Monthly Archives: April 2019

Hot Dog Names of 2018

Bella fetches a three-peat

It’s the top ten list you’ve been waiting fur all year:  the top dog names of 2018 based upon the licenses issued by the Ottawa County Treasurer’s Office. The most common dog names for licenses issued in Ottawa County were:

1-Bella
2-Charlie
3-Lucy
4-Bailey
5-Max
6-Sadie
7-Molly
8-Buddy
9-Cooper
10-Maggie

The top five dog breeds licensed in 2018 were 1-Labrador Retriever, 2-Golden Retriever, 3-German Shepherd, 4-Shih Tzu and 5-Chihuahua. The top five breeds licensed in 2017 were 1-Labrador Retriever, 2-Golden Retriever, 3-Chihuahua, 4-German Shepherd and 5-Shih Tzu.

Since the year 1919 Michigan law has required that dogs be licensed. Additionally, the law requires that to get a dog license proof of a rabies vaccination by a veterinarian must be provided. Along with ensuring that pet owners keep rabies vaccinations up to date, dog licenses save time, money and emotional distress. If a dog is lost, the license will make the return of the pet simple. When a stray is picked-up by animal control (or a friendly neighbor), a dog wearing its license will be returned to its owner quickly for a tail-wagging, slobbery reunion. Unlicensed dogs risk being brought to the animal shelter. The owner may face fines, redemption fees, boarding costs and vet bills. Pets who remain unidentified could be put up for adoption.

Dogs must be licensed at four months of age. In Ottawa County, dog licenses can be purchased at any time but are issued to expire the month of the dogs’ rabies vaccination. New licenses are available for either one or three years and will expire in the month of the rabies vaccination. Owners can purchase licenses through participating veterinarians, some units of government or online at www.miottawa.org/DogLicense. More information about licensing dogs in Ottawa County is available on the https://www.miottawa.org/ or by calling 616-994-4501.

Keep the Children you Care For Safe from Foodborne Illness

A Michigan State University Extension News Release
1 in 6 people in the United States each year get sick from foodborne illness. To give some perspective on these numbers, 48 million cases of foodborne illness, resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths, occur per year. Infants, toddlers, and young children are among those most at risk and account for half of all cases, according to the CDC.

MSU Extension will be offering Safe Food = Healthy Kids in Muskegon, MI on May 6, 2019 from 6pm – 8:30pm. This interactive food safety workshop for childcare providers will be delivered by MSU Extension Educators. Topics include cleaning and sanitizing, cooking, and storing food as well as common allergens and personal hygiene.

Learn what the best practices are for food safety to help keep kids safe. The Safe Food = Healthy Kids workshop can count towards annual training hours for licensed child care providers. This workshop is also an approved training of Great Start to Quality.

This workshop will be offered at the MSU Extension Training Center at 97 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. The cost for the workshop is $10.00/person. Pre-Registration is required at: https://events.anr.msu.edu/SFHKMuskegon19/.

Additional food safety resources are also provided. For more information, please contact Kara Lynch @ 989-317-4079 or lynchka4@msu.edu.

Promoting Local Foods and Business with Michigan Cottage Food Law

A Michigan State University Extension News Release
A Michigan Cottage Food Law workshop will be offered by MSU Extension in Muskegon on May 6, 2019 from 4pm – 5pm. Michigan Cottage Food Law workshop participants learn what limited types of food are allowed for home production for direct sale to the public and the food safety aspects of preparing and selling cottage foods safely and successfully. Topics covered will include packaging, labeling, storing, and transporting these products.
This workshop will be offered at the MSU Extension Training Center at 97 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. The cost for the workshop is $10.00/person. All participants will receive a certificate of participation. Pre-Registration is required at: https://events.anr.msu.edu./MuskegonCFL19/.

National Day of Prayer – May 2, 2019

natldayprayerNATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER IS ON THURSDAY, MAY 2nd THIS YEAR. Will you challenge your congregation and others of your sphere of influence to prepare for and participate with others in prayer on that day?

The theme is “Love One Another” based on John 13:34. We are called to extraordinary love, to love as God loves. Love as the 2019 theme will not result in a fluffy program. Those leading in prayer will be powerful and our speaker will touch every heart.

Our speaker for the 6:45 a.m. breakfast at Maranatha Bible Conference Center will be former Michigan Su-preme Court Justice, Kurtis T. Wilder, a judge for the Michigan Court of Appeals for 20 years. Wilder feels the pulse of our nation and will be relevant and inspiring. Music will be provided by the Santillanes.

Individual tickets may be purchased for $9.50 per ticket or tables of 8 or 10 can be reserved. Call (231) 728- 4580 or (231)744-4765 to reserve your table now! Tickets are also available in advance at the Rescue Mission office at 1715 Peck St, Graphics House – 2632 Peck St., and Maranatha Bible Conference, 4775 Lake Harbor Rd.

We will have three noon prayer rallies. Please promote them. We will conclude the day with a prayer rally at the Living Word Church at 7 p.m. Part of the time will be spent in small circles where all may pray.

Your support of NDP will affect our community and nation far more than we might expect. America is bro-ken, but God can fix it. Love is powerful!

Professional Workshop Offered May 9 on the Attributes of Grief

[Muskegon, MI] This workshop is being offered to caregiving professionals in our community. There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to grief. Our presenters will address supporting the body during times of grief and the effects of generational cohorts.

Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services are honored to give back to our colleagues in the caregiving profession by offering a workshop entitled “Attributes of Grief” presented by Christopher H. Coller, DO and Cheri Montambo, CHPN, RN on Thursday, May 9, 2019 at The Lee Chapel (6291 S. Harvey Street, Norton Shores). There will be two identical workshops held, morning session will be 9-11:15AM, afternoon session will be 1-3:15PM (Registration held a half hour prior to session).

This workshop provides two (2) contact hours of continuing education by the Michigan Social Work Continuing Education Collaborative and Muskegon Community College Nursing Program.

There is no cost for this event; however, seating is limited. To register visit www.eventbrite.com and do an event search for “Attributes of Grief Workshop in Muskegon, MI” and complete the online registration. Registration is required by Monday, April 26, 2019.

If you have any questions or for more information, contact Kristy Sweet at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services at 231-798-1100 or email KristyS@sytsemafh.com. A special thank you to Harbor Hospice and Scolnik Healing Center of Harbor Hospice for partnering in this valuable workshop.

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of April 8, 2019

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, April 8, 2019, in the township board room.

Members Present: Heidi Tice, Supervisor; Andrea Anderson, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Greg Hulka, Terry Knoll, Denise Winebarger
Members Absent: Jeff Jacobs, excused

At 7:00pm, Heidi Tice opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a prayer.

Also Present: 1- residents; 2- employees; 2- guests; Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli.

The motion by Rose Dillon, supported by Terry Knoll, was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of March 25, 2019 as presented

The motion by Rose Dillon, supported by Heidi Tice, was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented with the following addition:

Item 8-D: Police Department voluntary demotion and approval to hire replacement.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1. Brian Michelli reported that there was an armed robbery at the Speedway gas station, still looking for suspect; The Fire Department is receiving the generous donation of a gear extractor from Dr. Donna Rick DDS; The No More Sidelines charity basketball game went well.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

19-051 First Reading: Business Registration Ordinance
The ordinance would require any business establishment to obtain a certificate of registration within Fruitport Township.
This constitutes the first reading. Final action will take place at the next regular scheduled board meeting on April 22, 2019.

19-052 Second Reading: Marihuana Establishments and Sale and Consumption in Public Places Ordinance
Terry Knoll moved, Denise Winebarger seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the Marihuana Establishments and Sale and Consumption in Public Places Ordinance. Said ordinance will prohibit marihuana establishments and would conform to Michigan law prohibiting the sale and consumption of marihuana in public places within Fruitport Township.
This constitutes the second and final reading of Amendment Ordinance No. 808.
Ayes: Knoll, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

19-053 Annexation for City of Muskegon Development
Heidi Tice moved, seconded by Denise Winebarger, MOTION CARRIED, to remove from future agendas until further notified.
Ayes: Knoll, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

NEW BUSINESS:

19-054 Bob Szymoniak with a School Resource Officer report
The Superintendent of Fruitport Schools, Bob Szymoniak, shared that Officer Dan Butler has been a perfect fit at Fruitport Schools and had helped in many ways. He thanked the Township for this partnership.

19-055 Patrick Finnegan to present a new online civil infraction mediation platform
Patrick shared a new service that is available to Police Departments for online dispute resolution. The costs would be covered by the court during their 1st trial year.
The Public Safety Director will monitor the progress of current hearings and bring information to the Public Safety Committee.

19-056 Local Road Project Contract
Under the agreement the following local roads will be improved with a chip seal:
Quarterline Rd: from Sternberg Rd to Pontaluna Rd (approx. 2 miles)
Brooks Rd: from Sternberg Rd to Cline Rd (approx. 1.5 miles)
Brooks Rd: from Cline Rd to Heights Ravenna Rd (approx. 1 mile)
Sheridan Rd: from Sternberg Rd to Mt. Garfield Rd. (approx. 0.5 mile)

Project(s) estimate: $161,750
Fruitport Township share: $72,750
Sullivan Township share of Brooks Rd: $8,125
Muskegon County Road Commission share: $80,875

Andrea Anderson moved, supported by Greg Hulka, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the local road project contract with the Muskegon County Road Commission and authorize the Supervisor and Clerk to execute the presented agreement.
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Knoll
Nays: none

19-057 Police Department voluntary demotion and approval to hire replacement
An Officer would like to step back to part-time for personal reasons.
Terry Knoll moved, seconded by Rose Dillon, MOTION CARRIED, to fill the full-time position with current part-time Officer Jason Kuzyk.
Ayes: Knoll, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

19-058 Payment of bills
Andrea Anderson moved, Denise Winebarger seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $31,822.70; Public Safety $65,731.75; Water $30,582.21; Sewer $21,062.97; T&A $1,920.00
Totaling: $151,119.63
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Knoll
Nays: none

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:
1. Muskegon County recycling events are coming and are posted in the lobby; Fruitport Township clean-up days will be May 3 & 4; the Muskegon recycling facility has closed permanently.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none

The motion by Terry Knoll, supported by Greg Hulka, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 8:07pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK

HEIDI TICE, SUPERVISOR

Muskegon County Calendar of Events April 29-May 6, 2019

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday April 29:

Team Trivia Game Show
Mondays @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Come to Racquet’s Downtown Grill for the Team Trivia Game Show!  Groups of any size are invited to play for free with prizes for the top three teams!  Categories range from pop culture and entertainment, to sports, history, science, culture and general knowledge.  Your live host will also offer many genres of music throughout the game, plus, you’ll enjoy food and drink specials each week.  For more information, call (231) 726-4007.

Tuesday April 30:

Planetarium Show: The Dream of Interstellar Flight
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Visit West Michigan’s only free planetarium!  Carr-Fles Planetarium on the main campus of Muskegon Community College is showing “Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight,” April 2 – June 13 (no shows on May 7 – 16) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00pm – 7:35pm.  Be dazzled with virtual rides aboard the spacecraft of the future and see how far our technology can take us.  For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

Group Bicycle Tour
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company every Tuesday at 6:00pm for a 90 minute group bike ride!  There are five different groups to fit your biking needs and abilities and helmets are strongly encouraged.  Loaner helmets are always available at City Hub Cyclery (585 W. Clay Ave., Downtown Muskegon).  Unruly Brewing Co. is offering $1 off your first post-ride beer!  For more information call Raymond at 231-206-6182.

Pizza, Pizza, Pizza with Sofia
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Yes, pizza really was a completely Italian idea that the whole world has copied. The cost is $45.  For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page.  For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Introduction to Mushroom Hunting
7:00-8:00pm
Would you like to know how to safely identify a Morel from a Blusher? A member of the Michigan Mushroom Hunters Club will provide an overview to help you get started. No registration required. This is free event at the Norton Shores Library located at 705 Seminole Rd.

Wednesday May 1

Lake Express Ferry Opens for the Season
The Lake Express high speed cross lake ferry opens for the season May 1! Offering the most daily crossings and record-setting speed, Lake Michigan’s high speed auto ferry offers a convenient and easy to use modern shortcut across Lake Michigan. Leave the hassles of Chicago traffic congestion behind when you ride the Lake Express ferry. Typical Lake Michigan crossings on the Lake Express take just 2-1/2 hours from coast-to-coast, a fraction of the time it would take to drive. The Lake Express crosses Lake Michigan 4 times daily during its spring and summer schedule. With the addition of evening sailings during its summer schedule, the Lake Express makes 6 Lake Michigan crossings daily during the height of the summer travel season.
With easy and convenient highway connections in Milwaukee (I-94 and I-43) and Muskegon (I-96 and US-31), the Lake Express is the perfect way to fast forward to your preferred destination in Michigan, Wisconsin or beyond. For more information or to book a reservation, call 1-866-914-1010.

Thursday May 2

Family Fun Night: Cinco De Mayo
6:00pm
Celebrate this Mexican tradition with our Cinco de Mayo Family Fun Night at the Montague branch library located at 8778 Ferry St. Montague 231-893-2675. Learn about the Mexican culture through stories, music, crafts and more. This is a free event

Muskegon Outdoors Farmer’s Market Open for the Season
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmer’s Market, owned and operated by the City of Muskegon, is dedicated to showcasing the best in locally-grown foods, flowers, nursery stock, crafts and baked goods. Summer hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 8:00am – 2:00pm beginning May 2. The Farmers’ Market also hosts a Flea Market on Wednesdays from 8:00am – 2:00pm.  For more information call 231-722-3251 or e-mail muskfarmermkt@shorelinecity.com.

Historic Sites Open for the 2019 Season
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Hackley and Hume Historic Site will open for its 2019 season Thursday, May 2!  During the touring season, tickets are sold in the City Barn (Carriage House) at the Hackley and Hume Historic Site.  With a purchased ticket, visitors will enjoy a classic Hackley and Hume tour at the site, which usually takes about an hour. Visitors can also explore the Scolnik House of the Depression Era, and the Fire Barn Museum, which are self-guided tours. With a combo ticket, visitors will also have access to the Main Museum Center.
May, June, September, and October Schedule:
• Thursday – Saturday & Monday 10:00am – 4:00pm
• Sunday 1:00pm – 4:00pm
• CLOSED Tuesdays & Wednesdays
July and August Schedule:
• Monday – Saturday 10:00am – 4:00pm
• Sunday 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Tickets:
• Combo $12
• Adults $10
• Seniors $8
• Kids 2-12 $5
No registration required. Visitors are welcome to walk-in during open hours. Tours leave the City Barn (Carriage House) every 20 minutes and leave in groups of 10 or less.  The last tour leaves at 4:00 pm.  For more information call 231-722-7578.

The Bennett Prize Opening Event
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Join the organizers, jurors, and top ten finalists of the first–ever Bennett Prize national competition recognizing women figurative realist painters.  The winner of the $50,000 top prize will be announced at 7:00pm at a program following the public reception.  Prize funders and collectors Steve Bennett and Dr. Elaine Melotti Schmidt will speak about the Prize and announce the finalists. The event is free and open to the public.  For more information call 231-720-2570.

The Amazing Museum Race: The Journey Continues
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Gather a team of 2-4 adults to compete in this Amazing Race style scavenger hunt through the museum!  Scavenger hunt participants will need to complete challenges including trivia, puzzles, and “pit stops” as they work through the museum in an attempt at the best time.  Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.  There will be light hors d’oeuvres (included in price of your ticket) and a cash bar at 6:00pm.  No team?  No problem!  Single registrations will be combined to form a team, or added to a team of 3 or less.  Tickets are available through Eventbrite, in the Museum Store, or by calling 231-722-0278. The cost is $12 – $15.

Girls Night Out: Cordials & Trifles with Chef Char
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
This class is for those who like to bake and build simple sweet treats. You will be making an assortment of cakes and making various fruit fillings, creams and ganache. You will also be infusing liquor and creating your own sweet cordial recipes for sipping and enjoying. You must be 21 to sign up for this class. The cost is $55.00 and tickets are available through Eventbrite.com. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Shrek the Musical
7:30 pm
Come to the Frauenthal Theater at the Muskegon Civic Theatre presents, “Shrek the Musical!” Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30pm.  Sunday matinee times are at 3:00pm.  Tickets are $22 – $24.  For more information, call the box office at 231-727-8001.

Friday May 3

Shrek the Musical
7:30 pm
Come to the Frauenthal Theater at the Muskegon Civic Theatre presents, “Shrek the Musical!” Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30pm.  Sunday matinee times are at 3:00pm.  Tickets are $22 – $24.  For more information, call the box office at 231-727-8001.

Hennessy’s Comedy Night
8:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Come to Hennessey’s Irish Pub for live stand-up Comedy!  Hosted by Tim Locke, Hennessey’s features various stand-up comedians from all over Michigan!  The cover is free!  For more information call (231) 728-3333.

Saturday May 4

Hats & Horses
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Come to the Frauenthal Center for Hats & Horses, a fundraiser for Pioneer Resources! Enjoy food, mint juleps, live music, derby race coverage, betting games, and contests!  This year’s event will be held at a new venue, the Frauenthal Ballroom in downtown Muskegon.  You are encouraged to get your tickets early and dress in derby attire/hats (semi/formal attire) for this Kentucky Derby-themed party. This year’s proceeds will be used to help fund Day Camp at Pioneer Trails. Day Camp is a program dedicated to serving children and young adults, ages 6 to 26, with physical disabilities, cognitive impairments, and autism. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor a table of eight or ten, please contact Christine at 231-220-2304.

Shrek the Musical
7:30 pm
Come to the Frauenthal Theater at the Muskegon Civic Theatre presents, “Shrek the Musical!” Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30pm.  Sunday matinee times are at 3:00pm.  Tickets are $22 – $24.  For more information, call the box office at 231-727-8001.

2019 HERO Mud Run
8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Come to the Muskegon County Fairgrounds for the 2019 HERO Mud Run presented by J.J.E.D. Enterprises! HERO Mud Run is not your ordinary Mud Run, it is an insane 5K obstacle run with 60+ unique and crazy obstacles with mud, fire, and barbed wire.  To complete a HERO Mud Run requires teamwork, courage, and determination to push your body further than you ever have before.  Attempt it individually if you’re up for it, or have a blast with your team! Hungry for more? Run the course again! Please visit www.Heromud.com for details.

Kids Baking: Trifles with Chef Char
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
This class is for those who like to bake and build simple sweet treats. You will be making an assortment of cakes and making various fruit fillings, creams and ganache to proudly display composed layers in decadent trifle combinations. The cost is $45.00 and tickets are available through Eventbrite.com. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

History for the Whole Family
May 4 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Visit the Hackley & Hume Historic Site with the family! Are you a history buff that finds it hard to visit historic sites with your young family?  If so, this program is designed for you!  Bring the young ones, and while the adults are enjoying a tour throughout the sites or learning more about local history, your kids can enjoy their own history experience with games, tours and make ‘n take activities.  This event is geared toward families with kids between 4 and 12 years of age.  The cost is only $5, or free with your museum membership.  For more information call 231-722-7578.

Delicious Demise: Last event of the Season
May 4 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Amanda’s Bequest, a heritage farm-stay bed & breakfast, and Art of Cookery, a heritage farm to fork cooking school and bakery, offer special “Murder Mystery” events! Participants learn about cultural food differences and experience dishes that are authentic to the country or place the theme is based on.  You get food discovery, dinner, and “DEMISE!”
This is so much fun!  You will be emailed more detailed information about the event prior to arrival, including your role assignment and costume suggestions. The activities last from 5:00pm – 8:00pm with dinner served in courses.  These are themed murder mysteries based on the season, month and number of guests.  All are different, so keep coming back for the next one!  A minimum of 6 people are required.  Murder mystery dinners are adult themed and not suitable for those under 17 years of age.  (Not fully suitable for special diets.  Some foods are naturally gluten free or vegetarian and these are present, but no separate dishes can be prepared.) For more information, please call (231) 740-4065 or e-mail ICan@bygonebasics.com.  You can request no role, or small role if you are a little shy. Conversely, do request a big role if you are excited about doing this! They reserve the right to change the posted theme to adjust to group sizes.  Please call or e-mail to register or visit the website below.  The cost is $45, or $35 if you’re staying at Amanda’s Bequest Bed & Breakfast.

Sunday May 5

Shrek the Musical
May 5 @ 3:00 pm
Come to the Frauenthal Theater at the Muskegon Civic Theatre presents, “Shrek the Musical!” Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:30pm.  Sunday matinee times are at 3:00pm.  Tickets are $22 – $24.  For more information, call the box office at 231-727-8001.

Monday May 6

Hackley Crafts: Hoop Wreath
May 6 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Come to Hackley Public Library for the crafting workshop, “Hoop Wreaths!”  This is a fun and simple way to add flowers to your home!  All supplies will be provided.  Registration is required and will open one month before class.  To register call 231-722-8011.  This event is free to the public and recommended for ages 16 and up.

Team Trivia Game Show
Mondays @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Come to Racquet’s Downtown Grill for the Team Trivia Game Show!  Groups of any size are invited to play for free with prizes for the top three teams!  Categories range from pop culture and entertainment, to sports, history, science, culture and general knowledge.  Your live host will also offer many genres of music throughout the game, plus, you’ll enjoy food and drink specials each week.  For more information, call (231) 726-4007.

Extraordinary Journey, now available on Netflix

billygrahamejOne year after Billy Graham’s passing, Billy Graham: An Extraordinary Journey is available on Netflix.

Recapping the life of the worldwide evangelist, this 72-minute video reveals how a man followed God’s call and took the Gospel the ends of the earth.

With an inside look at Billy Graham’s spiritual and personal life, the film features rare footage and interviews from presidents, celebrities, family and close friends. In addition, the video covers a variety of historical events that occurred throughout his 99 years, including the Civil Rights Movement and 9/11.

The documentary first aired in March 2018 after Mr. Graham’s death. It later became available on DVD, Amazon Prime where it has received a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, and other streaming services.

With the release on Netflix, more people can experience an incredible story that only God could have orchestrated. Find the film on Netflix in the United States, Canada, U.K., Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

For more information, visit billygraham.org.

A Dehumanized America

Vice President Pence’s recent visit to honor Jewish Holocaust victims at Auschwitz reminded me about America’s still ongoing inhumanity and disrespect for human life.

We are shocked about how Nazi Germany, under Hitler, became so inhumane that they murdered millions of God’s elect-Jewish people, trying to exterminate them.  They displayed total disregard for human life in this horrific crime against God and humanity.

And we should also be alarmed that Iranian leaders want to “kill all Jews and annihilate Israel.”  They have been fed hate toward God’s chosen nation for so long that they say it is “legal and acceptable” to  exterminate them.

They sure do not know that God said He would bless those who bless Israel, and curse those who curse Israel.  With such hate they only curse themselves.

A society which believes in killing innocent human beings is a morally sick society.  God’s just Commandments were edged in stone by God’s fiery finger, and given to Moses, to create a just and orderly nation/world, and so that Israel would be a blessing to the world.

After more than 400 years in captivity in Egypt, God kept His promise to Abraham, and gave the land of Canaan as inheritance to Jacob/Israel, one of Abraham descendants.

The people in that land had become morally corrupt and God passed judgment upon them to cleanse the land.  Parents were spilling their children’s blood by throwing them into the fire in worship of idols.

In the last several decades America has gone so far away from God that it is now even more corrupt, than Nazi Germany and Canaan.  Respect for God, and for His God-given-human life, is sorely missing.  Individual and national judgment is coming.  Time to Repent!

Manuel Ybarra, Jr.
Coalgate, OK
Ph.#  (580)428-3242

Ottawa County Among First to Partner with Facebook Local Alerts

Facebook selected just 25 pages to be included in the local alerts trial. Ottawa County was one of them.

Since August of 2018, Ottawa County his been beta testing a new feature on Facebook: Local Alerts. Local alerts enable Ottawa County to provide the community with time-sensitive, essential information. With the extreme weather over the past month, the tool has proven itself particularly helpful.

Local Alerts can be used at the County’s discretion, and so far, they have been employed for beach hazards, road conditions, severe weather and building closures. Most recently, a Facebook Local Alert was sent during a Monday morning power outage impacting services at the Ottawa County Fillmore Street Complex.

Hot Off the Press: Muskegon County and Area Map

Muskegon, MI –– The 2019 Muskegon County and Area Map is now available, in circulation and online at https://www.harborhouse.com/muskegon-map/ . The map is a valuable guide for locals and the hundreds of thousands of annual visitors to Muskegon County.

This free map is more than just a cool tool to help people find their way around Muskegon. It highlights local attractions, beaches, trails, and boat launches, and it is a great way to share Muskegon and the Muskegon area to those who are not familiar with the lakeshore.

The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce produces the full-color map. The map is available at the Chamber’s Welcome Center and throughout Muskegon County at restaurants, hotels, shops and other locations.

AT A GLANCE

What: 2019 Muskegon County and Area Map

Cost: Free

Distribution: The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce’s Welcome Center located at 380 W. Western and a variety of locations across the county.

Produced by: The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce

Live/Silent Purse Auction to Benefit Grief Healing Children’s Camp in West Michigan

Annual Purse Party May 5 supports camp to help kids who are grieving the death of a loved one

Searching for the perfect new purse? Maybe two?

Round up your friends and head to the White Lake Eagles on Sunday, May 5 for the 5th Annual Purse Party! Get great purses while you support Camp Courage, a local three-day sleep-away summer camp that helps children who are grieving the death of someone close.

Doors open at 1:00 p.m. for the much-anticipated Purse Party, which features both live and silent auctions with hundreds of fabulous selections from casual clutches to high-end designer bags. Prices start at just $5! Eagle membership is not needed to attend this fun event.

In the past three years, the Purse Party has raised more than $5,500 for Camp Courage. The event is organized by Ladies of the White Lake Community.

Camp Courage hosted its first campers in 1994, and each year kids who attend tell us how comforting and life-changing the experience has been for them,” says Lisa Cummins, president and CEO of Harbor Hospice, which sponsors Camp Courage. “We want to be sure that any child struggling with grief can attend this important camp, so we ask only for a $10 registration fee, and we waive it for families who can’t afford it. This festive Purse Party helps make Camp Courage, and all its meaningful activities, possible!

Donations of new and gently used purses and handbags for the Purse Party are welcome. They may be dropped off before April 26 at Harbor Hospice in Muskegon, at the Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence in Fruitport, and at Fetch Brewing Company in Whitehall.

Camp Courage is a program of the Scolnik Healing Center of Harbor Hospice, which provides hospice and palliative care and grief counseling to children and adults in Muskegon, Oceana, Mason, Ottawa and Newago Counties. For more information or to register, contact Laura Ecker or Kari Allen at 231.728.3442 or 1.800.497.9559 or email info@HarborHospiceMI.org.
The Harbor Hospice website is www.harborhospicemi.org.

Renew Your Watercraft Registration

Don’t forget to renew your watercraft registration with Michigan Secretary of State
New online renewal system offers convenience, choice

Michigan watercraft owners choosing to renew their registration online are using a new system that offers enhancements and options designed to make renewing as seamless as possible, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said.

“Fast, dependable service is our pledge to Michiganders,” Benson said. “We know you’d rather spend your time on the water, so we’re exploring ways to improve the renewal process.”

CARS e-Services, at ExpressSOS.com, was unveiled in February and replaces the Department of State’s 1960s mainframe computer system. The new system provides a customer-focused model that aligns to how people expect to interact with the Secretary of State’s Office. For example, each customer’s information is kept in a central record, unlike the old mainframe, which stored data across multiple servers.

CARS e-Services provides three options for renewing watercraft:
• An online express option for quick renewals.
• An online authenticated renewal process, which allows customers to access their customer record and conduct other transactions along with their watercraft renewal. They also may print a copy of their renewed registration.
• A new option to renew at a Secretary of State self-service kiosk. Self-service kiosks are found at the busier Secretary of State offices and at select retail and city buildings. Check the Branch Office Locator at Michigan.gov/SOS for kiosk locations.

The use of online renewal is gaining in popularity. In fiscal year 2018, which ran from Oct. 1, 2017 to Sept. 30, 2018, about 57,000 watercraft registrations were renewed online, compared to about 53,000 from the previous year. As customers become more comfortable with the benefits of online renewal, the number of transactions is expected to continue to rise.

There are about 797,000 current watercraft registrations on file with the Secretary of State’s Office. More than 252,000 watercraft renewal notices were mailed this month. Watercraft registrations are renewed every three years and expire on March 31 of the third year.

All watercraft, including those on privately owned lakes and waterways, must be registered, except for the following:
• Watercraft 16 feet or less, propelled by oars or paddles that aren’t used for rental or commercial purposes.
• Nonmotorized canoes and kayaks not used for rental or commercial purposes.
• Rafts, surfboards, sailboards and swim floats, regardless of length.
• Watercraft registered in another state and used only temporarily in Michigan.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia

A free educational program from the Alzheimer’s Association, supported by the Muskegon County Senior Millage.

attable3rd Thursday each month | 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
First Congregational Church of Fruitport | 3212 Pontaluna Rd.

What is the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia? This program will help explain the differences while providing information about Alzheimer’s disease stages, risk factors, current research, treatments available to address some symptoms, and the Alzheimer’s Association resources available to you.

Visit alz.org to register online or call 231-267-6116.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events April 22-29, 2019

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday April 22:

Team Trivia Game Show
Mondays @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Come to Racquet’s Downtown Grill for the Team Trivia Game Show!  Groups of any size are invited to play for free with prizes for the top three teams!  Categories range from pop culture and entertainment, to sports, history, science, culture and general knowledge.  Your live host will also offer many genres of music throughout the game, plus, you’ll enjoy food and drink specials each week.  For more information, call (231) 726-4007.

Tuesday April 23:

The Music of New Orleans with the Boogie Woogie Kid
April 23 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Attend Hackley Public Library for the music of New Orleans with the Boogie Woogie Kid!  Matthew Ball, a.k.a. The Boogie Woogie Kid, is a pianist, singer and songwriter with a talent that takes the stage!  His family-friendly performance of New Orleans Boogie-Blues-Swing and Song favorites from the 20s, 30s and 40s will captivate and entertain an audience of all ages.  His YouTube videos have over 4 million views!  With piano and song hits like Ain’t Misbehavin, It Had to be You, When the Saints Go Marchin’ In, Basin Street Blues, The Entertainer, Bumble Boogie, and more, there’s a song for everyone to enjoy!

Made in Italy with Sofia
April 23 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class, “Made in Italy with Sofia!” Create pastry wheels, radicchio and taleggio risotto, Italian Martini roasted chicken, baked rosemary potatoes and fruit salad.  The cost is $45.  For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page. 231-769-2202.

Feeding the Soul of the City: Reeths-Puffer Madrigal Singers
April 23 @ 12:00 pm
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in downtown Muskegon offers a free lunchtime concert featuring the Reeths-Puffer Madrigal Singers!  This vocal ensemble of talented high school students will perform a variety of tunes, some as a chorus and some featuring soloists.  For more information, call 231-722-2112. The Sanctuary will be open for prayer and personal meditation from 10:00am – 12:00pm.  At noon, there will be a gathering for a 10 minute inter-faith celebration of prayer.  This is open to all faiths.  The concerts are free and open to the public.  A soup and sandwich lunch is available for a small price or you may bring your own lunch.  To join their mailing list for Feeding the Soul of the City, contact Elizabeth at ebsnflows@gmail.com.

Planetarium Show: The Dream of Interstellar Flight
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Visit West Michigan’s only free planetarium!  Carr-Fles Planetarium on the main campus of Muskegon Community College is showing “Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight,” April 2 – June 13 (no shows on May 7 – 16) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00pm – 7:35pm.  Be dazzled with virtual rides aboard the spacecraft of the future and see how far our technology can take us.  For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

Group Bicycle Tour
April 23 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company every Tuesday at 6:00pm for a 90 minute group bike ride!  There are five different groups to fit your biking needs and abilities and helmets are strongly encouraged.  Loaner helmets are always available at City Hub Cyclery (585 W. Clay Ave., Downtown Muskegon).  Unruly Brewing Co. is offering $1 off your first post-ride beer!  For more information call Raymond at 231-206-6182.

Wednesday April 24

Thursday April 25

Annie the Musical
April 25 – April 27
April 25 – 26 at 7:00pm and April 27 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, come to the Beardsley Theater for Artios Academies of Grand Haven’s production of “Annie the Musical!” With equal measures of pluck and positivity, Little Orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930’s New York City.  She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage.  Annie is a family friendly musical full of life, energy and love.   Tickets are general admission and only $10.  For more information call the box office at 231-727-8001.

Thursday Night Music: The Adams Family
April 25 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Come to the Norton Shores Library for their Thursday Night Music Club featuring The Adams Family!  Bring a friend or the whole family and join fellow music lovers for free live concerts at the Norton Shores Library on Thursday evenings!  Rediscover a treasure trove of 1950s-60s music with The Adams Family, a quartet that features exceptionally tight vocal, guitar and rhythm arrangements.  Admission is free and no tickets or registration are required.  For more information call (231) 780-8844

Instant Pot Cooking with Chef Char
April 25 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Are you thinking about buying an electric cooker (Instant Pot) but are not sure if this cooking gadget will be a good investment?  Do you already have one and are not sure how to use it?  Or are you an Instant Pot pro and would just like new recipe ideas?  In this two-hour class, Chef Char will show you the various ways to use an electric pressure cooker and make five different recipes for your tasting.  Recipes will be shared and lots of tips on using a pressure cooker.  These appliances will help you get dinner on the table faster and they are a major upgrade from the pressure cookers that we might know from our past.  Come to class hungry!  The cost is $45.  For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page.  For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Meet Patricia Polacco
April 25 @ 1:00 pm
Don’t miss your chance to meet the famous Michigan author and illustrator at the Muskegon Museum of Art during their exhibition of her work from books honoring teachers. Pick up one of Polacco’s books in the museum store to enjoy a free book signing from 1:00pm – 3:00pm with a reception to follow from 5:30pm to 7:00pm. There will be a lecture in the auditorium by Polacco herself at 7:00pm.  This event is free and open to the public and refreshments will be provided.  For more information call 231-720-2570.

United Way of the Lakeshore’s Annual Celebration
April 25 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Join the United Way of the Lakeshore at the Holiday Inn Muskegon Harbor as they conclude their year of celebrating 100 years of caring!  This exciting evening includes hors d’oeuvres & cocktails, a silent auction, campaign results and awards.  The cost is $25 per person or $180 for a table of eight.  Please RSVP by April 18 at unitedwaylakeshore.org/celebrate.

Friday April 26

Back Alley Comedy Club: Jamie Kennedy
April 26 – April 27
Jamie will do two shows each night at 6:30pm and 9:30pm inside Sherman Bowling Center.
• $35 VIP Tickets, includes Meet and Greet and preferred seating
• $25 General Admission
Buy tickets at the door the day of the show or the website below. Call (616) 570-8765 for more information.

Tastes of Spring Wine Event
April 26 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Come to SE4SONS Banquet Center inside the Muskegon Country Club for the Tastes of Spring event!  Seven different distributors will offer a wonderful selection of wines to sample and Chef Tim will have a few small bites to snack on while you taste!  You will have a chance to order the wines at a discounted price, so its a great chance to stock up for summer!  The cost is $30 per person.  Call 231-755-3737 to save your spot!  This event will fill up quickly!

Annie the Musical
April 25 – April 27
April 25 – 26 at 7:00pm and April 27 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, come to the Beardsley Theater for Artios Academies of Grand Haven’s production of “Annie the Musical!” With equal measures of pluck and positivity, Little Orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930’s New York City.  She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage.  Annie is a family friendly musical full of life, energy and love.   Tickets are general admission and only $10.  For more information call the box office at 231-727-8001.

The Alley Door Club: Yard Sales Underwear!
April 26 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
The Alley Door Club features live music from popular West Michigan bands in a fun environment which includes a cash bar and dancing in the Ballroom located on the 3rd Floor of the Hilt Building.  The doors open at 6:00pm for Happy Hour ($1 off all drinks), with live music from 7:00pm – 10:00pm. April 26 – Yard Sale Underwear (The Self-proclaimed King of Polyester, Pop & Soul) Tickets are $10 per person.  Tables may be reserved at $75.00 for a 4-top or $115.00 for an 8-top.   For more information, call the Box Office at 231-727-8001.

Open Mic Night at The Red Lotus
April 26 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Any kind of talent is welcome; songs, poems, readings, comedy, plays, dancing or whatever other skill you want to show off.  Observers are welcome, too.  They only ask that everyone remain mostly clothed and that you don’t burn the place down!  Other than those simple rules, it’s truly an OPEN mic event.  For that reason, they encourage parents to use their discretion as to whether to bring children, as there most likely will be adult language and subject matter.  Feel free to bring in your own food and drinks too.  Donations are encouraged, but not required.
They’re in the lower level of the Century Club building, so use the main front entrance of the building and head downstairs.  There is an elevator for those who need it.  Just call 231-981-8525 and they will let you in the back door.

West Michigan Symphony Presents: Disney in Concert Around the World
April 26 @ 7:30 pm
Experience the magical music of Disney live with original classics from the movies we love.  Songs from The Little Mermaid, Frozen, Pocahontas, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Mulan, Pirates of the Caribbean, and The Lion King will delight the entire family.  Single ticket prices are $28-$64.  Student tickets are $10.  Call 231-726-3231 ext. 223 for tickets.

Saturday April 27

Back Alley Comedy Club: Jamie Kennedy
April 26 – April 27
Jamie will do two shows each night at 6:30pm and 9:30pm inside Sherman Bowling Center.
• $35 VIP Tickets, includes Meet and Greet and preferred seating
• $25 General Admission
Buy tickets at the door the day of the show or the website below. Call (616) 570-8765 for more information.

7th Annual Earth Fair Expo
April 27 @ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Celebrate Earth Day at the Muskegon Farmers’ Market during the 7th Annual Earth Fair Expo! Enjoy tasty syrup, buzzing bees, scented oils, giveaways, games and so much more! Local exhibitors will be featuring eco-friendly, natural, and sustainable products and services.  Plus, shop for fresh produce, gifts and more at the Winter Farmer’s Market.  For more information call (231) 722-3251.

Winter Farmers’ Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Through April 27, visit the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market on Saturdays from 9:00am – 2:00pm. For more information call (231)722-3251 or visit www.muskegonfarmersmarket.com.

Annie the Musical
April 25 – April 27
April 25 – 26 at 7:00pm and April 27 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, come to the Beardsley Theater for Artios Academies of Grand Haven’s production of “Annie the Musical!” With equal measures of pluck and positivity, Little Orphan Annie charms everyone’s hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930’s New York City.  She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage.  Annie is a family friendly musical full of life, energy and love.   Tickets are general admission and only $10.  For more information call the box office at 231-727-8001.

Lakeshore Camera Club Spring Show
April 27 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Come to the Norton Shores Library for the Lakeshore Camera Club Spring Show!  Enjoy an amazing display of photography, meet the photographers and vote for your favorite.  There will be a selfie booth, prints to purchase and more!  This event is free and no tickets or registration is required.  For more information call (231) 780-8844.

Easter Bunny Rocket Launch
April 27 @ 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
The SMASH Model Rocket Club invites you to the Muskegon Wastewater Treatment Facility for their first sport launch of the year! Bring your Easter-themed rockets and enter to win the Easter Bunny Award! The SMASH model rocket club is section #500 of the National Association of Rocketry and has been active in west Michigan since 1988. For more information e-mail psgilmore@gmail.com.

Kids Fun with Fondue with Chef Char
April 27 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Mini Chefs will have lots of fun mixing, melting and cooking in tiny pots! Dunk delicious goodies in oil or broth and coat favorite foods in fabulous cheese sauces or chocolate ganache. The cost is $45.00 and tickets are available through Eventbrite.com. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Spirit Fest
April 27 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Come to St. Catherine’s Hall for “Spirit Fest!” 3381 Thomas St.  Ravenna, MI.  This is a wine and beer tasting festival featuring live music performed by Jack Leaver, a Chinese Auction, raffles and more.  Tickets for the event are $25.00 per person until April 21, after that, tickets will be $30.00 per person.  Admission includes a keepsake tasting glass, games and 10 tickets to sample wine, beer and food.  Raffle tickets are $5 each for a chance to win $2,000!  For more information. 231-853-6222.

Acclaimed Folk Duo: Kieran Kane & Rayna Gellert
April 27 @ 7:00 pm
Acclaimed folk musicians Kieran Kane and Rayna Gellert will perform at the Muskegon Museum of Art’s Frey Foundation Auditorium. Concert tickets are $25 at the door, $20 in advance and $15 for members of the museum. They may be purchased at the MMA Museum Store or by phone at 231-720-2580.  Doors open at 6:30pm. Beer and wine will be available at a cash bar prior to the concert and at intermission.

Sunday April 28

Free Latin Dance Party
April 28 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Come to Unruly Brewing Co. in downtown Muskegon for bi-monthly, free Latin Dance Classes offered by the Facebook group MADLOS!  They will cover simple steps, turns and spins that are easy to learn and fun to do.  No partner or experience is needed to participate.  The lesson is from 5:00pm – 6:00pm with music continuing until 7:00pm so you can practice what you’ve learned or show off what you know.  If you don’t need a lesson and just want to dance, join them at 6:00pm.  There is no cost for the lesson, but they are accepting donations that will go to support the Child Abuse Counsel of Muskegon County.  MADLOS offers different dance styles, including Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, and more.

Franklin Graham Concludes Graham Tour in Australia

franklingThe Graham Tour, a 16-day, six-city evangelistic tour across Australia, concluded in Sydney on Feb. 24. A collective 59,000 heard Graham share the Gospel message and more than 2,500 of them responded with a commitment to Jesus. Additionally, all of the events were streamed live online, and more than 30,000 people watched in 114 countries.

This evangelistic outreach honored the 60th anniversary of Billy Graham’s 1959 Crusades across the continent. Franklin believes, as his father did, that the world needs a spiritual change.

“God has done a great work across Australia,” Graham said. “All across the continent, we witnessed the power of the Gospel at work… We praise God that so many surrendered their hearts to Christ in repentance and faith. To Him be the glory!”

For more information on upcoming events at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, visit billygraham.org.

Fruitport Police Department Investigating Armed Robbery

picturesFruitport Police are investigating an Armed Robbery which occurred at approximately 5pm Sunday afternoon in the 200 block of N 3rd Ave in The Village of Fruitport. The suspect was driving 2006 – 2009 4 door, red Ford Fusion. The suspect was wearing dark clothing and had his face concealed with a mask and dark glasses. Anyone with information on this subject or the vehicle are asked contact the Fruitport Police Department at (231) 865-8477 or Muskegon Silent Observer by calling 72- CRIME, and online at silentobservermuskegon.com.

Additional images can be viewed at our website at www.fruitportpolice.com

Contact Information:
D/Sgt Rypstra
Fruitport Police
231-865-8477
brypstra@fruitportpolice.com

For full details, view this message on the web.

Ask Dr. Universe – Phobias

Dr. Universe: Why do we get phobias? -Ryan, 13, Hillarys, Western Australia

Dear Ryan,

We all experience fear in our lives. It is a useful tool that helps humans and other animals survive. I happen to be afraid of dogs, thunderstorms, and water. But fears are quite different from phobias.

A phobia is an intense fear of an object or situation, often one that you actually don’t need to fear. It can create a lot of anxiety. It can cause your heart rate to speed up, make it hard to breathe, and trigger nervousness, vomiting, sweating, or dizziness.

Phobias usually fall into four groups. That’s what I found out from my friend Jake Zimmerman, who teaches abnormal psychology and is getting his Ph.D. at Washington State University.

One of the groups is animal phobias. This includes things like dogs, insects, and spiders. Another group is environmental phobias, like fear of heights, storms, and water. Body phobias include fear of things like getting shots or seeing blood. Finally, there are phobias related to situations like flying in an airplane, riding an elevator, or going to the dentist.

Just as there are many kinds of phobias, there are many reasons why someone might develop one. Zimmerman explained that a person’s chance of developing a phobia can sometimes be passed down from previous generations. Just as we get our hair color and eye color from information that’s passed down to us through our parents’ genetic code, we can also get a code that makes us more likely to develop intense anxiety or phobias.

Zimmerman added that phobias might develop from a person’s negative experience with an object or situation. For example, if you were bit by a dog, it could lead to a phobia. But a phobia may also come from observation—seeing something bad or scary happen to someone else or maybe even on the television.

A lot of people tend to have phobias about animals or nature. Your human ancestors really did have to watch out for poisonous snakes, spiders, and big animals with sharp teeth. An authentic sense of fear helped them survive.

“We are descendants of people who didn’t get too close to the edge,” Zimmerman says.

While some phobias are really intense, they can often be treated by slowly and repeatedly exposing people to the object they fear. Zimmerman said that for most people a phobia will develop pretty early in life—before age 15. It’s common to fear something when you are young and then eventually stop fearing it as you get older.

We‘ve come up with quite a long list of names for phobias. Basophobia is a fear of falling, mysophobia is the fear of germs, thalassophobia is fear of the ocean, cynophobia is the fear of dogs, and coulrophobia is the fear of clowns—just to name a few. Oh, and ailurophobia? That’s a fear of cats.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Submit a question!

FCS – Board Workshop Agenda – 04/22/19

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD WORKSHOP
Monday, April 22, 2019 – 6:00 p.m.
Board of Education Meeting Room

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINES
1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of April 15, 2019 (attachment IV-1)
2. Budget
3. Facilities and Future Growth
4. Music
5. Auditoriums
6. Technology
7. Programs to Expand or Implement
8. Policy
9. Other

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VI. ADJOURNMENT

~

*Time is provided for members of the audience to address the Board of Education regarding any topic including items on the agenda. The board is providing one opportunity for the public to comment during the meeting. Members of the audience may wish to bring issues to the Board of Education for board consideration. Time limits may be placed if a large number of individuals would like to address the board.

Fruitport Township Planning Commission Meeting Agenda – 04/16/19

AGENDA

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP
5865 AIRLINE RD
FRUITPORT, MI 49415

April 16, 2019
6:30 PM WORK SESSION
7:00 PM BOARD MEETING

WORK SESSION
Continue review of ordinances
-Start at 42-251

BOARD MEETING
01. Roll Call
02. Approval of Planning Commission Minutes: March 19, 2019
03. Approve / Amend Agenda
04. Correspondence / Reports
05. Public Comments pertaining to agenda topics

New Business
06. Ordinance amendment: prohibiting marihuana establishments

Old Business
07. Zone Change- North Ottawa Community Hospital
Parcel/s:     15-134-100-0001-00
∙                   15-134-100-0002-00
∙                   15-134-100-0004-00
Purpose:     Re-zone to match Fruitport Township’s master plan: Commercial/B-2

08. Public Comments
09. Adjournment

~

The township will provide necessary reasonable aids and services for this meeting to individuals with disabilities by writing or telephoning the Township Clerk:
Andrea Anderson
Fruitport Charter Township
5865 Airline Rd, Fruitport, MI  49415
(231) 865-3151.

Fruitport Board of Education Regular Monthly Meeting Minutes – 04/15/19

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
April 15, 2019 7:00 p.m.
Board Room

I. The Regular meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

II. The PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited.

III. ROLL CALL: Present – Jill Brott, Elroy Buckner, Tim Burgess, Kris Cole, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, and Steve Kelly.

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 19-044. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Buckner to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

V. PRESENTATIONS
Adult Education Director, Brenda Baker and Adult Education Navigator, Jill Stamison gave a presentation on Linked Muskegon. The program is an 18 week class to career education opportunity for students enrolled in Adult Education. Participants receive the knowledge, skills, and hands-on training for employment in one of four career fields. Over the three years Linked Muskegon has been in operation, 96 students have successfully completed the program and are now employed in their chosen field.

School Resource Officer, Dan Butler spoke to the Board about his experiences and duties as an SRO for Fruitport Community Schools. Officer Butler provided information on his day-to-day tasks since being hired in October 2018. Officer Butler has assisted administrators with student interventions and mentoring. He has assisted families with home visits and provided presentations to students on various law enforcement topics. Superintendent, Bob Szymoniak read aloud an email from staff member, Jill Torvinen who commended Officer Butler for his work and dedication to Fruitport Community Schools.

VI. COMMUNICATIONS
None.

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Bob Szymoniak gave an update on an upcoming policy seminar, meeting with the Governor, the Community Open House on May 4th and the 9-1-1- Surcharge ballot proposal.

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 19-045. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the Consent Agenda as listed below:
1. Approval of Regular Board Meeting Minutes of March 18, 2019
2. Acceptance of Bills, Monthly Financial Report, and ACH Transactions
3. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report
4. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report
5. Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report
6. Approval of the Personnel Report
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. MAISD Biennial Election Resolution for Consideration.
Item 19-046. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Cole to consider and discuss the upcoming MAISD biennial election.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XI. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held April 8, 2019.
Elroy Buckner reported on a Business and Finance Committee meeting held April 8, 2019. Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Bob Szymoniak and Mark Mesbergen were present. The committee discussed a Bus Replacement Recommendation and a Bus Camera RFP. They received an update on Bond Investments and the 2019 Spring Count.

2. Bus Purchases.
Item 19-047. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to approve the purchase of one new special education bus and three off-lease regular education buses.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held April 10, 2019.
Steve Kelly reported on a Personnel Committee meeting held April 10, 2019. Dave Hazekamp, Tim Burgess, Steve Kelly, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed Muskegon Made as it applies to counseling, the Music Program, the Eastern Service Unit Staffing, Teacher Retirements, Teacher Vacancies, and potential Auditorium Directorship.

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held April 10, 2019.
Jill Brott reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held April 10, 2019. Dave Hazekamp, Allison Camp, Jill Brott, Susan Franklin and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed a New High School Course Offering, Counseling, a Coding Class, the Music Department, Law Day, the District School Improvement Work Session at the MAISD, and Instructional Assistant Staffing.

2. New High School Course Offering.
Item 19-048. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Franklin to approve Spanish 5 as an addition to high school course offerings as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

3. Trip Requests.
Item 19-049. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Franklin to approve the following trip requests:
Middle School BPA, Anaheim, CA May 1-5, 2019; Varsity Softball, Kalkaska, MI May 10-11, 2019; Edgewood 4th Grade Camp, June 4-5, 2019; Shettler 5th Grade, Chicago, IL June 4, 2019; Beach 4th Grade Camp, June 5-7, 2019; Shettler 4th Grade Camp, June 5-7, 2019; Edgewood 5th Grade, Chicago, IL, June 5, 2019; and Beach 5th Grade trip, Chicago, IL, June 5, 2019 as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Jill Brott spoke about Shettler’s reading assembly, a leadership meeting, a Reproductive Health meeting and reward parties Shettler classrooms earned during Black History Month. Jill also indicated Prom is April 20th.

Steve Kelly mentioned a successful start to spring sports and the upcoming band fish fry fundraiser at the Eagles on April 19th.

Kris Cole shared Robotics information and spoke about the marching band’s trip to Disney World.

Dave Hazekamp gave a brief update on an Athletic Council meeting he attended. He talked about a goal of having consistent messaging and branding throughout the district.

XV. AGENDA ITEMS for FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF ANY SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Business and Finance Committee will meet May 14, 2019 at 11:30 a.m.
2. Personnel Committee will meet May 13, 2019 at 5:00 p.m.
3. Student Affairs Committee will meet May 13, 2019 at 12:15 p.m.
4. A Board Workshop is scheduled for April 22, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. to discuss district data.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Staff member, Pam Gustafson addressed the board about the district’s School Resource Officer. She spoke highly of having Officer Butler in the district and commented that he is a great asset.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Item 19-050. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly
Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 04/10/19

STUDENT AFFAIRS
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
12:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

Attendance: Allison Camp, Jill Brott, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, Bob Szymoniak

1. The new course, Spanish 5, was discussed. It received support from Instructional Council and will be placed on the Board agenda for consideration to be added to the high school course offerings.

2. Counseling
• a. Muskegon Made as it relates to counseling was discussed.
• b. An update on Hackely Community Care placing a counselor in Edgewood Elementary was given.

3. It was reported that an old course, Coding, was being resurrected and offered to high school students this coming fall.

4. Music Department assignments and leadership where discussed in that we are preparing the foundation to grow and expand programming in the future.

5. Susan mentioned that May 1 was Law Day and encouraged teachers to bring students to the Ottawa County Courthouse for related programming.

6. Allison invited Student Affairs Committee members to join district school improvement teams for a work session at the MAISD on April 25 from 4-7:30 p.m.

7. A discussion was held on Instructional Assistant turnover.

Meeting adjourned at 12:53 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 04/10/19

Personnel Committee
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
5:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

Attendance: Tim Burgess, Steve Kelly, Dave Hazekamp, Bob Szymoniak

1. Muskegon Made as it applies to counseling and the pending counseling office that will be placed in Edgewood by Hackley Community Care were discussed.

2. An update on the music program was given with special note given to the Choir Director posting that would be put out in the very near future.

3. An update was given on expanding ESU supervisors from two to three. This has been agreed upon by the ESU superintendents from Orchard View, Oakridge, Ravenna, and Fruitport.

4. An update on teacher retirements was given.

5. An update on a 3rd grade teacher posting was given.

6. Implications of staffing in high school English and Health/Home and Family were discussed.

7. Potential auditoriums directorship was discussed as we prepare to open the new high school auditorium in 2020 along with maintaining the current middle school auditorium.

Meeting adjourned at 5:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 04/08/19

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, April 8, 2019
11:30 a.m., Superintendent’s Office
Meeting Minutes

Attendance: Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Bob Szymoniak, and Mark Mesbergen

1. Bus Replacement Recommendation
Mark presented a three year replacement plan for buses. A recommendation for the 2019-2020 year will be on the board agenda for approval. The recommendation will be to purchase one new special education bus and three buses that are coming off lease from other districts. The total cost will be roughly $330,814 paid out of the capital projects fund.

2. Bus Camera RFP
Mark presented a sample request for proposal that will be going out in the next couple of weeks. The RFP is for a new bus camera system as Fruitport’s system is over 9 years old. Once the bids come in, Mark will present the recommendation.

3. Bond Investment Update
Mark presented an update on the bond investment income.

4. Spring Count Update
Mark presented our spring count numbers. Fruitport is down 45.70 FTE’s from the Fall which is roughly a 1.67% decrease.

Meeting adjourned at 12:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 04/15/19

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Board Room
Monday, April 15, 2019 – 7:00 p.m.

I. CALL to ORDER

II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

III. ROLL CALL

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

V. PRESENTATIONS
1. Linked Program – Brenda Baker and Jill Stamison
2. School Resource Officer – Officer Dan Butler

VI. COMMUNICATIONS

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of March 18, 2019 (attachment IX-1)
2. Approval of Bills (attachment IX-2)
General Fund                            $216,680.23
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center                39,837.21
Food Service                                     3,324.45
Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage            5,337.42
2017 Debt Retirement                       500.00
Capital Projects (Bond)                 22,254.22  
Total Bill List                            $287,933.53

3. Acceptance of Monthly Financial Report and ACH Transactions (attachment IX-3)
4. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report (attachment IX-4)
5. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report (attachment IX-5)
6. Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report (attachment IX-6)
7. Approval of Personnel Report (includes confirmation of new hires, resignations, retirees, and transfers) (attachment IX-7)

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. MAISD Biennial Election Resolution for Consideration (attachment X-1)

XI. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Elroy Buckner, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held April 8, 2019 (attachment XI-1)
2. Bus Purchases (attachment XI-2)

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held April 10, 2019 (attachment XII-1)

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Jill Brott, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held April 10, 2019 (attachment XIII-1)
2. New High School Course Offering (attachment XIII-2)
3. Overnight Trip Requests (attachment XIII-3)

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

XV. AGENDA ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Schedule Business & Finance Committee Meeting
2. Schedule Personnel Committee Meeting
3. Schedule Student Affairs Committee Meeting
4. Board Workshop Monday, April 22, 2019 @ 6:00 p.m.
5. MAISD Annual Budget Review Wednesday, April 24, 2019 @ 5:30 p.m.
6. MCSBA Spring Dinner, May 2, 2019 5:30 – 8:00 pm, The Lake House
7. Community Open House, High School, May 4, 2019 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVII. ADJOURNMENT

~

*Time is provided for members of the audience to address the Board of Education regarding any topic including items on the agenda. The board is providing two opportunities for the public to comment during the meeting. The first is for people who wish to bring issues to the Board of Education for board consideration. At the end of the meeting the board will provide a brief opportunity for community members to comment on activities and/or discussion that took place during the board meeting. Time limits may be placed if a large number of individuals would like to address the board.

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 04/22/19

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

APRIL 22, 2019

6:30 P.M. WORK SESSION
7:00 P.M. BOARD MEETING

01. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
02. Roll call
03. Approval of board minutes: 4/8/19
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
A. Second Reading: Business Registration Ordinance

08. New Business
A. Approval to hire Director of Public Utilities
B. Reappoint ZBA members: John Winskas and Joe DeMarco
C. Approval of water service material supplier
D. AT&T Metro Act Right of Way Permit Extension
E. Police Special Assessment discussion
F. Discussion of foreclosure property

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

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

Secretary Benson Welcomes Era of No-reason Mail-in Voting in Michigan

Convenient option available to every registered voter

No-reason mail-in voting has launched in Michigan, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced today, explaining it will make voting easier for people across the state.

“If you want to fill out your ballot at home, you should be able to do so. And if you want to avoid the stress of finding time to get to the polls on Election Day, you should be able to do that, too,” Benson said. “The era of no-reason mail-in voting has begun in Michigan, and I’m excited about the potential it has to engage more of our fellow citizens in our democracy.”

She called no-reason mail-in voting a common-sense reform that can save administrative costs and headaches, increase turnout and reduce lines during elections. The reform also removes Michigan from the ranks of the relatively few states that haven’t offered voters the ability to mail-in their vote for no reason.

Benson held a news conference with Flint Township Clerk Kathy Funk at township offices on the first day registered voters can request a mail-in ballot for the May 7 election. They were joined by other local officials and two area residents – a small business owner and an employee of a business with nontraditional hours – who couldn’t previously use a mail-in ballot but now will have that convenient option in their busy lives.

On Nov. 6, Michigan voters overwhelmingly approved Proposal 3, which contained many measures to make voting more accessible and secure, including a provision that allows voters to obtain a mail-in ballot without providing a reason. Before that, voters in Michigan could only request a mail-in ballot if they could meet one of six criteria as an “absent voter,” such as being 60 years or older or expecting to be out of town on Election Day.

“No-reason mail-in voting is a convenience that will help many people at election time,” Benson said. “Last November, the people of this state decided to make voting easier, and their change for the better begins today.”

Benson encouraged residents to visit Michigan.gov/Vote, where they can download a mail-in ballot application and find a wealth of election-related information.

Ottawa County Department of Public Health Annual Report

miOttawa Department of Public Health
“Our Vision – Healthy People”
February 26, 2019  |  Annual Report

Stories to Share Public Health

Annual reports showcase the impact of local public health. We gathered photos, conducted interviews, wrote articles and so much more to create a magazine-style annual report. We compiled stories that link public health issues to people in our community to give you an insight into what we do.

For the latest report, visit www.miOttawa.org/Health2018
or previous reports at www.miOttawa.org/AnnualHealthReports

annualreport

Click cover to view full report.

Featured Stories

babyHOMEMADE QUILTS FOR BABIES
Quilters from the Grand Haven Lighthouse Quilt Guild donate beautiful, lovingly made pieces of art to moms and babies.

 

manandchildTURNING TRAGEDY INTO AWARENESS AND GIVING TO OTHERS
Medical Examiners Program works with Gif t of Life to help turn tragedies into hope for other people and families.

girlA LOOK AT THE PEOPLE’S HEALTH OF OTTAWA COUNTY
New to the study: Experts identify eight adverse childhood
experiences that affect a person’s health and well-being.

fruitHOW TO DONATE FRESH PRODUCE
Local solutions to the cost of fresh fruits and vegetables.

The Huizenga Huddle: January 11, 2019

It’s Past Time to Secure the Border

For years, elected officials in Washington from both sides of the aisle have discussed the need for border security and then failed to actually deliver on that promise. Now that there is an effort to properly secure the border, some in Washington refuse to acknowledge a problem even exists. The fact remains that our country is facing a humanitarian and national security crisis along our southern border. Our nation’s immigration system is broken and is in desperate need of the crucial resources necessary to protect our communities.

Each day, the brave men and women that serve as our first line of defense are challenged by thousands of inadmissible migrants who arrive at our border. In the last two years alone, Immigration and Customs Enforcement has arrested 266,000 undocumented immigrants with criminal records. Immigration courts are facing a backlog of over 800,000 open cases. To make matters worse, drugs are flowing across our borders, contributing to our nation’s drug epidemic and taking far too many American lives. Each week, 300 Americans die from heroin overdoses, 90 percent of which comes across our southern border by legal and illegal points of entry.

pencehuizengaRecognizing the crisis at hand, President Trump has asked for funds to address the enormous challenges we face. We cannot keep our communities and our country safe without adequate funding for border security. It means improving existing facilities by deploying new technology, adding additional law enforcement and judicial personnel, and implementing new security measures along our border. This also means properly providing funds for physical barriers where Customs and Border Patrol say they will be effective. If we can successfully land rovers on Mars, we can equip our ports of entry and areas along the border with technology to stem the flow of heroin, fentanyl, and other dangerous drugs that have hurt families in West Michigan and across the nation.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 04/15/19 – 04/22/19

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.visitmuskegon.org

Visit with the Easter Bunny
Through April 21 @ 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Saturday, April 6th – Easter Sunday, April 21, bring the kids to The Lakes Mall to meet the Easter Bunny!  Cherry Hill photography will be there to take photos.  The hours are Monday – Saturday, 11:00am – 8:00pm, and Sunday from 12:00pm-6:00pm.  For more information call 231-798-7104.

Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy
Mondays @ 6:00 pm
The “Arsenal of Democracy” was a slogan used by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in a radio broadcast delivered on December 29, 1940. The phrase was used to arouse popular support for aiding nations in the war prior to the US entry into WWII and continued until the end of the war. During that time, the US provided the Allies with millions of rounds of ammunition, as well as weapons, trucks, tanks and ships. The Americans who worked in countless factories throughout the country truly helped the US manufacture victory in WWII.  Join the USS Silversides Submarine Museum most Mondays through May 13 for the lecture series, “Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy!”

All lectures begin at 6:00pm at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. The cost is $5.00 per person or free with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership.  For more information call (231) 755-1230.

• April 15: The History of Willow Run presented by the Yankee Air Museum.
• April 22: Shipbuilding in WWII presented by Karen Duvalle, Submarine Curator at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum.
• April 29: The Future of Military Manufacturing presented by Fred Johnson.
• May 6: The Cost of Manufacturing for WWII presented by George Maniates.

Team Trivia Game Show
Mondays @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Mondays at 6:30pm, come to Racquet’s Downtown Grill for the Team Trivia Game Show!  Groups of any size are invited to play for free with prizes for the top three teams!  Categories range from pop culture and entertainment, to sports, history, science, culture and general knowledge.  Your live host will also offer many genres of music throughout the game, plus, you’ll enjoy food and drink specials each week.  For more information, call (231) 726-4007.

Back Alley Comedy Club: Chris Kattan & Friends
April 15 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Monday, April 15 from 7:00pm – 8:30pm, come to the Back Alley Comedy Club for Chris Kattan & Friends! Tickets are only $25 plus a $2 service charge if purchased online at www.backalleycomedyclub.com.  For more information call (616) 570-8765.

Chris Kattan is best known as one of the longest serving cast members on NBC’s ‘Saturday Night Live.’ In the 8 years Chris starred in the landmark late night program, he became best known for his characters ‘Mango,’ ‘Mr. Peepers,’ and one of the ‘Butabi Brothers’ opposite Will Ferrell which was such a hit that the sketch was adapted into the 1998 cult classic, “Night at the Roxbury.”  Kattan went on to star in Corky Romano where he plays the black sheep son in a family of mobsters and played the villain in the Malcolm D. Lee film, “Undercover Brother,” opposite Eddie Griffin.  Kattan also starred as a series regular in the ABC hit series, “The Middle,” and recently had some memorable appearances in the Adam Sandler films “Hotel Transylvania” and “The Ridiculous 6.” Kattan trained at Los Angeles’ The Groundlings Theater and is one of its most famous alumni. He currently tours the country with his extremely popular stand-up act.

Chris Kattan will be here and bringing a few friends with him. Come out and join them!

Italian Easter Classic with Sofia
April 16 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Tuesday, April 16 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for the culinary class “Italian Easter Classic with Sofia!” A classic Easter menu in the Italian tradition with Sofia Verdure pastellate (deep fry vegetable), gnocchi alla romana, Mediterranean salmon (baked salmon with cherry tomatoes, olives and capers), peas with pancetta, lemon sorbet.  The cost is $45.  Sign up at Eventbrite.com or call (231) 769-2202 for more information.

Group Bicycle Tour
Tuesdays @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company every Tuesday at 6:00pm for a 90 minute group bike ride!  There are five different groups to fit your biking needs and abilities and helmets are strongly encouraged.  Loaner helmets are always available at City Hub Cyclery (585 W. Clay Ave., Downtown Muskegon).  Unruly Brewing Co. is offering $1 off your first post-ride beer!  For more information call Raymond at 231-206-6182.

Planetarium Show: Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Visit West Michigan’s only free planetarium!  Carr-Fles Planetarium on the main campus of Muskegon Community College is showing “Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight,” April 2 – June 13 (no shows on May 7 – 16) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00pm – 7:35pm.  Be dazzled with virtual rides aboard the spacecraft of the future and see how far our technology can take us.  For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

Jazz at the Watermark
April 16 @ 7:30 pm
The Watermark 920 and the Truth in Jazz Orchestra invite you to Jazz at the Watermark! Tuesdays at 7:30pm, March 19, April 16 and May 21 there’ll be dancing, a cash bar and good food from Fatty Lumpkins.  The Truth in Jazz Orchestra is led by Muskegon legend and drummer Tim Froncek and has been a Muskegon institution for the past 12 years.  The cover is only $5 or $2 for students.  For more information call (231) 578-0469.

Paint Your Pet!
April 17 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Wednesday, April 17 from 5:30pm – 8:30pm, come to the Muskegon Farmers’ Market and Paint Your Pet! Enjoy drinks and friends while you paint a custom piece of your pet.  After you register, please email a picture of your pet by April 3 to jacqui.erny@shorelinecity.com.  Your photo will be pre-drawn onto a canvas ready for finishing touches the day of the event.  There are only 25 spaces available so time is of the essence! Cost is $40 and will include heavy snacks.  Beverages will be available for purchase.  Tickets are available on Eventbrite.com.

Spring Into Action: A Self-Advocacy Conference
April 18 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Spring Into Action Self- Advocacy Conference will be a local one-day event for and about people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) happening at the Holiday Inn/Muskegon Harbor.  The Arc Muskegon has long supported people with I/DD to advocate for themselves, and this conference will give you further tools, resources, education and support to do so. For more information call (231) 777-2006.

• You will learn more about the basics of self-advocacy that will open many new doors!
• You will learn how to share your opinions and speak up about what is important to you!
• You will learn how to make a difference for yourself and others!
• You will meet new people and gain new skills at the same time!

Art Talks Back Poetry Reading & Award Ceremony
April 18 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Thursday, April 18 from 6:00pm – 7:30pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Art Talks Back Poetry Reading & Award Ceremony! Celebrate the winning poets of this year’s Art Talks Back: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Contest!  This event is free and open to the public.  For more information call 231-720-2570.

Crazy About Curry with Chef Char
April 18 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Thursday, April 18 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class, “Crazy About Curry with Chef Char!” Are you ready to spice up your dinner time and incorporate more vegetables and seasonings into your dishes? Learn to make an Indian Butter Chicken Curry, a Thai Coconut Chicken Curry and a Vegetarian Chickpea curry for healthy, hearty meals you can easily make at home.  The cost is $45.  For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page.  For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company: Richard III
April 18 @ 7:30 pm
Thursdays, April 18 at 7:30pm, come to the Beardsley Theater as the Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company presents Richard III! Tickets are $14.00 for adults and $7.00 for students and seniors.  For more information call 231-727-8001.
Richard III follows the story of one of England’s most notorious kings, who aspires to the throne and plots to eliminate all who stand in his way. The play is action-packed, and bounces between humor and tragedy.  The character of Richard is a charismatic villain who shares his plots with the audience, making them his co-conspirators.

Getty Drive-In Opens for the Season
April 19 @ 7:00 pm
Friday, April 19 at 7:00pm, one of the last remaining drive-in theaters in Michigan will open for the season! Getty Drive-In Theatre offers 4 screens with double features all summer long.  Films for opening night will be announced soon.  Keep an eye on their Facebook page or call 231-733-1813 for more information.

Hennessy’s Comedy Night
April 19 @ 8:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Select Fridays from 8:30pm – 10:00pm, come to Hennessey’s Irish Pub for live stand-up Comedy!  Hosted by Tim Locke, Hennessey’s features various stand-up comedians from all over Michigan!  The cover is free!  For more information call (231) 728-3333.

Winter Farmers’ Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
November 24 – April 27, visit the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market on Saturdays from 9:00am – 2:00pm. For more information call (231)722-3251 or visit www.muskegonfarmersmarket.com.

Fruitport Network: Community Easter Egg Hunt
April 20 @ 9:00 am – 10:30 am
Saturday, April 20 from 9:15am – 10:30am, bring the kids to Pomona Park for an Easter Egg Hunt! For more information call 231-799-8010.

Ravenna First Reformed Church: Easter Egg Hunt
April 20 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Saturday, April 20 from 10:00am – 1:00pm, Ravenna First Reformed Church invites you to join them for an Easter Egg Hunt! Join them for a morning full of fun, community and fun activities!  For more information call (231) 853-6621.

Glenside 7th Annual Easter Egg Hunt
April 20 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Saturday, April 20 from 10:00am – 11:30am, the Glenside Neighborhood Association invites you and your family to join them for the Glenside 7th Annual Easter Egg Hunt happening at McGraft Park! For more information call 231-855-8228.

Sensory Friendly Movies: Where “Shhhhh!” isn’t allowed!
April 20 @ 10:30 am
Family Hope Foundation and Cinema Carousel present a unique movie experience for individuals with special needs and their families. Select Saturdays; enjoy a disability-friendly environment where everyone is welcome to be who they are!  For more information, call Family Hope Foundation at 616-729-8833.
With an audience of your peers, special families can enjoy something fun together that you might not typically be able to do. Brighter lights, lower sound, limited previews and a group of people who understand your child’s disability will make this family outing enjoyable for everyone!

These special event films feature:

• 10:30am showings
• Regular Matinee Pricing
• All movies in 2D and Open Caption
• Seating questions can be directed to the box office

Films:

• April 20 – “Missing Link”
• May 11 – “Ugly Dolls”
• May 18 “Polemon: Detective Pikachu”
• June 1 – “Aladdin”
• June 15 – “The Secret Life of Pets”
• June 29 – “Toy Story 4”
• July 27 – “The Lion King”

Cream Puffs & Eclairs for the Beginning Baker with Chef Char
April 20 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
April 20 from 11:00am – 1:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class, “Cream Puffs & Eclairs for the Beginning Baker with Chef Char!” Learn the basics to a simple French pastry, pate a choux, and the two types of creamy fillings that separate cream puffs from eclairs. Top your goodies with a homemade chocolate ganache or utilize fresh strawberries for a bakery-style dessert to take home and share with friends.  The cost is $45.  For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page.  For more information call (231) 769-2202.

White Lake Young Adult Solo Performance 2019
April 20 @ 1:00 pm
The top 10 of some of the best college-age musicians from schools across the state of Michigan will perform on Saturday, April 20, at 1:00pm at Ferry Memorial Church! The Young Artist Solo Performance will feature these young adults performing live with an accompanist.  Awards totaling $1000 will be given to the top three winners based on the ruling of professional judges.  The audience will also be able to vote and an additional $125 will be given to the audience favorite.
This is part of the White Lake Chamber Music Festival, committed to encouraging and fostering excellence and hard work in young adult musicians. For more information, please visit www.whitelakemusic.org or call Sondra Cross at 231-329-3056.

The top finalists are:

• Kelly Avila, viola – Interlochen Arts Academy
• Kayla Cieslak, flute – Eastern Michigan University
• Lauren Glomb, oboe – Grand Valley State University
• Gabrielle Karel, piano – Hope College
• Linus Guerra, sax – Grand Valley State University
• Samuel Musser, piano – Hillsdale College
• Xinyu Zhu, violin – Central Michigan University
• Matteo Generani, piano – Central Michigan University
• Stephanie Sowers, clarinet – Michigan State University
• Samantha Kao, piano – University of Michigan

Pizza for Paws
April 20 @ 6:00 pm
April 20th at 6:00pm, come to the Fricano Event Center for Pizza for Paws!  Enjoy dinner, raffles, auctions, music and fundraising for the Muskegon Humane Society.  Tickets are $40 per person or $250 for a table of eight.  For more information call (231) 773-8689.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Playoff Games
April 20 & 21
Tickets for the first two Muskegon Lumberjacks confirmed playoff games at the L.C. Walker Arena are on sale now!

• PLAYOFF GAME 1 – Saturday, April 20 at 7:15pm
• PLAYOFF GAME 2 – Sunday, April 21 at 5:15pm

It’s never too late to become a Season Ticket Holder! For single game tickets and playoff shirts, visit or call the Box Office at 231-726-2400. For group or Club tickets, visit or call the Business Office at 231-799-7000.

Back Alley Comedy Club: Comedian Zach Martina wsg Nick Leydorf
April 20 @ 8:00 pm
Saturday, April 20 from 8:00pm – 9:30pm, come to the Back Alley Comedy Club for comedian Zach Martina with Nick Leydorf!

A supportive family, a loving relationship and kids who adore him, that’s the American Dream. Unless you’re Zach Martina, then it’s a recipe for skepticism and anxiety.  Using his sarcastic wit, creative wordplay and a loveable arrogance, Zach brings his big personality to crowds across America as they wonder:  “I don’t know what he’s freaking out about, but it’s pretty funny.”
Blessed with a quick wit and a third nipple, Nick Leydorf is a left-handed comedian born and raised in rural Michigan. A criminal defense lawyer by day, comedian by night and a human the rest of the time, Nick takes his own observations of the world, peppers them with silliness and delivers them with a clinically diagnosed awkwardness that leaves audiences where he found them.

Tickets available at the door for only $10! Call (616) 570-8765 for more information.

Easter Brunch at Bella Maria’s Event Center
April 21
Sunday, April 21 at 11:00am, 12:45pm and 2:15pm, come to Bella Maria’s Event Center for Easter Brunch!  Enjoy a Belgian Waffle Bar, eggs, bacon fruit and more at the breakfast station or the Honey Ham Carving Station, Beef Carving Station, Chicken Parmesan, Smoked Salmon and much more!  The cost is $30 for adults and $10 for kids ages 5 – 10.  Kids 4 and under are free.  Reservations are required by calling 231-563-6914.

Easter Day Brunch Buffet at Verdoni’s Event Center
April 21 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Sunday, April 21 from 10:00am – 3:00pm, bring the family to the Easter Day Brunch Buffet at Verdoni’s Event Center catered by Harris Hospitality. This brunch features over five fresh salads, large raw bar, breakfast station with build your own omelets, build your own waffles, The Deck’s famous brisket, chef’s carving stations, large dessert station and much more!  A full bar will be available for purchase including a build your own Bloody Mary bar, Mimosa bar and Moscow Mule bar!  The cost is $31.99 for adults, $13.99 for children 4-12.  Kids under 4 eat free.  Call 231-780-7636 today for reservations.

Easter Brunch at The Lake House Waterfront Grille
April 21 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sunday, April 21 from 10:00am – 4:00pm, bring your family to the Easter Brunch Buffet at The Lake House Waterfront Grille! Reservations are strongly recommended.  To secure your table, please call 231-722-4461.  Adults – $34.95, Children 4-10 – $10.95, 3 and under are free!
Celebrate with a delicious array of Easter favorites including:

• Chef Carved Prime Rib
• Maple and Bourbon Glazed Ham
• Fried Lake Perch
• Fresh Seafood Bar
• Build Your Own Omelet Station
• Mustard Citrus Glazed Salmon
• Bananas Foster French Toast
• Sweet Belgian Waffles
• Smoked Gouda Macaroni & Cheese
• Tuscan Dip
• Roasted Caprese Chicken
• Green Bean Almandine
• Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
• Bacon and Sausage
• Herb Roasted Redskin Potatoes
• Fresh Seasonal Soup
• Garden Salad Bar
• Fresh Fruit Display
• Assorted House Made Desserts

Easter Brunch at the Holiday Inn Muskegon-Harbor
April 21 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Sunday, April 21 from 11:00am – 2:00pm, come to the Holiday Inn Muskegon-Harbor for a delicious Easter Brunch!  Highlights include:

• Chef carved Slow Roasted Prime Rib w/ Horseradish Sauce and Natural Au Jus
• Rosemary Ham
• Chef attended pasta station featuring Mushroom Ravioli w/ Pancetta and Parmesan, Roasted Boneless Chicken Thigh w/ Creole Shrimp and Sausage, Creamy Garlic Bacon Brussel Sprouts, Cauliflower Au Gratin, Green Beans, Garlic Redskin Mashed Potatoes w/ Gravy and Wild Rice Pilaf.
• Deluxe Salad Bar featuring Fresh Baked Bread, Shrimp Cocktail, Smoked Salmon Platter, Spinach Artichoke Dip, Ancient Grain Salad, Caprese Platter, Potato Corn Chowder, Garden Pasta Salad, Fruit Salad and a Vegetable Platter w/ Ranch Dip.
• Chef Attended Omelet Station featuring Made to Order Waffle Bar, Crisp Bacon, Biscuits and Gravy and a Fresh Fruit Display w/ Raspberry Dip.
• A Mimosa & Bloody Mary Station will be available for an additional charge.

It’s not too early to reserve your table! Hop to it and make your reservation for the Easter Brunch Buffet today by calling 231-720-7105 or e-mailing Sarah@himuskegon.com.

The Greater Pangasinan-Metro Manila Celebration with Will Graham

willgmanillaEvangelist Will Graham returned to the Philippines in February to hold an eight-day, nine-event evangelistic campaign that took place in multiple locations in and around Manila. The Greater Pangasinan-Metro Manila Celebration with Will Graham was held Feb. 9-17.

All told, 149,656 people attended the events, and more than 19,400 responded to the invitation to make a commitment to Jesus.

“Jesus, the Son of God, came for one reason: to transform your life by dying on the cross for your sin and my sin,” said Graham from the stage during one of the outreaches. “Everything points to the cross. The cross is the most significant event in human history. It can change your life tonight.”

This Celebration marked the first time that all three generations of Graham evangelists have preached from the same venue in the same city. Will’s grandfather, Billy Graham, preached a Crusade at Rizal Park in 1977 and Will’s father, Franklin Graham, held an evangelistic Festival in 2006 in the same location.

For more information on upcoming events at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, visit billygraham.org.

BGEA Films Now Available on Amazon Prime

bgfilmAmazon Prime is offering 17 digital movies produced by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA). It will also carry 12 historical sermons from Billy Graham. These 30-minute Billy Graham Classics episodes present timeless messages of hope from the late world-renowned preacher, with topics ranging from daily living to eternal salvation.

Amazon Prime subscribers can view the movies and Billy Graham Classics for free. The films are available to non-subscribers for rent or digital purchase; the Billy Graham Classic sermons are available for purchase. Some of the more popular films include The Hiding PlaceThe Restless Ones, and Last Flight Out.

Additionally, several BGEA films are currently available on the Pure Flix streaming platform, in both English and Spanish.

For more information, visit billygraham.org.

Ask Dr. Universe – Morning Breath

Dr. Universe: Why do we get morning breath? -Stephanie, 10

Dear Stephanie,

If you’ve ever caught a whiff of someone’s stinky morning breath, or even your own, you know it can be pretty rotten. We can trace the smell back to tiny culprits that live in our mouths. They are called microbes and they live around your gums, between your teeth, and on your tongue.

“They like to eat what you eat,” said my friend Claire Burbick, a veterinarian and microbiologist at Washington State University.

The microbes feed on leftover bits of food in your mouth. They not only help break down your food, but they also get energy from it. As they eat, grow, and multiply, they also release some smelly gases that might remind you of rotten eggs.

When microbes eat foods rich in protein, such as meat or dairy, they tend to grow and multiply pretty fast, Burbick said. In fact, sometimes meat eaters get more stinky breath than plant eaters. Something else that adds to the stink is leftover food. If large pieces or food are stuck between teeth or in your gums, it becomes a kind of playground where microbes can grow.

The mouth can get kind of gross, but it also has a way to clean itself out. One way it does this is with saliva, or your spit. It’s mostly made out of water and contains a few chemicals that help fight off bad bacteria. Saliva is kind of like a built-in cleaning system. Of course, it isn’t perfect, so brushing your teeth also helps. Not to mention, your family and friends will thank you for it.

Whether snoring or just breathing deeply, animals and humans sometimes sleep with their mouths open. When air moves in, it can dry out the saliva in your mouth and create an environment that makes the stinky bacteria go wild.

In the morning, you might wake up with particularly bad breath. You’ll probably want to brush your teeth again, sending those stinky microbes down the drain and leaving your breath fresh.

Bad breath isn’t just a people problem either. Cats, horses, cows, and of course dogs, get bad breath for many of the same reasons. Brushing teeth is also recommended for your pets, and they even have their own special toothpaste, said Burbick.

It turns out humans have been battling bad breath for thousands of years—and they’ve come up with some creative ideas. Some researchers have found evidence that Ancient Egyptians mixed together spices and honey to create a kind of breath freshener. They also used thin twigs with frayed edges to scrub their teeth.

One of the first toothbrushes in human history was made in China. It had bristles made of hog hair and inspired the plastic toothbrushes humans use today. Humans will also use floss, which helps get rid of bacteria in places where a toothbrush might not be able to reach. There’s also gum and mouthwash to help mask morning breath—or garlic breath, or onion breath, or whatever kind of stinky breath might come your way.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Submit a question!

Site Selection Magazine, Muskegon Tied for the #10 Top Metro

Muskegon Area First (MAF), the Muskegon County private, non-profit economic development corporation, has been notified that the Muskegon Metro area has tied for the #10 spot in Site Selection Magazine’s Top Ten Metro Areas for 2018. They have made the list for the first time for cities with populations less than 200,000. “What an exciting time for the Muskegon metro area,” said Darryl Todd, MAF Interim President/CEO. To be named in the top 10 on our very first time being listed speaks to the tremendous success we’ve had working cooperatively as a team to ensure that Muskegon is a great place to live, work, play, and succeed in business!”

Environmental Awards, National Accolades and a Call for Artists

MUSKEGON, MI – The Lakeshore Art Festival takes art and environmental stewardship to the next level each and every year.

The newly released 2018 Sustainability Report outlines the ways the festival continues to make progress towards a zero waste event. Over the last five years, the festival has diverted 7,510 pounds of material from landfills, achieving a diversion rate of 21.5% – the best of any festival in Muskegon County! Many factors play into this accomplishment, including compostable serving-ware requirements, multi-purpose recycling containers scattered throughout the festival, and the use of free refillable water stations. To review the complete report, visit bit.ly/LAFSustainability.

The festival continues to increase the number of exhibitors and move up in national rankings each year. Sunshine Artist Magazine, known for high-quality fine art and craft content, ranked the Lakeshore Art Festival #11 in the nation. Art Fair Calendar, an outlet promoting attendance at art fairs, just announced the Lakeshore Art Festival as the 5th best Art Fair in the country!

“This recognition shows us that exhibitors and guests are talking about the show on a national level. These efforts are rooted in the dedication to excellence from our talented team, quality art exhibitors and an amazing guest experience. All of these factors not only generate a buzz for Muskegon County, but have a direct impact on the local economy, both of which are major priorities for the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce,” commented Carla Flanders, Lakeshore Art Festival Director.

Exhibitor applications will be accepted until Friday, February 1, for the festival taking place Friday, July 5 and Saturday, July 6, 2019. Artists who create original works of art in either the fine art or craft categories are encouraged to apply online via Zapplications: bit.ly/LAF2019.

About Lakeshore Art Festival
The Lakeshore Art Festival is always the first Friday and Saturday in July. The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of 350+ fine art and craft exhibitors, street performers, specialty food booths, interactive art stations, children’s activities and so much more in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan. Local businesses interested in supporting this locally and nationally recognized festival through sponsorship can contact Carla Flanders at artfest@muskegon.org. For more information visit lakeshoreartfestival.org.

New Park Property – Stearns Creek

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February 26, 2019

parkproperty

The Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Commission and Ottawa County Parks Foundation reached an important landmark today in its effort to create a new ecologically important park along the Grand River Greenway.

Agreements were reached with three landowners to sell 118 acres of land in Robinson Township at the south end of Stearns Bayou. This land includes 6,350 feet of frontage along Stearns Creek and will protect nearly 27 acres of high quality wetland. The acquisition helps accomplish the goal of adding 700 acres of park land to the  Grand River Greenway over the next five years; a donation to the campaign is a key part of the funding for the purchase.

The Grand River Greenway Campaign Committee is part of the Parks Foundation and is co-chaired by Peter Secchia, Monica Verplank, and Samantha Verplank.

The purchases are expected to be completed in March and are funded by a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program (CELCP) grant, a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant, and a gift from the estate of John J. Helstrom. In honor of the gift, the new park will feature the Helstrom Family Trail System.

“Land acquisition is a priority for completing the Greenway and for the Parks Foundation,” said Parks Commission President and Foundation Board Member David VanGinhoven.” Donations like the one from the John J. Helstrom estate are so important to helping the County Parks protect critical properties and have an impact that goes well beyond the amount given, because they can leverage other public funding sources. In this case, the impact of the gift was multiplied over tenfold.”

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of March 25, 2019

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, March 25, 2019, in the township board room.

Members Present: Heidi Tice, Supervisor; Andrea Anderson, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Greg Hulka, Jeff Jacobs, Terry Knoll, Denise Winebarger
Members Absent: none

At 7:00pm, Heidi Tice opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a prayer.

Also Present: 1- residents; 0- employees; 0- guests; Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli; Director of Public Utilities, Ron Langlois; Attorney Ron Bultje.

The motion by Terry Knoll, supported by Denise Winebarger, was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of March 11, 2019 as presented

The motion by Andrea Anderson, supported by Rose Dillon, was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1. Ron Langlois shared a letter with the Board announcing his retirement effective July 1, 2019 and thanking the Township for many years of employment.
2. Heidi Tice shared that she attended a seminar in Lansing for Financially Responsible Communities.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

19-040 2019/2020 Budget Review
Discussion occurred. Any changes from the last meeting were reviewed.

Attorney Ron Bultje arrived at 7:20pm, during budget discussion.

19-041 Business Registration review and discussion
A proposed Business Registration Ordinance will be presented and available for first reading at the next meeting.

19-042 Annexation for City of Muskegon Development
No new information or discussion. Item TABLED.

19-043 First Reading: Marihuana Establishments and Sale and Consumption in Public Places Ordinance
The ordinance would prohibit marihuana establishments and would conform to Michigan law prohibiting the sale and consumption of marihuana in public places within Fruitport Township.

This constitutes the first reading. Final action will take place at the next regular scheduled board meeting on April 8, 2019.

NEW BUSINESS:

19-044 Budget Public Hearing
(a.) Andrea Anderson moved, supported by Terry Knoll MOTION CARRIED, to open the Budget Public Hearing at 8:10pm.
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

(b.) Public Hearing: The Supervisor announced the proposed millage rates as follows: General Fund at the millage rate of .9962 mills, Public Safety at 1.50 mills, Police at 1.00 mills, and Street Lights at .40 mills.

There were no comments heard.

(c.) The motion by Terry Knoll, supported by Rose Dillon, was carried unanimously to close the Public Hearing at 8:12pm and return to open session.

19-045 2019/2020 Budget Adoption
Rose Dillon moved, supported by Greg Hulka, MOTION CARRIED to adopt the April 1, 2019- March 31, 2020 draft budget as revised and to approve the millage rate and millage levies. Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees shall cause the listed millages to be levied and collected on all real and personal property within the township upon the 2019 general property tax roll an amount equal to the above shown mills as authorized under state law and approved by the electorate.
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

19-046 Final 2018/2019 FY Budget Amendments
Rose Dillon moved, supported by Terry Knoll, MOTION CARRIED, to accept the budget amendments as presented and to allow the Supervisor and Treasurer to make minor inter account adjustments which will have no effect on the overall account balances prior to year-end.
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

19-047 Banking and Investing Resolution
Heidi Tice moved, supported by Rose Dillon, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution approving the use of financial institutions and investments for the 2019-2020 FY.
Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

19-048 Nonpartisan Offices Resolution
Andrea Anderson moved, supported by Jeff Jacobs, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution to support legislation that would allow Township Boards the option to have its elected officers appear as nonpartisan on the ballot.
Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

The Clerk will execute the resolution and return to Michigan Townships Association.

19-049 Casino support discussion
Discussion regarding further support of the Casino project occurred.

19-050 Payment of bills
Terry Knoll moved, Heidi Tice seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $24,164.77; Public Safety $33,203.29; Water $34,018.46; Sewer $4,221.83; T&A $648.00; Street Lights 15,106.05
Totaling: $111,362.40
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:
1. The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians is expected to be at the next Michigan Townships Association meeting.
2. The Board discussed the proposed kayak launch for Pomona Park in the Village of Fruitport.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none

The motion by Terry Knoll, supported by Greg Hulka, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 8:35pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK

HEIDI TICE, SUPERVISOR