Monthly Archives: November 2016

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 11/28/16-12/05/16

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Hands on a Hardbody
Through December 4
November 18 – December 4, Muskegon Civic Theatre invites you to the Beardsley Theater for “Hands on a Hardbody!”  Inspired by true events, and infused with a “fresh roots-rock vibe,” this is the hilarious musical about a hard-fought contest in which only one winner can drive away with the American Dream.  Ten contestants are determined to endure four sleepless days in the Texas heat for a chance to win a brand-new Nissan hardbody truck.  All they have to do is fight to keep at least one hand on the truck and they will drive it away.  Last one standing wins!

Tickets are $20 & $22.  For more information, visit www.frauenthal.org.

Ornament Extravaganza
Through December 24 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Now through Christmas, you are invited to the Red Lotus Gallery/Muskegon Center for the Arts for their Ornament Extravaganza!  Christmas ornaments have been created by local artists and will be available during the months of November and December.  They make wonderful Christmas gifts.  For more information, call 231-206-0426.

USS Silversides November Lecture Series
November 28 @ 6:00 pm
Monday evenings, November 14 – 21 at 6:00pm, you’re invited to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum’s November Lecture Series!  The cost is $5, or free for museum members.
–November 28:  WWII Through the Eyes of a Tank Commander presented by Clyde Rinsema
Retrace the steps of Clyde’s father Sgt. George Rinsema through the European Theater of the war from D-Day through the many battles and ending at the Elbe River in Germany in 1945.  The presentation will include quotes from letters sent home, video and photographs from WWII as well as anecdotes and comments made by Germans 50 years after the war when George & Clyde revisited the combat route taken during his time in the war.

Mystery of the Christmas Star
Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 7:00 pm
Investigate the signs that led the Wise Men to travel to Bethlehem in “Mystery of the Christmas Star” at Muskegon Community College’s Carr-Fles Planetarium!  No reservations are needed for this free, 35-minute program, which includes a brief lecture on the current sky conditions,as projected on the planetarium dome.  Runs every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:00pm November 1-December 1.  The doors open at 6:45pm.  There will be no show on Thanksgiving.  Call (231) 777-0289 for more information.

Jilly’s Jewelry Workshop
November 30 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
November 30 from 6:00pm – 7:30pm, you’re invited to the Lakeshore Museum Center for Jilly’s Jewelry Workshop!  Learn the steps to making your own piece of glass art jewelry from glass artist, Jilly Barnes. Design and put together your piece and then Jilly will fire it in her oven and return it to the museum for you to pick-up. Jilly is the owner of Jilly’s Gallery in Pentwater and the 2014 2nd Place Winner of 3D Category for public voting at Art Prize.  The cost is $40 and is due prior to the workshop. Call 231-722-0278 to register.

“Once Upon a Time…Stories of the Season”
November 30 @ 7:30 pm – December 3 @ 9:00 pm
“Once Upon a Time…Stories of the Season” will be presented by Muskegon Community College’s Center for Theater with 7:30pm performances Wednesday- Saturday, November 30-December 3 in the Overbrook Theater.  Tickets go on sale Monday, November 21 at the Overbrook Theater Box Office.  Tickets are $10 for the public and $5 for MCC students, staff, and faculty.  For more information or to reserve tickets, call (231) 777-0234.
Featured stories include:
• “The Polar Express” by Chris Van Allsburg;
• “The Origin of the Candy Cane” by Lori Walburg and adapted by Kendra Irvine;
• “Hanukkah v. Christmas” by Adrianne Lewis and adapted from Dr. Steve Sultanoff:
• “A Christmas Apart” by Leona Perigard; “The Little Match Girl” by Hans Christian Andersen;
• “How Maui Snared the Sun,” a traditional story as told by Carolyn McVickar Edwards and adapted by Tom Harryman and ensemble;
• “Der Belznickel.” a traditional story as told by S.E. Schlosser and adapted by Sylvia DeBruyn; and
• “Angels in Cincinnati,” “Black Friday Blitz,” and “Mistletoe” written by MCC students Mark Lewis, Aaron Ponce, and Shayne Miller.

“Visit Muskegon” Logo Contest
December 1, 2016 – January 6, 2017
The Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau is rebranding as “Visit Muskegon.”  We are looking for a new visual identity and need your help!   We are seeking anyone who can design a creative, innovative, and professional logo design. See this link for details:

Visit Muskegon Logo Contest

 

 

Open Public Tours at the Muskegon Museum of Art
Thursdays, December 1- February 16 @ 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Enjoy free docent-led guided tours at the Muskegon Museum of Art on Thursdays, December 1 – February 16 from 5:00-7:00pm!  www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Mona Shores Singing Christmas Tree
December 1 @ 7:00 pm – December 3 @ 7:00 pm
This Muskegon area event has become a rich tradition for families near and far as a way of kicking off their holiday and getting into the spirit of the season. With their debuts on THE TRAVEL CHANNEL and THE LEARNING CHANNEL, as well as their 2013 Excellence in Education Award, sponsored by the Michigan Association of School Boards, their popularity has spread and large crowds are again expected at the Frauenthal Center December 1-3 at 7:00pm each night with a 3:00pm matinee Saturday as well.

With its 25,000 colored lights that coordinate to the beautiful singing, 15 tiers that reach 67 feet up into the majestic Frauenthal Center, over 280 singers, and accompanied by the 50 piece Mona Shores High School Orchestra, the Singing Christmas Tree must be seen to be believed.  For more information, visit www.monashoressingingchristmastree.com.

First Friday Fan Fundraiser
December 2 @ 7:00 pm
Friday, December 2 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for the First Friday Fan Fundraiser!  The first Friday of the month, they feature a celebrity bartender and encourage their fans to show up and raise money.  Tips and 20% of all proceeds will benefit the charity of their choice.  This month’s celebrity bartenders are Rich Houtteman & Bob Carter.  Proceeds will support United Way of the Lakeshore, specifially the education programs in White Lake, including Lights On After School and The Dolly Parton Imagination Library.  There’ll be live music by Sherri Casey and the dinner special will be beef stew for only $6.50.  For more information call 231-894-5333.

Holidays in Lakeside
December 3 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Get in the spirit of the season with “Holidays in Lakeside”, a fun family event featuring visits with Santa, sleigh rides, a gift basket raffle, ice sculpting demonstrations, merchant sales & specials and a free movie at the Harbor Cinema.  It’s happening December 3 from 11:00am-5:00pm in the Lakeside District, with the lighting of the Pocket Park tree on Friday, December 2 at 6:30pm.  For more information, visit www.lakesidedistrict.com.
–Santa Claus at Harbor Cinema 11:00am-2:00pm
–Community Bake Sale at Lakeside Center 11:00am-3:00pm
–Sleigh Rids 11:00am-2:00pm
–Holiday Movie “Home Alone” at Harbor Theater 3:00pm

64th Annual White Lake Christmas Parade
December 3 @ 12:00 am
Saturday December 3 over 80 participants will line up and follow the parade route from Whitehall to Montague along Business 31/Colby Street._ The American Legion and VFW will lead the event along with the proud Christmas Parade sponsor. The parade begins at two o’clock in the afternoon. Both Montague and Whitehall High School’s marching bands will be stepping out joined by area scout troops!_ As the Grand Finale Santa will make his entrance with a horse drawn carriage. He will be eager to see children of all ages following the parade at his house outside Montague City Hall located on Ferry St. For more information visit whitelake.org.

Beginning Baking for Kids: Christmas Cookies and Candies with Chef Char
December 3 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Saturday, December 3rd – Beginning Baking for Kids: Christmas Cookies and Candies with Chef Char 9:00 – 11:00 am. The holidays are a time for baking and gift giving. Learn some of Chef Char’s favorite holiday recipes, including impressive homemade cookies, fudge and chocolate candies. Make, bake and decorate your treats in class to take home or to give as gifts.

Go to www.eventbrite.com and search on Muskegon Farmers Market and all currently scheduled classes will pop up. Also subscribe to our Kitchen 242 Facebook Events Page to receive notification when new culinary events are added.

Holiday Tours of the Hackley and Hume Historic Site
December 3 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Visitors will have an opportunity to tour the homes of Muskegon’s most well-known lumber barons decorated to celebrate the holiday season!  Holiday tours of the Hackley & Hume Historic Site will begin on Saturday, November 26, with special activities including horse drawn-wagon rides from the Site to Hackley Park for the city’s lighting of the Christmas tree.  A tent will fill the courtyard between the two houses where visitors can listen to Christmas carolers, sip hot chocolate, and decorate cookies.

Tours begin in the Hackley house where a tree in the bay window of the Reception Hall greets visitors as they embark on their journey through the homes built in the late 1800s. The holidays are also being celebrated across the courtyard in the Hume family home. A tree decorated using a family photo as a guide is always popular with visitors. The tours are walk-through style with guides placed throughout the houses to answer questions.

The groups decorating the two houses this year include Delta Kappa Gamma, Women’s Division of the Chamber of Commerce, Muskegon’s Woman’s Club, Shoreline Victorian Ladies Society, Muskegon County Medical Society Alliance, Helen and Elizabeth Sherman, Minerva Dill Questers, Lakeshore Animal Hospital, Barb Lloyd and Jane Arndt, and the Interpretive Staff of the Historic Sites.

Tours will continue November 27 from 1:00 – 4:00pm, December 3 from Noon to 5:00pm, Monday, December 26 from 4:00 – 8:00pm and Tuesday, December 27 from 1:00 – 4:00pm.  Tours are $7 for adults and teens, $5 for age 65 and older, and free for visitors 12 and younger.  www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Humane Society Fundraiser
December 3 @ 4:00 pm
Saturday, December 3, Hitching Post Events is hosting a night of dinner, comedy, music and auctions where all the proceeds will benefit The Muskegon Humane Society!  This will be perfect for your company Christmas party or a fun date night!  Adoptable animals will be on site from 4:00pm-5:30pm, then it’s a Dinner buffet at 6:30pm and Comedians start at 8:00pm.  There’ll also be live auctions and a cash bar.  Tickets are available now and can be purchased at The Hitching post or The Muskegon Humane Society.

Single Tickets: $35
Reserve an entire table for your family or business (8 seats): $240

For ticket sales or general questions please contact:
The Muskegon Humane Society
2640 Marquette Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442
231-773-8689

Circle of Trees
December 4
The Circle of Trees is held on the first Sunday in December.  Trees are decorated in Walker Park, the annual “Dog Parade” is held on Ruddiman Ave. and the tree lighting ceremony, refreshments and visits with Santa follow immediately after.  If you wish to participate or for more information, contact City Clerk Marcia Jeske at 231-744-1621 or by e-mail mjeske@cityofnorthmuskegon.com.

 

 

Billy Graham Library Celebrates 98th Birthday of Rev. Billy Graham

bdayRev. Billy Graham celebrated his 98th birthday on Monday, Nov. 7, at his home in Montreat, N.C. Franklin Graham sent birthday wishes to the elder Graham on his Facebook page and shared a quote from his father. “He once said, ‘God isn’t finished with you when you retire! We never retire from His service.’”

The Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, N.C., welcomed guests to celebrate Graham’s birthday with free cake on Monday. In addition, visitors had an opportunity to sign a birthday banner with prayers, memories, and well-wishes for the evangelist.

Old Fashioned Christmas

The Fruitport Lions Club Old Fashioned Christmas

Join us for our 12th Annual Old Fashioned Christmas Event at Pomona Park Village of Fruitport – It’s Free Fun for the entire family!

Fri, Dec 9th 6-9pm  and  Sat, Dec 10th 4-7pm

Santa Claus Will Be Here Friday & Saturday

Cardboard Sled Design Contest
Ages 5-12, Judging Saturday 4:00 – 4:30pm

Lighted Christmas Tree Display
Hay Rides
Food & Hot Beverages
Holiday Music & Art on Display From Local Schools

Interested in volunteering?

Call 231-769-2708 or email: fruitportlions@gmail.com

Trees 4 Tots

The Fruitport Lions Club Trees 4 Tots

Christmas Tree Sales Beginning Friday, November 25th at Pomona Park in Fruitport

Help us to raise $4,000

All profits will benefit local children for Christmas gift giving.

Cash Donations Accepted

Blue Spruce, Fraser Fir, Scotch Pine

Interested in volunteering?

Call 231-769-2708 or email: fruitportlions@gmail.com

Visit Muskegon Logo Contest

Calling All Artists, Designers, and Inspired Community Members!

The Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau is rebranding as “Visit Muskegon.” We are looking for a new visual identity and need your help! We are seeking anyone who can design a creative, innovative, and professional logo design. The logo should be recognizable and help promote our organization’s vision:

To add to the economic prosperity of the County by establishing Muskegon as the venue of choice for leisure visitors, meeting and convention planners, and sports tournament directors as one of the state’s premier Lake Michigan shoreline destinations.

The rest is up to you! Please read below for more details regarding logo design, contest rules and submission requirements.

How to Enter
The contest begins on December 1, 2016. Submissions will be accepted through January 6,
2017. Winners will be announced via social media and by direct contact to the winner’s email
accounts. In order for your entry to be submitted and reviewed by our judges, all entries must
be:
1. Submitted directly to Caitlin Ward, Caitlin@VisitMuskegon.org;
2. Submitted in their original source file: a scalable vector file, 300 dpi or higher, such as an Adobe Illustrator (.ai) or Encapsulated PostScript (.eps) file;
3. Also submit a high resolution .pdf and .jpg file of the design; and
4. Identify the colors used in the logo design.

Logo Requirements
• Professional: The new “Visit Muskegon” logo may be featured on our annual visitors guide, website, social media platforms, and other mediums (stationary, pamphlets, wearables, etc). As a result, the logo must be eye-catching and legible.
• Theme: Logo must represent Muskegon County by way of natural resources, attractions, historic landmarks, etc.
• Color: There are no limitations and any colors may be used. However, logo must be readable and identifiable in color (if any) or black and white.
• Integrity: Logos cannot contain copyrighted material. Logos must have been created and edited by the contestant(s). Logos may not include images or licensed images that have been previously published. Must be easily reproducible and scalable for large and small formatting.
• Brand Specifics: The logo must contain the words “Visit Muskegon”

Contest Details
Winners will be selected by the Visit Muskegon staff. Contestants agree that Visit Muskegon may publish their logo and name(s) and may use both for future advertising campaigns and/or marketing materials. Contestants assign all ownership rights, including all intellectual property rights to the logo, to the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau, dba Visit Muskegon. Additionally, Visit Muskegon may alter, modify or revise the logo as necessary to achieve the goals of the organization. Visit Muskegon reserves the right to select no winner if, at its sole discretion, no suitable entries are received.

Prize
Contest winner will receive a $250 Visa Gift card and a Visit Muskegon Gift Basket, including a
gift certificate for one night’s stay at The Shoreline Inn and four passes to the Muskegon Winter
Sports Complex (and bragging rights!).

Talent Recruitment Lunch

TALENT TRICKS & TIPS
Friday, December 9, 2016
Find and keep the best workers along the Lakeshore!

Dialogue with your peers about our workforce shortage and learn best practices and creative tools that attract and retain talent.

Meet the panel:

mharris

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michelle Harris
Owner
Harris Hospitality

 

terryl

 

 

 

 

 

 


Terry Leberfinger

Vice President of HR
ADAC Automotive

 

cbench

 

 

 

 

 

 


C
risteen Bench
Administrator
West Shore Urology

 

suzannev

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Facilitated by:
Suzanne Velarde
Velarde Marketing

Register Now

EVENT DETAILS:
Friday, December 9, 2016
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

Shoreline Inn Conference Center
at the Lake House

$25 per person includes program
and buffet lunch

Tom Harryman Brought “A Christmas Carol” to Festival of Trees

_mg_3532-th-on-stage_1Muskegon Mich – The Muskegon Museum of Art’s annual Festival of Trees featured two performances of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” on Friday, November 18 and Sunday, November 20, 2016.

tharrymanMuskegon Community College instructor and professional actor, Tom Harryman performed this classic holiday story that is filled with humor and pathos, spirits and sinners, Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, and more. Adapting the story into a one-man performance, Harryman brought to life the wondrous world and the colorful characters created by Dickens.

The original production of Harryman’s adaptation was directed by the MCC Center for Theater Director, Sheila Kulp Wahamaki with original designs by Richard Oman, Jeanette Wahr, Brian Goodman, and Harryman.

tharryman2This dramatic story-theatre style production was presented in the Museum’s intimate auditorium as a complement to the Festival of Trees and the start of the holiday season.

“Harryman breathes life into the story by weaving classic characters in and out of his narration. His ability to create many characters with body and voice is astounding.” Kim Harsch, The Muskegon Chronicle, 12/2/06.

Dr. Universe – Memories

How do we remember stuff?
– Aidan, 11, Franklin, Indiana

Dear Aidan,

Our brains have an incredible ability to help us remember all kinds of stuff. Of course, memory isn’t perfect. Sometimes we forget our homework or where we left our favorite cat toy.

My friend Maureen Schmitter-Edgecombe, a scientist at Washington State University, is also very curious about memory. Her research focuses on using creative technology to help people who have serious memory loss.

She explained that an important part of how we remember has to do with our hippocampus. It’s a seahorse-shaped part near the middle of our brain that plays a role in forming new memories.

Humans who have a missing or damaged hippocampus, like those in the late stages of Alzheimer’s disease, can’t form new memories, but they can still retrieve some of their old memories.

If you are anything like me, you know that a single smell, song, or picture can take you on a trip down memory lane.

In fact, your question reminded me of when I was first learning about our solar system.

I was having a tricky time remembering the order of the planets. Until I found out about this: “My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Nachos.”

The first letter in each word helps you remember the names and order of the planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. I repeated this phrase over and over again to help the new information stick.

Strategies like this can help us remember big chunks of information and lay them down as new memories.

Another important part of remembering is being really attentive to information as we learn it, Schmitter-Edgecombe said. A good night’s rest can help us stay alert during the day. Some scientists are even investigating questions about how sleep triggers changes in your brain that help memories solidify.

Schmitter-Edgecombe explained that once we attend to the information, we have to help get it into long-term memory.

One way to do this is to connect new information with something you already know. As you read, your brain may be making connections with other things that you’ve learned before. The connections between your brain cells strengthen and may make it easier to remember what you have read.

And we have quite a bit of space for our memories, too. According to the magazine Scientific American, if your brain worked like a TV’s digital video recorder, it would likely hold three million hours of TV shows. And it would need to be running for nearly 300 years to fill up all the storage space.

That makes strategies for remembering the important things even more useful. Creating songs, poems, or drawings can also help our brains create stronger connections to the new information. You could even try out a few of these memory devices and see what works best for you or your friends. Let me know what you discover at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 11/21/16-11/28/16

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Festival of Trees
November 17 – November 27
The Muskegon Museum of Art’s 12th annual Festival of Trees community holiday celebration runs Thursday, November 17 through Sunday, November 27.  The Festival will be open daily 11:00am to 5:00pm, noon to 5:00pm on Sundays, and closed on Thanksgiving.  Vintage Downtown Muskegon holiday city scenes will be the backdrop of this year’s event.  Professionally designed themed trees and décor will set a festive holiday mood and will be available for purchase through silent auction over the 10 days of the Festival. Raffles, music and holiday gift shopping will add to the fun.  Special events include the popular Teddy Bear Breakfast, Senior Day, Family Day, Deck Your Halls holiday design workshop and two performances of A Christmas Carol.

Purchase admission tickets at the door:  $8 Adult | $5 MMA Member | $3 child 3-17 yrs. (under 3 free) | $14 All Festival Pass

Festival of Trees Special Events
Festival Senior Day – Tuesday, November 22, 10:00am – 5:00pm
$1 off Festival admission for ages 65 and older. Enjoy free coffee and cookies, raffles, and entertainment throughout the day. Call 231-720-2571 for group bookings. Calling ahead to reserve an arrival time for your group will help us plan welcoming assistance and easier traffic flow.

Festival Family Day – Wednesday, November 23, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Get out of the house for holiday fun the day before Thanksgiving! Discounted family rate and kids’ activities will add to the fun. Call 231-720-2571 for group bookings.

Teddy Bear Breakfast – Saturday, November 26, 8:30-10:30am
Grab your teddy bears and get ready for another Teddy Bear Breakfast—great fun for ages 3-8 (and their adults). Includes full breakfast, visit with Santa, craft activity, and teddy bear checkup. Like last year, the event is longer with one more breakfast seating and fewer diners per seating. This change will provide more seating room. Tickets are limited, and always sell out. Plan to purchase early. Tickets: $12 for adults/$7 ages 1-17. Includes Festival admission. Call 231-720-2580 for tickets.

Deck Your Halls Design Workshop – Sunday, November 27, 2:00-4:00pm
Enjoy wine, coffee, and snacks while Le Fleur Shoppe and Wasserman’s Festival designers demonstrate how you can make creative and affordable décor for gifts or for your own home, using new ideas inspired by Pinterest and other DIY sites. The many items crafted during the program will be given away to one-dollar raffle winning audience members. Tickets: $20 per person/$15 MMA member/$25 at the door. Includes Festival admission. Cash bar. Call 231-720-2580 to purchase tickets.

 

Hands on a Hardbody
November 18 – December 4
November 18 – December 4, Muskegon Civic Theatre invites you to the Beardsley Theater for “Hands on a Hardbody!”  Inspired by true events, and infused with a “fresh roots-rock vibe,” this is the hilarious musical about a hard-fought contest in which only one winner can drive away with the American Dream.  Ten contestants are determined to endure four sleepless days in the Texas heat for a chance to win a brand-new Nissan hardbody truck.  All they have to do is fight to keep at least one hand on the truck and they will drive it away.  Last one standing wins! Tickets are $20 & $22.  For more information, visit www.frauenthal.org.

Ornament Extravaganza
November 21- December 24 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Now through Christmas, you are invited to the Red Lotus Gallery/Muskegon Center for the Arts for their Ornament Extravaganza!  Christmas ornaments have been created by local artists and will be available during the months of November and December.  They make wonderful Christmas gifts.  For more information, call 231-206-0426.

USS Silversides November Lecture Series
November 21 @ 6:00 pm
Monday evenings through November 28 at 6:00pm, you’re invited to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum’s November Lecture Series!  The cost is $5, or free for museum members. www.silversidesmuseum.org

November 21The Discovery of the USS Conestoga presented by David Ruck, MFA, NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries.

This was one of the top unsolved maritime mysteries since it went missing in 1921, until it was found in 2016, 95 years later.  Come hear about the discovery and identification of the USS Conestoga as told by documentary film maker David Ruck.

November 28WWII Through the Eyes of a Tank Commander presented by Clyde Rinsema.
Retrace the steps of Clyde’s father Sgt. George Rinsema through the European Theater of the war from D-Day through the many battles and ending at the Elbe River in Germany in 1945.  The presentation will include quotes from letters sent home, video and photographs from WWII as well as anecdotes and comments made by Germans 50 years after the war when George & Clyde revisited the combat route taken during his time in the war.

Mystery of the Christmas Star
Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 7:00 pm
Investigate the signs that led the Wise Men to travel to Bethlehem in “Mystery of the Christmas Star” at Muskegon Community College’s Carr-Fles Planetarium!  No reservations are needed for this free, 35-minute program, which includes a brief lecture on the current sky conditions,as projected on the planetarium dome.  Runs every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:00pm November 1-December 1.  The doors open at 6:45pm.  There will be no show on Thanksgiving.  Call (231) 777-0289 for more information.

Beats and Eats: Thanksgiving Eve Party
November 23 @ 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Wednesday, November 23, come to Bella Maria’s to celebrate the biggest party night of the year, Thanksgiving Eve!  “Beats & Eats” features live music from Hip Pocket, the Midwest’s premiere R&B/Horn band.  You can also enjoy an Italian/American Buffet with stuffed peppers, buffalo wings, toasted ravioli, Florentine cod, chicken tetrazzini, tortellini and so much more!  The buffet is from 5:00-8:00pm.  The music is from 8:00-11:00pm.  Call 231-563-6914 for your $10 music tickets or for more information.   www.bellamariasristorante.com

Run Muskegon’s 5k Turkey Trot
November 24 @ 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Thursday, November 24 at 9:00am, join “Run Muskegon” Thanksgiving Morning and turkey trot down the Lakeshore Bike Trail!  Burn some calories and work up an appetite before your big turkey dinner.  Registration is free, but in lieu of a registration fee, they are asking participants to bring a cash donation for Run Muskegon so they can clear the bike trail this winter.  Register at www.runmuskegon.com and see you on Thanksgiving morning!

Thanksgiving Brunch at SE4SONS
November 24 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Forget cooking this year.  Bring the entire family out for a delicious brunch on Thanksgiving!  Reservations are available from 11:00am-2:00pm on Thursday, November 24.  Call 231-755-3737 for reservations or more information.  The cost is $26 for adults, $10 for kids 5 to 11.  Children 4 and under are free

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
November 25 @ 8:00 pm
Mannheim Steamroller will present the best the holiday has to offer this season. The group will perform live for one performance only in Muskegon at the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts Friday, November 25 at 8:00pm. Tickets are available at the Frauenthal Center Box Office, by phone at 231-727-8001 or online at www.startickets.com.

Holidays in the City
November 26
Saturday, November 26 visit downtown Muskegon for discounts, sales, giveaways, historic holiday tours and carriage rides, and the holiday lighting of Hackley Park with Santa Claus as Muskegon celebrates Small Business Saturday with Holidays in the City!  Be sure to get your card stamped for an opportunity to win a beautiful basket of goodies from local merchants which can be viewed at the Convention & Visitors Bureau in the old train depot!  For more information visit www.downtownmuskegon.org.

Holiday Artisan Market
November 26 @ 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Shop items created by local artisans in the elegance of the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club. Begin your Christmas shopping with one of a kind gifts chosen just for the people on your list! www.muskegonwomansclub.org

Holiday Tours – Hackley & Hume Site
November 26 & 27 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Visitors will have an opportunity to tour the homes of Muskegon’s most well-known lumber barons decorated to celebrate the holiday season!  Holiday tours of the Hackley & Hume Historic Site will begin on Saturday, November 26, with special activities including horse drawn-wagon rides from the Site to Hackley Park for the city’s lighting of the Christmas tree.  A tent will fill the courtyard between the two houses where visitors can listen to Christmas carolers, sip hot chocolate, and decorate cookies.

Tours begin in the Hackley house where a tree in the bay window of the Reception Hall greets visitors as they embark on their journey through the homes built in the late 1800s. The holidays are also being celebrated across the courtyard in the Hume family home. A tree decorated using a family photo as a guide is always popular with visitors. The tours are walk-through style with guides placed throughout the houses to answer questions.

The groups decorating the two houses this year include Delta Kappa Gamma, Women’s Division of the Chamber of Commerce, Muskegon’s Woman’s Club, Shoreline Victorian Ladies Society, Muskegon County Medical Society Alliance, Helen and Elizabeth Sherman, Minerva Dill Questers, Lakeshore Animal Hospital, Barb Lloyd and Jane Arndt, and the Interpretive Staff of the Historic Sites.

Tours will continue November 27 from 1:00 – 4:00pm, December 3 from Noon to 5:00pm, Monday, December 26 from 4:00 – 8:00pm and Tuesday, December 27 from 1:00 – 4:00pm.  Tours are $7 for adults and teens, $5 for age 65 and older, and free for visitors 12 and younger.  www.lakeshoremuseum.org

2016 Holiday Tour Schedule:
November 26 from 4 – 8 pm
November 27 from 1 – 4 pm
December 3 from 12 – 5 pm
December 26 from 4 – 8 pm
December 27 from 1 – 4 pm

 

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Game
November 26 @ 7:15 pm
Saturday, November 26 at 7:15pm, come to the L.C. Walker Arena as the Muskegon Lumberjacks take on the Lincoln Stars!  The Jacks are offering fans a special promotion, for just $16, fans get a ticket to the game and a movie ticket redeemable anytime and for any movie at Cinema Carousel.  This special must be redeemed at the Lumberjacks sales office inside LC Walker Arena during regular business hours (9:00am-6:00pm).  Also on that night, kids tickets are absolutely free with the purchase of an adult ticket as part of Muskegon’s Family Night promotion.The Jacks currently sit in second place in the Eastern Conference, and had two players honored with USHL player of the week honors last week.  Andrei Svechnikov, the Jacks’ star rookie, was named forward of the week, while 3-year veteran and Jacks captain Bo Hanson was the defenseman of the week.  Call 231-724-5225 today to reserve your seats!  For more information, visit www.muskegonlumberjacks.com.

 

Non-Profit Organization Looking for Community Members to Join our International Team

Fall 2016 – Spring 2017

ASSE International Student Exchange Program (ASSE) is seeking representatives to work with volunteer host families and international exchange students in your community. ASSE provides academic year and semester exchange programs in the United States for high school students from around the world. Students are 15 to 18 years of age, have passed a series of academic and character requirements and are awaiting an opportunity to embark on their American adventure. Local Representatives also have the opportunity to support American high school students in their journey abroad.

Area Representatives recruit and screen prospective host families, supervise the exchange students in their community throughout the year, and interview American students who wish to live and learn abroad. Area Representatives are compensated based on the number of students they are supervising.

ASSE’s primary goal is to contribute to international understanding by enabling students to learn about other languages and cultures through active participation in family, school and community life. Through sharing their home, host families and communities also gain new knowledge and appreciation of other cultures and languages. ASSE’s Area Representatives are the cornerstone of the organization, making all of this possible!

For more information about ASSE or becoming an Area Representative, please call the Eastern Regional Office at 1-800-677-2773, email us at asseusaeast@asse.com or go to host.asse.com to learn more. We look forward to welcoming you to the ranks of Area Representatives nationwide – striving towards a world of understanding, one child at a time!

Ask Dr. Universe – Fears

Dear Dr. Universe: Why do we find some things scary? -Jack H., 8, UK 

Dear Jack,

While our fears might be different, we all get scared sometimes. Vacuums, dogs, and even cucumbers make my hair stand on end. Perhaps for you it’s spiders, the dark, or the thought of monsters under your bed.

My friend Michael Delahoyde is really curious about what freaks us out. As an English professor at Washington State University, he’s even taught a course about monsters.

Delahoyde explained that our brains like to categorize information to help us make sense of our world. But monsters sort of live between different categories.

“We are comfortable with animals. We are comfortable with humans. We’ve got the distinctions down,” Delahoyde said. “But when you have a monster, like a werewolf who is somewhere in the middle, then it freaks us out.”

We can’t quite put our finger on what is happening, so we feel a sense of uncertainty. Zombies also break categories and laws of nature, as they are both living and dead.

Every culture has its own monsters, too. One in Japan is the bakeneko, a supernatural, shape-shifting cat creature whose presence in stories is often seen as a sign that a strange event is about to occur.

Our hearts start pumping. Our pupils get bigger. Our hands get sweaty. We might even get goose bumps or chills. The fear center of our brain, a little almond-shaped part called the amygdala, gets to work.

Our brain and body are getting ready to make a decision about what to do in the scary situation. We have to decide whether to face it or run away.

In some situations, our response to this fight-or-flight situation can be thrilling. That’s why some people actually enjoy watching scary movies. They know they are safe, even if they occasionally have to cover their eyes with their paws.

My friend Jaak Panksepp, a researcher in the WSU College of Veterinary Medicine, is also curious about emotions, like fear, in animals.

All of our brains contain a fear system, he explained, which is designed to protect us from harm. When this system is at work, we have a feeling that can be described as scary.

While our ancestors may not have come face-to-face with werewolves, they may have encountered a saber-toothed cat. They would have to make a decision to fight it or run. The fear system automatically tells us to avoid such situations. It also helps us figure out, often in an instant, how to deal with similar frightening events in the future. Fear helps us survive.

Our personal fears can actually change, as we grow older, too. We might become fearful of new things or learn to become less afraid of the things we once feared, like dogs or monsters under the bed.

Do you have an idea for a monster of your own or a scary story to share? Send in your drawings or stories to Dr.Universe@wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Send in a question of your own at askDrUniverse.wsu.edu.

Ask Dr. Universe – Spiders

Dear Dr. Universe: How do spiders make silk? Also, sometimes spiders hang down from the ceiling, when they climb back up, where does the silk go? –Johnny, 8, Pullman, WA

Dear Johnny,

Spiders can do some amazing things with their sticky, stretchy, and super-strong silk. Us cats are pretty curious about these little silk-spinning machines, too.

Besides chasing spiders around, I’ve watched them use silk to build webs, catch bugs, and protect their young spiderlings.

Some spiders will even eat their own web. Imagine if you could build your own house and eat it, too.

Spiders have lots of jobs to do and eating their web is one way they can get a bit of energy. It’s also a good back-up meal in case they don’t catch any bugs. After all, their silk is made up of protein.

Inside their rear-ends, or abdomens, spiders have a liquid made of watery proteins. They also have special, nozzle-like organs called spinnerets. Along with some chemical reactions in the abdomen, spinnerets help spiders transform those watery proteins into silky strands.

That’s what I found out from my friend Beverly Gerdeman, an entomologist at Washington State University. Like you, she’s also very curious about bugs and spiders.

Gerdeman explained that spiders have two or more spinnerets. The exact number depends on the kind of spider you are.

While it might look like spiders make just one strand of silk, they actually make a whole bunch of strands spun together like a rope.

The silk is extremely flexible and can stretch up to four times its original length. And even though it’s lightweight, it’s really strong. In fact, spider silk is stronger than a piece of steel the same size. It’s a great material for building things.

Not all spiders build webs, but a lot of them do. Different spiders can also spin out silk in different thicknesses for different jobs.

Some spiders will use the silk to go “fishing” for bugs, wrap cocoons around their young, and even travel long distances.

A lot of young spiders, for example, can throw up a line of silk and wait for a draft of air to carry it away. Then they can control their movement using their legs and silk—much like your friendly neighborhood Spiderman.

It helps them move their population around. Some pilots have reported seeing spiders drifting along more than 10,000 feet up in the air.

Spiders may throw up a line of silk to help them travel, but as you observed, they also drop their lines down.

I’m not a scaredy cat, but I admit I get a little surprised to see a spider in front of my nose.

Sometimes, the spiders will climb back up their line really fast. The silk doesn’t go back into the spinneret, though. It likely just gets knocked away in the breeze or the spider pulls it back up for a snack. Mm, protein.

Once they eat their web, some spiders will recycle it back into their abdomen, so they can keep on spinning.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Send your science question to Dr. Universe at askDrUniverse.wsu.edu.

Hospice Helps Patients and Families Focus on Quality of Life

Harbor Hospice Makes More Meaningful Moments Possible

(West Michigan) – November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month and hospices across the country are reaching out to raise awareness about the highest quality care for people coping with life-limiting illness.

“Every year, nearly 1.6 million people living with a life-limiting illness receive care from hospice and palliative care providers in this country,” said J. Donald Schumacher, president and CEO of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. “These highly-trained professionals ensure that patients and families find dignity, respect, and love during life’s most difficult journey.”

Hospice is not a place. Hospice and palliative care programs provide pain management, symptom control, psychosocial support, and spiritual care to patients and their families when a cure is not possible. These programs combine the highest level of quality medical care with the emotional and spiritual support that families need most when facing the end of life. Through this specialized quality care, we see many patients and their families experience more meaningful moments together. Hospice helps them focus on living despite their diagnoses.

“Hospice and palliative care is not about taking care of a disease it is about taking care of people. Our nurses, nurse’s aides, physicians, social workers, spiritual care and volunteers support and care for the patient and family during this difficult time.” Kelly St. Martin LMSW, Clinical Outreach Specialist for Harbor Hospice.

As Kathy Huffman, a Harbor Hospice volunteer noted, “I’m very grateful to be part of this organization. Every time I go on a patient visit to give, I always walk away having received!”

“Many of our volunteers have experienced the benefits of hospice care firsthand. I love to hear their stories of how we helped care for their loved ones. Because of that quality of care, they now want to become a Harbor Hospice volunteer to help provide that same kind of care for our patients” Paula Poel, Harbor Hospice Volunteer Coordinator.

More information about Harbor Hospice, palliative care, advance care planning and volunteering is available by calling 231.728.3442 or 800.497.9559.

Stories showing the many ways hospice makes more special moments possible can be found at www.momentsoflife.org. See more Harbor Hospice moments at facebook.com/HarborHospice or www.HarborHospiceMI.org

United Airlines Air Fare Sale

Fly from Muskegon to Chicago O’Hare for $69 one-way!

Muskegon, MI – Pack your bags, because for a limited time only, United is offering significantly discounted fares of $69 one-way from Muskegon to Chicago O’Hare! But is won’t last long – this sale ends November 23, 2016! Book your next trip to Chicago today at united.com. Promotional details may be found at: www.muskegonairport.com/new-lower- fares/chicago-fare-sale.

The discounted fare is one way between Muskegon (MKG) and Chicago, O’Hare (ORD) and is available until November 23, 2016 on united.com for travel between November 30, 2016 and March 8, 2017. A 21-day advance purchase is required.

“We are very excited for United to offer this special air fare for our customers. The Airport continually receives requests for additional flights,” said Jeffrey Tripp, Muskegon County Airport Manager. “United Airlines will gauge our level of success during this promotional period and the final results will have an impact on future flight decisions by United. For this reason, I encourage anyone traveling between November 30 and March 8 to fly from Muskegon.”

Tripp also encouraged travelers to Check MKG First for airline travel, as ticket prices from Muskegon are comparable and oftentimes less than flying from other airports.

United Express offers daily round trip flights to Chicago O’Hare on 50-seat regional jet aircraft operated by SkyWest Airlines, providing passengers with convenient connections to anywhere in the world.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 11/14/16-11/21/16

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Ornament Extravaganza
November 14 – December 24 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Now through Christmas, you are invited to the Red Lotus Gallery/Muskegon Center for the Arts for their Ornament Extravaganza!  Christmas ornaments have been created by local artists and will be available during the months of November and December.  They make wonderful Christmas gifts.  For more information, call 231-206-0426.

USS Silversides November Lecture Series
November 14 @ 6:00 pm
Monday evenings, November 14 – 21 at 6:00pm, you’re invited to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum’s November Lecture Series!  The cost is $5, or free for museum members.

November 14:  Veteran Uprising—Why veterans are poised to run the new American century presented by Wes O’Donnell

This is an inspirational speech from museum Executive Director Wes O’Donnell.  Wes is passionate about veteran’s issues and believes that when all 21.8 million of them are united, they can change the world.  Recently, Wes has been traveling the country on behalf of Military.com speaking to veteran’s groups about why vets are poised to run the new American century. www.silversidesmuseum.org

International Education Week
November 15 – November 17
Muskegon Community College will celebrate 2016 International Education Week with three free events on Tuesday-Thursday, November 15-17.  Held annually in November, International Education Week provides an opportunity to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide.

On Tuesday, November 15, the feature documentary film “American Textures” will be shown at 12:30pm and 2:30pm in the Blue and Gold Room.  The movie follows six creative individuals of Black, White and Latino origin on a journey through diverse communities in the southern U.S.

On Wednesday, November 16, learn about MCC’s Study Abroad opportunities and the benefits of those experiences from last year’s participants during “Student Reports from Nevis, Belize and Germany” in Collegiate Hall.  The free event takes place from 12:30 – 2:00pm.

On Thursday, November 17, an International Student Panel Discussion will be held from 6:00-7:30pm in the Blue and Gold Room.  Ethnic treats will be served at 6:00pm, then at 6:15pm, MCC students from France, Kenya, Laos, South Korea, and Vietnam will talk about their homelands.

For more information on International Education Week, contact Papa N’Jai at (231) 777-0693 or Mary Schutt at (231) 777-0380.

Mystery of the Christmas Star
Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 7:00 pm
Investigate the signs that led the Wise Men to travel to Bethlehem in “Mystery of the Christmas Star” at Muskegon Community College’s Carr-Fles Planetarium!  No reservations are needed for this free, 35-minute program, which includes a brief lecture on the current sky conditions,as projected on the planetarium dome.  Runs every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:00pm November 1-December 1.  The doors open at 6:45pm.  There will be no show on Thanksgiving.  Call (231) 777-0289 for more information.

Jazz at the Watermark 920
November 15 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Tuesday, November 15 at 7:30pm, come to the Watermark 920 for a night of jazz!  Come and enjoy delicious sandwiches and beverages while listening to some of the best musicians in West Michigan.  The band will be featuring 2 sets of top notch arrangements written by Sammy Nestico, Gordon Goodwin and others!  You’ll hear some of the best jazz soloists in the state!  For more information, call 231-727-0805.

Pasta and Pinot Culinary Class
November 16 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Wednesday, November 16 from 5:00-8:00pm, come to Pub 111 for the Pasta & Pinot Culinary Class presented by Bygone Basic Culinary School.  Enjoy wine and make friends as you learn all things pasta!  Learn to make butter nut squash ravioli, basil egg noodles and delicious sauces from scratch, then dine on your creations at the end of class.  The folks at Pub 111 will help you pair it with the right wine!  This class is an adult only cooking class.  The cost is $35.00.  Call 740-4065, e-mail ICan@bygonebasics.com or register online.

Paint, Drink and Be Merry
November 16 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Wednesday, November 16 from 6:00-8:30pm, come to the Book Nook and Java Shop for an unforgettable evening of fun!  Whether you have never picked up a paint brush before or if you want to spice up your painting experience, Sharon Smithem will guide you through every step.  You’ll be sure to leave with a masterpiece!  This class includes all painting supplies and a 16 x 20 canvas.  To sign up, e-mail Sharon at sharonsmithem@gmail.com.  The cost is $40.

Reception: Works by Ken Foster and Lisa Medendorp
November 16 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Muskegon Community College’s Overbrook Art Gallery highlights the work of retired MCC art instructor Ken Foster and MCC art alumna Lisa Medendorp.
A free public reception will be held on Wednesday, November 16, from 6:00-7:30pm with a gallery talk by the artists at 6:30pm.  Overbrook Gallery hours are 9:00am – 4:00pm, Monday-Friday with special weekend and evening hours during performances and concerts in the adjacent Overbrook Theater.  For more information, call (231) 777-0324.  The artists’ works share intriguing relationships of form and concept.  Both artists have a respect for the environment as revealed in the repurposing of discarded materials in Foster’s assemblages and by the theme that underlies Medendorp’s paintings.

Festival of Trees
November 17 – November 27
The Muskegon Museum of Art’s 12th annual Festival of Trees community holiday celebration runs Thursday, November 17 through Sunday, November 27.  The Festival will be open daily 11:00am to 5:00pm, noon to 5:00pm on Sundays, and closed on Thanksgiving.  Vintage Downtown Muskegon holiday city scenes will be the backdrop of this year’s event.  Professionally designed themed trees and décor will set a festive holiday mood and will be available for purchase through silent auction over the 10 days of the Festival. Raffles, music and holiday gift shopping will add to the fun.  Special events include the popular Teddy Bear Breakfast, Senior Day, Family Day, Deck Your Halls holiday design workshop and two performances of A Christmas Carol.

Purchase admission tickets at the door:

$8 Adult | $5 MMA Member | $3 child 3-17 yrs. (under 3 free) | $14 All Festival Pass

Festival of Trees Special Events

• A Christmas Carol – Friday, November 18 at 7:30pm and Sunday, November 20 at 2:00pm
$15 per adult, $10 MMA member, $5 for 15 years and under

Join us for Tom Harryman’s masterful one-man performance of the Christmas classic. The Friday night performance will be preceded by a special cocktail hour starting at 6:30pm.

• Festival Senior Day – Tuesday, November 22, 10:00am – 5:00pm
$1 off Festival admission for ages 65 and older. Enjoy free coffee and cookies, raffles, and entertainment throughout the day. Call 231-720-2571 for group bookings. Calling ahead to reserve an arrival time for your group will help us plan welcoming assistance and easier traffic flow.

• Festival Family Day – Wednesday, November 23, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Get out of the house for holiday fun the day before Thanksgiving! Discounted family rate and kids’ activities will add to the fun. Call 231-720-2571 for group bookings.

• Teddy Bear Breakfast – Saturday, November 26, 8:30-10:30am
Grab your teddy bears and get ready for another Teddy Bear Breakfast—great fun for ages 3-8 (and their adults). Includes full breakfast, visit with Santa, craft activity, and teddy bear checkup. Like last year, the event is longer with one more breakfast seating and fewer diners per seating. This change will provide more seating room. Tickets are limited, and always sell out. Plan to purchase early. Tickets: $12 for adults/$7 ages 1-17. Includes Festival admission. Call 231-720-2580 for tickets.

• Deck Your Halls Design Workshop – Sunday, November 27, 2:00-4:00pm
Enjoy wine, coffee, and snacks while Le Fleur Shoppe and Wasserman’s Festival designers demonstrate how you can make creative and affordable décor for gifts or for your own home, using new ideas inspired by Pinterest and other DIY sites. The many items crafted during the program will be given away to one-dollar raffle winning audience members. Tickets: $20 per person/$15 MMA member/$25 at the door. Includes Festival admission. Cash bar. Call 231-720-2580 to purchase tickets.

 Jilly’s Trunk Sale
November 17 @ 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Thursday, November 17 from 4:00-7:00pm, visit the Museum Store in the Lakeshore Museum Center for an opportunity to see and purchase some unique, one-of-a-kind pieces of art, fused glass, and dichroic jewelry from glass artist Jilly Barnes!  Jilly, the owner of Jilly’s Gallery in Pentwater, will donate a portion of her sales that day to the Museum and shoppers may enter a drawing to win a special gift basket.  In addition, shoppers will enjoy a 15% discount on store merchandise excluding books, consignment, and sale items.  For more information, call 231-722-0278.

Muskegon Goes to War: Stories of Muskegon Area Veterans of World War II
November 17 @ 6:00 pm
Thursday, November 17 at 6:00pm, the stories of several Muskegon-area World War II veterans will be presented at a free lecture at the Lakeshore Museum Center. Grand Valley State University Professor James Smither will speak on “Muskegon Goes to War: Stories of Muskegon Area Veterans of World War II.”  Professor Smither, the Director of the GVSU Veterans history Project, is collecting oral histories of Muskegon veterans of all eras in a partnership with the Lakeshore Museum Center.  The GVSU Veterans History Project was established in 2006 to collect, record and archive oral history interviews and other material relating to the experiences of military veterans.  They work in partnership with the Library of Congress and are one of a small number of archiving partners across the country.  Veterans interested in sharing their story may call the Museum at 231-724-5526 to schedule an interview time.

Native American Children in American History
November 17 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
As part of the Muskegon Community College Lecture Series, Matthew L. M. Fletcher, professor of law at the Michigan State University College of Law and director of the Indigenous Law and Policy Center, will discuss “Indian Children in American History” on Thursday, November 17, at 7:00pm in Stevenson Center, Room 1100.

Fletcher is a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians located in Peshawbestown, Michigan.  He sits as the Chief Justice of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians Supreme Court and also sits as an appellate judge for the Grand Traverse Band, the Hoopa Valley Tribe, the Lower Elwha Tribe, the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Indians, the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and the Santee Sioux Tribe of Nebraska.

For more information, call 231-777-0583.

Hands on a Hardbody
November 18 – December 4
November 18 – December 4, Muskegon Civic Theatre invites you to the Beardsley Theater for “Hands on a Hardbody!”  Inspired by true events, and infused with a “fresh roots-rock vibe,” this is the hilarious musical about a hard-fought contest in which only one winner can drive away with the American Dream.  Ten contestants are determined to endure four sleepless days in the Texas heat for a chance to win a brand-new Nissan hardbody truck.  All they have to do is fight to keep at least one hand on the truck and they will drive it away.  Last one standing wins! Tickets are $20 & $22.  For more information, visit www.frauenthal.org.

Holiday Walk 2016
November 18 – November 19
Friday, November 18 from 2:00pm – 8:00pm and Saturday, November 19 from 10:00am – 4:00pm, ring in the holidays with the 23rd Annual White Lake Holiday Walk!  Enjoy traditional Christmas Open Houses featuring unique gifts and yummy treats from participating White Lake Area merchants.  Share the spirit of Christmas with holiday music and a visit with Santa Claus as you stroll along the streets.  Whitehall will again host the “Tree Lighting Ceremony” at 7:00pm on N. Mears Ave.  Members and friends of the White Lake Chorale will be leading sing-a-long carols.  The aroma of roasted chestnuts will fill the air along with hundreds of luminaries lining the sidewalks Friday evening.  There’ll be complimentary hot chocolate, old-fashioned carriage rides,  trolley rides, Christmas crafts and much more!  Find out more by calling 231-893-4585 or visit www.whitelake.org.

Build a Gingerbread House (Adults Night)
November 18 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Come to the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club this annual event where you can enjoy time with your friends as you build a gingerbread house with all the supplies and the mess at their “house” instead of yours. Friday evening is for adults (18+). For reservations, contact Nancy by text/phone at 231-730-0887 or email Nancy@HousesByNancy.com. Walk-ins are accepted as space allows, but this is usually sold out.

“Supaman” to Perform at Native American Heritage Month Celebration
November 18 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Christian Takes Gun Parrish, a.k.a. “Supaman,” is a Native American dancer and innovative hip-hop artist who will perform on Friday, November 18, at 7:00pm in the Bartels-Rode Gymnasium on the Muskegon Community College campus.  The event, which concludes the inaugural Native American Heritage Month celebration at MCC, is free and open to the public.

A member of the Apsaalooke Nation from Montana, he has dedicated his life to empowering and spreading a message of hope through culture and music.  He founded the Native American hip-hop group Rezawrecktion, whose first album, “It’s Time,” won a Native American Music Award in 2005.  Since then, he has released four solo albums, and received acclaim, including the MTV Artist of the Week, for his ability to simultaneously fuse singing, rapping, DJ-ing and fancy dance.  He was awarded the Aboriginal People’s Choice Music Award in Canada for best video.  His videos “Prayer Loop Song” and “Why” both went viral and received more than 2 million views on YouTube and Facebook.  He has performed for Google at the Google headquarters in San Francisco and danced in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

For more information, call (231) 773-9131.

A Christmas Carol
November 18 and 20
Friday, November 18 at 7:30pm and Sunday, November 20 at 2:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “A Christmas Carol” as presented by Tom Harryman!  The cost is $15 per adult, $10 for members and $5 for 15 years and under.  You’ll love Tom Harryman’s masterful one-man performance of the Christmas classic.  The Friday night performance will be preceded by a special cocktail hour starting at 6:30pm.  For more information, call 231-720-2574.

Homemade Holiday Pies with Chef Char
November 19
Saturday, November 19th – Homemade Holiday Pies with Chef Char – This class is just in time for Thanksgiving pie making! Learn to make a delicious homemade pie crust and various fillings for holiday dessert pies or meals. Demo and discuss: how to make perfect pie crust, how to roll out dough, how to make a lattice top crust, and importance of egg wash and venting in top crust. You will be making a pie to take home and you can bake it while in class or take it home for baking later.  Older Teens and Adults. Cost $35.

Go to www.eventbrite.com and search on Muskegon Farmers Market and all currently scheduled classes will pop up. Also subscribe to our Kitchen 242 Facebook Events Page to receive notification when new culinary events are added.

Creative Saturday
November 19 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Join Muskegon Center for the Arts members in creative idea exchanges, inspiration and camaraderie as you work on your own project the 3rd Saturday of every month from 10:00am-1:00pm at the Red Lotus Gallery.  “Creative Saturdays” are for ages 12 and up and are free to the public, but donations are always welcomed. Bring a new or current working project and your own supplies for your artwork; whether it be sewing, drawing or painting projects.  Artists’ trading cards are also available.  For more information visit  www.muskegonca.org.

Build a Gingerbread House
November 19 and 20 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Join the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club in building a gingerbread house with your child(ren) at this annual event. All supplies and instructions are provided. Visit with Santa at all sessions on Saturday and Sunday. Children must be accompanied by an adult. There is a strict limit of 3 persons per house purchased due to space constraints.  For reservations, contact Nancy by text/phone at 231-730-0887 or email Nancy@HousesByNancy.com. Walk-ins accepted as space allows, but this is usually sold out!

The MCA – Red Lotus Gallery Open Mic Night
November 19 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Muskegon Center for the Arts presents Open Mic Night at the Red Lotus Gallery, located in the Century Building, from 7:00pm – 9:00pm.  If you have a love for the stage and can perform an activity such as music, anything theatrical, poetry or readings, you may want to express it here or just show up to watch the show.  There is always something new and unique to enjoy.  This event happens on the third Saturday of every month and is for persons 18 years and older.  This is a free event.  For more information, call (231) 206-0426.

Free Family Movie Night: Jumanji
November 19 @ 7:00 pm
Saturday,  November 19 at 7:00pm, come to the Howmet Playhouse for a Free Family Movie Night featuring Jumanji from 1995!

Jumanji is a visually elaborate fantasy about an enchanted board game that opens a magical portal to a jungle universe. Two young children, Judy (Kirsten Dunst) and Peter (Bradley Pierce), discover the game in an abandoned home and suddenly are greeted by Alan (Robin Williams), an adult who has spent his life trapped inside the game since playing it at age 12. Alan’s only hope for freedom involves finishing the game, but this proves rather dangerous, as Judy, Peter, and Alan find themselves running for their lives from huge rhinoceroses, evil monkeys, vicious lions, and other terrifying jungle beasts.  PG (for menacing fantasy action and some mild language.)

Free drinks and popcorn are included.  For more information, call (231) 894-4048.

Pure Pro Wrestling with Silas Young
November 19 @ 7:00 pm
Saturday, November 19 at 7:00pm, it’s the Pure Pro Wrestling event featuring Ring of Honor wrestling star, Silas Young!  This is family-friendly entertainment happening at VFW Post 446.  Ringside seats are $20 and include a free poster.  All other seats are general admission and are $10 for adults and $5 for kids.  Buy tickets at the VFW or online at www.prowrestlingatitsfinest.com.

Kids @ The Block
November 20
Sunday, November 20 at 2:00pm & 4:00pm, the West Michigan Concert Winds present “Kids @ The BLOCK!  This is a family-friendly concert featuring the music and stories of “Peter and the Wolf”, “Flight of the Bumblebee” and more.  For more information, call 231-557-4499.

West Michigan Lake Hawks Basketball Game
November 20 @ 5:00 pm
See the back-to-back North Central Division Champions! November 20 at 5:00pm, catch their home game at Reeths-Puffer High School as they play Team NetWork. All tickets are just $8 each. Ages four and under are FREE! Purchase Lake Hawks tickets at the Frauenthal Center or at the door. www.lakehawksbasketball.com

USS Silversides November Lecture Series
November 21 @ 6:00 pm
Monday evenings, November 14 – 21 at 6:00pm, you’re invited to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum’s November Lecture Series!  The cost is $5, or free for museum members.

November 21:  The Discovery of the USS Conestoga presented by David Ruck, MFA, NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries.

This was one of the top unsolved maritime mysteries since it went missing in 1921, until it was found in 2016, 95 years later.  Come hear about the discovery and identification of the USS Conestoga as told by documentary film maker David Ruck. www.silversidesmuseum.org

Experience It All This November at the Frauenthal Center

Current Art Exhibit
Artist Sandi Lummen “Up North”, November 1 – December 3
The Reception Gallery is located on the 2nd floor of the Hilt Building within the Frauenthal Center and is always FREE to visit.
Gallery Hours: Monday through Friday
11 am – 5 pm with extended hours on show nights.

WMS Masterworks Concert “EP!C”
November 11, 2016
7:30pm Tickets: $18.75 – $49.75

Muskegon Idol 2016
November 12, 2016
7:30pm Tickets: $12, $15, $20

MCT “Hands on a Hard Body”
November 18-20, 25-27
December 1-3
Thurs – Sat 7:30pm, Sun 3:00pm
Tickets: $20, $22

Mannheim Steamroller
November 25, 2016
8:00pm Tickets: $50, $60, $73

For more information visit frauenthal.org

Ask Dr. Universe – Dr. Universe’s Favorite Experiment

What is Dr. Universe’s favorite experiment? -Garrett, 8th grade, Eastern Washington

Dear Garrett,
 
You know, your question reminds me of a couple other science questions from curious readers. Evangeline, age 7, wants to know why her hair is black. Sureya, age 8, wants to know why some people have curly hair.
 
It just so happens that one of my favorite science projects explores our questions about what makes us unique. It has to do with our DNA, or the blueprint for life.
 
Not too long ago, some of my friends at Washington State University showed me how to extract DNA—from a strawberry.
 
You can try it at home, too. You’ll need simple ingredients, including dish soap, meat tenderizer, rubbing alcohol, and strawberries. Find all the details at AskDrUniverse.wsu.edu/strawberry_dna.
 
Just like humans, strawberries and other plant life are made up of cells. Inside cells, you’ll find their DNA.
 
Your DNA contains the instructions for your eye color, hair color, and if that hair is straight or curly. These traits can be passed down through generations.
 
A strawberry’s DNA also holds information about the fruit’s color, size, and shape, and that it has seeds growing on the outside.
 
When we extract DNA from a strawberry, we have to bust through a few parts of the cell to get to the DNA. We start out mashing up the strawberries with a little water and pouring the smoothie-like liquid into a test tube.
 
Then we add a little dish soap to help dissolve a layer around the DNA called a membrane. Next, we add a bit of meat tenderizer to break up proteins that help hold different parts of the DNA together. But the DNA can’t separate from the rest of the ingredients without one final step.  
 
Add some cold rubbing alcohol to the mix and it will pull DNA up to the top of your test tube. When you try this out, ask yourself—does it look a bit like a booger floating in your tube? If so, you’ll know you’ve got the strands of DNA.
 
While living things carry around DNA in their cells all the time, it’s not every day people actually get to see it up close. That’s what my friends and I like most about showing people how to extract it.
 
If you want to turn this project into an actual experiment, you’ll need to test an idea or question about the extraction, too. What happens when you add more or less of an ingredient? Can you extract DNA from all vegetables and fruits? I’m sure you can think up even more questions to test out.
 
Give it a try one day and let me know how it goes. In the meantime, tell me about the latest science project you tried at home or school. Email 
Dr.Universe@wsu.edu or write to Dr. Universe, PO Box 641227, Pullman, Washington, 99164-1227.  
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe
 
Got a science question? Email Dr. Wendy Sue Universe at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu. Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University.

Muskegon Clippers Accepted Into Highly Respected Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League

“New Leagues is Sanctioned and Supported By Major League Baseball”

MUSKEGON, Mich., October 18, 2016 –Muskegon’s summer collegiate baseball team, the Muskegon Clippers, has been officially accepted into the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League. The Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League (GLSCL) will have 15 teams in three divisions and features collegiate players from Division 1 colleges from around the country.

The GLSCL is sanctioned and supported by Major League Baseball and markets their league as, “future Major League Baseball stars right in your backyard”.

“Joining the GLSCL will elevate the quality of play, since most players throughout the league come from Division 1 collegiate programs”, said Clippers owner, Pete Gawkowski. “The support of the new league and the affiliation with Major League Baseball will enhance the product on and off the field.”

The Clippers, who have been in existence for three years and have won two championships in that time and are expected to play a schedule expanded to 42 games in their new league, with the season starting in early June and all home games played at historic Marsh Field in Muskegon, Michigan.

In addition to a higher level of competition, Clipper fans will be able to enjoy more games, enhanced food and beverage offerings, and additions to the fan experience. Ticket prices will remain virtually the same, and there will be premium seating options.

The community can help support the Muskegon Clippers players by becoming a Host Family during the summer season. Each host family would commit to providing a bedroom, access to a washer and dryer and daily meals. Host families are not required to provide transportation.

The Clippers have already signed some players to this year’s roster. They include four players from Western Michigan University, two from Grand Valley State University, one from Central Michigan University and one from Youngstown State University. The players come from Michigan, Illinois, Ohio and Wisconsin. The Clippers will carry a 25 man roster.

Also joining the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League will be the former Holland Millers team. This year the team will be called the Grand River Loggers and will play their games all over West Michigan, including Marsh Field in Muskegon and potentially Lamar Park in Grand Rapids, the Art Van Sports Complex in Rockford and Davenport University.

Other teams in the Northern Division of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League will be the Tecumseh, Ontario, Green Giants, the Irish Hills Leprechauns from Adrian, Michigan, and the Lake Erie Monarchs out of Flat Rock, Michigan

A complete schedule for 2017 will be released in November 2016 and will consist of games with teams in the Northern Division of the three division league.

The coaches for the Clippers include legendary high school coach, Walt Gawkowski, Brian Wright, varsity baseball coach from Shelby High School and Keith Williams former baseball coach from Muskegon High School and Muskegon Community College.

Over the past three seasons, the Clippers got rave reviews from baseball experts and casual fans alike. Not only was there great baseball played, but the fans loved the historic ballpark and the fun and interactive atmosphere that was created during the games.

For more information on the Muskegon Clippers, sponsorship opportunities, company picnics and being a Host Family, please contact l Pete Gawkowski at 231-638-7696 or ptgawkowski@gmail.com. Like the Muskegon Clippers on Facebook and visit our website at: http://www.muskegonclippers.com/.

Editorial: Letter in Response to the Citizens Committee

We received a letter addressed to the Citizens Committee late Monday afternoon from JB Meeuwenberg, one of the leaders of the Vote “Yes” for Fruitport’s Future Committee. I read it while eating between 7:00 and 7:30 p.m.  JB indicated he would like it published on our FAN Updates website. Since the election is tomorrow and since there is a number of statements that the Fruitport Citizens Committee for Better School Management would probably disagree with or at least want to respond to, and since I am unable to get the letter into their hands to give them that opportunity at this late hour, it’s my judgment that I should not publish it at this time.

The Editor,
Ron Cooper

Ask Dr. Universe – Volcanoes

Why do volcanoes “die”? – Loretta, 11, Mexico

Dear Loretta,

Each volcano’s life is a little different. Many of them are born when big chunks of the Earth’s crust, or tectonic plates, collide or move away from eachother. The moving plates force hot, liquid rock, or magma, to rise up from deep within the Earth.

When things get super hot and lot of pressure builds up in the magma chambers, volcanoes can erupt. Some volcanoes can spew ash and lava several miles into the sky. Others will slowly ooze out lava.

Just as each volcano is unique, so are the reasons they go extinct. Generally, though, if a volcano doesn’t have a source of magma, it won’t erupt.

That’s what I found out from my friend John Wolff, a geologist at Washington State University. To explore more about how volcanoes lose their magma, Wolff and I headed to the plains of southeast Idaho. There, the remains of really old volcanoes are buried underground.

Millions of years ago, we would have been able to see these volcanoes at the surface. They might have been spewing out lava and ash. But now, they no longer have their source of life.

If you are anything like me, you might be wondering what on Earth happens to the magma. Wolff is really curious about this, too.

He explained that volcanoes, and all of us, are riding on pieces of the Earth’s crust.

These pieces of crust move very slowly—just about as fast as our fingernails grow. They move over heat sources, zones of hot, upwelling rock from deep in the Earth’s interior. It melts the crust when it gets near the surface to fuel the volcano.

“It’s burning a hole in the plate,” he said. “Just like if you passed a plastic sheet over a candle flame.”

Eventually, when volcanoes have rafted away from the heat source, they falter and die.

As the Earth’s crust moved, slowly but surely, over millions of years, the magma that was under old volcanoes in southeast Idaho ended up in Wyoming—under a big super volcano.

Never having seen a super volcano before, I imagined a huge mountain erupting tons of lava. You can imagine my surprise when Wolff explained that this super volcano was actually Yellowstone National Park.

Millions of years ago, the Yellowstone super volcano erupted and collapsed. There is still magma under Yellowstone, but we don’t expect it to erupt anytime soon.

While a volcano may need to have magma to stay alive, there are still volcanoes that have a magma supply and can sleep for millions of years—and you thought us cats slept a lot.

Some scientists are really curious about how the landscape changes, both above the ground and below it. In fact, they ask questions that are a lot like yours, Loretta. Who knows, maybe one day you could help us investigate the lives of volcanoes.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe is a science-education project from Washington State University. Send your question in at AskDrUniverse.wsu.edu.

Hundreds Expected for Medical Marijuana Business Conference in State Capital

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder’s new laws go into effect Dec. 20; Similar event by same group brought 300 attendees to Flint hotel on October 16

LANSING, MICHIGAN, USA, November 1, 2016  — The new medical marijuana business laws signed by Gov. Snyder go into effect December 20, and on December 4th the industry will have a final opportunity to get current on the new rules at a conference in Lansing.

In September, Gov. Rick Snyder singed into law three public acts creating a new structure and regulations for businesses in the medical marijuana industry, including growing, selling, testing, processing and transporting legal medical marijuana. Entrepreneurs are lining up to participate in the new industry, but the requirements are difficult to understand- and, in some cases, not even determined yet.

Two conferences were planned by the Michigan Cannabis Business Development Group to bring state businesspersons up to speed on the new opportunities. The first was held on October 16 at the Holiday Inn near Flint, where more than 300 attended.

LINK: NBC News coverage of October 16 Conference http://nbc25news.com/news/local/conference-provides-legal-development-information-about-medical-marijuana

The second conference is guaranteed to set the standard for elegance and professionalism, according to event host Jamie Lowell of the MICBD Group. All four ballrooms at the wonderful Radisson Hotel in downtown Lansing have been reserved for the conference.

As in the October event, the conference will bring entrepreneurs up-to-date regarding the new statewide business laws, but this event will also feature a look at how the pending ordinance in Lansing which will change the nature of medical marijuana cultivation, testing and distribution in the state’s capital.

The full list of conference presenters and sponsors are still being finalized but they include Rep. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor; Mike Nichols, lead attorney, Nichols Law; Mary Chartier, partner, Alane & Chartier PLLC; lobbyist Justin Dinaskiss, who delivers an in-depth look at the language of the new business laws; and Paul Samways, Certified Public Accountant and small business accounting specialist.

The new medical marijuana industry has the potential to generate an estimated $63 million annually. “The state has issued no guidelines, no FAQ’s, no Help Desk to assist entrepreneurs in deciphering the new business opportunities created by the three Public Acts,” said Flint native Rick Thompson of the MICBD Group. “The two Conferences were created to fill that knowledge gap with everything we currently know. The Lansing conference is the last business seminar before the December 20 start date for the new state laws, and probably the last before Lansing puts their new ordinance in place, too.”

On October 4th, the Lansing city attorney sent a letter to the city asking for a 60-day period in which to adapt the draft ordinance to conform with new state laws, and to draft a companion ordinance to address cultivating medical marijuana in residential areas (LINK). That period expires near the date of the Lansing conference.

“So many patients and businesses co-exist in Lansing, and they all deserve access to the best information we can get to them,” Thompson said. “This could be a best-case scenario for the state’s municipalities to follow- or it could be the exact opposite.”

The event will begin with registration on December 4th at noon and the formal program starting at 1:00 pm. There is a cost to attend, and pre-registration is required. Visit www.micbd.com for full details and to purchase tickets.

 

County Clerk: Tips for Voters to Avoid Election Day Lines

With the November 8 Presidential Election one week away and voter turnout expected to be high, the Ottawa County Clerk’s Office is reminding voters of some tips to help Election Day go smoothly.

Avoid Peak Times: Lines are generally shorter during the 9am to 11am or 1pm to 4pm hours. If possible, you may want to vote during those times.
Be Informed: There are a significant number of candidates and races on the ballot. You can view your sample ballot and be prepared ahead of time by visiting https://vote.michigan.gov/mvic/
• Be Prepared: Make sure to check your polling location address ahead of time by visiting https://vote.michigan.gov/mvic/.
• Photo ID: Election workers will ask you to show a photo ID. If you have your photo ID with you, having it out and ready will help the process move more quickly on Election Day. Voters without an ID in their possession may still be issued a ballot. These voters must sign an affidavit stating that they do not have an ID.
• Campaigning: Michigan election law prohibits voters or anyone else in the precinct from displaying any campaign material, which includes the wearing of any clothing with candidate names, or political party logos. Please refrain from wearing such clothing in the precinct. Any campaign activity must occur at least 100 feet from any entrance to the polling place.
• There Is Still Time to Vote Absentee: Absentee ballots are available at your local city or township clerk’s office. Ballots can be obtained until Saturday, November 5. On Monday, November 7, you can vote in person at your local clerk’s office until 4pm. Michigan law allows you to vote absentee if:
• You are 60 years of age or older
• You expect to be absent from the community in which you are registered on Election Day
• You are physically unable to attend the polls without the assistance of another
• You cannot attend the polls because of the tenets of your religion
• You have been appointed an election precinct inspector in a precinct other than the one where you reside
• You cannot attend the polls because you are confined to jail awaiting arraignment or trial

If you have any questions about the voting process, please visit our website at www.miottawa.org/elections, or contact our office at 616-994-4531.

Fruitport Library Update

November 2016 

On November 19, 2016 the MADL will no longer staff the Fruitport Library. We will continue to see the inventory decrease at the Fruitport Library until that date.

Your MADL library card will expire December 31st. Until then your library card will be good to use at any MADL member libraries including the ability to place books on hold as is your current practice. All books on hold will go to the Norton Shores Branch Library from November 19th until December 31, 2016.

Fruitport is working to join the Lakeland Library Cooperative giving us the circulation of books our residents currently have. Once our library is an approved member of Lakeland Library our residents will be able to share services with any library that has a membership with Lakeland Library Cooperative.

The Fruitport Library will need to hire new staff and are in the process of interviewing for a Library Director at this time.

Fruitport Library will experience start up pains, but the plan is to continue all programs in the same manner our residents now experience.

We are working with Spring Lake District Library to ensure our residents have library service should the Fruitport Library be unable to open January 1, 2017. Once we have contracted with Spring Lake Library, temporary library cards will be issued at no cost to Fruitport residents. This will be temporary plan of service until we can open the Fruitport Library doors and issue Fruitport Library cards.

The Fruitport Library drop box will not be accepting return books as of November 19th. Books should be returned to other MADL member libraries.

Contact the Library Committee for additional information:

Rose Dillon
231 865-3151
rdillon@fruitporttownship.com 

Donna Pope
231 366-6030
d.irlenepope25@gmail

Ottawa County Hosting Water Quality Forum

For the 11th year, Ottawa County is hosting the annual Water Quality Forum. With hundreds of miles of shoreline on lakes, rivers and streams; thousands of residents with well water; plus thousands more with municipal drinking systems, monitoring and protecting this natural resource is vital. The day-long forum brings together area experts to share research and discuss ways to safeguard water and protect health.

The forum will be held at the Ottawa County Administrative Complex at 12220 Fillmore in West Olive from 9am to 4pm. The fee to attend is $10 and registration is limited to the first 150 participants. Registrations must be received no later than November 16. Questions about the forum should be directed to the Administrator’s Office at 616-738-4898. View the agenda and register at miOttawa.org.

Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley will kick off the forum with an update on the work of the Child Lead Poisoning Elimination Board. A distinguished group of researchers will follow, representing Michigan State University, Grand Valley State University, the West Michigan Environmental Action Council, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and other organizations. View the presentation topics and complete list of speakers at miOttawa.org.

oc-water

Community Foundation Scholarship Program Accepting Applications

Application Deadline is March 1, 2017

Muskegon, MI: The Community Foundation for Muskegon County (CFMC) announces that the Foundation Scholarship Program is now accepting applications for 2017.

THE ONLINE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS: MARCH 1, 2017

The Community Foundation for Muskegon County manages one of the largest scholarship programs in West Michigan, awarding over $1,500,000 annually to both graduating high school seniors and current college students in new and renewed scholarships each year.

The Community Foundation does not make awards solely on the basis of need. Academic achievement, community involvement, extra-curricular activities, and financial need are all taken into consideration. Many scholarships were created by donors for specific colleges or fields of study. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000 and will be announced at school awards assemblies in spring 2017.

Applications are submitted electronically through the Community Foundation website, www.cffmc.org/scholarships. The application process has been streamlined into three easy steps for students and families. Scholarship applications are managed through a “single general application” method. Each application is reviewed and matched with the best-fitting scholarship sources.

In order to maximize scholarship support for all students in Muskegon County, the Foundation concentrates scholarship dollars on students who are not eligible for the Muskegon Promise.

“We are excited that we’re able to offer more Muskegon County students access to higher education,” said Janelle Mair, CFMC director of grantmaking. “This is a significant investment in our community and we hope that many of these young adults return to Muskegon to live, work, and give back to the community that invested in them.”

All Community Foundation scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis.

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of October 24, 2016

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, October 24, 2016, in the township board room.

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

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

Also Present: 9 – residents, 3 – employees, 1 – guest, Public Safety Director, Michelli; DPW Director, Farrar, and Attorney Bultje

The meeting minutes of October 10, 2016, regular meeting, were approved as presented.

The motion by Dave Markgraf, seconded by Carol Hulka, was Carried Unanimously, to approve the meeting agenda for October 24, 2016 with the following addition: Establishment of an application and license fee for Medical Marihuana.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1) Michigan Townships Association legislative updates
2 )Fruitport Township Planning Commission meeting minutes dated October 18, 2016
3) /Fruitport Library Information

PUBLIC COMMENTS
Steve and Kristy Jones, 5703 Fairview Ct. (Stillwater Springs) and Dr. Watkins, from Calvary Christian School, Kendra Road, continued the discussion regarding repair of Kendra Road.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
16-091 Fury FC / Fruitport Soccer / Sheringer

The motion by Ron Becklin, seconded by Dave Markgraf, was Carried Unanimously, to table the matter regarding Fruitport Soccer (Fury FC) on Sheringer.

NEW BUSINESS
16-092 Air Pack Demonstration
Public Safety Director, Michelli, and part time Fruitport firefighter, Shane Ingersoll, gave a demonstration of the new air packs.

16-093 Medical Marihuana License and Application Fee
Dave Markgraf moved, seconded by Ron Becklin, MOTION CARRIED, to establish the Medical Marihuana license and application fee at $250.00.

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

16-094 Payment of Bills
Dave Markgraf moved, Carol Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills for payment in the following amounts: General Fund & Parks $3,738.32; Public Safety $111,301.78; Water $226,085.81 and Sewer $2,156.83 Totaling: $343,282.74

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

REPORTS
Utility Director, Matt Farrar, announced his upcoming departure from Fruitport Township in December. Director Farrar will become the Director of Public Works for the County of Muskegon. Ron Langlois, Fruitport Township Utility Supervisor, will be the interim Utility Director.

Director Farrar also acknowledged Utility Serviceman, Matt Vallee, working for the Township for a total of 26 years.

PUBLIC COMMENTS: PART II – None received

The motion by Dave Markgraf, supported by Ron Becklin, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 8:22 p.m.
CAROL HULKA, CLERK

BRIAN WERSCHEM, SUPERVISOR

Fruitport School District Voters: Millage for New High School

Fruitport School District Voters: Is a New High School Really Necessary? The following information may help you decide.

Below are images of a 4-page informative flyer about this millage that was recently released by the Fruitport Citizens Committee for Better School Management. You can read the flyer by clicking on each image to open a readable/printable PDF version. 

millage-flyer_2016_pg1

Click to open a readable/printable PDF version

millage-flyer_2016_pg2

Click to open a readable/printable PDF version

millage-flyer_2016_pg3

Click to open a readable/printable PDF version

millage-flyer_2016_pg4

Click to open a readable/printable PDF version

 

 

Enrollment Focus for New Muskegon Catholic Central Director

carmenMuskegon Catholic Central is proud to announce and welcome Carmen Tetzlaff as the Director of Enrollment Management and Marketing. Tetzlaff, an employee of MCC for the past six years, is excited about the opportunity to share the Muskegon Catholic tradition and legacy with all she meets. She embodies the school’s mission statement of “spirit, mind and body by fostering personal excellence” because she believes in meaningful, in-person connections.

“Tetzlaff will bring high energy, creative ideas, and a passionate love for Muskegon Catholic Central to her new position,” said Ken Rasp, President of Muskegon Catholic Central. “During her interview, Tetzlaff shared with the Management Team her belief that every child needs to come to MCC. She wants to use her own experience as an MCC parent and employee to share why she believes this is true. I look forward to teaming with her as we work together to grow MCC.”

Tetzlaff is always available to listen to new ideas or insights into making the future of Muskegon Catholic Central outstanding. Feel free to contact her via direct line at (231) 291-0344, email at ctetzlaff@muskegoncatholic.org, or stop by MCC to speak with her personally.

Ottawa County Honors Deputy for Customer Service

Shane RykePolice officers are often lauded as everyday heroes, protecting lives day in and day out. On occasions, however, it is the small unexpected acts of kindness which catch the eyes of residents. Simple acts earned Ottawa County’s Deputy Shane Ryke the quarterly Outstanding Customer Service Award. This is the 11th award since the County implemented its customer service initiative in 2012.

“Deputy Shane Ryke takes great pride in serving others and provides a high level of customer service. Deputy Ryke, in many instances, goes above and beyond to help others through difficult times. Deputy Ryke’s compassion and understanding for others are the Ottawa County Way, ” said Sgt. Dennis Luce.

An individual who nominated Ryke wrote:

“Yesterday was my daughter’s fourth birthday we went to catch air to celebrate. On the way home to Muskegon we had a tire blowout. We were on the side of the highway for about two hours while my dad came to help and go get a new tire for us. While waiting Deputy Shane Ryke stopped to help and stayed to make sure we were safe because it was the driver side tire. While talking he learned it was my daughter’s birthday he had a stuffed animal in his cruiser and gave it to her. I just wanted to share because it helped turn a bad situation into a pleasant one. Thank you Deputy Ryke!

Read a second nomination of Deputy Ryke and more at miOttawa.org

Ottawa County employees are trained to present a friendly, professional demeanor treating customers with integrity and respect. Customers can nominate an Ottawa County employee for an Outstanding Customer Service award at miOttawa.org.

Customer Service is one of the County’s Four C’s, along with Communication, Cultural Intelligence and Creativity. Access county services and learn more at miOttawa.org, facebook.com/miottawa or @miOttawa on twitter.