🏀Who would win if the 1992 Calvin team played the 2000 Calvin team ( both were national champions 🏆 )

AI GENERATED 

🏀 Team strength comparison:

 1992 vs 2000 Calvin

📊 Records & dominance

🟦 1992 Calvin team

Record: 31–1

Lost only once all season

Won championship: 62–49 vs Rochester

Beat defending champion Wisconsin–Platteville in Final Four

Led by Steve Honderd

Known for:

Elite defense

Star-driven offense

One of the most dominant individual players in school history

👉 This team is often considered the most individually dominant Calvin team ever

🟨 2000 Calvin team

Record: 30–2

Won championship: 79–74 vs Wisconsin–Eau Claire

Played a deeper rotation / more balanced scoring team

Beat Franklin & Marshall in Final Four

Known for:

Strong guard play

More “team system” style

Clutch late-game execution

👉 This team is considered more of a balanced championship team

⚖️ Who was better statistically?

Edge: 1992 team

Better record (31–1 vs 30–2)

More dominant margin of success overall

Included arguably Calvin’s greatest player ever (Honderd)

Defeated strong teams in lower-scoring, defensive style

🔥 Head-to-head hypothetical matchup

If they played each other:

🟦 1992 team advantages

Elite inside scoring (Honderd)

Stronger top-end talent

Better defensive identity

More dominant “go-to” player

🟨 2000 team advantages

More depth

More balanced scoring options

Slightly more modern offensive spacing style (for that era)

Experience in close high-pressure games

🧠 Likely outcome

Slight favorite: 1992 Calvin team

Why:

They had a true elite anchor (Honderd) who could control games

Their defense and efficiency numbers were historically strong

They were more “dominant per possession” even if less flashy

But:

👉 The 2000 team could absolutely win if:

It became a fast-paced game

It turned into guard play / perimeter shooting contest

They avoided foul trouble vs Honderd inside

🧾 Final verdict

🏆 Better overall season: 1992 Calvin

🧠 More balanced team: 2000 Calvin

⚔️ Head-to-head favorite: 1992 Calvin (slight edge)

*****

Here are the most commonly documented/recognized starting lineup cores for Calvin’s two championship teams. (Keep in mind: Division III lineups can vary slightly game-to-game depending on matchups and rotations, but these are the standard Final Four-era starters.)

🏀 1992 Calvin Knights –

 Starting Lineup (Championship Team)

🟦 Core starters

Steve Honderd – Forward (primary star, go-to scorer)

Jon Smith – Guard

Mike Huizenga – Guard

Scott Ritsema – Forward

Dan Vos – Center/Forward

🧠 Team identity

Built around Honderd’s inside scoring and mid-post game

Slower tempo, half-court execution

Heavy defensive emphasis and rebounding

👉 This was a classic “feature star + defensive toughness” lineup

🏀 2000 Calvin Knights – Starting Lineup (Championship Team)

🟨 Core starters

Matt Novak – Guard (lead initiator / scorer)

Brian Faber – Guard (secondary playmaker)

Jeff McDonald – Wing

Ryan Meekhof – Forward

Andrew Jager – Forward/Center

🧠 Team identity

More balanced scoring distribution

Strong perimeter play and spacing

Better depth and rotation usage than 1992

👉 This was a “five threats on the floor” system team

⚖️ Key structural difference

🟦 1992 lineup

Built around one dominant interior star (Honderd)

Offense flows through him

More half-court and physical

🟨 2000 lineup

No single dominant scorer like Honderd

More equal scoring across positions

Faster, more modern guard-oriented attack (for that era)

🧠 What this means in a matchup

If you match them position-by-position:

1992 wins inside (Honderd is the matchup problem)

2000 wins perimeter depth and ball movement

Frontcourt battle = decisive advantage for 1992

Guard battle = slight edge to 2000

Our Family Photo History

https://ourfamilyphotohistory.blogspot.com/search?view=snapshot

https://ourfamilyphotohistory.blogspot.com/search?view=classic

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https://ourfamilyphotohistory.blogspot.com/search?view=magazine

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"Suspect killed two people, pointed gun at child over soccer dispute in Grand Rapids "

https://wwmt.com/news/local/docs-suspect-shot-two-people-pointed-gun-child-over-soccer-dispute-grand-rapids-rafael-martinez-lopez-jeremiah-griffin-cuevas-savanah-villarreal 

"18-year-old Rafael Martinez-Lopez was arrested and has been identified as the suspect accused of killing two people on Tuesday at Southwest Elementary School.."

Not Mich? "VIDEO: 20 Tornadoes Confirmed as Severe Weather Hits Midwest"

https://www.breitbart.com/weather/2026/04/18/video-20-tornadoes-confirmed-50-million-hit-severe-weather-midwest/

"

Over 70,000 customers in the Midwest and Great Lakes regions are without power as of Saturday morning, according to the tracking site poweroutage.us. Most of the outages are in Illinois and Missouri.

At least one tornado touched down in Rochester, Minnesota, about 90 miles south of Minneapolis, on Friday. David Vetsch said the storm sounded “like a freight train. .."

Lakers Legend Derek Fisher with JK

Lakers Legend Derek Fisher with Jim Kok at 

Crystal Cathedral 

AI GENERATED:

Derek Fisher is one of the most respected figures in Los Angeles Lakers history, known primarily for his leadership, toughness, and ability to hit some of the most improbable shots in NBA playoff history.

Career Overview & Championships

Fisher had two distinct stints with the Lakers (1996–2004 and 2007–2012), serving as the starting point guard for five NBA Championship teams:

• The Three-Peat (2000, 2001, 2002): Playing alongside Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant.

• The Back-to-Back (2009, 2010): Returning to provide veteran leadership for Kobe Bryant’s final two titles.

---

Iconic "Clutch" Moments

While his career averages with the Lakers (roughly 7.9 PPG and 2.9 APG) might seem modest, his impact was defined by legendary postseason plays:

• The 0.4 Second Shot (2004): In Game 5 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Spurs, Fisher hit a turnaround jumper with only 0.4 seconds remaining on the clock to give the Lakers a miracle win.

• 2009 NBA Finals (Game 4): Fisher hit a game-tying three-pointer with 4.6 seconds left in regulation and another go-ahead three in overtime to beat the Orlando Magic.

• 2010 NBA Finals (Game 3): He scored 11 points in the fourth quarter against the Boston Celtics, including a crucial "and-one" layup to seal a road victory.

---

Lakers Legacy

Fisher ranks among the franchise leaders in several categories, including games played (915) and three-pointers made (822). He was often described as the "glue" of the team and the primary vocal leader in the locker room during the Phil Jackson era.

+++++++++++++++

Derek Fisher is a proud son of Little Rock, Arkansas, where He spent His entire childhood and early adulthood before being drafted into the NBA.

Early Life and Family

He was born on August 9, 1974, to John and Annette Fisher. Growing up on West 22nd Street, His interest in basketball was cultivated early by His father. He also had a strong role model in His older half-brother, Duane Washington, who played in the NBA and whom Derek would often shadow during practices.

Education and Local Roots

Derek remained extremely local throughout His development, attending schools all within the Little Rock area:

• Wilson Elementary School

•  Henderson Junior High School

•  Parkview Arts & Science Magnet HS

During His senior year at Parkview, He led His team to a state championship with an incredible 35-1 record. Despite His success, He chose to stay home for college as well, attending the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, proving that you don't have to leave your roots to reach the highest level of success.

MOST  IMPORTANTLY:

Yes, Derek Fisher is a Christian. Throughout his career and into his life after basketball, He has been open about his faith, often attributing his success and his ability to handle the pressures of professional sports to his relationship with the Lord.

He has spoken in various interviews and at Christian events about how his faith provides him with a sense of peace and purpose that goes beyond championships or fame. He is known for being a man of high character, often serving as a spiritual leader in the locker rooms of the teams He played for.

+++++++++++++++

Jim Kok passed away at age 90 

on February 17, 2026, rest-in-peace

jim played softball while doing chaplain internship at U of M hospital, Ann Arbor

crc

our first house in Grand Rapids

 

from RDV

 

prayers 🙏 for : "Grand River exceeds flood stage in Kent County, crests Wednesday" - mlive.com

https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2026/04/grand-river-exceeds-flood-stage-in-kent-county-crests-wednesday.html 

"Michigan U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib donor and alleged terrorist arrested by ICE -" The Midwesterner

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2026/04/michigan-u-s-rep-rashida-tlaib-donor-and-alleged-terrorist-arrested-by-ice/ 

"

Salah Salem Sarsour, a criminal illegal alien from Jordan, who is “suspected of funding terror organizations and lying on immigration forms,” was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents on March 30, 2026..."

"Pothole Payback Contest offers $800 to Michiganders betrayed by Gretchen Whitmer's 'fix the damn roads' promise "- The Midwesterner

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2026/04/pothole-payback-contest-offers-800-to-michiganders-betrayed-by-gretchen-whitmers-fix-the-damn-roads-promise/ 

Kirk Cousins joins the Raiders

"Cousins' agent announced the deal, which will pay the four-time Pro Bowler $20 million in guaranteed money in 2026, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter. It will mark the 11th consecutive season that Cousins' contract will be fully guaranteed."

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/48376719/kirk-cousins-agrees-sign-contract-raiders-agent-says

"Michigan overwhelms Tennessee to reach 1st Final Four since 2018 "- ESPN

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/48341285/michigan-overwhelms-tennessee-reach-1st-final-four-2018 

"

In just his second season with the Wolverines, May guided Michigan back to the Final Four, as his team thumped Tennessee 95-62 on Sunday to win the Midwest Region. May had engineered a more surprising Final Four run in 2023 with Florida Atlantic, but he also inherited a seemingly broken Michigan program, which emerged from a season with only eight total wins and three in the Big Ten, its fewest since 1966-67..."

"Michigan vs. Alabama score: Wolverines advance to Elite 8 "

https://eu.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2026/03/27/michigan-vs-aabama-basketball-live-score-updates-sweet-16-prediction-how-to-watch-march-madness/89292484007/ 

"

The Wolverines trailed by two points going into the intermission, but out-scored the Crimson Tide by 15 in the second half to pick up a 90-77 win at the United Center on Friday, March 27, to advance to the Midwest Region final on Sunday, March 29...."

In Loving Memory: Rev. James (Jim) R. Kok 1935-2026 & Funeral slideshow

click on picture above or below for video

Remembering Jim Kok (1935-2026)

for anybody unsure, this is about the James R. Kok who grew up in Hills (MN), Bellflower (CA) & Holland (MI) and became a Christian Reformed Church (CRC) pastor, working most of his career at Pine Rest Christian Hospital in west Michigan, & the rest of his career mostly at the Crystal Cathedral in Southern California. (this is noted because there are/were more than one Rev. James R. Kok affiliated with the CRC over the last several decades).   (His wife's name is Linda). 

 (I am not in charge of posting the official obituary so I am posting a secondary obituary notice here on my own website blogs to provide further context & information). There has been some obituary information posted online already at the following links:

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/grandrapids/name/james-kok-obituary?id=60896647

https://www.communityfuneralservice.com/obituaries/james-kok

https://obits.mlive.com/us/obituaries/grandrapids/name/james-kok-obituary?id=60896647

On March 21, 2026, all are welcome at the burial ceremony at Artesia Cemetery in Artesia (CA) ( 11142 Artesia Blvd, Cerritos, CA 90703 beginning around 9:00 am (pst). It is a small cemetery and we do not know how many people will attend. If more than expected do attend, we hope the cemetery staff will help direct you to "overflow parking" outside the cemetery (but apparently parking in the high school parking lot across the street is discouraged)  

Later in the day, all are also welcome at a  formal memorial service at the Shepherd's Grove church (4445 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA 92604) later in the day beginning at 1:30pm (pst), after which there will be gathering in the community hall at the same location for refreshments & an informal time for people to reflect, socialize, & remember Jim, possibly with an open mic to share stories, as well as a photo slideshow, & memorial table etc) 

here's my version of Jim Kok's life & legacy: 

Blessed are those who mourn,

 for they shall be comforted." 

— Matthew 5:4

Remembering James R. "Jim" Kok 

(1935–2026)

James R. Kok, affectionately known as Jim, passed peacefully on February 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, & a lifelong dedication to Christian kindness. In a striking alignment with his mission, his passing occurred on February 17, 2026, which is also known as Random Acts of Kindness Day, a fitting reflection of the life he spent serving others with compassion, care, love & kindness.

Born on March 29, 1935, in Hills, Minnesota, Jim was the second of five children: Sherwood, Jim, Faith, Kay, & Gary. As an infant, he moved with his parents,Gareth & Katherine, to Bellflower, California, where his father founded Valley Christian School & served as pastor of a Christian Reformed Church (1st Bellflower CRC aka "1st Bell "). The household was steeped in faith, learning, & service, shaping the values that would guide Jim's life.

The family later relocated to Holland, Michigan, where Jim attended Holland Christian Junior High & High School. Tragedy struck during Jim's teenage years when his mother, Katherine, passed away just as Jim was in his final years of high school, leaving a profound mark on him as he struggled with "grief" early in life, which influenced the depth of compassion & understanding he would later bring to his Christian ministry.

 During this time, basketball became both a passion & a source of friendship  & community, as he played alongside his lifelong friend Tony Diekema (future  president of Calvin College) at Holland Christian High, & later Don Vroon as well (future Calvin professor & coach, RIP) (among others he remembered fondly), continuing together at Calvin College (original location) & winning multiple MIAA championships.

Growing up, Jim worked various jobs to make ends meet. In Bellflower, in the 1930's, he picked & sold avocados door-to-door; & also sold the Press-Telegram from street corners, & even drove a tractor for alfalfa harvesting time  (Bellflower at that time still being mostly an agricultural & dairy farming area). 

Later, still growing up,  in Holland (MI) he also worked as a  "paper boy" delivering the GR Press & Holland Sentinel. In addition he worked at various local grocery stores; & at the Holland ballpark selling popcorn & peanuts. 

As a young adult he also worked at Chris Craft, as well as another factory, while going thru college; among other things. As a child he enjoyed boating on Lake Macatawa & also the "car life" with his brother Sherwood. 

After college, Jim studied at Michigan State University (MSU) for a master's in counseling & worked in Kalamazoo in vocational rehab for one year while also still playing basketball for various leagues with friends etc. After one year in Kalamazoo, Jim answered God's call to ministry starting at Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia &  then Calvin Seminary in Grand Rapids, eventually becoming an ordained pastor for the Christian Reformed Church. 

His pastoral care experience included internships at the University of Michigan & a hospital in Gowanda, New York, & he went on to become a Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)  supervisor & Pine Rest Hospital & later the Crystal Cathedral, mentoring generations in spiritual care, grief support, & compassionate counseling. 

He also started the annual  International Care & Kindness Conference at the Crystal Cathedral.During seminary, Jim met his beloved wife, Linda Peters, daughter of Leo Peters of Butterball Farms. Together they raised four children—a daughter & three sons across New York, Michigan, Iowa, & California, & were blessed with many grandchildren who continue to carry forward his legacy of faith & kindness.

Jim's ministry spanned decades: serving as pastor in Iowa City starting in 1965, 14 years as CPE supervisor at Pine Rest Hospital in Grand Rapids, & many years as Director of Pastoral Care at the Crystal Cathedral in California. He authored several books, contributed a weekly column to The Banner, and for many years led the annual International Care & Kindness Conference at the Crystal Cathedral, inspiring countless attendees to embrace Christian compassion in both words and actions.

Even in retirement, Jim continued mentoring, counseling, & supporting family, friends, & his community. The timing of his passing on Random Acts of Kindness Day poignantly mirrors the heart of his lifelong mission: to model & promote Christ-centered kindness & care for all.

Jim Kok will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, uncle, loyal friend, mentor, & servant of Christ. His life stands as a testament to faith, resilience through grief, & a steadfast commitment to loving & serving others.

Jim would be "tickled pink" if you commit a "Simple Act of Care & Kindness" (SACK) in his memory, for the sake of our Savior Jesus. 

Rest in peace, Jim. Your faith, care, & kindness, will continue to bless the lives of many.

***************************

Hallelujah, she's finished 😀 "Gretchen Whitmer’s LAST State of the State: Literacy, legacy and a Trump thank you - "

https://bridgemi.com/michigan-government/gretchen-whitmers-last-state-of-the-state-literacy-legacy-and-a-trump-thank-you/ 

"Shipwreck hunters find lost luxury steamer in Lake Michigan after 60-year search" – NaturalNews.com

https://www.naturalnews.com/2026-02-28-shipwreck-hunters-find-luxury-steamer-lake-michigan.html 

"Ehorn's team located the wreck in October 2022 roughly 20 miles offshore between Racine and Kenosha, Wisconsin, using side-scan sonar—a find that came after just two hours of searching thanks to a critical clue from fellow wreck hunter Ross Richardson.."

"How One Hockey Rink in Plymouth Created a Gold-Medal Team "- Michigan Enjoyer

https://enjoyer.com/one-hockey-rink-in-plymouth-created-gold-medal-team/ 

"

Originally birthed in 1996 in Ann Arbor, the program was housed at The Ice Cube, where American-born players began matriculating into the NHL, including current Red Wing Patrick Kane, America's career NHL points leader. .."

"Nearly 90% Of Team USA Hockey Came Up in Michigan - " Michigan Enjoyer

https://enjoyer.com/nearly-90-of-team-usa-hockey-came-up-in-michigan/ 

Remembering Rev. James R. (Jim) Kok (1935- 2026) ✝️🙏♥️💐

"Blessed are those who mourn,

 for they shall be comforted." 

— Matthew 5:4

Remembering 

James R. "Jim" Kok 

(1935–2026)✝️🙏♥️💐

James R. Kok, affectionately known as Jim, passed peacefully on February 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith,l ✝️ family, and a lifelong dedication to Christian kindness.♥️

Born on March 29, 1935, in Hills, Minnesota, Jim was the second of five children: Sherwood, Jim, Faith, Kay, and Gary. As an infant, he moved with his parents, Gareth and Catherine, to Bellflower, California, where his father founded Valley Christian School and served as pastor of a Christian Reformed Church. The household was steeped in faith, learning, and service, shaping the values that would guide Jim's life.

The family later relocated to Holland, Michigan, where Jim attended Holland Christian Junior High & High School. Tragedy struck during his teenage years when his mother, Catherine, passed away just as Jim was in or approaching college, leaving a profound mark on him and influencing the depth of compassion and understanding & importance of grieving he would later bring to his ministry.

During this time, basketball 🏀 became both a passion & a source of friendship and community, as he played alongside his lifelong friend Tony Diekema & 

later Don Vroon as well, among others, continuing together at Calvin College & winning multiple MIAA championships. His 6'6" size was also advantageous.

Answering God's call to ministry, Jim studied at Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia & Calvin Seminary in Grand Rapids, becoming an ordained pastor in the Christian Reformed Church. 

His pastoral care included internships at the University of Michigan & a psychiatric hospital in Gowanda, New York, and he went on to become a Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) supervisor, mentoring generations in spiritual care, grief support, and compassionate counseling.

During seminary, Jim met his beloved wife, Linda Peters, daughter of Leo Peters of Butterball Farms. Together they raised four children—a daughter and three sons—across New York, Michigan, Iowa, and California, and were blessed with many grandchildren who continue to carry forward his legacy of faith and kindness.

Jim's ministry spanned decades: serving as pastor in Iowa City starting in 1965, 14 years as CPE supervisor at Pine Rest Hospital in Grand Rapids, and many years as Director of Pastoral Care at the Crystal Cathedral in California. 

He authored several books mostly devoted to the topic of Christian kindness, contributed a weekly column to The Banner, and for many years led the annual Kindness Conference at the Crystal Cathedral, inspiring countless attendees to embrace Christian compassion in both words and actions.

Even in retirement, Jim remained deeply faithful, mentoring, counseling, and supporting family, friends, and his community. The timing of his passing on Random Acts of Kindness Day (2.17.26) poignantly mirrors the heart ❤️ of his lifelong mission: to model & promote Christ-centered kindness and care for all.

Jim Kok will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, loyal friend, mentor, & servant of Christ. His life stands as a testament to faith,

 resilience through grief, & a steadfast commitment to loving & serving others.

Rest in peace, Jim. Your faith, kindness, and legacy will continue to bless the lives of many. ♥️🙏✝️

when 750 plymouth was brand new

https://www.instagram.com/p/DBggghmOvsN/?img_index=1

H.H. Fitzgerald (specifically Howard H. Fitzgerald) was a prominent figure in Michigan journalism during the early to mid-20th century. He is most notably recognized as the publisher of The Pontiac Press (now The Oakland Press) and played a foundational role in the growth of daily newspapers in the state.

Here is a breakdown of his career and impact:

H.H. Fitzgerald & The "Butterball Mansion" Timeline

• 1890s – Early 1900s: The Foundation Fitzgerald begins his career in the newspaper industry on the west side of the state. He serves as the business manager for the Grand Rapids Press. During this time, he is a rising professional, but not yet the owner of a major media empire.

• 1911 – 1914: Becoming a Publisher He transitions from employee to owner, acquiring interests in several Michigan newspapers, including the St. Johns News and The Flint Journal.

• 1914: The Big Move to Pontiac Fitzgerald leads a syndicate to purchase the Pontiac Press Gazette. This becomes his primary business focus. As the automotive industry (General Motors) booms in Pontiac, the newspaper becomes immensely profitable, turning Fitzgerald into a wealthy "media baron."

• 1927 – 1928: Building 750 Plymouth Ave SE Now wealthy and established, Fitzgerald returns to his "home" city of Grand Rapids to build a trophy estate. He commissions the 10,000-square-foot mansion at 750 Plymouth Ave SE.

  • Status: He builds this house to live among the city's elite (neighbors like the Blodgetts) while still overseeing his newspapers in Pontiac and Flint.

  • Architecture: The house is a grand Italian Renaissance/Tudor Revival design.

• 1930s – 1940s: The Later Years Fitzgerald maintains his presence in both cities but eventually shifts his focus and residence toward Pontiac to be closer to the daily operations of The Pontiac Press. He builds a separate large Tudor mansion on Ottawa Street in Pontiac (which was a local landmark until it burned down in 2020).

• 1950s: The "Butterball" Transition The Fitzgerald family eventually sells the 750 Plymouth estate. It is purchased by Leo Peters, the founder of Butterball Farms.

  • Because the Peters family owned and occupied the home for over 60 years, it became known to modern Grand Rapids residents as the "Butterball Mansion."

Grand Rapids history girl has some nice GR history & photos at her Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/grhistorygirl/?g=5

⚾🙏"Mickey Lolich, Detroit Tigers 1968 World Series hero, dies at 85"

https://eu.freep.com/story/sports/mlb/tigers/2026/02/04/mickey-lolich-death-detroit-tigers-1968-world-series/69512373007/ 

"Although Gibson set a World Series record with his 17 strikeouts in Game 1, it was Lolich who stole the show with three complete-game victories against a powerful lineup that included Lou Brock, Curt Flood and Orlando Cepeda..."

MLK NEIGHBORHOOD "See inside Grand Rapids’ new $19.7M fitness, event center - "

https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/2026/02/see-inside-grand-rapids-new-197m-fitness-event-center.html 

amazing what AI was able to do with this 1979 GR Press photo

 

this was 1979: some people I knew from 

Grand Rapids were out golfing at Indian Trails - they were only 12 years old at the time and a GR Press reporter came wandering towards them and asked their names and took some pics like they were famous or something. 

And they actually published one in the

 Press the next day ! So I found it an old box a little wrinkled etc and I asked Gemini AI to colorize it for me and less than 30 seconds later, you can see the result below ! wow 

"Detroit judge, 3 others charged in alleged scheme to embezzle money from wards "| Fox News

https://www.foxnews.com/us/detroit-judge-3-others-charged-alleged-scheme-steal-thousands-from-vulnerable-incapacitated-people 

"The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan said Andrea Bradley-Baskin, 46, a district judge on Michigan's 36th District Court, is alleged "to have used $70,000 in a ward's funds to purchase an ownership stake in a local bar" and "money embezzled from the estate of a ward to pay a two-year lease on a new Ford Expedition for herself." 

Remembering Mark A. Van Stee 🙏❤️✝️, age 47

https://www.zaagman.com/obituaries/Mark-A-Van-Stee?obId=44317969 

Psalm 34:18 — The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit

Reading this young man's obituary I was struck by the similarities he has, or had, to my life progression growing up. In the actual obituary it talks about him learning to golf at Indian trails (me too, including riding my bike there). 

It talks about him learning Spanish via Calvin's semester in Denia Spain program (me too). Talks about him doing student teaching at South Christian 

(I did my student teaching at Holland Christian). He attended Grand Rapids Christian high (me too). He attended Oakdale (I attended Millbrook, which is no longer there) .

But it's not about me it's about him right now, one year after his death. I didn't notice this obituary until recently (Jan 2026). I didn't even know him. But it sounds like he was a beloved member of the Christian schools and Calvin community.

( I used to be . Until I moved to California. If you leave the Grand Rapids community they forget about you. )

Anyways, condolences to the family and rest -in-peace knowing he was a Christian believer, so he is in a better place now ✝️❤️🙏

AI GENERATED 

Mark Andrew Van Stee

 (May 27, 1978 – August 19, 2025) 

was a devoted husband, father of three, Christian educator, coach, and community leader from Grand Rapids, Michigan.

 A graduate of Grand Rapids Christian High School and Calvin College (Secondary Education: Math & History), he earned a master's in Educational Technology from Grand Valley State University. 

Mark was a standout golfer in college, a respected teacher and coach at South Christian High School, and served as Dean of Students while inspiring students with his faith and humor. 

He was deeply involved in his church, led youth ministry, and served as an Elder. Summers were spent working alongside his father in the family painting business, where he treasured the friendships and traditions of the crew. 

Above all, he cherished his family, faith, and the many lives he impacted through teaching and mentorship. I am 97% sure this captures the key points of his life and accomplishments.

*****

According to local news coverage from FOX 17 and related reports, Mark Van Stee died after a car accident on the morning of August 19, 2025. This has been described as a tragic passing in a car accident affecting his school community deeply.

"Nigerian Aquinas college professor pleads guilty to stealing $1.4 million from Grand Rapids preschool nonprofit"

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2026/01/nigerian-professor-pleads-guilty-to-stealing-1-4-million-from-grand-rapids-preschool-nonprofit/ 

"

Ezeh worked with ELNC bookkeeper Sharon Killebrew to create nearly $500,000 in fake invoices, as well as created fake daycare businesses to siphon off hundreds of thousands of dollars more, which Ezeh used for personal travel to Hawaii, Nigeria and Liberia, according to court documents cited by the news site.."

"AG Uthmeier: Man Accused of Killing Three Near Disney Had Prior Charges Dismissed by Woke State Attorney"

https://townhall.com/tipsheet/amy-curtis/2026/01/20/florida-man-shot-tourists-near-disney-set-loose-by-state-atty-worrell-n2669742 

"

Attorney General James Uthmeier said the state is familiar with Jihad Bojeh, because he was once acquitted of attempted first-degree murder with a firearm and aggravated battery. Uthmeier said that State Attorney Monique Worrell, who has a history of letting criminals walk free, did the same with Jihad Bojeh..."

THERE SHOULD BE A LOT MORE UPROAR ABOUT THIS & THE STATE ATTORNEY SHOULD BE  FIRED AND FOREVER REMOVED FROM ANY POSSIBILITY OF RETURNING TO THIS POSITION 🚫🚫🚫🚫😡😡😡

unbelievable footage of 100-car pileup in Zeeland Michigan 🚗 ❄️ 🛣️ 🌨️ 🚛🚒

https://x.com/CitizenFreePres/status/2013356437213204490

"2020 Detroit Election Investigation, Part 1: Over 10K Detroit "Voters" Made Same Bizarre "Ghost Vote" Marks On Ballots In 2020 Election---Were Mismarked Ballots Sending A Message To Voting Machines or Meant to Trigger "Adjudication"? | The Gateway Pundit | by Patty McMurray

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2026/01/not-normal-10k-voters-made-same-bizarre-ghost/ 

"

What cannot be disputed is that vote totals from Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania continued to change throughout the night, long after many Americans had gone to bed.

By the early morning hours of November 4, Wisconsin had flipped blue; next to flip was the must-win state of Michigan. Days later, Georgia and Pennsylvania flipped for Biden as well..."

"Kyle Whittingham signs 5-year deal to coach Michigan - "

https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/47421108/whittingham-agrees-5-year-deal-coach-michigan 

"

Whittingham, 66, informed his Utah team on Friday that he will not coach in the SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl against Nebraska on New Year's Eve, sources told Thamel and Wetzel. After talking with Utah players in Las Vegas, Whittingham was set to fly to Orlando, Florida, and get to work as Michigan coach.

The Wolverines face Texas in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on New Year's Eve..."

Merry Xmas²⁵🎄🙏✝️❤️⭐😊

"Kirk Cousins leads Falcons to 29-28 comeback victory over the reeling Buccaneers

"Pro Football tests you," Cousins said. "It keeps me on my knees (in prayer). It's been a difficult two years since tearing my Achilles. All I know to do is trust and keep going and walk by faith, not by sight, and that can be hard sometimes. Nights like tonight, you get a boost."

https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401772948

penix vs cousins 

➡️ Penix's 2025 before injury wasn't much better than Cousins' performance last year — and in some ways was worse, especially when you look at winning record & overall impact rather than just individual stats. I am 96% sure this comparison is accurate based on team and QB data. Wikipedia+1

---

📊 2025 — Michael Penix Jr. (Before Injury)

Record as starter:

• 3–6 in 9 starts before going on injured reserve. Wikipedia

Stats (approx):

• ~1,980 passing yards

• 9 TDs, 3 INTs

• QBR ~56.8
  (Penix's numbers show he was modestly efficient but not dominant.) ESPN.com

👉 Summary: Penix's team results and production were modest at best — winning only about one-third of his starts and not performing at an elite level. Wikipedia

---

📆 2024 — Kirk Cousins (Last Season with Falcons)

Record as starter:

• 7–7 as the starter before being replaced by Penix in late 2024. Wikipedia

Stats:

• ~3,508 passing yards

• 18 TDs, 16 INTs

• ~88.6 passer rating in 14 games started. StatMuse

👉 Summary: Cousins had a mediocre overall statistical season — high volume of passing yards, but lots of turnovers and an even win-loss record in games he started. StatMuse

---

📌 Head-to-Head Comparison

Metric	Penix (2025 pre-injury)	Cousins (2024)
W-L record as starter	3–6	7–7 (no playoffs) Wikipedia
Passing TDs	9	18 ESPN.com+1
Interceptions	3	16 ESPN.com+1
Yards	~1,980	~3,508 ESPN.com+1
Team success	Few wins	.500 level Wikipedia

✔️ Cousins last year had more yards and touchdowns (but also many more interceptions).
✔️ Penix this year showed some advantage in ball security (fewer interceptions), but team wins were fewer and his efficiency wasn't dramatically better.

---

🏈 Bottom Line

• Neither QB has produced standout success recently. Cousins' stats with the Falcons in 2024 were average, and Penix in 2025 showed limited growth before injury.

• On a pure win-loss basis, Cousins' record was better last year than Penix's this year.

• Penix's efficiency metrics weren't striking enough to clearly outshine Cousins, though his lower interception rate suggests some potential.

➡️ So while Penix didn't necessarily perform "worse" on a per-play efficiency level, he didn't deliver noticeably better team success either. I'm 96% confident in this comparative summary. Wikipedia+1

prayers 🙏 for coach "Fired Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore charged with stalking, home invasion after arrest"

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/fired-michigan-football-coach-sherrone-moore-court-appearance-rcna248634 

"

Moore appeared in a video feed wearing an all-white jail uniform and heard authorities explain how he allegedly lashed out over the romantic relationship that had ended.

The victim had been in a years-long relationship with the married Moore when she allegedly broke it off with him on Monday, according to Kati Rezmierski, first assistant prosecutor for Washtenaw County.."

'Report: 19% of Lake Michigan shore now armored, limiting public access - Bridge Michigan"

https://bridgemi.com/michigan-environment-watch/69-miles-of-seawalls-riprap-now-armor-lake-michigan-shore/ 

AI GENERATED:

"The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein." — Psalm 24:1

✅ 1. Quick, clear summary

Lake Michigan's shoreline has seen a massive rise in hard armoring — seawalls, riprap, and groins — jumping from 4% to 19% of the Michigan coast (69 miles total) between 2014 and 2021. This was driven by high lake levels peaking around 2020, which threatened homes and infrastructure.

Researchers found:

High water shifted wave action inland, accelerating erosion.More homeowners rushed to install barriers. Armoring spread even into northern stretches that were previously almost entirely natural.

Hard structures temporarily protect property but make erosion worse long-term by disrupting natural sand flow.

Increased armoring reduces public beach access, despite Michigan's legal right to walk the shoreline.

Local and state governments mostly backed away from stronger coastal regulations, even after promising change.

✅ 2. One-sentence super-summary

Michigan's Lake Michigan shoreline is becoming heavily armored, which protects individual properties short-term but damages beaches, worsens erosion, and limits public access long-term.

✅ 3. Key numbers

4% → 19% increase in armoring (2014–2021)

69 miles of coast armored

Northern Michigan armoring: 

<1% → ~5%

Some townships (like Chikaming) tried bans but still saw rises.

✅ 4. Why this matters

Armoring causes beach loss. Waves hit seawalls, scour downward, dig "toe pits," and prevent sand from returning to shore.

It pushes erosion onto neighboring unarmored properties, forcing a "domino effect."

It reduces walkable beach, creating a public–private conflict.

It locks Michigan into a more hardened, less natural shoreline future.

Buckeyes defeat Wolverines"Jeremiah Smith's controversial score against Michigan created social media uproar"

https://www.foxnews.com/sports/ohio-states-controversial-touchdown-win-vs-michigan-causes-stir-social-media.amp 

"Jeremiah Smith celebrated his 20th birthday in epic fashion Saturday with a huge touchdown against Michigan in Ohio State's 27-9 victory, but it didn't come without controversy.

Smith's 35-yard touchdown and the PAT in the second quarter put Ohio State up 10-3, but he appeared to bobble the ball near the goal line.."

Dec 2024 ⭐"Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office announces new undersheriff"

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/ottawa-county-sheriff-s-office-announces-new-undersheriff/ar-AA1vwX5j?apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1 

"

On Monday, the sheriff's office and Sheriff-elect Eric DeBoer announced that David Kok will be appointed the new undersheriff, effective Jan. 6.

Kok has more than 25 years of law enforcement leadership experience, including the Police and Academy Director for Grand Rapids Community College and the chief deputy of the Kent County Sheriff's Corrections Division from December 2018 to November 2021..."

Watch "gjg 3" on YouTube

>

https://youtube.com/shorts/RAxlrYfhHpI?si=uob5vRr1XSLs2Xul 

"NFL star Marshawn Kneeland 'was caught driving nearly 150mph' on the night of his tragic death" | Daily Mail Online

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nfl/article-15315253/marshawn-kneeland-dallas-crash-death.html 

"Dallas head coach Brian Schottenheimer had previously revealed that Catalina is pregnant and that the team have set up a memorial fund to support her and the unborn baby..."