Monthly Archives: February 2016

How Planned Parenthood is Spending Your Tax Dollars

Recently Planned Parenthood released their 2014-2015 Annual Report. The report gives statistics on several Planned Parenthood programs. Comparing their latest report with the previous year’s report poses an important question:

Why is Planned Parenthood getting more tax funding while serving fewer clients and providing fewer health services?

Planned Parenthood had 2.5 million clients in 2014, a 7 percent decrease from 2013.  Their family practice services declined 49 percent. Their sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and treatments declined 6 percent.

Planned Parenthood most often defends itself as a committed provider of birth control and breast cancer prevention services, even to the point of spreading misinformation about providing mammograms. Their birth control services declined 18 percent and breast exams were down 25 percent according to their own report.

What didn’t decline? The number of abortions they did was largely the same. They did 323,999 abortions, down from 327,653 the previous year (a 1 percent decrease). Their tax funding did increase 5 percent, to $553.7 million, which is 43 percent of their total budget.

The 2014-2015 report also shows Planned Parenthood continues to be a profitable non-profit as their income over expenses was $58.8 million.

Why are prolife citizens forced to give their money to Planned Parenthood to provide less of everything except for abortions?

For a better perspective let’s compare their recent 2014-2015 Annual Report to their 2004-2005 Annual Report.  Over the last 10 years, Planned Parenthood’s total clients are down 14 percent. The number of clients receiving contraception is down 14 percent as well. Breast exams are down 61 percent.

Can you guess what increased?

If you guessed abortion and tax funding, you’re right!  Abortions are up 27 percent, from 255,015 to 323,999. Tax funding has more than doubled, increasing 103 percent.

Reasonable people would assume that when an organization repeatedly receives increases in government grants, they are improving or expanding their services offered to people in need, not losing clients.

STI tests, pregnancy tests, contraceptives and breast exams are not unique services. Those are simple things that can be provided without controversy at one of the more than 9,000 community health center locations in America that serve 23 million people. Some of them can be purchased at your pharmacy or grocery store.

What is the one specialty and unique “service” that Planned Parenthood provides? Abortion.

Learn more about Planned Parenthood’s abortion agenda at www.RTL.org.

Ask Dr. Universe – Chocolate

How is chocolate made? –Lydia, 6, Bedfordshire, England

Dear Lydia,

A few thousand years ago, humans discovered that beans inside the bright green pods of cacao trees could be made into a real treat.

In South America, people harvested the beans to make a warm, chocolaty drink. Ever since, we’ve found ways to make all kinds of chocolate from cacao beans.

“Chocolate is both a science and an art,” said my friend Jessica Murray. She’s an expert on chocolate and a graduate student in food science and business at Washington State University.

She explained that cacao beans can be separated into a couple different parts. We can extract the fat, or cocoa butter, from the beans. The rest of the bean can be ground up into solids. When we mix these two parts back together, we can make dark, white, or milk chocolate.

In Murray’s kitchen here at the university, she takes 10-pound bricks of chocolate and melts them to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. It turns into a nice, chocolaty liquid.

“Making chocolate is a lot like the experiment where you grow sugar crystals in a jar,” she said.

If you’ve ever tried this experiment, you know that sugar crystals grow on a string inside a jar full of sugar water. In a couple weeks, as the crystals multiply, a giant crystal is left in the jar.

Cocoa butter actually contains crystals, too. It has thirteen different kinds.

“You can’t see the crystals unless you look under a microscope, but that’s what makes the chocolate set correctly and all shiny,” Murray said.

If you’ve ever let a chocolate bar melt on a hot summer day, then later noticed it had a bunch of white spots, you’ve seen some of these crystals in action.

As a chocolatier and a scientist, Murray is after one particular crystal to make the chocolate look and taste the best: the beta crystal.

“But crystals have to have something to grow off of. They don’t just miraculously happen, they have to form,” she said.

When making chocolate, Murray will add more solid chocolate to the liquid chocolate, to help the beta crystals form. The solid chocolate is added into the batch when the temperature of the melted chocolate reaches precisely 105 degrees.

Once the conditions are right, a beta crystal will form. Then, the chocolate is ready to be poured into molds.

“You fill the mold, let it cool, then tip (the mold) upside down, you kind of spin it around and it flings chocolate everywhere and makes a giant mess. But it’s really fun,” she said.

Once the chocolate cools and becomes a solid again, she can add fillings or creams. This year she’s starting her own line of chocolate. She’s calling it WSU Crimson Confections.

As much as I’d like to try Murray’s new chocolates, we cats can’t taste sweets. I’ll have to leave the taste-testing experiments up to those of you with a sweet tooth.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Got a science question? E-mail Dr. Wendy Sue Universe at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu. Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Visit askDrUniverse.wsu.edu to watch the making of chocolate video.

New Energy in Downtown Muskegon

MUSKEGON, MI – Downtown Muskegon is launching into 2016 with new leadership and a continued focus on development of Muskegon County’s central business district.

Downtown Muskegon Now’s Board of Directors has hired longtime retired MLive Muskegon Chronicle journalist Dave Alexander as its new executive director. Alexander began Jan. 4 directing the non-profit agency focused on downtown Muskegon economic development, promotion and events.

dave

Dave Alexander

Alexander takes over from former Executive Director Jonathan Seyferth who left Downtown Muskegon Now in the fourth quarter of 2015 to become the Coopersville assistant city manager. Seyferth headed downtown development in Muskegon since the summer of 2013.

Alexander comes to the downtown manager’s position after 34 years of reporting and editing at MLive Muskegon Chronicle. He was business editor for more than 20 years, a political and local government reporter and most recently the community engagement specialist, in part handling the traditional role of the editorial page editor.

“There is a lot of excitement about what’s possible in 2016,” said Carla Hill, outgoing chairwoman of Downtown Muskegon Now and president of the West Michigan Symphony Orchestra. “Having a director as passionate as Dave Alexander will keep momentum moving forward. We are fortunate to have him downtown.”

There are many initiatives underway in downtown Muskegon — residential, commercial and office developments announced and yet-to-be announced, Alexander said.

“I come into the downtown manager’s position at a dynamic time for downtown Muskegon,” Alexander said. “Jonathan Seyferth and our board have built a tremendous foundation for the premiere urban downtown along the Lakeshore to continue to progress.”

Along with Alexander’s appointment, the leadership of the Downtown Muskegon Now is transitioning as the board chairmanship will move from Hill to Andy Maciejewski, partner with Revel – the branding, marketing and web design company located in downtown Muskegon.

“For downtown Muskegon, 2016 is going to be an exciting year,” Maciejewski said. “Dave is deeply connected to the Muskegon community and has been telling the story of downtown for over 30 years. He’s the right person at the right time for this position.”

Downtown Muskegon Now also provides staff services to the Downtown Muskegon Development Corp., the consortium of local foundations that purchased the former Muskegon Mall property in the heart of downtown, and the newly created Muskegon Business Improvement District, which is designed to provide snow removal, landscaping, marketing and events for the downtown district.

Meanwhile, Downtown Muskegon Now’s community celebration – The Taste of Muskegon – is in its 10th year with all proceeds going to beautification and promotion of downtown. This year’s event is Friday-Saturday June 18-19 in Hackley Park.

How I Found the Jefferson Highway

By Jerry Alger, Fruitport, MI, JHA Board Member

from the Newsletter of the Jefferson Highway Association

Hello, my name is Jerry Alger. I have in recent years become an enthusiastic fan of the Jefferson Highway and in 2015 was elected delegate-at-large to the JHA board of directors. But before explaining how I “found” the highway, I’ll say a little bit more about myself. I was raised in Fruitport, a small western Michigan village of about 1,300 people, and have lived there ever since. This was a great place in which to grow up. I’ve been a trustee on the village council for many years and am proud of my accomplishments there.

I have also lived along a vintage two-lane highway all my life—US 16, which carried travelers from Detroit to Yellowstone Park. After 1963, the highway bypassed Fruitport, but the village didn’t die, and we now have more cars passing through than ever before, many originating in nearby towns and suburbs.

Fruitport has a lot of interesting history, some of which I’ve undertaken to tell with stories inscribed on interpretive panels placed around the village. Fruitport’s name came from all the fruit (mainly peaches) shipped from the shores of Spring Lake, whose waters reach Fruitport. My pride and joy is a steel “peach tree,” about eight feet in height, for which I raised donations and that was constructed by a local craftsman in a park fronting the lake.

But now, on to my discovery of the Jefferson Highway. Every year since 2004 my wife Lynda and I have taken a month-long road trip along a historic highway. Our trips have taken us through all 48 lower states.After driving the length of Route 66 for the fourth time in 2011, we went on to San Francisco to begin our return trip following the route of the Lincoln Highway. Lynda had done a lot of research on places and sights along that route, and we greatly enjoyed our journey eastward. Eventually we came upon some intriguing cement markers with Lincoln’s bust on them out in the corn fields . . . we were in Iowa. It was also time to eat, so we were looking for a restaurant. The next one up happened to be Niland’s Café at Reed/Niland Corner in Colo. We pulled up and went inside.

The first thing that caught my eye in Niland’s was the 1939 Cadillac coming out of the corner of the dining room. I owned a 1939 Cadillac 60 Special just like that one! Then we looked around at the pictures and historical exhibits on the walls. At that point, I had never heard of the Jefferson Highway, so the Jefferson Highway stuff still didn’t sink in. But while waiting for my Reuben sandwich to be served, I picked up a JHA brochure from the counter and began to read it. Finally it dawned on me to look into the Jefferson Highway. We loved Reed/Niland Corner, and once we were back home, we joined JHA, I began to research the highway, and Lynda began to lay out a plan for a future trip along the highway.

In 2012 we finished the Lincoln Highway trip to Times Square and then drove down the Jersey Shore to Ocean City, MD, where we picked up US 50 and followed it to Indiana. In 2013 we finished US 50 to its end in Sacramento, returning via Route 66 (our fifth complete trip on that highway). But in 2014 the time had come for a tour of the Jefferson Highway. We had only the map from the JHA brochure, which didn’t tell us what roads were the old Jefferson alignment, but Lynda prepared a route guide by listing all the cities and towns on the Jefferson and then identifying the two-lane roads connecting them. This is what we used as our basic map, but I had also succeeded in locating some JHA members—first, Glenn Smith, who hooked us up with Scott Berka, who in turn put us in touch with Lyell Henry—who provided additional information about portions of the old route.

In September, 2014, we drove to Winnipeg, found the beginning marker of the Jefferson Highway, soon were on our way, and . . . three weeks later, we were in New Orleans. That trip down the Jefferson Highway was about as exciting as it gets. Lynda and I agree: this was one of our favorite road trips, and it certainly has left us both as enthusiastic fans of the Jefferson Highway. I now look forward to helping the highway become better known so that more people will jump in their cars and enjoy driving portions or the full length of it.

Ryan Hendrickson Joins Farm Bureau Insurance as Agent in Grand Haven

ryan h

Ryan Hendrickson

Ryan Hendrickson, of Fruitport, has joined Farm Bureau Insurance as a new agent serving this area. He is working out of the Farm Bureau Insurance office at 16844 Robbins Road, Grand Haven, MI.

Hendrickson recently completed an extensive career development program for new agents, which prepared him for the state licensing examination and provided instruction in all areas of property/casualty and life/health insurance.

Hendrickson also attended training at the Farm Bureau Insurance home office in Lansing. Farm Bureau Insurance agents are licensed to sell all lines of insurance, including life, home, auto, farm, retirement, Lake Estate® and business.

Prior to joining Farm Bureau Insurance as an agent, Hendrickson held a career in finance at Veurinks RV Center.

Hendrickson joins a statewide force of nearly 450 Farm Bureau Insurance agents serving nearly 500,000 Michigan policyholders.

The Huizenga Huddle: State of the Union Edition

President Obama’s Final State Of The Union A Missed Opportunity

Prior to President Obama’s speech, I released a video detailing the three items I hoped to hear the President address: first, a comprehensive strategy to restore American leadership across the globe; second, a plan to fix our nation’s broken VA system (so our veterans can get the best care available); and lastly, a commitment to ensuring an open and transparent government. Unfortunately, I believe the President fell well-short on all three of these critical issues and missed an important opportunity to move our nation forward.

Following the State of Union Address, I logged into Facebook for a “live event” and further discussed the President’s State of the Union. Additionally, I had in depth conversations with Neal Dionne on WOOD Radio and Parker & Davis on 1260 the Pledge. Both of these interviews are available for you to listen to at the links above.

Defunding Planned Parenthood & Repealing ObamaCare

For the first time ever, Congress put a bill on the President’s desk to defund Planned Parenthood & repeal ObamaCare.

This important reconciliation legislation eliminates funding for Planned Parenthood and instead invests those dollars into federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics that do not put their financial interests ahead of women and children

In Michigan, there are 20 federally qualified health clinics for every Planned Parenthood location. This will ensure women receive high quality medical care while protecting the life of the unborn.

Last Thursday, I spoke on the House floor about promoting a culture of life and this historic legislation. You can watch the video here.

AP Government: How Does Planned Parenthood Receive Taxpayer Dollars?

I have heard from many constituents across West Michigan who were disappointed that the recent year-end government funding legislation did not “defund” Planned Parenthood.

Like the overwhelming majority of families across West Michigan, I do not believe abortion providers like Planned Parenthood should be eligible to receive Title X grants, which are funded by the annual appropriations process.

However, Planned Parenthood’s primary source of funding is not through the traditional appropriations process, which is also known as discretionary spending.  The bulk of taxpayer dollars that Planned Parenthood receives comes from a category known as mandatory spending, which is outside the traditional power of the purse held by Congress.  This is very similar to how ObamaCare is funded.

The government shutdown in 2013 demonstrated that programs funded via mandatory spending, like Planned Parenthood and ObamaCare, would continue to operate while our troops and border agents would go without pay and life saving research is put on hold.

By passing the Restoring Americans’ Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act, Congress defunded nearly 90% of the federal dollars Planned Parenthood is currently eligible for. “Defunding” Planned Parenthood through the appropriations process would have only addressed approximately 10% of the funding the organization receives from Title X grants.

While the President vetoed this measure, it marks a historic victory for the pro-life movement. It also demonstrates that Congress has found a way to navigate the arcane rules of the Senate in a constitutional manner to repeal the burden that is ObamaCare.

Let’s not forget, if there was a Republican in the White House, ObamaCare would be repealed and the vast majority of taxpayer dollars flowing into Planned Parenthood would be eliminated. Moving forward, I will be supporting the effort to override the President’s veto.

Protecting the 2nd Amendment

By making the decision to use executive actions, the President is clearly attempting to politicize tragedies to advance his gun control agenda as he said he would do in an October 2015 speech.

Last week, I spoke on the House floor in defense of the Second Amendment & law abiding citizens while calling on the President to stop pursuing his political agenda and join the bipartisan effort to fix our nation’s broken mental health system.

I am a proud cosponsor of Rep. Tim Murphy’s Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act. This legislation will overhaul our nation’s inadequate and outdated mental health system so people who need treatment can receive it. Simply throwing more money at the issue without these reforms is like giving the VA more money without demanding better care for our veterans.

The Michigan Minute

•    Pentwater Firefighter’s family finally to receive death benefit
•    American, West Michigan hero Ralph Hauenstein passes away at 103
•    West Michigan auto suppliers help power Detroit success
•    Wyoming Chief of Police Jim Carmody to attend State of the Union
•    Grand Rapids rated among top 20 places to visit by New York Times
•    Gun sales spike in Michigan; record set for background checks
•    Go Blue: The State of the Union always has its share of interesting attendees
•    Michigan Coast Guard units answer the call

After 43 Years Americans Should Have the Right to Decide on Life

Friday, January 22, 1973, will mark 43 years since the U.S. Supreme Court handed down Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton. Since that day, abortion has ended the lives of more than 56 million children in the womb.

Following the decisions many expected the prolife movement would eventually disappear and abortion on-demand through all nine months of pregnancy would become the new normal. Instead, the opposite has happened.

Right to Life of Michigan Barbara Listing said, “The prolife movement continues to face many challenges. But for decades, we have boldly stood for the right to life of every person, and our voice continues to grow stronger.”

Recently some major milestones have been reached by the prolife movement.

The Centers for Disease Control released their 2012 abortion report, showing the fewest number of national abortions since 1973.

For the first time ever Congress passed legislation to end most taxpayer funding of Planned Parenthood. Undercover journalists exposed to the public Planned Parenthood’s practice of selling the organs and tissues of unborn children. Planned Parenthood’s current annual report confirmed their pattern of receiving more tax funding despite their non-abortion services and clients declining.

In Michigan Life Uninvited, a groundbreaking new television documentary on the issue of rape and abortion, will debut the weekend of January 23. The documentary builds on a year of television advertisements and short films featuring the stories of four women and how their lives have been personally affected by the issue. The channels and schedule for Life Uninvited can be found at www.RTL.org.

Listing said, “The response to our ads in 2015 was very positive. There’s never been anything like Life Uninvited before, so I invite people to tune in and learn how women can overcome even the most difficult situations.”

On January 22, tens of thousands of prolife citizens will gather once again for the March for Life in Washington, D.C. The size and scope of the march has continued to expand in recent years, including new regional marches across the country.

The message tomorrow of the growing voice of prolife advocates is that it’s time for an end to Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton. It’s time for the American people to once again have a say on our most fundamental right, the unalienable right to life.

Ask Dr. Universe – Yawning

Why is yawning contagious? –Grant, 10, Pullman, WA

Dear Grant,

When I got your question, I met up with my friend Hans Van Dongen, a scientist at Washington State University in Spokane. He works in a research lab where they study sleep. As a cat who appreciates naps, it’s one of my favorite places to visit.

He explained that while yawning is common for lots of animals, we still don’t know why it happens. We do know that once you start a yawn, there’s no stopping it. And as you’ve observed, yawns can be quite contagious.

If someone yawns, people who see the yawn may soon start yawning, too. Some scientists think that the contagiousness of yawns might actually be a way for humans to communicate.

Van Dongen said a lot of people used to think that yawning was a sign of boredom. But after a while, they weren’t so sure about that theory. If you are watching a movie or listening to a long lecture, you might start to yawn, but it might not mean you’re bored.

When you stretch your jaw, breathe in, and let out a yawn, it might be that you’ve slowed down long enough to realize an important fact: You might need to be getting some more sleep.

If a friend catches the yawn, they just might be saying, I could probably use some more sleep, too.

“And this is not an insignificant issue,” Van Dongen said. “Because we mask our sleepiness by being busy all day.”

People generally have a lot of work to get done, so they have to keep busy. Working together in a group was especially important for human survival a long time ago.

While people don’t rely on one another for survival as much these days, yawning still may be a way to communicate among the whole group that everyone needs sleep to be successful.
“Really the only theory that gets circulated much at the moment is that it is a social signal to say, ‘You know what—we should maybe all time out and sleep a little bit more’,” Van Dongen said. “Maybe take a nap or make plans to go to bed earlier tonight.”

After all, the survival of the group often depends on the survival of an individual person. So, it’s important to make sure that the individual people aren’t tired, cranky, or distracted.

“And if yawning is alerting us to that and we are ignoring it because we don’t think much of it, maybe we are losing a lot of money and lives because of drowsiness that could have been avoided,” Van Dongen said.

Catching a yawn could help humans let each other know they should be catching some more Z’s. But maybe there’s more to the story, too. Perhaps you could be a scientist and help us get to the bottom of it.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Got a science question? E-mail Dr. Wendy Sue Universe at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu. Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University.

Bureau of Indian Affairs Issues Scoping Report

Process for Little River Band of Ottawa Indians’ Muskegon Area Gaming Project Moves Forward

Washington D.C. – The U.S. Department of Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) has released a Scoping Report regarding the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians’ application for a proposed casino and economic development project at the former Great Lakes Downs racetrack site in Fruitport Township. The Scoping Report outlines the areas to be studied in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to analyze the potential environmental consequences of the Little River Band’s application for a proposed 60-acre fee-to-trust transfer and casino project.

“This is another big step for the Little River Band and the Muskegon community to bring economic development to the region,” said Tribal Ogema Larry Romanelli. “The tribe was encouraged by the large turn out and positive feedback at the public scoping hearing last fall. The community feedback was important to the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ ability to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of the project.”

The Scoping Report describes the EIS process, explains the purpose and need for the Proposed Action, describes the Proposed Project and alternatives, and summarizes the issues identified during the scoping process. All comment letters received by the BIA and the public hearing transcript are included in the appendices to the Scoping Report, which is now available on the project website at http://www.littlerivereis.com/

The BIA issued a Notice of Intent on September 21, 2015, which opened a public scoping period to identify potential issues, concerns, and alternatives to be considered in the EIS. There was standing room only at the October 15 public scoping held at the Fruitport Middle School. Representatives from the Fruitport schools, business community, labor organizations and local public officials spoke out supporting the Little River Band’s application.

The EIS will take a hard look at the potential environmental impacts of the project, including land use, geology and soils, water resources, agricultural resources, biological resources, cultural resources, traffic, air quality, noise, public health/environmental hazards, hazardous material and waste, public services, and socio-economics.

The Draft EIS and a public comment period are anticipated in Fall 2016. The Little River Band filed an application in February 2015 requesting the BIA to place 60 acres in trust for a $180 million casino and economic development
project. The project is expected to create more than 1,200 new jobs in Muskegon County.

Muskegon County is the home to the Little River Band’s largest population base. Muskegon is one of the Tribe’s service areas and the Tribe maintains governmental offices in Muskegon to serve its members.

“The Tribe has filed an application to place land in trust to develop a casino and economic development project to improve the economic status of our tribal government,” said Tribal Council Speaker Virg Johnson. “A Muskegon County casino will enable the Little River Band to better provide housing, health care, education and other services to our elders and youth, particularly those based in the Muskegon area.”

The Little River Band’s proposed gaming and economic development project would include:

• Approximately 69,000 square feet of gaming floor space
• 1,700 slot machines and 35 table games
• 220-room hotel
• Conference and meeting room space
• Dining and entertainment options

The proposed Muskegon casino will play vital role in bringing new jobs and business opportunities as casinos have in other communities including:

• Attracting about 1.88 million visitors annually.
• Create nearly 1,500 jobs, more than 1,000 directly at casino.
• Generate more than $60 million annually in total wages.
• Approximately $60 million annually in purchasing for goods and services.
• During construction, generating more than 1,200 local construction jobs.
• Construction workers’ income should top $70 million.

The proposed casino has received wide support from the community including support from Fruitport Township, Fruitport Public Schools, Muskegon County, West Michigan trade unions, The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce and local businesses. Both Fruitport Township and Muskegon County reaffirmed support for the Tribe’s Muskegon casino project with resolutions of support in June 2014.

The Little River Band has signed a Municipal Services Agreement with Muskegon County and Fruitport Township that consists of the Tribe making payments for public safety, sanitary sewer, public water construction and other services.

For updates, please visit http://muskegonjobsnow.org/

Fruitport Named Among “To 10 Safest Cities” in MI

ConsumerAffairs.com analyzed FBI and Census Bureau data to create an interactive map displaying the safest cities in the United States, and Fruitport is ranked number 6 in MI for most police officers per capita!

Get the “Quick Facts” card for Fruitport here: https://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/aaa_alarm_systems.html#safest-cities-policeper10k-mi-fruitport

The FBI’s annual report Crime in the United States revealed the estimated number of violent crimes reported by law enforcement during 2014 dropped by 0.2% and the estimated number of property crimes decreased 4.3% when compared with 2013 data.

Here are some additional highlights from Crime in the United States, 2014:

•   An estimated 1,165,383 violent crimes and an estimated 8,277,829 property crimes were reported by law enforcement
•   Financial losses suffered by victims of these crimes were calculated at approximately $14.3 billion
•    Larceny-theft accounted for 70.8% of all property crimes reported, burglary for 20.9%, and motor vehicle theft for 8.3%

Even though crime rates are dropping, those numbers are still alarming. So where’s the good news? Fruitport, MI is one of the safest cities in the U.S.

Historic Resources in Michigan Jeopardized by Bill to Amend 1970 PA 169

Michigan’s historic places drive economic development, attract businesses, draw tourists and new residents, create a sense of place, and enhance our quality of life. Keeping these historic places is so important that historic preservation has been upheld as a public purpose under the U. S. Constitution—preserving historic resources is a valid governmental goal and local historic district ordinances have been upheld as an appropriate means to secure that goal. Local historic districts are the only way for communities to manage and protect their historic assets, and 78 communities to date have chosen to enact ordinances to protect their historic assets at the local level, under current state law. The bill to amend 1970 Public Act 169 jeopardizes the efficient and fair process for establishing local historic districts already in place under PA 169, reduces protection given to resources in local historic districts, and diminishes the authority of local historic district commissions and local legislative bodies.

Weakens Protection for Historic Resources
• This bill would dispose of the current process for dissolving historic districts, allowing local legislative bodies to eliminate local historic districts without guidelines or justification, and without community input.

• This bill would reduce reliance on accepted, best-practice Standards used nationwide for commission decision-making, introducing uncertainty into the process.

• This bill would change the appeals process for an aggrieved property owner within a district. Instead of appealing to a neutral state board, which has appellate jurisdiction because of its expertise, appeals would be heard at the local level where political and development pressures could affect the outcome.

Reduces Local Control
• This bill would make it impossible for local legislative bodies to act quickly to head off a sudden development threat to a community landmark. Currently, in municipalities with a historic district ordinance, a local legislative body can place a threatened resource under study for local designation and delay development in that area for up to 6 months. This bill proposes to petition local property owners and acquire a 2/3 majority in support before a historic district study committee could even be appointed, wiping out the local body’s ability to act quickly under threat.

• This bill would mandate that after a local legislative body decides to establish a local historic district, the public in that unit of government must vote in support of the district in a general election to make it official. Further, the electorate will have to vote on its local historic districts every 10 years, even in communities with long-standing historic districts, imposing unnecessary and substantial costs upon municipalities in staff time and community education. These inefficient processes undermine local representative democracy. Why would the State impose a sunset clause on local decisions?

Announcement from Local Sports Journal

Boys and girls grades 3-12 may sign up for the American Youth Basketball Tour for summer basketball tournaments.  This is 5 on 5 competition with tournaments in Muskegon-Fruitport Area on June 11-12 (Saturday and Sunday), Ludington area on July 15-16 (Friday and Saturday), with a national tournament in Grand Rapids from July 21-24.  Check out all of the opportunities at www.aybtour.com or contact Jim Goorman at jimwmc@gmail.com.

Also check out localsportsjournal.com to connect for all the sports news.

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Agenda

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FRUITPORT TOWNSHIP HALL
5865 AIRLINE ROAD, FRUITPORT, MI 49415

2/8/2016

6:00 WORK SESSION
7:00 P.M. BOARD MEETING

01.   Pledge of Allegiance
02.   Roll Call
03.   Approval of Board Minutes: 1/25/16 Regular Meeting
04.   Approve / Amend Agenda
05.   Correspondence / Reports

06.   Public Comments

07.  Unfinished Business
A. Ken Doctor Retirement Resolution
B. Public Safety Director Contract
C. Fire Department Battalion Chief
D. Fire Department Vacancy
E. Cemetery Rates – 2nd Reading and Consideration
F. 2016 – 2017 Budget

08.  New Business
A. Local Library Millage
B. 2016-2017 Board Schedule
C. Consideration of Township Superintendent
1. Supervisor Salary
2. Employment Agreement
3. Supervisor Resignation

09.  Approval of Bills
10.  Reports
11.  Public Comments
12.  Adjournment

The Township will provide necessary reasonable aids and services for this meeting to individuals with disabilities by writing or telephoning the following Township Clerk:  Carol Hulka, Fruitport  Township Hall, 5865 Airline Road, Fruitport, MI 49415 – (231) 865-3151

Fatal Crash on 2/7/16. Police Seeking Contact From Any Witnesses

Fruitport Township Police and Fire Departments were dispatched to a traffic crash on Sunday, February 7th, 2016 at 12:02 p.m. at the intersection of Airline Highway and E. Sternberg Roads. Three subjects were injured, one of which required extrication. All three subjects were brought to Hackley Hospital in Muskegon. A 92-year-old female resident of Fruitport died from her injuries.
The crash is still under investigation and the names of those involved are not being released at this time. Fruitport Police would like to speak to any who may have been witness to the crash. Anyone with information on the subject is requested to contact Sgt. Andrew Hunt at 231-865-8477.

Contact information:
Sgt. Andrew Hunt
Fruitport Police Dept
231-865-8477
ahunt@fruitportpolice.com

USS Silversides Museum Events

MUSKEGON, MI – The 4th Annual Winter Lecture Series is returning to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum beginning Monday, February 22, 2016.

The series began in February 2013 as a college class taught by Muskegon Community College instructors George Maniates and Kurt Troutman.  They had the vision to teach today’s students by combining classroom studies with a museum filled with WWII artifacts and introducing them to WWII veterans who lived what the students were learning.  Community members were invited to join.  They didn’t expect much of a turnout from the area, but the response has been overwhelming.  The community “students” couldn’t get enough and have been returning to the museum every year since for this exciting continuing education opportunity.

This wonderful series, which was featured last fall by an article in the New York Times, is ready to kick off the new semester on WWII, but with a little bit of a twist.  After conversations with a couple of focus groups, the lecture series will not only feature presentations on WWII, but it will also expand to cover other American military campaigns.

The USS Silversides Submarine Museum is proud to have such strong support from our local residents which allows us to continue to share our mission of honoring our military heroes through education with all generations.  We hope you will join us this year.  It will be a tremendous way to enrich your life and your mind and, we promise, no homework!  See you February 22nd.

Here’s the complete lecture schedule, listed chronologically:

Feb. 22: Horse Soldiers:  An extraordinary story of a band of US soldiers who rode to victory in Afghanistan.

Horse soldiers is the dramatic account of a small band of Special Forces soldiers who secretly entered Afghanistan following 9/11 and rode to war on horses against the Taliban.  Adventurist and author Doug Stanton is the featured speaker.

Feb. 29: Vietnam:  Wrong Place, Wrong War

From the ‘Best and the Brightest’ to the fall of Saigon this is the story of America’s most controversial war – Vietnam.  Featured speaker is Lt. Col. Ron Janowski (Ret.), US Army, Instructor Junior ROTC.

March 7: 6 Months in 1945 AND Muskegon’s Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy – Clarence Zylman

Part One:  From Yalta to Potsdam. Part Two:  Raised in Muskegon, trained on the streets of Chicago, a special trumpet player boogied his way into the hearts of our soldiers.  Featured speakers are Muskegon Community College Historians George Maniates and Kurt Troutman.

March 14: Just War Theory in the 21st Century

Using Just War Theory to evaluate the morality of America’s military involvement in Afghanistan and Iraq since 9/11. Featured speaker is Dr. Roger Durham, Professor of Political Science, Aquinas College.

March 21: How do we Memorialize War through Art?

Over the last 150 years, we have sought to honor our veterans and commemorate events of national significance through art, however, some artworks were not initially embraced by the public and controversy swirled around them.  The featured speaker is Tim Norris, Art Historian, Muskegon Community College.

March 28: Endurance – The Stories of our Korean War Veterans

Based on interviews with hundreds of Korean War veterans, the presentation Endurance offers insights from those veterans on the Korean War.  Featured speaker is Lynnita Brown, Korean War Educator Project.
April 4: Live from the Front, byline Ernie Pyle

This play celebrates the inner struggle of beloved war correspondent Ernie Pyle.
Performed by Dr. Rick Plummer, Executive Director, Mason County Historical Society.

April 11: Franklin D. Roosevelt – Paradox of Power

A lecture that traces FDR’s 12 years in office from the Great Depression in the 1930s through dealing with a two-front war in the 1940s.  Featured speaker is Gleaves Whitney, Director of Grand Valley State University’s Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies.

Admission to the World War II Lecture Series can be had by purchasing an annual membership through the USS Silversides Submarine Museum or paying a $7 admission fee to attend any one lecture.

For more information on the Lecture Series, visit silversidesmuseum.org or call 231-755-1230.

February 15-med-sm

Ask Dr. Universe – Robots

Dr. Universe, When can I own a robot? – Jack, 8, Taos, New Mexico

Dear Jack,

There are all kinds of robots in our world. In fact, you may already have one in your house.

That’s what I found from my friend, Professor Matthew E. Taylor. We met up at Washington State University’s Artificial Intelligence Lab, where engineers are exploring how robots learn and work.

“One thing a lot of people don’t realize is there’s not really a good definition for what a robot is,” Taylor said. “It’s really just something that senses the world around it and then acts on it.”

Think about an automatic garage door, for example. It senses when you push a button and if something is in the way. Then, it moves up and down, Taylor explains.

I’d actually had an idea for a robot of my own—a sidekick to help me find answers to baffling questions from humans. It would also deliver tuna fish sandwiches.

As Taylor and I tinkered with microchips, wires, and computers, he explained what it takes to build a robot.

“There’s the mechanical engineering, figuring out how the robot will actually move,” he said. “There is electrical engineering, figuring out what sensors to use and how that’s all going to be wired together. There is also computer science. You have to program the robot to do what you want it to.”

You could build a robot of your own. You might be able to buy one, too. But it probably won’t be doing your laundry or cleaning up your room any time soon.

Nonetheless, some robots in our world can do some impressive jobs.

“Robots are really good at the three D’s: dirty, dangerous, and dull,” Taylor said. At WSU, engineers are building robots that can help with harvest and heavy lifting on farms.
Other robots are also good at assisting humans in their daily lives, he adds. In Japan, some scientists are building robots that look more like humans to help assist elderly people. In the lab here, one group of students is developing a robotic wheelchair to help people get around.

“One of the areas we work in is robot-human interaction, which is a combination of computer science and psychology, figuring out how humans and robots can better work together,” Taylor said.

If you are interested in building robots, Taylor suggests meeting with local clubs in your community, like LEGO First Robotics (http://www.firstinspires.org/). You can make new, human friends and enter your robot in competitions.

“Just dive in,” Taylor said. “It’s really fun, but it can be frustrating, just like any new thing. It takes a while to learn, but it is so satisfying when it works.”

My robot is still a work in progress. As we learn more about how robots learn, help us, and work, we can make them better. Perhaps one day, I won’t have to make my own tuna sandwiches anymore. Of course, even if my robot can help answer questions, I’ll still be here to answer them, too. After all, it’s my favorite thing to do.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Got a science question? E-mail Dr. Wendy Sue Universe at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu. Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University.

Girls World Expo is coming to The Lakes Mall in Michigan

WHAT:  CBL Properties, the parent company of The Lakes Mall in Muskegon, MI presents Girls World Expo 2016! This one-day, fun-filled event combines education and participation to help girls 11-18 imagine, believe in, and shape their futures. In workshops, seminars, demonstrations, and displays, they explore different college and career choices with the help of mentors and experts in those fields, learn how to create a healthy body image by uncovering the facts about food and nutrition, unlock the secrets to staying safe online and in life, and hear success stories from local women leaders from all walks of life. Girls World Expo is a safe and upbeat event where girls can interact with one another and enjoy their shared interests!

WHEN:  Sunday, March 6, 2016 | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

WHERE:  The Lakes Mall
5600 Harvey St., Muskegon MI 49444

EVENTS (partial list):

•  Seminars on today’s trending topics, such as body image, bullying, self-esteem, healthy relationships and self-defense.

•  A marketplace with local vendors displaying clothing, jewelry, books, art and salon items.

•  “Bright Ideas,” showcasing STEM from local middle school and high school girls.

•  College and career sessions for teens and parents, featuring information on career paths, degree programs, and internships.

•  A runway fashion show featuring local girls from the community.

•  An art show, live music and dance.

•  An awards ceremony recognizing local Girls of Merit.

•  Non-profit and community service opportunities.

Must pre-register for the event at www.girlsworldexpo.com.

For questions and more information about the expo, please e-mail info@girlsworldexpo.com

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of January 25, 2016

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:15 p.m. on Monday, January 25, 2016, in the township board room.

Members Present:  Brian Werschem, Supervisor; Carol Hulka, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Ron Beck and Marjorie Nash

Members Absent:  Trustee Dave Markgraf and Trustee Chuck Whitlow–excused

At 7:05 p.m., Supervisor Werschem opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer.

Also Present:   0– residents;   0–guests; 0–employees;   DPW Director, Farrar;  Public Safety Director, Doctor and Deputy Fire Chief, Michelli

The December 14, 2015 meeting minutes—regular meeting—were approved as presented.

The January 25, 2016 meeting agenda was approved as presented

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1)  Michigan Townships Association (MTA) legislative up-dates
2)  Fruitport Township Parks & Recreation meeting minutes of August 25th
3) Notice of Hearing—DTE Gas Company.  DTE requests Michigan Public Service Commission approval to increase its annual natural gas distribution revenues.  A typical residential customer’s average natural gas distribution bill may increase by about $7.63 per month.
4) Notice of  Hearing—Michigan Gas Utilities.  Michigan Gas Utilities requests Michigan Public Service Commission approval to implement a gas cost recovery plan to compute its natural gas customers’ bills.
5) Fruitport Drinking Water, Lead Information Sheet, supplied by Matt Farrar, Fruitport Township Utility Director

PUBLIC COMMENTS – None

UNFINISHED BUSINESS–  None

NEW BUSINESS
16-001  Purchase of Police Vehicles
2016-2017 is the year to cycle out old police vehicles and bring in new replacement vehicles.

Ron Becklin  moved, supported by Marjorie Nash, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the purchase of three police cruisers and one police SUV from Borgman Ford Motor Leasing and dispose of the three older cruisers in form of a trade-in when the new cruisers come in.   The recommendation came from the Public Safety Committee, Chief Doctor, and Supervisor Werschem.

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

16-002  Revision of Cemetery Rates for Pine Hill Cemetery, Fruitport Township
Discussion took place on revision of cemetery rates for Pine Hill Cemetery as prices have not been increased since 1998.  This constitutes the first reading.  Final action will be taken at the February 8, 2016 board meeting.

16-003  Budget Adjustments
Carol Hulka moved, Ron Becklin seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the budget adjustments as presented.

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

16-004  Retirement Request from Public Safety Director, Ken Doctor
The motion by Rose Dillon, supported by Ron Becklin, was carried unanimously, to accept the retirement of Ken Doctor as Public Safety Director, effective end of business day February 12, 2016.

16-005  Public Safety Director
With the retirement of Ken Doctor as Public Safety Director, discussion lead to Deputy Chief Michelli, who has been in training for several years as the next Public Safety Director for the Township.

Ron Becklin moved, supported by Rose Dillon, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the Supervisor to negotiate a potential contract with Deputy Chief Michelli and present it as a possible contract for approval at the February 8, 2016 board meeting, with the effective date of the contract being February 15, 2016.  The recommendation came from the Public Safety Committee and Supervisor Werschem.

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

16-006  Vacancy in Fire Department
In the event that Deputy Chief Michelli accepts a contract as the next Public Safety Director, this will create a vacancy in the fire department.

Rose Dillon moved, seconded by Ron Becklin, MOTION CARRIED, to (1) promote a Battalion Chief from within the fire department and present a candidate and (2) authorize the fire department to do an internal posting to the paid on call firefighters to fill a full time fire fighter vacancy.  The promotion and candidate are to be presented at February 8th meeting.

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

16-007  Public Safety Millage Renewals
Marjorie Nash moved,  supported by Carol Hulka,  MOTION CARRIED, to request the County Clerk to place the following two millage propositions on the May 3, 2016 Election ballot.

PUBLIC SAFETY RENEWAL MILLAGE PROPOSITION
Shall a renewal of the present voter-approved increase in the statutory limitation on taxes levied on all property in the township be approved in the amount of 1.5 mills ($1.50 per $1,000) on the taxable values for a five year period with the levy to commence on December 1, 2016, to provide police and fire protection services? The Township estimates that it would receive approximately $664,568.00 each year.  This proposed millage is a renewal of an existing millage.

POLICE DEPARTMENT RENEWAL MILLAGE PROPOSITION
Shall a renewal of the present voter-approved increase in the statutory limitation on taxes levied on all property in the township be approved in the amount of 1 mill (1.00 per $1,000) on the taxable values for a five year period with the levy to commence on December 1, 2016, to provide police protection services and maintaining the Township police department?  The Township estimates that it would receive approximately $443,045.00 each year.  This proposed millage is a renewal of an existing millage.

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

16-008  Public Works Ordinance Update
Ron Becklin moved, seconded by Rose Dillon, MOTION CARRIED, for the adoption of the Revised WATER Rate Resolution and the Revised SEWER Rate Resolution that will establish various water system charges and fees which are authorized by the Fruitport Charter Township Water System and Administration Ordinance.

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

16-009  MADL Agreement
Rose Dillon moved, Ron Becklin supported, MOTION CARRIED, for the adoption of the Intergovernmental Agreement and authorize the Supervisor and Clerk to execute the Agreement.  The Agreement is entered into by the Village of Fruitport, the Charter Township of Fruitport, the Muskegon Area District Library, the Clerk of Muskegon County, and the County of Muskegon.

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

16-010  2016-2017 Budget
Discussion took place on the 2016-2017 Budget.  The Truth in Taxation hearing will tentatively take place at the meeting held on February 22, 2016, with adoption of the budget on March 14, 2016.

16-011  Reappointments on Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals
The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Carol Hulka, was carried unanimously, to reappoint the following positions:
Jeff Jacobs to another 3-year term on Planning Commission
John Winskas to another 3-year term on Zoning Board of Appeals
Joe DeMarco to another 3-year term on Zoning Board of Appeals

16-012  Payment of Bills
Marjorie Nash  moved, seconded by Carol Hulka, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills for payment in the following amounts:   General Fund & Parks: $62,029.25;  Public Safety 63,224.21$  Water: $19,167.73; and Sewer: $3,639.00        Total:  $148,060.19

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

PUBLIC COMMENTS / REPORTS #2 – None

ADJOURNMENT:  At 7:22  p.m.

CAROL HULKA, CLERK
BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

Employers Association of West Michigan Celebrates 100 Years of Answers

MUSKEGON – In December of 1915, a group of six manufacturers gathered to develop a reliable, cost effective way to provide management information, service and assistance to employers – to provide answers. One hundred years later, the organization’s tagline still says it best, “The Answers are Right Here.”

“Our vision is to fulfill our tagline,” says Lisa Sabourin, President, Employers Association of West Michigan (EA). “Our role is to decipher and vet information so that we can help employers apply solutions that best fit their goals and culture, and to provide key employer services and information in support of talent and workforce development.”

EA began with historic Muskegon manufacturing companies, including Morton Manufacturing, Muskegon Motor Specialties, EBW, Lift-Tech, L3 Communications, and CWC Textron; today the group’s membership includes over 150 employers in a variety of sectors – manufacturing, service, banking, retail, public sector, health care, and service organizations.  EA has a unique viewpoint for a membership group, in that they don’t seek to speak for their members as a unit. Instead, their strength is to recognize that each organization has its own individual culture and goals, and to support members with the resources needed to achieve those goals. In order to do so, EA provides organizations with the information and data they need, the training they require and the direct help they request. To help members keep pace with changing complexities and implement best practices, EA provides Hotline Access, so the answers are only a phone call or an email away. Other tools that are available to members through EA include email newsletters and alerts, sample policies and programs, survey data. With over 75 programs annually, they provide training and development for human resources, safety, leadership, sales/marketing/service, communication and soft skills.  EA also hosts some of the largest, most dynamic and inclusive HR and Safety discussion groups in West Michigan.

To celebrate the power of association and the spirit of collaboration of its members for 100 years, EA is planning events and activities throughout the year. Kicking things off will be a dinner on February 23rd at the Trillium. Support of the Muskegon Promise, an event at the Muskegon Heritage Museum, promote high school co-op programs and a special Future Forward event in the fall are things to look forward to from EA this year.

For more information about Employers Association of West Michigan, visit their website at www.eawm.net or call Lisa Sabourin at (231) 759-0916.

Employers Association of West Michigan is a voluntary, private, membership organization of enterprises located along the western shore of Michigan. Member companies, large and small, diverse in purpose, from manufacturing, service, banking, health care, education, retail and public sector organizations, have relied on the Association’s services for 100 years.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 02/08/16-02/14/16

 Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

02/08/2016 – 02/12/16 2016 Global Awareness Festival
‎Muskegon Community College’s 17th Annual Global Awareness Festival on February 8-12 will focus on Latin America, a region located in the western hemisphere between the southern boundary of the U.S. in the north and Antarctica in the south.

Each year, the Global Awareness Festival highlights a different geographic area of the world. The College hosts a series of activities, lectures and other events to bring awareness to that region’s population, culture, cuisine and political issues. All Global Awareness Festival events are free. For more information, contact Papa N’jai at (231) 777-0693 or by e-mail at papa.njai@muskegoncc.edu

02/09/2016 – Sewing Clinic: Quilts
As part of their Black History Month Celebration, Hackley Public Library invites you to a quilt sewing clinic with local seamstress Ozetta Aaron.  She will present an introduction to quilting.  Participants should have a basic knowledge of sewing.  Class size is limited, so call 231-722-7226 to sign up or for more information. Sewing machines will be provided.

02/09/2016 – A Tale of Two Submarines
Tuesday, February 9 at 6:30pm, come to Walker Memorial Library for “USS Silversides:  A Tale of Two Submarines!”  Frank P. Marczak, Director of the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, will give a presentation about the many successes of the USS Silversides as well as the loss of the USS Flier.  In words, video, and pictures, he will tell the story of Ensign Alvin Jacobson, a Grand Haven native and one of eight men who survived the sinking of the USS Flier in 1944.  For more information, call 231-744-6080.

02/04/2016 – 02/18.16 Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale
February 4 – 18, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale! The MMA’s popular Postcard Salon returns in 2016 with the opportunity to view hundreds of small-scale artworks by artists throughout the region. The short exhibition ends with a free Postcard Salon reception and sale on February 18. The reception starts at 5:30pm with complimentary refreshments and a cash bar. Starting at 7:00pm that night, guests can buy the artworks for $30 each. The Postcard Salon is sponsored by G&L Greek Chili Dogs and WGVU Public Media.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/11/2016 – Brown Bag Film: All of Me – The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert
‎February 11 at 12:15pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Brown Bag Film, “All of Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert.”  (78 mins.) In this documentary, Winfred Rembert reflects on his life in the segregated south and how his life and art unfolded together. He works through memories and records them by tooling images on leather and then painting them with dye. The work is moving not only in emotion, but in rhythm, line, and movement. Brown Bag Films are free and sponsored by the Alcoa Foundation/Whitehall Operations.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/11/2016 – Ladies Pink Night Out!
‎Watch Us Go PINK! is your chance to embrace fun throughout Muskegon County while you support a worthy cause. For the entire month of February 2016, you’ll find packages at select Muskegon County hotels, as well as specials at local retailers and restaurants, in an effort to raise funds to support Susan G. Komen® efforts in West Michigan and specifically, Muskegon County. From 5:00 – 9:00pm each Thursday, come to The Lake House Waterfront Grille for “Ladies Pink Night Out!”  Bring your sister, mother, grandma, and lady friends and come have a night out while celebrating survivors, fighters and just having fun with your ladies! Happy Hour Food and Drink Specials will be available! Wear Pink!  Call 231-722-4461 for more information.

02/11/2016 – Girl’s Night Out: Wine and Chocolate with Chef Char Morse
‎Enjoy wine, chocolate and your best friends at Kitchen 242, Thursday, February 11 from 6:00-8:00pm! “Girl’s Night Out: Wine and Chocolate with Chef Char Morse” will be a fun night working with simple, decadent dessert recipes paired with outstanding local wines.  Learn the basics of tempering chocolate, how to make homemade caramel and see exactly what goes into making a triple chocolate truffle.  Enjoy the desserts paired with samples of wine while learning new things in the kitchen, located within the Muskegon Farmers’ Market.  This is an adult’s only class with limited seating, so reserve your spot asap.

02/11/2016 – An Evening with Winfred Rembert
February 11 at 6:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “An Evening with Winfred Rembert.” Enjoy a special evening with Winfred Rembert, one of the newest artists in the collection of the Muskegon Museum of Art with Chain Gang Picking Cotton #2, and Vivian Ducat, the creator of the film, All Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert. Rembert, a dynamic artist with a true talent and passion for his work, will talk about his life and art. He will be joined by Vivian Ducat, who worked with him initially to create a short eight-minute film that ultimately became a feature-length documentary of Rembert’s family, his trials, and his artwork. Rembert and Ducat will discuss the film with the audience after the film. This event is free and is part of the MMA’s Finding Common Ground program series, made possible by the Michigan Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Arts.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/12/2016 – 02/14/2016 West MI Youth Wintersportsfest
The West Michigan Youth Wintersportsfest is comprised of thirteen events from February 12-14 at various sites within the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex.  You can snowshoe, figure skate, ice speedskate, inline speedskate, luge, cross country ski, do gymnastics, competitive cheer, biathlon, hockey, bowling, archery, rifle marksmanship and more!  For more information, call Mark Jastrzembski at 231-828-4627.

02/12/2016 – Alley Door Club
The Alley Door has a new twist for its 11th year; “Sip, Savor & Shimmy!” tasting events!  Each Alley Door show is paired up with a local Brewery, Winery or Mill, so come out and enjoy a great night in downtown Muskegon!  February 12, it’s live music from the West Side Soul Surfers! The brewery this week is Pigeon Hill. Tickets are $7 in advance or at the door.  A cash bar available with valid I.D. required.   Tables may be reserved for $55.00 for a 4-top (includes 4 admission tickets) / $80.00 for an 8-top (includes 8 admission tickets).  Limit of 2 4-tops and 2 8-tops reserved for each performance, sold on a first come basis.  For more information, visit frauenthal.org.

02/12/2016 – 02/13/16 Bling Thing
Friday, February 12 from 5:00-8:00pm and Saturday, 10:00am-2:00pm, come to the Century Club for the “Bling Thing”, a fundraising event for Friends of Hackley Public Library.  This 4th annual sale will offer jewelry, purses, scarves, hats, belts, clothing, sparkly home decor items and things with “bling.” Friday is the Early Sale Party with wine, chocolate and first dibs on the goodies with an entry fee of $10. Saturday, entry is free, and the Creative Fringe will be offering a variety of DIY jewelry projects during the Saturday sale. You will be able to make bracelets, necklaces or earrings using a variety of glass beads and metal charms.  No experience is necessary because they will do all the finishing for you!  Prices start at just $6.99.  Bigby Coffee will provide free coffee and hot chocolate!

02/13/2016 – PEAK Training Academy Camp
PEAK Training Academy is excited to bring Leea Murphy and Kendall Fletcher to Muskegon on February 13 for a Co-Ed U 11- U13 clinic in the morning and a Girls High School clinic in the afternoon at the L.C. Walker Arena.  Leea Murphy played at a forward and helped the University of North Carolina to a 2003 National Title and Kendall Fletcher another Tar Heel and currently a center back with the Seattle Reign will bring their experience to Muskegon for this 1 day camp.

The clinic will be held at the LC Walker Area and that night the Muskegon Risers will play their second indoor match. Online registration is available at http://www.trainatpeak.com/. Questions call Jeff Lohman, PEAK Training Academy at (231) 327-7954 or e-mail at jeff.peakacademy@gmail.com

02/13/2016 – Beginners Baking for Kids: Mini Cheesecakes With Chef Char
‎Saturday, February 13 from 9:00am-11:00am, it’s Beginning Baking for Kids – Mini Cheesecakes with Chef Char at Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market!  This class will focus on how to construct and bake a successful cheesecake with emphasis on variety and creativity in flavors, including a New York style cheesecake with fruit topping, a triple chocolate cheesecake, a pecan turtle cheesecake and a pumpkin marble cheesecake.  You will make a full size cheesecake in class to share and enjoy during class.  Then you come up with your own unique combinations of flavors and garnish for mini cheesecakes to take home to share with your family.  The cost is $25 for ages 7-13. Register soon, class size is limited to 20.

02/13/2016 – Walk for Warmth
February 13 from 9:00am-11:00am, come to the Lakes Mall for the “Walk for Warmth!”  100% of all proceeds benefit our friends and neighbors in Muskegon and Oceana Counties who are facing heating emergencies and utility shut-off. Walk for Warmth funds Emergency Utility Assistance through MOCAP, a Community Action Agency. Funds are used throughout the year, but many people associate utility emergencies with the cold winter months.

The event is non-competitive and includes entertainment along the walk course, is family friendly, and includes free gifts.  Registration will be Saturday, February 13 from 8:30am – 9:00am the day of the walk. Registration forms will be available on-site as well as being available on the MOCAP Facebook page. For more information please contact Todd Rasmussen or Jamie Wasilchenko at 231-725-9499.

02/13/2016 – Art on Canvas
‎Saturday, February 13 at 10:00am, come to the Walker Memorial Library for “Art on Canvas!”  Join local artist Lori McElrath-Eslick for a fun and relaxing time painting together!  Create your very own work of art to give to someone as a gift or hang on your wall!  All ability levels welcome.  Class size is limited and registration is required.  Please call the library at 231-744-6080 to register.

02/13/2016 – Mini Masterpieces Super Saturday
‎February 13 from 11:00am – 3:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a “Mini Masterpieces Super Saturday!”  See how tiny artworks pack a punch in the Postcard Salon and the MMA’s permanent collection during this free family fun day.

10:00 am & 1:00 pm
Film: The Borrowers (75 mins.) – A miniature family takes up residency in the walls of a house to save it from demolition.

11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Make & Take – Make your own mini masterpiece.

11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Guided Tours – Explore the works in the Postcard Salon with an MMA docent.

For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/14/2016 – Howl n Blues
‎Howl n Blues is a winter concert, blues party series held the second Sunday of each month through April 2016 at Watermark 920. The Watermark 920 features seating for over 250, large and small tables, side sofas, a huge dance floor, stage and stage lighting, craft and domestic beer, wine, a full bar and excellent food. Doors open at 1:00pm with music from 2:00 to 5:00pm.  The cost is $15 and includes two raffle tickets. Proceeds benefit the Pound Buddies Animal Shelter and Adoption Center. February 14 it’s Bryan Fischer. 

Ongoing Events:

Pennants on Display
Pennants from the collection of Peggy Tully are now on display in the Collectors Corner at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Her collection showcases pennants collected in the late 1940s and early 1950s from all over the United States and Canada. Starting with the collector’s hometown of Marshall, Michigan all the way to the Grand Canyon and beyond. This collection will be on display through the end of February 2016.  The museum is open weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00pm.  For more information, call 231-722-0278 or visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

The Holocaust: A Ripple in Time
‎When you have survived one of the greatest tragedies imaginable, where do you go from there? Walk through an exhibit that explains life before, during and after the Holocaust. Cost is $5.00 per person or free with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership. The exhibit will run through February 22, 2016. For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards
‎The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to explore the exhibit “Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards.”  Imagine a land where corn grows to the size of tree trunks; where the lakes are so cold the trout have fur coats; where deer have become the hunters and men are their prey. These assorted oddities come vividly to life in this exhibit at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Tall tales are humorous stories of exaggeration that often involve ludicrous or absurd imagery.  The exhibit features over 80 tall tale postcards demonstrating this unique form of popular humor.  The exhibit is on loan from the Michigan State University Museum. The Lakeshore Museum Center is located at 430 W. Clay Ave. Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free. For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague.
The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to view the exhibit, “A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague.” Artifacts and photographs tell the story of the early days of Montague and Whitehall when the cities got their start during the lumbering industry.  Lumber mills attracted workers who needed housing, food, and supplies so stores and hotels were built. Businesses like tanneries and shingle mills which made use of the excess bark and wood from lumbering also moved into the community.  Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free.  For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org

Marsh Field: 1916 – 2016
The history of Marcs Field is explored in a small display at the Lakeshore Museum Center.  Photographs and text recount 100 years of baseball played at this Muskegon park. Marsh Field has hosted everything from community events to Major League affiliate baseball teams. Baseball Hall of Fame Players, like Satchel Paige, have played there as well as hometown heroes like Earl Morrall. Learn more about the history of Marsh Field now through June of 2016. The Lakeshore Museum Center is located at 430 W. Clay Ave. Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free. For more information visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration
‎Through March 19, 2016, the 88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration is open.  The Muskegon Museum of Art has established a digital artwork entry process for its 88th Regional Exhibition, for the first time in the competitive Regional’s long history. Online entry is available through the callforentry.org (CaFÉ) website. Search keyword “Muskegon” to find the show. Free CaFÉ registration is required for entry. The 88th Regional will run from May 12 through August 3, 2016. The deadline for entry is March 19, 2016. Hand delivery days for accepted artwork will be April 21, 22, and 23.

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.

Solar Superstorms
‎A fury is building on the surface of the sun, with high-velocity jets, a fiery tsunami wave that reaches 100,000 kilometers high, and rising loops of electrified gas. What’s driving these strange phenomena? How will they affect planet Earth? Find the answers as we venture into the seething interior of our star with “Solar Superstorms,” which takes viewers into dramatic flares, violent solar tornadoes, and the largest eruptions in the solar system: coronal mass ejections. This NEW 30-minute program at Muskegon Community College (room 135, 221 S. Quarterline Rd, Muskegon) will be at 7:00pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 12 – March 31 (except: closed Mar 1 & 3 for spring break), and will be followed by a brief constellation demonstration projected on the planetarium dome. As always, the show is free, and no reservations are needed. Doors open for seating at 6:45pm. For more information, or to schedule a private show for groups of 15-44, please call (231) 777-0289 or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu.

 

 

COMMON GROUND: African American Art
‎December 10, 2015 through March 20, 2016, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “COMMON GROUND: African American Art from the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Muskegon Museum of Art”!  Common Ground is collaboration between three Michigan art museums showcasing the best of each institution’s renowned collections of African American artwork combined in one exhibition, including some of the most important African American artists from the nineteenth century to present day. Common Ground is divided into five thematic areas that will give a broad overview of the history of African American art, showing its diversity as well as its commonality. The exhibition includes more than 60 top-rated works in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and works on paper. Common Ground is underwritten by DTE Foundation with additional support from Fifth Third Bank and the Nancy A. Waters and Mark Waters Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. MLive/Muskegon Chronicle is the Common Ground media sponsor.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

I, TOO, AM AMERICA: The Art of Bryan Collier
‎January 18-April 17, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “I, too, am America:  The Art of Bryan Collier.”  This exhibition features 15 large scale original artworks created by Bryan Collier for his picture book, I, Too, Am America, which illustrates the seminal poem, I, Too by Langston Hughes. Collier graduated from the Pratt Institute and was a former Program Director at the Harlem Horizon Institute. His accolades include the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award, Caldecott Medal, and Jane Addam’s Children’s Book Award. He was also a nominee for an NAACP image award for Outstanding Children’s Literary Work. Underwritten by the Folkert Family Foundation.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition
‎All adult/college area writers residing within the state of Michigan are invited to create original ekphrastic poems based on one of 10 artworks selected from the permanent collection and the Common Ground exhibition. Cash prizes, Muskegon Museum of Art memberships, and gift certificates will be awarded to the winning poets. Guidelines, images of selected works, and entry forms are available at the MMA gift store or may be downloaded from the MMA website at muskegonartmuseum.org. Entries must arrive at the MMA by March 24. Award winners will read their poems and be recognized at a ceremony on April 21. Questions? Call the MMA Education Department at 231-720-2587 or email: cmott@mpsk12.net.

After School Movie Madness!
Kids are invited to Walker Public Library at 3:15pm every Thursday (except for when there is a half-day or no school) for “After School Movie Madness!”  Age appropriate movies are shown and popcorn is provided while supplies last!  Call 231-744-6080 or visit the library to find out what movie is playing each week!

Art & a Glass: Thursday Happy Hour at the MMA
Every Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Art & a Glass!”  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 to 8:00 pm, so take advantage of the opportunity to discover your Museum at no cost. There will be a cash bar. You must be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Taco Saturday at Mona Lake Boating Club
‎The public is invited to the Mona Lake Boating Club every Saturday September 5 – May 28 from 11:30am-2:00pm for their famous homemade tacos, taco salads and nachos!  Call 231-798-4011 for more information.

Tractor Supply Company, National FFA Foundation Announce “Grants for Growing” Program

Opportunity for Local FFA Chapters to Signup Ends February 15

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. (February 2, 2016) –  Tractor Supply Company is excited to announce the national  launch of the “Grants for Growing” program, which allows opportunities for local FFA chapters to make their communities a better place to live.  The deadline for local FFA chapters to sign up for this competitive grant process is February 15. The in-store event to raise funds by allowing Tractor Supply shoppers to donate $1 at checkout will run February 19-28.

In partnership with the National FFA Foundation, the “Grants for Growing” program raises funds for local FFA chapter initiatives and awards minimum $500 competitive grants to participating chapters. While $500 is the minimum grant amount that will be awarded to selected chapters, there is no cap on the amount of funding that a chapter can choose to request for its project.

If selected, chapters can use the funds in a number of ways to benefit their community including buying vegetation, trees, seed, chickens, feed, mulch or tools to help start or expand an FFA project that will continue for years to come.

Chapter advisors are required to complete the grant application, and eligibility will be based on the evaluation of how the money will be used, volunteer hours, and promotional activities during the fundraising period.  The “Grants for Growing” application can be found at https://www.FFA.org/grantsforgrowing/application.

After positive feedback from preselected communities in 2015, the program is now being offered on a national level. All of the funds raised will remain within the state where they were raised.

About Tractor Supply Company
Tractor Supply Company operates more than 1,500 stores in 49 states. Located in the outlying towns in major metropolitan markets and in rural communities, Tractor Supply Company stores are focused on supplying the lifestyle needs of recreational farmers and ranchers and others who enjoy the rural lifestyle, as well as tradesmen and small businesses. The Company offers a comprehensive selection of merchandise for the health, care, growth and containment of horses, livestock and pets including select Purina and Nutrena brand feeds; hardware, truck, towing and tool products; and seasonal products, including lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts and toys. In addition, the company sells work/recreational clothing and footwear for the entire family and maintenance products for agricultural and rural use. For more information on Tractor Supply, access the website at www.TractorSupply.com.

About National FFA Organization
The National FFA Organization is a national youth organization of 629,367 student members as part of 7,757 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. The National FFA Organization operates under a federal charter granted by the 81st United States Congress and it is an integral part of public instruction in agriculture. The U.S. Department of Education provides leadership and helps set direction for FFA as a service to state and local agricultural education programs. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at FFA.org, on Facebook, Twitter and the official National FFA Organization blog.

About National FFA Foundation
The National FFA Foundation builds partnerships with industry, education, government, other foundations and individuals to secure financial resources that recognize FFA member achievements, develop student leaders and support the future of agricultural education. Governed by a 19-member board of trustees comprised of educators, business leaders, individual donors and FFA alumni, the foundation is a separately-registered nonprofit organization. About 82 percent of every dollar received by the foundation supports FFA members and agricultural education opportunities. For more, visit FFA.org/Give.

SCORE Muskegon Offers Free Business Workshops for Small and Start-Up Businesses

SCORE Muskegon will be hosting a series of workshops this year to help those looking to grow their small business or start their own business.  The first sessions of the year are as follows:

Intro to Starting a Business  –  February 2, 2016
6:00 – 8:00 PM at the Spring Lake District Library
Thinking of starting a business or wondering what steps to take? SCORE Counselor, John Brocci has the answers in this course designed for individuals considering self-employment, or in beginning stages of starting a business.

Business Planning for Start-ups  –  March 2, 2016
6:00 – 8:00 PM at GVSU’s MAREC in Downtown Muskegon
Whether you’re thinking of starting a business, or have been in business for years, a business plan is critical for your success. SCORE Counselor, John Brocci will walk through the components of a successful business plan and help get yours on track.

Fundamentals of Marketing  –  March 16, 2016
6:00 – 8:00 PM at GVSU’s MAREC in Downtown Muskegon
Marketing your business is imperative for success.  Learn the basics from Laura Holmes, a marketing expert and owner of Fineline Creative. Identify your target market, how to reach them and develop a budget that works for your business.

Business Legal Issues  –  March 30, 2016
6:00 – 8:00 PM at GVSU’s MAREC in Downtown Muskegon
Will Meier of Parmenter O’Toole Law Firm will walk through basic legal issues that every business owner must know.  This is great for those thinking of starting a business and those new in business.

Registration is requested for all workshops. Attendees are asked to contact the hosting entity for registration. More information regarding the workshop contents can be found at www.scoremuskegon.org.

SCORE Muskegon is housed inside the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce office and offers FREE and confidential business counseling five days a week. Counseling is by appointment only.  Appointments can be made by calling the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce office at 231-722-3751.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 02/01/16-02/07/16

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

02/01/2016 – Hackley Handycrafts: Valentine Book Art

Come to Hackley Public Library Monday, February 1 at 6:00pm for Hackley Handycrafts: Valentine Book Art! Using a discarded book, Nancy Hartman will take you through the steps to make a truly unique work of Valentine art.  For more information, call 231-722-7276.

02/02/2016 – Victory in Praise and Church of the Living God Choirs

February 2 at 6:00pm, come to Hackley Public Library for the Victory in Praise and Church of the Living God Choirs as they celebrate Black History Month. These two great choirs return for one awesome concert. Brandon Davis and the Victory in Praise Choir is a community choir in the Muskegon/West Michigan Area. They are comprised of Christians from various denominations. The Church of the Living God Choir is well known as a wonderful church choir in the greater Muskegon area. Brandon introduces the pieces with a bit of history. Brought to you through the generous bequest of Bess Commodore. For more information, call 231-722-7276.

02/02/2016 – White Lake Classical Series

Tuesday, February 2 at 7:00pm, you’re invited to the Book Nook & Java Shop for the White Lake Classical Series featuring Steve Thielman & Friends, featuring Sondra Cross, clarinet; Michelle Vallier, violin; Bryan Uecker, piano; Becky Parks, violin!  The cover is $5.  If you like, get their at 6:15 to enjoy a wonderful dinner of garlic and peppercorn encrusted pork tenderloin with a strawberry green pepper sauce; creamy polenta; sauteed kale and shallots; glass of house wine and chocolate ganache topped olive oil cake with roasted grapes for only $17.  RSVP to The Book Nook & Java Shop by calling (231) 894-5333.

02/02/2016 – Pianist, Dr. Solee Lee-Clark

Tuesday February 2 at 6:30pm, you’re invited to Walker Memorial Library for beautiful piano music!  From Carnegie hall to Walker Community  Center, Dr. Solee Lee-Clark will present a classical recital on their restored grand piano.  Dr. Clark, organist and accompanist at First Congregational Church and staff accompanist for Hope College, played at Carnegie Hall in 2014.  For more information, call 231-744-6080.

02/04/2016 – 02/07/16 Rebel Road Winter Burnout

February 4-7, it’s the Rebel Road Winter Burnout to benefit the Muskegon Child Abuse Council!  Come help them keep the fire burning on Rebel Road (Western Ave.) with all of your favorite food, beverages, vendors, live bands and burning barrels!

Thursday:

Cards Against Humanity – Racquets Downtown Grill, 7:00pm, $20 per team

Friday:

Full Service Open Air Bar with burning barrels – 6:00pm-11:00pm

Band – Pop Fiction, 7:00pm-11:00pm

Disk Golf – 6:00pm

Saturday:

Full Service Open Air Bar with burning barrels – 10:00am-11:00pm

Band – Whoopee Cat, 8:00pm-11:00pm

Corn Hole – 10:00am

Chili Cook-Off – $0.50 per sample, 11:30am-2:00pm, 3rd Floor of the Hilt Building, vendors, games for the whole family, auction

Disk Golf – 6:00pm

Sunday:

Motorcycle Swap Meet – 10:00am-5:00pm, L.C. Walker Arena

02/04/2016 – 02/18/16 Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale

February 4 – 18, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale! The MMA’s popular Postcard Salon returns in 2016 with the opportunity to view hundreds of small-scale artworks by artists throughout the region. The short exhibition ends with a free Postcard Salon reception and sale on February 18. The reception starts at 5:30pm with complimentary refreshments and a cash bar. Starting at 7:00pm that night, guests can buy the artworks for $30 each. The Postcard Salon is sponsored by G&L Greek Chili Dogs and WGVU Public Media.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

02/04/2016 – Happy Hour Painting

Thursday, February 4 from 6:00-8:00pm, enjoy Happy Hour Painting with Instructor Marlan Cotner at the Muskegon Museum of Art!  The cost is $30 or $25 for members, and includes materials and your first beverage.  This class is for ages 21 & up and is for all skill levels.  Join them for another round of painting and spirits focusing on The Kiss, the famous painting by Gustav Klimt. This golden painting embraces the viewer and the subjects. Pre-registration is required by calling 231-720-2571 by January 28.

02/04/2016 – Live Music: Third Coast

Thursday, February 4 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for live music from Third Coast.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

02/05/2016 – 02/06/16 Michigan Anglers Association ‘Ed Subler’ Fishing Derby

Friday and Saturday, February 5-6, come to the Lakeside Eagles for the Michigan Anglers Association “Ed Subler” Fishing Derby!  Friday’s event is their opening social time with a fish & chicken fry and fun raffles. Saturday’s derby begins at 10:00am with weigh-in time before 3:00pm.  Tickets are available at local bait stores and the Lakeside Eagles.  The cost is $2 and includes a raffle for prizes after 3:00pm.

02/05/2016 – 02/06/16 Polar Plunge & Pre-Registration Party

The Muskegon Polar Plunge takes place at Fricano’s on February 6, 2016. Registration starts at 12:00pm. The Plunge will start at 2:00pm, with the awards and After Splash Bash at 4:00pm. There is free admission to the After Splash Bash for plungers. There will be a $10 fee for guests which includes pizza. If you would like to avoid the registration lines on Plunge Day, there will be a Pre-Registration Party on Friday, February 5 at Fricano’s to come in and get registered and turn in your donations. You can come any time from 4:00 – 8:00pm.  For more information, visit https://www.firstgiving.com/polarplunge/Muskegon16.

02/05/2016 – Black History Community Choir Concert

Friday, February 5 from 6:00-7:30pm, come to Collegiate Hall at MCC for “Celebrating Black History through Song, Poetry and the Spoken Word: Community Choir Concert.”  Students and community members, accompanied by Robert Moore and Greenbrook, will share the struggles and successes of African Americans through song, poetry/spoken word and dance.  For more information, call 231-777-0582.

02/05/2016 – Honoring Our Heroes featuring The Accidentals

Come to the Watermark 920, Friday, February 5 at 6:00pm for the “Honoring Our Heroes” event featuring live music from The Accidentals with special Guest Muskegon’s Christopher C. Cordle. This event will be free with donations being accepted at the door for the 501(c)3 charity organization, Finish The Mission, a veteran relief fund. Along with the concert, there will be silent auctions and 50/50 raffles to raise money for our area veterans in need.  For more information, call 231-865-3332.

02/05/2016 – First Friday Fan Fun-Raiser

The first Friday of the month, The Book Nook and Java Shop features a celebrity bartender and encourages their fans to show up and raise money. Tips and 20% of all proceeds will benefit the charity of their choice. Friday, February 5 at 7:00pm, the celebrity bartender will be Whitehall Mayor, Ed Whalen!  This Month’s Charity is the White Lake Community Fund of the Community Foundation of Muskegon County.  Enjoy live music from Serita Crowley & Jon Hayes, winners of the WYCE Jammie Award, and Three Time Eclipse Award-Winning Singer Serita Crowley, also known as “Black Rose” is a Funk, Rock, Blues, Neo-Soul Songstress Extraordinaire from West Michigan.  Dinner will have a Mardi Gras Theme, featuring Chicken Creole over Rice, Homemade Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce, Mai Tai Margaritas, Rum & Cokes, Hurricanes, Cafe Royale Lattes and New Holland “Dirty Bastards” Craft Beer. Laissez les bon temps rollez! For more information, call 231-894-5333.

02/05/2016 – Lumberjacks Hockey Home Game!

After finishing second in the chase for the USHL’s top prize – the Clark Cup, the Lumberjacks are back this season to win it and tonight they will go against the Bloomington Thunder. They will back to back games both Friday & Saturday with the Thunder this week. The puck drops at 7:15pm both nights.  Friday is $1 beer and hotdog night.  Saturday is Beard Night! Be there to support our hockey. GO JACKS! LC Walker Arena is located at 955 Fourth Street, downtown Muskegon.

02/05/2016 – West Michigan Symphony Presents: Viva Italia!

The West Michigan Symphony invites you to the Frauenthal Theater Friday, February 5 at 7:30pm to take a mid-winter Italian vacation with WMS! Nearly every piece Gioacchino Rossini wrote was full of humor and warmth, and none more so than The Italian Girl in Algiers. Next, in what is regarded as one of the greatest violin concertos of all time, Philippe Quint performs Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor. Finally, inspired by his travels to Italy, Felix Mendelssohn described his joyful and extroverted Italian Symphony as “the jolliest piece I have ever done.”  Call Rita at 231-726-3231 x223 for tickets and more information.

02/06/2016 – Dine and Glide

The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex and Smash Wine Bar & Bistro have partnered to provide this year’s Dine and Glide. February 6th for a progressive dinner and XC skiing. Each ticket includes your meal, 1 drink ticket, trail pass and rental equipment. You’ll enjoy a 5 course meal and beverages as you ski from course to course on the lighted trails at the Sports Complex. This is perfect for a romantic date night or fun evening out with friends. Menu
1st course The starter- white chocolate macadamia brownie bits 2nd course Easing in- hot beer cheddar soup served in an fresh baked bread bowl. 3rd course Hit em’ hard- Cajun sausage & shrimp jambalaya served over white rice 4th course Will I make it- 1/2 lb. Thai Asian chicken wings 5th course Finish line- Wine, Fireball or Blue Tahitian snow cones

02/06/2016 – Hearty Bread Bowls and Soups with Chef Char Morse

Saturday, February 6 from 9:00am-11:00am, come to the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for the adult cooking class “Have Your Bowl and Eat It Too: Hearty Bread Bowls and Soups with Chef Char Morse!”  Learn the basics to homemade stocks and broths as the foundation to several soup possibilities.  Demo and discuss: Tips for making clear stocks, understand difference between stock, broth and bisque. You will be making hearty bread bowls to go along with two soups made in class.  Your recipes packet will include however: Homemade Chicken Noodle with Vegetables, Creamy Roasted Tomato Basil, Vegetable Bean, Classic French Onion and Curried Butternut.  The cost is $38 and you can register at www.eventbrite.com

02/06/2016 – Black History Month Trivia Contest

So you think you know your Black History? Form a group with your friends (up to 4 per team, 6 teams total) and pit your knowledge against other teams. Call Hackley Public Library at 231-722-7276 to register your team by February 5. On February 6, at 2:00pm, come to Hackley Public Library to see the contest, hosted by a surprise celebrity. Teams will be asked questions on Black History. They’ll have prizes for First, Second, and Third place teams, as well as some consolation prizes. Cheer on your friends and family! Brought to you through the generous bequest of Bess Commodore. www.hackleylibrary.org

02/06/2016 – Pop Star Party: A Family Dance Party Fundraiser

The Muskegon Lakeshore Figure Skating Club presents “Pop Star Party: A Family Dance Party!”  This fundraiser features Digital Joes Mobile Entertainment, games, food, a costume contest and photo booth.  It’s all happening Saturday, February 6 from 5:00-8:00pm at the Elks Lodge in Grand Haven.  Tickets are available at the door. For more information, email sk8mlfsc@gmail.com.

02/06/2016 – West Michigan Lake Hawks Home Game

The West Michigan Lake Hawks ABA basketball team will play a home game against the Team NetWork at Reeths Puffer High School Saturday, February 6 at 6:00pm.  For more information, visit lakehawksbasketball.com.

02/06/2016 – Dance the Night Away

Door prize drawings for advanced ticket purchases. B.Y.O.B. – appetizers and water provided $12.00 per person. Dress to Impress or Classy Casual Complimentary dance lessons – ballroom, swing and line dancing. Proceeds to benefit Greater Muskegon Women’s Club Scholarship Fund.

02/06/2016 – Live Music: Knick Knacks

Saturday, February 6 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for live music from the Knick Knacks.  For more information, call 231-894-5333.

02/06/2016 – Lumberjacks Hockey Home Game!

After finishing second in the chase for the USHL’s top prize – the Clark Cup, the Lumberjacks are back this season to win it and tonight they will go against the Bloomington Thunder. They will back to back games both Friday & Saturday with the Thunder this week. The puck drops at 7:15pm. Be there to support our hockey. GO JACKS! LC Walker Arena is located at 955 Fourth Street, downtown Muskegon.

02/06/2016 – Concert @The Block: Philippe Quint, violin

Award-winning American violinist Philippe Quint is a multifaceted artist whose wide range of interests has led to several Grammy nominations for his albums and performances with major orchestras throughout the world. Quint studied at Moscow’s Special Music School for the Gifted and made his orchestral debut at the age of nine. After moving to the United States, he earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from The Juilliard School. Philippe Quint plays unaccompanied in a solo performance at this mid-winter concert at The Block.

Call Rita at 231.726.3231 x223 for tickets and more information. Doors and bar open at 6:30, concert begins at 7:30 PM.

02/07/2016 – Michgian Winter Triathlon

Come to the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex Sunday, February 7 beginning at 10:00am for the Michigan Winter Triathlon! This is your opportunity to try out three exciting Winter Olympic sports (luge, ice speedskating and cross country skiing) in a family-friendly competition smack in the heart of “Pure West Michigan.” The event is geared toward those the have never done at least one of these sports. There are no big awards. There is no pressure to win. You’ll simply have fun doing a sport you would not normally think about trying. Learn everything you need to know to get through this competition in continuous 20 minute clinics at each venue.

ENTRY FEE: $20 Ages 12 and under

$25 Ages 13 and over

$50 Family rate (mom/dad and children living in the same house)

10:00-11:30am: Check in and registration in the lodge. YOU MUST HAVE PROOF OF HEALTH CARE INSURANCE!!!

10:30am: Clinics held for beginners at the three venues. 20 minute continuous sessions. For safety reasons, it is mandatory that everyone attend a luge clinic. You do not have to attend the ski or skate clinics unless you want extra training.

Noon-2:30pm: Begin the skating and luge competitions. Do whichever one you want first then go to the other event when done. It is up to you to manage your time so you can participate in both the luge and speedskating competitions before the start of the ski race. The ski race goes off at 3:00pm sharp whether you are finished or not at the other two venues!!!

3:00pm – Cross country ski race begins (mass start)

4:00pm – Awards presented

For more information, call Mark Jastrzembski at 231-828-4627.

02/07/2016 – Motorcycle Swap Meet

Paragons Promotion in conjunction with the Rebel Road Winter Burn Out present the 1st Annual Muskegon Motorcycle Swap Meet. Sunday, February 7 from 10:00am-4:00pm, come to the L.C. Walker Arena to buy, sell or trade bikes, parts, leather and more, all to benefit the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon! Food and beverages will be available. For more information, call 1-800-800-6034.

Ongoing Events:

Pennants on Display

Pennants from the collection of Peggy Tully are now on display in the Collectors Corner at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Her collection showcases pennants collected in the late 1940s and early 1950s from all over the United States and Canada. Starting with the collector’s hometown of Marshall, Michigan all the way to the Grand Canyon and beyond. This collection will be on display through the end of February 2016.  The museum is open weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00pm.  For more information, call 231-722-0278 or visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

The Holocaust: A Ripple in Time

When you have survived one of the greatest tragedies imaginable, where do you go from there? Walk through an exhibit that explains life before, during and after the Holocaust. Cost is $5.00 per person or free with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership. The exhibit will run through February 22, 2016. For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards

The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to explore the exhibit “Storytelling through the Mail: Tall Tale Postcards.”  Imagine a land where corn grows to the size of tree trunks; where the lakes are so cold the trout have fur coats; where deer have become the hunters and men are their prey. These assorted oddities come vividly to life in this exhibit at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Tall tales are humorous stories of exaggeration that often involve ludicrous or absurd imagery.  The exhibit features over 80 tall tale postcards demonstrating this unique form of popular humor.  The exhibit is on loan from the Michigan State University Museum. The Lakeshore Museum Center is located at 430 W. Clay Ave. Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free. For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague .

The Lakeshore Museum Center invites you to view the exhibit, “A Bridge Between: Whitehall and Montague.” Artifacts and photographs tell the story of the early days of Montague and Whitehall when the cities got their start during the lumbering industry.  Lumber mills attracted workers who needed housing, food, and supplies so stores and hotels were built. Businesses like tanneries and shingle mills which made use of the excess bark and wood from lumbering also moved into the community.  Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free.  For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org  

Marsh Field: 1916 – 2016

The history of Marsh Field is explored in a small display at the Lakeshore Museum Center.  Photographs and text recount 100 years of baseball played at this Muskegon park. Marsh Field has hosted everything from community events to Major League affiliate baseball teams. Baseball Hall of Fame Players, like Satchel Paige, have played there as well as hometown heroes like Earl Morrall. Learn more about the history of Marsh Field now through June of 2016. The Lakeshore Museum Center is located at 430 W. Clay Ave. Hours are weekdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Saturdays from Noon to 4:00pm. Admission is free. For more information visit lakeshoremuseum.org.

88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration

Through March 19, 2016, the 88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration is open.  The Muskegon Museum of Art has established a digital artwork entry process for its 88th Regional Exhibition, for the first time in the competitive Regional’s long history. Online entry is available through the callforentry.org (CaFÉ) website. Search keyword “Muskegon” to find the show. Free CaFÉ registration is required for entry. The 88th Regional will run from May 12 through August 3, 2016. The deadline for entry is March 19, 2016. Hand delivery days for accepted artwork will be April 21, 22, and 23.

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.

Solar Superstorms

A fury is building on the surface of the sun, with high-velocity jets, a fiery tsunami wave that reaches 100,000 kilometers high, and rising loops of electrified gas. What’s driving these strange phenomena? How will they affect planet Earth? Find the answers as we venture into the seething interior of our star. “Solar Superstorms” is a major new production that takes viewers into dramatic flares, violent solar tornadoes, and the largest eruptions in the solar system: coronal mass ejections. The program features one of the most intensive efforts ever made to visualize the inner workings of the sun, including a series of groundbreaking computer visualizations. This NEW 30-minute program will be at 7:00 pm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, January 12 – March 31 (except: closed Mar 1 & 3 for spring break), and will be followed by a brief constellation demonstration projected on the planetarium dome. As always, the show is free, and no reservations are needed. Doors open for seating at 6:45. For more information, or to schedule a private show for groups of 15-44, please call (231) 777-0289 or email tamera.owens@muskegoncc.edu.

COMMON GROUND: African American Art

December 10, 2015 through March 20, 2016, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “COMMON GROUND: African American Art from the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Muskegon Museum of Art”!  Common Ground is a collaboration between three Michigan art museums showcasing the best of each institution’s renowned collections of African American artwork combined in one exhibition, including some of the most important African American artists from the nineteenth century to present day. Common Ground is divided into five thematic areas that will give a broad overview of the history of African American art, showing its diversity as well as its commonality. The exhibition includes more than 60 top-rated works in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and works on paper. Common Ground is underwritten by DTE Foundation with additional support from Fifth Third Bank and the Nancy A. Waters and Mark Waters Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. MLive/Muskegon Chronicle is the Common Ground media sponsor.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org. 

I, TOO, AM AMERICA: The Art of Bryan Collier

January 18-April 17, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the exhibition, “I, too, am America:  The Art of Bryan Collier.”  This exhibition features 15 large scale original artworks created by Bryan Collier for his picture book, I, Too, Am America, which illustrates the seminal poem, I, Too by Langston Hughes. Collier graduated from the Pratt Institute and was a former Program Director at the Harlem Horizon Institute. His accolades include the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award, Caldecott Medal, and Jane Addam’s Children’s Book Award. He was also a nominee for an NAACP image award for Outstanding Children’s Literary Work. Underwritten by the Folkert Family Foundation.  For more information, visit muskegonartmuseum.org.

Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition

All adult/college area writers residing within the state of Michigan are invited to create original ekphrastic poems based on one of 10 artworks selected from the permanent collection and the Common Ground exhibition. Cash prizes, Muskegon Museum of Art memberships, and gift certificates will be awarded to the winning poets. Guidelines, images of selected works, and entry forms are available at the MMA gift store or may be downloaded from the MMA website at muskegonartmuseum.org. Entries must arrive at the MMA by March 24. Award winners will read their poems and be recognized at a ceremony on April 21. Questions? Call the MMA Education Department at 231-720-2587 or email: cmott@mpsk12.net.

After School Movie Madness!

Kids are invited to Walker Public Library at 3:15pm every Thursday (except for when there is a half-day or no school) for “After School Movie Madness!”  Age appropriate movies are shown and popcorn is provided while supplies last!  Call 231-744-6080 or visit the library to find out what movie is playing each week!

Art & a Glass: Thursday Happy Hour at the MMA

Every Thursday from 4:00-8:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Art & a Glass!”  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 to 8:00 pm, so take advantage of the opportunity to discover your Museum at no cost. There will be a cash bar. You must be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Muskegon Civic Theatre Saturday Classes

The Muskegon Civic Theatre offers wonderful enrichment classes for kids every Saturday from January 2-February 6.  There are three different levels based on your child’s age:  

Kreative Kids and Characters
Grades 2–3
Saturdays 10:00-11:00am
$75 per 6-week semester

Characters Create
Grades 4–6
Saturdays 10:00-11:00am
$75 per 6-week semester

Exploring Characters
Grades 7–12
Saturdays 9:00-10:00am
$75 per 6-week semester

They accept cash, check or credit card for tuition payment.  Bring or mail your registration and payment to:

Muskegon Civic Theatre
425 W. Western Avenue, Suite 401
Muskegon, MI 49440

For more information, call  (231) 722-3852.   

Taco Saturday at Mona Lake Boating Club

The public is invited to the Mona Lake Boating Club every Saturday September 5 – May 28 from 11:30am-2:00pm for their famous homemade tacos, taco salads and nachos!  Call 231-798-4011 for more information.

Muskegon Museum of Art February Calendar

February is no time to hibernate when there is so much to do in downtown Muskegon! For its part, the Muskegon Museum of Art continues its Finding Common Ground program series this month with exhibitions of art by African American artists, films, and guest speakers. The MMA’s Art Talk poetry competition, now in its fourth season, features works from Common Ground: African American Art and the MMA’s collection as subjects for poetry entries. The Postcard Salon, a treat for artists and art lovers, also returns this year. This non-competitive show will be open February 4 – 18 and ends with a reception and sale of hundreds of small-scale original artworks for only $30 each! Artists will be interested to know that Regional Exhibition artwork entry has gone to a digital process and is now open. Entries are due March 19 and the MMA staff will hold a “Regional 911” workshop for artists who would like help with the new entry process.

Thursdays, 1:00 – 3:00 pm
Public Tours
Drop in for docent-led exhibition tours. MMA admission: $8 adult, $5 adult student with I.D., free for ages 3-17 and for MMA Members.

EXHIBITION through MARCH 20
Common Ground: African American Art From the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Muskegon Museum of Art
Common Ground celebrates the mutual dedication of the Flint Institute of Arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and the Muskegon Museum of Art to collect works by African American artists. Sixty paintings, sculpture, and works on paper, dating from the 19th century to the present, chronicle a cultural journey of nearly 200 years. The exhibition is organized into five themes: Gaining Access, New Self-Awareness, Political and Social Expressions, Examining Identities, and Towards Abstraction. These themes provide a broad overview of the history of African American art, from the talent and determination of the earliest artists who overcame daunting social challenges to internationally acclaimed work by leading contemporary artists.
The Muskegon presentation of Common Ground incorporates additional examples of African American art from the MMA’s own collection, further demonstrating home pride in the MMA’s treasures and our contribution to the cultural legacy of the City of Muskegon and West Michigan as a whole. Common Ground is underwritten by DTE Foundation and co-sponsored by Fifth Third and the Nancy A. Waters and Mark Waters Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Additional support is provided by the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs with the National Endowment for the Arts.

Through March 24
Art Talk: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Competition
All adult/college area writers residing within the state of Michigan are invited to create original ekphrastic poems based on one of 10 artworks selected from the permanent collection and the Common Ground exhibition. Cash prizes, MMA memberships, and gift certificates will be awarded to the winning poets. Guidelines, images of selected works, and entry forms are available at the MMA gift store or may be downloaded from the MMA website at www.muskegonartmuseum.org. Entries must arrive at the MMA by March 24. Award winners will read their poems and be recognized at a ceremony on April 21. Questions? Call the MMA Education Department at 231.720.2587 or email: cmott@mpsk12.net.

EXHIBITION through April 17
I, Too, Am America: The Art of Bryan Collier
Each year, during the span between winter and spring, the MMA presents the work of an renowned book illustrator. This year’s exhibition features 15 original large scale illustrations created by Bryan Collier for his picture book, I, Too, Am America, illustrating the seminal poem by Langston Hughes. The exhibition will appeal to visitors of every age and offers opportunities to celebrate African American History Month in February and March Reading Month. Underwritten by the Folkert Family Foundation.

February 4 – 18, 2016
Postcard Salon Exhibition, Reception & Sale
The MMA’s popular Postcard Salon returns in 2016 with the opportunity to view hundreds of small-scale artworks by artists throughout the region, starting February 4. The short exhibition ends with a free Postcard Salon reception and sale on February 18. The reception starts at 5:30 pm with complimentary refreshments and a cash bar. Starting at 7:00 pm that night, guests can buy the artworks for $30 each. The Postcard Salon is sponsored by G&L Greek Chili Dogs and WGVU Public Media.

Thursday, February 4, 6:00-8:00 pm
Happy Hour Painting
Instructor: Marlan Cotner
$30/$25 member (includes materials and your first beverage)
Ages: 21 & up/ All skill levels
Join us for another round of painting and spirits this time we will focus on The Kiss, the famous painting by Gustav Klimt. This golden painting embraces the viewer and the subjects. Pre-registration is required. Call 231.720.2571 to register.

February 11, 12:15 pm
Brown Bag Film
All of Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert
(78 mins.) In this documentary Winfred Rembert reflects on his life in the segregated south and how his life and art unfolded together. He works through memories and records them by tooling images on leather and then painting them with dye. The work is moving not only in emotion, but in rhythm, line, and movement. Brown Bag Films are free and sponsored by the Alcoa Foundation/Whitehall Operations.

February 11, 6:00 pm
An Evening with Winfred Rembert
Enjoy a special evening with Winfred Rembert, one of the newest artists in the collection of the Muskegon Museum of Art with Chain Gang Picking Cotton #2, and Vivian Ducat, the creator of the film, All Me: The Life and Times of Winfred Rembert. Rembert, a dynamic artist with a true talent and passion for his work, will talk about his life and art. He will be joined by Vivian Ducat, who worked with him initially to create a short eight-minute film that ultimately became a feature-length documentary of Rembert’s family, his trials, and his artwork. Rembert and Ducat will discuss the film with the audience after the film. This event is free and is part of the MMA’s Finding Common Ground program series, made possible by the Michigan Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Arts.

February 13, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Mini Masterpieces Super Saturday
See how tiny artworks pack a punch in the Postcard Salon and the MMA’s permanent collection during this free family fun day.
10:00 am & 1:00 pm
Film: The Borrowers
(75 mins.) A miniature family takes up residency in the walls of a house to save it from demolition.
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Make & Take
Make your own mini masterpiece.
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Guided Tours
Explore the works in the Postcard Salon with an MMA docent.

Through March 19, 2016
88th Regional Exhibition Artwork Entry Registration
The Muskegon Museum of Art has established a digital artwork entry process for its 88th Regional Exhibition, for the first time in the competitive Regional’s long history. Online entry is open through March 19, 2016 and is available through the www.callforentry.org (CaFÉ) website. Search keyword “Muskegon” to find the show. Free CaFÉ registration is required for entry. The 88th Regional will run from May 12 through August 3, 2016. The deadline for entry is March 19, 2016. Hand delivery days for accepted artwork will be April 21, 22, and 23.

Saturday, February 20, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Regional 911 – Assisted Artist Entry
The Muskegon Museum of Art has established a digital artwork entry process for its 88th Regional Exhibition, for the first time in the competitive Regional’s long history. During this workshop, MMA staff and volunteers will help artists photograph and submit their artwork entries, leading artists through the entire entry process to completion. Normal entry fees will apply: $35 for up to two works, $20 for MMA members. The workshop is free. Artists are required to bring:
• The artwork they wish to enter
• Credit or Debit card (for online payment of entry) Cash or check can be accepted
• USB Drive – For artists wanting to keep their images *MMA will have USB drives for sale
• Valid email address (required for registration and notification)
Artwork will not be kept at the MMA. Artists must take their artwork home at the close of their registration. Artists will be notified of the jury results via email.

February 25, 12:15 pm
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 turned the practice of portraiture on its head and, in the process, took the art world by storm. This film follows the artist as he takes on a new project to create a series of classical portraits of African-American women—something he had never before done. Brown Bag Films are free and sponsored by the Alcoa Foundation/Whitehall Operations.

February 25, 7:00 pm
Curator’s Insight: Common Ground
Tracee Glab, Curator of Collections and Exhibitions, Flint Institute of Arts will give a presentation that focuses on the artists featured in the MMA’s Common Ground: African American Art exhibition. This event is free and is part of the MMA’s Finding Common Ground program series, made possible by the Michigan Humanities Council, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Arts.
February 13, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Mini Masterpieces Super Saturday
Free Family Fun Day
See how tiny artworks pack a punch and create a mini masterpiece during this free family fun day at the MMA. Admission and activities are free and are underwritten by the Alcoa Foundation/Whitehall Operations.
10:00 am & 1:00 pm
Film: The Borrowers
(75 mins.) A miniature family takes up residency in the walls of a house to save it from demolition.
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Make & Take
Make your own mini masterpiece.
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Guided Tours
Tour Postcard Salon with an MMA docent.

Ask Dr. Universe – Tree Rings

Why do trees have rings? -Cynthia, 8, Seattle, WA

Dear Cynthia,

While walking in the woods with my friend Gary Chastagner, we stumbled upon some old tree stumps. The stumps had so many rings we had to use our magnifying glasses to see them all.

“It’s a timeline,” said Chastagner, examining the stump. I thought it might make a nice scratch post, too.

“There is usually a single ring added each year because of the transition between the growth of the previous year and the new growth,” he said.

He pointed out that the growth rings were different colors. Some were lighter and others darker. Some were thicker while others were thinner. All these differences tell us about how the tree grew throughout its life.

Chastagner is a scientist at Washington State University and helps plants, particularly Christmas trees, stay healthy.

He said some trees actually don’t appear to have rings at all. Other trees will grow thousands of rings, if they live long enough.

In the redwood forests of California, the trunks of some trees have grown so wide it would take 25 kids holding hands to circle one. In fact, some people have found old redwood stumps with more than 3,000 rings. They’re ancient.

There’s one particular part of the tree that forms these rings each year or in some species, twice a year. In the spring, if you peel back a tree’s bark, you’ll find a slippery surface.

“That’s the cambium and it lays down the new woody cells each year,” Chastagner said.

The cells are like building blocks that produce new layers or wood. In spring, the tree grows pretty fast. The fast growth makes larger cells that form a ring with lighter color. In summer, the tree is often stressed from lack of water or heat. The cells are much smaller and form a ring that is darker.

While the color tells us what time of year the rings formed, the size and shape of the rings tell us a few other things about the tree, too.

“You can kind of look at stresses that the tree was growing under,” Chastagner said.

Often, the tree stress is related to the weather conditions. In fact, tree rings can tell us a lot about weather patterns over the years, which we call climate.

In a way, they’ve been recording weather conditions longer than humans.

If the tree has enough water, sun, and space to grow, the rings will be thicker. But if weather conditions aren’t so great, a tree might struggle for resources and grow thinner rings.

By comparing different sized rings and the tree’s age, scientists can understand more about droughts, severe storms, attacks by insects or disease, and natural disasters that happened long ago.

Trees are some of the oldest living organisms on our planet, Chastagner reminded me, as we explored the forest. While most of us spend our time admiring the outside of towering trees, we know that on the inside, trees are also leaving an amazing story of their life on Earth.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Got a science question? E-mail Dr. Wendy Sue Universe at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu. Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University.

Lakeshore Art Festival Registration

Nationally Recognized, Eco-Friendly, Lakeshore Art Festival Puts a Call Out For Exhibitor Registration!

Recognized earlier this year, as Sunshine Artist Magazine’s 200 Best, the Lakeshore Art Festival has opened registration for 2016 fine art and craft exhibitors as well as Children’s Lane exhibitors. Celebrating its fourth year, the Lakeshore Art Festival will take place July 1 and 2 in downtown Muskegon, Michigan. Online applications can be found at lakeshoreartfestival.org.

“We’re continuing to grow our exhibitor base while focusing on enhancing the quality of exhibitors and overall event offerings,” said Carla Flanders, Event Director. Each year, the event hosts more than 300 fine art and craft exhibitors, food vendors, interactive art opportunities, entertainers and children’s activities in Hackley Park and along the streets in Downtown Muskegon.

Exhibitors from across the country are thrilled about the Lakeshore Art Festival and look forward to coming back. “This was our first year here and we thought it was fabulous,” said a 2015 fibers exhibitor. “The flow of customers was steady and buyers were always interested. It’s a well-run, fun festival and we’d love to come back next year – it’s worth the trip up from Florida!”

In addition to being recognized nationally, the festival, in conjunction with the DTE Energy Foundation, made great strides in producing a zero waste event as part of its “Keepin’ It Green” program. Beyond general paper and plastic recycling, Lakeshore Art Festival encourages all food vendors to use biodegradable serving products and compost all of their organic waste.

In the last two years, the festival has recycled:
• 647 pounds of cardboard
• 354 pounds of plastic
• 400 pounds of organic waste
• 198 pounds of paper
• 1,599 total pounds diverted from the landfill

Additional efforts are being made for the 2016 festival which include enhancing the recycling program and increasing the use of post-consumer products and biodegradable serving options.

Jessica Loding, Schupan Recycling’s Event Coordinator commented, “It is a great success for a newly formed event recycling program. The Lakeshore Art Festival has one of the higher two-year diversion percentages of our events that are two years in to the development of their recycling program.”

With assistance from FIT4MOM Muskegon, the Children’s Lane will welcome a variety of new interactive and artful activities from painting to acrobatics! In an effort to provide a number of free activities for the 2016 Children’s Lane event, the Lakeshore Art Festival is having a fundraiser at Barnes & Noble of Muskegon on Saturday, December 12 from 1-4pm. There will be music from Gina Faino of Music Together, Kids’ Food Basket coloring project, an obstacle course and other interactive activities for kids.

The 2016 Lakeshore Art Festival will take place Friday, July 1 and Saturday, July 2. Registration for this signature event is now available to art and craft exhibitors through the web-based Zapplications. A link to the online application can be accessed through www.lakeshoreartfestival.org. The application deadline is March 1, 2016. There is a $35 registration fee for art/craft exhibitors and all entries are juried. Discounts are available for Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce and Muskegon Museum of Art members.

More details will be released in 2016 including registration for food vendors and volunteers. Look for more information as it becomes available on the Lakeshore Art Festival website: www.lakeshoreartfestival.org and Facebook page: www.facebook.com/LakeshoreArtFestival. For exhibitor and sponsorship inquires, please contact Carla Flanders at artfest@muskegon.org or 231-724-3176.

Political Commentary

Political Commentary, etc. by Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Max Riekse, United State Army – 32 years; and Vietnam War & Iraq War Veteran

• Max’s book of the ‘day’ recommendation: “The War Against Putin – What the Government-Media Complex Isn’t Telling You About Russia” by Marcus S. King. King is a private investigative journalist and researcher and Rutgers University graduate.

• “Nowhere is mass mind control more evident than in the West’s dishonest effort to vilify Russia and its dynamic leader, Vladimir Putin.” Chapters include: “The Rape of Russia”; NATO’s Encirclement of Russia”; “Obama’s Dirty War Against Russia and the World”; “The Anti-Putin Propaganda Blitz”; “A Violent Coup in Ukraine”; and “The Russian ‘Invasion’ of Crimea”. Order the book from the American Free Press online.

• ‘U.S. television news shows and newspapers continue to lie to Americans about ‘Putin’s invasion’ of Crimea. The fact is, Russia has owned Crimea for centuries. Check the date of the Crimean War (1853-56) when Britain and France sent armies to invade Crimea. Less than a century ago, all American high school students had to memorize the “Charge of the Light Brigade,” which took place during the Crimean War. Our press keeps lying to us about Crimea and it’s quite obvious that they just hate Russia. That, with Common Core, and dummying down of Americans, is what the neo-cons are using to drive us into another Cold War; a neo-con war for the wealthy, military, industrial and intelligence complex. And part of ‘their’ plan is for us to have war with Iran. And remember, the neo-cons have their base as Russian Trotskyite Communists who were directly responsible in the blood thirsty death of over 65 million Russians, mostly Christians – whom all good communists hate and want to see dead. Vietnam Veterans have a word for the national network news CBS – Communist Broadcasting System; and remember, the lying news media cannot be trusted; Fox News is unfair and unbalanced; and that is why all the news media hate Donald Trump. He is not one of them nor does he dance to their tune. He is his own man; he made his money on his own, and can and does thumb his nose, etc. at the rotten, corrupt, anti-Constitution, anti-Bill of Rights, anti-Second Amendment, anti-American flag, anti-American and anti-Christian Jesus haters. The same people who facilitate the death of over 65 million Russian Christians want to trash the – our/your constitutional rights and especially the / our Second Amendment and disarm Americans so ‘they’ can eliminate all God-fearing American Christians.

• Presidential candidate Donald Trump recently put out a position paper echoing NRA talking points, and declaring unwavering support for the Second Amendment. This is a position shift for ‘the Donald’ who during his 2000 foray into presidential politics, declared support for a ban on so-called assault weapons and called for a three-day waiting period for firearms purchases. Trump has expressed strong support for Second Amendment rights in 2015; while United States Senator Rand Paul, another Republican presidential candidate, has been a solid Second Amendment supporter for many years. I like Trump!

A new poll conducted by Gallup has found that almost half of Americans, or 49%, believe the Federal government poses “an immediate threat to the rights and freedoms of ordinary citizens.” (American Free Press; Sep – Oct 2015 – Vol. 39 & 40). Enough said!