Monthly Archives: November 2021

Social Security Announces 5.9 Percent Benefit Increase for 2022

submitted by Vonda Van Til, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for approximately 70 million Americans will increase 5.9 percent in 2022, the Social Security Administration announced on October 13th.

The 5.9 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits payable to more than 64 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2022.  Increased payments to approximately 8 million SSI beneficiaries will begin on December 30, 2021.  (Note: some people receive both Social Security and SSI benefits).  The Social Security Act ties the annual COLA to the increase in the Consumer Price Index as determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages.  Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $147,000 from $142,800. 

Social Security and SSI beneficiaries are normally notified by mail starting in early December about their new benefit amount.  Most people who receive Social Security payments will be able to view their COLA notice online through their personal my Social Security account.  People may create or access their my Social Security account online at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.    

Information about Medicare changes for 2022, when announced, will be available at www.medicare.gov.  For Social Security beneficiaries receiving Medicare, Social Security will not be able to compute their new benefit amount until after the Medicare premium amounts for 2022 are announced.  Final 2022 benefit amounts will be communicated to beneficiaries in December through the mailed COLA notice and my Social Security’s Message Center.

The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calculated.  To read more, please visit www.socialsecurity.gov/cola, or view this fact sheet.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday November 1-November 8, 2021

Please check our website for a complete listing of events
www.visitmuskegon.org/events

Monday November 1:

Día de los Muertos – Celebrating the Day of the Dead
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm 
Hackley Public Library located at 316 W. Webster Ave. Experience the celebration of Día de los Muertos during this drop- in program at Hackley Library! We’ll learn about this Mexican-American holiday with activities, take home craft kits. FREE

Comics 101 Exhibit
2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. From November 1 through 6, is proud to present a “Comics 101″ exhibit aimed at introducing people to the wonderful world of comics. This is free and open to the public.

Youth Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library
Check out what Take and Make Craft Hackley Public Library has planned. They are located at 316 W. Webster Ave. Kits are available at Hackley Library while supplies last. Free. www.hackleylibrary.org and askus@hackleylibrary.org

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. Their new location is the Sports Complex at Folkert Hub located at 640 Seminole Rd. The class is just $2 per person. Required equipment: Water bottle, available to rent for $1 each are: 17 gallon bucket, 65-75cm yoga ball, Drumsticks. Keep up to date with the Muskegon Drum Crew Facebook Group.
Classes are Monday & Thursday.

Tuesday November 2:

Artist Education: Photographing your Artwork
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, For working artists FREE, but registration is required! Register at www.artswhitelake.org Join us at the ACWL-Nuveen for an informative presentation on tips. This is a free event.

Say Cheese: Organizing Family Photos and Films
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
White Lake Community Library 3900 White Lake Dr., Whitehall, Do you have a box of old family photos and films that need organizing? If you’re not sure where to begin or how to approach the task Megan will provide tips for organizing and preserving your treasures. This is a free event. 231-894-9531

Steve Thielman, Piano
10:00 am – 12:00 pm 
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague. Enjoy breakfast and your favorite espresso drink while listening to master pianist Steve Thielman. Every Tuesday morning. This is free and open to the public

Comics 101 Exhibit
2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. From November 1 through 6, is proud to present a “Comics 101″ exhibit aimed at introducing people to the wonderful world of comics. This is free and open to the public.

Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, The Lost Photographs
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W. Webster presents “Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, the Lost Photographs”. This first-time public showing features images made from recently discovered forgotten original negatives by Edward Sherriff Curtis. “Unpublished Alaska” features over 100 images along with excerpts from the personal journals of Curtis www.muskegonartmuseum.org

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.

Youth Take and Make Craft
Hackley Public Library
Check out what Take and Make Craft Hackley Public Library has planned. They are located at 316 W. Webster Ave. Kits are available at Hackley Library while supplies last. Free. www.hackleylibrary.org and askus@hackleylibrary.org

Wednesday November 3:

Wellness Wednesdays
5:30pm – 6:30pm
Looking for a midweek adventure? Join the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park located at 462 Scenic Dr. They offer a different outdoor activity each Wednesday. Enjoy a hike of a different highlighted trail each week with staff. www.msports.org/support This is a free event. You do need a recreation pass.

Lakeshore Green Drinks
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Pigeon Hill Brewing 500 W. Western Ave. Lakeshore Sustainable Business Forum will host a Green Drinks networking event. Join us for conversation about sustainable business and the environment. Beverages will be available for purchase. All are welcome. Free admission.

Comics 101 Exhibit
2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. From November 1 through 6, is proud to present a “Comics 101″ exhibit aimed at introducing people to the wonderful world of comics. This is free and open to the public.

Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, The Lost Photographs
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W. Webster presents “Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, the Lost Photographs”. This first-time public showing features images made from recently discovered forgotten original negatives by Edward Sherriff Curtis. “Unpublished Alaska” features over 100 images along with excerpts from the personal journals of Curtis www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Movie Time with Ravenna Branch Library
3:00 pm
Watch a family friendly movie every Wednesday at the MADL Ravenna Branch located at 12278 Stafford St., Ravenna. This is a FREE event for all ages and snacks are provided by the Friends of the Ravenna Library.

Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Middle and High School students are invited to the Art Council of White Lake-Nuveen located at 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall for Open Studio sessions on Wednesdays between 2:00 and 5:00, p.m. Staff will be available to help students with both art and music projects. Art students are welcome to bring in projects. Register: https://www.artswhitelake.org/upcoming-classes

Youth Take and Make Craft
Hackley Public Library
Check out what Take and Make Craft Hackley Public Library has planned. They are located at 316 W. Webster Ave. Kits are available at Hackley Library while supplies last. Free. www.hackleylibrary.org and askus@hackleylibrary.org

Thursday November 4:

Hike the Lights
6:30pm-10:00pm
Visit the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park where you can hike, run, or dog walk the trails. The ski trail lights will be on from sunset – 10:00pm until there’s enough snow to groom the trails for skiing. (a headlamp is suggested as a secondary light source) This is Thursday, Friday and Saturday! This is a FREE event but for those who want to donate please visit www.msports.org/support

Wrap it Up: Yarn-Wrapped Coiled Baskets
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, Ages 16+ $30, $27 for ACWL-Nuveen Members In this fun, hands-on art class, students will learn about the craft of basket making and create beautiful handwoven baskets of their own

An Evening in Autumn
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Porto Bello 41 Washington Ave., Grand Haven. An evening of elegant fun awaits at our fall gala as you help us celebrate Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore’s commitment to creating & supporting one-to-one mentoring relationships.

Comics 101 Exhibit
2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. From November 1 through 6, is proud to present a “Comics 101″ exhibit aimed at introducing people to the wonderful world of comics. This is free and open to the public.

Trivia Night
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 
Pub One Eleven 111 W. Colby St., Whitehall, General knowledge trivia along with music, fun, great food and beverages. It’s a team thing, so even if your knowledge is limited to specific things, you can still help contribute! This is a free event

Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, The Lost Photographs
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W. Webster presents “Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, the Lost Photographs”. This first-time public showing features images made from recently discovered forgotten original negatives by Edward Sherriff Curtis. “Unpublished Alaska” features over 100 images along with excerpts from the personal journals of Curtis www.muskegonartmuseum.org

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.

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.

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. Their new location is the Sports Complex at Folkert Hub located at 640 Seminole Rd. 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.

Friday November 5:

Hike the Lights
6:30pm-10:00pm
Visit the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park where you can hike, run, or dog walk the trails. The ski trail lights will be on from sunset – 10:00pm until there’s enough snow to groom the trails for skiing. (a headlamp is suggested as a secondary light source) This is Thursday, Friday and Saturday! This is a FREE event but for those who want to donate please visit www.msports.org/support

Muskegon Lumberjacks Hockey Zooperstars Night
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Mercy Health Arena 470 W Western Ave, Come hang out with the Zooperstars! This one of a kind show stars Whale Gretzky, Bobby Orrangutang, Mario Lemule, Squidney Crosby, and many more! Combining dancing, acrobatics, tricks and comedy.

Magician Jeffrey Alan!
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave., Delight in an after-hours program at with Jeffrey Alan, Magician and executive board member of the International Brotherhood of Magic. Jeffrey will perform an array of magic. FREE event for all.

Perfect Presents Preview Party 2021
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Art Cats Gallery 1845 Lakeshore Dr.
We are exciting to bring you fabulous new handmade work for the Holidays 2021. Join us for giveaways, gifts, goodies and great shopping.

Comics 101 Exhibit
2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. From November 1 through 6, is proud to present a “Comics 101″ exhibit aimed at introducing people to the wonderful world of comics. This is free and open to the public.

Preschool Story Time with Hackley Library
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Join Hackley Library located at 316 W. Webster for stories, songs, and movement activities as we teach early literacy skills! When the weather permits, we will meet outside on the lawn of the Torrent House. Otherwise, we will meet inside, with masks preferred. Free for everyone!

Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, The Lost Photographs
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W. Webster presents “Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, the Lost Photographs”. This first-time public showing features images made from recently discovered forgotten original negatives by Edward Sherriff Curtis. “Unpublished Alaska” features over 100 images along with excerpts from the personal journals of Curtis www.muskegonartmuseum.org

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.

Saturday November 6:

Hike the Lights
6:30pm-10:00pm
Visit the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park where you can hike, run, or dog walk the trails. The ski trail lights will be on from sunset – 10:00pm until there’s enough snow to groom the trails for skiing. (a headlamp is suggested as a secondary light source) This is Thursday, Friday and Saturday! This is a FREE event but for those who want to donate please visit www.msports.org/support

Muskegon Lumberjacks Hockey Military Night
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Mercy Health Arena 470 W Western Ave,
Join the Jacks as we pay tribute to those brave men and women who have served, or currently serve in the United States Armed Forces.

Paul Keller Jazz Quintet
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague String bassist, bandleader, composer, arranger, jazz educator and impresario Paul Keller brings his delightful quintet to perform one night only. Cost is just $10 per person

Fall into the Arts: Color Creativity Exhibition Reception
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St. Join us for a reception celebrating the opening of our annual Fall into the Arts Exhibition, which features artwork from local school art programs. This is a free event.

November Saturdays: Magnetic Science
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave.,
Stop by the museum to explore and learn with different kinds of magnets. Find out the ways we use magnets in medicine, transportation, toys, and more!

Muskegon Market and Mercantile Annual Holiday Open House
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Muskegon Market and Mercantile 1447 W. Sherman Ave., Start spreading that Christmas cheer because Christmas is here at Muskegon Market & Mercantile. The music will be playing, the mood set to all things Christmas. Grab a friend and shop

Perfect Presents Preview Party 2021
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Art Cats Gallery 1845 Lakeshore Dr.
We are exciting to bring you fabulous new handmade work for the Holidays 2021. Join us for giveaways, gifts, goodies and great shopping.

Comics 101 Exhibit
2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. From November 1 through 6, is proud to present a “Comics 101″ exhibit aimed at introducing people to the wonderful world of comics. This is free and open to the public.

Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, The Lost Photographs
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W. Webster presents “Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, the Lost Photographs”. This first-time public showing features images made from recently discovered forgotten original negatives by Edward Sherriff Curtis. “Unpublished Alaska” features over 100 images along with excerpts from the personal journals of Curtis www.muskegonartmuseum.org

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.

Boomtown Market Craft Beer & Wine Tastings
10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Boomtown Market located at 351 W. Western Ave. in Downtown Muskegon invites you to free Draft, Craft Beer & Wine Tastings every Saturday starting at 10 a.m. Sample unique Craft Beers on Tap from all around Michigan! 

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.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Sweetwater Local Foods Market located at 6401 Harvey St. will be offering a PREORDER ONLY market, out in the parking lot, from 10:00am to 11:00am. 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!

Sunday November 7:

Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, The Lost Photographs
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W. Webster presents “Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, the Lost Photographs”. This first-time public showing features images made from recently discovered forgotten original negatives by Edward Sherriff Curtis. “Unpublished Alaska” features over 100 images along with excerpts from the personal journals of Curtis www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Monday November 8:

Comics 101 Exhibit
2:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, MI
From November 1 through 6, Hackley Public Library is proud to present a “Comics 101″ exhibit aimed at introducing people to the wonderful world of comics. This is a free event open to the public.

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. Their location is the Sports Complex at Folkert Hub located at 640 Seminole Rd. 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.