By Sue Moore
Boy Scouts Eagle Ceremony
Josh White and Tanner White (no relation) are the first two Boy Scouts from Troop #251 to complete their work to become Eagle Scouts this year. When attending Tanner’s ceremony, it provided a time to reflect on the basic goodness of the people in this community and elsewhere. The adult leadership in scouting provides the role models for these young men to emulate. Those leading Troop #251 are exemplary.
If ever there was a ceremony that typifies the basic values of this country and even the free world, I believe it is the Boy Scout honor court. Probably right up there with the folks who take the pledge to become American citizens.
Disc Golf Course Repair
Another good example of the scouts helping out is Cole VanderMeulen’s Eagle Scout project at Vicksburg’s Recreation Park where disc golfing has become very popular. Hole #15 had a bad case of erosion with water lapping up to the side and the tee pad likely to decline into the water. Cole consulted with Mike Gary who is the volunteer operator at the park about how to assemble and build a retaining wall. The materials were donated by the professional disc golf association, three benches were pre-constructed and the whole thing came together with scouts recruited by Cole. They got the job done in just one day.
Trail Maintenance Crew
Bob Prater has had a crew of volunteers cutting brush and tree limbs along the existing portion of the Vicksburg walking trail. They are picking and plugging away at it when they have time waiting for the mosquitoes to subside, Prater said.
Harvest Festival Rewards
The Historical Society’s Harvest Festival was again a huge success for those who attended and those who helped to make it happen. John Polasek and Don Wiertella served as co-chairs this year with help from over 60 volunteers during this last Sunday of September event. It provides a chance for kids and adults alike to learn a little bit about this community’s agricultural heritage and its history. All the buildings are open with activities going on in each one. The grounds and pavilion were populated with folks selling antiques, food and produce. The most popular display each year is the Animal Zone that is organized by Sue Harper-Grieger. The best estimate is over 2,000 were in attendance at this free event.
Jim Mallery Honored at WMU Homecoming
It’s really nice that Western Michigan University has recognized Vicksburg’s new village manager. He has been selected by his alma mater to receive an outstanding alumni achievement award from the School of Public Affair and Administration. He will be honored for his years in public service on Friday, October 7 at a ceremony as part of the university’s Homecoming events. He achieved a Bachelor degree in Business Administration and a Master’s in Public Administration during his years at WMU. For 25 years he served with the Kalamazoo City Police Department, rising to Captain before retiring and stepping into the shoes of Ken Schippers, Vicksburg’s previous village manager. During 18 of those years he and his wife Stephanie have been Vicksburg residents and raised their three sons, Drew, Luke and Cole, in this community.
Apple Knockers Owners to Open Drive-Through Coffee Shop
The plan right now is to open a coffee shop and drive through in property at 625 W. Prairie Street in Vicksburg. The three ladies who own Apple Knockers, Paula Hochstetler, Angela Palomaki, and Rita Sertic, are expanding the business with an eye toward opening around the first of the year. The Bulldog Fitness Center and hair styling business will remain in the building that was once owned by Jack Fryling and his family.
The Girl Garage Has Closed
It’s sad to see that Tanya DeLong has left Vicksburg’s Main Street business sector. She got involved in many good events going on in the village and her store had a special vibe. She plans to work out of her home for the time being and still hold court with many of her sewing and knitting buddies. Her enthusiasm and caring for the village will not cease, she said.