By Brandy Navetta
Zeeland Public Schools
Zeeland Public Schools held its first annual Veterans Day assembly Nov. 11 at Zeeland East High School’s DeWitt Auditorium. It was a powerful tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our country.
The event centered around honoring ZPS staff members who are veterans, allowing our students and staff to recognize those in our own school family who have protected our freedoms through their service. Their names and stories were shared as part of a moving tribute that anchored the event in both pride and gratitude.
Students across the district either filled the auditorium or viewed the assembly via livestream in classrooms. All students could take part in an educational and meaningful moment.
The program featured heartfelt performances by the Zeeland High School Advanced String Ensemble and Varsity Voices, setting the tone for reflection and unity. Students led tributes and recognitions, supported by a number of ZPS staff and administrators who helped shape the event.
Two special guests joined us to deepen our understanding of Veterans Day:
• Col. Andrew Kuhns, a Zeeland community member and parent, served as the keynote speaker, delivering a powerful message about commitment, leadership, and sacrifice.
• Sgt. 1st Class Gage Westhouse also spoke, reminding students why this day holds deep significance and encouraging them to carry its meaning forward with respect and appreciation.
At Zeeland Public Schools, we believe in creating space to teach not only academic content, but character, citizenship, and the importance of gratitude. This assembly was an opportunity to do just that — and we’re proud to make it a lasting tradition.
Zeeland Public Schools
Zeeland Public Schools held its first annual Veterans Day assembly Nov. 11 at Zeeland East High School’s DeWitt Auditorium. It was a powerful tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our country.
The event centered around honoring ZPS staff members who are veterans, allowing our students and staff to recognize those in our own school family who have protected our freedoms through their service. Their names and stories were shared as part of a moving tribute that anchored the event in both pride and gratitude.
Students across the district either filled the auditorium or viewed the assembly via livestream in classrooms. All students could take part in an educational and meaningful moment.
The program featured heartfelt performances by the Zeeland High School Advanced String Ensemble and Varsity Voices, setting the tone for reflection and unity. Students led tributes and recognitions, supported by a number of ZPS staff and administrators who helped shape the event.
Two special guests joined us to deepen our understanding of Veterans Day:
• Col. Andrew Kuhns, a Zeeland community member and parent, served as the keynote speaker, delivering a powerful message about commitment, leadership, and sacrifice.
• Sgt. 1st Class Gage Westhouse also spoke, reminding students why this day holds deep significance and encouraging them to carry its meaning forward with respect and appreciation.
At Zeeland Public Schools, we believe in creating space to teach not only academic content, but character, citizenship, and the importance of gratitude. This assembly was an opportunity to do just that — and we’re proud to make it a lasting tradition.
County Receives $500,000 for Brownfield Cleanup
By Rich C. Lakeberg
Ottawa County Project Support Specialist
Cracked pavement. Decomposing building materials. An office building that's technically in use, but 90 percent empty.
Every community has vacant, blighted, or underutilized property in need of revitalization. What stands in the way of redeveloping these sites? Contamination – or the mere perception of it.
Environmental assessments can ease contamination concerns by providing answers but can be expensive. Now, interested parties in Ottawa County have an opportunity to offset these costs and set underutilized properties back on the path toward redevelopment thanks to $500,000 in assessment grant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
"Many properties can languish for years because of contaminant fears," said Becky Huttenga, Ottawa County Agriculture & Economic Development Coordinator. "Having a completed assessment can open doors for further investment."
First announced in May, these Brownfield Assessment, Revolving Loan Fund, and Cleanup (ARC) funds are now available for conducting Phase I site assessments, which help reveal current property conditions and any possible environmental threats; and Phase II environmental site assessments, which are conducted if any known or potential contamination has been found on said property. Additionally, these funds can also be used for any other due care or cleanup planning and reports.
Qualified developers, local units of government or individuals can complete a nomination form by visiting miottawa.org/ brownfields and scrolling to the United States Environmental Protection Agency Grant Funding dropdown. Once submitted, the Ottawa County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, EPA, and in some cases the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) will evaluate the property information. If approved, a qualified environmental professional contracted by the county will perform the authorized assessment or planning activities.
Priority is being given to sites in the cities of Holland and Grand Haven near waterways but may be used for other areas following a thorough site selection process overseen by OCBRA. Grand Haven, for its part, relishes this chance to revive underutilized sites.
"The EPA's brownfield assessment funds present an exciting opportunity for Grand Haven and surrounding communities," Grand Haven Assistant City Manager Dana Kollewehr said. "These resources allow us to evaluate and prepare underutilized sites for new investment, paving the way for transformative redevelopment that supports local businesses, housing, and community growth."
This is the third time Ottawa County has received funds for site assessment from the EPA since the OCBRA was first established in 2008. Previous grants have made a major impact on brownfield development within the county.
With a $400,000 award in 2013, the county was able to assist 34 different projects and leverage approximately $35.6 million worth of investment into brownfield properties. With a $300,000 award in 2020, the county assisted 29 different projects and leverage approximately $90 million of investment into brownfield projects.
Recognizing these previous brownfield successes, USEPA Region 5 Administrator Anne Vogel and several other EPA staffers joined Huttenga, city of Hudsonville officials, and local developers for a roundtable chat and tour of two brownfield sites in Hudsonville last month. After the brief discussion, attendees gathered for a tour of two brand-new developments supported by brownfield redevelopment incentives – Terra Station and Prospect Flats.
Following the tours, Vogel spoke to media about the roundtable and successes of the OCBRA. "You don't get more (funds) unless you do a really good job with the first two (grants) the EPA has awarded," she said. "So it's to their credit this amount keeps going up."
The Ottawa County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (OCBRA) works cooperatively with all cities, villages, and townships in the County to provide access to incentives and support for brownfield redevelopment, particularly for those communities that do not have a local BRA. The OCBRA meets regularly at the County Administration Building in West Olive.
For more information about brownfield redevelopment or this USEPA grant, contact the OCBRA at 616-738-4852, plan@miottawa.org, or visit miottawa.org/brownfields.
Ottawa County Project Support Specialist
Cracked pavement. Decomposing building materials. An office building that's technically in use, but 90 percent empty.
Every community has vacant, blighted, or underutilized property in need of revitalization. What stands in the way of redeveloping these sites? Contamination – or the mere perception of it.
Environmental assessments can ease contamination concerns by providing answers but can be expensive. Now, interested parties in Ottawa County have an opportunity to offset these costs and set underutilized properties back on the path toward redevelopment thanks to $500,000 in assessment grant funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
"Many properties can languish for years because of contaminant fears," said Becky Huttenga, Ottawa County Agriculture & Economic Development Coordinator. "Having a completed assessment can open doors for further investment."
First announced in May, these Brownfield Assessment, Revolving Loan Fund, and Cleanup (ARC) funds are now available for conducting Phase I site assessments, which help reveal current property conditions and any possible environmental threats; and Phase II environmental site assessments, which are conducted if any known or potential contamination has been found on said property. Additionally, these funds can also be used for any other due care or cleanup planning and reports.
Qualified developers, local units of government or individuals can complete a nomination form by visiting miottawa.org/ brownfields and scrolling to the United States Environmental Protection Agency Grant Funding dropdown. Once submitted, the Ottawa County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, EPA, and in some cases the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) will evaluate the property information. If approved, a qualified environmental professional contracted by the county will perform the authorized assessment or planning activities.
Priority is being given to sites in the cities of Holland and Grand Haven near waterways but may be used for other areas following a thorough site selection process overseen by OCBRA. Grand Haven, for its part, relishes this chance to revive underutilized sites.
"The EPA's brownfield assessment funds present an exciting opportunity for Grand Haven and surrounding communities," Grand Haven Assistant City Manager Dana Kollewehr said. "These resources allow us to evaluate and prepare underutilized sites for new investment, paving the way for transformative redevelopment that supports local businesses, housing, and community growth."
This is the third time Ottawa County has received funds for site assessment from the EPA since the OCBRA was first established in 2008. Previous grants have made a major impact on brownfield development within the county.
With a $400,000 award in 2013, the county was able to assist 34 different projects and leverage approximately $35.6 million worth of investment into brownfield properties. With a $300,000 award in 2020, the county assisted 29 different projects and leverage approximately $90 million of investment into brownfield projects.
Recognizing these previous brownfield successes, USEPA Region 5 Administrator Anne Vogel and several other EPA staffers joined Huttenga, city of Hudsonville officials, and local developers for a roundtable chat and tour of two brownfield sites in Hudsonville last month. After the brief discussion, attendees gathered for a tour of two brand-new developments supported by brownfield redevelopment incentives – Terra Station and Prospect Flats.
Following the tours, Vogel spoke to media about the roundtable and successes of the OCBRA. "You don't get more (funds) unless you do a really good job with the first two (grants) the EPA has awarded," she said. "So it's to their credit this amount keeps going up."
The Ottawa County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (OCBRA) works cooperatively with all cities, villages, and townships in the County to provide access to incentives and support for brownfield redevelopment, particularly for those communities that do not have a local BRA. The OCBRA meets regularly at the County Administration Building in West Olive.
For more information about brownfield redevelopment or this USEPA grant, contact the OCBRA at 616-738-4852, plan@miottawa.org, or visit miottawa.org/brownfields.
Home Builders Association Receives Statewide Honor
The Lakeshore Home Builders Association (HBA) was named the Outstanding Local HBA Award Winner at the inaugural Leaders in Housing Advocacy Awards, hosted by the Home Builders Association of Michigan (HBAM) earlier this month in Lansing.
Serving professionals in the residential building and supporting industries along West Michigan’s Lakeshore - from South Haven to Ludington - the Lakeshore HBA stands as a powerful advocate for the homebuilding community and a champion of collaboration, education, and service.
Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Brittany Ryzenga, the Lakeshore HBA goes beyond serving its members — it strengthens and drives positive impact across the homebuilding industry. Through impactful Legislative Round Table meetings, Lakeshore HBA has built meaningful relationships with local and state leaders, making advocacy a cornerstone of its mission.
Workforce development remains a priority for the association. Lakeshore HBA offers trade scholarships and collaborates with local tech centers and trades schools to inspire the next generation of skilled professionals. In the past year alone, seven students received scholarships to pursue careers in the skilled trades.
The Lakeshore Home Builders Association represents about 480 member companies in the residential building industry along West Michigan’s Lakeshore.
Serving professionals in the residential building and supporting industries along West Michigan’s Lakeshore - from South Haven to Ludington - the Lakeshore HBA stands as a powerful advocate for the homebuilding community and a champion of collaboration, education, and service.
Under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Brittany Ryzenga, the Lakeshore HBA goes beyond serving its members — it strengthens and drives positive impact across the homebuilding industry. Through impactful Legislative Round Table meetings, Lakeshore HBA has built meaningful relationships with local and state leaders, making advocacy a cornerstone of its mission.
Workforce development remains a priority for the association. Lakeshore HBA offers trade scholarships and collaborates with local tech centers and trades schools to inspire the next generation of skilled professionals. In the past year alone, seven students received scholarships to pursue careers in the skilled trades.
The Lakeshore Home Builders Association represents about 480 member companies in the residential building industry along West Michigan’s Lakeshore.
Bicyclist Killed in Blendon Twp.
A 54-year-old Allendale man was killed last Friday when his bicycle was struck by a semi-truck in Blendon Township.
The crash occurred shortly before 4 p.m. near the intersection of 72nd Avenue and Barry Street.
An investigation by the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office found that the bicyclist was headed southbound on 72nd and attempted to turn east onto Barry. As he made the left turn, he was struck by the semi, driven by a 78-year-old Kent City man, which was headed southbound on 72nd and was attempting to pass the bicyclist, Sgt. Josh McCarthy of the sheriff’s office said in a news release.
The accident remains under investigation by the sheriff’s office.
The crash occurred shortly before 4 p.m. near the intersection of 72nd Avenue and Barry Street.
An investigation by the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office found that the bicyclist was headed southbound on 72nd and attempted to turn east onto Barry. As he made the left turn, he was struck by the semi, driven by a 78-year-old Kent City man, which was headed southbound on 72nd and was attempting to pass the bicyclist, Sgt. Josh McCarthy of the sheriff’s office said in a news release.
The accident remains under investigation by the sheriff’s office.
Coordinating At-Home Care, Enhancing Quality of Life as a Hospice Nurse Case Manager
Emmanuel Hospice RN case manager Brittany Rickert checks vital signs of patient Barbara Neal-Ward during a recent visit.
Photo courtesy Emmanuel Hospice
Photo courtesy Emmanuel Hospice
Emmanuel Hospice
Throughout her career, Brittany Rickert has explored nursing jobs in various settings but keeps getting drawn back to hospice. For her, there’s little out there that offers such a unique and rewarding experience.
“There are landmarks throughout our lives and death is one of them,” says Rickert, a nurse of 15 years. “It is very special to be allowed into that sacred space with patients and their loved ones, to support them through such a pivotal portion of their life.”
As a registered nurse case manager with Emmanuel Hospice, Rickert is in a diverse role that requires her to use both clinical and emotional support skills to walk alongside patients on their end-of-life journey.
She defines her position as the “coordinator of the patient experience altogether,” working alongside an interdisciplinary team to bring supportive services directly to patients, wherever they call home.
“My goal is to make sure each patient’s quality of life is at its best and that patients are getting everything they could possibly want from hospice care to live fully and comfortably,” Rickert says, noting she’ll involve social workers, spiritual caregivers, music therapists and more, depending on a patient’s goals and needs. “I want each patient to feel completely cared for and for the family to know they’re in good hands.”
As Rickert guides patients through their options, she empowers them to make informed decisions about their care. Patients select which services are important to them. Alongside traditional medical care options, Rickert likes to highlight the complementary therapies and services available, including massage therapy, pet visitors, essential oils and more.
“People are often surprised to learn about our additional therapies as not every hospice offers them,” Rickert says. “Patient wishes are another example that can be very meaningful and connect with our goal of making hospice more about living. Just this past month, I have been working on a wish to get a family out to an MSU basketball game for a huge Spartan fan in our care.”
Another key point Rickert emphasizes with families: The care team is available 24/7 to answer questions and dispatch care as needed.
“Just because I’m not scheduled to come back until next week for a regular visit does not mean I or another member of the care team can’t check in sooner,” she says. “I reassure families our light is always on. We’ve got you.”
Rickert enjoys being “out in the field” regularly and providing direct patient care herself. Because hospice is a service, not a place, she is caring for patients wherever they are all throughout much of West Michigan. That distinction is particularly relevant this time of year as Emmanuel Hospice celebrates National Care at Home Month and the role of hospice in the spectrum of in-home care.
During a typical patient visit, Rickert checks vitals and does a head-to-toe assessment, zeroing in on common symptoms that can occur as the end of life approaches. She manages medications and takes stock of supplies and other equipment to help patients remain comfortable in their home.
Providing emotional support is intertwined with the clinical side of her role. As a main point of contact for patients and their loved ones, it’s critical she helps them navigate unchartered waters with empathy and respect.
Rickert aims to be a reassuring presence to everyone involved.
Zeeland native Sara Torrey Lowe founded Emmanuel Hospice in 2013 with Sr. Gabriela Hilke in collaboration with St. Ann’s Home, Clark Retirement, Porter Hills and Sunset Retirement Community. Lowe is now the chief executive officer of Emmanuel Hospice.
To learn more, call 616-719-0919 or visit EmmanuelHospice.org.
Throughout her career, Brittany Rickert has explored nursing jobs in various settings but keeps getting drawn back to hospice. For her, there’s little out there that offers such a unique and rewarding experience.
“There are landmarks throughout our lives and death is one of them,” says Rickert, a nurse of 15 years. “It is very special to be allowed into that sacred space with patients and their loved ones, to support them through such a pivotal portion of their life.”
As a registered nurse case manager with Emmanuel Hospice, Rickert is in a diverse role that requires her to use both clinical and emotional support skills to walk alongside patients on their end-of-life journey.
She defines her position as the “coordinator of the patient experience altogether,” working alongside an interdisciplinary team to bring supportive services directly to patients, wherever they call home.
“My goal is to make sure each patient’s quality of life is at its best and that patients are getting everything they could possibly want from hospice care to live fully and comfortably,” Rickert says, noting she’ll involve social workers, spiritual caregivers, music therapists and more, depending on a patient’s goals and needs. “I want each patient to feel completely cared for and for the family to know they’re in good hands.”
As Rickert guides patients through their options, she empowers them to make informed decisions about their care. Patients select which services are important to them. Alongside traditional medical care options, Rickert likes to highlight the complementary therapies and services available, including massage therapy, pet visitors, essential oils and more.
“People are often surprised to learn about our additional therapies as not every hospice offers them,” Rickert says. “Patient wishes are another example that can be very meaningful and connect with our goal of making hospice more about living. Just this past month, I have been working on a wish to get a family out to an MSU basketball game for a huge Spartan fan in our care.”
Another key point Rickert emphasizes with families: The care team is available 24/7 to answer questions and dispatch care as needed.
“Just because I’m not scheduled to come back until next week for a regular visit does not mean I or another member of the care team can’t check in sooner,” she says. “I reassure families our light is always on. We’ve got you.”
Rickert enjoys being “out in the field” regularly and providing direct patient care herself. Because hospice is a service, not a place, she is caring for patients wherever they are all throughout much of West Michigan. That distinction is particularly relevant this time of year as Emmanuel Hospice celebrates National Care at Home Month and the role of hospice in the spectrum of in-home care.
During a typical patient visit, Rickert checks vitals and does a head-to-toe assessment, zeroing in on common symptoms that can occur as the end of life approaches. She manages medications and takes stock of supplies and other equipment to help patients remain comfortable in their home.
Providing emotional support is intertwined with the clinical side of her role. As a main point of contact for patients and their loved ones, it’s critical she helps them navigate unchartered waters with empathy and respect.
Rickert aims to be a reassuring presence to everyone involved.
Zeeland native Sara Torrey Lowe founded Emmanuel Hospice in 2013 with Sr. Gabriela Hilke in collaboration with St. Ann’s Home, Clark Retirement, Porter Hills and Sunset Retirement Community. Lowe is now the chief executive officer of Emmanuel Hospice.
To learn more, call 616-719-0919 or visit EmmanuelHospice.org.
Three More Bird Flu Cases Found in Ottawa County
Following multiple investigations by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has detected the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in three commercial flocks from Ottawa County, one backyard flock in Monroe County, and a backyard flock in St. Clair County.
The most recent cases were reported on Nov. 12. Since the virus was first found in Michigan in 2022, these latest detections bring the total number of HPAI cases in poultry from an Ottawa County flock to 15. For poultry cases in 2025, there have been 10 cases of HPAI in Ottawa County, four cases in Monroe County, and one in St. Clair County.
Farmers and producers of all sizes need to continue implementing and adhering to strict biosecurity measures and using personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure the health of Michigan’s domestic animals and the general public.
HPAI is a highly contagious virus that can be spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds, through contact with infected animals, by equipment, and on the clothing and shoes of caretakers.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk associated with avian influenza remains low. As a reminder, people should properly handle and cook all poultry and eggs.
Whether it’s a couple backyard birds or a large commercial flock, following a few key steps is fundamental to protecting the health and vitality of Michigan’s domestic birds:
• Prevent contact between domestic and wild birds by bringing them indoors or ensuring their outdoor area is fully enclosed.
• Wash your hands before and after handling birds as well as when moving between different coops.
• Disinfect boots and other gear when moving between coops.
• Do not share equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms.
• Clean and disinfect equipment and other supplies between uses. If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
• Use well or municipal water as drinking water for birds.
• Keep poultry feed secure to ensure there is no contact between the feed/feed ingredients and wild birds or rodents.
MDARD is continuing to work diligently with local, state, and federal partners to quickly respond to reports of sick domestic animals to best mitigate the spread of HPAI and provide outreach.
—————
Reporting Possible Cases for Domestic Birds
Domestic bird owners and caretakers should watch for multiple sudden deaths in the flock, a drop in egg production, a significant decrease in water consumption, diarrhea, sneezing/coughing, or an increase in sick birds. If avian influenza is suspected in domestic birds, contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).
—————
Reporting Possible Cases for Wild Birds
If anyone notices what appears to be unusual or unexplained deaths among wild bird populations, please report these cases to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) by:
• Using the DNR’s Eyes in the Field app. Choose the “Diseased Wildlife” option among the selections for “Observation Forms.”
• Calling the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.
—————
Stay Up to Date
Subscribe to receive email notifications by visiting MDARD’s Media Room website and clicking on the “Avian Influenza” link. After entering a valid email address, subscribers will receive updates and alerts regarding the status of avian influenza in Michigan whenever there are new developments to report. Additional resources can also be found at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.
The most recent cases were reported on Nov. 12. Since the virus was first found in Michigan in 2022, these latest detections bring the total number of HPAI cases in poultry from an Ottawa County flock to 15. For poultry cases in 2025, there have been 10 cases of HPAI in Ottawa County, four cases in Monroe County, and one in St. Clair County.
Farmers and producers of all sizes need to continue implementing and adhering to strict biosecurity measures and using personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure the health of Michigan’s domestic animals and the general public.
HPAI is a highly contagious virus that can be spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds, through contact with infected animals, by equipment, and on the clothing and shoes of caretakers.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk associated with avian influenza remains low. As a reminder, people should properly handle and cook all poultry and eggs.
Whether it’s a couple backyard birds or a large commercial flock, following a few key steps is fundamental to protecting the health and vitality of Michigan’s domestic birds:
• Prevent contact between domestic and wild birds by bringing them indoors or ensuring their outdoor area is fully enclosed.
• Wash your hands before and after handling birds as well as when moving between different coops.
• Disinfect boots and other gear when moving between coops.
• Do not share equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms.
• Clean and disinfect equipment and other supplies between uses. If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
• Use well or municipal water as drinking water for birds.
• Keep poultry feed secure to ensure there is no contact between the feed/feed ingredients and wild birds or rodents.
MDARD is continuing to work diligently with local, state, and federal partners to quickly respond to reports of sick domestic animals to best mitigate the spread of HPAI and provide outreach.
—————
Reporting Possible Cases for Domestic Birds
Domestic bird owners and caretakers should watch for multiple sudden deaths in the flock, a drop in egg production, a significant decrease in water consumption, diarrhea, sneezing/coughing, or an increase in sick birds. If avian influenza is suspected in domestic birds, contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).
—————
Reporting Possible Cases for Wild Birds
If anyone notices what appears to be unusual or unexplained deaths among wild bird populations, please report these cases to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) by:
• Using the DNR’s Eyes in the Field app. Choose the “Diseased Wildlife” option among the selections for “Observation Forms.”
• Calling the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.
—————
Stay Up to Date
Subscribe to receive email notifications by visiting MDARD’s Media Room website and clicking on the “Avian Influenza” link. After entering a valid email address, subscribers will receive updates and alerts regarding the status of avian influenza in Michigan whenever there are new developments to report. Additional resources can also be found at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.
Cityside Players to Present ‘Alice in Wonderland, Jr.’
The Cityside Middle School Players will present “Alice In Wonderland, Jr.” this weekend at Lokers Auditorium.
Performances are tonight at 7 p.m., Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m.
Come join Alice down the rabbit hole to explore the upside-down world of Wonderland. This is a great show for the whole family and kids will love the bright colors, crazy characters and spectacular singing and dancing.
Ellie Gaier is the director of the production, while Johanna Heisler is co-director. Nancy Clyde is the choreographer.
Tickets are $11 for adults and $9 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased online at zpsarts.ludus.com/index.php.
Performances are tonight at 7 p.m., Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m.
Come join Alice down the rabbit hole to explore the upside-down world of Wonderland. This is a great show for the whole family and kids will love the bright colors, crazy characters and spectacular singing and dancing.
Ellie Gaier is the director of the production, while Johanna Heisler is co-director. Nancy Clyde is the choreographer.
Tickets are $11 for adults and $9 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased online at zpsarts.ludus.com/index.php.
OAISD Program Receives National Honor
The Ottawa Area Intermediate School District’s Parents as Teachers program has been awarded Blue Ribbon Affiliate status by Parents as Teachers, the nation’s largest evidence-based early childhood home visiting program.
This honor places OAISD’s PAT program among the top-performing programs across the international PAT network. It is the second time the program has earned this recognition.
To receive Blue Ribbon status, programs must complete the Quality Endorsement and Improvement Process, which reviews how well they support children and families. To qualify, a program must meet all essential requirements and at least 80 percent of the quality standards. This process involves a rigorous self-study and program review conducted by the PAT National Center to confirm that families are receiving high-quality, evidence-based services.
“We are honored to maintain our Blue Ribbon designation, a testament to the dedication of our professional parent educators and the resilience of the families we serve,” said Maureen Schmidt, director of early childhood community services for OAISD. “This year, we walked alongside 70 families and 73 children, providing 528 home visits filled with connection, guidance, and joy.”
The program includes home visits, group connections, child developmental screenings, and assistance with community resources. OAISD’s parent educators equip parents with knowledge and resources to prepare their children for a stronger start in life and greater success in school.
“OAISD is proud of our Parents as Teachers home visitors who support parents through in-home visits, child development screenings and referrals to resources to set their children up for success,” OAISD Director of Early Childhood Dr. Tami Mannes said. “While it is very disappointing that the state government has cut funding for this important and necessary program for next year, we remain committed to education for all and finding other resources to continue this vital work.”
In addition to serving as early childhood director for OAISD, Mannes also serves on the Zeeland Board of Education.
Parents as Teachers began in the early 1980s after educators noticed that children were entering kindergarten with different levels of readiness, and research showed that early parent involvement helps children develop stronger learning skills.
Today, trained early childhood professionals, called parent educators, visit families in their homes to coach parents on supporting their child’s healthy growth and learning. These visits help parents build skills and confidence while monitoring children’s development and connecting families to support services when needed.
“We are thrilled that our Parents as Teachers program has earned this recognition,” OAISD Superintendent Dr. Kyle Mayer said. “Partnering with families to support children’s growth is a privilege, and this honor reflects the dedication of our parent educators and the difference they make daily.”
OAISD will continue to support all programming through at least June of 2026 to prevent families from experiencing an interruption of services while researching a long-term funding solution.
This honor places OAISD’s PAT program among the top-performing programs across the international PAT network. It is the second time the program has earned this recognition.
To receive Blue Ribbon status, programs must complete the Quality Endorsement and Improvement Process, which reviews how well they support children and families. To qualify, a program must meet all essential requirements and at least 80 percent of the quality standards. This process involves a rigorous self-study and program review conducted by the PAT National Center to confirm that families are receiving high-quality, evidence-based services.
“We are honored to maintain our Blue Ribbon designation, a testament to the dedication of our professional parent educators and the resilience of the families we serve,” said Maureen Schmidt, director of early childhood community services for OAISD. “This year, we walked alongside 70 families and 73 children, providing 528 home visits filled with connection, guidance, and joy.”
The program includes home visits, group connections, child developmental screenings, and assistance with community resources. OAISD’s parent educators equip parents with knowledge and resources to prepare their children for a stronger start in life and greater success in school.
“OAISD is proud of our Parents as Teachers home visitors who support parents through in-home visits, child development screenings and referrals to resources to set their children up for success,” OAISD Director of Early Childhood Dr. Tami Mannes said. “While it is very disappointing that the state government has cut funding for this important and necessary program for next year, we remain committed to education for all and finding other resources to continue this vital work.”
In addition to serving as early childhood director for OAISD, Mannes also serves on the Zeeland Board of Education.
Parents as Teachers began in the early 1980s after educators noticed that children were entering kindergarten with different levels of readiness, and research showed that early parent involvement helps children develop stronger learning skills.
Today, trained early childhood professionals, called parent educators, visit families in their homes to coach parents on supporting their child’s healthy growth and learning. These visits help parents build skills and confidence while monitoring children’s development and connecting families to support services when needed.
“We are thrilled that our Parents as Teachers program has earned this recognition,” OAISD Superintendent Dr. Kyle Mayer said. “Partnering with families to support children’s growth is a privilege, and this honor reflects the dedication of our parent educators and the difference they make daily.”
OAISD will continue to support all programming through at least June of 2026 to prevent families from experiencing an interruption of services while researching a long-term funding solution.
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