Monthly Archives: July 2015

Five Reasons Why Michigan Law Requires Child Hearing and Vision Screenings

Ottawa County Michigan’s Public Health Code requires children 3 – 5 years of age to have a hearing and vision screening prior to kindergarten entry. The Ottawa County Department of Public Health’s (OCDPH) Hearing & Vision program focuses on the importance of early detection and offers free screening services to school aged children. Comprehensive screenings are conducted by fully trained hearing and vision technicians. Last year, OCDPH referred 8% of all children vision screened and nearly 3% hearing screened to a specialist. Parents registering their child in kindergarten or first grade must supply their school with a testing certificate. Failing to do so, will result in exclusion from school. www.miottawa.org/hearingvision

1.        Hearing and vision loss can impede a child’s development and performance.
2.        Early detection may lead to better care and treatment.
3.        Hearing and vision are vital to learning, working and socialization.
4.        Proper hearing and vision enables children to reach their full potential.
5.        Every dollar invested in screenings saves Michigan $112 in hearing and $162 in vision costs. (Values are based on health care costs and future productivity loss.)

“After your vision referral to an eye doctor, our daughter received her first pair of glasses. Thank you so much for letting us know about her difficulties, as it was not something she had previously expressed. We appreciate it!”
– OCDPH Hearing & Vision client

Suggested Tweet:
Hearing & vision loss can hinder child development. Call 616-396-5266
for appt.- mandatory for Pre-K & K @miOCDPH miOttawa.org/hearingvision

Kristina Wieghmink, M.Ed.
Communications Specialist
Public Information Officer
616-494-5597
dph

 

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 07/13/15-07/19/15

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

07/13/2015 – Pop Up Program

Wednesday, July 15, you’re invited to the “Pop Up Program” at the Lakeshore Museum Center.  Optical Illusions is the topic of this free drop-in program from 10:00am to 1:00pm.  430 W. Clay Ave. For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

07/13/2015 – Quiz Night

Monday, July 13 at 6:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for Quiz Night with DJ Jeff Schildroth.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

07/14/2015 – The Montague-Whitehall Rotary Bandshell Concerts

The Arts Council of White Lake sponsors FREE concerts every Tuesday night at 7:00pm during the summer. The bandshell is located next to the Montague Boat Launch at the south end of Water Street. This week enjoy your evening with soul / blues music with the West Side Soul Surfers. For more information contact the Arts Council at 231-894-2787.

07/14/2015 – Jam Session & Open Mic Night

Come to the Book Nook & Java Shop Tuesday, July 14 at 6:00pm for a Jam Session then Open Mic Night at 7:00pm.  Call 231-894-5333 for more information.

07/15/2015 – Educational Cruises

Discover Science with an educational cruise aboard the W.G. Jackson Research Vessel on Wednesday July 15. There will be two tours available from 10:00am-11:30am or you can make reservations for the 12:30pm-2:00pm tour. Space is limited. Please register by July 13 at 231-728-3601. This is open and FREE to the public. Children must be 8 years of age and up, and closed toe shoes are required for everyone.

07/15/2015 – Brookhaven’s 30th Annual Ice Cream Social

Wednesday, July 15 from 11:00am-5:00pm, you’re invited to Brookhaven Medical Care Facility for their 30th Annual Ice Cream Social.  Enjoy great entertainment, food, prizes, craft sale and games.  Proceeds benefit the Brookhaven Resident Activity Fund.  For more information, call 231-724-2551.

07/15/2015 – Classical Night: Zachary Graft, violin

Wednesday, July 15 at 7:00pm, you’re invited to the Book Nook & Java Shop for Classical Night featuring Zachary Graft on violin.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

07/16/2015 – 07/18/15 Rebel Road Motorcycle Rally

Muskegon’s ‘Rebel Road’ will benefit the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon.  The theme is “Ride Free. Stop the Abuse.”  This family friendly event will emulate the years of success that Bike Time had with “Steel Horse Alley” on Western Ave. with motorcycle parking, beer tents, stunt groups and pyrotechnic shows. Check them out on Facebook!

07/16/2015 – 07/19/15 Muskegon Bike Time

This annual 4 day motorcycle festival draws an average of 75,000 motorcycles and 120,000 people. It will be a full weekend of headline concerts including Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Fabulous Thunderbirds and Night Ranger, contests, motorcycle stunt shows by Sick Air, Busted Knuckles, and Relentless Stunts, supercross races and vendors.

Enjoy cold Budweiser beverages while strolling the festival grounds as well as, in the Budweiser tents while listening to live local bands daily. Weekend and day passes available to experience all the entertainment all for one low price. Turn in your pass for a wristband that lets you come and go as you please for the day or weekend. Free paved parking on-site for motorcycles and free parking for cars across the street (follow the signs). Sunday is free for everyone and kids 11 and under are free all weekend. Please see the FAQ section on the Muskegon Bike Time website for frequently asked questions at www.muskegonbiketime.com.

07/16/2015 – Happy Hour Painting

Thursday, July 16 from 6:00-8:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Happy Hour Painting:  Bonnard’s Bountiful Garden” with Instructor, Marlan Cotner.  The cost is $30 or $25 members and includes materials and your first beverage.  This class is for all skill levels, 21 years old and up.  This time, the focus is on one of the MMA’s favorite permanent collection works, La Porte de la Villa du Bosquet au Cannet by Pierre Bonnard. This painting of a lush green garden, full of warm sunshine and great light, is a visitor favorite and a perfect work to recreate with step-by-step assistance from one of West Michigan’s best known artists. Call 231-720-2571 by July 9 to register.

07/16/2015 – Live Music: Josh Quinlan

Come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for live music from Josh Quinlan Thursday, July 16 at 7:00pm.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

07/16/2015 – 07/18/15 Central Michigan University Touring Company

The talented and always delightful students of CMU’s Summer Theatre touring company are back by popular demand at the Howmet Playhouse! 

July 16 Don’t Dress for Dinner    

By Marc Camoletti and Robin Hawdon
Directed by TBD

Bernard is planning a romantic weekend with his chic Parisian mistress in his charming converted French farmhouse, whilst his wife, Jacqueline, is away. He has arranged for a cordon bleu cook to prepare gourmet delights, and has invited his best friend, Robert, along as well to provide the alibi. It’s foolproof; what could possibly go wrong? Well … suppose Robert turns up not realizing quite why he has been invited. Suppose Robert and Jacqueline are secret lovers, and consequently determined that Jacqueline will NOT leave for the weekend. Suppose the cook has to pretend to be the mistress and the mistress is unable to cook. Suppose everyone’s alibi gets confused with everyone else’s. An evening of hilarious confusion ensues as Bernard and Robert improvise at breakneck speed.

Mild adult themes; recommended for ages 14+

July 17 One Slight Hitch

By Lewis Black
Directed by TBD

It’s Courtney’s wedding day, and her mom, Delia, is making sure that everything is perfect. The groom is perfect, the dress is perfect, and the decorations (assuming they arrive) will be perfect. Then, like in any good farce the doorbell rings. And all hell breaks loose. So much for perfect.

Show intended for MATURE audiences

July 18 Jerry Finnegan’s Sister

By Jack Neary
Directed by TBD

Brian Dowd has spent the last 10 years of his life wrestling with an unrequited “something” for his best friend’s sister, who happens to live next door. But each and every time he’s spoken with Beth Finnegan for more than 30 seconds, he’s ended up with his foot planted firmly in his mouth. Now, Brian’s time is about to run out. With recent news that Jerry Finnegan’s sister is getting married, the time has come for him to put up or shut up. Like John Wayne in The High and the Mighty, Brian has reached the point of no return. What’s he got to lose-except the love of his life! “A delight … a gem! Has enough chuckles, guffaws and belly laughs to please any patron.”

Appropriate for all ages

All shows are at 7:30pm.  For more information, call 231-894-4048.

07/17/2015 – Ravenna Dog Daze & Car Cruise-In

July 17 from 5:30pm-9:30pm, come to downtown Ravenna for the Ravenna Dog Daze & Car Cruise-In!  There’ll be free dash plaques and goody bags for the first 125 entries. There’ll also be children’s games, food, the beverage tent, live entertainment, the craft show and raffles.  All proceeds support local charities.  For more information, call 231-853-6511.

07/17/2015 – Silent Movie Night

Friday, July 17 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for Silent Movie Night, featuring live accompaniment by Robert Edwards.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

07/17/2015 – Micro Brew Crewz

Friday, July 17 from 8:00-10:00pm, you’re invited aboard the Port City Princess for a Micro Brew Crewz, featuring local micro brews from Pigeon Hill, Unruly and Cellar Brewing.  For more information, call 231-728-8387.  The cost is $25.

07/18/15 – Voyageur Family Fun Run

July 18 from 9:00am-11:00am, come to Michigan’s Heritage Park for the Voyageur Family Fun Run! Children 5 and older and their parents are invited to participate in a two mile fun run with activities inspired by the fur trade along the way. This is an in and out run from the park down a wooded trail to the White River and back. Registration information to follow. Call 231-894-0342 for more information.

07/18/15 – Dig Day

Saturday, July 18 from 11:00am-2:00pm, it’s “Dig Day” at Michigan’s Heritage Park! Learn about the process involved in conducting an Archaeology Dig. Members of the Coffinberry Chapter of the Michigan Archaeological Society will be on site from 11:00am to 2:00pm to show participants how to do shovel testing, set up a dig site, and other aspects of conducting a dig. Admission to the park is $10 for adults, $8 for 65 and older, and $5 for ages 2 to 12. 8637 North Durham Rd. in Whitehall. lakeshoremuseum.org

Muskegon Risers Home Game

We have a new soccer team! The Muskegon Risers Soccer Club is an independent professional men’s soccer team whose highest priority is continuing the growth and excitement surrounding soccer in the greater Muskegon area. The Risers will strive to be a professional representation of local soccer through both on-field performance and off-field community service. What is a Riser? A person of the Muskegon area who understands the area’s potential and who pushes themselves and others to realize that potential. Individual game tickets are $5. Season tickets are $39. They’ll take on Oakland United at 6:00pm at Reeths-Puffer High School Soccer Field.

07/18/15 Live Music: Woodsong

Saturday, July 18 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for live music from Woodsong. For more information, call 231-894-5333.

07/18/15 Maranatha Summer Concerts

Saturdays during the summer you can enjoy a concert at Maranatha Christian Conference Center. This week we hope you enjoy Anthony Evans. This is a FREE event and open to the public. Stop by from 5:00pm-6:45pm and enjoy a dinner buffet before prices are: 3 and under: FREE, 4-8 years; $7.00, 9-12 years; $9 and adults are $15.

07/18/15 – Jazz at the Swan

Ron and Cathy Russell, owners of The White Swan Inn in Whitehall, will host “Jazz at the Swan” on Saturday, July 18, 2015 at 7:30pm as a benefit for the 6th Annual White Lake Chamber Music Festival which will take place August 1-9, 2015. This Art Council of White Lake’s special backyard event will feature the Tim Johnson Trio and singer Mary Rademaker. The White Swan Inn is located at 303 S. Mears in Whitehall.

Tickets are only $15 and includes wine and light hor d`oeuvres. A limited number of tickets are available in advance at the Arts Council of White Lake (106 E. Colby St), the Book Nook & Java Shop (8726 Ferry St. Montague 231-894-5333) or on Eventbrite.com.

07/18/15 Saturday Nite Brew Crewz

Saturday, July 18 from 8:00pm-10:00pm, you’re invited aboard the Port City Princess for a Saturday Nite Brew Crewz, featuring local micro brews from Pigeon Hill, Unruly and Cellar Brewing. For more information, call 231-728-8387. The cost is $25.

Ongoing Events:

Collector’s Corner: Beatles Memorabilia

Beatles Memorabilia is the topic of the display in the Collectors Corner at the Lakeshore Museum Center.  Featured are album covers from The Fab Four, fan club cards, a collectible plate, a Beatles themed Trivial Pursuit Game, beach towel and more.  Figures of the four musicians and a yellow submarine are also included in William Stidham Sr.’s collection.   The museum is open weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm.  For more information, call 231-722-0278.

Armchair Archeology

“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

Colossal Avian Avatars

The Muskegon Museum of Art announces that Avian Avatars, an art installation of five colossal sculptures, each symbolizing a mythical bird, designed by The Myth Makers, artists Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein, will arrive in Muskegon on April 27, 2015. The sculptures are crafted from maple saplings, wire ties, and found objects, and stand from 18 to 26 feet tall. Each of the sculptures will be installed in a different downtown Muskegon location for a full year. Avian Avatars is currently on display in the Garment District of New York City, from where it will travel directly to Muskegon.

Since the beginning of human history cultures have identified birds as mythic and transformational. Their seasonal plumage has indicated change, signaled migration and foretold impending weather events. The Phoenix, Garuda, Horus, Ra, Thunderbird and angel iconography all address transcendence and rebirth. “The world’s most symbolic birds–the Raptor, Owl, Crow, Pigeon, and Falcon–are flocking to Muskegon, Michigan, to consider our changing world,” state the artists.  

Each bird in the installation represents a unique myth. Avian Avatars is meant to indicate transformation, encouraging the public to heed to the stories about current human impact on the changing natural world.  The sculptures are also intentionally made not to be permanent. Typically, per the artists, they last four to five years in any installation.

Each monumental bird has something to say. They speak in different voices and from unique perspectives, but this gathering of Avian Avatars-The Realist, The Great Spirit, The Scold, The Tourist, and The Tastemaker-is meant to raise an alarm, speaking to modern humans who should heed their varied stories about the current human impact on their changing natural world.

Muskegon South Pierhead Light Tours

Memorial Day to Labor Day tours will be given at Pere Marquette Beach South Pierhead Light. Tours will take place Monday & Tuesday from Noon-4:00pm and Saturday from 10:00am – 2:00pm. The cost is $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for kids. Please thank the volunteers who are helping to make this possible.

Muskegon Historic Sites Open For Tours

The Hackley & Hume Historic Site, Fire Barn Museum and Scolnik House of the Depression Era will open for the season on Friday, May 1. The three historic sites, operated by the Lakeshore Museum Center, are open Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 4 pm. On Sundays, the three sites are open from 1 to 4 pm. The restored homes of Muskegon’s most famous lumber barons, Charles H. Hackley and Thomas Hume, are featured at the Hackley & Hume Historic Sites. Built in the late 1800s, they feature lavish wood carvings, stenciling, stained glass windows, and period furnishings. They are two of the finest examples of Queen Anne Style Victorian homes in the country. The site is located at 484 West Webster Avenue at Sixth Street.  Admission is $7 for adults and teens, $5 for seniors 65 and older. Visitors 12 and younger are admitted free.

‘Veterans’ Stories’

The World War II experiences of a dozen Muskegon area World War II veterans, as told to Muskegon Community College students enrolled in the popular Intro to WWII course, will be shared in a special exhibit, “Veterans’ Stories,” from May 4 through August 4 at the USS Silversides Museum, located at 1346 Bluff St.  Admission is $5 per person and is free to museum members.

Patterned after the work of famous oral historian, journalist and The Good War author Studs Terkel, the MCC students who each assigned a local veteran to interview. The students also produced historical content highlighting their research. The compelling exhibit represents the collective culmination of their semester-long projects.

For more information on the Veterans’ Stories exhibit, contact Frank Marczak, associate director of the USS Silversides Museum, at (231) 755-1230.

Michigan’s Adventure Park

Muskegon’s own Michigan’s Adventure with 2 parks in 1! Spend your day in the water park and get thrills on a rollercoaster- all in one day! You will want to make another trip back to Michigan’s Adventure to have fun just one more time! Open 7 days a week to Labor Day! Check out their website for more highlights.

Winter in a Summer Town

Winter in a Summer Town, a photo exploration of West Michigan, will be on display at the Arts Council of White Lake June 30-July 17.  The deadline for entries is Jun 16, 2015.  The opening reception will be July 2 from 5:00-7:00pm.  For more information, visit artswhitelake.org.

Rootdown Yoga

Rootdown Juice & Greens Bar offers high-energy, heated and music filled Power Vinyasa (flow) Yoga classes every day of the week.  This style of yoga is accessible to everyone regardless of age, ability or experience.  For class times and descriptions, please visit www.rootdown.in

2nd Annual Invitational Art Exhibit

Art in Our City is a juried fine art exhibition organized by the Frauenthal Center and the Red Lotus Gallery, assisted by the Muskegon Museum of Art and the Muskegon Center for the Arts, as a complement to the 2015 Regional Exhibition.  This year, the exhibit has expanded to three downtown venues;  The Bettye Clark Cannon Gallery in the Hilt Building, Smash Wine Bar & Bistro and the Red Lotus Gallery.  You’re invited to view all three exhibition spaces between now and August 31.  For more information, call 231-206-0426.  

Beach Towne Trolley Rides

All ages love to take a ride on Muskegon’s Beach Towne Trolley during the summer months!

Routes and Operating Hours

Beach-Towne Trolley – 12:00pm–6:48pm

Operating Days

Six Days a Week, Monday – Saturday
Memorial Day – Labor Day

Single-Ride Cash Fare

Standard                 $1.25
Senior/Disabled       $  .60

Transfers, tickets, and passes from other Muskegon Area Transit System buses will be accepted. Regular transit passes and transfers will not be sold or issued on trolleys. Exact change will be required. Children through age 5 may ride free when accompanied by an adult. All vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

A sampling of stops and approximate time points is included in the trolley guide which is available at the Convention & Visitors Bureau and by clicking the link below, but the trolley will also stop at any street corner along the route where it is safe to stop. Just flag us down!  

For more information, call the Muskegon Area Transit System at 231-724-6420.

Reading by Any Means Necessary

You’re invited to the James Jackson Museum of African American History for the “Reading…by any means necessary” program, every Monday through Saturday from 2:00-5:30pm.  The museum is located at 7 E. Center St. in Muskegon Heights.  Call 231-739-9500 for more information.

Drive-In Movie

Muskegon’s historic Getty Drive-In was once a one screen in 1948, Today you can visit four screens. Tuesday night is bargain night for just $6.00 adults, 6-12 years old $5.00 and under 5 years are FREE. They have concessions and play area for children. Shows begin 15 minutes after sunset. They are located at 920 E. Summit in Muskegon.

Muskegon Farmer’s Market

Enjoy their bustling market opening their outdoor season on Saturday, May 2! Hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Power of Produce will start up again Saturday June 6 – October 31, 2015, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with activities 10:00 – Noon on Saturdays only. This is a membership club for kids, ages 5 – 12 yrs. They learn about healthy eating and can purchase their own fresh produce.

Muskegon Heights Farmer’s Market

The Muskegon Heights Farmer’s Market will offer a variety of produce along with being a flea market. Starting May 2, the market will be open from 9:00am -1:00pm on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The market is located on the corner of Baker and East Center Street.

White River Light Station Museum

See, hear, smell and touch the history of the Civil War, Michigan’s lumbering industry and tourism at Whitehall’s White River Light Station as they open for tours May 23 through October 31. There are 56 steps to climb if you are up to it! They are open Tuesday -Sunday, 10:00am-5:00pm. They are located at 6199 Murray Rd. in Whitehall on the White Lake channel.

Fricano’s Cruise-Ins

Every Wednesday between June 3 and August 26 from 5:30-8:00pm, you’re invited to Fricano’s Muskegon Lake for a “Cruise-In” (weather permitting).  All antiques, customs, classics and novelty vehicles are welcome!  There’ll be door prize drawings and oldies music provided by Tom Schalk of Quality Sound, along with your favorite beverages, Fricano’s Pizza and ice cream/desserts.  Participants will be given a coupon for $3 off a dine-in or take-out Fricano’s Pizza purchase.  For more information, call 231-722-7775.  Please, no burnouts, motorcycles or bicycles.

Throwback Thursday

June through August, the Lakeshore Museum Center presents Historic Enrichment Activities at their historic sites, such as the Hackley & Hume Homes, the Firebarn and Scolnik House of the Depression Era!  Call 231-722-7578 for more information.

10:00am -12:00pm AND 2:00pm -4:00pm

July 16 – Superheros

July 23 – Hanky Fairies / Doily Dolls

July 30 – Painters for the Day

August 6 – Wood Carvings

August 13 – Wall Paper Banners

August 20 – Family Tree Activity

August 27 – Mosaics

Summer Luge & Archery!

School is out, so what are you and the family going to do for fun this weekend? Check out the Summer Luge and Archery!! Thursday-Sunday 10:00AM-2:00PM!! $15.00 for 4 runs on the summer luge track and 3 rounds at Archery. www.msports.org

Muskegon Heritage Museum Tours

Muskegon Heritage Museum opens for the season May 14 from 11:00am-4:00pm and will be open Thurs., Fri., and Saturdays until October 17. Operating Steam Engine, line shaft and Machine Shop with machine tools & ceiling fans run by the steam engine -1890. Working Brunswick Pinsetter along with other Brunswick items manufactured in Muskegon – 1962 are just a few things you can see. They also have an exhibit that explains about the hundreds of items that were manufactured in Muskegon from the mid 1800’s until today.

Ask Dr. Universe – What is a Microchip?

Dr. Universe: What is a microchip, how do they work, and what are they used for?  -Brook, Doncaster, England 

Dear Brook,

Microchips are smaller than your fingernail and packed with itty-bitty electronic parts. These parts are hundreds of times thinner than the hairs on your head, but sometimes you’ve got to think small to think big.

More than fifty years ago, humans invented vacuum tubes that made electricity flow in different directions or get stronger. The tubes made it possible to invent televisions and computers, even if they were the size of dinosaurs. Ok, they weren’t that big, but computers really could fill a whole room. The tubes tended to get really hot and burn out.

Then, the transistor was invented. Transistors also help electricity flow, stop, and go. Transistors are hundreds of times smaller than bulbs, so you can use them to make circuits that are connected to one another, or integrated. If a circuit is a kind of road where electric signals flow, transistors are a kind of traffic light, or switch.

When you put a bunch of these electrical parts on a chip, they can pass on all kinds of information. Microchips are in practically every electronic gadget we use today. I once went to the vet and came home with a microchip of my own, under my skin.

The microchip doesn’t do much by itself. It needs a power source to work. Information in microchips is stored in a kind of alphabet called binary code. Those transistors are important because they control which letters are being used and tell the chip how to work. For example, people at shelters can scan a chip for an animal’s special ID number and help chip-carrying pets find their owners.

Microchips are useful in other ways, too. Biologists can use them to track wild animals and learn about migration. Lots of chips are being added to credit cards for more secure payments. Thirsty plants can even use chips to let people know when they need water.

My friend Prashanta Dutta is an engineer who designs and studies microchips in a lab here at Washington State University. He and his team are learning how microchips can improve people’s heath. They use chips to see what is going on in people’s blood and learn more about how the body works.

“One chip will be able to simulate a human brain to study brain function,” he said. “It will help us develop drugs for brain cancer and brain related diseases people sometimes face when aging.”

In the lab, they design circuits on a flexible material. It lets them test out the chip on a bigger scale, before they shrink it down. Most chips are made from silicon, which is a main ingredient in sand and glass. Machines can create a base for the microchips by slicing wafers off a kind of “silicon salami.” Mm… salami. But some scientists recently discovered how to make a chip using wood. There’s lots of room to explore when it comes to materials and how little devices can help solve some of our greatest challenges.

Sincerely,

Dr. Universe

Have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. You can send her an e-mail at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website at AskDrUniverse.com.

* You can follow Dr. Universe on Twitter at @AskDrUniverse. Ask Dr. Universe Facebook is coming soon…

A Public Letter to the President

Millions of God Loving American citizens were stunned and disappointed to see their cherished White House used to promote what God calls “wicked” and “evil.”  And guess what,” Ignorance of God’s Law is no excuse.” One can say the same to those judges in the Supreme Court who apparently don’t know those laws either.

And I hate to correct you, but I did hear you say, “it’s my House,“ referring to the White House.  That crown jewel belongs to “we the people.”  We do not appreciate it (the White House) being used to promote abomination.

Of course, that is exactly what your staff did when they celebrated the High Court’s decision on gay marriage, by lighting up “our house.”  They disgraced us before the world, but most important, before our “Creator, God Almighty, the Supreme Judge.”

That Supreme Judge left plenty of examples in the Holy Bible to keep future generations from making the same mistake and ending up being destroyed, like Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboim.   Those cities/nations incurred God’s wrath because of same-sex.  In 2 Peter 2:6 you will find that these cities were made “an example, unto those that after should live ungodly.”  Now the USA has taken it even further, by saying to same-sex partners, “you have the right to get married.”  Instead of listening to the Word of God you elected to come out in favor of moral perversion.

We know, from God’s Word, that those who practice same-sex, God will give “them over to a reprobate mind.” That, after death, means eternal damnation, first in “Hell” and later “the lake of fire” forever and ever.  So ask yourself, “why would a well-meaning and loving person want anyone to pursue such a life-style?  And you are promoting this life-style from our White House!!!!

We need to correct a misconception:  God Loves Us, and we who have been saved by God’s grace, love Him and all mankind in the world.  There is only one race, the human race.  However, rejecting The Word of God, which was made flesh in the person Jesus Christ our Savior, will lead to Hell, because by doing so, one rejects God’s last chance to Mankind for forgiveness for our sins.  The Holy Bible states, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).  He is “the way, the truth, and the life,” (John 14:6) as he said.

Manuel Ybarra, Jr.                                                                                                                                           RR 5 Box 1550                                                                                                                                              Coalgate, OK 74538

Centering Pregnancy at Hackley Community Care

Hackley Community Care is excited to offer Centering Pregnancy at their health center. Centering Pregnancy is a model of care developed by the Centering Healthcare Institute that integrates three components of prenatal care within a group setting: health assessment, education and support.

The model brings together women that are in the same trimester of their pregnancy in a group setting where they will learn care skills for themselves and their infants during their pregnancy, their births and the postpartum period.  All Centering Pregnancy groups are facilitated by an OB provider. The group consists of 8-12 pregnant women expected to deliver around the same time, and they have the opportunity to develop a support network with other group members. 

Centering is unique in that the expectant mother receives her assessments through self-care activities within the group with other moms.  The group also has the opportunity to discuss and problem-solve topics and concerns related to their pregnancy, nutrition, and the opportunity to motivate and empower each other. This creates a safe, trusting environment that establishes sustained relationships and support. Centering Pregnancy sessions are ten weeks in duration and each session lasts about two hours. Expectant mothers can also bring their support person if they like. After delivery, new mothers also receive post-partum care counseling and breastfeeding support if they choose to do so.

Implementing the Centering Pregnancy model allows Hackley Community Care to impact the health status of pregnant women by providing learning skills to ensure the expectant mom has a healthy baby. When expectant moms have healthy babies, this also improves the county overall health status of low birth weight babies, and increases breastfeeding rates.

Hackley Community Care will begin their Centering Pregnancy sessions in June of 2015 and they are currently registering expectant moms. If you are an expectant mother and interested in participating in Centering Pregnancy, please call our OB and Women’s Health Services Department at 231.737.1335 Ext. 6655 to register and obtain more information.

To learn more about Hackley Community Care, please visit our website at www.hackleycommnitycare.org . You can learn more about the Centering Healthcare Institute at www.CenteringHealthcare.org .

Gerber Foundation Awards

Gerber Foundation Awards $320,000 in Scholarships to Local Students

This spring, The Gerber Foundation presented scholarship awards to the following students in Muskegon and Newaygo Counties. We wish all of the high school graduates our best.

The Gerber Foundation Merit Scholarships (worth $2300)

Fruitport HS: Chelsey Stewart

Congratulations to these scholarship recipients and all the graduates of 2015!

70th Anniversary of the Worst Disaster at Sea in US Naval History

New York Times Bestselling author, Michael P. Spradlin, gives a fictional account of real men who survived the sinking of the USS Indianapolis. In the summer of 1945, the USS Indianapolis  had just delivered the world’s first atomic bomb to the waiting B-29 bomber, Enola Gay, before the historic flight to Hiroshima. The ship sailed to Guam and was ordered on toward the Philippines before the invasion of Japan. Between Guam and the Philippines, home to more than 150 species of sharks, the Japanese submarine I-58 sank the USS Indianapolis with two torpedoes that were almost perfectly placed amidships. One hit the powder magazine where the ship’s ammunition was stored causing a massive explosion. The ship sank in twelve minutes.  Of the 1,196 men on board, about 300 hundred went down with the ship.

Four days after the USS Indianapolis sank, Lt. Adrian Marks was dispatched to search for survivors after another pilot reported spotting ‘a lot of men in the water.’ Defying orders, Marks and his crew landed the plane in high seas and pulled 56 survivors from the water. That night, the destroyer USS Cecil Doyle arrived and the men were rescued at last.  Only 316 men survived the most lethal shark attack and the worst disaster at sea in US Naval History.

Captain Charles Butler McVay III, skipper of the USS Indianapolis, was a lifelong navy officer who served with distinction throughout his career. After the rescue, McVay was court-martialed and found guilty of ‘hazarding his ship by failure to zigzag’, a technique used to make it difficult for submarines to target ships. His orders stated, he was to zigzag at ‘his discretion, visibility permitting.’ McVay was the only naval commander in World War II court-martialed for losing his ship in combat. Though he remained in the Navy and had the unwavering support of the surviving crewmembers, McVay took his own life in 1968. His conviction was overturned in 2000.

Kirkus Review says that Into The Killing Seas has “Extensive backmatter rounds out the incredible history. Readers ready for a strong dose of survival and war action will find this well-researched episode entirely gripping.”

This is Spradlin’s 19th book.  As the son of a World War II veteran, he grew up knowing almost every man his father’s age was a veteran of the war; an entire generation who served.  Seventy years later we are still living in a world influenced by its outcome.  Read more at http://www.michaelspradlin.com/

Michigan’s Heritage Park Whitehall

Michigan’s Heritage Park Now Open in Whitehall!

lumberjack

Michigan’s Heritage Park visitors will meet a lumberjack and learn about his work cutting down the white pines.

log cabinVisitors can take a 10,000-year journey through Michigan history at Michigan’s Heritage Park, Muskegon County’s newest attraction in Whitehall.

A gentle half-mile trail winds through the park with interactive encounters along the way. Visit a Native American Village and discover wigwams and hear about daily life in the village. At the Fur Trader’s Post, visitors can participate in the trade and learn why beaver pelts were in such high demand.  The life of early Michigan settlers is explored in the Settlers Cabin where visitors may be asked to help with chores such as churning butter.

Michigan sent 90,000 soldiers to fight in the Civil War and visitors will learn about the hardships they faced. At the Lumbering Camp, stretch out on a bunk and learn about the lumberjacks who felled the white pines. Bread may be baking in the oven of the 1900s farmhouse where visitors will learn about the origins of the state’s commercial farming industry. At the Civilian Conservation Corp camp, visitors will learn about the work of the men employed by the CCC related to conservation and development of the area’s natural resources.

Special events will be hosted at the park throughout the season.  A Civil War Encampment with members of the Third Michigan Volunteer Infantry Company F will be held on June 13 and 14.  There will be a Voyageur Family Run on July 18 and a Pontiac Flathead Reunion Car Display on September 12.  French Canadian Heritage Day will be celebrated on October 3 when Genot Picor will use his talents as a storyteller and musician to bring frontier history alive.

The park is a site of the Lakeshore Museum Center which also operates four sites in downtown Muskegon.  The park is handicapped accessible, with a crushed asphalt trail through the woods.  Michigan’s Heritage Park is located in Whitehall at 8637 North Durham Road with easy access from US 31 at exit 128.

furThe park is open Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 4 pm.  On Sundays, the park will be open from 1 to 4 pm. Admission for adults and teens is $10, seniors (65 and older) $8 and youth (2 – 12) $5. For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org or call 231-722-0278.

Muskegon Bike Time Weekend Pass Special Offer to End Soon

“Music, Motorcycles, Motocross and More to Highlight Bike Time 2015”

MUSKEGON, Mich., July 2, 2015 – Muskegon Bike Time’s Weekend Pass Special admission ticket offer for all of its concerts, stunt shows, motocross races and other attractions will end at close of business on Saturday, July 11, 2015. The current weekend Pass Special admission price is $30 for the entire weekend of events and attractions. Tickets can be purchased on line by visiting www.muskegonbiketime.com.

Patrons will also be able to purchase the Weekend Pass Special exclusively, from 9:00am – 4:00pm, at Hot Rod Harley Davidson, at 149 Shoreline Drive in downtown Muskegon on Saturday, July 11, 2015 only. Otherwise passes must be purchased on line.

This special sale is part of the annual Freedom Run, an organized motorcycle ride with nearly 1000 riders. As part of the Weekend Special Pass Sale Day, media partner IHeart Radio will have live remotes at Hot Rod Harley Davidson beginning from 10:00am – Noon by WMUS and from 2:00pm – 4:00pm by Rock 101.7.

On July 12, 2015 the weekend pass price will rise to $40 for the weekend. Daily passes are also available at $20 for Thursday and Friday and $25 for Saturday. Sunday is free. Children 11 years old and under are free. Parking is free. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.muskegonbiketime.com or at the gate during the event.

Muskegon Bike Time recently announced this year’s lineup of musical acts and attractions scheduled to take place July 16 – 19, 2015 at Muskegon Bike Time’s expanded location at 4800 S. Harvey Street, Muskegon, MI.

Headlining on the festival’s main stage on Saturday night, July 18, will be Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Lynyrd Skynyrd.

On Friday night, July 17, 2015, The Fabulous Thunderbirds will grace the main stage.

On Thursday, July 16, 2015, Night Ranger will kick off the festival with its special brand of hard driving rock and roll.

In addition to Main Stage performances, there will be three beverage tents that will be providing the best local live music around and ice cold Budweiser products. Local musical favorites will include the West Side Soul Surfers, Let There Be Rock and Delilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys, to mention a few.

Muskegon Bike Time will use its expanded venue to add a variety of motorcycle races and stunt shows.

On Saturday, July 18, 2015, Bike Time hosts round 8 of the SJO Productions Village Motorsports Michigan State Fair Super Cross Series. A motocross track that incorporates man made jump and turns as well as the natural terrain will be built for the races.

Throughout the four day Muskegon Bike Time event several stunt teams will be performing.

On Friday and Saturday, World Champion, Scott Murray, one of only four riders in the world to successfully land a double back flip on a motorcycle in the X games, will be performing at this year’s Bike Time event.

Also on Friday and Saturday only, King Tony’s Busted Knuckles Stunt Tour – An All Harley-Davidson Stunt Show will perform two shows each day

Performing twice a day for the four day run of the festival is RELENTLESS STUNTS MOTORCYCLE SHOW.

PHOENIX RISING, professional fire artists will be performing nightly after the main stage concerts.

“Our new location will add so much to the experience we provide our patrons, including, motocross races, national stunt shows, national musical acts, more food options, more vendors and the ability to roam the property with your adult beverage”, said Bike Time Spokesperson, Tim Lipan.

The property at Harvey Street, formerly known to locals as the Great Lakes Downs Racetrack property, is owned by the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, the group that also owns Little River Casino in Manistee, MI. Little River Casino is a major sponsor of Muskegon Bike Time. Motorcycle parking and the entire venue is paved and being improved to provide a great customer experience.

Muskegon Bike Time has many volunteer opportunities. For more information on volunteering, call 231-722-0000.

For more information on Muskegon Bike Time 2015, please visit our website at www.muskegonbiketime.com .

The mission of Muskegon Bike Time is to produce entertainment opportunities in Muskegon aimed at attracting a broad spectrum of motorcycle enthusiasts for a vacation experience on Michigan’s West Coast. It is a 4 day annual celebration of motorcycles and the community held the third weekend in July. The festival attracts motorcyclists and the general public for its spectacle, attractions, entertainment and food. Muskegon Bike time is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that has supported over 22 different charities and provides a $30 million boon to the local economy.

 

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of June 22, 2015

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:32 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2015, in the township board room.

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

At 7:00 p.m., the Supervisor opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance followed with a prayer.

Also Present: 3-employees; 2-residents, Deputy Chief Michelli, DPW Director, Farrar, Township Attorney, Bultje, and Muskegon Chronicle reporter, Steve

The meeting minutes of June 8, 2015, regular meeting, were approved as presented.

The meeting agenda for June 22, 2015, was approved as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS

The Board received the following:

1. Muskegon County Road Commission (MCRC) improvement project for Fruitport and Sullivan
Townships, from Sternberg Road from Brooks Road to Maple Island Road

2. MTA Legislative updates

3. Michigan Liquor Control Commission: received application for a license, as follows: Transfer
ownership and location of 2015 Class C & SDM License of Teddy Spaghettis, LLC, 3032 Heights
Ravenna, Muskegon

4. The Muskegon County Chapter of Michigan Townships Association will meet on June 29, 2015 at
Whitehall Township at 7:00 p.m.
5. Muskegon Area District Library (MADL) discussion

PUBLIC COMMENTS – none received

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

15-069 Adoption—Zone Change at 2605 W. Fruitport Road

Chuck Whitlow moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to amend the Township’s zoning map by changing the zoning classification from R-4 Rural, Residential Recreation and Agriculture to R-1 Residential District for Parcel Numbers 61-15-630-026-0002-00 (commonly known as 2605 W. Fruitport Road), 61-15-630-026-0005-00, and 61-15-360-023-0006-00, as recommended by the Planning Commission.

At a public hearing on May 19, 2015, the Planning Commission gave the following reasons supporting the zone change-

1. Fits master plan of medium density residential by switching to R-1.

2. Makes the properties less non-confirming.

The zoning amendment Ordinance No. 791 shall be effective eight days after publication in the Muskegon Chronicle. The constitutes the second and final reading.

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

NEW BUSINESS

15-070 Deputy Chief Michelli’s Review

Chuck Whitlow moved, supported by Ron Becklin, MOTION CARRIED, to accept Deputy Chief Michelli’s performance review per the recommendation from Public Safety Director Doctor, that one year be added to Deputy Chief Michelli’s rolling contract, and also he be given a salary increase of 1.5% retroactive to April 1, 2015, per contract language.

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

15-071 Windstream Norlight, LLC Metro Act Extension

Dave Markgraf moved, seconded by Rose Dillon, MOTION CARRIED, to extend the existing Metro Act Permit to Windstream Norlight, LLC for five years contingent on the following:

1. Receiving an updated Certificate of Liability Insurance
2. Provide copies of approval to the individuals listed on Exhibit A of the document

The motion also includes the authorization for the Supervisor to sign the document.

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

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES

JUNE 22, 2015

PAGE #2

15-072 Payment of Bills

Dave Markgraf moved, Carol Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills in the following amounts: General Fund (including Parks) $60,401.07; Public Safety $144,915.81; Water $119,821.77;

Sewer $17,423.20 = $342,561.85 Grand Total

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

PUBLIC COMMENTS / REPORTS – None received

ADJOURMENT

The meeting was adjourned at 7:08 p.m.

CAROL HULKA, CLERK
BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

Ask Dr. Universe – High Tech Cookies

What are the cookies used on gadgets?  -Lydia, 8, Essex, England

Dear Lydia,

A cookie is a tiny file of text that gathers information about you as you browse the web. You might be familiar with cookies if your computer has ever asked if you wanted to turn them on or off.

Let’s say you want to go visit your favorite website. Maybe it is one with cat videos. Humans seem to love cat videos, especially the ones where we are doing something silly.

You open up a web browser and type in the web address, which starts out with H-T-T-P. HTTP is a kind of language the World Wide Web uses to communicate. Browsers can understand this language, too.

The browser uses HTTP to ask a server to send you to the website. Sometimes the website will also send along a cookie, too.

“Your browser eats it and keeps it,” said my friend Aaron Crandall. He is a computer scientist and engineer at Washington State University who told me all about web cookies.

Every time your browser starts a conversation with a website, it is as if they are meeting for the first time. But cookies let a web site know your browser has visited before.

Cookies help remember which language you like to read when you are on a site. They can also remember your email username and passwords. That way you don’t have to log in each time. It can be pretty handy.

Cookies can be a real treat for advertisers, too. For example, cookies can help businesses learn that you like watching cat videos. Then they can use the information about your behavior to advertise other things you might want to buy, like cat sweaters or cat mugs.

Because cookies can track behavior online, they have caused a lot of hoopla, Crandall said. People were a little worried about privacy when cookies were first invented.

“They were a very interesting invention when they came out,” said Crandall. “Highly controversial.”

The reason cookies were invented was actually to make it possible for the website to keep track of a browser when it visited again. This made exiting new things possible on the web, such as shopping online.

Without the cookie, websites couldn’t remember what you put in your shopping cart once you left the site.

Once people learned more about cookies and what they actually did, everyone calmed down a bit. Now, people can go into their privacy settings and change how cookies are used on their device or delete them. People can take a look inside their “cookie jar” to see the kind of cookies that are at work.

While web cookies are tiny files, they play a big role when it comes to how the web works today. Now, if only our gadgets could send us a chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin cookie to snack on while we’re browsing the web, too.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. You can send her an e-mail atDr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website at Ask DrUniverse.com.

A Third Letter to America

America continues to defy God in many ways as it heads towards the inevitable judgment.  A Recent example of this defiance happened when a young educated TV Analyst, out of the blue, said, I have the right to choose, the Supreme Court gave me that right.”  That unscripted statement did not trigger a reaction, much less a discussion.

Why Not?  Could it be because our educated masses have not been taught God’s basic Commandments, Statutes, and Laws, such as, “Thou shall not kill,” “Love your neighbor,” and “teach your young women to love their children?”  You bet!

The TV Analyst and America seem to be unaware of The Word Of God which says, “it is better to trust the LORD than to put confidence in man.”  But instead of following God’s advice, America has put its trust and confidence in Man (Mankind), with tragic results.

This is exactly what happened after the Supreme Court legalized abortion by its 7-9 decision.  Now many, like the above analyst, politicians, and even a political party, proudly support the killing of the smallest and defenseless human beings (the unborn).

But how can you trust judges who do not follow God’s most basic laws, and His admonitions to protect those least able to protect themselves and always to judge in favor of the righteous and against the wicked?  Such ungodliness should not be trusted.

Those unjust judges will be held accountable before God for what they did.  However, these judges were not held accountable here on earth as they should have.  Our constitution states that judges are to hold their offices “during good behavior.”  Therefore, justices who vote in favor of what God calls “wicked”, or “evil,” should be impeached and removed from office.  After all, how can anyone say that judges are holding their offices in “good behavior” when they are going against God’s Supreme Laws?

God’s wish has always been that Man (Mankind) repents of their wicked/sinful ways and seek him so they can have eternal life and be with him in heaven.  You are not just flesh and bones.  You have a soul which God gave you.   The moment you die that soul will go to one of two places, heaven or hell.  Which will it be?

Manuel Ybarra, Jr.
RR 5 Box 1550
Coalgate, OK 74538
Phone # (580) 428-3242
E-Mail:  mybarrajr77@outlook.com

Approval of Physical Presence Bill

Price bill to require physical presence at open meetings receives bipartisan approval

The Michigan House has approved legislation to encourage greater transparency by requiring the physical presence of elected officials at public meetings, announced bill author state Rep. Amanda Price.

“We are frequently trying to make accommodations for public officials who can’t be present, when the overriding consideration should be for the benefit of the public,” said Rep. Price, R-Park Township.

Michigan’s Open Meetings Act requires all decisions and votes of a public body to be made at a meeting open to the public. However, the act does not define whether a public official may be present through non-physical—or electronic—means. Rep. Price says that electronic presence at meetings allows public officials to participate in open meetings without having to face the public.

“When the public elects you to an official post, they expect you to be at the meetings of your board,” Rep. Price said. “There are situations where people can’t be physically present at a board meeting, but there is nothing wrong with simply being absent once in a while.”

House Bill 4182 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 06/29/15-07/05/15

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

06/29/2015 – 07/02/15 Fun Times with Watercolor

June 23, 24, 29 and July 1, 2 at 10:30am, teens 11to 18 are invited to Walker Memorial Library to paint together with Lori McElrath-Eslick, illustrator of more than 20 children’s books. Each class will involve demonstration of a technique followed by your creation of a painting by applying that technique. Class size is limited; call the library to register at (231) 744-6080. Participants will be asked to attend all five classes.

06/30/2015 – 07/17/15 Winter in a Summer Town

Winter in a Summer Town, a photo exploration of West Michigan, will be on display at the Arts Council of White Lake June 30-July 17.  The deadline for entries is Jun 16, 2015.  The opening reception will be July 2 from 5:00-7:00pm.  For more information, visit www.artswhitelake.org.

06/30/2015 – Muskegon Clippers Home Game

The Muskegon Clippers feature college players from Junior Colleges to Division 1 Universities playing baseball at Muskegon’s historic Marsh Field during the summer months.   Tuesday, June 30 at 7:00pm, they take on Rockford.  Individual game tickets are $5 for adults; $3 for students and senior citizens; children under 12 are free. Season ticket and group sales packages are also available.    For more information on company picnics, VIP seating and regular tickets please contact: Len Piasecki at 231-750-0331 or len@playmarshfield.com.

06/30/2015 – The Montague-Whitehall Rotary Bandshell Concerts

The Arts Council of White Lake sponsors FREE concerts every Tuesday night at 7:00pm during the summer. The band shell is located next to the Montague Boat Launch at the south end of Water Street. This week enjoy your evening with Bluegrass music by Billy Strings & Don Julin.

For more information contact the Arts Council at 231-894-2787.

07/01/2015 – Pop-Up Program

Come to the Lakeshore Museum Center for the Pop-Up program in the Body Works Exhibit on Wednesday, July 1 from 10:00am to 1:00pm.  Fun, free interactive program for kids.  430 W.Clay Ave. at Fourth Street.  For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org.

07/01/2015 – Fun with Flags

Wednesday, July 1 at 12:15pm, come to the Lakeshore Museum Center for the Lunch and Learn Lecture, “Fun with Flags” with Collections Curator Sharon McCullar.  She will share information about United States and Muskegon County flags. How to properly care for and dispose of flags will also be discussed. Bring a lunch for this free lecture and be on your way by 1:00pm.   For more information, visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org.

07/01/2015 – Singer/Songwriter Jack Doyle

You’re invited to the Book Nook & Java Shop to enjoy live music from singer/songwriter Jack Doyle, Wednesday, July 1 at 7:00pm.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

07/02/2015 – ReStore It! Ultimate Upcycle Challenge!

Muskegon County Habitat for Humanity is calling all crafters, Pinterst gurus and creative types to help celebrate the organization’s 30th Anniversary by competing in the “ReStore It!  Ultimate Upcycle Challenge!  If you like giving new life to old discarded items by repurposing and transforming them into new and improved pieces, this is the event for you!  Cash prizes will be awarded for the best transformations, as judged by the “ReStore It!” committee and a panel of local upcycling experts.  All entries will then be sold to benefit Muskegon County Habitat for Humanity.  Registrations are now being accepted for the competition which will take place on Thursday, July 2 in the Century Club Ballroom.  Registrants will receive a $20 voucher to purchase “old and discarded” items from one of the Muskegon County’s three ReStore locations to use in their entries.  For more information, call 231-727-6020 or download the form at www.muskegonhabitat.org.

07/02/2015 – 07/05/15 West Michigan Wine and Jazz Festival

The First Annual West Michigan Wine & Jazz Festival kicks off Thursday July 2 through Sunday, July 5, 2015, based at The Book Nook Java Shop/Best Cellars Wine Bar in Downtown Montague at 8744 Ferry St. The Festival announces selections for Happy Hour Wine Tastings: Thursday & Friday, July 2 & 3 @ 5 p.m. with performers Checkers Morton and Brad Fritcher’s Moods. Tickets are on sale now $15 (Festival pass $60) and include the wine tasting. Bottles will be available for sale. For more information, call (231) 894-5333, e-mail info@thebooknookjavashop.com or visit www.thebooknookjavashop.com.

07/02/2015 – Throwback Thursday

Through August, the Lakeshore Museum Center presents Historic Enrichment Activities at their historic sites, such as the Hackley & Hume Homes, the Firebarn and Scolnik House of the Depression Era!  Thursday, July 2, it’s Portraits and Canvas Painting at the Hackley & Hume site.  Kids can create a canvas portrait and go on a scavenger hunt to find the paintings in the Hackley and Hume houses.  This is a free program from 10:00am – Noon and 2:00 – 4:00pm. The site is located at 484 W. Webster Ave. Call 231-722-7578 for more information.

07/02/2015 – Jazz Wine Tasting

You’re invited to the Book Nook & Java Shop Thursday, July 2 at 5:00pm for a “Jazz Wine Tasting” with live music from Checkers Morton.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

07/02/2015 – Art and a Glass

Thursdays in July and August from 5:30-7:30pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Art and a Glass:  Happy Hour at the MMA!”  Bring your friends to a museum-style happy hour! Take a break and enjoy the art with a glass of wine or a great craft brew. General admission is free, Thursday evenings from 4:00 – 8:00pm, so take advantage of the opportunity to discover your Museum at no cost. You must be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages.   For more information, call 231-720-2571.

07/02/2015 – Jazz Showcase

You’re invited to the Book Nook & Java Shop for the Jazz Showcase featuring the Xavier David Trio, Thursday, July 2 at 8:00pm.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

07/03/2015 – 07/04/15 Lakeshore Art Festival

For decades, art has been a driving force in downtown Muskegon.  July 3-4, the Lakeshore Art Festival continues that tradition with a unique blend of arts, crafts, music, food and fun along the scenic shoreline of downtown Muskegon.  The Lakeshore Art Festival features hundreds of artists and crafters, a Children’s Lane, street performers and a food area including an Artisan Food Market and festival food favorites.  For more information, call 231-722-3751. 

07/03/2015 – 07/04/15 Muskegon Rockstock

The 6th annual Muskegon Rockstock will be held on July 3 & 4 at Heritage Landing in Muskegon Mi. Food and Beverages will be available at a very affordable rate, featuring ice cold $3 Budweiser and $4 local brews. Blankets and chairs are encouraged. Coolers are not. Tickets will be $5 per day or advance tickets will be available for a limited time at $8 for both days. Military and Veterans will be free and honored. Children 12 and under are free. However, they must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets will be available at the Frauenthal box office or StarTickets.com. Tickets will also be available at the gate. www.muskegonrockstock.com

07/03/2015 – World War II Bomber at MKG

The Muskegon County Airport and Executive Air Transport are pleased to welcome the “Yankee Lady,” the Yankee Air Museum’s (YAM) award winning B-17G.  In observance of Independence Day, the bomber will be on station at Muskegon County Airport from 11:00am Friday, July 3 – Saturday, July 4, offering tours and Flight Experience rides.

The Ypsilanti, Michigan based Yankee Lady is the type of thunderous four engine heavy
bomber, commonly called a ‘Flying Fortress’ that initiated daylight, precision strategic
bombing in the European Theater of Operations. This campaign attacked the enemy’s
ability to make war by destroying munitions factories, bases and oil refineries from 1942 to
1945.

A FLEX ride is a 45-minute experience with approximately 30 minutes of flight time and
costs $450.00. To order a B-17 FLEX ride or to obtain a gift certificate, call 734-483-4030,
extension 236. Ellickson also said the Yankee Lady will be available for tours. Self-guided
ground tours cost $5.00 for adults aged 15 and above; $2.00 for kids aged 6 to 15 and all
others are free. Win a free ride for someone by nominating a deserving individual. Send your story to dianne@muskegonairport.com by tomorrow, June 30.

For more information, visit www.muskegonairport.com.

07/03/2015 – 07/17/15 Call for Artists

Artists whose works fit the themes of upcoming exhibits sponsored by Arts Council of White Lake are invited to submit up to two pieces via the Council’s website. “Winter in a Summer Town” runs June 30 to July 17;”Transcontinental” will be mounted July 18-August 7.

The first exhibit centers on photography. Community members and artists are invited to share photos of the White Lake area during the winter months. Photos of local beaches, lakes, streets, paths and fields covered by a mantle of snow are meant to delight our summer visitors. Deadline for submissions is June 23.

 

Photos for “Winter in a Summer Town must be submitted digitally through the Arts Council’s website www.artswhitelake.org. Submission fee is $15 for ACWL members; $20 for non-members. Up to two images may be submitted with each application. Artists whose work is accepted for the exhibit will be notified by June 25 and will be given drop-off information. The second exhibit may incorporate any media. It should represent a place or memory from the American landscape. Deadline for submissions is July 3. “Transcontinental” submissions are also being accepted online.

07/03/2015 – Treasure Sale

Friday, July 3 from 9:00am – 3:00pm, you’re invited to the historic St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in downtown Muskegon for their annual Treasure Sale.  Hundreds of items will be available for low, low prices.  No clothes or shoes will be available for sale.  This event coincides with the Art Fair in Hackley Park.  It is free and open to the public.  For more information, call 231-722-2112.

07/03/2015 – Great Lakes Jazz Festival

The Arts Council of White Lake invites you to the Great Lakes Jazz Festival at the Montague Band Shell located at 8636 Water St. in Montague, Friday, July 3 at 12:00pm.  For more information, visit www.artswhitelake.org.

07/04/2015 – White Lake Parade & Fireworks

Join White Lake for their annual morning parade at 10:00am and evening fireworks over White Lake at dusk in celebration of July 4. For more information contact 231-893-4585.

07/04/2015 – Fireworks View on LST 393

Enjoy the view of Muskegon fireworks from the deck of the USS LST 393 Veterans Museum. They are located at 560 Mart Dock in downtown Muskegon. For more information, visit www.lst393.org.

07/04/15 – Maranatha Summer Concert

Saturdays during the summer you can enjoy a concert at Maranatha Christian Conference Center. This week enjoy Annie Moses Band. This is a FREE event and open to the public. Stop by from 5:00pm-6:45pm and enjoy a dinner buffet before prices are: 3 and under: FREE, 4-8 years; $7.00, 9-12 years; $9 and adults are $15. www.vacationwithpurpose.org

07/04/15 – Pre-Fireworks Jazz

You’re invited Montague Band Shell for some pre-fireworks Jazz with the Dave Collee Trio and Ginny Dusseau, Saturday, July 4 at 7:30pm.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

07/04/15 – Fireworks View on LST 393

Enjoy the view of Muskegon fireworks from the deck of the USS LST 393 Veterans Museum. They are located at 560 Mart Dock in downtown Muskegon. www.lst393.org

07/04/15 – July 4 Fireworks Celebration

Fireworks will be the star of our 4th of July weekend with a dazzling show over Muskegon Lake. You can watch aboard the USS LST 393 or the Port City Princess if you like! Sponsored by Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce!

07/04/15 – White Lake Fireworks

Join White Lake for their annual morning parade at 10:00am and evening fireworks over White Lake at dusk in celebration of July 4. For more information contact 231-893-4585.

Ongoing Events:

Collector’s Corner: Beatles Memorabilia

Beatles Memorabilia is the topic of the display in the Collectors Corner at the Lakeshore Museum Center.  Featured are album covers from The Fab Four, fan club cards, a collectible plate, a Beatles themed Trivial Pursuit Game, beach towel and more.  Figures of the four musicians and a yellow submarine are also included in William Stidham Sr.’s collection.   The museum is open weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm.  For more information, call 231-722-0278.

Armchair Archeology

“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

Colossal Avian Avatars

The Muskegon Museum of Art announces that Avian Avatars, an art installation of five colossal sculptures, each symbolizing a mythical bird, designed by The Myth Makers, artists Donna Dodson and Andy Moerlein. The sculptures are crafted from maple saplings, wire ties, and found objects, and stand from 18 to 26 feet tall. Each of the sculptures are installed in a different downtown Muskegon location for a full year. Each bird in the installation represents a unique myth. Avian Avatars is meant to indicate transformation, encouraging the public to heed to the stories about current human impact on the changing natural world.  The sculptures are also intentionally made not to be permanent. Typically, per the artists, they last four to five years in any installation. www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Muskegon South Pierhead Light Tours

Memorial Day to Labor Day tours will be given at Pere Marquette Beach South Pierhead Light. Tours will take place Monday & Tuesday from Noon-4:00pm and Saturday from 10:00am – 2:00pm. The cost is $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for kids. Please thank the volunteers who are helping to make this possible.

Muskegon Historic Sites Open For Tours

The Hackley & Hume Historic Site, Fire Barn Museum and Scolnik House of the Depression Era are open for the season. The three historic sites, operated by the Lakeshore Museum Center, are open Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 4 pm. On Sundays, the three sites are open from 1 to 4 pm. The restored homes of Muskegon’s most famous lumber barons, Charles H. Hackley and Thomas Hume, are featured at the Hackley & Hume Historic Sites. Built in the late 1800s, they feature lavish wood carvings, stenciling, stained glass windows, and period furnishings. They are two of the finest examples of Queen Anne Style Victorian homes in the country. The site is located at 484 West Webster Avenue at Sixth Street.  Admission is $7 for adults and teens, $5 for seniors 65 and older. Visitors 12 and younger are admitted free. www.lakeshoremuseum.org

‘Veterans’ Stories’

The World War II experiences of a dozen Muskegon area World War II veterans, as told to Muskegon Community College students enrolled in the popular Intro to WWII course, will be shared in a special exhibit, “Veterans’ Stories,” through August 4 at the USS Silversides Museum, located at 1346 Bluff St.  Admission is $5 per person and is free to museum members.

Patterned after the work of famous oral historian, journalist and The Good War author Studs Terkel, the MCC students who each assigned a local veteran to interview. The students also produced historical content highlighting their research. The compelling exhibit represents the collective culmination of their semester-long projects. For more information on the Veterans’ Stories exhibit, contact Frank Marczak, associate director of the USS Silversides Museum, at (231) 755-1230.

Michigan’s Adventure Park

Muskegon’s own Michigan’s Adventure with 2 parks in 1! Spend your day in the water park and get thrills on a rollercoaster- all in one day! You will want to make another trip back to Michigan’s Adventure to have fun just one more time! Open 7 days a week to Labor Day! Check out their website for more highlights at www.miadventure.com.

Rootdown Yoga

Rootdown Juice & Greens Bar offers high-energy, heated and music filled Power Vinyasa (flow) Yoga classes every day of the week.  This style of yoga is accessible to everyone regardless of age, ability or experience.  For class times and descriptions, please visit www.rootdown.in.

Beach Towne Trolley Rides

All ages love to take a ride on Muskegon’s Beach Towne Trolley during the summer months!

Routes and Operating Hours

Beach-Towne Trolley – 12:00pm–6:48pm

Operating Days

Six Days a Week, Monday – Saturday
Memorial Day – Labor Day

Single-Ride Cash Fare

Standard                 $1.25
Senior/Disabled       $ .60

Transfers, tickets, and passes from other Muskegon Area Transit System buses will be accepted. Regular transit passes and transfers will not be sold or issued on trolleys. Exact change will be required. Children through age 5 may ride free when accompanied by an adult. All vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

For more information, call the Muskegon Area Transit System at 231-724-6420.

 

Reading by Any Means Necessary

You’re invited to the James Jackson Museum of African American History for the “Reading…by any means necessary” program, every Monday through Saturday from 2:00-5:30pm.  The museum is located at 7 E. Center St. in Muskegon Heights.  Call 231-739-9500 for more information.

Manierre Dawson: Engineering Abstraction

Manierre Dawson: Engineering Abstraction, an exhibition of works by a pioneer in American abstract painting with Michigan roots, will open at the Muskegon Museum of Art on Thursday, April 30 and run through August 9.  Manierre Dawson was born Chicago in 1887 and lived there until moving to Ludington, Michigan in 1914 to run his family’s farm.  He painted and sculpted during his years there, until his death in 1969. www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Getty Drive-In Bargain Night

Muskegon’s historic Getty Drive-In was once a one screen in 1948. Today you can visit four screens, each with a double-feature. Tuesday night is bargain night for just $6.00 adults, 6-12 years old $5.00 and under 5 years are FREE. They have concessions and play area for children. Shows begin 15 minutes after sunset. They are located at 920 E. Summit Ave. www.celebrationcinema.com

Muskegon Farmer’s Market

Enjoy their bustling market opening their outdoor season on Saturday, May 2! Hours are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Power of Produce will start up again Saturday June 6 – October 31, 2015, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. with activities 10:00 – Noon on Saturdays only. This is a membership club for kids, ages 5 – 12 yrs. They learn about healthy eating and can purchase their own fresh produce. www.muskegonfarmersmarket.com

Muskegon Heights Farmer’s Market

The Muskegon Heights Farmer’s Market will offer a variety of produce along with being a flea market. Starting May 2, the market will be open from 9:00am -1:00pm on Tuesdays and Saturdays. The market is located on the corner of Baker and East Center Street.

White River Light Station Museum Open for Tours

See, hear, smell and touch the history of the Civil War, Michigan’s lumbering industry and tourism at Whitehall’s White River Light Station through October 31. There are 56 steps to climb if you are up to it! They are open Tuesday -Sunday, 10:00am-5:00pm. They are located at 6199 Murray Rd. on the White Lake Channel. www.whiteriverlightstation.org

‘Take Me Out to the Ball Game’

You’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” exhibit. Comprised of a group of works from the MMA’s permanent collection, it features sports and leisure themed paintings and sculptures.  For more information visit www.muskegonartmuseum.org.

Fricano’s Cruise-Ins

Every Wednesday between June 3 and August 26 from 5:30-8:00pm, you’re invited to Fricano’s Muskegon Lake for a “Cruise-In” (weather permitting).  All antiques, customs, classics and novelty vehicles are welcome!  There’ll be door prize drawings and oldies music provided by Tom Schalk of Quality Sound, along with your favorite beverages, Fricano’s Pizza and ice cream/desserts.  Participants will be given a coupon for $3 off a dine-in or take-out Fricano’s Pizza purchase.  For more information, call 231-722-7775.  Please, no burnouts, motorcycles or bicycles.

Muskegon Lakeshore 4th of July Celebration Explodes

Downtown Muskegon will be explode this 4th of July as thousands of visitors flock to the popular Lakeshore Art Festival and RockStock Music Festival takes over Heritage Landing with music, food, beverage tent and 4th of July Fireworks.

LAKESHORE ART FESTIVAL CONTINES TO GROW

The Lakeshore Art Festival received a record number of exhibitor applications for its third year.  Event coordinators state that the festival will have more than 260 fine art and craft booths, nearly 20 food vendors, multiple street performers and several interactive art stations.

We’re thrilled to have so many great artists returning to this year’s festival as well as a variety of new exhibitors,” says Lakeshore Art Festival Director, Carla Flanders. “The caliber of artists within the fine art section has been enhanced along with an increase of innovation and creativity at the Children’s Lane. The Lakeshore Art Festival is a great destination event for all to enjoy, proving that Downtown Muskegon is where you want to be 4th of July weekend!”

The Children’s Lane, themed “Step into Art”, will be completely interactive with a colorful scavenger hunt leading children through hands-on booths including drawing, story creation, sculpture making and free-form chalk expression.

Many favorites will also return to The Children’s Lane including the popular performance stage, Barnyard Express mobile educational farm center, Home Depot Builder’s Workshop, Arts & Carafes canvas painting and inflatables.

This year’s Children’s Lane is being coordinated by Fit4Mom Muskegon in partnership with the Muskegon YMCA and supported by Alcoa.

Throughout the rest of the art festival footprint, live and interactive art will abound with a professional chalk artist demonstrating her artistic gifts, street performers including musicians, magicians, yo-yo masters and more. Wine and Canvas painting classes and the Muskegon Center for the Arts community canvas project for all to participate in their own creative expression.

While the Lakeshore Art Festival fills the streets of Downtown Muskegon on July 3 and 4 from 10am-6pm, RockStock Music Festival will take the stage at Heritage Landing in the evening with local and regional music favorites, food vendors, a beverage tent, picnic area and 4th of July fireworks.

TICKETS ON SALE FOR MUSKEGON ROCKSTOCK

Tickets are now on sale for Muskegon RockStock Music Festival taking over Heritage Landing on July 3 and 4 with gates opening at 5pm. Friday musical guests include the popular Crane Wives with special guest Bennett and Room Full of Elephants. Back by popular demand, Saturday night will feature Mega 80’s along with Let There Be Rock and The After Effect. The celebration will end with a Fourth of July fireworks display.

Tickets are just $5 per person, per night or $8 for a weekend pass. Veterans, active military, and kids 12 and under are all free. RockStock tickets are available at http://www.startickets.com/ or at the Frauenthal Box Office. Discounted ticket packages are available for Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce members. Chamber members can contact the Chamber at 231-722-3751 for discounted ticketing information.

The Muskegon Lakeshore Fourth of July Celebration is being coordinated by the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. The Lakeshore Art Festival and Muskegon RockStock could not happen without the support of local organizations including; DTE Energy, Tyler Sales, Nichols, Hines Corporation, Staples, The Muskegon YMCA, Fit4Mom Muskegon, Port City Group, ADAC Automotive, Alcoa, Northern Machine Tool, Meijer, Raymond James, Consumers Energy, Mlive/The Muskegon Chronicle, Betten Auto Group, the Muskegon Museum of Art, The Community Foundation for Muskegon County and others.
Opportunities for sponsorship and volunteering are still available. More details on the events and how to get involved can be found at http://www.lakeshoreartfestival.org/ and http://www.muskegonrockstock.com/. Also, be sure to follow both events on Facebook for daily updates as the Muskegon Lakeshore’s 4th of July Celebration nears.

Tractor Supply Camaign Eclipses Last Year

TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY, 4-H SPRING FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN ECLIPSES PREVIOUS YEAR’S TOTAL BY 16 PERCENT
Tractor Supply Customer Donations to Fund 4-H Programs across the Country

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. (May 26, 2015) – Tractor Supply Company, in partnership with National 4-H Council, recently announced the record-breaking fundraising results of its spring 2015 Paper Clover Campaign.

Tractor Supply Company and Del’s Feed and Farm Supply, the largest retail farm and ranch supply store chain in the United States, raised an astounding $913,553 during the 12-day national in-store fundraiser. Over the course of the five year partnership, Tractor Supply has raised over $7.4 million for 4-H programs across the country through Paper Clover Campaigns in both the fall and spring season.

“This spring’s Paper Clover Campaign was a huge success thanks to our dedicated customers,” said Christi Korzekwa, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Tractor Supply. “We exceeded our goal, and we couldn’t have done it without them. These campaigns give us the opportunity to enhance our store’s communities and provide support to our valued partner in National 4-H Council and its local programs.”

Ask Dr. Universe – Musicians and Their Brains

Dr. Universe: Why do musicians use both sides of their brains?  -Rohan

Dear Rohan,

The left and right side of the brain each have unique abilities, so when they come together, it’s a kind of brain duet.

My friend Sheila Converse is a music professor here at Washington State University. She said to try this out: Snap the fingers of your left hand while patting your right leg with your right hand.

It’s might seem crisscrossed, but the left side of the brain is controlling the right hand. Meanwhile, the right side of the brain is controlling the left hand. As you hear the snaps and pats, thousands of little hairs inside your ears pick up vibrations from sound waves.

“Our ears and brains are amazing,” Converse said. “They haven’t yet invented a computer that can do all the things our ears and brains can.”

While computers can’t perfectly mimic brains or ears, engineers have built tools that can help us get a closer look at brain activity. Turn on a device called an EEG, stick a few electrodes on a musician’s head, and the technology will reveal lots about the brain.

When scientists look at musicians’ brains they can detect activity in areas associated with emotion and memories. They are the nucleus acumbens and the amygdala. Both of these parts are located toward the middle of the brain.

Humans also use four, or some might say five, different brain lobes to see, feel, speak, focus, remember, enjoy music and friends, and make complex decisions in their social lives.

That’s what I learned from my friend Bill Griesar, a brain scientist at WSU. He also told me the octopus has more than 40 lobes. More than two-thirds of its brain cells are found in its arms. But even though it has nearly ten times more lobes than a human, it still can’t play music, of course.

Humans can learn to play music because of their highly developed cortex. Cortex actually means “bark” and it’s the outer layer of the brain. In a way, you could also say musicians use both the outer and inner parts of their brains, too.

As musicians play an instrument, the cortex helps them learn and understand. As they practice, the activity becomes more fluid. As Griesar put it, it is the subcortical brain that allows musicians to “feel the force.”

The temporal lobe, located right in the middle of the brain, is especially important for making sense of sounds. When processing music, there are the specific sounds and words that are the details of a piece. Then there’s the overall sense or emotional point to it, Griesar explained.

Musicians use both sides of the brain because the right side can help make sense of a whole situation and the left side can make sense of details.

As researchers learn more about the gears churning in human brains, their discoveries can help us understand how the arts impact memory and how humans learn. That’s music to my fuzzy little ears.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Have a question? Ask Dr. Universe. You can send her an e-mail atDr.Universe@wsu.edu or visit her website at AskDrUniverse.com.

Follow Dr. Universe on Twitter at @AskDrUniverse or visit her on Facebook athttp://facebook.com/askDrUniverse!

The Parmenter O’Toole Law Firm Announces New Associate Attorney

MDMMUSKEGON, MICHIGAN – Parmenter O’Toole is proud to announce the addition of Matthew D. Mills as a new Associate Attorney.

Matthew is involved in all practice areas of the firm with the intention to concentrate his practice in the areas of litigation, business, and employee benefits. He received his law degree from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 2014.

While in law school, Matt’s comment regarding the legalization of sports gambling was published in the University of Denver Sports and Entertainment Law Journal. Upon graduation, Matt received a certificate in criminal law with honors. Matt spent both his law school summers clerking at Parmenter O’Toole and a fall semester as an extern at the Muskegon County Prosecutor’s Office.

Prior to attending law school, Matt graduated Cum Laude from Western Michigan University in 2012 with a degree in Political Science. Matt is from North Muskegon, and could not be happier to begin his career in West Michigan.

When not practicing law, Matt enjoys being outdoors, golfing, and the company of his family and friends.

“Matt brings exceptional skill and energy to our firm and we are excited to have him on board,” adds Chris Kelly. “We are all especially thrilled when we can bring home grown talent back to West Michigan.”

Matt can be reached at (231) 722-5419 or MDM@parmenterlaw.com.

 

Muskegon Lakeshore 4th of July Celebration Explodes

Downtown Muskegon will be explode this 4th of July as thousands of visitors flock to the popular Lakeshore Art Festival and RockStock Music Festival takes over Heritage Landing with music, food, beverage tent and 4th of July Fireworks.

LAKESHORE ART FESTIVAL CONTINES TO GROW
The Lakeshore Art Festival received a record number of exhibitor applications for its third year.  Event coordinators state that the festival will have more than 260 fine art and craft booths, nearly 20 food vendors, multiple street performers and several interactive art stations.

“We’re thrilled to have so many great artists returning to this year’s festival as well as a variety of new exhibitors,” says Lakeshore Art Festival Director, Carla Flanders. “The caliber of artists within the fine art section has been enhanced along with an innovative increase in creativity at the Children’s Lane. The Lakeshore Art Festival is a great destination event for all to enjoy, proving that downtown Muskegon is where you want to be 4th of July weekend!”

The Children’s Lane, themed “Step into Art”, will be completely interactive with a colorful scavenger hunt leading children through hands-on booths including drawing, story creation, sculpture making and free-form chalk expression.

Many favorites will also return to The Children’s Lane including the popular performance stage, Barnyard Express mobile educational farm center, Home Depot Builder’s Workshop, Arts & Carafes canvas painting and inflatables.

This year’s Children’s Lane is being coordinated by Fit4Mom Muskegon in partnership with the Muskegon YMCA and supported by Alcoa.

Throughout the rest of the art festival footprint, live and interactive art will abound with professional chalk artists demonstrating their masterpieces, street performers including musicians, magicians and more, Wine and Canvas painting classes and the Muskegon Center for the Arts community canvas project for all to participate in.

While the Lakeshore Art Festival fills the streets of Downtown Muskegon on July 3 and 4 from 10am-6pm, RockStock Music Festival will take the stage at Heritage Landing in the evening with local and regional music favorites, food vendors, a beverage tent, picnic area and 4th of July fireworks.

TICKETS ON SALE FOR MUSKEGON ROCKSTOCK
Tickets are now on sale for Muskegon RockStock Music Festival taking over Heritage Landing on July 3 and 4 with gates opening at 5pm. Friday musical guests include the popular Crane Wives with special guest Bennett and Room Full of Elephants. Back by popular demand, Saturday night will feature Mega 80’s along with Let There Be Rock and The After Effect. The celebration will end with a Fourth of July fireworks display.

Tickets are just $5 per person, per night or $8 for a weekend pass. Veterans, active military, and kids 12 and under are all free. RockStock tickets are available at www.startickets.com or at the Frauenthal Box Office. Discounted ticket packages are available for Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce members. Chamber members can contact the Chamber at 231-722-3751 for discounted ticketing information.

The Muskegon Lakeshore Fourth of July Celebration is being coordinated by the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. The Lakeshore Art Festival and Muskegon RockStock could not happen without the support of local organizations including; DTE Energy, Tyler Sales, Nichols, Hines Corporation, Staples, The Muskegon YMCA, Fit4Mom Muskegon, Port City Group, ADAC Automotive, Alcoa, Northern Machine Tool, Consumers Energy, Mlive/The Muskegon Chronicle, Betten Auto Group, the Muskegon Museum of Art and The Community Foundation for Muskegon County.

Opportunities for sponsorship and volunteering are still available. More details on the events and how to get involved can be found at www.lakeshoreartfestival.org and www.muskegonrockstock.com. Also, be sure to follow both events on Facebook for daily updates as the Muskegon Lakeshore’s 4th of July Celebration nears.