Monthly Archives: March 2022

Ottawa County Board Votes John Shay as next Administrator

March 24, 2022 – By a unanimous vote, the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners have extended an offer to John Shay to serve as the next County Administrator. Terms of the contract including wages and other benefits will be finalized in the coming weeks.

Shay began his service to Ottawa County as Deputy County Administrator in June of 2018. Before that, Shay served 15 years as the Ludington City Manager and a as Village Manager of Almont for the five-years prior. He received his Bachelor of Arts in History from Boston College and Master of Public Administration from Oakland University.

Outside of his work for Ottawa County, Shay governs on the Football Field as an official for the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association. John and his wife, Carla, have three children.

John Shay replaces former County Administrator Al Vanderberg who left in July of 2021 to become the Kent County Administrator. Shay will begin his duties as County Administrator pending the approval of an employment contract.

“I am very honored to officially be named Ottawa County’s next Administrator and to lead a dedicated team of public servants, providing excellent public services in a cost-effective manner,” said Shay.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Sharp turns in life
Can render
a well dreamed dream mute;
But a well prayed prayer
a little rendered care
Can present
another route.
hold on — dreams are coming…

Sign of Spring: Severe Weather Warning Siren Test

The first of several monthly outdoor warning siren tests for 2022 in Ottawa County will happen on Friday, April 1 at noon. These tests will continue through October on the first Friday of each month.

The warning sirens are designed to alert those who are outdoors of an imminent hazard, most often severe weather, prompting them to find shelter and seek further information. Sirens can typically be heard (outdoors) within a mile radius from their sounding location. More at details are available at www.miottawa.org/Sheriff/sirens.htm.

The tests are good reminders for residents to prepare for severe weather by having emergency supplies in their homes, such as water, flashlights, non-perishable foods and other items. Learn more about building a kit at www.ready.gov/build-a-kit.

Outdoor warning sirens represent only one part of a broader public emergency notification system. Other components include National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration All-Hazards Weather Radio, law enforcement, emergency management, text notification networks, private sector meteorologists and the media. Smartphone apps can also provide notification of weather watches and warnings.

Ottawa County Broadband Internet Initiative Marches Forward

Internet survey data being analyzed; county and partners prepare for next steps

Since June 2021, Ottawa County – in collaboration with Merit Network, Inc. – has been surveying area residents and businesses to capture a more accurate picture of local high-speed internet access and connection speeds. This data includes – but is not limited to – households with access to broadband and those without; households struggling to pay for broadband; and the reliability of existing broadband networks. This survey and data collection effort is part of a larger Comprehensive Digital Inclusion Strategy, a four-part initiative to ultimately establish universal access to affordable and reliable broadband throughout Ottawa County.

Next steps: Analyzing the data, developing solutions
Merit Network has been diligently analyzing and compiling the data collected during last year’s surveying efforts. Soon Merit will be presenting its findings to the Ottawa County Broadband Data Collection Steering Committee, Ottawa County officials, and Urban Wireless. With report in hand, Urban Wireless – with support from Ottawa County – will then develop a feasibility analysis, a preliminary engineering design, and a cost model.

Public-private partnerships are key
The Digital Inclusion Strategy will also be heavily dependent upon the development of strong public/private partnerships. “With a project of this magnitude, Ottawa County cannot go it alone,” said Paul Sachs. “We need to partner with internet service providers, fiber providers and equipment providers among others to bring this plan to fruition.” Some preliminary discussions have been had with companies operating in the region; as the weeks go by, the County anticipates more companies will express interest in the initiative.

Network managed as a public-private partnership
Once the broadband network is developed, Ottawa County expects it will have an ownership interest. However, this does not mean the County is interested in operating its own broadband network. The County’s interest would be that of deploying and owning the infrastructure, such as conduits to facilitate fiber lines, and towers where wireless is expected to be deployed. This infrastructure would then be leased to any providers that wish to sell their service in Ottawa County. Pursuing this model has potential benefits:
• It greatly reduces the amount of capital a service provider has to expend to provide broadband service in Ottawa County.
• It would likely keep prices reasonable by providing multiple service options and creating competition among the providers.

How will this work be funded?
Funding will come from a variety of resources. There are numerous grants, including ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) and the recently enacted Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), just to name a few. The specific grants for which Ottawa County is eligible depends in large part upon the results of its data collection. It is also not beyond the realm of possibility that the County could look to its constituents for some contributions.

For more information on Ottawa County’s Digital Inclusion Strategy and how to participate, check the Digital Inclusion website often or contact the Ottawa County Department of Strategic Impact at plan@miottawa.org.

Fruitport Board of Education Monthly Meeting Minutes – 03/21/22

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
March 21, 2022 7:00 p.m.
Board Room
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd, Fruitport

I. The Regular meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

II. The PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited.

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

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 22-037. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

V. PRESENTATIONS
Middle School ELA Teacher, Jacquelyn Ball introduced one of her students to the Board. This student received an award from the Michigan Reading Association for a poem he had written. His poem titled, “the JubJub Bird Fights Back” was published in the most recent edition of Kaleidoscope magazine.

VI. COMMUNICATIONS
None.

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Superintendent, Jason Kennedy shared information on the upcoming Special Ed Millage.

Jason review the 2021 Construction Timeline. The timeline includes dates for the track and field renovation, the installation of air conditioning throughout the buildings, the middle school pool room renovation and the purchase of band equipment. Jason mentioned a time-lapse camera that has been installed to capture the work being done on the field and track this year.

Jason spoke about the North Point Drain Project. He mentioned the proposed storm water detention basin that will address water issues. An agreement with the Drain Commissioner will be on the April agenda.

Jason gave an update on the FHS Hockey Cooperative. Currently the district has 10 students who play on the Kenowa Hills hockey team. Logistically, it has been difficult for students to travel back and forth for games and practice. The district is considering joining the Reeths-Puffer Co-op or the Grand Haven Co-op. More on this topic in April.

Jason talked about the Michigan State Police School Safety Grant that will be submitted soon. It is not certain how much funding will be received. The grant is very competitive and the distribution of funding will be determined by district need and the amount of applicants.

Jason spoke briefly about the revised Adult Education Handbook. The Student Affairs Committee received a copy for review. It will be on the April agenda for consideration.

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 22-038. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Buckner to approve the Consent Agenda as listed below:

Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of February 21, 2022
Acceptance of Bills, Monthly Financial Report, and ACH Transactions
Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report
Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report
Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report
Approval of 2021 Bond Report
Approval of the Personnel Report
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
None.

XI. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

Report of a committee meeting held March 14, 2022.
Elroy Buckner reported on a Business and Finance Committee meeting held in the Superintendent’s Office on March 14, 2022. Dave Hazekamp, Kris Cole, Elroy Buckner, Jason Kennedy, Jessica Wiseman, John Winskas and Mark Mesbergen were present. The committee discussed: the proposed North Point Drain Agreement and the Instructional Assistant Tentative Agreement.
Food Service Equipment Purchase.
Item 22-039. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the Food Service equipment purchases as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

Report of a committee meeting held March 14, 2022.
JB Meeuwenberg reported on a Personnel Committee meeting held in the Superintendent’s Office on March 14, 2022. Dave Hazekamp, Steve Kelly, JB Meeuwenberg and Jason Kennedy were present. The committee discussed: a Personal Protection Order, a Personnel Issue, the Instructional Assistants’ Tentative Agreement, a Letter of Agreement between the district and the FEA, a recent parent complaint and administrative disciplinary investigation and outcome. They received a general overview of topics discussed in other committee meetings.
Ratify Fruitport Instructional Assistants Association’s Tentative Agreement.
Item 22-040. MOTION by Meeuwenberg, SECOND by Franklin to approve the Tentative Agreement for a three-year contract with the Fruitport Instructional Assistants Association as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0, Abstain – Cole
Letter of Agreement with the Fruitport Education Association.
Item 22-041. MOTION by Meeuwenberg, SECOND by Franklin to approve the Letter of Agreement with the Fruitport Education Association as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0.

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

Report of a committee meeting held March 14, 2022.
Susan Franklin reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held in the Superintendent’s Office on March 14, 2022. Dave Hazekamp, Tim Burgess, Susan Franklin and Jason Kennedy were present. The committee discussed: Board Policy 5407, the District’s COVID-19 Mitigation Plan, a Paws with a Cause Facility Therapy Dog, Lodging Assistance for Drumline, a Career Fair, Hand 2 Hand Weekend Food Program, a new Hockey Cooperative Program, and the revised Adult Ed Handbook. They received a general overview of topics discussed in other committee meetings.
COVID-19 Mitigation Plan.
Item 22-042. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Burgess to approve the District’s Updated COVID-19 Mitigation Plan as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0
Overnight Trip Requests.
Item 22-043. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Burgess to approve the overnight trip requests as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Kris Cole spoke about the March 18-19 High School Robotics’ competition at Orchard View. He was pleasantly surprised to have Senator Bumstead and Jason Kennedy in the audience. The team received the Gracious Professionalism Award and will be competing again April 1st and 2nd at Kentwood.

Dave Hazekamp stated that he was stunned by the performance of the Wizard of Oz over the weekend! It was a great kick off to the new Performing Arts Center. He commended Jeff Grossenbacher for knocking it out of the park with the sound and Cindy Curtis for her ability to put together such an amazing top-notch show!

Susan Franklin and JB Meeuwenberg both commented on the Wizard of Oz performance. They thought the musical was fantastic and very enjoyable for all. Susan hopes the district continues to support and build Fruitport’s Fine Arts programs.

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

Business and Finance Committee will meet April 11, 2022 at 11:30 a.m.
Personnel Committee will meet April 11, 2022 at 4:30 p.m.
Student Affairs Committee will meet April 11, 2022 at 5:30 p.m.
A Board Workshop has been scheduled for April 19, 2022 at 6:00 p.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Item 22-044. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly
Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

April Events at the Frauenthal Center

April 3, 2022
Free Family Movie Day: The Secret Garden
3:00pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: FREE (no ticket required)

Come to the Frauenthal Center for a free family movie! This is a great opportunity for families in the community to experience the Frauenthal Center together or for those who are simply looking for a free and fun afternoon. These events are FREE admission, no tickets required. All movies will begin at 3:00pm with the doors opening at 2:15pm.

The Secret Garden: Mary Lennox, a young orphan living with her domineering uncle, stumbles upon a whimsical garden tucked away on the far reaches of the estate. Mary then experiences a series of fantastical adventures in her newfound playground. Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

Learn More

April 3, 2022
Tommy C. & The Black Widow Grease Band
3:00pm | Beardsley Theater
Tickets: $19.00 for Adults / $12.00 for Children 12 and Under

Tommy C. has been rocking crowds around the country and globe for many years. His wealth of experience has now culminated in Tommy C. & The Black Widow Grease Band. Tommy C. has performed live on stage with legendary acts such as Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Fats Domino, Jerry Lee Lewis, Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Conway Twitty, Freddy Cannon, and Charley Pride. This gave him the edge on how real rock n’ roll should be performed. Now, the Black Widow Grease Band are bringing their Detroit Motor City way of rock n’ roll to the Frauenthal Center.

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

April 8, 2022
Alley Door Club – Big Daddy Fox & Friends
7:00pm | The Ballroom
Tickets: $10.00 Single Ticket / $65.00 Reserved Table of 4 / $130.00 Reserved Table of 8

Alley Door Club is back for our 16th season! Live music, dancing, and a full cash bar. Doors open at 6:00pm. Get $1.00 off drinks during happy hour from 6:00 – 7:00pm.

Big Daddy Fox & Friends ~ R&B, Rockin’ Blues.

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

April 9, 2022
The Artist’s Musical Palette
7:00pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $10.00 for Adults / $5.00 for Children / $8.00 for Groups of 8+

The West Michigan Concert WINDS, in partnership with the Shoreline Community Orchestra, presents The Artist’s Musical Palette, featuring works depicting the greatest artworks of our time!

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

April 21 – April 22, 2022
North Muskegon Pops – “Norse Together”
7:30pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $12.00 / $16.00

This is the onstage celebration of North Muskegon Schools’ choirs together – singing, dancing, lights, costumes, and so much fun!

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

April 28 – May 1, 2022
MCT’s Mamma Mia!
7:00pm & 3:00pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $28.00 / $13.00 Student Rush

ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise.

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

Events Happening in Muskegon County – March 28-April 4, 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 March 28:

Pilates and Pints at Pigeon Hill
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
The Brewer’s Lounge at Pigeon Hill 895 4th St.,
Pilates with Mandy for a fun collaborative event. Bring yourself & a mat. $15

Trivia Night: Cops and Robbers
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Brewer’s Lounge At Pigeon Hill 895 4th St. Trivia night is all themed around Cops & Robbers! Brush up on your cops and robbers and get ready for a fun.

Seed Swap
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Muskegon Area District Library-North Muskegon Branch 1522 Ruddiman Dr.,
Our Seed Library is entering its 5th year and to celebrate we are hosting a seed swap. Bring your own varieties of fresh heirloom seeds to share. FREE event

World WWII in the Pacific Lecture Series
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
USS Silversides Museum 1346 Bluff St. $7.50 per person

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 March 29:

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.

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 March 30:

Euchre Night
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Muskegon Area District Library-North Muskegon Branch 1522 Ruddiman Dr., Are you a hardcore Euchre player? Do you want to know what on earth Euchre is? Come join us and we’ll teach you.

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!

Eric and Chris Acoustic Guitar
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., 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

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.

Thursday March 31:

The Neil Diamond Legacy: A Celebration of the Man and the Music
8:00 am – 9:30 pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. For more than 50 years Neil Diamond has been entertaining generations with his music with 30 albums and 140 million album sales. This show is $18-$22 per person www.frauenthal.org

Expressions: Muskegon County Student Art Exhibition
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 West Webster Ave. Expressions is the annual student art exhibition showcasing the artistic talents of Muskegon County K-12 students. The exhibition opens on March 31 and continues through May 1.

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

Friday April 1:

Donnie Baker Live Stand Up Comedy
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Back Alley Comedy Club 1531 W. Sherman Blvd. Donnie Baker is a longtime caller to the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Show. Tickets $32 https://www.fullhousecomedy.com/events/donnie-baker-live-at-back-alley-comedy-club 616-570-8765

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 April 2:

April Saturdays At the Lakeshore Museum Center: Sensory Bottles
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave. Pop by the museum where we will be creating take-home sensory bottles. Fill them with some cotton, your choice of color, and add a little bit of sparkle. $5 www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Easter Egg Hunt and Crafts
10:30 am – 11:30 am
Muskegon Area District Library – Egelston Branch 5428 E. Apple Ave.,
Search for Easter eggs, and take home a craft. Fun and free for everyone.

Christopher Titus Live Stand Up Comedy
9:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Back Alley Comedy Club 1531 W. Sherman Blvd. Christopher Titus is a prolific stand-up comedian, writer, actor, and producer. His stand-up work sees him playing to sell out audiences at clubs and theaters around the country. $25 tickets https://www.fullhousecomedy.com/events/christopher-titus-1

Sallie Ann Company Country Show
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Playhouse at White Lake 304 South Mears Ave. Rustle up some friends and gather ’round for some tunes and a knee-slappin’, toe-tappin’ good time! The Sallie Ann Company Country Show brings a fun evening of classic country, bluegrass and more! http://theplayhouseatwhitelake.org/spring22.php#Apr 231-894-0119

Indoor Farmers Market
9:00am-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 April 3:

Free Family Movie Days – The Secret Garden (2020)
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. invites everyone to attend this FREE family-friendly entertainment movie inside the Frauenthal Theater.

Tommy C and Black Widow Grease Band: Tribute to Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly and Little Richard
3:00 pm
Beardsley Theater 425 W. Western Ave. Tommy C. has been rocking crowds around the country and globe for many years. His wealth of experience has now culminated into Tommy C. and The Black Widow Grease Band. www.frauenthal.org Tickets are $12-$19 For more information 231-727-8001

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!

Monday April 4:

Craft Break! at Hackley Library
9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Planning a stay-cation this Spring Break? Between April 4 through April 8 (while supplies last), Hackley Library’s Youth Services has your entertainment covered with fun crafts available daily!

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!

Hackley Public Library – April 2022 Programs

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

Hackley Public Library 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

Preschool Story Time (Masks strongly preferred)
Certain Fridays (April 1, 8, 22, & 29) at 10:30am
In-person
Intended for ages 0-5, Hackley Library’s in-person Story Time is designed to teach early literacy skills to parents and caregivers while children enjoy a fun, interactive atmosphere. Join us for stories, songs, and movement activities! Free.

Recycled Art for Earth Day! Youth and Teen Take and Makes
Wondering what to do with old magazines? Hackley Library has you covered! In honor of Earth Day, we will be recycling books and magazines into some amazing art projects during the month of April. These kits will be available to pick up from Hackley Library beginning April 4. Free.
Youth Take and Make
Make a beautiful piece of art with our recycled magazines, some glue, and our earth in a heart!
Teen Take and Make
Turn those magazines into a usable bowl! This take and make kit is fun and practical.

1, 2, 3 Play with Me – Family Place Parent/Child Programs
Registration Required
Tuesdays, April 12 through May 10, from 10:30am-11:45am
Five-week program; In-person
This five-week program for toddlers and parents emphasizes the importance of play and the importance of parents as a child’s first teacher. Hackley Library is a Family Place Library – the overall goal of Family Place Libraries is to develop and institutionalize a family-friendly environment by transforming libraries into community centers for literacy, early childhood development, parent education and engagement, family support and community information. Please see our website hackleylibrary.org for more information! Free. https://www.hackleylibrary.org/youth/family-place-library/

Craft Break!
April 4 through April 8 (while supplies last)
Drop-in / In-person
Planning a stay-cation this Spring Break? From April 4 through April 8 (while supplies last), Hackley Library’s Youth Services Department has your entertainment covered with fun crafts available daily! You can stay at the library and craft away, or grab a bag and take them home. Free.

LEGO WeDo
Saturday, April 9 from 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Drop-in / In-person
Enjoy LEGO WeDo at Hackley Library! This drop-in program is a good opportunity to get hands on with robots, coding, and LEGOs. It works best for 2nd grade students and up. Younger children will need adult assistance. This in-person program will be self-guided with some assistance. Free.

Teen Book Folding
Monday, April 11 from 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Drop / In-person
What do you do with old books? You make them into a hedgehog of course! The Hackley Library Teen Room is where to be if you want to learn how to turn old books into new art! Free.

LEGO Build
Saturday April 16 from 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Drop-in / In-Person
Decorate the tops of our Hackley Library bookshelves by building some awesome LEGO creations during a LEGO Build! We’ll provide the bricks – all you need to bring is your imagination. Library staff reserves the right to limit attendees if necessary. Free.

All Ages / Adult Programs:

Computer Classes
Saturday, April 9: Basic Intro to Computers from 10:30am – 11:30am
Saturday, April 30: Basic Intro to Word from 10:30am – 11:30am
In-person
Are you new to computers and don’t know where to start? Enjoy free computer classes at Hackley Library! These classes are designed for beginners, and provide hands-on learning from expert De’Ondra Pentecost. Registration is required, and will open one month before each class date. Register on the online event calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or visit the library. Free.

Blackout Poetry – Adult Craft
Monday, April 4 from 5:30pm – 6:30pm
In-Person
Embrace your voice and create a new story during this Blackout Poetry craft. Using sheets of existing text, you’ll use markers and colors to blackout words, as well as draw imagery, therefore creating an entirely new story – you can even turn your story into a bookmark! Registration is required. Register on the online event calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or visit the library. Free.

Left to Write – Wednesday, April 13 from 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Left to Write at Night! – Tuesday, April 26 from 5:30pm – 6:30pm
In-Person
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 provides a low-key atmosphere for writers of all experiences, everyone is welcome! Remember to bring a pen and paper.
You’ll have two chances to enjoy Left to Write each month (2nd Wednesday of each month from 3:30-4:30, and the 4th Tuesday of each month from 5:30-6:30). Feel free to come to one or both, whenever you’re able to!

Finding Your Spark! A Poetry Workshop
Friday, April 22 from 5:30pm – 6:30pm
In-Person
Are you wondering how you can celebrate National Poetry Month? Discover how you can find that SPARK you need when writing! We’ll hear wisdom and insight from Elia Hohauser-Thatcher, a PhD student in rhetoric and composition at Wayne State University (and current professor of poetry). Registrants will be given a notebook to record their inspirations as they read and discuss famous poets, as well as have the chance to ask Elia all of their burning literary questions! Registration opens March 22. Register on the online event calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or visit the library. Free.

Folias Duo – Music
Saturday, April 23, 12:00pm – 1:00pm
In-person
Enjoy the regional favorite flute and guitar duo, Folias Duo, as they join with vocalist Olivia Vargas to share their love of music, poetry, and Earth Day with a selection of original songs and poems to celebrate the natural beauty of the earth.
Seating is limited / Registration Required. Registration opens March 23. Register on the online event calendar at hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8000, or visit the library. Free.

Evangelist Will Graham Returned to Fredericksburg, Virginia

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

In preparation for the upcoming Rappahannock Area Celebration in June, Will Graham spoke at a Celebration Rally at Grace Church of Fredericksburg (Virginia) on Feb. 5.

“You’re not here by accident. You’re not in your position at work by accident. God has a godly purpose for you, wherever you are in life,” said Will, challenging the audience of more than 200 people from across the region. “You are an influencer in that area for Him. You are an ambassador for Christ. We’re going to represent the King, and we’re going to invite people to meet the King, because He can change lives.”

Graham was joined by Josh Havens of the award-winning Christian rock band The Afters. A consistent and popular presence on the Christian music scene for more than a decade, The Afters have garnered multiple top five hits on the Billboard Praise & Worship charts. Their music has also been featured on several primetime network television shows.

The Celebration Rally was one of many events leading up to the Rappahannock Area Celebration with Will Graham, which will take place June 25, 2022, at the Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center. For more information, visit www.RappahannockCelebration.com.

Ask Dr. Universe – DNA

Dr. Universe: How is DNA built? – Riot, 8, Everett, WA

Dear Riot,

Pretty much every living thing on our planet—from a blue whale to a tiny ant—has something in common. We all have cells, which are the building blocks of life, and inside of those cells we have DNA.

My friend Gunjan Gakhar, a Teaching Assistant Professor at Washington State University, was happy to help with your question.

First, she reminded me that DNA contains the instructions for living things to grow, survive, and reproduce. DNA determines everything from our eye color to our hair color to our height.

“DNA is built like a ladder,” she said. “And if you twist that ladder, that’s what DNA looks like.”

Let’s imagine we are building a DNA ladder. We will need a few simple ingredients. First, there are sugar and phosphate.

You probably know about sugar already, but phosphate is something present in your teeth and bones that helps make you strong.

The sugar and phosphate form a repeating pattern that makes up the side rails of the DNA ladder. Of course, every ladder needs steps, or rungs, too.

If we were building a real ladder, not a DNA ladder, we would probably use a single, solid piece of material to build each step.

But in our DNA ladder, the steps are actually made of two materials, called nitrogen bases, that are strongly bonded to each other. There are four varieties of nitrogen bases that we find in DNA. Scientists call these nitrogen bases A, C, T, and G. ‘A’ always binds with ‘T’ and ‘G’ always binds with ‘C’.

By following this rule, nitrogen bases can bond to each other and the side rails to form the entire DNA ladder.

It’s the differences in these combinations of bases that give us the different traits we see across species and even in individual human beings.

Whether you are an ant, a human, or a blue whale, you get half of your DNA from one parent and the other half from your other parent.

Another interesting thing about DNA is that your body’s cells can use your existing DNA to make even more DNA—and they do it with the help of things called enzymes.

You produce enzymes that do lots of different jobs. For instance, enzymes in your saliva help break down food. There are also enzymes in your body that help break apart DNA and make more DNA. Enzymes can open up the DNA ladder. They are like DNA scissors that can split the ladder in half.

As long as ingredients like sugar, phosphate, and nitrogen bases are available in the cells, each side rail of the DNA can use those ingredients to make more DNA.

If you are curious how DNA looks, perhaps you can make your very own DNA model. I might use toothpicks as bases and paper to model the phosphate and sugar, as you can see here in this DNA model activity from our friends at the American Museum of Natural History. Tell us about your DNA model sometime at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Prizes are prizes in life
We all look for them sometimes;
But “Today”, is the prize in our eyes,
And we take it as it comes,
Not looking for all the answers at one time.
as we journey

State Representative VanWoerkom Announces Re-Election Campaign

(Norton Shores, Mich.) – Yesterday, State Representative Greg VanWoerkom filed to run for the Michigan House of Representatives in the redrawn 88th District.

“It is an honor to serve and be the voice for the residents of West Michigan. I am excited to continue my efforts on solving problems that matter most to families and setting up our region for future growth and success,” said VanWoerkom.

VanWoerkom was first elected to office in 2018 and has been an influential member of the House Appropriations Committee. In his first term, he served as Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture and Rural Development. This term he serves as Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government, which encompasses nine state budgets including the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. VanWoerkom led the creation of the innovative Tri-Share Child Care Program and has been a leader in improving access to mental health resources for children.

“This is a critical time for our state and our region as we emerge from the pandemic,” said VanWoerkom. “We need to focus on getting people back to work, keeping our businesses and schools open and addressing the rising costs stemming from poor public policy.”

The redrawn 88th District includes the cities and villages of Ferrysburg, Grand Haven, Norton Shores and Spring Lake and the townships of Crockery, Grand Haven, Olive, Port Sheldon, Robinson and Spring Lake. Greg and his family live in Norton Shores.

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 03/28/22

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

MARCH 28, 2022

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

Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
Roll call
Approval of board minutes: 3/14/22
Approve / amend agenda
Correspondence / reports
Public comments regarding agenda items
Unfinished Business
A. 2022/2023 Budget Discussion
New Business
A. SEIU Collective Bargaining Agreement
B. DPW Director Employment Contract Renewal
C. Approval to Hire Deputy Police Chief and Contract Approval
D. Public Safety Director Employment Contract Renewal
E. Public Hearing for MDNR Trust Fund Grant Application
F. Parks Commission Request for Funds
G. Resolution for MDNR Trust Fund Grant Application
H. Resolution to Commit Water & Sewer Funds
I. Resolution to Commit Public Safety Fund Balance
J. Budget Public Hearing
K. Adoption of 2022/2023 Budget
L. Banking and Investing Resolution
M. Property and Liability Insurance Renewal
N. 2022/2023 Public Meeting Schedule
Approval of Bills
Reports
Public Comments
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

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes – 02/28/22

FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 28, 2022

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, February 28, 2022, in the township board room.

Members Present: Todd Dunham, Supervisor; Andrea Anderson, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Jim Fichtel, Greg Hulka, Terry Knoll, David Markgraf
Members Absent: none

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

Also Present: 2- residents; 5- employees; 2- guests; Director of Public Utilities, Steve Biesiada; Public Safety Director, Brian Michelli; Attorney Ron Bultje.

The motion by David Markgraf, seconded by Rose Dillon was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of February 14, 2022.

The motion by Andrea Anderson, seconded by Rose Dillon was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS:
1. Brian Michelli reported that an explosion that happened on the scene of a recent structure fire caused damage to a fire truck, however no one was injured; retail theft continues to be a problem.
2. The Parks Commission was present to report that the completion of their new 5 year Rec Plan makes them eligible to apply for grants through the State of Michigan- they plan to ask the Board for funds to match the grant that they would put toward the completion of the soccer park.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: none

NEW BUSINESS:

22-015 Senior Services Report- AgeWell Services
Jennifer Jordan and Chris Burnaw from AgeWell Services and SafeSeniors were present to share with the Board information about the programs they provide through Fruitport Township’s partnership with senior millage funding. Fruitport seniors are given access to meals, medical transportation, activities, and the SafeSeniors program.

22-016 Budget Amendments
Jim Fichtel moved, seconded by Todd Dunham, MOTION CARRIED, to grant the Treasurer the authority to make necessary budget amendments through the end of the fiscal year.

Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dillon, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll, Markgraf
Nays: none

22-017 Republic Services Agreement
RMS Disposal was purchased by Republic Services. The Clerk has proposed (with permission of all department heads) that all current accounts be combined into one for the new agreement with Republic Services as presented.
Terry Knoll moved, seconded by Rose Dillon, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the Clerk to sign the service agreement with Republic Services.

Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: none

22-018 Payment of Bills
Terry Knoll moved, David Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $10,965.20; Public Safety $27,879.74; Water $8,962.59; Sewer $19,916.07; Trust & Agency $6,468.00; Street Lights $0.00
Totaling: $74,191.60

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

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:
1. Rose Dillon shared that the larges growth to the township this year was from residential; a DDA expenditure report will be shared at the next meeting.
2. Todd Dunham shared information about the possibility of a BIA grant for roads through Little River Band of Ottawa Indians.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II:
1. Floyd Dodd requested an update on the abandoned hotels.

The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Rose Dillon, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 8:02pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK

TODD DUNHAM, SUPERVISOR

Applications Being Accepted for 29th Annual Camp Courage

Healing Center offers again in-person camp for grieving children and teens.

[West Michigan] Harbor Hospice has been offering Camp Courage for 28 years as a way to help children and their families following the death of a loved one. The emotions of grief can be overwhelming and isolating for children who have not yet developed the verbal and emotional skills to navigate the grief process.

“We are very excited to provide in person camp again this year. The directors feel that having in person camp allows for us to provide the best support for these grieving children,” said Kari Allen, LMSW Social Worker/Camp Co-Director. “With everyone’s health in mind, this year will look a bit different in regard to regulations, masking, testing and social distancing. It will be a wonderful, safe and beneficial weekend filled with crafts, friends, activities and camping fun!”

Children grieve differently than adults and need time to just “be kids” as well as time to honor and remember their loved one. Kids often feel alone in their grief and thrive when able to connect with others who understand their unique experience.

Harbor Hospice staff and trained volunteers create a safe, stable environment for children to explore and express their grief, remember their loved one, and connect with others who have experienced a death. Children participate in traditional camp activities such as swimming, hiking and campfires, along with grief-tailored activities that teach healthy coping skills.

This weekend overnight camping experience for children and teens ages 6-19, is held at Pioneer Trails on Big Blue Lake in Muskegon County. Camp Courage 2022 will be held Friday, June 17 through Sunday, June 19. Application deadline is Tuesday, May 10. The only cost is a $10 registration fee per camper.

For more information or to register, contact Kari Allen at 231.728.3442 / 1.800.497.9559 or email info@HarborHospiceMI.org or visit our website at HarborHospiceMI.org.

Ottawa County Parks & Recreation is Hiring – Job Fair March 26th

submitted by Ottawa County Parks

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

Joining our team is a great way for college students, retirees, graduating high school students, and others who enjoy working outdoors to learn from industry experts and gain valuable work experience. Most positions will require applicants to be 18 years of age or older however, there are a limited number of Park Attendant positions that are open to ages 16 and older.

After conducting a wage survey this year, the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners supported an increase of starting hourly rates for many of these positions. Returning employees can expect increases in hourly pay the following year.

Seasonal employees work varied shifts ranging from 10-40 hours a week, depending on the position. Shifts may include weekends, evenings, and holidays from late April through Labor Day. Work locations are available throughout the county.

Learn more & apply today: miottawa.org/apply

Open positions include:

• Outdoor Educator – $13.50/hour
• Grounds Attendant – $13.00/hour
• Maintenance Crew Worker – $14.50/hour
• Park Attendant – $12.50/hour
• Parks Custodian – $13.00/hour
• Reservation Specialist – $12.75/hour

>> Click here to apply online <<

Join us for a job fair!

Applying online in advance guarantees you an in-person interview at the job fair! Can’t make the job fair? Other arrangments can be made, including a Zoom option.

Saturday, March 26, 2022
9 am-12 pm
Ottawa County Fillmore Complex, Administrative Building
12220 Fillmore Street, West Olive, MI 49460

“It is my dream job!”
“Who wouldn’t want to spend their summer at the beach!”
“I feel like what I’m doing makes a difference.”

These are just a few comments that we hear from our park employees. Working for Ottawa County Parks is not only fun, but it also helps to develop a positive work ethic, build customer service skills, and learn basic land and building management skills. Whether you are entering the workforce or have recently retired, working at Ottawa County Parks might just be “Where You Belong!”

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 03/14/22

Student Affairs Committee
Monday, March 14, 2022
5:30 p.m.

MEETING MINUTES

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

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

The Committee was provided a copy of the Board’s current policy 5407, Instructional Program and Curriculum Development. The Committee was also provided a copy of the optional policy updates for policy 5407 from Thrun Law Firm. The Committee reviewed the optional policy updates and will revisit the optional policy updates at the April Committee meeting.
The Committee was provided a copy of the recommended updates to the District’s COVID19 Mitigation Plan, based upon recommendations and guidance updates from the CDC, MDHHS, and local public health officials. The updated plan will be presented to the Board of Education for approval at the March 21, 2022 meeting of the Board.
A preliminary discussion took place with the Committee regarding the purchase of a Paws with a Cause facility therapy dog for Edgewood Elementary School. The Committee will be provided with additional information at an upcoming Committee meeting before a formal recommendation is made to the Board.
An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to a lodging assistance request from the Drumline team for their finals competition performance that will take place out of state in April. The Board will need to be provided with information pertaining to cost and details of the trip before being considered.
An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to the Career Fair being sponsored by the Fruitport Education Foundation at Fruitport High School on May 10, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to the creation of a partnership with the Hand 2 Hand Weekend Food Program.
The Committee discussed the need to consider a new hockey cooperative program. Two options were discussed with the Committee. These options included joining a cooperative with Grand Haven High School (includes Spring Lake High School), as well as a cooperative with Reeths-Puffer High School (includes Muskegon Catholic Central, Montague, Whitehall, and North Muskegon). A recommendation will be provided to the Committee for recommendation to the Board at an upcoming meeting.
A copy of the new Adult Education Handbook was provided to the Committee for review. The Committee will review the handbook and be asked to consider it for recommendation to the Board of Education at the April Board meeting.
Other: The Committee reviewed items from each of the other Board Committee meetings to provide a general overview of the topics to be discussed at the Regular Board Meeting on Monday, March 21, 2022.
Public Comment: None
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 6:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Jason Kennedy, Superintendent

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 03/14/22

Personnel Committee
Monday, March 14, 2022
4:30 p.m.

MEETING MINUTES

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

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

An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to a Personal Protection Order (PPO) that was signed and executed by Judge Gregory Pittman of the 14th Circuit Court for Muskegon County.
An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to a personnel issue involving the termination of a support staff member.
The Committee reviewed the tentative agreement between the Board of Education and the Fruitport Instructional Assistants Association. The financial impact to the District was discussed for the tentative agreement, as was each change to the language of the Contract. The District recommends the approval and ratification of the Agreement between the Board of Education and the Fruitport Instructional Assistants Association, as presented and discussed. The Board of Education will be asked to approve and ratify the Agreement at the Board meeting on March 21, 2022.
The Committee reviewed the Letter of Agreement (LOA), dated March 10, 2022, as it pertains to Article 6(A) of the Agreement between the Board of Education and the Fruitport Education Association (FEA). The District recommends the approval of the LOA, as presented and discussed. The Board of Education will be asked to approve the LOA at the Board meeting on March 21, 2022.
An update was provided to the Committee regarding a parent complaint and administrative disciplinary investigation and outcome.
Other: The Committee reviewed items from each of the other Board Committee meetings to provide a general overview of the topics to be discussed at the Regular Board Meeting on Monday, March 21, 2022.
Public Comment: None
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 5:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Jason Kennedy, Superintendent

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 03/14/22

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, March 14, 2022
11:30 a.m., Superintendent’s Office
Meeting Minutes

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

Draft Proposed Agreement to Convey School Property – North Point
Jason led a discussion regarding the north point drainage district requesting some of the district’s land to build a retainage pond.
Instructional Assistant TA
Mark presented the tentative agreement for the instructional assistant union. The tentative agreement will come out of the personnel committee.

Meeting adjourned at 12:18 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Grand Valley State University Graduate List – Fall 2021

Grand Valley State University announces the names of our most recent graduates who have completed the requirements to receive their degrees this past December. A list of the names of these students and a key to their degree abbreviations follows.

Students who graduated at the conclusion of the Fall semester ending in December include:

Fruitport: Braxton T. Kratt, BA; Heather E. Lewis, BSN; Gabrielle A. Schaub, BFA; Aaron W. Simot, BS; Elizabeth A. Taylor, MS

Muskegon: Lauren C. Baustert, BSN; Deidra M. Boertman, BSE; Nashay A. Cadle, BS; McKenna G. Davis, BS; Megan A. Delgado, BA; Loryn L. DuRose, BS; Hannah M. Dursema, BA; Brandi L. Gabris, BS; Victoria A. Lozano, BA; Brittany L. McKay, BS; Micaela R. Murdock, MSA; Trenton G. Pleimling, MBA; Veda G. Rooks, MS; Vivian Tri, BS

Nunica: Lauren R. Galloway, BBA; Katlin E. Huffman, BS; Cameron J. Verrette, BS

Ravenna: Jennifer Pelham, BS; Gabrielle B. Postema, BS

Spring Lake: Cameron O. Ball, BS; Graciela M. Breit, BSN; Graydon D. Deal, BS; David E. DeNova, BS; Delanie A. Goudie, BS; Olivia K. Grimmer, BS; Bradley A. Groeneveld, BS; David G. Kaminski, MBA; Christian L. Pelke, BBA; Ryan A. Poulin, BS; Rachel J. Schmidt, BSN; Jillian J. Schnurstein, BS

Maple River Restoration Project Public Meeting Recap

submitted by the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly (MRWA)

Click here for information about the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly’s Maple River Restoration Project Public Meeting that took place on March 4^th.

Remember, all of our public updates will be posted on the Maple River Restoration Project webpage. Another public meeting is in the works – we’ll let you know when and where it will take place within the next few weeks.

Every Woman’s Place – National Sexual Assault Awareness Month Events

Every Woman’s Place (EWP) to host solidarity walk honoring sexual violence survivors in downtown Muskegon as part of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April

The Starting Line will launch the Cheers Community Crawl on a serious note, highlighting the statistic that every 68 seconds, an American is sexually assaulted. Participants will wear custom teal shirts with a bold graphic of the numeral 68 as they walk Western Avenue in downtown Muskegon, pausing for 68 seconds of silence at 12:59 pm on Saturday, April 2, 2022.

MUSKEGON, MI – Every Woman’s Place (EWP) is pleased to collaborate annually in April with the Culinary Institute of Michigan (CIM) to host Cheers & Chocolate as part of National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Together, EWP and the CIM raise awareness and raise funds to support survivors of sexual assault and sex trafficking in our community.

Kim Dimmett, Executive Director, explains, “In 2020, Muskegon County reported 90 sexual assaults, with 16 arrests…this data shows us that most victims/survivors are suffering in silence. In April we come together to show our support for survivors of sexual assault.

We work every day to send the message that ‘we believe you’, ‘we support you’ and ‘we will walk beside you’,” she adds. “Every Woman’s Place works closely with the police, the Prosecutor’s office and our medical facilities so that survivors are offered and provided supportive services immediately and without re-victimization. We are working toward bringing sexual assault examinations in-house, at EWP, to ensure supportive services during and following a sexual assault exam.”

The Community Crawl takes the place of our traditional Cheers event held at the CIM, which will not take place in 2022 while we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Cheers Community Crawl starts April 1 at 5:00 am and runs the entire month of April, ending at midnight on April 30.

Supporting Business (April 1-30)
Starting April 1, Supporting Businesses will ask their customers to add $1 to their bill in support of Every Woman’s Place. At the end of April, those funds are donated to EWP to provide services that respond to and restore the lives of survivors in our community. There is no cost to become a Supporting Businesses, and sign-up is simple. Supporting Businesses are acknowledged on social media, in print, and with posters for their storefront.

Cheers Crawl Starting Line (April 2, 12 – 1 pm)
EWP staff, supporters, and survivors wearing our custom teal T-shirt will stand together at the Starting Line on April 2 at the Muskegon Visitor Center and walk down Western Ave in a display of solidarity with survivors. The T-shirt references the statistic that an American is sexually assaulted every 68 seconds with a bold graphic of the numeral 68. The 2022 Starting Line Sponsor is local business Andy’s Plumbing. “We believe in the importance of EWP’s work in the community, and this sponsorship was a great way to show our support,” said Shallon White, co-owner.

Cheers Pop-Up Wine Pull (April 23, 10 am – 2 pm)
EWP will showcase an exciting selection of 100 wines, plus unique specialty packages. Donate $20 to pull a number from our jar and walk away with the corresponding bag containing a bottle that may be worth up to $100. Must be 21 years of age and provide ID.

Cheers Crawl Finish Line (April 29, 5 – 8 pm)
This full month of community engagement will be capped off by the Community Crawl Finish Line. The Finish Line is an all-day “eat, drink and stroll” through the Muskegon downtown Social District, with free live entertainment featuring local favorite Brena at Olthoff Stage.

Sponsor opportunities are available to support this community-wide event, including Community Sponsorships from $350 to $1000, plus:

• Finish Line Sponsor, an exclusive opportunity to support the Finish Line festivities ($4,000)
• Day Sponsors, who commit to matching the donated proceeds for a particular day of the month (up to $2,500)
• Pop-Up Wine Pull Sponsor, exclusive sponsorship of the Pop-Up Wine Pull on April 23 in downtown Muskegon ($2,500)

Speaking again about the work of the agency, Dimmett added, “All survivors of sexual assault are welcome at EWP, regardless of when the victimization occurred, or any other attribute that makes you an individual. We are here to promote healing and empowerment, at any point during your journey from victimization through restoration. There is no cost for our services and all information is strictly confidential. We are available every day, all day, by calling (231) 759-7909 during the day or (231) 722-3333 after 5:00 pm.”

Donate Old Sneakers; Help Prevent Veteran Suicide

Aegin Place of West MI is collecting used sneakers. We are having them recycled to keep non-biodegradables out of our landfills and to help lower the carbon footprint.

We will then take the cash earned from the old shoes and donate 100% to LIGHTHOUSE FOR VETERANS!

Lighthouse for veterans is a local non-profit organizations that raises awareness in West Michigan for Veteran suicide.

Donate old SNEAKERS ✔️
Clean out your clutter ✔️
Help the Planet ✔️
Save a Veteran ✔️

Drop off locations for SNEAKERS :
Holland – Performance Plus Oil, Lakewood
Spring Lake – Orchard Market, Lloyd’s Bayou
Grand Haven – Grand Haven Police Department, Washington
Muskegon – Aegin Place of West MI, W. Western Ave.
North Muskegon – Harding’s, Whitehall Rd.
Fremont – Bill’s Shop N Save, Main St
Newaygo – Remax River Valley, Adams St.

Accepted: Sneakers, athletic shoes, converse style shoes, ALL SIZES!!
NOT Accepted: Boots, dress shoes, sandals, flats

Last Day MARCH 31st
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS!

Ottawa County Administrator Finalist Interview to be Held in Public

Following an extensive national search, a selection committee is recommending that the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners move forward with a familiar candidate, John Shay, for consideration as the next County Administrator. Shay is currently serving as the Interim County Administrator and has been in the role of Deputy County Administrator since 2018. As part of its regular meeting, the Board will be conducting a Public Interview Session on March 24 at 5PM with Shay. The interview will be held in the Board Room located at 12220 Fillmore Street in West Olive. The public is invited to submit potential interview questions via miOttawa.org. On March 24, residents can watch the interview unfold live online or in person.

There were 36 applicants for the post of County Administrator. Four of those applicants were interviewed for the position. The selection committee for the County Administrator included outgoing Board Chair, Roger Bergman, current Board Chair, Matthew Fenske, and current Vice Chair, Allen Dannenberg plus citizen representative from each of the four county quadrants. Those individuals were Monica Verplank, northwest; Michelle Fare, southeast; Jose Gomez, northeast; and Jennifer Owens, southwest.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – March 21-28, 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 March 21:

World WWII in the Pacific Lecture Series
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
USS Silversides Museum 1346 Bluff St. $7.50 per person

Jazzercise at Pigeon Hill Brewing
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
The Brewer’s Lounge at Pigeon Hill 895 4th St. Join us for a Jazzercise class. $15 gets you a 45 minute workout followed by your favorite Pigeon Hill beverage

Oberon Day at Pints & Quarts!
3:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Pints & Quarts 950 W Norton Ave. Come out for Oberon Day. Keg tapped at 3pm!

Bow WOW Readers
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Muskegon Area District Library – Norton Shores Branch 705 Seminole Rd. Bow WOW Readers is a once-a-month read-aloud program that pairs kids ages 6 and up with trained therapy dogs and handlers from the Muskegon Lakeshore Obedience Training Club. Please register at www.madl.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!

Tuesday March 22:

The Grand Rapids Guitar Quartet in concert
12:15 pm – 12:45 pm
Join St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1006 Third St., for performance of Vivaldi as well as other selections in a free concert at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

Trivia Night
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Muskegon Area District Library-North Muskegon 1522 Ruddiman Dr.,
Are you a Wise Guy? A Smarty Pants? Go head to head against others and prove it! Come out, test your knowledge and mind! Open to anyone 16+. FREE event.

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!

Wednesday March 23:

Pilates and Pints at Pigeon Hill
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
The Brewer’s Lounge at Pigeon Hill 895 4th St.,
Pilates with Mandy for a fun collaborative event. Bring yourself & a mat. $15

Bow WOW Readers
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Muskegon Area District Library –Visually & Physically Disabled Branch 4845 Airline Rd. Bow WOW Readers is a once-a-month read-aloud program that pairs kids ages 6 and up with trained therapy dogs and handlers from the Muskegon Lakeshore Obedience Training Club. Please register at www.madl.org

Thursday March 24:

Family Fun Night: How Does Your Garden Grow?
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Muskegon Area District Library – Montague Branch 8778 Ferry St., It’s time to think about spring planting. Decorate a pot to start your indoor garden and “borrow” seeds from Seed Library to get planting at home. Registration required.

SPARK! Movement & Mandalas
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
The Playhouse at White Lake 304 South Mears Ave., Whitehall,
Individuals with memory loss are invited to participate for FREE, along with a friend, or partner, in engaging conversations inspired by art and theater.

Friday March 25:

Cherish the Ladies
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. This Grammy-nominated, Irish-American supergroup joins the West Michigan Symphony to bring you an evening of beautiful vocals, captivating arrangements, and stunning step dancing. www.westmichigansymphony.org/events/cherish-the-ladies/

Alley Door Club – Flexadecibel
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. The Alley Door Club is kicking off their 16th season! The Alley Door Club features live music, dancing & friends $10

Silverado Country Band
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Favorite Country Standards.

J2B2 John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 West Webster Ave. J2B2 John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band will perform in concert. J2B2 is an all-star bluegrass supergroup. $30

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game-VS-Green Bay
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm “Queen for a Night” night
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 March 26:

Rachel Feinstein Live Stand Up Comedy
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Back Alley Comedy Club 1531 W. Sherman Blvd., Rachel has had three Comedy Central specials, including the most recent one hour special. Tickets $22 www.fullhousecomedy.com/events/rachel-feinstein-live-at-back-alley-comedy-club For more information call 616-570-8765

The Quiet Man- Family Friendly Movie
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
The Playhouse at White Lake 304 South Mears Ave., Family Friendly Movie Night—The Quiet Man (1952) Admission is only $1, or you can bring an item to contribute to the White Lake Food Bank

Open Mic Night
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague, Music, poetry, reading, comedy, all talents are welcome! 231-894-5333

March Saturdays at Lakeshore Museum Center: Michigan Birds
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave. Stop by to learn about some local birds, who will be migrating back with the warming season. $5

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game-VS-Green Bay
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm St. Patty’s Night
Check out the Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey game at Muskegon Mercy Health Arena located at 470 W. Western Ave., in downtown Muskegon!

Indoor Farmers Market
9:00am-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 March 27

Dustin Sims Live Stand Up Comedy
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Back Alley Comedy Club 1531 W. Sherman Blvd., Best known for his Snapchat videos and ‘Talking to Myself’ series. His unique style of storytelling has accumulated him over a MILLION followers across social media. Tickets $30
www.fullhousecomedy.com/events/dustin-sims-live-at-back-alley-comedy-club
For more information call 616-570-8765

Monday March 28

Pilates and Pints at Pigeon Hill
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
The Brewer’s Lounge at Pigeon Hill 895 4th St.,
Pilates with Mandy for a fun collaborative event. Bring yourself & a mat. $15

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!

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 03/21/22

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Board Room
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd, Fruitport 49415
Monday, March 21, 2022 – 7:00 p.m.

I. CALL to ORDER

II. PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE

III. ROLL CALL

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

V. PRESENTATIONS

Max Morse – Poem Recognition

VI. COMMUNICATIONS

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

Update on MAISD Special Education Millage
Update and Timeline on Construction Projects
Discussion on Draft Proposed Agreement to Convey School Property: North Point Drainage District
Discussion on Hockey Cooperative Program
MSP School Safety Grant

IX. CONSENT AGENDA

Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of February 21, 2022 (attachment IX-1)
Approval of Bills (attachment IX-2)
General Fund $309,130.60
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center 46.93
Food Service 79,911.10
Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage 66,855.83
Debt Service Fund 2010 29,040.72
Total Bill List $484,985.18
Acceptance of Monthly Financial Report and ACH Transactions (attachment IX-3)
Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report (attachment IX-4)
Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report (attachment IX-5)
Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report (attachment IX-6)
Approval of 2021 Bond Report (attachment IX-7)
Approval of Personnel Report (includes confirmation of new hires, resignations, retirees, and transfers) (attachment IX-8)

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

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

Report of Committee Meeting held March 14, 2022 (attachment XI-1)
Approval of Food Service Equipment Purchases (attachment XI-2)

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson

Report of Committee Meeting held March 14, 2022 (attachment XII-1)
Contract Approval and Ratification: Fruitport Instructional Assistant Association (attachment XII-2)
Approval of Letter of Agreement with Fruitport Education Association (attachment XII-3)

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Susan Franklin, Chairperson

Report of Committee Meeting held March 14, 2022 (attachment XIII-1)
Approval of Updated COVID-19 Mitigation Plan (attachment XIII-2)
Approval of Overnight Trip Requests (attachment XIII-3)

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

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

Business & Finance Committee will meet April 14, 2022 @ 11:30 a.m.
Personnel Committee will meet April 14, 2022 @ 4:30 p.m.
Student Affairs Committee will meet April 14, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVII. ADJOURNMENT

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

Remembering Billy Graham on the Anniversary of His Death

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

Feb. 21, 2022, marked the four-year anniversary of Billy Graham’s passing. The farm boy from Charlotte who counseled presidents and lovingly became known as “America’s Pastor” shared the Gospel with an estimated 215 million people in 185 countries and territories throughout his eight decades of ministry.

“In many ways, it’s hard to believe that my father has been gone four years. We all miss him greatly, but I know that I’ll see him again someday in heaven,” said Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA). “The message that my father dedicated his life to sharing is the same message we continue to proclaim around the world through BGEA—that God loves us and we can have a relationship with Him by turning from our sins and putting our faith and trust in Jesus Christ.”

A BGEA television special titled Billy Graham: “Are You Ready to Die?” was released in honor of the anniversary. The program shares Mr. Graham’s final message. To see the video, visit
https://media.billygraham.org/billy-graham-a-life-remembered/.

St. Patty’s Day Sale: Celtic Celebration with Cherish the Ladies

With The Luck of the Irish, you’ll be able to grab one of these discounted seats for the Pops event of the season!

St. Patty’s Day BOGO 50% Sale!

Buy one Cherish the Ladies ticket at regular price, save 50% on a companion ticket. Offer good for select seats, regularly priced $66 and $52 only.

Sale inventory limited. Offer not good on previously purchased tickets.

Buy Tickets Here …. Use Password IRISH at checkout

Beautiful vocals. Captivating musical arrangements. Stunning step dancing.

The Grammy-nominated, Irish-American supergroup joins the orchestra to bring you a night of traditional Irish music and dance—a performance brimming with energy, wit, and spirit.

Scott Speck conductor
Click here to learn more about the program and artists

Your health and safety is our priority! Click here to learn about “Safe Nights at the Symphony” concert protocols.

Can’t attend the live performance?
Join us virtually! April 1 through April 10

Experience Cherish the Ladies from the comfort of your home, at a time that fits your schedule. This high quality production includes behind the scenes conversations with conductor, musicians and guest artists. $25 for unlimited access April 1 through April 10. Tickets are available for purchase here.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Brazen be that black squirrel, he
Tore apart the feeder;
No thought for the others,
I will get my repeater?

He probably does not have to worry
My eyes are getting bad;
Grandpa says, “Do not shoot yet
until I get way way way away,
The kids might still need their granddad”….

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Agenda – 03/14/22

Fruitport Community Schools
Student Affairs Committee
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd.
Fruitport, MI 49415
Monday, March 14, 2022
5:30 p.m. ~ Central Office

MEETING AGENDA

Policy 5407 – Instructional Program and Curriculum Development: Optional Policy Modifications
Updated COVID-19 Mitigation Plan
Paws with a Cause Request: Edgewood Elementary School
Drumline Finals Performance: Lodging Assistance Request
FEF / High School Career Fair Update
Hand 2 Hand Weekend Food Program
Hockey Cooperative Agreement (Tentative)
Other
Public Comment
Adjournment

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Agenda – 03/14/22

Fruitport Community Schools
Personnel Committee
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd.
Fruitport, MI 49415
Monday, March 14, 2022
4:30 p.m. ~ Central Office

MEETING AGENDA

Update on Personal Protection Order
Termination of Support Staff Member
Instructional Assistant TA
Other
Public Comment
Adjournment

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Agenda – 03/14/22

Fruitport Community Schools
Business and Finance Committee
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd.
Fruitport, MI 49415
Monday, March 14, 2022
11:30 a.m. ~ Central Office

MEETING AGENDA

Draft Proposed Agreement to Convey School Property – North Point Drainage District
Instructional Assistant TA
Other
Public Comment
Adjournment

Parties in the Park Returns with Eight Friday Night Parties in 2022

Parties in the Park is excited to announce the return of a full season, with eight Friday night parties from 5-9pm in Downtown Muskegon’s Hackley Park this upcoming summer.

“After taking one year off and throwing a single party in 2021 due to COVID-19, we are thrilled to get back to the regular Friday night parties that Muskegon has come to love and look forward to,” says Cece Riley, President of the Parties in the Park Board of Directors. “We have some outstanding non-profit partners this year and an entertainment line up to be enjoyed by multiple generations.”

Parties in the Park consist of live music, beverage tents, food vendors, and a kid’s zone on Friday nights in Downtown Muskegon’s Hackley Park from 5-9pm. Admission to the parties is always free. The 2022 season dates and non-profit partners are as follows:

June 3 – Muskegon Rotary Club

June 17 – Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce

July 8 – Muskegon Motorcycle Club

July 22 – AgeWell Services of West Michigan

July 29 – West Michigan Speed Skating

August 5 – Pay It Forward

August 19 – JCI Greater Muskegon

August 26 – Disability Network of West Michigan

A competitive application process determines each year’s non-profit partners. These non-profits help coordinate the events and receive event proceeds to help carry out their meaningful work.

The Parties in the Park Board of Directors is putting the final touches on the season’s entertainment line-up. This year’s entertainment will include local favorites like funk, rock and soul band Flexadecibel and rock cover band Distracted as well as regional and national acts including Woodstock tribute band – Magic Bus, Nashville’s own new country singer Hannah Ellis and, New York’s SIRSY – bringing rock and soul with sass to Hackley Park.

“Our entertainment committee is working hard to secure an eclectic mix of music for party goers this summer,” says Riley. “We look forward to announcing the full line-up in the near future.”

The 2022 Parties in the Park season is presented by Best Financial Credit Union, RENK America, and Michelob Ultra.

Parties in the Park has been providing free, family-friendly events for 38 years. The mission of Parties in the Park is to create a sense of community and appreciation for Muskegon’s Downtown through a family-oriented social event. Hosted by a variety of Muskegon County not-for-profit groups, the proceeds from the Parties either make physical enhancements or quality of life improvements for the whole community.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Some worry maybe that the mind is strong
But the body is weak;
Some accept it right or wrong,
But still dream of what they seek.
as we journey.

Muskegon County Calander of Events – March 14-21, 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 March 14:

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!

Tuesday March 15:

Paint Like Monet
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, Ages 13+ $50, $45 for ACWL Members WHSP Eligible French Impressionist painter Claude Monet is famous for painting the elaborate pond, Japanese bridge, water lilies, and gardens of his home. www.artswhitelake.org 231-893-2524

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.

Classical Night: Kyle Thompson, guitar
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague, Classical guitarist Kyle Thompson at 7pm Dinner at 6:15 RSVP to bryan@thebooknookjavashop.com

Cups: At the Muskegon Museum of Art
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 West Webster Ave., Presents Cups, an invitational exhibition of unique handmade cups with a wide array of creative expressions in ceramics. March 3-17. 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!

Wednesday March 16:

Thursday March 17:

Thursday Night Music Club: Uneven Ground
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Muskegon Area District Library – Norton Shores Branch 705 Seminole Rd.
Spend St. Patrick’s Day with one of Muskegon’s most exciting traditional/folk Celtic bands. This is a FREE event open to the public.

49th Annual Raising of the Irish Flag
12:00 pm – 12:30 pm
Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau 610 W. Western Ave.,
On St. Patrick’s Day proper, the Muskegon Irish American Society/Michigan Irish American Hall of Fame conduct their 49th Annual Raising of the Irish Flag! A brief ceremony followed by the flag raising will take place. Hope to see you here!

Happy St Paddy’s Day at Unruly!
11:00 am – 10:00 pm
Unruly Brewing Company 360 W. Western Ave. The doors open to the tasting room at 11:00 am. At Noon the first round of March madness plays on multiple TVs with events happening all day.

Jazz: Eat-it-Up Trio
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague, Irish Dinner available at 6:00; Music at 7:00 Detroit-based and undeniably swinging, the Eat It Up Trio is Michigan’s premier professional purveyor of possibly the most pleasurable music three humans can possibly do. 231-894-5333 for questions.

Feelin’ Lucky Event
March 17
1989 Lakeshore Dr. Are you feelin’ lucky? Come shop with Bellasimi Boutique in-store and receive 17% off your purchase! Enter to win a gift basket when you make an in-store purchase.

Little Learners: STEAM Play and Learn
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave., You’re invited to join a special Play and Learn program at the Lakeshore Museum Center on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278

Friday March 18:

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game-VS-Qubuque
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm “Queen for a Night” night
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 March 19:

MuskeCon 4!
10:00 am -5:00 pm
Grab your family, and come to the Delta By Marriott located at 939 Third St., downtown Muskegon and celebrate Muskegon’s 4th year of their very own comic and toy show. Dress up in your favorite cosplay, buy some vintage and modern action figures/toys, support local artists by purchasing prints of their art, find some great comic books, and much more! $5 admission and under 12 years of age FREE.

Scotch Doubles Benefit
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
This benefit bowl for patients of Cancer and Hematology Centers of West Michigan. (Muskegon locations) All profits goes directly to the patients. This is located at Ravenna Bowl 2915 Slocum Rd. All are welcome. $25 per person.

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. Serita, along with her partner Jon. For more information call 231-894-5333

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game-VS-Qubuque
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm St. Patty’s Night
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

Indoor Farmers Market
9:00am-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 March 20

Free Family Movie Days – Mulan
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. Everyone is welcome to attend this family-friendly movie. The movie is FREE. There will be snacks to purchase.

Monday March 21

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!

Thank you
Cathy Houseman, Tourism Information Aide
Visit Muskegon-Muskegon County CVB
610 W. Western Ave.
Muskegon MI 49440
231-724-3100
www.visitmuskegon.org

Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Deploys to Memphis, Tennessee, After Massive Ice Storm

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) deployed on Feb. 7 to Memphis, Tennessee, after a massive ice storm caused major power outages and downed trees.

“As we see the many lives impacted because of this ice storm in Memphis, our hearts are heavy for those who have had great loss,” said Josh Holland, international director of the BG-RRT. “Our crisis-trained chaplains will be there to provide emotional and spiritual care as the area begins the recovery process.”

In addition, the team’s Mobile Ministry Center, a vehicle that serves as a safe, warm area for spiritual conversations and prayer, has been parked in the region for locals to visit.

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

Ask Dr. Universe – Feelings

Dr. Universe: Why do people have feelings like boredom, happiness, sadness and love? – Sophia, 11, Utah

Dear Sophia,

You’re stuck inside on a rainy day when all of a sudden you start to feel a bit bored. Maybe you aren’t sure what to do with the feeling. Maybe you decide to read a book or bake some cookies and the feeling starts to fade.

Perhaps you then start feeling happiness from doing an activity you love. You know, pretty much everyone experiences a variety of different feelings every day.

My friend Elizabeth Weybright, an associate professor of human development at Washington State University, is really curious about emotions, especially boredom.

She said that while we may have all kinds of feelings, they serve a similar purpose.

“Feelings are really there to help us communicate to ourselves and to communicate things to others,” she said.

The feeling of fear can help signal when we might be in danger. We might even be able to communicate that feeling to those around us, so they can stay safe, too.

Weybright also reminded me that there aren’t exactly bad or good emotions. Even if something like fear or boredom might not feel very good, they can have some benefits.

Boredom might inspire you to use creativity, for example. Meanwhile, love is an emotion that can help us feel connected others. But even if you feel love, it can sometimes come with some sadness.

Imagine you live very far from your grandparents or other family that you love. You might miss them and feel sad if you don’t get to see them very often.

While we might have different emotions, you can see how they sometimes have strong connections to one another. It’s also a reminder you can have multiple feelings at a time.

Weybright also reminded me that some people might struggle with expressing feelings. They might also need some help understanding other people’s feelings. After all, humans aren’t just born knowing all these different emotions. They have to learn about these feelings as they grow up.

She also said sometimes parents, caregivers, teachers and coaches can work together with children to help them learn more about these big feelings. That way when a big feeling like boredom, sadness, love or happiness comes up, you can be prepared to observe it.

It’s also great to know there are scientists in our world who are studying more about how emotions work, which may also help people better understand their fellow human beings.

Finally, just remember that feelings are a big part of what helps people communicate. Feelings may come and go, but it’s okay to feel them all.

Oh, and if you’re ever feeling bored, you might just investigate a good science question. Chances are it will open up a whole new set of questions to explore.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

United Way of the Lakeshore – Beards for Books

Help Support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Program During March Is Reading Month!
submitted by United Way of the Lakeshore

Beards For Books

Over a dozen men put their facial hair on the line to continue to put books in the hands of our littlest learners.

Around Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties, men are growing their beards out! For men who are typically clean-shaven, we will start to see stubble grow in the month of March (for some men grayer than they remember). For men who have thick and luxurious beards, we will start to see them say their goodbyes to a warm face. Why are they doing this? To support and raise funds for the 5,000 children enrolled in the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program that live in our community.

These men have pledged to grow Beards for Books for the month of March. Their razors have been thrown out, their goals have been set, and now all they need is you. Consider supporting one of these men in the Beards for Books challenge on their social media pages for March is Reading Month!

Support Today! – Find A Beards for Books Participant

Find Out More About Beards For Books Or Join Our Men Today!

Why Beards For Books Is Important:
Kindergarten is a formative learning year. It’s when children learn the skills that will help them adapt and succeed in later years of school. If more kids had the skills and abilities they need to be successful in school when they started kindergarten, they would have a greater opportunity to achieve success in high school and beyond.

65.8% of Muskegon County, 64.8% of Newaygo County, and 78.4% of Oceana County 3rd Graders are NOT reading at grade level according to the MSTEP. (View Data Here) From kindergarten to grade 3, children learn how to read. From grade 3 through the rest of an individual’s life, they read to learn. If students are not proficient in reading by 3rd grade, then they will continue to struggle in school and comprehension, falling farther behind. Currently, there is a 30 Million word gap between children who are read to versus those who are not. The Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Muskegon, Oceana, and Newaygo counties helps our children prepare for kindergarten by delivering books right to their door.

Read the 2021 Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Annual Report!

Thank you! Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library sponsors:
NICHOLS; CANNON MUSKEGON; COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR MUSKEGON COUNTY; COMMUNITY FOUNDATION – OCEANA COUNTY; COUNTRY DAIRY; THE GERBER FOUNDATION; GREAT START COLLABORATIVE – MUSKEGON COUNTY; MAISD; READ EARLY. READ OFTEN.; PNC; THE LOTHMANN FAMILY FUND, THE CANNON FAMILY FUND

Hyde Amendment Stays

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

News on the Hyde Amendment has gone quiet for the past few months due to Congress passing resolutions to continue negotiations for the 2022 fiscal budget.

The future of the Hyde Amendment became unknown after President Biden didn’t include it in his 2022 fiscal budget proposal last summer. In July of 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives voted against the amendment in a 219-208 vote.

Once the House voted, then the budget proposal got sent to the Senate who voted on August 11^th to preserve the Hyde amendment. These votes were preliminary votes but were important to take note of because they gave some indication on what the final vote was going to be.

The house and senate could not come to an agreement on the appropriation amendments so continuing resolutions had to be passed so that negotiation on dividing topics could be worked out.

Negotiation after the final vote started in September of 2021 and came to an end on March 11 just before a government shutdown with the Hyde Amendment intact thanks to all Republicans who held firm and to Senator Joe Manchin who worked hard to uphold the appropriation amendment even against party opposition.

Senator Joe Manchin was quoted in by the press saying “It has to be. It has to be. That’s dead on arrival if that’s gone,” and he was referring to the Hyde Amendment.

What is so special about this amendment that Congress would negotiate for months and risk a government shutdown over it?

For the past 45 years, the Hyde Amendment has been a part of the budget and has bipartisan support from every Democrat and Republican president since 1976, up until Biden.

This amendment ensures that federal taxpayers are not funding abortions. The majority of Americans feel strongly that they should not have to pay for someone else’s abortion, putting aside their personal beliefs on abortion.

The government funding bill also included the Weldon Amendment which also wasn’t included in Biden’s proposal last year. The Weldon Amendment protects health care providers who received federal funding from being forced to perform or aid in abortions.

The Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court case and the never-ending news stories on states changing abortion laws have created an unknown future in the prolife movement but one thing is for sure, Michigan taxpayers will not be paying for abortions this year.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

We will keep up with the hope
Won’t hide it under stones too heavy to lift;
For life will be as it will be,
With each breath of day a
freely, untimely, given gift.
as we are

April 3, 2022Free Family Movie Day: The Secret Garden3:00pm | Frauenthal TheaterTickets: FREE (no ticket required)

April 3, 2022Tommy C. & The Black Widow Grease Band3:00pm | Beardsley TheaterTickets: $19.00 for Adults / $12.00 for Children 12 and Under

April 8, 2022Alley Door Club – Big Daddy Fox & Friends7:00pm | The BallroomTickets: $10.00 Single Ticket / $65.00 Reserved Table of 4 / $130.00 Reserved Table of 8

April 9, 2022The Artist’s Musical Palette7:00pm | Frauenthal TheaterTickets: $10.00 for Adults / $5.00 for Children / $8.00 for Groups of 8+

April 21 – April 22, 2022North Muskegon Pops – “Norse Together”7:30pm | Frauenthal TheaterTickets: $12.00 / $16.00

April 28 – May 1, 2022MCT’s Mamma Mia!7:00pm & 3:00pm | Frauenthal TheaterTickets: $28.00 / $13.00 Student Rush

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

Monday March 28:

Tuesday March 29:

Wednesday March 30:

Thursday March 31:

Friday April 1:

Saturday April 2:

Sunday April 3:

Monday April 4:

Hackley Public Library Hours:

All Ages / Adult Programs:

>> Click here to apply online <<

Join us for a job fair!

Last Day MARCH 31stTHANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS!

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

Monday March 21:

Tuesday March 22:

Wednesday March 23:

Thursday March 24:

Friday March 25:

Saturday March 26:

Sunday March 27

Monday March 28

St. Patty’s Day BOGO 50% Sale!Buy one Cherish the Ladies ticket at regular price, save 50% on a companion ticket. Offer good for select seats, regularly priced $66 and $52 only.

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 March 14:

Tuesday March 15:

Wednesday March 16:

Thursday March 17:

Friday March 18:

Saturday March 19:

Sunday March 20

Monday March 21

Beards For Books

April 3, 2022
Free Family Movie Day: The Secret Garden
3:00pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: FREE (no ticket required)

April 3, 2022
Tommy C. & The Black Widow Grease Band
3:00pm | Beardsley Theater
Tickets: $19.00 for Adults / $12.00 for Children 12 and Under

April 8, 2022
Alley Door Club – Big Daddy Fox & Friends
7:00pm | The Ballroom
Tickets: $10.00 Single Ticket / $65.00 Reserved Table of 4 / $130.00 Reserved Table of 8

April 9, 2022
The Artist’s Musical Palette
7:00pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $10.00 for Adults / $5.00 for Children / $8.00 for Groups of 8+

April 21 – April 22, 2022
North Muskegon Pops – “Norse Together”
7:30pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $12.00 / $16.00

April 28 – May 1, 2022
MCT’s Mamma Mia!
7:00pm & 3:00pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $28.00 / $13.00 Student Rush

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Last Day MARCH 31st
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS!

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St. Patty’s Day BOGO 50% Sale!

Buy one Cherish the Ladies ticket at regular price, save 50% on a companion ticket. Offer good for select seats, regularly priced $66 and $52 only.

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