Monthly Archives: January 2022

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of January 10, 2022

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, January 10, 2022, in the township board room.

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

At 7:00pm, Todd Dunham opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Also Present: 0- residents; 1- employees; 2- guests; Director of Public Utilities, Steve Biesiada; Public Safety Director, Brian Michelli.

The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Greg Hulka was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of December 13, 2021 and closed session minutes of December 13, 2021 as presented.

The motion by Andrea Anderson, seconded by Rose Dillon was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented with the following addition:
Item 7-B: MCRC Performance and Indemnification Resolution

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS:

  1. Steve Biesiada reported that the DPW is back to working with a full staff after several illnesses.
  2. Brian Michelli reported that the Police Department is working at full staff and the Fire Department has one out with illness; the township is updating policies to follow CDC guidelines; the police cruiser ordered last summer should be coming in February and the Fire Department pick-up truck is in progress.
  3. Rose Dillon shared a letter received commending the Police and Fire Departments for their care in a recent car accident; there is a dumpster behind the township hall for Christmas trees.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS:

  1. Senator Jon Bumstead reviewed several proposed bills.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

22-001 Resolution: Health Insurance Coverage for Dependents
The policy was simplified to state that if a young adult between the ages of 19-25 is enrolled in an educational program the township will pay for their coverage in-full and if they are not enrolled in an educational program the employee will be responsible for payment of the coverage.
Rose Dillon moved, seconded by Jim Fichtel, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution and give it an effective date of April 1, 2022.
Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dillon, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll
Nays: none

22-002 MCRC Performance and Indemnification Resolution
The Muskegon County Road Commission was not willing to negotiate on the wording of this resolution as suggested by the township Attorney. The township Attorney recommends adoption of the resolution.
Rose Dillon moved, seconded by Greg Hulka, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the Performance and Indemnification resolution as presented.
Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dillon, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll
Nays: none

NEW BUSINESS:

22-003 Reappointment of Joe DeMarco and Russ Stressman to the ZBA
The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Todd Dunham, was carried unanimously, to reappoint Joe DeMarco and Russ Stressman to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a 3 year term ending January 1, 2025.

22-004 Mt Garfield Lift Station Pump Repair
One of two pumps is down and in need of repair. The quote for repair by Kennedy Industries is $5,585.00. This expense was budgeted for.
Terry Knoll moved, seconded by Todd Dunham, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the repairs.
Ayes: Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: none

22-005 Payment of Bills
Terry Knoll moved, Andrea Anderson seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $20,500.97; Public Safety $35,331.64; Water $6,630.04; Sewer $1,457.37; Trust & Agency $645.00; Street Lights $0.00
Totaling: $64,565.02
Ayes: Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:

  1. Todd Dunham shared that the DDA bond deal is done and thanked everyone for their contributions to this accomplishment.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none

The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Andrea Anderson, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 7:27pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK

TODD DUNHAM, SUPERVISOR

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of December 13, 2021

At 6:04pm, Todd Dunham opened the special meeting in the township board room.

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

Also Present: 0- residents; 0- employees; 0- guests; Attorney Ron Bultje; Attorney Amanda Zdarsky.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

Todd Dunham moved, seconded by Terry Knoll, MOTION CARRIED, to go into closed session at 6:05pm per Section 8(e) of the Open Meetings Act, to consult with the Township’s attorney in connection with pending litigation Aamodt v. Fruitport Charter Township because an open meeting would have a detrimental financial effect on the litigation or settlement position of the Township, and to consider material exempt from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act, which exempts from public disclosure information or records subjected to the attorney-client privilege.
Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll
Nays: None

The motion by Andrea Anderson, seconded by Terry Knoll, was carried unanimously, to return to open session at 6:29pm.

The motion by Todd Dunham, seconded by Jim Fichtel, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the special meeting at 6:29pm.

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, December 13, 2021, in the township board room.

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

Jason Kennedy introduced himself as the new Superintendent for Fruitport Community Schools and gave the board an update on the recent school safety concerns during work session.

At 7:00pm, Todd Dunham opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Also Present: 0- residents; 2- employees; 0- guests; DPW Director, Steve Biesiada; Public Safety Director, Brian Michelli.

The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Greg Hulka was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of November 22, 2021 as presented.

The motion by Andrea Anderson, seconded by Terry Knoll was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented with the following addition requested by the Supervisor:
Add item 8-E: Approval to Retain an Engineer to Provide Recommendations on Storm Water Management System at Sheriger Park.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS:

  1. Steve Biesiada reported that the Harmony Lake development is expected to break ground this week; Odeno phase 2 is in full swing with infrastructure; if the current Ordinance is not amended, the fee schedule for availability will increase from $1/ft to $2/ft and it is Steve’s recommendation to not amend the ordinance due to rising costs in materials and reevaluate in one year.
  2. Brian Michelli shared that both Fire and Police have been very busy; there are supply chain issues causing delayed repairs to cruisers, however all apparatus are functioning; the Santa Open house at the fire department was very slow this weekend.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

21-103 Second Reading: Consumers Energy Company Revocable Electric Franchise Ordinance
This ordinance would be for granting Consumers Energy Company, its successors and assigns, the right, power, and authority to construct, maintain, and commercially use electric lines consisting of towers, masts, poles, crossarms, guys, braces, feeders, transmission and distribution wires, transformers, and other electrical appliances on, under, along, and across the highways, streets, alleys, bridges, waterways, and other public places, and to do a local electric business in the Charter Township of Fruitport, Muskegon County, Michigan, for a period of 30 years.

Andrea Anderson moved, Todd Dunham seconded, MOTION CARRIED to adopt the Consumers Energy Company Revocable Electric Franchise Ordinance.

This constitutes the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 827.

Ayes: Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

NEW BUSINESS:

21-104 Approval of Annual Health Insurance Renewal
Options were presented for employee healthcare for 2022.
Andrea Anderson moved, Greg Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to offer option 3 that includes the Blue Care Network PCP Focus plan and to continue the employee’s contribution of $55.00 per pay period.
Option 3 will continue the employees on the current plan with the same out of pocket bi-weekly contribution.
Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll
Nays: None

21-105 Health Insurance for Dependents
Under current law children may remain on their parents’ health insurance plan until their 26th birthday regardless of their residency or dependency. The Board would like to have a policy that states the township will pay insurance premiums in-full for children between the ages of 18-26 who are enrolled in an education program for 12 or more credits, pay half of the insurance premiums for children enrolled less than 12 credits, and offer no payment for children who are not enrolled in an educational program.
Andrea Anderson moved, seconded by Greg Hulka, MOTION CARRIED, to draft a policy reflecting the wishes of the board to the next meeting.
Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll
Nays: None

21-106 Appointment of Brandon Mendendorp to Planning Commission
The motion by Todd Dunham, seconded by Greg Hulka, was carried unanimously, to accept Matt Farrar’s resignation from the Planning Commission.
The motion by Todd Dunham, seconded by Greg Hulka, was carried unanimously, to appoint Brandon Mendendorp to the Planning Commission for a 3 year term ending January 1, 2025.

21-107 Senior Services Funds Allocation
The Muskegon County Board of Commissioners has approved $45,911 in senior millage funding to be allocated to Fruitport Township. The board would like to continue with a similar plan as last year allocating the following amounts:
$15,000 for Age Well Services
$15,000 for Safe Seniors
$15,911 to Living Word Lawn and Snow Program

If allocated funds are not exhausted for snow removal due to a light winter, funds may be given to Senior Power of Produce.

Todd Dunham moved, Terry Knoll seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to commit the senior services funds for Fruitport Township as discussed; $15,000 for Age Well Services, $15,000 for Safe Seniors, $15,911 to Living Word Lawn and Snow Program, and any remaining to Senior Power of Produce.
Ayes: Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

21-108 Approval to Retain an Engineer to Provide Recommendations on Storm Water Management System at Sheringer Park
Andrea Anderson moved, seconded by Todd Dunham, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the township to retain an engineer to provide recommendations on the storm water management system at Sheringer Park.
Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll
Nays: None

21-109 Payment of Bills
Jim Fichtel moved, Andrea Anderson seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $12,872.01; Public Safety $20,391.39; Water $90,797.35; Sewer $16,922.55; Trust & Agency $1,945.00; Street Lights $15,001.45
Totaling: $157,929.75
Ayes: Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

ADDITIONAL REPORTS: none

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none

The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Greg Hulka, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 7:25pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK

TODD DUNHAM, SUPERVISOR

Events Happening in Muskegon County – January 31 – February 7, 2022

www.visitmuskegon.org

Don’t see YOUR event on the calendar?
Visit this link to see how easy it is to get it submitted bit.ly/VisitMuskegonSubmitEvent

Monday January 31:

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Live Trivia Mondays at Red Rooster Tavern
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Red Rooster Tavern 2998 Scenic Dr. Every Monday, Prizes for the Top 3 teams! Free to Play! Come out and meet the new owners!

Big Band Swing Dancing
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Celebration Community Church 1260 W. Sherman Blvd. Have a good time at this free swing era dance! Participants are encouraged to dress in attire from the 1920s-50s. Donations are always appreciated.

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

Tuesday February 1:

Unruly Irish Session
February 1 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 

Unruly Brewing Company 360 W. Western Ave., 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.

Black History Month Gospel Kick-Off Event!
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave., invites everyone to celebrate the beginning of Black History Month with a kick-off event! We’ll embrace an evening of music from Chiquette “Chi Chi” Woods and Jeremy Jake Harris. FREE

Romance Package
February 1 – February 28

Shoreline Inn 750 Terrace Point Rd., is excited to offer an overnight Romance Package available anytime in the month of February! This package is available to be added on to any room type. www.choicehotels.com 231-727-8483

Mini-ART-ure Golf
11:00 am – 5:00 pm 

Muskegon Museum of Art 296 West Webster Ave., come play mini-golf inside. Explore the galleries and art as you perfect your putt in a fully playable, 9-hole mini-golf course. $5 per person January 6- May 22 www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Live Trivia Tuesdays at No Name Saloon
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 

No Name Saloon 609 W Western Ave. Every Tuesday, Prizes for the Top 3 teams! Free to play!

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.

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

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 February 2:

Eric and Chris Acoustic Guitar
11:00 am – 12:30 pm 
Join The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Montague, Eric Michaels and Chris Kennedy are a guitar duo, performing a mix of folk, pop, country, and standards. Longtime friends and musical partners who’ve performed in clubs and coffeehouses. This is a free event while there is food and beverages to purchase

Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm 

Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, FREE for middle and high school students. You are invited to the ACWL-Nuveen for Open Studio sessions. Bring your project and work on here with friends.

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Romance Package
February 1 – February 28

Shoreline Inn 750 Terrace Point Rd., is excited to offer an overnight Romance Package available anytime in the month of February! This package is available to be added on to any room type. www.choicehotels.com 231-727-8483

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 February 3:

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

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.

Romance Package
February 1 – February 28

Shoreline Inn 750 Terrace Point Rd., is excited to offer an overnight Romance Package available anytime in the month of February! This package is available to be added on to any room type. www.choicehotels.com 231-727-8483

FREE TOURS: Muskegon Museum of Art
11:00am – 8:0pm

This is a great opportunity to visit the Muskegon Art Museum located at 296 W. Webster Ave. and bring the kiddos! This FREE tour time is compliments of the Meijer Foundation. www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Friday February 4:

Bling Thing
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
 
Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club 280 W. Webster Ave., Bling Thing is back at an exciting new location! The event will be held at the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club. With a $10 donation you can get in early to shop tonight!

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Romance Package
February 1 – February 28

Shoreline Inn 750 Terrace Point Rd., is excited to offer an overnight Romance Package available anytime in the month of February! This package is available to be added on to any room type. www.choicehotels.com 231-727-8483

Karaoke Fridays at Full Moon Diner and Saloon
9:00 pm – 11:50 pm 

Full Moon Diner and Saloon 3408 Whitehall Rd., Come to the Full Moon Diner and Saloon for a fun evening of Karaoke with DJ Noodle.

Saturday February 5:

Black History Month – Trivia Contest
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave., How well do you know Black History?? Register your team for an in-person contest at Hackley Library! Teams will be asked questions relevant to Black History, and prizes will be given out.

Black Tie for the Y
6:30 pm – 11:30 pm

Delta Hotel by Marriott 939 3rd St., Over 200 people will gather to look at the impact the YMCA has on our community. The annual gala includes live and silent auctions, raffles, and food and drink and all the proceeds support the Livestrong with the YMCA program and the ever-growing group of Livestrong alumni. Tickets are $125 info@muskegonymca.org

Double Header: Risers Arena Soccer
4:30 pm – 10:00 pm

Mercy Health Arena 470 W. Western Ave., the Risers women’s and men’s soccer teams return to Mercy Health Arena! ONE TICKET gets you into BOTH GAMES! Tickets at muskegonrisers.com/tickets or call (231) 322-7110!

Norton Shores Eastowne Snow Fest
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Salty Pecker Brewing Company 255 Seminole Rd., Michigan Insurance Group has partnered with the businesses of Eastowne Plaza to present the first annual Norton Shores Eastown Snow Fest! Live Music, Snow-yoga (aka snoga), drinks, food trucks, shopping, cornhole tournament and more!

February Saturdays: Lumber Markings
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave., During the Lumber boom, marking of logs was essential. Learn why and create a wax replica of one of the local logging companies. Free to Muskegon County residents and $5 for others 3+years

Romance Package
February 1 – February 28

Shoreline Inn 750 Terrace Point Rd., is excited to offer an overnight Romance Package available anytime in the month of February! This package is available to be added on to any room type. www.choicehotels.com 231-727-8483

Valentine Sip and Shop-Bellasimi Boutique
10:00 am – 3:00 pm

1989 Lakeshore Drive Suite A 1989 Lakeshore Dr., Sip on rose’ & shop new arrivals, sales & new markdowns. *Enter to win our Valentine’s giveaway by making a purchase in-store or online.

Bling Thing
10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club 280 W. Webster Ave., Bling Thing is back at an exciting new location! The event will be held at the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club. Everything is ½ off after 12:15.

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Indoor Farmers Market
8:00am-2:00pm

Muskegon Farmers Market is the same location 242 W. Western Ave. for the winter months only they are inside the building so stop by!

Sunday February 6:

Free Country Rock Dance Lessons with Chris Sanz!
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

5571 E Apple Ave., Do you like country music? Learn some new steps to make it even more fun! Chris will teach us beginner and intermediate moves, dancing to country music. All dance levels are welcome!

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Romance Package
February 1 – February 28

Shoreline Inn 750 Terrace Point Rd., is excited to offer an overnight Romance Package available anytime in the month of February! This package is available to be added on to any room type. www.choicehotels.com 231-727-8483

Monday February 7 :

Black History Month – Open Mic Poetry Night
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave., Delight in an evening of compelling inspiration and sweet poetry during Open Mic Poetry Night. Step up to the mic for this fun and casual in-person event. This is a free event to everyone!

Romance Package
February 1 – February 28

Shoreline Inn 750 Terrace Point Rd., is excited to offer an overnight Romance Package available anytime in the month of February! This package is available to be added on to any room type. www.choicehotels.com 231-727-8483

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Coopersville Area Historical Society Launches New Website

submitted by the West Michigan Tourist Association

COOPERSVILLE, MI – The Coopersville Area Historical Society (CAHS) is pleased to announce the launching of their new website www.coopersvillehistory.org.

The CAHS website was created for and about the Coopersville community and its history. They hope you enjoy the photos, stories, audio podcasts, and even the C’ville Sleuth mystery photo and puzzle. Be sure to visit the site often to see what new items are posted there.

Early in 2021, the Coopersville Area Historical Society formed a committee to pursue development of a website. Final approval was given in May of that year to start fundraising efforts for the development of a site. 

The initial investment was made possible by the generosity of the following:

  • Robert (Dennis) and Diane Barrett
  • Shirley Cunningham
  • Randy and Cindy Laug
  • Main Street Wealth
  • Audrey Snow
  • Ken and Sandy Stroven
  • LeaAnn Tibbe
  • Bob and Judy Van Dongen
  • Ron and Beth Veldman

The Website Committee for coopersvillehistory.org includes:

  • Dennis Barrett
  • Cindy Laug
  • Connie McKenney
  • LeaAnn Tibbe
  • Judy VanDongen – ex-officio

CAHS will also be sponsoring a Community Photo Sharing event on Saturday, January 15, from 11:00am-1:00pm at the Coopersville Area District Library. Visitors are invited to visit the library and bring their photo albums and the team will digitally scan them on site.

About the Coopersville Area Historical Society:
The Coopersville Area Historical Society is committed to serving the community by telling the continuing story of the people of the Coopersville region through exploration, preservation and presentation of their historical and cultural heritage.

Sibshops Peer Support Groups Now Offered in Ottawa County for Siblings of Children with Special Needs

submitted by Ottawa County Department of Public Health

Sibshops peer support groups are now being offered in Ottawa County for brothers and sisters of children with special needs. The Sibshops offer an engaging space for siblings to be heard, understood, and supported. 

Sisters and brothers will likely have the longest-lasting relationship with a sibling who has special needs or disabilities, a relationship that can exceed 65 years. During their lives, children who have siblings with special needs or disabilities will experience most of the unique joys and concerns their parents do, yet few will have the chance to talk about their experiences with other siblings who understand this unique experience. 

Sibshops are peer support groups that provide children with the opportunity to meet other siblings, and talk about both the good and difficult parts of having a sibling with special needs. Siblings also learn about their siblings’ special needs or disabilities and the services that child receives. Finally, siblings learn new ways to cope with the challenges of having a sibling with special needs. All while having fun and playing games!

Offered in communities around the country and the world, Sibshops are a place for siblings to be heard, understood and supported.

Sibshops is now in Ottawa County and children aged 6-13 are welcome to attend. Contact Andréa Vugteveen at amvugteveen@gmail.com or 616 460-3781 for more information. Check out Sibshops on Facebook at Ottawa County Sibshops.

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Minutes – 1/17/22

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
January 17, 2022 7:00 p.m.
Board Room
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd.
Fruitport, MI 49415

I. The Regular meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 7:08 p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

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

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 22-013. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Buckner to approve the agenda with a correction to scheduling committee meeting dates in section XIV.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

IV. PRESENTATIONS
Board Appreciation Month celebrations included a student artwork presentation to each board member, MASB sweatshirts, key chains and certificates.

V. COMMUNICATIONS
None.

VI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Pam Gustafson stated that she made a dessert as a way to say thank you to the Board.

Courtney Stahl, on behalf of Beach School, expressed her appreciation for the Board.

VII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
The Board reviewed a report and video that was created by Allison Camp outlining the progress made by students in meeting the educational goals that the District expected would be achieved by the middle of the year. The Board reviewed iReady assessment data in reading/ELA and mathematics, and reviewed progress on these data sets from the fall iReady assessment window to the mid-year iReady assessment window. The Board reviewed data for all students and for students disaggregated data by subgroups. A final mid-year data analysis will be shared with the Board at the February board meeting.

VIII. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 22-014. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Burgess to approve the Consent Agenda as listed below:

  1. Approval of Special Board Meeting Minutes of January 6, 2022
  2. Acceptance of Bills, Monthly Financial Report, and ACH Transactions
  3. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report
  4. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report
  5. Approval of Capital Projects Progress and 2021 Bond Report
  6. Approval of the Personnel Report
    MOTION CARRIED 6-0

IX. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

  1. Second and Final Reading of New and Updated Board Policies.
    Item 22-015. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to approve the second and final reading of new and updated Thrun Board Policies as presented.
    MOTION CARRIED 6-0

X. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

  1. Report of a committee meeting held January 10, 2022.
    Elroy Buckner reported on a Business and Finance Committee meeting held in the superintendent’s office on January 10, 2022. Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Mark Mesbergen, Jessica Wiseman and Jason Kennedy were present. The committee discussed Contract Negotiations, Board Policy Updates and Non-Affiliated Raises.

XI. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

  1. Report of a committee meeting held January 10, 2022.
    Steve Kelly reported on a Personnel Committee meeting held in Central Office on January 10, 2022. Steve Kelly, JB Meeuwenberg, Dave Hazekamp, and Jason Kennedy were present. The committee discussed a Personnel Issue, the Emergency Temporary Standard issued by OSHA, Contract Negotiations, Board Policy Updates, and a National Conference Jason is attending.
  2. Non-affiliated increase for fiscal year 2022.
    Item 22-016. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Franklin to approve the salary increase for non-affiliated employees as presented.
    MOTION CARRIED 6-0
  3. Letter of Agreement with the Fruitport Education Association.
    Item 22-017. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Burgess to approve the Letter of Agreement with the FEA concerning additional instructional days, if needed.
    MOTION CARRIED 6-0

XII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

  1. Report of a committee meeting held January 12, 2022.
    Susan Franklin reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held in the superintendent’s office on January 12, 2022. Tim Burgess, Maribeth Clarke, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, and Jason Kennedy were present. The committee discussed a Student Discipline Issue, a Letter of Agreement with the Fruitport Education Association regarding additional learning days, Strategic Planning Processes, a Personnel Issue, and Board Policy Updates.

XIII. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Kris Cole reported that the high school Robotics team is off to a great start, the foundry at the middle school is doing well, and the level of writing his daughter is doing in college is proof of the great education she received at Fruitport.

Steve Kelly shared that his sister (a Fruitport Alumni) hasn’t seen the new high school and was very impressed with the new front.

Dave Hazekamp shared that he heard very positive feedback about the high school while attending the district’s Christmas programs.

XIV. AGENDA ITEMS for FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF ANY SPECIAL MEETINGS

  1. Business and Finance Committee will meet February 14, 2022 at 11:30 a.m.
  2. Personnel Committee will meet February 14, 2022 at 4:30 p.m.
  3. Student Affairs Committee will meet February 16, 2022 at 8:00 a.m.

XV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

XVI. ADJOURNMENT
Item 22-018. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0
The meeting adjourned at 8:03 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly
Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

Fruitport Board of Education Annual Organizational Meeting Minutes – 1/17/22

Fruitport Board of Education
Organizational Meeting
January 17, 2022 7:00 p.m.
Board Room
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd.
Fruitport, MI 49415

I. Per Board Policy 2506, Jason Kennedy, Superintendent, called the January 17th Organizational Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

II. The PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited.

III. Roll Call: Present – Elroy Buckner, Tim Burgess, Kris Cole, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, and Steve Kelly.
Absent – JB Meeuwenberg

IV. Election of Officers

President
Item 22-007. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to nominate Dave Hazekamp for
President. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Burgess to close nominations and cast a ballot for Dave Hazekamp for President.
Roll call vote: Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
Absent – Meeuwenberg
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

Superintendent Kennedy passed the gavel to President Hazekamp.

Vice President
Item 22-008. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Buckner to nominate Kris Cole for
Vice-President. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Buckner to close nominations and cast a ballot for Kris Cole for Vice-President.
Roll call vote: Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
Absent – Meeuwenberg
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

Treasurer
Item 22-009. MOTION by Burgess, SECOND by Kelly to nominate Elroy Buckner for
Treasurer. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Burgess, SECOND by Kelly to close nominations and cast a ballot for Elroy Buckner for Treasurer.
Roll call vote: Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
Absent – Meeuwenberg
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

Secretary
Item 22-010. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Buckner to nominate Steve Kelly for Secretary. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Buckner to close nominations and cast a ballot for Steve Kelly for Secretary.
Roll call vote: Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
Absent – Meeuwenberg
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

V. Designate a District Employee Authorized to Post Board Meeting Notices
Item 22-011. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to authorize Maribeth Clarke as the designated employee authorized to post Board meeting notices per the Open Meetings Act.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

VI. Adjournment
Item 22-012. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to adjourn the Organizational Meeting.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The Organizational Meeting adjourned at 7:07 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Maribeth Clarke, Recording Secretary

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Minutes – 1/6/22

Fruitport Community Schools
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
Thursday, January 6, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.
Board of Education Meeting Room

MINUTES

I. CALL to ORDER

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, JB Meeuwenberg, and Steve Kelly

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

Item 22-1. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0.

IV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC

None.

V. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

A. Approval of Regular Board Meeting Minutes of December 13, 2021

Item 22-2. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Franklin to approve the Regular Board Meeting Minutes of December 13, 2021, as presented. MOTION CARRIED 7-0.

B. Closed Session Student Discipline Hearing Pursuant to Michigan Open Meetings Act Section 8(b): Student 2022-01

Item 22-3. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to enter into closed sessionat 6:03 p.m. pursuant to Section 8(b) of the Michigan Open Meetings Act, and uponthe written request of the student’s parent, for the purpose of conducting a hearingto consider the discipline of a student whose identity is known to the Board as Student 2022-01.

Roll call: Buckner – yes, Burgess – yes, Cole – yes, Franklin – yes, Hazekamp – yes, Meeuwenberg – yes, Kelly – yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0.

C. Return to Open Session

Item 22-4. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to return to open session at 6:58 p.m.

Roll call: Buckner – yes, Burgess – yes, Cole – yes, Franklin – yes, Hazekamp – yes, Meeuwenberg – yes, Kelly – yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0.

D. Board Resolution for Student Discipline: Student 2022-01

Item 22-5. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the Board resolution for student discipline for a student whose identity is known to the Board as Student 2022-01.

Roll call: Buckner – yes, Burgess – yes, Cole – yes, Franklin – yes, Hazekamp – yes, Meeuwenberg – yes, Kelly – yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0.

E. Other: None

VI. ADJOURNMENT

Item 22-6. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Steve Kelly
Board Secretary

Jason Kennedy
Acting Recording Board Secretary

Ask Dr. Universe – Atmosphere

Dr. Universe: Why do things like rockets catch fire as they pass through Earth’s atmosphere? – Conner, 11, Dunn, North Carolina
 
Dear Conner,
 
When objects like spacecraft pass through Earth’s atmosphere, things can really heat up.
 
To investigate the answer to your question, I talked to my friend Von Walden. He’s a professor and researcher with Washington State University’s Laboratory for Atmospheric Research.  
 
First, he said it helps to know a bit about the differences between Earth’s atmosphere and space.
 
Our atmosphere is made up of stuff, or matter, called gas. These gases that make up our air include oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide and other elements. But space is pretty empty. There isn’t much matter in-between the planets and stars.  
 
That means when any object travels to Earth from space, it’s going to run into a lot of air molecules. This can create a lot of friction, which is the force of two surfaces sliding against each other.
 
Maybe you can try to create some friction just by rubbing your hands together. You’ll notice how the motion produces heat, and you can feel some warmth.
 
As the air molecules in Earth’s atmosphere and the material that makes up the spacecraft push against each other they also create a lot of friction.
 
At the same time, the air molecules slow down the object such as a returning spacecraft as it passes through the atmosphere at high speeds. In the process, it creates a lot of heat.
 
There’s so much friction and heat that we can start to see a glow around the spacecraft. It isn’t exactly catching on fire, though.
 
“It’s like when someone is cooking and the pan turns red or orange. The fire from the stove is heating up that pan, but the pan itself isn’t on fire. It’s the same type of thing,” Walden said.
 
Astronauts have reported that upon re-entry the glow looks pink and orange from inside the spacecraft. The re-entry process only takes about 4 minutes. After re-entry, it’s about a 60-mile journey back to the surface of Earth.
 
You know, engineers and scientists at places like NASA have calculated just the right angle and speeds at which spacecraft need to enter the atmosphere to make it to space and return home safely. It’s also an important calculation for when we send experiments up to the space station, too.
 
As a student, Walden even had the chance to send up an experiment on NASA’s Space Shuttle to learn more about how different fluids behave in space.
 
Whether we send astronauts, experiments, or even everyday citizens to space, the question of what happens to objects when they pass through the Earth’s atmosphere is an important one to think about, especially as we set out to learn more about our solar system.
 
Who knows, maybe one day you’ll be an engineer or scientist who helps us learn more about space travel. Or maybe you’ll even have a chance to travel to space or another planet as a citizen of Earth.
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

MCT’s Clue: On Stage – February 11 – February 26, 2022

7:00pm & 3:00pm | Beardsley Theater
Tickets: $28.00 / $13.00 Student Rush

clueonstage

The classic board game and cult-classic film are brought to life in Clue: On Stage! Six guests are invited to a dinner party thrown by an anonymous host. What follows is a madcap, slapstick evening full of murder, mystery, and laughs as they seek to puzzle out the culprit amongst criminals.

Click here for more information or to purchase your tickets today!

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

So many under much stress it appears,
Hard to enjoy life that way;
A prayer for them
And hope for when
Things become better in better days.
For we have all been there at some place
    in different plays.
as we inch our way.

Hackley Public Library – February 2022 Programs

Hackley Public Library has new hours!

Main Hackley Library Building
Mon-Tues: 9-7pm
Wed-Sat: 9-5pm

Torrent House (HPL’s Local History/Genealogy Department)
Tues-Sat: 10-5pm

Programs/Events (please look at the bottom for a link to Black History Month events).

Valentine’s Jingle Sticks – Youth Take and Make
Kits available beginning February 1

Cupid had his arrows but you will have a jingle stick! Jingle your way into your valentine’s heart with these easy, fun, and melodic Take and Makes. Kits will be available to pick up from Hackley Public Library beginning February 1. Free.

‘Heart Strings’ Corkboard – Teen Take and Make
Kits available beginning February 1

These adorable heart cork boards will be pulling on everyone’s heart strings! Weave the beads into your heart, or make them into “heart strings.” Kits will be available to pick up from Hackley Public Library beginning February 1. Free.

Preschool Story Time
Friday mornings at 10:30am

Join us at Hackley Public Library for stories, songs, and movement activities! Intended for ages 0-5, HPL’s in-person story time is designed to teach early literacy skills to parents and caregivers while children enjoy a fun, interactive atmosphere. Masks are available and recommended for all attendees. Free.

Left to Write
2nd Wednesday of each month from 3:30-4:30pm

If you enjoy creative writing, you’ll love Left to Write, HPL’s own creative writing group! Here you can participate in writing exercises, share your own stories, and meet other creative writers. This group meets in-person, and provides a low-key atmosphere for writers of all experiences. Everyone is welcome! Remember to bring a pen and paper.
Left to Write at Night!
4th Tuesday of each month from 5:30-6:30pm

Left to Write is coming to the night! This repeating evening session of Left to Write will give everyone the opportunity to enjoy Left to Write again each month, at a later time! Left to Write meets in-person at Hackley Public Library. Free.

The Steamy History of Love Letters
Monday, February 14 at 5:30pm

Learn all about the history of love letters with Heather Love of Third Coast Calligraphy! Heather will share an abundance of love letter history, ranging from ancient Egypt to modern times. Then, you’ll be able to try your hand at crafting a love letter of your own! *This program is intended for adults. Registration is required. To register, visit the online events calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or stop by Hackley Library. Free.

Black History Month Events:
https://www.hackleylibrary.org/events-programs/annual-events/black-history-month/

Visit hackleylibrary.org for more information and see what you can discover today!
Using your Hackley Library card, you can have access to eBooks, audiobooks, movies, music and more, all for FREE.
Link to HPL’s Digital Library: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/books-more/digital-library/
Website: hackleylibrary.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HackleyPL/
Instagram: @hackleypubliclibrary
HPL Teens Instagram: @hackleylibraryteens
Flickr: http://bit.ly/1DSbZ6E

About the Hackley Public Library
The Hackley Public Library is dedicated to 1) promoting knowledge, understanding, and wisdom, 2) combating ignorance, intolerance, and indifference, 3) promoting the free exchange of ideas, and 4) conserving our national and local cultural heritage.

The mission of the Hackley Public Library is to inform, inspire, and delight our diverse community by providing information, knowledge, literature, new technologies, and traditional and innovative programs.

For more information, please contact Hackley Public Library, 316 W Webster Ave Muskegon MI 49440, at Reference: 231-722-8011, Circulation: 231-722-8000, Youth Services: 231-722-8014, @hackleyref, or askus@hackleylibrary.org.

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 01/12/22

Student Affairs Committee
Wednesday, January 12, 2022
12:00 p.m.

MEETING MINUTES

Meeting Location:
Fruitport Community Schools Central Office
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd.
Fruitport, MI 49415

Attendance:
Tim Burgess, Maribeth Clarke, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, and Jason Kennedy

  1. An update was provided to the Committee on student discipline incidents resulting from threats made against the school.
  2. An update was provided to the Committee that discussed the days and hours of instruction for the 2021-2022 school year, as well as the canceled days of instruction that have occurred thus far this school year. A Letter of Agreement (LOA) between the Board and the Fruitport Education Association (FEA) was discussed, and will be recommended for approval at the Board meeting on January 17, 2022. The Agreement allows days of instruction to be added to the end of the 2021-2022 school year, in the event that scheduled days of student instruction are canceled resulting in a state aid reduction.
  3. A review of the strategic planning process was discussed. Three initial proposals were shared with the Committee. The Committee reviewed the strategic planning processes developed by the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) and the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA). The Committee also discussed a District led initiative using Thought Exchange that would be facilitated by the Superintendent and administrative team. Further discussion on the process will continue at future meetings before any decisions are made.
  4. An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to the resignation / termination proceedings of a transportation employee.
  5. Maribeth provided a review and reading of the Thrun Law Board Policy updates that pertained to the Student Affairs Committee. A summary of all policy updates will be shared with the Board of Education.
  6. A review of discussion items from the Business and Finance Committee meeting and Personnel Committee meeting was discussed.
  7. Public Comment: None
  8. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 12:50 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Jason Kennedy, Superintendent

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 01/10/22

Personnel Committee
Monday, January 10, 2022
4:30 p.m.

MEETING MINUTES

Meeting Location:
Fruitport Community Schools Central Office
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd.
Fruitport, MI 49415

Attendance:
Maribeth Clarke, Dave Hazekamp, Steve Kelly, JB Meeuwenberg, and Jason Kennedy

  1. An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to the resignation / termination proceedings of a transportation employee.
  2. An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to the Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) issued by OSHA.
  3. An update was provided to the Committee regarding progress on collective bargaining and contract negotiations with the Fruitport Administrator’s Association.
  4. Maribeth provided a review and reading of the Thrun Law Board Policy updates that pertained to the Personnel Committee. A summary of all policy updates will be shared with the Board of Education.
  5. Jason shared that he would be attending the National Conference on Education, sponsored by the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), in Nashville, TN. The dates of the conference are February 17-19, 2022, with travel dates being February 16-19, 2022. As an Executive Board member for the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA), MASA has paid for all expenses related to the conference attendance.
  6. Other: Updates from each of the other committee agendas were discussed with the Personnel Committee.
  7. Public Comment: None
  8. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 4:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Jason Kennedy, Superintendent

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 01/10/22

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, January 10, 2022
11:30 a.m., Superintendent’s Office
Meeting Minutes

Attendance: Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Jason Kennedy, Jessica Wiseman, and Mark Mesbergen

  1. Update on Contract Negotiations – Administrators
    Mark gave the committee an update on contract negotiations with the affiliated administrators.
  2. Business and Finance Board Policy Updates
    Maribeth gave an update on the policy updates.
  3. Non Affiliated Raises
    Mark presented a recommendation for the non-affiliated group for fiscal year 2022. The non-affiliated members will receive a 3% increase with a few adjustments that were explained in the committee.

Meeting adjourned at 12:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Emergency Needs – Food & Shelter Funds Available

MUSKEGON, NEWAYGO AND OCEANA COUNTIES HAVE BEEN AWARDED FEDERAL FUNDS MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (DHS)/FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY UNDER THE EMERGENCY FOOD AND SHELTER NATIONAL BOARD PROGRAM.
Application Deadline: Friday, February 25, 2022
Muskegon County has been chosen to receive $343,641 Newaygo County $77,609 and Oceana County will get $51,295 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the counties.
submitted by United Way of the Lakeshore

The selection was made by a National Board that is chaired by the U. S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency and consists of representatives from American Red Cross; Catholic Charities, USA; National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA; The Jewish Federations of North America, The Salvation Army; and, United Way Worldwide. The Local Board was charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country.

A Local Board in Muskegon, Newaygo and Oceana County made up of representatives from local government and multiple area organizations, will determine how the funds awarded to the Emergency Needs Committees are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service agencies in the area. The local Boards are responsible for recommending local recipient organizations to receive these funds and any additional funds made available under this phase of the program.

Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local organizations chosen to receive funds must: 1) be private voluntary nonprofit organizations or units of government, 2) be eligible to receive Federal funds, 3) have an accounting system, 4) practice nondiscrimination, 5) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, and 6) if they are a private voluntary organization, have a voluntary board. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.

The Local Boards in Muskegon, Newaygo and Oceana Counties have distributed Emergency Food and Shelter funds to local organizations for 37 previous years. These organizations were responsible for providing food, meals and lodging to those in need.

Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying for Emergency Food and Shelter Program funds will find an application at unitedwaylakeshore.org/efsp. The deadline for applications to be received is Friday, February 25, 2022. Questions may be directed to Jana Routt, United Way of the Lakeshore at: jana@unitedwaylakeshore.org. or (231) 332-4004.

Click here to access the applications.

How to Get Your New Baby’s Social Security Number

By Vonda Van Til, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

Welcoming a baby to your family is an exciting time. Doing paperwork, even for something as important as a Social Security number for your newborn, is probably one of the last things you want to do. We’ve made it easy. If your child is born in a hospital, the most convenient way to apply for a Social Security number is at that hospital before you leave.

When you give information for your child’s birth certificate at the hospital, you’ll be asked whether you want to apply for a Social Security number for your child. If you answer “yes,” you will be asked to provide both parents’ Social Security numbers. Even if you don’t know both parents’ Social Security numbers, you can still apply for a number for your child.

There are many reasons why your child should have a Social Security number. You need a Social Security number to claim your child as a dependent on your income tax return. You may also need a number for your child if you plan to do the following for your child:

Open a bank account.
Buy savings bonds.
Get medical coverage.
Apply for government services.

You can find more information by reading Social Security Numbers for Children at www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10023.pdf.

Please share this information with people who are having a baby. Applying for a Social Security number at the hospital will save them time and let them focus on their new bundle of joy.

Vonda Van Til is the Public Affairs Specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at vonda.vantil@ssa.gov.

Lumberjacks Sign Sacha Boisvert to Tender Agreement

MUSKEGON, Mich. — The Muskegon Lumberjacks have announced today the signing of forward Sacha Boisvert to a tender agreement for the 2022-23 season.

boisvert

Boisvert, the 6-foot-1, 161-pound forward has appeared in 20 games with Mount St. Charles Academy 15U during the 2021-22 regular season, totaling 24 goals and 19 assists for 43 points. The Trois-Rivieres, Quebec native has yet to announce his NCAA commitment.

“He’s a big-time player who can score, shoot, change games with hits, and impact the game in many different ways,” said Lumberjacks President of Hockey Operations Steve Lowe. “We expect Sacha to make an immediate impact in our lineup for next year and we are excited to add a big-time talent like Sacha to the Muskegon Lumberjacks.”

When asked about what makes Boisvert such a talented player, Lumberjacks General Manager Jim McGroarty did not hold back on what he likes about Boisvert’s skill.

“Sacha’s skating and vision put him in on another level because he creates so much offense off the rush and he is incredibly difficult to defend against,” said McGroarty. “The first time I saw Sacha play, his physicality is what caught my eye because he has the ability to make players around him better and is overall a complete player.”

Furthermore, Boisvert’s current coach with Mount St. Charles 15U Scott Gainey expressed similar sentiments.

“I like how he competes every day, even in practice, making himself and everyone around him better,” said Gainey. “He’s got all of the intangibles, the skillset is there and he’s a complete package.”

Not only is Sacha built for the ‘now’, but he’s also equipped with a substantial future ahead of him. Matt Plante, the Co-Director of Mount St. Charles Hockey, believes his playing style makes him a top, alluring prospect.

“He’s got a lot of upside and he plays with an edge,” said Plante. “He’s certainly an attractive prospect both at the collegiate level and at the pro level down the road.”

A native of Quebec, Boisvert credited current Lumberjacks defenseman, Jacob Guevin, who also hails from La Belle Province, as one of the deciding factors on signing with the Lumberjacks.

“I knew [Guevin] played there and that it was a really good spot and he just reached out,” said Boisvert. “When he reached out, I did my research and I made my decision to go [to Muskegon] because of the coaching staff and I just liked everyone.”

After getting to know Boisvert through the recruiting process, Lumberjacks Head Coach Mike Hamilton is ecstatic about the all-inclusive hockey player.

“We’re excited to get a high-end, quality player like Sacha,” said Hamilton. “It’s been a pleasure getting to know Sacha during the recruiting process and he’s a dedicated, driven individual and we look forward to him making an impact next year.”

J2B2 John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band to perform at Muskegon Museum of Art – March 25th

MUSKEGON, MI — J2B2 John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band will perform in concert at the Muskegon Museum of Art on Friday, March 25 at 7:00 pm.  J2B2 is an all-star bluegrass supergroup, featuring four legendary, award-winning musicians, John Jorgenson on acoustic guitar, mandolin, and vocals; Herb Pedersen on banjo, acoustic guitar and vocals; Mark Fain on bass; and Patrick Sauber on acoustic guitar and vocals, delivering bluegrass like no one has ever heard it before.

jjbb

The band’s undeniable live shows have received stellar reviews and have the bluegrass world buzzing. The four combine forces to form a spot-on union of impeccable virtuosity, incomparable songwriting, incredible harmony vocals, and seasoned showmanship.

“Brilliant guitarist!”  – ELTON JOHN
“John Jorgenson is one of my most favorite players. My guitarist’s guitarist.” – PETER FRAMPTON
“If there was one guitar player I’d like to be, it would be John Jorgenson.” – BRAD PAISLEY
“This is a display of virtuosity rarely rendered.” – FRETBOARD JOURNAL
“John Jorgenson is one of the most respected guitarists in the world…” – LOS ANGELES TIMES

About J2B2
Jorgenson and Pedersen are founders (with Chris Hillman of The Byrds) of the formative country rock group Desert Rose Band. Jorgenson went on to found the Hellecasters, toured with Elton John for six years and worked with artists from Barbra Streisand and Bonnie Raitt to Earl Scruggs and Tom Petty. Jorgenson portrayed Django Reinhardt in the Hollywood feature film Head in the Clouds starring Charlize Theron. In 2008, Jorgenson won a Grammy for Best Country Instrumental with Brad Paisley and was nominated for Best Bluegrass Album with Earl Scruggs.

Pedersen was a member of legendary bluegrass band The Dillards as well as bluegrass super-group Old and In the Way and has worked with such music legends as Chris Hillman, Earl Scruggs, Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris, Tony Rice, Dan Fogelberg, Stephen Stills, Linda Ronstadt, Kris Kristofferson, John Prine, Jackson Browne, and John Denver.

Mark Fain played bass for Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder for 13 years. He toured and recorded with The Dixie Chicks, Alan Jackson, Travis Tritt, Dwight Yoakam, Alison Krauss, and Dolly Parton, as well as producing many artists in jazz, country, bluegrass, and gospel genres. Patrick Sauber is a multi-instrumentalist who has toured with Peter Rowan and Laurie Lewis and appeared on screen in A Mighty Wind.

Tickets
Advance tickets are $30, $20 for MMA Members, and $35 at the door. Purchase at the MMA Store or call 231.720.2580. Doors open at 6:00 pm and a cash bar will be available before the show.

The Muskegon Museum of Art is located at 296 W. Webster Ave., Muskegon, Michigan. Visitor information is available at muskegonartmuseum.org.

2022 Carefree Travel Guide & National Plan for Vacation Day

Celebrate National Plan for Vacation Day By Requesting Your Free 2022 Carefree Travel Guide From the West Michigan Tourist Association
submitted by the West Michigan Tourist Association

West Michigan – As part of National Plan for Vacation Day on January 25, the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) wants to encourage you to request your free copy of their 2022 Carefree Travel Guide!

National Plan for Vacation Day (NPVD), powered by U.S. Travel Association, encourages Americans to plan their vacation days for the entire year at the start of the year. After nearly two years of pandemic stress and fatigue, NPVD is an opportunity for Americans to look ahead to brighter days and make plans for getaways or vacations over the coming months.

Planning is the key to taking time off and traveling. A new study from Destination Analysts, commissioned by U.S. Travel Association, reveals that Americans who plan out their paid time off take more time off to travel, but one-quarter (24%) of American households don’t take this simple step.

“The West Michigan Tourist Association is joining thousands of organizations across the country to celebrate National Plan for Vacation Day and encourage Americans to take some much-needed time off,” said Erin Murphy, Marketing Manager for WMTA. “By committing to planning on January 25, Americans can all enjoy the many benefits of taking a break while giving themselves something to look forward to—and now is the perfect time to request your free copy of our 2022 Carefree Travel Guide. This year’s guide is bursting with fun ideas to get people out and exploring all that West Michigan has to offer. It’s got great photos, lots of maps, and (most importantly) information on how you can plan your next adventure!”

The Carefree Travel Guide can be viewed online, or sent to you for free by requesting your copy on their website.

U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing all components of the travel industry. In 2020, travel generated $1.5 trillion in economic output and supported 11 million jobs, a drastic decline from pre-pandemic figures. U.S. Travel’s mission is to increase travel to and within the United States. Visit ustravel.org for information and recovery-related data.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Penned line’s are only exactly this
What one feels at this moment in time;
Some tell the story of another s pain
Some just wander through lettered rhyme.
as we go

Greater Muskegon Economic Development Requests Input from Local Residents in President Search

submitted by Amy Cell Talent

The Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED) has engaged Amy Cell Talent to begin its search for its next president. To best serve the needs of their local community, GMED has launched a public survey to get feedback about the qualities and experiences needed for their next president.

The new president will be charged with driving economic growth, building partnerships and supporting existing businesses in the greater Muskegon region.

The survey is open now and will close Wednesday, January 26th. All Muskegon area residents, especially business owners, are encouraged to participate.

To fill out the six question survey, visit this link: https://forms.gle/v9cyT7nwM17Dw85P6

About GMED: Greater Muskegon Economic Development (GMED) was founded in 1999 and is the countywide economic development agency dedicated to supporting local. GMED’s focus is to leverage public and private investment to accelerate business growth and the creation of high-quality employment opportunities in Muskegon County. To learn more about GMED, visit: https://www.developmuskegon.org

About Amy Cell Talent: Amy Cell Talent provides HR solutions to companies, nonprofits and municipalities. The Amy Cell Talent team brings over 150 years of human resource experience and is passionate about attracting, retaining and developing talent.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday January 24-31, 2022

www.visitmuskegon.org

Don’t see YOUR event on the calendar?
Visit this link to see how easy it is to get it submitted
bit.ly/VisitMuskegonSubmitEvent

Monday January 24:

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

Live Trivia Mondays at Red Rooster Tavern
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 

Red Rooster Tavern 2998 Scenic Dr. Every Monday, Prizes for the Top 3 teams! Free to Play! Come out and meet the new owners!

Big Band Swing Dancing
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm 

Celebration Community Church 1260 W. Sherman Blvd. Have a good time at this free swing era dance! Participants are encouraged to dress in attire from the 1920s-50s. Donations are always appreciated.

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

Tuesday January 25:

Mini-ART-ure Golf
11:00 am – 5:00 pm 

Muskegon Museum of Art 296 West Webster Ave., come play mini-golf inside. Explore the galleries and art as you perfect your putt in a fully playable, 9-hole mini-golf course. $5 per person January 6- May 22 www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

Live Trivia Tuesdays at No Name Saloon
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 

No Name Saloon 609 W Western Ave. Every Tuesday, Prizes for the Top 3 teams! Free to play!

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.

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

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 January 26:

Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm 

Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, FREE for middle and high school students. You are invited to the ACWL-Nuveen for Open Studio sessions. Bring your project and work on here with friends.

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

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 January 27:

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Little Learners: STEAM Play and Learn
10:00 am – 11:00 pm 

Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay Ave., invite you to join a special Play and Learn program. This program is free. If after the program you would like to visit the museum galleries, the admission is free for Muskegon County residents and $5 for non-residents ages 3 and older. RSVPs required. Register through Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/little-learners-playgroup-winterspring-2022-tickets-222075663287

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.

FREE TOURS: Muskegon Museum of Art
11:00am – 8:0pm

This is a great opportunity to visit the Muskegon Art Museum located at 296 W. Webster Ave. and bring the kiddos! This FREE tour time is compliments of the Meijer Foundation. www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

Friday January 28:

Carnival of Pianos
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. Join Scott Speck, conductor Alessio Bax and Lucille Chung, pianists What’s better than a nine-foot Steinway front and center on the West Michigan Symphony stage? Two nine-foot Steinways, of course! For ticket information www.frauenthal.org

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Karaoke Fridays at Full Moon Diner and Saloon
9:00 pm – 11:50 pm 

Full Moon Diner and Saloon 3408 Whitehall Rd., Come to the Full Moon Diner and Saloon for a fun evening of Karaoke with DJ Noodle.

Saturday January 29:

Comedy Night at the VFW Post 3195
8:30 pm – 10:00 pm

The public is invited to VFW Post 3195 located at 5209 Grand Haven Rd.,
for a night of laughter and drinks. Comedians David Steves, Brianna Blackburn and Pagan are out to make you laugh.

Last Straw Motel
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Come to the Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague to check out Indie Garage Rock Band “Last Straw Motel”

January Saturdays: Fish in Our Home
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Visit Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave., to learn about the fish of West Michigan and invasive species that live in Lake Michigan. www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Polar Plunge Muskegon
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

This fundraiser is to raise funds to send Special Olympics athletes to local, regional, and statewide tournaments in 2022. Join Fricanos Event Center located at 1050 W. Western Ave. to cheer the plungers on. All details can be found at this link: https://www.classy.org/event/muskegon-polar-plunge-2022/e377615

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Wall-E Family Friendly Movie
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

The Playhouse at White Lake 304 South Mears Ave., Whitehall,
Family Friendly Movie —WALL•E. Movie Admission is only $1

Exploring Andy Goldsworthy – Land Art
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St. , Whitehall, Ages 6-10 $25, $22.50 for ACWL Members Let’s explore the work of Andy Goldsworthy, a world renowned artist known for his contribution to the land art movement.

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

Indoor Farmers Market
8:00am-2:00pm

Muskegon Farmers Market is the same location 242 W. Western Ave. for the winter months only they are inside the building so stop by!

Sunday January 30:

Free Family Movie Days – Soul
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

The Frauenthal Center located at 425 W Western Ave. invites everyone to attend this family-friendly movie inside the Frauenthal Theater. FREE www.frauenthal.org. There will be concessions to purchase.

Free Country Rock Dance Lessons with Chris Sanz!
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm 

5571 E Apple Ave., Do you like country music? Learn some new steps to make it even more fun! Chris will teach us beginner and intermediate moves, dancing to country music. All dance levels are welcome!

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Monday January 31 :

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Snowshoeing, Luge, Ice Skating and Cross Country Skiing are available please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

2022 Black History Month Programs at the Hackley Public Library

hackleylibrary.org  |  facebook.com/HackleyPL/  |  231-722-8000
316 W. Webster Ave. Muskegon, MI, 49440

BHM Programs/Events:

Black History Month – Gospel Kick-Off Event!
Tuesday, February 1 at 6:00pm
Celebrate the beginning of Black History Month with a kick-off event at Hackley Library!  We’ll embrace an evening of music from Chiquette “Chi Chi” Woods and Jeremy Jake Harris, with samplings of Black History trivia throughout the night.  **Limited seating is available – PLEASE REGISTER if you’d like to enjoy this event in-person.  You can also register to enjoy this event virtually via Zoom. 
Register on the online events calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or visit Hackley Library.  Free.

BHM Trivia Contest
Saturday, February 5 at 2:00pm
How well do you know Black History??  Register your team for an in-person contest at Hackley Library!  Teams will be asked questions relevant to Black History, and prizes will be awarded to the winners. 
**Limited participation is available – PLEASE REGISTER your team for this in-person event.  If you’d like to be a viewer of the contest, you can register to enjoy the contest virtually via Zoom.  Register on the online events calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or visit Hackley Library.  Free.

Open Mic Poetry Night
Monday, February 7 at 6:00pm
Delight in an evening of compelling inspiration and sweet poetry during HPL’s Open Mic Poetry Night.  Step up to the mic for this fun and casual in-person event to share your favorite poetry, poems you have written, or examples from favorite Black History/Black Experience/African American poetry.
**Limited participation is available – PLEASE REGISTER to share your poem(s) for this in-person event.   If you’d like to enjoy Poetry Night as a viewer, you can register to enjoy this virtually via Zoom.
Register on the online events calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or visit Hackley Library.  Free.

Sweet Soul Food Dessert Contest
Saturday, February 12 at 2:00pm
Look through your recipes, find your best soul food dessert, and compete in Hackley Library’s Sweet Soul Food Dessert contest!  Bring enough for the judges and participants to taste.
**Limited participation is available – PLEASE REGISTER to compete with your dish during this in-person event.  If you’d like to enjoy this contest as a viewer, you can register to enjoy this virtually via Zoom.
Register on the online events calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or visit Hackley Library.  Free.

Upcycled Poetry for Teens
Saturday, February 19 from 12:00-3:00pm
Always wanted to write a poem but didn’t know where to start… You know your voice is there but you haven’t found the words… We’ve got the place.
Drop in to Hackley Library’s Young Adult room and create a poem/art/masterpiece!  Using an existing text, you can eliminate words to create what you’ve always wanted.
We’ll provide the “words,” you provide the imagination!  Free.

Black Hair Care Clinic
Monday, February 28 at 6:00pm
Learn the secrets to beautiful black hair from expert Nietra Hood!  During this in-person Black Hair Care Clinic, Nietra will share helpful tips and guidance on caring for your own hair, as well as for a young person’s hair.
**Limited seating is available – PLEASE REGISTER to enjoy this in-person event.
You can also register to enjoy this event virtually via Zoom.
Register on the online events calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or visit Hackley Library.  Free.

BHM Scavenger Hunt
Ongoing through February
Go on an adventure inside Hackley Public Library!
Using fun clues and helpful tidbits, you’ll find and discover details about several African American authors in HPL”s collection.  Every person who completes the scavenger hunt will be entered into a grand prize drawing.
This Scavenger Hunt will be ongoing through February inside HPL.  Free.

Quilt Squares Take and Make
Available beginning February 1
Learn a little about the rich history of textile making in Africa and how those roots manifested in African American quilting traditions in a display in the Youth Services Department.
Take a no-sew quilt square kit home and create your own work of art, but wait, bring it back to the library to become a part of our unity quilt.
Take and make kits will be available beginning February 1. We will be adding to our unity quilt throughout the month of February (final squares needed by February 25) and will have a drawing on February 28 for 3 quilt square prizes!

Hackley Public Library has new hours!

Main Hackley Library Building
Mon-Tues: 9-7pm
Wed-Sat: 9-5pm
Torrent House (Local History/Genealogy Department)
Tues-Sat: 10-5pm

Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Deploys Six Times in December

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

rapidresponseteam

In the final month of 2021, the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) deployed to six locations, five as a result of natural disasters.
 
On Dec. 1, crisis-trained BG-RRT chaplains went to Oxford Township, Michigan, after a student opened fire at a high school.
 
A deadly string of tornadoes that swept through the Midwest resulted in four deployments, including northeast Arkansas and Mayfield, Bowling Green and Dawson Springs, Kentucky. Nearly 100 chaplains have served between the four communities, praying with more than 4,000 people.
 
The BG-RRT closed out 2021 with a New Year’s Eve deployment to Boulder County, Colorado, after 100 mph winds caused the rapid spread of the Marshall Fire, destroying hundreds of homes and displaced thousands of families.
 
The BG-RRT deployed 51 times in 2021, the most new deployments in one year since the ministry was founded after the attacks of 9-11. Nearly 1,300 chaplains served across the United States, praying with more than 40,000 people in 2021.
 
For more information about the BG-RRT ministry, visit billygraham.org/RRT.

Ask Dr. Universe – Baseballs

Dr. Universe: How are baseballs made? -Kaden, 11, Saratoga Springs, Utah
 
Dear Kaden,
 
There are a lot of steps that go into making a baseball. As we investigate this question, we’ll focus on the ones made for Major League Baseball.
 
My friend Lloyd Smith, a mechanical engineer and director of the Sports Science Laboratory at Washington State University, told me all about it.
 
A while back, he had a chance to visit a facility in Costa Rica where they make MLB baseballs. Smith said it begins with a small sphere called a pill, which has a cork center and a couple of rubber layers.
 
The pill helps with elasticity—that is, how the ball bounces back up after you bounce it on the ground. The pill gets put into a bin of adhesive, which is sort of like a tacky glue, before it gets wrapped in wool yarn.  
 
If you’ve ever tried to wind up some yarn into a ball, you know that it isn’t always easy to get it into a perfect sphere. The facility uses special winding equipment to wrap the wool yarn into a nice, spherical shape.
 
They wind it three different times with very particular kinds of yarns. The exact way they wind up the yarn is top-secret information, Smith said.
 
Next, the ball is wound in a layer of cotton and it gets another layer of tacky coating. This tacky coating will help attach the cotton to the outer layer of leather.
 
A machine cuts out white leather panels that will fit just right around the baseball. The panels are soaked in water to soften them up and make it easier for people to mold around the baseball. 
 
Finally, there is the sewing. This was one of the steps that amazed Smith the most on his tour. The workers stitch the balls by hand with long pieces of a red-dyed thread. Each baseball gets exactly 108 stitches.
 
At this point, the thread is still a bit raised on the surface of the baseball. To smooth out the surface, the ball goes into a wooden piece of equipment that flattens out the seams. Even a seam that is just a little too high can add to the drag, or slow down the speed of the ball. They’ve got to get everything just right.
 
“There’s so much interest in the ball and so many conspiracies that if anything changes in the game, they sometimes look at the equipment,” Smith said. “People will take these balls apart and look for any differences.”
 
Smith also adds that about 55% of the baseballs from the facility will end up in an MLB game. In a single game, players will use dozens of baseballs that came from the facility. The remaining baseballs are often sent out to shops where fans can buy one.
 
Now you know there’s a lot more that goes into making baseballs than meets the eye. It’s something to think about the next time you are watching—or maybe even playing— the beloved sport of baseball.  
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

49th Memorial of Roe v. Wade

Grand Rapids, Mich — January 22, 2022, is the 49th memorial of Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton, the U.S. Supreme Court cases which legalized abortion on demand and forced our country into a culture of death.

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

Every year, on January 22, we are reminded of our dark history that plagues every aspect of society today. We remember the millions of children who were and are horrendously aborted in the name of convenience, uncertainty, fear, and selfishness.

Prolife events are taking place this weekend all across the state. Right to Life of Michigan local affiliates are hosting memorials, marches, and more to remember the 63 million children whose lives were violently taken through abortion. This Sunday, January 23, we celebrate Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, first recognized by President Ronald Reagan in 1984.

Listing also stated:

We have hope and faith in our U.S. Supreme Court justices that they will get it right this year and uphold the value of the unborn, in turn, enabling our society to turn from a culture of death to a life-affirming nation. We have worked hard each and every year for this to become reality and January 22 is a reminder of why we have sacrificed our time and resources.

This year is monumental as Roe v. Wade is being considered in the U.S. Supreme Court and could be overturned by June. We have marched for the past 49 years in hopes that the Supreme Court will hear our heartbreak at being forced to legalize abortion throughout the U.S. This year is a breakthrough in the prolife movement and for the innocent, unborn children who have been silenced, tortured, and discarded for far too long.

Fruitport Township Board Meeting Agenda – 01/24/22

A G E N D A
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FRUITPORT TOWNSHIP HALL
5865 AIRLINE ROAD, FRUITPORT, MI 49415

JANUARY 24, 2022

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

  1. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
  2. Roll call
  3. Approval of board minutes: 1/10/22
  4. Approve / amend agenda
  5. Correspondence / reports
  6. Public comments regarding agenda items
  7. Unfinished Business
    none
  8. New Business
    A. Replacement of Township Computers
    B. Replacement of Town Hall Surveillance Cameras
  9. Approval of Bills
  10. Reports
  11. Public Comments
  12. Adjournment

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

Welcome Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce 2022 Board of Directors

from the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce

bucknerhazekamp

Your Chamber is excited to announce the appointment of Shawn Buckner, Regional Vice President of Operations at Meijer as your 2022 Board of Directors Chair! Shawn will be replacing Dave Hazekamp, President of Hazekamp Premier Foods. We also welcome four new appointees to the Board of Directors, who will each serve a three-year term.

  • Kaja Thornton-Hunter, CEO/Owner of Overcoming Barriers and Kaja’s Flavor
  • Cathy Nye, Segment Controller at Howmet Aerospace
  • Aaron Maike, President of Baker College Muskegon
  • RandiLynn Talsma, Owner of Blended Furniture

The Chamber’s Board of Directors help to shape the chamber’s positions on critical issues and influence how the chamber works to improve the business environment in Muskegon County. The Chamber’s Board of Directors help establish policies and priorities to ensure the Chamber’s mission and strategic vision are achieved and member needs are best served.

Thank you to Dave Hazekamp, Amy Heisser, Jim Rudicil, Angie Nelund, and Steve Olsen for the time they served on our Board of Directors. We appreciate the years of service and leadership they gave to their Chamber!

View All Board of Directors

Fruitport Township Downtown Development Authority Meeting Minutes

The following is the last published minutes of Fruitport’s Downtown Development Authority. Links to other public records regarding 2021 DDA meetings can be found below.

——–

Minutes of DDA Board meeting on August 24, 2021 – Held at Fruitport Charter Township Hall

CALL TO ORDER – 6:04 pm

ROLL CALL-

Present – Larry Hall, Frank Matice, Gary Smith, Todd Dunham, Randy Klingel, Tim Reilly, Heidi Tice – Larry Romanilli -via zoom location was Manistee.
Absent – Mark Campbell, Jason Bronhold

APPROVAL OF AGENADA
Motion by Todd to approve as submitted, 2nd by Tim – vote unanimous- motion carried

  1. PUBLIC COMMENTS
    None
  2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM LAST MEETING (ANNUAL MEETING)
    Motion by Heidi, 2nd by Randy – vote unanimous – motion carried
  3. MOTION TO RECOMMEND TO THE FRUITPORT TOWNSHIP BOARD
    THE 2021 DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND TAX INCREMENT FINANCING PLAN

    Motion by Todd to open discussion, 2nd by Gary – vote unanimous – motion carried

    Much discussion ensued:
    • Filling in the blanks in section II – B – II -L was decided approximately 500 residents are within the DDA boundaries.
    • Provide the exhibits – Todd is working with assessing and will be completed within the week.
    • Section II, D, 1 – Gary would like to see the costs for this project. Larry will provide this information
    • Section II, I – board would like to remove Proceeds from a special assessment district created as provided by law; – removed from document.

    Motion to close discussion by Heidi, 2nd by Frank – vote unanimous – motion carried

Motion by Heidi, 2nd by Larry Hall to recommend THE 2021 DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND TAX INCREMENT FINANCING PLAN with the following addition/corrections:

• Filing blanks in sections II, B, 2 (the property the township owns within the DDA boundaries) and 3 private land uses within the development
• Include costs for section II, D, 1 for the golf course apartment complex.
• In section II, I remove option of financing that states “Proceeds from a special assessment district created as provided by law;”
• Section II, L to be 500 persons residing in the development area.
• Complete exhibits A, B, C, D & E

ROLL CALL VOTE:
Larry Hall (yes) Larry Romanilli (yes) Frank (yes) Gary (yes) Todd (yes) Randy (yes) Tim (yes) Heidi (yes) – Motion carried

NEW BUSINESS:
Discussion about Jason Bronhold’s absences on the board. The board felt they would not need to replace Jason since the board will have nine members without him, which is the minimum amount they need. This would also make and odd number for voting purposes. Motion by Todd, second by Tim to ask for Jason’s resignation from the board since he hasn’t attended since the first meeting.

ROLL CALL VOTE:
Larry Hall (yes), Gary (no), Randy (yes), Frank (yes), Todd (yes), Larry Romanilli (yes), Tim (yes), Heidi (yes) – Motion carried.

Motion to ADJOURN by Randy, 2nd by Heidi – vote unanimous – motion carried

Meeting Adjourned 6:40 pm

——–

OCTOBER 18, 2021 Agenda
JUNE 3, 2021 Minutes
MAY 12, 2021 Minutes
APRIL 27, 2021 Minutes
MARCH 11, 2021 Minutes
FEBRUARY 24, 2021 Minutes
FEBRUARY 11, 2021 Minutes
Fruitport Township Public Records Page

City of Muskegon Receives $1.5M HUD Grant to Make Homes Healthier, Safer

Some 130 City of Muskegon families to receive help making their homes safer, healthier

MUSKEGON, MI – The City of Muskegon received a highly competitive federal Housing and Urban Development grant for $1.5 million to protect the city’s most vulnerable families from home health and safety hazards.

Approximately 130 low-income family homes will receive the assistance to address lead-based paint, indoor air quality, mold and moisture, pests and carbon monoxide among other health and safety hazards. The city’s Community and Neighborhood Services Department in the coming weeks will begin establishing the application process for city families to seek support from the funds.

housing
A recent home in the 600 Block of Ada renovated by the city for a low-income family.

Muskegon is one of three governments and agencies in Michigan and among 60 nationwide in 29 states to receive a share of the $104.7 million in Healthy Homes Production Grant Program funds. The city has a long history of successful use of HUD funds to support low- and moderate-income families. In the past year alone, 25 housing units had lead abatement, 21 energy efficiency repairs, six with vinyl siding, and 23 with infrastructure repairs.

“This award will allow us to serve even more citizens in our community by providing the resources needed to address household hazards that negatively impact health,” said Stevie Parcell, CNS Grants Program Coordinator. “We’re eager to help create a healthier Muskegon County through this program. Our impact will only become greater in the coming years through this new award.”

The significance of the Healthy Homes Production Grant Program is that it takes a comprehensive approach to addressing childhood diseases and injuries by coordinating the improvement of family homes rather than addressing one health or safety issue at a time.

“City staff has done an excellent job of identifying and attracting resources for the betterment of our city and its residents,” said Muskegon Mayor Ken Johnson. “This grant combined with our current federal housing allotments and our original state lead abatement grant will allow us to make a significant improvement in the living conditions of some of our most vulnerable residents.”

Major Gift for Idema Explorers Camp at Ottawa Sands

from the Ottawa County Parks Foundation

Ottawa County Parks Foundation announces receipt of major gift which will help the Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission build the “Idema Explorers Camp” and related amenities at Ottawa Sands County Parks, adding unique overnight accommodations to the Grand River Greenway and 2,479-acre  corridor of connected dune lands.
Another grant will assist with implementation of ecological enhancements

Landmark Gift

“The Bill and Bea Idema Foundation has been a great supporter of connecting people with the natural world throughout West Michigan, including major support for the Idema Explorers Trail,” said Bobbi Jones Sabine, Ottawa County Parks Foundation President. “This is a truly transformational gift which will open Ottawa Sands to people of all abilities; It will create a whole new kind of experience along the Grand River Greenway, as well as allow for deeper exploration of the connected duneland corridor.”

With the assistance of these major philanthropic gifts through the Ottawa County Parks Foundation, Ottawa County Parks & Recreation has initiated a $5.2-million effort to implement several components of the Ottawa Sands Master Plan; its centerpiece being the unique campground – certain to become a major attraction along the Grand River Greenway.

Ottawa Sands Master Plan

“The acquisition of the 345-acre Ottawa Sands County Park in 2019 was a whirlwind process made possible only through the coordinated efforts of many residents, donors, and stakeholders. Our opportunity to purchase the $11.2 million sand mining site quickly emerged in the latter half of 2017 and was entirely unanticipated,” said Kelly Rice, Parks Commission President.

The property was the most recent addition to 2,479 acres of continuous public duneland in Northwest Ottawa County and was made possible through an unprecedented “off-cycle” grant application to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund. This key acquisition required a crucial donation of value from the previous landowner, $8 million in grant funding from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, a loan from The Conservation Fund, and a key partnership with Land Conservancy of West Michigan.

Since this acquisition was unanticipated, funding from the current Parks Millage (which extends through 2027) to develop the site is very limited. However, the 2020 Ottawa Sands Master Plan immediately generated excitement and interest upon its completion. The Master Plan proposed site improvements and ecological restoration, reclamation and enhancements of $23.3 million to the recently decommissioned sand mine over several phases. The improvements include:

  • Constructed dunal wet prairie and marsh, improving wildlife habitat
  • A 1.6-mile paved loop around the 80-acre inland lake
  • Day-use parking area near the current entrance
  • Outfitted camping experience for the Grand River with an accessible kayak launch
  • A beach on the lake
  • Dune overlook tower with views of Lake Michigan
  • Riverfront recreational area with docks

“It is important to note that we intentionally designed the Master Plan to have a light footprint while providing improved accessibility to the site’s most significant features. In fact, over 92% of the site is scheduled for ecological improvement through restoration and proper management, so the cherished experience of Ottawa Sands will remain intact,” said Parks Director Jason Shamblin. “In many cases, even the proposed developed areas will reclaim or enhance the site through sensitive design of facilities and infrastructure.”

ottawa

Visit miottawa.org for more information.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

The chickadee
 hangs under the eves
finds treasure we don’t see;
He pecks and then he flies away,
I watch him and wonder what it could be.

Bugs or seeds
Left over parts of weeds,
Or just moisture dripping down;
Like all of us, no fame no fuss,
In life it might be about what is laying around,
  we too have found.
Though not too sure about the hanging up side down.. 

Taste of Muskegon Moves to Second Week of June

tasteofmkg

Muskegon, MI – Taste of Muskegon is moving the event from its traditional third week of June to the second week of the month. This is a permanent move. The decision was made in honor of Juneteenth celebrations which often occur on the third weekend. 

“It’s a big decision to move the timing of a large event in its 16th year, but we feel that is appropriate,” said Anne Meisch, Director of Taste of Muskegon. “We don’t want to possibly put people in the position of making a choice between attending Taste or marking this important moment in our nation’s history.”

Taste of Muskegon is produced by the  Downtown Development Authority. Taste of Muskegon will be held June 10-11, 2022 in Hackley Park. To learn more about the events at Taste of Muskegon, visit their website at www.tasteofmuskegon.org.

Stories from the Violins of Hope – January 27th, 2022

submitted by Chris Anderson – Center for Holocaust & Genocide Studies – Muskegon

chgsimage

How to make your reservation and participate:

1.     WATCH the 2-minute trailer at https://youtu.be/N4FBVBL0ck4
2.     As soon as possible, click on this Eventbrite link to make your reservation to:
a)    receive the Vimeo link along with a password to watch the 56-minute film film won either January 26th or 27th, and,
b)    receive a ZOOM link for the Q & A session with the director, the writer, and one of the actors. This zoom will take place from 7:45-8:30 pm on January 27th.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – January 18 – 24, 2022

www.visitmuskegon.org

Don’t see YOUR event on the calendar?
Visit this link to see how easy it is to get it submitted
bit.ly/VisitMuskegonSubmitEvent

Tuesday January 18:

Unruly Irish Session
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 

Unruly Brewing Company 360 W. Western Ave., 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.

Take it Make it: Valentine’s Cards FREE
9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Muskegon Area District Library – All Locations! All Locations! Visit any branch to pick up your free craft kit and make valentine cards for family and friends.

Mini-ART-ure Golf
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
 
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 West Webster Ave., come play mini-golf inside. Explore the galleries and art as you perfect your putt in a fully playable, 9-hole mini-golf course. $5 per person January 6- May 22 www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

Live Trivia Tuesdays at No Name Saloon
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm 

No Name Saloon 609 W Western Ave. Every Tuesday, Prizes for the Top 3 teams! Free to play!

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Currently snowshoeing and cross country skiing are available. Please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

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 January 19:

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Currently snowshoeing and cross country skiing are available. Please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

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 January 20:

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Currently snowshoeing and cross country skiing are available. Please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

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.

FREE TOURS: Muskegon Museum of Art
11:00am – 8:0pm

This is a great opportunity to visit the Muskegon Art Museum located at 296 W. Webster Ave. and bring the kiddos! This FREE tour time is compliments of the Meijer Foundation. www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

Friday January 21:

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-10:00pm

Currently snowshoeing and cross country skiing are available. Please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Josh Brady
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Montague, Josh Brady’s sound is a mix of many genres including Rock, Pop, Hip Hop, Indie, psychedelic, grunge, and country music. He plays a 50/50 mix of originals and covers

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Youngstown
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Check out the Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey game at Muskegon Mercy Health Arena located at 470 W. Western Ave., in downtown Muskegon! 

Karaoke Fridays at Full Moon Diner and Saloon
9:00 pm – 11:50 pm 

Full Moon Diner and Saloon 3408 Whitehall Rd., Come to the Full Moon Diner and Saloon for a fun evening of Karaoke with DJ Noodle.

Saturday January 22:

January Saturdays: Sensory Bottle
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave., Pop in to the Lakeshore Museum Center where they will be creating take-home sensory bottles.

The Smiths
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague, invites you to discover this favorite local husband and wife guitar and vocal duo

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-10:00pm

Currently snowshoeing and cross country skiing are available. Please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Youngstown
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Check out the Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey game at Muskegon Mercy Health Arena located at 470 W. Western Ave., in downtown Muskegon! 

Muskegon Voyagers Home Hockey Game – vs – Warhawks
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Check out the Muskegon Voyagers for their home game -vs- Warhawks. Puck drops at 7:30pm at the Lakeshore Sports Centre located at 4470 Airline Rd. General admission tickets are $10

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

Indoor Farmers Market
8:00am-2:00pm

Muskegon Farmers Market is the same location 242 W. Western Ave. for the winter months only they are inside the building so stop by!

Sunday January 23:

Free Country Rock Dance Lessons with Chris Sanz!
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm 

5571 E Apple Ave., Do you like country music? Learn some new steps to make it even more fun! Chris will teach us beginner and intermediate moves, dancing to country music. All dance levels are welcome!

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Currently snowshoeing and cross country skiing are available. Please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Green Bay
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Check out the Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey game at Muskegon Mercy Health Arena located at 470 W. Western Ave., in downtown Muskegon! 

Monday January 24 :

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm

Currently snowshoeing and cross country skiing are available. Please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!

Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

FDA Approving Mail-Order Abortions

submitted by Anna-Marie Visser, Director of Communication/Education, Right to Life of Michigan

On December 16, 2021, the FDA permanently approved the prescribing of RU-486, the abortion pill, over telemedicine appointments. In February of 2021, the FDA temporarily approved the use of the abortion pill through telemedicine due to the COVID pandemic shutdowns. This approval eliminates the REMS requirement that in-person examinations and ultrasounds must be conducted before prescribing the pill to women.

The abortion pill, also known a medical abortion, has been a danger to women since the moment it was created. In-person examinations and ultrasound are conducted to rule out an ectopic pregnancy or rh negative.  It is important that the pregnancy be dated properly to make sure that it is 10 weeks or earlier. Once the woman has taken mifepristone in office and then misoprostol at her home, a follow-up appointment is necessary to make sure that the abortion was complete. Within 24-hours, the woman experiences heavy bleeding, stomach cramping, and emotional trauma from having an abortion.

Complications Reported

The U.S. does not require states to report their yearly abortion statistics to the CDC. California, New Hampshire, and Maryland refuse to report any data on abortion to the CDC and the rest of the states that do report, are not held to accuracy when publishing their numbers. According to the 2019 CDC report, 24 deaths resulted from medical abortions with 4,000 complications. Complications typically include incomplete abortions, infection from ectopic pregnancy, and excessive bleeding.

A 2009 study from “Obstetrics and Gynecology” found that the complication rate for medical abortions was 20% while complications for surgical abortions was 5.6%. Medical abortions that are incomplete are then followed up with a surgical abortion.

Prevalence

The CDC 2019 reported that 629,898 abortions took place in the U.S. Within Michigan, 29,669 abortions took place in 2020 and of those, 15,333 were completed by the abortion pill which is only going to increase as it becomes more accessible and less restricted.

Future Problems

Telemedicine appointments were created for patients that lived in rural areas or who didn’t feel comfortable being in-person during COVID.  The woman is advised to go to the emergency room to treat the complications. This is an incentive for abortion facilities because they will not have to pay for the prep or clean-up of the abortion.

The bottom line is that the abortion pill, a deadly and dangerous drug, will be shipped all throughout the country through the mailing system.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

We won’t let
 pain and weakness get us down,
We will just do things
 a little smaller and slower in time;
For what gets done becomes,
 a prize for some,
The rest will resolve itself in time,
 just fine.

be as the chickadee flies
 but right side up ..