2023-24 fiscal year with a surplus in the general fund of close to $250,000, according to a recent audit of the vil­ lage’s finances. In a recent presentation to the Village Council, Derek Hall of the Michigan Department of Treasury reported that the village ended the fis cal year June 30 with a general fund surplus of$248,563, based on revenues of $992,519 and expenditures and transfers out totaling $743,956. That boosted the village’s reserves in the general fund to $2,285,427, according to the audit document. Meanwhile, the major street fund re * * serves grew by $139,392 to $706,848, while the local street fund balance shrank by a little more than $27,000 to $ 131,769, according to the audit docu­ ment that was presented to the council on Nov. 12. “You have the ability to continue to operate as you have,” Hall told council members. Hall pointed out that a delay in a major street repair project into the current fiscal year contributed to the growth of the major street fund from 2023-24. The village earlier this fall had patching and overlay work done on Emmons Street, Maple Street, Duncan Lake Road and Casey Court, a project that received a $184,000 Category B grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation. Hall also pointed to recent purchases the village had made to replace a 27-year-old dump truck and a 16-yearold Chevrolet pickup for the Depart­ ment of Public Works, taking a bite out of those general fund reserves that won’t be reflected until next year’s audit. The Village Council in Septem­ ber approved purchasing a Chevrolet 3500 pickup truck with a dump bed plow, and safety/waming lighting for $68,940 and a Chevy 2500 3/4-ton pickup with plow and safety lighting for $56,748. “The decisions that you made to buy the truck, to do the road project, they’re not bankrupting you,” Hall said. “You had the reserves and you still have the reserves (after those purchases).” BODY SHOP •— ""Sa 1^ III .• » J Complete Collision Repair 110 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Vour frus-bed Body Shop -for over 32 years �6 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 23, 2024 Gaines trustees adopt 2025 township budget James Gemmell IM Contributing Writer The Gaines Township Board has adopted its general fund budget for the coming fiscal year and set elected officers’ salaries. All seven board members approved the appro­ priations measure during the Nov. 11 meeting at the township hall, following a public hearing. There have been some adjustments to the fiscal numbers that were discussed at a township workshop meeting in August, after which a draft version of the budget was presented to the board on Aug. 30. Gaines officials were projecting expenses of $3,507,480 in fire and rescue expenses for fiscal year 2025, and $1,428,500 for police services through the Kent County SherifTs Office. According to township projections, Gaines’ es­ timated general fund revenues for fiscal year 2025 will be $6,218,724. The township’s estimated special assessment revenue for public safety is $4,958,980. That is more than what was projected previously. About $1.6 million is coming directly from the levy. More than $2 million will come from a general fund transfer, $200,000 from a transfer of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, and $564,000 from Byron Township. “One ofthe bigger challenges that was encountered while the budget was being developed was the tran­ sition away from the intergovernmental agreement with Byron Township that governed the Cutlerville Fire Department,” Township Manager Rod Weersing wrote in a memo to the trustees in October. In July 2023, the Byron Township Board stunned Gaines Township officials by voting to sever a joint operating agreement with Gaines that had been in place since 1950. The split took effect in July 2024. Byron is looking to build its own fire station in Cut­ lerville, citing the rising number ofpublic safety calls in that township—which, like Gaines, is experiencing a booming population. Gaines has opted to purchase the remaining eq­ uity ownership in the Cutlerville fire station on 68th Street at Division Avenue, even though it is in Byron Township. Gaines will combine the Cutlerville Fire Department and the Dutton Fire Department into the new Gaines Charter Township Fire Department, dis Ant*nno Men E > * « V* * r I www.cellsignalpros.com 1p-^5. 'K . •r 4 I A’ ’ - JE2 I * % 'A ' t i_BA; * T - Mr .“n • •• A • —• ^•*1 •^rZ' '' I * 1'^ • —-Y-. wC*. t * •l . •• - .p . 7 TT. 4 V *“» * ■ J J I* T *1 if 4^ F» «F Gaines Township trustees discuss the budget at their Nov. 11 meeting at the township hail. Photo by James Gemmell effective Jan. 1, 2025. “The Byron Township portion ofthe shared expens­ es needed to be backed out from each general ledger line item of the current year’s budget,” Weersing said in the memo. “And income from the new Fire Ser­ vice Agreement needed to be projected. By merging the two departments into one budget, we should see some efficiencies in both department operations and office accounting.” The Water Department revenues for fiscal 2025 are estimated to be $3,613,600. The Sewer Department revenues total $3,346,700. The Building Department revenues for the fiscal year are pegged at $801,500, and the estimated revenues from the federal American Rescue Plan Act are $50,007.24. The township said that it expects general fund rev­ enues to decrease by about 1.2 percent, not including the fund-balance transfer. The township’s millage rate for fiscal year 2024 is 0.8048. That will be reflected in the winter tax bill that will go out to residents in December and be due in Feb. 2025. Although it is technically for FY 2024, the millage rate effectively will raise tax revenue for the township’s 2025 budget. The township annual special assessment millage was set at 1.25 mills for the winter tax roll. That will cost the average residential property owner about $160 in 2025.Last year’s rate was 1.0 mills. The town ship board voted unanimously in September to raise the special assessment levy for a fourth straight year. The 15-year levy dedicated to supportfire, police and rescue services in Gaines originally was passed by the board in 2021. The assessment was set at 0.6 mills for that first fiscal year. But the rising costs ofpublic safety in the township - stemming from the rapidly growing population - have motivated trustees to increase the levy every year since to cover the mounting expenses. The maximum annual rate would be 1.5 mills. Projected general fund expenses for fiscal year 2024 break down as follows: Elected Offices ($594,488); See TRUSTEES on 8 * Table 1 Category Taxes_____________ State Revenue ______ Fees for Service Restricted Revenue Other________ _ Total ______ __ Fund Balance Transfer* Total Available ' «w* 1 Projected revenue FY2025 $1,094,000 $3,238,596 $512,000 $406,000 $404,420 $5,655,016 $563,708 $6,218,724 II. ,_. Percent Revenues 19.35% 57.27% 9.05% 7.18% 7.15% I Percent of total funds available 17.59% 52.08% 8.23% 6.53% 6.50% 9.07% «■ Give us a call! srffi ® 5 Jt; -4, • Cellular Enhancement Systems 1 I iflLV ' ,>♦6^ ♦ •/fSufSCag ***** 3 Ji. I Antenna Meri Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers < .1 269-967-8241 www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com - *FuncJ balance transfers are not revenues for the 1 zs ... . current fiscal year, but unspent revenues from previous fiscal years. ’’“"Cl’ls- <ees » sireetligh, speclel assessment revenues u other” includes (but is not limited to) cemetery revenues, various enterprise fund & intergovernmental rents, & interest earnings General Fund revenues fall into five broad categories Source; gainestownship.org ( in Gaines Charter Township, as this table indicates. I �www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 23, 2024 1 No contest plea entered in crash that killed local tow truck driver Greg Chandler Staff Writer A 19-year-old man pleaded no con test Wednesday to charges he struck and killed a Hastings tow truck driver on M-6 near Caledonia one year ago this month. Payton Bradley Ferris entered the plea in 63rd District Court in Grand Rapids to a single count of a moving violation causing death in the Nov. 4, 2023, crash that killed 25-year-old Keagan Spencer on M-6 near Kraft Avenue. A third-generation tow truck driver, Spencer was co-owner and operator of Hastings-based Towzilla Towing and Recovery. He was engaged to be mar­ ried and a father to two small children, one of whom was with him when he was struck and killed while attempting to rescue a dog that was in the median of the expressway. Ferris faces up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,000 when he is sentenced on the. misdemeanor charge Dec. 16. He is currently free on a $10,000 bond while awaiting sentencing. About 30 family members and friends of Spencer’s, many wearing T-shirts or jackets bearing phrases like “move over” and “slow down,” attended the hearing before District Judge Kirsten Holz. They are angry that Ferris did not face felony charges in Spencer’s death. Spencer’s mother, Miko Garrison, called the no contest plea a “cowardly act.” “It’s in the police report that he was on his phone 13 seconds prior to the crash. He was driving 80 miles an hour. I think it’s quite an unfair, unjust charge,” Garrison said. Keagan’s father. Matt Spencer, * compared the charge Ferris is facing to another case that had been heard moments before in the Kent County courtroom where the individual pleaded guilty to stealing a phone. That charge could have resulted in a similar sentence to what Ferris may receive. 46 (Ferris) runs over a young man at 80 miles an hour and it’s still a misdemeanor, punishable by one year (in jail)? ... How can this be just a misdemeanor? It should be a 15-year felony because he struck a roadside worker,” Matt Spencer said. “He had his lights activated, he was in his (reflective) gear. MIOSHA found no fault with Keagan. This young man was distracted and speeding.” Assistant Kent County Prosecutor Gabriel Holmstrom told members of Spencer’s family outside the court that no sentencing agreements have been made with the defendant. “Our position all along is that we want jail time,” Holmstrom said. Spencer’s death has mobilized the tow truck industry to speak out for new laws to protect tow drivers when they assist drivers whose vehicles become disabled. It’s expected that as many as 500-600 tow trucks may show up at Ferris’ sentencing hearing as a show of support for Keagan, Matt Spencer said. “We can’t control what the judicial system is going to do,” he said. “But what we can control is what Keagan’s legacy is going to be. We hope we can use his story to tighten up the ‘move over’ laws. This was not a ‘move over’ violation because Keagan’s truck was 90 degrees to the road. If he was paral­ lel to the road, he would be covered by the ‘move over’ law. 46 The young man was on his phone 13 seconds before he killed Keagan, and that isn’t a distracted driver charge. YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS Why? Because they can’t prove he was hands-free, and because he wasn’t on his phone when he physically struck Keagan.” Legislation has been introduced by state Rep. Gina Johnsen, R-Lake Odessa, dubbed “Keagan’s Law,” that would allow for blue flashing lights to be installed on tow trucks to warn mo­ torists that they are assisting a disabled vehicle. That legislation is currently in committee. Spencer’s family is pursuing a law­ suit against Ferris and his insurance company for damages resulting from the crash, Matt Spencer said. Holz said she has received num erOUS letters from Spencer’s family and friends, as well as from Ferris’ family, and has also seen the video footage of the crash that killed Keagan. She said that she would set aside “several hours” at the sentencing hearing to give those affected an opportunity to speak. r - • ' *--*1 9 •w * • I I V» i' A * A - *>1 Matt Spencer, Keagan's dad, speaks to reporters after Payton Ferris pleaded no contest Wednesday to a charge of moving violation causing death in the death of Keagan on M-6 in Kent County in November of last year. Photo by Greg Chandler -Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters -Humidifiers •J Group I xcwm ‘<5 i 6, ♦ •> • I .A t I 4 ■ " ^• « Residential & Commercial I' '«»g? »i ■ —y—^11 ■ I i ■* Si A .f >* 4 & 9 L Ka « < b Ci 1 4 ; '*.‘1 ’. s J a If .V* * y . .4 H •( 7 ri $ -A tJ < u 1 f 5 12 'J-' Tr * •V , I' J • > M. .■ C J #-• Ar L IS^il - *•3 • HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. Since 1955 269-792-2234 1. 1 A DeWeerd (68) I J^ll T fj t • r*-, & . I i ■ v- *4 > r j ‘ I I 1 I DEWEERDHTG.COM I 9« ♦‘ S-k' ........ .... t 9- I WE'RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS You ’ re our friends, our family, our neighbors... and * * * ** * our future. VIEW I J^. 2 >7 H* ■k 1 -r ■ 3 ‘ r " �I ■' ■ 8 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 23, 2024 www.sunandnews.com r • 5 Turkey Trot organizers eye another record turnout as race becomes fun, yearly tradition Jayson Bussa Contributing Writer Few, if any, people want to work on Thanksgiving Day. But, when it comes to staffing the yearly Turkey Trot race, the YMCA of Barry County has no problems finding the help. “People are pretty quick to help out,” said Gina McMahon, program director for the YMCA and the Turkey Trot race director. “Our Y staff throughout all the departments jump on board right away. They know how important the event is. Sometimes you think it might be a struggle because it’s Thanksgiving morning, but we’ve never struggled to get Y staff as well as volunteers.” That’s the beauty of the Turkey Trot — it is far less of a competitive 5K race and much more of a yearly tradi­ tion for family and friends throughout Barry County. Throughout the years, hundreds of participants have shown many dressed in Thanksgiving up garb—to run the race on Thanksgiving morning, burning off plenty of calories before they belly up to the Thanksgiv- ing table for a big meal. This year will be no different as the Turkey Trot is slated for Thursday, Nov. 28 as the YMCA of Barry County celebrates its 16th installment. This is an event that has exploded especially recently. in popularity Organizers have added small wrinkles to it as the years have gone on and it now features a free, one-mile fun run for those who are not so confident they can hoof it for the full three miles. “I think it’s about the community connection and family and friends gathering. It’s definitely about that atmosphere,” McMahon said. “I think we have a small town, family vibe to it,” said Melissa Fletke, market­ ing and communications director for the YMCA. “It’s not taken extremely seriously.” The number of participants shows the strides that the event has made, es­ pecially recently. In 2019, 183 runners participated before it was cancelled in 2020 because of COVID. In 2021, the event returned with 224 followed by * r *1 -JIS . V / Wil r f 4. r.r 9 I 1 > < k £ • > ♦ / Tf- •4 j!k. * V - & k . .V 1 •e -9^.- * X ? : *A ; If you plant a tree today, it will provide shade for years to come. If you plan for your legacy today, your gift will assist your community for generations. Call 269-945-0526, and Bonnie YtAKS Of iMAfOVINQ Gettys or Annie Halle can help IIVK you ensure that your gifts can IHF BAmCOM NITYtOUNDAhON support your hopes arid dreams. 2918. BROASWAY IT, HASTINOS Ml WWW,BARRY6F.dBa ,7 ‘Ml r t I % ' <•;* ’7 J 5- t. «*h'' i ^5 ** * -•• > X «* n I / 4k I I T - r ¥ T. I . mV t < jflH I* V •- ■ The YMCA of Barry County will be holding its 16th installment of the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. Photos provided 231 runners in 2022. But this total took a big jump last year when race organiz­ ers made it a timed race complete with microchipped race bibs. This allowed runners to know their time and determine where they fin­ ished. Last year, the event pulled in a record 468 runners. This year’s Turkey Trot is flirting with a new record as 425 runners are already signed up with a week left before the big day. The run with humble roots now looks and feels much more like a big city 5K run. “I think the bibs made a big dif­ ference,” McMahon said. “The bibs, timing, and the really cool inflatable finish line rather than just running past our YMCA sign. That’s made it really See TROT on 9 TRUSTEES that helps issue flood insurance policies by allowing agents to access the NFIP directly, without going through a Write Your Own carrier. Flood insurance is available to any one living in one of the nearly 23,000 participating NFIP communities. Homes and businesses in high-risk flood areas with mortgages from gov­ ernment-backed lenders are required to have flood insurance. “Anyone with a structure on a property in a 100-year flood plain, with a feder­ ally backed mortgage, has to carry flood insurance,” Weersing explained, adding that the insurance is more expensive for impacted residents right now because the township is not part of the program. “They would get a discount by being able to go through the National Flood Insurance Program,” he said. Only about 175 acres in Gaines Township are within the 100-year flood plain. Weersing said 63 housing units and 20 other out-building structures fall within the flood plain. In other business, the township board held a public hearing to approve a revised cemetery ordinance and some revised rules and fees. The fee schedule also was revised to include new services (a columbarium), and to align with fees at other area cemeteries. Continued from Page 6 Let Us Help You Plan Yoa egacy £ Vb I General Administration ($2,006,684); Public Works ($853,297); Transfer to Public Safety ($2,557,780); Cemetery ($206,475). The transfer to public safety was 41.13 percent of the total expenses. The township board roll-call voted 7-0 to adopt resolutions setting the su­ pervisor’s salary at $37,087 beginning Jan. 1,2025; the clerk’s and treasurer’s respective salaries at $92,735; and the trustees’ meeting per diem at $120. In another fiscal matter, the township board set a public hearing for its Dec. 9 meeting to discuss potential participa­ tion in the National Flood Insurance Program. It would not cost the township any money. “It doesn’t benefit a lot of people, but those that will benefit from it will save some money,” Weersing said in a post-meeting interview. The NFIP is a government-backed insurance program that helps property owners, renters and businesses recover faster when floodwaters recede. It is managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and is delivered to the public by a network of more than 50 insurance companies and a program called NFIP Direct. That is a system �» w* www.sunandnews.com A ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS J ♦ ♦ * Parkinson’s Support Group meets Dec. we* ri J A ■ •t J 9 IS A 44* Saturday, November 23, 2024 t I Vv Ik Vi u U JI I JU Al The Barry County Parkinson’s Support Group will hold its next meeting Wednesday, Dec. 11, at 5 p.m. at the Barry County Commis­ sion on Aging. The CO A is located at 320 W. Woodlawn Ave. in Hastings. The evening will feature Chelsea Kosht, a Therapy Awareness Consul­ tant with the Great Lakes Region of Medtronic, a health care technology company serving Barry County. The evening’s topic will be Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), an effective treatment for many people living with Parkinson’s Disease. During the session, Kosht will discuss an overview of DBS and how it works, potential benefits and risks associated with the procedure and technology updates, including BrainSense tech­ nology that captures brain signals to C. * Ift *i '.J - ft . * z — I d 4|R’ 1 J A 9 t -- nl f 9 • ♦ A f 9 . /$ 4 I -r/ »Jl « / fl Bp^X. .JV * t ■ /- A > 4 ' > -:' * * * >• WJ •X. •». 4f I * • Jk** Vr Pi 5 jjV OpSpLc 'X B.7 ' wc : sW » ■:- V.\ i>n. ‘V ) I.* i >* V ir.'tjc Y The Turkey Trot, for many, has become a fun, annual event to help celebrate Thanksgiving Day with family and friends. TROT Continued from Page 8 cool to have that big finish line.” The run takes place near Algon­ quin Lake, starting at the comer of Buehler Road and Iroquois Trail. The race route begins on Buehler Road before turning right on Woodrulf Road, right on Hammond Road, right on Iroquois Trail, and ending at the parking lot at the YMCA’s Camp Algonquin. Registration is still available, but those who register now will not get the promotional long-sleeve • Turkey Trot shirt, which is already in production. The winning male and female receive a free turkey donated by Ottos’ Turkey Farm. The winning youth runners get turkey cookies. Hot chocolate will be served on the front lawn of the YMCA’s Camp Algonquin at the conclusion of the event. A best-dressed award will also be handed out, with the winner receiving a pumpkin pie with an engraved fork. For all the detailed information on the event, visit ymcaofbarrycounty.org/sports-programs/ turkey-trot. 2^ - V ’ *4i MIDDLEVILLE TOPS 546 The Nov. 11 meeting opened with roll call and the secretary’s report. There is one fish in the fishbowl. Sue’s program was on “Portion Sizes, Serving Sizes. Portion Distortions. /\ serving is a measured amount of food a guideline. A portion is the amount of food you choose to eat. It can be more than one serving. Portion distortion is what we perceive a normal serving to be. The more you are given, the more you eat. Restaurants usually serve large portions. To overcome these obstacles, buy pre-portioned snacks and divide into portions as soon as you get home. Use a food scale, smaller plates, take-home boxes, split a meal with a friend, or order from the lunch menu. Eat meals at regular times with a snack in between. Make sure meals contain protein, fiber, and a healthy fat. Highly processed foods are harder to control so keep them out of the house or serve with a protein and a fiber. Be aware of portion sizes. Eat lean protein, veggies, fruits, whole grains, and beans to stay fuller, longer. Linda won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.. followed immediately by the meeting. Press the apartment 318 button for entry. Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-3183545. The first meeting is free. help optimize patient comfort. There will be a question-and-answer period following the presentation. The Barry County Parkinson’s Support Group meets quarterly at 5 p.m. on the second Wednesday in December, March, June and Septem­ ber. It is a collaboration between the Barry County Commission on Aging, Corewell Health and the Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation. Anyone living with Parkinson’s and their care providers, or those in­ terested in learning more about symp­ toms and treatment is welcome to attend, regardless ofage or residency. Light refreshments will be available. More information can be found by reaching out to Tammy Penning ton, co-facilitator, at 269-275-0922. Oto MM >1 r ♦ * I . . *• ♦ *1 <• i? WRi I, St- F I 41 4 x: -•• • 54 I ♦ ♦ r 1 JS I R ’’l*! r' » I c % ?* J**’ Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! 9* % Ilf 1 f -' f iL«. ..V sA 'r t. I J I £<;. M <*!•* J •A’. I > •a < sr-;.-' I I / 3 • k A I , • 7 r z J ..J * 4 5l ■l 4 ■ 4 * I «« A7 IF — 5 ^»^w—-•-- I ■ .* ..»• »L! .'r «M| • \ . • I / 4^ ,^^..... «»>. « •J . Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. PRINTING BY www.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com �10 www.sunanclnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 23, 2024 9 4 ♦ ♦ ♦ Gov. Whitmer pardons Aidan Cluckinson rooting for a Lions Thanksgiving win ♦ LANSING Last Thursday, Govemor Gretchen Whitmer pardoned a turkey before Thanksgiving. The turkey’s name, Aidan Cluckinson, was submitted by Valentina, a young Michigander from South Lyon. The name was selected from nearly 4,500 entries in the statewide contest. Aidan Cluckinson is the third turkey pardoned since the governor took office. “Today, we come together to contin­ ue our tradition of pardoning a turkey,” said Governor Whitmer. “This year’s winning name is Aidan Cluckinson, which was one of hundreds of submis­ sions based on our beloved Detroit Lions. The team has really captured our hearts and made us all hopeful for a Super Bowl this year. This Thanksgiv­ ing, I hope everyone enjoys time with loved ones, finds a way to give back to the community, and keeps on cheering for our Lions.” “As a lifelong Detroit Lions fan, I am thrilled to be here today to pardon Aidan Cluck-in-son,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “He is the defini '77?^— & •V e J *4 #4 a* 1 P i <*b r E 1 « r 4 I A t ' « • • 5* 4 < »> fi. Greg Chandler Contributing Writer ri V V • W A < i > ’r 1 J «k-: J * I r. J rs • -2B . *1 b L L < *I ■*1 I i I J -•r“ I Out of Michigan’s many turkeys, one stood above the rest for its true grit. Aidan Cluckinson was pardoned last week by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Cluckinson, named after Lions defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, will enjoy a relaxing Thanksgiving this year not on the dinner table. Photo provided tion of true grit and never gets fouled. He will be joining all of us on Thanks giving Day as the Detroit Lions take wing and fly to their next victory on the road to the Super Bowl.” Last year, the governor pardoned Dolly Pardon, which was selected from more than 3,900 entries in the statewide contest. In 2022, the governor pardoned Mitch E. Gander. MM Sen. Albert schedules local office hours State Sen. Thomas Albert has scheduled in-district office hours to meet with the public in Lake Odessa and Hastings in late November and early December. On Monday, Nov. 25, Albert will be at the Hastings City Hall council chambers, 201 E. State St., from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Residents will have another op portunity to talk with Albert in Lake Odessa on Friday, Dec. 6. Then, he will be at the Lake Odessa Commu nity Library, 1007 Fourth Ave., from * Z r . .• / / ■ . t Your local agent insures your H#me Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 Jparks@fbin5mi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com UGNT TRUCK PARTS BSED rUTS • WK BPS • UK TORS • VANS • SWTS • JEEPS • 4X4S / FULL SERVICE & YOU PULL IT * if I F4ffM BUREAU MStJBA^CE* ® # ffi A 4 269-381-2300 * 9- '»'■ y t •n . •jRbw* USED PARTS USED TIDES 1811 LAKE ST, KALAHIAZDD -i* J 9;30tol0;30a.m. 1 Office hours ♦ are open to dis­ I trict residents to h talk about issues St related to state government or to request assis Sen. Thomas tance with a state • Albert issue. No appointment is necessary, but space may be limited at some locations. Local office hours in other parts of the Sen ate’s 18th District will be scheduled at a later date. The 18th District in­ cludes Barry County and portions of Allegan, Calhoun, Kalamazoo, Kent, and Ionia counties. Residents unable to attend office hours may contact Albert’s Senate office via email at SenTAlbert@ r 1 Dinner theater to benefit Middleville food pantry 'I t- A dinner theater fundraiser to benefit the Middleville Commu­ nity Food Pantry will take place Dec. 6-7 at Middleville United Methodist Church, 111 Church St. Dirmer will be served in the church’s fellowship hall at 6 p.m. and features a pasta bar. It will be followed by the play “The Poem” in the church sanctuary at 7 p.m. Housed at the United Methodist church, the Middleville Commu­ nity Food Pantry serves residents in the 49333 zip code. It provides food to an average of 35 families. representing about 100 individu als, per month with 60 percent of those served being under the age of 18, event spokeswoman Darlene Schellinger said. The pantry relies on donations to stock its shelves. Donations of nonperishable food are welcome. The average cost to maintain the pantry is $1,500 per month. “Since COVID-19, donations from churches, schools and businesses have been down,” Schellinger said. A love offering will be taken with 100 percent of the pro­ ceeds going to the food pantry, Schellinger said. You can make reservations for the dinner theater by calling the church office at 269-795-9266 or just show up the night of the performance. * senate.michigan.gov, by calling 517373-1734 or by calling toll-free at 855-347-8018. More information is available on Albert’s website, SenatorThomasAlbert.com. �I www.sunandnews.com 1 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. November 23, 2024 11 9 4 4 A *T: U’4p V 9HUw u V / « ^^-4. !5.4 / 1 •* w s.- « * 7*V^ 1 4 4 4b * .'T'. JL * • .« ; ■ «4 I*!* * <* J. I T. ‘I 1 > /J g^. T t •> aJSL Of ,4 *4^4 > iK,' mo of TK ladies sign on with D2 college programs .’-fi.f' C* 4 1 r I fcl" 9 Ti* f > 7j 1 F’-’S. •‘t* a* •? f £ Cl .4 y K’ *»• 4 J .I I i I A .. I •I to i' 1-^ 1 I V 7 ■to<; ■ •U? > r< J • i u Q’tov.. * (H “. T * •w<;. * > i » « •< I** z b 54 !• t to * t >-^ 1IM4V X I . -J * c / •iXp sjr* rtWJC. * k M W \ . iK y < I» * I 1. F •X b« A f; I i •I fff I 1^ I /I 0 .•J ♦ st* « r I z k' F’ K i I r^’ K*?® '- J r ' * ' i"' 14 .f^ / isl* 1 : ^2. * * 35r n - b. 1 /* ai 4 >*v 1 <& f 4 Z < tf r h I •F" - • ■« i ■ *.■ I bb * J %*•. * •'X f '•qi' ■y « t fl !■» s .’i. 9.. ^•5 i 4 £ <1 J • -T l1 ffV: 5 «r . I£ K 4f^ a’,WILL, I f * k M - ZMfc*-w***^ ■ !»' <1 ’S - IMP* * ♦^**.^*'* • ' > « 4^* * W'. T , |_|H> w X A .z *« •V »V«H I • .. rSi^. 4^< 4 > L» .**? I .■» -u • iLrfl p i7 •2^, '-M; 1 ♦ ( ^'1 > T ' I ' 1 » *5.* r. r X— .a- —• •irii A K 9 ^V*' U I fi, yr 'l^p I I 1- 1 . -c; k ' (2. 2 \ ' ~ Thornapple Kellogg senior Kylee Hoebeke is joined by her parents Mike and Erin Hoebeke after signing her National Letter of Intent to join the Grand Valley State University Women’s Softball program next season inside the TK team room at the high school in Middleville Wednesday, Nov. 13. Photo by Brett Bremer s I .• •i Thornapple Kellogg senior Ava Crews is joined by her mom Kate Crews, sister Emi Crews, mom Kate Crews and TK varsity girls’ cross country coach Sam Wilkinson after signing her National Letter of Intent to be a part of the Grand Valley State University Women’s Cross Country program next season inside the TK team room at the high school in Middleville Wednesday, Nov. 13. Photo by Brett Bremer Brett Bremer Sports Editor An all-state senior trio inked their plans to take their athletic talents to the NCAA Division II level on the opening day of the national signing period Wednesday, Nov. 13, at Thomapple Kellogg High School. Kylee Hoebeke and Ava Crews signed their National Letters of Intent to join Grand Valley State University Women’s programs next season and Ailana Leos is headed to the University of West Florida. Crews is a four-time state qualifier in cross country who earned her first all-State medal in the sport while also winning OK Gold Conference and Barry County individual champion ships. Crews has been the leader for the TK girls’ cross country team since the moment she stepped on the course as a freshman, and also a state qualifier in distance races in track and field for TK over the years as well. *■ I I 111 J •fe I TKHS alumnus and former Grand Valley State University All-America runner Allyson Winchester is the only girl ahead of Crews on the TK cross country record board. Hoebeke was all-state honorable mention as a shortstop for the TK var­ sity softball team last fall. She also spent time pitching for the Trojans and was dominant at the plate with eight home runs and an OPS of 1.798. For context New York Yankee slugger Aaron Judge led all of MLB during the 2024 season with a 1.159 OPS (on-base plus slugging). She had a whopping .621 batting average. She also just finished up her senior season as a setter for the Thomapple Kellogg varsity volleyball team. Leos will head south to continue to improve her golf game and compete with the Argonauts. Leos is a two-time state qualifier for the TK varsity girls’ golf team and set a school-record with See TRIO on 13 -A •v #>■I L« J 4«ST I •*1 1 •l •5-1 I M •1 <“ R I » Vi nu *1 p* •l a NOVEMBER 26 ESTATE SALE WWW.M37AUCTION.COM ♦< 4 4 4< K V S V 4 s I \ ) ^■' ‘ M :^4J . a '.V r* b .-Z' < I. 5 I Sx > J > r V .s ;a. r .$-y *e c p*j i •ar’ I I WE SELL REAL ESTATE TOO! (616)920-6BS1 < • I4,’ > *k **■ V ■w. «___ _. > " b. ** * b^- *fc'~Ti laaii' -Tai — ..I pT J r I I I �12 Saturday, rjovembf- f t * r THF SUN AND NEWS ■ A • » \ ♦ V 'i < 'v sunandi'uews.com Senior CHS spikers set their college plans ♦ coaches, Maier said, which even' year comes with new challenges. You have to learn the coach, learn what they like and all of that. It was crazy. Coach Brown, a parent of a varsity volleyball player herself in sophomore Aubrey Reynolds, welcomed every one to the signing day ceremony and started by thanking the parents in the room. Thank you for the countless hours. the dedication and sacrifices you’ve made to support your athletes’ dreams. Brown said. “You’ve spent countless weekends at tournaments, you prob­ ably have a million (wrist) bands saying I I that you can get into the tournament, you’ve traveled a ton of miles across Caledonia senior outside hitter Cambria Gaier signs her National Letter of state lines, purchased a ton of tourna­ Intent to join the University of South Alabama Women’s Volleyball program ment sweatshirts and gear and have next season during the CHS varsity volleyball team’s national signing day been an unwavering support system celebration in the high school media center Wednesday, Nov. 13. She is that has allowed them to excel. From joined by her parents Chad and Lori Gaier. Photo by Brett Bremer early morning practices to late night drives, you have shown what true commitment looks like. It is from that many obstacles, that we all overcame place and embrace the role that we were foundation that they are able to stand throughout this experience. Without given as freshmen. We were all for it.” here today, ready to take on the next them it would not be the same. They The trio helped lead to the Caledo­ level. Your encouragement and belief are really my best friends.” nia varsity to its first ever conference in them has been essential and we are championship this fall as the Scots They were ballgirls for the CHS deeply grateful. ” finished as the co-champs in the OK varsity team in that fall of 2020. Gaier will be the furthest from her Green Conference with with head We would spend all of practice parents in the coming years. She let coach Ashley Brown. together for the middle school team programs know that she was looking Maier said constant change was and then we would come here and be forward to getting out and exploring one of the hurdles their teams had to at the practices,” said the senior middle the world during the volleyball recruit ­ overcome. Brown was their fourth head Noble. “We got to see what the culture ing process. coach in four varsity seasons. Valerie was like being on a varsity team. It just “ I never thought I ’ d end up in Ala ­ Lurye was the varsity head coaching gave us big dreams. That was some­ bama, but here I am. I went originally during their eighth-grade year. She thing we were looking forw'ard to for coached them as freshmen and then I went to a camp there and then I took a whole year. We were especially close stepped aside with Emily Ward lead ­ an official visit, and I took an unofficial to the captains at the time, and we were ing the program in 2022 and Grace visit, and I actually was just down there like, we couldn’t wait to step in their Will in 2023. maybe two weeks ago for their home“We are four-for-four for varsity coming game. 1 have been down there a pretty decent amount for being so far away. My family has-been pretty great aboutthat. being supportive and be­ (excludes sale items) ing like oh yeah you need Sale ends November 30th to get down there.” • New College Prints free There are ties to home J Estimates "O* (goef‘Bless ‘Americal 'Q* there for Gaier. Head coach Jesse Ortiz took • Closed-Cell Foam Insulation Hulst over the Jaguar program Cleaners • Blown-in Attic Insulation in Mobile in 2021 and pickup 218 E State St., Hastings • 945-9673 517-983-0954 among his many oth­ ^Station OPEN; Monday-Friday 8 am-5;30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm er coaching positions St^Saving Today ~ Use Spray Foam See SPIKERS on 13 Brett Bremer Sports Editor Jess Maier and Josie Noble are head­ ing across the big lake. Cambria (iaicr is headed across the country . A trio of four-year varsity volleyball players from the Caledonia program signed their National Letters of Intent Wednesday, Nov. 13, to join NCAA Women's volleyball programs in the Caledonia High School media center. Gaier and Noble arc headed to DI schools with (iaier inking plans to join the University of South Alabama and Noble signing on with the Universitv ofWisconsin Milwaukee. Maier, who grew up in Chicago, is set to join the Roosevelt University program which joined the NCAA Division 2 and began competing in the GIJAC with schools like (irand Valley State University, l erris State University and Davenport University, this season. The trio have all been members of the Far Out Volleyball Club in Grand Rapids over the past half decade and really got linked together as eighth graders in C aledonia. We were undefeated that season, in eighth grade,” said Gaier, an all-state outside hitter who was honorable men lion all-state last year in Division 1. I hat kind of sparked everything for us. Wc got the opportunity to practice with the varsity while we were in eighth grade, which was really cool for us three. Since then, we’ve grown as friends and as teammates. I would not be here without them. They have brought me through so many challenges and so 4 * 9 • hi; > ."I •• I*■ 4 *♦ Jl t II > * ♦ ••• -■ 44 I r >- • < X. j ■ X > f •l u *9 1 44 Annual November Sale % Off Fabrics s. < r . l'. I 4 f OUkhTiONS. ACM US. •b 1 'a 9 t —* «• * 1.’ * 44 1 •i • • X V I �www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS SPIKERS TRIO Continued from Page 12 odidas :s^ .R’ her nine-hole score of 34 on the front nine at Maple Hill Golf Course this fall. While her two classmates are headed to Grand Valley State Uni­ versity, that’s where Leos closed her last big high school season. She earned all-state honors this fall and was a state medalist for the first time thanks to a sixth­ place finish at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 2 Girls’ Golf Finals last month at The Mead­ ows on the campus of GVSU in Allendale. Leos was also the OK Gold Conference individual champion in 2024. p Both Crews and Leos earned academic all-state honors during this senior fall season. < I, * ♦ I fl* rxas ( r» o>y. V I » r M r. ri. :V''' 1k J; r % Zi < A** •••I. .-3^: - h K ■Mflr P ■Kp 9 V .* r <* t 7^ SAi •« I, n nnm I ilNucRSin, ifST FLOR' a S W- * bJ.4r.4 > /ST 5 3: r t la^ .. t .J, 1* M / .? 1 gjp^ •l u K W5L R •’ > SS! I V R A >4* 4. rr S is;** TS - i I* yx! << Wt- I ir z ♦4 ?• s w-T* Thornapple Kellogg senior Ailana Leos celebrates signing her National Letter of Intent to join the University of West Florida Women’s Golf program next season inside the TK team room at the high school in Middleville Wednesday. Nov. 13. She was joined by her parents Robert and Julia Leos and her sister Ariana. Photo by Brett Bremer v* ■< 1 :< ¥ zf It •cT* - . 4 A .11 I -ft 1 . V I I, I < s •< I > % f •l lb — r’ ^•4 V H S. 2 « «x f A • «S.W Mf 1 J * .f w * I M !• !• iMrrj t Irv MB. *-*• .jj 'f). X J* J 1 I ‘41 ' » 111 a Im • '-i »s> r I r ‘41 4 ! 1 I-. p ^..-43 I J •A’ » < 4 <« a i X b kt - V r J J •«^ r ♦ ♦F ••4 /x > 14 J I J r R ___ J £ >» >J .G: r the atmosphere and the environment there was insane. There were so many fans. I was like, wow I can’t wait to be a part of something like this.” Noble set a Caledonia record for total blocks during her high school tenure. Josie has been a powerhouse at the net, leading our team with her blocking ability, sharp instincts and unmatched presence on the court,” Brown said. “Her dedication to her craft and her team has been unwavering and she has set a high standard for excellence that others look up to. Beyond her physical talent, Josie brings a spirt and positiv­ ity that inspired everyone around her. Wisconsin Milwaukee is gaining not just a formidable athlete, but a genuine teammate and leader.” See SPIKERS on 16 9 4* •>r< ) I 4 4«l c 1 BUY A SET OF 4 TIRES re'. T1 I I tf I 1 < -* ★REBATES UP TO $200 ON SELECT BRANDS S D tii If I Caledonia senior middle Josie Noble signs her National Letter of Intent to join the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Women’s Volleyball program next season during the CHS varsity volleyball team’s national signing day celebration in the high school media center Wednesday, Nov. 13. She is joined by her parents Jared and Darcy Noble, Photo by Brett Bremer b J I ■« Z 1 I !FFi k • I J adidoF 1-^ 13 ♦ Continued from Page 11 over the years he was an instructor in the Far Out Club for a time. “Cam has been a driving force for our team and our program the last four years,” Brown said, “bringing not only her impres­ sive athleticism and power to every match, but also her passion and resilience. As an outside hitter she is consistently delivering when it matters most, showing up in the toughest moments and inspiring her teammates with her determination and grit.” While Gaier was looking to exploring. Noble said Milwaukee is a little bit further away than she had planned to go for college - but not too far. She said that the campus wound up feeling like home. “I got to sit in on a a practice with the girls,” Noble said of her official visit. “I just sat there and observed it. I was just like wow, this is an environment I can really see myself being in. We went to a game recently, they were playing Stanford, and it was actually pretty close, surprisingly, and o^lSas Saturday, November 23, 2024 c ,4 S KF a ■• - • F I I *SI ssl %|5 b k Journey in Style caoPEr^Tmes HanKOOK 1 I ' (FREE alignment check included) I •# MIDDLEVILLE 500 Arlington Street 269.795.3550 CALEDONIA 9820 Cherry Valley Road 616.891.3550 TlltES2OOO.NET �14 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 23, 2024 Slagel wins D1 regional diving championship ♦ ♦ Brett Bremer Sports Editor The lead was almost 13 points after five dives. It was just about 17 points after eight dives. Of course. Grand Rapids Gator sophomore diver Lydia Slagel didn’t really know any of that until after she had finished off about an 11-point victory at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Diving Regional hosted by Zeeland West High School Thursday, Nov. 14. Slagel won the regional ♦ ♦ 't ‘dJ! f 4k r i—iiaK 11^^: % I Pt I I ?L * — w- I - • .. A 4* 9 1 2^; J J Ji K r k-^ai; T.- X •l t.I rr* y; 7 4j <r I, i •w * *1 IRVING TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING SYNOPSIS November 19,2024 Meeting called to order at 6:30pm at 3425 Wing Rd. Hastings, Michigan 49058 Present: Knight, Bue­ hler, and Bass. Absent: Sokolowski and Olson Agenda approved as pre­ sented October 15, 2024 Min­ utes approved as presented Approved to pay bills $2,977.27 Fire reports given and on file in their respective de partments Treasurer’s report pre sented - available online or in Township Hall November 5, 2024 Elec tion Update presented Upcoming Meeting dates: December 11, 2024 6pm (Board of Review); Decern * ber 17, 2024 6:30pm (Board Meeting) Adjourn 6:45pm /• 1• <4 .-ju i I ♦ f‘I Grand Rapids Gator teammates Abigail Dumond and Lydia Slagel celebrate qualifying for the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals together for the second year in a row at Thursday’s D1 Diving Regional in Zeeland. Photo provided * Full minutes are available at lrvingtownship.org or at 5^5 Wing Rd, Hastings, Ml 49058. Prepared by Deputy Clerk, Shelly Lake. Attested to by Supervisor, Jamie Knight. COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the October 22, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, that were approved on November 12, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on thq website at www.vill^ qeofmiddlevillenrn championship and earned a spot in the MHSAA L.P. Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals with her performance, and for the second year in a row she will join senior teammate Abigail Dumond at the D1 State Finals as Dumond was the last of the 11 girls to make it through the regional meet. “I don’t look until the very last diver goes, because I don’t want to be super excited when somebody else has to dive so I just wait until the end,” Slagel said sounding giddy rather than cocky at the end of a Tuesday evening practice at the Community Education and Recreation Center in Hastings. “It was amazing. It was such a surreal moment. I was like, wait a second, did that actually just really happen. I was so shook that I actually did it that I couldn’t believe it,” Slagel said of winning the regional championship. “It was crazy.” The MHSAAL.P. DI Finals are being held Friday and Saturday, Nov. 22-23, at the Holland Aquatic Center. Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian senior Elise Miller will return to the state finals as well this weekend. She placed seventh at the regional. There were only two girls across the three lower peninsu­ la diving regionals in Division 1 last week to put up a score better than Slagel’s 391.80 points. Rockford’s Emma Schutich was the regional runner-up with a score of 380.15. Kalamazoo Central’s Kiya Bowman was third with a score of 374.70. They were the only two girls within 45 points of Slagel after the first five dives of the meet, and that was before Slagel threw out a 30IB reverse dive in the pike position for her last dive of the semifinal round. “My reverse dive, I got my first 8.5 and 8s on that. I was very, very happy about that,” Slagel said. The meet started with 32 competitors. After five dives, the field was trimmed to the top 19. The semifinal round ended with just the top 15 headed for three more dives in the finals. Dumond was 12th headed into the finals, but overtook Loy Norrix’s Leah Sparks to place 11 th. Dumond closed the day with a score of 289.65 points. Sparks dropped back to 14th. Grandville’s Lilly Messina was the closest girl to Dumond in the end, just 2.45 points back. Miller safely qualified for the finals with a score of Miller put up a final score of 331.15 in the end. The rest of the state quali­ fiers from the meet included Jenison’s Melissa Search, Kalamazoo Central’s Madison Jones, Rockford’s Ava Zubrickas, Grand Haven’s Maya Deaton, Grand Ledge’s Au­ drey Vanderploeg and Zeeland East’s Emmerson Mey ering. The Gator team, a co-op of student-athletes from Thor nappie Kellogg, Hopkins, West Catholic and West Mich­ igan Aviation Academy, also had sophomore Kaya Bender competing. She had a score of 106.20 through five dives in the preliminaries to finish in 28th place. Miller’s teammate Ella Rig­ ley was 31st in the prelimi­ naries with a score of 86.10 points. Bender, Dumond, Slagel and CLS’s Elise Miller are all regular members of the Hast ings Community Diving Club headed up by coaches Todd Bates and Francesca Piled. Miller, Dumond and Slagel were all state qualifiers a year ago. Miller, now a senior, had the top finish of the trio in the Eastern Michigan University pool for the DI State Finals in 2023 placing 18th. Du­ mond finished 20th. Both girls bowed out of the competition after the semifinals. The top 16 at the state finals move from Friday’s competition to Sat­ urday’s championship finals. It was a tough first trip to the finals for Slagel. She was cut early finishing 22nd in the preliminaries. She’s been working on new things here and there over the past year, but it’ll be mostly the same routine - just perfected. “All my dives are like the same because they are my best dives obviously, and I practice them every day, all the time,” Slagel said. She knew exactly why it didn’t go as well as she hoped last year at the finals. “I was so worked up about it. I was so nervous. This year, I am just taking it step by step See DIVING on 15 �♦ www.sunanclnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Pratt notches assist as Delta wins title IS Saturday, November 23, 2024 K X ^11 • f I A 5S» A' - id I -11 .!■_ ! r 4 ft Jt 1^ “I’ IK '1 1 1 4 V >♦ I •5 ilN'u ^IRLS SIM AND Jal X * •1 1 •< I < f ■ .c C • 1^ * k k ^4 I ♦ a f <5* 'K " «*Wi f ••it ^flk. r* J ■p ’ n fJ r 9 1 V 7.* I il TKHS alumnus Peyton Pratt and the Delta College Women’s Soccer team clinched their program’s first NJCAA National Championship since 2000 with a 3-0 win over Mohawk Valley Community College in the finals Nov. 17. Photo provided Brett Bremer Sports Editor Former Thomapple Kellogg High School varsity soccer player Peyton Pratt assisted on the opening goal half an hour in and the Delta Col­ lege Women’s Soccer team went on to capture the 2024 NJCAA National Championship Nov. 17. Delta knocked off Mohawk Valley Community College 3-0 in the final after a 6-0 win over the Community College of Rhode Island and an 8-0 win over Suffolk Community College at the tournament hosted by Genesee Community College in Batavia, New York, Nov. 12-17. The Delton women were a perfect 15-0 in the fall of 2024, and the over­ whelming wins were nothing new at the national championship tournament. The Pioneers outscored their competi­ tion 88-4 over the course of the season. Isabella Workman scored five goals in the three tournament games and was named the tournament’s MVP. Team­ mate Anna Sabo was named the tourna­ ment’s Most Valuable Defensive Player. The national championship is the eighth for the Delta program and the first since 2020. Pratt, a sophomore forward, assisted on a goal by Workman in the 30th minute of play in the championship Caledonia/Lowell/Sodth Christian senior Elise Miller celebrates her seventh-place finish at the Division 1 Regional at Zeeland West High School Thursday, Nov. 14. Photo provided J I I -• > W* i 4 f r.t •• a ; “ • • <»» Y . bl A > i f > 1 f 4: ♦ •3 ■ *hM I* r > t » >• ■ ■ DIVING * -b iU ••♦ • t * z « ft . 1^ % r »/ "W ♦> I *1 i Continued from Page 14 and we’re just going to go with the flow. If something happens we’re just going to move on. I have grown a lot from last year, both physically and mentally. She said it took a long time to get over a rough finals perfor­ mance in 2023 - a month. She needed a diving vacation. “I was so upset about it. I was like, that is not me. That is now how I dive. But, we came back to the drawing board and we fixed up some things. I am a lot stronger and a lot better. I am excited to see how I end this year compared to last year,” Slagel said. Her big goal for this year’s fi­ nals is earning a spot in the top 16 which means she gets the chance to dive both Friday and Saturday. Miller won’t be a lonely Viking at the state finals. Her teammates fill the racing slate at Holland with 200-yard medley and 200yard freestyle relay teams ready to compete as well as individual contests for Amelia McCann, So­ phie Gaylord, Mya VanderZwaag and Bella Treib. match. The Pioneers added unassisted goals by Kendall Jackson and Sabo in the second half. Pratt had seven goals and nine assists in 15 games. Joliet Junior College was the only team to score more than one goal in a game against the Pioneers, and those two goals came in an 11-2 Delton victory. 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She played her first year of Far Out volleyball on a team with Noble and then rose through the ranks there. She said her mom’s, cousin’s boyfriend coaches baseball at Roosevelt, which put it on her radar. The university has just transitioned to Division 2 and joined the GLIAC. Maier wasn’t sure she’d be able to compete for playing time at a GLIAC power like Grand SPIKERS Continued from Page 13 ♦ ♦ Noble said that her teammates Gaier and Maier helped her become a more vocal leader of the years, especially bringing that out in her during their senior campaign. Maier will set up at Roosevelt in between Caledonia and Milwaukee. Chicago feels like home to her because it was until her family moved to Cale donia in fourth grade. Her mother’s family is still in Chicago. She was a ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com adidas aaiaa^ k a: i ? a -ididas 1 t VJ I 3 1 4 ■ f • 'X.. * Caledonia senior setter Jess Maier signs her National Letter of Intent to join the Roosevelt University Women’s Volleyball program in Chicago next season during the CHS varsity volleyball team’s national signing day celebration in the high school media center Wednesday, Nov. 13. She is joined by her parents Nick and Erin Maier. Photo by Brett Bremer -I-*' ► w i , ■ >; r 4 4 < . r f < »■ ♦ ' ’ t. I ' r J' * >4“ 4' . .'JS • Growing evidence shows that addressing your hearing ioss can positiveiy impact your social, emotional, cognitive and physical well being! . I .< r• • r ' «• .br w* • k J T’ f ... •e 1 T* . A' r,' r •' I* • '1 “• **■ » > * $ A U Valley or Ferris, but is looking forward to the chance to earning time at setter over the next few years at Roosevelt. “Jessica has been a cornerstone of our team and program the last four years,” coach Brown said, “demonstrating skill, consistency and leader­ ship throughout her career. Her ability to read the court, set up plays and keep our offense running smoothly has been vital to our success. But beyond her technical abilities, jess has brought an energy and dedication that lifts up everyone around her.” They’ve all lifted each other up since starting to play together as youngsters. “We have always had such a close bond, and I am going to get so sad talking about it, but each place that they chose is so perfect for them,” Gaier said. “Jess is going to be perfect there. Josie, it is so good for her. I am just a littlejealous that they’re closer than me, but beggars’ can’t be choosers. I am really happy for them. It is going to be good. 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(Zt > cu •o 0.5 Caii Today: 269-558-4786 ., Ste #4 *^'^y Hastings, Ml 49058 Open Monday through Friday • We accept most insurances c •C cu 60 ONLINE TO SUNANONEWS.COM I — < •I < f 4 ( I I « * * t 1 I V f 4 I ( » r 1? 4 4 I I r 1 t I r W I 4 1 I « ( 4 4 » I 4 ( I 1 I 4 t 9 * 4 € « < • a < < * « « ' 4 « I J t < « C ' f t * I 4 t A f C 4 1 * 1 < 4 r 4 i ' a 9 » r « )I V I r < 9 < 4 1 t t A . � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-11-30.pdf 35db63ce9a48a1ff49fcaf728b65800e PDF Text Text • f I f r t fl > € I - < fl 4 z fl 4 » I b < T > f I . * t * <. I. fl * \A i K < ► r •* » * r V < I fl b 1 4 fl I I » ♦ • 4 » t . \ 4 r f * 9 t if < I fl 1 61 9 , V / < « > t ' 1 . 0 / 9 I- . 'te* * t u ♦ V 9 9- 4 * > F I A o > » \ • 9 t » i • I J p. J 'f the SUN CLS TEAM'«! HAS FIVE WIN ALL-STATE f. HONORS AND NEWS lTv^ 'A Ho-, hometown Ne^/spaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Gaine<; Town^hin Am;,-. and Gaines Township Areas > * M' PAGE 12 •t < f Yankee Springs planners recommend allowing limited STRs in residential areas Greg Chandler Staff Writer ?*EESPRy* TWF •l . > Yankee Springs Township planners are recommending a change to the township’s short-term rental ordinance that would allow such rentals in a residential-zoned neighborhood if the dwelling to be rented is wQoa iBMOisno owned by the owner of a TVIIN3aiS3a home that is next door to or across the street from Huued 8€88> the rental. Photo provided '9||IAU©0JO aivd aovisod s n OXS xsad -•}> * w« I Ir « *r ? ^SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2024 www.sunandnews.com Phase II of Dutton Center PUD takes next step in approval process James Gemmell Contributing Writer .* 1 F > J4 « *s* n Yankee Springs Township planners are recommending a change to the town­ ship’s short-term rental ordinance that would allow such rentals in a residentialzoned nei^borhood if the dwelling to be rented is owned by the owner of a home that is next door to or across the street from the rental. The amendment is one of several that was recommended by the township Planning Commission to the Township Board Nov. 21. The board is expected to address the proposed changes next month. “My personal feeling is if the home­ owner resides next door, (if) they share a lot line (with the rental unit), I don’t see why they shouldn’t be allowed to have a short-term rental next door,” Planning Commission Chairwoman Shana Bush said. The amendment is similar to a propos­ al that was offered last month in a letter See SPRINGS on 3 ssMuoa 8e99^ IN -oRiAuaajg 0K»08(W ♦ »*1 > .- -iaa-' .,-. . .f's^ii^tk.«> NO. 33 f ? • The Gaines Township planning commission voted 7-0 at its Nov. 21 meeting to recommend that the township board approve a tenta­ tive preliminary plat for the second phase of the Dutton Center planned unit development. It is part of a proposed five-phase development. The first phase called for townhouses and veranda-style homes to be built. The second phase would be for single-family detached homes on platted lots. The final three phases are only con­ ceptual right now. The process entails first get­ ting township board approval on Dec. 9 for a tentative preliminary plat at 3316 68th St SE. Later, the goal would be to gain approval for a preliminary plat and, finally, receive final plat approval so that the proj ect can proceed. The second reading of the Phase II portion will come up in January. In October, the township board gave final approval for the first phase of the Dutton Center mixeduse commercial and residential development on 68th Street at Hanna Lake Avenue. It approved a request by project applicant Michiana LLC — a subsidiary of Allen Edwin Homes - to rezone a 29-acre parcel of former agricul­ tural land to a planned unit devel­ opment (PUD) That was for the remaining northern section of the former J & A Post Family Farm, north of Shadyside Park. Because that first phase was a single parcel, not a plat, it essen­ tially was approved by right as a site condominium project. At the Nov. 21 planning com­ mission meeting, Mike West with < U fl ■ fl r ■ sw ?/ V rl f ij 45 5 ♦ ■■ ' • M- M •? J r :i’h Kk M. —f . Ji J * b ■ S’ k a? -Z z-t *; ( « ** - —-t--. .• • t- R. . _ J* K 4^ • Ra* J* < t . ■■ <fe> M ► . i J? <. I *^> I > f j V ■ \ ♦* P V ■>: — r M’Tfc” - 7 Y s h'.’’ if r» 5 .• 4 - >• f-r T'Sit• >* r ♦ * * fl 1^3 1 fl? S ji J •I fl hA:b -•< 4 fl ** :* . .4 bfl:_______ ; It T- T-*^ C;4 rXw< X ■» 4 r ♦A •w A ’’I -j 4H •J® d 10" [ t. 4 / T #* I •• i d IJ z r, 11 t < A ^T" —!• V *< * k * »- 1 Ite <1 s v r ♦ ’P • I . i* «. • > 1 LhS f * s 7<«e I*- b f * a c □ft 7^ f IJt- >* * d* I I, < .<?■ 4r A "* T I • z > 1•r •l -X ba 1 . < ■ • I .•^•. . I V ■? flK* ' "'|-s ■* <■;. I E jsar . . «* • •• • h* • *1 rv V >. The proposed location of Phase II of the Dutton planned unit development is outlined east of Hanna Lake Avenue. Source: gainestownship.org Allen Edwin gave a presentation to the planning commission regarding Phase II in the Dutton Center PUD. “It’s basically been designed exactly the same We have 51 lots on approximately 10 acres. The density is a little over five units per acre. It’s been designed consistent with the PUD approval,” West said. He added that Allen Edwin has gone above and beyond the lot width standards that were previ­ ously approved by adding some self-imposed conditions that would be included in the PUD. “So, there’s a housing model variety provision in your code that we’ll obviously meet, but there’s also additional conditions that we volunteered,” West told planning M* commissioners. One of those would result in front-yard setbacks varying from 25 to 30 feet to give the streetscape some texture and variety. In addi tion, there are some self-imposed architectural restrictions, such as garages would not be built to pro­ trude more than 10 feet beyond the fi-ont of a home. There also are minimum porch requirements. There would be sidewalks on both sides of the public streets. Sanitary sewer and municipal water connections would be put in place. Detention ponds would control storm waters. Allen Edwin recently completed construction of Phases I and II of See DUTTON on 6 J » �ft S 9 « t 9 1 < t ft 4 > • 9 / 9 / t c ♦ K I « 4 $ * > * 9 V I % z « ft ft >> K I 1 ft 2 Saturday, November 30, 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS www.sunandnews.com Middleville council OKs water, sewer rate hikes Greg Chandler Staff Write r The Middleville Village Council Tuesday night approved rate increases for both water and sewer service as the village tries to keep up with the cost of maintaining those utilities. The council unanimously approved 10 percent increases in its fixed readiness-to-serve charges, which are based on meter size, and 2 percent increases in usage rates. For a typical homeowner with a 3/4-inch meter, the readiness-to-serve sewer rate will increase from $68.56 to $75.45 per quarter, while the usage rate for sewer will rise from $4.11 to $4.52 per 1,000 gallons, according to village documents. Meanwhile, the water rate for a typical residence with a 3/4-inch meter will increase from $35.30 to $38.83 per quarter for the fixed readiness-to serve charge, and the usage rate will go from $2.96 to $3.26 per 1,000 gallons of water used, according to village documents. A year ago, the Village Council ap­ proved sizable rate hikes as part of an effort to bolster funding for needed capital improvement projects. Those increases were intended to pay for 25 Christmas in Caledonia^ Saturday December 7th a I J ■T, 't ft 1 ■V c it > starting at 4:00 pm 6: oo pm Christmas Parade Gainer on Main St with family, Mends and neighbors fbr an evening of Celebration in the Village of Caledonia! g> Featured Activities .o 4:00'8:00 pm Selfies with Santa Kids Games & Crafts Annual Tree Lighting Petting Zoo Craft Vendor Market Cookie Decorating Food Trucks Elf Mischief percent of capital improvements in those utilities for this year. As a result, the water usage rate jumped from $2.24 to $2.96 per 1,000 gallons of water used while the sewer rate increased from $3.42 to $4.11 per 1,000 gallons used. Fixed-rate charges increased from $63.75 to $68.56 per quarter for sewer and from $30.45 to $35.30 per quarter for water, village documents show. “By regulation, the water (and) sewer plant has to pay for itself. It can’t be paid through taxes,” Council Trustee Makenzi Peters said. “Therefore, we have to have rates that can sustain operations and pay off the rebuild that this facility was built to encapsulate growth.” The village expanded the capacity of its wastewater plant in 2021 -22 from 500,000 gallons to 900,000 gallons per day. New Village President Kevin Smith said that the village is “playing catch­ up” to make up for years when past councils passed minimal rate increases that didn’t keep up with utility operat­ ing and upkeep costs. He admitted that rate increases are “a volatile topic.” “If I went to McDonald’s and bought a No. 1 value meal, I couldn’t just pay 3 0 percent of that and expect to get the meal,K”- said Smith, who was z, X • . presiding over his first meeting since being elected president Nov. 5. “We, as a community, have been kind of doing that for year after year after year, when they really should have been (approving) 3 to 5 to 7 percent increases so that we would remain in the middle ofwhere we should be for the long haul on the service.” The village’s capital improvement plan shows several major projects in both the water and sewer utilities for next year. The village plans to spend $700,000 out of its water fund for construction of a new well and another $90,000 for replacing lead service lines • -V. 1 T X** -A L" i r av * A •J Middleville welcomed its newest council members on Tuesday. Here, Tracy Gillhespy and John Osterbaan take their oaths of office, administered by Village Clerk Rhonda VanPolen. Photo provided in conjunction with federal and state requirements, and $400,000 out of its sewer fund for sewer main lining and replacement, as well as manhole reconstruction, according to the 2025 village budget document. Assistant Village Manager and Department of Public Works Director Alec Belson told council members that 196 service lines need to be replaced in the village, basically connected to homes that were built prior to 1960. Of those, 73 lines have been confirmed to be connected to lead while 123 others had been connected to lead in the past. The state is requiring all municipalities to replace any lead-based service lines by 2040, Belson said. “If you got a letter (from the village recently), those are the only people that may be previously connected (to a lead line),” Belson said. “If you did not receive a letter, you’re fine—no worries. nothing to be concerned about. 99 the sun and news The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 ^Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com ■ ft. * CONTACT US PUBLISHED BY Editor: Molly Macleod SJ JjJ TUVi: mmacleod@mihomepaper.com Sports: Brett Bremer Group '® subject in the applicable rate card XaflaKrnmTh°c DDremer@mihomepaper.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Advertising Manager: Chris Silverman csHverman@mihomepaper.com Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist: Jennie Yonker jyonker@mihomepaper.com fc to* thp'^rnn,!rr I PRINTED ON 100% recycled paper Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 '2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. Sun and News Ad Dept .,1351 *•'' Hastings, "“swnSS. Ml Ml 49058 49058 ( 269-945 a '^®wspaper reserves the rioht not to f no'aShorityto bkS ^tWs^®'^' takers have newspaper and only, publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. N M Jq qraLA tJ' t I li **> �fe 4 I I 4 * * I. * K • ■ •* % I www.sunandnews.com I. t Continued from Page 1 _ by outgoing Township Clerk Mike Cunningham to commissioners a letter that eventually led to the Township Board passing a resolu tion that says elected board mem bers should not express their per­ sonal opinions on an issue pending before the Planning Commission or Zoning Board of Appeals. The pas­ sage of that resolution, in turn, led to Cunningham announcing his res­ ignation fi-om the board Nov. 14. Cunningham submitted written comments to commissioners that were read into the record at an Oct. 11 public hearing, where he pro­ posed allowing residential STRs if the proposed rental was close to the principal residence of the person who owns the rental and is at that residence each day that the rental is occupied. The ordinance amend ment that passed the Planning Commission Nov. 21 would require that the owner be present at his or her primary' residence during the period that the STR is rented. The board earlier this year passed a ban on new commercial short­ term rentals as a special exception use in the Gun Lake residential lakelfont, residential lake front, resi­ dential single-family and suburban residential zoning districts. Owner occupied STRs, which are defined as “traditional short-term rentals,” are allowed in those zones. Some property owners and local residents have since criticized the ordinance, saying it has hurt local tourism and businesses that rely on it during the summer. Commissioners have been looking at potential changes over the last several months, with input from a short-term rental subcommittee. At one point, commissioners discussed possibly allowing commer cial STRs if the rental property is within 200 feet of the owner’s pri­ mary residence, but Commissioner John Frigmanski said that was going too far. “Two hundred feet, at 11 o’clock at night, you’re four houses down. You could be asleep and you don’t know what hell is being raised down the street,” Frigmanski said. See SPRINGS on 7 * tol ♦ V 7 THE SUN AND NEWS SPRINGS i 7 4U * Saturday, November 30, 2024 3 TKMS class continues Classmates Care Program Winter in West Michigan is not a matter of “if’ it comes it’s when” it comes. Right now, that means it’s a busy time of year for middle school students in Lil Lienesch’s service learning class. Students collect, sort, organize and inventory donations of new and gently-used winter coats, hats, boots, scarves, gloves and snow pants. This time of year, they’re busy filling donation requests and delivering items to schools for families in need. It’s all part of the TK Class­ mates Care program that was started in 2012 by a group of Thomapple Kellogg High School students who wanted to make sure every TK student had warm winter clothing needed to play outside during recess and at home. Working with teachers and administrators to identify students in need at each of the schools. Classmates Care began providing those warm winter clothing items. NEWSPAPER DEADLINES Now, 12 years later, the Class­ mates Care program helps more students than ever. Lienesch’s class oversees the program now, taking in donations, maintaining an inven­ tory, buying items when needed, and filling and delivering requests. With the recent change in weather, they know they’ll likely have even more requests to fill. Over the past few weeks, the class has packaged and delivered nearly 400 items to Thomapple Kellogg students in need and they know requests will continue coming in, especially as the weather changes. The class includes students with special needs working alongside general education peers. Every week, they work in their storage area at the Early Childhood Center. The program relies heavily on donations ofnew and gently used winter attire but also receives financial donations fi-om commu nity supporters including funds fi'om the MKP Reindeer Night Ito I— I 9* VW r li r < T, I I i 4 I r r ♦••sS i ' AT J Students at Thornapple Kellogg Middle School are collecting, sorting and organizing donations of new and gently-used winter clothing items as part of the TK Classmates Care program. The initiative, started in 2012 by agroup of TKHS students, makes sure every TK student has warm winter clothing. Photo provided and from Thomapple Financial Center and Money Concepts. Lienesch uses the funds to purchase items in need at sales or discount stores. Families can request donations from the organiza­ tion through their school buildings or by emailing Lienesch at llienesch@tkschools.org. New or clean, gently used winter item donations can be dropped off at the middle school. Thornapple Kellogg Schools CALEDONIA TOWNSHIP Sth ANNUAL HOLIDA Y L UMINAR Y WALK Saturday, December 14th • 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Advisor Monday at 4:00 pm Shopper Monday at 5:00 pm Banner Tuesday at Noon Reminder Wednesday at Noon Sun & News Wednesday at Noon Group Please join us once again for our 5* Annual Holiday Luminary walk! Come enjoy a walk down the Caledonia Trail located near the Community Green Park and the Caledonia Library. 9 The trail will again be lit with over 1000 luminaries. Grab a donut and a cup of hot chocolate at the Pavilion, then visit Santa at the Amphitheater before you start your walk. The Dickens Carolers will again be joining us at the Green as well as on the trail. We will have a Toys for Tots box if you would like to donate an unwrapped toy. In case of inclement weather, the walk will be moved to December 15“’ at the same time. Any questions, feel free to contact the Caledonia Township office. 616-891-0070 �* ir ( * <• I f * t www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 30, 2024 4 * z \; t Caledonia Twp. planners eye allowing larger accessory buildings in residential zones Greg Chandler Staff Writer Owners of most single-family homes in Caledonia Township could soon be allowed to build larger ac­ cessory buildings than they do now under present township rules. The township Planning Commis­ a sion is considering an amendment to the zoning ordinance that would allow the same standards that cur­ rently regulate accessory buildings in the agricultural and rural residential zoning districts, which are based on lot size, to other residential zoning classifications, such as single-family residential. It’s one of a series of amendments now under study by commissioners, and won’t be fully decided on until •V early next year. At present, the zoning ordinance limits the size of an accessory build­ ing in the low-density single-family V residential district to 792 square feet, while such buildings in the medium­ density single-family residential Owners of most single-family homes in Caledonia Township could soon be district are limited to 594 square feet. allowed to build larger accessory buildings than they do now under present The ordinance also caps the height township rules. Photo provided of such buildings in those districts to 18 feet. At a recent Planning Commission lot area of less than an acre would be Other additional language being meeting. Township Planner Lynee allowed an accessory building of up looked at includes clarifying what Wells cited an example where a to 1,200 square feet. The owner of a is defined as a garage. At present, homeowner asked to have his prop­ home with a lot area of between two the township has definitions for erty rezoned from single-family and three acres could have a building what constitutes a public garage and residential to agricultural so he could of up to 1,900 square feet. Anyone what is defined as a private garage. build a bigger accessory building. with a home on a lot of at least five It would also classify a garage as “We went against our future land acres could erect two accessory an accessory building, according to use plan (to approve the accessory buildings. The maximum allowable township documents. building) for that,” Wells said. height of the buildings would be 25 Commissioners are also looking Under the amendment being con feet, according to township docu­ at adding office buildings to the sidered, the owner of a home with a ments. township’s architectural standards > r f i. Caledonia TOWNSHIP n 4? ■atagg^aggf 9 «1 Anienno Men L■' 5 >.7^ I . V ;T? Antenna Merf §(• •. A f ■ I Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers ? t.* < 1< Give us a call! CHFI • • I ciu(W) signAl K 269-967-8241 - i nJ. V- www.theantenhamen com ^ntennamen@gmail < com www.ceHsi9nalpr0s.com - People ..with. th.e ^.ich.t-Cooneclions5 COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS MATTER WE ARE: free Estimates ___ Enhancement Systems •aM« r •t I I ■* that were adopted more than a year ago. The regulations currently affect townhouses, multi-family residential developments, mixed-use buildings and commercial buildings. The stan­ dards require such buildings to have at least 75 percent of its exterior walls consist of brick, wood, Hardie board or native stone. “We’ve had a few office buildings come through that we haven’t been able to regulate. That would be the medical offices that we’ve seen we’ve had three of them,” Wells said. Planning Commission Chairman Doug Curtis thinks the township should go further in expanding the architectural standards. “Other than single-family residen­ tial, (everything) should fall under the architectural standards, and that includes industrial,” Curtis said. “I’m not saying Amazon’s buildings are ugly but they could do a lot better than they have We still have some pretty large industrial (properties) that face major roads, that it would sure be nice not to (have them be built of) tilt-up concrete.” Curtis cited some of the buildings in the Southbelt Industrial Park as examples of how the standards could be applied to industrial buildings. ' The proposed ordinance changes have been compiled over the last several months, with input from Zoning Administrator Lois Dekens,* Township Engineer Todd Boerman and Fire Chief Scott Siler, Wells said. A public hearing on the proposed ordinance amendments is expected to i be held early next year. Wells said. • Closed-Cell Foam Insulation • Blown-in Attic Insulation 517-983-0954 Start Saving Today ~ Use Spray Foam • A Watch dog • A source of entertainment • A record keeper • A champion of local businesses • A supporter of nonprofits and charities Group I ! VV �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Caledonia Twp. board delays action on Dutton Preserve development Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Township board members will take a little more time to consider whether to approve a housing project planned for an area just south of the new Dutton Elementary' School that is under construction. The Township Board on Nov. 20 held off on a decision on the proposed Dutton Preserve project. JTB Homes LLC is seeking two different rezoning requests for the 30-acre site, which it has acquired from Caledonia Com­ munity Schools - one that would change the zoning from agricultural to rnedium-density single-family residen­ tial, and then to make the site a planned unit development. JTB is also seeking approval of a final site condominium application for the project. JTB Homes is proposing construc­ tion of 44 homes that are clustered together to create 12.5 acres of open space that would be available for all those who would live in the develop­ ment. Each of the lots would be at least 75 feet wide and have a total lot area of at least 10,000 square feet, according to the ordinance document that’s being considered by the board. In addition, there would be an access easement between two of the western­ most lots that would be available for kids in the neighborhood to walk to the nearby Dutton School, which is slated to open next fall. There’s also an 8-footwide pathway that would run along Pat terson and through the school property, which the township earlier asked for as a condition of running sanitary sewer lines to the development, according to the ordinance document. Several residents from the nearby Golf Meadows subdivision expressed concern about the proposed devel­ opment. Deb Blanchard questioned whether there’s an end to the constant stream of new housing developments that have emerged in the township. It seems like we’re inundated with development after development and growth after growth. None ofus moved here for that. Is there an endpoint?” Blanchard asked. “It seems like everybody is saying yes, yes, yes (to these rezoning requests) and nobody’s saying no,” she added. Township Supervisor Bryan Har* (6 risen said the property has been designated for future development as medium-density residential in the township master plan. “You need to have a really good reason to say no (to a rezoning request), because it is an inherent property right,” Harrison said in responding to Blanchard’s question. Township Trustee Greg Zoller, who lives in Golf Meadows, was sympa­ thetic to Blanchard’s concern, but also isn’t surprised by the proposed development. “It’s been ripe for development for al­ most 30 years, and finally it’s coming,” Zoller said. “I do feel for everybody. I was the 12th house in that neighbor­ hood. We didn’t have near the traffic that we have now.” While details of a development such as landscaping and parking are usually taken care of at the township Planning Commission, the PUD ordinance lan­ guage does give the board a say in the final makeup of the project. The board a^eed on Nov. 20 to the Planning Com­ mission recommendation to not allow on-street parking in Dutton Preserve. JTB had asked for consideration of al lowing parking on one side ofthe street. Township Treasurer Richard Rob ertson expressed discomfort with JTB asking for two different zoning changes at the same time. “We’ve only just done a first reading on the first rezone, from (agricultural) to R-2 (the zoning designation for medium-density residential), and now we’re going on and doing a first reading from R-2 to PUD ... We haven’t even passed the ordinance to get it to R-2, and now we’re already going on from R-2 to PUD... I get it, it’s very efficient, but is it legit?” Robertson asked. The treasurer also questioned wheth­ er details such as landscaping should have been ironed out at the Planning Commission before the proposal came to the board. “We’re deciding where the trees should go, where the lights should go. This should be done before it gets here, in my opinion,” Robertson said. We rubber-stamp anything that is consistent with the master plan,” Harri­ son said in response. “Once you’re R-2, then begins the real business and that See CALEDONIA on 7 4. 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Your local agent insures your Lake Estaxe Road Commission rejects requests for signal near CHS entrance Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Kent County Road Commission has rejected a request from Caledonia Township and Caledonia Community Schools for a traffic signal at the in­ tersection of Kraft Avenue and 92nd Street, near the entrance to Caledonia High School and Emmons Lake El­ ementary School. A recent memo from Road Commis­ sion Traffic and Safety Engineer Tim Likens showed that although there are delays in traffic movement during peak periods before and after school on driveways near the school entrances, there isn’t enough overall traffic vol­ ume on Kraft nor is there a significant enough crash history to warrant adding a signal at the 92nd Street intersection. “We have had a number of commu­ nity residents and individuals involved with the school (district) express con- See REJECTS on 15 Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser Help us support veterans and * community functions. Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 JL and the First Saturday of each month Serving 8 a-m. to 10:00 a.m. Tggs, bacon, sausage links or patties, potatoes, biscuits and sausage gravy, pancakes, milk, OJ, coffee. * Menu subject to change Adults $13.00 • Children 10 & under $5.00 For more information call the Post at 616-891-1882 Coffee Donated by JIcc^^ EE Caledonia Memorial Legion Post 305 I 46 Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville BUREAU INSURANCE* 9548 Cherry VaUey, Caledonia, MI LUNCH M-TH 11 AM-8 PM; FRI 11 AM-2PM; FRI BUILD A BURGER 4-8 PM J (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsnii.com Farm6ureauinsurance.com c ▼ ▼ ' i t �* * 9 4 9 4 4 •f t i f 4 » V 9 \ « 4 * 4 4 t \ 4 *T ■ « 1 < 1V / 4 1 > 1 r - - « tf * « « * A 4 1 e 5 a «k THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. November 30. 2024 6 www.sunandnews.com A more detailed site plan will be presented by Allen Edwin to the township as it gets further along in the approval process. One resident spoke at a public hearing dur­ ing the planning commission meeting. Jay Poll, who lives on Dutton Avenue, asked if any fences are planned for the project. He was told there are no requirements for fencing along any of the property lines. Poll then asked two more questions. “What kind of housing is going in there? How did we get such narrow lots?” Gaines Community Development Director Dan Wells replied that the township’s Future Land Use Plan envisions smaller houses for smaller house lots in that area. So, these were approved under the planned unit development that was (authorized) by the planning commission and (township) board at about the beginning of the year. The smaller house lots were intentional,” Wells said. He noted it was part of the planned unit development process. “The idea here is to try to make smaller houses, more houses in this area, so it will sup­ port the businesses along the Dutton corridor. And they can be accessible by foot and by bike, rather than just driving to them,” Wells said in explaining the village center concept. The goal is to create more residential den­ sity so that the businesses would be within DUTTON Continued from Page 1 the I homapple Farms subdivision immediately south of the Dutton Center PUD. “We’re going to start Phase 3 of Thomapple Farms sometime next year. And our plan would be to build Phase I and 11 of the (Dutton) PUD con currently (with the Thomapple Farms Phase 3.),” West said. fhal would mark the end of the Dutton resi dential development, with the multi-family phase requiring a site-plan review. Fhe third phase would be multi-family (“gar­ den”) apartment buildings. The fourth phase would have mixed-use buildings facing Hanna Lake Avenue, and the fifth phase is for commercial buildings along 68th Street. There will be site-plan reviews for the future commercial portions of the project, as well. Are you planning to build those three (final) phases kind of at the same time, as well?” planning commission Chairwoman Connie Giarmo asked. fhe timing on that is a little bit different,” West replied. “We’re actually in conversations with people to partner both on the apartments and on the commercial. So, the timing on that is yet to be determined.” Township staff determined that the plat meets zoning regulations and what was outlined in the PUD stipulations. * Ik4 9 % «» ;»!• K « 4 9 <s. • .♦ *7. M r ? »■. «.' r >.* ► . .xf •. I >1 I ♦♦ \ “F s;. s Cl 4 ~ Gaines planning commissioners review a development proposal at their Nov. 21 meeting at the township hall. Photo by James Gemmell walking distance. “The concept for this was established back in about 2008 to reinforce the Dutton village center,” Wells said. There will be some open spaces on the south end of the development. Phase 2 calls for 51 detached homes with minimum lot sizes of 5,800 square feet. Phase 3 calls for 120 multiple-family apartment units, which would consist of 10 buildings with 12 units each. Phase 4 envisions two, 2-story 15,400-square-foot buildings along Hanna Lake Avenue that would include commercial, resi­ dential and office buildings. Phase 5 would have two, one-story commercial buildings of 6,350 square feet along 68th Street. BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. J I J /-WY 1 «■ *• I 72 4ri 4 ■ I 7e t. B BODY SHOP I3 •-W a .r I 9 r k - i J a COMPLETE COLLISION REPAIR I. « i 1 10 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 '‘A (68 > HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEEROHTG.COM * 269-792-2234 -tA*-> A * *> t Siner. 19SS ■■ 9 <' ACCREOITEO eS< BBB. ' #* business 49 jf 4 * "W Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers te. ilH k 616-891-0150 WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Residential & Commercial “9r^ 7 Your frus-Hed Body 5hop for ov^r yi years I ! �year career in newspaper advertising sales Molly Macleod Editor L J / A legend in the West Michigan newspaper industry is hanging up his guns this week as he prepares to ride off into the sunset. Mike Gilmore, 66, has seen a thing or two in his over 25 years in newspaper advertising sales. After spending 13 years at The Battle Creek Enquirer, Gilmore jumped to Battle Creek Shopper News, then owned by J-Ad Graphics. Gilmore spent the next 12 years working for the J-Ad family of papers before View Newspaper Group purchased the J-Ad papers earlier this year. Between the three publishing companies, Gilmore has amassed just over 25 years of experience in the industry. Throughout his storied career, Gilm­ ore has always strived to be better. This week, he takes on his newest challenge: Retirement. “I’m going to a new chapter of my life,” said Gilmore. “I ’ ve always worked so hard throughout all my life, I forgot to practice some of my talents that I used SPRINGS Continued from Page 3 Commissioner Lee Kooistra was the one dissenting vote on the amendment to allow commercial STRs in residential areas. He said, “it still boils down to running a business in a residential area.” Kooistra said the ordinance was crafted after hearing complaints and seeing photos and videos of late-night parties at rental properties. He added that the ordinance has held up in court. “Everybody that has challenged this (ordinance) in court has lost. That’s gotta tell you something. We’ve tried to come up with something that was best for the community I think we did what we were supposed to do and it was approved by the board,” Kooistra said. In their recommendation, commis­ sioners also agreed to add the word “grandfathered” into the ordinance to describe short-term rental units in those residential zones - 32 in total - that already had a permit prior to the board passage of the ban on new commercial STRs. Those property owners would have to apply for renewal of their permit by March 1 to retain it for the •J A’ « I i % i '• i 5* -2s' ♦A S’ * t • t I •b 5-C t <• / A I • & s J 3 *1 > I Mike Gilmore is retiring this week from his over 25-year-long career in newspaper advertising sales. File photo to do when I was a little kid - artwork, painting, woodwork - stuff like that that now I’m going to have time to do.” Gilmore also recently purchased a new home in Hastings. He plans to use following year, regardless of whether there were any violations or not. In addition, commissioners recom­ mended tightening up the definition of an STR as “the commercial use of renting a dwelling unit for less than 28 consecutive calendar days,” removing language that included renting such a unit for more than 14 calendar days per year. Zoning Administrator Joe Shea told commis­ sioners earlier this fall that the current language has been difficult to enforce. CALEDONIA Continued from Page 5 is, should we (approve the develop­ ment) by right or shall it be a PUD, where we have negotiations (with the developer)? They chose PUD and negotiations, not only negotia­ tions with the Planning Commission ... but also negotiations with us.” JTB developer Howie Hehrer said he was “amenable” to any re­ quirements the board might add to what the Planning Commission has already recommended to the proj ect. some of his newfound time to settle in at the new house with his partner of 18 years, Pam Green. “The timing with retirement, the new home it’s perfect. Timing,” he said. Gilmore isn’t waiting around to enjoy the golden years of his life. “That’s the reason for retirement — to see what I’m capable of next. And it’s not working for the man. It’s working for Mike. I want to see what I can do,” he said. Gilmore is no stranger to the art of the deal. He spent his youth watching his father make sales at his Hastings business, Gilmore Jewelers. “My dad, being a longtime jeweler, 95 he could sell the watch off his wrist, said Gilmore. “He was that good.” By age 12, Gilmore was on the sales floor making deals of his own. “It’s just natural,” he said. Gilmore said his father has inspired him throughout his career. “My father, I thought, was the best salesperson in the world. He was noted as the best merchandiser in Barry County. He knew what he was doing, and he was very charismatic,” said Gilmore. “He died when I was 25, so I had time to absorb what I could get from him. And then I created my own style,” he said. Gilmore said he still likes to “com­ pete” with his dad, striving to make him proud. Throughout his career, Gilmore’s goal has always been to exceed ex­ pectations something he learned as general manager of Finley’s American Restaiirant in Battle Creek before his career in advertising sales. “People expect things,” said Gilm­ ore. “I’m not normal. I’m gonna be above normal.” Like with everything else throughout his life, Gilmore is prepared to take on his next challenge and exceed expectations when doing so. “When I leave, my horse is saddled out there. I’m taking off. There’s no second-guessing,” Gilmore said. 284 N. BRIGGS ROAD- MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS. BARRY COUNTY MICHIGAN. AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on December 19.2024, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville MI, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Mich­ igan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commissions consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission ^t)r_receipt prior to the meeting, in care of die Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (ioeshea@yankeespringstwp.org). Letters and emails are due one week before the hearing date; or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. Parcel ID: 16032-011-00; 3982 Hermitage Pointe Road, Middleville, MI 49333. The property owner, Mr. Spencer Romph, requests a Special Exception Use permit for guest quarters in an outbuilding pursuant to the Yankee Springs Township Zoning Ordinance, Section 12.7 Outbuildings. 2. Such other business as may properly come before the Planning Commission. Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon seven (7) days’ prior notice to the Township Clerk Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION By: Shana Bush, Chairperson Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 �• 9 4 * I 4 9 4 jf r f 4 4 9 i 4 4 4 r « I 4 4 W > f 1 4 €• s f 4» <• J * * < ’ A % X V % A 4 • « « X r V • . 4 i * * \ 4 z .V A* » »" V . 4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 30. 2024 8 I «• ♦ 9 I t .V > * *. ♦ * Sporting News Trojans pull away from Vikings in second half Brett Bremer Sports Editor Kelley and senior guard Brice Lloyd. Late in the third, junior guard Ben Lloyd buried a three-pointer to put TK in front 40-37. That was the start of an 11 -0 run by TK between the end of the third and the start ofthe fourth quarter that put the Trojans in control for good. Their lead was double figures the rest of the night. “Weputthat 1-3-1 blitz on them, really bringing the pressure on them,” Thor­ napple Kellogg head coach Phil Garber said of the second half surge. “We were a little soft on them playing that 2-3 in the first and second quarter, and they went off. The other thing I talk to them about is our attitude. Mentally, you have got to be stronger than the other team. I preached that at halftime. I said hey, Thomapple Kellogg held Lakewood to four field goals in the second half. The Trojans turned a five-point halftime deficit into an 11-point vic­ tory with an improved defensive effort at Lakewood High School in the first bailgame of the 2024 varsity boys’ basketball season. TK walked away with a 55-44 win. Junior guard Malachi VanEngen put in a team-high 16 points for the Trojans and helped power the TK team’s defen sive surge in the second half. TK also got nine points apiece from junior Lucas Ploeg and senior Jude Webster and six points each from senior center Jake * f •» T V ZJ - * » ■» ■V J?’’ Lt 4 i'*f -■SS'-J V ( . .A.* > - J rwr^ .f a « 9 if. ■ -J L' Ito ■vr I ? 4 r A i- f I L 4 '1 A* I <♦ I Ll g I ■ i 'r- z A fr* e 4 4f A * I Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! - ‘ Ft 9 1. 4 i A A. 6< ■Br JU is* •4 •>' X — 'O’ T I .*p Tb k j ) J > I •tT. k4l ■ 'yr*'. •5^ -Aik 4» •r t at r A* 1 • •£ .'I *1 ft * 'I ►. i T:* Simply Perfect WEDDING INVITATIONS Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfec:tly match your style. PRINTING BY 4 > I • www.printingbypennylane.com ginad@pennylaneprinting.com I 4 i *_• —~ H Thornapple Kellogg junior guard Malachi VanEngen keeps a close eye on Lakewood senior guard Seth Willette during their non-conference season opener at Lakewood High School Monday. Photo by Brett Bremer you’re beating yourself. Your biggest enemy is yourself, not the other team.” The Trojans got out in transition and scored often early in the ballgame, build ing a 9-0 lead at the start Monday. Lake woodchaigedbackto eventually pull even early in the second quarter at 18-18 and the Vikings eventually had a lead of as many as six points before the half. They went into the intermission in front 30-25. Brice Lloyd went back up with a rebound for two points at the start of the second half. Webster stole a Lake- wood pass and went in for a breakaway lay-up. VanEngen got hit going in for a lay-up after another Lakewood turn­ over and drilled two free throws, and in just over two minutes the Lakewood lead was gone. “We talked about controlling the pace of play. That’s been my M.O.,” L^ewood head coach Jason Solgat said. “They want to run. I don’t want to run like that. They started running and they started getting easy buckets. See TROJANS on 9 �* t J z • » C € 9 * I I ✓ •4 » V A - <=r % < * $ I < t * « / t s I r ft www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ♦ Saturday, November 30, 2024 TROJANS ♦ r When they threw that, it was almost a diamond, because it was a 1-2-1 and then they suck a guy back, we talk about getting to the middle of that through the first line of defense. We talked about getting past that and then we started dribbling through it. I said, that’s not the way you break it guys. Trust. Trust was big, because we don’t see that a lot. We saw it on film. We worked on it. When it came time to execute we weren’t ready to execute. “I think that’s just preseason jitters. First game, at home, it’s pre-December and we’re playing a game of ball. The cool thing is, this Saturday we’re going back over to Hastings [for scrimmages] and TK is going to be over there again. Hastings is going to be there, Caledonia and us, so I want that coach to throw that same thing back at me.” Having some issues moving through that zone disrupted the Vikings’ shot selection in the second half, and at some point guys started trying to do a little too much on their own. Solgat said he’ll look forward to his guys utilizing fi-eshman Bryer Poll and sophomore Jameson Tichvon better in the post as the season progresses. Senior guard Troy Acker led Lake wood with 13 points. Senior guard Will r V. 4 4 • I "•A. J « fr Fl*' » ‘I ? a hi I tiW Thornapple Kellogg junior Lucas Ploeg collides with Lakewood senior Troy Acker as he attacks the basket during their non-conference season opener Monday at Lakewood High School. Photo by Brett Bremer * ♦ ♦ Continued from Page 8 1 9 5 - wV 1 1 - >- {“• Ifc 1 1 ■■ w i X 4r. » I V •TT* •— u J ’’’vl I r*: * < yi ? . A 4 4r L r 9 . iF * < IS 1 itf* ! T“ >v 1b f"is K ► ^IS L^r. h*. .4 < / ♦ I «> ■n 9 A :v e y. FkS i- ■i9d^ Ib.*^ ?R*" & f I t ‘Ti- (• — J Thornapple Kellogg junior guard Isaiah Boafo pushes the attack forward during his team’s win at Lakewood in the season opener Monday. Photo by Brett Bremer Grant added nine points and senior guard Logan Faulkner chipped in seven. Acker had ten of his 13 in the first half, and coach Garber was pretty happy with VanEngen and the Troj an defense slowing him down a bit. The coach was also pleased with the way his bench performed. Ploeg had nine points, but didn’t see much floor time. He had four fouls in the first half and eventually fouled out in the second. Senior forward Trey Hilton was on the bench in foul trouble much of the night too. Brice Lloyd had four fouls in the end. Kelley’s presence in the paint was big for TK with Ploeg and Hilton sidelined. One of the finest offensive possessions of the bailgame came midway through the second half, with the Trojans work­ ing the ball to Kelley for a good look in the post for two points that put TK in fi-ont 35-32 at the time. “We had five guys in foul trouble. Five guys. I said, that’s the thing that our teams do - we build it on a system if it’s one man down, the next man up,” Garber said. “We have a deep enough bench this year where we can play ten guys, and we will, and we did. If we have to then that’s what we’ll do, and they stepped up great. They stepped up for Lucas and Trey and Ben, Brice and Jude.” TTie TK boys return to action with a trip to Plainwell Tuesday, Dec. 3. Lakewood is at home for its first five games ofthe season including a visit from Belding Tuesday, Dec. 3, and the Capital Area Activities Conference White Divi­ sion opener against Charlotte Dec. 6. • . . ( r * ''MMo '1^ ;.ii Jh- ’ • •WW'H ** • V A.- . M*'* St*. 4 b > view Newspaper Group is seeking a full-time STAFF REPORTER View Newspaper Group is seeking a full-time, experienced news and features reporter to join our growing team of journalism professionals. RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Coverage of local events, meetings and the community • Interviewing • Writing • Editing • Photography • Networking • Copy Editing Qualified individuals must have a four-year degree in journalism or related communication field and be: • Proficient in Associated Press Style • Deadline-driven • Positive • Friendly • Outgoing • Have the ability to work some nights and weekends IVe love what we do and we know you will too! Qualified applicants can send a resume to View Newspaper Group Publisher wsmith@mihomepaper. com VIE W-w-*■ Group ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer’s Guide ■ Jeffersonian ■ Tri-County Times ■ Daily News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen ■ The Lowell Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■ Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder �♦ > I r I 9 ♦ 4 e • 4 / 4-.. S r I * (.1 J < • / r ) - 'V^ ■ I f 4 s » I •x i "y r V ♦ I * .A V • » • * THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 30, 2024 < / ' \ 9 t ♦. I ♦ 1- •ft? ■ « % ✓ » r < « .V^\ 1 1 f z -< •/ « « k I > •k . . <. i t «k. * 4 S'" ? 4 s 4 4 4 r 4 \ < 5 9 r 9 { <r A I « ✓ 4 • - J / 4 * A z ♦ X 10 ♦ ♦ <• -- T- < z V- 1 *1 z J .♦ www.sunandnews.com fourth at Di state finals Slagel dives ♦ ♦ ♦ Brett Bremer Sports Editor I . .» . * Goal achieved. Grand Rapids Gator sophomore Lydia Slagel thought long and hard about what kind of a goal she should set for herself at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals. With just how tough the competition is in Division 1, she wanted to be realistic. She also wanted to put some pressure on herself to perform. “Because I do good underpressure,” Slagel said. She settled on shooting for a top five finish and wound up fourth at the state champion­ ship meet held at the Holland Aquatic Center Friday and Saturday Nov. 22-23. Slagel qualified for the Division 1 State Finals in each ofher two high school seasons, but didn’t make it beyond the preliminary competition on day one of the championship meet her freshman year. The 36 competitors performed five dives in the preliminaries and the top 20 earned three more dives in the semifinals Friday. The top 16 from Friday advanced to Saturday and -••“S I J , - :V • _ x > •V •I I• »J t -I V I ——ri a? I I . *1 < f t z ^4 * «» »' rf V r f . 5BJ V M ZT5S ' Ji *♦ J .&• 1 % • 5 B* K W- - J 1*% * W- L «l r I .V’' ■r ‘t IK' *’s*; J, V ■ .■t T ,1 s • -r ? ri I I r i I if .. p « « ■/J «• ~r •s 4* 4' ft I ’f' S’ I c 4 14 h, I* r :W yi;; b I r. I 1, A' 1 / .. got to perform three more dives in the finals of the 2024 Finals. This time around, Slagel was in second place behind only Oxford senior Tristan Kraj carski following the five preliminary rounds. Krajcarski. Saline senior Lindi Jenkins and Saline junior Ava Crossly were 1-2-3 ahead of Slagel after the semifinals Friday evening, and that is how the standings fell after three more dives Saturday too. Kraj carski won the state championship with a score of 432.60 points. Jenkins was second with 394.75 points ahead of Crossly 388.75 and Slagel 375.20. Like Saline, Ann Arbor Pioneer had two girls on the diving medal stand thanks to top eight finishes. Pioneer se­ nior Grace Daly was fifth and senior Arianna Pagel sixth. Rockford senior Emma Shutich was seventh and Kalamazoo Central junior Kiya Bowman placed eighth. Slagel’s teammate Abigail Dumond from the Grand Rapids Gator co-op, which includes stu dent-athletes from Thomapple Kellogg, West Catholic, West Michigan Aviation Academy ■ and Hopkins, placed 23rd in the preliminaries. Both girls have spent years training with the Hastings Community Diving Club (HCDC), as has Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian senior Elise Miller who had a stellar Friday. Miller entered the meet seeded 17th, after a decent but not great regional performance. At the end of the preliminaries and semifinals. Miller stood in fourth place, and then closed out her senior season with a ninth-place finish. In the end she was 12 points behind Bowman, the last of the state medalists. Ninth in the state is nothing to sneeze at,” CLS head coach Amber Pearson said of Miller’s performance. “Division one is one of the most competitive in terms of dive. She had a great year overall. It was our first time in years getting^sonieone intp the finals for dive The last time the CLS team had a diver in the top 16 at the finals was 2021, diver Mayari Coriano-Lahiff placed tenth in the fall of2021. Slagel and Dumond are both Thomapple Kellogg High School students, and Slagel said of her teammate, “I was really happy with her. She did so good. It was kind of sad though, that was our last high school meet with each other. That s always a hard thing to do when it’s your favorite teammate, you know. I mean, she is like my big sister, so it’s sad to see her go.” Dumond was a three-time state qualifier. She advanced to the semifinals at the DI Finals as a junior in 2023. a» •> X —w Grand Rapids Gator sophomore Lydia Slagel settles in for a dive during the preliminaries of the MHSAA Lower Peninsula GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: I Summary of Request: Special Land Use request for a 48 square-foot monument sign in the RL-10 zoning district with 2 foot by 8 foot LED illuminated panel. Property Address: 520 68th Street, Grand Rapids, Ml 49548 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-07-201-048 Applicant: Mike Tiesma, Midwest Sign Company ate andTIme of Hearing: Decemberl9th, 2024, at 7:0CrpnT Division 1 Girls Swimming and Diving Finals Friday at the Holland Aquatic Center. Slagel scored a fourth-place finish to earn an all-state medal at the finals. Photo by Brett Bremer CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEB ONIA BOARD OF - TRUSTEES _ off®Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request Meeting Minutes may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) informationrelated ^®'" '^®J's@ga<nestownship.org.To be entered into the public written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on received by 5:00 PM on December 19th, 2024. The minutes for the November 6, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting that were approved on November 20, 2024, are posted at the Township Offices at 8196 Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at www.caledoniatownship.orp Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. 99 See SLAGEL on 11 1 �* •« t 1 * ► * * 4 ♦ ♦ •• .4 -A I ♦ X 4 ;< < k I t I I » I A < •< . / *> 4 1 *r I 4 J' / ♦ SI * i 9 A- /> * < ri < * r . » r • 32 I I I 4 r * www.sunandnews.com I f * * •*..' * I Mk s fr * I the end of the board, you’re going to jump, and you’re going to reach super tall. Then you re going to grab your tuck and squeeze it one time, and then you ’re going to spot wherever your spot is. My spot sometimes on the comer, where the ceiling and the wall meet^ Sometimes I find a big fan on the ceil­ ing. Sometimes I use a light. Then you just kick out as strong as you can and you just hope for the best. Slagel said she just worried about being at her best. She avoided watching other competitors or seeing scores as much as possible. “I don’t need to know. I don’t want to know. I know that that messes with my head and the way that I compete, so we’re just going to leave it alone,’’ Slagel said. Obviously, she did know the scores between Friday and Saturday. She was happy to get treated to dinner at Olive Garden Friday after the opening rounds of competition, but then said she had a tough time sleeping because of the excitement of the competition ahead. But I felt well rested when I got up (4 I V •r a > I < I 1 ■■ \ I s I I ( i THE SUN AND NEWS Slagel said her own back dive didn’t go as well as she had hoped, it was the one that was a little off, but she was really pleased with her reverse 1 and her front 2 '/2 dives over the course of the weekend. Her front 2 Vi was her second dive of the entire competition Friday. She opened the finals compe­ tition Saturday with that reverse 1 '/2 which is a big one in the HCDC. “It’s a very important one,” Slagel said of the reverse 1 Vi. “It’s a really big dive and it can be one of your best scoring dives. I personally really like it, but sometimes it doesn’t go the way you want it to, but on Saturday it went exactly how I wanted it to go.” This is how it goes. “You’re going to stand on the board going forward, you’re going to do your approach. Then you’re going to get to $ 5’ I I I I ♦ Continued from Page 10 I / ♦ SLAGEL I 1 4 * !0® I I I * •fpj.'.' -I, fSj See SLAGEL on 16 <r?* 5 *; 11 r 3. « r Saturday, November 30, 2024 11 ♦ ♦ ^7^ y I J** •<R' A .'V 4 * ■ f •w S3 4; s p • -'i * ■ <•• <4 I « •Tr -J*'*■ V «v. <■ ' T •* ^4; ,A ,7, I A. f afe:- * • A. I* r.-l, p. s T »<•***•-«■* J , \ .* JESw. . LA 1 *5 *. t ~ ir rr A . i4» y MB ♦ -4 f 5 i • I, S • % ** J 4 I ♦* z > 'V* \ PR.: J ' z • tj ' 4' C A 1 IS Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian senior Elise Miller reaches back for the water during a dive in the preliminaries of the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls Swimming and Diving Finals Friday at the Holland Aquatic Center. Miller advanced to Saturday’s finals where she placed ninth. Photo by Brett Bremer u' M « ' 4 i I ? * *V I IH ' s - ■ . >. M 1 * GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP I ’i« < tS ’V. i NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING IIS -•St > The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: I?-/.:*. J f i .s4 t; -*.j 4* I Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to build a 2,400 square foot accessory building in the RL-10 zon­ ing district. Property Address: 1718 68th Street, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-09-101-007 Applicant: Richard Latta K I r I I - y I > *• sail l; V 1 J’ 1 9 « I s< I' A Grand Rapids Gator senior Abigail Dumond twists above the pool during the preliminaries of the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls Swimming and Diving Finals Friday atthe Holland Aquatic Center. Dumond finished in 23rd place. Photo by Brett Bremer Date and Time of Hearing: December 19th, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells©gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on December 19th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should con­ tact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. CTOWNSHIP aledonia 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECT THEREOF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on November 20, 2023, the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia adopted an ordinance that conditionally rezones the lands commonly known as 8546 Whitneyville Avenue SE from the R-R Rural Residential District to the C-1 Neighborhood Business District. The conditions include that the property may only be used and developed for a childcare and nursery school. The ordinance will become effective on December 7, 2024. A copy of the ordinance may be examined or purchased at the Caledonia Charter Township Offices, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, during Township office hours. Dated: November 30, 2024 TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA �4 '< 4 * 4 1 ' < 4 a) 4*li* * 4 • • ■> .' <w * .*s -■ X 1 » f I f 4 9 4 4 • 4 • » A t -^. ’r- ’ I S • A I r 12 9 # f « V I I 4 n « « # t / > -w * * *?. 4 I I » * « 9 * www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, November 30, 2024 I * I 9 9 1 1^ . 4 < ♦ * CLS team has five win all-state honors Brett Bremer Sports Editor All five Caledonia/l.owell/South Christian swimmers made their way up to the all-state medal stand at least once Saturday at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division I Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals. All six CLS student-athletes competi ng scored for the Vik i ng team as it placed eighth overall in the competition of the biggest high school teams in the state at the Holland Aquatic Center Nov. 22-23. Senior Bella Treib competed in the maximum four events and set team records in all four with the help of her teammates. Her top finish of the meet came in the 100-yard backstroke as she swam to a time of 57.14 seconds in the A Final Saturday that put her in fourth place. Treib was also fifth in the 100-yard freestyle with a time of 51.11. Treib’s jaw dropped after she looked at the scoreboard following her 100-yard freestyle preliminary race in which she turned in a time of 52.18, and then looked 8196 Broadmoor Avc. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Me. I^^7 'i / 4 I t% W'' Id* V*.' >. H •» Jr- It < V ri 4 ■ 4 9^^ r* 4 ■*y •'•' F -1^ n * ** 4 *1 * 9 Hi I •3 ri* )/ i I 4 T r . • It, c 11 • u ■ «klr. CLS junior Sophie Gaylord races through the water during her preliminary heat of the 100-yard butterfly Friday, Nov. 22, at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals inside the Holland Aquatic Center. Photo by Brett Bremer over to see her cheering teammates along the side of the pool. “She came in. She was already speedy. She trains club year round. She started varying her events a little bit more and Caledonia TOWNSHIP Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA, COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF POSTING OF TOWNSHIP ORDINANCE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that two proposed Caledonia Charter Township Ordinances which would amend Section 2.4 of the Zoning Ordinance, the Zoning Map, have been posted in the office of the Township Clerk at the Caledonia Charter Township offices, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, for review by the public during Township office hours, and have also been post­ ed on the Townships website, the address of which is www.caledoniatownship. org. 7he amending ordinances would rezone the lands commonly known as 4950 76th Street from the A Agricultural District to the R-2 Medium Density Single Family District and the PUD Planned Unit Development District, in accordance with the proposed final development plan (“Plan”) of the proposed Dutton Pre­ serve Site Condominium Planned Unit Development. The above stated ordinances were considered by the Caledonia Charter Township Board on first reading at a public meeting of the Township Board held on November 20, 2024 and are expected to be considered on second reading by the Township Board at a public meeting on December 4,2024. This notice is given in accordance with the Charter Township Act and is authorized by action taken by the Caledonia Charter Township Board. Joni Henry, Township Clerk Caledonia Charter Township training backstroke a little bit more over the summer,” CLS head coach Amber Pearson said. Treib had a PR every time she got in the water over the course ofthe weekend according to her coach, and one race just built on the next. “Just getting in the water and having this great start to the meet where it felt like everything was going right for her, I think put her in such a good headspace of 1 ’m here and 1 ’m going to show up and do everything,” Pearson said. “It puts you on a high. What you put out into the world is what you get out of the world. So, the more you focus on those positives the better I think your meet is going to go.” Treib, sophomore Mya VanderZwaag, junior Sophie Gaylord and junior Aliya Van HofWegen set a team record time of 1 minute 47.24 seconds in the first race of the meet - the preliminaries of the 200-yard medley relay Friday. They followed that performance up with a time of 1:47.79 in Saturday’s finals to place sixth overall. The team of Treib, freshman Amelia McCann, VanderZwaag and Gaylord set a team record of 1:36.43 in the 200-yard fi’eesty le Friday and then placed fifth with See CLS on 13 GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Request to rezone three 0.19-acre parcels from 1-1 (Light Industrial) to R-3 (Multiple Family Residential). Property Address: 6684, 6700, and 6710 Hanna Lake Avenue, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-02-301-031, 41-22-02-301-032, 41-22-02301-033 Applicant: Giovanni Tocco Date and Time of Hearing: December 19th, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard , , . - ------- on said proposal. Information related lu to uiia this request request may may oe be inspected, inspected, by by appt., appt durinq ---.viccu regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in in the Offices. ror For information related to this ...X. Gaines Charter Township luwfibnip unices, request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells©gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on December 19th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other a.^sistanoA. �www.sunandnews.com III s I ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS CLS Continued from Page 12 l»' a time of 1 ;36.51 in the finals. “Watching both those relays take the stand ... there was a moment where we looked up, looked at the scoring and we were sitting in third or tied for fourth, CLS head coach Amber Pearson said. “It was just this moment where you know you’re not staying there, but you see it and it is still so exciting none the less. And it is like, oh snap, we did that. It was so fun to see just the sheer excitement on the team’s faces.” She noticed the her good friend, Rockford head coach Samantha Velting, acknowledging the moment and celebrating the CLS girls’ success. “I think that is honestly the best part about our sport. There is that element of it’s individual/team, so yes of course you’re racing foryourselfandyou’re rac­ ing for your team, but there is also such a positive energy around the athletes. It is such good sportsmanship, where I have heard the kids on a couple of occasions say ‘I want to be you. You’re so fast, I want to be you’ “It is such a positive environment watching them get done and watching t ♦ • • 1 'f, I .* y*' A 9 * IT • •it - • < - .M• V T I Cl * K k CLS sophomore Mya VanderZwaag races towards the wall during her preliminary heat of the 100-yard breaststroke Friday, Nov. 22, at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals inside the Holland Aquatic Center. Photo by Brett Bremer them high-five each other after the races. The top 16 in preliminary events Friday qualified for Saturday’s finals with the top eight from Friday competing in the A Final and earning all-state honors. All 16 final day qualifiers who finished Saturday scored for their team. Saturday, November 30, 2024 Gaylord, like Treib, was a state com­ petitorin four events this season. Gaylord was sixth in the 50-yard freestyle with a time of 23.90 seconds Saturday. She swam a 57.95 in the 100-yard butterfly preliminaries, which was the ninth best time of that competition, but was DQ’d from Saturday’s B Final in the race for a false start. Gaylord had big time drops to set personal records as the Vikings won this season s OK Rainbow Tier II Conference Championship in early November, and her state finals times weren’t quite PRs, but they were close to her best times ever. Senior diver Elise Miller placed ninth in the diving competition for CLS, just missing out on a spot on the state medal stand. She closed her 11 -dive competi­ tion with a score of 347.60 points which was 12 points shy of the last of the eight state medalists in the event. VanderZwaag and Gaylord both scored in the 50-yard freestyle for the Vikings. VanderZwaag was tenth in the preliminaries with a time of 24.41 and then placed 13th overall with a swim of 24.60 in the B Final. “It was really fun that Sophie and Mya were in the same heat in prelims so they were just able to race each other and be 13 ♦ in practice environment,” Pearson said. The CLS coach said the pre-meet psyche sheet times put her team in 13th place, but she said some awesome fin­ ishes just helped the team move up the standings a bit. Miller was one of those. She was seeded 17th in the diving com­ petition going in and improved on her 2023 finals appearance where she didn't make it beyond day one. Pearson was really pleased with VanderZwaag’s perfonnance too. Her top 50 free was a 25.00 on the seed chart, but a late charge at a club meet shaved almost halfa second off that time. Getting in a tech suit with the adrenaline of the state finals made her even faster pushing her tlirough Friday and into the scoring group. VanderZwaag was also 26th in the 100-yard breaststroke with a time of 1:09.56 in the prelims. The Viking freshman McCann swam to a time of2:02.24 in the 200-yard free­ style prelims, putting her in 39th overall in that race. Ann Arbor Pioneer won the Division 1 team state championship with an overall score of386 points to take the title for the fifth consecutive season. Pioneer didn ’t have anyone on the team See CLS on 16 GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING I N S P NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING regarding an ordinance to designate an enforcing agency to discharge the responsibility of the Charter Township of Gaines located in Kent County, and to designate regulated flood hazard areas under the provisions of the State Construction Code Act, Act No. 230 of the Public Acts of 1972 as amended. At a regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Charter Township of Gaines, the Board considered an ordinance to designate an enforcing agency to discharge the responsibility of the Charter Township of Gaines located in Kent County, and to designate regulated flood hazard areas under the provisions of the State Construction Code Act, Act No. 230 of the Public Acts of 1972 as amended. A public hearing will be held on Monday, December 9, 2024, at 7:00PM at the Gaines Charter Township Hall, located at 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316, to consider the adoption of said ordinance. A true and complete copy of the proposed ordinance may be obtained at the Clerk’s office, located at the Township Hall, 8555 Kalamazoo Ave., SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316. Michael A. Brew Township Clerk The Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider the following request: Summary of Request: Special Land Use request to allow for non-household animals (chickens) in the RL-14 zoning district. Property Address: 1627 Sunny Glen Drive SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Parcel Numbers: 41-22-16-301-006 Applicant: Steven Tran Date and Time of Hearing: December 19th, 2024, at 7:00 pm Location of Hearing: Gaines Charter Township Offices, Board Room 8555 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Caledonia, Ml 49316 Any interested party may appear and be heard on said proposal. Information related to this request may be inspected, by appt., during regular business hours at the Planning Department window located in the Gaines Charter Township Offices. For information related to this request, contact Dan Wells at (616) 980-6188 or dan.wells©gainestownship.org. To be entered into the public record, signed written comments must be received by 5:00 PM on December 19th, 2024. Persons with disabilities needing special accommodations should contact Kim Triplett at (616) 698-6640 one week prior to the meeting to request mobility, visual or any other assistance. ♦ �4 s www.sunandnews.com Samuel (Elizabeth) Nieder; her adored grandchildren, Alexis, Harper, Layla, Marla, Elodie, Everett, Piper, and Luna; and her loving sister, Kimberly (Wayne) Anderson. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Bruce Moats. A stay-at-home mom who once ran a daycare, Joy dedicated her life to nurturing and loving her family. Growing up on a farm instilled in her a lifelong love for horses. As a committed member of the Alaska Baptist Church, her faith was unwavering. Joy’s legacy of love and care will forever be cherished by those she touched. Relatives and friends met with Joy’s family on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024 at Obituaries Joy Ann Nieder Joy Ann Nieder, age 65, passed away on November 22, 2024. Joy was born on March 17, 1959 in Chippewa Falls, Wl, to Robert and Alene (Aubert) Moats. Joy is survived by her devoted husband of 37 years, Gunther Nieder; her cherished children. Codie (Samantha) Nieder, Olivia (Jordon) Kaniewski, Ashley Nieder, and Alaska Baptist *4 Z Church where her funeral service was I I held. Interment Mt. I 1 4^ Hope Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make memorial contributions in Joy's names are t strongly encouraged to direct them to the Alzheimer’s Association - Greater Michigan Chapter. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Joy’s family. r /* T LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church ALASKA BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Christine Beaudoin Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM S 6:00 PM Join us for our traditional yet casual worship 250 Vine Street 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Li vestream: Facebook.com/CalcdoniaUnitcdMethodist Sef'ving Sunday Service 10:30 AM Middleville Strengthening Connecting Good Shepherd Lutheran Church < J 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship Livestream; facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 JOURNEY CHURCH Caledonia Location 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages. com Church: (269) 795-2391 MIDDLEVILLE Sunday at 9.30am & 11 .OOam 20 State Street. Middleville, Ml / .Yiiivaunv,feb.com rw HOLY FAMILY ^/catholic church 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. CHURCH PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee 4 Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebjble.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend <Apeace THORNAPPLE VALLEY CHURCH Join US in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. www.alaskabapti8t.org 7240 68th Street SE. Caledonia FIRST BAPTIST cornerstonechurch Sunday School •♦•e»«ee9:30 AM Sunday Worship teeeeeeeee 10:30 AM Watch our seMces from our website (see above) @ St Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Yankee Springs Bible Church 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 ""Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L, Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org Barry Indoor Farmers Market returns this winter with Dec. 7 kickoff The Barry Community Foundation has announced the 2nd Annual Barry Indoor Winter Farmers Market in Hast­ ings, a vibrant celebration of local farmers, artisans and makers. This year’s market will be held on Saturday, Dec. 7, and Saturday, Feb. 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Barry Community Enrichment Center (BECE), 231 S. Broadway in Hastings. This unique event offers a fantastic opportunity for Barry County residents to shop for fresh, organic, and locally grown products that are perfect for the winter season. With a variety of vendors showcasing everything from meats, cheeses, eggs, and plants to mushrooms, honey, maple syrup, wood products, and artisan crafts, organizers say there’s something for everyone. Farmers market organizers say that by shopping at the Winter Farmers Market, you’re not only getting highquality, organic products for your family, but you’re also supporting local farmers, small business owners and artisans who are committed to sustain­ able, ethical practices. Every purchase made helps grow the local economy and fosters a stronger, more resilient community. The market on Saturday, Dec. 7, is extra special as it coincides with Hastings’ Jingle Mingle event. After shopping for local goods, residents can enjoy the festive holiday atmosphere throughout downtown Hastings, mak­ ing for a fun, full day of community celebration. VENDORS AND SHOPPERS WANTED Farmers market organizers are look­ ing to see some new faces this year, both shopping and selling. Those interested in showcasing their products at the Winter Farmers Market can register and find more information by contact ing the Barry Community Foundation, 269-945-0526. Admission is free for shoppers; vendors must pay $ 15 a day for their booths. - MM 5 �> r & I I I 9 I I * I 4 > I • 4 » ft > ♦ 9 ft Al ft ( A I V- * 4 I 4 w ft J .1 « « A 4 I K f 9 9 / 1 * 4 ♦ 1 ft 4 ft z * < > 4 1 » /• r* b 4 A r. www.sunandnews.com Continued from Page 5 cems about the safety of(the) Kraft and 92nd Street intersection,” Supervisor Bryan Harrison said to Township Board members Wednesday. “Our state repre­ sentative went to the Road Commission (asking them) to provide an analysis of a possible traffic signal there.” “It was a very detailed and courteous ‘no, Harrison added. The Road Commission collected information on 24-hour traffic volumes along Kraft at five different intersec­ tions between the high school/Emmons Lake entrance to Johnson Street during late September and October. It also drove around the Caledonia school campuses and observed traffic activity during morning arrival and afternoon dismissal in late October and early November, Likens wrote in his memo. Likens wrote that after the Road Commission’s analysis, “the data do not support the changes being requested.” “While much of the expressed con­ cern has been directed toward changes at 92nd Street, the volumes on the northern Emmons Lake Elementary/ (Caledonia High) access are over four times higher than on the Cal HS access at 92nd Street,” Likens wrote. “Furthermore, the volumes on the Kraft Meadows Intermediate (School) access are over twice as high. The absence of connectivity between the access points creates a condition which negates the potential for a traffic signal (if war­ ranted in the future) to facilitate overall Cal campus traffic demands. “The delays incurred are primarily confined to the Cal campus access points and not on the (Road Commission) pub­ lic road network,” Likens added. In its field observation, the Road Commission found that the longest lines were observed on the northern access drive that serves Emmons Lake 99 Spend it here. Keep it here. Elementary, which also serves the high school’s northern parking lot. Queues were generally contained on the school campus driveway ap­ proaches, not on Kraft Avenue,” Likens wrote in his memo. “Driveway queues cleared within approximately 15 to 20 minutes of formation following the school arrival and dismissal periods. The only significant queue observed on Kraft Avenue was southbound at the Emmons Lake Elementary ! Cal HS student access, where the (southbound) left-turn queue exceeded the available storage lane for three to five minutes.” The Road Commission also obtained a five-year crash history for the Kraft Avenue corridor from 84th Street to 100th Street from Michigan State Police, covering a period from 2019 to 2023. That study found 33 crashes in that time period, not counting deer crashes and those in the vicinity of and influenced by the traffic signal at Kraft and 84th. Of those 33 crashes, only nine resulted in injuries and only one resulted in an incapacitating injury. Likens wrote in the memo. “The majority of crashes (24 of 33) are rear-end, single vehicle and side­ swipe (crash) types that would not be directly mitigated by changes in inter­ section traffic control,” he wrote. “The rear-end crashes typically occurred on weekdays during school months and may be attributed to school-time con­ gestion; however, signalization often increases rear-end crash occurrence.” One possible solution to the issue of traffic delays was identified in the Road Commission report - modification of the length of the southbound storage lane on Kraft at the Emmons Lake/high school entrance north of 92nd. “That stated, queue spillback from this lane is brief, periodic, and has not resulted in a crash concentration,” Likens wrote. * :a*^* .: ti-' •I < * V III H t 1 M'U'* AJ r ’•V Group hil"-12 i INVEST IN YOUR COMMUNITY c b F « to3XO»*W2 « SHOP LOCAL Kk. A k t ■.' *•* V, 1 —-’ ''r-^ « w' 4 »*-' I 4 k Saturday, November 30, 2024 ♦ 15 ♦ ♦ ♦ t. r 3* ANNIVERSARY ANNOUNCEMENT I % 4 * M ** 5 ■V— I* r 9^ L »'Wb 1 / ■<■ A 1*1 Pit. 1-. 3 I i 4 A V * .r" 1 t • .iJ'' f 1* I tA I « J T ■ V, . > *4 T 1 J T 4 • Kt . 1 ^<-1 13* y- T A T '£ I t .< s. t' r <4 % t A !?♦ t: * A ■ 100 s i*Sj. 4 I 4 "Sk V ** * ■iSr i «U . * I ? • *4 'v. « *■. J*« I k . & Hht 'W m'»I lb* J • r > 7 w -4 A B I A . >4 t «• 1r t 4 5^! *J i£i X.- I ; <.* * ■r. tt ini^T> :■ t tsrj I : 1’ r :^..a R r ?A % .• 1 k ' J? A Shirley Smith to celebrate 90th birthday ) .7’ I J Shirley Smith will celebrate her 90th birthday on December 9, 2024 with a card shower. Cards may be sent to Carveth Village, 690 W. Main, Mid dleville, MI 49333. * • ■■» /r* Fundraiser Middleville Community Food Pantry 4 y I i 11 I s X 1 ▼. 9 Crumbacks to celebrate 70th anniversary V 4 -1' k t 4 ft J ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS REJECTS > Gerald and Lorraine Crumback were married December 3, 1954 at Aberdeen Reformed Church, Grand Rapids, MI. They have made their home in the Caledo­ nia area where they still reside. Their children are Linda DeWitt and Gary Crumback. They have five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. December 6^*' and 7^ Pasta Bar at 6:00 pm FELLOWSHIP HALL Play "The Poem" at 7:00 pm CHURCH SANCTUARY * * * Middleville United Methodist Church 111 Church St. Middleville Call 269-795-9266 for reservations AT THE DOOR 100% of proceeds go to benefit Middleville Community Food Pantry �---- « < f / f A < ♦ <* 4 to f f -’*w f f 4 4 r /; 4 1 & r Vr/ LJ 1 if I 1 » J to X KM • 1 ft J . r "■ 'to Vi I 9 f 7^ ♦ J 1 f c fr I'y < > J s ■ 1» Kt -T' to * i- rtM iB ** r .A; A n• ■w ■ •• ♦: T * jr T 4 b .^■ a 11 *. w: Sophie Gaylord takes off for the anchor leg of the 200-yard freestyle relay as teammate Mya VanderZwaag touches the wall and teammates Bella Treib and Amelia McCann cheer on from behind the blocks Friday, Nov. 22, during the preliminary races at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals inside the Holland Aquatic Center. Photo by Brett Bremer relay titles. The Pioneer team of Katelyn Van Ryn, Ursula Ott, Reese Heidenreich and Meg Pinkerton won the 200-yard freestyle relay in 1:34.47, another one where it was the Pioneer girls and the Jenison girls out ■ A: ale riends^ 1 •7«: >1 > k c4 *b •'7* front. The Wildcat foursome ofAlbrecht, Sophia and Layla Umstead and Kylie Coffey was second in 1:34.52. In the 400-yard freestyle relay, the Pio neer team of Heidenreich, Jayla Kuzak, Cecilia Cook and Van Ryn won in 3:28.59 with a Canton foursome almost two seconds back as their nearest competitor. Zeeland junior Madison Ensing won the 50-yard freestyle title in 22.94 and also took the 100-yard freestyle in 50.11. West Bloomfield junior Elizabeth Eich brecht defended her title in the 200-yard freestyle with a winning time of 1:48.44 and in the 500-yard freestyle with a time of4:51.87. The 100-yard butterfly cham«* Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian senior Bella Treib awaits the start of her preliminary race in the 100-yard backstroke Friday, Nov. 22, at the MHSAA Lower Peninsula Division 1 Girls’ Swimming and Diving Finals inside the Holland Aquatic Center. Treib earned all-state honors in all four of her events over the weekend at the state finals. Photo by Brett Bremer •V. e I I ♦I ♦ A pionship went to Kalamazoo Central senior Maggie Spybrook in 55.60. West Ottawa senior Makenzie Baldwin won the 100-yard backstroke in 56.06. “Thinking about the fact that there were 53 schools, and that’s those that achieved qualifying times or scores. There are more than those 52, 53 schools period within Division 1, and then to go out and be top eight - just wild,” Pearson said. J ■ V •X «• I V s Holiday Book ,.4’ y 4 K 9' 4^ SLAGEL Continued from Page 11 * • I- > .• If i • A V H > 9 > 'T ir v r •i to □1 DE * i to* » h>.f. < • I I’ >• L > .w*' * f 11 4 Caledonia Friends Member Sale! 12/05 3pm-5pm Public Sale! 12705 5pm-7pm, 12/0610am-4pm, 12/07 10am-2pm Books Make Great Gifts! All books $1 or less! Teachers with ID Receive 20 FREE Books! ■* I I*. 4 . •• I r. to w « V" ' . • Ik ♦ A K- ' € J1 ** J 1 I ? t’ ■: ^>2 r * r M !*'■ * R to i • A F T 1 (' I r 4 ■ v< u to 1b srw «r ' ii - M I 9 « J f * «« '< 1 www.sunandnews.com 1 •«> t # J r 4 4. EL^»' k < < 4 * •Si II f •.« V to » to « I I -tot. J tk* to V V j • < 4 <•. J 4 4 •1 * 1I ..• z • / • / k k« IS. J I X. r fi *: V ... hi * toil t 4 * « 4 ’ I A' « 9 ♦ ■ 4.... I*W ♦ t 1 I ,*4 to I* 4 I J 4, * 4 4 iA I win an individual state championship. The Pioneer girls did win the 200-yard freestyle relay, the 400-yard freestyle relay and place second to Jenison in the 200-yard medley relay. The Jenison team of Dalila Brown, Sophia Umstead, Emma Albrecht and Layla Umstead wont that 200-yard medley relay to start the finals in 1:43.05, defending their team’s title in the race. Pioneer had a runner-up time of 1:43.45. The third-place Grand Haven team in the race wa.s more than three and a half seconds back ofthose two front-runners. Pioneer was the clear front runner on the scoreboard throughout. Jenison was second with 222 points ahead of Northville 165, Grand Haven 142, Zeeland 138, Canton 133, Rockford 129, Caledonia/LowelESouth Christian 110, West Ottawa 106 and Bloomfield Hills 98 in the top ten. Jenison, bumped up from D2 to D1 this season, earned its second state runnerup trophy in the past three seasons. The \^ldcat senior Umstead won the 200yard individual medley in 1:59.98 and the 100-yard breaststroke as well as her •« to 4 ”* <; fi a 4 to A THE SUN AND NEWS Continued from Page 13 ♦ A A . < * Saturday, November 30, 2024 CLS ♦ * * J ✓ 16 *• •V ii . w K J to 4 * - ^,i6b^ in the morning, so it was fine.” Slagel said she was happy to have diving coach Francesca Pileci there calming her down throughout the competition. The 15 points Slagel earned put the Grand Rapids Gator team in 24th place overall in the weekend’s competition. Ann Arbor Pioneer ran away with the team title with 386 points. Jenison was second with 222 points ahead of Northville 165, Grand Haven 142, Zeeland 138, Canton 133, Rockford 129, Caledonia/Lowell/South Christian 110, West Ottawa 106 and Bloomfield Hills 98 in the top ten. It is the fifth straight MHSAA L.P. Division 1 state championship for the Ann Arbor Pioneer girls. Pioneer had three divers score, but didn’t have anyone on the team win an individual state championship. The Pioneer girls did win the 200-yard freestyle relay, the 400-yard freestyle relay and place second to Jenison in the 200-yard medley relay. Jenison, bumped up from D2 to DI this season, earned its second state runner-up trophy in the past three sea sons. Jenison senior Sophia Umstead won the 200-yard individual medley and the 100-yard breaststroke while also swimming as part of the Wildcats’ state champion 200-yard medley relay team. w CM rx o 2 H Z oe 0. s (/> >«. OO TJ 4> -*—■ C 'C Q. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-12-07.pdf 43c2ab439efcd9a3392449ff7df9da89 PDF Text Text t » * I X_ 7 f I t a TK TAKES _ TWO-POINT % WIN OVER I SCOTS ON FIRST MAT NIGHT ?* _ AND NEWS Your Hometown Newspaper Serving the Middleville, Caledonia and Games Township Areas PAGES NO. 34 Parade, tree-lighting highlight Christmas in Caledonia celehration today SATURDAY. DECEMBER 7, 2024 IN •BAUMis Of£«08 0d aovisod s n ais isHd *1 .Id I * •« -r .(te**^** i www.sunandnews.com winterfest season in full force following Gun Lake Christmas nn tko on the Corridor Karen Turko-Ebright Premier Motorsports com­ plex on M-179. AAA Poured Walls and Concrete ran the crane to lift the tree and place it on the semi-trailer,” Cole said. “Amsmans Excavation & Septic Services of Hopkins supplied the trailer. Stony Point Tree Service was the arborist who cut the tree down and reset it.” Brad and Stacey Landman chair the annual Gun Lake Winterfest, which the Gun Lake Business Association runs. Deb Timmerman is the president of the GLBA and Brad is the vice presi­ dent. “Christmas on the Corridor event is an excit­ ing way to bring the com­ munity together and support our local businesses all sea­ son long,” Brad said. Timmerman said that the GLBA is thankful to comSee WINTERFEST on 3 Contributing Writer A 60-foot Christmas tree dressed up in thousands of twinkling lights tow­ ered over the crowd at the second annual Christmas on the Corridor event at Chief Noonday Car Park on Friday, Nov. 29. Terry Cole, co-owner of the car park, estimated that 450 people turned out for the festive event. “It was a beautiful snowy cold evening,” said Cole. “The tree had just about 18,000 lights on it. The evening kicked off the area’s winter festivities, leading to the main event, Gun Lake Winterfest, on Feb. 15 at Gun Lake County Park. Those events, until then, include Gun Lake Idol, trivia, and more surprises. “fTie Christmas tree was cut down at the new * I® ) k « A Greg Chandler Staff Writer The village of Caledonia will hold its annual holiday celebration, Christmas in Caledonia, later today. The village is organizing this year’s event with planning help from businesses on Main Street, many of which will be open today. It’s the third year since the village took over planning for the festival. Village President Jennifer Lindsey wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Activities get underway on Main Street at 4 p.m. and will run until 8 p.m. Santa Claus will be in his tent at 4 p.m. for pictures before the parade and then again after the tree­ lighting ceremony. The local Kiwanis Club is sponsoring Santa’s tent, Lindsey wrote. Other activities going on during the fes­ tival include cookie decorating, hosted at the Alano Club on Main Street, as well as activities for the kids and a meet-and-greet with Mrs. Claus at Buer Well Drilling. Cherry Valley Livestock will have a petting zoo with animals for kids to pet. There will also be a marketplace for vendors selling artisan crafts, Lindsey wrote. The highlight of the event, the annual parade of lights, will step off at 6 p.m. downtown, with Santa Claus getting a new ride this year that has been put together by the village’s Department of Public Works. The tree-lighting ceremony will follow the parade, Lindsey wrote. Students from Caledonia Dance Studio will perform on Main Street following the parade. In addition, four food trucks will be available, offering a variety of food for visi­ tors to purchase. The food trucks are from Around Baking Company, Cheezy Duz-It, Family Thyme and Wagz wooa H3W0iSn3 Dogs. Ice Cream Express will ivinuoisau SSMU33 also be open and have bags 8E88> for kids to decorate that will see# wuuad sess# be donated to Kids’ Food 'aiiiAuaejo Basket, Lindsey wrote. OlVd •“W w I A « I Ik * 5* •« ! c ^-dr^ I J I * 4 L •J * <• L • i 7 o •• J (J *<**>• L*>- -»■ % * __- - * » w w r* "■ ■ A *w % ✓ V *l^« 4L -— 60-foot Christmas tree covered in 18,000 twinkling lights from top to bottom towered over the crowd at the second annual Christmas on the Corridor event at Chief Noonday Car Park on Friday, Nov. 29. Photo provided Gaines Township planners are leaving no stone unturned in updating ordinance James Gemmell Contributing Writer Gaines Township planners and staff began the long process of updating the township’s zoning ordinance in the summer of2023 and hoped it would be completed by early 2024. But the process has taken longer thcin some expected, wi± new infor mation to process and issues to con* sider on the fly during the painstak­ ing process of writing the amended I 4 t I. t‘>1 4 • O» I I I im « f ■■•'115 ijE^’ I w 4 A t to »A 4 The Gaines Township Planning Commission discusses an amended zoning ordinance at its Nov. 21 meeting. Photo by James Gemmell ordinance. It is still in the draft stage at this point. “It’s been a massive project,” Planning Commission Chairwoman Connie Giarmo said. See GAINES on 4 I �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 7, 2024 2 www.sunandnews.com TKHS senior builds Little Free Library for Eagle Scout project Every day when Thomapple Kel­ logg High School senior Clyde Watson comes to school, he is reminded of one really good thing he has done for the community. Just outside the TK school and community library, Watson built a Little Free Library along with two benches where students can meet up with friends or wait for rides. It’s a source of pride for Watson and also a final step toward earning the Eagle Scout rank. “Earning my Eagle is something I al­ ways wanted to do. It takes a lot ofwork * I -<s A I 19 V f A* W I' ■. V*. ». T I i V i r rv ■9 1 * * k, * I — J T: 4 • * I •• w w X i. I .fM % «» <1 11 LI ’J'S’ O' II ♦ ’ ■L ft - £ 4 V‘| I v * IL 7 i 1 k L 1 ••I •i. ) •? V ‘i’'- b ±r*“’' »1 K.: 9g ->» * ted Is .. . I . Ba^ 3^ A - I • 1^J? .4r T ■ ■ * . r »- :■■ SrV 9I h {I I 4 •*. J I I 4’ k- •• . b <o : 9 ;■ * A ^.1 •9 I ..• ...e 616-891-0150 I I '4^ k’ ;■ t L L* 3^ ' Thornapple Kellogg High School senior Clyde Watson recently built a Little Free Library along with two benches for his Eagle Scout project. Photos provided BUSINESS HOURS; Monday - Friday: 8 am to 5 pm and it’s definitely not easy,” he said. Watson said he knew he wanted to do a project that would be beneficial to the community. When his family moved to Middleville, his mother often brought him to the library and it became a place where he felt welcomed. “Now, I just always see kids gather- BODY SHOP j t V 1 V- 4 i' » ' 7* b ing around out here in the open space by the library and I thought it would be a good idea for my Eagle proj ect. When the library isn’t open, people can still get books here. I know there are kids who wait out there after school, too, so I thought it would be good to add some benches.” Completing the project was no easy task. First, Watson researched how to build a Little Free Library and scarmed through the Internet for designs. He also researched building permanent benches that would be securely an chored in the ground and that would stand up to all kinds of Michigan weather. Next, he wrote a plan for the project including all the materials he would need from screws to paint and lumber, estimated costs, and found ways to pay for the project. He also presented his plan to the school and worked with the schools’ facility director for proper * / J" . 'i1 < 6 UCHT TRUCK PRUn OSER nuns * nci UK * ME TMIS * VANS * sm * IBS > 4X4$ FULL SERVICE & YOU PULL IT W *A w 1 y •rf r I 269-381-2300 t • '•^•* ■ ' n ■f '-* •• ^•' »• ’A * I •k • V *% USED PARTS t USED TIRES Your •frusbed Body Shop for ”• / ur,— 1811 lAKE ST, KALAMAZOO over 32 years «« I » A 110 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 I * . '’-*1 J Complete Collision Repair placement of the Little Free Library and benches. Finally, he enlisted the help of fellow Scouts and parents to work on the project while he oversaw the progress. He and his team finished building and installing the project this summer. “I learned a lot from it. I learned lead­ ership is about more than just showing up and doing the work. It’s about pre­ planning everything. The project was a lot of work, but it was worth it. I’ve seen that people have taken books and put new ones in, and I’ve seen kids sitting on the benches,” he said. Completing this project is the cul­ mination of years of scouting. Watson is a member of Middleville Boy Scout Troop 105 and has been involved with scouting since about third or fourth grade. “I like the opportunities we get in Boy Scouts to help out in the commu­ nity. I like camping and learning about all the outdoor skills,” he said. Throughout the years, Watson earned a variety of merit badges with his favorite being his wilderness survival badge. “We had to hike about 2 Vi miles away from everybody, set up a wilderness camp, and sleep there alone overnight,” he said. He’s attended the summer weeklong Boy Scout camp several times and has been active in many community events including serving hot chocolate at the holiday Holly Trolley night in Mid­ dleville, picking up trash in the troop’s adopt a highway, and participating in official ffag retirement ceremonies. His parents, Kate and Clyde, say they are extremely proud of their son for all he has accomplished. His father also is an Eagle Scout and said it’s something he always wanted for his son. See LIBRARY on 5 p V ?€ ’ lx/' THE SUN AND NEWS CONTACT US The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 Editor: Molly Macleod mmacleod@mihomepaper.com PUBLISHED BY iBfc r4. • r 0 ^1^1 IBL ' bDremer@mihomepaper. com csilverman@mihomepaper.com iyonker@mihomepaper.com I f ! f f * z 0 t t r ! t ! Copyright 2024 2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper « z Group Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Advertising Manager: Chris Silverman Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist: Jennie 1 fl , ____ -Onker All advertising in The Sun and News is subject to the conditions in the applicable rate card ' 7/ JoMo ^°P'®s of which are Ad Dept. ,1351 1351 ’ f^^stings, Ml 49058 ( 269-9457*^'® 2®'*®.P®P®'' reserves the right not to nn ® O'J’’ lakers have no authority to bind this newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order V f Sports: Brett Bremer 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com * • I » 9 » « I 9 9 f 9 a ! 9 9 9 9 9 » 9 i f �www.sunandnews.com the sun and news WINTERFEST Continued from Page 1 munity partners like Chief Noonday Car Park for their sponsorship and partnership in promoting local busi­ nesses. “Christmas on the Corridor event was great. We went all out and added more activities, hosted talented local artists and vendors,” Brad said. Santa was on site along with the Grinch, arriving in a 1912 Buick. “To top it all off, the snowfall helped create the perfect atmosphere. Brad added. “We’re excited for next year’s Christmas on the Corridor.” A DJ played Christmas carols and songs with over six speakers on the car park property. Vendors set up display tables of their products. Customers walked away with treats to take home, includ­ ing Maddie’s Cookies, Kylie’s Cakes, Gun Lake’s Com Dogs and Curley Cone goodies. During the festive celebration, the Grinch lurked in the background with a trick up his sleeve. “We had everybody here count down from 10 as Christmas carols played in the background, and once we got down to zero. Brad Landman threw the switch to turn on the Christmas tree lights,” said Cole. “At that point, we realized the Grinch tried to steal Christmas by unplugging the tree, and we plugged her back in and threw the switch one more time, which lit the 18,000-bulb Christmas tree, ending in applause and cheers. It was a great success.” Visitors at the Christmas Market met local author Susan Christenson with her book, “My Doodle Ate Oodles of Noodles,” along with Cards & Paper Art by Kelly’s Stamping Comer, Gun Lake wildlife photographer Cheryl Cook Johnson, RT Stitchcrafts with Winterfest swag and more. After the tree lighting, many left to enjoy a meal at local restaurants. The Yankee Springs Fire Department brought out their brandnew fire tmck, and area EMTs showed off their flashing lights to the little ones. According to Yankee Springs Deputy Fire Chief Dan Miller, Christmas on the Corridor did not dis­ appoint the crowd. “I thought the event went off very well. This year, I believe a big hit was 59 the Christmas tree, as well as all of the lifting around the event,” Miller said Those present were veiy pleased with the music, vendors, etc. The children were veiy excited to see Santa as well as the tree lighting. The weather was excellent with the current snowfall.” Some improvements were made this year to the seasonal celebration. “We did a lot of changes for the bet­ terment this year,” explained Cole. “We kept parking off to the side with a separate driveway entrance and lit up the parking lot with lighting towers, which was a great positive response. Local business owner Julie Fox agrees with Miller. Fox owns Curley Cone and co-owns Thirsty Buddy, U-Rent-Em Canoe Livery and the Curley Cone Pickleball Club. Fox and her crew served free hot chocolate during the Christmas on the Corridor event. “Christmas on the corridor just keeps getting better and better,” Fox said. “Chief Noonday Car Park does a great job hosting this event and bring­ ing the community together through­ out the year.” Pat Doezema, a realtor with Keller Williams, braved the frosty weather and provided firn toppings for the hot Saturday, December 7, 2024 3 Christmas parade set for next Saturday in Middieviile Greg Chandler Staff Writer Holiday activities are underway in the village of Middleville. Thursday night was the annual Christmas on the River celebration, where local businesses offered crafts, activities and treats for kids. The Holly Trolley took visitors around to each of the participating venues during the evening, and kids could visit with live reindeer and see Santa. Next Saturday will be the annual Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Middleville Lions Club. While in past years the parade took place at night, this year the parade will begin at 10:30 a.m., following the annual Breakfast with Santa at Middleville United Methodist Church. “There’s going to be many families in town, so we’re going to lead right (out ofthe breakfast) into the parade,” Lions Club representative Karen Nicholson told the Village Council at a Nov. 12 meeting. The parade route will begin near Thomapple Valley Church on State Street, then head on State Street to Larkin Street, Larkin to East Main Street before finally concluding on Main at Church Street. A community-wide voting contest to choose this year’s favorite float wi 11 be part of the parade, with the voting to take place on the Lions Club Face­ book page. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place. Volunteers are being sought to help manage barricades along the parade route. Locations needing barricades include Russell and State, State and Larkin, Dearborn and Larkin, Larkin and Main, Russell and Main, St. James Circle and Main, Railroad and Main, High and Main, and Church and Main. You can message the Lions Club Face­ book page if you are willing to help. See WINTERFEST on 11 NEWSPAPER DEADLINES Advisor Monday at 4:00 pm Shopper Monday at 5.00 pm Banner Tuesday at Noon Reminder Wednesday at Noon Sun & News CALEDONIA TOWNSHIP Sth ANNUAL HOLIDAY LUMINARY WALK Saturday, December 14th * 6:00pm - 8:30 pm Please join us once again for our S* Annual Holiday Luminary walk! Come enjoy a walk down the Caledonia Trail, located near the Community Green Park and the Caledonia Library. The trail will again be lit with over 1000 luminaries. Grab a donut and a cup of hot chocolate at the Pavilion, then visit Santa at the Amphitheater before you start your walk. The Dickens Carolers will again be joining us at the Green as well as on the trail. We will have a Toys for Tots box if you would like to donate an unwrapped toy. r ■’ Wednesday at Noon Group In case of inclement weather, the walk will be moved to December 15* at the same time. Any questions, feel free to contact the Caledonia Township office. 616-891-0070 nr �1 4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 7, 2024 GAINES Continued from Page 1 I’m hoping that we can get it approved early next year. But we’re going to lake as long a.s it needs to lake for everyone to feel comfortable with it. There are still a lot of items to dis­ cuss,” Gaines Community Development Director Dan Wells said in a brief inter­ view after the Nov. 21 planning com­ mission meeting. Indeed, there was nothing in the town­ ship zoning ordinance regulating the setup of charging stations for electric vehicles. But planners had to quickly factor that into the ordinance discussion when Tesla Inc. approached the town­ ship last year about installing a dozen electric vehicle charging stations in the Meijer parking lot, at 1801 Marketplace Dr. SE. That is south of M-6, off Kalamazoo Avenue in the Gaines Marketplace shopping center. The township board voted unani­ mously in September 2023 to adopt a Planned United Development amend­ ment to allow the charging stations to be installed. The “supercharging” stations are now operational. They will recharge a Tesla vehicle in about 30 minutes, which is good for about 200 miles of travel. We didn’t have anything in our zoning ordinance about charging sta­ tions, but now we have some standards for how they get installed and where they get installed. Setbacks, things like screening requirements,” Wells said. The zoning ordinance is the legal doc­ ument that governs all development in Ae township. Planners have been work­ ing on various chapters of the ordinance to craft changes that will reflect what the township master plan envisions for loiig-tenn growth. The master plan and a future land use plan were approved by the township board in early 2023. 44 Your local agent insures your allowed in various sections of the town ship. “We are now going to progress to the point where the planning commission is going to take a look at it. And then, we will have to roll it out to the public. And then, it will go to the township board, too,” Giarmo said. The amended zoning ordinance will be the primary focus of a joint meeting of the Gaines Township Board and the Planning Commission on December 10. It will begin at 1 p.m. in the township hall, 8561 Kalamazoo Ave. Jirousek will ^ve a detailed presentation at that meeting. Several sections of the zoning ordi­ nance have been revised. About 85 to 90 percent of the ordinance will remain the same as it was, though. As men­ tioned, the amended ordinance won’t be finalized until sometime next year. Part 1 gives an introduction and con­ tains legal language about how the ordi­ nance should be interpreted. Chapter 2 concentrates on the intent of the zoning districts, in terms of differences between residential and commercial districts and their boundaries. Chapter 3 is a discus­ sion about how property lots are mea­ sured spatially. Part 2 concerns zoning district regula­ tions, what the intent is of each district and what the requirements are for the lots that are going into it. It discusses the different types of planned unit develop­ ments. Relatedly, Chapter 15 talks about land uses for the various lots. Part 3 pertains to building and devel­ opment requirements. “This is what you can put into those zoning districts,” Wells said. “Building r^uirements, general requirements, spe cific use requirements. These are areas where you might have a special use per* mit. It goes into the standards for those in a little bit more detail.” There are also chapters on lighting, parking and loading, mobility traffic and access to parcels. Chapter 22 regulates private streets, landscaping and signage. “You can think about •t&p. r this as the physical devel­ opment section where we I outline what you can build in the zoning districts,” Wells said. • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers Part 4 concerns the • Cellular Enhancement Systems administrative review pro­ cess and gives authority to Give us a call! the zoning administrator for certain minor amend­ 269-967-8241 CELtto) ,^1 no* J www.theantennamen.com ments and explains how the antennamen@gmail.com township must review site www.cellsi9nalpr0s.com plans, special land uses and “When we approved the master plan, it (didn’t) meet all of the zoning that we had in place,” Giarmo said. “So then, we undertook a rewrite of the zoning ordi­ nance.” Wells has put in most of the work on the ordinance rewrite, but a steering committee, township consultant David Jirousek with Horizon Community Planning, and township attorney Clifford Bloom have all contributed, as well. The master plan envisions a Village Residential model for development in some portions of the township. To accomplish that, planners have discussed how to regulate single-family detached homes on small lots. And how to regu­ late apartment buildings and mobile home parks. Some longer setback requirements are being implemented for three-story apartment buildings to keep them farther away from the road. Gaines Township staffers have lis­ tened to builders and developers in updating architectural standards for new townhouses and single-family homes in Village Neighborhood areas. It is a balancing act in terms of tak­ ing steps that will ensure attractive pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods. attractive residential units, good traffic flow and developments that have plenty of open space while preventing developers from ignoring the concerns of neighboring residents. The township board voted in February 2022 to reject an 82-acre mixed-use housing and retail development on 84th Street east of Kalamazoo Avenue called Prairie Wolf Station. Some trustees and planning commissioners felt that allowing a $120 million town center to be built on agricultural land would not be a good fit. But the township board later relented after the developer filed a $4 million lawsuit, saying the project should be allowed by right under the zoning ordinance. So, Gaines officials are making clear in the amended ordinance they are woiking on exactly what will and will not be I 4 I* •TA nne Men Antenna I ■ •*> 9 4ie* .. F4RM Bt/RC4fJ INSVHAMCE’ r k Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville * 1 (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsmi.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com www.sunandnews.com * Holiday luminary walk set in Caledonia Twp. Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Township will hold its fifth annual holiday luminary walk next Saturday night. The Caledonia Trail, located near the Community Green Park and the Kent District Library Caledonia branch, will be il­ luminated with more than 1,000 luminaries for the walk, which will take place firom 6 to 8:30 p.m. Donuts and hot chocolate will be served at the Community Green pavilion, and kids will be able to visit with Santa at the park amphitheater before the walk. The Dickens Carolers will sing holiday songs at Community Green and on the trail. A Toys for Tots box will also be set up for anyone wishing to drop off an unwrapped toy. In case of inclement weather, the walk will be moved to Sunday, Dec. 15 at the same time. For more information or any questions about the walk, call the township office at 616-891 -0070. condominium projects. Also covered are zoning amendments and variances. Jirousek provided a checklist to review for each project application. That will be handy for Wells to have. “Because I can give those to appli­ cants and say, ‘Here’s what I’m going to need.’ And it’s also a way for me to check and make sure we have what we need to review this. And if we find deficiencies with what’s been turned into us, we can turn around and say. You haven’t met the application requirements.’” Giarmo asked if the township could create and pre-zone a planned unit devel opment in specific locations where it anticipates a plethora of driveways being built, such as a section between M-6 and 68th Street. Yeah, technically you could with some parameters on it,” Wells replied. The planning commission and the board do have the right to rezone any property in the township as they see fit. Of course, you have to balance that with See GAINES on 5 �* www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS 1 LIBRARY Saturday, December 7, 2024 5 MiddlGvillG Holiday Lighting ContGst iTGtui'ns Continued from Page 2 1 i i I Greg Chandler Staff Writer “1 remember when he first started in Cub Scouts, and 1 wanted to encourage him to stay with it, but not push him. It was definitely on my mind about how neat it would be if he got his Eagle, too. I know it has been a tremendous learning experience for him.” Clyde’s mother said she was also glad that her son chose to do something at the library. “When we moved here 11 years ago, we didn’t know anybody. The library was a welcoming space to take our two small children. Ms. Hubers made us feel at home and like we were part of the community here in Middleville.” She said it was a proj ect that means a lot to all of them. “He’s worked very hard even when he was a young Scout. It took a lot to get to this point. We’re very proud of him.” Eagle Scout is one of the most coveted ranks in the Scouts BSA program. Since its inception in 1911, only about 4 percent of all Scouts have earned this prestigious rank. In addition to an Eagle commxmity service project, scouts applying for the Eagle designation must earn a minimum of 21 merit badges, 14 of which are mandatory. Scouts must also be active in their group and hold various leadership positions within their organization. In addition to Boy Scouts, Clyde is a member of the TKHS symphonic, j azz and marching bands as a drum­ mer and this year served as drumline co-captain in the marching band. He has applied to several imiversities already but has not made a decision on where he will attend next year. He hopes to pursue a me­ chanical engineering degree. Later, he hopes to continue his education and earn his doctorate in physics to become a physics professor. He also hopes to continue music in college either as a member of the marching band or in a small private band. “If I were talking to somebody consideringjoining scouts, I would tell them it’s a really good experience and you learn a lot about yourselfand about leading other people. You learn what it means to be a leader and you make a lot of good friends you will have for life.” — I It s been a holiday tradition in Mid­ dleville for more than a decade - fami­ lies decorating and lighting up their homes for the season and taking part in a holiday lighting contest. This year, 23 homes have signed up for the contest, where people can vote for their favorite home on Facebook. Vickie Rick has organized the contest the last 10 years. “This is about the old-fashioned fun of driving around seeing lights. It’s fun,” Rick wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Anyone seeking to vote in the contest can go to the Middleville Lighting Con­ test Facebook page and either “like” GAINES » A A > * 4» landowner rights.” He said the ordinance section about access and mobility rules addresses a lot of traffic issues “We’re going to solve a lot of the problems that have been created over the years with multiple driveways com­ ing out onto the main roads,” Wells said, noting that traffic flow in commer­ cial and residential areas will be much better because drives will be required to connect to access roads that go out onto a main road at a single location. He added, “We’re going to get away from individual driveways hitting all the major roads or any collector roads, too. They have to conjoin their drives.” Giarmo mentioned the township should examine the lot sizes in all residential districts and open-space preservation. She said maybe each lot should have a percolation test done as required, to determine if the soil can absorb and process sewage so it does not pose a public health risk. “Maybe we want to require that each lot perc and have septic,” she said, referencing private sewer systems. “I would hope that that (township) board would have some thoughts and opinions on that, as well... I think that’s a real concem for our fixture in this township.” “We want the development to be in the areas that are appropriate for the density,” Wells said. Tightening up the language of the • X 9 t f I I I * I 9 fl « 4 4 I a 114 Larkin St. 10010 Green Lake Rd. 3942 Bender Rd. 3140 Wood School Rd. * 959 View Pointe Dr. 315 Minstehr Dr. 209 Keeler St. 463 Oak Meadow Dr. 119 High St. 308 Dearborn St. 403 Lloyd Ct. 4484 West State Rd. * 4677 Hemlock Ct. 7215 West Loop Rd. 1189 West Grey Ct. 609 Tall Ridge Dr. 745 View Pointe Dr. 839 View Pointe Dr. 936 Oak Brook Dr. - Outside the Middleville village limits. * * * new ordinance will be considered. One determination could be to specify in the ordinance that every individual lot must perc, or it could be 'written to say that every lot must be served by a commu­ nity septic system. As for the overall amended ordinance Continued from Page 4 Thornapple Kellogg Schools ■^9 or “love” their favorite home. Those “likes” and “loves” will be counted as votes for the contest, but any comments that are left will not be counted as votes. A map that shows the addresses of all 23 homes is also available on the Facebook page. Prizes from local busi­ nesses are awarded to the first, second and third-place vote receivers. A viewing night for the lighting contest will be Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. Maps and candy canes will be avail able at Restoration Christian Reformed Church, 708 W. Main St. Voting will end Dec. 18. Here is the list of homes that are taking part in the contest. 310 Dearborn St. 4676 Hemlock Ct. 442 Oak Meadow Dr. 263 Lloyd Ct. that is being developed. Wells said it is being reorganized. “But I think everything flows much more sensibly now, and you can actually find the things that you need to in those larger sections,” Wells said. “So, that’s the big picture.” nouj oPEm J 'i I ri Barry County’s Only •> ' ** F ■■ Alpaca Apparel Store * 1 h X f f! 9 > I * ’ * 1 9• Alpaca Apparel & Gifts Hats, Scarves, Socks & More! Hand Made Items and Hand Spun Yarn 4 >’ f > I I * : / 4 t DUNCAN CREEK FAR Mr t. 'k 1 s. 5510 North M-37. Middleville, IVll I <1 i 269-795-1275 0 Like us on FB r ^■4 0 «« 1 r f * I I t * fl 9 » Holiday Hours: Open, Fridays, Saturd^^s^ Sundays 10am to 4pm Thru the end of the year! Other times by aooointment 4 4 • 9 • t < * I 4 * * I I I 1 I t « t U 4 I 4 �• 1 I THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 7, 2024 6 I www.sunanclnews.com 1 Sporting News I * * r* I 1 •* .7- • 4 ; w •T, I • •< CHS off to great Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity hockey team got off to a 5-0 start before falling in its second contest of the Alpena Showcase Saturday at Northern Lights Arena. The Fighting Scots built a 2-0 lead in that tournament finale with Alpena, in the first period, but the Wildcats evened the score in the second period with two goals of their own and then took the lead in the third. Gavin Winterstein led Alpena with two goals and two assists and keeper Parker Schuldt stopped 25 Caledonia shots. A start after split in Alpena Ty Lewandowski and Tony Kauff­ man scored the two Caledonia goals with assists from Henry Simon and Ethan Sova. The Fighting Scots knocked off Mil­ ford Friday, Nov. 29, to open the Alpena Showcase — again jumping out to a 2-0 lead in the first period. Kauffman tallied two goals in the win and Sova had two assists. The Scots also got a goal and an assist from Lewandowski and a goal from Austin Osborn. Harmon Esch, Will Chrisman and Rylan Bultema added assists. Caledonia keeper Sam Hoag made 23 saves in the victory. i 1 The Caledonia team remains a co­ op along with Lowell and Thomapple Kellogg skaters. The season opened for the Scots with a 9-1 win over Kenowa Hills Nov. 15. The Scots added wins over Sparta and Portage and opened OK Conference Rue Division action with a 4-3 win over Rockford at GrifTs Ice House Nov. 23. The Scots came from 2-1 down at the start of the third period to get into an overtime contest with the Rams and pull out the win. Simon had a pair of goals for the Scots and Lewandowski and Kauffman both scored once. Kauffman assisted on the three goals he didn’t score. Logan Himes, Sova, Bultema and Esch also had assists in that win. Hoag saved 29 Ram shots. Rockford goals came from Brady Seauvageau, Jonah Packard and Jake Zainea. The Scots were set to be a part of this weekend’s Grand Rapids Showcase hosted by Forest Hills Central at Pat­ terson Ice Arena taking on Allen Park Friday, Dec. 6, and Lakeland Saturday, Dec. 7. Next weekend, the Scots are at the Bay City Showcase for games Friday and Saturday Dec. 13-14. Plainwell starts second half strong to beat TK boys .♦ ■ 1 1 Brett Bremer • • f.' Sports Editor 9 tiS' I I I i 9 4/' • % Journey in Style cacKFHEfrrmEs Hl HanKOOK MIDDLEVILLE 500 Arlington Street 269.795.3550 CALEDONIA 9820 Cherry Valley Road 616.891.3550 TBRES2Opn_Tf -•r r Things didn’t go the way the visit ing Trojans planned at Plainwell High School Tuesday. The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team suffered its first defeat of the season, 48-31, to the Plainwell boys. Nice ball movement and a good finish by Trey Hilton in the post, and a strong drive to the basket by senior guard Jude Webster had a TK lead at five points a couple times late in the first half. Plainwell buried a three and after some back and forth got within 23-22 by the half. That’s when TK’s troubles started. Plainwell outscored TK 17-0 in the third quarter. It started from the get-go of the second half. Plainwell got a steal and went the other way for a dunk in transition. “We just couldn’t make anything,” Thomapple Kellogg head coach Phil Garber said. “We had missed lay-up, after missed lay-up. We couldn’t shoot the ball, and then turnover, turnover.” Garber liked the way his guys were able to pressure Plainwell some and get a few turnovers of their own. He did say he had a small line-up on the court for a bit that the Plainwell offense was able to take advantage of, and that’s something the TK team will have to watch out for in the future. The TK coach said Plainwell didn’t alter the way it was defending his guys in that third quarter. TK just didn’t take care quite as well against the Plainwell pressure in the back-court, and in the front-court he would have liked to see his guys get the ball moving around a little more — especially during those times when shots aren’t falling. “We didn’t get the ball in the post as See PLAINWELL on 7 �www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ the sun and news PLAINWELL ♦ Saturday, December 7, 2024 ♦ ♦ Continued from Page 6 ♦ Ritsema a beast on the boards as TK wins opener much as we would like. Not enough swings,” Garber said. “We’ve got to get the ball back up top and swing the other side and get in the post. We’ll change some things up at practice and be ready for Tuesday.” Webster and Hilton tied for the team lead with six points apiece. Hilton had all six ofhis in the first half. Lucas Ploeg battled some foul trouble and finished with five points. The TK boys play their first home game of the season Tuesday, Dec. 10, against Forest Hills Eastern and then will go on the road Dec. 13 to take on Forest Hills Central. , Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was as hectic first couple of min­ utes to the varsity girls’ basketball season Tuesday. ThomappleguardLydiaSchilthroat found space to attack down the left sideniof•the lane- and put a shot HUI a biiot up over the Plainwell defender on her side for the first points of the season for the TK ladies, but they were the only two early points as Plainwell ran out to a 9-2 lead in Middleville. The TK Trojans worked their way back into the bailgame with a 12-0 run of their own to close out that first quarter, then they “turned on the jets” to start the second half according to head coach Brandi James and went on to a 52-41 victory. Reece Ritsema powered the Trojans with 18 points and 22 rebounds as the sophomore forward starts her second season on the TK varsity. She ripped a rebound away from Plainwell in the KNOW SOMETHING INTERESTING? We’d love to hear about it! mmacleod@mjhomepaper.com THE SUN AND NEWS Group , lane five minutes into the contest and went up for two points to start getting her team out of its early funk. “She was looking strong last night,” coach James said. “She is a rebounding machine. She has a huge vertical and she is aggressive. She is stronger this year than she was last year. She has been working really hard in the offsea­ son. She gets a lot of put-back points.” Schilthroat finished with 11 points, eight rebounds and six steals for TK. TK also got five points from freshman guard Taylor Lloyd. The Trojans enter the year with just nine varsity ballplayers, due in part to some injuries, but coach James likes her girls’ conditioning and certainly likes their athleticism. She liked to see them get out and run as often as possible, and she is happy to have most anyone handling the ball in those situations. “We had more gas in the tank. We have a lot of speed on our team. If we can get out and get going. I trust any 1 1 of our bigs to dribble up the floor,” James said. She was happy to get everyone some action in the opener. A TK turnover turned into two points for Plainwell that extended the visiting Trojans’ lead 9-2 there at the start, but those were the last points for the Plainwell girls for almost ten minutes of game time. Plainwell hit a pair free throws with 2:06 to go in the second quarter for its tenth and 11 th points of the game, and TK led 22-11 at that point. TK had a bit of its own drought there at the end of the first half, not scoring over the final 3:18 ofthe second quarter as Plainwell cut that double-digit TK lead down to 22-19 at the intermission with a 10-0 run of its own. The Trojans don’t have another game on the schedule until Friday, Dec. 13, at home against Forest Hills Central. I L r HOLLY TROLLEY I ▲ ■ :^5 I * 1 t- ■W A’ K* Celebrate the Holidays Shopping with the Family t 'd * «r. i I iI' 1 ■ k / I Scan our OR code to find your perfect invitation! I I i w9 p Ci I I * •1 f f r 1 < 4 t J !• V o* TIME LOCATMW Saturday, December 7,2024 l<4:30p.m. HASTINGS Sunday, December 8,2024 11-3 P.M. HASTINGS Monday, December 9,2024 6-8 P.M. HASTINGS __________ OATB__________ ■ ? » • <«“ fc' * > . . TV* « «*> I I ■* —*4- •T4 ■* •. k •A.** •H, A z *«' *. »r I HOLLY TROLLEY SCHEDULE 2024 I and maybe sing a carole or two! SPOMSOR Parry County Transit J f Tuesday, December 10,2024 6-8 P.M. HASTINGS W^nesday, December 11,2024 6-8 P.M. 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MIOOLEVILU Thursday, December 19,2024 MP.M. HASTINGS Medomids Friday, December 20,2024 6-8 P.M. FREEPORT pwport Goodworto Saturday. December 21.2024 6-8 P.M. HASTINGS MIChPointaartk Sunday, December 22,2024 MP.M. HASTINGS terww St Church Monday, December 23,2024 MP.M. HASTINGS nhe Coleman Acency Storre Don^t forget to Thank our Sponsors �8 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 7, 2024 TK takes two-point win over Scots on first mat night Brett Bremer Sports Editor It was an eventful first night of the high school wrestling season inside the Caledonia High School gymnasium, and an eventful one outside too. rhe Caledonia Quad shrank to a Caledonia Tri as Loy Norrix opted not to make the trip from Kalamazoo with winter storm warnings stretch­ ing across the west side of the state. All three teams competing closed the evening of varsity wrestling with one victory. Caledonia opened the night with a 38-37 victory over Grand Ledge; Grand Ledge bested Thomapple Kei logg 35-33; and TK closed out the night by pulling out a 33-31 win over the Caledonia squad. In between the final two duals, Cale­ donia varsity wrestling coach Shawn Veitch presented Thomapple Kellogg head coach Dayne Fletke with a plaque honoring the Trojans’ long-time, state championship head coach Tom Lehm­ an who passed away in September. *•“3 7. r’ * . . 1 •p S’ •b.' •r * I r 5 4Bb. fp* w i 9 .rtiaMbl 4 f i r * L *.» 4 r I >1? I II • V* «« •4• . •l 11 Caledonia sophomore Josh Grace works to try and get Thornapple Kellogg’s Derek Guerrero-Garriga onto his back during their 120-pound bout Wednesday at Caledonia High School. Photo by Brett Bremer u. ■ X* n . it-' SMf'y-.-' t' • . //. 'r- J' *• <•«, - * a ( FESTIVAL i Returning i% .X 7- •4 4 * L 7 •• Jlr T 1 TS- I < 4 « A U'Si 1 < i I » I 1 i • f A • C* Y F •I J .-Ik. * C E t£ t THE r * S F. AS.'^ \ I s * •* *% ^4 . I t r t h • f• ►» t ! J f: A '''' HI' ► I his work, comprised of familiar Ci I l\\l s as wcll as new 1\ I 4 neighbors. Bowne Center Historical Society i will also host an OPEN HOUSE at I the Museum and the one-room written text set to fanuliar melodi cs joy till 1\ celebrates the * tiood News ol tlie birth ofodr Savior. Jesus iTirist. r lit -< » Presented b\ ihe < ombiiied choir of 1 t \i I iH'\i \ I 1 Aim k S \i 1 1:00 Milt' Mt Hiui'ist KOH, 250 \ I I I » •V’d 1 ■7- h I e f V i iZ _______________ Schoolhouse. i This wonderful event takes place at the corner of m 12051 84th St. I j & Alden Nash I wt Cm b f t alcdoiiia I Alt and tirand Rapids South L\K Ph ♦ n n 4 Bl > ''t \IV\>, issi fin { •% 1■ » 1 . o 4 % 111 ’.f Bowne Center United Methodist Church Get into the true spirit of Christmas. See the Nativity and pet the animals. Cookies and hot chocolate will be provided |g i in the fellowship hall where you yS can warm up and chat with your 5-Yc ■ 1 I Sat., Dec. 14**’ • 6 ro Spin M / A LIVE NATIVITYl I I 4 / h f t .f * z < iM s I V Rd. (IVI-50). H' .M L 4 1 * r > * 'A 'A;® I I) A “He loved kids and pushed them to be champions, both on and off the wrestling mat,’’ Veitch read from the plaque. “His dedication to the wrestling program and the Middleville com­ munity has left a positive impact for generations to come. Our world is a better place because of Tom Lehman.’’ When I grew up, the reason I loved Tom Lehman so much, was I went to Lakewood, Veitch added. “My dad (Bob Veitch) and Tom were good friends. We had wars. We had blood baths on that mat. And when that match was done, not only did our athletes go through and shake hands, it was shake hands and hugs and ‘good luck the rest of the season. Can’t wait to compete next year.’ That is what sports are all about. That is what sportsmanship is all about.” There were flickers ofthat sportsman­ ship throughout the gym Wednesday. TK senior Tanner Buxton got a little check in with Caledonia 215-pounder Thomas Hadgson late in the second period of their match. Buxton had just been whistled for a roughness penalty while working on top of Hadgson, and the Trojan senior got a quick apology in as Hadgson finished his recovery time. Buxton had just scored a two-point reversal to go up 6-3 in their bout, which was a big one in the dual overall. Buxton went on to a 9-5 victory with a quick take down in the third period boosting his score. Caledonia had a 19-6 lead through the first six flights of the dual with Thomapple Kellogg, but TK took all five flights from 165 pounds on up, got a forfeit win by Max Schnurstein at 106 pounds, and then senior Christien Miller clinched the win for TK by pin­ ning Caledonia’s Escher Reeder 2:21 into their 113-pound bout. “That was cool for him, a big senior moment to pull that off for the team,” Fletke said of Miller’s pin. “It comes down to the last ones. It’s back and forth, back and forth, back and forth, you’re down and you’ve got some kids in your line-up that need to do what they’re supposed to do, and you’ve got some that you know are going to be close matches and you pull off a couple close matches,” Fletke said. “Hats off to Caledonia. They have some strong kids. They were ready to wrestle tonight.” �JU ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com the sun and news the the I U. i) I." ed Io Id i } t I “It’s pretty good competition to start off the first one,” he added, “and gives us a lot to work with - kind of go back to the drawing blocks.” That heavyweight run for TK started with Camden Peter pulling out a 9-5 win over Caledonia’s Koelson Reeder in the 165-pound bout. Peter took control with four nearfall points in the third period of that one. TK’s Jack Smith followed up with a pin of Mu­ hammed Turk in the 175-pound match and Jayce Curtis stuck Sean Sorrell in the 190-pound bout. Buxton got his win at 215 and then Jimmy Manne got a 5-2 win over the Scots’ Luke Kowatch at 285 pounds, a win powered by a three-point first period takedown. That was one of the other key pieces of the opening night of the 2024-25 varsity wrestling season in Michigan. The MHSAA altered scoring rules this winter. Take downs are now worth three points rather than two. Wrestlers can also now score two, three or four nearfall points for each second they hold an opponent on their back. Coach Veitch said the changes were made first on the collegiate level to try and make things a bit more exciting, but he isn’t sure he likes them at the high school level. A few technical falls, for 15-point victories, popped up quick with all the extra points flying around. The Scots had two technical falls of their own as they built their early lead against the Trojans. Robert Restau notched one in his 144-pound bout with Aiden Foy by a 19-3 score. Ben Moss then added a tech fall for the Scots at 150 pounds with a 15-0 win over TK’s Max Knowles. “I was looking for effort. I was look­ ing for attitude. And I was looking for teamwork, just that team unity,” coach Veitch said. “I thought they knocked it out ofthe park on all three. I thought we fought out there. I thought we had great attitude and great body language. I re­ ally thought our team stayed engaged in the match. When I look at the progress, what’d we lose by 40 to them last year, and then we lose by two this year that shows a step in the program I’ve always said, year three is when we’re really going to start to come along. This is year two. We made that great step from one to two and I am pleased with the progress.” The dual for the Scots also included a 10-4 win for Alish Basnet in his 132-pound match with TK’s Emma Saturday, December 7, 2024 9 ♦ ♦ % • ♦ / Classifieds T. BUSINESS SERVICES T Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Service tree stump removafsite prep and clearing.dirt driveway installa­ tion and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured. 616-389-9496 r * 1* TREE SERVICE 'J* 4 t T 'A •> • t BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: f #• Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. • e onia varsity wrestling coach Shawn Veitch presents Thornapple Kellogg oac es ayne Fletke (center) and Andrew Reeder (right) with a plaque onoring ong-time TK varsity wrestling coach Tom Lehman, who passed away in September, before the dual between the Fighting Scots and Troians at Caledonia High School Wednesday. Photo by Brett Bremer Gibson and a 14-10 win by the Scots’ James Carrow over Gabe Gosselin at 132 pounds. Will Sheely capped off the run of five straight wins for the Scots with a 7-3 win over TK’s Griffin Grum­ met at 157 pounds. Carrow’s win was a harrowing one as he fell behind Gosselin 6-0 early on in the first period. Gosselin scored a take down and three nearfall points, but Carrow managed to tie things up by the end ofthe first period with a reversal and four nearfall points of his own. A quick take down and four more nearfall points for Gosselin early in the third period proved to be the big difference in their bout. “That just shows a lot of character, so I was just really pleased with that,” coach Veitch said. The dual started with TK’s Diego Rodas pinning the Scots ’ Owen Rounds in the first period of their 126-pound match and ended with Caledonia’s Josh Grace pinning TK’s Derek GurreroGarriga in the second period of their 120-pound bout. Fletke is expecting more good duals between the Trojans and the Scots in the years ahead. “There are going to be some good battles here for a while,” Fletke said. “That’s the fun of it, chimed in Veitch. Schnurstein, Carrow, Luke Rohraff, Sheely, Hodgson, Ko watch and Nick Amerose had wins for Caledonia in the dual with Grand Ledge. Coach Veitch thought it was pretty HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REIM MODELING, Roofing, Siding, Pole special for Amerose to win his first ever high school wrestling match, an 8-3 devision over Grand Ledge’s Hailyanna Smith-Arron. “They were so coachable tonight,’’ Veitch said, “We start ten freshmen and sophomores ... and they were just so coachable. I don’t know if you saw, but everything I said they were doing. That to me is what makes a champion­ ship team - not thinking they know it all, but willing to listen and willing to make those adjustments. I was really, really impressed with it tonight.” Miller, Gabe Gosselin, Grummet, Curtis, Buxton, Manne and Mia Gos­ selin had wins in the dual with Grand Ledge for the TK team. Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269-838-5937 PETS 3 PERSIAN KITTENS - 12 weeks old. Up to date on shots and de­ wormed. $100 OBO. Contact Erin 269-331-1300. DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. SPORTS EQUIPMENT EXERCISE WEIGHTS, $0.50/lb. Benches and equipment, reason­ able. 616-550-7452. Via 4- <4. -fr. i 6 0 I 4 •I k'/ t ■•.~£S 7 ^4) I » H ^9^ z .f r aJ z. d t — Zl*.- f* I * I Thornapple Kellogg seniorTanner Buxton wrestles on top of Caledonia sophomore Thomas Hadgson during their 215-pound bout Wednesday at Caledonia High School. Photo by Brett Bremer COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the November 12, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, that were approved on November 26, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at www.villa geofmiddleville.org. �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 7. 2024 10 www.sunandnews.com Bradford White donates money, volunteer help to Mel Trotter Thanksgiving meal ♦ ♦ ♦ I Greg Chandler Staff Writer Bradford White Corporation recently provided a $ 10,000 donation and volun­ teer help to a West Michigan organiza­ tion for its Thanksgiving holiday meal. The manufacturer of water heaters, boilers and storage tanks, which has a plant in Middleville, selected Mel Trot­ ter Ministries of Grand Rapids as one of its three charitable organizations to receive both a monetary donation and employee volunteer support during the meaning of Thanksgiving.” In addition to the $10,000 donation to Mel Trotter toward its Thanksgiving Community Meal, 25 employees of the Bradford \Vhite Middleville plant and their families volunteered to serve at the gathering, Owens said. “We love being a part of the com­ munities where we live and work and believe that no one in them should have to go hungry,” Owens said. “We’re so thankful that organizations like these exist, and being able to partner with Thanksgiving holiday. “At Bradford White, we manufacture water heating products that provide families with access to essential hot water for their health, safety and com­ fort,” company spokeswoman Rebecca Owens said. “That said, we recognize that too many families and individu­ als have even greater concerns this holiday season, like having enough to eat. Through our support, our hope is that we lessen the worry over food for our communities and honor the true LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church I—_—■ — - J ... ALASKA BAPTIST . - - — —. . . , .^.1 . Rev. Christine Beaudoin www.alaskabapti8t.org 7240 66th Street SE, Caledonia r Join LIS for our tradilional yet casual worship FIRST BAPTIST Strengthening 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) I I* Sunday Worship............................... t •■fc. ■is »■ JOURNEY CHURCH Caledonia Location 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am Church; MIDDLEVILLE (269) 795-2391 a^PEACE Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com 4^1 HOLY FAMILY gJCATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891 -9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. .ip J - 5t:Tnuf. I 1'' PEACECHURCH.ee Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. M Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Yankee Springs Bible Church * • < A Church 4 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 IlSli 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto rr 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: TOPS 546 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend CHURCH THORNAPPLE VALLEY VCHURCH 9:30 a.m. Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages.com Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddieville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET- 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 MIDDLEVILLE Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham Connecting Good Shepherd Lutheran Church ex Nliddleville III 616-891-8669 CalcdoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com/CalcdoniaUnitedMclhodist Serving Sunday Service 10:30 AM See WHITE on 11 scr\'icc, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street Sunday School.. .9:30 AM Sunday Worship 10:30 AM IFQfJ Watch our services from our website (see above) * cornerstonechurch ■■ CHURCH Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM them and brighten Thanksgiving for our neighbors in need is a meaningful way to kick off the holiday season.” Bradford White also sponsored an event in Philadelphia called Camp Out for Hunger, where two local radio hosts camped out for a week and broadcast their show live, and gave $10,000 to ward a local food bank called Philabundance. Employees at its corporate head­ quarters in Ambler, Pa. hosted a food drive to support that organization. The company also gave $5,000 to support a Thanksgiving turkey drive organized by former Philadelphia Eagles quarter­ back Ron Jaworski and his Jaws Youth Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... Anyone with questions may call Virginia. 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org I « I « ‘ I 1 I 1 1 1 t I 1 The November 25 meeting opened with roll call. There are two fish in the fishbowl. Maryellen passed out the December Wellness Challenge. Area Advocate Diane Dallas-Strang led the meeting titled “A Wellness Check - for the Health of It.” She asked members to think about the small things they do to make the chapter great. Diane also talked improving heart health, mental health and finding support from others. Having a solid foundation gives club members durability, resilience and balance. Linda was the best loser for the month of November. Maryellen won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. 1 �s ^aj ID* tests least ho. tej. ted Ik KI ted JI I I h. www.sunandnews.com ♦ ♦ the sun and news I ♦ Saturday, December 7, 2024 11 ♦ Christmas at Everett’s Gardens in Gaines Township incIudes drive-thru holiday display James Gemmell Contributing Writer A drive-thru light display in southern Kent County is warming up some motor­ ists on these cold winter days. Decorative Christmas characters in the form of wooden yard art adorn the half-mile drive through the tree nursery, where you will see many of the traditional festive characters of the holiday season. The Christmas at Everett’s Gardens event also features fresh-cut trees and hot coffee for sale. Everett’s Gardens is located at 240 84th St. SE in Gaines Township, east of Division Avenue and across the street from Brewer Park. Brian Keuning is the operations manager for Everett’s Gardens. He said the event began Nov. 21 and the light display will run through Dec. 28. It is open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The cost to take the approximately 1 O-minute drive is $5 per vehicle. The holiday light display is not as elaborate as the one at LMCU Ballpark * WINTERFEST Continued from Page 3 chocolate and free s’more kit give­ aways. “Christmas on the Corridor was an amazing event again this year. Even though the temperatures were cold, people still came out to celebrate the Winterfest kickoff and the com­ munity tree lighting,” said Doezema. “Artisans had some great gifts and food. The event is a community favor­ ite. I love it.” Gun Lake Winterfest apparel can be preordered through RT Stitchcraft, 269-792-4135. To become a Winterfest vendor, fill out the form, which can be found online at share.hsforms.com/lDCbHE yrBQ5 enKNPj 79a3 9gdibuj. “We were still serving free hot chocolate from the Curley Cone food truck, so I could not see the tree light­ ing, but the applause was huge, and everyone, particularly the youngsters, seemed to enjoy it,” Fox said. Besides a cup of hot chocolate in the snowy weather, another event will in Comstock Park. But we do have a lot of homemade stuff, -uxr, ” Keuning iveuning said. said. “We try to keen the re^on for the (Christmas) season m our displays, as well. So, we are very Clmst-centered with all of our displ There are some snmp haditionaf XS i displays to view as you wind through the tree nursery. We have Snoopy, we have the Grinch we do have Rudolph (the Red-Nosed Remdeer). But then, we also have a natrvity scene, an Advent calendar that as we go through the season, we’ll flip each day. Then, we do have the Twelve Days of Christmas and (what the song IS about),” Keuning said. You can buy a Christmas tree Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. a.m. to 6 p.m. The lowest cost is around $60, with larger trees possibly costing more, de­ pending on the type. The varieties include the Balsam fir, the Canaan fir, the Douglas fir, and the Fraser fir. We do have a lot of different firs to choose from for a cut Christmas tree,” Keuning said. ♦ ’ ,_________ ’ „ years and this is where the boys wanted to come, so here we are,” Jordan said. The Sunrise Coffee Co. has a mobile truck on site that sells hot coffee to warm up visitors on the days and nights when the Christmas display is on. Ashley Diemer and Brenna VanSolkema operate the mobile shop, which features various lattes, coffees and mo­ chas, plus teas and lemonade. “We serve specialty coffee and acai bowls,” VanSolkema said. Although Sunrise Coffee travels to other locations, Everett’s Gardens is its home base. “So, once you’re done driving through you can stop by for some s’mores and a cup of coffee,” Keuning said. “And we do have a lot of stuff going on for kids and families, too.” A little bonfire also will warm you up. The general business hours of Ever­ ett’s Gardens are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Besides the Christmas tree, there are wreaths and other greenery available for sale. J s 'C 4 .. L’ J >* ' a J" < I t; -..V* ■ Jeremiah Jordan of Byron Township brought his two sons, Ethan and Parker, out on a snowy day to Everett’s Gardens to buy a tree. Photo by James Gemmell Jeremiah Jordan of Byron Township brought his two sons, Ethan and Parker, out on a snowy day to Everett’s Gardens. “We bought trees here the last four bring customers inside local eateries. Since Gun Lake Winterfest season is officially underway, holiday shoppers can j oin the spicy showdown during the chili cookoff at local participating restaurants. Locals are asked to stop in to try signature chili creations and pick a favorite. Then, cast a vote by December 31. For Winterfest updates, visit the Gun Lake Winterfest Facebook page. More information can be found by visiting gunlakewinterfest.com ♦ Let Us Help You Plan YoO Legacy * ML -■« * xi-W • •r I a Wv •i jt 3*- s Li WHITE a. ■j. Sj Continued from Page 10 ------- „ . _ _ Playbook foundation. Bradford White is a full-line manu­ facturer of residential, commercial, and industrial water heating, space heating, combination heating and stor­ age products. The company maintains corporate headquarters in Ambler, Pa., and has manufacturing facilities in Middleville, as well as Niles, Michi­ gan; Monticello, Minn.; Uxbridge, Mass.; and Rochester, N.H. 9 If you plant a tree today, it will provide shade for years to come. If you plan for your legacy today, your gift will assist your community for generations. Call 269-945-0526, and Bonnie veARS OF iMFROVtNG Gettys or Annie Halle can help UVIS you ensure that your gifts can i; COMAAUNITY fOUNDAllON support your hopes and dreams. 23J S. BROADWAY ST, HASTINGS Ml * 9 I < WWW BARRVCF.ORG I « * ! T- I 1 I * f ). X I I f r « <1 »- �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 7, 2024 12 www.sunandnews.com Wyoming pressure gets to Scots a bit in opener ♦ ♦ 4 4 Sports Editor Caledonia clawed all the way out of an eight-point hole, but couldn’t put together a second surge late in a 55-43 loss to Wyoming to open the 2024-25 varsity girls’ basketball season at the home of the Wolves Tuesday. Wyoming jumped out to an 8-0 lead int eh bailgame, Caledonia rallied to within three by the half and tied the game at 27-27 in the third quarter. From there though, Wyoming took a couple of rebounds away from the Scots and created a few turnovers with full-court man to-man pressure. Those turnovers turned into a few easy buckets for the Wolves in a row. A double-digit deficit there in the second half was too much to overcome. “It was as really good first game I*.' ■J? Residential & Commercial Scots score two-point win over Wyoming boys .* ! % Brett Bremer F The Caledonia varsity boys’ basket ball team got its first victory under new head coach Nate Bums pulling out a two-point win over visiting Wyoming Tuesday night. Sophomore Bryce Backus put in a team-high 15 points and had ten rebounds, four assists and two steals to lead the Scots in the 56-54 victory. Senior Parker Little added 13 points, four rebounds, six assists, two steals and a blocked shot.. Senior Cam My­ ers and junior Luke Witvoet had nine points apiece. Sophomore center Lin coin Senti chipped in six points and seven rebounds. r _ « i .*■ <1 '21' I 4 ■ -A * s L ■MB A 72- 4 W $ S* I? -• JK- .V* I /• . mil 'rail DeWeerd IX ur* s F a* fl fl 0 LENNDXy Cu u f HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM The 1 -1 Caledonia team was set to face Kenowa Hills on the road Friday, Dec. 6, weather permitting. The Scots return to action at home Friday, Dec. 13, against Lowell. Caledonia opened its season falling 62-35 to visiting Okemos Nov. 26. Sophomore Jarell Jefferson had a team-high 18 points in that one going 5-for-7 from behind the three-point line. The Scots were 7-of-l 1 as a team from three in the loss, but didn’t shoot nearly that well from behind the arc in their win over Wyoming. Backus put in six points against Okemos and added seven rebounds and two assists. Sports Editor :I f J,. . bj* I I r^R X -Gas Furnaces ' -Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps 1 -Water Heaters -Humidifiers J k WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS • • junior Baylee DeVries. Myah Nabors led Wyoming with 16 points. Michaela Moore had 15 points and Tamia Gales finished with eight. That trio does more than put the ball in the basket. “Defensively, they’re very pesky,” Bloemers said. “One of the keys was it just took our girls a little while to figure out how to be successful against that full-court man pressure, and to get into our half-court offense.” On the Scots’ own defensive end, he saw that his team’s help side de­ fense and gap control are some things that could use a little bit of work. The Scots were hoping Traverse City Central could make the trip to Caledonia for a non-conference bailgame Friday night, Dec. 6. Caledonia is slated to host Wayland Tuesday, Dec. 10, and then head to Rockford Thursday, Dec. 12. Youngsters are already stepping up though. Freshman guard Emily Stauffer had 13 points and ten re­ bounds. And fellow freshman guard Myla Gortmaker had nine points. “That has been something that our team and our coaching staff is trying to adapt and adjust to,” Bloemers said ofLily being sidelined. “We had some different line-ups out there that had a little bit of youth. I was proud of the girls for the way that they responded and went out there and played with great effort and worked as hard as they could to go out and execute.” Junior forward Jolie King had nine rebounds. Senior center Lakely Bot turn finished with five points, three rebounds and three blocked shots. Senior guard Brecken Bloemers chipped in six points. The CHS team also got four points from sophomore Kayla Briseno and three assists from to play,” Caledonia head coach Todd Bloemers said. “Wyoming has a real ly strong team. They are returning all three of their captains and back-court players ,and those girls are dynamic. They challenged us defensively with some pressure, and then they were tough to keep in front and they shoot it really well. We knew that we were coming into a game that was going to be a big challenge. He said it kind of was a typical first game. Both teams turned the ball over more times than they would have liked. The Scots turned it over 28 times and the Wolves 24. The Scots have a bit of adversity to work through here early in the season as the team lost three-year varsity ballplayer and team captain Lily Gortmaker to an injury in the week leading up to the start of the regular season. Brett Bremer 'ijZ T A+ 2 Since 1955 269-792-2234 J & visit us online at www.Sunandnews.com f^CCfiEOaeD BUSINESS a a c "C o •JI I X X X \ k ' X \ X * X \ v X X X V ' s \ » X k \ X X \ * K t K x X X X I s » 5 X \ X I X X X X X X » s X .1. X l*»' X X t X « * 1 X X « I > A t i « ' K i 4 4 .1 1 a r * * 4 « I >'* I. I • s t ’ I t M I » 1 I I 1 •* V , I. 1 X « •M .* ' A V -x > -» 1 ' ' "A I « i « < 4 < I * *wr.h»* t i f t 4 I I 4 < 1 I « I I » I I I 4 I « t >t • I 4 r * 4 J I 4 I M 1 « i 4 > I 1 I 4 I I I 1 < 1 . X a 1 X I I 1 a V I t 1 4 4 I 4 I 1 I < 4 t 5 X X X X V \ X X r 1 I 1 1 I 1 X 1 I 1 X X i X X . .'iC* 1 X X X X X X X X X X X x X \ K X \ X X X X X X > 5 X X X X V \ S X X X X X X \ X V ■i^*^"** cTi- X X X X X \ X X X X X X X X x X X .' .J. A ' \ I V x- X X V > V A X A \ V V S » X X A X X X X \ X \ X X t X 1 X � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-12-14.pdf 8d0b006dd5b96e190b740cfa27fb1d4a PDF Text Text I I r k I t FOR TK CHEER MfddiQviliQ, Cd/Gdon/d dnd Gdinss Township Atebs > •* PAGE 10 * A J =*ll NO. 34 . jr. I <• 91^ www.sunandnews.com SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2024 ♦> A Caledonia Twp. treasurer, clerk unhappy over pay Caledonia farm donates 60 Christmas trees to local families I Greg Chandler Staff Writer The Caledonia Township board has approved pay raises of 2.5 percent for all but one elected member of the board, but the township treasurer and clerk say those raises still leave them paid well below their peers of similar­ size townships in Kent County. The board, in separate motions on Dec. 4, voted to raise the sal ary of Township Treasurer Richard Robertson from $18,155 to $18,609 and Township Clerk Joni Henry from $19,856 to $20,353. Township Supervisor Btyan Harrison declined to accept a raise for next year, leaving his salary at $34,041. Trustees Greg Zoller, Tim Bradshaw, Dale Hermenet and Richard Snoeyink will all get a 2.5 percent boost in their pay. Richardson and Henry both voted against accepting the 2.5 percent raise, but they were offset by the remaining members of the board who were present for the motions, which passed 4-2. Both say they are under­ paid compared to fellow treasurers and clerks in similar-sized townships in the county. Robertson sent an email to his board colleagues stating his case why he should be paid more and asked for discussion on the matter. “The treasurer of Gaines Township makes $89,000 a year and has a depu ty that makes $33,000 a year. I make $18,000 a year,” Robertson said. “The treasurer of Alpine Township makes $70,000 a year and the clerk makes $70,000 . the same-size township as us, and it doesn’t even have water and sewer systems (which Caledonia does). Their deputy clerk makes $90,000. 1 don ’ t under ­ waa3 uawoisno stand how this board can 1VllN3aiS3H think so little of our con­ tribution here when the liiwsd trustees are being paid 8G88f «» SSMU33 seser in aHiAtwwo OWXO0 Od IkM '911’Aueejo aivd aovisod s n QIS ISHd See CLERK on 4 Jayson Bussa Contributing Writer f Liv McDaniel and her husband could have extended their season and wrung out every last drop of revenue from shoppers during the Christmas season. Instead, they chose to shut down operations at their Caledonia farm as scheduled and donated the 60 Christmas trees that had been left unsold. “We had 60 trees left over when we closed on the last day of our season (Dec. 8),” explained McDaniel, who, along with her husband Stephen, owns Deep Roots Produce at 8410 Whitneyville Avenue. “Stephen and I decided that rather than prolonging our season, we should gift them to local families. We know this season is not easy for many. We just wanted to make Christmas a little brighter for 60 local families. To be able to give back to the community that has supported us for so long is a true honor.” The couple put out a notice on social media and were flooded with interest from residents who were eager to get into the Christmas spirit with a new tree. The McDaniels arranged to open the gates of their farm on Monday for the sole piupose See TREES on 4 « 1 / •• f t. .4 > • •*4 * *>• •2^: f i' X .«i: >5^ '5«*- *A3 Leftover Christmas trees sit on the lot at Deep.Roots Produce in Caledonia before owners Liv and Stephen McDaniel donated them to interested families throughout the community. Photo provided Gaines Township officials give year-end review at an annual Chamber luncheon James Gemmell Contributing Writer Business leaders attending the Gaines Chamber of Commerce’s quarterly luncheon on Tuesday, Dec. 10, got an update on growth in the township in terms of residential development, zoning changes and a newly merged fire department. The presentations were video­ recorded by BCTV, which is Byron and Gaines townships’ educational access television station. It airs on Comcast Cable channel 25. Gaines Chamber Executive Director Barb Nauta served as the luncheon’s emcee. Community Development Director Dan Wells and Township Manager Rod Weersing delivered PowerPoint presentations to the large luncheon crowd at the Postma Center on the Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services campus in Cutlerville. Last year’s primary topic was about the new master plan that had been adopted by the township board after a lot of hard work by Wells and his planning staff, and a lot of input from the community through public surveys and open houses. The master plan serves as a long-term guide that See LUNCHEON on 5 '.•>• -W. �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 2 www.sunandnews.com Gaines Chamber hosts festive Luminary Walk at Prairie Wolf Park Thornapple Township board debates merits of setback ordinance for waterfront properties I Jayson Bussa Contributing Writer As Thomapple Township planners gear up to remind residents about setback guidelines for waterfront properties, the township board found itself debating the effectiveness of the ordinance altogether. At Monday’s regularly scheduled meeting oftheThomappleTownship Board, members entertained a motion to send a letter to all waterfront property owners reminding them of setback restrictions on accessory buildings, which are 50 feet from any lake and 100 feet from the Thornappie River. The idea to submit this letter to waterfront residents was already passed 7-0 by the township’s plan­ ning commission. The letter would include a copy of the zoning ordinance regarding accessory buildings on the waterfront properties. See THORNAPPLE on 11 *r* ISl 1 i. 4J #1 9 ► r ,J 11 L 5 i t V -. e * t f V A I I t »- r» Ji '• A SI « t « r^"'* 1 f 1 Ft [is ■ ■ J >* I * 4K k ** i * J I « r ■**- <4. K r» ♦ T-l b A' * k * *«. r 1,^'d a» I’ » v< 4* I < 1 > J ____ > SS^i 4. w. * I * ----- 1 r. * Vz’ 1. ril •< • V •««« r 9^ 1^ j* 4 * r' >> *4. s >5 4 >■. A* 1 < I ( I 9 * 4 I »« 2 1 * / ’n j5 _£ < n .< Y fi' >i Santa Claus greeted participants Saturday evening before they embarked on the 1.5-mile luminary walk around Prairie Wolf Park. Photos by James Gemmell 9^ 1 Bsurry County’^ On, ' Alpaca | ^ Apparel Store A f James Gemmell : t * * A h MP* t f I k • X uX* • J> * Z* a* t »> I f F f • DUNCAN CREEK FARM 5510 North M-37, Middleville, Paper bags holding LED candles lit a pathway around Prairie Wolf Park on Saturday evening in Gaines Charter Township. As dusk turned into nightfall, dozens of families took the festive 1.5-mile stroll through the scenic wooded areas in the park along Kalamazoo Avenue south of 84th Street, and just south of the township hall. Santa Claus was seated there to greet them, and also near the park entrance was a building where hot chocolate, coffee, candy canes and other goodies were available to enjoy. The inaugural Luminary Walk was hosted by the Gaines Chamber of Commerce. Its executive director. Barb Nauta, greeted the visitors with warm smiles ahead ofthe walk through the 45-acre park where wolves once roamed many decades ago. “We’re just so blessed to be able to / / Alpaca Apparel & Gifts Hats, Scarves, Socks & More! Hand Made Items and Hand Spun Yarn I Contributing Writer t ' s: ...J69-795-1275 . % 4 A k\ L/Jre us on FB A 1 Holiday Hours: Open, Fridays. Saturd & Sundays 10am to Thru the end of the year! Other times by appointment 4pm give back to this amazing community,” she said. “For all of our Gaines Cham­ ber businesses; they’re family to us. We’re so happy to provide the support that we have.” She added, “We’re bringing back families with this event to gather for the holidays. Strolling through this beauti­ ful park, enjoying hot chocolate donated from our amazing business Swan Orthodontics. Doughnuts from our awesome business partner in Spartan Nash’s Gaines Township Family Fare, and homemade cookies from (Gaines Historical Society president) Shirley Bruursema. And we have candy canes, glow sticks and pictures with Santa. Laurie VandeBrake, a member of East Kentwood High School’s chapter of the National Honor Society, took the walk with friend, Audrey Wieringa. We do a lot of volunteering around, VandeBrake said. “We find out when we have opportunities around the community See LUMINARY on 6 66 * 5^ 99 THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 I CONTACT US } (- Editor: Molly Macleod mmacleod@mihomepaper.com JJ PUBLISHED BY DllJjJJJJJjh-i 'ti -J sjjJDj ^jj Group Sports: Brett Bremer 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com bbremer@mihomepaper.com Advertising Manager: Chris Silverman csilverman@mihomepaper.com Maiteling and Community Engagement Specialist: Jennie Yonker jyonker@mihomepaper.com 3 > 1 Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher 3 PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All ^civertising in The Sun and News is subject in the applicable rate card or advertising contract, copies of which are Sun and News Ad Dept ' ’Hastings, Ml 490587T69-945^ 9554). This newspaper reserves the right not to accept an advertiser’s order. Our ad takers have no authority to bind this ^araKershave newspaper and only publication of an ad constitutes acceptance of the advertiser’s order. �Xi' I V 4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS _____________________ _____________________________ Saturday, December 14, 2024 3 <*®velopment near new Dutton School approved r the property designated the site for future single- Township Trustee Greg Zoller it recently acquired from Caledonia Community Schools. In back-to-back 6-0 votes, the board approved changing the zoning of the property from agricultural to medium­ density single-family residential, then passed a subsequent zoning change to make the site a planned unit develop­ ment. “The zoning request is in confor­ mity with the (township) master plan,” Township Supervisor Bryan Harrison said, noting that plan had previously family housing. The new Dutton Elementary is scheduled to open for classes next fall. The homes will be clustered in such a way to allow 12.5 acres of the site to be maintained as open space in perpetuity. Each of the lots will have a minimum size of 10,000 square feet and a minimum width of 75 feet, according to township documents. In addition, a 30-foot-wide access easement will be provided on the west side of the property, between two lots, that will connect to the neighboring Dutton School site so it can be used as a walking path for children going to and from the school. An 8-foot-wide shared-use pathway will be also built along the length of the development along Patterson and connecting to the school property. The pathway along Patterson was required by the township as a condition of extending sanitary sewer to serve the development, ac­ cording to township documents. wanted to make sure before voting yes on the site condominium plan that the westside access easement would not be lit, as was proposed in the initial plan from JTB. The ordinance document did not mention lighting being allowed for the easement, but Zoller still had concerns. “It did show on their plan. The neighbors (in the Golf Meadows de­ velopment) do not want it,” Zoller said. Zoller put in a stated condition for approving the site condominium plan that the easement be left unlit. In addition, the township also required JTB to build 5-foot-wide sidewalks on both sides of the street within the development and plant two staggered rows of evergreen trees as a buffer between the development and Patterson Avenue. Despite an earlier request by JTB to allow parking on one side of the street, no on-street parking will be permitted in the development, according to township documents StTflwS'®'^ I ' J I Construction will soon begin on a new housing development just south of the new Dutton Elementary School that is under construction in Caledonia Township. The Township Board on Dec. 4 gave final approval to two separate rezon­ ing requests and a site condominium plan for the Dutton Preserve project, planned for a 30-acre site along Pat­ terson Avenue just south of 76th Street. JTB Homes LLC will build 44 II k J Caledonia Twp. board approves large rate hike in advance of connecting to GR water system Greg Chandler Staff Writer Caledonia Township residents will see a 25 percent hike in their water rates next year as the township prepares to become part ofthe city of Grand Rapids water system. And a larger rate hike is likely in 2026, the township manager says. Under the rate change that was ap­ proved Dec. 4 by the Township Board, the usage rate for water next year will be $3.60 per 1,000 gallons, up from $2.88 per 1,000 gallons this year. Meanwhile, the readiness-to-serve fixed charge, which is based on size of the meter, will be $42.23 per quarter for a typical residential home with a 3/4inch meter. Township Manager Alison Nugent said. “The reason for the change in water costs is because we’re going to be switching to Grand Rapids water,” Nugent told board members. “Con­ struction is due to start (next) year (on the water line connection between the township and Grand Rapids), and it should be done at the end of the third quarter (or) start of fourth quarter.” The Township Board in early June approved engineering and construc­ tion work on a two-mile-long trunkline along Kraft Avenue from 76th Street to 92nd Street that will connect the town ship’s water towers with the Grand Rapids water system, a $4 million project. Construction is also underway on a pump station off of 60th Street just outside the Kentwood city limits, which is served by Grand Rapids water, that will be part of connecting the com­ munities together. Nugent is projecting a water ra^ike possibly as high as 60 percent for 2026 to bring Caledonia Township’s rates in line with what Grand Rapids water customers are paying for their service. Township Supervisor Bryan Harri­ son said that connecting to the Grand Rapids water system will address both issues of quantity and quality that cur­ rently affect the township water system. “(The water we get now) is kind of hard, so you probably have a water softener if you’re on a well. You’ll notice that your sink turns yellow and your whites aren’t as white as your friends’ whites might be,” Harrison said. “We also have capacity issues. There’s only so (much) we can pump out of those wells to keep the water towers full, especially in the summer when people are watering their lawns. So one way to improve water quantity and quality is to hook into the pipe that Grand Rapids uses, which runs out to Lake Michigan. That’s surface water, which is much softer.” Our citizens will be paying more but hopefully getting a better product,” Harrison added. Sewer rates will remain the same for next year, with the usage rate per 1,000 gallons at $9.10 and the readiness-toserve fee at $ 109 per quarter, Nugent said. 64 NEWSPAPER DEADLINES XnfiSw t' V )• 11' I I r I Advisor a 1 Ji Monday at 4:00 pm 1 I , 1 Returning J live J Monday at 5:00 pm r illJ II 1 II Banner Tuesday at Noon II Reminder Wednesday at Noon NATIVITY T t Sat, Dec. 14“' • 6 ?o 8pm j' I Bowne Center United Methodist Church 4 ♦ I Wednesday at Noon f St' Group 1 Get into the true spirit of Christmas. See the Nativity and pet the animals. Cookies and hot chocolate will be provided ! i in the fellowship hall where you can warm up and chat with your neighbors. Bowne Center Historical Society l|, will also host an OPEN HOUSE at J j the Museum and the one-room W Schoolhouse. 14 1 Sun & News I J J Shopper I This wonderful event takes place at the corner of 12051 84th St. & Alden Nash Rd. (M-50). SIU i •» I 4 XC, .Z z 4< r f - 1 i TO �4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 www.sunandnews.com •* — Former Cal manager invited back for second-round interview in Lake Odessa Dennis Mansfield Staff Writer The Lake Odessa Village Council nar­ rowed the field for hiring a new village manager down to two, selecting former Caledonia village manager Jeff Thorn­ ton and former Traverse City manager Jered Ottenwess for a second look. The two candidates were among the four council members previously se­ lected to interview at two special meet­ ings Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 9-10, at the Page Memorial Building. Though, the two interviews set for Monday night didn’t get off to a rousing start. Thornton didn’t show up for his 6 p.m. interview, stating he didn’t receive an email from Gregg Guetschow, the vil­ lage’s interim manager. And, the second candidate to be interviewed Monday, Zachary Dyba, reportedly withdrew his name from consideration, a fact Guetschow didn’t know until he checked his email while trying to reach Thornton. According to the Brighton Township website, Dyba is the assistant to the township manager. Despite being a no-show Monday, council members agreed to interview Thornton on Tuesday, along with Ottenwess and Mark Borden, who currently is employed as the Edmore village manager and previously served Carson City in a similar capacity. Council members interviewed each of the three candidates for about 45 minutes Tuesday night, asking a variety of questions, with Thorton and Otten­ wess making enough of an impression to be invited back. The two candidates will be asked to meet individually with village department heads, who will pass along their input to Guetschow. They will also be asked to par ticipate in a roundtable discussion with the counci 1 afterward during a special meeting that has yet to be scheduled. “They all seemed very capable,” said Trustee Ben DeJong, adding he liked the passion and energy displayed by both Ottenwess and Thornton. The 46-year-old Ottenwess, a di­ See ODESSA on 19 4> 4 9 A 4 Y o ,u a r e invited: 9 t • •< CLERK Continued from Page 1 $250 an hour for the work they do here and I get paid $ 17 an hour. It’s incomprehensible to me.” “1 think I share a lot of the same feelings that Treasurer Robertson does. My comment would be, compared to the other clerks, even if we just did an average, I am the lowest-paid clerk in all of Kent County, and I’m not the only parttime clerk,” Henry said. When the board adopted the town­ ship budget for next year last month, it agreed to set aside $25,000 apiece in salary for the treasurer and clerk positions. The vote on Dec. 4, how­ ever, was on resolutions finalizing the officials’ salaries for next year. Snoeyink pushed back on Robertson’s comments, noting that the board several years ago approved full-time deputy clerk and deputy treasurer positions that he said had been recommended by Robertson when he served as township administrator in addition to being the treasurer. The administrator, at that point and time, said that the treasurer and the clerk - this is what they need to be paid. That’s what we went on. Snoeyink said. “You were getting paid more than that, and you got cut back to that (lower salary) with the full-time help. That was with the previous administrator.” “That’s just wrong. I don’t know what you’re getting at,” Robertson responded. Flat out, it’s not. You were at 4^ $12,000 in 2018. You said that was plenty for the treasury job,” Zoller said. “And now I’m saying it’s not,” Robertson said. I handled $11 million worth of township money. I’ve earned $700,000 in interest on my work alone, and you think that’s worth (what) somebody flipping ham­ burgers at McDonald’s gets paid.” Harrison then sounded off, noting the staff that are assigned to work under Robertson. “You have two staff (people) assigned to you. You can decide how their time is spent,” Harrison said. “You decide, independently, how much time you spend in the office. And then you decide to use your own time and call yourself the lowest-paid person here. Frankly, I don’t know if every hour you spend in the office is spent just doing the duties of treasurer or if you’re doing other things ... But you choose to come in on your own volition and spend time in the office. That’s fine, that’s your right, but I don’t think it’s fair to be able to then use that as a determination of the value of what you do to the town­ ship. I just don’t accept it.” In another vote, the board approved raising trustee salaries from $5,189 to $5,319 and their additional pay per meeting attended from $ 118 to $121. The measure passed 5-1 with Robertson voting no. In other action, the board approved a 3.1 percent cost-of-living increase for township employ­ ees, an amount higher than had been recommended by Township Manager Alison Nugent. The rais­ es go into effect in January. 46 at cornerstone 74^ s TREES « 4 k A b > *• B. . c <4 84th St. Campus Times: December 23: 7pm | December 24:12pm, 2pm, 4pm Childcare available for infants through young 5’s during al! services For more information: comerstonemi.org/Christmas cornerstonechurch Continued from Page 1 of divvying out the trees. For those who were there to pick up a tree, the McDaniels helped to load it in, or on, their vehicle. Those who were interested and located within 10 miles of the farm, the McDaniels agreed to deliver a tree. “Most of the trees were gone within 30 minutes,” McDaniel said. “All 60 were gone by 4:15 p.m.; we had opened our gates at 3 p.m. I wish we had more to give.” Deep Roots, which enjoys its prime season in the fall when it sells pump­ kins and hosts other quintessential fall activities, has been selling Christmas trees since 2020. Now, another season has come and gone for the family. “This was another great year on the farm,” McDaniel said. “We love seeing our regulars and new faces each season. We are dedicated to bringing something new and exciting to the farm each year. We are still in the planning stages for 2025, but we will be making some fun announcements in the spring.” In the meantime, they can head into the offseason knowing they effectively spread Christmas cheer to local resi­ dents with their tree donations. We hope to spread some Christmas cheer to lots of local families this year. We feel so grateful for the love this community has shown us and we are thankful for the chance to give back.” �p, •4 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS LUNCHEON i Saturday, December 14, 2024 5 J there. The township board approved Continued from Page 1 a tentative preliminary plat (platted lots) for that Monday night. It will be reflects township stakeholders’ vision immediately north of the Thomapple for future growth in Gaines. Farms housing project that is already Tuesday’s main topic was about an being built in phases. amended zoning ordinance that has A mixed-use town center will be been under formation for about 14 going in with retail, apartments, months. When completed, the ordi­ townhouses and smaller single-fam­ nance will serve as the legal docu­ ily homes in the general area of 68th ment governing land-use regulations Street and Hanna Lake Avenue. for all development in the township “These are going to be very walkfor the next several years. able neighborhoods, and probably very As with the master plan. Wells is attractive to the starter homes (buyers), doing much of the heavy lifting in and people who are retired,” Wells said crafting the updated ordinance, with The largest development will be major contributions from Assistant the Prairie Wolf Station development Planner Dakota Swan, the Gaines on 84th Street east of Kalamazoo Avenue. Just down the road from Planning Commission, the township the township hall, that project will board, and planning staff, plus the include single-family homes, apart­ township attorney and engineer. ment buildings, and senior housing, “We’re beginning the final review plus commercial and retail spaces. process on that. I encourage you, if Alexander Trails is another planned you have any interest in that, to look unit development that will be built in on our website (gainestownship. multiple phases over several years, org). We have a copy (posted) of the along 76th Street east of Hanna Lake zoning ordinance - it’s a draft right Avenue. Signature Land Development now,” Wells said. is working on that project in tandem The proposed ordinance with Eastbrook Homes. It will contain includes General Commercial and single-family detached homes and Neighborhood Commercial designa­ condominium “terrace” homes. tions. Planning staff have said they are Yet another development Wells open to receiving input from business cited is the Cooks Crossing Enclave and property owners in those zoning project on 76th Street east of Eastern districts. Planning commissioners and Avenue, adjacent to the current township board members have been Cooks Crossing PUD. It will consist giving their input during the entire pro of some single-family site condo ­ cess dating back to late last year. miniums on a 12-acre development The 2020 U.S. Census shows Gaines off Greendale Drive. Township’s population now stands at “ It ’ s going to be higher-end housing nearly 30,000 residents and, so, the that Eastbrook is doing So, these demand for housing has been increas­ are probably going to be much more ing at a rapid rate. And the amount of expensive houses in there,” he said. new housing construction is growing Wells gave kudos to the township in lockstep with that demand. Several board and planning commission for developments, such as the River Birch balancing all of the growth with land Apartment Homes on 60th Street, have preservation. sprung up in recent years. We just approved a Natural Wells said the township board has Resources Inventory that will occur. approved 2,165 single-family, multi­ So, we’re going to start looking at family and townhouse units since the township in the south end, areas 2021, which will accommodate 5,300 that aren’t developed. What areas residents in the next five to eight do we see as being appropriate for years after a large portion of the development, which ones may be for construction is completed. That will long-term preservation? I know that translate to more retail and business a lot of folks who gave input during opportunities, as well. the master-planning process said that One of the largest projects will be open-space preservation was really the Dutton Center, at the site of the important to them,” Wells said. former Post Farm north of Shadyside Doing ±at may entail the township Park along Hammond Avenue, near purchasing some parcels to preserve 68th Street. Allen Edwin Homes will for future generations in order to con­ be building a residential development trol suburban sprawl and to allow resi 46 ♦ .X I < : 1 J remaining equity ownership in the Cutlerville fire building on 68th Street west of Division Avenue. As mentioned, beginning at the start of the new year, Gaines will combine the Cutlerville Fire Department and the Dutton Fire Department into a single fire department. “It’s been a huge undertaking, way bigger than anything I imagined,” Weersing said. He credited the fire department for its efforts. “These guys do a great job when they’re out serving the community, but they’re also very dedicated in making sure we’ve got a good back­ ground system set up for holding the information we need, as well. They’re having to re-license the agency for medical, we’ve been rebranding the equipment. But, also, they are moving to a new record­ ing platform. So, having to get all of this information loaded into this platform from years and years of his­ tory for the other two departments,” Weersing said. He and Wells got a warm round of applause as they concluded their presentations. i fl { *1 • Gaines Township Community Development Director Dan Wells gives a presentation at the Dec. 10 Gaines Chamber of Commerce quarterly luncheon at the Pine Rest Postma Center. Photo provided dents to have space to enjoy parks and other outdoor spaces. Township Manager Rod Weersing was next up to bat at the podium and talked to the luncheon crowd about the new Gaines Charter Township Fire Department that will begin operations on January 1, 2025. The Byron Township Board voted in July 2023 to sever a 1950 joint operating agreement with Gaines in mutually providing fire services. That dissolution took effect in July 2024. Gaines opted to buy the * * * * Jt> 64 WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Residential & Commercial r T Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers *— ► “•S Liu * i 269-792-2234 >,1 rr> L 7. J, “TO « * I *^2±S?** < S’*J K s '1 » •)< > ^"9 » ■ I 1 fcSxSj- r* DeWeerd <68> V CAX DEWEERDHTG.COM I iBB .'•'EiM HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. rr « r i Since 19SS LENNOX s -_-L... A+ 1 BBB. ACCREDITED * BUSINESS i i.'t. . �, « * 9 7 I I •< t I * ’ 6 I THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 www.sunandnews.com Township board approves purchases and repairs for Thornapple Township Fire Department Jayson Bussa Contributing Writer It was quite fitting that Monday’s Thomapple Township Board meeting was held at the headquarters of the Thomapple Township Fire Department. Much of the board’s business focused on matters pertaining to the department. In addition to a pinning ceremony to mark the promotions of Mike Powell and Brandon Lux ford to the rank of lieutenant, the township board approved a number of measures that would help to improve or enhance the facilities and equipment associated with the depart­ ment. For starters, the township board ap proved the purchase of a fire hose. The department is currently outfitted with hose and nozzle packages that aren’t as effective as they can be in firefighting operations. The hoses are high-pressure but equipped with low-volume nozzles. This makes it difficult to use the hoses in low-pressure scenarios. Chief Bill Richardson proposed purchasing a fire hose with a matching nozzle, the purchase of which would not exceed $25,000. He has attempted to secure grant funding for such a purchase but has been unable to secure the funds. The board approved the purchase of a cellular connection for the department’s fire panel. Right now, the VOIP phone line, which costs $49.99 per month, is not recognized by the panel which has caused a trouble code. This causes a consistent beeping sound but the panel is still functioning as needed. An upgrade to the panel would cost $950, and the new cellular connection would cost just $10 per month. The department would recoup the cost in two years. Also, the 20-year-old boiler system at the station is leaking and requires repairs that aren’t expected to exceed $900. The board approved the repairs but also sparked discussion on when the system might need to be replaced altogether. M37Auction.com 9790 Cherry Valley Ave Caledonia, Ml 49316 (616)920-6651 VAr/y A k I thim-k out all "To *f kids Wat<\.ted ytne: to just throw stuff. M3V/<uctiot^.co^ cat^ s&ll altviost ar-ythitoy!" 2 Free Listings ($10 Value) 1 Coupon Per Household Expires 12/19/24 Ammo Antiques Coins Collectibles Estate Liquidations Farm and Garden Furniture Jewelry Real Estate Sports Memorabilia Sporting Goods Tools Tractors Vehicles well over 200,000 miles on it. The department initially planned to have its own 2016 Ford E450 remounted in December. But because of “opera* tional integrity issues,” Minnesota-based MacQueen Emergency Solutions offered to remount a stock Braun ambulance module which would allow the depart­ ment’s fleet to remain at four ambulances with the new one coming in April 2025. The refurbished Braun will cost $205,000 minus the $39,980 the depart ment already put down when it intended to have its Ford E450 remounted. “It’s essentially a brand new ambu­ lance,” Richardson said. “It will look like one, too.” “We’ve got about three years before it has to be replaced,” Richardson said. “My recommendation to the emergency services was, after the first of the year, we meet with the building and grounds committee and my recommendation is we find an engineer to design the system.” Richardson said he’d like to target the summer of 2026 for that work, which could cost roughly $60,000. Additionally, the township board also approved the purchase of a remounted Braun ambulance. The department provides its service using three ambu­ lances and needs a fourth to allow for maintenance and repairs ofthe fleet. The department has four, one of which has LUMINARY 1 ** Continued from Page 2 to help out. And so, I saw this opportunity and I wasn ’ t working today so I decided to come spread Christmas spirit.” Wieringa was wearing a neck­ lace of large, Christmas bulbs to light the night. My friend here (VandeBrake) bought them for me and I’m wearing them to spread Christmas cheer and support my friend,” Wieringa said. Deb Gravish of Dorr de cided to take the Luminary Walk with a friend, as well. “We just heard about it, we saw the paper,” she said. “We were just looking for something to do tonight,” Geri Kevwitch of Saginaw said. The luminary walk started just after 6:30 p.m. The tem­ perature was in the upper 30s, but it felt a little colder with the damp air. But there was still snow on the pathway. “We placed luminaries all the way from the township of­ fice and from the parking lot at the Prairie WolfPark entrance, and all the way around the apple orchard,” Nauta said. The luminaries consisted of white paper bags weighed * f f & 4-‘.J 4? ’ ' -A > ♦J*** V, Ka a 9 1 % t '1 3^^ > • • * I r« I * A * 4 « A group of luminary walk participants warm up with some hot chocolate along the lighted path. down with sand to keep them in place on a slightly windy night, and the lighted L.E.D. candles inside them. “At least, the wind is holding off a little bit. We had to add a little bit of extra sand to our bags to keep them down,” Nauta said. She thanked the volunteers who laid down the 450 luminary bags and also thanked township officials and staff for their partner­ ship with the Gaines Chamber, plus various other businesses for their partnerships, such as Chick-fil-A South, Hulst Jepsen Physical Therapy, and the Farm Bureau Springvloed Insurance Agency. J �2024 Preview www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 TK wrestling team has a few state qualifiers back Brett Bremer Sports Editor Between the guys and the girls, the Thornapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team is bringing back five individual state qualifiers to the mats. That group includes senior 113-pounder Cliristien Miller who was a state placer in 2023 senior 175-pounder Jayce Curtis and a trio of state qualifying ladies in se­ niors Emma Gibson and Kayleigh Brown and sophomore Rylee Alberts. They’re all off to good starts already. Gibson won her 135-pound weight class at last weekend’s East Jackson Invitational. Alberts was one of a couple TK ladies to place fourth there along with Hayle Kline and Adelaide Holder­ man. Brown had a couple victories at the I I I UIJ I tournament too. The boys did well last weekend too placing fourth at the annual Grandville Challenge Miller at 113 won a flight champion­ ship for TK. He pinned all three of his opponents and Bossenberger pinned the four wrestlers he faced. Curtis scored a runner-up finish at 190 pounds. The TK team also had Blake Bossen­ berger at 175 pounds win a flight champi­ onship, and Tanner Buxton at 215, Aiden Foy at 144 and Griffin Grummet at 157 all placed third. Whitehall took the day’s champion­ ship with 203.5 points ahead of Grand ville 185.5, Lapeer 132.5, Thomapple Kellogg 128.5, Portage Northern 102 and Mt. Pleasant 81. Grummet, Bossenberger, Buxton and Foy aie among a long list of returning starters for the TK varsity team that also includes Jack Smith, Camden Peter, Dylan Pauline, AJ Dutcher and Gabe Gosselin. “We are looking forward to all the new freshmen that will be working to get in the varsity line up as well as some wrestlers that returned to our team after taking a year off,” TK head coach Dayne Fletke said. “The guys and girls are working hard in practice. We have very supportive teammates. They all have the same goal to give it all they have on and off the mat.” “We are going to take it one week at a time and by the end of the season be in a position where we can come together to * ** *4 - 4 r* e IP r 5m 1^ ► ' t J 'J.JF • 9|0 s« I—<< 1 <5 X Ai.., 9 I < 1 .9 J t. s <• • IIW7 * • Jayce Curtis compete with the best out there,” he added. The TK team has a few more big tournaments ahead. The girls go to the Montague Lady Mat Cat Invite Dec. 27 ' See QUALIFIERS on 15 dnerru Valleq RONTIER I Stove & Sav bl Caledonia 616-891-7500 ctieppyvaReystove.com Thanks To The Sponsors who Sunnort oeal Sports Andrew R. Cove, cfp, aa ms Financial Advisor 421 W. Woodlawn Hastings, Ml 49058 269-945-3553 Italian Gooa Luck Athletes f C V 117 MAKING SENSE OF INVESTING Fax 795-1677 ^eekr-^wes (^neraf^iome wo, COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR Middleville - 269-795-3550 500 Arlington St. [A MIDDLEVILLE'S FINEST W. 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Box 277 Middleville, Ml 49333-0277 PH; 269.795.7927 www.mkpcpa.com I �2024 Winter 8 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 www.sunandnews.com TK ladies have seven varsity ballplayers back Brett Bremer Sports Editor ; 1*^7 f 9 a I •T:! it is a small team, but it is a deep one for the Thornapple Kellogg varsity girls’ basketball team this winter, if that makes sense. There are just nine girls on the regular varsity roster, but seven of them have some pretty good varsity experience already including sophomore Reece Ritsema, senior guard Lydia Schil­ throat and junior guard Tealy Cross et to lead the way. Ritsema averaged 5.4 points and 7.8 rebounds a game as a freshman in the post and had four double-doubles throughout the season. She already has one game with over 20 rebounds this year. She earned honorable mention all-conference in the OK Gold last year. Schilthroat averaged 7.1 points, 2.6 steals and 3.8 rebounds per game as a junior and will be an important ball­ handler and scorer for the Trojan team. Cross i.s a speedy guard who can create havoc for opponents on both ends of the floor, but she’s currently sidelined with an injury. Head coach Brandi James hopes to get Cross back on the floor sometime in the new year ahead. The Trojan team also returns senior guard Emma Geukes as a key ball handler and outside scoring threat. The two newcomers will have big roles. Freshman Taylor Lloyd is a “lights out shooter” according to her coach, and she likes the composure she has seen out 4» Your local agent insures your Retfarement Ask about our annuities and IRAs F4flM BUREAU W81IBANCE' Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville (269) 795-8827 jparks@fbinsnii.com FannBureaulnsurance.com jiF— I 4 I r fk J r '‘•4* • IS ta •>!V /it . X • 7 5^ JtU0A I A I ■ k J c I * «e- 1 *S > te: I Bl Bfl V. y I ft >t*i' .1: • 4 •r • L r -.X L___ FBI jr •« 4* V M > J —* *s /« > > k «v S' 4B 4 * % J I* F > «< k. f .:iat r**!* •< <1^ S7 Lydia Schilthroat of her so far. Coach James said junior Kaylie Cross has good height, good hands and is calm under pressure. “ur depth is actually deeper than it has been in past years,” coach James said. “We’ve got bigs. I can trust our back-ups. We’re slim, but we’re strong. They’ve been working to condition to be where they need to be to run with a strong nine.” Emma Dykhouse, another post player, is a third senior returning to the roster this season. James is look­ ing forward tto seeing junior Marlie Shuford and sophomore Ellie Har­ mon stepping up into bigger varsity rolse this season too. Harmon joined the varsity at the end of last season. “She is fast and tall and has an amazing vertical. She is pretty menacing on defensive end,” James said. “On offense she is probably one of the best cutters in the program seeing the floor and moving off the ball.” The TK ladies won their season opener Dec. 3 over Plainwell and have been off from competition until a Dec. 13 meet-up with Forest Hills Central in Middleville. The TK team faces Zeeland West Dec. 17 and Caledonia Dec. 19 on the road in the week ahead. The Trojans will head to the Reed City Holiday Tournarhent the weekend of Jan 3-4 and then jump into the new OK Gold Conference season. The Trojans start with a familiar foe in South Christian and then go on the road to take on Northview. “It is tough just in a different way,” James said of the new league. “West Catholic is probably the monster. I think I just saw them in a preseason poll that had them number eight in the state. There is a really good incoming freshmen class all throughout the area. That is going to throw waves into our varsity games. We’ll see where they lie and what they look like. Tliat age group is just really strong. Our conference and our whole schedule is really tough. When you look at the games there are no definite guaranteed wins anywhere along it.” She wants the schedule to be hard. Not only does it prepare the team for the end of the season, but basketball districts are now seeded from top to bottom so a tougher schedule means more points in the state’s rankings formula. More points means better match-ups to start the state tournament. TK swim team sets solid early marks in Holland Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ swimming and diving co-op with Unity Christian, West Michigan Avia­ tion, West Catholic and Hopkins got its 2024-25 season underway this month first competing at the City Sprints in Grand Raids and then a tri-meet in Hol land Tuesd^ against Holland Christian and Jenison athletes. Holland Christian won the day’s meet, but the TK team had some out standing performances. Trojans athletes finished as high as third in a few events. Gabriel Van placed third in the 200yard individual medley with a time of 2:10.56 for the TKteam and third in the 100-yard backstroke in 59.25 seconds. Ethan Klopfenstien turned in a time of M 58.89 seconds in the 100-yard butterfly. Teammate Nolan Send had a couple outstanding freestyle races to start the year in Holland. He was fifth in the 50-yard freestyle in 24.78 and fourth in the 500-yard freestyle with a time of5:57.27. Ty Denney scored a fourth-place time of 54.34inthe 100-yard freestyle See SWIM on 9 J 1 I �I 2024 Winter Preview www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS £ > 9 Saturday, December 14, 2024 TA’* J • X TKHS boys start new basketball season J '•I 1 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team lost a couple of all-conference performers to gradua­ tion, but has a lot of guys back who have played a lot of varsity minutes this winter. The Trojan team attacks the 202425 season with an inside-outside mix that includes junior forward Lucas Ploeg and junior center Trey Hilton along with senior center Jake Kelly in the paint. Outside, senior guards Jude Webster and Brice Lloyd are capable of knocking down threes and getting to the basket with the dribble. Webster averaged 8.6 points per game a year ago and is the team’s top returning scorer. 1 ««* Ploeg averaged six points and six rebounds a game last year as a sopho­ more on the varsity. Keeping him out of foul trouble and on the floor will be key for the Trojans as his combination of strength, size and skill can have a big impact on both ends of the floor. The Trojans won ten games a year ago and they’ll look to boost their re­ cord over .500 this winter if they can under head coach Phil Garber. The rest of the senior group for the Trojans includes Ish Cantu, Dorn McDonald, Isaac Ruth and Tristen Beck along with injured guard Brody Wiersma. Isaiah Boafo, Malachi VanEngen and Ben Lloyd are a few juniors already stepping up for the TK varsity. The Trojans are off to a 1-1 start so far this season with wins over Lakewood and Forest Hills Eastern teams. TK was scheduled to visit Forest Hills Central Friday, Dec. 13, and will be back in action at home in the week ahead for non-conference contests with Zeeland West Dec. 17 and Caledonia Dec. 19. The TK team closes out the holiday break by playing in the Reed City Holiday Tournament this year Jan. 3-4. The Troj ans j ump right into the tough OK Gold Conference schedule after the holidays with ballgames at South Christian and North view. Brice Lloyd g s J I • 4 * I I V > SWIM Continued from Page 8 and was fifth in the 200-yard freestyle in 2:03.89 for the TK co-op. Luke Hemker chipped in a fifth-place 100yard freestyle time of 56.63 too as well as a time of 1:24.05 that earned him the fourth-place points in the 100-yard breaststroke. The TK team got the runner-up points in the 400-yard freestyle relay at the end of the evening with a time of 3:45.39 from the team of Send, Denney, Klopfenstien and Van. Hunter Tietz, Caden Bliek, Denney and Hemker swam to a third-place time of 1:41.78 in the 200yard freestyle relay. Diver Ethan Magnuson placed third with a score of 120.05 points too for the TK team. With a roster of about 20 guys, the co-op team is looking forward to a suc­ cessful winter season under head coach DJ Cochran. The team is even getting to practice a couple nights a week in the renovated pool at TKHS. The Trojans are set to face Fremont on the road Tuesday, Dec. 17 and then visit Grand Rapids Christian Dec. 19. *“l I I I I I I I I I I r '. s f * b I • s- i ’ *•V*- ^mK I <* s* J •1 % _____ a<c Scan our QR code to find your perfect invitation! i- >* SG« ★prices effective unfit 12/31/24 4’ >'-1 e ' hill 1 r RtdlD >9. 4 T’ZT^ < «v.: ** * 4 i r» IH® « I > .1' RUUD I--’... I 1? I I I I I I I I ,s:^ 11I Fr4B»* 'I * d Li f - b *Z . dL s A > ? L LLUv 1 HEATING 6 COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia 616-891-8900 |L^ •TT LaIuahi_ 5. • r r • c p; ^*4 < SKTT^ wc* •w 1 fr • 4 b nev^.4wl^ •> ' • • 4. «. ' mV « • F♦ I R, s «» I c I 1 ► T * «E« - ,y Tv -T’ L n.9 ♦ 1 l*J X. >v 't* 1 >•’ liNN*'-' > •« ST Simply Perfect 9V r FINANCING AVAILABLE 1 Arr WEDDING INVITATIONS I ft*: > < k I "Ik* I J <1 : •A **•. Equal payments on qualifying equipment ■i I i z w/purchase of High Efficiency Furnace & AC unit t > • f i NO INTEREST a I I I I I a Months *■ a 1^'' Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. PRINTING BY www.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com �THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 10 2024 n 9 4 1 t*/ •* *« .r 1 » I I "* I-- 5. z a ’T T W t « JI•> 4I r- I F '* SPORTS Winter Preview Goal is third straight finals appearance for TK cheer * r * www.sunandnews.com I J k Ml < i V ’W tl 4$ if J 1 S' IW‘ » View Newspaper Group is seeking a full-time •■ « STAFF REPORTER View Newspaper Group is seeking a full-time, experienced news and features reporter to join our growing team of journalism professionals. RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Coverage of local events, meetings and the community • Interviewing • Writing • Editing • Photography • Networking • Copy Editing Qualified individuals must have a four-year degree in journalism or related communication field and be: • Proficient in Associated Press Style • Deadline-driven • Positive • Friendly • Outgoing • Have the ability to work some nights and weekends We Zove what we do and we know you will too! Qualified applicants can send a resume to View Newspaper Group Publisher wsmith@mihomepaper. com Group ■ The County Press ■ Lapeer Area View ■ Genesee County View ■ Huron County View ■ Sanilac County News ■ Your Buyer’s Guide ■ Jeffersonian 4 ■ Tri-County Times ■ ■ Dailv Daily News News ■ Tri-County Citizen ■ Oxford Leader ■ Lake Orion Review ■ Clarkston News ■ The Citizen _ i n . ■ Ledger ■ The Hastings Banner ■ Buyer’s Guide & News ■ Ad-Visor & Chronicle ■.Battle Creek Shopper News ■ The Sun and News ■ The Reminder I . > * rs IF* f r♦ i —' JB z 't r 1 Mia Hilton Brett Bremer Sports Editor It’s going to be a different kind of season than in recent years for the Thomapple Kellogg varsity competi­ tive cheer team that graduated a big senior class last spring. The goals at the end will mostly still be the same though. The Trojans have ended the past two seasons at the MHSAA Division 2 State Finals earning fifth- and sixth­ place finishes after long regular seasons battling the Cedar Springs girls for OK Gold Conference championships The Trojans don’t have rival Cedar Springs to deal with in the conference anymore as the OK Conference reworked its divisions in the offseason. While there is a lot different, there are a lot of girls back from those state finals teams too. Back spot Olivia Bouchard and back spot Lilly McKeown are a pair of seniors for TK this winter who are four-year varsity cheerleaders, and there is a great junior class along with them back out on the mat. The top returnees from the jimior group include flyers Mia Hilton, Clara Kovich, Kaylee Clark, back spot Payton Gater and main bases Sienna Schalk and Kella LeClaire. Gater was honorable mention all-state in Divi- sion 2 last season. Clarke, Kovich and Hilton were all second team all-region. TK head coach Madelynn Lula calls that a super strong class that is the backbone of the program at the moment. The team also brings back Chloe Lomakowski who was a part of the varsity as a freshman last season. There are 22 athletes on the varsity roster, and Lula said 60 percent of the team is freshmen, and most of them have little cheer experience. “When I took these kids on in the fall... there were only three that cheered in middle school. So, it was a ton of new kids. There are some that might have had basic gymnastic knowledge or some slim Champion Force Cheer. Middle school only prepares you so much,” Lula said. One of the strongest freshmen in the group is main base Toby DeGroot. “She came to me in June and had never cheered a day in her life, no gymnastics, no cheerleading, nothing ever and she was a shy timid kid,” Lula said. “I was like I don’t know what I’m going to do with this girl. Within a couple weeks she started to really shine. She has picked up on things quickly.” It appears DeGroot has earned a spot in all three rounds. She came out the gate swinging and hasn’t let off the gas,” Lula added. There is a big learning curve overall for the youngsters, and Lula said the team has started the year with fun­ damentals that might not have gotten quite as much focus in recent seasons. “We are constantly talking about the basics and nuance of cheer,” Lula said. She said this group of upperclass­ men has excelled at leadership since they came to the varsity program, and she feels lucky that they are each able to take one or two younger kids under their wing and be role models and like assistant coaches at practices. Lula sees the more experienced girls learning good lessons so far too. 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In great appreciation and thanks, Shirley Smith. GO ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM 11 Cal hockey pushing for a long postseason run Brett Bremer Sports Editor It’s a big goal, but it is the one the Caledonia varsity hockey team is work­ ing for - “Plymouth!” Plymouth is the home ofU SA Hockey Arena and the MHSAA Ice Hockey State Finals. “A deep run in the playoffs fueled by pre and in season preparation,” is what assistant coach Byron Lippert said the TREE SERVICE BUYING ALL HARDWOODS; Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. ♦ ♦ CHEER Continued from Page 10 couple seasons with the attitude that they just have to execute the skills they know just do it. “This year they came in know­ ing if they don’t motivate and put their heads down and help raise those younger kids up they knew this year was going to be the hard­ est year they have to experience yet in their high school career,” Lula said. “I think they also realize that they just have to choose their hard and hard years are almost more rewarding at the end,” Lula said. The Trojans will be chasing a conference title once again. Coach Lula expects Wayland, Catholic Central and West Catho­ lic all to have solid teams and knows the Northview program has been pretty strong in recent seasons. “We expect greatness out of those teams for sure, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say our goal is to sweep the conference and win all three conference competitions,” Lula said. The Trojans have put up their goals in threes this season. They’d like to win three confer­ ence competitions. They’d like to win three big titles — conference, districts and regionals. They’re working to make it three straight seasons at the state finals too. Fighting Scots are working for. “Our boys are focused on flawless system ex­ ecution, team chemistry and are proud of what they are doing - on and off the ice.” Jeremy Bultema is back for his third sea­ son leading the program. The Caledonia team, which is once a gain a co-op with Thomapple Kellogg and Lowell, went 12-12 in the regular season last year and then got one win in the postseason before an overtime defeat to Forest Hills Central. Back to lead the way from that group are senior forwards Tony Kauffman and Heniy Simon andjunior forward Harmon Esch on the attack. In the back end, the team brings back junior goaltender Sam Hoag. Coach Lippert said the team likes the depth the team was able to add with its newcomers this season and overall he sees a team with great speed and team chemistry. The Scots are 7-1 so far this season after taking a pair ofshut out wins last weekend at the Forest Hills Central Showcase at Patterson Ice Arena. The Scots beat Big Rapids 6-0 Dec. 6 and followed up with a 5-0 win over Allen P^k Dec. 7. This weekend it is off to the Bay County Civic Arena for a weekend of games. So far, the Scots are 1-0 in the OK Conference Rue Division thanks to a win over Rockford. East Grand Rapids and Byron Center will be the toughest squads the Scots likely face in conference action this winter, and the program has made the rest ofthe schedule tougher this season too in an attempt to prep for the postseason. The Fighting Scots will start to get into the meat ofthe conference season before the holiday break. They host Grand Rapids Christian Dec. 18 at Kentwood Ice Arena, visit Forest Hills Central Dec. 20 and then will be home against Forest Hills Northern-Eastern Dec. 21. FAMILY IS EVERYTHING TO US. * .. We treat our patients like family and offer comfortable, customized dentistry for everyone. I I ^7 W # C Same Day Dentistry Implants catered lo your treatment needs ■ to return your teeth to good heolth Pediatric Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry with ktci-friendly options for ideal results r*'. f 4 I f NOW ACCEPTING DELTA DENTAL HEALTHY KIDS AND BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD About Yankee Springs Dental HEALTHY KIDS Come experience the welcoming otmosphere of our rural, locot office where our patients know each other Tyler Venemon, DOS is a native of Caledonia who keeps up on the latest technology within dentistry and enjoys getting to know the patients' unique needs. Dental exams are even more important as we get older, preventing problems and reducing the risk of serious illness. YANKEE SPRINGS DENTAL □ (269) 792-9723 •zr* to 3’. 20% OFF your first visit Mention this offer when you call or bring this card with you 12715 w M-179 Hwy \^nkeeSpringsDental.com Wayland, Ml 49348 Scan to request an appointment 4 ? : e Office Hours M Tu W 9am-6pm 7am-3pm 8an>-5pm «Hr»ian �> ♦ ► 2024 Winter ^2 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 www.sunandnews.com CLS swimmers got in some good offseason work Brett Bremer Sports Editor ference Championship last season. Fitzgerald was top 16 in the 100-yard butterfly. Foerch placed top 16 in the 500-yard freestyle. Having three divers in the program this winter should be a boon as well. “We just have a team that is going to challenge and encourage each other and have fun doing it,” coach DeJong said. He likes the way he sees his team working in this preseason. “It is hard to know exactly what they’re doing all the time in the pool. Different lanes are doing different things. They’re really developing the honesty of we have to make this work. If we don’t do this right here, we’re not going to do it in the meet,” DeJong said. The Caledonia/Lowell/South Chris­ tian Vikings feel like they’re making strides. Head coach Todd DeJong is start­ ing his third season leading the co-op program and he feels like the team has gotten better every year. The team got four guys into the MISC A Meet a year ago and one into the state finals. He is excited to have had a handful of guys doing some club swimming in the offseason. It’s a group that includes seniors Sam Jones and Coen Crocker and sophomores Andrew Barnum, Anders Foerch, Brett DeJager and Nolan Fitzgerald. Jones had a top 16 finish in the 200-yard freestyle at the OK Red Con­ Middleville • 269-795-3550 500 Arlington St. Caledonia * 616-891-3550 9820 Cherry Valley Rd. lTIBES2000.NET £ I 9 4 • ♦ > J I A SwierengA f hONiri PACKING LLC UBOA VO cuoom UoMccw homm fc ttoomhg 4.CFE CALEDONIA FARMERS ELEVATOR s I Phone: 616-891-5750 Caledonia D&W Center Corner of 92nd From your Caledonia Farmers Elevator Family & East Paris (616)891- , fl ► fl ■■ fl ri www.CLaledoniaPacking.com highpoint BODY SHOP I •/ A £ » ■' A ri NzJ I wtseuy iMMhk 146 E. Main, Caledonia (616) 891-8108 9175 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Caledonia www.cfeco.com 616.710.0796 MEDICAL & AESTHETICS CENTER TH. 110 Johnson St Caledonia 4 Hours: 12pm-8pm Tues.-Sat. I2pm-4pm Sun. COMMUNITY BANK 616-891-0150 “Although this is a swim and dive team we are not only here to make them better swimmers and better div ers, instead we aim to build a team of individuals who learn the value ofhard work, discipline, values and friend­ ship with the intent of taking these characteristics into real life outside of the pool and into their future.” The Vikings had a dual in Hastings set for Thursday postponed. They are slated to be a part of the Dec. 14 East Kentwood Relays and then to return to the East Kentwood pool for a competition Tuesday, Dec. 17. The Scots have a meet with Grand Haven planned for Dec. 19, and a competition at Hudsonville Dec. 20-21. The conference season starts with a dual at Wayland at the holidays, Jan. 7. Thanks > The Sponsors who Support ocal Sports COMPLETE AUTO REPAIR CXJLL” ‘ The team is especially excited to get the chance to swim in the new Cale­ donia YMCA Pool shortly. The team continues be practice at the Mary Free Bed YMCA. The plan is to be in the Caledonia pool by mid-January. The team is planning to have its first home meet of the season every. The Vikings should be more com petitive in their new conference. They are no longer a part of the OK Red competition. They will now be swimming in the OK Rainbow Tier II Conference along with Ottawa Hills, Wayland, Thomapple Kellogg, Grand Rapids Catholic Central and Grand Rapids Union. Coach DeJong is hoping that his guys have the courage to be more this winter - both in the pool and in life. Good Luck Athtetes ■•V.. 1-888-422-2280 highpointcommunitybank .com I* Member FDIC WWW PROPEREU COM 9809 CHERRY VALLEY AVE Area Chamber of Commerce Sun News 269.945.9554 1351 N. M-43 Hwy., Hastings, Ml 49058 MULLERS FRONTIER HEATING 8 COOLING PAINT S DESIGN CO. Phone: 616-891-9171 210 E. Main St., Caledonia 227 E. Main St., Caledonia 61&-89I-8900 CALEDONIA RENT ALL Call Frontier Now! Valfc^ J Stove S' Saw Skag Mowers Husqvarna Outdoor Products Phone: tn Caledonia 616-891-0050 616-891 -7500 cliaTyvaleystove.cnn 9800 Cherry Valley Caledonia �<**■ ♦ ♦ 2024 Uh ♦ ♦ Preview www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024* 13 Experienced Scot team adds solid freshmen duo dive fc. lof aij ndese 0 If e D Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia girls were set to face a big measuring stick Thursday with a trip to face the Rams in Rockford. The Fighting Scots varsity girls’ basketball team is off to a 2-1 start this season after back-to-back wins over Traverse City West and Wayland in the past week in the Caledonia High School gymnasium. A solid returning group and a couple of talented freshmen have the Fighting Scots in good shape early, even with a tough preseason injury sidelining three-year varsity ballplayer and senior captain Lily Gortmaker for the season. Everybody will work to pick up the slack including her senior classmates. The senior group for the Scots includes three-year varsity center Lakely Bot­ tum and guards Brecken Bloemers and Kathryn Langenburg. Junior guard Baylee DeVries and junior forward Jolie King saw a lot of varsity action as sophomores last season, and sophomore forward Addi Veit and sophomore forward Kayla Briseno will look to see their varsity roles expand some this year after play­ ing on the varsity as freshmen. The freshmen back-court duo of Emily Stauffer and My la Gortmaker will be big a big boost this season too. “As coaches when you’re building your program you obviously have some philosophies and some things that you want to do, but you just have to be willing to stay open to new ideas and adapt to the personnel that you’ve got we’ve got. We’re trying to do that with this group. Our team this year will probably look a lot different than our team last year, because we had more size last year,” Caledonia head coach Todd Bloemers said. “This year we’re a little bit quicker. I think our athleti­ cism at all five positions on the floor is going to be very strong. That will be one of our key assets. We have got some smaller and quicker guards, but also some guards that are a little gangly and longer so we have a nice mix of T ♦ the middle there. King plays with tre­ mendous effort and spacial awareness and Bottum uses her length well as a rebounder and shot blocker. Rebounding is going to be an overall team effort from the guards, forwards and centers. “We talk about being fundamental rebounders,” Bloemers said, “not fortunate rebounders. We can’t expect the ball to bounce into our hands. We have to make sure we are being physical at the point of attack with the box out and then pursuing the basketball, because ifwe can rebound at all five positions that allows us to move into transition that much easier when our guards are our best rebounders.” Offensively, the Scots will look to S' * »•- h e .1 \ f w- > K > spread the floor to take advantage of athleticism and try to get out in transi­ tion as much as possible. The Caledonia girls will be at home to take on Thomapple Kellogg Thurs­ day, Dec. 19, and then will be home against Traverse City Central Dec. 20 to close out the pre-holiday schedule. The OK Green Conference season tips off for the Scots Jan. 3 at ReethsPuffer. Coach Bloemers is looking for­ ward to learning the new league. Jenison is making the move from the OK Red into the OK Green with the Scots. He expects Byron Center to be strong and knows that Muskegon had a young, talented squad last year and will likely come into the season as the favorite. V % * > Sv Maddie Hayden k _ t - *<• »5 different things we can do and styles of play we can adapt to.” He said his team had a busy summer with at least 30 summer league games in different events and had some good practices during the MHSAA allow­ able dates. “1 love our athleticism. 1 think that we were shaping into a pretty well connected group. We’re young with two freshmen. two sophomores, two juniors, four seniors, but the girls really established a nice bond with each other. When they’re talking they’re listening to each other too, which has been fun to see. That is one of the biggest goals we have is being consistent when it comes to our focus, our effort and our communication.” Coach Bloemers is working on con­ sistent communication with everyone. DeVries and Stauffer have stood out as vocal leaders on the floor in that way so far. There is variety in the group of guards, girls who can shoot, who can slash, who can dribble. Bloemers also likes the 1-2 punch of Bottum and King in the post offering some size. He said his team will try and really build a defense around that core of girls in A*3 5^ 4 4. «• J t r - ■ 'a r f rffbj»‘ X - ) I *X jk . * I' ie< 4 4 A vs ^4 . 4 .44 < V I ’V ♦ * r * 4^ >«* » I •> V Will Sheely -1^;^ . b a .t U« * ,• * s* >* 11 HPIE icri-s to’*««* 1 »- ^1* 4. ■f f * * l*r L > N' «* it. : llr PW? X' Gift Certificates^ Available Holiday Fabrics r i 4 ** . QUESTIONS: ASK US... e V •l 'r' -s r V k f 218 E. State St., Hastings • 945-9673 OPEN: Monday-Friday 8 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9 am-3 pm I 4 ? iii! ^■*1 ■ "[^Blessings This Christmas i I ♦ Hulsi Cleaners Pickup Station < �J ■ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Preview 2024 Winter 14 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 ■ 4^ www.sunandnews.com s Experienced Scot team adds solid freshmen duo Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia girls were set to face a big measuring stick Thursday with a trip to face the Rams in Rockford. The Fighting Scots varsity girls’ basketball team is off to a 2-1 start this season after back-to-back wins over Traverse City West and Wayland in the past week in the Caledonia High School gymnasium. A solid returning group and a couple of talented freshmen have the Fighting Scots in good shape early, even with a tough preseason injury sidelining three-year varsity ballplayer and senior captain Lily Gortmaker for the season. Everybody will work to pick up the slack including her senior classmates. The senior group for the Scots includes three-year varsity center Lakely Bot- turn and guards Brecken Bloemers and Kathryn Langenburg. Junior guard Baylee DeVries and junior forward Jolie King saw a lot of varsity action as sophomores last season, and sophomore forward Addi Veit and sophomore forward Kayla Briseno will look to see their varsity roles expand some this year after play­ ing on the varsity as freshmen. The freshmen back-court duo of Emily Stauffer and Myla Gortmaker will be big a big boost this season too. “As coaches when you’re building your program you obviously have some philosophies and some things that you want to do, but you just have to be willing to stay open to new ideas and adapt to the personnel that you’ve got we’ve got. We’re trying to do that with this group. Our team this year will I a • I 4 ■n ■ I >. & » - % J is .••• * -*Wr 1^^ 'Mwa^ •ife. 2? I bl.. *\*H>^**^ « 616-891-0150 Kathryn Langenburg BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. BODY SHOP COMPLETE COLLISION REPAIR 10 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Your +rus-becl Body Shop -for over 32 years N> < probably look a lot different than our team last year, because we had more size last year,” Caledonia head coach Todd Bloemers said. “This year we’re a little bit quicker. I think our athleti­ cism at all five positions on the floor is going to be very strong. That will be one of our key assets. We have got some smaller and quicker guards, but also some guards that are a little gangly and longer so we have a nice mix of different things we can do and styles of play we can adapt to.” He said his team had a busy summer with at least 30 summer league games in different events and had some good practices during the MHSAA allow­ able dates. “I love our athleticism. I think that we were shaping into a pretty well connected group. We’re young with two freshmen. two sophomores, two juniors, four seniors, but the girls really established a nice bond with each other. When they’re talking they’re listening to each other too, which has been fun to see. That is one ofthe biggest goals we have is being consistent when it comes to our focus, our effort and our communication.” Coach Bloemers is working on con­ sistent communication with everyone. DeVries and Stauffer have stood out as vocal leaders on the floor in that way so far. There is variety in the group of guards, girls who can shoot, who can slash, who can dribble. Bloemers also likes the 1-2 punch of Bottum and King in the post offering some size. He said his team will try and really build a defense around that core of girls in the middle there. King plays with tre­ mendous effort and spacial awareness and Bottum uses her length well as a rebounder and shot blocker. Reboimding is going to be an overall team effort from the guards, forwards and centers. “We talk about being fundamental rebounders,” Bloemers said, “not for­ tunate rebounders. We can’t expect the ball to bounce into our hands. We have to make sure we are being physical at the point of attack with the box out and then pursuing the basketball, because if we can rebound at all five positions that allows us to move into transition that much easier when our guards are our best reboimders.” Offensively, the Scots will look to spread the floor to take advantage of athleticism and try to get out in transi­ tion as much as possible. The Caledonia girls will be at home to take on Thomapple Kellogg Thurs­ day, Dec. 19, and then will be home against Traverse City Central Dec. 20 to close out the pre-holiday schedule. The OK Green Conference season tips off for the Scots Jan. 3 at ReethsPuffer. Coach Bloemers is looking for­ ward to learning the new league. Jenison is making the move from the OK Red into the OK Green with the Scots. He expects Byron Center to be strong and knows that Muskegon had a young, talented squad last year and will likely come into the season as the favorite. �♦ om 2024 Winter Preview www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 ♦ ♦ 15 Young varsity roster for new CHS hoops coach Brett Bremer »niBe. out iai an so Id d Il I Sports Editor I i It is set to be a season filled with new varsity ballplayers and a new head coach for the Caledonia boys’ basketball program. Nate Bums takes over as the Fight­ ing Scots head coach after having previously coached at Battle Creek Pennfield. The Scot team was 12-12 a year ago, with a fairly senior heavy group. The top returnees are all sophomores who saw a bit of playing time last winter as freshmen in guards Ben Geerdes, Jarrell Jefferson and forward Bryce Backus. Bums said he has a group of guys overall that play hard and he sees a balanced squad overall. He is certainly expecting to see a lot of growth as the season goes on. The guys looking to get their first real varsity action include senior guard Parker Little, senior guard cam Myers and sophomore center Braydon Nemmers. QUALIFIERS Continued from Page 7 and the co-ed varsity team will host the Tom Lehman Memorial Invitational Dec. 28. The Trojans were slated to open competition in their new OK Black Conference Wednesday, Dec. 11, at Union High School with an OK Gold/ Black Quad where they would face the Red Hawks from the OK Gold. Zeeland West and Spring Lake were ! PP^*""**^.* ' A * A > •» J cnoV. Ml r ^BL ‘ - -*±s 1 - ■.« Bryce Backus “There is great potential here, we are just a brand new varsity team learning a new system,” Bums said. “We have five sophomores up on varsity, with four of them starting. There will be also slated to represent from the OK Black at the quad. “It will be fun learning the new teams and what they have. Wayland will defi­ nitely be one of the top contenders this year,” coach Fletke said. The Trojan team has a new high of 18 girls this season. The MHSAA has added a girls’ team state championship this year. That will be earned by the top scoring team of qualifiers at the Individual State Finals in March. YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. • • •• You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors... and our future a VIEW Group some exciting times and also some rough patches as the young guys grow and gain experience. So far, the Scots are off to a 2-1 start. They had a rough night in their season opener against Okemos, but since then have scored back-to-back close wins over Wyoming and Kenowa Hills. The Scots knocked off the Kenowa Hills Knights in Grand Rapids 48-44. It was as close bailgame throughout, with the Scots chasing the Knights much of the evening at Kenowa Hills last Friday, Dec. 6. Caledonia trailed 12-7 after one quarter and 22-15 at the half. The hosts had ad 34-33 lead going into the fourth quarter. Bums said his guys finally started taking care of the basketball in the fourth quarter after stmggling with 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 turnovers much of the night. Little finished with a team-high 17 points to go with six assists and six re­ bounds. Lincoln Senti chipped in eight points and five rebounds and Myers had eight points. Caledonia was set to host Lowell Fri­ day, Dec. 13 and will be home against Rockford Dec. 17 and at Thomapple Kellogg Dec. 19. The OK Green Conference season begins after the holiday break, at Reeths-Puffer, Jan. 3. Coach Bums said he expects Byron Center, Muskegon and Mona Shores all to be especially tough in the new conference. The Scots follow up that confer­ ence opener by playing in the Van Andel Arena Showcase Jan. 4 against Grandville. Caledonia TTO’NSHIP * Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECT THEREOF 4 PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on December 4, 2024, the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia adopted Ordinance No. 2024-02, an ordinance entitled, “An Ordi­ nance to Amend Sewer Connection, Use and Rate Ordinance” (the “Ordinance”), which amends the Townships Sewer Connection, Use and Rate Ordinance a.k.a. Ordinance No. 15-05, as amended (the “Sewer Ordinance”). A summary of the provisions of the Ordinance is set forth below: Section I. Amendment of Section 708 of the Sewer Ordinance. Section 1 of the Ordinance amends Section 708 of the Sewer Ordinance, to specify that payment of the Sewer Rates and Charges as billed is due and payable on or before the 3rd Wednesday of the second month in the quarterly billing period. ° Section 2. Severability and Paragraph Headings. Section 2 of the Ordinance provides for the severability of the provisions of the Ordinance in the event a portion of the Ordinance is determined to be unenforceable. The paragraph headings in the Ordinance are furnished for convenience and reference only. Section 3. Publication and Recording. Section 3 of the Ordinance provides that the ordinance, or a summary thereof, must be published once in a newspaper of general circulation in the Town­ ship following its adoption and that the Ordinance must be recorded in the Ordinance Book of the Township. Section 4. Effective Date. The Ordinance is effective as of December 14, 2024. A copy of the amending ordinance may be reviewed or purchased at the Township office during Township office hours. Dated: December 4, 2024 TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA * �I -J- — - THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 16 ---------- www.sunandnews.com — . — ............... * Stafford Printing and Michigan Web Press welcome new general manager GREENVILLE Leadership at Stafford Printing of Greenville, Mich, is proud to announce the addition ofJoe Howard as general manager. Howard has been a leader in the print industry for 25 years. After graduating with a degree in print management from Ferris State University, he went on to serve in leadership roles at print companies throughout Michigan gain­ ing experienced in customer service, finishing, continuous improvement and manufacturing. “We are thrilled to welcome Joe as general manager at Stafford Printing,” said Todd Hagerman, Michigan Web Press general manager. “His experience, attention to detail and enthusiasm for getting the j ob done right the first time are exactly the leadership skills we seek at Stafford Printing and Michigan Web Press. Our team and our clients will greatly benefit with Joe in this role.” In his role as general manager How­ ard is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Greenville printing facility, including managing 45 full­ 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 time employees. Howard lives in Greenville with his wife Trisha and three daughters. In their spare time he said the family en­ joys camping throughout the summer and hunting during the fall. “I am excited for this new oppor­ tunity and look forward to meeting everyone on the Stafford Printing and Michigan Web Press teams,” said Howard. ✓ Howard replaces long-time general manager John Moy, who is retiring at year end. A 1985 graduate of Grand Valley State University, Moy started his career in the lumber industry, moving to the print industry in 1997 joining Stafford Printing as a sales executive. He ex­ celled in sales and customer service, and in 2008 Moy was named general manager of Stafford Printing, which was acquired by Michigan Web Press in 2019. “For 27 years, I have been blessed to work for Stafford Printing and Michi gan Web Press. I have had the priviMl G utdoni A I TOWNSHIP J Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE AMENDMENT AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECT THEREOF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on December 4, 2024, the Township Board of the Charter Township of Caledonia adopted Ordinance No. 2024 -03, an ordinance entitled, “An Or­ dinance to Amend Water Connection, Use and Rate Ordinance” (the “Ordinance”), which amends the Townships Water Connection, Use and Rate Ordinance, as amended (the “Water Ordinance”). A summary of the provisions of the Ordinance is set forth below: Section 1. Amendment of Section 1111 of the Water Ordinance. Section 1 of the Ordinance amends Section 1111 of the Water Ordinance, to specify that payment of the Water Supply Rates and Charges as billed is due and payable on or before the 3rd Wednesday of the second month in the quarterly billing period. Section 2. Severability and Paragraph Headings. Section 2 of the Ordinance provides for the sev­ erability of the provisions of the Ordinance in the event a portion of the Ordinance is determined to be unenforceable. The paragraph headings in the Ordinance are furnished for convenience and reference only. Section 3. Publication and Recording. Section 3 of the Ordinance provides that the ordinance, or a summary thereof, must be published once in a newspaper of general circulation in the Town­ ship following its adoption and that the Ordinance must be recorded in the Ordinance Book of the Township. Section 4. Effective Date. The Ordinance is effective as of December 14, 2024. A copy of the amending ordinance may be reviewed or purchased at the Township office during Township office hours. Dated: December 4, 2024 TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA lege of working with some of the best printing and newspaper people in our industry, & said Moy. Michigan Web Press located in Joe Howard Davisburg, Mich. and Stafford Printing are sis­ ter companies of View Newspaper ■u9 Group, publish­ ers of 21 com­ munity newspa­ pers in Michigan, eight of which are John Moy printed at Stafford and the balance at Michigan Web Press. Lapeer native Rick Burrough is president and owner of the three companies. ABOUT MICHIGAN WEB PRESS AND STAFFORD PRINTING Locally and independently owned, Michigan Web Press was foimded in 1979. In 2019 the company acquired Stafford Printing. Today the combined fl A I • 59 -1? > > companies make up the largest com­ mercial newspaper printer in Michigan serving more than 250 clients through­ out the Midwest. Experts in web print­ ing and direct-mail, annually they print more than 130 million pieces, insert more than 140 million pieces and mail more than 70 million pieces. For more information, visit michiganwebpress. com or contact Michigan Web Press General Manager Todd Hagerman at thagerman@michiganwebpress.com. ABOUT VIEW NEWSPAPER GROUP Founded in 2003, View Newspaper Group is a locally-owned, locally connected community newspaper group covering 13 Michigan counties. As Michigan’s largest independently owned newspaper group, the com­ pany publishes 21 newspapers with print editions reaching more than 335,000 households each week, plus an additional 500,000 monthly online readers. For more information, visit mihomepaper.com or contact View Newspaper Group Brand Manager Emily Caswell at ecaswell@mihomepaper.com. EC MDHHS encourages residents to get the flu vaccine before the holiday season LANSING Receiving an annual flu vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the flu. The Michigan Depart­ ment of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is encouraging everyone to get their flu vaccine if they have not al­ ready done so. By getting the flu vaccine now, families will protect themselves and their loved ones against the flu dur­ ing the holiday season, and throughout the duration of the flu season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends annual influ­ enza vaccination for all individuals ages 6 months and older with rare exceptions. Some children 6 months through 8 years old may need an additional dose. Vaccination is especially crucial for individuals at increased risk of severe flu complications, such as those who are pregnant, older adults and young children. Each year, millions ofchildren in the U.S. contract the flu, leading to thousands being hospitalized. Persons who are pregnant are also at increased risk for serious flu-related issues. It takes about two weeks after the flu vaccine is administered before the body builds up enough immunity to protect from severe illness from the flu. To ensure protection over the holidays, individuals should get their vaccine now to protect themselves before flu activity peaks in Michigan. To help pro­ tect themselves from other respiratory viruses, MDHHS also recommends get ting the COVID-19 and RSV vaccines. All three of these vaccines can be given at the same time. “The flu season is unpredictable, and we do not want to underestimate the im­ pact the virus can have on the health of our family members,” said Dr. Natasha See MDHHS on 17 a* �tn ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS THORNAPPLE Ik I t I It I e I 1 I Continued from Page 2 “Even a small shed that doesn’t require a building permit still requires a zoning compliance permit to assess for setback for lot lines, other structures, etc.” the letter reads. “The cost of a zoning compliance permit is minimal and could prevent headaches down the road.” The letter asks property owners to perform a self-audit to determine compliance and asks them to contact Zoning Administrator Phil Genster blum with any questions or concerns. Township Trustee Ross DeMaagd said that those measures were a lot of work for an ordinance that has been on the books for decades and he claims has never been enforced. “As I contemplate compliance with this ordinance, who does it benefit?” DeMaagd asked during the meeting. “The township doesn’t benefit from where a building lands in relation to the water. The property owner doesn’t benefit from having the ordinance. The neighbor doesn’t benefit. I challenge you to find someone who benefits.” DeMaagd proposed striking all set­ back requirements, but since that was not on the agenda, the board stuck with the request in front of it. Township Supervisor Eric Schaefer proposed sending an amended letter back to the planning commission, which eventually passed with De­ Maagd as the lone ‘no’ vote, but not before further discussion. “I don’t see a simple fix to this,” Trustee Curt Campbell said. “In genMl MDHHS Continued from Page 16 Bagdasarian, Michigan’s chief medical executive. “National Influenza Vaccina­ tion Week creates awareness about the importance ofthe flu vaccine and serves as a reminder to get the flu vaccine for those who have not done so yet this season. Getting vaccinated against the flu decreases your chances of severe outcomes including hospitalization.” Data reported to MDHHS shows a yearly decline in seasonal flu vaccine cov­ erage among people in Michigan since the 2020-21 flu season. Coverage was 34 eral, I think we need to keep this on the books. I think it’s good to let the public know that we should comply.” Township Clerk Cindy Ordway was not against the idea of sending a letter, but pondered what they hoped to ac­ complish with this reminder, worried that it might lead to finger-pointing amongst neighbors or other issues. Well, they would perform a self­ audit, Schaefer said. “If they would need help with that, we would be happy to come out and perform that audit. If they weren’t in compliance with the audit, I guess we’d have to deal with that.” In other business... The board approved the hiring of Williams & Works to update the town­ ship’s zoning ordinances and put them into searchable format. The agreement will cost approximately $25,000. The board agreed that zoning ordinances can be extremely difficult to work through for residents, partly because they have been recently amended. This update is designed to make them easier to access and comprehend. — The board approved an additional $2 per hour in pay for Deputy Clerk Brenda Hess, for doing what they classified as an “outstanding job in her new role.” — The board approved the appoint­ ment of Curt DeKam to the Thomapple Township Board of Review. DeKam will fill a vacancy that will be left by Katie Stanton at the beginning of next year. Stanton was elected to the Thor­ napple Kellogg School Board and will take her post at that time. percent for the 2020-21 season, compared to 26 percent in 2023-24. Vaccination against influenza is crucial for controlling the spread ofrespiratory illnesses in com­ munities and reducing the risk of severe disease and hospitalizations. Flu vaccines are widely available now at local health departments, physician offices and pharmacies around the state. To find a vaccine location near you, visit Vaccine Finder at vaccines.gov/en/. To learn more about seasonal respira­ tory illnesses and how to protect your­ self, visit Michigan.gov/covidflursv. Additional vaccination information is available at IVaccinate.org. MDHHS Saturday, December 14, 2024 17 ♦ ♦ Voice and organ recital slated for Dec. 17 at Grace Lutheran Students of the Robert C. Oster music studio will present a voice and organ recital on Tuesday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 239 E North Street in Hastings. Singers include Caledonia High School senior Landon Fleming, CHS junior Christian Moorlag and Grandville home-schooled junior Nolan Williams. Also performing will be Hastings resident Mary Kuhlman, Cindy Olson of Grand Ledge, and Lake Odessa resident Cindy Thelen. Making her organist debut will be Debbie Harrison, who is home-schooled in Woodland. The featured repertoire comes from the early 1 Sth century and into the 20th century, encompassing the musical genres of art song, opera, solo organ, and the American Song­ book, and includes texts in English, Italian and German. The recital is open to the public and is free of charge. A reception will follow in the church’s narthex. —MM I J B I MB .« SB r: The buck stays hers! Spend it hare. Kbbp it haro. Invest In Your Community, * IB V • M J Group 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia. Ml 49316 Caledonia TOWSHIP 1 Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA COUNTY OF KENT, MICHIGAN NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS AND SUMMARY OF THE REGULATORY EFFECT THEREOF PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on December 4, 2024, the Township Board | of the Charter Township of Caledonia adopted two ordinances that amend Section 2.4 of the Zoning Ordinance, the Zoning Map, to rezone the lands commonly known as 4950 76th Street from the A Agricultural District to the R-2 Medium Density Single Family District and the PUD Planned Unit Development District, in accordance with the proposed final development plan of the Dutton Preserve Site Condominium Planned Unit Development, and legally described as follows: I I I I I I I That part of the Northwest fractional 1/4 of Section 18, Town 5 North, Range 10 West, Caledonia Township, Kent County, Michigan, described as: Beginning at the West 1/4 Corner; thence S89«01’54”E 1058.98 feet along the East-West 1/4 line of said Section to the East line of the West 1/2 of the Northwest fractional 1/4; thence N00°34’48”W | 1340.47 feet along said East line; thence N89»01’54”W 1028.98 feet to the West Section line; thence S00“42’09” W 1312.18 feet along said West line to the East 1 /4 Corner Section 13, T5N, RllW; thence S00“41’43”W 27.82 feet along said west line to the Point of Beginning. Subject to Right-of-Way over the West 33 feet for Patterson Road. The ordinances will become effective on December 21, 2024. A copy of the ordinances may be examined or purchased at the Caledonia Charter Township Offices, 8196 Broadmoor Avenue, within the Township, during Township office hours. Dated: December 14, 2024 TOWNSHIP BOARD OF THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA I I I I I I �► ► ► I ♦ •••X I « I ^h M ^^^«***^«* 1^ ««»*^»^ i i i 1 -w. fl bS 9 .^b 1. 18 - V' Obituaries -f •* * of Michigan State University « (Go Spartans!), and was retired, following over 30 years of service at the Michigan Department of r Transportation, where he worked as a Civil Engineer. He was a proud “Papa”, who loved having a baby on his lap, and a golf club in his hand. Kurt was in devoted service to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to the “Benevolent” and “Hand-to-Hand” funds at I * 1 r < « 4. 4 / • ► and Hawke Kunde; his brothers. Richard Kurt Lee Kunde (Kathy) Kunde, and Edward Kunde. Kurt Lee Kunde passed suddenly at home He was preceded in death by their son, in Alto, Ml, on December 8, 2024, at the Michael Kunde, and his sister-in-law, Joan age of 76. ' Kunde. Survived by his loving wife of nearly He was survived by many other beloved 56 years (Anniversary: 12/14), Connie extended family members. Kurt was an (Buehler) Kunde; their daughter, Allison admired elder of the family, and cared so Kunde; their grandchildren, Fiona Newton, deeply for so many. Kurt was a graduate » I iW5 a?* i ’ v V T ' X. 1 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 •• < % 4 r • st. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Caledonia, Ml. Visitation will be held on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024 at 10 a.m. Service at 11 a.m., with a luncheon following at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Caledonia, Ml. Please visit www. beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Kurt’s family. S^'> « LOCAl CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church ALASKA BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Christine Beaudoin Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM Join us for our traditional yet casual worship www.alaskabaptist.org 724068th Street SE, Caledonia FIRST BAPTIST 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUnitcdMelhodist Sef'vjHg Strengthening Connecting Good Shepherd Lutheran Church A I r ex Sunday Service 10:30 AM > A -s I.'e; CO Middleville c 908 W Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) Sunday Worship -WT 9:30 a.m. 2-^ .*c Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages.com Church: (269) 795-2391 k 11 Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleviHe FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 4 JOURNEY CHURCH 4^peace a 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Middleville Location 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am r SERVICE TIMES: " Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com Sunday School,. ...9:30 AM Sunday Worship ..10:30 AM 14/oZc gQg; 5ezv/ces from our website (see above) W a *• k < J* 1675 84th st. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 <is6cornerstonemi.org/weekend HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone; 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. '» I i. r sr Tau(tut^gran Cfiurc^ --S. Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org Church PastorJonathan DeCou 'S i CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE I 'i 4 X 8900 Dufiy Road Middleville, MI 49333 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org c f -wJoin us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & Ham ■ Yankee Springs Bible Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto J t JMM1 . - THORNAPPLE VALLEY re x^ag A PEACECHURCH.ee Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee 1 cornerstonechurch I Caledonia Location 4 service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. 250 Vine Street 3 r< Zs - * 4 4 ..n 5 "Shining Forth God*s Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Group......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison^ Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org p Theressa Margaret Blain Noffke Theressa Margaret Blain Noffke, age 97, of Middleville, Ml, found true Victory in Jesus on December 2, 2024. Born on September 1, 1927, in Vogel Center, Ml, to the late George E. and Laura (Brinks) Talsma, Theressa lived a life characterized by her unwavering faith, friendly demeanor, and loving nature. Theressa’s journey was marked by the countless friendships she nurtured and the warm memories she created with everyone she met. Her radiant smile and kind words were a source of comfort and joy to all who knew her. She lived her beliefs through her actions, demonstrating a profound commitment to her faith that inspired many. Theressa’s legacy will continue to live through her loving children, Donald and Diane (Smith) Blain, Ronald and Ruth (Aubil) Blain, Christine and Larry (deceased) Lewis. Robert and Connie (Reed) Blain. Roger and Nancy (Burch) Blain. Joyce (Blain) and Timothy Looy. Patricia (Noffke) and Ted Mager. Ralph and Stacey (Pontseele) Noffke. Scott and Andrea Noffke. She will be deeply missed by her 44 grandchildren. 143 great grandchildren, and 12 great-great grandchildren. Relatives and friends may meet with Theressa’s family on Friday, Dec. 13, 2024 from 5-8 p.m. at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home, and on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Leighton Church where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m.. Rev. David McBride officiating. Burial will take place at Blain Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Leighton Church Missions. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Theressa’s family. �♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com ODESSA 15 a a h Continued from Page 4 li “D 3. □ —*- Q. □3 ■< O a •0 S Z Q O* cs I ''sJ Cn I ro vorced father of three, said he’s cur­ rently employed as a mortgage broker in Ishpeming. But, with a master’s degree in urban planning, as well as experience serving as a city manager at stops including Traverse City and Ishpeming, he is looking to get back into a governmental position. Like Ottenwess, Thornton has served as a manager for a community in Michi­ gan’s Upper Peninsula. In fact, their tenures overlapped. Ottenwess was employed by the City of Ishpeming from 2010-13, while Thornton was the manager for the neigh­ boring City ofNegaunee from 2011-17. Thornton later served as the manager for Caledonia from 2019 to April of this year, when he agreed to a separation agreement and stepped down from his roles as manager, village clerk and direc­ tor of the Department of Public Works. During his interview Tuesday, Thornton, who is married and has a teenage daughter, said he had attended several colleges and universities but “I don’t have a degree,” adding he was lured away before graduating when an employer “dangled a lot of dollars” for him to take a position. He added, however, he has since become a certi fied zoning administrator. “Education-wise, I learn something every day,” Thornton said. “(And) I’m a people-pleaser. That’s my job. “I’m in the business of serving the public trying to make a community better. ” Thornton and his family still live in the Caledonia area. Thanks to the close proximity to Lake Odessa, he said he and his family have made repeated trips to the village, giving him a first-hand look at events there. “We’re so close. We come here a lot,” Thornton said. “My wife and I have spent a lot ofmoney along these streets. “I like to see things get better,” he added. “I want to be part of that.” But responses to whether they had any “skeletons in their closet” by both Ottenwess and Thorton seem to trigger more questions for council members, who could seek to revisit the candidates ’ answers at the upcoming roundtable. When asked about his past, Thornton said the council should “Google me” for reports regarding his departure from Negaunee, when council members there voted 4-2 to enter into a separa- ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS tion agreement in February 2017 after discussing his annual evaluation. While he reportedly did well in his evaluation, city officials stated they wanted to move in a different direction. “Some bad things happened,” Thorn­ ton said. “The council was fighting with each other.” He also resigned from his position with the Village of Caledonia after being encouraged to apply for a manager’s post with Alpena County, a position he was later considered to be a finalist for, according to news reports. We came to terms,” Thornton said. “I resigned. “I was looking for something else.” According to reports in The Sun and News, Thornton and the Village of Caledonia agreed to a separation agreement in April, three weeks after a special meeting on March 25 at which council members there authorized Village President Jennifer Lindsey to negotiate Thornton’s resignation. After signing the agreement, along with Thornton, Lindsey reportedly de­ clined to comment further on the circum­ stances leading to Thornton’s departure. However, earlier this year, Thornton and the council reportedly clashed over a request by the then-village manager to use flex time-taking an equal amount of time off in a pay period equal to hours he worked in that same pay period beyond a typical 40-hour work week. At the time, Thornton said he had an agreement with the village for the flex time and had been using it throughout his tenure. But Lindsey stated the vil­ lage was not required to allow Thornton to use flex time and could change the terms of his employment because he was an at-will employee. After Tuesday’s interviews. Lake Odessa officials hope to schedule the two back for the meeting with depart­ ment heads and the roundtable discus­ sion on Dec. 18 or 19, if possible. The special meeting for the roundtable discussion will be posted by the village, including on its website, once the time and dates are finalized. Lake Odessa has been without a full time manager since December 2023 after village council members agreed to a separation agreement with then Village Manager Ben Geiger, who was hired in May ofthat year. The parting of the ways occurred a week after council members held a special meeting to discuss Geiger’s first job evaluation. Staff writer Greg Chandler contrib­ uted to this report. Saturday, December 14, 2024 19 Pine Rest Giving Tree fundraiser helps provide gifts for patients on Christmas morntfig James Gemmell Contributing Writer Each year. Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services and the Gaines Chamber of Commerce collaborate to donate gift certifi­ cates to the patients and residents who wake up at Pine Rest on Christ­ mas morning. On Tuesday, the Gaines Chamber host­ ed its annual Customer Appreciation Pine Rest Giving Tree luncheon at the Postma Center on the Pine Rest campus in Cutlerville. Those attending the event had a chance to bid on Christmas auc­ tion baskets and other items. “All of the proceeds go to those Pine Rest (Giving Tree) fami­ lies,” Chamber Ex­ ecutive Director Barb Nauta said. Donations are being accepted at the Postma Center, 300 68th St SE Building C, entrance 2. ♦ « • And online at pinerest, org/giving-tree. “I can’t believe all the (Christmas) baskets you have outside,” Pine Rest Foundation Ex­ ecutive Director Don­ ald MacKenzie told those who attended the luncheon. “Thank you for the dollars that are going to support JOTpon our oi patients an a clients.” Sue VanLiere, a family member of one of Pine Rest’s Giv­ ing Tree donation re­ cipients in the past, talked about her sister Joanie’s experience since she moved into Pine Rest Christian Homes 31 years ago. “Pine Rest is more than just a place to live. It’s a place where individuals with dis­ abilities find care, sup­ port and opportunities they need to thrive. The dedicated staff work tirelessly to provide a safe and nurturing en­ vironment where each resident can reach their full potential. Living ♦ ♦ ♦ I I here has given Joanie a sense of independence, taught her to be selfsufficient, provided her with a high level of confidence, as well as a positive social setting and a sense of commu­ nity,” VanLiere said. Gift basket winners were announced by Nauta at the end of the luncheon. Poinsettias were provided, as well. She also listed busi­ nesses that have con­ tributed to the cam­ paign, including Chickfil-A South, Consumers Credit Union, Custom Engraving, Distinc tive Catering, Everett’s Gardens, Fifth Third Bank, Gaines Char­ ter Township, Gaines Township Kindercare, Heidi Christine’s Salon & Spa, Nothing Bundt Cakes, ServPro of south­ east Grand Rapids, and Stonehenge Consulting. Nauta said the Gaines Chamber gained 30 new business members in 2024. 1 * GO ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM 36^) ■ I * A^*enr>oMen It u ■ y. Antenna Meri fc .. .. • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers • Cellular Enhancement Systems Give us a call! *.;» -J*' «*T»M cellCM SIGN^ CEbFI * • * * I. / -igii n 1 269-967-8241 i www.theantennamen.com antennamen@gmail.com www.cellsignalpros.com CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES Meeting Minutes The minutes for the November 20, 2024 Township Board of Trustees Meeting that were approved on December 4, 2024, are posted at the Township 8196 Offices at Broadmoor Ave., and on the website at www. caledQniatownship.org. �I i •ThM 20 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 14, 2024 More time on offense leads to more points for TK Brett Bremer Sports Editor I The Trojans scored the game’s first seven points and never trailed. The Hawks pulled to within 13-13 at the end ofthe second quarter, but TK started the second quarter with a 6-0 spurt and led the rest of the way. The lead was up to 32-19 for the Trojans at the half. The offense, controlling the pace on the offense was like our main thing,” saidTK senior guard Brice Lloyd. “The last game, we got destroyed. That loss In their first defeat of the season, the Trojans scored just 31 points and lost by 17 at Plainwell Dec. 3. That didn’t sit well with anybody. 1 hings were better Tuesday. ITieThomapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team improved to 2-1 on the season with a 54-45 win over visiting Forest Hills Eastern in Middleville. 4^ actually helped us figure out our weak­ nesses, and we cleaned it up this game and it completely showed.” Lloyd said in the days’ between the loss to the Plainwell and the win over the Hawks he and his teammates worked on getting out oftraps, breaking full-court pressure and really moving the ball on the offensive end and mak­ ing sure post players got their touches. That all paid off. Junior forward 1 I r* f B * J A X •iRv • Hastings Premier Hearing Healthcare Provider **; *• i I > jr Did you know? » 1 ■< « * Thornapple Kellogg junior post player Trey Hilton gets a shot over Forest Hills Eastern senior center Will Overbeek in the paint during the first half of the Trojans' win over the visiting Hawks Tuesday in Middleville. Photo by Brett Bremer i’* 4 * I 11 r \ 1 i 1 * > M • Growing evidence shows that addressing your hearing ioss can positively impact your social, emotional, cognitive and physical well being! • rV■ ’ X • - Ih. i Better w a. /J I «* < »c H * •• —»— r £ I * y/hy Choose Us? t,"' ♦< V P • * —• . •t V 4 f >4. iK ♦1 ♦’ • t. • Locally owned private practice staffed by a full-time Doctor of Audiology and Certified Audiology Assistant • You will receive a complete Diagnostic Exam and Communication Needs Assessment • We're here for you! Together we will review your results and determine the best Treatment Plan following Audiology Best Practices 1761 W. M 43 Hwy., Ste #4 Hastings, Ml 49058 Open Monday through Friday • We accept most insurances Call Today: 269-558-4786 ll *<*^ X k i > 4 ;r^-’ I » f -5 Lucas Ploeg had a team-high 15 points in the win and senior center Jake Kelly had 11 points. “Jake Kelly was putting in the work down low,” Lloyd said. Head coach Phil Garber agreed, and he was pleased. “I wanted to get the ball in the post. I wanted to get ball reversals. And I wanted to slow it down,” Garber said. “I thought against Plainwell we rushed it, rushed it, rushed it and scored 31 points. We scored more tonight in a half than we did the whole game there, and this is probably a better team than that.” TK also got nine points from Brice Lloyd and seven each from guards se­ nior Jude Webster and junior Ben Lloyd. “They needed to be unselfish, and I thought we did that tonight. People were making the extra pass. They were giving up a good look for a great look, and that’s the key to great teams,” Garber said. The match-up worked in the Trojans’ favor too. Kelly, Trey Hilton who had five points, and Ploeg were able to con­ trol things in the paint with their size for the most part with 6-foot-7 senior Will Overbeek the Hawks’ only real post presence. Overbeek did finish with a team-high 12 points for Forest Hills Eastern in the loss. Senior guard Landon Haid chipped in eight points and senior Bryce Sullivan had seven. I R! t 4 z a: 0. s O (A >. co “O •g G_ 4 � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-12-21.pdf c018dbf10013a5a08f8976bb31748f8f PDF Text Text < 1 4 XT t S' • - •i» *• 4» - f J * X &t 1 •rif I ?»* 4 *?T * < -• / : 4 / “E •I J-F F? f ( c v n M.' r. f r I 1 4 i 4 k 4 < 4 V i r I 1 f > •r t * 1 k 4 R x: 4 1 I XM0MBK AM 1 AZ IE i AND NEWS the SUN Stytving titty Middleville Cileddnle end Gntney lownshin An\is Vbr/z Hometown . I www.sunandnews.com f Middleville Christmas parade attendees get authentic North Pole experience I s 4 J., 4 4 I k ♦' I 4 4 *« M i arsr^sr 4 % ' O’ t I ..J* f -i ■ *; 7K *>/■ 1.-' < J xz^. ^4 k » A * * ■#- <»>p- * f •S’* *^* 1 r r > ** . »« •ir — *M } 'J X* '■^ 4* V T Jsr \ .7. ’S * »* 1**- '*» t *. MiliSBt 4 • L » 3 xj 4^ The Middleville Lions Christmas parade last Saturday morning was fairly brief not much more than 10 minutes to watch the entire parade go by - but that was quite all right for some. Christmas spirit was certainly not lack­ ing within the group of parade-goers lining Main Street to watch the parade, which was put on by the Middleville Lions Club. Still, the weather made the experience a little less hospitable with frigid temperatures and a biting wind. Most of those who attended bundled up from head to toe, with many children crawling around and playing in the snow before the parade moved through. k 7 ■J -J • IR.' w V- * . • qsit ' e * * v?^i ip 1 #■ • Z ' i . t '8 a w» < t f s I I si t yr - '««(l Y- <»PS •V \ r 1 < f ML t b»>» ■*W! I* / .i * . ■ s> I » ( a 8 r I > J" -v s •r* 5 —4b .>f^ f X T xJ A B* nv 1 * IMfraiJ^:.^4s«S:L4T *♦ 8b I i £sr 1 IP’T^ I IF r .4 $ » ki !r xO* I I « r' ’ >-^-*k » «» 4aa I'-' ■« ■I t * r '•’< • fk M* > I — w ’*■ k . ',:J£ R ' 1.4. * ** >■ 4 4 Contributing Writer .i •«:*. > U'*! Jayson Bussa .w «ak A I J.- t * k 4 Vl<^* r » 1 w -4 9 I LKR 4VHR i k 4 J SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2024 *4 * Y s I t > r V . RK* a NO. 35 l« FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS! '♦ < I Gv'OUp A OL ■y mT —Ik < . 4 «X 2 The Middleville Lions Club sponsored a float carrying the man and woman of the hour Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. The duo capped off the club's Christmas parade held last Saturday morning. Photos by Jayson Bussa See PARADE on 2 Middleville Holiday Lighting Contest winners announced * * * 4’ 'J /. rt^* *« t*. ? **T*cr^ I I • '. Molly Macleod Editor Winners have been announced for the 2024 Middleville Holiday Lighting Contest. The holiday tradition, which has been taking place in Middleville for more than a decade, allows for families to decorate and light up their homes for the season while also taking part in the holiday lighting contest. Of the 23 homes that entered this year, three winners were chosen. Locals cast their votes on Facebook. WOOS The first-place winner uswoisno 1VllN3aiS3U for this year’s contest is 959 View Pointe Drive in sec# tiLUJSd Middleville. The house gessr IHI 'aiiiAuasJO at 310 Dearborn St. took SSMU33 9C99> in SIIIMMIO OH«oaod aivd second place for its decorations and 442 Oak Meadow Drive took third place. Vickie Rick has organized the contest the last 10 years. “This is about the old-fashioned fun of driving around seeing lights. It’s fun,” Rick wrote in an email to the Sun and News. Votes were tabulated on the Middleville Lighting Contest Facebook page. Voters “liked” or “loved” their favorite home. Those “likes” and “loves” were counted as votes for the contest, but any comments that were left were not counted as votes. A map that shows the addresses of all 23 homes was also See LIGHTING on 2 ) » >*-u; s ;>T ( , A . '*> W» rx. ‘i^r • k I i '>T i J IB- 4 W t 'J Ll R*i ji . a • MW *<•0 »J t r** '.<X > i -r V i ‘X s 959 View Pointe Drive is this year’s Middleville Holiday Lighting Contest winner. Photos provided 39VlSOd s n ais xsdd s. > I «.> •» ri 1 �* f 2 ) isT www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 21 2024 o r J I I I r s.. This home at 442 Oak Meadow Drive was the third-place winner in Middleville’s Holiday Lighting Contest, ■ ■ t The house at 310 Dearborn Street in Middleville took second place in this year’s lighting contest. i• s —. . . J (f e ? * >• I « < LIGHTING I Wf X-'<. ^*1 Y r. FT I er I • X.- « 4 < F»t *4’ i: f < Continued from Page 1 r< 1 J I f NEWSPAPER DEADLINES Advisor Monday at 4;00 pm Shopper Monday at 5.00 pm * • available on the Facebook page. Prizes from local businesses are awarded to the first, second and third-place vote receivers. This year, TK Kitchen, Pixel Perfect Video Games, The Sandbar Airbrush Tanning & Teeth Whitening, The Nook, Left Field Cafe, Lox Hair Salon, My Sister’s Closet and Tender Loving Car Wash helped sponsor prizes for the winners. Staff Writer Greg Chandler con­ tributed to this report. i ♦ 11 4 2Lz rt»> s. «** >Ar I .^.JS tA e ' Hr* ( z’Arw' The Christmas parade in Middleville makes its way down East Main Street on Saturday morning as chilly spectators gather to watch. 1 . I i 4 M- Bl £i yi< .4 £ 4< A A group representing Towzilla Towing and Recovery sits perched on a float during Saturday’s Christmas parade in Middleville, tossing candy out to those in attendance. ^11 • •, > < 4 •*» k 1^ ■i'T''* -•, > Caledonia Community School has posted an RFP for Technology Renovations. Reminder Wednesday at Noon Sun & News Wednesday at Noon Group 1 X **3e*.. '4^- i Tuesday at Noon B y. J 't Banner E I I *#C t k ,.s i > £ 4 A J > -55: > *< r 4 * z PARADE I I 1 1 4 I ) 'll I The parade is part of Middleville’s Christmas on the River celebration. As part of the event on Dec. 5, local businesses held open houses as visits while Santa, live reindeer and rides on the Holly Trolley brought festive shoppers into town. Many businesses offered crafts, activities and other goodies for kids free of charge. Continued from Page 1 The parade, an annual tradition, featured floats from several local businesses and organizations, in addition to the Middleville High School Marching Band. The parade concluded with a float featuring Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. All RFP information can be found at the district website: https: www.calschools.org/bond/ I .t 4 THE SUN AND NEWS The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 CONTACT US PUBLISHED BY I Editor: Molly Macleod mmacleocl@mihomepaper.com W.^ :• J i E^ACw^/?^>0« Group Sports: Brett Bremer X1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com bbremer@mihomepaper.com Advertising Manager: Chris Silverman ! csilverman@mihomepaper.com Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist: Jennie V , -------- .onker jyonker@mihomepaper.com PRINTED ON 100% RECYCLED PAPER. Please recycle this newspaper » Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Copyright 2024 ©2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. ’’V’ x.’l: ' • ' •<.. I <• 'f Afi advertising in The Sun and News is subject Th conditions in the applicable rate card Of Which are News Ad Dept. ,1351 1351 Ml 49058 ( 269-945newspaper reserves the right not to no Sh^ih^^y® h®®T® ^ave h' to bind this newspaper and only /constitutes acceptance of the advertiser's order •< • .• <5 < t I ( I ) �www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Outgoing Cal BOE members honored I Monday marked the final meet­ ing for some Caledonia Community Schools Board of Education members — at least in an official capac­ ity. Board president Marcy White and board treasurer Jason Saidoo were honored for their service at Monday’s meeting. Photos provided & 1 A Gaines trustees raise water/sewer rates, swear in township officers James Gemmell Contributing Writer J kJ ' "•l~ •li Marcy White Weeldreyer receives ‘effective’ rating in first eval Molly Macleod Editor Dr. Dedrick Martin after he took the superintendent Caledonia Community job at Kalamazoo Regional Schools Superintendent Education Service Agency Dirk Weeldreyer success­ (KRESA). fully underwent his first Weeldreyer was no evaluation this week as stranger to the Caledonia head of the district. job when he took the inter­ Dirk Weeldreyer After returning from im role last year - he had closed session during already served as Caledonia Monday’s Caledonia Board of Schools’ interim superintendent in Education meeting, the board voted 2018. to give Weeldreyer an “effective” Before returning to Caledonia in late rating the highest rating a super 2023, Weeldreyer had been serving intendent can receive in such evalu as executive director of the School ations. Equity Caucus, a lobbying group that Weeldreyer took over as Caledonia has advocated for more equitable fund­ Schools’ superintendent at the begin­ ing opportunities for public education. ning of this year after serving a stint Weeldreyer had also served in interim as the district’s interim superintendent superintendent roles at Muskegon late last year. He filled in for former Public Schools and Godfrey-Lee Caledonia Schools Superintendent Public Schools in Wyoming. I X » % 6 The Gaines Township Board of Trustees was truly busy at its final meeting of 2024 on Dec. 9. One of the first actions at the township hall Monday night was for Clerk Michael Brew to swear in the township’s new officers who were voted into office in the Nov. 5 general election. Former trustee Bob Terpstra, the new township supervisor, was one of seven officials who raised a right hand to take the oath of office. Terpstra replaces Rob DeWard, who decided not to run for supervisor again after serving about eight years in that position. De Ward was elected as a trustee, instead. 5 Jason Saidoo Saturday, December 21, 2024 1 » .4 t * I , -A” 1 Bitf L Gaines Township Manager Rod Weersing (left) swears in Clerk Michael Brew to another term in office at the board meeting Monday, Dec. 9. Photo by James Gemmell Also taking the oath were Brew, DeWard, incumbent trea­ surer Laurie Lemke, and trustees Dan Fryling, Tim Haagsma and Kathy VanderStel. Brew was See TRUSTEES on 6 M37Auction.com 9790 Cherry Valley Ave Caledonia, Ml 49316 (616)920-6651 I J I J, "To tkit^k yv\y kids Waited to Just tkrow out all in/\.y Stuff. M^~7A.uctioy\.cot^ cay\. sett ati>v\.ost Jte-* KNOW SOMETHING INTERESTING? We’d love to hear about it! * I * Sa, rf 3^ MS'- xd Nin*nns«isiS VDUIT *••• •W4 269 J 'I USED raBTSnilSED TIRES AZOO THE SUN AND NEWS Auction Dates: December 26 January 7 X Oroup > a 'SB a '1^ .J >4^ t J 0 I V • t I f. I 4 J I Ammo Antiques Coins Collectibles Estate Liquidations Farm and Garden Furniture Jewelry Real Estate Sports Memorabilia Sporting Goods Tools Tractors Vehicles 2 Free Listings ($10 Value) 1 Coupon Per Household Expires 1/3/25 »i musEinncEft Email mmacleod@mihomepaper.com •«* * il T ( k, « 4 tl V f I 4U H Ml* I .t ✓ r/ \w t I �s M J I •r * i I i » V www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 21 2024 'J Ferris gets no jail time for striking, killing Hastings tow truck driver I Molly Macleod Editor The man who struck and killed a Hastings tow truck driver was sen­ tenced in Kent County’s 63rd District Court on Monday. Payton Bradley Ferris, 19, will serve no jail time after hitting and killing 25-year-old Keagan Spencer, of Hast­ ings, in November 2023. The crash occurred on M-6 near Kraft Avenue in Caledonia on Nov. 4, 2023. A third-generation tow truck driver, Spencer was co-owner and operator of Hastings-based Towzilla Towing and Recovery. He was engaged to be mar­ ried and a father to two small children, one of whom was with him when he was struck and killed while pulled off on the expressway with his lights on. Ferris, who pled no contest last month, was sentenced to two years of probation, with several additional requirements. He was charged with a moving violation causing death. In order to meet his probation re­ quirements, Ferris will pay a $2,000 a • ♦ t “Obviously, I’m disappointed. I fine plus restitution for Spencer’s think the judge could have set an funeral costs. He will also complete example that this type of collision is mandatory counseling, 500 hours of and it’s not going to be punished community service and will have no just going to be fines, direct or indirect contact community service, I with the Spencer family. His license is suspended kk I thought I may believe he deserved to at least sit behind for one year, and Ferris have some room bars for a short period cannot partake in legal of time to send a mes­ or illegal drugs or alco­ to give you grace sage to the motoring hol during his probation. for being honest public that distracted Ferris will be subjected because I beiieve driving, not abiding by to random drug tests. He must also complete in God and God the Move Over laws, every distracted and beiieved in grace. you will be punished. I think she (District safe driving class avail­ able to him. Should But now I have no Judge Kirsten Holz) Ferris have any traffic grace — it’s not missed the mark on that violations in the next one,” Matt Spencer, for me to give, it two years, whether it Keagan’s father, told is in the hands be a speeding ticket or The Sun and News. something more seri­ Friends, family and of God and aiso ous, he will land himself fellow tow truck drivers karma. w a year in jail. packed the courtroom For the Spencer fam­ Miko Garrison, in support of the Spen­ Keagan Spencer’s mother ily, the sentence was not cer family for Mon­ enough. day’s sentencing. Keagan’s mother, Miko Garrison, addressed Ferris during Monday’s sentencing. She said Ferris reached out to her and Keagan’s fiance after the crash to say he hadn’t been driv­ ing distracted or on his phone. Police reports indicate Ferris hung up a phone invited: call 13 seconds before striking Spencer at 80 miles an hour. “I thought I may have some room to gi ve y OU grace for being honest because I believe in God and God believed in at cornerstone grace. But now I have no grace it’s not for me to give. It is in the hands of God and also karma. You have dragged out the outcome ofthis justice system in » > » J ■if 9 y.o-.u are D * r r.. "9 f 4 •■ V 4: c «< •4• ’. - >4 5^* H z r:.< 4 a -*1. ♦ V J * a very cowardly manner. Keagan would have never done this to any other fam­ ily. If he was in your shoes, he would have owned up to his actions and taken his punishment,” said Garrison. “I think most people overlook the fact that you killed my son in front of his daughter,” Garrison said. “She had a front-row seat, sitting up there in that big truck that morning. I think most of you really overlook that that it doesn’t just affect Keagan. It affects my granddaughter. Ferris fought tears at several points during Monday’s sentencing, breaking down after hearing from Olivia Kain, Keagan’s fiance. Spencer’s death has mobilized the tow truck industry to speak out for new laws to protect tow drivers when they assist drivers whose vehicles become disabled. Two roadside workers are struck each day in the United States. One roadside worker is killed every six days. Keagan’s family and the Move Over movement are working to in­ crease outreach and education, while also tightening laws across the nation. One initiative Keagan’s father. Matt, is working toward is a national Move Over law - one that is consistent from state to state. In Michigan, the Move Over law states drivers must slow down 10 miles per hour and move over a lane when emergency workers, including tow truck drivers, EMS, police and fire vehicles, are on the side of the road. These laws vary in different states, making it difficult for motorists to know the exact rules. Staff Writer Greg Chandler contrib­ uted to this report. *9 1 • > W I- V I z* • f \ 4^ I 4^ o 84th St. Campus Times: December 23: 7pm | December 24; 12pm, 2pm, 4pm ChifaEare available for infants through young 5*s during’ail services For more information: cornerstonemi.org/Christmas ! * cornerstonechurch m MOUNTAIN GHRISTMAS EVE AT PEAGE GHHRGH MIRRIEVIILE How could a hah ieoite tear, rage, and [oslstaoeo? Oa Christmas Eve. onoovoi hew eveo Jesus Christ's eaeuiies couldu't slleoce the cioatest aews ever laid, this oiessaee Is SU wuudiuus. II should be told from ihe mounlalntois. SERVICES ST IPM. SPM. 7PM, RIIPM I PEilGECHVRCH.ee/GHRISTMAS 9 I �9 1. * A x' < I I « 4 < i t 1 J fl I www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS t Classifieds r e I t I BUSINESS SERVICES i Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing,dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. 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CORRECTION: In the Saturday, Dec. 14 edition of The Sun and News, the article “Caledonia Twp. board approves large rate hike in advance of con­ necting to GR water system” states that sewer rates will remain the same for next year, with the usage rate per 1,000 gallons at $9.10 and the readiness-to-serve fee at $109 per quarter. While these rates are true, they apply only to Caledonia Township’s northwest district. All other metered sewer usage rates outside of the northwest district will remain the same in 2025, with a rate of $6.72 per 1,000 gallons and a readiness-to-serve fee of $81. We regret the error. ** > Saturday, December 21, 2024 5 Gaines Township Board approves funding for Natural Resources Inventory James Gemmell Contributing Writer The Gaines Township Board has authorized spending up to $35,000 for a Natural Resources Inventory to be conducted before the township begins renegotiating a sewer service agree­ ment with the City of Grand Rapids. Another reason for the study stems from board members ’ desire to preserve and potentially purchase some open space and park land before it is bought by developers, even if that might mean eventually placing a millage request before voters seeking supplemental funding for parks and recreation. More and more forested lands, agri­ cultural property and wetlands are being snapped up in Kent County’s fastestgrowing township for development. After a lengthy and somewhat con­ tentious discussion, the board voted 4-3 at its Dec. 9 meeting in favor of initially budgeting $23,100 for an out-of-state company to undertake three phases of a potential 12-step study labeled as Tasks 1, 2 and 4. The first two tasks will mostly be done remotely, using satellite technology to survey the town­ ship’s topography. Kent County data and other resources also will be used. Trustees will evaluate the process after that part is done and then deter­ mine whether they want to spend the remaining balance from the $35,000 budgeted to fund follow-up biologi­ cal field-verification studies on soils, vegetative cover, wetlands and more. After the first two tasks are com­ pleted, Ohio-based EnviroScience would do on-site evaluations for any subsequent tasks. Voting against the motion were trustees Rob De Ward and Dan Fryling, and Clerk Michael Brew. Voting in favor were Supervisor Bob Terpstra, Treasurer Laurie Lemke, and trustees Tim Haagsma and Kathy VanderStel. The existing 40-year sewer contract with the City of Grand Rapids expires in 2028. Township Manager Rod Weersing said the contract renegotiation discus­ sions with Grand Rapids officials could begin in 2025. Those could include an extension of the current sewer district J 4 —X I, r * ** I I r r % K'.U •ap* 1 •> 4 < .1 '4^ ♦? The Gaines Township Board discusses authorizing a Natural Resources Inventory at its Dec. 9 meeting at the township hall. Photo by James Gemmell boundary to cover the Plaster Creek watershed. The sewer flows northward into Grand Rapids, where it is treated by the city sewage plant. The service bound- ary is on the east side of the township, about halfway between Hanna Lake and Kalamazoo avenues and extends south to 76th Street. In the next contract, that boundary could be expanded through the Plaster Creek watershed, which goes almost to 92nd Street. “I just see this as very important for our township to act on it now, ver­ sus kicking it down the road again,” VanderStel said. “Because we’re all seeing property being developed ev­ erywhere, chopped up, sold. And some of that - especially the Plaster Creek watershed area - we ’ 11 never get some­ thing like that back again once it’s put into a private developer’s hands. Those are huge assets to our community.” DeWaard, the former township SUpervisor, expressed concern that the township received only one response to a public Request for Proposal (RFP) to conduct the Natural Features Inventory. See GAINES on 14 I I I I I I I I I I II I Months NO INTEREST w/purchase of High Efficiency Furnace & AC unit 1 ★prices effective s < J 2 until 12/31/24 * * •* f •l > 4 I V ^"3 RUUD •iq »r I A- i 5= •l M I . IK I I I f z> ■l I I r r". > «•* 9 I I I I I I « J I « I RUUD FINANCING AVAILABLE Equal payments on qualifying equipment i I I I I I I FRONTIER I HEATING & COOLING 1 210 East Main Street, Caledonia I 616-891 I �6 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, Decornbcr 21 2024 TRUSTEES t Continued from Page 3 A* • sworn in by I ownship Manager Rod Weersing. I he township board then moved *• 7^, forward with its agenda and voted 6-1 to approve a tentative prelimi t nary plat for the second phase of the Dutton Center planned unit develop I rnenl, a commercial and residential t development al 3316 6Kth St, near Hanna Lake Avenue. Il is in the northern section of the former .I&A 4 Post family f arm. Before Phase II construction can begin, the final steps require regular preliminary plat approval from the township board and then final plat approval. 'i I he Dutton Center develop ment is immediately north of the Gaines Township Board members take the Oath of Office at the Dec. 9 meeting I homapple f arms housing project. in the township hall chambers. Photo by James Gemmell It, too, is being spearheaded by Allen fldwin Homes and its subsid­ iary, Michiana LLC. restricting the length of protrusion to be all kinds of different features, Phase 3 of the Thomapple Farms of garages to not more than 10 feet architectural treatments. People can development will begin sometime in beyond the front of any home. That select stone and brick options for 2025, and so would Phase II of the will make the neighborhood more the front.” Dutton Center PUD, if it gets final pedestrian-friendly so that sidewalks As for the average projected approval. are not encroached upon. cost of a house, West added that The proposed second phase of the Also, there are some conditions on homes that recently were built in Dutton Center is the home-owned how front porches will be built. the Thomapple Farms subdivi­ platted section of the PUD and “These are conditions that Allen sion to the immediate south of the would be for 51 residential lots on Edwin has committed to in their Dutton Center development range 10 acres of land. The lots are small­ plat requirements,” Community in price from about $390,000 to er than traditional spaces, which is Development Director Dan Wells about $450,000. He said homes in why a PUD rezoning previously was said. the Dutton Center subdivision will requested. Mike West with Allen Edwin likely range in price from the midThe township master plan calls for Homes said the tentative preliminary $300,000s to mid-$400,000s. higher density of residences in the plat specifies which lots will have In other action, the township board Dutton village center. 25-foot front yard setbacks and which voted 7-0 to approve an average Developers of the Dutton Center ones will have 30-foot setbacks. 5-percent increase in residential PUD have self-imposed some con­ “ So, you'll get a little bit of water and sewer rates, effective on ditions on their site plan, such as (texture) variation along the Jan. 1, 2025. streetscape,” he said. “There's going “It works out to about $6.70 (quar­ Your local agent insures your terly) per household for the average user,” -J Weersing said. a •• fl “(Gaines Township) has the second-lowest --- « rate in Kent County,” ) FARM BUREAU . INSURANCE* Lemke added. • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers Trustee Tim _____ • Cellular Enhancement Systems Haagsma, a member of the Gaines Water Give us a call! ''^Si-sCaf and Sewer Committee, Jason ^ks 269-967-8241 (269) 795-8827 G* 121 E M&n Street joked about a chart www.theantennamen.com SI jparks@fbinsmi.com Downtown Middleville antennamen@gmail.com ParmBureaulnsurance.com that shows the various www.cellsignalpros.com municipal rates charged •J * 4 T* •/ •TW*’: < <* & *r •y “c T Businfliss www.sunandnews.com fc 7l I I ■ I J IMMMg - .. 1* Antenna Men .. ■ 1 '«a 4 around Kent County. “I'm alw ays proud of this chart. Haagsma said. “I think we need to post this chart, maybe buy a bill board somewhere and show that we're the lowest-cost water and sewer department of all the sur­ rounding communities, including the one that we bulk-purchase from. I think that's a testament to our staff, including (Water/Sewer Administrator) Tracy Lawrence and the folks across the street at the (Byron-Gaines Utility Authority), he added. I should have that at my (business) window, as well,” Lemke said. Because 1 get more complaints about water bills than tax bills. And this is a great chart to show that we are right in line and under other communities' (rates).” Also, the board voted 5-2 to set a new start time for its regular month­ ly meetings in 2025. The meetings will start at 6 p.m. now instead of 7 p.m., beginning with the Jan. 13 board meeting. “This is something I’ve been thinking about for a while,” Weersing said. “There’s been a lot of this going on around the state, different municipalities.” He said he saw in a government email chain last month that various managers were discussing the pros and cons of moving from a 7 p.m. meeting start time to 6 p.m. “They said there was very little downside,” Weersing said. “The audience participation was the same. Board members seemed to like it better, especially when you get into those longer meetings. Now you’re not starting to deliberate on things after 9 p.m., almost 10 p.m. “Staff loves it,” he added. “So, really, across the board it seemed to be pretty positive from those responding.” ■ * I ^4 I fcl » J I I YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. I 1 I You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors.. .and our future. j b Group Your Community Connection I �■ * I % www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 21, 2024 4^ - Sporting News k a 284 N. BRIGGS ROAD- MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 TK has four place at Kent County Championship Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thornapple Kellogg varsity wrestling team had four guys place in the top six at the Kent County Wrestling Championship at East Kentwood High School Saturday. Senior Jayce Curtis had the top finish for the Trojan team upping his season record to 10-2 in the 175-pound weight class. He took pins over Forest Hills Northern’s Nicolas Campos and Rockford’s Ryne Bennett before falling by pin in the third period ofthe champi­ onship match against East Kentwood’s Silas Mitchell. The TK team also had Christien Miller place third at 113 pounds, Grif­ fin Grummet fifth at 150 pounds and Abram Dutcher sixth at 285 pounds. Curtis and Miller are the Trojan team’s two returning individual state qualifiers from a year ago. Miller moved his record to 6-1 with his per formance Saturday. Miller was beat out by Lowell’s Ma­ son Saylor in the 113-pound semifinals, 12-4, but rebounded for an 8-4 win over Sparta’s Joe DeKome in the match for third at their weight class. Grummet defeated Northview’s Aiden Misner 15-4 in the match for fifth for his tenth victory of the season. Dutcher had back-to-back pins in consolation matches before falling to Forest Hills Eastern’s Max Langdon in the match for fifth at their weight class. Jackson Smith and Aiden Foy both had two wins on the day for TK. Cedar Springs won the tournament championship with 225 points ahead ofrunner-up Rockford with 217, Sparta 138.5, East Kentwood 115, Caledonia 93, Forest Hills Northern 87.5, Lowell 87.5, Kent C ity 81.5, N orthview 76 and Thomapple Kellogg 74.5 in the top ten at the 22-team meet. The TK team opened the OK Gold Conference season at Grand Rapids Union High School at an OK Gold/ Black Quad last Wednesday, Dec. 11. The TK team took a 63-11 win over Gold foe Union and also bested Zeeland West 48-33 on the night. In the conference dual with the Red Hawks, TKgotpins from Blake Bossenberger, Curtis, Ava Rausch, Miller, Diego Rodas, Maxwell Knowles and Grummet. Camden Peter won a techni­ cal fall for TK at 165 pounds and Tanner Buxton won by major decision at 215. Emma Gibson at 132 pounds and Aiden Foy at 138 pulled out one-point wins for the Trojans. Gibson bested Union’s Sahil Karin 11-10. Foy took a 6-5 win over Union’s Ari dullah Obaidi. TK closed out the dual against the Zeeland West Dux with consecutive pins by Knowles, Grummet, Peter and Bossenberger. The Dux had a 33-24 lead before that run starting at 150 pounds. Curtis, Buxton and Dutcher opened the dual with pins for TK and Foy scored a pin at 138. TK hosts its first Tom Lehman Memorial Invitational next Saturday, Dec. 28. X I • -r W V ! Ths buck stays hern! 1 * k . »«■ •A? Invest In Your Community. u J. A Group All meetings will be held at the Yankee Springs Township Hall unless indicated differently. The Yankee Springs Township Board of Trustees _ meets regularly on the second Thursday of every month at 6 PM in the Township Hall, except as may otherwise be accordance with the Open Meetings Act. Meetings scheduled for 2025 are on the following dates: January 9 March 13 February 13 April 10 May 8 June 12 July 10 August 14 September 11 October 9 November 13 December 11 The Yankee Springs Township Board of Trustees, Planning Commission and Zon­ ing Board of Appeals will meet in work sessions if needed on the first Thursday of every month at 6 PM in the Township Hall, except as may otherwise be posted in accordance with the Open Meetings Act. The Yankee Springs Township Planning Commission meets regularly on the third Thursday of every month at 7 PM in the Township Hall, except as may otherwise be posted m accordance with the Open Meetings Act. Meetings scheduled for 2025 are on the following dates: January 16 February 20 March 20 April 17 May 15 June 19 July 17 August 21 September 18 October 16 November 20 December 18 The Yankee Springs Township Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on the Second Tuesday of the month at 6 PM in the Township Hall as requested. Applications for vari­ ances must be completed 30 days prior to meeting. Notices of all special meetings and meeting changes for each of these bodies will also be posted at the Township Hall in accordance with applicable laws. The Public is welcome to attend and participate/comment in any open session of any of these bodies. PUBLIC NOTICE: Please take notice that at all scheduled and special meetings of the TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES, there may be a quorum of the Yankee Springs Planning Commission and/or Zoning Board of Appeals members present in the audience. Please take notice that at all scheduled and special meetings of the PLANNING COMMISSION of Yankee Springs Township, there may be a quorum of the Yan­ kee Springs Township Board of Trustees and/or Zoning Board of Appeals present in the audience. Please take notice that at all scheduled and special meetings of the ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS of Yankee Springs Township, there may be a quorum of the Board of Trustees and/or the Planning Commission present in the audience. This notice is posted in compliance with PA 267 of 1976 as amended (Open Meetings Act), MCLA 41.72a (2) (3) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ■KlV Spend it hara. Keap It Hera. 2025 MEETING SCHEDULE The Yankee Springs Township Board will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities at the meeting or Public Hearing upon 7 business days’ notice to the Yankee Springs Township Supervisor. k. A. �I*- I s 4 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 21 2024 8 * *• S A s www.sunandnews.com CHS girls fall to tough Rockford team I’’' ■ .X • -i. I Brett Bremer Sports Editor ■< • r ■v • * • K’ * ♦ • « I M i. ■* 9 A talented Rockford team knocked off the Caledonia varsity girls’ basket­ ball team in a make-up game Monday at Rockford High School. The Rams are now 3-1 and sit fifth in the Michigan Power Rankings. Their program has been at least to the MHSAA Division 1 Girls Basketball Semifinals .,e ? •r 4 r I * * w' V. J I f >r l/Zeiv Newspaper Group is seeking a fuH-time STAFF REPORTER View Newspaper Group is seeking a full-time, experienced news and features reporter to join our growing team of journalism professionals. RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Coverage of local events, meetings and the community • Interviewing • Writing • Editing • Photography • Networking • Copy Editing Qualified individuals must have a four-year degree in journalism or related communication field and be: • Proficient in Associated Press Style • Deadline-driven • Positive • Friendly • Outgoing • Have the ability to work some nights and weekends IVe love what we do and we know you wiU too! Qualified applicants can send a resume to View Newspaper Group Publisher wsmith@mihomepaper. com Group ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ The County Press Lapeer Area View Genesee County View Huron County View Sanilac County News Your Buyer’s Guide Jeffersonian ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Tri-County Times Daily News Tri-County Citizen Oxford Leader Lake Orion Review Clarkston News The Citizen in each of the past three seasons. Caledonia was 2-2 overall this season following the loss and had plans to play host to Thomapple Kellogg Thursday, Dec. 19, and Traverse City Central Fri­ day, Dec. 20, in the final two ballgames of the 2024 portion of the schedule. The Fighting Scots return to action at Reeths-Puffer Jan. 3 in the OK Green Conference opener. ■ ■ ■ ? ■ ■ ■ The Lowell Ledger The Hastings Banner Buyer's Guide & News Battle Creek Shopper News The Sun and News The Reminder MHSAA postseason sees a few changes this winter MHSAA competitions are al­ ready underway in girls and boys wrestling, girls and boys skiing, girls and boys basketball, girls and boys bowling, girls competitive cheer, girls gymnastics, boys ice hockey, and Upper Peninsula girls and boys swimming & diving. This season, for the first time, an MHSAA Finals team championship will be awarded in girls wrestling. After first introducing a girls cham­ pionship bracket to the Individual Wrestling Finals for the 2021-22 season, the MHSAA will honor its first team champion based on those individual finishes. The format will be similar to how MHSAA team championships were awarded for boys wrestling prior to the creation of the dual format Team Finals with the 1987-88 season. Also on the wrestling mat, a competition rule change alters the penalty for using a wrestler at an ineligible weight class - dependent on when the ineligible wrestler is discovered. Beginning this season, the use of an ineligible wrestler - if discovered during the involved match - will result in six team points being awarded to the opponent, plus the head coach of the team with the ineligible wrestler will be assessed an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty resulting in a one-point team score deduction. If the ineligible wrestler is discovered after the involved match, any points earned by the offending wrestler will be removed from the team score, along with the point for unsportsmanlike conduct, and six points will be added to the offended team’s total. In both in­ stances, neither wrestler involved in the match in question may compete again in that dual. If the ineligible wrestler is discovered after the dual is completed, the teams have left the mat area and the scorebook has been signed by the official, the results and team score will stand. A pair of wrestling playing rules changes also will be immediately noticeable. The number of match points awarded for a takedown was increased from two to three. Also, near-fall points will now be awarded based on the number of seconds dur­ ing which the near-fall criteria are met - beginning with two points for two seconds, up to four points for four seconds. Postseasons for basketball and bowling also will incorporate slight changes. In basketball, entire Dis­ trict brackets will be seeded for the first time, instead of the previous top two teams receiving seeds only. Michigan Power Ratings (MPR) data will still be used to seed those full brackets. In bowling, Regionals may now take place as early in the week as Wednesday and Thursday, as long as the Team and Singles competitions are competed on consecutive days. Previously, those were competed only on Fridays and Saturdays, respectively. �> A I > a 5 ► r 4 i I / / 1 ♦ I I ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ ------------------ ------ ---------------------------- ♦ the sun and news Saturday, December 21,2024 Scots fall to one of state’s top Division r .» I Brett Bremer ——___ Sports Editor as M A three-game win streak for the J S eel Fighting Scots can to an abrupt end against the team ranked fifth in the Michigan Power Ratings Tuesday at Caledonia High School. The Caledonia varsity boys’ basketball team was bested 68-29 by former OK Red k Conference foe Rockford as the Rams f improved to 5-0 overall this season. ♦ The Scots were 3-2 heading into s a Thursday night match-up at Thor­ napple Kellogg to close out the 2024 portion of the schedule. "It V Rockford took charge from the jump M kWMn Tuesday outscoring the Scots 19-2 in 4 the opening quarter and pushing their lead to 38-14 by the half. Freshman guard Eli Wolfe finished a with a game-high 19 points to lead the Caledonia sophomore guard Ben Rams. Rockford also got ten points Geerdes works to get a shot over from freshman forward Josh Bascom. Rockford junior forward Carter Ben Geerdes had eight points to lead Drolema at the rim during the second Caledonia as well as three rebounds and half Tuesday at Caledonia High two assists. Lincoln Senti chipped in six School. Photo by Brett Bremer points and six rebounds. Bryce Backus M luck & w I ■i '1 * 4 1 f J * lb i I Af i xs’ • ■rm. rs , qj >- ( (« J < I i fc k 1 *-1 «» t I T, - » r/7 I ■3 s r II I f ** < • ♦> *** ** ia»z >r ' I ilw4?JL'- ^l-AV- w- < M«r « •r Ilir— added four points and six rebounds. Despite the Rams great success in transition and the lopsided final score, it wasn’t because the Scots were being careless with the basketball. They only turned the ball over eight times. The Fighting Scots would have had a chance to keep things a bit closer with a better shooting night, but they were just 10-of-3 8 from the floor and 5-of-12 from the free throw line. Last Friday, Dec. 13, the Scots took a 51-41 win over the visiting Lowell Red Arrows. This time it was the Scots’ turn to build an early lead and push on to the end. Caledonia led 13-3 after one quarter and the lead was up to 16 points heading into the fourth. Stuart Parker closed the night as the Scots lone double-figure scorer with ten points. He had three rebounds too. Backus had eight points, four assists, two steals and ten rebounds. Geerdes put in seven points while adding five 9 ♦ squads ♦ rebounds, two assists and two steals. Parker Little tai 1 ied six points in the win. Caledonia won’t be in action again until the OK Green Conference opener at Reeths-Putfer Jan. 3. 1 L 1 4 A 1 « r t ) > MI I 1 NewCaledoniavarsity boys’basketball coach Nate Burns discusses the decision by officials to grant Rockford a timeout during what he felt like was a loose ball situation in the second half at Caledonia High School Tuesday night. Photo by Brett Bremer /.: □ I* V *• .. .-^ Si" r i 3^“ I fwM’niKMr 4* .ar* _J* I Xk « ^*■1—q, 4• * -w* 1 U' A ■ •>r iKi I I * * wq .K AM> 'W '.Ut;* a^ \ r A’ •* a y. » .'< A a ir • i <z » '4 5a < SbiB? 1 Scan our QR code to find your perfeg invitation! » r ' 4 J a * 4r / Al.. gymil A J ’Sr J" '.H « I I I * s Wr f ■ XI ■ -r? r-" K<* * •jr J * 2 u ■ > 4. A J 1^ .* *1 q*- ■ '■»:.• / **4' 4 « n . . 4 . 7^ ► «A« — "'Who- f A ♦ / f * '-i» •• >« « Ml > f** ' >41* w< Fi? f , ,, •, Z/ ■r t 0? z V *s 'll >• ( ft '1^1’ >• > J J * ^ .. f *« «* * 1b >4* ^-. I c .:a<W ■ ■ ■ ■ f dj .... ■> X z 4» Simply Perfect * at * ^•5 A =S5F:= Tk >K '«>>X * --- ---------- WEDDING INVITATIONS S/ t .. . a »•« . X • ir * Ia Created just for your big day, we've put together sets of stunning wedding invitations to perfectly match your style. X* ■ 'A, 4 4 ■i ■fe* •J fe : b iz. I—..... Vis: PRINTING BY ’’ts. • —- iK- • Fighting Scot senior guard Parker Little looks to get his team headed towards the offensive end during the second quarter against Rockford Tuesday at Caledonia High School. Photo by Brett Bremer I www.printingbypennylane.com ginacl@pennylaneprinting.com �♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. December 21 2024 10 www.sunanclnews.com State champ opens year with win at Kent Co. meet ♦ ♦ ♦ Brett Bremer Sports Editor The two-time defending MHSAA Girls’ 155-pound champion got her season started with 3-0 day and a championship medal at the 2024 Kent County Championships hosted by East Kentwood High School Saturday. Caledonia junior Maddie Hayden won the 170-pound weight class by knocking off two-time state placer Isa­ belle Wisenbaugh from Grand Haven 8-3 in the championship match. Hayden was one oftwo CHS girls to finish on the medal stand. Fellow 2023 state qualifier Halle Stout placed third at 110 pounds. Stout pinned Grand Haven’s Sakari Carrington in her consolation final after falling the semifinals to Forest Hills Eastern’s Vivienne Conflitti. H ay den opened her tournament with a seven second pin ofLee’s Kayla Parks in the quarterfinals and then scored a 16-1 technical fall early in the second period of her semifinal match against Thor­ napple Kellogg’s Adelaide Holderman. Holderman was one of a doze Thor­ napple Kellogg girls competing and one of four who placed in the top six in her weight class. Thomapple Kellogg senior Emma Gibson, a two-time state qualifier her self, won the 135-pound weight class. She scored a 6-4 win over Eva Sepul­ veda from Jenison in the quarterfinals and then pinned her final two foes in the first period for the championship. She stuck West Ottawa’s Emily Gerlach 22 seconds into their semifinal bout and then pinned Grand Haven’s Megan Brower in the championship match. Ry lee Alberts scored a runner-up finish at 145 pounds for the TK team. Holderman was third at 170 and Kayleigh Brown placed sixth at 170 pounds. Alberts, a sophomore who was a state qualifier as a freshman last season, pinned Lowell’s Angelica Acosta and then Allendale’s Addison Schmidt to get into the 145-pound championship match. Montague’s Ava Pelton bested Alberts by pin the final. Holderman scored her third-place finish at 170 pounds by knocking off Low ell’s Analize Tapia in the consolation final. She scored a pin at the 2:09 mark. TK also got wins on the day from Ava Rausch at 100 pounds and Shaylynn Myers at 145 pounds. Grand Haven won the girls’ team championship with 176 points ahead of Northview 78.5, Lowell 76, Montague 75.5, Rockford 70.5, West Ottawa 67, Scots put two on 157-pound medal stand at EK Brett Bremer Sports Editor WE^RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS Residential & Commercial Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers Air Conditioners Heat Pumps Water Heaters Humidifiers 4. A 5:--- * f S'' ■ * ■> I < J 11 ft BV I> & I / *• • •■ i Ill •r- DeWeerd (68^ HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING. INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM r. • 4A 269-792-2234 Will Sheely wrestled his way to the championship match in the 157-pound weight class at the annual Kent County Championships at East Kentwood High School Saturday. Sheely took a pair of pins to start the day and then knocked off Kent City’s Derek Rodenburg 9-7 in the semifinals to get into the champion ship match. Rockford’s Braylenn Aulbach im­ proved to 10-1 on the season by pin­ ning Sheely in the 157-pound final midway through the second period. Sheely was one of two Fighting Scots on the 157-pound medal stand and one of five Caledonia wrestlers overall who placed in the top six in their weight class on the day. The CHS team had James Carrow at 132 pounds and Robert Restau at 13 8 both place third Koleson Reeder place fourth at 157 pounds. Ben Thomapple Kellogg 65, Forest Hills Eastern 61, Fruitport 56 and Wayland 56 in the top ten. The Caledonia team with two wrestlers placed 17th overall with 42.5 points. The TK ladies head to Plainwell for an invitational Sunday, Dec. 22, and then will be in action again at the Montague Lady Mat Cat Invitational Friday, Dec. 27, where they will once again be joined by the Caledonia girls. Moss finished sixth for the Scots at 144 pounds. Aulbach took down the two 157-pound Caledonia wrestlers. Reeder pulled out a couple of close wins to start out his tournament run. He beat Forest Hills Northern’s William Watson 6-5 in the opening round and then won his quarterfinal match 9-7 in a tie-breaker period. Aulbach scored a technical fall against Reeder in the semifinals to earn his shot at Sheely, and then Reeder was bested 4-2 by Rodenburg in the match for third. Carrow pinned Rockford’s Caleb Karcher in his match for third place and Restau took a 17-1 technical fall against Northview’s Ezra Cole in his consolation final. The CHS team al so got wins on the day from Escher Reeder, Josh Grace, Alish Basnet, Muhammed Turk and Luke Kowatch. Cedar Springs won the tourna­ ment championship with 225 points ahead of runner-up Rockford with 217, Sparta 138.5, East Kentwood 115, Caledonia 93, Forest Hills Northern 87.5, Lowell 87.5, Kent City 81.5, Northview 76 and Thornappie Kellogg 74.5 in the top ten at the 22-team meet. The Caledonia team heads to the Northview Team Tournament Satur day, Dec. 21. LENNOX^ < ^■A+ £ S I Since 195.4 bbe BBB. ACCREDITED BUSINESS Visit us online at www.Sunandnews.conn �I I A■ J www.sunandnews.com %* . .s 4 s" * -h* ft J % w Saturday, December 21,2024 I J I s V I I Grand Rapids Christian scored its first OK Conference Rue Division win and handed the Fighting Scots their first conference defeat Wednesday at Kentwood Ice Arena. The Eagles took a 4-1 win over the Caledonia boys, handing the CHS var­ sity hockey team just its second defeat of the season in 11 contests. Brody Baysore scored two goals and tallied an assist for the Eagles. Cam Laufer had a goal and two assists and Cash Laufer also scored for the visi­ tors. Logan Eaton and Sam DeYoung had one assist each and Joshua Hooper notched two assists. Caledonia had won four in a row head­ ing into the contest including a pair of games last weekend at the Bay County Civic Arena in the Bay City Showcase. The Scots beat Tri Valley 4-3 Friday, Dec. 13, and then followed up that win with a 4-1 win over Genesee Saturday. The Caledonia skaters built a 3-0 lead through two period against the ft. Thunder last Friday and then held on for the one-goal win. Four different Fighting Scots scored as Harmon Esch, Ty Lewandowski, Gabe Supuk and Tony Kauffman all put the puck in the net. Austin Osborn, Andrew Moore, Luke McNabnay, Ry­ lan Bultema, Ethan Sova and Landen Moore each earned an assist. Sam Hoag had 30 saves in goal for the Scots in the win. In the Saturday win over the Genesee Generals the Scots added to a 2-1 lead with two more goals in the third period. Kauffman had two goals and an assist in that victory and Sova and Chace Gorby y also scored for the Scots. Logan Himes, Lewandowski and McNabnay had one assist each and Simon added two assists. The CHS team was slated to visit Forest Hills Central Friday night, Dec. 20, and will be at home in Kentwood against the Forest Hills NorthernEastern team Saturday, Dec. 21, with the puck set to drop at 7:30 p.m. Next Saturday, Dec. 28, the Scots take on the Falcons in Kentwood. Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CaledcwiA The Charter Township of Caledonia Planning Commission 2025 Meeting Date/Submittal Deadlines Meeting Date January 6 (No Meeting) I January 20 [ February 3 February 17 (No Meeting) I March 3 I March 17 April 7 (No Meeting) April 21 May 5 Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Thomapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team opened its 2024-25 season with a runner-up finish in the eight-team standings of the Division 1 & 2 competition Saturday at the CCCAM Scholar­ ship Invitational hosted by Otsego High School. Only Plainwell was better than the TK ladies on the day finishing with a score of 723.02. TK put up a score of 715.4. They were the only two teams to surpass the 700-point mark from the full field of 12 teams at the event. TK had the top round three score of the day at 290.9 and had scores of 218.6 in round one and 205.8 in round two. The Plainwell girls put up a score of 229.7 in round one, 221. 22 in round two and 272.1 in round three. The Plainwell and TK girls were the only teams with more than 200 points in round two. Portage Central was third in the day’s final standings with 676.06 points ahead of Sturgis 621.18, Wayland 589.6, Portage Northern 587.88, Kalamazoo Central 587.64 and Vicksburg 578.64. Allegan won the day’s four-team Division 3 & 4 competition with an overall score of 6378.24 points. The TK team was scheduled to be a part of the West Catholic Falcon Invitational Friday, Dec. 20, and will then be off from competition until a trip to Charlotte Jan. 11. Submittal Deadline (by 10am) December 16 January 6 *w February 3 February 17 March 24 April 7 May 19 April 21 June 2 May 5 June 16 (No Meeting) July 7 July 21_______ TK ladies second to Plainwell at first cheer competition 11 ♦ ♦ 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 June 9 June 23 August 4 July 7 August 18______ July 21 September 1 (No Meeting) «** J I J September 15 August 18 , October 6_______ September 8 October 20 September 22 November 3 (No Meeting) November 17 October 20 December 1 November 3 December 15 November 17 s % ♦ IWNSHfP Brett Bremer Sports Editor I •• w ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Caledonia skaters suffer first conference defeat to Eagles » < (Note: The posted schedule is for informational purposes only and does not bind the Planning Commission. Some submittals may require additional review and public notice. Any listed meet­ ing may be cancelled with the appropriate public noticing requirements being met.) 'k-te-te Submittal deadline is by 10am on the day listed. All materials shall be complete and submitted by the deadline, including fee, escrow and plans. Plans shall be folded, collated, and stapled Joni R. Henry, Clerk if'/eit �12 THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 21 2024 www.sunandnews.com CHS coach enjoying girls’ work ethic on slopes so far Brett Bremer Sports Editor It is a fairly new starting varsity line­ up for the Caledonia varsity girls’ ski team this winter. The CHS team graduated six starters last spring. “We have always stressed to our skiers that freshman and sophomore years are for learning and junior and senior years are for leading, so I know we will have a lot of skiers who are still learning. We also know that these girls are motivated to do well.,” Caledonia head coach Duane Petrosky said. Looking to step into bigger leader­ ship roles are the trio of returnees who started in the varsity scoring line-up throughout last winter’s season. The group includes senior Liz Hilton, sophomore Madison Reynolds and Erin Peckham. Senior Kayli Price also returns with some varsity experience along with sophomore Ada Decker. “We have five exchange students this year and believe that they will have an impact,” Petrosky said. “Chiara Marta, from Italy, comes to us with ski racing experience and our other exchange students are hard workers than may be able to have an impact in our season.” It is a hard-working group overall according to Petrosky who is now in his tenth season leading the program. “1 have seen my returning skiers push themselves on the slopes and also in the classroom,” Petrosky said. “My seniors are the type of kids that you want to have on your team, they push each other to give their best efforts, and they support and cheer each other on and will help each other through tough times. They have also done a great job passing these qualities on to our younger skiers. “These qualities make this a fun team to coach and also makes bringing new skiers or exchange students onto the team so much easier. Everyone seems to have the same goal of improving form last year to this year, as we try to win the conference.” We Need Your Input! The Village of Middleville is updating its Master Plan and we want to hear from YOU! A Master Plan is a long-term guide for the growth and devel­ opment of our community. It helps shape decisions on everything from hous­ ing and parks to infrastructure and public spaces. Updating the Master Plan ensures that future development reflects the needs and priorities of the people who live, work, and visit here. Take 5-10 minutes to complete our short 7-question survey and share your thoughts on what’s most important to you in the village—whether it's downtown viHage’sTuluref ^®®^^ack will help guide the Survey highlights include: He liked what he saw from his girls working in the offseason and was es­ pecially pleased with the sophomore groups efforts in the weight room. He’s expecting to see the gains in strength lead to gains in speed on the slopes. The Scots were third in the Lake Michigan Ski Conference a year ago, their first season in the conference. Onekama won the conference title in 2024 and should be tough again along with a new Glen Lake/Benzie co-op team. “Our goal is to win the conference championship and qualify for the state finals,” Petrosky said. “This is sort of a unique team in its make up. We have five seniors, four exchange students, four sophomores and one freshman, so we really have six experienced skiers and the rest of the team is learning. “One of our big goals for the season is to give all of our skiers experience so the team can be successful this year and into the future.” The start of the season is a little way in the future yet. Onekama hosts the first LMC race of the season Jan. 8 at Crystal Mountain on the Buck slope. The first invitational of the season on the Scot calendar is the Cadillac Invi­ tational Jan. 13 at Caberfae Peaks. The Scots will host their own invitational at Crystal Mountain Feb. 21, a week and a half after their MHSAA Regional at Cannonsburg. The CHS head coach said he is ex Vi • Your connection to the village 6 Off • Key areas for growth and development • Challenges and opportunities for the future • Optional follow-up for more insights v^icJ%a°tter^'''"age’s Planning process. Your fa^^P^://qM9ltriGsxmb85zwix54.aualtrics.com/ife/form/SV 1S32DiNUo T unsowm Deadline for responses: March 31, 2025 Scan the QR code below to take the 1 □ survey quickly on your phone! for Middleville’ ^MiddlevilleMasterPlan #Publiclnp£rt #CommunityDevelop ment a COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES The minutes of the November 26, 2024 Regular Council Meeting, that were approved on December 17, 2024, are posted at the Village Hall at 100 E Main Street and on the website at WWW. vill ofmiddleville.orn cited about the growth in the program he has seen as he has worked to make the ski program more accessible to students in Caledonia. His first season featured eight guys and nine girls in the program. This year there are 21 boys total and 14 girls. “The growth and strength of the pro gram is a point of pride. This year’s team is the largest since ski racing became a sport in Caledonia,” Petrosky said. “I have been blessed with a great coaching staff, most of which are vol­ unteers. Everyone brings a different skill set to the program and everyone’s efforts are what make our team succeed. One thing that is really cool about this year’s coaching staff is return of former athletes to help.” Alumni Brayden Smith, Gavin Don nelly and Emily Petrosky are joining the program as coaches this season. Smith, a four-time all-conference skier is set to help with the middle school team. All-conference skier Donnelly plans to work with both middle school and high school racers, and the all-state skier Emily Petrosky will be working with the high school kids. That list of assistant coaches also once again includes Matt Hilton, Ryan Dean, Erin Dean, Aaron Bell and Todd Calhoun and coach Duane Petrosky said they were all looking to getting practice sessions underway at the start of the season back on Dec. 8. CHS boys look to continue improvement on slopes Brett Bremer Sports Editor --------------- The Caledonia varsity boys’ ski team will look to climb to the top of the Lake Michigan Ski Conference m its second season in the league. The Fighting Scots were second in the confer ence last winter and and will hit the slopes at Crystal Mountain for the first time this season when Onekama plays host June 8. We really showed a lot of improvement as the See SLOPES on 13 rM* ( s. r *■ .w. X if J I 5? �5 to )• 1 I I’ ( I * I I www.sunandnews.com 9 SLOPES ♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS They really seem focused on bringing a championship home this year. Continued from Page 12 “My leaders even got together and season progressed last year and feel that booked a camp at Copper Mountain in we have momentum heading into this Colorado over Thanksgiving. DJ, Aidan year.,” Caledonia head coach Duane Brown, Peter Calhoun, Gavin Dean, Petrosky said. “We return six guys that Denck and James Pritchard and Jake have started and have a bunch of really Potgeter are all hoping the early start great skiers that are competing to move on snow will give them an advantage into the starting line up.” moving into our upcoming season. Petrosky is back leading the program While there is a great group back, for the tenth consecutive season. The many of their toughest competitors list of returning skiers from a year ago had a bit of a head start even before is a strong one and there are some good starting to race at the high school level. skiers coming up behind them as well. “Most ofthe kids on our team begin ski Back to lead the way is senior David racing in seventh grade, which is much Potgeter who was an all-conference later than skiers on many other teams. and all-region skier a year ago while We really work hard to create training qualifying for the state finals too. experiences that help our athletes catch All-conference freshman Aidan up and by the time they are juniors most Brown is back for his sophomore are ready to compete against anyone in campaign. He had a head start as a the state,” Petrosky said. freshman thanks to some club racing The time on snow and experience experience and contributed all winter racing are challenges that we are work­ for the Scots. The team brings back ju­ ing to overcome. On the boys’ team, niors Derick Pritchard, Peter Calhoun, we have a few skiers who have racing Gavin Dean and James Diegel as well. experience outside of what is provided “We have a lot of talented skiers rethrough the Caledonia program. DJ turning from our JV team last season,” Potgeter, Aidan Brown, Jake Potgeter Petrosky said. “ They are all pushing and Justin Harper all have ski-racing themselves to make it into the starting experience beyond what we can offer lineup. Although our new conference in Caledonia. Racing JDT or in the does not have a ftil 11 ine up of JV teams, USSA programs expose skiers to a our kids really skied well last year and lot that helps them excel at the high showed a ton of growth despite having school level. We are hoping that more less than desirable training and racing young skiers will take advantage of conditions. these programs at their resort, it gives “We are excited about this year’s those that do an advantage.” freshman class,” he added. “A lot of The CHS coach was really pleased them skied with our middle school with the progress he saw in his pro­ team, and did well there. A couple of gram last year and feels like there is our incoming freshmen have experi­ some momentum heading into the ence ski racing on the club level, which season. He is looking forward to see most of our skiers don’t experience - it how his guys stack up in a few of makes a big difference.” their big invitationals this season after So far, the Fighting Scot head coach finishing in the middle of the pack at likes the determination and self mo­ most of them a year ago. tivation he has seen out of his guys. As far as the conference race goes, “It has been a few years since I had Onekama has been the king of the hill a group of guys that work so hard in recent seasons and should be the in the weight room, without having favorite again and Petrosky said the to be asked,” Petrosky said. “I was new co-op between Glen Lake and impressed by the how many of them Benzie will be tough to beat too. worked out extra days this fall and The first invitational of the season how they are pushing each other to be for the Scots is the Cadillac Invitation­ in the best condition for our season. al which is set for Jan. 13 at Caberfae. ^9 Visit us online at'Sunandnews'com Saturday, December 21, 2024 Village of Middleville «l 2025 MEETING 1 SCHEDULE 13 ♦ ♦ l&l ★ ( J i I t a Is 1 i' I ■ ^9 I 9 1 ’*<1 VILLAGE «( -MICHIGAN- To/? 'TILLAGE COUNCIL meets regularly on the second arid fourth Tuesdays of every month at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Jan 14 & 28 Feb 11 & 25 Mar 11 & 25 Apr 8 & 22 May 13 & 27 Sep 9 & 23 Jun 10 & 24 Oct 14 & 28 Jul 8 & 22 Nov 12 (Wed) & 25 Aug 12 & 26 ________________ Dec 16 (3rd Tue) The MIDDLEVILLE PLANNING COMMISSION meets regularly on the first Tuesday of every month at 7 00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Jan 7 Feb 4 Mar 4 Apr 1 May 6 Jun 3 Jul 1 Aug 5 Sep 2 Oct Nov 4 Dec 2 1 The MIDDLEVILLE DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY meets regularly on the first Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Jan 7 Feb 4 Mar 4 Apr 1 May 6 Jun 3 Jul 1 Aug 5 Sep Oct Nov Dec 2 7 4 (No meeting) The LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FINANCE AUTHORITY meets __ _ quarterly on the third Thursday of that month at 5:00 p.m in the Council Chambers. Jan 16 Apr 17 Jul 17 Oct 16 The ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS meets twice a year on the third Thursday of that month at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers Jan 16 Jul 17 :4i The WELLHEAD PROTECTION GROUP does not have regular ly scheduled meeting dates but meets as business requires in the Village Offices. ■■ Notices of all special meetings and meeting changes will be posted at the Village Hall and on the Village Website: www.villa geofmiddleville.org. Minutes will be available for public inspection at the Village Office during regular business hours for each of these bodies in accordance with the Open Meetings Act, the Freedom of Information Act, and other applicable law, and on the Village’s website. The public is welcome to attend and participate in any open session of these bodies. The Middleville Village Hall is located at 100 E. Main Street, Middleville, Ml 49333. ■» �t I ♦ Continued from Page 5 The RFP was posted to the township website Sept. 16. The lone applicant was EnviroScience. Township staff said in a memo that the company has a “strong track record” of environmental assessment work and geographical information system-based analysis. “We would have a comprehensive G.I.S. analysis done of soils, soil types, vegetation types that are existing. And, along with that, we could do some field verification of sites,” community development director Dan Wells said. De Ward, however, was very vocal against the proposal. “The fact we only got one bid that just doesn’t bode well with me. I think we need to do a better job of putting it out there,” he said. “We have no as­ surance that the DNR will grant us the money forthe land purchase, even ifwe have the study as trustees, we need to be good stewards of our tax dollars.” In addition to the RFP, Weersing and Wells said they had reached out to other sources to gamer more interest, but only EnviroScience responded. • • ♦ s, S' p A* X I’ .S* .V* (Candlelight Christmas Eve Service H h I T S i. I I 4 R December 24th 7:00pm I Lei^ton Church II 4180 2nd St Caledonia www.leightonchurch.org I I n| I .t* w- -*<.•> ••• 4b All are welcome • S I % • 5 ’Mik I I I I I il W 6^ MB 15 £1 “We opened it up to the public, made entities that did this type of work aware of the RFP and they chose not to bid on it,” Weersing said. DeWard added the sewer service contract with the City of Grand Rapids won’t expire until 2028. Township staff are poised to soon begin discussing an extension of the service boundary. We’re going to possibly be developing those areas, depending on what’s decided by the (township) board, and the board would have to approve the new boundary and a new contract with Grand Rapids,” Deward said. “And that’s prob­ ably three or four years down the road. “It is possible that it may not even be approved, as the board may decide that we don’t want to expand that Hanna boundary. So, it begs the question if this is putting the cart before the horse,” he added. Wells said there is another issue to consider. “In the big picture, this isn’t just about any kind of movement of this sewer service boundary,” Wells said. “What I’ve been seeing since I’ve been here (2020) is the amount of land divi­ sions that are occurring and the loss of forested wetlands across the township. We have very few surface water sites. Plaster Creek being one of them. And that’s kind of the area that’s most concerning ofmine, just from a natural­ resource standpoint.” More and more forested wetlands are being cut down to make way for hous ing developments in Gaines Township. “Hoffmans Meadows is a great example. And the (Michigan) DNR and EGLE don’t really regulate those types of wetlands. It has to be really obvious and large. But what I’m seeing is a kind of death by a thousand cuts,” Wells added. Township planners are trying to deter­ mine which areas ofthe township should be protected. They figure the G.I.S. analysis will help answer those questions. “I’m wanting to begin to find parcels to set aside for the future generations in this township,” Wells said. He and VanderStel pointed out that a majority of residents who responded to a township-wide survey two years ago indicated a desire for more parks and open space, and even indicated potential interest in approving a future millage to fund that plus preserve for­ ests and agricultural lands. 4^ 5 I • ■ % ■ J I -A. ’T* ■5* V A < 1 w www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 21 2024 GAINES ♦ 4 t .1 14 4 1 A s or' <w -wr. ? J '9 r A < VanderStel said Calvin University recently reported a study indicating that future actions by townships will be vital to protecting the watershed in Kent County. “At some point, we’ve got to decide how we ’ re going to develop, how we ’ re going to balance preservation of our landscape that everybody treasures, with growth,” Wells said. We’re a very successful township. I’ve always viewed the township as a place where it’s not if you do it, it’s how you do it. And in this sense, having a really comprehensive study like this will help us make land-use decisions.” Task 1 of EnviroScience’s study will entail communication and coordina­ tion with stakeholders, including eight virtual meetings. Task 2 calls for col­ lection and analysis of the G.I.S. data, including the Natural Resource Inven­ tory base mapping and developing a Land Prioritization Model. Task 4 will be a summary report for public review. Terpstra asked Lemke, a member of the township’s Parks and Recreation Committee, ifthat panel has provided any input on the Natural Resources Inventory. “We discussed it, but I don’t think we went as far as endorsing the whole project,” she said. Wells suggested some areas of the township could be protected from development, such as along Plaster Creek, which would be designated as a valuable ecological corridor. I have been talking to the DNR about utilizing grant funds to purchase large parcels that could be set aside as recreation sites in the future,” he said. “What I’m really trying to do is set aside areas now for the future because, otherwise, we’re going to look like any other township out there that hasn’t thought through this stuff.” De Ward countered that paying for large parcels could be a problem. “The elephant in the room here is, even assuming you find 40 acres, 80 acres or however much you want (to preserve), where is that money coming from? We haven’t budgeted for any of that,” he said. “It doesn’t necessarily have to be a township purchase to protect that land,” VanderStel added. “There’s the Nature Conservancy that works with a ton of landowners putting aside land that is still a public use.” Wells said he has contacted the non44 & A A A * •w profit Land Conservancy ofWest Michi­ gan and the DNR, as well as a private landowner about one unspecified parcel. “Eventually, yes, the township will have to kick in some money for a land purchase. The (Michigan Department of Natural Resources) only covers 75 percent of the land. We may be able to find other partnerships that will help fund that, as well. The ultimate benefi­ ciaries -the township and the township residents - will have some skin in the game. That is the reality of it,” he said. However, DeWard also noted that residents have repeatedly said a major factor they like about Gaines Township is low taxes. But residents have been paying more each year for public safety services since the board passed a dedi cated special assessment levy in 2021. “What is property going for now in the township - $20,000, $40,000, $60,000 an acre?” Deward said. “If we’re willing to just put that money out there to buy (property), then I think we need to go to the public with a bond (request) for that. “Ask them if that’s what they want. Ask them if they want to pay more money for parks and recreation. If they say yes, wonderful,” he added. That statement triggered a back-andforth exchange. VanderStel and Wells cited the town­ ship survey conducted in 2022 when Gaines officials were seeking public input in drawing up a new township master plan. They said respondents ranked having more parks and open space as one priority. “Until you ask them if they want to pay for it,” DeWard said. “There was support for a millage,” Wells replied. “Then, let’s do that,” De Ward coun tered. I think this is a good step toward (a potential millage request),” VanderStel said. “Because in order to even present a millage you have to say, ‘Here are some pieces of property that we want to purchase. Wells agreed that any request for a dedicated parks and recreation millage would need to be written on a ballot to specify exactly what the fimding would be used for. “I think this (study) would help iden­ tify those areas that you want to focus on, maybe find some of those places that are valuable to protect,” Wells said. * (6 9 99 9 A A A. A �f r T t 4 % V• f <4 . I 4 A * www.sunanclnews.com ♦ ♦ THE SUN and news Saturday, December 21,2024 15 J fJI Obituaries 5^'A Tigers, and high school sports, to many local baseball and softball games. He was an original charter member of the Caledonia Sportsmans Club. He was an avid hunter, that included hunting locally to going all the way out west to Colorado. His love fortravel took him on many extended vacations. Relatives and friends met with the family on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024 with funeral services z /' ■■ f'» r« > 10 I- Gary (Squeak)Tolan Gary (Squeak)Tolan, age 86, of Caledonia, Ml, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents Minor and Ora Tolan; and his sister-in-law,’ Sarah Tolan. He will be lovingly remembered by his brothers, Wesley (Pat) Tolan, Marvin Tolan; Aunt Shirley; several nieces; nephews; great nieces and nephews; many cousins; and his special friend, Wally. Gary was a lifelong resident of Caledonia (who would tell you where everyone lives/ has lived) who proudly worked for Kent County Road Commission for 42 years. He was a huge sports enthusiast, following a wide range of sports from the Wolverines, MIDDLEVILLE J c< r it i 7. * . •r •:f i4?i' M A ->.r: < V >■ * • > A t ■ . % A s4: 4 * V % Anyone with questions may call Virginia, 269-908-8036, or Maryellen, 616-318-3545. The first meeting is free. following at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 616 E. Main St. SE, Caledonia, with Rev. Dennis Gilbert officiating. Private family burial was held at Lakeside Cemetery. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Caledonia American Legion Post 305. Condolences may be sent online at www. mkdfuneralhome.com. ♦ LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY TOPS 546 The Dec. 16 meeting opened with roll call. There is one fish in the fishbowl - three jumped out. Sue’s program was titled “Eating Healthy on a Budget.” Sue said it’s a myth that eating healthy costs more. Highly processed foods and fast food can be just as expensive, if not more expensive than healthier options. Instead of saying “healthy food costs too much and I can’t afford it,” say “I can eat healthy by prioritizing my health.” Cook at home. Shop the ads and use coupons. Buy store brand. Buy in bulk. Go to Aldi or Walmart. Compare per-ounce prices. Shop seasonal produce. Buy frozen veggies. Use apps to stay out of the store and pick up outside. The best way to get protein is to buy canned chicken or tuna, fresh chicken breast, ground turkey, tofu, beans, eggs and Greek yogurt. Meal planning, eating at home and stocking up on staples are the best ways to eat healthy on a budget. Alice won the Ha-Ha Box. The meeting closed with marching in place as the group recited the TOPS pledge. TOPS, a weight loss support group, meets every Monday at Lincoln Meadows in Middleville. Weigh-in is from 3;30 p.m. to 3;45 p.m., followed immediately by the meeting. Press the white buzzer for entry. ♦ >1 Caledonia United Methodist Church ALASKA BAPTIST j'-r.' CHURCH cornerstone ch u rch > ♦ t si .A*Z A ♦ > « : • , * ♦ Join us in person or online Sundays 9;30 & Ham Rev. Christine Beaudoin Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM * * Join us for our traditional yet casual worship .k service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. www.alaskabaptist.org 7240 68th Street SE, Caledonia 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC.org 250 Vine Street Livestream: Facebook.com/CaledoniaUniicdMcthodist Serving - Strengthening IT Connecting ***^* * FIRST BAPTIST Sunday Service 10:30 AM ' k r* 1 I L k Middleville Good Shepherd 7 Lutheran Church Sunday Worship ,e t. 1 at! Livestream: facebook.com/firstbaptistmiddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET - 5215 M37 - 269-795-9726 CHURCH Caledonia Location i.t»attoae Middleville Location Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http:/!goodshepherdlcms.googlepages .com Church: (269) 795-2391 •Apeace PEACECHURCH.ee 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11.00 am .awi 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org 9:30 a.m. * ■*5* JOURNEY A ' ri HOLY FAMILY J/CATHOLIC CHURCH 908 W Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) i'i 1 Sia » IM* ■ 1664 M-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am Sundays at 8:00, 9:30, and i 1:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891,8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee MIDDLEVILLE Sunday at 9:30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com 4 Z • A* Sf. ‘Ptiul'XuT^erofi CHurcfi r f Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcatedonia.org 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 Church 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvillebible.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. Yankee Springs Bible Church THORNAPPLE VALLEY 9CHURCH Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School.. Sunday Wonhip .9:30 AM 10:30 AM T'CCViSSP’^ Watch our services from our website (see above) fL '’Shining Forth God's Light” Sunday Morning Worship Community Group......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org t r �r I 4 16 www.sunandnews.com THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 21 2024 TK pulls away from Dux at free throw line Brett Bremer ball” chant. Zeeland West’s football team won the 2024 MHSAA Division 3 football championship last month. While that football team was 13-1 on the season, the Zeeland West boys fell to 0-3 on the basketball court in 2024 while TK improved its record to 3-2. Webster led TK with 16 points in the bailgame. Senior guard Brice Lloyd finished with ten points and junior center Trey Hilton had nine as nine different TK players scored. Malachi VanEngen chipped in seven points for TK, junior Ben Lloyd had six and junior Lucas Ploeg added five points. Jake Lencioni had 17 points for the Dux to lead all-scorers. He hit five three-pointers, three in the second quar­ ter and two in the third. Khi Anderson added 14 points for Zeeland and Keaton Hendricks had six. TK shot out to a 17-9 lead in the first quarter of the ballgame with four different guys knocking down threes. Webster had eight of his 16 points in that opening quarter. Sparked by Sports Editor The Thornapple Kellogg varsity boys’ basketball team bumped its re­ cord back over .500 with a 62-52 win over visiting Zeeland West in Mid­ dleville Tuesday. The Trojans got a triple from senior guard Jude Webster at the end of the third quarter to even things up with the Dux at 42-42 and then the Trojans handled the Zeeland West pressure throughout the fourth quarter. TK put the game away at the free throw line. The Trojans were 8-for-8 at the line to start the fourth quarter with the first “miss” on a shot that was waived off due to a lane violation by the orange and black. The Trojans closed the fourth quarter lO-of-12 at the line. A breakaway lay-up by junior guard Isaiah Boafo with 22 seconds to go bumped the TK lead to double digits and prompted the Zeeland West student section to resort to a “let’s play foot- 616-891-0150 «U z BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 am to 5 5 i.-HB - <« 4 4 9 f> pm I { 7 J * t » • L '«* t r* . i < 1 4 • V 1-^ •r /i e * rz < 1 Mt I A % i 9 >5 A I F t K ♦ 1 5 M r 4 Thornapple Kellogg junior guard Jude Webster flips up a shot over the Dux’s defense in the paint during the fourth quarter of the Trojans’ win over visiting Zeeland West Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer TK guard Isaiah Buafo keeps a close watch on Zeeland West guard Trey Sloothaak in the ack-court during the fourth quarter of their non­ conference bailgame in Middleville Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer Lencioni’s hot shooting the Dux were within 34-28 at the half. Zeeland West clawed into the lead in the third quarter holding TK to just one field goal and only eight points total in the third quarter. TK closed the game 18-of-28 at the free throw line. Webster was 6-of-7 at the line and VanEngen 4-of-4. They were both 4-of-4 in the fourth quarter. The TK boys were scheduled to face Caledonia in a non-conference bailgame Thursday, Dec. 19, in Mid­ dleville. The Caledonia boys were looking to straighten things out after a tough 68-29 loss to Rockford Tuesday. The Trojans are ofiT now until a trip to the Reed City Holiday Tournament Jan. 3-4. * b •? 9 -ft " 4 e« * » A •7 y FT' * -• '' 4 1 t '« 'm k ; Ik 4 WEH 2« BODY SHOP ^2320^^ » jj 5^ Sma 9't IB 0*' dS * 7. I tn hx I "O o z I V CM c 4 -0, B z S Q. ..?■ r* r Complete Collision Repair -J 110 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Vovr frusbed Body Shop for over 32 years f. V i I Thornapple Kellogg guard Brice Lloyd attacks the basket for two of his team-high 16 points in a win over visiting Zeeland West at TKHS Tuesday. Photo by Brett Bremer YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. You’re our friends, our family, our neighbors and our future. I G roup Your Community Connection ass O a O IL IL >. CD “D 0) •c ** a. � https://barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/25/841/SunandNews_2024-12-28.pdf 60cea8f9153d8c8fabca83fda736ada5 PDF Text Text 1 J * < 1 ♦ ♦ ♦ I ♦ T the SUN SCOT SURGE UPS LEAD TO DOUBLE FIGURES IN FOURTH AND NEWS Your Hometoi^^n Newspaper Serving the Middleville. Caledonia and Gaines Township Areas NO. 36 > PAGES j SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2024 ♦ i ♦ > ▼Lj > 4 '2 T1 V I 1f 4* 9 I, JS S •a * IL * « www.sunandnews.com w \ » • • • ♦ ■> ’ i, I9 *> .♦ / , \ • *—-^ : H A P I P Y J s r» if «■» . Gaines Planning Commission recommends township reject rezoning request f 4 > f ♦ fc, : • < * '. 1 »s 3 I FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS! Group Middleville council mulls digital solution to enhance communication with residents Jayson Bussa Contributing Writer The Middleville Village Council tabled a decision on whether or not to leverage a digital platform to enhance its communication with constituents, but not before lengthy discussions that underscored the plight of many local governments. During its nearly two-hour, regu­ larly scheduled council meeting on Dec. 17, one of the agenda items was to consider contracting with San Francisco-based tech company Rep’d to produce personalized video messages for constituents that would help to explain various concepts of Middleville’s government and do away with any misinformation that may be wafting around. With the tagline “humanizing local government,” the technology makes it easy for any government official to script, record and share videos that address questions or requests for inforrnation from constituents. The technology also leverages artificial intelligence to ^003 UBMOlSnO help spread this infor TVIXN3QIS3H mation, as well. Rep’d would be implemented SSMU03 ee99k in eiiiAUMJS Ok€ «08 Od ~8C€#liUJjad ecest UAi ‘eniAU99J9 QlVd 39VlS0d s n QiS iSbd I See MIDDLEVILLE on 2 t* James Gemmell Contributing Writer V * •iX C r t '.i T t <p 4r Lt' •s :. .rfa. » «s t « V r ? • Members of the Gaines Township Planning Commissioners feel a pro­ posed rezoning of a threelot parcel along Hanna Lake Avenue, north of 68th Street, from its cur­ rent light industrial zoning designation to multi-fam­ ily residential would pose problems for people living in nearby homes. So, commissioners voted unanimously, 7-0, at their Dec. 19 meeting to recommend the township board deny the rezon­ ing request by Giovanni Tocco, a local builder who spoke for the owners. Dale and Joyce Benedict, of the 0.57-acre property at 6684, 6700 and 6710 Hanna Lake Avenue. The site is located north of a residential area, with industrial businesses to the immediate south and east, and across the street to the west are homes and the Dutton Christian Elementary School. According to a staff report to the Planning Commission, the property owners want to be able to sell the property to a builder for redevelopment into townhomes or similar housing. “As part of my due dili­ gence, I’m still trying to buy this property. There’s three lots and a house right in the middle.” Tocco told the Planning talk X4 *'1 f’. M. > «* • •«* » /-R 4 I p •« » g 4a 6 A * ** r. • «• f f > . B r f *• LX w. ■l : I 5 tI I s t ■* ■ f>- ■ ;J s I *1 I • R* « Sr^iais f 3 * f fa / J L- * -4 < T r^ s P T * P 1 T I j ^1 r -> * *» * < I f -A F I >1 /• h. ’P r > I * r'lff s'* Wl 5 V>‘ ■«{.'. 1 I. i( |i^ 9 <4 I •* : *1 u ■i I ’rs ■a Ji I f J e . I > > 7 I r A 4 *4 fa c , I 'y V A hr0 4«bb^* 1 IWI' ’S >' K \f^\ " s k’ } J r 7 9. *Y D*’ "-Si ? ‘I. -s; ^•— 9 r “Vi**J X .« 9&. < c > F ‘ I ■> ,4 n -:l > . * 4**’. . t . tJ 4 . r 4^ »< : 4 I 4* •k >» t < I I »! A :l • « •TS < '.^ « D I i p - r 1 k ,1 , w Oi z-** * R ► V.. V r ♦ ' .> « > r t <ai. r* r* t ** ♦v I• ( 4 61s . 4 4-. • v i’ umumed 1 « • W -r • < 4 mr^ - • <»• k w* V I T •-1-* I < K- t I to. A lah r I y S’ e . J * • \ wl * 1 ■ £ 4 4 ^4S5Si9 * y. 9 u IM t I J N < t4 I f ( 1 I c ” « V .T* • I C-jS-r-;*^ S'.^' 5 V ♦ X* IT* fa* 9 I f V snk- ■’i' f 1 > f -P*.; 1^1 ‘ >* '.r > 4 ■ft < «• i^i-r - 4T < 1 / I * 4.^ 1^' t ’^z An outline marks the boundary lines for a parcel of property in Dutton that is proposed to be rezoned from an industrial use to residential. Source: gainestownship.org Commission. The property owners recently com •* bined three smaller parcels into the single parcel. Two or three townhomes could be added to the existing home, or it could be razed so that new townhous­ es could be built. But township staff pointed out that the township’s 2023 Future Land Use Plan envisions the parcel being used for light industrial, which is not consistent with the proposed rezoning to a multi-family residential (Rt3) designation. Township officials also said, however, that they recognize the “oveiv\^helming” need for housing in the area, and rezon­ ing the properly' to an R-3 designation would enable higher density housing, such as a small apartment building. That is not favored bv•' some neighbors 9 who live across Hanna Lake Avenue from the parcel, “I don’t want to live in a neighborhood where (there are) rental properties,” Andrew Bennett said. “This, to me, is going to be a monstrosity. I don’t live in Kentwood, I live in Gaines Township. “It’s going to cause problems for traf­ fic. In the morning at 6:30, you’ve got school buses coming. Dutton Christian’s all coming. The school people are all dropping their kids off. Everybody’s going to the industrial parf<, so they’re al Un that turn lane (on Hanna Lake Ave.),” he added. “There’s not going to be room for a neighborhood there with multiple family (housing).” Bennett’s wife, Samantha agreed. “I really don’t want rental prop^ See GAINES on 3 “K �> 2 Saturday, December 28, 2024 THE SUN AND NEWS MIDDLEVILLE ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ communities in Michigan that are Continued from Page 1 using it,” Stolsonburg told the board. Trustee Tracy Gillhespy asked within Middleville’s website, where why a platform like Rep’d would be residents could ask questions and be needed instead of a free, out-of-theprompted with these videos. box solution like Facebook. With an ever-increasing need for Stolsonburg said the difference is in exchanging information digitally, the assistance Rep’d provides in the local governments across the country production of professional videos and are constantly in search of digital getting those messages out there, espe­ tools that will meet residents where cially for a bare-bones village staff that they are and keep them informed. doesn’t necessarily have hours of free Village Manager Craig Stolsonburg time to produce such content. said that the village reached out to A subscription for Rep’d would Rep’d and received a presentation cost $500 for the first three months about the digital platform. and $ 1,000 a month after. “There are a lot of communi­ “I’m going to be honest, Craig, that ties that are using this, specifically sounds like a lot of money for some­ Traverse City and there are other thing that is a want and not a need. Trustee Makenzi Peters said. I would rather see you develop that skill where there is one-onone, in-the-office contact with the community as our village manager, not some outfit in California or someplace else,” Trustee Richard Hamilton said. “I’m sure these people are very good and use AI and Advisor everything else but I think we know Monday at 4:00 pm a lot about our own community. We just have to learn how to get the message out.” Shopper Richardson said that one-on-one Monday at 5.00 pm communication and more analog methods, such as posting messages NEWSPAPER DEADLINES 9 Banner Tuesday at Noon Your local agent insures your r C/ops Reminder Wednesday at Noon Sun & News Wednesday at Noon in the newspaper, would suffice. Trustee John Osterbaan, who is also a long-time resident of the vil­ lage, did acknowledge that younger residents do often prefer more accessible methods for information exchange where they don’t have to call or stop into the office. President Kevin Smith spoke in favor of such digital solutions and said it would be a valuable marketing tool for the village. “What we get on social media is we have people in the community that post questions or assumptions of what’s happening in the village or government without knowing the true story or what’s going on so there is a lot of misinformation from folks that gets out there,” Smith said. He also pointed to the fact that few, if any, local government posi­ tions come with the available time to produce professional messaging to constituents. “When they invented the phone, everyone said ‘the telegraph is fine.’ When they invented the internet, they said ‘television is fine.’ Now as we continue to move forward, we’re finding ways and tools to expand on the ability for the people who don’t have the time to answer every ques­ tion on the phone or email (to do so),” Smith said. “Leveraging social media is dif­ ficult,” he added. “It’s an art and It’s something that Craig advises his staff not to engage at all (on), which in turn leaves a vacuum and in a vacuum, people make up whatever they want to make up and they’ll go 1^- Group INSURANCE' Jason Parks 121 E. Main Street Downtown Middleville You re our friends, our family, our neighbors ■ • a and our future. fKSumae. fi on and spew that on social medial erroneously.” Council members agreed to further look into the Rep’d’s offering of services to guide a future decision on the matter. Some other village business included: — The village council voted to adopt the fiscal year 2025 budget and millage rates. The budget was reviewed at the Nov. 26 council meet­ ing and the millage rate will sit at 12.3878 mills (10.5 mills for opera­ tions and 1.8878 for highway) with no Headlee rollback expected in 2025. — Steven Baldry was appointed to the village’s zoning board of appeals to fill an unexpired term that is set to expire on April 30, 2025. However, the village temporarily suspended the open board/committee/council positions policy to appoint him to the board for a term that will instead expire on April 30, 2028. — Trustee Makenzi Peters was tapped to serve as the village’s president pro tempore for a term that began on Dec. 17 and extends to Nov. 19, 2025. The position acts as a backup for the village president. Peters, will take on President Kevin Smith’s role in his absence. As stated in an update on spe­ cial projects around the village,, con ­ construction has begun on the Mid-Villa Flats project. Contractors closed Town Center Drive to complete a sewer and water main connection. Once these connections are com­ plete, the majority of the work will be completed on the private property of the Mid-Villa Flats development. YOU’RE NOT JUST OUR READERS. I FARM BUREAU . www.sunandnews.com 9^ (269) 795-8827 Group jparks@fbinsml.com FarmBureaulnsurance.com Your Community Connection THE SUN AND NEWS ....... The Sun and News Proudly Published Since 1870 1351 N. M-43 Hwy. Hastings, Ml 49058 Phone: 269-945-9554 www.sunandnews.com I If ♦ I II, CONTACT US •*^"**"w*> Editor: Molly Macleod mmacleod@mihorriepaper.com f i-dj i jj Group Sports: Brett Bremer DDremer@mihomepaper.com Rick Burrough, President Wes Smith, Group Publisher Advertising Manager; Chris Silverman csilverman@mihomepaper.com c— Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist: Jennie Yonker jyonker@mihomepaper.com PUBLISHED BY PRINTED ON 100% recycled paper. Please recycle this newspaper Copyright 2024 2024 Jams Media, LLC All Rights Reserved Printed in the U.S. All advertising in The Sun and News is subiert to the conditions in the appllcabte rate card or advertising contract, copies of which N M^JT from The Sun and News Ad Dept " are .,1351 ’ Hastings, Ml 49058 ( 269-945reserves the right not to accept an advertiser's order. Our ad takers have newspaper and only J �♦ ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ♦ Saturday, December 28, 2024 GAINES Continued from Page 1 46 < '!IV > 7 >♦ I X. B tt HP" M .<■' < >• J F r/ -ft tS' J I I ‘*Y IBP'- \ »X\ . JR^B* r 'v -r tR lb V^ c T 'i... u* 2 y I ’-;'4 d ’k fe- The Gaines Planning Commission discussed whether to rezone a three-lot parcel in Dutton from light industrial to multi-family residential to accommodate affordable housing. Photo by James Gemmell the property unsellable.” Michelle Harmon, a realtor rep­ resenting Giovanni Tocco, thinks multi-family housing would be a viable option, given how her client screens prospective tenants. “There are a lot of people who are tenants by choice these days,” she said. “Professionals who come to the area that don’t want to buy because they don’t know the area, for example. The kind of homes he (Tocco) builds; the duplexes that he built in the past, are very nice struc­ tures with high-quality tenants in his rentals. And he uses me as a property manager. “I can tell you we do screen (ten­ ants). We look for a positive rental histoiy and credit. We’re just look­ ing for somebody who’s going to take care of that (property) and be a good neighbor. (Tocco) is very meticulous about his homes and how they’re kept and how tenants behave in them.” After the public hearing closed, Wells pointed out that, after a property is rezoned, the township does not regulate whether it can be rented or have a single owner. It only approves what type of building can be on the property. Commissioner Brad Waayenberg said he would like to see the property remain light industrial because of the > < « V •m ? Residential & Commercial ==Sr. ■»4 « * « «’ 4 > J* • •! Gas Furnaces Gas Boilers -Air Conditioners Heat Pumps \Nater Heaters -Humidifiers « ’4 •• xs m’' 4a '5 r * V J. %S.’ >• ' *'•#= ■t B* /• A .-»5 -H '4 1 « I l1 b T % '' •« •:^>' . X.’S*’ c lU.I**" a«i V •• WE’RE HERE FOR ALL YOUR HEATING AND COOLING NEEDS L| — ■ ■" potential adverse effect multi-family housing might have on the neigh­ bors. Wells and Planning Commission Chairwoman Connie Giarmo sug­ gested a commercial zoning designa­ tion might be more appropriate than industrial. Commissioner Talimma Billips asked what the maximum number of townhome units would be for the site, if it were rezoned to multifamily^ Wells replied that a single building with six or eight units would be the most possible. But Giarmo added constructing an apartment building might elicit com­ plaints from neighbors. “Are you creating something that you don’t really want? There’s a rea­ son we don’t put residential next to light industrial,” she said. Fellow Planning Commission members Ronnie Rober, Lani Thomas and Ryan Wiersema all said they agreed with that comment. Just moments later, the commission voted to give its recommendation to the township board for denial of the rezoning request. «r. erties (to be built across the street),” she said. “I think it should be zoned residential for somebody to build something and sell it, so we’re not getting a revolving door of people (renters).” Sue Vansingel, who lives next door, is against a potential rezoning that would accommodate a rental property across the street. “I know all the hassles of rental property,” Vansingel said. “The house that’s on there, yes, it’s small. It could be knocked down and maybe a newer house put on, but I do not think it should be apartments and/or townhomes. I feel it should be a sellable house, not rental property. It should be something that could be sold.” However, selling the property has been a difficult task ever since the Planning Commission changed its zoning from residential to industrial four decades ago, according to Des Erway with Bellabay Realty. She told the Planning Commission that every potential buyer over the years has expressed an interest in wanting to add on to the existing house, or tear it down and build a new house pole bam or garage on the site. It’s three lots, but now that it’s industrial you can’t do any of that,” Erway said. “You can build a warehouse there, but it’s a 140-by108-foot lot. Who’s going to want a warehouse on a small lot? Someone said, ‘Well, you can put an office there,” she added. “Why would anyone want an office off a side road on 68th Street? They would want it on 68th Street, where they get more traffic. So, it’s really made 3 =5:^ —V r k 12 >A X 9k f 4] I f V. *4 r A-4 •t ♦ 4 s *« 3 t' ',» rr.- V3 a' ' >*•" w \ f%»»» 1 . > •1 A*' > )/ ..« .' V .1 » t* I *4 * . » I. t 5'^ » ? ,w «* >a IM ■r I* ** b r I -- A 9*«M w B« I . * 4 L* «; X—•« . !> Y ■gl .L r.<* 'gi I *»; •v !<• ZJ. » X 1 t s- ^4W X/ I I k i Gaines Township planning commissioners held their final meeting of 2024 on December 19 at the township hall. Photo by James Gemmell DeWeerd (68) --- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING, INC. DEWEERDHTG.COM 269-792-2234 Since 19$S LENNOX It 4 A+ .?. BBB. ] ACCREDITED BUSINESS ♦ ♦ ) �Saturday, December 28, 2024 4 " T' THE SUN AND NEWS Obituaries ♦ ♦ / > ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Lois Ann (Shumway) Jackson Lois Ann (Shumway) Jackson went to be with her Lord and Savior on December 18,2024. Lois was born in Grand Rapids, Ml on January 22, 1941 to the late Roy and Theresa (Peevy) Shumway. Because of her father’s employment, the Shumway’s moved about the area, living in Grand Rapids, Lyons, and Lake Odessa and finally settling in Jackson, Ml when Lois was in the sixth grade. Lois graduated from Jackson High School in 1959. Always keeping ties to Lake Odessa because of her grandparents living there. A neighbor, Mr. Elliot, invited the Shumway girls to North Street Bible Church. He and his wife saw to it that the girls always had a way to church. At this church, Lois, heard the Lord calling her to become one of his own. Lois was about 14 years old. She has lived for the Lord ever since. In Lois’ mid-teens she was introduced to Lester Jackson on a blind date. They dated long distance, on weekends for a few years. Lester popped the question and they were married June 21,1959. Lois then moved to the “farm” on Elm Road. She loved the farm life and all that went with it. Lois had three sisters, Pat Platt, Bonnie Clink, and Cathy Barrie. They always had so much fun together, shopping, having lunch and laughing. Lois has been a member of Clarksville Bible Church for over 50 years. She helped with Sunday School, Ladies Bible Studies, and she was part of the original group named the Spatula Club. Lois helped with the Bethlehem Village each Christmas. Lois loved every aspect of her church. www.sunandnews.com Lois was an extremely good dogger. friends, Lois took care of Lester She was a member of the Thunder during his illness. Lester passed Floor doggers; directed by Bob and on in July 29, 2010. Linda Werner, for many years. They Lois and Lester had two sons, Daniel performed at a number of places in A. Jackson and Scott W. Jackson;, Michigan. They even went to the Bob two wonderful bonus daughters, Adair Evans Farm in Ohio, where Lois met I Jackson and Mandy Jackson. Lois and the founder of her favorite restaurant. Lester have a baby in Heaven also. Lois was blessed with musical The Jackson family has many i ■r abilities. She loved to sing as a solo, in people who loved Lois and called her 'Jh' trios, and in the choir. She gained her Granny; Jennifer, Autumn, Wesley, abilities, with her sisters, while doing the evening Joshua, Dakotah, Audrey, Shelbi, Kyle, Becca, dishes. Lois was in the Euthony Choir all the way and Shannon and their spouses. Lois is also a through high school. Lois was employed by the GREAT grandmother to 23+ precious little ones. United States Postal Service for 30 years. One of Lois’ favorite verses from the Bible of She is remembered by many people for her friendly Proverbs 31: 5&6 “Trust in the Lord with all your smile as she delivered their mail each day. She missed heart and lean not on your own understanding, in very few days...the mail must get through! all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make With the help of her sons, neighbors, and your paths straight.” 4 A Celebration of Lois’s life was held at the Clarksville Bible Church on Friday, Dec. 20, 2024. In lieu of flowers the family request donation to Clarksville Bible Church or Hospice of Corewell Health Grand Rapids. LOCAL CHURCH DIRECTORY Caledonia United Methodist Church ALASKA BAPTIST CHURCH Rev. Christine Beaudoin Service Times Sunday at 9:30 AM & 6:00 PM Join us for our traditional yet casual worship 616-891-8669 CaledoniaUMC. org Livcstream: Facebook.com/CalcdoniaUnitedMethodist Serving Strengthening Connecting 250 Vine Street Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Sunday Service 10:30 AM 1 Al Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. r •—J Livestream; tacebook.com/firstbaptistn)iddleville FBCMIDDLEVILLE.NET-5215 M37- 269-795-9726 JOURNEY ) CHURCH 9185 Cherry Valley Ave SE 9:15 am and 11:00 am Middleville Location 1664 IVI-37 9:30 am and 11:00 am Pastor: Rev. Peter Berg http://goodshepherdlcms.googlepages Church: •com (269) 795-2391 «PEACE peacechurch. c c Sundays at 8:00,9:30, and 11:00 AM Lead Pastor: Pastor Ryan Kimmel 616.891.8119 6950 Cherry Valley Rd., Middleville, MI 49333 peacechurch.ee THORNAPPLE VALLEY « j CHURCH MIDDLEVILLE Sunday at 9;30am & 11:00am 20 State Street, Middleville, Ml / www.tvcweb.com r r '•r •r •: • H' iHl HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC CHURCH 9669 Kraft Ave., Caledonia Phone: 616-891-9259 www.holyfamilycaledonia.org Saturday Evening Mass 5:00 p.m. Sunday Masses 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Considering becoming Catholic? Call or see our website for information. «* Sunday Worship: 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Fellowship 9:45 to 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 10 to 10:45 a.m. 41 51 @ St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool 8436 Kraft Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 Office 616-891-8688 • Preschool (616) 891-8688 www.stpaulcaledonia.org . ............ Yankee Springs Bible Church Churc 8655 Whitneyville Avenue, Alto 616.891.8661 www.whitneyvilleblble.org PastorJonathan DeCou SERVICE TIMES: t ¥ 1675 84th St. SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 cornerstonemi.org/weekend CHURCH Caledonia Location - J * X •V f I CaK^ > - '.v .. e Roy Benner 908 W. Main Street, Middleville (Missouri Synod) lit Join us in person or online Sundays 9:30 & 11am 'i Middleville r cornerstonechurch service, in person or online, at 9:00 am. www.alaskabaptlst.org 72A0 68th Street SE, Caledonia FIRST BAPTIST * Sunday School Sunday Worship 9:30 AM 10:30 AM tVaZcZ? our services from our website (see above) 8900 Duffy Road Middleville, MI 49333 "Shining Forth God's Light" Sunday Morning Worship Community Group.......... 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. James L. Collison, Pastor www.yankeespringsbiblechurch.org The family of Roy Benner sadly shares the news of his passing. After a long struggle of various difficulties, he passed at the age of 91 with his wife and daughters at his side on December 21 2024 Roy was born in Howard City. Ml to Leroy and Mable Benner. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings; daughter, Lauri Brower; son-in-law, Howard Smith, grandson, Daniel Jousma, and great granddaughter, Breanna Otto. He is survived by Shirley; his loving wife of 71 years; daughters, Deborah and Cal Karsten Judy Smith, Christy and Marty Walker, Gale and David Draper, Kim and Gary Donker; 15 grandchildren" 32 great grandchildren; five great great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Roy served two years in the National Guard, was a was a talented cabinet maker and an avid sportsman who loved hunting and fishing. Roy and Shirley were always on the road going somewhere, taking the girls along with them until they no longer lived in their home. Then the two of them would hook up the Airstream trailer and start off on a journey to wherever the road would lead them. There were not rnany national parks they didn’t visit, nor a state they didn t see. His camera was the eye to his soul capturing family life and the beauty of God’s nature, but, most important to Roy, was his family As a loving husband and father, he made so many sacrifices to give them what they needed and lots of simple pleasures in life. RoV’ there are many precious memories we haveyou have left our earthly life, but you will never leave our hearts. We will always miss you and always love you. A celebration of life service will be held at Fellowship Reform Church of Hudsonville, 6610 -. w- Hujsonyille, Ml 49426, on Friday Jan. 3, 2025. Visitation 10 a.m., service 11am with lunch at noon. �-?• ♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 28, 2024 5 ♦ ♦ Sporting News Scot surge ups lead to double figures in fourth Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia ladies put together a burst 90 seconds into the fourth quarter that turned what had been a one-point bailgame moments earlier into a double-digit lead. From there, the Caledonia varsity girls’ basketball team controlled things r en route to a 53-38 win over the Thor­ napple Kellogg girls at Caledonia High School Thursday, Dec. 19. In all, it was a 13-1 run to start the fourth quarter for the Scots. “I think we just connected as a team well,” Caledonia freshman guard Em­ ily Stuaffer said. “At halftime, that is when we said we really have to get things running and it all really just Caledonia freshman guard Emily connected at that time.” Stauffer (0) drives by Thornapple Stauffer said the TK girls threw Kellogg junior McKenna Hoebeke good pressure at them all game long during the second half of their and seemed to always know where the non-conference bailgame in Scots’ passes were going to go. Both Caledonia Thursday, Dec. 19. teams did a good job getting hands on Photo by Brett Bremer the basketball defensively. Senior center Lakely Bottum hit a ing about, and our bench controls our pair of free throws for the Scots, the attitude on the court.” Caledonia pressure forced a TK turn­ Back-to-back buckets after the time­ over that led to a three from Scot senior out by CHS freshman guard Myla guard Kathryn Langenburg, and then a Gortmaker had the Scots in front 43-30 steal by freshman guard Emily Stauffer all of a sudden. turned into two more quick points for “Kathryn hit a big three-point shot the Scots in a span of about 20 seconds from the left wing. We were able to get forcing a TK timeout. There were smiles and shouts all around as the Scots headed to the bench — and the team did a solid ■Bud job of spreading positive communication through­ • Digital TV Antennas • Starlink Installs • Towers out the whole bailgame. Cellular Enhancement Systems “It is probably our big­ gest thing,” Stauffer said. Give us a call! “We always have to bee *//sui3sCaf 269-967-8241 cheering. Our energy www.theantennamen.com C6Ll(M 5 O ’ J SIGN^ W antennamen@gmail.com comes from that. It is www.cellsi9nalpros.con1 always what we’re talk% f r * » *» * f * •« 9 •A _r A 1 I ®5 • < j i-S!* ► f 3- ttr ' L ■ I, I I in our press and Emily just jumped a pass to go in for a lay-up and that was a nice little five-point run to give us some breathing room and a nine-point lead,” Caledonia head coach Todd Bloemers said. “Give a lot of credit. When we’re watching Middleville, the thing I love about Brandi’s team is they never give up, they play incred­ ibly hard, they challenge you on the backboard even though they might not have the most size, their guards are scrappy and they get their hands on things. “I thought we did a really good job of working all game long to get really good shots. We weren’t finish­ ing early. Our shot chart going into halftime, I just looked at it and thought man it is only going to be a matter of time before we break this thing loose ... Credit to the kids. We got stronger as the game went on. We take a lot of pride in flying around, playing fast and being active.” Stauffer finished with a career high 19 points in her fifth varsity ballgame, and was happy that with the quantity of good shots she was getting some eventually started falling. Langenburg had 11 points off the bench and Bottum finished with 12 See SCOT on 8 ) 616-891-0150 BUSINESS HOURS: Monday - Friday: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. «■ \* AjTtrnno Men <•- Antenna Men t e e *« p t$ al BODY SHOP I COMPLETE COLLISION REPAIR 10 Johnson Street SE Caledonia, Ml 49316 Your irusfecl Body Shop -for over il �6 ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ 4 t s 4/ Jr tjj* L I t f THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday, December 28, 2024 Troian cheer wins D2 titie at Faicon Invitationai Brett Bremer Sports Editor runner-up in the Division 3 contest with a score of 713.46 - just a tick above the Trojans on the Falcons’ home mat. Tri County won the D3 competition with a score of 750.44. Rockford took the DI champion­ ship with the day’s best score overall of 755.04. Byron Center was second in the DI contest with 750.54 points and Caledonia placed third with a score of 690 points. The TK girls put up tallies of 224 points in round one. 204.36 in round two and 284 in round three. North­ view had scores of 221.1 points in round one, 198.76 in round two and 281.8 in round three. Forest Hills Eastern was third in the D2 competition with a total score of The Thomapple Kellogg varsity competitive cheer team got an up close looks at its new OK Gold Conference competition as it won its way to the Division 2 championship Friday, Dec. 20, at the West Catholic Falcon Invitational. In their second meet of the season, the Trojans put up a score of 712.36 points. That was about 11 points better than new conference foe Northview with finished as the D2 runner-up with a score of 701.66 points. TK had the top score in each of the three rounds in the eight-team D2 contest. Another new OK Gold Conference program, West Catholic, was the 60 ONLINE TO SUNANDNEWS.COM 641.66 points ahead of Coopersville 640.66, Hamilton 628.52, Sparta 616.6, Lee 559.7 and 533.92. The Caledonia girls put together scores o 224.1 points in round one, 195.1 in round two and 270.8 in round three in the D1 contest. Tri County had an impressive day to nearly keep pace on the scoreboard with the D1 teams while winning the D3 title. The Vikings had a score of 311.4 in round three which was the highest of the day in that round by a couple points over Byron Center and Rockford. In all, 18 teams took part in the Falcon Invitational. The TK girls compete again Jan. 11 at Charlotte High School. The Caledonia team will host its own invitational Jan. 9. Scot wrestling refocuses heading into holiday break www.sunandnews.com Classifieds BUSINESS SERVICES Dump Trailer Services, Bobcat Services, tree stump removal,site prep and clearing,dirt driveway installation and land clearing site prep. Fully licensed and insured. 616-389-9496 TREE SERVICE BUYING ALL HARDWOODS: Walnut, Oak, Hard Maple, Cherry. Paying top dollar. Call for pricing and Free Estimates. Will buy single walnut trees. Insured, liability & workman’s comp. Fetterley Log­ ging, (269)818-7793. HOME IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION: ADDITIONS, REMODELING, Roofing, Siding Pole Barns & Decks. Licensed builder 25 years. Tom Beard, 269838-5937. 9 PETS 8196 Broadmoor Ave. SE Caledonia, MI 49316 Brett Bremer Sports Editor CALEDONIA TOWNSHIP Phone: 616.891.0070 Fax: 616.891.0430 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF CALEDONIA BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2025 MEETING SCHEDULE Regularly scheduled meeting dates of the Charter Township of Caledonia Board of Trustees for 2025 are indicated below. All meetings will be held beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the Caledonia Township Hall, 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE, Caledonia, Michigan. NOTE: Individuals with disabilities may request auxiliary aids and services for the meeting by contacting the Township Clerk at 616.891.0070. Meeting Dates January 15, 2025, February 5, 2025, February 19, 2025 March 5, 2025, March 19, 2025, April 2, 2025, April 16, 2025, May 7, 2025, May 21, 2025, June 4, 2025, June 18, 2025, July 16, 2025, August 6, 2025, August 20, 2025, September 3, 2025, September 17, 2025 October 1, 2025, October 15, 2025, November 5,2025, November 19, 2025, December 3, 2025, December 17, 2025 Dated: December 21, 2024 Joni Henry, Clerk The aftermath of the OK Green Conference opener was a good time for the Fighting Scots to take stock of their line-up. Reeths-Puffer outscored the Cale­ donia varsity wrestling team 51-18 in Muskegon last Wednesday, Dec. 18. The Caledonia points came thanks to pins from Ben Moss at 150 pounds and Ethan Kadzban at 190 pounds, with a couple decisions won by Will Sheely and Koleson Reeder. Sheely outscored the Rockets’ Bryce Muskovin 10-4 in the 15 7-pound bout and Reeder took an 8-4 win over Aiden Neal at 165 pounds. Reeths-Puffer pulled out a couple close matches. Travis Henderson earned a take down in a sudden victory period against the Scots’ Escher Reeder at 113 pounds to win 13-10, At 132 pounds, the Rockets’ Tanner Cowles pulled out a 7-6 win over the Scots’ James Carrow. The day after the dual, Caledonia head coach Shawn Veitch said he went through the line-up with the guys. “I think it was really beneficial, 99 Veitch said. “Heads were down a little. We said, guys we’ve talked about this from day one. It takes three years, three years to really get us on track’ DOG GROOMING. QUALITY local groomer at reasonable rates. 269-331-9999. We went through the entire line-up, and we talked too just about how most programs outside of wrestling are stet up with a freshman team, a JV team and a varsity team.” Going from weight class to weight class he reminded everyone that the line-up is filled with freshmen and sophomores, and even some upperclassmen who have only been wrestling for a year or two. And he made sure to point out the guys like the senior James Carrow, junior Moss and senior Sheely who are the ones really having some more success now. I think that was huge for our morale. We are okay and still in this journey and we’re doing good things,” coach Veitch said. He reminded everyone that sue cess starts in the practice room, and if they re looking forward to winning on the mat they need to up their intensity and hunger in the practice room. Ifthey don’t want to give up points in matches he told them they need to be battling to not give up anything in training. �♦ ♦ www.sunandnews.com ♦ THE SUN AND NEWS ______ ________ ________ ______ ________ ______________ Saturday, December 28, 2024 7 Cal skaters take back-to-back wins over Forest Hills teams Brett Bremer Sports Editor The Caledonia varsity hockey team bounced back from its first conference defeat to knock off the two Forest Hills squads last weekend. The Fighting Scots, in a co-op with Thomapple Kellogg and Lowell, im­ proved to 3-1 in the OK Conference Rue Division with a 5-2 win over Forest Hills Central at Patterson Ice Center Friday, Dec. 20, and then a 7-3 with over Forest Hills Northem/Eastem Saturday at Kentwood Ice Arena. Caledonia trailed the FHH-E Bird Dogs 2-1 before breaking things open with a four-goal second period on its home ice Saturday. Tony Kauffman scored four goals and had three assists to power the Fighting Scot attack. The CHS team also got goals from Ethan Sova, Ty Lewandowski and Henry Simon. Harmon Esch had three assists, Lewandowski had two and Sova and Drew Nichols had one assist each. Sam Hoag made 19 saves in net for the Scots. Oliver Waalkes, Sean Hall and Owen Loepp scored the three Bird Dog goals. The Scots started earlier in the 5-2 win over Forest Hills Central on the road last Friday. They built a 3-1 lead in the first period and then upped that to 5-1 heading into the third. The Caledonia lead was 3-0 after goals by Landen Moore, Kauffman and a power play goal by Sova in the first 12 and a halfminutes ofplay. Kauffman and Lewandowski both scored short handed goals in the second period. Simon had two assists in the win and Rylan Bultema, Lewandowski, Sova, Gabe Supuk and Kauffman had one each. Nolan Timmer and Hayden Tanner scored the two Ranger goals. Hoag made 13 saves in net for the Scots. Nolan Bateson stopped 16 of 21 Caledonia shots at the other end of the ice. The Fighting Scots are now 11-2 overall this season. Kelley finished the night with seven points. Senior guard Jude Webster had a team-high 19 points for TK. Junior forward Trey Hilton added 12 points. Caledonia led 18-13 at the half. Their 1-2-2 zone gave us fits, the whole game,” Garber said. “We started feeding the post and Jake Kelley gave us that spark and then were were able to do some things in the high post to Trey and throw it into Jake.” It was a tough shooting night from outside for TK, so the Scots had no reason to extend or alter their zone according to Garber. He is looking forward to some zone offense work during the holiday break. The TK head coach said he has liked his team’s conditioning work through the early season, which he credits with giving his squad an advantage late in ballgames like back-to-back comefrom-behind wins against Zeeland See WIN on 8 I I TK takes 3-point win over Caledonia boys J Brett Bremer Sports Editor For the first time in ten seasons, the Thomapple Kellogg boys have a win over Caledonia. The Trojan varsity boys’ basketball team pulled out a 47-44 win over the visiting Fighting Scots in Middleville Thursday to earn its first win over the purple and gold since January of2005, and they did it by wiping out a 13-point deficit in the second half. TK head coach Phil Garber said senior center Jake Kelley sparked his guys with five points and a physical presence in the paint offensively late in the third quarter. TK trailed by 13 with two minutes to play in the third, and the Trojans carried that momentum for the rest of the evening. < li i • I . Wk KSV. Ta.nhee Springs Townsh ip 284 N. BRIGGS ROAD- MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 49333 269-795-9091 / FAX 269-795-2388 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO: THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY, MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a special public hearing will be held on January 14, 2025, commencing at 6:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville Ml, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the ZBA’s consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the ZBA for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (joeshea@yankeespringstwp.org). Letters and emails are due 3 days before the meeting date, or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. ZBA 24-11-09, Parcel ID: 16-370-005-00 and 370-006-00,2739 Sandon Circle #6, and 2739 Sandon Circle #5, Wayland. The property owners, Richard and Starr Adams, appeal the decision of the Zoning Administrator requiring them to obtain a short term rental permit before operating a short term rental unit, pursuant to the Township Zoning Ordi­ nance, Article X, Short Term Rentals. 2. Such other business as may properly come before the Zoning Board of Appeals. Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon four (4) days prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Jake Welch, Chairman Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 Tankee Springs Township 284 N. BRIGGS ROAD- MIDDLEVILLE, MICHIGAN 4D333 269-793-9091 / FAX 269-795-2308 YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE TO; THE RESIDENTS AND PROPERTY OWNERS OF THE TOWNSHIP OF YANKEE SPRINGS, BARRY COUNTY MICHIGAN, AND ANY OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held on January 16, 2025, commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Yankee Springs Township Hall, 284 N. Briggs Rd., Middleville MI, within the Township, as required under the provisions of the Mich­ igan Zoning Enabling Act and the Zoning Ordinance for the Township. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE In addition to participation during a public hearing, members of the public may also provide comments for the Planning Commissions consideration by emailing or mailing those comments to the Planning Commission for receipt prior to the meeting, in care of the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea (joeshea@yankeespringstwp.org). Letters and emails are due one week before the hearing date; or by leaving a phone message prior to the meeting with the Township Zoning Administrator, Joe Shea at 269-795-9091. PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the item(s) to be considered at said public hearing include, in brief, the following: 1. SEU 24-12-11; Parcel ID: 16-012-008-00; 7794 Bowens Mill Road, Middleville, MI 49333. The property owner, Amy Kooyers, requests a Special Exception Use permit to operate a chiropractic business from an outbuilding on her property pursuant to the Yankee Springs Township Zoning Ordinance, Section 4.5.K; Home Occupations. 2. Such other business as may properly come before the Planning Commission. Anyone interested in reviewing the application material may do so at the township hall. All interested persons are invited to be present at the aforesaid time and place, or, if an electronic meeting is held, to participate via the electronic meeting. Yankee Springs Township will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, to individuals with disabilities at the hearing upon seven (7) days* prior notice to the Township Clerk. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the Township Clerk at the address or telephone number listed below. YANKEE SPRINGS TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION By: Shana Bush, Chairperson Yankee Springs Township Hall 284 N. Briggs Rd. Middleville, Michigan 49333 (269) 795-9091 ♦ ♦ ♦ �-t * * THE SUN AND NEWS Saturday. Docernbef 28. ?O24 8 SCOT T t J r WWW, sunandnews.com A“ 4>A • ■ (id hoTTi Page 5 ie < 9 r points. Bl<Kiners also noted that he hadn't seen many girls with onl> one point affect a ballgame all around as »phomnrc forw ard Kavla Bnscnodid. I angenburg had three three-pointers and a take to the htMip that Blocmcrs really liked as the Scots extended their le.td. Her encrg\ off the bench wa.s outlanding," BIfxrmers said. Blocincrs certainly enjoyed hav;np three girls in double figures in the scorebook. He would have lo\cd Stauffer to hit that 20-point mark, but there was a little miscommunication between coach and player as Stauffer pulled up from attacking the basket to work clock late. Ihc I K ladies were led by 18 points from sophomore forward Reece Ritsema and ten points from senior guard I >dia Schilthroaf. Ihe two teams were tied at 27-27 with 2:20 to play in the third quarter, but a triple by Stauffer snapped that tie and put the Scots in front for good. I > .A' A I * s I It it * 9 'ti’ •« ( ♦ t I I * 3 i i 1 f 1 < J I I A z 1 •5 L 4** < •• A 1 • J i i •’4 ( I 1 * I — : Thornappifi Kellogg .sophomore Roece Rifserna pushes the ball up the court as Caledonia freshman guard Myla Gortmaker chases her If'-rr behind during the first half Ifiursday. Dec 19. at Caledonia High Sf hf »f J I. Photo by Brett Bremer FAMILY IS EVERYTHING TO US. I i f ! ' .te treat our pottenti hke family orxJ oHw cxwnforioHe. cuttornued dentniry tor ovoryonc n' *ir 4» Rj I I Some Day Denuttry r' I A ■ V 4 9 I >' Pediatric Dentistry 5 I Ik t Cosmetc DenUsIry a •«A • .; a ••. T I J I 4 NOW ACCEPTING About Yankee Springs Dental I «l I I I 4■ 3t ' ' H' »* BELTA DENTAL HEALTHY KIDS AND BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD HEAI THY KIDS b ■ r* •* r eoch other 1 « o native cf < '-jt,.-dc<r<io who ko^ up on the laietl tp J wtogy cienfsfry mi WWM flemng lo know me a •I I YANKEE SPRINGS DENTAL r« I (269) tzoyj 792-9723 /yz-y/2d ..—— k I f 4 Dental exams are even more important I as we get older, preventing problems and reducing the nsk of serious Uness ! 207. OFF your first visit 1 I Mermen t*'i$ oltef A'ne ca^d I I 12715 W M-1 79 Hwy YankeeSpringsDental.com Wayland,y Ml 49348 to request on appointment and lemn mnr* aV yf »tj Offte« Hours U •ar>-«<XT Ajpn 5pm r i j ( f I V * alb . I » Caledonia head coach Todd Bloemers. Myla Gortmaker, Lakely Bottom and Kathryn Langenburg (right) focus their celebration on freshman guard Emily Stauffer (0) after prompting a Thornapple Kellogg time-out during the run that put them in control of Thursday s (Dec. 19) non-conference ballgame at Caledonia High School Photo by Brett Bremer IK s last lead of the ballgame was at 24-22 about three minutes into the second half. I he Caledonia girls are now 5-2 overall this season, fhey followed up I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I the win over TK with a 57-38 victory over I raverse City Central in Caledo nia Friday. * T he TK ladies went into the holiday break following the loss, fhey will be back in action Jan. 3-4 when they take part in the Reed City Holiday Touma ment. The Trojans are 2-2 overall this season. •r * 4» 18 Months NO INTEREST ft t* w/purchase of High Efficiency Furnace & AC unit 4 1.. I X Impionti r ’u »£>j • * J A 9 « c WIN Continued from Page 7 J li I 'prices effective PH unfit 12/31/24 I t I I niw I t ■ I ■ I fl I I FINANCING AVAILABLE Ingaqidpnwnl I f I < * i A T 4. I 4 I s p 7 i I k I RUUD FRONTIER i HEATING 8 COOLING 210 East Main Street, Caledonia I :k* I I West and Caledonia. The Trojans were 8-of-9 at the free throw line in the fourth quarter, and finished l9-of-23 as a team at the line for the game. Caledonia got 14 points and six re­ bounds from Lincoln Senti, eight points from Cam Myers and seven points and five steals from Parker Little in the loss. “That’s a stepping stone,” Garber said of the win. “It’s a huge difference going into Christmas break 4-2 rather than 3-3 and losing to Cal again. It’s a huge win for us and our program.” Caledonia falls to 3-3 with the loss. TK heads to the Reed City Holiday Tournament Jan. 3-4 and the Fighting Scots will open the OK Green Confer­ ence season at Reeths-Puffer Jan. 3 and follow that up taking on Grandville at the Van Andel Arena Showcase Jan. 4. CJ •o Oz pz I 2 > flO 15 4) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Sun And News Description An account of the resource <strong>The Hastings Public Library wishes to thank Smith Imaging of Rockford, MI for their work digitizing the Sun &amp; News.</strong><br /><br />The Sun &amp; News is one of the older newspapers in Barry County, MI. All copies held by the Hastings Public Library have been scanned to PDF for easy public access. <br /><br />Available years cover 1981 - 2022.<br /><br />Note some years are incomplete while others are missing. Some missing issues during the COVID-19 pandemic years of 2020 and 2021 may be found in harcopies of The Reminder. The Library has these available upon request.<br /><br /><strong>See <a href="https://www.barrycountyhistoryportal.org/files/original/676/How_To_Use_Online_Newspapers_8x11.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">How to Use Online Newspapers</a> for more information about using and searching online newspapers.</strong> Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Sun and News Published 2024 Subject The topic of the resource Newspaper.SunandNews Description An account of the resource Sun and News Published 2024. Specific issues may be incomplete or missing. Type The nature or genre of the resource PDF Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newspaper Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource varies within year published Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-NC/1.0/ Rights Holder A person or organization owning or managing rights over the resource. Hastings Public Library Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available unknown Date Accepted Date of acceptance of the resource. Examples of resources to which a Date Accepted may be relevant are a thesis (accepted by a university department) or an article (accepted by a journal). unknown