Monthly Archives: June 2021

Hackley Public Library’s July 2021 Programs

For more details on programs, visit hackleylibrary.org or HPL’s Facebook page.
All programs are FREE.

Mon & Tues: 10-7pm  |  Wed & Thurs: 10-5pm  |  Fri & Sat: 10-2pm

For the latest HPL updates and services available, visit hackleylibrary.org and click on the “NEWS” page, or give us a call (231-722-8000)!

hackleylibrary.org  |  facebook.com/HackleyPL/  |  231-722-8000  | 

askus@hackleylibrary.org  |  316 W. Webster Ave. Muskegon, MI, 49440

__________________________________

Ongoing Programs:

Annual Summer Reading Program
June 14 – August 14
Hackley Library’s Summer Reading Program is here! This ongoing program is fun and free for ALL AGES to enjoy. In addition to reading, there are exciting activities to complete. Just for signing up, adults will receive a free tote bag, and youths will receive a free kite! Even more prizes are available to earn and win throughout the program! To sign up for Summer Reading, visit hackleylibrary.org, or directly visit HPL’s Summer Reading Program website: https://hackleylibrary.beanstack.com/reader365
You can also download the Beanstack app from your phone’s app store! Free.

Summer Photo Challenge
June 14 – August 14
Virtual Facebook
Participate in Hackley Library’s Summer Photo Challenge! Each week for 9 weeks, Hackley Library will post picture prompts to the HPL Facebook page. Using the prompt as inspiration, everyone is invited to post their own picture in the comments section of the prompt’s Facebook post, with the tag #HPLSummerPhotoChallenge1 (for week 1), #HPLSummerPhotoChallenge2 (for week 2), etc.

At the end of each week, participant pictures will be put into an album for that particular week, and people will be able to vote for their favorites by “Liking” the pictures (*to have your vote count, you will need to “Like” the pictures once they are added to an album).

At the end of the summer, pictures with the most votes for each week will be displayed in Hackley Library! Free to participate! 

Blankets by Craig Thompson
Reading Between the Lines: A Book Discussion Series
6:00 pm, Monday, July 12
Second Monday of each month (June – November)
Join Hackley Library every second Monday of the month through November for our new book discussion series, Reading Between the Lines. Each month we will gather to discuss a book from different genres including (but not limited to) history, memoir, and mystery.

On Monday, July 12, we’ll discuss Blankets by Craig Thompson, an autobiographical graphic novel.

This ongoing discussion series will begin as virtual, but may transition as times goes on – watch for more information to come! Details on the books we’ll discuss can be found at hackleylibrary.org or HPL’s Facebook page. Copies of the books can be found at Hackley Library, as well as other area libraries (available copies are limited).

To register, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by the library. Discussion will be casual so, relax, kick back, and let’s talk books! Free.

MiLibrary Quest
June 1 – July 31
Virtual
Teens, it’s your turn to travel to new and “exotic” locations. Act as a Wildlife Researcher and search across Michigan for different animals. Use their library websites and work with other teens, or by yourself, to complete the digital field journal and enter to win a prize. Learn more about the Quest and get started at https://milibraryquest.wixsite.com/quest1. The Quest runs through July 31, 2021. The MiLibraryQuest challenge is created by public libraries across Michigan and is supported in part by the Library of Michigan.

Left to Write Prompts – Creative Writing Group (Virtual Facebook)
2:00 pm, every Wednesday – Posted to Facebook

Hackley Public Library has a creative writing group called Left to Write!  For the time being, we’re bringing “Left to Write” to you virtually!  We’ll be posting online writing prompts to HPL’s Facebook page every Wednesday at 2 pm.  Anyone can participate by using the prompt to inspire your writing!  Once the library is hosting programs inside the library, we will have a special meeting to read over what you’ve written at home.  Free.

Outdoor Story Time
10:30 am, Friday mornings in July
In-Person        
Hey story time friends! Join us outside on the patio between the art museum and Hackley Library at 10:30 am on Friday mornings! Masks are not required, but social distancing will be encouraged.

Don’t forget something soft to sit on! In the event of inclement weather, we will cancel our in-person outdoor story time and instead have an indoor, virtual Facebook Live story time that can be enjoyed from home. Any cancellations will be announced ahead of time.

Youth Take and Make Heart Penguins
Have a heart! Or 4… these delightful penguin craft kits should get you prepared for our month of penguins! Craft kits will be available to pick up from Hackley Library beginning July 6 and through the end of the month while supplies last. An instructional video will be posted on Tuesday, July 6 and Monday, July 19 at 3:00 pm.

Teen Take and Make Perler Bead Penguins
Get out your pegboard and iron because we are making adorable penguin magnets. Will your penguin be? Craft kits will be available to pick up from Hackley Library beginning July 6 and through the end of the month while supplies last. An instructional video will be posted on Tuesday, July 6 and Monday, July 19 at 3:00 pm.

Adult Programs:

Pigeon Hill Brewing: Private Tour
6:00 pm, Thursday, July 22
In Person
Learn everything about beer at Pigeon Hill Brewing Company! During this in-person program, we will start with a private tour of the production facility to see the brew system, tanks, and canning line before sitting down to a sample tasting of several of Pigeon Hill’s great tasting beers. To maintain social-distancing protocols, space will be limited to 20 people. Registration opens on June 22. To register, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by the library.  Please note: you can register only yourself or yourself and another person, no groups will be permitted. Patrons 21+ will be able to participate. 

Ask Me Anything with Pediatrician Dr. Mounir Djemil, M.D.
5:30 pm, Monday, July 26
In Person and Virtual Zoom
Dr. Mounir Djemil is from Muskegon Pediatrics and has a passion for underserved populations, health equity, and youth mentorship.

Join us in Hackley Library or virtually through Zoom to ask Dr. Djemil questions about your child’s health including, but not limited to, newborn care, health and nutrition, vaccinations and immunizations, medication management, choosing a pediatrician, and much more! You can ask questions during the program, or you can submit questions early when you register, it’s up to you! For more details or to register, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by the library. Free.

*Please Note: Dr. Djemil will not be offering examinations or diagnoses at the event.
*Kids DO NOT have to be present during the event.

Youth Services Programs:

John Ball Zoo Virtual Program – Penguineering!
3:00 pm, Thursday, July 8
Virtual Zoom
Explore habitats and classification as it relates to Magellanic Penguins! Kids will enjoy this interactive lesson that will challenge them to build their own penguin nests and test it against the environmental elements to see if their nests can make the cut. Watch Hackley Library’s Facebook page for more information on how to register for this Zoom program.

Basic Animal Drawing with Corinne Roberts
3:00 pm, Tuesday, July 13
Virtual Zoom
Practice makes perfect!  Learn the basics of drawing all sorts of different animals. Watch Hackley Library’s Facebook page for more information on how to register for this Zoom program.

Basic Composition and Shading with Corinne Roberts
3:00 pm, Tuesday, July 20
Virtual Zoom
Ready to dive into a more advanced art lesson?  Join Hackley Library for a special program that helps you learn good fundamentals.  This class is designed for older tweens and teens. Watch our Facebook page for more information on how to register for this Zoom program.

New Directory of Engaging Activities on Farms across the State

The 2021 ‘Discover Michigan Farm Fun’ Directory Features Engaging Activities for all Ages on Farms across the State
submitted by the West Michigan Tourist Association

LANSING, MI – The Michigan Agritourism Association just released its 2021 edition of Michigan’s Agricultural Tourism Directory, a popular guide for finding fun, hands-on activities on Michigan farms. Suggested activities include U-pick farms, educational activities and tours, farm markets and stands, dairies and creameries, farm dining, festivals and events, cider and donuts, petting farms, overnight on the farm, craft beverage tasting and more. 

“Agritourism destinations have been one of the bright spots for Michiganders despite the many challenges of the past year,” shares Janice Benson, executive director of the Michigan Agritourism Association. “Local farms were one of the first and favorite places people flocked to after spending so much time at home.” 

The 130-page, full-color directory is a true Michigan product, produced and printed in Michigan featuring authentic photos from the state’s farms. Conveniently organized by regions with maps, the directory makes it easy-to-find, nearby agricultural destinations. 

“More people are exploring rural places in and around their communities to get outside and soak in the peaceful beauty of Michigan’s agricultural landscapes,” shares Benson, “and they are discovering the joy of hands-on experiences like picking their own fruit, petting farm animals and tasting fresh-pressed cider. 

This year’s cover features 4-year-old Lola holding a duckling on her family farm, Polish Heritage Farm in Cedar. Lola and her 8-year-old brother, Thomas, are growing up with a true Michigan farm experience, helping with chores, like gathering eggs and caring for the ducklings, and learning all about raising heritage-breed pigs. 

The 2021 directory is produced with support from Legacy Sponsor Farm Bureau Insurance and Print Sponsor Michigan Apple Committee. Media sponsors include Michigan Radio and WCMU Public Media. 

“We’re excited about the release of this year’s directory,” said Farm Bureau Insurance CEO Don Simon. “It lists hundreds of farm destinations across Michigan where visitors can enjoy our state’s bountiful harvest, including farmers’ markets, orchards, cider mills, and many more popular agritourism spots. We’re proud to support Michigan farmers and the agritourism industry.” 

Copies of the directory are available at Farm Bureau Insurance offices across Michigan as well as Michigan Welcome Centers. For more information, or for a digital copy of the directory, visit www.michiganfarmfun.com. 

About Michigan Agritourism:
Michigan Agritourism is a non-profit association that supports the agritourism industry through promotion, education, advocacy, problem resolution and networking. Its goal is to keep family farms sustainable, support local economic growth and provide rich and unique experiences for visitors to make lasting memories.

Silver Lake Sand Dunes Apple & BBQ Festival Returns for 2021

submitted by the West Michigan Tourist Association

HART, MICHIGAN – The Apple & BBQ Festival will make a comeback as the largest festival to return to the Silver Lake Sand Dunes area after a forced cancelation in 2020 due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Located at the Golden Township Park at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes on Silver Lake Road, this exciting two-day festival will take place outdoors on Friday, September 10th and Saturday, September 11th with a culmination of live entertainment, events, and delicious food!

The festival will do the right thing about health and safety protocols to make sure people feel comfortable. Hand sanitizer will be available throughout the festival. Guests, volunteers, and vendors are encouraged to wash and sanitize their hands frequently. Mask will not be required but are welcomed.

Families and festival goers can expect an expanded Arts & Crafts Fair and an increased number of Food Vendors. Other popular features returning are the Classic Auto & Buggy Show, Kids’ Activities, Apple Pie Contest, Apple A Day 5K, Live Entertainment, Amateur BBQ Contest, Beer Tent, and more. The KCBS Professional & Amateur BBQ Contests are still being worked on, information to follow regarding these events to follow soon.

Proceeds from the festival benefit organizations and programs that serve the Silver Lake Sand Dunes area. The festival gives back to various community events such as Silver Lake Fireworks, beautification projects including the flags and flowers at the Silver Lake roundabout, and funding projects that further the growth of the Golden Township Park at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes.

“We hope everybody comes and has a great time”, says Scott Beal, Executive Director of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes – Hart Visitors Bureau. “We are excited for the events return and the positive economic impact it has for the area”. If you would like to attend, volunteer, sponsor, or be a vendor at the event, please call 231-873-2247 or visit www.applebbqfestival.com.

Empowered Kids Day Camp at Muskegon County Fair Grounds – Cattle/Dairy Barn – July 21, 2021

July 21, 2021
9:00am -3:00pm

$35 – Includes lunch. Click here to register by July 15, 2021

ATTENTION Kids! Come enjoy horses and have fun while learning how special you are!

Come learn through horses and crafts how special you are. You’ll also learn tools on working through tough times and so many unwanted changes.

YOU MUST PRE-REGISTER BY 7-15-21 TO ATTEND.
If transportation is needed contact our office at 231-767-3403 before 7-15-2021.

Who can attend? School age children, ages 5-18.
Where: In a barn of course. At the Muskegon County Fair Grounds.
Look for the Cattle Barn in the South West corner when entering from Hts. Ravenna Rd.

When: Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Time: Arrive by 8:45am Starts at 9am sharp. Day ends at 3pm.
Dress: Dress for the temperature. Lots of fun dirt, we will be in a barn all day.
Must wear cowboy boots or tennis shoes (closed toe shoes).

Cost is only $35 per student.

Click here to register today. Space is limited.

Call to register at 231-767-3403

Here are some of the sponsors that have paid it forward to reduce the cost:
Love N Grace Healing Centers Love, I.N.C. Muskegon County Fair Grounds
Success In The Withers 4H Club 4H Walmart SAM’s Club

PS: The day’s events:
Huddle up… and snack
Life Line
Bean bag toss
Smash Book
Like a tree I bear fruit
Horses each are different and have a special purpose. Don’t judge me.
Lunch
Horses need a to get the junk out too. (Grooming the horse and Safe boundaries)
Horsemanship Safety Demonstration
Horse Tack. Having the right tools.
2:30 Snack, Parents/Guardians are welcome to join us.
Cowboy Gospel

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Minutes – 06/24/21

Fruitport Board of Education
Special Board Meeting
June 24, 2021 5:30 p.m.
Fruitport High School
Cafeteria

I. The Special Meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 5:50 p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

II. ROLL CALL: Present –Elroy Buckner, Tim Burgess, Kris Cole, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, Steve Kelly (via Google Meet and Zoom). Absent – Jill Brott.

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 21-083. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

IV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

V. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

  1. Approval of Special Board Meeting Minutes of June 21, 2021 Item 21-084. MOTION by Burgess, SECOND by Buckner to approve the Special Board Meeting Minutes of June 21, 2021.
    MOTION CARRIED 6-0
  2. First Round Superintendent Interviews
    a. Jennifer Burns, Associated Superintendent, Ionia, was interviewed.
    b. Tim Reeves, Superintendent, Shelby, was interviewed.

General discussion of the candidates was had.

V. ADJOURNMENT
Item 21-085. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The meeting adjourned at 8:51 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Susan Franklin
Acting Board Secretary

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 06/21/21

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, June 21, 2021
11:30 a.m., Superintendent’s Office
Meeting Minutes

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

  1. Budget 2021
    Mark presented the 2021 final budget amendments for the General Fund and the Special Revenue Funds. The General Fund is projected to finish with a $3,970,515 fund balance (12.67% of expenses). The Special Revenue Funds are all seeing big changes to their bottom line due to COVID-19 and federal grants.
  2. Budget 2022
    Mark presented the proposed 2021 original budget for the General Fund and the Special Revenue Funds. The General Fund is projected to have a $682,516 deficit and end with a $3,287,999 fund balance (10.36% of expenses). The Special Revenue Funds are assumed to be back to normal pre covid revenues and expenses.
  3. Cashflow Resolution
    Mark gave an update on Fruitport’s cash flow.
  4. Food Service Prices
    Mark presented a document from USDA stating that all students are eligible for a free meal. The meal still has to have all of the approved components.
  5. L-4029
    The L-4029 is the report that Fruitport submits to the local townships to tell the township when and how much mills to levy the public. Every year, the board of education has to approve the report. The report states that summer taxes will be levied for Fruitport and Spring Lake Townships.
  6. ECC Playground and Mulch
    Mark presented a letter from Pam Bergey requesting the approval of two recommendations. The first is to use some of her budget to add three pieces of playground equipment. The second was to remove and replace all the mulch in her playground. These two recommendations will be on the board agenda.
  7. Chromebooks
    Mark presented a recommendation to get chromebooks for all K-2 classrooms starting next school year. Currently there is one chromebook cart being shared between two teachers in every building. There is a grant via E-Rate that will allow a district that can show need to be awarded a full reimbursement for purchasing chromebook.

Meeting adjourned at 12:56 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Muskegon’s Lakeshore Trail Reopens After More Than a Year Due to High-Water Damage

mayorgawron
Mayor Steve Gawron cuts the ribbon on the reopening of the Muskegon Lakeshore Trail after repairs were completed due to high-water damage.

MUSKEGON, MI — The Muskegon Lakeshore Trail – the 12-mile bike and pedestrian pathway from the Muskegon River to Pere Marquette Beach – has fully reopened since high-water damage closed a portion of it early 2020.

The trail between Hartshorn Marina and Lakeside received extensive damage from high water and battering storms in the winter of 2019-20.

The City of Muskegon and the ongoing environmental cleanup efforts of the Amoco “tank farm” property on Muskegon Lake combined to restore the Lakeshore Trail. The city has completed the restoration east of the Amoco site and National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration through the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission completed the rest with Amoco site restoration.

The trail has been raised about two and a half feet to bring it above the current flood zone of Muskegon Lake, according to Leo Evans, city director of the Department of Public Works. The city’s portion of the repair included shoring up the path along the bridge abutments that were washed out by the high water.

The NOAA restoration moved the bike path away from the shoreline and integrated it in the wetland restoration on the northwest corner of the Amoco site. Large limestone rip-rap has been placed along the way to protect the trail from the waves coming off of Muskegon Lake.

The city contracted with bidder Jackson-Merkey Contractors Inc. to complete the eastern half of the repair in a $244,000 project. The Amoco site bike path restoration is part of a $3.1 million overall debris removal project and redevelopment of the wetlands on the Amoco site.

The repairs and subsequent lowering of Great Lakes water levels in the past year should secure the Lakeshore Trail for years to come, Evans said.

The Lakeshore Trail is a key foundation of the extensive trail system through Muskegon County, connecting with the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail and Hart-Montague Trail to the north and the Musketawa Trail to the east.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday June 28- Monday July 05, 2021

Please check our website for a complete list
www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday June 28:

Muskegon South Pierhead Light Tours
1:00 pm
Walk the South Pierhead Pier located at 1431 Beach St. (accessible through NOAA property at the north end of Pere Marquette Park) and climb the 54 stairs to the top of the Light for the best view of the lake shore.

Downtown Muskegon Historic Walking Tours
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Join Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay for a 90-minute walking tour to explore Muskegon’s rich history as well as it’s exciting present! Learn about the past and current uses and occupants of many of Muskegon’s historic businesses and residences. $13-$15 per person www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Downtown Muskegon Art and Architecture Tour
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Walk and learn about the public art installations, murals, and architectural styles of downtown Muskegon. Stops include the statues in Hackley Park, Richardsonian Romanesque buildings, and the recent summer art additions to downtown. Tickets are available on Eventbrite (https://historyandarttour.eventbrite.com) and are $15 per person, museum members $13 Two ticket minimum.

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.

Wonderland Cruise-In Car Show
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Check out classic cars every Monday this summer! Wonderland Distilling Co. located at 1989 Lakeshore Dr. presents a classic car show in the parking lot across the street from their venue. This is a cruise-in style show with no entry fee. Feel free to hang out, see the cool cars, or show off your own.

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.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

Tuesday June 29:

35th Annual ACWL-Nuveen FREE Summer Concert Series: Magic Bus 
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
All Ages FREE! (donations collected during intermission) Free crafts for kids will be available at each concert, thanks to the City of Montague. Concerts will be held at the Montague-Whitehall Rotary Band Shell located at 8636 Water St. Rain location is the Montague High School Center for the Arts: 4900 Stanton Blvd. Montague. www.artswhitelake.org

Yoga On The Ship ($8) – Rootdown Yoga. Juice. Greens.
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
We’re excited to bring back Yoga on the USS LST 393 located at 560 Mart St. Downtown Muskegon on Tuesday evenings for only $8. Come connect with community and flow with some of the best views in Muskegon. All Levels Welcome! *Pre-registration recommended but not required *Don’t forget your mat, as rentals will not be provided.

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.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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 June 30:

unWINEd Aboard the Aquastar
8:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Spend some quality time out on the water aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. enjoying the views while sampling some of our favorite wines! You will enjoy 5 samples of great wines, a beautiful sunset cruise and have a commemorative glass to take home. $42 each person.

Cruise-ins at Fricano Place
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Cruise-in nights at Fricano Place every Wednesday located at1050 W. Western Ave. Bring your beautiful cars and set up in the shaded, grassy area.

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.

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.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

Swing Dance – Free Event
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
We will be offering weekly Swing dance events every Wednesday in June at the Olthoff Stage, Western Ave. at Third St. The events will be a beginner’s lesson and open dancing. Take the lesson or just come and dance. Your choice. No partner or experience needed.

Thursday July 1:

Aquastar Luau Cruise
8:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Hawaiian Vibes on the Lake aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart. St. Listen to the sounds of the Hawaiian Islands, enjoy some time out on Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan and maybe Mother Nature will treat us to a West Michigan sunset! The Pacific Island Dancers will be on hand to show off their beautiful Hawaiian dancing. www.aquastarcruises.com for tickets

Unruly Irish Music Sessions
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
One of the most time-honored musical traditions in Ireland is the “seisiún”: an informal gathering of amateur musicians, usually at the local pub, playing traditional Irish folk and dance tunes. Continuing their commitment to enriching the Irish cultural heritage of West Michigan, Unruly Brewing located at 360 W. Western Av. has graciously offered to host a series of trad session on the first and third Thursday of every month. 231-288-1068

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.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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
 
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 July 2:

WeDiscover Festival
3:00 pm – 11:00 pm
A Hot New Independence Day Festival Has Been Announced! 
The WeDiscover Festival will encompass multiple city blocks of Downtown Muskegon and the Beachfront of Lake Michigan over the Fourth of July weekend.
The main event will be held Saturday, July 3 with a three-day modified and exotic car show, electronic dance music festival, food vendors, the new social drinking district, food truck alley, urban art installations and a massive firework festival by Melrose Pyrotechnics. Cars will be parked along Western Avenue.
SCHEDULE 
Friday July 2
3 pm to 7 pm – Hot Import Nights and Luxury Rally Club​ Car Show Vehicle & Rally Arrival on Western Ave
3 pm to 7 pm Urban Art Installations
7 pm to 10 pm – Stage Pre-Entertainment
Best karma about the event? Proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore
VisitMuskegon for #WeDiscover21
www.luxuryrallyclub.com

Muskegon Clippers Home Baseball Game –vs- Jet Box
7:05 pm – 9:00 pm
Come out to a game at Muskegon’s historic Marsh Field located at 1800 Peck St. This is an amateur sports team. With a number of great players signed, this should be some exciting and high quality baseball! Single game tickets for all home games are available at the front gate up to an hour before each game. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults – $5 Seniors & Students – $3 Kids 5-12 – $2 Kids under 5 – FREE. KIDS OF ALL AGES ARE ABLE TO RUN THE BASES AFTER EVERY HOME CLIPPERS GAME AT MARSH FIELD!!! Check out their website www.muskegonclippers.com. #GO CLIPPERS!

Aquastar Afternoon Cruise
4:00pm – 6:00pm and 8:30pm – 10:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com  for questions please call 231-903-0669

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.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

After Dark Tour
9:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Experience the Hackley and Hume Historic Site AFTER DARK located at 484 W. Webster Ave.! See all five floors of the houses on this classic tour offered on the first Friday of every month May – October from 9-10 pm. Join us to learn more about the lumbering business, the Hackley and Hume families, and the Victorian Era in Muskegon.

Saturday July 3:

WeDiscover Festival
3:00 pm – 11:00 pm
A Hot New Independence Day Festival Has Been Announced! 
The WeDiscover Festival will encompass multiple city blocks of Downtown Muskegon and the Beachfront of Lake Michigan over the Fourth of July weekend.
The main event will be held Saturday, July 3 with a three-day modified and exotic car show, electronic dance music festival, food vendors, the new social drinking district, food truck alley, urban art installations and a massive firework festival by Melrose Pyrotechnics. Cars will be parked along Western Avenue.
SCHEDULE
Saturday July 3
Noon to 11 pm – Main Festival Hours
– Main Stage w/ EDM Headliners
– Vendors Midway
– Hot Import Nights and Luxury Rally Club​ Car Show on Western Ave
– Social Drinking District
– Food Truck Alley
– Urban Art Installations
10:25 pm – Fireworks Extravaganza
Best karma about the event? Proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore #VisitMuskegon for #WeDiscover21
www.luxuryrallyclub.com

5th Annual Heykoop Veteran Memorial Car Show and Benefit
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Lighthouse For Veterans presents the 5th Annual Heykoop Veteran Memorial Car Show & Benefit located at the Mart Dock 560 Mart St.! Enter your ride, or come as a spectator! Trophies for top 3 in Bike, 4×4 and Patriotic categories and Top 10 for general. FOOD TRUCKS: Two Hot Tamales, Holy Smokers BBQ, Kona Ice and Ice Box Brand Ice Cream Bars.

Muskegon Fourth of July Fireworks
10:30 pm
The fireworks are on July 3rd and will begin at 10:30 pm. The city of Muskegon will be shooting from the parking lot next to the Social Security building on Morris Street. It’s a large show – it will be one of the biggest in West Michigan! Western Avenue will be closed so pedestrians will be able to walk freely within the social district without danger of vehicles. There will be two trams who will be driving the perimeter giving free rides downtown.

White Lake Area 4th of July Parade
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Beginning at 10 a.m., join us for the White Lake Area 4th of July parade located at 124 W. Hanson St.! The parade route travels from Whitehall City Hall to Downtown Montague with over 100 entries. You won’t want to miss the family fun offered at our annual parade!

Muskegon Clippers Home Baseball Game –vs- Leprechauns
7:05 pm – 9:00 pm
Come out to a game at Muskegon’s historic Marsh Field located at 1800 Peck St. This is an amateur sports team. With a number of great players signed, this should be some exciting and high quality baseball! Single game tickets for all home games are available at the front gate up to an hour before each game. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults – $5 Seniors & Students – $3 Kids 5-12 – $2 Kids under 5 – FREE. KIDS OF ALL AGES ARE ABLE TO RUN THE BASES AFTER EVERY HOME CLIPPERS GAME AT MARSH FIELD!!! Check out their website www.muskegonclippers.com. #GO CLIPPERS!

Muskegon Astronomical Society Star Party
9:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Star Parties are scheduled events hosted by members located at 702 N. Maple Island Rd.  All visitors are welcomed, but please wear a mask and respect social distance.  There is no charge, however donations are greatly appreciated.  We will be viewing the night sky with our telescopes.  If it is cloudy, the event is canceled.  We’ll try to introduce you to amateur astronomy and have plenty of handouts on how to get started.  Feel free to bring your own telescope.  We want to help you get started and make adjustments, but remember contact needs to be kept at a minimum.” www.stargazing.net

Aquasta Cruises
1:00pm – 3:00pm, 4:00pm – 6:00pm and 8:30pm-10:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com  for questions please call 231-903-0669

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

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.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
10:00 am – 11:00 am
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!

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!

Free Summer Concert: Josh Wilson
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Each year the Maranatha Bible & Missionary Conference Center located at 4759 Lake Harbor Rd. has a free summer concert series open to the public. If you want to purchase dinner before the concert you receive preferred seating!  www.vacationwithpurpose.org/summer-concert

Sunday July 4:

Aquastar Afternoon Cruise
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm and 8:30pm – 10:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com  for questions please call 231-903-0669

White Lake Fourth of July Fireworks
9:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Sponsored by the Montague Whitehall Rotary Club, the White Lake Fourth of July Fireworks will be held Sunday, July 4 at dusk at the north end of White Lake.

WeDiscover Festival
3:00 pm – 11:00 pm
A Hot New Independence Day Festival Has Been Announced! 
The WeDiscover Festival will encompass multiple city blocks of Downtown Muskegon and the Beachfront of Lake Michigan over the Fourth of July weekend.
The main event will be held Saturday, July 3 with a three-day modified and exotic car show, electronic dance music festival, food vendors, the new social drinking district, food truck alley, urban art installations and a massive firework festival by Melrose Pyrotechnics. Cars will be parked along Western Avenue.
SCHEDULE:
Sunday July 4
11 am to 3 pm – Cruise & Rally to Lake Michigan Beachfront
11 am to 3 pm – Urban Art Installations
MAIN EDM STAGE: Nurko, Kim Lee, Kill Bambi,Shannon Williams
Choff. ALT STAGES. DJ Miami, Nicki Nel
Best karma about the event? Proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore #VisitMuskegon for #WeDiscover21
www.luxuryrallyclub.com

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

Monday July 5:
Our office is closed today

Wonderland Cruise-In Car Show
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Check out classic cars every Monday this summer! Wonderland Distilling Co. located at 1989 Lakeshore Dr. presents a classic car show in the parking lot across the street from their venue. This is a cruise-in style show with no entry fee. Feel free to hang out, see the cool cars, or show off your own.

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.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

Muskegon South Pierhead Light Storytime
3:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Join us for one of our Annual Special Events at the Muskegon South Pierhead Light located at 1431 Beach Street. Storytime with the Lighthouse Keeper every Monday at 3 p.m. during July and August. Parking is available in Margaret Drake Elliot Park behind the US Coast Guard Station.

Great Lakes Beach Safety is Key to Great State Park Visits

submitted by the West Michigan Tourist Association

MICHIGAN – As the summer heats up and people begin flocking to Great Lakes beaches, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources urges everyone to keep water and pier safety in mind.

Holding more than 20% of the world’s fresh water, the Great Lakes are large, powerful water systems. These lakes reign supreme for many during warmer months, but they also are prone to dangerous currents that can threaten even the most experienced swimmer. Adverse weather patterns can create dangerous rip and structural currents along piers and breakwalls, too. Crashing waves can create slippery surfaces and conditions strong enough to knock a person into the water.

“The DNR eagerly welcomes millions of visitors to Michigan state parks each summer,” said Sean Mulligan, Holland State Park manager. “Visitors should keep in mind that winds can come up quickly, changing conditions without warning, so always pay attention to the weather. The Great Lakes can become very dangerous, especially when waves get higher than 4 feet.”

Unfortunately, several emergencies and drownings have occurred along the beach and breakwall areas. Many of these incidents happened during red flag days when the wind and waves are strong with greater potential for dangerous rip currents.

Of Michigan’s 100-plus state parks, 42 offer access to Great Lakes shoreline.

Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division, said the increase in accidents and drownings on the Great Lakes in recent years is especially troubling and clear evidence that greater public awareness is needed. In particular, Grand Haven, Holland, Ludington and Mears state parks are situated in locations where rip currents tend to build and recurring safety hazards are present.

“When it comes to protecting Michigan residents and visitors on the water, especially the Great Lakes, we cannot talk enough about safety, preparation and vigilant awareness,” Olson said.

New safety measures at Holland State Park
Holland State Park, situated along Lake Michigan, is one of Michigan’s most-visited sites and provides the main access to a popular pier that is owned by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. More recently, the DNR and the local community have collaborated on additional ways to alert visitors to changing Great Lakes and pier conditions.

This past fall, Holland State Park staff collaborated with Park Township and The King Company to fund the installation of a gate on the pier adjacent to Holland State Park. The goal is to help save lives by restricting access during harsh weather and to reduce the number of people jumping off the pier, while still allowing people to fish from the pier when feasible. Generally speaking, the gate will be closed during the winter, when the red flags are flying and during night hours when the park is closed.

In addition, an electronic messaging board conveying beach conditions is located where visitors enter Holland State Park, and a new public address system will be used to update beachgoers as the beach warning flags are changed in response to weather conditions. Visitors also can view live beach conditions at CityOfHolland.com/645/MIHollandCAM via livestream video courtesy of the City of Holland and Biggby Coffee. Conditions are posted on the park’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/HollandStateParkMi.

River outlets and breakwalls
Dangerous currents can occur near the outlets of rivers and breakwalls, especially during times that water levels are higher.

For example, the mouth of the Big Sable River is located in Ludington State Park, but outside the designated swim area. In the past, swimmers have been swept out into Lake Michigan. This park also has installed an electronic bulletin messaging board at the entrance to the designated beach area to help alert visitors of current conditions.

In addition, swimmers should be aware of particularly dangerous structural currents that form along shoreline structures near breakwalls, such as in Mears State Park.

“When northwest winds appear, water is pushed to the shore causing dangerous currents along the north side of the pier,” said Chris Bush, lead ranger at Mears State Park. “People are often surprised that structures located in the Great Lakes can cause such powerful, and sometimes dangerous, currents.”

Using state park designated swim areas on the Great Lakes
Many, but not all, state parks on the Great Lakes offer designated swimming areas that are identified by buoys or buoys and markers, a beach flag warning system and water depth less than 5 feet at the time of installation. Water depth will be inspected approximately every 14 days and underwater obstacles will be posted or marked. You may also find other designated swim areas in areas other than state parks.

Check the flag upon arrival and be sure to monitor it throughout the day because conditions can change rapidly.

• Green flag = Go. Enter the water but stay aware of changing conditions.
• Yellow flag = Caution. Watch for dangerous currents and high waves.
• Red flag = Stop. Stay on the beach; do not enter the water and do not swim.

There are no beach guards at state parks , so please never swim alone and keep close watch of children. Stay within arm’s reach and make sure all kids wear life jackets.

If there is an emergency, immediately call 911. At Holland and Grand Haven state parks, use the nearest red zone number boards (located on the beach) to help relay your location as accurately as possible.

State park designated swim areas have lifesaving flotation device and equipment. Remember the safety equipment on the beach or pier is for emergency use only; using this equipment for anything else is against the law.

Keep these additional cautions in mind when enjoying time in and around the Great Lakes:

• Currents near piers can be extremely hazardous. Pay attention to the buoys marking the designated swim areas; swimming outside of the marked swim zones can be dangerous and should be avoided.
• During certain weather conditions, the force of water and waves crashing over the surface can easily wash someone off a structure; always monitor the beach flag warning system.
• Before leaving home, learn about the types of Great Lakes currents and how to escape them.
• Check local weather reports and lake conditions before and during your beach trip.

Nondesignated swim areas on the Great Lakes
Visitors in areas without designated swim beaches should use extreme caution because they will not have the benefit of the beach flag warning system or the visual cautions of buoys that mark water depth and other obstacles.

More smart safety water tips
When swimming or boating in any body of water – whether the Great Lakes, inland lakes or slow-moving rivers and streams – make safety your first priority. Never swim alone, always keep close watch of children and bring U.S. Coast-Guard-approved life jackets, especially for new and inexperienced swimmers.

When boating, have life jackets available for everyone on the vessel, leave a float plan with someone on shore, stay alert and carry a cell phone or marine radio. Such planning goes for those on personal watercraft like Jet Skis and paddle boards, too. Learn boating safety.

More info

Visit Michigan.gov/BeachSafety to learn about the beach flag warning system, how to escape rip currents and more.

For more on overall beach and water safety at state parks throughout Michigan, contact Ron Olson at 517-243-1477 or OlsonR@Michigan.gov.

Billy Graham Library, The Cove Open at Full Capacity

bgl

Following a North Carolina Executive Order issued May 14 lifting COVID-19 restrictions, the Billy Graham Library and the Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove have opened at full capacity for guests.

Visitors, staff and volunteers are no longer required to wear masks, but guests who would feel more comfortable wearing a mask are invited to do so.

The Billy Graham Library hosted a sold out Ruth Bell Graham Celebration Dinner on June 11 and is hosting Military Appreciation Day July 17. The Cove also hosted a women’s seminar with Lisa Harper June 4-6 and is hosting a pastor renewal retreat with Thom Rainer at the end of June.

To learn about upcoming events at the Billy Graham Library visit billygrahamlibrary.org/events/. For a full list of events at The Cove visit thecove.org/events/.

Messy Neighbors in Ottawa County!

Gypsy moth outbreaks are being observed across the State

Frass from gypsy moth caterpillars

Gypsy moths made their debut in Michigan in 1954 and got quite out of hand during the 1980s and 1990s before an effective biological control was deployed. But in the last couple of years, significant outbreaks have been observed once again, here in Ottawa County and across the State. But if you are blissfully unaware of what ‘frass’ is, then you probably don’t have these unwelcome guests camping out in your trees! During June and July, gypsy moth caterpillars are in a feeding frenzy before they spin their cocoons. And if they are munching all the leaves off of the oak, aspen, and other trees in your yard, well, we know what comes next – poop, or frass, as the scientists call it. And a lot of it.

Gypsy moth caterpillar

While they can be unpleasant to live with, gypsy moth caterpillars are not typically harmful to your trees in the long term. With regular watering, some trees that have been defoliated by these pests will actually re-flush and produce another set of leaves this year! Some landowners may choose to just ride it out, but if you want to take action to get rid of them and learn how you can prevent or reduce outbreaks next year, here are a couple of resources you can check out:

• Visit Michigan State University Extension’s Gypsy Moth page
• Contact your local forester, Ben Savoie – ben.savoie@macd.org | 269-908-4134

Coming Together to Feed the City – Curbside Food Distribution Events

Muskegon, Mich. – COVID-19. Unemployment. Medical expenses. There are many causes of hunger in the Muskegon Community. AgeWell Services of West Michigan has worked to help feed our aging neighbors since 1973. When the City of Muskegon called on AgeWell Services to use its experience to help feed the city, the team was ready to pitch in.

Using funding from the CARES Act CDBG funding, the City of Muskegon, AgeWell Services, and the Muskegon YMCA will host two curbside food distribution events.

The first event will take place on Wednesday, June 30th from noon to 2 pm at Marsh Field, 1800 Peck St. The second curbside event will be July 7th from noon to 2 pm in the Baker College parking lot, 878 Jefferson St., in Downtown Muskegon near the Muskegon Farmer’s Market.

Both events are open to the public and are first come, first serve. There are no age restrictions for these distributions. The events will be drive-thru. Participants will receive a bundle of frozen meals from AgeWell Services and a produce box from the Muskegon YMCA Veggie Van.

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Minutes – 06/21/21

Fruitport Board of Education
Special Board Meeting
June 21, 2021 6:00 p.m.
Virtual via Zoom & Board Room

Connect to Zoom from your computer, tablet, or smartphone at: Description:
https://zoom.us/j/94641270257?pwd=b3dHc0hhSE9wd1UrbGhSd3VPS1lCZz09
Meeting ID: 946 4127 0257
Passcode: 533524

I. The Special Meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

II. ROLL CALL: Present –Elroy Buckner, Tim Burgess, Kris Cole, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, Steve Kelly (via Zoom). Absent – Jill Brott.

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 21-079. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Buckner to approve the agenda with the removal of item IV-2, Adopt Sale of Bonds Resolution. This will be tabled until the Regular Meeting of the Board on June 28, 2021.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of Special Board Meeting Minutes of June 15, 2021
Item 21-080. MOTION by Burgess, SECOND by Cole to approve the Special Board Meeting Minutes of June 15, 2021.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

2. Approve Candidate Selections for Superintendent Interviews
Board members held a round table discussion regarding the candidate pool and selected three candidates to interview for the superintendent position.
Item 21-081. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to offer a first round interview to candidates #63, #10, and #45.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

3. Other
None.

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Parent, Kendra Hansen thanked the Board for holding the upcoming superintendent interviews in person instead of virtual. She also spoke about communication issues.

VI. ADJOURNMENT
Item 21-082. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Burgess to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The meeting adjourned at 6:51 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan Franklin
Acting Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Agenda – 06/21/21

Fruitport Community Schools
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
Monday, June 21, 2021 – 6:00 p.m.
Board Room/Virtual

Connect to Zoom from your computer, tablet, or smartphone at:
https://zoom.us/j/94641270257?pwd=b3dHc0hhSE9wd1UrbGhSd3VPS1lCZz09
Meeting ID: 946 4127 0257
Passcode: 533524

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of the Special Board Meeting Minutes of June 15, 2021 (attachment IV-1)
2. Adopt Sale of Bonds Resolution (attachment IV-2)
3. Approve Candidate Selections for Superintendent Interviews (attachment IV-3)
4. Other

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VI. ADJOURNMENT

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

Muskegon County to Lift the State of Emergency Beginning June 29th

MUSKEGON, MI — Muskegon County plans to lift all COVID-19 restrictions and return to in-person committee and board meetings beginning June 29, 2021.

In alignment with Governor Whitmer, Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Muskegon County plans to resume all business operations with COVID-19 restrictions lifted. Board and Standing Committee meetings will once again be held in-person at the Hall of Justice.

“We have been waiting for over a year to hear this great news and return to a pre-pandemic order of operations,” said Chairman Bob Scolnik. “This is due to the efforts of all medical personnel, first responders and all essential workers who stood in the gap. I would especially like to thank the Public Health Director, Kathy Moore, for leading the charge during these long 15 months.”

This milestone has been reached because Muskegon County residents have done their part in stopping the spread by following the distancing guidelines and receiving vaccinations. Online services will still be in operation and are strongly encouraged.

MUSKEGON COUNTY CIRCUIT AND DISTRICT COURTS:

In response to updated guidance from the Michigan State Court Administrator’s Office, the Michigan Department of Health and Humans Services, and the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and in accordance with the recommendation of local public health officials, the Muskegon County Courts are able to increase in-person access to court operations. Permanent protective measures have been implemented, including new signage, installation of hand sanitizing stations, protective shielding, and physical barriers within court areas. A brief health screening will still be required, and can be completed using the QR code below for quicker entry into the Hall of Justice. Masks or face coverings will no longer be required for entry. Judges retain the discretion to require individuals in the courtroom to use masks generally or in specific cases, particularly cases involving persons who are at an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19.

Beginning Tuesday, June 29th, the general public will be permitted access to the Muskegon County Hall of Justice.

  • General Court Business-
    • District Court: 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Monday-Friday
    • Circuit, Family & Probate Court-
      • Effective June 29th – September 5th: 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Monday-Thursday; Limited Access Fridays
      • Effective September 6: 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Monday-Friday; Closed Labor Day
    • Circuit Court Records & Vital Records:
      • Effective June 29th- September 5th: 8:30 am-4:30 pm, Monday-Thursday; Closed Fridays, but Open Friday July 9th
      • Effective September 6: 8:30 am -4:30 pm, Monday-Friday; Closed Labor Day
    • All Other County Departments in the Muskegon County Hall of Justice-: 8:30 am- 4:30 pm, Monday-Friday
  • Scheduled Hearings- Court proceedings will be scheduled using a hybrid model of in-person and remote hearing appearances, consistent with Supreme Court Administrative Order No. 2020-6. Anyone with a scheduled hearing or pending court matter should follow the instructions on the notice they receive. Future hearing notices will be provided via the US mail, or by electronic notification, with specific instruction on how to appear.
    • Zoom Hearings- Anyone receiving a hearing notice to appear via Zoom should follow the instructions contained in their notice regarding how to appear remotely.
    • In-person Hearings- The court will continue to send out specific notices to appear in-person. Hearing notices will indicate the scheduled time of hearing.
  • Jury Trials- If you receive a juror summons, please follow the instructions on the summons to appear in-person
    • Circuit/Family/Probate Court- Scheduled to resume in-person immediately.
    • District Court- Scheduled to resume in-person the week of July 5th

The public is encouraged to continue to utilize email and/or phone communication, and electronic payment options.

Court officials will continuously monitor local COVID-19 data and adjust plans related to staffing and public access to court facilities, as needed. We appreciate your continued patience and understanding during this period of transition.

Fruitport Board of Education Regular Meeting Agenda – 06/28/21

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Monday, June 28, 2021 – 7:00 p.m.
Board Room

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. PRESENTATIONS

V. COMMUNICATIONS

VI. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Data Review – Allison Camp

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VIII. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Special Meeting Minutes of June 24, 2021 (attachment VIII-1)
2. Approval of Bills (attachment VIII-2)

General Fund                                                                  $338,454.32
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center                                                       4,385.12
Food Service 49,226.25 Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage          937.00
Capital Projects (Bond)                                                      92,424.89
Total Bill List                                                                 $485,427.58

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

IX. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Fruitport 2021-22 Parent/Student Athletic Handbook (attachment IX-1)
2. Bond Resolution (attachment IX-2)

X. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Elroy Buckner, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held June 21, 2021 (attachment X-1)
2. General Fund Budget Amendment for 2020-2021 (attachment X-2)
3. School Service Fund Budget Amendment for 2020-2021 (attachment X-3)
4. Budget Appropriations Act of the 2021-2022 General Fund (attachment X-4)
5. Budget Appropriations Act of the 2021-2022 School Svc Fund (attachment X-5)

XI. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson

XII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Jill Brott, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held June 23, 2021 (attachment XII-1)
2. K-12 Science Curriculum (attachment XII-2)
3. Overnight Trip Request (attachment XII-3)

XIII. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

XIV. AGENDA ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Schedule Business & Finance Committee Meeting
2. Schedule Personnel Committee Meeting
3. Schedule Student Affairs Committee Meeting
4. Special Board Meeting, June 29, 2021 @ 6:00 p.m. in the Board Room

XV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVI. 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.

Ask Dr. Universe – Trees’ Growth

Dr. Universe: Why do trees grow so slow? – Ana, 7, Covert, MI

Dear Ana,

When you eat food, you get a lot of important nutrients that help you grow. The trees that live on our planet also need some nutrients to grow.

Trees use their leaves to help capture energy from the sun to make their own food. But as you may have noticed, a lot of trees lose their leaves during certain times of the year.

Without leaves, they can’t make nearly as much food, and without those important nutrients, they can’t grow very fast.

That’s what I found out from my friend Tim Kohlhauff, a certified arborist and urban horticulture coordinator at Washington State University. He is very curious about the lives of trees.

“These trees only get to make food part of the year,” he said.

Usually, we see slower growth in these trees between March and October. Of course, maybe you are thinking about the kind of trees that do not lose their leaves, like pine trees or evergreens. When it is really hot or really cold out, these trees will also experience slower growth. They may be trying to save energy and make it through tough times.

For instance, in the redwood forests of California where some of the tallest trees on our planet live, a redwood tree might grow two or three feet a year. But if the trees are stressed or don’t have water and sunlight, they might grow just an inch per year. Trees are pretty good at adapting to changes in their environment.

Not unlike humans, a lot of trees that live in forests grow faster in their younger years, too. In the forest, it can be a bit of a race to the top. There is a lot of competition between trees to grow tall so that they can get enough sunlight. After all, that sunlight is where they get energy to make their food.

While most humans don’t grow much taller after they reach ages 18 or 20, some trees can grow for up to 100 or 200 years. One slow-growing tree is the magnolia tree, which can reach heights of about 60 to 80 feet and sometimes even 100 feet tall. These trees can grow about one foot—the length of a ruler—a year.

Meanwhile, some trees will grow slowly but may never get very big. Dogwood trees only reach about 15 to 20 feet tall and grow about a foot a year.

Some trees may grow slowly, but they don’t grow forever. At a certain point, they stop growing taller and start growing wider. Not only does the trunk itself get wider, but the branches also grow out around the tree to form its canopy.

You know, we are still learning a lot about how the ways that the thousands of species of trees on our planet grow. But one thing we do know is that at least for some trees, growing slow and steady is just the right pace.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

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FCS – Public Hearing On Proposed Budget – Agenda – 06/28/21

Fruitport Community Schools
TRUTH AND TAXATION
PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 2021-2022 BUDGET
Monday, June 28, 2021 – 6:30 p.m.
Board of Education Meeting Room

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. BUDGET HEARING PRESENTATION

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VI. OTHER

VII. ADJOURNMENT

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

Fruitport Board of Education Annual Organizational Meeting Agenda – 06/28/21

Fruitport Board of Education
Annual Organizational Meeting
June 28, 2021 – 7:00 p.m.
Board Room

I. Call to Order
II. Pledge of Allegiance
III. Roll Call
IV. Approval of Agenda
V. Adoption of Thrun Board Policies (attachment #1)
VI. Designation of Banking Institution (attachment #2)
VII. Resolution for Investment Authority (attachment #3)
VIII. Designation of Legal Firms (attachment #4)
IX. Establishment of Board Compensation (attachment #5)
X. Approval of District Memberships and Affiliations (attachment #6)
XI. Designation of Board Member Liaison to MASB (attachment #7)
XII. Adoption of Schedule of Regular Monthly Meetings (attachment #8)
XIII. Designation of Authorized Signatures (attachment #9)
XIV. Administration Designation of Treasurer Responsibilities (attachment #10)
XV. Safe Deposit Box Authority (attachment #11)
XVI. Fee for Board Meeting Request (attachment #12)
XVII. Fruitport individual course list (attachment #13)
XVIII. Adjournment

– Recess –

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Agenda – 06/24/21

Fruitport Community Schools
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
Thursday, June 24, 2021 – 5:30 p.m.
Fruitport High School Cafeteria
357 N. Sixth Street, Fruitport 49415

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

V. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

  1. Approval of the Special Board Meeting Minutes of June 21, 2021 (attachment V-1)
  2. First Round Superintendent Interviews
    5:30 p.m. Jennifer Burns, Associate Superintendent, Ionia
    6:30 p.m. Tim Reeves, Superintendent, Shelby
  3. Other

VI. ADJOURNMENT

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

Annual Lakeshore Art Festival Is Ready to Go This Weekend – June 26 & 27

MUSKEGON, MI – As one of the first large scale events in over a year to happen in Downtown Muskegon, Michigan, the Lakeshore Art Festival is excited and ready to go! The event features a unique blend of fine art, handcrafted goods, music, food, and fun. Experience over 250 juried fine art and specialty craft exhibitors, a Children’s Lane, Author’s Alley, Artisan Food Market, entertainment, the Community Mosaic Project, a scavenger hunt, and so much more!

Nearly 100 fine art and fine craft exhibitors can be found in historic Hackley Park, featuring green landscaping, large trees, and pockets of bright flowers. The Craft and Artisan Food Market flows from the Clay Ave. side of Hackley Park, down Fourth St. to Western Ave and down Western Ave to First St. The Children’s Lane anchors the event, and is located between First St. and Jefferson St., adjacent to the splash pad. So, bring the kids, bring your suits, and get ready to have some fun!

This year’s festival will feature 20 Michigan Authors at the Authors Alley, located at the corner of Clay Ave. and Fourth St. Festival attendees can meet the authors, and browse through hundreds of books with various genres, including everything from mysteries, to cookbooks, and everything in between. A full list of authors can be found here.

Each year, the Lakeshore Art Festival adds an element that’s engaging for the community. This year, the festival will host the first ever Community Mosaic Project. Reclaimed wooden 4×4 square tiles, provided by PADNOS, will be available to the community as mini canvases to create art upon. The public is invited to grab a 4×4 tile before the festival, get creative, and bring the completed tile downtown during the festival. At the event, each tile will be added to larger boards creating a multi-dimensional community mosaic! After the festival is over, sections of the mosaic will be displayed at various locations throughout the community. For more information click here.

In cooperation with the MSU Extension 4H Club, the festival will also feature a custom scavenger hunt program called the Lakeshore Art Chase. All guests who visit the festival are invited to participate! Families, individuals, or teams can complete missions for points to earn prizes. The Lakeshore Art Chase will guide guests to various art pieces throughout Downtown Muskegon, to the fine art and craft exhibitors, and other sites within the festival footprint, all while encouraging them to use their collective brain power to “chase” and solve riddles! Teams can register the day of the festival, but are encouraged to pre-register, so the fun can start the minute you arrive! Learn more here.

The new Downtown Social District is located right in the heart of the Lakeshore Art Festival. Guests will be allowed to roam the festival footprint, within the social district, with an adult beverage in hand! This is a great chance to sip, shop and savor all that the festival and local restaurants have to offer.

As part of our dedication to our environment, and in an effort to reduce touchpoints, the festival is going paperless. Brochures and all content will be available online and can be accessed via our “Welcome Page” during the show by scanning a QR code with your phone.

While this is a free event, we do encourage guests to come prepared to support the many artists, crafters, food vendors, and local businesses during their visit at the Lakeshore Art Festival!

The festival will follow the current CDC/MDHHS pandemic guidelines.

Learn more about the Lakeshore Art Festival sponsorship or volunteer opportunities at: www.lakeshoreartfestival.org. Follow us on Facebook for the latest updates: 
www.facebook.com/LakeshoreArtFestival/.

About the Lakeshore Art Festival
The annual art festival has brought between 55,000-60,000 guests, 300+ fine art and craft exhibitors, 20 food vendors, children’s activities, street performers and art installations to Downtown Muskegon. The festival ranks as one of the Top 200 Best in the Country by Sunshine Artist Magazine, has been recognized as People’s Choice Award: #1 Art Festival in West Michigan and as one of the Best Art Fairs in America by ArtFairCalendar.com. Since 2014, the Lakeshore Art Festival has brought in over $7.2 million dollars to the Muskegon Lakeshore area and supported a number of local non-profits. If you are interested in getting involved as a volunteer or local business sponsor, please contact Carla Flanders at director@lakeshoreartfestival.org or visit lakeshoreartfestival.org for more information.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Thursday June 24- Sunday 27, 2021

Please check our website for a complete list
www.visitmuskegon.org

Thursday June 24:

Downtown Muskegon Historic Walking Tours
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Join Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay for a 90-minute walking tour to explore Muskegon’s rich history as well as it’s exciting present! Learn about the past and current uses and occupants of many of Muskegon’s historic businesses and residences. $13-$15 per person www.lakeshoremuseum.org

West Michigan Concert Winds Performance on the Lawn
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
This is a FREE to the public performance from 7:00pm-8:00pm at the historic train depot in downtown Muskegon located at 610 W. Western Ave. Bring your family, friends, neighbors, lawn chairs, blankets, picnic baskets and enjoy the sounds of the West Michigan Concert Winds on the lawn!

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.

Downtown Muskegon Art and Architecture Tour
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Walk and learn about the public art installations, murals, and architectural styles of downtown Muskegon. Stops include the statues in Hackley Park, Richardsonian Romanesque buildings, and the recent summer art additions to downtown. Tickets are available on Eventbrite (https://historyandarttour.eventbrite.com) and are $15 per person, museum members $13 Two ticket minimum.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

Thirsty Thursday – Pigeon Hill Pilates
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Join us at the Pigeon Hill production facility (Brewer’s Lounge) located at 895 Fourth St. for thirsty Thursday pilates with Mandy! $14 gets you a 45-minute killer pilates class, plus the drink of your choice at the Pigeon Hill taproom afterward.

Free Family Movie Days – Aladdin
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Come to the Frauenthal located at 425 W. Western Ave.for a free family movie! Showcasing modern box office hits, the series aims to open doors for families in the community to experience the Frauenthal Center together or for those who are simply looking for a free and fun evening. This month’s movie is Aladdin
 
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.

Two Dudes “Thirsty Thursday” at Walker’s
6:00 pm
Join the Two Dudes for a “Thirsty Thursday” at Walker’s in Downtown Muskegon! Walker’s An American Brasserie 939 3rd St, Muskegon, MI 49440 Thursday, June 24, 2021 at 6 PM EDT Price: Free

Aquastar Sunset Cruise
8:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the evening breeze while cruising the lake during our sunset cruise aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com  for questions please call 231-903-0669

Muskegon Clippers Home Baseball Game –vs- Monarchs
7:05 pm – 9:00 pm
Come out to a game at Muskegon’s historic Marsh Field located at 1800 Peck St. This is an amateur sports team. With a number of great players signed, this should be some exciting and high quality baseball! Single game tickets for all home games are available at the front gate up to an hour before each game. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults – $5 Seniors & Students – $3 Kids 5-12 – $2 Kids under 5 – FREE. KIDS OF ALL AGES ARE ABLE TO RUN THE BASES AFTER EVERY HOME CLIPPERS GAME AT MARSH FIELD!!! Check out their website www.muskegonclippers.com. #GO CLIPPERS!

Friday June 25:

USS LST 393 Veterans Museum Movie on Deck: Dunkirk
10:00 pm – 11:30 pm
Lights! Camera! Action!
Movies on Deck returns to the big screen on USS LST 393 this summer for a limited engagement.World War II blockbuster “Dunkirk.” The realistic war drama details the heroic rescue of 350,000 British and French troops at the beginning of the war by the Royal Navy and a fleet of citizen sailors. There is no admission charge (donations are accepted). The movies will start at dark (usually about 10 p.m.) and concessions will be sold. Audience members are asked to observe safety spacing rules.

Aquastar Afternoon Cruise
4:00pm – 6:00pm and 8:30pm – 10:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com  for questions please call 231-903-0669

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.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

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.

Hackley Attic Escape Room
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Experience the Hackley House located at 484 W. Webster Ave. 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.

Saturday June 26:

2021 Mercy Health Seaway Run (40th Anniversary)
6:00 am – 1:00 pm
Make history & join in on Muskegon’s 40th Mercy Health Seaway Run on June 26th. Register today for West Michigan’s most beautiful half marathon, 10K, 5K, & Community Fun Walk. www.mercyhealthmuskegon.com

Lakeshore Art Festival and Art Chase
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of fine art, handcrafted goods, music, food, and fun in beautiful Downtown Muskegon. Experience over 300 juried fine art and specialty craft exhibitors, a Children’s Lane, artisan food market, street performers, interactive art, and so much more! Visit www.lakeshoreartfestival.org for more information.

Yoga at Union Depot
9:00 am – 10:00 am
This is an all levels yoga class appropriate for beginners as well as advanced practitioners. Instructors will give lots of ways to make poses appropriate for all! Please bring your own yoga mat or towel/blanket. The class is donation based, pay as you can. The Union Depot is located at 610 W. Western Ave.

Animal Explorations: Lakeshore Museum Center
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Come visit our Habitats gallery at Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay to learn about the animals that live in Muskegon. There will be extra furs and animal skulls on display to see and touch! This event is sponsored by the MCACA and the NEA.

Aquasta Cruises
4:00pm – 6:00pm and 8:00pm-10:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com  for questions please call 231-903-0669

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

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.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
10:00 am – 11:00 am
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!

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!

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. 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.

Free Summer Concert: The Sound
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Each year the Maranatha Bible & Missionary Conference Center located at 4759 Lake Harbor Rd. has a free summer concert series open to the public. If you want to purchase dinner before the concert you receive preferred seating!  www.vacationwithpurpose.org/summer-concert

Sunday June 27:

Lakeshore Art Festival and Art Chase
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of fine art, handcrafted goods, music, food, and fun in beautiful Downtown Muskegon. Experience over 300 juried fine art and specialty craft exhibitors, a Children’s Lane, artisan food market, street performers, interactive art, and so much more! Visit www.lakeshoreartfestival.org for more information.

Aquastar Afternoon Cruise
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm and 7:30pm – 9:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com  for questions please call 231-903-0669

Muskegon Clippers Home Baseball Game –vs- Mariners
4:05 pm – 6:00 pm
Come out to a game at Muskegon’s historic Marsh Field located at 1800 Peck St. This is an amateur sports team. With a number of great players signed, this should be some exciting and high quality baseball! Single game tickets for all home games are available at the front gate up to an hour before each game. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults – $5 Seniors & Students – $3 Kids 5-12 – $2 Kids under 5 – FREE. KIDS OF ALL AGES ARE ABLE TO RUN THE BASES AFTER EVERY HOME CLIPPERS GAME AT MARSH FIELD!!! Check out their website www.muskegonclippers.com. #GO CLIPPERS!

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

Summer Sundays on The Lake House Patio with Two Dudes in Flip Flops
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Stop at The Lake House located at 730 Terrace Point Dr. for some summer sun and fun, cool breezes and music…all on the patio! Great views of Muskegon Lake, excellent food, and plenty of ice cold beverages to cap off the weekend!

Yoga on The Ship (Donation Based-$10) – Rootdown Yoga. Juice. Greens.
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
We’re excited to host in person yoga classes on the deck of the LST 393, located at 560 Mart St.! All Levels Welcome! Recommended $10 donation. 50% of proceeds go to USS LST 393. Cash at door accepted. No pre-registration required. *Don’t forget your mat as rentals will not be provided.

The Supreme Court Reexamines Roe

by Chris Gast, Right to Life of Michigan, Director of Communication/Education

On May 17, the U.S. Supreme Court took up the case Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

The case involves Mississippi’s ban on abortion past 15 weeks of pregnancy. The central question of the case is whether a state can ban abortions before the point of viability, which is the ever-shifting point at which a child can survive outside the womb.

Some fear the Supreme Court may uphold Roe v. Wade; a sacrifice to satisfy President Biden and his threats to pack the Supreme Court with political activists. Others say it is likely they will uphold Mississippi’s law, but leave Roe hanging by a thread. The right thing to do—legally and morally—is overturning Roe, and it’s what they should do.

In 1973, the Supreme Court ripped away the issue of abortion from voters, and since then the lives of 60 million unborn children have been taken, their little bodies ripped out of their mother’s wombs in cruel fashion.

Roe v. Wade created a right to abortion out of thin air. The Supreme Court invented a trimester framework in their decision, where states could only regulate abortion in the 2nd trimester, and states could ban abortions in the 3rd trimester—if the bans contained a health exception.

The definition of a health exception was settled the same day as Roe v. Wade in Doe v. Bolton. Health was defined to include “all factors … relevant to the well-being of the patient.” Thus, states could in theory ban abortions in the third trimester, but only if they allowed every reason to count as an exception.

In 1992, the Supreme Court got rid of the trimester framework in Planned Parenthood v. Casey, instead applying an “undue burden” test: any abortion law could not create an “undue burden” on a woman seeking an abortion. The point at which states could ban abortions—while keeping an infinite health exception—was arbitrarily moved to viability.

The Constitution doesn’t mention viability, or trimesters, or anything about abortion. When judges cook up their own laws, they delegitimatize their courts and usurp our democratic process.

Michigan voters had their say in 1972, just weeks before Roe v. Wade. A supermajority of voters decided to keep our state’s abortion ban. Roe v. Wade overturned our election and stole the human rights from an entire class of human beings.

It’s well past time for this judicial tyranny to end.

Muskegon River Watershed Assembly Awarded EGLE Conservation, Education Grant

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) recently announced 18 grants totaling $600,000 for projects that will support watershed organizations with conservation and educational efforts. The Watershed Council Support grants are funded under Michigan’s Public Act 166 of 2020, and a total of 69 applications requesting approximately $2.4 million were received in response to the request for proposals. These grants are issued by EGLE’s Nonpoint Source Program, which helps local stakeholders reduce pollution and excess runoff by supporting efforts to develop and launch watershed management plans.

The Muskegon River Watershed Assembly (MRWA) secured a $40,000.00 EGLE Watershed Council Support Program grant this week. Principal Watershed Scientist Marty Holtgren explains: “The goal of this MRWA project is to update the Muskegon River Watershed Plan (MRWMP) with dam impacts for temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), macroinvertebrates, and habitat. This project will involve conducting water quality and MiCorps (macroinvertebrate/ habitat) monitoring at 14 watershed dams to evaluate impacts to aquatic life and develop solutions for improving pollution that dams cause.”

The projects funded by the EGLE funding ranged from detection and control of aquatic invasive species and support of boat cleaning stations; supporting watershed management planning; coordinating water quality monitoring among local units of government in a watershed; and supporting farm-based conservation planning.

The location of dams for the MRWA proposal includes 10 from Newaygo and Muskegon counties and four upstream in Mecosta and Osceola counties. “We are pleased to now have the opportunity and resources we need as an organization to deepen our scientific understanding of the watershed and to begin to offer better informed solutions to multiple Michigan counties and townships” stated Scott Faulkner, Executive Director of the MRWA. “We will continue to do our best to keep the people and municipalities of the watershed informed and engaged, always seeking to balance environmental solutions with the economic realities we all face in rural counties.”

To see the entire list of organizations receiving funding, please go to:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIDEQ/bulletins/2e190c1

Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Deploys after Shootings and Floods

rrt

During the month of May, chaplains from the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) deployed to two locations in Louisiana after historic flooding and to San Jose, California, after a gunman killed nine people at a Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) light rail facility.

BG-RRT sent chaplains to Lake Charles on May 21—just a few months after finishing a deployment to the same area after they were hit with two major hurricanes in 2020. Two weeks later, additional chaplains were sent to Plaquemine, Louisiana, after a storm system dumped as much as 25 inches of rain in the area and a flood diversion dam failed, leading to massive flooding.

Chaplains spent a week in San Jose, ministering to VTA employees, first responders and the community at a memorial site set up at city hall in memory of the victims.

The BG-RRT has deployed 21 times since January 2021 with 382 chaplains praying with more than 10,000 people.

For more information about the BG-RRT ministry, visit billygraham.org/RRT.

Ask Dr. Universe – Learning Hard Things

Dear Dr. Universe: How do you learn something hard? – Kai, 12, Alaska

Dear Kai,

There are so many different things we can learn in our world, but that doesn’t mean learning is always so easy. Maybe you want to learn a process, like how to complete Rubik’s cube, code an app, design a solution to a problem or answer science questions.

My friend Sarah Fick, an assistant professor of science education at Washington State University, was excited to hear your question. She said one way to learn something hard is to ask a lot of questions of yourself and other people.

Questions like: Why is it hard? Are you trying to remember something? Are you trying to understand how it works? Are you trying to solve a problem that’s hard to solve? Can you design something or come up with an idea that will help you solve that problem? Where can you find more information about your problem or who can you ask about it?

“Depending on what experiences you’ve had in learning—and the knowledge you’ve gained from your family and community—you are going to come at these problems with your own strengths,” Fick said.

Things that are easy for you, might be hard for someone else or the opposite could be true.

Fick reminded me that while we can learn a process, we can also learn more about how a process works. That’s what scientists do—they help us bring deeper knowledge into the world.

Through collecting data, researchers can help us build on current knowledge to create new knowledge. Another thing scientists do is create a model or draw a picture showing how they think the process works. A model can sometimes help us understand what we know and what we still have questions about.

When you are learning something hard, it also helps to ask yourself what is motivating you to learn. Maybe the motivation is that you want a good grade on a test. We call that extrinsic motivation. But maybe you want to learn how to do something for, well, you. Then, you have intrinsic motivation. When motivation comes from within, it often helps us learn.

Finally, while it may feel frustrating to learn difficult subjects or tasks, that’s sometimes a good sign. You might just be wrestling with knowledge that’s new to you and might be on your way to an “Aha!” moment when you gain a better understanding.

One of the areas Fick researches is helping us better understand how students can use their knowledge from one subject, such as math, to help them learn more about another area, like science. Learning often happens when we find connections, including connections to our daily life.

There are a lot of different factors that go into learning something hard, and these are just a few. The next time you find yourself facing a learning challenge, take a deep breath, ask yourself some good questions and get ready for the next step on your learning journey—wherever it takes you.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

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St. Cecilia Music Center Individual and Season Tickets for Concert Season 2021 / 2022 are On Sale Now

submitted by the West Michigan Tourist Association

St. Cecilia Music Center will host a World-Class Lineup of Folk and  Jazz Musicians, a new WinterFest Music Festival in February as well its 10th anniversary of partnership with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Artists during its 2021/2022 Season

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – St. Cecilia Music Center (SCMC) is excited to offer season tickets and individual tickets for their upcoming 2021 / 2022 Season of Music beginning this fall. All tickets for the new season are now on sale for 15+ evenings of outstanding performances by world-renowned jazz, folk and chamber music artists in what will be their 138th anniversary. 
 
Executive & Artistic Director of SCMC Cathy Holbrook says, “We are thrilled and thankful to begin again in 2021 – 2022 with 15+ live concerts. These great artists are looking forward to getting back out on tour to perform in front of live audiences and to bring music back to concert stages in the U.S. and worldwide. We so missed seeing our loyal supporters and music lovers in person and we’re looking forward to hosting a year of celebration with live music again at SCMC!”
 
Concerts for SCMC’s 2021 / 2022 season will include three Spectacular Jazz Series events, three Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Series performances, six Acoustic Café Folk Series evenings of music and a new first-ever jazz festival in February 2022 entitled WinterFest featuring Christian McBride and Friends.
 
One Summer Acoustic Cafe Folk Series Concert, a stand-alone concert preceding the new season, will feature Marc Cohn appearing on August 21, 2021. 
 
Individual and subscription tickets for all concerts are now on sale today, June 1, 2021, at www.scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224.


St. Cecilia Music Center Series Concerts for the 2021/2022 Season: 
 
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Series
 “From Prague to Vienna”- November 18, 2021
“Romantic Perspectives” – January 27, 2022
“The Jazz Effect” – March 31, 2022
 
Spectacular Jazz Series
Joshua Redman – January 20, 2022
Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap – March 10, 2022
Delfeayo Marsalis with the Uptown Jazz Orchestra – April 14, 2022
 
SCMC Winterfest Jazz Festival
Christian McBride and Edgar Meyer – February 24, 2021
Christian McBride Trio featuring guest singer Cyrille Aimée – February 25, 2021
Christian McBride and Inside Straight – February 26, 2021
 
Acoustic Cafe Folk Series
Sam Bush – October 6, 2021
Rodney Crowell – November 12, 2021
Leo Kottke – November 19, 2021
The Milk Carton Kids – December 2, 2021
Watkins Family Hour – December 16, 2021
Shawn Colvin – May 12, 2022
 
Tickets
Season subscription tickets to the 2022 SCMC WinterFest Jazz Festival, Spectacular Jazz Series and Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Concert Series are available online at www.scmc-online.org or by calling 616-459-2224. 
 
Single tickets** for WinterFest, Chamber, Jazz, and Folk series concerts can be purchased by phone at 616-459-2224 or online at www.scmc-online.org. If SCMC is able to offer post-concert CD-signing receptions, all ticket-holders may be able to meet some of the artists and obtain signed CDs of their releases. Further information will be announced closer to the start of the season on whether COVID restrictions will allow SCMC to hold receptions.
 
* Series Subscribers of SCMC WinterFest, Spectacular Jazz Series, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Series, and the Combined Jazz & Chamber Subscription (Jazz and Chamber) are offered with great benefits including 15-20% discount off single concert ticket prices. 
 
**Ticket prices: There is a $7 fee on each subscription ticket. Single tickets have a $3.00 per ticket fee. All concerts start at 7:30pm.

“As we approach the new 2021 – 2022 Season of Music at St. Cecilia Music Center, we are excited about the season. We know that we may be approaching a “new normal” this season and will hold the concerts with the safety of patrons in mind. The SCMC building will adhere to recommended cleaning and disinfecting protocol. All concert dates will be subject to changes if necessary in 2021 or 2022 based on statewide mandates out of the organization’s control.”

SCMC Executive Director Cathy Holbrook

SUBSCRIPTION TICKETS
Chamber Music Society Series
3-concert subscription
15% discount off single ticket prices
Subscription: $114
Plus: Add any or ALL of the three WinterFest concerts to your subscription and receive 15% off the single ticket price on festival tickets.
 
Spectacular Jazz Series 
3-concert subscription
15% discount off single ticket prices
Subscription: $137
Plus: Add any or ALL of the three WinterFest concerts to your subscription and receive 15% off the single ticket price on festival tickets. 
 
Chamber +  Jazz Subscription package
20% discount off single ticket prices
6-concert combination series 
Subscription: $236
Plus: Add any or ALL of the three WinterFest concerts to your subscription and receive 15% off the single ticket price on festival tickets. 
 
SCMC WinterFest Subscription package
3-concert subscription
15% discount off single ticket prices
Subscription: $123
 
SINGLE TICKETS
SCMC WinterFest Jazz Festival Single Tickets
 
Christian McBride & Edgar Meyer
Thursday, February 24, 2022
A section $55          
B section $50
 
Christian McBride Trio & Cyrille Aimee
Friday, February 25, 2022
A section $45
B section $40          
 
Christian McBride & Inside Straight 
Saturday, February 26, 2022
A section $45
B section $40          
 
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center Single Tickets 
 
From Prague to Vienna
Thursday, November 18, 2021
A section $45
B section $40
 
Romantic Perspectives
Thursday, January 27, 2022
A section $45
B section $40

The Jazz Effect
Thursday, March 31, 2022
A section $45
B section $40                            
 
Jazz Series Single Tickets 
 
Jazz Saxophonist Joshua Redman
Thursday, January 20, 2022
A section $55
B section $45          
 
Dee Dee Bridgewater & Bill Charlap
Thursday, March 10, 2022
A section $55
B section $50
 
Delfeayo Marsalis Big Band
Thursday, April 14, 2022
A section $50
B section $45          
 
Folk Series Single Tickets 
 
Sam Bush
Wednesday, October 6, 2021
A section $45
B section $40
 
Rodney Crowell
Friday, November 12, 2021
A section $60
B section $50          
 
Leo Kottke
Friday, November 19, 2021
A section $45
B section $40          
 
Milk Carton Kids
Thursday, December 2, 2021
A section $50
B section $40
 
Watkins Family Hour
Thursday, December 16, 2021
A section $55
B section $45
 
Shawn Colvin
Thursday, May 12, 2022
A section $45
B section $40
VIP tix $125
 

St. Cecilia Music Center’s mission is to promote the study, appreciation and
performance of music in order to enrich the lives of West Michigan residents. 
The Center fulfills this mission by 
presenting visiting world-class artists in concert, 
providing music education for all ages through our School of Music and 
preserving a historic building for musical activities and community events

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Minutes – 06/15/21

Fruitport Board of Education
Special Board Meeting
June 15, 2021 7:30 a.m.
Virtual via Zoom

Connect to Zoom from your computer, tablet, or smartphone at: Description:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84929056204?pwd=QWEyODJjUi9sTDMvbDdlZEFZUDlNUT09
Meeting ID: 849 2905 6204
Passcode: m4Awd7

I. The Special Meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 7:32 a.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

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

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 21-075. MOTION by Burgess, SECOND by Franklin to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 4-0

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of Special Board Meeting Minutes of May 24, 2021
Item 21-076. MOTION by Burgess, SECOND by Buckner to approve the Special Board Meeting Minutes of May 24, 2021.
MOTION CARRIED 4-0

2. Change Orders
Board members held a discussion regarding Change Order #330. The scope of the project was discussed and questions were answered.
Item 21-077. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to approve Change Order #330 which includes the addition of a Snow Melt system in the front walkway of the high school.
MOTION CARRIED 4-0

3. Other
Superintendent, Bob Szymoniak reminded Board members that Adult Ed graduation will be held in the new high school cafeteria June 15th at 7:00 p.m.

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

Kris Cole entered the meeting virtually at 7:45 a.m.

VI. ADJOURNMENT
Item 21-078. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Buckner to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

The meeting adjourned at 7:47 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan Franklin
Acting Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of May 24, 2021

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, May 24, 2021, in the township board room.

Members Present: Todd Dunham, Supervisor; Andrea Anderson, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Jim Fichtel, Terry Knoll, David Markgraf
Members Absent: Greg Hulka, excused

At 7:03pm, Todd Dunham opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Also Present: 4- residents; 1- employees; 5- guests; Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli; Director of Public Utilities, Steve Biesiada.

The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Rose Dillon was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of May 10, 2021 as presented.

The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Todd Dunham was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented with the addition of:

Item 8-F: SCBA Breathing Air System

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS:
1. Steve Biesiada announced that the DPW Assistant will be retiring in October and they will begin seeking a replacement.
2. Brian Michelli shared roadway stipulations placed on the anticipated Memorial Day parade; shared a note of thanks for the police department from a resident; 800mhz radio system is expected to go live July 17th; invoices are being issued in reference to the Cost Recovery Ordinance.
3. Todd Dunham shared that he will be performing at Pin Crest to raise funds for the flag fund on June 5th; shared that the Fruitport Regulator Run, together with the Fruitport Lions Club, donated $500 to the flag fund.
4. Heidi Tice shared that the street corner mint sale was a successful fundraiser for the Lions Club.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: none

NEW BUSINESS:

21-046 Presentation Regarding Senior Services Funding: Kris Collee and Chris Cross
The Muskegon County Board of Commissioners has given municipalities an opportunity to use Senior Services Millage funds again this year, allocating approximately $43,987.00 to Fruitport Township.

Kris Collee presented on services offered by AgeWell Services including non-emergency medical transport, wellness program, and meals for seniors. With their programs comes tracking and accountability of funds.

A representative from the Muskegon County Prosecutor’s office shared the need for an additional detective for the Safe Seniors program.

Chris Cross from Living Word Church shared an opportunity to provide Fruitport’s senior residents with lawn care and snow removal.

Rose Dillon moved, Andrea Anderson seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to pledge $15,000 to AgeWell Services, $15,000 to Safe Seniors, and $13,430 for lawn care in 2021.

Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Fichtel
Nays: None

21-047 Discussion on Proposed Sand Borrow Pit- Dangl Rd.
The Planning Commission saw no issues with the proposed project and no negative public comments were heard during a public hearing on April 20th. The current zoning is R-4 and would allow for 2 homes on the property, which is the plan of West Michigan Dirt Works for the end of the project. They also plan to preserve the trees in the center of the property. The project is awaiting a condition of approval from the Muskegon County Road Commission. It is the board’s request that a paved entrance on Dangl Rd. be placed to preserve the edge of the roadway.

The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Jim Fichtel, was carried unanimously, to authorize the Planning Commission to complete the process, exercising their discretion, and share with them the board’s recommendations.

21-048 Local Road Project Contract- Sheridan Rd.
A 1.5” overlay and gravel shoulders on .675 miles of Sheridan Road, from Hile to Airline, is part of a multi-year road plan that began in 2019. The $80,000 cost will be split 50/50 between the Muskegon County Road Commission and Fruitport Township.

Rose Dillon moved, Terry Knoll seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the Supervisor and Clerk to sign the presented contract for the improvement of Sheridan Rd.

Ayes: Fichtel, Dillon, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll, Markgraf
Nays: None

21-049 DPW Purchase of Brass, Meters, Copper, and Iron
The lowest bid for 2021/2022 brass water service material was received from Core and Main, $37,547.39. The 2021/2022 iron quote from East Jordan Iron Works is $15,250.16. The quote from Ferguson Waterworks for water meters is $25,114.19. This $77,911.74 purchase was budgeted for.

Terry Knoll moved, David Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the request as presented.

Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Fichtel
Nays: None

21-050 Fire Department Equipment Donation
The Public Safety Committee has recommended that an old set of extrication tools be donated to a fire department in the Upper Peninsula where many departments are in desperate need of equipment that their municipalities cannot afford to purchase. The tools are from 1976 and were not of value for trade-in or sale when replaced with a new set approximately 2 years ago. The department will still have a back-up set. Shipping/transport costs will be the responsibility of the recipient.

The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Andrea Anderson, was carried unanimously, to accept the recommendation of the Public Safety Committee and donate the equipment.

21-051 SCBA Breathing Air System
The current breathing air system used to fill breathing air bottles after an emergency is 33 years old and beyond its serviceable life. The system is in need of repair, but due to its age and lack of parts available it needs to be replaced. This $32,455.00 purchase was not expected and it is requested that the funds be taken from the restricted Public Safety fund balance. Funds shall be replaced at a rate of $10,820.00 per year for 3 years. This purchase and repayment plan was approved by the Public Safety Committee.

Terry Knoll moved, Jim Fichtel seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the purchase with the repayment plan as proposed.

Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Fichtel
Nays: None

21-052 Payment of bills
Terry Knoll moved, Dave Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $23,755.99; Public Safety $42,479.86; Water $10,313.75; Sewer $1,744.99; Trust & Agency $2,534.00; Street Lights $14,902.53
Totaling: $95,731.12

Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Fichtel
Nays: None

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:
1. Andrea Anderson shared a pay-in-full option for election equipment maintenance.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II:
1. Heidi Tice shared that she was pleased with the decision to allocate funds for Safe Seniors.

The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Rose Dillon, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 8:45pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK
TODD DUNHAM, SUPERVISOR

In Person Events Happening in Muskegon County – Thursday June 17- Sunday 20, 2021

Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Thursday June 17:

Miss Michigan Scholarship & Miss Michigan Teen Scholarship Programs
June 17 – June 19
The Miss Michigan Scholarship and Miss Michigan Teen Scholarship Programs are coming to the Frauenthal Center! The Teen will be held all on one day, Friday June 18th when they will crown the new 2021 Outstanding Teen. For our Miss candidates we will have our preliminary night on Thursday, June 17th and will crown our new Miss Michigan 2021 on Saturday, June 19th. All of the candidates will be arriving in town on Monday, June 14th for the week long event. Each winner of the two state competitions will then go on to compete at the national level representing Michigan in the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen and the Miss America Competition. Tickets are available through the Frauenthal Center box office by calling 231-727-8001. Frauenthal Center Box Office Hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 11:00am – 5:30pm.

Carnival at The Mart Dock
June 17 – June 20
Bring the family or gather up your pals for a fun time at the Carnival at the Mart Dock located at 560 Mart Street in downtown Muskegon. Rides, games, and food. Minimum $5 purchase in ride tickets to enter, Unlimited ride wristbands available daily for $25. June 17 and 18 4 pm – 10 pm June 19 and 20 Noon – 10 pm

Muskegon Clippers Home Baseball Game –vs- Mariners
6:05 pm – 8:00 pm
Come out to a game at Muskegon’s historic Marsh Field located at 1800 Peck St. This is an amateur sports team. With a number of great players signed, this should be some exciting and high quality baseball! Single game tickets for all home games are available at the front gate up to an hour before each game. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults – $5 Seniors & Students – $3 Kids 5-12 – $2 Kids under 5 – FREE. KIDS OF ALL AGES ARE ABLE TO RUN THE BASES AFTER EVERY HOME CLIPPERS GAME AT MARSH FIELD!!! Check out their website www.muskegonclippers.com for full schedule. #GO CLIPPERS!

Summer Movie Nights
9:00 pm – 11:30 pm
All summer long we will are holding outdoor COMMUNITY movie nights for you and your family! Bring a chair and we’ll provide the free popcorn and fun. Join us in the parking lot of All Shores’ Muskegon campus located at 1050 W. Southern Ave. (in the case of rain it will be held in doors).

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

Aquastar Sunset Cruise
8:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the evening breezes while cruising the lake during our sunset cruise aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

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.

Community Mosaic Project – Lakeshore Art Festival
June 1 – June 24
Take part in the first ever Lakeshore Art Festival, Community Mosaic Project! Reclaimed wooden 4×4 square tiles will be available to the community as mini canvases to create art upon between June 1-24, while supplies last. Pick your tile up at one of these participating locations during their regular business hours.
Art Cats Gallery, Arts Council of White Lake – Nuveen Center, Blended Furniture
City Center Art Gallery, City of Muskegon – City Clerks Office, Muskegon Museum of Art and Read Muskegon www.lakeshoreartfestival.org for details

Wine and Canvas – Muskegon Beach Scene
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Create on a 16×20 canvas with acrylics at City Center Arts located at 356 W. Western Ave. while enjoying cocktails with your friends or meet new friends. Who should attend: This class is for beginners as well as those experienced that may want to brush up on skills or learn new techniques. This class will create a Muskegon Beach Scene About Laura: $50 per person

Friday June 18:

Carnival at The Mart Dock
June 17 – June 20
Bring the family or gather up your pals for a fun time at the Carnival at the Mart Dock located at 560 Mart Street in downtown Muskegon. Rides, games, and food. Minimum $5 purchase in ride tickets to enter, Unlimited ride wristbands available daily for $25. June 17 and 18 4 pm – 10 pm June 19 and 20 Noon – 10 pm

High Performance Powerboat Showcase
4:00 pm – 9:30 pm
The MPW events start Friday, June 18 on the grounds of the historical WWII ship, the LST393 located at 560 Mart St. WMO’s High-Performance Boat Showcase will fill the lot with awesome boats. High powered boats will be line-up along with the products that make them special. High-performance big boats with big power will be showcased for the 7th Annual Muskegon Powerboat Weekend on June 18-20 held in Muskegon, Michigan. The Muskegon Powerboat Weekend raises money for two great Muskegon non-profit boating organizations including. Operation Black Sheep – Vietnam Era Patrol Boat LST-393 Muskegon’s Historic Landing Ship. There is no cost for the public to the Friday night boat showcase, but appreciate your support of our non-profit partners during the event.

Miss Michigan Scholarship & Miss Michigan Teen Scholarship Programs
June 17 – June 19
The Miss Michigan Scholarship and Miss Michigan Teen Scholarship Programs are coming to the Frauenthal Center! The Teen will be held all on one day, Friday June 18th when they will crown the new 2021 Outstanding Teen. For our Miss candidates we will have our preliminary night on Thursday, June 17th and will crown our new Miss Michigan 2021 on Saturday, June 19th. All of the candidates will be arriving in town on Monday, June 14th for the week long event. Each winner of the two state competitions will then go on to compete at the national level representing Michigan in the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen and the Miss America Competition. Tickets are available through the Frauenthal Center box office by calling 231-727-8001. Frauenthal Center Box Office Hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 11:00am – 5:30pm.

Aquastar Sunset Cruise
4:00pm-6:00pm and 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the evening breezes while cruising the lake during our sunset cruise aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Live Music at Smash Wine Bar Bistro: Carl Webb & Tom Hull
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.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

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.

Community Mosaic Project – Lakeshore Art Festival
June 1 – June 24
Take part in the first ever Lakeshore Art Festival, Community Mosaic Project! Reclaimed wooden 4×4 square tiles will be available to the community as mini canvases to create art upon between June 1-24, while supplies last. Pick your tile up at one of these participating locations during their regular business hours.
Art Cats Gallery, Arts Council of White Lake – Nuveen Center, Blended Furniture
City Center Art Gallery, City of Muskegon – City Clerks Office, Muskegon Museum of Art and Read Muskegon www.lakeshoreartfestival.org for details

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. Join us to enjoy learning about various topics such as restoration, preservation and family stories.

Saturday June 19:

Black Business Expo
1:00 pm – 5:30 pm
The Muskegon Black Business Expo at the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center is located at 470 W. Western Ave. is an event aimed at empowering the community through entrepreneurship training, the sharing of community development ideas. The expo will provide opportunity for startups, well established small businesses, business professionals, and non profits to gain access to business opportunities, resources, programs and policies aiming to increase economic activity and growth.

Operation Black Sheep Aquastar Powerboat Weekend Cruise
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Be in the middle of all the action as the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. leads the power boats for the MPW Parade of Power down the Muskegon Channel. This cruise is also a fundraiser for 3 different charity partners. Big Brothers and Big Sisters Lakeshore, Operation Black Sheep), and the Grand Valley University Dance Team.

Parade of Power – Boat Parade
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Channel, 1601 Beach St.
The Muskegon Powerboat Weekend continues with the MPW Poker Run Parade of Power. The traditional Parade of Power will be head through the channel at 1 pm.

Annual White Lake Area Arts & Crafts Festival
June 19 – June 20
Saturday, June 19 from 10:00a, – 5:00pm and Sunday, June 20 from 11:00am – 4:00pm, come to Goodrich Park located at 100 N. Lake St. for the Annual White Lake Area Arts & Crafts Festival!  The event is expected to be wonderful this Father’s Day weekend.  Many talented and creative artists participate in this very popular juried art show featuring variety of exhibits.

Pubs and Pups
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Corner of Third and Western
Participants each get a dog tag necklace and a scorecard. Bring your dog and visit as many of the participating pubs for discounts on food and drink and a chance to win over some cool door prizes; gift cards, gift baskets, cooler, golf bag, 9 ft inflatable unicorn, River tube with floating cooler tube and more. $25 each person

Miss Michigan Scholarship & Miss Michigan Teen Scholarship Programs
June 17 – June 19
The Miss Michigan Scholarship and Miss Michigan Teen Scholarship Programs are coming to the Frauenthal Center! The Teen will be held all on one day, Friday June 18th when they will crown the new 2021 Outstanding Teen. For our Miss candidates we will have our preliminary night on Thursday, June 17th and will crown our new Miss Michigan 2021 on Saturday, June 19th. All of the candidates will be arriving in town on Monday, June 14th for the week long event. Each winner of the two state competitions will then go on to compete at the national level representing Michigan in the Miss America’s Outstanding Teen and the Miss America Competition. Tickets are available through the Frauenthal Center box office by calling 231-727-8001. Frauenthal Center Box Office Hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 11:00am – 5:30pm.

Carnival at The Mart Dock
June 17 – June 20
Bring the family or gather up your pals for a fun time at the Carnival at the Mart Dock located at 560 Mart Street in downtown Muskegon. Rides, games, and food. Minimum $5 purchase in ride tickets to enter, Unlimited ride wristbands available daily for $25. June 17 and 18 4 pm – 10 pm June 19 and 20 Noon – 10 pm

Yoga at Heritage Landing
9:00 am – 10:00 am
This is an all levels yoga class appropriate for beginners as well as advanced practitioners. Instructors will give lots of ways to make poses appropriate for all! Please bring your own yoga mat or towel/blanket. The class is donation based, pay as you can. Heritage Landing is located at 1050 Seventh St.

Juneteenth Celebration
5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
A Juneteenth celebration takes place at Mona Lake Park in Muskegon Heights located at 347 Lake Shore Blvd. Live music from U’Neek Soul, games, food, voter registration and fireworks starting at dusk.

Free Summer Concert: Mylon Hayes Family
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Each year the Maranatha Bible & Missionary Conference Center located at 4759 Lake Harbor Rd. has a free summer concert series open to the public. This Saturday enjoy an evening with Mylon Hayes Family. If you want to purchase dinner before the concert you receive preferred seating! www.vacationwithpurpose.org/summer-concert

Aquastar Cruises
8:00pm-10:00pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Muskegon Clippers Home Baseball Game –vs- Jet Box
6:05 pm – 8:00 pm
Come out to a game at Muskegon’s historic Marsh Field located at 1800 Peck St. This is an amateur sports team. With a number of great players signed, this should be some exciting and high quality baseball! Single game tickets for all home games are available at the front gate up to an hour before each game. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults – $5 Seniors & Students – $3 Kids 5-12 – $2 Kids under 5 – FREE. KIDS OF ALL AGES ARE ABLE TO RUN THE BASES AFTER EVERY HOME CLIPPERS GAME AT MARSH FIELD!!! Check out their website www.muskegonclippers.com for full schedule. #GO CLIPPERS!

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

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.

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!

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. 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.

Community Mosaic Project – Lakeshore Art Festival
June 1 – June 24
Take part in the first ever Lakeshore Art Festival, Community Mosaic Project! Reclaimed wooden 4×4 square tiles will be available to the community as mini canvases to create art upon between June 1-24, while supplies last. Pick your tile up at one of these participating locations during their regular business hours.
Art Cats Gallery, Arts Council of White Lake – Nuveen Center, Blended Furniture
City Center Art Gallery, City of Muskegon – City Clerks Office, Muskegon Museum of Art and Read Muskegon www.lakeshoreartfestival.org for details

Live Music: Two Dudes in Flip Flops
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Two Dudes in Flip Flops opens a season of music for the new venue “No Name Saloon” located at 609 W. Western Ave. in Downtown Muskegon! Comprised of the “Brothers Grossenbacher”. Greg and Jeff will provide “Trop Rock for Your Caribbean Soul” via guitar, steel pan and tight vocal harmonies designed to take you to the islands.

Sunday June 20:

Carnival at The Mart Dock
June 17 – June 20
Bring the family or gather up your pals for a fun time at the Carnival at the Mart Dock located at 560 Mart Street in downtown Muskegon. Rides, games, and food. Minimum $5 purchase in ride tickets to enter, Unlimited ride wristbands available daily for $25. June 17 and 18 4 pm – 10 pm June 19 and 20 Noon – 10 pm

Aquastar Cruises
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm and 8:30pm – 10:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
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

Annual White Lake Area Arts & Crafts Festival
June 19 – June 20
Saturday, June 19 from 10:00a, – 5:00pm and Sunday, June 20 from 11:00am – 4:00pm, come to Goodrich Park located at 100 N. Lake St. for the Annual White Lake Area Arts & Crafts Festival!  The event is expected to be wonderful this Father’s Day weekend.  Many talented and creative artists participate in this very popular juried art show featuring variety of exhibits.

Summer Sundays on The Lake House Patio with Two Dudes in Flip Flops
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Stop at The Lake House located at 730 Terrace Point Dr. for some summer sun and fun, cool breezes and music…all on the patio! Great views of Muskegon Lake, excellent food, and plenty of ice cold beverages to cap off the weekend!

Community Mosaic Project – Lakeshore Art Festival
June 1 – June 24
Take part in the first ever Lakeshore Art Festival, Community Mosaic Project! Reclaimed wooden 4×4 square tiles will be available to the community as mini canvases to create art upon between June 1-24, while supplies last. Pick your tile up at one of these participating locations during their regular business hours.
Art Cats Gallery, Arts Council of White Lake – Nuveen Center, Blended Furniture
City Center Art Gallery, City of Muskegon – City Clerks Office, Muskegon Museum of Art and Read Muskegon www.lakeshoreartfestival.org for details

Yoga on The Ship (Donation Based-$10) – Rootdown Yoga. Juice. Greens.
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
We’re excited to host in person yoga classes on the deck of the LST 393 located at 560 Mart St.! All Levels Welcome! Recommended $10 donation. 50% of proceeds go to USS LST 393. Cash at door accepted. No pre-registration required.

Social Security Delivers the Most Popular Baby Names in Michigan for 2020

See the list at www.socialsecurity.gov

On May 17, the Social Security Administration announced the most popular baby names in Michigan for 2020. Charlotte and Oliver topped the list.

The top five boys and girls names for 2020 in Michigan were:

Boys:
1) Oliver
2) Noah
3) Liam
4) Henry
5) Elijah

Girls:
1) Charlotte
2) Amelia
3) Olivia
4) Ava
5) Emma

The agency announced last week that Olivia and Liam were the most popular baby names in the U.S. How does Michigan compare to the rest of the country? Check out Social Security’s website — www.socialsecurity.gov— to see the top national baby names for 2020.

Social Security encourages everyone to enjoy the baby names list and, while online, create a my Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. my Social Security is a personalized online account that people can use beginning in their working years and continuing while receiving Social Security benefits.

Social Security beneficiaries have instant access to their benefit verification letter, payment history, and complete earnings record by establishing a my Social Security account. Beneficiaries also can change their address, start or change direct deposit information, and request a replacement SSA-1099 online. People receiving benefits can request a replacement Medicare card online.

People age 18 and older who are not receiving benefits can also sign up for a my Social Security account to get their personalized online Social Security Statement. The online Statement provides workers with secure and convenient access to their Social Security earnings and benefit information, and estimates of future benefits they can use to plan for their retirement. Residents of most states may request a replacement Social Security card online if they meet certain requirements.

The agency began compiling the baby name list in 1997, with names dating back to 1880. At the time of a child’s birth, parents supply the name to the agency when applying for a child’s Social Security card, thus making Social Security America’s source for the most popular baby names.

In addition to each state’s top baby names (and names for U.S. territories), Social Security’s website has a list of the 1,000 most popular boys and girls names for 2020.

To see the fastest rising girls and boys names in 2020, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/news/press/releases/2021/#5-2021-2.

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Agenda – 06/15/21

Fruitport Community Schools
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
Tuesday, June 15, 2021 – 7:30 a.m.
Virtual

Connect to Zoom from your computer, tablet, or smartphone at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84929056204?pwd=QWEyODJjUi9sTDMvbDdlZEFZUDlNUT09
Meeting ID: 849 2905 6204
Passcode: m4Awd7

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

  1. Approval of the Special Board Meeting Minutes of May 24, 2021 (attachment IV-1)
  2. Change Orders (attachment IV-2)
  3. Other

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VI. ADJOURNMENT

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

Muskegon River Trash Bash Set for August 2021 – Volunteers Needed

“Who doesn’t want clean water?” asked Scott Faulkner, Executive Director of the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly (MRWA). “In 2021, as more and more people choose to reengage and enjoy the great outdoors as a first choice, we see increasing numbers on and around the beautiful Muskegon River across the entire watershed. But the river needs our help.”

The Muskegon River Trash Bash is an annual family-friendly cleanup event that hopes to encourage residents and visitors of all ages to pitch in to protect the river, its tributaries, and the thousands of acres of land that surround it. The watershed covers approximately 2,725 square miles, includes 94 connecting streams, and travels over 216 miles through nine counties from Higgins Lake to Lake Michigan in Muskegon.

“We understand that it can be rather daunting considering the scale and scope of this incredible natural wonder, and a challenge to know where to start,” stated Marty Holtgren, Principal Watershed Scientist for the MRWA. “Michiganders everywhere need to understand their opportunities for how they can start right next door, or even right outside their own window, in whatever ways they are attached to their watershed and the land that surrounds it.”

To have the largest impact across the watershed as possible, the MRWA is using the entire month of August 2021 for the Trash Bash, when water levels are at their annual low, and trash is easier to identify and safely remove. Volunteers will be able to complete their clean-up on any day in August, with each person or family assembling their own team, date and location.

“A river clean-up makes a great family outing, reunion, or team building event and provides a perfect opportunity to get outside and affect real change. You can clean up an area while tubing your favorite section, hiking a new trail, fishing a secret spot, or taking a leisurely boat ride on a hot afternoon. You are the boss on picking the place and the time and date,” stated Faulkner.

  • cleanup

To avoid duplication of efforts, one team member must register on the MRWA Trash Bash website and complete their clean-up in August 2021 to be eligible for gifts and receive their certificate of achievement as a “Protector of the River”. Register at: https://mrwa.org/trash-bash-2021/ beginning July 1st. After registration, you will receive an email with further details, requiring participants to sign and return a digital liability waiver prior to participating in the cleanup. Please consider helping the MRWA to preserve, protect, and restore the Mighty Muskegon!

“The MRWA could never do this without the amazing support we have received from the small business community, large corporations and foundations, and our media partners. To date, we are pleased to have received support from BlueTriton Brands, Inc. (Ice Mountain), the Consumers Energy Foundation, Jackson-Merkey Contractors, Cargill, Inc., the DTE Energy Foundation, WBZX – B103.9, Lume Cannabis, Wisner’s Rents Canoes and Republic Services. They truly support the MRWA mission and vision, and we would welcome any additional sponsorships,” stated Faulkner.

Ottawa County Reports Increase in Bats Testing Positive for Rabies

The Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH) has received notification from the Michigan Bureau of Laboratories (BOL) that three bats recently submitted from Ottawa County have tested positive for rabies. Two of these bats were from the Holland area and one was from the Hudsonville area. Before these cases, there had been a total of only two reported cases of rabies in bats in Ottawa County in the past five years. Although our surrounding counties have not noted an increase in positive cases, consultants at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) have reported the current number of bats testing positive for rabies statewide is trending very close to the exceptionally high number recorded in 2007 when there were 199 cases of rabies in bats and 11 cases in other animals. Residents are reminded to adopt practices that protect their families and animals from rabies. This is especially important with any bats found in the house.

Click to watch: How to Safely Catch a Bat

Rabies is a viral disease of mammals that is transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal.

Bats and skunks are the most common carriers of rabies in Michigan. Local health departments experience an increase in calls about bat encounters during the warm weather months between May and September. During this time, bats are more active, searching for food and rearing their young. While bats are beneficial to our ecosystem, they are also one of the species of animal that is a natural host for the rabies virus.

People or pets usually get exposed to rabies when they are bitten by an infected animal. Other situations that may present a risk are when a bat is found in a room with people who have been asleep, or a bat is found with an unattended child or impaired adult who cannot be sure they didn’t have contact with the bat. In these cases, it is important to collect the bat for rabies testing. Rabies is fatal to humans. Post-exposure treatment is given to people who are exposed to a potentially rabid animal. Treatment is not necessary if the animal tests negative for rabies.

Protect your family and pets from rabies by taking these simple steps:
• Avoid contact with wild animals. Do not keep wild animals as pets and do not try to rehabilitate wild animals yourself. Wild animals can carry rabies without looking sick.
• If a person comes in contact with a bat, they should call the OCDPH at 616-396-5266 before they release or dispose of them.
• If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, seek immediate medical attention.
• If you find a bat in your home, safely confine or collect the bat if possible and contact your local health department to determine if it should be tested for rabies. More information on how to collect a bat safely can be found here or in this YouTube video.
• If you are unable or would prefer not to confine or collect a bat yourself, you may consider hiring a bat/wildlife removal service.
• Protect your pets by getting them vaccinated against rabies. Even cats that live indoors and never go outside can encounter a bat that gets inside the home.
• If your animal is bitten or scratched by a wild animal, or if you believe they have had unsupervised contact with wildlife, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. Even if your pet is currently vaccinated against rabies, additional actions may need to be taken to prevent them from becoming infected. If possible, safely confine or capture the wild animal without touching it and contact your local animal control officer or veterinarian, as the animal may need to be tested for rabies.

More information about rabies and a map of rabies positive animals in Michigan can be found at Michigan.gov/rabies.

Frauenthal Center Announces Public Phase of The Next 90 Years Frauenthal Preservation Campaign

MUSKEGON, Mich. — In an effort to preserve the historic Frauenthal Theater, the Frauenthal Center, along with the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, has launched the public phase of their Preservation Campaign to raise funds to support the necessary renovations.

Earlier this month, an event was held in front of the Frauenthal Center’s marquee to announce the work that has been completed and the work yet to be done. Amy Heisser and Asaline Scott, co-chairs of The Next 90 Years Frauenthal Preservation Campaign Cabinet, announced the reopening of the Frauenthal Center to the public, welcoming limited audiences to a variety of programming throughout the coming months, including the Free Family Movie Days Summer Series and the 2021 Miss Michigan and Teen Scholarship Program, which has been hosted by the Frauenthal Theater for 70 years.

At the event, Todd Jacobs, president and CEO of the Community Foundation, gave a brief update on the Frauenthal Center’s COVID preparedness and safety guidelines, and Eric Messing, executive director of the Frauenthal Center, reviewed the renovations completed thus far and other planned improvements still to come.

“As a regional asset, the Frauenthal is showing wear after decades of steady use,” said Messing. “It’s time to do our part to enhance the patron and artist experience by preserving and improving the theater so it continues to inspire, enlighten, and educate our community for the next 90 years and beyond.”

The Community Foundation has identified more than $7 million in fundamental structural needs, renovations, and preservation that are critical to the theater’s future and use. So far, nearly $4.1 million has been secured in gifts and pledges toward an initial goal of $5.1 million that will help address the most pressing needs. This needed investment will enhance the experience of patrons and ensure the theater’s place in the community for future generations.

The majority of the funds raised so far are thanks to local donors and corporate partnerships such as the Howmet Aerospace Foundation, Consumers Energy Foundation, Hines Corporation, the Joyce Muston estate, and Mike and Kay Olthoff, as well as the City of Muskegon and Muskegon County.

“We are humbled and appreciative of the community’s generous support,” said Jacobs. “The Frauenthal Theater has been a jewel of Muskegon County for 90 years, and it will continue to be a place where all are welcome to gather.”

Thanks to the support of many generous donors, several improvements have already taken place:
• New, historically accurate windows not only reflect architect C. Howard Crane’s original intention and design, but they are also double-paned with a UV protective coating to help the facility save on energy costs. In total, the Frauenthal has replaced 102 windows throughout the facility.
• The HVAC system has also been replaced to improve air quality and includes its own hot water boiler, condenser unit, humidification, dehumidification, and filtration systems. The large air handler room, located above the stage area, had the original blower unit from the construction of the theater in 1929.
• The fire escapes that patrons, artists, and staff use to exit the facility in the event of a fire or emergency have been repaired and reinforced.

Other planned improvements include an updated sound and video system, restored marquee, upgraded lighting equipment, replacement of the stage, and heated sidewalks along the perimeter of the facility.

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.

To learn more or support the Frauenthal Preservation Campaign Fund, visit frauenthal.org/TheNext90Years.

Muskegon Couple Donates $1 Million to Facility Opening Today

MUSKEGON, MI – Muskegon couple will not claim naming rights to new Boys & Girls Clubhouse after making a $1 million donation. 

Chris McGuigan and Gary Neal contacted the Boys & Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore, to donate $1 million dollars for the renovation of the former YMCA facility, at 900 W. Western. When given the option to name the new clubhouse, they declined. For now, the couple wants the name to remain available to inspire others to donate. 

Chris and Gary took the time to explain why their donation meant so much to them in this video.

The clubhouse is a space intended for youths and teens to feel safe and have the tools, resources, and help to become future leaders. “Everyone says that our kids will become ‘future leaders,’ and it’s true. There are kids that will lead their families, their churches, their factories, their offices, their government,” says Resource Development Director, Deborah Santiago-Sweet, “The new clubhouse is a way to help youths and teens start and continue their journey to becoming adults who contribute to the community in their unique ways.”

bgclub

Once all funds are collected, construction for renovations on the existing facility will begin in January of 2022 and plan to be completed by 2023.

While fundraising efforts continue, the facility will open today, Monday, June 14th, in its original state.

The health club plans to open sometime this summer. The pool passed all health inspections and will open within the next week or two.

“Our new home will also serve as a community health club. In the early phases of the project we plan to manage operations for the Health Club to help us better support Boys & Girls Club programs and be nimble when working around renovations,” says Dakota Crow, Chief Professional Officer.  “We have hired exercise and aquatic experts to ensure we are doing it right. We are open to adapting the Health Club operating model in the future to best serve the Muskegon area. For now, we are excited to get the facility open and going for our members and the public.”

Boys & Girls Club of the Muskegon Lakeshore will continue to update fundraising progress, pool schedules, health club membership costs, and any upcoming events on their website: https://bgclubmuskegon.com/

News from Every Woman’s Place

Second Annual Collaborative Art Piece

Be part of our healing art piece and a new tradition! Add your touch to our collaborative canvas beginning July 1 through July 28.

The completed piece will be revealed during at our July 30 Friendraise for the 500 event and will eventually be displayed at EWP as an inspiration to survivors.

Pictured here is our 2020 piece partially completed. Today, it is beautifully finished and hangs in the entry to our counseling suite.

Learn More

SCHEDULE NOW

Exceptional Advocacy Award Nominations Now Open

EWP aims to elevate and recognize each year a community member of any age, gender, or affiliation, who has contributed substantially to the the cause of advocacy for victims and survivors of domestic or sexual violence. In 2021, we will separately honor an EWP Staff and a member of our Muskegon community, with award presentations at the Power of the Purse event in October.

Learn more

SUBMIT A NOMINATION

Ask Dr. Universe – Right-handed, Left-handed, or Both?

Hi Dr. Universe. My questions are: Why are people most commonly right-handed? Who/what deicides if we are left-handed or right-handed? Are you left-handed or right-handed? Thanks, Mya, 8, Alexandria, VA

Dear Mya,

We don’t know exactly why so many people are right-handed, but one place we might look for answers is in the material that makes a person who they are: genes.

The genes in your body help control all sorts of things from the color of your hair to your skin to your eyes. These traits can be passed down through generations—from grandparents to parents to you.

My friend John Hinz, who is a right-handed professor at Washington State University, knows a lot about genes and the study of how organisms pass their genes through generations.

He said that while there isn’t a single gene that helps determine if you will be right-handed or left-handed, scientists have found around 40 genes that seem to be related to handedness. Sometimes there is just one gene that causes a certain trait, but often it is combinations of genes that contribute to each of your characteristics.

“Genetics is clearly part of it but not the whole story,” Hinz said.

He also said when both parents are left-handed, they are more likely to have a child who is also left-handed. Some studies have shown that if both parents are right-handed, there is a 10% chance of having a child who is left-handed. Meanwhile, if both parents are left-handed, there is about a 25% chance the child will be left-handed.

But all we have to do is look at twins to realize there is more to it. Identical twins have all the same copies of every gene, but they don’t always use the same hand.

This question has left a lot of researchers wondering about the very question you’ve asked, Mya. People have looked into how the language centers in our brains might be connected to our handedness or how our experience as babies might be connected to our handedness. Some researchers have even observed dominant hands as a fetus develops in a mother’s womb.

They’ve also investigated how people’s different abilities are connected to handedness. Of course, just because there are a lot of connections or correlations between what hand a person uses and other traits or behaviors, that doesn’t mean we can say for certain. We haven’t found a clear answer to your question. Yet.

Whether you are left-handed, right-handed, or both-handed, hands can be really helpful tools. They can help us pick up things, climb to great heights, and even give a high-five. Perhaps one day you can join the community of creative and smart scientists to help us investigate more about genetics and handedness. There’s still a lot of research to do among our four-legged animal friends, too. As for me, I’m a righty. How about you?

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

doc

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