Z EELAND R ECORD

DNR to Great Lakes Beachgoers: Double Red Flags Mean Don’t Go in the Water

To help boost awareness of changing conditions at Great Lakes beaches and save lives, double red warning flags are now in place at state-designated swim beaches along the Great Lakes in Michigan state parks.

It’s a change to the Great Lakes flag warning system that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources began integrating last year at several state parks, and for good reason.

“We actively reevaluate our safety measures and public education efforts, especially when it comes to Great Lakes safety,” said Ron Olson, DNR Parks and Recreation chief. “Many people underestimate the power of the Great Lakes and don’t always understand how quickly even the most experienced swimmer can get into a life-threatening situation and be swept away. That’s why the DNR is committed to making beach safety and public education a top priority.”

Olson said the increase in accidents and drownings on the Great Lakes in recent years is more than concerning. According to the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, which tracks drownings across Michigan, there have been 1,170 Great Lakes drownings since 2010, with 108 of those drownings in 2022 alone.

If you see double red flags, you are not allowed to enter the water from the beach. Unless otherwise directed, visitors can still enjoy spending time on the beach when double red flags are up. Such closures/limits can also be identified by park signage and/ or by verbal communication from DNR parks or law enforcement staff.

Specifically, DNR Land Use Order

5.1.6 makes it illegal to enter the water from a state-designated swim beach when there is risk to human health and safety. Risks can include severe weather events identified by the National Weather Service, hazardous waves and/or dangerous water conditions, active rescue or recovery efforts, and environmental hazards.

“We began introducing double red flags at some state-designated swim beaches in 2022,” said Pat Whalen, district supervisor for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “This year, all equipment is in place, and the new flag warning system has been rolled out to all state-designated swim beaches along the Great Lakes in nearly 30 state parks. We urge all Great Lakes beach visitors – whether you’re new to these beaches or have been coming for years – to learn what the flags mean and follow this guidance at all times.”

The Great Lakes flag warning system is in place at state-designated swim beaches to advise visitors of current water conditions and any applicable environmental warnings. The updated system now includes:

• Double red flag = water access closed**. Do not enter the water; dangerous conditions.

• Red flag high hazard. High surf and/or strong currents. It’s recommended that you stay on the beach.

• Yellow flag = medium hazard. Moderate surf and/or currents. Watch for dangerous currents and high waves.

• Green flag low hazard. Calm conditions. Enter the water, but exercise caution.

State-designated swim beaches are identified by marked swim buoys, water depth of less than 5 feet at the time of buoy installation, available lifesaving flotation device and equipment, and (only at Great Lakes beaches, not inland beaches) Great Lakes flag warning system.

Water depth at state-designated swim beaches is inspected approximately every 14 days, and underwater obstacles will be posted or marked. It’s important to note that not all state parks have designated swim beaches, and many are located inland.

**The double red flag restriction does not include those participating in board sports, such as surfing, kite surfing and skim boarding, with appropriate safety gear.

Keep these other cautions in mind when enjoying time in and around the Great Lakes:

• There are no beach guards at state parks, so never swim alone, always keep close watch of children and bring U.S. Coast-Guard-approved life jackets, especially for new and inexperienced swimmers.

• Water currents near piers, breakwalls and outlets of rivers can be extremely hazardous.

• Visitors in areas without designated swim beaches should use extreme caution because they will not have the benefit of the beach flag warning system or the visual cautions of buoys that mark water depth and obstacles.

• Before leaving home for any beach outing, check local weather reports and lake conditions and learn about the types of Great Lakes currents and how to escape them.

Visit Michigan.gov/BeachSafety for tips and information on safely visiting the Great Lakes, including state-designated swim beach locations, the beach flag warning system, Great Lakes currents (and how to escape them) and more.

For more information, contact the DNR’s Pat Whalen at 269-838-1196 or WhalenP1@Michigan.gov.

Police Blotter

Two pickup trucks were involved in an accident at the intersection of State Street and Roosevelt Avenue at 8:39 a.m. on Friday, May 5. Stephen Dickerson, of Zeeland was east bound on Roosevelt and was attempting to turn onto southbound State, when a pedestrian started to cross State and was not looking in the crosswalk. Dickerson stopped to avoid striking the pedestrian and was struck in the back end by the vehicle driven by Danielle Korson-Campbell who was also east bound on Roosevelt and was unable to stop. Korson-Campbell was cited for causing the accident.

A four-vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of Carlton Street and Washington Avenue at 3:39 p.m. on Monday, May 8.

Toune Choang of Zeeland was northbound on Carlton was distracted by traffic on Washington when she failed to notice that the three vehicles in front of her. She sideswiped the vehicle in front of her driven by Francis Jakubecz, of Holland, and then struck the back end of the vehicle driven by Thomas Sammons of Saginaw. The impact of the Choang/Sammons collision pushed

West Michigan Continues To Grow in Population

It is easy to see the number of new homes, industrial buildings and new stores, but translating that into the population growth in the Holland/Zeeland area is a little more difficult when you consider the number of people who commute to work daily.

From 2010 to 2020 the urban areas in the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council (MACC) grew from 59.17 to 65.96 square miles. The MACC is a Metropolitan Planning Organization and is federally mandated to administer transportation planning within its metropolitan area boundaries. The MACC represents the urbanized areas comprising of the cities of Holland and Zeeland, and Fillmore, Holland Charter , Laketown , Olive , Park, Port Sheldon , and Zeeland Charter townships.

“We are now separated 3.5 miles from the Grand Rapids urban area and 4 miles from the Muskegon urban area,” explained MACC Transportation Planner / GIS Specialist Eric Davis.

From 2010 to 2020 Zeeland Township’s population grew from 9,971 to 12,008, a change of 168.5%. In the same period Holland Township’s population grew from 35,636 to 38,276, a 118.4% change. The city of Zeeland saw its population grow from 5,504 to 5,719 during the same period. The total population for the MACC area is 125,147 and is projected to grow to 160,814 by 2050.

“MDOT (Michigan Department of Transportation) is projecting that the growth in Holland Township to be 55,467 by 2050, Zeeland Township is projected to grow to

14,499 and the City of Zeeland is projected at 6,124,” he said.

According to 2020 Census data provided by Dykstra, 81% of area Black/ African people and 77% of area Hispanic people live in either the City of Holland or Holland Township. Holland Township is the most diverse municipality in the MACC with 43% minority population, and has the highest number of Hispanics, 10,122.

“18.2% or 23,687 people in the MACC are of Hispanic origin, 4.5% or 5,851, are of Asian origin and 2.2% or 2,811 people are of Black/African origin,” he said.

Other interesting facts presented by Dykstra was that Holland has the highest number of American Indians -76; 61% of Asians live in Holland Township; and Holland, Holland Township and Park Township lost White people between 2010 and 2020.

“Zeeland Township has a 19% minority population, and the City of Zeeland has a 14% minority population,” he said.

Overall, the MACC has 5.8% of the households with children under the age of 18 living in poverty, 7,5464 people. Two significant areas with poverty households include the area bounded by in the City of Holland bounded by 9th Street to the north, 14th Street to the south, River Avenue to the west and Lincoln Avenue to the east, has a 38% living in poverty. Another significant area is located in Holland Township in the area bordered by James Street to the north, Lakewood Blvd. to the south, Beech Street to the west and Beeline Road to the east, with 35% living in poverty.

Larry Christensen Dies at Age 80

Larry Lynn Christensen, 80, of Holland, passed away on Wednesday May 24th, 2023, surrounded by family.

Larry was born August 24th, 1942, to Albert and Iva Christensen in Saginaw, MI. Throughout his life, Larry loved camping with his kids, fishing, boating, wild life, and his dogs. Entertaining and cook outs with his friends and family was a passion of Larry’s. He was always so proud of his kids and grandkids. Larry worked as a millwright at G.M.

Larry is survived by: his loving wife of 18 years, Barbara Christensen; his children, Jim (Kathy) Christensen of Freeland, Steven (Cori) Christensen of Arizona, Rodney Christensen of Saginaw, David Griffus of Saginaw, Dana Christensen (Tom Blake) of Saint Clair, Mark (Sandra) Christensen of Sterling Heights, Jason (Jennifer) Christensen, and

Robert J. Hunt Dies at Age 84

Brian of Warren; step-children, Amy (John) Heiser of Byron Center, and Ryan (Shannon) Berlin of Holland; 16 grandchildren; and 1 great grandchild.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents Albert Christensen (19031990) and Iva (King) Christensen (1900-1977); siblings, twin Jerry Christensen (1942-2018), Shirley Dowd (1932-2013), Donna Furlo (1927-2014), June Griffus (19261988), Betty Mehl (1924-2013), Darwin “Ed” Christensen (19221992), and James Christensen (1921-2013).

A visitation and funeral service for Larry was held on Thursday, June 1, at Lakeshore Memorial, 11939 James St, Holland, Michigan.

The family would like to give a special thanks to all of the workers at Hospice of Holland.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland and Harbor Humane.

Donald Schrock Dies at Age 99

Donald Ray Schrock completed 99 well-lived years on May 22, 2023.

He was born in Middlebury, Indiana to Rev. Homer and Mrs. Bessie Schrock on September 19, 1923. At age 16 he began dating the love of his life, Betty Hilton, and they were married on February 12, 1944. They were married for 76 years before her passing in 2020.

Don served in Norway during World War II, then worked as an estimator for Adams & Westlake and Miller Steel in Elkhart, Indiana. After retirement he and Betty traveled throughout the United States in their motorhome, eventually living at Crooked River Ranch in Oregon and later in Tucson, Arizona. In 2011 they moved to Royal Park Place in Zeeland.

He was a member of Maranatha CRC in Holland. Don was also preceded in death by 2 brothers, a sister, his son, Tom, and 3 grandchildren. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Sue and Warren Harding, his sister-inlaw, Shirley Carmien, of Sisters, Oregon, a granddaughter, and several nieces.

A private graveside ceremony will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland.

Jack Largent Dies at Age 95

Jack Norman Largent was born August 16, 1927, in Davidson, Michigan to John T. Largent and Silvie R. (McKinstry) Largent. Jack spent his childhood in Rochester, Michigan where he graduated from Rochester High School in 1945.

Jack married Harriett Dupuis in 1947. They had 5 children, Daniel, Janice, Randal, Paul and Charlene. They raised these children in Rochester. Harriet died in 1972 and Jack took a job transfer to Saginaw Michigan.

In 1975, Jack married Patsy (Merrill) Greenman whose husband of 25 years had died in 1973. Jack became the stepfather of five Greenman daughters. Denise, Judy, Renee, Sherry, and Amy.

Jack and Patsy enjoyed 46 years of marriage before Patsy preceded him in death in January of 2021. They lived in Saginaw until 1989 when they purchased a home on N. Dease Lake in Hale, Michigan. In 2006 Jack and Patsy moved to Holland, Michigan, where they spent their remaining years while also spending 4 months at their winter home in Sebring, Florida at the Maranatha Village Christian retirement community.

Throughout his life, Jack enjoyed hunting and fishing and traveling to all the states. In his later years, Jack enjoyed golfing and was very proud of getting a hole in one

Robert J. Hunt, of Holland MI, peacefully passed away on May 21, 2023, at the age of 84.

Bob was born October 14, 1938, in Jackson MI, to Ken & Alice Hunt. Bob spent his childhood years in the Western Chicago suburb of La Grange, IL along with his brother Dave, and sister Carol. With family in the Kalamazoo area, Bob chose to attend Western Michigan University where he ran cross country and graduated with a degree in Education and a master’s degree in administration. While at Western, he met the love of his life, a young woman from Vicksburg, MI, Barbara Jean Cooley. They were married on June 17, 1961, and had three sons, Jeff, Todd, and Ken. When asked by his sons why he chose to live in Holland, his reply was simply, “Why not live where you like to vacation.” That’s what led to him applying for an administration position of principal at the West Ottawa school district in 1967.

Bob was a principal at many schools including Ventura, New Holland, Woodside, Sheldon Woods, and Pine Creek elementary schools during his years with the West Ottawa school district and the Niles school district. Like many educators, Bob had a true passion for children and to help them live their best lives. Regularly at the dinner table, he would reflect on the day and one of his student’s or teacher’s accomplishments or experiences. He was named Region 12 Principal of the Year while at Pine Creek Elementary in the late 80’s.

Bob retired from West Ottawa in 1992 and pursued another passion - the outdoors and farming. Wa-Hu Blueberries was born and for the next 30 plus years Bob could be found happily tending to his bushes and enjoying conversations with the customers.

Evelyn Hamstra Dies at Age 107

Evelyn Amber Hamstra, age 107, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2023, at SKLD Zeeland.

Evelyn was a lifelong member of Bauer S.D.A. Church.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 2 at 1:00 PM with visitation from noon until the time of service at Lakeshore Memorial Services – 11939 James St. Holland, 49424. Evelyn’s family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of SKLD Zeeland for their kind and tender care over the years.

Edward Bader Dies at Age 54

Edward “Ed” Bader, 54, of Holland, was called home by his Lord and Savior on Saturday, May 27, 2023, after a brief battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

If you are reading this, chances are you were touched by Ed in one way or another. He had a gift, and he used it well. He could make anyone around him feel comfortable and loved. His huge hugs, big grin, unselfish ways and love were never for family alone. He considered so many friends “his family” and would do anything for them.

Ed was the proud owner of Fat Boy’s Berries. His blueberries have been enjoyed worldwide (yes! They made a trip to Croatia once!). He so much enjoyed working with all his fellow farmers and customers, who of course all became friends. He was a mentor to many kids as they worked on the harvester with him. “Pickin’ ain’t easy,” became the summer mantra.

While he never got to see his beloved Lions in the Superbowl, he never gave up hope. “This is the year!” He also enjoyed being outdoors, hunting and fishing with his family and friends.

He leaves a lot of love behind, more than enough to live on. The impact he has made and the hearts he has touched will continue to ripple through us all.

Ed is survived by his wife of 26 yrs., Joan; his daughters: Ellie Bader, Megan Bader; parents: John & Linda (Stark) Bader; brother, Karl (Kim) Bader, in-laws: Herb & Harriet Hermann; siblings-in-law: Jeff (Toni) Hermann, Sara (Peter) Planton; nieces and nephews: Jamesohn (Cam) Bader, Shawn Hermann, Allison Planton, Craig (Emily) Planton, Hailey Planton; close cousin, Kathy Bader; and numerous other aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; mother-in-law, Helen Hermann; and his beloved Uncle Charlie Stark and cousin Doug Stark.

A Memorial Service, with Rev. John Nyitray officiating, took place. on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at Calvary Church, 400 Beeline Road, Holland.

Mark Wierda Dies at Age 68

Mark Wierda, 68, of Holland, passed into his Lord’s presence on May 25, 2023. Mark was on a business trip in Portland, Oregon when he was stricken with a sudden illness and passed away with Laura, Bethany and Rebekah lovingly by his side.

having the grandkids sleepover and many trips to the playground. He loved to travel whether for a long trip to a new place or for a weekend camping trip nearby.

at the golf course at Maranatha. Jack was dedicated to his faith and was a member of Rochester Baptist Church, Grace Baptist Church in Saginaw, Hale Baptist, and lastly Calvary Baptist in Holland until his death. He served in many capacities at all of these churches as a Deacon/Elder, Sunday School teacher, song leader, choir director and all-around helper.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents John and Silvie, first wife Harriet, second wife Patsy, brothers A.J. and Willard, sisters Carmel, Zelda, Wanda, and Naomi. He was also preceded in death by his stepdaughter Sherry and grandson Kyle.

Jack is survived by his five children, four stepdaughters, 22 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren.

Following services here in Holland, Jack’s cremated remains will be interred in Garden of His Deity at Christian Memorial Estates Cemetery in Rochester Michigan.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, May 20, at Calvary Baptist Church, 517 West 32nd Street in Holland with Rev. Ben Hernandez officiating and with Rev. Ryan League presenting the homily.

Memorial contributions may be given to Calvary Baptist Church.

Arrangements are by Dykstra Funeral Homes-Mulder Chapel.

Bob was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. With his quiet demeanor, ready smile, infinite patience and ability to listen, he brought out the best in everyone.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Alice and Ken, and much loved and greatly missed granddaughter, Kelsey Ann.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Barbara Jean; children Jeffrey (Kristi), Todd (Nancy), and Kenneth (Sarah); brother David (Mary), sister Carol (Brad) Hedrick; 6 grandchildren, Lauren (Patrick) Fitzgerald, Brian, Sydney, Kaiden, Conner, and Natalie Hunt and 1 great grandchild, Phoebe Fitzgerald; and sister in laws Eleanor Richardson and Virginia Wester.

A visitation and funeral service were held on Tuesday, May 30, at Dykstra Funeral Home - Northwood Chapel, 295 Douglas Avenue in Holland. The family will attend the interment of ashes at Rest Lawn Memorial Garden.

Born and raised in Holland, Michigan, Mark graduated from Holland Christian High School. He worked for several companies, over the years, in the floor cleaning business, most recently as Vice-President of Sales for Motor Scrubber, based in the United Kingdom. At Beechwood Church, Mark served as Deacon, Elder and was involved in various other committees and activities. He loved to make donuts for the summer outdoor services.

Mark was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who dearly loved his family. He was always ready for an adventure and was a big fan of Tigers baseball and all things Michigan State University. He was always supportive, proud, silly, and caring; always ready for a road trip or a day at the beach;

Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice and Florence Wierda and his parents-in-law, Lloyd and Carol Van Doornik. Mark is survived by his wife, Laura; his daughters Bethany and Justin Burza, A.J. and Amelia, of Gobles, Michigan, and Rebekah and Jarred Mitrea, of Gustavus, Alaska.

Mark is also survived by his brother, Jon and Lynn Wierda of Iron River, Michigan, and his sister, Jane and Kevin Cramer of Cedar Springs, Michigan, his brother-inlaw, Ernie and Deb Van Doornik of Holland, Michigan, along with several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service was held on Thursday, June 1, at Beechwood Church, 895 Ottawa Beach Road, with the Revs. Dave Lantz and Marlin Vis officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Youth and Children’s Ministries at Beechwood Church.

Slip Bobbers for All Species

By Jack Payne

Slowly the advantages of slip floats are coming into perspective. Because more anglers are using forward sonar (Live Imaging, Live Scope,) and learning how to use side scan, anglers are finding more opportunities to using a slip float.

Slip floats work great under windy conditions or under a severe cold front. The slip float allows you to fish deeper than with a standard float and keeps your lure into the strike zone longer. It also provides a visual strike indicator. Slip floats work great even on calm days. Cast it out, let the bait or lure sink to the proper depth and start reeling in slowly.

“The key to any float be it an adjustable casting float or a slip float is in the balance”, said Matt Straw, a legend in Minnesota and a very popular author. Weight down your float with either a jig or a few small split shots. The goal is having only your tip or stem showing. Under real windy days try a float that is very long and slender. A properly balanced float will have just the tip of this float above the surface, making it easy for a fish to pull under.

The beauty of slip floats is that anyone can fish them, and I like to double up. In many lakes bass and or walleyes are present. Fishing a slip float with a leech on the business end will draw tons of action from the game fish. Slip floats can be fished in depths of 2 feet or 40 feet. They can be fished with just about anything on the business end.

“Slip bobbers for me usually takes place in mid -summer and last until early fall) according to Captain Todd Venema of Third Coast Charters (231-740-0304. He targets drop offs and weed edges. When chasing walleye, he will normally use a Lindy fuzzy grub jig tipped with a leach.

“I almost always fish a second rod when fishing a slip float” said Venema. With his second rod he is usually casting a crank bait or working a puppet minnow while waiting for the bobber to go down.

Venema likes using the Perch Pounder rigs under a float when chasing bluegill or perch. Another option that he likes using is teardrops. Our group usually ties on two or three Moon Glow, Moon Glitter or Scandia tungsten teardrops. We tip the teardrops with a waxworm or a small piece of anise-soaked shrimp.

When I am on the prowl for panfish my second rod usually has something that I can cast and retrieve slowly. This might be a Stopper Lures Whip R Snap plastic bait or a Charlie Brewer one- or two-inch plastic crappie/bream plastic bait.

If just crappies are the target, I will often use a two- or three-inch plastic action tail. Do not be afraid to throw out a larger plastic tail in the summer. Crappie feed on large baitfish.

Brain Buist has a clever way of fishing a slip float. “The last few years I have really taken the time to focus on slip bobber fishing” said Captain Buist 2 B Caught Charters (616-293-0256). Since active imaging has come out, slip bobber fishing can be super productive and you can place your bait directly above fish using your electronics.

He likes to run a 16th or a 1/8-ounce jig head with either a live minnow, or a leech on the hook tied to an 8-pound leader. Above the leader he ties a barrel swivel and above that he will add run an eighthor 3/8-ounce egg sinker to help get the bait down faster and help your fish more efficiently. He stated that slip bobber fishing is a very fun way to fish and definitely something he does a lot of.

I use the Carlisle Slip floats. Mostly I use the thin models with the metal insert. However, I carry three models so that I can change up due to the wind and current. Slip floats are great for the family or the tournament pro anglers. Do not sell them short and use them on all species. Last, check out Grand Valley Sport Shop for your hunting, fishing and live bait products.