by Justin Gibson | Jul 4, 2018 | Government, Vicksburg
State Senator Margaret O’Brien attended the Vicksburg Village Council meeting to announce a grant from the state. It is $55,000 to resurface Wellhouse Drive near Sunset School. It was awarded as part of the state’s request for shovel-ready projects according to O’Brien.
By Sue Moore
Water and sewage disposal rates could increase by $80 or $90 per quarter for an average user if the Vicksburg Village Council follows recommendations from its engineering and financial consultants.
Council members reviewed an analysis by Mike Swartz, senior engineer from Prein&Newhof and the village’s consultant on sewer and water infrastructure. His report was derived from studies conducted over the last two years, with 90 percent funded from a grant from the state of Michigan.
The analysis focused on the work that needs to be done in capital improvements from 10 to 20 years out, Swartz said. He brought in an expert on financing major sewer infrastructure from Umbaugh & Associates, a Lansing financial advisory firm represented by Andy Campbell.
The total estimated cost for improvements is $11,673,500. Campbell said the best way to finance a project of this magnitude would be through a bond issue through the U.S. Department of Agriculture and that the application needed to be made within the next few months to lock in the most favorable rates.
To pay off these loans would require an increase in rates for both utilities, Campbell explained in his cash flow analysis of the two systems. The more costly improvements are to the sewer infrastructure. A 40-year bond issue of $8.9 million would require increases for an average homeowner, one using 13,500 gallons per quarter, from $82 now to $126 in 2018-2019, $157 in 2019-2020 and $163 in 2020-2021.
Water rates to make the debt service payments on a $1.37-million 40-year bond with a finance rate of 3.125% would increase each year from $61.35 per quarter currently to $63.48, $65.70 and $68.00 by 2020-2021.
The council had been reviewing these findings for several months with Swartz but this is the first time the entire board was included in the presentations. “I thought the members were extremely calm in their reaction,” Swartz said. “They understand the need for the project and that rates will need to increase to pay for it. They are being pro-active to manage the system and maintain their assets that are all underground in the best way possible.”
Village Manager Jim Mallery received a raise and praise from his bosses.
Trustee Gail Reisterer summed it up for the Council: “The Village must continue to feed the positive momentum we have generated in recent years. The Council believes that Mr. Mallery is the right person to keep leading us in our mission to be the best small village in America. Thus, we propose a 2.5 percent raise to his base salary to bring it to $70,213 and a one-time performance bonus of five percent for 2017-2018.”
The council sweetened the deal with a unique salary incentive – $5,000 for each of the remaining four years of his current employment contract; he will be eligible to collect the $20,000 if he remains village manager through the year 2022. “The council is confident this compensation package will be an excellent investment in the future of the Village,” Reisterer said.
Reisterer has been consistent in her support of Mallery, saying he has brought superb budgeting skills and money management to his position over the last two years as village manager. To demonstrate this, he spent the better part of his manager’s report outlining the quarterly budget adjustments that needed to be made to conclude the 2017-2018 fiscal year with a balanced budget. It is especially sweet for the council as it has insisted upon this while driving to increase the fund balance up to a goal of 15 percent this fiscal year. That has been achieved.
by Justin Gibson | Jul 4, 2018 | Government, Vicksburg
By Jef Rietsma
The village of Vicksburg has adopted a new zoning ordinance designation in an effort to encourage innovation in land use, starting with redevelopment of the former Simpson paper mill.
But other areas in the village might qualify as well, Village Manager Jim Mallery said.
Following endorsement May 30 from the Planning Commission, the seven-member Village Council June 4 approved enabling language for Planned Unit Development Districts (PUD).
According to Mallery, a PUD typically includes a plan that features components of commercial, residential and industrial on the same parcel.
Mill officials said if their application for a Planned United Development district is filed soon, the next step would be a review by Village staff before being fielded by the Planning Commission. The matter would then end up in the hands of council members and be subjected to a public hearing before the request is officially approved.
It could be the end of summer before the Council acts on the mill application, mill project officials said.
Objectives of such developments allow more desirable living, shopping and working environments by preserving as much of the natural character of the property as possible, encourage preservation of open space and development of recreational space and facilities.
The Mill proposal calls at first for a brewery, but with retail, residential and other uses to follow.
Mallery said developers have a tendency to look at communities with PUD zoning as progressive, business-friendly entities.An addition the language allows the village Council to deviate from the PUD standards on a case-by-case basis when reviewing and approving a PUD district application. It also adds: “Any modification from these standards shall be requested in the application and, if approved, outlined in the development agreement.”
Planning Director Bobby Durkee told the Council that the addition is unique compared to other PUDs he is aware of because it is allowing for uses and developments that almost no zoning ordinance could fully address.
by Justin Gibson | Jul 4, 2018 | Government, Vicksburg
The village of Vicksburg police department will be gathering children from all the neighborhoods to play kickball, soccer and whiffle ball during July and August.
By Sue Moore
In an effort to reach out to children in the Vicksburg community, Police Chief Scott Sanderson is starting a series of events this summer that involve his officers and any youngster who would like to participate.
Kickball with the Cops will take place on Thursday, June 28 from 5-6 p.m. at the Centennial playground in back of the clubhouse. Boys and girls from all ages are welcome to participate and get to know the men who protect them day and night, according to Chief Sanderson.
Soccer with the kids is the next scheduled get-together with young people. It’s set for Thursday, July 12 at the Sunset Lake school playground from 5-6 p.m.
Whiffle ball is on the agenda for Thursday, Aug. 9 at Centennial from 5-6 p.m. All of these will be listed on the village’s Facebook page should there be a weather-related cancellation.
To celebrate the National Night Out program and bring Vicksburg’s many residents together, local police, fire department personnel and ambulance service members will meet the public at Clark Park from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7. “This is our chance for the public to get to know law enforcement and other personnel who protect and serve the people of this community,” Sanderson said.
There are new officers on the Vicksburg police force: Taylor Herrick was hired in the fall of 2017. New part-time officers Joe Sheteron and James Skidmore fill in when needed, Sanderson said.
by Justin Gibson | Jul 4, 2018 | Obituaries, Schoolcraft, Vicksburg
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Arthur Edward Shultz.
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Wendell L. Glidden.
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Phyllis M. Jungjohan.
Cindy Chapman, 52, Scotts, passed away May 28. Cindy was born on September 24, 1965 in Three Rivers. She was the daughter of Marvin and Millie (Brown) Forsyth. She is survived by her husband, Mitchell; children Stephanie Allgaier and Andrew Chapman. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life is scheduled for her; more information will be provided in the days to come. Visit Cindy’s page at mccowensecord.com. Donations may go to her GoFundMe page.
Evelyn D. Chapman, 97, Schoolcraft, passed away June 10. Evelyn was born in Kalamazoo on November 22, 1920, the daughter of the late Carroll and Katherine (Beard) DesVoignes. Evelyn was also preceded in death by her step-mother, Mildred (Gish) DesVoignes. She was a kind and loving person whose gentle nature and warm smile made her a joy to be around. On August 14, 1943, she married the love of her life, Benjamin Chapman Jr., who preceded her in passing on January 25, 1985. In 2000, Evelyn moved to Schoolcraft, where she enjoyed working in her yard and spending time with her family and friends. She and her husband were long-time members of First Presbyterian Church of Schoolcraft. She was currently an assisted living resident of Heritage Community of Kalamazoo. She leaves to cherish her memory three daughters, Marilyn (Larry) Pierce, Ruth (Richard) DeVries and Linda (Kent) Bacon; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; a sister, Norma Spicketts; sister-in-law, Phyllis DesVoignes; and several nieces, nephews, and great friends. Donations may go to the church c/o the funeral home. Visit her page at joldersma-klein.com.
Sharon Flickinger, Schoolcraft, died June 3. Sharon was born February 16, 1947 in Indianapolis, Ind., a daughter of Orval and Audrey (Russell) Rice. She was a Kalamazoo area resident most of her life and was employed with Western Michigan University for over 30 years, retiring in 2009. Sharon was preceded in death by her parents. On June 17, 1967, she was united in marriage to Thomas H. Flickinger, who survives. Also surviving are a son, Michael “Mike” (Jodi) Flickinger of Vicksburg; granddaughters Chelsea and Kaylee Flickinger; sisters Nancy Birch of Virginia and Debbie (John) Tucker of Colorado; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. A memorial gathering was held Saturday, June 16 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel. Private burial will take place at a later date. Donations may go to Gift of Life or to the West Michigan Cancer Center. Visit her page at langelands.com.
Wendell L. Glidden, 78, Portage, formerly of Schoolcraft, passed away June 9. Wendell was born on September 26, 1939 in Kalamazoo. He was the son of Lloyd and Camilla (Hulbert) Glidden. Wendell is described as happy, smooth and caring. He loved to sing and watch the Detroit Tigers. You could never fool him however, with what time the Tiger game was on. Wendell was cared for the past few years by the loving staff at the Schuring Road Adult Foster Care. Wendell is survived by his siblings, Ronald Glidden, of Florida; Lee (Carla) Glidden, of Vicksburg; Thomas (Sandy) Glidden, of Climax; Elwin (Diane) Glidden, of Tennessee; Dawn (Jack) Grosenbach, of California; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings Alice Hannar, Linn Glidden and Robert Glidden. A funeral service was held on Thursday, June 14 at the McCowen & Secord Family Funeral Home, Rupert-Durham Chapel, Vicksburg, followed by burial at the Wildey Cemetery in Paw Paw. Visit his page at mccowensecord.com. Donations may go to the Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.
Dave Haywood, 57, Vicksburg, passed away June 8 at home surrounded by loved ones. Dave was born July 30, 1960 to Roland Haywood and Judy (Haywood) Preston. Dave was a lover of all things outdoors. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, Maxine, spending time at their cabin up north snowmobiling, riding his Harley and most recently his boat in South Haven. Dave is survived by his mother Judy; mother-in-law Betty Dorey; his wife of 38 years, Maxine; children David Haywood (Tiffany) and Jennifer Caswell (Trevor); grandchildren Dylan Haywood, Isabelle Haywood, Victoria Haywood, Gavin Caswell, Gabrielle Caswell and many more extended family members. Dave was preceded in death by his father, Roland Haywood, and father-in-law, Marvin Dorey. Visit his page at avinkcremation.com.
Phyllis M. Jungjohan, 86, Mendon, died May 29, at her son’s home in Milton, Fla. following a long illness. She was born in Three Rivers, on Nov. 9, 1931, the daughter of Ray and Ruby (Draime) Anderson. She graduated from Vicksburg High School and Wright’s Beauty Academy. She was the proprietor of Phyllis’ Beauty Shop in downtown Mendon for over 29 years. Phyllis was an active member of the West Mendon United Methodist Church, the Mendon Women’s Club and the Order of Eastern Star Chapter 154. She served as trustee for the Mendon Carnegie Library; and was a member of the Friends of the Library. She enjoyed travel, gardening, chocolate, and large fancy hats. She was married to Kenneth Leroy Jungjohan on July 15, 1950. They resided near Mendon until Kenneth’s passing in 2014. Phyllis is survived by sons William (Lana) Jungjohan of Mottville, Mich., Gordon (Denise) Jungjohan of Destrehan, La., and Kenneth Jr. (Liza) Jungjohan of Milton, Fla.; eight grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, three great great-grandchildren, brothers Ralph (Betty) Anderson and Martin (Diane) Anderson; sister-in-law Laverna Anderson; brother-in-law Jerry Crabtree; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kenneth; daughter and son-in-law, Linda (Gary) Phelps; siblings Arthur Anderson, Janet Crabtree, Joan (Garold) Conine, and Ruth Ann Manion. Donations may go to Heartland Hospice, the West Mendon Community Church or Mendon Food Cupboard. Visit her page at eickhofffuneralhome.com.
Marion Joseph (Skeeter) Pacukewicz, passed away on June 20. He was born in Mishawaka, Ind. on February 27, 1925 to Ludwig and Mary (Madjeda) Pacukewicz. His three older siblings did not approve of the name Marion, nicknaming him “Skeeter” after a comic strip character. Upon graduating from Mishawka High School in 1943, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the European theater and with occupation forces in the Asiatic theater. Skeeter was discharged in 1946, and then attended Kalamazoo College on the GI Bill. While living in Kalamazoo, he met Thelma Potts. They were married on July 12, 1947. The newlyweds soon moved to Mishawaka where he was employed by the Studebaker Corporation. In the mid-50s, he got into the grocery business, training as a meat cutter in Berrien Springs. In 1965, he was transferred to Vicksburg to manage the Thriftway grocery store and moved to Barton Lake. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and gardening. Skeeter was preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Thelma; a daughter, Judi (Steve) Holton; a son, Gary Pacukewicz; a niece, Bernice McClure; sister in-law Betty Proovost; and several additional nieces and extended family. Donations may go to Kalamazoo Gospel Mission or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Services were held Saturday, June 23 at McCowen & Secord Family Funeral Home, Vicksburg. Visit his page at mccowensecord.com.
Charlotte Rice, died June 6. She was born to Charles and Muriel Stuck on March 3, 1919. She graduated from Fulton High School in 1939. She went through the nursing program at the state hospital in Kalamazoo. She was married to Win Rice in 1941. He went off to war that year. When she was in her 50s, Charlotte started working at the Bronson Vicksburg Hospital. Once they retired, Charlotte and Win took at least one trip a year going to places such as Alaska, Hawaii, Disneyland, Disney World, the Canary Islands, and Europe. Charlotte was proactive into her 90s. Charlotte’s family includes her children, Sue (Roger) Lucas and Mike (Carolyn) Rice; a sister, Iva (Dick) Snyder; grandchildren Wendy (Steve) Caverly, Kim (John) Hayes, Tony (Vickie Mann) Wells, Angie (Paul) Rechlin, Jill (Dave) Partaka, John (Stacia) Lucas and Kathy (Jason) Hopkins; and great-grandchildren Joshua Benn, Katy Benn, Brooke Perry, Sarah Hayes, Ty Hayes, Austin Wells, Nate Rechlin, Emilee Partaka, Davey Partaka, Lucas Hopkins, Sidney Hopkins and Brody Hopkins. Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Winston Rice; siblings Milton (Ruth) Stuck, Polly (Perry) Barnes, Laura Groth, and Nora (Harold) Wise. Visit her page at mccowensecord.com. Donations may go to Vicksburg United Methodist Church or Hope Hospice in Cape Coral, Florida.
Arthur Edward Shultz, 73, Vicksburg, passed away June 15. Art was the son of Kenneth and Lena (Hildenbrandt) Shultz. He graduated from Vicksburg High School and then went on to work for over 30 years as a forklift driver for the General Motors Fisher Body. On January 21, 1967, in Vicksburg, he married the love of his life, Helen Huntington. Art was a jokester, fun loving, and a wonderful husband. He loved to fish, hunt, and was a wonderful woodworker. Up until a few years ago the family had a cottage near Hardy Dam. At home, Art was always seen with his two boxers, Willie and Ozzie. Art is survived by his wife, Helen; children Brenda (Dale) Butcher, of Vicksburg; Jodie Shultz, of Vicksburg and Amy (Scott) Bell, of Mendon; grandchildren Tyler Shultz, of Mendon; Brittany Warner, of Vicksburg; Ryan Bell, of Mendon; and Kyle Bell, of Mendon. He is also survived by his four best friends: Art English, of Athens; Stan Gose, of Vicksburg; Ronnie Miller, of Vicksburg; and Jerry Parsons, of Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Lena Shultz. Arthur has been cremated and will be interred at the Vicksburg Cemetery at a later date. Visit his page at mccowensecord.com. The family is being assisted by the McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes, Rupert-Durham Chapel, Vicksburg.
Phyllis L. Smith, passed away peacefully January 19, with her family and friends by her side. Phyllis was born July 22, 1935, in Kalamazoo, the daughter of Merritt and Gertrude (Elgersma) Holt. She was employed at the Upjohn Company for 32 years before retiring. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Roy Smith, on June 28,1955. Phyllis loved renovating the farmhouse she and her husband lived in near Vicksburg. She had a passion for creating beautiful flower gardens and she readily shared flowers from her own garden to help start others. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Roy Smith; a brother, Milan Robert Holt; a sister, Ida Mae Cutshaw, and a daughter, Nancy Worthington. Phyllis is survived by her daughters, Amy Smith and Karen (Ted) Hammond; grandchildren Abby Hammond, Lyndsay Hammond and Tyler (Jennifer) Worthington, and several nieces and nephews. Donations may go to Rose Arbor Hospice or the Ladies Library Association. Visit her page at langelands.com.
David A. Watkins, 66, formerly of Schoolcraft, passed away June 1, at IU Health Goshen Hospital. He was born in Schoolcraft September 12, 1951 to the late George and Colleen (Shearer) Watkins. He was preceded in death by his sister, Ann Watkins. David was a computer analyst for many years and was also a member of the Eagles Lodge. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing pool, taking care of his birds and spending time with his grandchildren. On December 10, 2016, he married Patty L. Castle; she survives along with one son, Bryon (Jennifer) Watkins, stepchildren Rhonda (Patrick) Potter, Jared (Christina) Myrkle, Jonathan (Cassie) Myrkle, Jessica (Marty) Clawson, Angel Myrkle, Karilynn Swiger, Amanda Linville, Sebastian (Samantha) Wolf and Jasmine Beatty. Also surviving are 30 grandchildren and brothers John (Leeanne) Watkins and Robert Watkins. A celebration of life gathering was held Saturday, June 9, at Sister Lakes Community Church, Dowagiac. Due to David’s love of birds, please send memorial contributions to A Place To Call Home Parrot Rescue & Adoption. Elkhart Cremation Services has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Walter E. Wedel, 89, Fulton, passed away June 4. He was born to Benjamin and Mabel (Reebs) Wedel on September 9, 1928. His father worked on the family farm that was established in 1876. Walt graduated from Athens High School in 1946, was drafted into the Army and served during the Korean conflict. Walt also served for three years as the president of the USA National Shuffleboard Association. Within his community, Walt served in local government, including all positions on the board in Wakeshma Township, and also served as a Kalamazoo county commissioner. Walt and his wife, Ann, were inducted into the Michigan Farmer’s Hall of Fame as well as the Shuffleboard Hall of Fame. He was also a member of Wakeshma Community Church. Walt was kind and soft spoken, and his wit made him a true charmer. Walt’s family includes his wife, Ann; children Benjamin Wedel, of South Carolina; Cyndi Frakes, of Vicksburg; Tim Wedel, of Kalamazoo; and Lori (David) Fry, of Fulton; grandchildren Jonathan (Michele) Frakes, of Portage; Heather Frakes, of Kalamazoo; Jessica (Randy) Bartholomew, of Fulton; Michael (Catherine) Fry, of Ohio; Travis (Vanessa) Fry, of Ypsilanti; Levi Fry, of East Lansing; 10 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Walt was preceded in death by his siblings, Wayne Wedel, Rex Wedel, and Anna Crotser; and son-in-law John Frakes. Funeral services were held on Saturday, June 9 at the Wakeshma Community Church, Fulton, followed by burial at North Fulton Cemetery. Visit Walt’s page at mccowensecord.com. Donations may go to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan and Wakeshma Community Church.
by Justin Gibson | Jul 4, 2018 | Government, Schoolcraft, Vicksburg
Jim Harris (75) with Diane Durian, South County Community Services senior outreach director, who helped him cut through the bureaucracy to get medical help.
By Sue Moore
Services for senior citizens for many years have been offered by the South County Community Services agency in this area. “We have only scratched the surface of what is needed for seniors,” said Danna Downing, the agency’s executive director.
Now Kalamazoo County government has placed a .35-mill property tax proposal on the August primary election ballot so voters can decide whether to fund services to seniors in a more inclusive way. If the proposal passes, it would bring Kalamazoo County more in line with services provided to seniors in surrounding counties, such as Calhoun, Van Buren, Allegan and St. Joseph, Downing pointed out. Of Michigan’s 83 counties, voters in 73 have approved property taxes for seniors to supplement what’s available through state and federal funds allocated through the state’s Area Agencies on Aging.
The millage, if approved, would cost the owner of a home with a taxable valuation of $100,000 $35 annually.
Proponents of the tax increase cite the aging population of baby boomers who have unmet needs in housing, food provisions, health care and aging-in-place situations. And they cite statistics to show that it is cost-effective to provide in-home support when compared with costs of assisted living or nursing homes.
An opponent of the millage proposal, County Commissioner John Gisler, R-Scotts, agrees that the services are needed but contends they could be provided through other county funding mechanisms of the county. These have yet to be identified by Gisler in his public presentations.
Jim and Virginia Shaw and Bill Oswalt recently sent a letter to residents of South County in support of the millage, saying the money will help to provide essential, affordable services for vulnerable citizens and their caregivers, to assure they age safely with the quality of life they deserve. In addition, the funds would provide for other critical services such as adult day care, respite care, home safety repairs, outreach services to isolated seniors, escorted transportation, elder abuse prevention, support for a long-term care ombudsman and healthy living classes, they said.
Downing cites a prime example of a person that her agency has supported. “Walden Pond is probably the most famous writing of Henry David Thoreau. For Vicksburg’s Jim Harris, it was a book that shaped his life goal to live life simply and with self-reliance. ‘I always have been healthy and strong and able to work hard with my hands. But I have the Harris gene,’ Jim said with a chuckle, ‘and when I turned 77, I thought that, like my siblings, I was crashing toward the end of my life.’ That was when his friends and neighbors reached out to South County Community Services for assistance. That was also when Jim met his ‘guardian angel,’ Diane Durian, the senior outreach coordinator at SCCS.”
“Harris told us, ‘I was so surprised at the amount of energy Diane spent helping me get the information and help I needed to get the medical care that saved my life.’ Because he had been so healthy, Jim did not have a doctor and could not find all the paperwork required for medical care coverage. Together he and Diane gathered up all the pieces, starting with proof of his graduation from Kalamazoo Central High School and ending with successful implementation of health coverage so that he could have needed surgery. The tables were turned and all the bread he had baked and custom wood working he had done for his friends came back to him in life-restoring ways. Friends and neighbors partnered with Diane to provide chore support, healthy meals and whatever else was needed to get him back on his feet. Like many other seniors in the more rural parts of Kalamazoo County, Jim needed some help. With that help, Jim was able to come back into the community to share his gifts, talents and lovely sense of humor.”
The Oswalt and Shaws’ support letter asks for more senior professionals who will be able to contract with AAA to provide the type of services that saved Jim Harris’ life. For more information about the Say YES to Seniors on August 7 millage proposal, go to http://www.SayYesToSeniors.org.
by Justin Gibson | Jul 4, 2018 | Government, Schoolcraft, Vicksburg
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Alberta Griffin.
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Corey Kendal.
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Matt Hall.
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Dave Maturen.
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David Benac.
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Rich Eichholz.
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George Franklin.
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Matt Longjohn.
By Sue Moore
Despite the importance of Michigan’s party primary elections, only about 20 percent of the population turns out to vote, according to Kalamazoo County Clerk Tim Snow. “That’s a sad statistic because so many of our elected officials are decided in the primaries, at least in Kalamazoo County.”
One reason may be that it’s so early in the two-year election cycle that voters are not paying attention to the contested races, Snow theorized. And a voter can only mark the Republican or Democratic ballot. Crossing over from voting in a race in one party primary to vote in a race in another is prohibited. It becomes more of a party-line exercise in democracy.
The South County News is running its primary election information in the July issue in hopes of giving voters time to study the candidates and make plans to vote on August 7. Although there are contests for governor and senator on the ballot, the newspaper is focusing on the local candidates whose positions have direct impact upon the people of South County. That includes races for the Republican nomination in the 63rd state representative district covering the east side of Kalamazoo county and west side of Calhoun county. The Democratic nomination in the 61st state representative contest covers the west side of Kalamazoo county.
There is also a contested Democratic primary race in the 6th Congressional district for Congress to oppose Republican incumbent Fred Upton, who has held the office for over 20 years.
Each candidate for a contested office, with the exception of governor, was given the opportunity to send in a 200-word biography and a photo.
Alberta Griffin – Democratic Candidate for 61st District State Representative
The seeds of honest dialogue and hard work often yield a harvest of success in family, friendships and community. Alberta Griffin believes that these seeds can also be planted in politics to yield an even greater harvest of success in government. A mother of three school-aged children, founder and president of her own company, AGS Data LLC, a professor and Thurgood Marshall Doctoral Fellow at WMU, Alberta is no stranger to hard work, persistence and achieving impact driven success. A longtime resident of Kalamazoo, she has devoted herself to improving the health and well-being of those in this community for over 20 years. Early in her career, “Berta” served as Head Start Nutritionist and WIC Program Coordinator. Her love for seeing data-driven results lead her to serve as an epidemiologist as well. Berta’s work intersects systems of health, education and economic development. This has made her a strong advocate for polices that led to equality in education funding, equitable access to healthcare and providing an opportunity for families to advance their social and economic welfare.
We need an accountable, knowledgeable, and honest leader in the 61st. It is time for a change, and Alberta Griffin is here to drive success!
Corey Kendal – Democratic Candidate for 61st District State Representative
Corey Kendal works with the youth of Mattawan Schools, where he helps shape the future of generations while enjoying the teaching aspect of it. He grew up in small town Vicksburg and now resides in Kalamazoo, staying close to home to try and impact more on the community he has grown to love. Being the oldest of four kids, he took on a leadership role fast. Now at the age of 23, he has been entertained by both KVCC and Western Michigan University working hard for a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. While diligently balancing his schedule, he is now running for state representative. While having non-traditional views, his hopes are to achieve an inclusive community, and to preserve our natural resources to benefit Michigan as a whole. Having first-hand experiences with the struggles of an everyday Michigander helps him stay level-headed and dedicated to this experience.
Thomas Whitener – Democratic Candidate for 61st District State Representative
Thomas Whitener is a 32-year-old game designer, living in Portage, and is a Democrat running for State Representative in the 61st District, which covers Portage, Schoolcraft, Prairie Ronde, Texas Township, and Oshtemo. He is married to Dr. Margaret (Meg) Beckner Whitener, who works as the microbiologist at Bell’s Brewery. As a 11-year veteran of the video games industry, Thomas has worked to write rules and make them fair for everyone that played. He wants to take that training and critical eye to Lansing, and apply it to the rules of the game we all have to play. Thomas comes from a family of public servants, business leaders, and educators, starting with his grandfather, Basil L. Whitener Sr., a United States House of Representatives member from 1957 to 1968. Thomas is running because, as his grandfather said, “If you don’t vote, you can’t complain. And if there is no one that you want to vote for, run!”
Thomas wants to make sure that Michigan’s children have the best education they possibly can, a beautiful environment to explore, and ability to access to the opportunities that they deserve.
Paul Foust – Republican Candidate for 63rd District State Representative
I am Paul Foust, age 30, candidate for state representative. I hold B.S. and M.A. degrees from Western Michigan University. I have served as Richland Township Trustee since November 2012 and have been a lifelong resident of the Richland/Gull Lake area. With my campaign for state representative, I have two objectives: reforming/downsizing Michigan’s bloated bureaucracy and redoubling efforts to preserve local autonomy in planning/zoning issues. I have been endorsed by several community organizations, including two PACs associated with Right to Work initiatives. I look forward to earning your vote this August. Thank you for this opportunity to be heard.
Matt Hall – Republican Candidate for 63rd District State Representative
My name is Matt Hall, a constitutional law attorney and 34 years old, who lives in Emmett Township. I served as Congressional District Chairman for Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, worked for the Michigan Attorney General’s office and in the private sector for a combat vehicle propulsion systems manufacturer, and graduated from Western Michigan University and WMU Cooley Law School. I’m running for state representative to fight for our conservative principles and stand with President Trump and his agenda, which is revitalizing our country. Specifically, I will fight to lower auto insurance rates, strengthen our economy, ban sanctuary cities, cut taxes, implement work requirements for welfare, and defend the right to life and our Second Amendment Rights. The incumbent, David Maturen, is far too liberal for us. David Maturen voted against lowering auto insurance rates, against Constitutional Carry Second Amendment Rights, and against making English our official language, but he voted for taxpayer-funding of abortion and higher taxes. While I was the first Michigan Republican Party official to endorse Donald Trump for president and chaired his campaign locally, David Maturen abandoned Donald Trump in his election against Hillary Clinton. I’m conservative, support President Trump and will fight for you.
David C. Maturen – Republican Candidate for 63rd District State Representative
David C. Maturen, age 70, married to Nancy for 47 years. Three daughters – all attended Vicksburg Schools. Five grandchildren. Current Republican State Representative 63rd House District – 2nd term. Kalamazoo County Commissioner for the South County area (12 years – 3 as Chair). Brady Township Trustee (14 years). Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from WMU. Owner of Maturen & Assoc. – Real Estate Appraisers for 30 years. Over 38 years ago, I put down roots in the Vicksburg area. It has been a great place to live and raise a family. I have used my skills in the world of valuation and property tax to help my neighbors and residents of our great state. My Public Act (PA) 217 of 2015 eliminated paying a state transfer tax when one sold one’s home at a loss, helped farmers avoid a tripling or quadrupling of their property taxes when buying agricultural property, and helped generate more money for children with special needs. I have one more term to serve in the House. I want to continue my record of service to the residents of the cities, towns and farming communities of Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties.
David Benac – Democratic Candidate for Congress 6th District
David Benac, 44 years old, married. I grew up working a family farm in Alpena before completing a history degree at MSU. After finishing my education in Indiana and Missouri, I took a teaching job in Louisiana, then had the opportunity to return to Michigan to teach here. Since my first day teaching I’ve been a union member and for the past five years I’ve been an elected member of my union’s association council. I was a delegate for Senator Sanders to the Platform Committee of the Democratic National Party, a co-founder of the Kalamazoo Earth Day Festival in Bronson Park, and I am vice-chair of the Michigan Democratic Party Environmental Caucus. I am running for Congress because it is time we stopped auctioning off our government and elected working people to represent the working class. I am running to represent you, to work for Medicare for All, union protections, sustainable agriculture, a world class public education for every student, to create jobs through infrastructure development and small business programs, and to end the corporate control of our government.
Rich Eichholz – Democratic Candidate for Congress 6th District
I’m Rich Eichholz, the scientist with 30 years of healthcare business development experience. I’ve helped 150 companies get started and grow. I am also a former public school, union teacher. I’m 70 years old and live in New Buffalo Township with my wife and son. My experience has taught me to respect and work with people of diverse backgrounds and views. In business, that experience helped me to achieve win-win collaborations; in Congress it will help me reach across the aisle to get results. I’m running for U.S. Congress in part to restore the critical role science – and facts – used to play in Washington. As your Congressman, I will focus on creating an infrastructure and education jobs program that will build a 21st-century economy here in southwest Michigan and across the country that works for everyone, protects our planet, and provides universal healthcare. To modernize our infrastructure and grow our economy, we must first renew our commitment to high-quality public education for everyone. Then we must train workers for the good-paying jobs that will rebuild our electric grid, and bring highspeed, broadband internet to every home, manufacturing plant, and farm in the country. Learn more at richeichholz.com.
George Franklin – Democratic Candidate for Congress 6th District
George Franklin, age: 67, Wife – Molly Franklin, daughters – Katy and Christy. I’ve spent my life working to make a difference and improve lives. I moved to Michigan over 30 years ago and have been deeply involved in the community ever since, volunteering and helping to lift families up and give people a fair shot. I’ve spent most of my career working at Kellogg Company and have had my own small business for the last 12 years. During my time in leadership at Kellogg I worked with the union and workers to protect jobs and the local community. I served on the Board of Trustees of Western Michigan University. For 11 years, I worked to help grow the university and expand educational opportunities for people of all ages. President Bill Clinton appointed me to the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade (ATAC) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. I advocated for our agricultural workers, strengthening export opportunities for local farmers. I will be a strong, progressive voice for southwest Michigan. A lifelong Democrat, I am fed up with Republicans in Congress who refuse to stand up to Donald Trump’s dangerous agenda. In Congress, I will fight Republican attempts to limit access to health care for women and weaken Social Security and Medicare.
Matt Longjohn – Democratic Candidate for Congress for the 6th District
Dr. Longjohn is running for Congress to improve the health and quality of life for everyone. A high quality of life depends on having access to affordable health care, a safe and healthy environment, educational opportunities and the resources needed to make ends meet. Matt’s policy priorities and decisions will always be based on the greatest potential to improve the lives of those he aims to serve. He won’t let special interests or Washington politics get in the way of delivering results for hard-working families. Matt understands that a commitment to collaboration, inclusiveness, high ethical standards, and civility when working through difficult issues are all keys to leadership. He also knows first-hand that young people and their families sometimes struggle and may need a hand to get on their feet. His track record as an innovator and problem solver proves he has the skills required to effectively practice this kind of effective leadership on local, regional and national levels. His values reflect the shared community values of this district: prioritizing family and community; treating all people fairly; living up to the promise of a handshake.
John James – Republican Candidate for U.S. Senate
John James, 37 years of age. I have two little boys, John and Hudson, with my loving and patient wife, Elizabeth. I grew up in southeast Michigan and Elizabeth is from west Michigan; she grew up in Ada. We are active members of Brightmoor Christian Church. I am a pro-business, 100-percent pro-life, pro-Second Amendment conservative with demonstrated energetic leadership, clarity of vision and a passion for service. After graduating from West Point, I served overseas as a Ranger-qualified Apache helicopter pilot and led two platoons during Operation Iraqi Freedom where I flew 753.8 combat flight hours. I am very proud to say that I brought all of the men in my command back home to their families. After I came home, I led my family company, growing it from $35 million to $137 million and hired 100 new workers. I support President Donald Trump’s agenda and when I am elected to the Senate, I will represent all Michiganders and help my Commander in Chief unify Washington. I am honored to be the only U.S. Senate candidate to be endorsed by the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and the only candidate endorsed by Right to Life.
