Monthly Archives: March 2015

Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber “Makes an Impression”

When people appreciate, promote and invest in a community, the local economy grows. The community attracts residents, visitors, businesses and workforce talent. That is the belief of the leaders at the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce.

Larry-Hines-2015-Board-Chair“It is important to make a good impression in business and as a community,” says Larry Hines, incoming board chair for the Chamber. Muskegon has undergone many changes in recent years and it is time people hear about and understand them,” says Hines.

Hines is referring to Muskegon’s low unemployment, millions of dollars in capital investment and many exciting new businesses downtown such as the Farmer’s Market, breweries and others.

Over the next few years, the Chamber will allocate resources and staff time to projects which promote Muskegon’s image as a premier waterfront community. They will also call on members to “Make an Impression” with their businesses, products and customer service.

“We are in process of organizing programs on customer service, marketing, and professionalism to assist businesses in their efforts to improve organizational image,” says Cindy Larsen, President of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce.

With more than 1,100 business members, the Chamber is in a position to spread positive information, through businesses, to thousands of people and many other communities. The more people who are educated on Muskegon’s business and community assets, the more effective the community will be in attracting visitors, residents, and business investment.

The Chamber is working with other community organizations on a comprehensive strategy for image improvement. “No one organization can take this on,” says Larsen. Over the next couple of years you will hear and see many Muskegon public and private organizations engaged in this effort,” Larsen adds. “We are just getting started.”


ABOUT THE CHAMBER

The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce is the premier business membership organization on the lakeshore representing approximately 1,150 businesses and organizations. The Muskegon Chamber represents businesses of every size and type all over West Michigan. The Chamber is celebrating 120 years in operation working to sustain an environment for business success through community leadership, promotion, inclusive business advocacy and valued member services. The Muskegon Chamber is a three-time award winning Chamber, being named Chamber of the Year for the State of Michigan in 2006, 2010, and 2012 by the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals.

For Clear Sailing, Renew Your Watercraft Registration Online at Expresssos.Com

Watercraft renewal notices are sent in March

LANSING, Mich. – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson reminds boat owners of the ease and convenience of renewing their watercraft registration online at ExpressSOS.com as her office begins sending out more than 252,000 watercraft renewal notices.

“I encourage all boat owners to renew online,” Johnson said. “Where would you rather be, preparing your boat for a fun-filled season on the lake, or renewing your registration in person? Renewing online is quick and easy, leaving you more time to enjoy your boat.”

In 2014, more than 47,000 watercraft renewals were submitted online.

ExpressSOS.com offers two methods for renewal. Express Renewal is fast and easy, requiring only the boat’s registration number to renew. Online Renewal PLUS lists all vehicles and watercraft eligible for renewal and lets customers complete other online transactions at the same time, such as changing an address or renewing a driver’s license.

Update from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) – January 2015

After 65 years, Billy Graham’s message is still going viral

From the time BGEA was founded in 1950, Billy Graham and his team have used the latest technology to share the love and hope of Christ—a trend that continues under Franklin Graham’s leadership. Long before the Internet, Billy Graham “went viral” with the help of the technology of the day: the telegraph. Today, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association continues to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Telegraph has transitioned to live streamed events; reel-to-reel has now been replaced by social media; but one thing remains the same – reaching people with the hope found through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. READ MORE…

After ‘Unbroken’: Billy Graham and Louis Zamperini

Louis Zamperini’s life story has captivated millions through the New York Times best-selling novel Unbroken by Laura Hildebrand and the Universal Pictures film by the same name. The Billy Graham TV special, Louis Zamperini: Captured by Grace, documents his journey – from Olympic runner to WWII prisoner of war — all the way to his return home and encounter with Jesus Christ at a Billy Graham Crusade in Los Angeles in 1949.

Hear the rest of Louis Zamperini’s incredible story – including footage of Zamperini sharing his memories in his own words – in Captured by Grace, at www.billygraham.tvREAD MORE…

Billy Graham Library nears 1 million visitors

In 2014, the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, N.C. welcomed more than 144,000 guests, with nearly 102,000 taking the Journey of Faith tour. This year the Library continues to carry out the legacy of Billy Graham’s ongoing Crusade. In 2015, the Library will welcome author’s Tim Brown, Dr. James Dobson and Shirley Dobson, Coach Bobby Bowden, David Benham and James Benham and more. Many favorite events return to the Library this year beginning with the Ladies Tea and Tour in April, and both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day breakfasts. Also in 2015, the Billy Graham Library anticipates their 1 millionth guest. For a full list of upcoming events and information on special exhibits, including Louis Zamperini memorabilia now on display, visit www.billygrahamlibrary.org.

If you would like more information about these, or other, updates from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, please contact media@bgea.org. Complete press releases from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association are available at billygraham.org/press-releases.

Michigan Reaches Historic Milestone

Michigan reaches historic milestone: More than half of all adults are now registered organ donors. In the last four years, 1.8 million more people sign up to give the gift of life.

 LANSING – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson today announced that the number of Michigan adults registered as organ, tissue and eye donors has now surpassed 50 percent and she credited her staff with helping to bring out the record-breaking growth.

Johnson was joined by partners from Gift of Life Michigan and the Michigan Eye-Bank at the Hamtramck Area PLUS Office on 9001 Joseph Campau Street in Hamtramck to thank Secretary of State staff and customers for their continued support of Michigan’s Organ Donor  Registry. Other volunteers visited branches statewide to thank staff for their efforts.

“When I first took office, Michigan was near the bottom of the list nationally in terms of organ donors, with only 27 percent of eligible residents signed up, ” Johnson said. “Now, thanks to the hard work of branch staff, volunteers and other passionate advocates, we have reached the national average and registering as a donor has become a cultural norm. Every name means hope for the 3,400 people in Michigan still waiting for a life-saving or life-enhancing transplant.”

After she was elected in 2010, Johnson made expanding the organ donor rolls a priority but insisted that it be done at little to no cost to taxpayers. She directed her staff to start asking customers if they wanted to sign up, created a task force of leading experts and began promoting organ donor registration throughout her branch offices.  About 85 percent of people who sign up do so through the Secretary of State’s office.

“We thank our partners for their efforts, and we especially thank the people of Michigan for recognizing that they have the power to heal lives by becoming organ, tissue and eye donors,” said Richard Pietroski, CEO of Gift of Life Michigan, the state’s organ and tissue recovery program.

“Secretary Johnson and her staff work hard to serve the people of Michigan,” said Lisa Langley, executive director of the Michigan Eye-Bank. “Taking the extra time to encourage people to join the registry is appreciated by all those who can see again, walk again or breathe again. We look forward to working with her office as we continue to grow the registry—one person at a time.”

More than 3,825,000 people are on the Michigan Organ Donor Registry. Every donor has the ability to save up to eight lives through organ donation and improve up to 50 more through cornea and tissue donation.

“People in Michigan are so generous, so caring and want to help others if they can,” Johnson said. “Every name on the donor registry means hope for waiting families. I’m so proud of our Secretary of State employees and their commitment to saving and improving lives throughout this state by asking customers to join the donor registry.”

Anyone can join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry, regardless of age or medical history. Go to www.ExpressSOS.com, call 800-482-4881 or visit any Secretary of State office.

For more information on organ, eye and tissue donation, visit www.giftoflifemichigan.org or www.michiganeyebank.org. To sign up to the Michigan Organ Donor Registry and to access some of the Secretary of State’s most popular services, visit www.ExpressSOS.com.

Jail Break 2015

Muskegon County Sheriff, Dean Roesler,
Muskegon County Prosecutor, DJ Hilson and
Muskegon County Circuit Court Administrator, Eric Stevens
Present

Jail Break 2015

The Muskegon County Sheriff wants to give you a break on your unpaid jail debts. Anyone who has been in the Muskegon County Jail may have unpaid jail debt. You now have the opportunity to pay a one-time lump sum payment, and will have the remainder of your debt forever forgiven. You may also be able to negotiate a payment plan for your balance at a reduced rate during this event.

When: March 23 through April 3, 2015

Personal appearance is not required. Payments can be made in person, online, or by telephone. Cash, money order, and credit/debit cards are accepted. In person payments will be accepted Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Where: Muskegon County Consolidated Reimbursement Unit – 990 Terrace St., Third Floor (3rd), Muskegon, MI 49442

Contact: For questions about this event, including outstanding balance and payment directions, call (231) 724-6429 or email MuskegonCourtCollections@co.muskegon.mi.us. Follow us on Facebook at Muskegon County Family Court or Twitter @MskFamilyCourt.

New President of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association Of Michigan

Cass County Prosecuting Attorney Victor Fitz To Lead Prosecuting Attorneys Association Of Michigan Into New Year As President

(Lansing, MI)- Victor Fitz, Cass County Prosecutor and President of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan (PAAM), announced his focus for 2015. Prosecutor Fitz intends to emphasize unsolved cold case homicides, drug trends, and develop best practices for criminal justice issues. After his election as President by the PAAM Board of Directors in August, Fitz immediately formed three new committees made up of prosecuting attorneys from around the state to emphasize these areas of importance.

Fitz announced that a central goal for 2015 and beyond is for prosecutors to work with law enforcement on the significant number of unsolved cold case homicides in Michigan. Since 1980, FBI statistics estimate that Michigan has over 10,000 unsolved cold case homicides.

“This is a haunting number,” stated Fitz. “Over 10,000 families remain without closure. Their loved ones have suffered a violent or unnatural death. They deserve resolution. They deserve justice,” Fitz said.

Fitz’s drug initiative recognizes the disturbing effects that methamphetamine, prescription drugs, heroin and other narcotics are increasingly having on the Great Lakes Region—particularly the youth. “We will seek to increase communication and cooperation with in-state and out-state agencies to intensify effectiveness in combating illegal drug manufacturers in the Great Lakes Region,” advised Fitz.

2015 efforts are expected to include a law enforcement training on many of these drug related topics.

Under the direction of then-President Kym Worthy in 2014, PAAM initiated efforts to tackle the untested sexual assault kit backlog in Michigan. Fitz stated that these important themes will receive continued priority.

“It is extremely important for prosecutors to be as effective as possible when seeking justice for the citizens of our state. Following best practices and continuing our diligence on backlog challenges are essential to such efforts.”

Fitz noted that many legislative and criminal justice initiatives are considered by the PAAM membership on an annual basis.

“As always, PAAM looks forward to working with the various state and local branches of government, as well as citizens and the private sector in 2015. We share the common goal of making Michigan a better place to live, work and raise a family,” said Fitz.

Victor Fitz has been the prosecutor in Cass County since 2003 and will continue as PAAM President through August 2015. He previously served in the Muskegon, Tuscola and St. Clair County Prosecutors’ Office. Fitz is also an appointed member of the Michigan Crime Victim Services Commission, a division within the Michigan Department of Community Health.

The Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan was established in 1928. It is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of: 5 officers, 14 elected directors, active past presidents and the Attorney General. The primary purposes of the association are to promote equal justice in enforcing the state’s criminal laws, and continuing the education of prosecuting attorneys and other law enforcement officials.

Local Law Firm Strengthens Its Litigation Team

Norton Shores, Michigan – Gielow Groom Terpstra & McEvoy (GGTM) recently increased the size and strength of its litigation team by adding attorney Jake Lombardo. Lombardo is a 2010 graduate of the University of Notre Dame Law School and an experienced litigator who previously practiced at a large Grand Rapids firm. The addition of Lombardo makes GGTM’s litigation representation one of the strongest in West Michigan for a firm of its size.

Lombardo joins veteran litigation attorneys Brad Groom, Rachel Terpstra and Eric Gielow. Together, the team has more than 70 years of combined experience trying a wide variety of cases in both state and federal courts. GGTM’s litigation representation has included complex commercial litigation, contract disputes, environmental litigation and real estate disputes, to name a few.

Letter to the Editor: Protection of Marriage Act

The constitution of the United States, contains a clause that protects the citizens of this nation from unjust or wrongful laws or decisions by the Congress, the Executive Branch,  or the Judicial Branch of our government.

This clause is referred to as our Checks and Balance system.

The U.S. Supreme courts decisions by a 5 to 4 vote,  declared the Protection of Marriage act unconstitutional.

This decision is one of the most immoral, absurd illogical decisions ever rendered by the U.S. Supreme court,  with the only exception being the decision to legalize abortion on demand.

There is nothing unconstitutional about limiting marriage to one man and one women.  The Supreme court is clearly exceeding their authority.  We as citizens must contact our Legislators to reverse this decision.  In the event this decision is not reversed this court will legalize same sex marriage in June.

Same sex marriage is an abomination to our creator, and will cause an economic drain on Social Security. Same sex marriages, will enable a same sex spouse to draw on their spouses Social Security, also these same sex spouses will be entitled to be covered by their spouses insurance.  In other words they will be entitled to every benefit that traditional couples receive. Write or call your Senator, your Representative or the Supreme court judges themselves,  Their addresses and phone numbers can be obtained off the internet.

Don’t let this happen.

Richard L. Lang
Ravenna, MI  49451

Letter to the Editor: Common Core

Many of us have fought Common Core in our schools, the slow takeover of the Federal Government. Our Constitution gives this right to each state, not the Federal Government. I understand that money was held back, not given to “Smart Balance,” then the M.D.A. gave 4.9 million to them for a membership to use “Smart Balance” and calls it “INSTEP,” only the name change.

Parents, do you know what your children are being taught, tested for or the questions asked them? Have you checked the books for reading recommended by Common Core? I feel our schools are being dumbed down.

Think of the changes that have taken. It isn’t Christmas Break or Christmas Play, etc. It is Winter Break. Not Easter Break – it’s Spring Break. The history of how our forefathers gave and died to give us our freedom and Constitution is being taught less and less. Now, we have a war on Christianity in most countries, yes, even in America!

March 24th at 6:30 p.m. will be an informational meeting at Central Assembly of God, 896 Home Street, Muskegon. Enter at door #2. Our speaker, Melonie Kunds, is a math teacher and has many other qualifications. Come, listen, and ask questions.

–Billie G. Picklesimer, Ravenna

Board of Trustees_ 02-23-15

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 23, 2015

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township board began at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, February 23, 2015, 2014, in the township board room.

Members Present: Brian Werschem, Supervisor; Carol Hulka, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Ron Becklin, Dave Markgraf, Marjorie Nash and Chuck Whitlow     Members Absent: None

Also Present:  0–employees; 0-residents; Director of Public Works, Farrar; Public Safety Director, Doctor;  and 4-Muskegon Bike Time board members

At 7:00 p.m., Supervisor Werschem opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer.
The meeting minutes of January 26, 2015, regular meeting, were approved as presented.

The board meeting agenda for February 23, 2015, was approved as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
Michigan Townships Association legislative update of 02/06/15.

Revenue and Expenditure report for period ending 01/31/2015.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – PART 1
No comments received

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – None

NEW BUSINESS

15-011 Muskegon Bike Time 2015 Agreement
Chuck Whitlow moved, Dave Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to enter into a 2015 Agreement with Muskegon Bike Time, LLC. and to authorize the Supervisor to sign the document.

Ayes: Whitlow, Markgraf, Hulka, Dillon, Nash, Becklin, Werschem     Nays: None

15-012 Public Hearing – Truth in Taxation Hearing
(a.) Dave Markgraf moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to open the Truth in Taxation hearing at 7:26 p.m.

Ayes: Markgraf, Dillon, Nash, Becklin, Whitlow, Hulka, Werschem       Nays: None

(b.) Public Hearing: The Supervisor announced the proposed millage rates as follows: General Fund at the millage rate of .9965, Public Safety at 1.50 mills, Police at 1.00 mills and street lighting at .45 mills.

No further discussion was heard.

Budget adoption of the 2015-2016 township budgets will be done at the next meeting on March 9, 2015.

(c.) The motion by Dave Markgraf, supported by Rose Dillon, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to close the public hearing at 7:28 p.m. and return to open session. 

15-013 OPEB (Other Post Employee Benefits) Funding Adjustments and Reallocation
Chuck Whitlow moved, seconded by Ron Becklin, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to make the following changes to the current investment portfolio for our OPEB plan:

Transfer all funds from Short Term Income to a 50/50 split in Large Cap Stock index and Mid Cap Stock index and make future contributions in the same fashion.

This change in current funds and future investments need to be applied to both Portfolio Division 600283 and Portfolio Division 600286.

15-014 Public Meeting Schedule for 2015-2016
The motion by Dave Markgraf, seconded by Carol Hulka, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to adopt the board and committee meeting dates for Fiscal Year 2015-2016, as presented, with cancellation of board meeting on Memorial Day, May 25, 2015.

15-015 Bridge Street Water Main Replacement Project
Chuck Whitlow moved, seconded by Dave Markgraf, was MOTION CARRIED, to accept the low bid from Tiles Excavating, Inc. on the summer schedule with asphalt to be covered by the Village of Fruitport, and authorize the Supervisor and Clerk to sign the necessary documents.

Ayes: Whitlow, Markgraf, Hulka, Dillon, Nash, Becklin, Werschem   Nays: None

15-016 Police Cruiser Cameras
Marjorie Nash moved, seconded by Ron Becklin, MOTION CARRIED, to outfit three police cruisers with cameras and accessories at the cost of $20,410 and the two remaining police cruisers will have cameras and accessories installed and paid for out of the 2015-2016 budget. Part of the cost of the cameras and accessories will be paid for from a MTA (Michigan Townships Association) grant of $3,500. The Police Committee made the recommendation.

Ayes: Nash, Becklin, Whitlow, Markgraf, Hulka, Dillon, Werschem   Nays: None

14-017 Payment of Bills
Dave Markgraf moved, seconded by Carol Hulka, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills for payment in the following amounts: General Fund & Parks $10,665.21; Public Safety$18,745.49;   Water $67,586.45;   Sewer $50,294.79.       Totaling: $147,291.94.

Ayes: Markgraf, Hulka, Dillon, Nash, Becklin, Whitlow, Werschem  Nays: None

REPORTS
Matt Farrar, DPW Director, stated that Fruitport Township will be getting water from the City of Muskegon in April.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – Part II   —   None received

ADJOURNMENT

The motion by Dave Markgraf, seconded by Chuck Whitlow, was CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY, to adjourn the meeting at 7:51p.m.

CAROL HULKA, CLERK                              BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ask Dr. Universe – A Roller Coaster in Your Brain

Dear Dr. Universe: Do children’s brains work better in the morning or in the afternoon?
– Grace, Spring, TX

Dear Grace,

Hang on tight because the human brain keeps you on a 24-hour roller coaster.

Every day the human body produces a chemical messenger in the brain called melatonin. It tells the body when it is time to go to bed.

“It’s just like your parents,” said my friend Samantha Gizerian, an assistant professor at Washington State University, who studies how kid and baby brains develop. “Except you can’t run away from melatonin.”

Melatonin goes up at night, peaks while you are sleeping, and comes down in the morning. Melatonin levels stay low across the afternoon and start to rise again in the evening. Your brain also cools down as you fall asleep, warms up during the day, and then cools off again before bedtime.

Gizerian said you can’t run away from melatonin because it works with the sun. As it gets darker outside, the nerves in your eyes perceive less light. That’s how the brain knows to start producing melatonin. This also why it’s important to turn off any screens or lights before bed—otherwise your brain might think it is daytime and you won’t sleep well. You’ll be feeling like a zombie the next day.

“You are always going to be more alert in the mid-morning or afternoon, whether you are an early bird or a night owl,” Gizerian said, causing my ears to perk up at the talk of both birds and sleep.

She also explained that most of what scientists know about young brains actually comes from studying older, teenage brains. Babies and kids like to move around a lot and much of the research requires the study subject to stay still.

Scientists know teenage brain clocks are about two hours behind those of full-grown adults, so when adult brains are hard at work, young brains are still warming up. Their bodies are also producing other kinds of messengers that are helping them grow.

“That delay may be a way that the brain has developed for more rest and recovery,” Gizerian said, “but who knows.”

So, to answer your question, young brains do not work better in the morning. Some studies have shown students even perform better on tests when they take them in the afternoon, Gizerian said. In fact, almost all the research on teenage brains shows they function better in the afternoon. A good night’s sleep helps, too.

I could attest to this from my personal experience and will celebrate Brain Awareness Week and National Nap Day this month with a lot of catnaps.

Years ago sleep researchers wondered why teenagers liked to stay up so late, preferred to sleep-in, and were so sleepy in the morning, Once they found out about melatonin patterns in their brains, researchers wondered why this chemical rollercoaster was going on at all. It’s a question that still puzzles them.

Sincerely,

Dr. Universe

Got a question? Ask Dr. Universe! Send an e-mail to Washington State University’s resident cat-scientist and writer at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website at askdruniverse.com.  

Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizens

The Muskegon Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution is proud to announce the following students as this year’s DAR Good Citizens from area high schools.

Candy S. Morales – Algoma Christian School
Michelle Courtney Postiff – Calvary Christian HS
Bailli Mammen – Fruitport HS
Ashley Taylor Friend – Holton HS
Savannah R. Manning – Muskegon HS
Ja Teryn Nicole Moore – Muskegon Heights Academy HS
Abigail Marie Vermuellen – North Muskegon High School
Victoria Anne Mueller – Oakridge HS
Lillian Rachel Lieffers – Ravenna HS
Rebekah Beeghly – Whitehall HS

The DAR Good Citizen program recognizes and rewards the qualities of good citizenship as manifested by dependability, service, leadership and patriotism to an outstanding degree. The program is open to members of the senior class enrolled in accredited private and public secondary schools in our service area of Muskegon and Ottawa counties. Each DAR good citizen is selected by the faculty of their school, as having demonstrated, in an outstanding manner, these qualities of outstanding citizenship. The DAR Good Citizens are invited to compete for Muskegon Chapter DAR Good Citizen scholarships, the winner of which will advance to State level DAR scholarship consideration.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote patriotism, preserve American history, and support better education for our nation’s children. Its members are descended from the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. With more than 165,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide, DAR is one of the world’s largest and most active service organizations. The Muskegon Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution was the eighth chapter chartered in Michigan, beginning in November, 1898. We have operated continuously since, providing service to the community, serving our servicemen and veterans, preserving our history and genealogy, promoting patriotism, and investing in our future. Each year we award at least three scholarships to those competing in the DAR Good Citizen Scholarship program. We also award scholarships to qualified DAR descendants.

Membership in the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution is open to any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion, or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution. Please see www.muskegon.michdar.net if you are interested in joining us.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 03/10/15-03/16/15

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

03/10/2015 – Pedal 4 Pints
Pedal 4 Pints is a fun collaboration between City Hub Cyclery, Pigeon Hill Brewing & Unruly Brewing as a way to be active (pedal on a stationary bike) and earn points for prizes (maybe even a pint). Wear your comfy clothes and check it out Tuesday, March 10 from 5:00pm-8:00pm at Pigeon Hill Brewing, located at 500 W. Western Ave.

03/12/2015 – Brown Bag Film: Kehinde Wiley – An Economy of Grace
‎Thursday, March 12 at 12:15pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Brown Bag Film, “Kehinde Wiley: An Economy of Grace”.  (60 mins.) Known for his vibrant reinterpretations of classical portraits featuring African-American men, New York-based painter Kehinde Wiley has turned the practice of portraiture on its head and in the process has taken the art world by storm. This film follows the artist as he takes on a new project: a series of classical portraits of African-American women. Auditorium doors open at noon. Coffee, cookies, and film admission are free. Paid admission is required to visit the upper level galleries. Brown Bag Films are underwritten by the Alcoa Foundation/Howmet.  For more information, call 231-720-2571.

03/12/2015 – Postcard Salon Sale & Reception
Come to the Muskegon Museum of Art Thursday, March 12 at 5:30pm for the Postcard Salon Sale & Reception. These pieces of tiny art are for sale for only $30 each.  This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. There will also be a cash bar. Postcard Salon is sponsored by G & L Greek Chili Dogs.  For more information, call 231-720-2571.

03/13/2015 – Mommy & Me at the Museum
‎Lakeshore Museum Center’s next Mommy and Me will be held Friday, March 13 at 10:00am. Kids 4 and younger, along with a parent, grandparent or caregiver, will get to explore the museum looking for all of the Mastodon’s favorite museum friends! Call 722-0278 to reserve your child’s spot.

03/13/2015 – 03/14/2015 St. Patrick’s Party
The Michigan Irish Music Festival is presenting its annual St. Patrick’s Party March 13 and 14 at the Fricano Event Center in downtown Muskegon!   The party will feature live music both nights with Seamus Kennedy and Finvarra’s Wren. For many years, Seamus Kennedy has been a favorite at the Michigan Irish Music Festival. This will be his first appearance at the annual St. Pat’s Party.  The party will feature McGovern’s Corned Beef and Irish fare, Fricano’s pizza, with scones and pretzels from the Village Baker. Irish Fest Stout, Magner’s Irish Cider, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Irish Cream and Budweiser products will also be served. In addition, Irish dancers from the Ardan Academy of Dance will perform and a silent auction will be held each night. Doors open at 5:30pm both nights with music starting at 6:00pm. Tickets are $6 and are available at the door.  For more information, visit michiganirish.org.

03/13/2015 – Alley Door: The Crane Wives
‎The Alley Door Club is located on the 3rd floor of the Hilt Building in the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts. Doors open at 6 PM. The Crane Wives will play 7 PM – 10 PM Cash bar available. Valid I.D. required. Tickets $7 in advance at the Frauenthal Box Office. 4-top $55.00* price includes 4 admission tickets 8-top $80.00* price includes 8 admission tickets Monday – Friday 11 AM – 5:30 PM. For more information call 231-727-8001 Tickets also available at the (door) from the Frauenthal Box Office.

03/13/2015 – 03/21/2015 Bowl for Kids’ Sake
‎Volunteers and community members are lacing up their bowling shoes to help all children achieve success in life.  Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore is holding its largest and longest running annual fundraiser, Bowl for Kids’ Sake, throughout the month of March along the Lakeshore.  Bowlers are asked to solicit pledges, and then bowl with their team at one of the 6 events the Agency is hosting in Grand Haven, Muskegon or Hart.  Money raised from these events is used to seek and support mentors for children in need of a caring and consistent adult in their lives.  Bowlers are asked to raise a minimum of $75 in pledges or a team goal of at least $300 for a team of four.  Teams are treated to bowling, pizza and pop along with the chance to win great prizes while playing the Agency’s version of “Minute to Win It” games.

To take part in this year’s events, call Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore (231-798-1391) to receive the necessary forms to register a team and start collecting pledges.

Bowl for Kids’ Sake 2015:
March 13th: Sherman Bowling Center, Muskegon, 7pm
March 14th: FOE Bowling Club, Hart, 7pm
March 15th: Bob-Hi Lanes, Muskegon, 1pm
March 21st: Northway Lanes, Muskegon, 7pm

03/13/2015 – Beethoven & Blue Jeans
‎Friday, March 13 at 7:30pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater as the West Michigan Symphony presents a Beethoven sandwich! The WMS performs two rarely-heard Beethoven masterpieces of humor, depth and perpetual motion. Between them, the brilliant German virtuoso Nicolas Altstaedt performs Dmitri Shostakovich’s powerful, rhythmic, searingly passionate Cello Concerto, originally written for a young Rostropovich.  Single ticket prices are $18, $23, $38 and $48.  Student ticket price is $7.  Tickets are available at the Frauenthal Box Office or through startickets.com.

03/14/2015 – 107-MUS Health Expo
Saturday, March 14, come to the Lakes Mall for the 107-MUS Health Expo, held in conjunction with Mercy Health Partners’ “The Ride” program and the 1 in 21 Muskegon Health County health initiative.  “The Ride” is an indoor stationary bike race that raises money to support Mercy Health Partners H.E.A.R.T. (Health Enhancement And Rehabilitative Therapy) programs and is expected to attract over 500 riders.  Exhibitors come from all over West Michigan providing the community with health and wellness benefits that are important to keeping the Lakeshore healthy and happy. To register or learn more about The Ride, contact Amber Wallace in Mercy Health’s

Community Development office at 231-672-6976. For exhibitor information, please contact Craig Niles at 231.830.3131 or CraigNiles@iHeartMedia.com.

03/14/2015 – 03/15/15 ABA North Central Division Final Four
The West Michigan Lake Hawks are hosting the first round of playoffs and also the ABA North Central Division Final Four here in the West Michigan for the first time ever as an ABA Franchise.  Games 1 and 2 will be played at Muskegon High School, Saturday, March 14 with the 1st game at 5:00pm and the 2nd at 7:30pm.  The North Central Division Championship will be Sunday, March 15 at 6:00pm.  Tickets can be purchased online at lakehawksbasketball.com under schedules through Eventbright or at the door of each event. Tickets can also be purchased at the Lake Hawks office located at 1904 Peck St.

03/14/2015 – Nicolas. Cello. Virtuosic.
Come to the Block Saturday, March 14 at 7:30pm for “Nicolas. Cello. Virtuosic.”!  Cellist Nicolas Altstaedt is one of the most celebrated artists of the younger generation and one of the most creative and independent of musicians. Hear him first with West Michigan Symphony on March 13 and then in a powerful and passionate solo cello performance @The Block on March 14.  Tickets are $25 and available at the West Michigan Symphony website.

03/14/2015 – Super Brick Art Saturday
Saturday, March 14 from 10:00am–3:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a Super Brick Art Saturday FREE Family Fun Day with LEGO® Bricks!  Toys turn into art! Check out the spectacularly engineered and innovative work of Nathan Sawaya in The Art of the Brick. After you get inspired, head downstairs to make your own sculptures and watch a film. It is sure to be a building and learning type of Saturday at the MMA!

10:00am & 1:00pm
Film: The LEGO Movie®
(101 mins.) Check out your favorite LEGO characters on the big screen in this exciting family friendly film.

11:00am–1:00pm
Guided Exhibition Tours
Join an MMA docent to explore The Art of the Brick.

11:00am–2:00pm
Make & Take
Push your creative bounds by building bricks up, down and across. Make a block sculpture to take home. For more information, call 231-720-2571.

03/14/2015 – Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Breakfast of Green Eggs and Ham
Saturday, March 14 at 10:00am, come to the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club for Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Breakfast of Green Eggs and Ham!  Breakfast will be served promptly at 10:00am.  The cost is a $15 donation for 1 adult and 1 child, plus $5 for each additional person.  Each child will receive a Dr. Seuss book and enjoy a visit from a Dr. Seuss character.  For reservations, call Barbara at 231-760-5757.  Checks should be made out to GMWC and mailed by March 10, 2015.  Walk-ins welcome as space permits.

03/14/2015 – Family Fun K9 Expo & Indoor Dog Jog
You and your K-9 friends are invited to the Family Fun K9 Expo & Indoor Dog Jog at Orchard View Adult Education.  This fundraiser for PoundBuddies is happening 10:00am-2:00pm Saturday, March 14. If you want to bring your dog, you must register in advance for the Dog Jog ($15).  Participants receive a t-shirt and a gourmet dog treat from Ebby’s Pet Bakery.  Otherwise, admission is free.  Call (231) 724-6500 to register or for more information.

 

03/14/2015 – St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Greater Muskegon Jaycees are teaming up with Hennessy’s Irish Pub and Restaurant, the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau and Michigan Irish Music festival to put on the St. Patrick’s Day Parade this year. The Parade will run on March 14th, 2015 in downtown Muskegon. The route will be from Fourth to Jefferson Streets along Clay Ave.  We hope to make The Parade one of Muskegon’s largest celebrations displaying Irish Floats, Bands, Families, Organizations, Business entries and much more!

The application for this year’s Parade can be filled out at the link below. Instead of charging an entry fee for The Parade, they are asking entrants to bring one non-perishable food item per participant.  For more information, visit muskegonjaycees.org.

03/14/2015 – St Pattys Day Downtown Pub Crawl
‎Join in the fun and have the luck of the Irish on your side Saturday March 14 all day, beginning at noon at your favorite downtown watering holes with you friends! Pick up punch cards all day at any participating bar, all can enjoy in the evening for the Guinness Toast of the Irish, and enter to win awesome prizes! This event is hosted by Taste of Muskegon. For more information, find them on Facebook.

03/14/2015 – Red Wings Alumni Game
The Muskegon Lumberjacks are pleased to announce the third installment of the Red Wings Alumni Game to take place inside the L.C. Walker Arena on Saturday, March 14th, 2015 beginning at 7:00 pm, featuring the Detroit Red Wings alumni paired against the Muskegon Lumberjacks alumni with the proceeds from the event benefitting the Muskegon Lumberjacks Charitable Foundation.

General admission tickets for the game go on sale beginning Monday, December 1st at 10:00 am for the low prices of $12 for the Gold Sections (Sections 104-107 and 114-117) and $10 for both the Black (Sections 103, 108, 113, 118) and Crimson (Sections 101-102, 109-112, 119-120) Sections.   Additionally, V.I.P. tickets are available for $25 that includes entry into a special meet-and-greet postgame event at the Holiday Inn Muskegon Harbor next door to the arena.

To purchase tickets for the Red Wings Alumni Game, fans can stop by the L.C. Walker Arena Box Office during the normal business hours of 10:00 am – 6:00 pm on Monday – Friday or call (231) 724-5225.  Doors for the game will open beginning at 6:00 pm.

The Detroit Red Wings Alumni Association has announced a select number of players that are confirmed and skating for the Red Wings alumni team that includes the following:

Joey Kocur
(F) – 15-year NHL career with Detroit (10 seasons), New York Rangers, and Vancouver Canucks from 1984-99
John Ogrodnick (F) – 14-year NHL career with Detroit (9 seasons), Quebec, and New York Rangers from 1979-1993
Petr Klima (F) – 13-year NHL career with Detroit (6 seasons), Edmonton, Tampa Bay, Los Angeles, and Pittsburgh from 1985-97 and 1998-99
Mickey Redmond (F) – 9-year NHL career with Detroit (6 seasons) and Montreal from 1967-76
Brent Fedyk (F) – 10-year NHL career with Detroit (5 seasons), Philadelphia, Dallas, and New York Rangers from 1987-96 and 1998-99
Bryan Smolinski
(F) – 14-year NHL career with Boston, Pittsburgh, New York Islanders, Los Angeles, Ottawa, Chicago, Vancouver, and Montreal from 1993-2004 and 2005-08
Sergei Samsonov
(F) – 13-year NHL career with Boston, Edmonton, Montreal, Chicago, Carolina, and Florida from 1997-2004 and 2005-11
Craig Wolanin (D) – 13-year NHL career with New Jersey, Quebec, Colorado, Tampa Bay, and Toronto from 1985-98
Wayne Presley (F) – 11-year NHL career with Chicago, San Jose, Buffalo, New York Rangers, and Toronto from 1985-96

03/14/2015 – One Night of Queen
‎Saturday, March 14, at 7:30pm on the Frauenthal Stage, it’s “One Night of Queen” performed by Gary Mullen & the Works.  Tickets are $21, $26 & $31 and available through StarTickets by calling 800-585-3737 or the Frauenthal Box Office at 231-727-8001. Frauenthal Box Office hours are Monday – Friday 11:00am – 5:30pm.

03/14/2015 – St Patrick’s Day with Nessa
‎Saturday, March 14 at 7:30pm, come celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Howmet Playhouse with Celtic band Nessa! This Detroit area ensemble led by flutist/vocalist Kelly McDermott, combines classical, jazz, and Celtic influences with accents of world music and soul.  Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.  For more information, call 231-894-4048.

03/16/2015 – WWII Lecture Series: Fun at the Front
‎The 2015 WWII Lecture Series is finally here!  March 16 at 6:00pm, it’s Fun at the Front:  American Women and Entertainment in WWII, presented by Dr. Kara Dixon-Vuic, Associate Professor History, High Point University.  Cost is $5.00 per person or FREE with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership.  For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Ongoing Events:

Armchair Archeology: From Hobby to History
‎”Armchair Archaeology: From Hobby to History” is on display at the Lakeshore Museum Center!  The exhibit explores early archaeology practices and philosophies that would be considered controversial today and showcases the local men who did it right.  The exhibit features ten Muskegon residents from the late 1800s to early 1940s who were working in the area to learn about who and what was living here before them.  Artifacts on display from the local digs include pottery shards, arrowheads, projectile points, and tools.  Visitors will have an opportunity to take a seat and spend some time reading books and journal articles written by and about the men featured in the exhibit. www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit
African Americans have always proudly served in the United States Military beginning with Crispus Attucks who became the first casualty of the American Revolution when he was shot and killed in what became known as the Boston Massacre. Since then, their accomplishments have been many and great. The USS Silversides Submarine Museum is proud to tell the tale of the brave African Americans who served their country proudly during World War II, especially those from our own Muskegon Community, Dr. Robert Garrison and Denzal Harvey. Come learn about the achievements and the hardships endured by these wonderful heroes of American WWII history, March 4 – April 4, 2015 at the Silversides Submarine Museum.  There will be an opening reception March 4 at 6:00pm.  The cost is $5 or free with membership.  For more information, call (231) 755-1230.

03/10/2015 – ‘Dynamic Earth’ Planetarium Viewing
Dynamic Earth: Exploring Earth’s Climate Engine” is a NEW, 30-minute planetarium program that will have you riding on swirling ocean currents, diving into the heart of a hurricane, and flying into fiery volcanoes. FREE shows are Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 7:00 p.m., January 13-April 2 (closed March 3 & 5 for semester break), at Muskegon Community College (221 S. Quarterline Rd, Room 135). For more information, or to schedule a private show, please call (231) 777-0289, or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu.

Belinda the Ballerina and Friends: The Illustrations of Amy Young
Belinda the Ballerina and Friends: The Illustrations of Amy Young is an exhibition of original book illustrations by artist Amy Young at the Muskegon Museum of Art.  Big-footed ballerinas, dogs on boats, and mud fairies are just a few of the characters that Amy Young has brought to life through her stories and bright, colorful book illustrations. This exhibition features original artwork she created for the popular children’s book Belinda the Ballerina and other books that Young has written and illustrated. The exhibition will be on display through April 26, 2015.  For more information, call 231-720-2574.

The Art of the Brick®
Beginning February 19, the Muskegon Museum of Art will host The Art of the Brick®, an exhibition featuring large-scale sculptures created out of iconic LEGO® bricks by New York based artist Nathan Sawaya.  The exhibition has proved to be very popular with audiences as it has toured the globe. “This year alone, we’ve visited Ireland, South Africa, and Amsterdam,” said Sawaya. “We are thrilled to be bringing this collection to Muskegon.”  The Art of the Brick will be on view at the Muskegon Museum of Art, 296 W. Webster Ave from February 19 through May 3. The public is invited to attend an opening reception on Thursday, February 19, from 5:30 to 7:00pm. Light refreshments will be served at the family-friendly event, which will be free and open to the public.  For more information, call 231-720-2571.

Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition
January 22-March 26, you’re invited to be part of the Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition of the Muskegon Museum of Art.

Ekphrasis: The graphic, often dramatic, description of a visual work of art

All adult/college writers residing within the state of Michigan are invited to create original ekphrastic poems based on works of art from the Muskegon Museum of Art’s permanent collection.

  • The 10 artworks may be viewed on-line at muskegonartmuseum.org or at the MMA on January 22.  Competition guidelines and entry forms will also be available for download or to pick up in the gift store on January 22.
  • Cash prizes, Museum memberships, and gift certificates will be awarded to the winning poets.
  • Competition entries will be accepted through March 26. The awards ceremony and award winners reading will take place April 23.

Call 231-720-2570 for more information.

Muskegon Farmers Market
‎Shop for your fresh, local products during the winter months inside at the Muskegon Farmers Market from 9:00am-2:00pm each Saturday in their warm, cozy barn at 242 W. Western Ave., downtown Muskegon.

2015 Great Lakes Hop and Barley Conference Announced

Michigan State University Extension is pleased to announce the dates for the 2015 Great Lakes Hop and Barley Conference.  The two-day conference will be held Friday and Saturday, April 10 -11 in Grand Rapids, MI.

The conference will feature separate basic and advanced sessions for hop growers as well as a barley session and malting tour and is designed for both growers and brewers. Several prominent speakers from around the country will be on hand to discuss: market outlook, horticultural practices, pest and disease control, harvest and post-harvest practices, nutrient management, and more.

There will also be a brewer/grower networking session that focuses on hop quality. The session will provide growers with a better idea of quality requirements and help align the supply of Michigan grown hops with brewer needs.

The conference is sponsored in part by the Michigan Brewer’s GuildISLANDGreenstone Farm Credit ServicesMSU PROJECT GREEEN, amongst others.

Please continue to visit Michigan State University ExtensionMichigan State University Extension Hops Webpage, and the Michigan State University Hops News Facebook page for up to date information.

Finally, please sign up for the new MSU Hop listserv for a lively interactive discussion of all things hop related.  To subscribe:
1. Send an email to: listserv@list.msu.edu
2. Leave the “subject” line blank
3. In the body of the email type: SUBSCRIBE Hops
4. You will receive a confirmation email directing you to click on a link (this is to avoid spammers). Click on the link.

To send an email to the list once you have joined, just send it to: hops@list.msu.edu