2017 April May Sparta TODAY : simplebooklet.com

1 April 2017 Vol 15 Issue 12 Sparta Bell Ringer Inside Pictured here is Chuck Brown owner talking the Sparta Rotary Club on a tour of the new facility explaining the brewing process with the new equipment The equipment on the far left is from Craft Werk Brew System manufactured in Michigan Choice One Bank Renewed Staff family and friends helped the Official Ribbon Cutting Celebration on the extensive interior and exterior renovation and construction of the Choice One Bank downtown Sparta location The construction took several months and the final result is remarkable The beautiful building ribbon cutting was commemorated on February 28 2017 THE BREWERY OPENS With every seat filled in the place the first night of the soft opening of the Cellar on March 3 was received with both excitement and understanding from the patrons It s been a challenge and a big thing to take on and we appreciate everyone s patience says own Chuck Brown Some things have went fantastic and we have definitely appreciated everyone s patience as it takes a while to put together a Superbowl team He with his wife Deanna are working hard to make their dream come true with the Cellar Brewing Co investing nearly 1 9 Million Dollars in the 7 000 sq ft space in downtown Sparta taking over the vacancy after Hometown Pharmacy relocated From this point we will be tweaking the menu based on favorites and feedback says Brown But it has been so exciting to see so many new faces The community has been fantastic not just the governmental entities but the whole town Entertainment such as Karaoke on Friday evenings live music on the weekends and other regular entertainments the Cellar Brewing Co has hosted at the previous location will continue at the end of April The new brew house will be able to produce 2 1 2 times the size of the other location With the new equipment Cellar Changes to Community CleanUp Days had the ability to brew 4 tunes what they did last year The spirits label which will include full liquor options for mixed drinks is expected to be transferred soon Overall the buzz in downtown Sparta has been one to remember We are very excited to have the Cellar open downtown There are cars parked and people walking downtown on days that we haven t noticed this type traffic in Sparta in recent years said Village officials The Cellar celebrated its official grand opening on Friday March 31 with a ribbon cutting with the Sparta Chamber of Commerce April 20 22 on page 15 The Village of Sparta and Sparta Township are making changes to their annual cleanup day in an attempt to try and control costs The program has escalated from 7 800 in 2013 to 15 972 in 2016 The main reason for the increase has been the fees the Village is charged for recycling CRT monitors or leaded glass TV s The Village Township paid approximately 3 600 in 2016 alone for this type of recycling Please review the accepted item and not accepted item list and if you have questions please contact DPW Supervisor Dennis Brinks at 616 887 9303 IN THIS ISSUE Page 1 The Brewery Opens Page 6 Tally Ho Puppet Fest Page 2 Memorial Wall comes to Sparta Page 8 Run Thru Sparta Event Page 3 Ridgetown Grub Page 10 Mingle Page 4 Sparta Farm Artisan Market Page 17 Bell Ringer ECRWSS Postal Customer PRSRT STD U S POSTAGE PAID GRAND RAPIDS MI Permit 214

Page 2

2 SpartaTODAY Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 Michigan Military Memorial Wall comes to Sparta Immediately after the 10 30 a m Memorial Day Ceremony at Lamoreaux Park the Michigan Military Memorial Wall will be open for viewing Similar to the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall the Michigan Military Memorial Wall serves as a symbol to honor and remember the service men and women who gave their lives for our country The memorial is unique to Michigan soldiers and con tains the names of over 2900 servicemen that perished in wars and conflicts from Vietnam to present time Michigan and its residents have a unique and distinguished heritage of serving our country in its time of crisis The names on the panels illustrate the great sacrifice our citizens have made to protect our country and the human cost of defending our freedom Without these heroes we would not enjoy the liberties we all have today The Michigan Military Memorial Wall serves to always remember and never forget those that served Viewing hours 11 30 a m to 7 p m There is no charge for this event Sponsored by the American Legion Post 107 and the Sparta Township Historical Commission MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY IN SPARTA Monday May 29 Lamoreaux Park 150 Park Street Sparta Memorial Day Ceremony at 10 30 am Michigan Military Memorial Wall at 11 30 Am 7 Pm No charge Sponsored by American Legion Post 107 and Sparta Township Historical Commission Algoma Township Historical Society Memorial Day Service Monday May 29 2017 at 1 00 pm Service to be held at Algoma Township s Memorial Park on Grange Ave south of 13 Mile Rd south side of cemetery The service will be in memory of Algoma s Veterans who served during WWI as this is the 100 year Anniversary of World War I Refreshments will be served following the service MEMORIAL DAY SCHEDULE AMERICAN LEGION POST 123 KENT CITY May 29 2017 8 30 A M South Casnovia Cemetery Service 10 30 A M Idlewild Cemetery Service Kenowa Ave south of 17 Mile Road 18 Mile Road between Tyrone Barber Creek 9 00 A M Village of Casnovia Parade Service 10 00 A M Village of Kent City Parade Service from Grice s Pharmacy to Leaver Park 11 00 A M Chubbuck Cemetery Service corner of Peach Ridge and 21 Mile Road Final Ceremony at Post 123 14111 Ball Creek Ave Kent City All Veterans names that have passed away last year will be read The BACK SHOP Chiropractic Center Massage Beuschel Funeral Home 5018 Alpine Ave just south of 6 Mile 616 785 3863 www BeuschelFuneralHome com Brent Beuschel Manager Meeting All Financial Needs Facility Tours Dr LynnMarie S Leyder Tammy Gibson Doctor of Chiropractic Office Manager Tammy thebackshopchiro com 542 S S State Sparta MI MI 49345 Fax 616 616 887 2456 887 2456 542 StateSt Street Sparta 49345Phone Phone 616 616 887 2178 887 2178 Fax www thebackshopchiro com www thebackshopchiro com facebook com thebackshopchiro facebook com thebackshopchiro

Page 3

SpartaTODAY Once upon a time Sowing Seeds Childcare Center in Sparta hoping to open door in early summer Allison Houseman owner of Sowing Seeds Childcare Center is thrilled to be opening a place for families to have a caring environment for their kids Sparta truly needs a local option for safe quality affordable child care especially for infants and toddlers says Houseman The facility is located across from Family Fare and af 3 Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 ter months of renovations to the building is opening their doors soon to enroll infants toddlers and kids ages 6 weeks 12 years old Sowing Seeds Child Care and Learning Center is going to be a nurturing educational center where our focus is to show compassionate care to the littlest members of our community Our goal besides providing childcare Attention Princesses Save the date May 14 Once upon a time on a Saturday in a land not so far away the little Princesses of the countryside were invited to dress their finest and invite their Queens to join them in a ball fit for royalty Please join us at the Sparta Civic Center on May 14th at 11 AM for an hour of magic Tickets are 10 00 at the door or 2 for 15 online per princess Adults have free entry When the clock strikes noon remember to find your shoes you will need them again on June 21st for the Superhero and Princess concert in the park More details can be found at www spartachamber com for working parents is to sow seeds of character such as honesty respect and kindness as well as to create an educational environment for little learners says Houseman More information about Sowing Seeds Childcare Center can be found by calling 616 520 3653 or by emailing sowingseedschildcare yahoo com Sparta s Easter Bunny Visits Photos Saturday April 15 10 am to Noon Free Bring a camera Sparta Community House 80 N Union Sparta A Fresh Peach Arugula and Goat Cheese salad General Practice aD 1 Ridgetown Grub Set to Open in May With a d cor mix of Rock N Roll and garage band with autographed paraphernalia this 50 s 60 s throwback will be a new food concept with Fast Fresh Local as its mission You might feel like you are stepping back in time thanks to the personal service and experience with the quality of products including the 1936 craft soda fountain Although opening with limited hours in starting on Thursday May 4 from 11 am 7 pm the plan is to expand the hours and days based on public feedback and invite you in to give your input on what type of hours you d like to see for this new shop opening at 203 3 1 4 x 6 More Than Law Easter Egg Hunt at Howard Christensen Nature Center The authentic 1936 Bastian Blessing soda jerk serving Craft Soda BLAKESLEE ROP PLC E Division in the front of the Fenton building Hours will be updated on their facebook page and on the front of the building of T Commerce A TThe T Sparta O R NChamber EYS A LAW is hosting a welcoming ribbon cutting celebration on Thursday June 15 at 11 am and invites the community to celebrate the opening of the new eatery downtown Join us on April 15 for Brunch Served from Noon to 2 pm Easter Egg Hunt begins promptly for all ages at 2 pm BLAKESLEE ROP PLC U AT T O R N E Y S AT L AW Brunch is 5 per person or 15 per family of 4 or more and includes Easter Egg Hunt Easter Egg Hunting only 1 00 per egg hunter HCNC Members includes a discount of a 3 00 Brunch and Free Egg hunting Momber Pharmac Gifts Momber Pharmacy 11 S StateUSt Sparta MI Phone 616 887 7323 Fax 616 887 9559 Gifts Store Drive ThruMIHours Mon Fri 9 7 Sat 9 5 Sun Closed 11 S State St Sparta Phone 616 887 7323 Fax 616 887 9559 Free Store delivery within Sparta city limits Drive Thru Hours Mon Fri 9 7 Sat 9 5 Sun Closed Fast friendly customer service Estate Planning Probate Estate Planning Probate Business We accept Free delivery within Sparta city limits most insurance plans Real service Real EstateBusiness Criminal Law Estate Municipal Law Great Fast giftsfriendly for allcustomer occasions We Candles accept most insurance plans Yankee Great gifts for all occasions Hallmark Cards 616 866 9593 drive rockford 866 9593 240 NorthlaNd Yankee Candles A family pharmacy www br law net Hallmark Cards run with pride 240 Northland Dr Rockford MI File name www br law net 1B_general_practice_ad_2011 pdf A family pharmacy run with pride www hometownpharmacy com Store and Drive Thru Hours Monday Friday 9 7 Saturday 9 5 Sunday Closed

Page 4

4 SpartaTODAY Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 Sparta Senior Neighbor Center hosts upcoming activities Please join the Sparta Senior Neighbors Center ages 60 up for Fun Food Exercise Entertainment Monday thru The Sparta Farm Artisan Market Fridays UPCOMING ACTIVITIES Coming in June to Rogers Park The market is under new management Check out the facebook page for find out more details on how to sign up for the Kids Healthy Eating Club Fresh Local Fun Specialty Foods Veggie Tales Hands on Fun for Kids Home Garden Demos Up Coming Artisans Interactive Culinary Demos Wed April 19th bring 3 quarters for the popular Coin Game at 10 a m Wed April 19th Wii Bowling at 12 00 p m directly after lunch Fri April 21st Spring Fling Kentucky Derby Party Sparta Style Bring your big hats be ready to bid on your favorite horse Kentucky isn t the only state that knows how to throw a Sparta animal CliniC p C real wing dinger event Take home the winnings Prizes for best hat Lots of laughs This southern party begins at 10 a m Goodies Lunch Fun Prizes Raffle Auction R S V P please 887 1273 Wed April 26th Neil Diamond will be in the building Join us for this impersonator performance at 10 a m at the center It s the Sweet Caroline concert And every lady will get a chance to meet this handsome super star in his hay day Bring your cameras your smiles R S V P please 887 1273 Friday April 28th 10 a m Mystery Game prizes with Intelicare Fri April 28th 12 30 p m Euchre Every Tues Thurs is arthritis exercise class beginning at 10 30 a m Most every Mon Wed is music beginning at 10 a m Come see why the seniors in Sparta are having so much fun Sparta Tire Automotive 431 W Division Sparta 616 887 8247 Servicing Both Large and Small Animals Office Calls Surgeries and Farm Visits TIRES SERVICE MORE Tires Wheels Brakes Alignments Shocks Struts Import Factory Maintenance Tune Ups More Complete Automotive Repair www spartaanimalclinic vetstreet com M F 8 00am 6 00pm Sat 8 00am 12 00 Noon 440 S State St Sparta 616 887 1748 spartatire com Crome Mechanical can help you With Your Spring To DoKeep ListCozy This Winter Crome Mechanical can help you COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL HEATING COOLING FURNACES BOILER SYSTEMS VENTILATION Sales Installation Repair COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL HEATING COOLING FURNACES BOILER SYSTEMS VENTILATION Sales Installation Repair 50 OFF 50 OFF ANY REPAIR SERVICE WITH THIS COUPON ANY REPAIR SERVICE WITH THIS COUPON A Live Person ALWAYS Answers When You Call A Live Person ALWAYS Answers When You Call 616 884 0808 tara cromemchanical com 616 884 0808 tara cromemechanical com CROMEMECHANICAL COM CROMEMECHANICAL COM 24 7 SERVICE

Page 5

SpartaTODAY Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 5 Alpine Township Historical Happenings SPRING 2017 The Best Of The Ridge Maple Syrup Contest Sunday April 23 2017 at 2pm Alpine Elementary School 4730 Baumhoff Ave NW Corner of Baumhoff and Alpine Church Rd nw Local syrup makers vie for best of the area in maple syrup Pancake and syrup sampling musical entertainment and syrup sales To enter call Don at 887 8557 or Pat at 784 0817 Antique tractor show Sunday May 21 2017 Alpine township community building 2015 7 mile rd NW Tractors and equipment will be on display from late morning to mid afternoon And local author Adele Bradford Jones with her book Lifetime journey Your family story Have you ever wished you had one place to keep track of life events and capture family history as it happens This book is for you It s a month and day journal easy to use and full of extras 2 00 pm PRESENTATION Refreshments available Thrifty Chick Grand Opening The Sparta Chamber of Commerce overtook the Thrifty Chick in March to give a warm grand opening celebration to the new thrift store on the corner of 12 Mile and State Street Owner Julie Gahagan is excited at the warm welcome that the store has received from the community this far The Thrifty Chick is open Monday thru Saturday but check their facebook page for updated hours and sales events too 2017 Relay for Life Walking for a cure Cancer survivors caregivers volunteers and community members will unite for the annual American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Sparta in an effort to free the world from the pain and suffering of cancer Funds raised help the American Cancer Society provide free information and support for people facing the disease today and fund cancer research that will help protect future generations During Relay For Life events members of each team take turns walking or running around the track or path Teams participate in fundraising in the months leading up to the event Join us on June 10th 2017 anytime between Noon and Midnight at the Sparta Middle School Track for this year s Superhero Themed Relay Survivors and caregivers will be provided a luncheon at Noon please register ahead of time Our Luminaria ceremony will take place at dusk with lots of family friendly activates planed throughout the day To register as a survivor caregiver participate start a team or to find out more information please visit us at www RelayForLife org SpartaMI or contact Michelle Schiefen at michelle schiefen cancer org or 616 551 4031 The Howard Christensen Nature Center The Howard Christensen Nature Center has tons of upcoming camps events and interactive learning experiences for all ages Visit their website at http www howardchristensen org community events for a full list including Archery Camp Wild Wednesday turtles frogs and things under logs insect investigation survival camp team building and more

Page 6

Page 7

Page 8

Page 9

Page 10

Page 11

Page 12

Page 13

Page 14

Page 15

SpartaTODAY Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 15 Upcoming programs for our 100th centennial celebration In collaboration with the Sparta Historical Commission and the Sparta Library Centennial Committee SATURDAY MAY 10 10 00AM 1 00PM Collectibles programs Participants bring in their collections for public viewing This will be just a fun time to see what everyone is collecting Collectors will be provided a table to put their collections on Tables will be placed throughout the library and the public will be invited to walk around and view everyone s collections and be able to talk to the collectors about their collections There will be no buying or selling SATURDAY JULY 29 10 00AM 12 00PM Walking Tour Sparta walking tour with Larry Carter with reception following in the Carnegie Room SATURDAY MAY 10 10 00AM 1 00PM Centennial Open House The day when the cornerstone was placed The public is invited to attend the open house There will be two seminars provided for public to attend One will be a Sparta memory panel where participants will discuss their memories of Sparta Audience participation is encouraged The other seminar will be a documentary on the WWII POW camp in Sparta Other events also planned will be a tree planting ceremony and youth poetry contest Local authors who have written books about their memories of Sparta will be available with copies of their books to purchase There will also be catered food All events and activities will be videotaped by Dan Salas from Vida Video Productions These will be available for sale 2017 SPARTA VILLAGE TOWNSHIP SPRING CLEAN UP Sparta Village Township will be holding a Spring Clean Up for residents beginning on Thursday April 20th and continuing through Saturday April 22nd Hours of operation for each day are as follows The Village Township have made a number of changes to what is accepted this year Please review the list below to confirm the item you are bringing is accepted ACCEPTED ITEMS Residents are expected to unload their own yard waste and materials Appliances Refrigerators will have to have coolant removed w certificate check with an appliance store Electronics Computers No CRT TV s CRT Monitors or leaded glass TV s will be accepted Scrap Metal Tin Steel Aluminum Furniture Mattresses Miscellaneous large items Tires limit of 4 per household Must have rim removed Propane Tanks Car Batteries Household batteries Yard Waste Grass Leaves branches and limbs smaller than four 4 inches in diameter WE WILL NOT ACCEPT Household Trash or Waste Hazardous Waste No Liquids Gas Tanks CO2 Cylinders paint thinners Weed Killers Bug Sprays Oil Based Paint Acids Please contact Kent County 616 632 7939 for direction on disposal Construction or building materials scrap metal accepted per list above Vehicles Boats over 12 feet in length PROOF OF SPARTA VILLAGE OR TOWNSHIP RESIDENCY REQUIRED AT DROPOFF Any questions please call Village of Sparta Public Works at 616 887 9303 or e mail Dennis Brinks DPW Supervisor at dbrinks spartami org

Page 16

16 SpartaTODAY Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 Sparta Downtown Development Authority State Reporting 2015 Printed 3 15 17 616 887 8251 156 E Division Sparta MI 49345 Director Elizabeth Morse Per Act 196 of 1975 the report shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the municipality and shall include the following a The amount and source of revenue in the account Source of Revenues Tax Increment Financing Current Amount in Account 112 682 43 b The amount in any bond reserve account Bond Reserve Account None c The amount and purpose of expenditures from the account 2016 Expenditures 250 SDDA FUND EXPENDITURES 702 000 Salaries 44 822 00 702 500 Salaries Part Time DPW crew only 8 792 00 703 000 MML Work Comp Premiums 855 00 708 000 M E R S 4 873 00 712 000 Health Insurance 12737 00 712 100 Life Insurance 169 00 715 000 F I C A 4 055 727 000 Office Supplies 1 510 818 000 Contracted Services general 1 689 818 200 C S Engineering Consulting 140 00 818 900 cs banners 425 818 800 Garden Club 53 97 Winter Contracted Services 163 818 850 Garden Supplies Maintenance 17 900 880 100 Town Country Days 500 864 000 Dues Conferences Workshops 1 540 880 000 Community promotions 14 394 880 200 Advertising 11 509 880 300 Arts Organization Hospitality 4 000 880 500 Downtown Christmas Lighting 10 128 880 700 Downtown Sparta Farmers Market 1682 921 500 Downtown Electricity 2 872 922 000 Telephone 486 927 000 Repair maintenance supplies 1434 940 000 Equipment Rental 884 955 000 Fa ade Improvement 10 000 955 002 Business Improvement Grant 1660 Miscellaneous 5 411 957 000 Mileage 432 970 000 Capital Outlay 0 990 200 Streetscape Payment 20 000 SDDA FUND TOTAL EXPENSES 229 665 Increase Decrease to SDDA Fund Cash Balance 8 774 00 d The amount of principal and interest on any outstanding bonded indebtedness None e The initial assessed value of the project area Initial Assessment Value of Project Area 7 000 600 f The captured assessed value retained by the authority 10 574 331 00 g The tax increment revenues received Tax Increment Revenues Received is 224 414 00 h The number of jobs created as a result of the implementation of the tax increment financing plan Direct jobs created as a result of TIF since 1992 is difficult to measure However in the last three years two businesses were directly RETAINED 8 employees one business created 2 employees 1 business relocated to fill a 7 000 ft vacancy downtown that includes 20 new part time employees as a direct result of DDA assistance since 2013 i Any additional information the governing body or the state tax commission considers necessary SPARTA VILLAGE RESIDENTS The pick up schedule is as follows WEEK PICKED UP April 3 7 May 1 5 June 5 9 July 3 7 August 7 11 September 4 8 October 2 6 The Village of Sparta DPW will begin brush pickup starting on April 3 2017 Brush will be picked up the FIRST FULL WORK WEEK of each month BRUSH MUST BE CURBSIDE BY 7 00 AM MONDAY of the week the brush is scheduled to be picked up Brush size will be limited to a maximum diameter of four inches 4 Only branches trees and limbs smaller than four inches 4 in diameter will be picked up by the Village crews Any limbs or branches larger than four inches 4 in diameter will be left curbside Please place brush between sidewalk and curb NOT in the street with cut ends lying in the same direction Monthly brush pick will end October 6 2017 Just a reminder the Village does NOT pick up leaves garden waste or grass clippings during brush pickup Village residents can drop leaves garden waste grass clippings and brush not larger than 4 in diameter at the Village of Sparta DPW at 276 W Division Street during regular work hours NO commercial dumping NO stumps larger than 4 in diameter ID s may be checked before you unload to confirm village residency Also as a reminder Christmas Trees can be dropped off at the DPW starting the Monday after Christmas If you have any questions please call The Village Office at 616 8878251 or the DPW staff at 616 887 9303 Village of Sparta Noxious Grass Weed Notice Section 78 75 of the Village Code of Ordinances states Vegetation not cut during the growing season may be cut by the village beginning on May 1 of the given year and the owner of the property will be charged with the cost thereof based on the following factors 1 That noxious weeds grass more than eight inches in height dead bushes dead trees and stumps and bushes and trees infested with dangerous insects or infectious diseases must be cut and removed from property during the growing season namely April 15 October 15 of the given year 2 That if the owner agent or occupant refuses to destroy the noxious weeds and vegetation the village or its contractor may after May 1 of the given year enter upon the land and destroy them and remove them 3 That if unpaid the cost of removal shall be assessed as a lien against the land which shall be enforced in the manner of enforcement of tax liens 4 That any owner who refuses to destroy and remove noxious weeds and vegetation shall also be responsible for a municipal civil infraction Stormwater Pollution Solutions RESIDENTIAL Recycle or properly dispose of household products that contain chemicals such as insecticides pesticides paint solvents and used motor oil and other auto fluids Don t pour them onto the ground or into storm drains AUTO CARE Washing your car and degreasing auto parts at home can send detergents and other contaminants through the storm sewer system Dumping automotive fluids into storm drains has the same result as dumping the materials directly into a water body Use a commercial car wash that treats or recycles its wastewater or wash your car on your yard so the water infiltrates into the ground Repair leaks and dispose of used auto fluids and batteries at designated drop off or recycling locations PET WASTE Pet waste can be a major source of bacteria and excess nutrients in local waters When walking your pet remember to pick up the waste and dispose of it properly Flushing pet waste is the best disposal method Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria and nutrients to wash into the storm drain and eventually into local water bodies For other questions about safe storm water practices please contact Sparta Village DPW at 887 9303 or visit www spartami org

Page 17

SpartaTODAY 17 Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 Sparta Area Schools Vol 15 No 12 April 2017 Home of the Michigan Blue Ribbon Exemplary School www spartaschools org BELL RINGER GREETINGS FROM GORDIE Dear District Residents Spring is officially here even though the weather may not always show it We have moved our clocks ahead and we are down to the last quarter of our school year Spring sports have already begun and before we know it graduation will be here However before all of that happens we have state assessments to take and several areas of curriculum to engage our students in As your superintendent I want to personally inform Sparta families and parents of the Strong Schools Strong Communities proposal to establish a stable reliable source of funding for West Michigan school districts Every parent agrees that it is critical to provide our kids with a high quality education and this proposal will ensure our students have the opportunity to learn achieve and be college and career ready Many of you are aware that school districts across West Michigan including Sparta Area Schools have taken steps to tighten their belts find efficiencies cut costs reduce staff and consolidate services over the past many years Despite these efforts too many local school districts and communities continue to struggle to provide the quality education our students deserve All 20 school districts within the Kent Intermediate School District have made the formal request to the Kent ISD to place the Strong Schools Strong Communities proposal on the May 2 2017 ballot Voters will be asked to approve a 0 9 millage If approved all millage dollars will be collected by Kent ISD and distributed equally on a per pupil basis to each local school district Our school district will be able to use these resources to meet the unique needs of our students and provide high quality classroom instruction Again 100 percent of funds from this proposal will be spent on classroom instruction and kids Moreover all spending will be publicly disclosed on a website and independent audits will be performed to ensure transparency accountability and that taxpayer dollars are spent wisely Over the next several weeks you will see and hear more about the Strong Schools Strong Communities proposal You will find a link to information from the Kent Intermediate School District on our website Thank you for all that you do for our kids and community and please do not hesitate to contact me with questions You may have heard that Kent County was given a wavier by the state to begin school before Labor Day I want everyone to know that Sparta Area Schools will not be starting before Labor Day Our scheduled first day of school for the 2017 2018 school year will be September 5 2017 Eventually I will be surveying parents and staff to see if a pre Labor Day start for the 2018 2019 school year should be considered With all of the construction going on in our district this summer a pre Labor Day start was just not an option Be sure to check out our website for an update on our bond projects We continue to be grateful for your support for and participation in Sparta Area Schools Stay connected together we can make a difference If there is hope in the future there is power in the present Gordie Nickels Superintendent Diversity Club Submitted By Lily Beechnau senior In 2016 Ms Naill and a group of students reignited the Diversity Club at Sparta High School a club whose mission is to spread awareness and promote inclusivity of those who feel left out discriminated against or unsafe in our community regardless of race religion gender sexual orientation disability or anything else Diversity Club seeks to fight prejudice stereotypes bullying and exclusion in a culture that is historically guilty of discrimina tion The club has a publication board in the C000 pod called the Mosaic which is used as means of communication by students making them more able to raise important and relevant issues to the larger student population To the students this club is a force of education and an agent of change a beacon to spread the word about discrimination in our school and society If anyone wishes to join speak with Ms Naill at the high school 616 887 8213 The Adventures of Hockey Todd author visit Submitted by Mary Kuzawa On March 6 2017 through the support of SEF grant funds author Todd Pasick was able to visit Ridgeview Elementary Todd Pasick visited our school to kick off our Reading Month and support our Super Hero theme During his visit Todd Pasick presented an animated presentation of his story The Adventures of Hockey Todd to individual grade levels during an assembly He also had group discussions about overcoming challenges pursuing dreams bullying and equality In addition he also played and sang his original song Free Your SuperHero with students Todd brought his mascot Zamboni the Dragon to celebrate with us and get students even more Sparta High School Theatrics Presents High School Musical Director Mar Higgins STARRING Emmy Scott Charlie Regeczi Kirk Brown Tommee Smith As Gabriella and Troy Featuring Lily Beechnau Tamarra Thomas Marcus Chapman Justin Vant Hoff As Sharpay and Ryan Performances May 3rd 6th at 7pm May 6th 7th at 2pm excited It was a fantastic way to kick off Reading Month Students received colorful Free your SuperHero bracelets and had the opportunity to purchase his book Teachers also received books and activities to use in their classrooms Both the bracelets and books were provided through SEF funds and donations Todd Pasick has overcome much adversity in his life At the age of two his right arm was amputated due to an accident As a child with the help of friends and family he never let it slow him down or hinder his dreams In addition to normal childhood activities he played college football was a silver medalist in hockey plays the guitar and piano is a recording artist in Nashville became a licensed Occupational Therapists as well as an author Students face many challenges in school and at home Those challenges at school may be because of physical learning or emotional disabilities Additionally some students are at risk for failure due to socio economic status low or slow academic gains or language barriers Challenges at home include lack of proper nutrition basic housing needs or parental support Todd Pasick s book The Adventures of Hockey Todd taught students to pursue their dreams and not let obstacles get in their way The message that resonated with our students from him is one that our students need to know that anything is possible Sparta High School Blood Drive On Tuesday March 14th Sparta s National Honor Society officers Victoria Hyde and Julia Willer helped host the blood drive in Sparta s auxiliary gymnasium at the high school This blood drive was very special because it was in honor of Alyssa Eggerding a senior who passed away last April from injuries from a car accident This special event brought in many donors and had a record breaking signup of 95 students registered to donate which is triple the typical number The day of the drive only a handful of people were deferred This drive was also different because of the many walk ins from the community that decided to come out and donate as well The March drive was one of the most successful Sparta has ever had There were 71 pints of blood collected which can help save 231 Michigan lives Great job Spartans for saving lives and helping the community

Page 18

18 SpartaTODAY Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 BELL RINGER Sparta Middle School Students of the month for January and February The students below were nominated by teachers at their grade level for being outstanding citizens at Sparta Middle School On behalf of our entire staff we want to recognize these students for the positive contributions they make to our school and for making those around them better through the positive example that they set January SMS Students of the Month 6TH GRADE STUDENTS OF THE MONTH Sophie Tavares Preston Adams 7TH GRADE STUDENTS OF THE MONTH Emily Vargas Tyler Webber 8TH GRADE STUDENTS OF THE MONTH Madison Bennett Luis Montes February SMS Students of the Month 6TH GRADE STUDENTS OF THE MONTH Makalah Laarman Kyle Suhan 7TH GRADE STUDENTS OF THE MONTH Chaleigh Kutzli Aidan Byrne 8TH GRADE STUDENTS OF THE MONTH Alaina Rowley Nelson Martinez Gonzalez Spartan Warrior Bryce Terbeek goes to the hoop as teammates look on Special Olympics Hoops Spartan Warriors Submitted by Cody Manson and Tommee Smith sophomores Appleview Elementary Fourth Grade Choir Concert Silence fell over the auditorium as parents grandparents siblings and other family members waited in eager anticipation for the music to start As the music began for All Jazzed Up Tonight the crowd couldn t help but tap their feet and snap their fingers along with our fabulous fourth graders and their fantastic friends from Mrs Geers class Under the direction of Mrs Friederichs the students demonstrated all the skills they have been working on so hard this school year They sang they played instruments and they even danced These skills were all performed with excitement and enthusiasm Smiling faces positive com PTC Pulse As the 2016 17 school year wraps up the Sparta Parent Teacher Committee PTC is pleased with another wonderful year in providing many exciting opportunities for all of the elementary students of Sparta Area Schools The fundraising efforts through our 2nd Annual Spartan Spirit Walk Box Top Collections Used Ink Cartridges MyCoke Rewards Amazon Smile and Spartan Nash receipt collections allowed the PTC to help provide many field trips assemblies new books classroom parties and many other experiences for our children In February many Dads or Father figures were able to celebrate their girls at our annual Daddy Daughter Dance It was an enjoyable event full of music dancing an American Girl raffle and many smiles Moms or Mother figures attended the first Mother Son Dance Party in March with lots of fun dancing and raffles as well The Spring Box Top Competition kicks off April 28 and ends May12 Box Tops raise thousands of dollars each year for our elementary students Be watching your child s Friday folder for more information Consider asking your friends and family to join you in collecting Lastly we hosted two Scholastic Book Fairs at each elementary school during conferences and we were able to send two brand new books home with each student this school year as well Thank you to all of our dedicated volunteers for making this another successful school year If you are interested in getting involved in the PTC there are many opportunities for 20172018 We are currently in need of a Treasurer Vice President of Special Events and Appleview Grade Rep Room Parent We exist to enhance the educational experiences of our children and to offer parents and teachers the opportunity to come together in our community The difference between a good school and a GREAT school is directly related to the level of positive involvement of parents and community If you would like more information about the PTC or you would like to get involved contact 616 887 7506 x 3506 or ptc spartaschools org ments and many photo opportunities followed the concert as families and friends mingled and discussed their favorite parts of the performance The fourth grade staff would like to thank Mrs Friederichs for all her hard work and dedication to the music program here at Appleview Teamwork was the main philosophy for the Sparta Warriors and their venerable coach Renee Wyman this season It was consistent practice on and off the court The Warriors had an amazing season so amazing that they qualified for a chance to play at the state tournament The main core for the Warriors consisted of Taylor Vogg Eduardo Martinez Eh Ter Gaw and Billy Groth Taylor Vogg ran the team at the point guard position and was confident in his teammates We are a well working team said Vogg Eduardo Martinez enjoyed the winning It was exciting to hear we made it to state the big man said Coach Wyman felt that her favorite memory was the best and biggest win for the Warriors which was the win against the Orange Peelers 35 28 to qualify the Warriors for the state tourney Every player for the Warriors showed improvement throughout the year especially in working as a team Wyman said Fox 17 s Teacher of the Year Sparta s Renne Wyman Submitted by Mackenzie Berenbrock junior Sparta s own Renne Wyman recently received the teacher of the year award from Fox 17 News Wyman has taught at Sparta for 18 years She taught special education at the middle school for seven years and for the past 11 years she has been a teacher in the Mild Cognitive Impaired Program at the high school Her goal is to teach her students life skills through performing tasks Wyman believes that she was put on the radar for the award because of the Best Prom Ever The Best Prom Ever is a dance for students and adults who have disabilities Wyman and her students plan the dance and provide guests with a full meal photo booth dance floor limo rides dresses and much more fun activities The Best Prom Ever started out as a rehearsal prom so her students could prepare for the actual prom The little rehearsal turned into something big Over the past couple of years the dance has grown from 15 attendees to about 2 000 attendees Many volunteers come to the dance as well It has turned into a community event that brings people together Wyman also coaches for Unified Sports This is where her students and general education students play sports together specifically basketball Sparta along with the Forest Hills district has become a leader in the state for these events Wyman and her students will soon be heading to Michigan State University to play basketball and be a part of the varsity basketball playoffs Wyman described winning the award as humbling She will always leave a lasting impact on Sparta Area Schools and her students

Page 19

SpartaTODAY 19 Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 Everyday counts One of the most important things your child can do to achieve academic success is also one of the most basic going to school every day In fact research has shown that your child s attendance record may be the biggest factor influencing his or her academic success America s education system is based on the assumption that barring illness or an extraordinary event students are in class every weekday It s a fact that students who attend school regularly learn more and are more successful in school than students who do not Parents who make regular school attendance a priority also are helping their children learn to accept responsibility That s an important lesson for a successful life Attendance patterns are formed early in life Children who develop good attendance habits in the early grades will be more likely to continue them throughout their school career That s important because students who miss school miss out on carefully planned sequences of instruction They miss out on active learning experiences and class participation They miss out on the opportunity to ask questions They are more likely to fall behind and they are more likely to drop out Attendance is critical to the success of every child Please be sure your student has good attendance With only a quarter of the year left please finish Strong Kids Food Basket 2017 The students in Mrs Murdock s 5th grade class spent a portion of their Valentine s Day party sharing the love by participating in a service project Families generously donated food items baggies and paper sacks for Kids Food Basket an organization that supplies sack lunches to children in the greater Grand Rapids area At the beginning of the class party students decorated paper lunch bags then formed an assembly line to put together over 56 pounds of supper sacks A few weeks later the students received a letter thanking them for their donation which stated Your gift has a direct and positive effect on the lives of the children we serve On behalf of the thousands of kids we serve each day thank you for BELL RINGER International Exchange Student Housing Needed Sparta High School along with Educatius International is looking for families to host an international student for the 2017 18 school year The students are proficient in the English language have their own spending money are fully insured and are excited to participate in all aspects of the host family and community life If you have an interest in hosting an exchange student and would like more information please contact Erin Kavanagh or Christine McKinley at Sparta High School Girls bowling finishes first Submitted by Mackenzie Berenbrock junior your commitment to ensuring kids get the nutrition they need to reach their full potential Room mom Erin Bormes summed up the party s message quite well when she said to the kids Val entine s Day is about love today you shared the love by making sack lunches for kids who might not otherwise have food to eat As you leave today remember to spread kindness like confetti On February 24th and 25th the Sparta Girls bowling team finished first in the division 2 regional finals The girls had a total pin fall of 3 373 The team bowled two Baker games in the 200s which helped them immensely The girls beat Allendale the OK Blue conference champions and only team that beat the Lady Spartans The bowling team members include the following athletes Madi Vanlaan Dayla Walle A J Beck Ashley Kolhoff Danielle Hiemstra Kaylee Austin and Kya Patterson The girls first place finish landed them a spot in the state tournament on March 3rd and 4th The girls tried their hardest and fought to the finish but they didn not get the outcome they hoped for at state but they felt good about their season I enjoyed improving my game this season said team member Madi Vanlaan Kent County Enhancement Millage Information Regarding The May 2 2017 Regional Ballot Proposal Election Date May 2 2017 QUICK FACTS Voters in each of the 20 KISD public school districts will be asked to consider an enhancement millage proposal of 0 9 mill for 10 years on May 2 2017 Since 2008 09 State funding has not kept up with inflation causing districts to reduce or eliminate programs classroom materials and staff see foundation grant comparison A majority of voters in the KISD would need to approve the proposal for it to be successful If approved each of the 20 school districts in the KISD would receive an additional 211 per student for operations starting with the 201718 school year An enhancement millage is the only option for school districts to request operational funding from the public beyond funding provided by the State Sparta Area Schools would receive approximately 523 000 annually for the next 10 years Examples of how Sparta Area Schools would use revenue over the next 10 years if approved 1 Additional support for at risk students and enhanced opportunities for high achievers 2 Additional support for our English Language Learners Program 3 Stabilize and or reduce class sizes 4 Expand opportunities for college credit courses For the purpose of calculating a property tax increase one mill is equal to one dollar per 1 000 of the taxable value of a home Because the enhancement millage proposal is for 0 9 mill this means the proposal would be calculated based on 90 cents per 1 000 taxable value 5 Sustain and improve Advanced Placement courses For additional information please contact Gordie Nickels Superintendent Sparta Area Schools 616 887 8253 Or email gordie nickels spartaschools org 7 Additional support for the performing arts 6 Update science and social studies curriculums Sparta Area Schools Foundation Grant Comparison

Page 20

20 BELL RINGER Sparta Schools Honor Roll CONGRATULATIONS Allen Trinity Alt Reece Arch Danielle Baldini Gabriel Baltruczak Michelle Barr Mason Becker Kiersten Benham Emalynnh Blouw Jordyn Bradford Skylar Bunker Karlee Caine Victoria Cantu Madison Carney Ross Chen Rachel Combs Haley DeKorne Allyson Dessellier Delaney 6TH GRADE DeYoung Sabrina Dines Aliyah Dye Samari Gonzalez Barrera Emily Gutierrez Jazmine Hartman Elizabeth Hernandez Julia Howland Kenzie Hufford Alexander Huinil Berumen Kevin Jackson Kyle Janesak Emma Johnson Julia Keener Drake Klein Mackenzie Kraus Eric Laarman Makalah Lashuay Jada Longcore Marissa Longcore Paige MacArthur Erin Marlatt Taylor McKay Jennifer Momber Noah Newton Jett Ogg Adam Oosting Clayton Paige Brooklyn Pangborn Haley Paniwozik Kolton Pindzia Abigail Poling Bethany Postma Emily Reister Abriel Richmond Brockton Rogers Gwen Sargent Parker Scheid Lacey Seekman Nathan Seymour Logan Sokolowski Kaylee Stillson Lexxi Suhan Kyle Tavares Sophie Volkers Carter Weronko Brooklynn Wheelock Macy Whitmore Henry Wiebenga Cameron Wilson Jax Zurek Abigail 7TH GRADE Alexander Kyla Allan Zoe Anderson Kaileigh Andersson Jenna Arellano Jose Berenbrock Abbigail Berenbrock Allison Biczak Ashley Bormes Camden Bradford Brooke Brower AnnMarie Brower Madelyn Byrne Aidan Closser Hannah Dame Jacob DeGraaf Gerrit DeKubber Aaliyah Elton Anthony Garza Jocelyn Gauthier Adelle Geysbeek MeMe Grettenberger Sendy Heinbeck Fritz Hetzel Matthew Iler Andrew Jackson Azaelya Jones Jackson Knowles Hannah Kolhoff Samantha Kutzli Chaleigh Lamancusa Antonio Lambert Amaya Landry Christopher Lee Kyla Lock Kyle Markle Travis May Bridger McNeil Evelyn Mikula Samantha Molhoek Jackqline Montgomery Olivia Olney Blake Ortiz Torres Adriana Ostling Emery Padron Julissa Peak Hailey Penland Addison Post Benjamin Postal Tomas Punches Aliza Rich Luke Riddle Lance Riddle Laurence Riddle Loren Roettger Jaime Rowland Kaleb Rummler Lucas Scheid Andrew Schoonmaker Nicholas Schriver Clara Shue Ashley Skop Kaylee Slauter Zander Smith Taylor Steinbacher Evan Sternisha Martin Vallone Bella VanderLeest Kolbe Walters Jasmine Whitmore Samuel Willcox Abby Woolworth Samuel Wright Hannah Wylie Dylan 8 GRADE Feustel Emma Gunhus Hannah Heiss Abigail Herman Keziah Hosmer Bridget Howland Kodey Hubert Chase Hufford Hannah Huizen Samantha Keener Phoenix Kober Michelle Laarman Aubrey Marczynski Connor Martinez Charles Lizbeth Mason Ally McKinney Samuel Niswonger Carley Owen Samuel Phillips Sara Poling Savannah Postal Hannah Rees Julia Jilaine Reyburn Dakota Richmond Sheridan Rider Dylan Riordan Mykel Roberts Joseph Robertson Eden Rozema John Scott Abigayle Shaffer Aubrianna Singh Sumerpreet Smith Jenna Sousa April Speck Zoe Spencer Jacob Strayer Scott Dodgeball open champions Papa Roarkers Back Row l to r Bryce Davis Jeremy Johnson Trent Smith Lance Roark Front Row l to r Ben Willcox Justin Bradford Matt Mauer Ryan Oldenburg Hayden Barr Connor Willcox Sparta Fundraiser Dodgeball Tournament Submitted by Paige Barnes On Saturday March 11th Sparta High School hosted the annual dodgeball tournament fundraiser for the track and field program Track coaches Mr Smith and Mr Landry directed this well loved community event It is something players from all ages enjoy and look forward to each and every spring With four age divisions 3rd grade and below 4th and 5th grade middle school and high school and above the tournament offers something for almost any age group The games were very intense but without issue The winners in the youngest division were the Spartan Dodgers In the fourth fifth bracket the Gym Leaders took the title In the middle school competition the Red Ops won Finally in the high school and above division the team Papa Roarkers outlasted the field Most of the members were reigning champs from last year s winning team In the tournament if a player shot a three point basket on the opposing side a player on that team was allowed back in This greatly helped the championship team which was comprised mostly of boys from the varsity basketball team Congrats to all of the winning teams Indoor Winter Guard and Percussion TH Alcala Medasia Armock Kensey Ashley Gavin Ashley Jadon Aune Annah Barendreght Wyatt Beechnau Gracie Bennett Alexandra Bennett Madison Bjorkman Rylie Blanding Marshall Bolda Alyssa Brown Abigail Butts Sophia Caine Olivia Charon Casey Cook Hayden Crum Breana Driscoll Breanna SpartaTODAY Volume 15 Issue 12 April 2017 Striplin Randon Sustaita Jose Vallone Olivia VanDyke Brandon VanDyke Chance Verburg Elijah Way Abigail Webber Tyler Wheater Kyle Wiggins Natasha Wilk Bradley Wilson Paige Wood Jill Woodhull Katelynn Wright Evelyn zomberg Nick Zurek Katherine Submitted by Julia Willer senior This year many of Sparta high school s students are participating in winter guard and winter drumline Winter guard consists of individuals spinning tossing and utilizing equipment like flags rifles and sabres Along with managing equipment these individuals dance portray characters and perform for audiences all over Michigan Two groups that some Spartans are participating in are Interplay Winter Guard and Medley Winter Guard Indoor percussion or winter drumline consists of individuals playing music in the front ensemble or on the drumline making formations dancing and portraying a story There is a wide variety of instruments ranging from keyboard to many different types of drums like snare or bass The groups that the Spartans are actively participating in are called G2 and Genesis Spartan senior Clarissa Hubert said Indoor percussion has taught me a lot of things about what I can do as a musician Playing music in that type of environment where everyone is willing to put in a lot of work creates an amazing production but more importantly creates great friendships These students are learning new ways to be better players and better performers They can take their knowledge to leadership positions in Sparta s own music programs and help other students learn as well Sparta s band director Jim Walsh said Having participated in these programs myself when I was their age helped me become the director I am It is amazing seeing my students be a part of such great organizations They meet new people and make long lasting friendships These students also come back with great knowledge and step up as leaders in our own programs Spartans are making a difference and are bettering themselves by going out and participating in these independent groups