Monthly Archives: May 2021

In Person Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday May 17, – Sunday May 23, 2021

Please call event before attending for any changes.
Remember to wear your mask to all events
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday May 17:

Hackley Library Crafts
Visit Hackley Library website daily to see what take home crafts they have for you. www.hackleylibrary.org 231-722-8000 Limited Supply of crafts.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Open seven days a week! Only 9 drive-in theaters remain scattered throughout the state of Michigan, and one is found here in Muskegon! The Getty Drive-In Theatre located at 920 E. Summit Ave. offers a double feature on 4 outdoor screens. Tune your car radio to the cinematic sounds coming from the big screen. Movies begin at dusk. Tickets a can be pre-ordered here bit.ly/GettyDriveInWebsite Adult $11.00 Child (6-12) $6.50 Senior Citizen (60+) $7.00 College Student $7.00 TACO Tuesday Adult $7.50 231-798-2608

Outdoors Cardio Drumming!
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
A fun workout for all ages, sizes and fitness levels! First timers can rent the needed equipment for $1. Beachwood Park is outdoor location. The class is just $2 per person. Required equipment: Water bottle, available to rent for $1 each are: 17 gallon bucket, 65-75cm yoga ball, Drumsticks. Keep up to date with the Muskegon Drum Crew Facebook Group. Classes are Monday & Thursday.

Tuesday May 18:

JCI Greater Muskegon Hike at Hoffmaster
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Join JCI Greater Muskegon for a fun, socially distanced hike at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park located at 6585 Lake Harbor Rd.! Connect with young professionals in the Muskegon community at a family-friendly outing. Meet at the Visitor Center.

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday until November. For COVID19 safety measures, the market will have a different look and feel this year: Please wear your mask and walk within the direction arrows.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Only 9 drive-in theaters remain scattered throughout the state of Michigan, and one is found here in Muskegon! The Getty Drive-In Theatre located at 920 E. Summit Ave. offers a double feature on 4 outdoor screens. Tune your car radio to the cinematic sounds coming from the big screen. Movies begin at dusk. Tickets a can be pre-ordered here bit.ly/GettyDriveInWebsite Adult $11.00 Child (6-12) $6.50 Senior Citizen (60+) $7.00 College Student $7.00 TACO Tuesday Adult $7.50

Wednesday May 19:

Comedy Night at Burl and Sprig
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fresh Ghost Comedy presents live, FREE admission comedy show at Burl & Sprig Distillery located at 500 W. Western Ave. in downtown Muskegon.

Middle and High School Students Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Middle & High School Students FREE at Art Council of White Lake located at 106 E. Colby St. 231-893-2524 Registration is required! Visit www.artswhitelake.org/upcoming-classes to register
Middle and High School students are invited to the ACWL-Nuveen for Open Studio sessions on Wednesdays between 2:00 and 5:00, p.m. ACWL-Nuveen staff will be available to help students with both art and music projects. Art students are welcome to bring in projects they are already working on or just an idea for something new. They will be able to use the numerous supplies we have on hand, as well as receive help from ACWL-Nuveen Assistant Director Susan Wink. Music students are invited to bring in the pieces they are currently studying and receive practice and musicality tips from ACWL-Nuveen Director Erin Peyer.

Muskegon Flea Market Opens for the Season
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Flea Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. opens Wednesday, May 5, at 8:00 AM. Flea Market open every Wednesday, May – October.

Crochet Basics: Cup Cozy
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
In this CROCHET BASICS: CUP COZY class at Art Council of White Lake located at 106 E. Colby, you’ll learn the basics and beyond! This class is designed for people who have little-to-no crochet experience. Ambitious beginners are Welcome! All supplies will be provided for you. Each project will use approximately 3 oz of yarn, a 5mm crochet hook, a yarn needle, and a button. All of these supplies will be yours to keep!
● Crocheting is good for mental health because it requires mindfulness. As you crochet, you need to pay attention to each stitch, the movement of your hook or needle, your breath, your stitch count.
● “When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future”
Registration is required. Register here: https://www.artswhitelake.org/…/crochet-basics-cup-cozy-2 Class is $50 per person. $45 if members.

Street Dancing ~ Cumbia Style
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Come to Olthoff Stage located on the corner of Third and Western in downtown Muskegon. Free Cumbia dance lesson from 6:00 -7:30 pm. We will keep the music on until at least 8:00. No experience or partner needed. Let’s make it a party! Take the lesson and then stay and practice what you’ve learned. If you don’t need a lesson and just want to dance, dance to the side of the lesson or join us at 7:00 for the only opportunity in Muskegon for this venue. No cost for the lesson or dance, but we will accept donations. Bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.
We will be working on Cumbia all of May.

Thursday May 20:

Cardio Drumming!
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
A fun workout for all ages, sizes and fitness levels! First timers can rent the needed equipment for $1. Beachwood Park is outdoor location. The class is just $2 per person. Required equipment: Water bottle, available to rent for $1 each are: 17 gallon bucket, 65-75cm yoga ball, Drumsticks. Keep up to date with the Muskegon Drum Crew Facebook Group. Classes are Monday & Thursday.

Muskegon Museum of Art: Free Thursdays
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Free museum admission all day every Thursdays at the Muskegon Art museum located at 296 W. Webster Ave., compliments of The Meijer Foundation. Please remember your mask.

Friday May 21:

Junk to Jewels Rummage Sale
9:00 am -3:00 pm
Visit the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club located at 280 W. Webster Ave. sale of gently used items including artwork, furniture, household items, jewelry, clothing, books, and tools. Proceeds support preservation of this historic building.

Hackley Hume Historic Homes All Access Tours
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Go where no visitor has gone before on this ALL ACCESS tour of the Hackley and Hume Historic Site located at 484 W. Webster Ave. Explore behind closed doors including attics, porches, and basements of both houses. Enjoy learning about various topics such as restoration, preservation and family stories.

Turtle Travels Exhibit Opening and Friday Family Fun Night
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay has a new interactive exhibit for kids, Turtle Travels. Families will enjoy several hands-on stations throughout the exhibit while learning how to help protect turtles. Exhibit features include a life-sized board game, a Swiss Army turtle, and two fun photo-ops! We will also have turtle-themed activities set-up outside on our side lawn. Free for Muskegon County residents & Museum Members, non-residents ages 3 and up are $5. Open-house style event, advanced registration not required.

Live Music at Smash Wine Bar Bistro
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Live Music Fridays & Saturdays located at 415 W. Western Ave. 8pm-10pm. Check their website www.smashwinebar.com or FB page for the schedule.

Fire Pit Follies – Fundraising Concerts
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
We’re bringing the show to your place! Muskegon Civic Theatre invites you, your friends and family to enjoy a Broadway concert in your own driveway, backyard, or patio – performed by the actors you’ve come to know and love at Civic Theatre! For $250, you can host up to 25 people, and enjoy a 40-minute show at your own home – complete with Broadway standards you know by heart. Performers will arrive in groups via car to sing their hearts out for you. Hosts will also receive a free gift basket filled with s’mores kit, and concession favorites. Email info@muskegoncivictheatre.org or call 231-722-3852 to make reservations.

Plane Watch Food Park Opening Day!
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Join us for Plane Watch Food Parks Opening Day located at 1100 E. Sternberg Rd.! We have an awesome line up and can’t wait to share it with you!

Linocut Relief Printmaking and Chine Collé
May 21 @ 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
Ages 16+ $140 $126 for ACWL-Nuveen Members located at 106 E. Colby St.
Come explore the graphic process of relief printmaking using linoleum! A relief print is inking the raised surface of the linoleum after areas have been carved away. We will cover the steps of how to transfer a drawing or photograph to the block, carving and inking the block, simple registration, printing to paper and using a press. We will also explore the addition of color. Participants will be able to take what they learn and print at home. From novice to experienced, printmaking holds an age-old process that continues to engage the imagination and always holds the element of surprise. You are welcome to bring a sack lunch

Saturday May 22:

ForeShore Adventure Run
May 22
Held at Pere Marquette Beach located at 3510 Channel Dr. the Muskegon Rescue Mission’s ForeShore Adventure Run is presented by Huntington Bank! This is the lakeshore’s premier 5k obstacle course run, you hardly notice the pain in your legs as you take on the course with the gorgeous views of Lake Michigan beside you. ForeShore features 25 obstacles suited for anyone and everyone to conquer. Every donation helps Muskegon Rescue Mission provide nutritious meals, safe shelter and life changing services to homeless men, women and children in West Michigan. For more information call 231-727-6090.

Child Abuse Council Softball Tournament
2:00 pm – 8:30 pm
The Child Abuse Council will host a slow pitch tournament at Softball World in Muskegon. Teams can be COED and must consist of 9 people, a 50/50 raffle will be taking place during the event. All proceeds will go toward the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon. $150 per Team For more information, call Macey Balavitch at 231-728-6410 or email mbalavitch@childabusecouncil.org.

Faithful to Felines Yard Sale + Succulent Bar
8:00am -2:00pm
Stop by for their sale located at 2525 Hall Rd. to benefit fuzzy paws friends!

Hackley Day Community Celebration and FREE Tours to Muskegon County Residents
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
The Hackley & Hume Historic Sites located at 484 W. Webster Ave. are open for extended hours to celebrate Hackley Day and the kickoff to the 2021 season with FREE tours for Muskegon County residents. When you arrive, check-in at the City Barn (carriage house) between the Hackley and Hume Houses. Free Parking on Webster Ave. & 6th St.

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Saturdays until November. For COVID19 safety measures, the market will have a different look and feel this year: Please wear your mask and walk within the direction arrows. Thank you

Sweetwater Local Foods Market Sweetwater Local Foods Market – OFFERING PREORDERS FOR PICKUP
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sweetwater Local Foods Market, 6401 Harvey St.
Sweetwater Local Foods Market will be offering a PREORDER ONLY market, out in the parking lot, from 10:00am to 11:00am. Sign up for the newsletter to get your order in here: https://tinyletter.com/SweetwaterLocalFoodsMkt or get the list from the website here: sweetwaterlocalfoodsmarket.org Sweetwater Local Foods Market offers healthy, humane, homegrown, local food you can trust! They are open year-round.

Boomtown Market Craft Beer & Wine Tastings
10:00 am – 7:00 pm
BoomTown Market, 351 W. Western Ave
Boomtown Market invites you to free Draft, Craft Beer & Wine Tastings every Saturday starting at 10 a.m. Sample unique Craft Beers on Tap from all around Michigan! If you like it, we’ll can a 32 ounce-er for you right then and there!

West Michigan Ironmen Cornhole Tournament
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
West Michigan Cornhole is partnering with the West Michigan Ironmen to run an indoor tournament on the field at the Mercy Health Arena on May 22 prior to the Ironmen’s home game! The event will be run with Scoreholio. Please add the app to your phone prior to arriving at the event. At 10:00AM we will open up for check-in and warm-ups. Starting at 11:00AM we will be running a minimum 3 game round-robin event with all participants. $40 per team
Players can bring their own bags to use. Bags will be available for use for those who don’t have them. All teams receive two tickets to the Ironmen game following the cornhole event and are guaranteed at least six games! Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Please, no outside food or drinks.

Sunday May 23:

Ottawa County Leaders Honor Deputies and Corrections Officers

In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as “National Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, as “National Police Week.” In 1984, President Reagan proclaimed the week beginning May 6, 1984, as “National Correctional Officers Week.”

Since then, these two weeks have been allocated to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, law enforcement officers actively protecting our community, and corrections officers who serve in and secure our facilities.

Roger Bergman, Board Chairman, poses with representative from the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, Zeeland Police Department, Holland Police Department, Michigan State Police and GVSU Department of Public Safety.

At the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners Meeting on May 11, the leaders honored West Michigan’s police officers, corrections and sheriff’s deputies. The board signed a resolution recognizing National Corrections Week, May 2-8, and National Police Week, May 9-15. Every single day, 24 hours a day, sheriff’s and corrections deputies and police officers, risk their lives to safeguard our communities. Their dedication, professionalism and unwavering assistance when called upon does not go unnoticed.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office also held private honor guard ceremonies and set a wreath in memoriam of those who have died in the line of duty in Ottawa County:

Office William Glerum – Zeeland Police Department – End of Watch: 07/18/1933
Res. Deputy Arlyn Lee Gort – Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office – End of Watch: 08/22/1989
Officer Scott Anthony Flahive – Grand Haven Dept. of Public Safety – End of Watch: 12/13/1994
Officer Trevor Parker Slot – Walker Police Department – End of Watch: 10/13/2011

Bike Time is Back in 2021

MUSKEGON, Mich. – After cancellation in 2020, due to COVID-19 restrictions, Muskegon Bike Time is set to welcome back motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country to downtown Muskegon.

Muskegon Bike Time promotes Muskegon and the lakeshore as a great place for motorcyclists and the general public to gather and enjoy the spectacle, attractions, entertainment and food offered during this four day event.

The event takes place annually the third weekend in July. This year’s dates will be July 15th through the 18th, 2021.

“Over the years, Muskegon Bike Time has been an economic boon to hotels, restaurants, bars, gas stations, local retailers and other local tourist attractions”, said Tim Lipan, spokesperson for Muskegon Bike Time. “All of the events surrounding this special motorcycle weekend provide a huge economic impact to the local economy and showcases all we have to offer in Muskegon and along the lakeshore.”

Muskegon’s New “Social District”
Downtown establishments in conjunction with the City of Muskegon have created this district to provide a year-round, festival atmosphere in Downtown Muskegon. The Downtown Muskegon Social District provides common areas in the downtown in which alcoholic beverages from participating establishments can be carried and consumed outside and along the streets. This added feature to downtown will add a new dimension to the event experience.

SCHEDULED EVENTS
With activities and events occurring in the downtown Muskegon area and throughout the county, the focal point of Bike Time activities will be at the Hot Rod Harley Davidson property in downtown Muskegon. Activities include:

MUSIC
Music is everywhere! Live concerts, beer tents, street performers and local bars & brewery’s provide music of all genres.

Bike Time Concerts
All concerts are free and presented by Little River Casino & Resort on the main stage.

Thursday, July 15, 2021.
5pm – 7pm: CHAD FLORES – Nashville recording artist, performing hard rocking country.
7:30pm – 11:30pm: GROUP THERAPY BAND – Super hits and dance tunes from the ages

Friday, July 16, 2021
4pm – 7:30pm: MR. WHOOHA – Party Band playing 80’s, 90’s and Top 40 Pop Rock
8:00pm – Midnight: PROJECT 90 – All 90’s All Night – Selected the #2 Best Band In West Michigan

Saturday, July 17, 2021
7:00pm – 9:00pm: THE ROCKETQUEEN – Guns & Roses Tribute Band
9:30pm – 11:30pm: LET THERE BE ROCK – The Ultimate AC/DC Tribute Band Experience.

EVENTS
Bike Time provides all forms of attractions and contests including:

• Harley-Davidson Demo Truck on Friday and Saturday (times TBD).
Take a spin on a new 2021 Motorcycle when the Harley-Davidson Demo Truck visits Muskegon Bike Time. There will be 17 models of bikes to choose from including a Trike. Riders will be able to test ride any model they wish at their leisure and on their own. A valid driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement and proper riding attire is required.

• West Michigan Arm Wrestling Championships.
The 2021 West Michigan Arm Wrestling Championships. Saturday, July 17, 2021. Weigh-ins and registrations from 10am to 12pm. Competition begins at 1pm.

• Best Bikini Competition
Hey ladies, here’s your chance to show off that new bikini. $1,000 cash prize. Winner take all. Saturday, July 17, 2021 from 3:00pm – 4:30 pm. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required.

• Dad Bod Contest
Hey Guys. We know you got it going on. Strut your stuff after the Bikini Contest for a chance at $250 cash. Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm.

• Hot Babe Bike Wash
Get that road dust off your ride at our Hot Babe Bike Wash Station on Friday and Saturday at Hot Rod Harley Davidson.

• Corn Hole Shootout Competition
Bikes & Bags Cornhole Tournament with cash prizes. Anyone can play. Anyone can win. Friday, July 16, 2021 at 5:30 pm – 10pm at Hot Rod Harley Davidson.

• Bike Time Rally
Ride the lakeshore and visit participating bars and restaurants to win prizes. Thursday, July 15 – Saturday, July 17, 2021. Sponsored by Hometown Hospitality, the awards ceremony will be held on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 6:30pm at the Bike Time Main Stage.

• Ride-In Bike Show
Saturday, July 17, 2021 from 1pm – 3pm. $10 entry fee. Cash prizes and trophies for Best Paint Job, Best Custom Bike, and Most Unique Bike.

RIDES
Experience a variety of scenic rides along the beautiful West Michigan shoreline with stunning views of Lake Michigan, pristine rivers, and massive sand dunes, as well as winding roads through picturesque forests and interesting small towns.

Muskegon Bike Time promotes a variety of scenic rides, throughout the West Michigan shoreline, for visiting bikers. They include:

• Patriot Ride – Take a self guided scenic ride of the area with over 200 of your closest friends. Ride is generally 1.5 hours long. A $10 donation per person supports a local charity. Sunday, July 21, 2019. Registration starts at 10am. Kick stands up at 11am.

• 7 Lakes Northern Ride – scenic ride showcasing 7 different lakes and many interesting small towns in West Michigan.

• Hot Rod Harley & Downtown – leaving Hot Rod Harley Davidson in downtown Muskegon, cruise the strip of Western Avenue, which is open to motorcycle traffic only, which includes beer tents, brewery’s, restaurants, vendors and other activities.

• Pere Marquette Beach – visit one of the most beautiful sugar sand beaches in the country right on Lake Michigan.

• Lake Shore Drive Southern Ride – this ride takes you along the Lakeshore to resort town of Grand Haven and the Dutch village of Holland and several lakes and rivers.

ACTIVITIES
During the event, you will experience spectacular bikes, great people watching, shopping, a variety of food options, giant jenga, giant beer pong, and corn hole all while enjoying adult beverages and craft brews of all kinds.

The area also provides a variety of other must see sites that appeal to every taste, including expansive beaches, WWII ships, military museums, historic homes, beautiful parks and museums of all kinds – right in the center of all the action.

CAMPING AND LODGING
Camp in the middle of the party at Hot Rod Harley-Davidson during Muskegon Bike Time. RV and tent spaces available.

A variety of other lodging options are available including, hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, Airbnb, beach cottages and boutique hotels.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES
A variety of food options will be available from several food trucks. Enjoy ice cold Budweiser products and local craft brews.

BIKE TIME MERCHANDISE
Official Bike Time merchandise will be available.

LITTLE RIVER CASINO RESORT INFORMATION
Information from Bike Time signature sponsor, Little River Casino Resort will be available.

HOT ROD HARLEY DAVIDSON
Most activities occur in and around the Hot Rod Harley Davidson dealership in downtown Muskegon. A visit to one of the premier Harley dealerships is a must!

COME VISIT US IN MUSKEGON AND JOIN THE SPECTACLE!

For more information on Muskegon Bike Time, please visit our website at www.muskegonbiketime.com or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Annual Bands at Blandford Outdoor Concert Series Expands to Six Days

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Live music is back at Blandford Nature Center. Music-lovers of all ages are encouraged to come and enjoy a night of live music in nature with their loved ones. This year’s Bands at Blandford Outdoor Concert Series will be expanding to six Saturdays throughout the summer with shows from 7-9 pm at Blandford Nature Center located at 1715 Hillburn Ave NW. Grand Rapids, MI 49504.

This series will highlight several musical genres by local bands in the Grand Rapids area each night. The lineup for this year’s series is as follows: The Bootstrap Boys on June 12th, Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps on June 26th, Cabildo on July 10th, Last Gasp Collective on July 24th, Peace to Mateo on September 11th, and MOLLY on September 25th.

The Diatribe will also be providing live poetry at the second show in July as well as both shows in September. The Diatribe uses performing arts to empower young people to share their stories, raise awareness of social issues, and create change within their communities.

“Bands at Blandford connects people with both music and nature, and this year we are excited to be adding poetry to several of the shows by partnering with The Diatribe,” said Volunteer Manager, Katie Clouse. “Our intent is to provide a safe and beautiful space to engage our community during these difficult and uncertain times. It’s so important to continue this series and support these local musicians who have been greatly affected by the pandemic this past year. We’re glad we can safely provide a stage to amplify these voices within our community.”

Guests can bring blankets and chairs to unwind with an adult-beverage on these warm summer nights. Concessions will be available for purchase from local businesses such as Brewery Vivant, Sacred Springs Kombucha, and more. Guests are welcome to bring their own food to this event, but no outside alcoholic beverages are permitted.

This year’s concerts were planned with the safety of the community in mind. A few of the precautions include limited capacity pre-sale ticketing and socially distanced circles throughout the event space for guests to safely spread out and enjoy the show. Guests will be required to wear a mask when outside of their circle, while purchasing drinks, or checking in.

Tickets are $20 per member and $25 per non-member. Tickets go on sale for June shows on May 3rd, for July shows on June 3rd, and for September shows on August 3rd. This event is open to the public and available for all ages. All tickets must be purchased prior to the show, no additional tickets will be available at the door. To learn more about the bands or purchase tickets, attendees can visit: blandfordnaturecenter.org/experiences/community-calendar/

About Blandford Nature Center: Blandford Nature Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose job and passion is to invite our community to enjoy, explore, and learn in nature. We make this happen by allowing our visitors to get their hands dirty—whether that be standing knee-high in water to learn about stream ecology or planting squash seeds to start a garden. This is accomplished through an active outdoor environmental lab, a team of passionate, knowledgeable people, and a strong link from past to future promoting sustainability. Blandford offers a wide variety of experiences to support our mission and vision through dynamic partnerships and innovative programming for all ages. For more information, visit www.blandfordnaturecenter.org.

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 05/17/21

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Monday, May 17, 2021 – 7:00 p.m.
Board Room and via Zoom

Connect to Zoom from your computer, tablet, or smartphone at:
https://zoom.us/j/95578158376?pwd=SnZpV2VOU0ZNM3owTStaU3ltOHNxZz09
Meeting ID: 955 7815 8376
Passcode: 533524

I. CALL to ORDER

II. PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE

III. ROLL CALL

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

V. PRESENTATIONS

VI. COMMUNICATIONS

VII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

VIII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

IX. CONSENT AGENDA

Approval of Special Meeting Minutes of May 3, 2021 (attachment IX-1)
Approval of Bills (attachment IX-2)
General Fund $318,732.95
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center 687.59
Food Service 1,772.50
Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage 185,518.94
Capital Projects (Bond) 52,407.16
Total Bill List $559,119.14
Acceptance of Monthly Financial Report and ACH Transactions (attachment IX-3)
Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report (attachment IX-4)
Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report (attachment IX-5)
Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report (attachment IX-6)
Approval of Personnel Report (includes confirmation of new hires, resignations, retirees, and transfers) (attachment IX-7)

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

Continuation of the Instructional Plan (attachment X-1)
Nominate and Approve an Acting Secretary of the Board (attachment X-2)
MAISD 2021-22 General Fund Budget Resolution (attachment (attachment X-3)
MAISD Biennial Election Resolution (attachment X-4)
Resolution Authorizing the Issuance and Delegating the Sale of Bonds (attachment X-5)
MHSAA 2021-22 Membership Resolution (attachment X-6)

XI. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Elroy Buckner, Chairperson

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Jill Brott, Chairperson

Report of Committee Meeting held May 12, 2021 (attachment XIII-1)

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

XV. AGENDA ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF SPECIAL MEETINGS

Schedule Business & Finance Committee Meeting
Schedule Personnel Committee Meeting
Schedule Student Affairs Committee Meeting
Special Meeting, Monday, May 24th @ 6:00 pm
Retirement Celebration, June 1st – High School Cafeteria @ 4:30 p.m.
High School Graduation – Doc Pierce Field @ 6:30 p.m.
Special Meeting, Monday, June 21st @ 6:00 p.m.
Special Meeting, Wednesday, June 23rd @ 6:00 p.m.
Special Meeting, Thursday, June 24th @ 6:00 p.m.
Truth and Taxation Special Board Meeting, Monday, June 28th @ 6:30 p.m.
June Regular Board Meeting, Monday, June 28th @ 7:00 p.m.
Special Meeting, Tuesday, June 29th @ 6:00 p.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.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson Recognizes May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

Motorcyclists are Hard to See. Look Twice. Save a Life.

In recognition of May as national Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is encouraging drivers to exercise extra caution when driving as motorcyclists take to the road during warm weather months.

“As motorcycle traffic increases across the state, all drivers should take extra care to prevent crashes every time they get behind the wheel,” Benson said. “The simple act of taking a second look before making a turn or double-checking your blind spots can prevent crashes and save lives.”

A rider and motorcycle present a smaller profile compared to the size of most cars and trucks, meaning many drivers overlook them or do not immediately recognize them as part of traffic flow. Though it is commonly thought that motorcyclist crashes occur most often on highways, 84 percent of motorcycle-vehicle crashes actually happen on city streets. Michigan motorists are urged to remain aware of motorcyclists at all times, and especially in high-risk situations, including when changing lanes or making a left turn.

The Secretary of State’s “Look Twice — Save a Life” program aims to promote motorcycle awareness, safety and education for motorists. Drivers are encouraged to visit Michigan.gov/LookTwice for more information and safety tips.

Ask Dr. Universe – Worms

Dr. Universe: How do worms help protect the dirt? -Fisher, 7, Palouse, WA

Dear Fisher,

Worms can help the soil in a few different ways. One helpful thing worms do is move around different materials, such as leaves and grasses, and make holes in the soil.

That’s what I found out from my friend Lynne Carpenter-Boggs, a soil scientist at Washington State University, who was happy to help with your question.

“Worms are actually very strong,” Carpenter-Boggs said. “They can break through soil and make holes that allow air, water and plant roots to follow those channels.”

As the worms wriggle down into the earth, sometimes they also pull leaves and dead grass down into their burrows. These materials can break down and add important nutrients to the soil.

Meanwhile, worms sometimes bring leaves and grasses down into their burrows to save as a snack for later. For earthworms, soil is almost always what’s on the menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Worms eat all kinds of things in the soil. Scientists often call these things organic materials. This includes grasses, leaves, roots and other materials that make up the soil.

After worms digest their food, they poop. It turns out there is a particular word scientists use when they talk about earthworm poop: castings. These castings look pretty much like the dark soil and blend right into the mix. Castings are also a kind of natural fertilizer that can help plants grow.

We also find another important thing in the castings that help the soil: bacteria. Bacteria are so small we’d likely need a microscope to see them, but they also help with soil health. Different bacteria have different jobs in the soil.

Some bacteria help break down—or decompose— different organic materials. There are even some bacteria that give off the very chemicals that create that earthy soil smell. Just as various types of bacteria live in your gut, a range of bacteria also live in the guts of worms.

“We can see that there is this incredible diversity of bacteria in the earthworm stomach,” Carpenter-Boggs said.

Through digging holes, moving materials around, eating and dropping their castings, worms do a lot to help protect the soil.

When you think about it, the soil is a pretty amazing material. Soil gives worms what they need to survive, and the worms help give the soil what it needs to thrive. That’s great for animals and humans who eat plants that grow in soil, too.

The next time I go outside, I’m going to take a closer look at the soil. Maybe you can try it out, too. Perhaps you will see some rocks, roots, grasses or maybe even a wriggling earthworm. If you have a magnifying glass, you might be able to get an even closer look. Take some time to think about how important the health of the soil is to all the life that lives in it—and how important soil is to all life on our planet.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

P.S. Dr. Universe is looking for questions for an upcoming Northwest Public Broadcasting program! Do you have a science question about plants, fruits, or flowers? Or a question about rocks, volcanoes, or earthquakes? Guardians can send an e-mail to Dr.Universe@wsu.edu with the subject: Meet the Scientists to find out more!

Know a kid with a science question?

Adults can help kids submit a question for a chance to be featured in a future video, podcast, or Q&A post.

Submit a question!

Hackley Community Care School Based Health Programs Site Closure

Behavioral Health Services Discontinued at Muskegon Covenant Academy

MUSKEGON Mich. — Hackley Community Care (HCC) School Based Health Programs behavioral health services at Muskegon Covenant Academy, ended on May 7, 2021.

HCC’s School Based Programs provided behavioral health counseling to students at Covenant Academy who are pursuing high school completion in a more flexible, non-traditional education environment, for the past 5 years.

HCC’s School Based Health Programs is committed to continuing services to Covenant Academy students and their families at one of our other locations listed below.

Students also have the option to receive services at one of our other convenient locations within Muskegon County.

Muskegon Teen Health Center (231.733.6680) offers medical, dental and mental health services. This site is located at 80 W. Southern Ave., Muskegon, MI 49441
HCC Clinton Site (231.737.1335) offers NowCare medical and mental health services. The Clinton site is located at 1550 Clinton Street, Muskegon, MI 49442
HCC Leahy Site (231.737.1335) offers medical, and mental health services. The Leahy site is located at 1675 Leahy St., Suite 103, Muskegon, MI 49442
HCC Baker Site (231.737.1335) offers medical, dental, mental health, OB and pharmacy services. The Baker site is located at 2700 Baker St., Muskegon, MI 49444

Our staff at the Muskegon Teen Health Center are available to help coordinate continued and or new services for students and their family. Appointments can be scheduled by calling the Muskegon Teen Health Center at 231.733.6680.

It has been a privilege working with the students, families and staff at Muskegon Covenant Academy. We look forward to providing continued service to you at one of the above listed HCC locations.

Ottawa County Parks & Recreation is Hiring

Ottawa County Parks & Recreation is searching for candidates interested in working outside this summer!

The opportunities are perfect for students (18+) who are home on break, retirees who want to spend more time outside, or anyone interested in parks who would like to earn extra money during the summer months.

“Ottawa County Parks has received far fewer applications than in past years and we are in urgent need of qualified candidates that have the availability to work the whole summer,” said Parks spokesperson, Jessica VanGinhoven.

Opportunities exist at parks in Holland, Grand Haven, Ferrysburg, Spring Lake, West Olive, and Jenison (near Allendale and Hudsonville). Seasonal employees that return for the next season are guaranteed a pay raise every year for the first four years.Interested candidates should review open positions and apply online.

Current Open Positions

Grounds Attendant (Seasonal, non-benefited) – $11.40 Hourly
Park Attendant (Seasonal, non-benefited) – $10.90 Hourly

miottawa.org/apply

Free Flight Experiences for Local Students at the Air Zoo

The Air Zoo Partners with STEM Flights to Offer Free Flight Experiences for Local Students.

PORTAGE, MI – The Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Center has partnered with a fellow nonprofit to deliver free educational flight experiences for middle and high school students in the greater Kalamazoo area. The flights are administered by STEM Flights’ volunteer Pilot Mentors and are designed to ignite and inspire interest in aviation and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) careers, which coupled with art (STEAM) is an ongoing initiative of the Air Zoo.

The flights utilize the cockpit of a small aircraft to highlight STEM concepts and learning while introducing youth to aviation focused careers. Because of the generosity of the volunteer Pilot Mentors and the free meeting space provided by the Air Zoo, there is no cost to the students for this incredible flight experience. A group of five area students have been selected to receive the first scheduled STEM Flight program on Saturday, May 15^th at the Air Zoo’s Flight Discovery Center.

Troy Thrash, President & CEO of Air Zoo, feels that aviation is an excellent pathway to STEM careers. “When we can inspire students with the wonders of flight, we can show them that anything is possible. Including an aviation or STEM career” Thrash noted.

STEM Flights currently has Pilot Mentors throughout the state of Michigan, and the May 15th mini event is the kickoff for a permanent program in the area. Participating students learn STEM curriculum online and are provided follow-up resources for pursuing careers in STEM and aviation after the completion of their flight.

Local students and Pilots are encouraged to sign up online with STEM Flights to participate in future flight experiences.

About STEM Flights
STEM Flights is a non-profit organization that provides customized aviation education and flight experiences to facilitate learning in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Their mission is to create positive experiences in general aviation, and inspire America’s youth to pursue STEM careers.

About the Air Zoo
Located at 6151 Portage Rd., Portage, MI 49002, the Air Zoo is a Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace & science experience with over 100 rare air & space craft, inspiring interactive exhibits, indoor amusement park rides, full-motion flight simulators, hands-on science-based education programs, and more. The Air Zoo is a not-for-profit organization and is open 360+ days per year.

For hours, tickets, safety policies and procedures as well as temporarily altered experiences due to COVID-19, visit airzoo.org/plan-your-visit.

Road Closure: 48th Ave., Fillmore St. to Bauer Rd., Starts May 17

from the Ottawa County Road Commission

WHEN: Starting on Monday, May 17, 2021

WHERE: 48th Ave., between Fillmore St. and Bauer Rd.

WHY: Culvert Replacement

BACKGROUND: Starting on Monday, May 17, 2021, the Ottawa County Road Commission (OCRC) will begin a culvert replacement project on 48th Avenue between Fillmore Street and Bauer Road in Georgetown Township.

There are 3 culverts being replaced. The 1st location is about 1,000 feet south of Fillmore St. can be reached from the north to address 9441 and 9421 from the south. This closure will be from May 17 to May 21.

The 2nd location can be reached from the north to address 8701 and the Riverstone Apartments, and can be reached from either direction. This will happen May 24 to May 27.

The 3rd location can be reached from the north to address 8840 and from the south to 8701 and Riverstone Apartments. This will happen June 1 to June 4.

DETOUR: The detour route for all three replacements is Fillmore St. to 56th Ave. to Bauer Rd.

Whitecaps Walk-Off for First Home Win Since 2019

COMSTOCK PARK, MI – The West Michigan Whitecaps were unable to hold a 7-0 lead but managed to rally for a 9-8 walkoff victory over the Great Lakes Loons Wednesday night at LMCU Ballpark – marking the ‘Caps first home victory since August 25, 2019.

Daniel Cabrera’s game-tying RBI-double in the ninth set up a wild pitch that scored the Tigers 2020 second round pick from third base to win the contest in the first walkoff victory for West Michigan since May of 2019.

The Whitecaps took advantage of poor pitching early, plating seven runs through the first three innings as the Loons committed two errors while walking six as Parker Meadows, Andre Lipcius, and Dillon Dingler combined for four RBIs to take a commanding 7-0 advantage. ‘Caps starting pitcher Garrett Hill, and bullpen arms, Zach Hess and Brendan White held down the fort for West Michigan on the mound – punching out 10 Great Lakes hitters through the first six innings while only allowing two hits – both of them solo home runs – holding the West Michigan advantage at 7-2. Great Lakes began their comeback push in the eighth as Miguel Vargas and Deacon Liput both drove in runs – narrowing the West Michigan lead to 7-4.

In the top of the ninth, the Loons loaded the bases with none out before single and a hit-by-pitch allowed a pair of Great Lakes runners to cross – ending ‘Caps closer Ruben Garcia’s night and cutting the lead to just one, 7-6. Yaya Chentouf came on in relief for the Whitecaps with the bases loaded and still none out, striking out two Great Lakes batters before two critical West Michigan fielding errors forged Great Lakes out in front by a score of 8-7. The ‘Caps responded in the bottom half, as Daniel Cabrera pulled off some late-game heroics, lacing a game-tying RBI-double before scoring on a wild pitch to send the home crowd into hysterics and put the finishing touches on a 9-8 victory, and the first Whitecaps win in West Michigan in almost two years.

Chentouf (2-0) captured his second win of the season with one inning while allowing no earned runs on a pair of strikeouts in the victory. Loons reliever, Morgan Cooper (0-1), lasted only 1.2 frames while allowing a pair of runs on two hits in his first defeat of the 2021 campaign. The Whitecaps improve to 3-4 on the season while the Loons fall to 2-6. Six West Michigan pitchers combined to strike out 13 Loons hitters – the most in a single game so far this season – while every Whitecaps hitter was able to reach base in the seesaw victory.

~UP NEXT~

This six-game series against the Great Lakes Loons continues Thursday at 6:35 pm. The Whitecaps send pitcher Chance Kirby to the mound against lefty Alec Gamboa for Great Lakes. Broadcast coverage with Dan Hasty begins on the Whitecaps Baseball Network at 6:20 pm. A limited number of tickets are available for select Whitecaps 2021 home contests by calling the Whitecaps front office at 616-784-4131 or visiting www.whitecapsbaseball.com.

Hackley Community Care NowCare Services Open at Clinton Street

MUSKEGON Mich. – Hackley Community Care (HCC) has opened NowCare Medical and Mental Health counseling services at 1550 Clinton Street. NowCare medical services include treatment for acute symptoms that require immediate care such as allergies, bites and stings, headaches, pink eye, pain, rash, insomnia, sprains, toothaches, and so on. Mental health services will include counseling for depression, anxiety, recovery from sexual abuse or childhood abuse and neglect, and other specialized physical and emotional outpatient therapy.

HCC’s expanded NowCare services are located in the 30,000 sq. ft. former Mercy Health Hackley Campus Emergency Department. “We understand that our community and particularly the surrounding downtown neighborhoods, need a healthcare resource that is closer to home, accessible via public transportation, and within walking distance. HCC is committed to continuously meeting the health care needs of the residents of Muskegon County as we have done for almost 30 years,” said Linda Juarez, Chief Executive Officer of Hackley Community Care.

NowCare medical services at 1550 Clinton Street will be provided Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Mental Health services hours will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Patients can make an appointment by calling 231.737.1335. Walk-ins are welcomed, and services are available to all Muskegon County residents.

“Our humble beginnings began on the Hackley Hospital campus in a little brown house,” said Juarez. “We have come full-circle, and we are humbled to be returning to our first home, to continue and enhance the health of our community.”

Hackley Community Care (HCC) is a Federally Qualified Health Center that has been providing quality, comprehensive medical, dental, mental health and pharmacy (Community Care Pharmacy) services since 1992. HCC also operates two adolescent health centers at Muskegon High School and Oakridge Middle School, and school-based health services in multiple school districts throughout the county.

Hackley Community Care Center receives federal funding from the 330 grant for health care services. For Federal Fiscal Year 2020, the program received a grant of $2,213,404 in federal funds, which constitutes 8.3% of the program budget.

Learn more at www.hackleycommunitycare.org

Major Step in Nugent Sand Acquisition Expected this Week

Phase One of Muskegon County’s Dune Harbor Park project hits milestone

Muskegon, MI – Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed off May 6 on the MDNR Trust Fund grant for Phase I of Muskegon County’s Nugent Sand acquisition after both houses of the Michigan legislature approved the Trust Fund Board’s grant recommendations on April 26.

“This is a significant step in the development of Dune Harbor Park,” said Robert Scolnik, Chairman of the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners. “This new, 377-acre recreational facility with two inland lakes and Lake Michigan access will be a popular spot for county residents and visitors alike.”

Closing for Phase I will happen in late summer 2021, at which time the County Parks Department will have 90 days to open the South Lake portion of the facility to recreational activities.

Commissioner Doug Brown, Chair of the County Board’s Community Development and Strategic Planning Committee, said, “The County has been a strong proponent of acquiring and improving lands for public recreational use. The development of the Dune Harbor Park/Nugent Sand property continues that commitment, while at the same time developing a plan to improve and promote Dune Harbor Park and the seven other parks in the Muskegon County park system.”

In late March 2021, Muskegon County submitted a grant application to the Michigan DNR for another Trust Fund grant to complete Phase II of the project, the North Lake portion of the property.

The grant proposal will be considered by the Trust Fund Board this fall and the announcement of approved grants will be in December 2021. If approved by the Trust Fund Board, Phase II will close in the late fall of 2022. Master planning for the entire Dune Harbor Park property – Phases I & II – will begin in 2022.

“We’d like to thank the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund Board, the legislature, and the Governor for advancing this project to the benefit of our community, all Michiganders, and visitors to our great state,” said County Administrator Mark Eisenbarth. “Dune Harbor Park will be a major asset to our county and provide additional recreation options for everyone.”

On Monday, May 17 at 6:00 p.m. Muskegon County Administration and the Parks Department will present a public meeting via Zoom to provide an update on the acquisition and development of the Nugent Sand/Dune Harbor Park project. A link to the meeting can be found on the Muskegon County website at www.co.muskegon.mi.us.

Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission Launches Online Portal for Public Comment

Beginning May 5, 2021, Michigan residents have a new way to participate in the Michigan Independent Redistricting Committee’s (MICRC) work with the launch of a public comment portal that will make it easy for residents to submit written comments, draw or upload maps and more.

“Robust public input is vital to the MICRC’s work of drawing fair districts representative of all Michiganders”, said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “The MICRC is making it easy for anyone in Michigan to be a part of history and participate in this citizen-led redistricting effort.”

The public comment portal is a one-stop shop for members of the public to engage in the redistricting process. This comprehensive tool was developed in partnership with the MGGG Redistricting Lab, a nonpartisan research group at Tisch College of Tufts University and procured by the Michigan Department of State (MDOS). The public comment portal enables members of the public to easily do the following:

• Submit written public comments
• Draw and submit a Community of Interest map
• Draw and submit a complete or partial district map (Congressional, Michigan House and Michigan Senate)
• Upload or link to a map/shapefile or document
• Comment on other maps or submissions

Commissioners and the public will be able to see submissions and comments in real time. The public comment portal can be found at Michigan.gov/MICRC by selecting the “Visit the Public Comment Portal” button.

Members of the public are encouraged to use the public comment portal to submit materials, however, the Commission will continue to receive email, mail and/or paper submissions and comments from the public. MDOS will continue to provide these comments to the Commission and upload them to the website for public viewing regularly.

More information about upcoming meetings and public hearings of the MICRC can be found at Michigan.gov/MICRC.

Ottawa Conservation District Receives Federal Funding

Regional Conservation Partnership Program funds will jumpstart Farmland and Water Quality Conservation Initiative, which aims to address regional natural resource concerns

WEST OLIVE — In a win for West Michigan, the Ottawa Conservation District (OCD) has been awarded project funding through the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) for their Farmland and Water Quality Conservation Initiative.

This project aims to benefit the long-term economic, social, and environmental health of Ottawa County and the surrounding area by protecting surface and groundwater quality, improving aquatic and wildlife habitat, and preserving manageable farmland in the Macatawa, Lower Grand, and Pigeon River watersheds. Along with NRCS, the OCD will be partnering with Ottawa County’s Farmland Preservation Program, the Ottawa County Groundwater Sustainability Initiative, the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council, Ottawa County Farm Bureau, neighboring conservation districts, and local townships.

This project will leverage nearly 7 million federal, state, and local dollars over the next 5 years to address the unique natural resource concerns in West Michigan, and simultaneously addresses an objective of the Groundwater Sustainability Initiative’s Proactive Strategy Index, an action plan to achieve water sustainability in Ottawa County.

Through RCPP, conservation partners such as OCD work in collaboration with NRCS to help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners throughout the nation to implement systems that conserve water and soil resources, improve the health of wildlife habitats, and increase climate resilience. OCD and partners will offer value-added contributions to amplify the impact of RCPP funding. These projects offer impactful and measurable outcomes. Throughout its history, RCPP has leveraged partner contributions of more than $1 for every $1 invested by USDA, resulting in nearly $3 billion collectively invested in natural resource conservation on private lands.

“The Regional Conservation Partnership Program is public-private partnership working at its best,” said Terry Cosby, Acting Chief for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. “These new projects will harness the power of partnership to help bring about solutions to natural resource concerns across the country while supporting our efforts to combat the climate crisis.”

This is the first time OCD will be partnering with NRCS on an RCPP project. The project is expected to begin in the fall of 2021 and will involve numerous other partners throughout Ottawa, Kent, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Allegan counties. OCD is thankful and excited for this new opportunity to continue its mission of helping people conserve, maintain and improve natural resources and the environment for future generations.

About the Ottawa Conservation District
Ottawa Conservation District is a locally controlled resource management District created by concerned landowners and administered by a publicly elected board of directors. It was organized as a local unit of State government on May 9, 1938, under Michigan Law. The District provides local coordination for many State and Federal land and water management programs, cooperates with local government units to positively influence private land management decisions, and provides management assistance to landowners in Ottawa County. To learn more about the Ottawa Conservation District, visit ottawacd.org.

Ottawa County Partners with Merit Network to Launch Phase I of Digital Inclusion Strategy

Research and educational network will assist in data collection and analysis of broadband landscape

WEST OLIVE — It’s not surprising that high-speed internet has become a necessity. But in Ottawa County, broadband service remains inconsistent. Members of the public regularly report difficulties with connectivity, reliability, and affordability.

Ottawa County remains committed to tackling these persistent issues – and is partnering with Merit Network, a research and educational organization owned and run by Michigan’s public universities, to thoroughly understand the County’s broadband landscape. This vital first step is part of a larger, four-phase Comprehensive Digital Inclusion Strategy, a new initiative to ultimately establish universal access to affordable, reliable broadband across all areas of the County.

“Following a thorough interview process with multiple organizations that responded to a Request For Proposal issued by the County, it was clear Merit was the right choice to launch our Phase I effort,” said Paul Sachs, Ottawa County Planning & Performance Improvement Department director.

The County anticipates the extensive data collection process to commence as early as June 2021, with the analysis and reporting completed by the end of the year. With Merit’s collected data, the County can move on to the next three phases of its Digital Inclusion Strategy.

“Communities have been struggling with the ‘digital divide’ for decades, and while some progress has been made in closing the gap, inequities persist across the country. We are excited to partner with Ottawa County to take the next step in helping underserved (residents) achieve broadband internet success,” said Charlotte Bewersdorff, vice president of Marketing and Member Engagement for Merit Network.

To help cover the costs associated with Phase I, Ottawa County is being supported by a diverse group of partners from the local business, education, municipal, and nonprofit sectors.

“Our broadband strategy has to start with better data,” said Sachs. “The financial support from these community stakeholders has provided the boost we need to get started.”

The Data Problem

Why are Ottawa County and its partners taking the lead? Because state and federal regulators, as well as national providers, are under the mistaken impression that reliable, high-speed broadband service is consistently available in nearly all corners of the County.

The source of the data problem is inaccurate maps. The Federal Communications Commission maintains maps that illustrate broadband coverage across the U.S. based on Census blocks. But Census blocks vary widely in size based on population density. For example, a Census block in the city of Holland can be dramatically smaller than a block in a less densely populated township.

No matter the square mileage, if one home in a Census block has access, FCC maps record the entire block as having access, skewing the data. Additionally, the FCC relies upon internet providers to self-report where they have coverage. If a provider completes just one hookup in a given community, it is deemed the community is fully covered by that provider. These inaccurate maps have delayed and in some cases disqualified Ottawa County from qualifying for grants to improve service.

‘A grass-roots effort’

Ottawa County is developing a true public/private partnership to achieve its broadband goals. Post-pandemic, communities can no longer wait for federal and state governments to act.

“Taking steps now to improve broadband access will ensure all Ottawa County families and businesses have the tools to compete now and in the future,” said Sachs.

In addition to Phase I financial partners, the County is collaborating with an array of area businesses and public organizations, such as:
• OAISD, which has been involved from the project’s inception;
• Urban Wireless Solutions and KLA Laboratories, which are aiding to strategize and develop the broadband system;
• Representatives from the City of Holland Board of Public Works; Lakeshore Advantage; Spectrum Health; and community leaders and strategists

The County is also planning to share resources and methods with neighboring counties during this effort. Planning & Performance Improvement Director Sachs recently discussed these opportunities with the Allegan County Board of Commissioners.

“This Digital Inclusion Strategy is unique because it’s a grass-roots effort – we’re taking this on locally,” said Douglas Weber, president of Urban Wireless Solutions. “Ottawa County officials grew tired of simply talking about the problem and realized that it was time to take meaningful action. They have sought assistance from all corners of the community to develop a plan. Data collection is just the first step.”

New web page offers strategy insights

Concurrently with the kickoff of the Phase I data collection effort, Ottawa County has created an all-new web page that thoroughly breaks down the local broadband situation and the comprehensive Digital Inclusion Strategy.

Through a series of tabs, visitors can review past initiatives, walk through each phase of the strategy, and connect with resources. And, to increase transparency, phase updates will be posted periodically under the ‘Taking Action’ section of the Digital Inclusion Strategy tab. Explore the initiative today at miottawa.org/broadband.

FCS – Student Affairs Meeting Agenda – 05/12/21

Student Affairs
Wednesday, May 12, 2021
12:00 p.m. ~ via Google
meet.google.com/xmm-bddy-ywv

MEETING AGENDA

1. Fall 2021 Virtual Learning

2. Other

3. Public Comment

4. Adjournment

In Person Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday May 10, – Sunday May 16, 2021

*Please call event before attending for any changes.
Remember to wear your mask to all events*
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday May 10:

Hackley Library Crafts
Visit Hackley Library website daily to see what take home crafts they have for you. www.hackleylibrary.org 231-722-8000 Limited Supply of crafts.

Cardio Drumming!
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
A fun workout for all ages, sizes and fitness levels! First timers can rent the needed equipment for $1 Lakeshore Sports Arena 4470 Airline Rd. Muskegon, MI 49444 The class is just $2 per person. Required equipment: Water bottle, available to rent for $1 each are: 17 gallon bucket, 65-75cm yoga ball, Drumsticks. Keep up to date with the Muskegon Drum Crew Facebook Group. Classes are Monday & Thursday. Social distance is required.

Tuesday May 11:

Wednesday May 12:

Art Class at City Center Arts!
1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Creative Work is Play: Express yourself with collage, acrylics, gel medium and graphite at City Center Arts located at 356 W. Western Ave. 231-571-9101.
Have some fun with Christi Dreese while creating these whimsical hearts using gel medium, acrylics, collage and graphite. Christi will have everything you need for the class but paintings tend to be more meaningful when they are created with your own collage such as family written notes, letters, old handwritten recipes, etc. Christi’s paintings have her grandmother’s old handwritten recipes from when she cooked for the schools. Bring what speaks to you! Join us for this playful class packed with mixed media techniques that will allow you to create paintings from your heart. Beginners are welcomed and great for the experienced who want a fresh approach, working towards a looser style. $80 per person.

Muskegon Flea Market Opens for the Season
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Flea Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. opens Wednesday, May 5, at 8:00 AM. Flea Market open every Wednesday, May – October.

Crochet Basics: Cup Cozy
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
In this CROCHET BASICS: CUP COZY class at Art Council of White Lake located at 106 E. Colby, you’ll learn the basics and beyond! This class is designed for people who have little-to-no crochet experience. Ambitious beginners are Welcome! All supplies will be provided for you. Each project will use approximately 3 oz of yarn, a 5mm crochet hook, a yarn needle, and a button. All of these supplies will be yours to keep!
● Crocheting is good for mental health because it requires mindfulness. As you crochet, you need to pay attention to each stitch, the movement of your hook or needle, your breath, your stitch count.
●“When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future”
Registration is required. Register here: https://www.artswhitelake.org/…/crochet-basics-cup-cozy-2 Class is $50 per person. $45 if members.

Thursday May 13:

Friday May 14:

Hackley Attic Escape Room
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Experience the Hackley House located at 484 W. Webster phone is 231-722-7578 as you never have before! For many years, the Hackley Attic has been a mysterious place for visitors. Now it is up to you and your closest friends to escape a Victorian storage room filled with puzzles, locks, and riddles. Brush up on your Muskegon history and escape the attic in 80 minutes! $20 for members & $25 for non-members Purchase tickets via Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hackley-attic-escape-room-tickets-136840424393 Space is limited to 10 people per session, so be sure to order your tickets quickly!

Sangria’s and Sidewalk Sales
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Join Bellasimi Boutique located at 1989 Lakeshore Dr. and Sip on sangria’s & shop their sidewalk sales, (Spring/Summer items, Seasonal & Last One Items)
We will be launching new arrivals in-store & offering a few in-store promotions in addition to the sale.

Saturday May 15:

Heritage Museum FREE Community Days
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Heritage Museum located at 561 W. Western Ave. invites you to attend their FREE Community Day once a month throughout the season each featuring a different theme. These are open-house style events from 11am-4pm. No RSVP required.

White Lake Community Business Expo
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Take a first-hand look at the diverse products and services offered by White Lake Area businesses at the 8th Annual White Lake Community Business Expo, OUTSIDE at the Whitehall Football Stadium (541 East Slocum Street) . The Expo, presented by the White Lake Area Chamber, is FREE to the public!

Sangria’s and Sidewalk Sales
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Join Bellasimi Boutique located at 1989 Lakeshore Dr. and Sip on sangria’s & shop their sidewalk sales, (Spring/Summer items, Seasonal & Last One Items)
We will be launching new arrivals in-store & offering a few in-store promotions in addition to the sale.

Art Council of White Lake -Nuveen Artisan Market
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Shop for artwork located at 8660 Water St. created by local artisans! Work will include pottery, home decor, macrame, soaps, greeting cards, and more. There will also be either an on-site craft activity or take-home art kits, sponsored by the City of Montague. For questions please call 231-893-1155

Boomtown Market Craft Beer & Wine Tastings
10:00 am – 7:00 pm
BoomTown Market, 351 W. Western Ave
Boomtown Market in Downtown Muskegon invites you to free Draft, Craft Beer & Wine Tastings every Saturday starting at 10 a.m. Sample unique Craft Beers on Tap from all around Michigan! If you like it, we’ll can a 32 ounce-er for you right then and there!

Sunday May 16:

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Agenda – 05/10/21

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

MAY 10, 2021

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

1. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
2. Roll call
3. Approval of board minutes: 4/12/21
4. Approve / amend agenda
5. Correspondence / reports
6. Public comments regarding agenda items

7. Unfinished Business
none

8. New Business
     A. Accept Proposal for Water Reliability Study
     B. Approval of Comcast Franchise Agreement Renewal
     C. American Rescue Plan Act Account

9. 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

The Air Zoo’s National Competition for Completion of Aircraft Restorations

The Air Zoo Launches Competition, Nationally, to Raise $100,000 for Completion of the SBD-2P &F-117 Nighthawk Restorations in 2021

PORTAGE, MI – Excitement is building at the Air Zoo as they announce a competition of mass proportions to complete the restoration of the Douglas SBD-2P Dauntless (Bu. No. 2173) and the F-117 Nighthawk Shaba (tail number 817) in 2021.

Anyone who has visited the Air Zoo, or follows them on social media, knows that one of their most inspiring experiences is housed in the Air Zoo’s Flight Discovery Center. Since 2013, the Air Zoo has proudly boasted one of the nation’s most recognized, and respected community-based aircraft restoration programs. The program has been hard hit by the pandemic, but restoration continues to advance, fueled by the passion of a talented staff and more than 75 volunteers, all of whom bring their unique expertise and dedication to the Air Zoo’s important work of bringing historic aircraft back to life.

The challenges that have accompanied the global pandemic have not been lost on this group of outstanding men and women. They have persevered through safety and policy changes, and a lengthened timeline brought on by a reduction in volunteers, and a shortage of materials, tools and financial support necessary to complete these projects. Volunteers and available hours have begun to pick back up and they are ready and raring to go, with two exciting and important deadlines to be met.

The Air Zoo’s restoration team, undaunted by the unexpected funding deficit, has not only continued their hard work on the aircraft but turned the deficit into a friendly competition and is inviting the public to join them. To complete the SBD and Nighthawk in 2021, it is critical that the Air Zoo raise the capital ($50,000 each) necessary to support the final phases of restoration including, but not limited to, the acquisition of finishing tools, parts fabrication, priming and painting. This is where community support is critical.

To join the challenge, the public is invited to make a tax-deductible gift to support the plane of their choice and the Air Zoo’s restoration team as they work diligently to cross the finish line. Every dollar counts in this monumental challenge! As Air Zoo volunteer and Team SBD leader, Terri Mucciante, shares “even my grandkids are donating $10 and $5. They love coming here and they love seeing this and so do all the other kids and families who come here.”

Learn more and join the challenge at airzoo.org/fund-your-favorite

The Douglas SBD-2P Dauntless (Bu. No. 2173) is a historic World War II Navy aircraft once thought lost forever in Lake Michigan.

An early version of the Dauntless (Bu. No. 2173) was delivered to the Navy as an SBD-2P photo-reconnaissance aircraft, of which only 14 were built. It boasts a most interesting history. For example, Bu. No. 2173 was erroneously designated lost at sea in 1942 but went on to fly in the Battle of the Coral Sea. The aircraft actually crashed into Lake Michigan on February 18, 1944, during a training exercise – presumably due to carburetor icing. The pilot, John Lendo, was not injured in the crash.

On June 6, 2009 Bu. No. 2173 was retrieved from Lake Michigan on behalf of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, then known as the Pacific Aviation Museum. Under an agreement between the Pacific Aviation Museum and the Naval Aviation Museum Foundation, SBD 2173 was to undergo an extensive restoration.

The Air Zoo’s Restoration Team received 2173 in July of 2016. Since then, more than 36,000 volunteer hours have been logged restoring this mighty aircraft. Upon completion, the SBD-2P (Bu. No. 2173) will return to the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum in Honolulu, Hawaii, as a national treasure! The goal is to have it completed and delivered by December 7, 2021 in time for their National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day celebrations. Discover more.

The Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk Shaba “landed” at the Air Zoo’s Flight Discovery Center December 7, 2020, after a more than 1,940-mile trek across the country. The Air Zoo is proud to possess one of the first F-117 Nighthawks released for public display at a non-government institution, as well as the only museum in the state of Michigan to exhibit one.

The backstory: In the early 1970s, the United States found itself vulnerable to new, advanced air-defense missile systems that integrated radar-guided surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) and air-launched radar-guided missiles. To mitigate the threat, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) launched a program to develop the technology and strategies necessary to reduce radar detectability in U.S. aircraft.

Lockheed Skunk Works was awarded the contract to produce the F-117 in November 1978, with the first flight taking place on June 18, 1981, just 31 months after winning the contract. Produced in true Skunk Works fashion – under absolute secrecy – the Nighthawk went on to play an important role in six operational missions including Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. During Operation Desert Storm (1990-1991) alone, it flew an impressive 1,271 sorties with 80% mission success. Only one F-117 was ever lost in combat.

Shaba (tail number 817) first flew on January 8, 1986 and has just over 5,000 flight hours. The highly decorated Shaba is one 10 F-117s to fly at least 50 combat sorties and one of seven to fly in at least three of the four significant campaigns employing Nighthawks.

Volunteers at the Air Zoo’s Restoration Center have logged more than 2,800 hours restoring Shaba and plan to have leading edges fabricated, priming, painting and detailing done for her more permanent display in the main gallery of the Air Zoo’s Flight Innovation Center by year end. Discover more.

About the Air Zoo

Located at 6151 Portage Rd., Portage, MI 49002, the Air Zoo is a Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace & science experience with over 100 rare air & space craft, inspiring interactive exhibits, indoor amusement park rides, full-motion flight simulators, hands-on science-based education programs, and more. The Air Zoo is a not-for-profit organization and is open 360+ days per year.

For hours, tickets, safety policies and procedures as well as temporarily altered experiences due to COVID-19, visit airzoo.org/plan-your-visit.

Meijer Gardens Plans Three Concert Series, Announces Partnership with Grand Rapids Symphony

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Plans Three Concert Series, Grand Rapids Symphony Joins Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens

GRAND RAPIDS, MI –Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is pleased to announce plans for the safe return of live music this summer with three unique series – Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens, Tuesday Evening Music Club and the Jim & Marie Preston Sunday Strings, featuring musicians from the Grand Rapids Symphony and West Michigan. All dates, performers and information are subject to changed based on COVID-19 restrictions.

Meijer Gardens and the Grand Rapids Symphony are also excited to announce a partnership for three shows during the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens. These shows include a solo Grand Rapids Symphony performance conducted by Bob Bernhardt, Principal Pops Conductor, the Grand Rapids Symphony with Pink Martini and another special show to be announced. “We are very excited to bring the Grand Rapids Symphony back to Meijer Gardens for these special concerts,” said Mary Tuuk Kuras, President & CEO of the Grand Rapids Symphony. “Our shared mission of promoting the arts and bringing our community together makes this partnership a wonderful fit.”

The 2021 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens concert series is scheduled to take place in July, August and September if regulations allow. Featuring an eclectic mix of alternative, indie, blues and rock, the lineup will include The Verve Pipe, O.A.R., Kansas, St. Paul & The Broken Bones and Black Violin + Blind Boys of Alabama. The complete lineup of 30 shows and ticket on sale dates will be announced as soon as possible. “We look forward to the return of music at Meijer Gardens and are pleased to be able to continue our support of Meijer Gardens and the popular summer concert series which now includes the Grand Rapids Symphony,” said Fifth Third Bank Regional President Tom Welch. “We are delighted that two Grand Rapids treasured cultural organizations are teaming up to further the arts in our community. We are pleased to continue our support of both organizations in this new way.” Welch continued.

The Tuesday Evening Music Club brings talented local and regional musicians to the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater stage on Tuesday evenings in July and August starting at 7 p.m. This year’s lineup includes Welcome Back Tuesday with Ralston Bowles & Very Special Guests (July 6), Franklin Park (July 13), Political Lizard / Molly (July 20), Via Mardot / Jesse Ray and the Carolina Catfish (July 27), Samuel Nalangira / The Moxie Strings (August 3), Cameron Blake / Patty PerShayla (August 10), Pajamas / Charlie Millard Band (August 17), Ralston & Friends (August 24) and Grand Rapids Ballet (August 31). Under current restrictions, capacity will be restricted to 1,000 people. If rules allow, capacity will be increased.

The Jim & Marie Preston Sunday Strings expands on an idea that was trialed during the summer of 2020. Led by violinist Haijin Choi, these chamber music performances happen throughout the Gardens & Sculpture Park and will feature combinations of violin, harp, marimba, mandolin, cello and more. These five special performances are included with admission and will take place on Sunday June 6, June 20, July 18, August 29 and September 12. The Sunday, July 18 performance will include a special opportunity for audience participation within the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. More information will be announced closer to the date.

Jim & Marie Preston are longtime supporters of Meijer Gardens and were excited for the opportunity to support live classical music performances in a sculpture garden setting. “We love both Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and the Grand Rapids Symphony and couldn’t think of a better way to help bring these wonderful assets of our community together for a formal series,” said Jim & Marie. “We were thrilled at the diversity of the audience for last summer’s events and look forward to this series growing!”

Tuesday Evening Music Club and Jim & Marie Preston Sunday Strings performances are free for members and included in admission for other guests.

Members of Meijer Gardens will have the first opportunity to purchase tickets for the 2021 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series during an exclusive two-week members-only presale. Pre-sale dates will be announced as soon as possible. During the pre-sale, members receive a $5 discount per ticket. To become a member or renew a membership, visit MeijerGardens.org/Membership.

Tickets will go on sale to the general public immediately following the members-only presale. More information on prices and purchasing locations will be available following the release of the full lineup.

The 2021 Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens series is made possible in part by the generous support of Fifth Third Bank, Harvey Lexus of Grand Rapids and Spectrum Health. Media sponsors are FOX17 and Star 105.7. Additional support is provided by Life EMS.

The Tuesday Evening Music Club is generously sponsored by Meyer Music, WYCE and Corporate Live.

The Jim & Marie Preston Sunday Strings is made possible by Jim & Marie Preston, Dick & Samantha Gauthier, Tim & Ping Liang and Todd & Sarah Oleson.

“Meijer Gardens is only able to present these concerts and events with the generous support of our sponsors, the Meijer family and our members,” said David Hooker, President & CEO of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. “In addition, our dedicated and loyal volunteers play an outsized role in presenting these shows and ensuring a rewarding and meaningful experience.”

About the Frederik Meijer Gardens Amphitheater
The recently upgraded 1,900-seat amphitheater features general admission tiered lawn seating. Concertgoers are welcome to bring a blanket or low-rise chair to sit on. Low-rise chairs are defined as 12” maximum from ground to front of seat bottom and 32” maximum to top of chair back in highest position. These rules are strictly enforced. No other chairs will be permitted in the venue. A limited number of standard-height chairs will be available to rent for $10 (located in designated area-may not be removed) on a first-come, first-served basis. All concerts take place rain or shine (weather delays possible). A selection of sandwiches, snacks, water, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are available at the recently updated Eileen DeVries Concessions Center. All beverages purchased must be consumed inside the amphitheater gates. Concertgoers are also welcomed to bring their own food, sealed bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages in their original sealed containers.

About Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
One of the world’s most significant botanic and sculpture experiences, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park was recently listed in the top 30 most visited museums in the United States by The Art Newspaper, the leading publication in global art news. The 158-acre main campus features Michigan’s largest tropical conservatory; one of the largest interactive children’s gardens in the country; arid and Victorian gardens with bronze sculptures by Edgar Degas and Auguste Rodin; a carnivorous plant house; outdoor gardens; and a 1900-seat outdoor amphitheater, featuring an eclectic mix of world-renowned musicians every summer. The internationally acclaimed Sculpture Park features a permanent collection including works by Claes Oldenburg & Coosje van Bruggen, Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, Richard Serra, Louise Bourgeois, Ai Weiwei and Jaume Plensa, among others. Indoor galleries host changing sculpture exhibitions with exhibitions by Ai Weiwei, Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, Mark di Suvero, Jonathan Borofsky, Alexander Calder, Jim Dine and others. In June 2015, the eight–acre Richard & Helen DeVos Japanese Garden at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park opened. Created by renowned designer Hoichi Kurisu, the garden features sculpture by Anish Kapoor, Jenny Holzer, David Nash, George Rickey, Masayuki Koorida, Zhang Huan, Guiseppe Penone, among others.

Consumers Energy Foundation bestows $75,000 gift to Frauenthal Preservation Campaign Fund

MUSKEGON, Mich. — The Consumers Energy Foundation is supporting the preservation efforts of the Frauenthal Theater with a $75,000 grant to the Frauenthal Preservation Campaign Fund.

After 90 years of steady use, the historic Frauenthal Theater is showing signs of age and wear. Those involved in the campaign see this as an opportunity to preserve not only the Frauenthal Theater itself, but also the heart and soul of the Lakeshore. The Community Foundation has identified more than $7 million in fundamental structural, renovation, and preservation needs that are critical to the theater’s future and use. This grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation will help address those needs.

The Consumers Energy Foundation is the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider. The Consumers Energy Foundation enables communities to thrive and grow by investing in what’s most important to Michigan: its people, the planet, and Michigan’s prosperity. In 2019, the Consumers Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy, and its employees and retirees contributed more than $11.5 million to Michigan nonprofits. For more information about the Consumers Energy Foundation, click here.

The Frauenthal Center serves as home to the West Michigan Symphony, Muskegon Civic Theatre, Mona Shores’ Singing Christmas Tree, MCC’s Downtown Live Concert Series, the Miss Michigan Scholarship Program, and more. In addition, the Frauenthal Center presents their own variety of entertainment offerings as well as host to dozens of weddings and private events throughout the year. Visit the Frauenthal Center website for more information.

The Frauenthal Center operates as part of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Continuing to improve the quality of life for community residents, the Community Foundation remains committed to the Frauenthal Center and its future development.

Additional asset: Preservation Campaign flyer

National Day of Prayer—Thursday, May 6

submitted by Bill Johnson of the American Decency Association

In just two short days (Thursday, May 6 from 12:00-1:15 PM) American Decency Association will be hosting a local National Day of Prayer (203 E. Main Street, Fremont, MI 49412); we invite you to this sweet and intimate time of fellowship with kindred spirits.

“If there is any one duty within the whole range of revelation more explicitly adverted to, more positively enjoined, more frequently practiced, and to the performance of which more promises are annexed in the Scriptures than another, it is that of prayer. Prayer is a duty which commends itself to every man’s conscience; a duty that admits of no substitute; and from the obligation to which there can be no exoneration. But, strange as it may seem, it is a duty which thousands, through ignorance, totally neglect; and others, through carelessness, imperfectly and irregularly perform.” (from the Preface of Richard Treffry’s A Treatise on Secret and Social Prayer; 1842)

What believer can deny the importance of prayer? The Apostle Paul tells us to pray without ceasing. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, used a parable and taught “that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.”

Treffry continues, “Even among those who admit its propriety, and allow its necessity, many there are who postpone its performance to what they deem a more convenient opportunity. What unwillingness they evince to enter into their closet; and what reluctance to remain in it! How many excuses are framed for the total omission of this duty! Hence prayer, which is essentially connected with the present well-being, and the future and endless blessedness, of man, is impiously neglected until the approach of the last enemy; and thus, ‘to the mercies of a moment’ are left ‘the vast concerns of an eternal’ state.”

Christian, look around you; we dare not be blind to the fact that our nation and its “blessedness,” its families, its churches, our freedom and our future are facing dire straits. The enemy, like a roaring lion, is seeking to devour all that is good and right. Nor can we be blind to the fact that we, in our own power, have no strength to combat this evil day; this is why we cry out with conscious helplessness to God. He IS our only hope, strength, peace, and stay.

This is why American Decency is gathering on Thursday, May 6 at noon, and inviting all like-minded believers to join us for a season of confession, repentance, and petitioning prayer. We have invited some national and local influential persons to lead in prayer for specific concerns of our nation. Come; join your silent prayers with these (in person or through Facebook live), as we boldly approach the throne of grace in this time of need. (Click here for a list of those who will be joining us and for what they will pray)

Our hope and prayer is that this gathering on Thursday will not stop there; but rather that the Holy Spirit will spur groups of two or three or more to gather regularly in their homes with kindred hearts for continued, fervent, effectual prayer. Our nation, churches, and families are in desperate need of God’s touch! Might this year’s National Day of Prayer induce those who do pray to be more importunate at heaven’s door that the glory of God will be promoted; that the Head of the Church might be magnified by His followers; and that God will forgive our sin, hear our prayers, and heal our land.

We urge you to prepare your heart and mind for joining us in prayer. A good place to start is prayerfully meditating on Isaiah 59. The prophet starts by reminding us that God is sovereign and powerful; yet our sin keeps us from His blessing. “Behold, the LORD’S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness. None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity…”

Think on the whole of this chapter, prepare your heart for prayer, and join us at 203 E. Main Street, Fremont, MI on Thursday, May 6, 2021 at noon for a time of petitioning our sovereign, omnipotent God for mercy, help, and strength. Join us at the American Decency headquarters as we come together in prayer. If you are unable to join us in person, we will also be live-streaming the event on our Facebook page.

Live Views from Houghton Lake Now Available 24/7

WEST MICHIGAN, MI – Picturing yourself in West Michigan has never been easier, with the West Michigan Live Camera Gallery from the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA). Whether you’re planning a vacation and want to preview conditions at your destination, or want to travel around the state without leaving home, you’ll find live feeds of what’s happening right now across the West Michigan area.

WMTA is excited to announce another new live camera stream in their online gallery, this one from Houghton Lake, located in Roscommon County. The live stream may be found here: https://www.wmta.org/live-west-michigan-camera-gallery/houghton-lake-west-michigan-live-camera/

The Houghton Lake Area Tourism Bureau has installed this live camera, overlooking their namesake lake. Houghton Lake is Michigan’s largest inland lake, covering 22,000 acres.

Houghton Lake is a great destination if you’re looking for a beach day: with dozens of resorts, motels, and lodges located right on the water, and many more public beaches and picnic areas, you will have your pick of the right beach for you. There are two great public beaches that include swimming, children toys, barbecue pits, and sheltered picnic areas.

The lake also offers great fishing possibilities for walleye, pike, bass, and bluegill. There are seven access sites strategically located around the lake.

Roscommon County and Houghton Lake offer activities for the whole family, whether you love to hike and bike, golf and shop, or canoe and swim. Visitors will find four seasons of fun, fishing, fireworks, and festivals. Michigan’s “Other Great Lakes” – Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, and Lake St. Helen will delight you with their natural beauty, wildlife viewing, and spectacular sunrises and sunsets. All three lakes are a sportsman’s fishing and boating paradise.

“The Live Camera Gallery is a great way to virtually travel around West Michigan without leaving your computer or phone,” says Dan Sippel, executive director of the West Michigan Tourist Association. “We’re excited for the opportunities that it gives to locations, for them to show off what’s happening in real time around the area. Travelers or people living in the area can virtually explore different areas of West Michigan that they may not otherwise have a chance to visit.”

Camera feeds will continue to be added to the gallery moving forward, expanding the available views of the West Michigan area. Current camera feeds range from Mackinac Island to Muskegon to Drummond Island, and beyond.

Link to live West Michigan Live Camera Gallery: https://www.wmta.org/live-west-michigan-camera-gallery/

Secretary Benson Announces New Era of Improved Customer Service Operations

On April 29, 2021, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced the Michigan Department of State (MDOS) has entered a new service-driven era of operations that is more convenient and efficient for customers. She noted that the majority of transactions can now be carried out from home or at a grocery store, and residents who are required to visit a Secretary of State Office are typically in and out in 20 minutes.

“Michiganders can now complete most of their transactions online, by mail or at one of our new self-service stations located at their local grocery store,” Benson said. “And the remaining in-person transactions are carried out by appointment, ensuring the vast majority of customers have little to no wait time.”

More than 60 percent of transactions are already conducted outside of branch offices — up from 30 percent in 2019 — and this year more than 1 million people have already visited department offices. Benson noted that since MDOS began operating by appointment in June of last year, its ratings on Google have doubled — from two to four stars on a five-star scale — and are higher than they have ever been. Many Michiganders have asked for the department to continue operating by appointment, and Benson said their wish is coming true.

“We’re going to listen to the people on this,” said Benson. “It’s clear they do not want us to go backwards to the old way of doing things, where on any given day you could spend hours waiting for a basic transaction in any given branch office. The branch office by appointment model is working and yes, it is a new way of doing things. But it’s a better way of doing things.”

Benson acknowledged that the system still needs to be improved, as some customers find it challenging to book appointments. To help remedy that, she announced MDOS is increasing its offering of appointments by at least 10 percent, or 35,000 appointments per month, and in the coming weeks will dedicate call center staff to booking online appointments for residents with internet limitations.

Benson also announced her Service Driven Legislative Agenda, and called on legislative leaders to implement reforms that would enable customers to interact less frequently and more efficiently with the department. She called on the state Legislature to allow remote driver’s license testing, stop requiring veterans with the military equivalent of a commercial driver’s license to retrain and retest for a civilian CDL, and provide funding and authority for the department to develop innovative public-private partnerships to improve operations.

“We need lawmakers to join us as innovators in furthering a vision for the people of Michigan and pass needed reforms that will help us improve customer convenience and satisfaction,” said Benson. “That means pushing forward and implementing modern, best practices and available technology along with innovative ideas that support Michiganders in ways that work best for them.”

To access online services, locate a self-service station in your area or make a branch office appointment, visit Michigan.gov/SOS.

Targeted Abortions Ban Introduced in Michigan House

Lansing, MI — A ban on targeted abortions was introduced on Thursday, April 29, 2021, in the Michigan House.

House Bills 4737 & 4738 would ban abortions targeted at babies not just diagnosed with Down syndrome, but any disability, as well as babies targeted for reasons of sex or racial discrimination.

The bills, sponsored by Rep. Julie Calley and Rep. Andrew Fink, would make it a felony punishable by up to two years in prison for the person who knowingly performs a targeted abortion. The bills define disability as any physical or mental disability, and specifically lists several common disabilities for inclusion.

On April 12, the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals allowed Ohio’s ban on targeted abortions of children with Down syndrome to be enforced while court challenges continue. Michigan is also under the jurisdiction of the Sixth Circuit.

The following statement is from Right to Life of Michigan President Barbara Listing:

“With the legal situation in the Sixth Circuit, this is our highest priority, since a targeted abortion ban would be enforceable now. Because the neighboring Fifth Circuit struck down a similar Indiana law, this is an opportunity for the U.S. Supreme Court to weigh in.

Abortion is used as a tool of discrimination on a horrifying scale. We have heard of situations where parents of women in interracial relationships have attempted to convince or coerce their daughters into getting race-selection abortions. More than 160 million women around the globe are missing because of sex-selection abortions. Abortion is wrong, period, but even people who consider themselves pro-choice should have a problem with taking the life of a child because they are a girl or aren’t a desired race.

Some countries boast of all but eliminating certain disabilities by targeting disabled children in the womb. Most people would be horrified of taking the life of a disabled child a day after birth, and they should be equally horrified by the idea of taking that child’s life a day before birth.

Gallup asked a polling question on this in 2018. Only 29% of Americans thought it should be legal to take the life of a child with Down syndrome in the third trimester, and only a minority, 49%, thought it should be legal in the first trimester. Majorities thought abortion should be illegal in the third trimester for mental disabilities or conditions that threaten the life of the child. It’s clear Roe v. Wade and the current state of abortion law is nowhere close to lining up with the views of the American public.

With continuing advances in care for the disabled and new programs like perinatal hospice, there are better options for society to invest in than causing the death of these little ones. A modern society that prides itself on creating equity can’t be a society that allows violently taking the life of a child deemed unworthy of human care because of a physical or mental characteristic.”

Background information:
HB 4737
HB 4738
Targeted abortion facts
6th Circuit Ohio ruling
2018 Gallup Poll

In Person Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday May 3, – Sunday May 9, 2021

Please call before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday May 3:

Hackley Library Crafts
Visit Hackley Library website daily to see what take home crafts they have for you. www.hackleylibrary.org 231-722-8000 Limited Supply of crafts.

MI Power of Travel Gift Card Scavenger Hunt
May 2 – May 8
Keep a close eye out for hidden treasures during National Travel and Tourism Week (May 2-8, 2021)!
Two boxes will be hidden in two secret locations somewhere in Muskegon County beginning Monday May 3rd. Watch our social media for clues on where to find these little treasure boxes. Once discovered, bring the box (and certificate within) to Visit Muskegon’s Visitor’s Center to claim your prize.
Each treasure box will contain gift cards with a total value of $100 meant to introduce you to two Pure Michigan destinations; Calhoun County (Battle Creek/Marshall/Albion) and Charlevoix!
Why these locations? Because we are celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week along with more than 30 Michigan destinations, for a statewide scavenger hunt!
To celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week, Visit Muskegon has teamed up with over 30 destinations from around the beautiful state of Michigan for a statewide scavenger hunt!
Read more about National Travel and Tourism Week here:
The The Michigan Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus (MACVB) and Visit Muskegon hope to connect you with destinations from around our great state and encourage you to plan an epic Pure Michigan summer road trip.
There are even more ways (and prizes!) for you to embrace the Power of Travel! Share a photo on Facebook and/or Instagram of your favorite Michigan destination with the hashtag #MIPowerofTravel throughout the month of May. You might win one of ten overnight vacation packages! Click Here for MIpoweroftravel – Official Rules.
Visit Muskegon extends gratitude to the donors who made it possible for Muskegon County to be included in the #MIPowerOfTravel promotion: Aquastar Cruises, Dr. Rolf’s Barbeque, Pigeon Hill Brewing Company, Ice Box Ice Cream, Yodels Frozen Yogurt, USS Silversides Submarine Museum, Russ’ Restaurants and Shoreline Inn & Conference Center, Ascend Hotel Collection.

White Lake Climate Art Display for Earth Day 2021
April 20 – May 4
To recognize Earth Day, the White Lake Area Climate Action Council and the Arts Council of White Lake invite artists of all ages to create a work of art. The art will be displayed at to view for free at these locations: Montague City Hall, Edible Delights Bakery, North Grove Brewery, Fetch Brewery, Hokey Pokey, Goobers Bakery, White Lake Community Library, White Lake Area Chamber.

Tuesday May 4:

Dance Flow
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Come to Goodrich Park located at 100 N. Lake St. Dance offers the opportunity to be truly present; it connects to the core of self -awareness through movements that strengthen and balance the body. Led by experienced dancer and certified Zumba instructor Rommyna, class will start with a warm up, followed by dancing to Latin and World Music, and finished with a cool down. This class will be accessible for beginners and beyond .Through this movement, participants will improve their mental and physical health. Please note that students will be required to sign a participation waiver upon arrival and should bring their own water. Ages 18+ $12 for non-members $10 for ACWL-Nuveen Members OR purchase a month-long pass: $10/class or $9/class for ACWL-Nuveen Members

MI Power of Travel Gift Card Scavenger Hunt
May 2 – May 8
Keep a close eye out for hidden treasures during National Travel and Tourism Week (May 2-8, 2021)!
Two boxes will be hidden in two secret locations somewhere in Muskegon County beginning Monday May 3rd. Watch our social media for clues on where to find these little treasure boxes. Once discovered, bring the box (and certificate within) to Visit Muskegon’s Visitor’s Center to claim your prize.
Each treasure box will contain gift cards with a total value of $100 meant to introduce you to two Pure Michigan destinations; Calhoun County (Battle Creek/Marshall/Albion) and Charlevoix!
Why these locations? Because we are celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week along with more than 30 Michigan destinations, for a statewide scavenger hunt!
To celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week, Visit Muskegon has teamed up with over 30 destinations from around the beautiful state of Michigan for a statewide scavenger hunt!
Read more about National Travel and Tourism Week here:
The Michigan Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus (MACVB) and Visit Muskegon hope to connect you with destinations from around our great state and encourage you to plan an epic Pure Michigan summer road trip.
There are even more ways (and prizes!) for you to embrace the Power of Travel! Share a photo on Facebook and/or Instagram of your favorite Michigan destination with the hashtag #MIPowerofTravel throughout the month of May. You might win one of ten overnight vacation packages! Click Here for MIpoweroftravel – Official Rules.
Visit Muskegon extends gratitude to the donors who made it possible for Muskegon County to be included in the #MIPowerOfTravel promotion: Aquastar Cruises, Dr. Rolf’s Barbeque, Pigeon Hill Brewing Company, Ice Box Ice Cream, Yodels Frozen Yogurt, USS Silversides Submarine Museum, Russ’ Restaurants and Shoreline Inn & Conference Center, Ascend Hotel Collection.

Ansel Adams: The Photographs of Yosemite Suite
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Ansel Adams: The Photographs of Yosemite Suite features 24 iconic images of Yosemite National Park, the location and pictures that defined Adams’s internationally celebrated career can be seen at the Muskegon Art Museum located at 296 W. Webster. Friends of Art members purchased the photographs for the museum collection in 1989. The exhibition provides a view into unforgettable scenes of America’s natural grandeur, first photographed by Adams in the 1940s. Open with enhanced cleaning and social distancing protocols. Mask wearing is required. Closed Mondays. 231-720-2570

Wednesday May 5:

Cinco de Mayo Street Dance!
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
MADLOS PRESENTS –On the Olthoff Stage located at 425 W. Western Ave.– Free Cumbia dance lesson from 6:00-7:00 pm. We will keep the music on until at least 8:00. No experience or partner needed. Let’s make it a party! Take the lesson and then stay and practice what you’ve learned. If you don’t need a lesson and just want to dance, dance to the side of the lesson or join us at 7:00 for the only opportunity in Muskegon for this venue. No cost for the lesson or dance, but we will accept donations. Bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. 736-3205

Muskegon Flea Market Opens for the Season
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Flea Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. opens Wednesday, May 5, at 8:00 AM. Flea Market open every Wednesday, May – October.

Thursday May 6:

Friday May 7:

Spring Extravaganza
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
The Garden Shed invites you to come out for this event that will spotlight several local artisans. Farms that specializes in many different jams and delicacies. Whiskey Creek Woodworking, Violet’s Closet and more. The Garden Shed is located at 7895 S. 44th Ave., Montague.

After Dark Tours
9:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Experience the Hackley and Hume Historic Site AFTER DARK located at 484 W. Webster! See all five floors of the houses on this classic tour. Join us to learn more about the lumbering business, the Hackley and Hume families, and the Victorian Era in Muskegon. Gather your friends or family and make your visit AFTER DARK! $15 for non-members, $10 for members Purchase tickets via Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/after-dark-tour-tickets-136859788311 Space is limited, so be sure to order your tickets quickly!

Opening Day at Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo
May 7
Now open daily for Summertime Fun! Lewis Farms are located at 4180 West M-20 New Era. Come experience wide open spaces, unique animals, delicious farm made goodies, and 46+ Attractions!

Saturday May 8:

Michillinda Lodge Vintage Vendor and Craft Fair
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
This is their 3rd annual vintage craft fair at Michillinda Lodge located at 5207 North Scenic Dr. Come out and support your local crafters, vintage and repurposed collectors and sellers. Some vendors include DLB Designs, Lisa Pufpaff, Honeybee gifts, Sand Drift Jewelry, Shannon’s Vintage Goods, Catco, Legacy Wood Carvings to name a few!

Pomona Park Craft Show
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Come out and support your local community crafters at Pomona Park located at Third and Park Streets in Fruitport MI. There will be many different handmade items and some great things for Mothers Day!!

Spring Extravaganza
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
The Garden Shed invites you to come out for a two day event that will spotlight several local artisans. Semelbaur Farms specializes in many different jams and delicacies. Whiskey Creek Woodworking, Violet’s Closet and more. The Garden Shed is located at 7895 S. 44th Ave. Montague.

Ansel Adams: The Photographs of Yosemite Suite
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Ansel Adams: The Photographs of Yosemite Suite features 24 iconic images of Yosemite National Park, the location and pictures that defined Adams’s internationally celebrated career can be seen at the Muskegon Art Museum located at 296 W. Webster. Friends of Art members purchased the photographs for the museum collection in 1989. The exhibition provides a view into unforgettable scenes of America’s natural grandeur, first photographed by Adams. Mask wearing is required. Closed Mondays. 231-720-2570

Eastern Conference Finals: Lumberjacks Home Game Playoffs!
Puck drops 7:00 pm
Purchase your tickets at www.muskegonlumberjacks.com/tickets. Game is at Mercy Health Arena located at 470 W. Western Ave. GO JACKS!

Sunday May 9:

FREE Tours for Muskegon County Moms
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Muskegon County Moms receive free access to the Historic Sites for the afternoon. Their visit includes a tour at the Hackley and Hume Historic Site, Fire Barn Museum, and the Scolnik House of the Depression Era. Mothers will also receive a complementary gift. Free For Muskegon County Moms – Other visitors on the day will pay normal admission Adults $15 Seniors (65+) $12 Kids 2-12-$5 Tours start in the City Barn (carriage house) at the Hackley and Hume Historic Site. No registration required.Visitors are welcome to walk-in during open hours. Tours leave the City Barn (carriage house) every 30 minutes in groups of 6 or less. The last tour leaves at 4:00 pm. Free Parking on Webster Ave & 6th Street.

Mother’s Day at Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo
May 9
This Mother’s Day, spend some quality time at the farm located at 4180 West M-20 New Era! Mothers will enjoy FREE admission on this day!

Enhanced Flight Schedule Makes Flying From Muskegon Even Better!

Flights operated by SkyWest Airlines

Muskegon, Michigan, – The Muskegon County Airport (MKG), professionally managed by F3 Airport, is pleased to announce an additional flight will be serving the airport during the summer travel season. The third daily United Express flight, operated by SkyWest Airlines, from Muskegon to Chicago will be available beginning June 3, 2021.

“This is great news for our community and is an indicator that people are slowly feeling comfortable traveling again amidst the global pandemic,” said Joel Burgess, Director at the Muskegon County Airport.

This enhanced seasonal flight schedule will provide passengers with greater flexibility and makes it easier to fly wherever they want to travel!

“We’re pleased to bring an additional flight to Muskegon this summer and provide passengers with more travel options,” said Greg Atkin, SkyWest’s managing director of Market Development. “Passengers can also fly with confidence thanks to the layered approach to safety, which includes enhanced cleaning, mandatory face coverings and customer self-assessments with check-in.”

The flights from Muskegon are timed to provide maximum connection opportunities in Chicago and will provide travelers seamless access to United’s global network. From Chicago, United offers hundreds of daily flights to more than 200 destinations around the world. Customers will also have the opportunity to accrue frequent flier miles in United’s MilelagePlus loyalty program.

All United Express flights from Muskegon to Chicago are aboard SkyWest’s 50-passenger CRJ200 regional aircraft.

Customers may book their flight today at united.com or by calling United Airlines reservations at 1.800.846.8331. Remember, the best fares are always available at united.com.

About Muskegon County Airport:
Muskegon County Airport (MKG) is a county-owned, public-use airport in Muskegon County, Michigan, and is the aviation gateway to the West Michigan Lakeshore.

About F3 Airport:
F3 Airport is a leader in professional management and consulting services across the U.S. and internationally. Our services include all aspects of development and property management.

F3 Airport parent company, Founders 3 Real Estate Services, is the largest independent fullservice real estate firm based in Wisconsin. Throughout the past 25+ years, F3 has grown from 8 employees to over 250 employees, and manage properties from Door County, Wisconsin to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and internationally.

Absentee Ballots should be Returned in Person, Via Drop Box for May 4 Elections

Visit Michigan.gov/Vote for election information

Voters in jurisdictions with an election on May 4 should return their absentee ballots as soon as possible, either by drop box or in person at their local city or township clerk’s office. Those who have not yet requested a ballot, or have requested one but have not received it, should visit their clerk’s office to request, fill out and submit their ballot all in one trip. Voters can find the operating hours, contact information and locations of their local clerk’s office and drop boxes at Michigan.gov/Vote.

“Michigan voters have options to cast their ballot in person or absentee, with each being equally accessible and secure,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “Millions of citizens made their voices heard using absentee ballots and drop boxes last year, and voters can do so again in their local elections now.”

Absentee ballot requests sent by mail must be received by the clerk by 5 p.m. today, though voters have until 4 p.m. on Monday, May 3 to request an absentee ballot in person at their local clerk’s office. This close to the election, because of possible postal delays voters should not mail absentee ballots.

Voters who already have their ballot should fill it out at home, sign the back of the envelope and return it to a secure ballot drop box in their jurisdiction or their clerk’s office as soon as possible. Voters may also allow an immediate family member or a member of their household to drop off their sealed and signed ballot for them. All ballots must be received by the voter’s city or township clerk by 8 p.m. on Election Day, May 4, to be counted.

Voters will also have the option to vote in person at their designated polling location, where COVID-19 prevention safeguards — including social distancing and the use of personal protection equipment by election workers — remain in place.

Voters can find out if they have a May 4 election, track their absentee ballot, find their drop box and clerk office locations, and view sample ballots at Michigan.gov/Vote.

Tulip Time COVID-19 Testing & Vaccination

Tulip Time Festival in Holland will have no-cost COVID-19 testing and vaccination available starting tomorrow

The Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH) and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), in partnership with the City of Holland and Tulip Time Festival, are offering no-cost COVID-19 testing and vaccination opportunities. Through the HHS Community-based COVID-19 Testing program, rapid testing will be offered at an outdoor walk-up site. The OCDPH will also provide COVID-19 vaccination opportunities to community members and visitors. More information about the events and requirements is listed below.

“Testing for COVID-19 is an important tool to identify where the virus is circulating in our community,” said Dr. Paul Heidel, medical director with OCDPH. “It is particularly crucial for those who’ve recently traveled.”

“Partnering with the City of Holland and Tulip Time Festival gives us a great opportunity to meet people where they are and offer vaccination,” said Toni Bulthuis, immunization supervisor with OCDPH. “We will be administering the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine to make it as convenient as possible for people to get vaccinated.”

“Tulip Time is thrilled to partner with the Ottawa County Department of Public Health to provide testing and vaccines to residents and guests,” said Gwen Auwerda, executive director with Tulip Time Festival. “This is the first large festival in the state in the last 15 months. We encourage people to take advantage of both of these services to stay safe so we can stay open.”

Click for more information about Tulip Time’s COVID-19 Update.

Click for more information about the MDHHS Gatherings and Face Mask Order.

Click for more information about Ottawa County’s COVID-19 Updates.

COVID-19 Testing Site

The soccer field at 61 E 6th St, Holland, MI 49423

Saturday, May 1 – Saturday, May 8
Walk-up between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Thursday, May 6
Walk-up between 4-8 p.m.

Rapid antigen testing available to anyone (parental consent required for minors). Samples are taken by nasal swab. Results within 15-30 min.

No appointment needed • No doctor’s order needed • No insurance needed
No Fee • Please bring a form of ID • No pets allowed • Wear a face covering

Find other COVID-19 testing locations here.

COVID-19 Vaccination Site

The soccer field at 61 E 6th St, Holland, MI 49423

These dates and times are all for the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine for anyone aged 18 years or older. Please wear a mask, bring a photo ID and wear clothing that allows vaccine administration in your upper arm.

Additional Walk-in Vaccination Opportunities

OCDPH Clinic at GVSU Holland Campus

515 S Waverly Rd, Holland, MI 49423

Tuesday, May 4
Walk-in between 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Option to schedule an appointment to ensure vaccine availability and for more available times. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1-5 p.m. This is the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine for anyone aged 16 years or older. Please only schedule this first-dose appointment if you’re able to receive your second dose on June 1. Please wear a mask, bring a photo ID and wear clothing that allows vaccine administration in your upper arm. Minors will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Holland Hospital – Urgent Care

3232 N Wellness Dr, Holland, MI 49424

Monday, May 3
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Option to schedule an appointment to ensure vaccine availability. This is the first dose of the Moderna vaccine for anyone aged 18 years or older. Please only schedule this first-dose appointment if you’re able to receive your second dose on May 31 (to be scheduled after receiving your first dose). Please wear a mask, bring a photo ID and wear clothing that allows vaccine administration in your upper arm.

Tuesday, May 4
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Option to schedule an appointment to ensure vaccine availability. This is the first dose of the Moderna vaccine for anyone aged 18 years or older. Please only schedule this first-dose appointment if you’re able to receive your second dose on June 1 (to be scheduled after receiving your first dose). Please wear a mask, bring a photo ID and wear clothing that allows vaccine administration in your upper arm.

Wednesday, May 5
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Option to schedule an appointment to ensure vaccine availability. This is the first dose of the Moderna vaccine for anyone aged 18 years or older. Please only schedule this first-dose appointment if you’re able to receive your second dose on June 2 (to be scheduled after receiving your first dose). Please wear a mask, bring a photo ID and wear clothing that allows vaccine administration in your upper arm.

Thursday, May 6
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Option to schedule an appointment to ensure vaccine availability. This is for the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine for anyone aged 18 years or older. Please wear a mask, bring a photo ID and wear clothing that allows vaccine administration in your upper arm.

Friday, May 7
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Ask Dr. Universe – Sunburn

Hey, Dr. Universe: Why do we humans get sunburns when we are out in the sun too long? – Gavyn, 13, Indiana

Dear Gavyn,

Humans need sunlight to help keep their bones, blood and other body systems healthy, but too much time in the Sun can sometimes leave people with a sunburn.

Sunburns often strike when the body gets too much of a type of light, called ultraviolet light, from the Sun. As your body recognizes there is too much ultraviolet light, it turns on a defense system.

The immune system, which responds to invaders like viruses and other harmful things like ultraviolet light, kicks in. Some people might see their skin get red or blistered. They might feel itchy or painful. But not everyone experiences sunburn in quite the same way.

A big part of the answer to your question also has to do with human cells. My friend Cynthia Cooper, a researcher at Washington State University, knows a lot about cells and how they work.

She said the human body is made up of billions of cells, and they do all kinds of different jobs. Some cells help us get energy from food, some cells help us grow hair, and other cells in the skin can even make something like a shield that protects us from the Sun’s ultraviolet rays.

These natural shields are what scientists call melanin, a kind of dark pigment. You may remember that pigments are colors we find in nature. Melanin is also part of what gives human beings their skin color.

You can think of the melanin-making cells in your body like a hand with fingers reaching out to the neighbor cells called keratinocytes. The “fingers” of a melanin-making cell can help pass melanin to several keratinocytes at the same time. Then, the keratinocytes can move melanin to the cell’s control center: the nucleus.

This nucleus is really important because it protects your DNA, which contains the instructions your body needs to grow and develop. DNA has all the information that makes you, well, you.

“The melanin almost acts like a little flying-saucer that hovers over the nucleus,” Cooper said. “It reflects the ultraviolet rays to protect the DNA from damage.”

So, if you don’t make a lot of these shield-like flying saucers of melanin pigment, you may be more likely to experience a sunburn. Meanwhile, there are some people who don’t produce any melanin at all. People with this condition called albinism must be very careful in the sun because they don’t have a lot of those natural shields.

In the lab at WSU, Cooper and her team are investigating the innerworkings of cells to learn more about new treatments for people with cell diseases like albinism as well as treatments for the most serious types of skin cancer. When we understand more about how cells work, we can continue help improve human health for everyone.

Speaking of health, one thing you can do to help protect your body and its cells from ultraviolet light is to wear sunscreen when you go outside.

When you wear sunscreen, you can help take care of your body, so your body can keep taking care of you.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Know a kid with a science question?

With help from my friends at Washington State University, we’re investigating tough and smart questions from curious kids around the world.

Submit a question!

*Please call event before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events* Please check our website for virtual events happening www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday May 17:

Tuesday May 18:

Wednesday May 19:

Thursday May 20:

Friday May 21:

Saturday May 22:

Sunday May 23:

Know a kid with a science question?

Current Open Positions

The Data Problem

‘A grass-roots effort’

New web page offers strategy insights

Monday May 10:

Tuesday May 11:

Wednesday May 12:

Thursday May 13:

Friday May 14:

Saturday May 15:

Sunday May 16:

*Please call before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events* Please check our website for virtual events happening www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday May 3:

Tuesday May 4:

Wednesday May 5:

Thursday May 6:

Friday May 7:

Saturday May 8:

Sunday May 9:

Tulip Time Festival in Holland will have no-cost COVID-19 testing and vaccination available starting tomorrow

COVID-19 Testing Site

Saturday, May 1 – Saturday, May 8 Walk-up between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Thursday, May 6 Walk-up between 4-8 p.m.

COVID-19 Vaccination Site

Saturday, May 1 Walk-up between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Monday, May 3 Walk-up between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Wednesday, May 5 Walk-up between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Thursday, May 6 Walk-up between 4-8 p.m.

Additional Walk-in Vaccination Opportunities

OCDPH Clinic at GVSU Holland Campus

Tuesday, May 4 Walk-in between 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Holland Hospital – Urgent Care

Monday, May 3 Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tuesday, May 4 Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Wednesday, May 5 Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Thursday, May 6 Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Friday, May 7 Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Know a kid with a science question?

Please call event before attending for any changes.
Remember to wear your mask to all events
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Please call before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Saturday, May 1 – Saturday, May 8
Walk-up between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Thursday, May 6
Walk-up between 4-8 p.m.

Saturday, May 1
Walk-up between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Monday, May 3
Walk-up between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Wednesday, May 5
Walk-up between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Thursday, May 6
Walk-up between 4-8 p.m.

Tuesday, May 4
Walk-in between 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Monday, May 3
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tuesday, May 4
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Wednesday, May 5
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Thursday, May 6
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Friday, May 7
Walk-in between 8 a.m.-4 p.m.