Plane Crashes at Ottawa Executive
A single-engine airplane crashed Tuesday morning at Ottawa Executive Airport in Zeeland Township, according to the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office.
Ottawa County Central Dispatch received a call about the crash shortly before 9 a.m. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies located a Cessna 180 single-engine plane upside down just off the shoulder of the runway. Both occupants were able to exit the plane on their own before deputies arrived at the scene, Lt. Nicholas Knott said in a news release.
Initial investigation by deputies showed the plane had experienced an issue during landing and overturned. Both occupants declined medical treatment, Knott said.
The investigation of the crash has been turned over to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Ottawa County Central Dispatch received a call about the crash shortly before 9 a.m. Upon arriving at the scene, deputies located a Cessna 180 single-engine plane upside down just off the shoulder of the runway. Both occupants were able to exit the plane on their own before deputies arrived at the scene, Lt. Nicholas Knott said in a news release.
Initial investigation by deputies showed the plane had experienced an issue during landing and overturned. Both occupants declined medical treatment, Knott said.
The investigation of the crash has been turned over to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Legion Auxiliary Receives Tribute Plaque for 100 Years
State Rep. Brad Slagh presents the plaque recognizing the Gilbert D. Karsten American Legion Auxiliary Unit 33 for its 100 years of service to local veterans. Pictured, from left, are unit Secretary Jenn Osbeck, Vice President Barb Dozeman, Sheryl Klynstra, Treasurer Sheri Dickman, President Sally Gruppen, Rep. Slagh, Wendy Combs and Karen Hooker.
Photo courtesy Karen Hooker
Photo courtesy Karen Hooker
The Gilbert D. Karsten American Legion Auxiliary Unit 33 received a special tribute plaque from State Rep. Bradley Slagh at its March meeting in Zeeland.
The plaque recognizes the auxiliary unit’s 100 years of service to local veterans and to the many women who have given their time and talent to the unit over the years to continue the local tradition of honoring veterans.
The tribute was signed by Rep. Slagh, State Sen. Roger Victory, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
The local auxiliary unit is thankful for the recognition and encouragement to continue their efforts for many years in the future.
The plaque recognizes the auxiliary unit’s 100 years of service to local veterans and to the many women who have given their time and talent to the unit over the years to continue the local tradition of honoring veterans.
The tribute was signed by Rep. Slagh, State Sen. Roger Victory, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
The local auxiliary unit is thankful for the recognition and encouragement to continue their efforts for many years in the future.
Zeeland Couple Injured in Port Sheldon Crash
Three people, including a couple from Zeeland, were injured in a two-vehicle crash Saturday in Port Sheldon Township.
The crash occurred shortly before 5 p.m. at the intersection of 146th Avenue and Stanton Street.
According to the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, a 32-year-old Wyoming man was driving his 1991 Chevrolet pickup truck northbound on 146th when he failed to stop for the stop sign and collided with a 2015 Dodge Ram truck that was westbound on Stanton, driven by a 73-year-old Zeeland man. The Dodge Ram had the right of way, the sheriff’s office said in a news release.
The driver of the Chevy pickup was ejected from the vehicle, while the driver of the Dodge Ram and a 75-year-old woman, also from Zeeland, were pinned in their truck. The victims were taken to area hospitals.
The crash occurred shortly before 5 p.m. at the intersection of 146th Avenue and Stanton Street.
According to the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, a 32-year-old Wyoming man was driving his 1991 Chevrolet pickup truck northbound on 146th when he failed to stop for the stop sign and collided with a 2015 Dodge Ram truck that was westbound on Stanton, driven by a 73-year-old Zeeland man. The Dodge Ram had the right of way, the sheriff’s office said in a news release.
The driver of the Chevy pickup was ejected from the vehicle, while the driver of the Dodge Ram and a 75-year-old woman, also from Zeeland, were pinned in their truck. The victims were taken to area hospitals.
Shillito Named Tulip Time Grand Marshal
By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record
Retired Zeeland West High School varsity coach John Shillito has been named a grand marshal for one of the Tulip Time Festival parades next month.
Shillito, who announced his retirement in January after 20 seasons coaching the Dux, will be the grand marshal for the Gentex Kinderparade on Thursday, May 8 in downtown Holland.
Meanwhile, the Quality Car Wash Volksparade on Saturday, May 10 will have two grand marshals – Evergreen Commons president and chief executive officer Jill Ver Steeg and Resthaven president and CEO Deedre Schuckert.
Shillito led West to five state championships during his tenure as the Dux coach, including the Division 3 state crown last November at Ford Field in Detroit. Under his leadership, the Dux posted a record of 185-46, a winning percentage of .801, made the state playoffs 18 times and had just one losing season.
Shillito will be joined by former Zeeland West players in leading the Kinderparade.
"We are all thrilled to be part of Tulip Time. It is such an important part of the fabric of the Holland/Zeeland community, and we are very honored to participate," Shillito said.
On Saturday, Ver Steeg will lead alongside a group of community members for the Volksparade.
"Knowing that Evergreen Commons is among many deserving organizations in Holland — each worthy of celebration — I was humbled by this honor. With incredible gratitude, I celebrate our members, volunteers, donors, Board of Directors, staff, and legacy partners, while I say thank you to the Tulip Time board for this recognition," Ver Steeg said.
Evergreen Commons serves adults 55 and older, inspiring older adults to live their fullest lives by disrupting the way people age. During Tulip Time, the organization welcomes more than 400 people daily, offering an authentic Dutch lunch accompanied by a Dutch Dance performance.
Resthaven, represented by Schuckert, celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 1945, Resthaven is dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults through compassionate care. In 2025, The Warm Friend, a Resthaven residence, will mark its 100th anniversary.
“Tulip Time is such a beloved tradition in Holland, and being asked to serve as co-grand marshal during our 80th anniversary year makes it even more special,” Schuckert said. “We are so pleased that Tulip Time has chosen to honor our seniors and highlight the services available to them."
Zeeland Record
Retired Zeeland West High School varsity coach John Shillito has been named a grand marshal for one of the Tulip Time Festival parades next month.
Shillito, who announced his retirement in January after 20 seasons coaching the Dux, will be the grand marshal for the Gentex Kinderparade on Thursday, May 8 in downtown Holland.
Meanwhile, the Quality Car Wash Volksparade on Saturday, May 10 will have two grand marshals – Evergreen Commons president and chief executive officer Jill Ver Steeg and Resthaven president and CEO Deedre Schuckert.
Shillito led West to five state championships during his tenure as the Dux coach, including the Division 3 state crown last November at Ford Field in Detroit. Under his leadership, the Dux posted a record of 185-46, a winning percentage of .801, made the state playoffs 18 times and had just one losing season.
Shillito will be joined by former Zeeland West players in leading the Kinderparade.
"We are all thrilled to be part of Tulip Time. It is such an important part of the fabric of the Holland/Zeeland community, and we are very honored to participate," Shillito said.
On Saturday, Ver Steeg will lead alongside a group of community members for the Volksparade.
"Knowing that Evergreen Commons is among many deserving organizations in Holland — each worthy of celebration — I was humbled by this honor. With incredible gratitude, I celebrate our members, volunteers, donors, Board of Directors, staff, and legacy partners, while I say thank you to the Tulip Time board for this recognition," Ver Steeg said.
Evergreen Commons serves adults 55 and older, inspiring older adults to live their fullest lives by disrupting the way people age. During Tulip Time, the organization welcomes more than 400 people daily, offering an authentic Dutch lunch accompanied by a Dutch Dance performance.
Resthaven, represented by Schuckert, celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 1945, Resthaven is dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults through compassionate care. In 2025, The Warm Friend, a Resthaven residence, will mark its 100th anniversary.
“Tulip Time is such a beloved tradition in Holland, and being asked to serve as co-grand marshal during our 80th anniversary year makes it even more special,” Schuckert said. “We are so pleased that Tulip Time has chosen to honor our seniors and highlight the services available to them."
Children’s Choir to Perform at Second Reformed
Second Reformed Church will continue its Recital Series on Sunday, April 27 with a performance by the West Michigan Children’s Choir.
The performance begins at 4 p.m.
The West Michigan Children’s Choir was founded by two local music educators to create training and performance opportunities for young and developing voices. The young singers, in grades 3-8, are dedicated to sharing their voices and enthusiasm for singing with Holland and Zeeland audiences. In addition to presenting a variety of music genres, the choir will be joined by Las Almas, a West Ottawa Treble Alumni Choir, directed by Pam Pierson.
More information about the West Michigan Children’s Choir is available on the Second Church website at secondreformedchurch.org, or at thewmcc.weebly. com.
Second Reformed Church is located at 225 E. Central Ave., downtown Zeeland. Convenient parking is available at the corner of Church Street and Cherry Avenue, with accessible entry from the parking lot and throughout the building.
The performance begins at 4 p.m.
The West Michigan Children’s Choir was founded by two local music educators to create training and performance opportunities for young and developing voices. The young singers, in grades 3-8, are dedicated to sharing their voices and enthusiasm for singing with Holland and Zeeland audiences. In addition to presenting a variety of music genres, the choir will be joined by Las Almas, a West Ottawa Treble Alumni Choir, directed by Pam Pierson.
More information about the West Michigan Children’s Choir is available on the Second Church website at secondreformedchurch.org, or at thewmcc.weebly. com.
Second Reformed Church is located at 225 E. Central Ave., downtown Zeeland. Convenient parking is available at the corner of Church Street and Cherry Avenue, with accessible entry from the parking lot and throughout the building.
Author to Discuss Evangelical Movement, Politics
Author Tim Alberta will deliver an address based on his book “The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism” on Wednesday, April 16, at 7 p.m. at Hope College in the Concert Hall of the Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts.
The public is invited. Admission is free. The presentation is being hosted by the college’s Markets & Morality student organization.
Tim Alberta is originally from Brighton and attended Schoolcraft College and later Michigan State University. He went on to spend more than a decade in Washington, reporting for publications such as the Wall Street Journal, National Journal and National Review. He ultimately served as chief political correspondent for POLITICO before moving back to Michigan and joining The Atlantic in 2021.
In 2019 he released his first book, “American Carnage: On the Front Lines of the Republican Civil War and the Rise of President Trump” and co-moderated the year’s final Democratic presidential debate.
He followed up with “The Kingdom, The Power, and The Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism” in 2023, and in 2024 he won a National Magazine Award for his profile of Chris Licht, the chairman of CNN Worldwide, who was fired after the story published.
The Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts is located at 221 Columbia Ave., between Ninth and 10th streets.
The public is invited. Admission is free. The presentation is being hosted by the college’s Markets & Morality student organization.
Tim Alberta is originally from Brighton and attended Schoolcraft College and later Michigan State University. He went on to spend more than a decade in Washington, reporting for publications such as the Wall Street Journal, National Journal and National Review. He ultimately served as chief political correspondent for POLITICO before moving back to Michigan and joining The Atlantic in 2021.
In 2019 he released his first book, “American Carnage: On the Front Lines of the Republican Civil War and the Rise of President Trump” and co-moderated the year’s final Democratic presidential debate.
He followed up with “The Kingdom, The Power, and The Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism” in 2023, and in 2024 he won a National Magazine Award for his profile of Chris Licht, the chairman of CNN Worldwide, who was fired after the story published.
The Jack H. Miller Center for Musical Arts is located at 221 Columbia Ave., between Ninth and 10th streets.
Sheriff’s Office Awards Announced
Ottawa County Sheriff’s Deputy Brendan Vriezema, who has been with the department since 2023, was recently recognized at the department’s Law Enforcement Deputy of the Year.
Ottawa County Corrections Deputy Glenn Barr, a 20-year department veteran, was recently named the Corrections Deputy of the Year by the sheriff’s office.
Photos by Tim Syrek
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office has presented its annual Employee of the Year awards. The awards were presented at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville March 31.
Deputy Brendan Vriezema, a community policing officer in the Spring Lake/Ferrysburg area, was named the Law Enforcement Deputy of the Year. Vriezema joined the sheriff’s department in 2023.
Corrections Deputy Glenn Barr, who has been with the department since 2005 and currently works at the Ottawa County Jail, was named Corrections Deputy of the Year.
Jeremy Maat was named Marine Deputy of the Year. Maat has been part of Marine Deputy Unit since 2018.
Jacob Ritenour, who was hired in 2023 as the department’s body camera technical specialist, received the Administrative Employee of the Year award.
Terri Pols, a longtime volunteer with the department’s Victim Services Unit, was named Volunteer of the Year.
The Sheriff’s Office Training Unit was selected the 2024 Unit of the Year. The Training Unit staff includes Training Sgt. Derek Gerencer and Training Specialist Kim Carter.
“These awards are a testament to the dedication, professionalism, and service that our staff provides to our department and the communities we serve.” Sheriff Eric DeBoer said. “The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office is honored to work alongside such committed individuals, and we celebrate the impact these individuals make every day.”
Deputy Brendan Vriezema, a community policing officer in the Spring Lake/Ferrysburg area, was named the Law Enforcement Deputy of the Year. Vriezema joined the sheriff’s department in 2023.
Corrections Deputy Glenn Barr, who has been with the department since 2005 and currently works at the Ottawa County Jail, was named Corrections Deputy of the Year.
Jeremy Maat was named Marine Deputy of the Year. Maat has been part of Marine Deputy Unit since 2018.
Jacob Ritenour, who was hired in 2023 as the department’s body camera technical specialist, received the Administrative Employee of the Year award.
Terri Pols, a longtime volunteer with the department’s Victim Services Unit, was named Volunteer of the Year.
The Sheriff’s Office Training Unit was selected the 2024 Unit of the Year. The Training Unit staff includes Training Sgt. Derek Gerencer and Training Specialist Kim Carter.
“These awards are a testament to the dedication, professionalism, and service that our staff provides to our department and the communities we serve.” Sheriff Eric DeBoer said. “The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office is honored to work alongside such committed individuals, and we celebrate the impact these individuals make every day.”
ZBPW Revives Community Grant Program
The Zeeland Board of Public Works has announced the revival of its Community Grant Program for the spring season.
This initiative underscores Zeeland BPW's commitment to supporting and fostering community development while ensuring the city of Zeeland continues to thrive for generations to come.
The Community Grant Program, offering reimbursement grants totaling up to $25,000, aims to channel resources back into the community, fueling projects that enhance the quality of life for residents.
"We are thrilled to reintroduce the Community Grant Program, which serves as a testament to our dedication to the vibrant community of Zeeland," BPW General Manager Andrew Boatright said. "This initiative provides a unique opportunity for schools, municipalities, and nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, which we serve through water or electric services, to realize their innovative ideas and contribute to the betterment of our shared environment."
From now through May 3, interested parties are invited to submit their applications for consideration. Eligible applicants are encouraged to showcase their proposals, outlining how they plan to utilize community grant funding to positively impact the community.
"We encourage all eligible entities to seize this opportunity to collaborate with us in making a tangible difference in our community," Boatright said. "Together, we can foster a culture of progress and prosperity that reflects the values of Zeeland."
To learn more about the Community Grant Program and its application process, visit the official Zeeland BPW website at zeeland bpw.com/community-grant.
This initiative underscores Zeeland BPW's commitment to supporting and fostering community development while ensuring the city of Zeeland continues to thrive for generations to come.
The Community Grant Program, offering reimbursement grants totaling up to $25,000, aims to channel resources back into the community, fueling projects that enhance the quality of life for residents.
"We are thrilled to reintroduce the Community Grant Program, which serves as a testament to our dedication to the vibrant community of Zeeland," BPW General Manager Andrew Boatright said. "This initiative provides a unique opportunity for schools, municipalities, and nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, which we serve through water or electric services, to realize their innovative ideas and contribute to the betterment of our shared environment."
From now through May 3, interested parties are invited to submit their applications for consideration. Eligible applicants are encouraged to showcase their proposals, outlining how they plan to utilize community grant funding to positively impact the community.
"We encourage all eligible entities to seize this opportunity to collaborate with us in making a tangible difference in our community," Boatright said. "Together, we can foster a culture of progress and prosperity that reflects the values of Zeeland."
To learn more about the Community Grant Program and its application process, visit the official Zeeland BPW website at zeeland bpw.com/community-grant.
Business Owners: How to Make Social Security Part of Retirement Planning
By Hillary Hatch
Social Security Public Affairs Specialist
Most business owners are focused on growing their business and legacy. But at some point, they must consider a plan for retirement.
That’s why it’s important for business owners to begin thinking about how Social Security fits into their retirement planning. Social Security benefits are part of the retirement plan of almost every American worker – including business owners.
Since there are specific rules for business owners, they should speak with a financial advisor or accountant before applying for benefits. One of the biggest mistakes some business owners make – aside from starting retirement planning too late – is not having a plan at all. This is where a financial expert can give advice on how to prepare for retirement.
Business owners can use their personal my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount to determine eligibility for retirement benefits as well as get a benefit estimate. Our publication, If You Are Self-Employed, at ssa.gov/ pubs/EN-05-10022.pdf, provides important information about Social Security taxes for business owners as well as how to report earnings. Don’t delay, start your retirement planning today.
For more information visit our Plan for Retirement webpage at ssa.gov/prepare/plan-retirement.
Social Security Public Affairs Specialist
Most business owners are focused on growing their business and legacy. But at some point, they must consider a plan for retirement.
That’s why it’s important for business owners to begin thinking about how Social Security fits into their retirement planning. Social Security benefits are part of the retirement plan of almost every American worker – including business owners.
Since there are specific rules for business owners, they should speak with a financial advisor or accountant before applying for benefits. One of the biggest mistakes some business owners make – aside from starting retirement planning too late – is not having a plan at all. This is where a financial expert can give advice on how to prepare for retirement.
Business owners can use their personal my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount to determine eligibility for retirement benefits as well as get a benefit estimate. Our publication, If You Are Self-Employed, at ssa.gov/ pubs/EN-05-10022.pdf, provides important information about Social Security taxes for business owners as well as how to report earnings. Don’t delay, start your retirement planning today.
For more information visit our Plan for Retirement webpage at ssa.gov/prepare/plan-retirement.
Author to Speak at Historical Society Event
Grand Rapids- based author Erica Emelander, who writes under the name “Marie La Pres,” will speak at the Howard Miller Community Center April 24.
Photo courtesy Zeeland Historical Society
Photo courtesy Zeeland Historical Society
A historical fiction author from Grand Rapids will speak at the Howard Miller Community Center on Thursday, April 24, at part of the Zeeland Historical Society’s lecture series.
Erica Emelander, who writes under the name “Marie La Pres,” will speak at 6:30 p.m. at the community center. Tickets are $15 per person and $12 for members of the historical society.
Emelander is a social studies and religion teacher in Grand Rapids who has written novels set in the Civil War era and on Mackinac Island. She will share her insights on the art of writing historical fiction, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process.
There will be a book signing and an opportunity to purchase Marie La Pres’ books after her presentation. For every book sold, $3 will be donated to the Zeeland Historical Society to support its mission of preserving local history.
Erica Emelander, who writes under the name “Marie La Pres,” will speak at 6:30 p.m. at the community center. Tickets are $15 per person and $12 for members of the historical society.
Emelander is a social studies and religion teacher in Grand Rapids who has written novels set in the Civil War era and on Mackinac Island. She will share her insights on the art of writing historical fiction, offering a behind-the-scenes look at her creative process.
There will be a book signing and an opportunity to purchase Marie La Pres’ books after her presentation. For every book sold, $3 will be donated to the Zeeland Historical Society to support its mission of preserving local history.
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