Monthly Archives: January 2022

“Winslow Homer: Illustrating a Nation” at the Muskegon Museum of Art

Winslow Homer: Illustrating a Nation brings Civil War Era Illustrations to the Muskegon Museum of Art

homer

MUSKEGON, MI — The Muskegon Museum of Art presents a new exhibition, Winslow Homer: Illustrating a Nation, opening Thursday, January 20. Winslow Homer was one of the most significant American artists of the 19th century, famed for his dramatic depictions of people and nature, as well as his illustrations of day-to-day life and the battles of the Civil War in Harper’s Weekly, a New York City based illustrated magazine that extensively covered the American Civil War.

The exhibition features several of Homer’s best known images, including The Noon Recess, Snap the Whip, A Sharpshooter on Picket Duty, and The Dinner Horn, a companion image to the MMA’s oil painting Answering the Horn. Other works in the exhibition depict illustrations of leisure, work, and the everyday lives of people, as well as dramatic scenes and circumstances.

In 1861, Harper’s Weekly assigned Homer to illustrate the events of the Civil War, which brought his work to the forefront of the nation. Homer captured the day-to-day events of the war, illustrating battles, soldiers in conflict and at rest, and the effects of the war on the families at home. Today, the Harper’s Weekly illustrations serve as a direct record of the events of the Civil War.

An opening reception will be held at the Muskegon Museum of Art on January 20 from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Refreshments will be provided.

Winslow Homer: Illustrating a Nation is underwritten by the JSJ Foundation, Thelma & Paul Wiener Fund for the Arts of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, and Blue Lake Public Radio.

For more information or questions, contact Kristina Broughton at kbrought@muskegonartmuseum.org or call at (231) 720-2574.

Ottawa County Courts Pause Jury Trials

Jury trials expected to resume in February

GRAND HAVEN – In consultation with the Ottawa County Department of Public Health, the 20th Judicial Circuit Court and Ottawa County Probate Court will pause summoning the public to the courthouses to serve as jurors. The Courts intend to resume jury trials on February 1, 2022. All jury trials scheduled before February 1 will be adjourned and new dates will be set.

Village of Fruitport Council Meeting Agenda – 01/17/22

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
AGENDA
JANUARY 17TH, 2022
COUNCIL MEETING

  1. Call to Order
  2. Pledge
  3. Prayer
  4. Roll Call
  5. Approval of January 17th Council Meeting Agenda
  6. Approval of December 20th meeting minutes
  7. Public Comments (Limited to 3 minutes each)
  8. Correspondence
  9. Reports from Officers

Old Business

  1. Abandoned portion of 5th Street
  2. Handicap Parking Lot
  3. 7th & Peach
  4. Feeding of Waterfowl
  5. Public Comment (Limited to 3 minutes each)
  6. Warrants
  7. Adjournment

Fruitport Board of Education Annual Organizational Meeting Agenda – 01/17/22

Fruitport Board of Education
Annual Organizational Meeting
January 17, 2022 – 7:00 p.m.
Board Room

3255 E. Pontaluna Rd.
Fruitport, MI 49415

I. Call to Order – Jason Kennedy, Superintendent

II. Pledge of Allegiance

III. Roll Call (by recording secretary)

IV. Election of Officers (attachment #IV-1)

V. Designate a District employee authorized to post Board meeting notices under the Open Meetings Act. (attachment #V-1)

VI. Adjournment

– Recess –

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 01/17/22

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Board Room

3255 E. Pontaluna Rd, Fruitport 49415
Monday, January 17, 2022 – 7:00 p.m.

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. PRESENTATIONS
1. Board Appreciation Presentation

V. COMMUNICATIONS

VI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

VIII. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Special Meeting Minutes of January 6, 2022 (attachment VII-1)
2. Approval of Bills (attachment VII-2)
General Fund $184,413.57
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center 4,770.29
Food Service 70,890.06
Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage 22,985.60
Debt Service Fund 2010 1,000.00
Total Bill List $284,059.52

3. Acceptance of Monthly Financial Report and ACH Transactions (attachment VII-3)
4. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report (attachment VII-4)
5. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report (attachment VII-5)
6. Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report (attachment VII-6)
7. Approval of 2021 Bond Report (attachment VII-7)
8. Approval of Personnel Report (includes confirmation of new hires, resignations, retirees, and transfers) (attachment VII-8)

IX. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Second and Final Reading of New and Updated Board Policies (attachment IX-1)

X. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Elroy Buckner, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held January 10, 2022 (attachment X-1)

XI. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held January 10, 2022 (attachment XI-1)
2. Non-affiliated Salary Increase for Fiscal Year 2022 (attachment XI-2)
3. Letter of Agreement with the Fruitport Education Association (attachment XI-3)

XII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Susan Franklin, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held January 12, 2022 (attachment XII-1)

XIII. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

XIV. AGENDA ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Business & Finance Committee will meet January 14, 2022 @ 11:30 a.m.
2. Personnel Committee Meeting will meet January 14, 2022 @ 4:30 p.m.
3. Reschedule Student Affairs Committee Meeting

XV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVI. ADJOURNMENT

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

Will Graham Shares Christmas Message of Hope Online

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

willgraham

For a second year, Will Graham shared a message of hope during an online Celebration. Recorded at the Billy Graham Library, the Christmas program premiered on multiple sites and Facebook pages on Dec. 20.
 
Graham was joined for the Christmas Celebration by his sister, Cissie Graham Lynch, who served as the host of the program, and award-winning artist Ellie Holcomb, who performed Christmas classics and favorites. Together the three reminisced about Christmas memories and traditions, while reflecting on the hope of Jesus Christ.
 
“True peace only comes through Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God who took away the sin of the world,” said Graham during his message. “That Baby that changed the world 2,000 years ago wants to come into your life tonight.”
 
Visit the BGEA website to learn more about the ministry’s evangelism and outreach plans.

Franklin Graham Serves Christmas Eve Meal in Mayfield, Kentucky

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

franklingraham

Franklin Graham joined Billy Graham Rapid Response chaplains and disaster relief teams from Samaritan’s Purse over the Christmas weekend in Mayfield, Kentucky, after tornadoes ripped through the community.
 
Together with food services teams from BGEA and Samaritan’s Purse, Graham helped serve meals on Christmas Eve and offered words of encouragement to the crowd.
 
“This community has lost a lot and what makes it especially tough is there has been so much loss of life,” said Graham. “I think it was important to let these people know that we aren’t going to abandon them. Even on Christmas, we are going to stay with them and help them.”
 
See more photos from the Christmas Eve meal in Kentucky on the BGEA website.

Ask Dr. Universe – COVID-19 & Pets

Dear Dr. Universe: How does COVID-19 affect our household pets? – Kolton, 11, Michigan
 
Dear Kolton,
 
A lot of researchers around the world are investigating this very question. While we don’t know everything about how the SARS-CoV-2 virus affects household pets, there are some things we do know.
 
My friend Dr. Raelynn Farnsworth, a veterinarian at Washington State University, told me all about it.
 
The risk of household pets spreading the SARS-CoV-2 virus to humans currently seems to be very low, she said. But a human who has the virus could potentially spread it to an animal, like a cat or dog, if they’ve been in close contact.
 
At the beginning of the pandemic, scientists at WSU and the University of Washington wanted to investigate a similar question to the one you’ve asked. They visited with pets that were living in households where the owners had COVID-19, the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
 
They tested the cats and dogs for the virus by putting a little swab up the animals’ noses. Maybe you or someone you know has had a test like this, too. Farnsworth said it’s a bit harder to do a swab test in cats, just because they have such tiny nostrils. Veterinarians sometimes give the cats a little throat swab instead. 
 
In the communities they studied, none of the pets showed symptoms of COVID-19. Those symptoms can often include sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes or fever.
 
Some cats and dogs didn’t show any symptoms, but they did have something else. The researchers found antibodies. Antibodies are a substance the body makes when it responds to a foreign substance in the body, like SARS-CoV-2. The antibodies develop to help fight off any future disease.
 
This was just one of many studies on pets and COVID-19 in our world. Scientists continue to look for cases of COVID-19 in animals. For example, in September 2021, the first U.S. case of a ferret with COVID-19 was reported in Florida.
 
Farnsworth told me that one animal related to the ferret is the mink. Early in the pandemic, researchers learned that humans can pass the virus onto mink and that mink can also pass it back to humans.
 
Scientists have also found COVID-19 in animals including tigers, lions, otters, non-human primates, hippos and white-tailed deer. We are still learning exactly how transmission between humans and other animals happens.
 
If you have more questions about COVID-19 in household pets or if you are curious about COVID-19 in other kinds of animals, you can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and their “Healthy Pets, Healthy People” website at cdc.gov/healthypets/covid-19
 
Thanks for your thoughtful question, Kolton. While there’s still a lot more research to do around COVID-19, including how it affects our pets, it’s great to know there are smart and caring researchers in our world who are helping us learn more about it. They work hard so people and their pets can be safe and healthy.
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe – Yellowstone Hot Springs

Dr. Universe: Why do bacteria in the Yellowstone hot springs make the water different colors? – Ava, 9, Kennewick, WA
 
Dear Ava,
 
One of the most eye-catching hot springs in Yellowstone National Park is the bright and colorful Grand Prismatic Spring. It’s blue in the middle with bands of colors ranging from green and yellow to orange and reddish-brown.
 
My friend Peter Larson is a geologist at Washington State University who is very curious about hot springs. He spent much of his research career in Yellowstone National Park.   
 
Larson said that when we look into the hot spring, we are seeing the colors of tiny living things called cyanobacteria.
 
In the middle of the hot spring, there aren’t any cyanobacteria. The water is nearly boiling, and they can’t survive the high temperatures.  
 
But as we move out from the middle of the hot spring, the water gets a bit cooler. We find a lot of cyanobacteria showing off their green and yellow colors.
 
These colors come from something called pigments. In fact, a lot of the colors we find in nature come from pigments. You even have pigments in your hair, eyes and skin. Pigments absorb certain waves of light from the sun and reflect others, which helps to give us the colors we see.
 
One very important pigment that cyanobacteria have is called chlorophyll. It not only gives them their yellow and green colors but also helps them survive.
 
Cyanobacteria can use their chlorophyll molecules to absorb energy from sunlight—an important ingredient they need to make their own food. When we see a lot of green or yellow in the hot spring, we know that the cyanobacteria are alive and well.
 
Some cyanobacteria also make pigments such as carotenoids, which help them use chlorophyll. Carotenoids can also provide them with some protection from the sun. When we see orangish parts of the hot springs, there are likely some carotenoid-making cyanobacteria in the water. 
 
At the very edge of some hot springs, we can also see some reddish-brown colors. This is the coolest part of the spring and home to a diverse community of cyanobacteria and other kinds of bacteria that give off red and brown colors. Even though this is the coolest part of the hot spring, it’s still really hot—around 131 degrees Fahrenheit.
 
Organisms that live in extreme environments, including some of the cyanobacteria in hot spring, are called extremophiles. Larson said hot springs and these extremophiles often get a lot of attention when scientists are wondering about the origins of life on Earth.
  
Larson and I want to thank you for your great science question. It’s a good reminder that a single question can take us into many different scientific fields. From geology to biology to astrophysics and beyond, it sure is an amazing world to explore.    
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Celebrate and Honor MLK Day at the Muskegon Museum of Art

mlk

MUSKEGON, MI — In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Muskegon Museum of Art is hosting a free community day on Monday, January 17 from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm. The public is invited to explore the galleries with Muskegon High School student docents, participate in an interactive museum tour of African American artists whose work is in the MMA permanent collection, and watch a film screening of ‘Black Man’ throughout the day.

Muskegon High School’s AP Art class will be docents from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm to talk about artwork from the MMA permanent collection. Each student chose a work of art from the collection to research and present to museum visitors on MLK Day.

The Muskegon Museum of Art is home to many artworks created by African American artists. During MLK Day, there will be an interactive museum tour specifically highlighting works by these artists. Kids can also pick up a fun coloring activity inspired by the highlighted works of art.

The film, ‘Black Man’, is a feature length documentary that tells the stories of the men behind SONS: Seeing the African American Male. The film is a kaleidoscope of raw, riveting, and candid conversations with black men about their lives, their loves, their losses, their AMERICA. Nearly three dozen men share their perspectives of the everyday black man in ways we have not seen on film. Muskegon is the backdrop for ‘Black Man’, but the stories are Any Town, USA. Screenings of ‘Black Man’ will be in the Muskegon Museum of Art’s auditorium at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, and 3:30 pm.

The MiniARTure Golf exhibition will be closed during MLK Day events.

For more information or questions, contact Kristina Broughton at kbrought@muskegonartmuseum.org or call at (231) 720-2574.

Trial Division Director Susan M. Franklin Promoted to Ottawa County Court Administrator

Following a 44-year career in the judicial system, including nearly 19 years in Ottawa County, Court Administrator Kevin J Bowling announced his plans to retire on January 14th. This announcement began a four-month recruitment and selection process that was completed earlier this month.

The national recruitment process resulted in numerous applications, including candidates from several Michigan jurisdictions, several states (AZ, CA, NV, PA, UT), and Canada. Based on the Interview Panel assessments, a thorough review of all application materials, and input from all judges, the Chief Judges selected Trial Division Director Susan M. Franklin as the next Circuit/Probate Court Administrator.

franklin

Ms. Franklin’s credentials for this position include a Bachelor of Arts in English (GVSU), a Master of Public Administration (GVSU), and a Juris Doctor cum laude (MSU College of Law), as well as SCAO certifications (CEO, Mediation) and MSP LEIN certifications. As a member of the State Bar of Michigan (P66047) Ms. Franklin developed court specific experience serving as Law Clerk for the 9th Circuit Court in Kalamazoo, before moving into private legal practice for 12 years with Williams Hughes, PLLC in Muskegon. For nearly four years, Ms. Franklin has served with distinction as the 20th Circuit Trial Division Director – leading many of our staff who directly assist the Circuit Judges and help maintain daily courtroom operations. In addition to being a State Bar member and member of the Ottawa County Bar Association, Ms. Franklin is an active member of the Michigan Association of Circuit Court Administrators and the National Association for Court Management.

Due to the hard work of all the Circuit/Probate judges and employees, the Ottawa County Courts have developed a reputation as a high performing jurisdiction. Building on this reputation of success, the Courts are looking forward to Susan Franklin’s leadership while pursuing strategic goals and continuing strong collaborative relationships with community, County, and State partners.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Out across the field I watch
As snow begins to fall;
I smile to myself
In spite of myself,
A higher power of our believing
Gracious God of our receiving,
Appears in control of it all.
We each one
 one of the masses of time..

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Dizzy with decision
Weak with worry
Tired from hectic
Handling and hurry;
Proud of ones stamina
Seeking the best
One steps forward into another day
With a whispered prayer and another deep breath.
as we go

Ballot Proposal Filed to Repeal Michigan’s 1931 Abortion Ban

submitted by Right to Life of Michigan

Lansing, MI — Ballot proposal paperwork has been filed to the Board of State Cansavers by pro-abortion groups including Reproductive Freedom for All, American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, and Michigan Voices.

The proposal is the first step in efforts to reverse the Michigan 1846 abortion ban and create a state constitutional right for abortion.

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

It is disappointing, but not unexpected, that a ballot proposal has been filed in hopes of overturning a long-standing law that protects innocent babies from being killed. While the exact language has not been released, we know that Michiganders want to live in a life-affirming state.

The humanity of unborn children cannot be denied, as technology and science have proven, without a doubt, that they are human and deserve legal protection. Beginning at fertilization, the unborn child develops rapidly from a single cell to a fully formed infant by 15-weeks. An unborn child’s development is a gapless process just as an infant or adult’s development is a continuous and never-ending process.

We cannot allow the vulnerable to be killed in the name of convenience.

Right to Life of Michigan has been fighting for the past 50 years to protect the right to life and we will continue to do so until the humanity of the unborn is upheld and respected.

Background information:
1931 Abortion Ban Law
1972 Abortion Ballot Initiative Defeated

Muskegon County Courts Continue to Limit In-Person Access to Courthouse

from the Muskegon County Court Administrators

Due to recent increases in positive COVID-19 cases in Muskegon County, and after
consultation with the Muskegon County Public Health Department, the Muskegon
County Courts have consulted with local public health officials and determined that the
following COVID response directives limiting in-person access will continue through at
least February 14th.

  1. Court offices (District, Probate, Circuit, Family Court and Friend of the Court) will
    not be open to serve the general public on a ‘walk-in’ basis.
  2. Most court hearings will continue to be conducted virtually via Zoom. Other court
    hearings will continue to be held in-person. Instructions on how to appear and
    how to participate for a court hearing will be provided to all parties along with a
    notice to appear. If you have an attorney and you are uncertain about whether
    you should appear in person or to appear remotely, please contact your attorney
    immediately.
  3. Everyone entering the Hall of Justice will be required to self-screen for COVID
    symptoms. Anyone accessing court services will be required to wear a mask at
    all times while inside the building.
  4. Scheduled jury trials will continue to be adjourned at least through the week of
    February 14th. If you have received a juror summons, please follow the
    instructions for contacting the jury hotline for more information regarding your
    term of service.
  5. Other Muskegon County offices are not governed by this action by the courts. All
    other departments remain open, until further notice.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it a great many challenges. It has also
proven the resiliency of our citizens, and their institutions of government. We have
found, and continue to find, new and innovative ways to meet these challenges – to
adapt and to respond in a manner that ensures the public’s health and safety while at
the same time preserving access to the justice system. We appreciate your continued
patience and understanding.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – January 11 – 17, 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 11:

Teen Club FREE for everyone
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Muskegon Area District Library – Norton Shores Branch 705 Seminole Rd.,
Join us at Teen Club for crafts, trivia, book discussions and more each second Tuesday of each month. FREE for everyone!

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 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 12:

Teen Dragon Eye Necklace
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Muskegon Area District Library-North Muskegon Branch 1522 Ruddiman Dr.,
Are you excited for the Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon or do you just love dragons? Make a dragon eye necklace with us using nail polish. Registration is required for this craft 231-737-6248 www.madl.org

Dungeons and Dragons in the Stacks
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Muskegon Area District Library – Norton Shores Branch 705 Seminole Rd.,
Maybe you’ve heard of a strange and mythical game involving many sided dice and fighting monsters. You’re intrigued but don’t know where to start. Never fear! Staff from The Griffin’s rest will teach you. Registration is required for this free event for ages 13+. www.madl.org

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 13:

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 14:

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- U17
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! 

Silverado Country Band
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague, Favorite Country Standards – a bit of dancing perhaps

Paper Creations
4:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Muskegon Area District Library – Muskegon Heights Branch 2808 Sanford St.,
Make a 3-D model of popular characters from TV, video games, and anime using a piece of paper. This is a FREE event!

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 15:

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

Plain Jane Glory Live at Wonderland Distilling Co.
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Wonderland Distilling 1989 Lakeshore Dr. Americana/Folk/Indie Plain Jane Glory are excited to be playing their first show of 2022 as they make their debut at the critically acclaimed Wonderland Distilling Co. No admission charge.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Green Bay
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! 

Acoustic Oasis
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry Street Montague, Phil Petersen and Glen Miller, AKA Acoustic Oasis, are two guys who love playing music.

January Saturdays: Petoskey Stone History
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave. Rock and roll and learn the story/history behind the naming of our state stone. May take home your very own Petoskey stone, too! www.lakeshoremuseum.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

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 16:

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 17 :

Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Our Office is Closed

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

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

Personnel
Monday, January 10, 2022
4:30 p.m. ~ Central Office
MEETING AGENDA

  1. Employment Resignation/Termination of Transportation Employee
  2. Update on Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS)
  3. Update on Contract Negotiations – Administrators
  4. Personnel Board Policy Updates
  5. Superintendent Out of State Travel – No Expense to District
  6. Other
  7. Public Comment
  8. Adjournment

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Agenda – 01/06/22

Fruitport Community Schools
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
Thursday January 6, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.

Board of Education Meeting Room

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

V. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

  1. Regular Board Meeting Minutes of December 13, 2021 (attachment V-1)
  2. Student Discipline Hearings
  3. Other

VI. ADJOURNMENT

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

Muskegon County Commissioners Elect Vice-Chairperson

The Muskegon County Board of Commissioners held its annual Organizational Meeting January 4th, 2022.  The Board voted 5-4 to elect Commissioner Susie Hughes (District 3) as vice-chairperson. 

hughes
Susie Hughes, Vice-Chairperson

Susie Hughes brings experience to this position as she has served as a County Commissioner since 2013.  Commissioner Hughes has a long list of service to the Muskegon community as she has served as past Chairman of the Board, served on many committees of the whole, and has served on various community boards and committees including being a founding member of the Sportsman for Youth Program and past Chairman of the West Michigan Regional Development Commission.

scolnik
Robert Scolnik, Chairman

Chairman Bob Scolnik (District 4) was elected to serve as Chairman for a two-year term in 2021.  He was first elected to the Board in 2003.  Chairman Scolnik is an entrepreneur and philanthropist.  He serves on many committees and boards in the community including the Boys & Girls Club and the Library Board. During today’s meeting, Scolnik announced his choices to chair the board’s committees-of-the-whole. 

These are the committee leaders:

  • Community Development/Strategic Planning – Chairman Doug Brown ◊ Vice-Chairman Susie Hughes
  • Courts & Public Safety – Chairman Malinda Pego ◊ Vice-Chairman Marcia Hovey-Wright
  • Human Services – Chairman Marcia Hovey-Wright ◊ Vice-Chairman Zach Lahring
  • Transportation – Chairman Doug Brown ◊ Vice-Chairman Rillastine Wilkins
  • Ways & Means – Chairman Kim Cyr ◊ Vice-Chairman Doug Brown

Ottawa County Commissioners Elect Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson

The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners unanimously elected Matt Fenske (District 11) as chairperson and Al Dannenberg (District 4) as vice-chairperson at the January 3rd, 2022 Ottawa County Board Organizational Meeting.

fenske
Matt Fenske

Matt Fenske is in his third term as a County Commissioner and served as vice-chairperson since 2020. He has served on multitudes of County Boards and has chaired the Mental Health Board as well as the Agricultural Preservation Board. Prior to becoming an Ottawa County Commissioner for District 11, Fenske had a 33 year career with the 17th Circuit Court in Kent County. Fenske also serves Tallmadge Township on the Planning Commission and has sat on the Zoning Board of Appeals and Board of Trustees in the past.

dannenberg
Al Dannenberg

Al Dannenberg was elected County Commissioner in 2013 after a decade serving as a Zeeland City Councilman. He currently serves on the Health & Human Services Committee, the Planning & Policy Committee, the Community Mental Health Board, WEMET, the Solid Waste Planning Committee, the Food Services Appeals Board and the Zeeland Recreation Board. In addition to his numerous public service roles, Dannenberg is also a realtor and enjoyed a 35 year career at Mead Johnson.

Access services and learn more about the Ottawa County Commissioners at miOttawa.org 

Alley Door Club 2022 Season at the Frauenthal Center

adc

MUSKEGON, MI. — The Alley Door Club returns to the Frauenthal Center for its 16th season.

Every 2nd and 4th Friday from January to March, the Alley Door Club will feature live music from popular West Michigan bands. Located in the Ballroom on the 3rd floor of the Hilt Building, these unique concerts are complete with dancing and a full cash bar. Doors open at 6:00pm for happy hour and $1 off all drinks, with live music from 7:00 – 10:00pm.

The 2022 Alley Door Club performance schedule is as follows:

Friday, January 14: Big Daddy Fox & Friends – R&B, Rockin’ Blues
Friday, January 28: Steeple Hill – Putting Live Energy into Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites
Friday, February 11: Westside Soul Surfers – R & B, Funk, & Soul
Friday, February 25: That Beatles Thing – Beatles Classics
Friday, March 11: Brena – Rock
Friday, March 25: Flexadecibel – Bangin’ Originals with a Mix of Classic and Modern Covers

Tables may be reserved: $65.00 for a 4-top (includes 4 admission tickets) / $130.00 for an 8-top (includes 8 admission tickets). Limit of two 4-tops and two 8-tops reserved for each performance, available on a first-come basis.

Tickets are $10. To purchase tickets for Alley Door Club performances and other upcoming shows, click here, visit Etix.com, or stop by our Box Office on weekdays from 11:00 am – 5:30 pm. To stay up to date on what’s happening at the Frauenthal Center, visit www.frauenthal.org and follow us on social media.

ABOUT THE FRAUENTHAL CENTER:
Here, you’ll find captivating performances, beautiful event venues, thought-provoking art, and invigorating workspaces – all nestled in the historic heart of Muskegon. Join us as we embark on our 91st season! Created by the community, for the community, the Frauenthal Center is a gathering place for culture and connections. Continuing to improve the quality of life for the residents of Muskegon County, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County remains committed to the ownership and operation of the Frauenthal Center and its future development.

Franklin Graham Announces Rescheduled God Loves You Tour – UK

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

franklingraham

Much has changed since the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) announced in mid-2020 that the Graham Tour UK with Franklin Graham would be postponed in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges in the United Kingdom. Even through these unprecedented circumstances, BGEA has remained committed to the goal of proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ and in doing so has rescheduled the God Loves You Tour – UK.
 
The essence of the message that BGEA shares is found in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
 
Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, said, “We want all people to know that God loves them and everlasting life is available to anyone. This remains the purpose for every BGEA event, and it is why we have named the rescheduled tour the God Loves You Tour – UK.”
 
DATES AND LOCATIONS FOR THE 2022 GOD LOVES YOU TOUR – UK
Liverpool: 14 May – Exhibition Centre
South Wales: 21 May – ICC Wales (Newport)
Sheffield: 25 May – Sheffield Arena
London: 16 July – ExCeL London
 
The tour will be free of charge and everyone is welcome. Additional details for the events scheduled in 2022 will be made available soon.

For more information, visit GodLovesYouTour.org.uk

Muskegon Area CTC HOSA Students Participate in Challenge to Save and Heal Lives

Annual HOSA Challenge sets records in effort to help patients on organ transplant waiting list

Muskegon Area CTC students rally to increase number of Michigan organ and tissue donors

There are nearly 1,000 new organ and tissue donors registered in Michigan, thanks to the efforts of students across the state.

The students, from Michigan Health Occupation Students of America – known as HOSA-Future Health Professionals – have just completed their fourth statewide competition to register new organ and tissue donors and inspire support for organ and tissue donation. 

This year, 25 different chapters, including Muskegon Area Career Tech Center HOSA, took part in the competition to save and heal lives, coordinating nearly 3,500 activities to educate the community about organ, eye and tissue. A total of 964 new donors were registered.

“Once again, Michigan HOSA students have gone above and beyond to help Michiganders waiting for organ, eye and tissue transplants,” said Alison Gillum, Community Relations Coordinator at Gift of Life Michigan. “They did an amazing job.”

Schools are awarded points for each new registration and for the activities they coordinate to educate their peers about organ and tissue donation. Muskegon Area CTC students registered 41 new donors and completed a variety of activities to educate the community about donation.

Kathy Andrews, Health Science Academy Instructor and HOSA Advisor at the Career Center says, “this is our fourth time being a part of the Gift of Life HOSA Challenge. Our students are so proud to participate in this important work that will help people right here in our community.”

There are nearly 107,000 people waiting for a new organ in the U.S., including 2,478 in Michigan. A single donor can save up to eight lives and help as many as 75 more through donated tissue.

“This has been an important partnership for us,” said Dorrie Dils, CEO of Gift of Life Michigan. “I am impressed with the energy, enthusiasm and creativity these students show in educating the community and advocating for organ and tissue donation. Each new registration brings new hope to the many people waiting for a life-saving transplant.”

Since the Challenge’s inception in 2019, Michigan HOSA students have registered more than 3,100 donors. To see a complete list of schools that participated this year, visit www.golm.org/hosa.

About Gift of Life Michigan
Gift of Life Michigan is a federally designated organ procurement organization that serves the state of Michigan as the intermediary between donors, their families and hospital staff. In collaboration with Eversight, Gift of Life provides all services necessary for organ, eye and tissue donation. For more information, or to sign up on the Donor Registry, visit www.golm.org or call 866.500.5801.

Mother’s Day Community Play Auditions – January 10th, 2022

Calling Cast & Crew!

auditions

To DONATE towards this project, CLICK HERE!
(select Mother’s Day Event)

An INVITATION: be part of the community COLLABORATION!

“The Corner” Building – 280 W Muskegon Ave.
A HUB for Community Events

thecorner

A UNIQUE beautiful building downtown on the corner of Third Street and Muskegon Ave. will soon become a HUB for community events, meeting space, worship events, and other community gathering possibilities!

A COLLABORATION of churches and businesses with various backgrounds and religious views are meeting regularly to share ideas on how to renovate it into something that can draw and house many types of events for the benefit of our community.

BIG EVENT- The first big event: A Mother’s Day celebration production PLAY called “Someone, Please Love Me” (a story of an unplanned crisis pregnancy, of God’s love, and of the courage and selflessness of adoption). This community production will be presented on May 5th, 6th, and two showings on 7th. Tickets will be available soon. All proceeds to benefit the Muskegon Pregnancy Services!

AUDITIONS – are this coming Monday, January 10th at “The Corner” at 7pm. There are cast parts for all age groups. (A boy between ages 7-9, a girl between ages 13-17, an older boy between ages 17-19. Others cast members are adults). If you want to be part of the “stage crew” also come to the audition to get signed up! Come share your talents!

IN PREPARATION – “The Corner ” building needs some loving attention & care. We are looking for building and stage renovation help, set design, painters, lighting, curtains, etc.

MARKETING – We are asking each church to support by posting marketing information about the play and help pre-sell tickets to their congregations. We also would like to share and invite the community who may not be attending a church currently. Would someone help pay for a billboard, yard signs, or advertisement?

SPONSORS – Businesses / Churches / Individuals – If you want to help support this community project financially and have your organization / name advertised, we will have various ways for you to do that! We will have paid advertisement space on the program, and sponsors listed on a poster board at the event, social media, and other visibility. Contact us!

CONTACT – Pastor Jerry DePoy 231-719-7709 or Executive Director, Deb Null, of Muskegon Pregnancy Services at 231-206-2471 if you want to be part of this awesome community collaboration in any way!

MPS Website

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 01/10/22

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

JANUARY 10, 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: 12/13/21
  4. Approve / amend agenda
  5. Correspondence / reports
  6. Public comments regarding agenda items
  7. Unfinished Business
    A. Resolution: Health Insurance Coverage for Dependents
  8. New Business
    A. Re-appointment of Joe DeMarco and Russ Stressman to the ZBA
    B. Mt Garfield Lift Station Pump Repair
  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

A Thought for Today

By Connie Jarka

Take the dance offered
Take the chance given in kind;
For what we receive as blessings from others
We shall give back in double time.

Ask Dr. Universe – How I Got My Name

Dear Dr. Universe: How did you get your name? – Byron, 13, Pennsylvania
 
Dear Byron,
 
It turns out a lot of kids around the world have been wondering about the answer to this very question—after all, you don’t hear the name “Dr. Universe” every day.
 
Believe it or not, I wasn’t entirely sure about the origin of my name. But my friends at the Washington State University Libraries had the answer in their historical archives. Yes, the local library is a great place to visit when you have a big question.
 
As I read through the archives, I learned that I wouldn’t have my name if it weren’t for two people who worked at the university.   
 
One of these people was Tim Steury, who at the time was writer and editor of WSU’s research magazine, “Universe.” The other person was Bob Smith who served as dean of the WSU Graduate School.
 
While most people call me Dr. Universe, my first name is Wendy, and my middle name is Sue. With the last name Universe, that makes my initials W.S.U. You couldn’t ask for a better set of initials, really.
 
You know, our names are an important part of our identity. Identity means the qualities, beliefs, personality and expressions that make up a person or a group of people. Maybe you even have a nickname that’s part of your identity. Sometimes my friends call me Dr. U for short.
 
While I was thinking about your question, it also reminded me how scientists often name things, too. For instance, when they discover a new planet, species or element—or come up with a new theory—they have to think of something to call it.
 
In biology, one of the terms for the system of names we use to describe something is called nomenclature. “Nomen” in Latin means “name.” The binominal, or two term, naming system is what biologists around the world use to describe different animals, insects, bacteria and other living things.
 
The naming system requires both a species name and the genus name. For example, I am a feline, or Felis catus. Some animals have a species name and genus that are the same. For instance, Pica pica is the magpie, a kind of bird. Mola mola is the ocean sunfish. Bison bison is, well, a bison. There’s even a name for these types of names: tautonyms.
 
You are a Homo sapiens, or human. Individual humans have a variety of different names. They come in all kinds of different languages. All right, here’s a question for you: How did you get your name? Perhaps you can do an investigation of your own.
 
Ask your family about the origin of your first and last name. Find out if it comes with an interesting story, holds a special meaning, was passed down from someone else or maybe even has a connection to the past. Ask your family and friends about the stories behind their names, too. When you ask a good question, you never know what you might discover.
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe
 
 Note: Bob Smith will publish a book about his career working in universities next year. Thanks for giving me a name and for sharing our story in your book.

~

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

Submit a question!

Muskegon Clippers Announce New Coaching Staff for 2022 Season

Muskegon’s Summer Collegiate Baseball Team Preparing for Upcoming Season

MUSKEGON, Mich. – The Muskegon Clippers are proud to announce that Logan Fleener has been named the Clippers’ Head Coach for the 2022 Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League season replacing long time Head Coach Walt Gawkowski.

A native of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Logan was a four-year letter winner at Blackman High School prior to beginning his collegiate career at Roosevelt University in Chicago, Illinois. While a member of the Roosevelt University Baseball Team, Logan served as team captain and was selected as a First Team All-Conference shortstop. Logan returns to West Michigan after spending the summer of 2016 as a member of the Muskegon Clippers.

His coaching resume’ includes stints as an assistant coach at Roosevelt University, Trevecca Nazarene University and his current position at Tennessee Wesleyan College. In addition, Logan spent the summer of 2018 as an assistant coach with the Rochester Honkers of the Northwoods Baseball League.

Logan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Roosevelt University and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University.

Dion Felger enters his first season as the Pitching Coach for the Muskegon Clippers. Dion enjoyed a successful collegiate playing career from 2014-2018 at Roane State Community College, Youngstown State University, and Ohio Valley University. Prior to joining the Clippers, he was a private pitching instructor in his hometown of Youngstown, Ohio. Dion graduated in 2019 from Youngstown State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology.

The only holdover from last season’s staff, the longtime coach at Shelby High School, Brian Wright returns for his eighth season as a member of the Muskegon Clippers’ Coaching Staff. Wright serves as the team’s third base coach and defensive coordinator.

lfleener
Logan Fleener – Head Coach
dfelger
Dion Felger – Pitching Coach
bwright
Brian Wright – Assistant Coach

The Muskegon Clippers season runs the months of June and July and is played at historic Marsh Field in Muskegon.

For more information contact Pete Gawkowski at 231-638-7696 or visit our website at www.muskegonclippers.com or join our Facebook page by searching Muskegon Clippers.

ABOUT THE MUSKEGON CLIPPERS
The Muskegon Clippers are members of the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate Baseball League which is a developmental league for college athletes from all over the country.  A Muskegon Clippers get rave reviews by baseball experts and fans alike for exciting baseball, low priced family fun and the interactive atmosphere generated while watching America’s pastime at historic Marsh Field.

Pigeon Creek Lodge Opening Today

The Pigeon Creek Lodge is open for cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals beginning today at 2 pm!

What to know before you visit:

>> Trail and sledding conditions and Pigeon Creek Lodge hours can be found online, always check them before you make the drive: miottawa.org/trails

>> We now have a Pigeon Creek Sledding Hill LIVESTREAM! Click here to check it out.

>> More information can be found at: miottawa.org/winter-rec

Reminder: Now that winter operations have begun the park is closed to hiking, biking, and pets. 

Pigeon Creek Lodge

The Pigeon Creek Lodge will be open for concessions this year. We are excited to welcome you back!

Equipment Rental

  • Ski and snowshoe rental will be available in the lodge on a first come first serve basis; equipment cannot be reserved in advance.
  • Capacity may be limited inside the rental area; be prepared to wait outdoors
  • A picture ID or credit card is required as security for all rentals

Rental Hours*

  • Monday-Thursday, 2-8 pm, no rentals after 6:30 pm
  • Friday, 1-10 pm, no rentals after 8:30 pm
  • Saturday, 9 am-10 pm, no rentals after 8:30 pm
  • Sunday, 9 am- 8 pm, no rentals after 6:30 pm

*Please note that rental is only offered during good ski conditions. Check our trail conditions page before you visit.

Rental Pricing

  • There are no entry or trail fees
  • Cross-country ski or snowshoe rental (three hours): $8; $2 per additional hour
  • Snowshoe rental for those 6 and under is free with a paid adult rental

Ski Lessons

Beginner, intermediate, and skate ski lessons will be offered. Check our program calendar to register.

Hemlock Crossing Nature Center

Hemlock Crossing Park is another popular destination during winter offering snowshoe rentals at the Nature Center during regular business hours. 

Snowshoe Rental

  • Tuesday through Saturday: 9am – 5pm (gear due back by 4pm)
  • Sunday: 12-5 pm (gear due back by 4 pm)
  • Confirm whether snowshoe rental is available online at miottawa.org/trails
  • Snowshoes are available for ages 4 and older

Rental Pricing

  • There are no entry or trail fees
  • Snowshoe rental (three hours): $8; $2 per additional hour
  • Snowshoe rental for those 6 and under is free with a paid adult rental

Winter Programs

Nature Center staff offers nature and recreation programming year-round, including snowshoe hikes. Check our program calendar to register.

Hackley Community Care Early Closure Due To Inclement Weather

MUSKEGON Mich. — Wednesday, January 6, 2022 

Due to the continued inclement weather and snow storm warnings extending into Friday, Hackley Community Care (HCC) will be closing all sites at 5:00 p.m. today. This includes Community Care Pharmacy, Leahy and our NowCare site at Clinton Street. 

As a result, there will be no late night services offered after 5:00 p.m. at any of our sites. Patients impacted by the closure will be notified via text. 

HCC is committed to the safety of our patients and staff and want to ensure everyone remains at home and is able to travel home safely.  

HCC will continue to monitor conditions and weather alerts to best determine our opening time for Friday morning. 

Please visit our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HackleyCommunityCare/ for additional updates.  

A Thought for Today

By Connie Jarka

To think that along this same step
Many others have traveled before;
Amidst new or re arranged life’s structure,
This ground is still the same old floor.
as we begin again.

Hackley Community Care Early Closure Due To Inclement Weather

MUSKEGON Mich. — Wednesday, January 5, 2022 

Due to the announced snow storm warnings and inclement weather, Hackley Community Care (HCC) will be closing all sites, including Community Care Pharmacy and our NowCare site at Clinton Street, today at 5:00 p.m. 

As a result, there will be no late night services offered after 5:00 p.m. at any of our sites. Patients impacted by the closure will be notified via text. 

HCC is committed to the safety of our patients and staff and want to ensure everyone remains at home and is able to travel home safely. 

Please visit our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/HackleyCommunityCare/ for additional updates. Regular hours will resume on Thursday, January 6, 2022. 

A Thought for Today

By Connie Jarka

Welcome New Days in
A New Year and,
    as we do;
So much possibility could lie ahead,
Or just another book as read,
    but here we go 2022.
HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!
GO AND BE!!!

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday January 3 – 10, 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 3:

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 4:

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

20 fingers, 176 keys, 1 million notes: Thielman/Uecker 2 Piano Duo
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague, 2 Piano Music of Bach, Copland, Corigliano, Shostakovich, Milhaud Dinner at 6:15 To RSVP email bryan@thebooknookjavashop.com $5 admission

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

Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, The Lost Photographs
11:00 am – 4:00 pm

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

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 5:

Snacktivity at Montague Area District Library
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Muskegon Area District Library – Montague Branch 8778 Ferry St., Meet at the library for games, crafts, LEGO and more every Wednesday. Snacks provided.

Jazz: Aedan McCauley, piano
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop located at 8744 Ferry St. Montague, enjoy Aedan McCauley will dazzle on the piano. There is a $5 charge

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

Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, The Lost Photographs
11:00 am – 4:00 pm

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

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 6:

Teen Video Game Night
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Muskegon Area District Library – Ravenna Branch 12278 Stafford St., Hang out and play Nintendo Switch party games. Snacks provided. Free for everyone!

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 7:

Bobby Jacobs and the Willoughby Band
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague, Bobby Jacobs & The Willoughby Band is a Muskegon-based country rock outfit heavily influenced by classic country and country rock.

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 8:

Serita’s Black Rose
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. A self-professed “Funkateer”, Serita Crowley of Serita’s Black Rose from Grand Rapids, Michigan brings a raucous mix of FUNK, ROCK, BLUES, NEO-SOUL, and AMERICANA

January Saturdays: Let’s Get Messy – Paint
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave., Stop by the museum for some hands-on art. Use different textured objects, like bubble wrap and pipe cleaners, to create unique patterns with paints.

Beginner’s Chainmaille: Celtic Pattern
3:00 am – 4:30 pm

McLaughlin Community Fellowship – 1198 Spring St., Come and learn the medieval art form of Chainmaille by creating a bracelet in the Celtic pattern style.
$20 per person.
https://slbenmark.wixsite.com/naturalcreations/store/Beginners-Chainmaille-Celtic-Pattern-Bracelet-p117182177

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

Boomtown Market Craft Beer & Wine Tastings
10:00 am – 7:00 pm 

BoomTown Market 351 W. Western Ave., Enjoy free Draft, Craft Beer & Wine Tastings. Sample unique Craft Beers on Tap

Sunday January 9:

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!

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 Voyagers Home Hockey Game – vs – Waterford
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Check out the Muskegon Voyagers for their home game -vs- Waterford. Puck drops at the Lakeshore Sports Centre located at 4470 Airline Rd.

Monday January 10 :

Descriptive Movie Afternoon
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Muskegon Area District Library – Visually & Physically Disabled Branch 4845 Airline Rd., Come sit back and enjoy a movie at the LVPD. Watch on a large TV with descriptive audio so that anyone can enjoy. Light refreshments provided.

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

The War on Children

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

On December 1, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in the case Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. At stake are Mississippi’s ban on abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy, and perhaps Roe v. Wade and the non-existing right to abortion through all nine months of pregnancy. The arguments on December 1 mostly revolved around how and when the Supreme Court can overturn prior decisions.

On the prolife side, Mississippi had an easy argument: abortion was never added to the Constitution. Justice Clarence Thomas repeatedly asked the lawyers representing the abortion facility and President Biden about what the right to abortion is, and neither could articulate exactly what it is.

The pro-abortion lawyers did articulate one very clear point: they argued Roe v. Wade must not be overturned because women rely on abortion. In their minds, there is a war between women and children, and only one can win.

Do you remember the 2012 election? One of the main attacks against Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign was that he was conducting a “war on women,” because he expressed prolife beliefs.

Is it true? Are women and their children in a permanent war against each other—a struggle to the death? If so, then isn’t all of society? Are we at war with anyone with a claim on our time? Teachers at war with students? Middle-aged children at war with elderly parents? Neighbor against neighbor; the rich against the poor: a war of all against all?

One particular exchange during oral arguments highlighted the absurdity of that argument. Justice Amy Coney Barrett was asking the pro-abortion lawyers about safe delivery laws and adoption, and if they meant women already had a legal means to avoid parenthood in any situation. Justice Barrett is proof positive that children are not fatal to career success. Justice Barrett is the mother of seven children, including one with Down syndrome and two adopted children.

It’s unclear what will happen. The consensus of court watchers is that arguments went very poorly for the abortion facility, but the Supreme Court is unpredictable. In 1992, the Supreme Court was going to overturn Roe v. Wade, until a justice bowed to pressure to change his mind, allowing another 33 million abortions to take place since then.

What is clear is that America faces two paths: one of peace and one of permanent war—with tens of millions of casualties to come.

Ask Dr. Universe – Winter Sky

Dr. Universe: Why does the sky turn darker in winter? – Alex, 6, Cincinnati
 
Dear Alex,
 
As winter gets underway here in North America, you may notice we don’t feel the sun’s rays for quite as many hours as we did in fall and summer.  
 
To find out why this happens, I talked with my friend Vivienne Baldassare, an astronomer at Washington State University.
 
She said the reason we get fewer hours of daylight in the winter has to do with how Earth rotates. As our planet goes around the sun, it is always rotating. This rotation is also why we have day and night.
 
When the part of Earth you’re standing on faces the sun, it is daytime. When the part you’re standing on faces away from the sun, it is night.
 
But the reason the length of daylight changes throughout the year is because our planet is a little bit tilted.
 
“Earth isn’t perfectly straight up and down,” Baldassare said. “It’s a bit tilted on its axis, more like a spinning top.”
 
The top half of the planet, which is known as the Northern Hemisphere, is tilted more toward the sun when it is summertime. But when it’s wintertime, that means Earth’s Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the sun. This can make the days feel shorter, and we have just passed the shortest day of the year.
 
In the Northern Hemisphere, we had 7 hours, 49 minutes and 42 seconds of daylight on Tuesday, Dec. 21. This is the day we mark as the winter solstice when the Earth’s northern pole reaches its maximum tilt away from the sun. You may also know it as the first day of winter.
 
After the winter solstice, the days start to get longer again in most places. But there are some places on our planet, like Tromsø, Norway, that will be completely dark for a few months. Antarctica will have six months of complete darkness.  
 
“The farther north you go, the earlier it gets darker in the winter. If you are all the way at the top of the world in the wintertime, you never feel the sun. It’s always dark,” Baldassare said.
 
Earth’s tilt is the reason why it gets dark so early in wintertime and the reason we have different seasons.
 
If you find yourself indoors for most of the winter season, you might try a new game, cozy up with a book, listen to your favorite music, do some stretches or keep a big list of all your science questions.
 
What kinds of activities do and your family like to do on winter days? Talk about it with your family or friends. Then, share your answer and ideas in an e-mail to Dr.Universe@wsu.edu. We might just feature your answers at AskDrUniverse.wsu.edu.   
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe