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Articles by John Cavanagh
GLJ and Global Labor Rights Community Mourn Passing of Founding Executive Director Pharis Harvey – And Celebrate His Legacy
By Lance Compa and John Cavanagh April 2026 Alongside the worldwide labor rights advocacy community, the Executive Board, Advisory Board and Staff of Global Labor Justice (GLJ) are saddened to learn of the death on April 15 of Rev. Pharis Harvey, the founding Executive Director of Global Labor Justice, previously known as the International Labor Rights Forum (ILRF). At the same time, we are inspired by his life and work, and filled with renewed energy to advance the cause that Pharis embodied.
Acidic pH Greatly Enhances Calbindin‐D28K's Inhibitory Effect on Caspase‐3: Implications for Alzheimer's Therapeutics
1 Introduction, Results, and Discussion The apoptotic effector, Cas3, is a protease that maintains the balance between growth and death within an organism [1]. Cas3 activity has also been shown to contribute to disease processes including Alzheimer's disease (AD), in which excessive Cas3 activity exacerbates both the damaging amyloid and tau pathologies [2, 3]. Consequently, impeding Cas3 function presents an attractive avenue for AD therapeutics.
Cora Weiss: A Champion of Peace, Internationalism, and Women’s Rights
Cora Weiss: A Champion of Peace, Internationalism, and Women’s Rights Published December 20, 2025 Cora Weiss was a woman who changed my life at the impressionable age of 19. I was a sophomore at conservative Dartmouth College, interested in the world beyond the United States but ignorant of how to become a part of that world.
ACTUALIZACIÓN: Cinco destacados defensores del agua en El Salvador seniegan a asistir a la vista judicial denunciando la falta de independencia judicialque supone una amenaza para sus vidas
San Salvador y Washington, D.C. – Mientras el presidente Nayib Bukele ofrecía subcontratar a Estados Unidos parte del mortífero sistema penitenciario de El Salvador durante la visita del lunes del secretario de Estado estadounidense, Marco Rubio, un grupo de defensores del medio ambiente salvadoreños, internacionalmente reconocidos, desafiaron públicamente la legitimidad del sistema judicial del país al negarse a comparecer como acusados en un caso contra ellos políticamente motivado.
UPDATE: Five Prominent Water Defenders in El Salvador Refuse To Attend Court Hearing Denouncing Lack of Judicial Independence That Poses a Threat to Their Lives
San Salvador and Washington, D.C. – As president Nayib Bukele offered to subcontract part of El Salvador’s deadly prison system to the United States during the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s Monday visit, a group of internationally-recognized Salvadoran environmental defenders publicly challenged the legitimacy of the country’s judicial system by refusing to show up as defendants in a politically motivated case against them.
Hundreds of Human Rights, Environmental and Faith Groups Together with Academics and Lawyers from 44 Countries Call on President Nayib Bukele to Drop Charges against Five Salvadoran Water Defenders and Reject Mining Projects in El Salvador - Institute for
San Salvador and Washington, D.C. – On January 29, a wide range of leading human rights, environmental, and faith-based organizations, academics, and lawyers released a letter calling on Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele to reject toxic mining projects in El Salvador and to drop the charges against five leading Salvadoran water defenders ahead of the retrial that is currently slated to begin on February 3.
Cientos de grupos de derechos humanos, medioambientales, y de fé, junto con académicos y abogados de 44 países, piden al presidente Nayib Bukele que retire los cargos contra cinco defensores del agua salvadoreños y rechace los proyectos mineros en El Salv
San Salvador y Washington, D.C. – El 29 de enero, un amplio abanico de destacadas organizaciones de derechos humanos, medioambientales y de fé, académicos y abogados publicarán una carta en la que pedirán al presidente salvadoreño, Nayib Bukele, que rechace los proyectos de minería tóxica en El Salvador y retire los cargos contra cinco destacados defensores del agua salvadoreños antes del nuevo juicio que está previsto que comience el 3 de febrero.
74 Health, Environment, and Public Service Organizations Applaud Congressional Resolution on 40th Anniversary of Bhopal Chemical Disaster to Designate December 3 as National Chemical Disaster Awareness Day - Institute for Policy Studies
Washington, D.C. – OnDecember 3, Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-7) and Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) and Senator Jeff Merkley (OR) led the introduction of a critical congressional resolution marking the 40th anniversary of the deadliest chemical disaster, the explosion of a Union Carbide pesticide factory in Bhopal, India.
“No hay delito que perseguir”: Organizaciones internacionales aplauden el fallo del tribunal salvadoreño que declara inocentes a los cinco defensores del agua salvadoreños de los falsos cargos que se les imputan - Institute for Policy Studies
PARA PUBLICACIÓN INMEDIATA Contactos de prensa (por abajo) San Salvador y Washington, D.C. – El 18 de octubre, el tribunal que preside el juicio en El Salvador de cinco destacados Defensores del Agua dictaminó que los cinco son completamente inocentes de los dos cargos falsos de asesinato y asociación ilícita que se les imputaban.
"No Crime to Pursue": International Organizations Applaud Salvadoran Tribunal Ruling that the Five Salvadoran Water Defenders Are Innocent of the False Charges against Them - Institute for Policy Studies
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press contacts below San Salvador and Washington, D.C. – On October 18, the presiding tribunal in the Salvadoran trial of five leading Salvadoran Water Defenders ruled that all five are completely innocent of the two sham charges of murder and illicit association that were laid against them.
El Salvador’s Self-Proclaimed Dictator Is On Trial
Nayib Bukele has proudly called himself “the world’s coolest dictator.” On October 8, his government will begin an unjust trial of five water defenders from El Salvador. These men are heroes of El Salvador — and they never should have been arrested. In these two weeks leading up to the trial, human rights supporters across the United States, Canada, Germany, and elsewhere are joining counterparts in El Salvador to call for the five to be freed.
El Salvador’s Self-Proclaimed Dictator Is On Trial | Common Dreams
Nayib Bukele has proudly called himself “the world’s coolest dictator.” On October 8, his government will begin an unjust trial of five . These men are heroes of El Salvador — and they never should have been arrested. In these two weeks leading up to the trial, human rights supporters across the United States, Canada, Germany, and elsewhere are joining counterparts in El Salvador to call for the five to be freed .
El Salvador’s Self-Proclaimed Dictator Is On Trial
Nayib Bukele has proudly called himself “the world’s coolest dictator.” On October 8, his government will begin an unjust trial of five water defenders from El Salvador. These men are heroes of El Salvador — and they never should have been arrested. In these two weeks leading up to the trial, human rights supporters across the United States, Canada, Germany, and elsewhere are joining counterparts in El Salvador to call for the five to be freed.
“Free the Santa Marta Five” International Speaking Tour Will Feature Events in Canada, USA, and Germany, Sept. 23 - Oct. 7
Trial of Water Defenders in El Salvador Begins October 8 Leading international groups, lawyers, and academics announce consecutive weeks of action to call on the Salvadoran government to drop charges ahead of Oct.
Dirt Dauber Garden Club Celebrates July 2024 Merit Garden Award Winners
MONTAGUE, Mich. – The Dirt Dauber Garden Club (DDGC) revealed the recipients of the July 2024 Merit Garden Awards in a press release. This honor highlights outstanding local gardens, recognizing the dedication and creativity of gardeners within the community. Each month from June to September, the DDGC selects one residential and one business garden for this honor. For July, the residential Merit Garden Award goes to Rick and Sue Sikkenga for their summery garden at 8357 Lamos Road, Montague, MI.
2024 White Lake Community Picnic brings food, fun to all ages
WHITEHALL – People of all ages came to Whitehall to be part of the 2024 White Lake Community Picnic August 1, despite cloudy weather. Sponsored by the Harbor Lake Credit Union, Luna Floral and Design, and Boardwell Mechanical Services, both in Montague, there were hot dogs and other food and things to drink. And a good time was had by all. Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake Proceeds from the picnic went to the White Lake Community Library and the Montague branch of the Muskegon Area Library.
This is not a scam: Social Security needs you to update your online account
Dear Savvy Senior, I recently received an email that I needed to update my online Social Security account. Is this legit or is it a scam? Suspicious Susan Dear Susan, The Social Security Administration did indeed send out a legitimate email last month to notify recipients that they are making changes to the way you access Social Security’s online services, including your personal “my Social Security” account.
Three art exhibits opening Aug. 2 in Ludington
The Ludington Area Center for the Arts is starting out the month of August by presenting three unique multi-media exhibits beginning Aug. 2. “All three of our exhibits this month are very strong,” said Andrew Skinner, LACA executive director. “Our main gallery exhibit 'Outside the Box' features artwork from 37 artists representing 17 states, Canada and Germany. This surrealism themed exhibit includes a wide range of mediums.
Community leaders gather to discuss education, development
By John Cavanagh Herald-Journal Writer Educators, business people, politicians and others gathered at the Oceana County Services building April 4 to brainstorm ideas to improve employment training. Apple Pie Filling Coffee Cake Presenter Jeff Donahue highlighted job demands before those attending broke off into four groups to brainstorm ideas on how to improve job training. Donahue’s presented an Oceana County Training Facility Feasibility Analysis and Economic Diversification study.
Dune off-road vehicle area opens next Monday
The much anticipated opener for the Silver Lake Sand Dunes Off-Road Vehicle Area is set for this coming Monday, April 1. Silver Lake State Park Manager Jody Johnston does not expect traffic to be real busy opening day, but said next weekend, April 6-7, is when he expects things to pick up. Dune enthusiasts will need to have the traditional permits required to ride on the dunes. They include the Recreation Passport, ORV permit and the state trail permit.
County green lights altered OCCOA millage request
Following a lengthy discussion, the Oceana County Board of Commissioners Feb. 22 approved new ballot language, date and term for a millage request for the Oceana County Council on Aging. The new request will be presented to voters on the August primary ballot. It will include a 0.983 mill renewal request and a .016 mill Headlee restoration request for a total of 1 mill. The original request was for 1 mill over 10 years, but the revised request will be for 8 years.
County green lights altered OCCOA millage request
Following a lengthy discussion, the Oceana County Board of Commissioners Feb. 22 approved new ballot language, date and term for a millage request for the Oceana County Council on Aging. The new request will be presented to voters on the August primary ballot. It will include a 0.983 mill renewal request and a .016 mill Headlee restoration request for a total of 1 mill. The original request was for 1 mill over 10 years, but the revised request will be for 8 years.
Early voting proving popular
Early indications are that early voting is proving popular with Oceana County voters. Early voting began last Saturday, Feb. 17 and will continue until Feb. 25. Oceana County Clerk Amy Anderson said the county clerk’s office had 17 voters Feb. 17, 12 voters Feb. 18 and 13 voters Feb. 19. Early voting ballots can be brought to the county clerk’s office between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. People casting early ballots will have to go through security at the courthouse.
Oceana holds up on changing council on aging millage election
No action was taken by the Oceana County Board of Commissioners on an Oceana County Council on Aging request to move its millage renewal request from May until August.
Oceana balks at combing clerk, register of deeds offices
Once again, the Oceana County Board of Commissioners visited the idea of combining the county clerk’s and register of deeds offices at its regular meeting Feb. 8. Prior to the discussion, county Administrator Tracy Byard pointed that the proposal hasn’t went anywhere in the past. She said the potential savings to the county based on staff would be $100,000 to $160,000.
Oceana balks at combining clerk, register of deeds offices
Once again, the Oceana County Board of Commissioners visited the idea of combining the county clerk’s and register of deeds offices at its regular meeting Feb. 8. Prior to the discussion, county Administrator Tracy Byard pointed that the proposal hasn’t went anywhere in the past. She said the potential savings to the county based on staff would be $100,000 to $160,000.
Oceana balks at combining clerk, register of deeds offices
Once again, the Oceana County Board of Commissioners visited the idea of combining the county clerk’s and register of deeds offices at its regular meeting Feb. 8. Prior to the discussion, County Administrator Tracy Byard pointed that the proposal hasn’t went anywhere in the past. She said the potential savings to the county based on staff would be $100,000 to $160,000.
Oceana holds up on changing council on aging millage election
No action was taken by the Oceana County Board of Commissioners on an Oceana County Council on Aging request to move its millage renewal request from May until August.
County OKs union wage increase
A letter of understanding that will provide union Oceana County Sheriff’s Office and Corrections employees an additional $1 per hour received Oceana County Board of Commissioners approval Jan. 25 in a 3-2 vote. Commissioners Craig Hardy, Tim Beggs and Phil Morse voted for the pay increase while Chairman Bob Walker and Commissioner Paul Erickson voted no. The increase will cost the county an additional $60,680 per year.
Jolene Babbin quite versatile in teaching Walkerville kids
After 24 years, she just might be the most versatile teacher in the district. She’s taught in the summer program, first grade, second grade and even third grade. She’s currently teaching middle school students in grades 6-8 in English as a second language. Her name is Jolene Babbin, and she’s been with the Walkerville School District since graduating college.
Old Man Winter packs weekend punch
Old Man Winter packed a punch when it arrived in Oceana County late last week. The bitter cold and windy weather prompted area schools to close and made traveling on snow covered roads difficult. National Weather Service Observer Bob Simonson of WEEH-FM in Mears recorded 18.8 inches snow fell from Jan. 9 through Jan. 15. The most single-day snowfall recorded during that period was 6.8 inches Jan. 13. The coldest low temperature for the same period was 9 degrees Jan. 15.
County backs tunnel plan for Lewis Adventure
Support for a tunnel under M-20 to run from a parking lot on the south side to Lewis Farms Adventure Farm and Zoo on the north side received Oceana County Board of Commissioners approval at its regular meeting Jan. 11. The proposed $2.5 million tunnel between Grant and Shelby townships would eliminate the need for people movers across M-20 and address safety concerns. According to the resolution, the townships anticipate working with several state agencies and Lewis Farms to determine cost sharing.
Michigan early voting begins Feb. 17
With the Iowa caucuses less than a week away, it won’t be long before Oceana County voters cast their ballots in the 2024 presidential primary. The primary is scheduled for Feb. 27. Democratic candidates listed in the primary will include President Joe Biden, Dean Phillips and Marianne Williamson. Republican candidates listed will include Doug Burgum, Chris Christie, Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Asa Hutchinson, Vivek Ramaswamy and former President Donald Trump.
Road commission to borrow for road improvements
The Oceana County Road Commission received the county board of commissioners blessing Dec. 21 to issue financial notes for $3.5 million for road improvements. Road Commission Manager Mark Timmer told the county board that the notes would be for 10 years and paid back using the road commission’s Michigan Transportation Funds at a rate of $38,000 per month. He said the road commission brings in about $600,000 per month. “To me, it’s really exciting,” Timmer said. “Nobody’s getting short changed.
OCCOA to seek millage renewal next May
Ballot language for a Oceana County Council on Aging operating millage renewal received Oceana County Board of Commissioner approval Dec. 21. The proposal would restore the OCCOA levy to 1 full mill previously approved by voters. The request is for a 0.9838 renewal due to the state’s Headlee Amendment and a 0.0162 addition levy to complete the 1 full mill.
Golden taking public comment on proposed ORV ordinance
Public comment is being taken on a proposed ordinance that would allow off-road vehicles (ORVs) to travel on all Golden Township roads. Golden Township Treasurer Connie Cargill said that while currently the township is taking public comment, she expects the township to schedule a public hearing on the subject at a later date. According to the proposed ordinance, an ORV does not include any all-terrain vehicle, two-wheeler dirt bike, three or four wheeler, golf cart, dune buggy or sandrail.
Oceana OKs more than $13 million general fund budget
A more than $13 million general fund budget received Oceana County Board of Commissioners approval following a public hearing in Hart Dec. 7. The total general fund budget is $13,131, 220. Taxes make up the largest portion of the revenue at $8,518,200 followed by state grants at $1,436,772. The county expects to receive $800,416 in transfers in, $667,272 in federal grants, $453,812 in charges for services and $385,910 in other revenue among others of smaller amounts.
Oceana green lights commercial solar panel fees
A fee schedule for commercial solar projects was adopted by the Oceana County Board of Commissioners at its regular meeting Dec. 7. The approved schedule is slightly higher than initially proposed so that it would be in line with the fee schedule in Mason County. Aunt Lynda's Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread The building inspection office will charge $7 per unit for units up to 20 kilovolt amps (kVA) or horizontal pitch. The initial proposal was $5.
Oceana OKs more than $13 million general fund budget
A more than $13 million general fund budget received Oceana County Board of Commissioners approval following a public hearing in Hart on Thursday. The total general fund budget is $13,131,220. Taxes make up the largest portion of the revenue at $8,518,200 followed by state grants at $1,436,772. The county expects to receive $800,416 in transfers in, $667,272 in federal grants, $453,812 in charges for services and $385,910 in other revenue among others of smaller amounts.
Oceana green lights commercial solar panel fees
A fee schedule fr commercial solar projects was adopted by the Oceana County Board of Commissioners at its regular meeting Thursday in Hart. The approved schedule is slightly higher than initially proposed so that it would be in line with the fee schedule in Mason County. The building inspection office will charge $7 per unit for units up to 20 kilovolt amps (kVA) or horizontal pitch. The initial proposal was $5.
Pentwater’s Gina Voss works to take reading to another level
If reading is fundamental, then Pentwater teacher Gina Voss works to make sure all students achieve. Her actual title is that of a reading interventionist, and she primarily works with kindergarten through third grade students who need extra support in reading skills.
Equestrian season at starts at Silver Lake State Park
For the third year and the second year of an actual season, the Lake Michigan shoreline will be open for horseback riding at Silver Lake State Park. The horseback riding season will run until Nov. 30. Riders will enter the Silver Lake Sand Dunes via the Off-Road Vehicle area exit ramp and follow a designated route to the shoreline where they will have three-miles of Lake Michigan access. Volunteers will be on hand to pick-up horse droppings and properly dispose of them.
Equestrian season at starts at Silver Lake State Park
For the third year and the second year of an actual season, the Lake Michigan shoreline will be open for horseback riding at Silver Lake State Park. The horseback riding season will run until Nov. 30 Riders will enter the Silver Lake Sand Dunes via the Off-Road Vehicle area exit ramp and follow a designated route to the shoreline where they will have three-miles of Lake Michigan access. Volunteers will be on hand to pick-up horse droppings and properly dispose of them.
New SHS principal setting into new job
Becoming a part of the community is a priority for new Shelby High School Principal Zach Fricke. Fricke (pronounced Frick-E) began his new duties approximately two months ago. “My first day was the first day of school,” Fricke said. “I like a small town.” The North Branch native has Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism with a minor in English and earned his teaching certificate at the same time. He’s worked in Hart, Colorado, North Muskegon and went into administration while at Orchard View.
County opposes septic code changes
The Oceana County Board of Commissioners went on record Sept. 28 as opposing several proposed pieces of legislation that would further regulate septic systems. Board Chairman Bob Walker said the proposed legislation is being driven by downstate lawmakers and would require expensive septic system inspections ever three years.
Sometimes life brings unexpected paths
Sometimes, life will take people down a different path from where they originally intended to go. Such was the case with Hart Public Schools Technology Integration Specialist Sarah Schmalz. The Whitehall native earned a bachelors degree in education from Central Michigan University then completed her masters degree in early childhood education from Western Michigan University. She’s been in Hart now for 10 years.
County approves Shelby Acres annexation to village
Without any public sentiment, the Oceana County Board of Commissioners approved an annexation request for Shelby Acres to become part of the Village of Shelby following a public hearing at its regular meeting Sept. 14. The proposed housing development on the east side of Oceana Drive was proposed earlier this year. It is to have 59 plus acres between five contiguous parcels, just north of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Shelby Township.
County hears housing needs assessment preview
A preview of the Oceana County Housing Needs presentation set for next week was presented to the Oceana County Board of Commissioners at its regular meeting Sept. 14. Dogwood Community Development representatives Kittie Tuinstra and John Terzano highlighted some of the assessment findings made by Bowen National Research. The findings are to be presented by Patrick Bowen at a forum next Wednesday, Sept. 27 from 9-11 a.m. at the West Michigan Research Station, 5185 N. Oceana Dr., Hart.
‘Pleasant Afternoon’ celebrates Mears’ 150th anniversary
A large crowd, including a large number of Lathers descendants, turned out in Mears Sunday afternoon for the Oceana County Historical and Genealogical Society’ annual Pleasant Afternoon — this celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Village of Mears. Society President Paul Erickson pointed out the society’s struggles to recruit volunteers during the COVID 19 pandemic and recognized several volunteers who continued to help out, including Carl and Mort Wiegand. “I’m overwhelmed,” Erickson said.
Lightning strike said to have set Silver Lake Pizza Factory a blaze
Northern Natural Cider House
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