Monthly Archives: April 2022

Ottawa County Medication Take Back Event – April 30th

Remove the Risk from your Home – Ottawa County Medication Take Back Event
Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital
Saturday, April 30 from 10am-2pm

Proper disposal of medications, sharps, and vapes is not only good for the environment but it provides a safe method to remove these items from your home.  Community Mental Health of Ottawa County and Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital are partnering with Michigan OPEN and the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department to host a medication take back event on Saturday, April 30th from 10am-2pm.

This will be a drive thru event to ensure the safety of everyone participating.  Please bring any unused or expired medications, sharps, or vapes to be safely disposed of.  We will be offering medication lock boxes as well as Narcan training/distribution for those who are interested.

Did you know?

  • Every 10 minutes a child visits the emergency room for medication poisoning.
  • 12.5 million people age 12 and older misused opioids in the last year.
  • Three in five teens say prescription pain medication is easy for them to get from their parents’ medicine cabinet.

Community medication take back events provide a safe process for disposing of unused medications, sharps, and vapes while protecting our communities, children, and environment.

We encourage you to remove the risk from your home and bring your unused medications, sharps, and vapes to Spectrum Health Zeeland Community Hospital at 8333 Felch Street, Zeeland, Michigan 49464 this Saturday, April 30th from 10am-2pm.

If you would like more information or have questions contact cmhcustomerservices@miottawa.org or call 616-494-5545.

5th Annual Hats and Horses Fundraising Event

Pioneer Resources’ Popular Fundraising Event Returns!

Back to an in-person format, Pioneer Resources presents the 5th annual “Hats and Horses” fundraiser on Saturday, May 7, 2022. Attendees are encouraged to get tickets early and dress in derby attire/hats for this Kentucky Derby-themed party held under an elegant tent on the ground of Parmenter Law at 601 Terrace Street in Downtown Muskegon. The event is from 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm and will feature the Kentucky Derby Race live! Additional activities include several bucket raffles, live auction cash bar, and heavy hors-d’oeuvres throughout the evening. 

hatsandhorses

This year’s proceeds will be used for Pioneer Resources’ various programs to serve our mission of helping people with disabilities and seniors to attain independence and dignity by creating opportunities for participation in the community. Covid-19 has had a significant impact on our organization and we hope our community can be part of this year’s worthy fundraiser!

Pioneer Resources began as an unincorporated association of parents and educators in the late 1940s, operating as Pioneer School and providing special education and therapy. 65 years later the agency offers a diverse array of individualized supports and services for persons with disabilities as well as seniors. 

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.betterunite.com/pioneerresources-2022hatshorses

LMCU Announces 2022 Spring $50,000 Home Makeover Sweepstakes

Lake Michigan Credit Union Celebrates the 10th Year of Its Home Makeover Sweepstakes with a $50,000 Giveaway

Grand Rapids, MI. – Lake Michigan Credit Union (“LMCU”) announced the launch of its 10th annual Home Makeover Sweepstakes, with a grand prize of $50,000.

The sweepstakes will run from now until Friday, July 8, 2022. Last year’s giveaway generated a record 1,093,779 entries, the first year to break one million. The grand prize was won by Jamal of Grand Rapids.

There are many ways you could use $50,000 to improve your home. Maybe you’ve been imagining an updated kitchen or a deluxe bathroom, or your roof is due for repair. Or maybe now is the perfect time to add an addition, like a home office or extra bedroom. By entering online at LMCU.org or at any branch location, entrants are eligible to win the grand prize to make their dreams a reality. Entrants can also enter at most LMCU ATMs one time during the contest. Just like membership at LMCU, the $50,000 Home Makeover sweepstakes is open to everyone in Michigan and Florida.

“It’s so wonderful to be celebrating the 10th year of our Home Makeover Sweepstakes,” said Sandy Jelinski, LMCU president and CEO. “Thinking back to each winner, it’s amazing what the prize meant for them and the dreams they’ve always had for their homes. One of the things I’m most proud of with the work we do at LMCU is that even if you don’t win the sweepstakes, we have what you need to make your dreams a reality, too – whether that’s an affordable home improvement, a new car, or simply saving money by consolidating debt. We put our members first, and that’s why our members love banking here.”

Lake Michigan Credit Union was established in 1933 and is the largest credit union in Michigan. Employing a staff of over 1,550 and serving over 520,000 members, LMCU’s assets exceed $11.8 billion, with a mortgage servicing portfolio of over $13 billion. LMCU has 66 convenient branch locations overall, including 19 in southwest Florida. LMCU members have access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs worldwide. LMCU provides a full range of financial services, from high interest-bearing checking accounts to personal loans, mortgages, investments, and commercial banking.

To find out more, visit LMCU.org.

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Minutes – 4/18/22

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
April 18, 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, Steve Kelly, and JB Meeuwenberg.

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 22-045. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Buckner to approve the agenda with the addition of Curriculum Director, Allison Camp’s Curriculum Review and Replacement Cycle presentation.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

V. PRESENTATIONS
Director of Business Services, Mark Mesbergen and OAK Project Manager, Matt Hulswit gave an update on the 2017 and 2021 bond projects. Matt addressed a drainage issue and will follow up after a 4/19/22 meeting. Mark reminded everyone how far the district has come in the last five years.
Curriculum Director, Allison Camp presented information on the district’s curriculum review and replacement schedule. She covered new curriculum implemented over the past five years and explained next steps in the process.

VI. COMMUNICATIONS
None.

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Jason Kolkema introduced himself as a 14th Circuit Court Judge candidate for Muskegon County. Jason is a 1989 Fruitport graduate.
Christina Achterhoff introduced herself. She works with Senator Jon Bumstead and is happy to help with any district needs.

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Superintendent, Jason Kennedy briefly touched on the following topics: Student Testing, Interviews, Job Vacancies, and Legislative Updates.

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 22-046. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Franklin to approve the Consent Agenda as listed below:

  1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of March 21, 2022
  2. Acceptance of Bills, Monthly Financial Report, and ACH Transactions
  3. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report
  4. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report
  5. Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report
  6. Approval of 2021 Bond Report
  7. Approval of the Personnel Report
    MOTION CARRIED 7-0

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
None.

XI. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

  1. Report of a committee meeting held April 11, 2022.
    Elroy Buckner reported on a Business and Finance Committee meeting held in the Superintendent’s Office on April 11, 2022. Dave Hazekamp, Kris Cole, Elroy Buckner, Jason Kennedy, Jessica Wiseman, and Mark Mesbergen were present. The committee discussed: an updated Emergency Operations Plan, Strategic Planning, ECC Pay Increases, a Business Service Agreement with North Muskegon Public Schools, a Food Service RFP, and a Turf Field Change Order.
  2. Food Service Management Contract with Chartwells. Item 22-047. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the Chartwells’ contract to manage the district’s food service operations for 2022-23 as presented.
    MOTION CARRIED 7-0
  3. Electrical Lighting Circuits and Conduit at Athletic Stadium. Item 22-048. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Kelly to approve the emergency change order allowing for old electrical wiring be replaced under the football field as presented.
    MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

  1. Report of a committee meeting held April 11, 2022.
    Steve Kelly reported on a Personnel Committee meeting held in the Superintendent’s Office on April 11, 2022. Dave Hazekamp, Steve Kelly, JB Meeuwenberg Jonny Morehouse and Jason Kennedy were present. The committee discussed: a Personnel Issue, an updated Emergency Operations Plan, Strategic Planning, and ECC Pay Increases. They received a general overview of topics discussed in other committee meetings.
  2. ECC Staff Compensation Recommendation.
    Item 22-049. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Meeuwenberg to approve the recommended raises as presented.
    MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS

  1. Report of a committee meeting held April 11, 2022.
    Susan Franklin reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held in the Superintendent’s Office on April 11, 2022. Dave Hazekamp, Tim Burgess, Susan Franklin, Jonny Morehouse and Jason Kennedy were present. The committee discussed: a Varsity Hockey Cooperative Program, updates to the Adult Ed Handbook, Board Policy 5407, an updated Emergency Operations Plan, Drumline Lodging Assistance, and Strategic Planning. They received a general overview of topics discussed in other committee meetings.
  2. Varsity Hockey Cooperative Program.
    Item 22-050. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Burgess to approve the Varsity Hockey Cooperative Program with Reeths-Puffer High School as presented.
    MOTION CARRIED 7-0
  3. Updated Emergency Operations Plan and Procedures Manual. Item 22-051. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Burgess to approve the District’s updated Emergency Operations plan and Procedures Manual (EOP) as presented.
    MOTION CARRIED 7-0
  4. Overnight Trip Requests. Item 22-052. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Burgess to approve the overnight trip requests as presented.
    MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Kris Cole spoke about the High School Robotics’ competition at Saginaw Valley. He said their robot, known as the “Flying Dorito”, was a hit among the crowd! The team won the coveted Spirit Award. It was a great way to end their season!

Steve Kelly was impressed with the Community Drumline and Color Guard Performance. He stated that it was full of energy and excitement.

Dave Hazekamp commended Courtney Stahl and Laura Lopez on a recent K-5 Choir Concert. The concert was well attended and the kids did a great job!

Jason Kennedy thanked Mark Mesbergen, Allison Camp and John Winskas for their work and expertise over the past few months.

XV. AGENDA ITEMS for FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF ANY SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Business and Finance Committee will meet May 9, 2022 at 11:30 a.m. 2. Personnel Committee will meet May 9, 2022 at 4:30 p.m. 3. Student Affairs Committee will meet May 9, 2022 at 5:30 p.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Item 22-053. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

The meeting adjourned at 8:07 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Steve Kelly Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke Recording Secretary
Regular

Fruitport Board of Education Workshop Minutes – 4/19/22

Fruitport Board of Education
Board Workshop
April 19, 2022 6:00 p.m.
Board Room
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd, Fruitport

I. The Board Workshop was called to order at 5:55 p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

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

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 22-054. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Burgess to approve the agenda with the addition of Item #6. Overnight Trip Request – Softball.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

  1. April 18, 2022 Regular Meeting Minutes
    Item 22-055. MOTION by Burgess, SECOND by Cole to approve the April 18, 2022 Regular Meeting Minutes.
    MOTION CARRIED 6-0
  2. MASB Board Briefing: Overview of the Superintendent Evaluation
    An overview of the Superintendent Evaluation was discussed.
  3. MASB Superintendent Evaluation Tool
    The MASB Superintendent Evaluation Tool was shared.
  4. Discussion and Feedback: Superintendent Performance
    The Board discussed an overview of the superintendent’s performance during the past six months. The Board is setting a goal to meet again in the fall to begin the formal Superintendent Evaluation.
  5. Goal Setting and Strategic Planning
    This agenda item was tabled for a future meeting.
  6. Overnight Trip Request – Softball
    Item 22-056. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the Softball overnight trip request April 29-30 in Kalkaska, MI.
    MOTION CARRIED 6-0
  7. Other
    The Board had a discussion about student behavioral issues in the district.

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

VI. ADJOURNMENT
Item 22-057. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The meeting adjourned at 7:01 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly
Board Secretary

Fruitport Village Budget Council Meeting Minutes – 2/21/22

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
FEBRUARY 21st, 2022
BUDGET COUNCIL MEETING

  1. Call to Order
    Meeting called to order at 4:30pm
  2. Roll Call
    Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Carl Rothenberger, Amy Haack, Bill Overkamp, Jeff Guiles and Ann LaCroix
  3. Approve agenda for February 21st Budget Council meeting
    Motion made by Amy to approve the February 21st budget agenda, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote the motion carried.
  4. Public Comments (Public Comments limited to 3 minutes each)
    None
  1. 2022-2023 Budget

a. Personnel Committee recommendations
Carl reviewed the Personnel Committee recommendations for wages increases, 457 Retirement Plan and Seasonal DPW worker.
Motion made by Carl to increase the Full time DPW Workers wages from $17.00 per hour to $19.00 per hour. This is the final step increase for the position. To increase the DPW Supervisors wages by 3%. To increase both full-time DPW employees 457 Retirement match from 3% to 4% per year. To increase the part-time DPW Worker wages by 4% and the Clerk/Treasurer by 4%. Motion supported by Jeff.
Roll call AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None.
Carl made a motion to hire a Seasonal DPW Worker April through November 2022 at a rate of $13.00 per hour with no benefits, supported by Amy.
Roll call AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None.

b. Boat Launch Rates & Boat Launch attendant
Ann questioned if the council wants to change the boat launch rates. Motion made by Roger to keep the boat launch rates the same for the
2022 season, supported by Jeff.
Roll call AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None.
Ann advised that Margo our boat launch attendant will not be returning this summer. Carl advised that the Personnel Committee discussed hiring another attendant or installing a pay station at the launch. We will place this item on the March agenda.

c. Park Reservations
Council discussed the Park Reservation fees. Motion made by Amy to keep the rates the same for the 2022 season, supported by Carl.
Roll call AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None.

d. Review of current fiscal year budget items
Ann referred council to the budget discussion items in their packet. A review of remaining items from the 2021-2022 budget took place and other items that were added this year.

e. Next fiscal year budget discussion.
Requested items for the 2022-2023 budget were discussed. ARPA funding was discussed and the projected Fund Balance for this fiscal year end.

  1. Public Comments
    None
  2. Adjourn
    Motion made by Carl to adjourn at 5:46pm, supported by Jeff.

Respectfully submitted by,

Ann LaCroix
Clerk/Treasurer

Fruitport Village Council Meeting Minutes – 2/21/22

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
COUNCIL MEETING
FEBRUARY 21ST, 2022

  1. Call to Order
    President Roger Vanderstelt called the meeting to order at 6pm.
  2. Pledge
  3. Prayer
  4. Roll Call
    Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Carl Rothenberger, Amy Haack, Jeff Guiles and
    Ann LaCroix. Absent: Bill Overkamp (excused).
  5. Approval of February 21st Meeting Agenda
    Motion made by Carl to approve the February 21st meeting agenda, supported by Amy. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.
  6. Approval of the January 17th Council meeting minutes
    Motion made by Carl to approve the January 17th council meeting minutes, supported by Amy. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.
  7. Public Comment
    Jamie and David Garzelloni, 329 Pine Street addressed council again on water drainage issue in their backyard. Roger shared pictures regarding the issue and will provide quotes for a new catch basin at the next council meeting.
  8. Correspondence
    Ann read an email from Emily Lisowicz requesting to have an event in the park in September. Emily will attend the next council meeting to talk about the event and request approval.
    Ann advised the RMS Disposal service has sold their business to Republic Services. Republic Services will honor the current contract that we had with RMS. Ann and Roger will meet with the Local Area Manager next week to discuss the transition.
  9. Reports from Officers
    Amy
    advised that the playground equipment is arriving in April. The Community build dates are June 16th-17th and June 18th if needed.
    Amy has applied for the Senior Millage for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. The funding has been approved for this year. Amy gave an update on the kayak launch and advised that a meeting will take place with Prein & Newhof, West Michigan Dirtworks, Roger, and Amy soon.
    Jeff had nothing to report.
    Carl had nothing to report.
    Roger had nothing to report.
  10. Lions Clubs 2022 Events
    Ann referred council to the letter received from the Lions Club requesting approval for the Easter Egg hunt and Old-Fashioned Days. Motion made by Carl to approve the Lions Club requests, supported by Jeff.
    Roll call AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
    NAYS: None
    Absent: Overkamp
  11. Dancing Into Sunset
    Ann read a letter from Sue Halter requesting permission for the 2022 Dancing into Sunset season and sponsorship for the events. Motion made by Carl to approve the Dancing into Sunset season, supported by Jeff.
    Roll call AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt
    NAYS: None
    Absent: Overkamp.
    Motion made by Carl to donate $500.00 of the Senior Millage funding in support of Dancing into Sunset.
    Roll call AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
    NAYS: None
    Absent: Overkamp.
  12. Bridge Street Bridge Grant
    Ann advised that a Request for Proposal is necessary to hire Construction Engineering Services for the project. Brechting Bridge will create a RFP for the Village to use for the bidding process.
  13. Handicap Parking Lot
    Roger advised that Callen Engineering will have an updated change order in March.
  14. 7th & Peach
    Roger advised that there will be an update at the March meeting.
  15. Public Comment
    None.
  16. Warrants
    Motion made by Carl to approve the warrants, supported by Amy.
    Roll call AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
    NAYS: None
    Absent: Overkamp.
  17. Adjournment
    Motion made by Carl to adjourn the meeting at 6:42pm, supported by Amy. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Ann LaCroix
Clerk/Treasurer

Events Happening in Muskegon County – April 26 – May 2, 2022

www.visitmuskegon.org

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

Tuesday April 26:

Cellist Pablo Mahave-Veglia and GVSU Chamber Orchestra in Concert
12:15 pm – 12:45 pm

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1006 3rd St. Feeding the Soul of the City concert at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served prior to the performance. Attendees may bring a bag lunch and/or covered drink to enjoy before or during the concert.

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

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.

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! www.nonamemuskegon.org 231-375-5717

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 April 27:

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.

Open Studio
8:00 am – 5:00 pm 

Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St. FREE for middle and high school students Middle and High School students are invited to the ACWL-Nuveen for Open Studio sessions. Bring an item you are working on 231-893-2524

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

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

Youth Take and Make Craft
Hackley Public Library

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

Thursday April 28:

Mamma Mia!
7:30 pm 

Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. 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. www.muskegoncivictheatre.org 231-722-3852

SPARK! April in Paris
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

The Playhouse at White Lake 304 South Mears Ave. Individuals with memory loss are invited to participate for FREE, along with a friend, family member or care partner, in engaging conversations inspired by art and theater.

Little Learners: STEAM Play & Learn
10:00 am – 11:00 am 

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

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.

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

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.231-894-8269

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 29:

Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve Grand Reopening
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm

Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve 2429 Lake Ave., The Muskegon Lake Nature Preserve will celebrate their Grand Reopening starting at 4:30pm.

On Tap and Uncorked
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Muskegon Museum of Art 296 West Webster Ave. On Tap & Uncorked combines tastings of Michigan craft beer, cider, and wine with food pairings by local food trucks and restaurants. The event will take place outside in the museum’s parking lot. This event promises to bring a new, unique, and artful experience to the event Tickets are $30 in advance, $25 for MMA Members, and $35 at the door. Purchase tickets in advance at Eventbrite or at the MMA Museum Store. Tickets include admission, five tokens for beer, wine, or cider samples, as well as, a full-size pretzel from the Village Baker. Your ticket purchase supports the MMA and event costs. www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Friday Family Fun Night: Industry
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave. Join the Muskegon Heritage Museum and the Muskegon Museum of History and Science of the Lakeshore Museum Center as we celebrate the history of Muskegon County industries. Both museum sites will be open for touring and will include activities such as papermaking, matching products to local businesses, looking at technology changes over time, and more. Both museums are free for museum members and Muskegon County residents and $5 for non-residents.

Benny Green, Straight-Ahead Jazz
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm

The Block 360 W. Western Ave. 2nd Floor, “He conveys exalted inspiration without showboating or pretentiousness.” (Jazz Times) Hailed as the most exciting hard-swinging, hard-bop pianist to ever emerge from Art Blakey’s legendary Jazz Messengers. For ticket information info@theblockwestmichigan.org 231-726-3231

Acoustic Oasis
April 29 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

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

Cheers Crawl Finish Line
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Olthoff Stage, 425 W.Western Ave. Every Woman’s Place will host a cap-off event in downtown Muskegon. Cheers Crawl Finish Line celebrates a month of community support with live outdoor entertainment by Brena, a Culinary Institute of Michigan Chocolate Booth and a 50/50 Raffle! This event is free to the community!

Mamma Mia!
Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. 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. www.muskegoncivictheatre.org 231-722-3852

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

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 30:

Model Train Expo
10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Cardinal Elementary School 3210 Marquette Ave. The Muskegon Railroad Historical Society presents a Model Train and Hobby Exposition. Buy, sell, trade…or come admire! $5 donation entrance fee. 231-670-0751

Eric Neumann Live Stand Up Comedy
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Back Alley Comedy Club 1531 W. Sherman Blvd. Here is a list of things that I call “accomplishments”, but my Jewish mom calls “distractions from finding a wife” I’m a New York based comedian and a regular performer. $15 per person

City of the Dead – Muskegon Meet and Greet
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Evergreen Cemetery 391 Irwin Ave. Have you ever wanted to join the cast for City of the Dead – Muskegon historical walking tour? Join us at the Meet & Greet, bring your friends! Bring comfortable shoes and any questions. FREE event

Christopher Dragone, guitar
11:00 am – 1:00 pm 

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. guitar player extraordinaire – from Muskegon. Stop by and take a listen while eating lunch.

Lakeside Spring Shop Hop
10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Lakeside Business District Lakeshore Dr. Join Lakeside Businesses for a Spring Shop Hop. Enjoy lunch or cocktails at one of our local restaurants and make it a Lakeside Day! Sign up to win a fabulous gift card bouquet from Lakeside Businesses (sign ups at Wassermans, Art Cats Gallery and Bellasimi Boutique)

National Indie Bookstore Day
8:00 am – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Get your book on at the annual event celebrating The Independent Bookshop.

Mamma Mia!
Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. 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. www.muskegoncivictheatre.org 231-722-3852

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

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, May 1:

Mamma Mia!
7:30 pm 

Frauenthal Center 425 W Western Ave. 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. www.muskegoncivictheatre.org 231-722-3852

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

Monday May 2:

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

Hackley Public Library – 2022 April & May 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: 9-7 pm
Wed-Sat: 9-5 pm

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

May Youth / Teen Programs:

April Showers bring May Flowers! Take and Make
Available beginning May 2

How does your garden grow? With these fun and easy craft foam flowers! Hackley Library’s Youth Services department will have bins for you to choose your very own background and bright spring colors! Take and Makes will be available beginning May 2. Free.

Down the Rabbit Hole! Escape Room Take and Make
Available beginning May 2

The tea party went just right. Everyone had such a great time. As your guests leave, you notice this small white rabbit following you everywhere you go. Where did it come from? Find out when you pick up your very own mystery from HPL’s Youth Services department! Take and Makes will be available beginning May 2. Free.

STEAM Along the Lakeshore (In-person at Several Locations)
Saturday, May 7 from 10:00 – 4:00 pm

Hackley Library is partnering with other community organizations to launch this inaugural event! Drop in at any participating location to engage in an assortment of STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art Math) activities geared towards students’ pre-K through 12th grade and their families. The first 1000 students that complete their passport will receive a bag with a STEAM kit and a t-shirt. Free.

Robot Open House
Drop-In / In-Person
Tuesday, May 10 from 3:00 – 6:00 pm

Try out all the different robots Hackley Library has to offer for youth, including: Cue, Sphero, Lego WeDo, and Ozobots! This is a self-guided exploration with minimal staff assistance. Robots are available on a first come, first served basis. Free.

Murder at the Crimson Asylum – Teen Mystery Month Escape Room
In-Person
Monday, May 16 from 3:30 – 4:30 pm

Murder at the Crimson Asylum is an immersive investigation game, where you are responsible to find Nicholas Harrison’s murderer. Bring your sleuthing skills to Hackley Library’s Young Adult room and help us find whodunit! Free.

Faerie Craft Day
Drop-In / In-Person
Saturday, May 21 from 12:00 – 2:00 pm

What does a faerie house look like? What would you do with a faerie wand? We will be making both of those at Hackley Library, plus your very own faerie to take home with you! Free.

All Ages / Adult Programs:

Soil, Seeds, and Sunlight! Growing Your Garden
In-Person
Tuesday, May 3 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Join Community Gardeners at Hackley Library to learn the latest on growing productive and beautiful gardens – plus help save our pollinators – butterflies and honeybees!
During the program we’ll learn about the Muskegon Community Gardens, the Four Elements (air, soil, sun water), when and what to grow, pests, weeds, & solutions, and more! To register, visit the online events calendar at hackleylibrary.org. Free.

What’s a Zine?
All Day Drop-In Program

Do you know what a zine is? During this drop-in program, we will provide supplies where you can make your own mini-zine*! Additionally, there will be informational videos and takeaways available all day. This program is designed for teens and adults, but the whole family is welcome to participate. Free. *There are many different sizes and types of zines. Watch for details to come on a more in-depth zine program in June.

Left to Write (and Left to Write at Night!)
In-Person, Wednesday, May 11 from 3:30 – 4:30 pm
In-Person, Tuesday, May 24 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm

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. Feel free to come to one or both, whenever you’re able to! Free.

Night Yoga in the Library
In-Person
Thursday, May 12 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm

What could be better than doing Mindful Yoga, at night, under Hackley Library’s stained glass windows? Not much! Join us for a relaxing class of meditation yoga with Kristin Mast of Muskegon Yoga. NO yoga experience needed! To register, visit the online events calendar at hackleylibrary.org. Free.

Pressure-Free Living with Elle Ingalls
In-Person
Tuesday, May 24 from 5:30 – 6:30 pm

Elle Ingalls is an international performance and stress-management coach. She is the creator of the Pressure-Free Method which helps you effectively up-level your health, relationships, and mental & physical performance. Join us as Elle shares her method to help you better understand and better manage stress! To register, visit the online events calendar at hackleylibrary.org. Free.

BG-RRT Chaplains Deploy to Ukraine

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

ukraine
RRT Chaplains ministering in the Samaritans Purse emergency field hospital in Lviv Ukraine parking garage.

Dozens of chaplains with the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) are on the ground in Lviv, Ukraine, offering hope and providing comfort and compassion to families who have been forced to flee their homes. The team of crisis-trained chaplains are serving alongside medical personnel with Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian disaster relief organization that is operating an Emergency Field Hospital and a triage clinic near a busy train station.
 
“In a crisis like this, the greatest need is spiritual. These chaplains are ministering to people who are hurting and have lost everything. Even though chaplains don’t have all the answers to every question a person may ask, they’re able to share the hope that we have in Jesus Christ and remind people that God hasn’t forgotten them and He loves them,” said Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse.
 
BG-RRT is partnering with local churches to equip even more chaplains to respond to the disaster and has trained over one hundred Ukrainian men and women to become chaplains.
 
For more information about the BG-RRT ministry, visit BillyGraham.org/RRT.

Ask Dr. Universe – Butterfly Wings

Dr. Universe: What are butterfly wings made of? Serenity, 12
 
Dear Serenity,
 
Butterfly wings may be quite thin, but they are also durable and strong. This strength comes from the material that makes up the wings: chitin (KITE-IN).
 
Chitin is a kind of building material we find in nature. Chitin makes up not only the wings of butterflies but also the outer skeletons—or exoskeletons—of crabs, shrimp and lots of other insects.
 
My friend David James, an entomologist at Washington State University, told me all about it.
 
He said that chitin is a bit like the strong keratin material that makes up your hair and fingernails. Of course, butterfly wings are much thinner than a fingernail. These thin, light wings help the butterflies float and fly through the air. 
 
“They’re wafer thin, and there’s not much to them, but they allow the butterfly to migrate sometimes thousands of miles,” James said.
 
A butterfly’s wings are also covered in lots of tiny scales. You read that right. Butterflies have scaly wings.
 
“The scales are overlapping like the tiles on a roof,” James said. “They can come in many colors.”
 
These scales are also made of chitin. In fact, the butterfly’s head and abdomen are made of chitin too. It’s one of the basic materials in the outer parts of most insect bodies.
 
James added that one misconception some people have about butterflies is that they can’t fly when the scales come off their wings. Of course, butterflies are delicate and should be treated gently, but they can also be pretty tough.
 
“Sometimes you see butterflies that are completely beat up, tattered and the colors have gone, but they’re still flying and able to move around,” James said.
 
The colorful scales don’t really help with flight, but they can help the butterflies survive in the wild in other ways.
 
Some wing colors can help butterflies blend into their environments and help them hide from predators. Bright colors on butterfly wings can send a signal to predators that the butterfly is poisonous and should not be eaten. The different colors and patterns may also help a butterfly attract a mate.
 
When a butterfly is forming in a chrysalis, its wings are usually one of the last things to develop. As a butterfly comes out of a chrysalis, its wings are wrinkly and wet. 
 
James said this is the most vulnerable time for the butterfly because its wings are not hardened yet. Usually, butterflies will emerge early in the morning to hopefully avoid any birds who might be looking for their next meal. 
 
It takes a few hours for the wings to dry and for the hemolymph—the insect’s blood—to pump through its veins. The veins help give the wings some shape and structure. Then, when the time is right, the wings expand, and the butterfly is ready to take flight.
 
The next time you see a butterfly fluttering past you, see if you can catch a glimpse of its wings. Who knows, maybe you will become a scientist one day and help us learn more about the amazing world of insects.
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

druniverse


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

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May Events at the Frauenthal Center

May 7, 2022
Pre-Mother’s Day Music Explosion
7:00pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $45.00 / $55.00 / $65.00

violinist

Violinist Dominique Hammons and friends come to give Muskegon a concert to remember! In honor of Mother’s Day, saxophonist Dean James will bless the audience like never before. Get ready, Muskegon!

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


May 13, 2022
Alley Door Club – Steeple Hill
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.

Steeple Hill ~ Putting Live Energy into Today’s Hits & Yesterday’s Favorites

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


May 13, 2022
Finally Sujari!
7:30pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $10.00 / $19.00 / $25.00 / $30.00 / $49.00 / $62.00

West Michigan Symphony
This is the program you’ve all been waiting for—by the time it arrives, literally for two years! We were on the verge of performing this concert when the Covid lockdown began in March 2020. We are looking forward to having Sujari Britt back with us at last, for her long-awaited performance!

Scott Speck, conductor
Sujari Britt, cello

Price: Dances in the Canebrakes
Saint-Saëns: Cello Concerto no.1
Still: Symphony no.1, “Afro-American”

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


May 15, 2022
Free Family Movie Day: Raya and the Last Dragon
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.

Raya and the Last Dragon: Kumandra is a place where humans and dragons peacefully coexist. When sinister monsters called the Druun threaten the community, however, the dragons readily make a sacrifice to save the human race. Hundreds of years later, the same threat returns. It is up to Raya, a lone warrior, to stop them once and for all. She tracks down the last dragon alive. But as she embarks on her journey, she realizes that it will take more than a dragon and its magic to save her world.

Click here to learn more!


May 25, 2022
Dance Theatre of Harlem
7:30pm | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $25.00 / $35.00 / $45.00

dancetheatre

Now a singular presence in the ballet world, the Dance Theatre of Harlem Company tours nationally and internationally, presenting a powerful vision for ballet in the 21st century. The 18-member, multi-ethnic company performs a forward-thinking repertoire that includes treasured classics, neoclassical works by George Balanchine and resident choreographer Robert Garland, as well as innovative contemporary works that use the language of ballet to celebrate African American culture. Through performances, community engagement and arts education, the Company carries forward Dance Theatre of Harlem’s message of empowerment through the arts for all.

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


May 30, 2022
2022 American Salute!
10:00am | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: FREE (no ticket required)

salute

A one-of-a-kind Memorial Day ceremony honoring the brave members of the military who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of our country.

Click here to learn more!

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Way past the fallen pine of old
along frilly ferns as they cone out to play,
we walk through moss-covered paths of life,
determined to conquer another day.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Spring will bring
 the song of the sparrow
The robin searching for worms and
 new falling rain;
We will search for
 fields of green wide and narrow,
   Spring is on it’s way.

Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show This Weekend

Muskegon, MI – The Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show returns to the VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center in downtown Muskegon. The show will take place on Friday, April 22 from 4 – 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 23 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show will feature over 60 exhibitors including everything from home improvement and landscaping to boat dealers and water sports.

“This is an exciting time for Muskegon,” said Cindy Larsen, president of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. The new convention center brings new ways to grow our economy through great events that bring people to our community.”

Do-It-Yourself and demonstration seminars will be taught by local businesses on Saturday. This year’s seminars include floral arranging by Chalet Floral, a cooking demonstration featuring Kaja’s Flavor, a first-time home buyer guide by Fifth Third Bank, professional painting tips from Fresh Coat Painters, and boater safety training from Freedom Boat Club.

In addition to exhibitors and seminars, each ticket includes a 15% off discount for Walker’s An American Brasserie Restaurant. Preshow tickets are available online now at muskegonhgs.org for $8. Tickets will also be available day of the show for $10. Kids 12 and under are free!

The Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show is a production of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce with support from the Lakeshore Home Builders Association, VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center, Shoreline Restoration and Construction and Freedom Boat Club. Additional show supporters and exhibitors are listed online at muskegonHGS.org.

Fruitport Township Board Meeting Agenda – 04/25/22

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

APRIL 25, 2022

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

  1. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
  2. Roll call
  3. Approval of board minutes: 3/28/22
  4. Approve / amend agenda
  5. Correspondence / reports
  6. Public comments regarding agenda items
  7. Unfinished Business
    none
  8. New Business
    A. Fruitport District Library Trustee Appointments
    B. Senior Millage Funding Report
    C. Resolution: Support Emergency Operations Plan
    D. Social Security Policy
    E. Performance Resolution for Municipalities: MDOT
    F. First Reading: Zone Change Amendment Ordinance- Sheringer Rd.
    G. Approval to Fill Fire Department Vacancy
  9. Approval of Bills
  10. Reports
  11. Public Comments
  12. Adjournment

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

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Do not worry about the sadness
Do not lay upon the pain;
Do try to get up!! Get up!! You are so important,
Don’t be weary, just lift up,
 though vision may persist blurry,
Lest we try that step again.
journey on..

Events Happening in Muskegon County – April 18-25, 2022

www.visitmuskegon.org

Don’t see YOUR event on the calendar?

Visit this link to see how easy it is to get it submitted  bit.ly/VisitMuskegonSubmitEvent

Tuesday April 19:

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.

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! www.nonamemuskegon.org 231-375-5717

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 April 20:

Desmond Jones Free Acoustic Set
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm

New Standard Park Place 1922 Park St. To celebrate 4/20, Desmond Jones Band will perform a free acoustic set from 3-5pm. Desmond Jones is a five-piece American rock band.

420 BASH at Grassy Knoll
11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Join us at Grassy Knoll located at 2119 Lemuel St. to check out art from over 10 local vendors! Featuring live music from DJ PRIM. Ohgrassyknoll.com

Open Studio
8:00 am – 5:00 pm 

Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St. FREE for middle and high school students Middle and High School students are invited to the ACWL-Nuveen for Open Studio sessions. Bring an item you are working on 231-893-2524

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

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

Youth Take and Make Craft
Hackley Public Library

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

Thursday April 21:

Family Fun Night: Harry Potter
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Muskegon Area District Library – Montague Branch 8778 Ferry St. Spells will be flying at our Harry Potter Family Fun Night. Join us for a magical evening of Harry Potter trivia, games, crafts and food. This is FREE to everyone!

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.

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

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.231-894-8269

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 22:

Bowl for Kids Sake
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Northway Lanes 1751 Evanston Ave. Bowl for Kids’ Sake is about having fun to help kids continue on a positive path. It is Big Brothers Big Sisters’ largest national fundraiser, raising over $20 million annually

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

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Music styles range from Your Cheating Heart by Hank Williams, Crazy by Patsy Cline, I Love This Bar by Toby Keith to Great Balls Of Fire!

Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show 2022
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
 
VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center 470 W. Western Ave. Features over 60 exhibitors including everything from windows, boats, gutters, and painting to home décor, furniture, landscaping and much more! $8-$10

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

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 23:

Clean Comedy Time Showcase
7:30 pm

Show start Tickets: $20 General Admission Clean Comedy Time Showcase Come laugh with Maher Matta, David Steves, Rebecca Conception, Aaron Sorrels and Brian Atkinson located at the Playhouse at White Lake!

Musician and Author David Posthumus
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. A night of music and reading with musician and author David Posthumus who began his writing career at age six, with his grandfather. 

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

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

April Saturdays: Magnets
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave. Stop by the museum and experiment with different sized and shaped magnets. See how they interact with one another and try to move a variety of objects. www.lakeshoremuseum.org $5

Mamma Mia! Pub Crawl!
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Muskegon Civic Theatre and JCI Greater Muskegon are hosting a community pub crawl for Mamma Mia! You could win prizes AND there will be a teaser of Mamma Mia! Details and participation punch cards are available at www.muskegoncivictheatre.org 

Folias Duo
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. 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 at Hackley Public Library.

Spring Craft Show
10:00 am – 4:00 pm

The Lakes Mall 5600 Harvey St. Come check out vendors with handmade items!

Annual Pine Street Mercantile “Garage Sale” and Succulent Sale
9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Pine Street Mercantile 866 Pine St. It’s our Annual Garage Sale! We are cleaning out and clearing out. There will be some amazing deals wrapped all around the building, so mark your calendar!

Record Store Day at Third Coast Vinyl
9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Third Coast Vinyl 1115 Third St. Record Store Day is a day for the people who make up the world of the record store—the staff, the customers, and the artists—to come together and celebrate.

Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + Boat Show 2022
10:00 am – 5:00 pm 

VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center 470 W. Western Ave. Features over 60 exhibitors including everything from windows, boats, gutters, and painting to home décor, furniture, landscaping and much more! $8-$10

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

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 24:

Meatball Competition for Alzheimer’s Association
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

The Brewer’s Lounge At Pigeon Hill 895 4th St. We are looking for 12 chefs to compete in our annual meatball competition! Join us for a fun afternoon with friends and family and raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association!

Muskegon Lake Annual Spring Cleanup 2022
8:00 am – 12:00 pm

The Muskegon Lake Watershed will be cleaned up by volunteers at twelve different locations from the lower Muskegon River to Lake Michigan. Volunteers, just show up! Bring your family, friends. 8:00am – 8:30am – Meet at the CIO Hall, 490 W. Western Ave., Downtown Muskegon near the tool trailer. Pre-cleanup refreshments will be available. 8:30am – Volunteers sign up with team leaders for locations, teams and supplies and then head out. -Dress in layers for possible weather changes -Bring your own rubber gloves or work gloves -Wear old shoes or rubber boots -Do not disturb nesting wildlife or animals -Plan to get a little wet and dirty!-Above all… be safe & have fun!

Trash Bash
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce 124 W. Hanson St. Act as “Trash Bashers” and clean up North and South of the bike trail, shoreline areas, and waterways. Meet at the Chamber at 1:00 pm where an action plan will be announced. Volunteers are asked to dress accordingly with sunscreen, gloves, hats, etc. Trash bags, gloves, and refreshments will be supplied. *No need to RSVP

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

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 25:

Core Strength, Cardio & Craft Beer: Jazzercise with Becky J at Pigeon Hill
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

The Brewer’s Lounge At Pigeon Hill 895 4th St. Join us for a Jazzercise class with FitPro & PH beertender Becky J.! $15 For more information 231-375-5184

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

Fruitport Board of Education Workshop Agenda – 04/19/22

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION WORKSHOP
Board Room

3255 E. Pontaluna Rd, Fruitport 49415
Tuesday, April 19, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

  1. Approval of April 18, 2022 Regular Board Meeting Minutes
  2. MASB Board Briefing: Overview of the Superintendent Evaluation
  3. MASB Superintendent Evaluation Tool
  4. Discussion and Feedback: Superintendent Performance
  5. Goal Setting and Strategic Planning
  6. Other

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VI. ADJOURNMENT

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

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 04/11/22

Student Affairs Committee
Monday, April 11, 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, Jason Kennedy, and Jonny Morehouse

  1. Varsity Hockey Cooperative Program
    Jonny Morehouse was present to discuss with the Committee the need to consider a new varsity 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). The Committee discussed the importance of selecting a program that would allow for the greatest opportunity for Fruitport student athletes to participate in the program. A recommendation to join the Reeths-Puffer hockey cooperative will be provided to the Board. This will be placed on the Board agenda as an action item under the Student Affairs Committee recommendations for approval on Monday, April 18, 2022.
  2. Adult Education Handbook
    The Committee discussed the Adult Education Handbook that was provided to them at the March 2022 meeting. A number of edits were discussed by the Committee. Jason will review these edits with Brenda Baker and the Adult Education Staff, and will have a copy of the handbook with the edits available for the Committee at the May Committee meeting so that the handbook can be approved following the review of the Committee in May 2022.
  3. Board Policy 5407: Instructional Program and Curriculum Development
    The Committee continued to discuss the Board’s current policy 5407, Instructional Program and Curriculum Development, as well as the optional policy updates for policy 5407 from Thrun Law Firm. The Committee discussed the optional policy updates and will revisit these updates at the May Committee meeting.
  4. Emergency Operations Plan and Procedures
    An update was provided on the updated Emergency Operations Plan and Procedures Manual. This will be placed on the Board agenda as an action item under the Student Affairs Committee recommendations for approval on Monday, April 18, 2022.
  5. Drumline Lodging Assistance Request: University of Dayton
    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 Committee discussed the importance of developing a policy for how the District will handle these requests from organizations in the future.
  6. District Strategic Planning Process
    An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to the District Strategic Planning Process. Meetings with stakeholders will begin during the month of May 2022.
  7. 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, April 18, 2022.
  8. Public Comment: None
  9. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 6:33 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Jason Kennedy, Superintendent

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 04/11/22

Personnel Committee
Monday, April 11, 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, Jason Kennedy, and Jonny Morehouse (5:10 p.m.)

  1. Elementary Personnel Issue
    An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to a personnel issue involving an elementary noon aide.
  2. Emergency Operations Plan and Procedures
    An update was provided on the updated Emergency Operations Plan and Procedures Manual. This will be placed on the Board agenda as an action item under the Student Affairs Committee recommendations for approval on Monday, April 18, 2022.
  3. District Strategic Planning Process
    An update was provided to the Committee pertaining to the District Strategic Planning Process. Meetings with stakeholders will begin during the month of May 2022.
  4. ECC Staff Recommendation
    Mark presented a recommendation outlining a two year plan for staff increases. ECC has received a federal grant and is expected to receive another grant this Spring. Therefore, the recommendation is to award a one-time stipend in May and then a $1.00 per hour increase in July 2022 and July 2023. This proposal will be placed on the Board agenda as an action item under the Personnel Committee recommendations for approval on Monday, April 18, 2022.
  5. 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, April 18, 2022.

Note: Jonny Morehouse, Athletic Director, attended the meeting at 5:10 p.m. to discuss the Varsity Hockey Cooperative Agreement with the Committee under the “Other” section of the agenda.

  1. Public Comment: None
  2. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Jason Kennedy, Superintendent

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 04/11/22

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

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

  1. Updated Emergency Operations Plan and Procedures Manual
    Jason discussed the updated emergency plan manual.
  2. District Strategic Planning Process Recommendation
    Jason discussed the recommendation to complete a new strategic plan.
  3. ECC Staff Recommendation
    Mark presented a recommendation outlining a two year plan for staff increases. ECC has received a federal grant and is expected to receive another grant this Spring. Therefore, the recommendation is to award a one-time stipend in May and then a $1 per hour increase in July 2022 and July 2023. This proposal will go through the Personnel Committee.
  4. Agreement for Business Services with North Muskegon
    Jason and the committee discussed the partnership with North Muskegon. The contract with North Muskegon expires on June 30, 2022. A future action item will be on an upcoming committee meeting.
  5. Other – Food Service RFP
    Mark presented the food service management company bid sheet. MDE requires Fruitport to bid out our food service management company every five years. There were three bidders and the recommendation is to remain with Chartwells.
  6. Other – Turf Field Change Order
    Mark and Jason discussed the change order for the turf field. There is an electrical issue that came up when the project started. This change order will be an action item in the upcoming board meeting.

Meeting adjourned at 12:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 04/18/22

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Board Room

3255 E. Pontaluna Rd, Fruitport 49415
Monday, April 18, 2022 – 7:00 p.m.

I. CALL to ORDER

II. PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE

III. ROLL CALL

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

V. PRESENTATIONS

  1. 2017 and 2021 Bond Update Presentation, Matt Hulswitt and Mark Mesbergen

VI. COMMUNICATIONS

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
1.

IX. CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of March 21, 2022 (attachment IX-1)
  2. Approval of Bills (attachment IX-2)
    General Fund $259,828.23
    Other Funds:
    Early Childhood Center 4,953.76
    Food Service 107,736.48
    Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage 5,643.10
    2017 Debt Retirement 500.00
    Total Bill List $378,661.57
  3. Acceptance of Monthly Financial Report and ACH Transactions (attachment IX-3)
  4. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report (attachment IX-4)
  5. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report (attachment IX-5)
  6. Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report (attachment IX-6)
  7. Approval of 2021 Bond Report (attachment IX-7)
  8. 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

  1. Report of Committee Meeting held April 11, 2022 (attachment XI-1)
  2. Food Service Management Contract with Chartwells (attachment XI-2)
  3. Electrical Lighting Circuits and Conduit at Athletic Stadium (Emergency Approval Requested) (attachment XI-3)

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson

  1. Report of Committee Meeting held April 11, 2022 (attachment XII-1)
  2. ECC Staff Compensation Recommendation (attachment XII-2)

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

  1. Report of Committee Meeting held April 11, 2022 (attachment XIII-1)
  2. Varsity Hockey Cooperative Program (attachment XIII-2)
  3. Updated Emergency Operations Plan and Procedures Manual (attachment XIII-3)
  4. Overnight Trip Requests (attachment XIII-4)

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

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

  1. Annual MAISD 2022-23 Budget Review, April 26, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. via ZOOM
  2. Business & Finance Committee will meet May 9, 2022 @ 11:30 a.m.
  3. Personnel Committee will meet May 9, 2022 @ 4:30 p.m.
  4. Student Affairs Committee will meet May 9, 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.

New Public Defender Appointed for Ottawa County

derks

Nichole Jongsma Derks is the newest Public Defender for Ottawa County. The Public Defender post was vacated earlier this year upon the retirement of Robert Hamilton.

“I am humbled to serve as the Public Defender for Ottawa County and build on the firm foundation we established with our first Public Defender, Mr. Robert Hamilton,” said Derks upon her appointment. “The outcome a person receives in the criminal justice system should not depend on their ability to pay their defense attorney. I am proud to lead an elite and diverse team of litigators who believe in this mission as we represent our fellow citizens.”

Derks served as First Assistant Public Defender for Ottawa County since 2018. Prior to joining the County, she practiced criminal defense and litigation at Foster, Swift, Collins, and Smith PC. Derks attended The Ohio State University for her undergraduate studies and earned her juris doctorate at Michigan State University College of Law. Nichole Jongsma Derks is an Ottawa County native who was born in Zeeland and raised in Jenison.

2022 Edition of “Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour” Now Available as a Free Resource

cover

WEST MICHIGAN – Get ready for your next lighthouse adventure! The West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) is excited to announce the release of the 2022 Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour. This is a free poster-sized publication which details all of the lighthouses located on the shores of Lake Michigan, as well as the Circle Tour driving route to guide motorists around the lake.

To accompany this year’s map, WMTA has released 24 new free, digital jigsaw puzzles showcasing this year’s Featured Lighthouses. These digital jigsaw puzzles may be accessed on WMTA’s website at the following URL: https://www.wmta.org/west-michigan-digital-jigsaw-puzzles/

The cover of this year’s map features an aerial photo of South Haven Lighthouse, courtesy of Dan Zeeff. Dan is a professional landscape, aerial, and architectural photographer based near Grand Rapids, Michigan. His growing Michigan landscape photography collection includes hundreds of photos of Michigan lakes, lighthouses, coastal towns, and more! Check out his website at danjzeeff.com.

The full circle tour driving route around Lake Michigan is available online, and website visitors may also download a PDF of this year’s Lighthouse Map, or request that a free copy be mailed to them here: www.wmta.org/lake-michigan-lighthouse-map-circle-tour/

Vacationers have been looping the lake for generations, but the official “Lake Michigan Circle Tour” route was not established until the 1980s when the Michigan Department of Transportation teamed up with West Michigan Tourist Association to create the route and its official guidebook. Along the way, travelers will find more than 100 lighthouses, countless islands, unique attractions, parks and natural areas, miles of glorious beaches, quaint harbor towns, and one “modern marvel” – the Mackinac Bridge.

While a loosely-organized “circle route” around Lake Superior was promoted by local tourist organizations as early as the 1960s, the first official (and signed) Great Lakes Circle Tour was the Lake Michigan Circle Tour. The only single-nation Circle Tour (Lake Michigan being the only Great Lake completely within the US), the Lake Michigan Circle Tour also has the most mileage of any Circle Tour in the state.Working in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Transportation, the West Michigan Tourist Association helped to make the first of the official Great Lakes Circle Tours a reality and the first publication was released in 1988 as a 52-page guide book. The guide book was transformed into a map in 2007, and the Circle Tour driving route can now be found online.

Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour publications are also available in bulk quantities; please contact Travel@WMTA.org for more information.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Somehow this early morning darkness calms me,
Comforts me from immediate demands;
Sheltered from the calling wind
 in the willow,
This moment I have I will appreciate
 and try to understand.
as we journey to another day.

New Chief Deputy County Clerk Appointed for Ottawa County

kuiper

GRAND HAVEN: Ottawa County Clerk and Register of Deeds Justin Roebuck announced that as of March 7, 2022, he has appointed Renee Kuiper as Chief Deputy County Clerk. The Chief Deputy Clerk position was previously held by Sherri Sayles, who retired in December of 2021 after 33 years of service with Ottawa County.

Kuiper has served in the Circuit Court Records Division of the County Clerk’s Office since 2013, where she has led the way for the department on numerous technology projects such as the implementation of a new jury management system in 2016, and as the project manager for the Clerk’s Office as Ottawa County’s 20th Circuit Court implemented the Michigan Judiciary’s Electronic Filing System, serving as a state pilot. Kuiper also serves as the Site Emergency Coordinator for the Grand Haven Courthouse, where she works closely with County Emergency Management to update site emergency plans, and actively plans drills and conducts staff exercises for the Courthouse facility.

“I am excited to appoint Renee Kuiper to this critical leadership role within our department”, said Roebuck. “As someone I have worked closely with for a number of years, I know that Renee embodies the values and culture of our team and of Ottawa County as an organization.”

Kuiper received her undergraduate degree from Arizona State University and her J.D. from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She resides in Allendale with her husband Cameron and two children Rhys, 5, and Marlowe, 1.

Social Security Administration to Resume In-Person Services at Local Social Security Offices

Online Services and Telephone Remain Most Convenient Ways to Contact Agency
statement from Kilolo Kijakazi, Acting Social Security Commissioner

“I am pleased to announce that local Social Security offices have restored in-person services, including for people without an appointment, as of April 7, 2022.

To avoid waiting in line, I strongly encourage people, who can, to use our online services at www.socialsecurity.gov, call us, and schedule appointments in advance rather than walking in without an appointment.  Phone appointments can save you a trip to a busy office.  I thank the public for your patience as we work to increase service.

Customers who walk in without appointments may encounter delays and longer waits at our offices.  Be aware that our offices tend to be the busiest first thing in the morning, early in the week, and during the early part of the month, so people may want to plan to visit at other times.

Given that many of the people we serve have health vulnerabilities, and consistent with our union agreements, we are continuing to require certain safety measures including masking, physical distancing, and self-health checks for COVID-19 symptoms.  We will provide masks to the public and employees if they need them. 

Thoughtful planning and preparation have shaped our process to restore in-person services.  Social Security employees are dedicated to serving the public, and we are ready to welcome the public back to our offices.  Our local managers understand and can address the needs of their communities.  We have also implemented office-to-office support as well as brought recently retired employees back to assist the public.  We thank the many interested stakeholders including the Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living and national advocate organizations for your help.

Throughout the pandemic, millions of people have used our secure and convenient online services and received help by phone.  People who have access to the internet should first try our online services before calling us or visiting an office.

As we transition to a new modern phone system, some people may experience a busy signal or be unintentionally disconnected from their call.  We sincerely regret this disruption and recommend people call when our National 800 Number may be less busy, such as before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. local time or later in the week.  Like our offices, our waits are generally shorter later in the month.

To learn more, please visit www.socialsecurity.gov/coronavirus/gethelp/ and www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices/.”

Lake Michigan Credit Union Announces the 2022 Roots in Education Teacher Grant

Grand Rapids, MI – Lake Michigan Credit Union (“LMCU”) is pleased to announce the 2022 Roots in Education teacher grant.

Each year, LMCU’s Roots in Education program awards 25 teachers each a $1,000 grant for making a positive impact on their students and school community by embodying a particular trait. These grants can be used to help purchase school supplies, aid in online learning, or anything else that benefits the educational process.

This year, LMCU is celebrating educators who are empowering. Students, parents, peers, and community members are encouraged to nominate a pre-K through 12th-grade teacher whom they believe goes above and beyond to empower their students.

Nominees must be residents of Michigan or Florida. Full eligibility, program details, and the nomination form can be found at LMCU.org/TeacherGrant. Nominations will be accepted April 1 to May 8, 2022.

Lake Michigan Credit Union (“LMCU”) was established in 1933 and is the largest credit union in Michigan. Employing a staff of over 1,550 and serving over 520,000 members, LMCU’s assets exceed $11.8 billion, with a mortgage servicing portfolio of over $13 billion. LMCU has 66 convenient branch locations overall, including 19 in southwest Florida. LMCU members have access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs worldwide. LMCU provides a full range of financial services, from high interest-bearing checking accounts to personal loans, mortgages, investments, and commercial banking.

To find out more, visit LMCU.org.

Local Attorney Brennen Gorman Confirms Candidacy for State Representative in the 87th District

MUSKEGON — Charging forward with a positive, community-centric, and policy-focused campaign, Brennen Gorman (D) submitted paperwork with Muskegon County Clerk earlier today to formalize his candidacy for State Representative in the newly drawn 87th House District.

With a background in policy, Brennen understands the issues residents in the 87th District face every day and, perhaps most importantly, has thoughtful, relevant policy ideas to address and lead them to a resolution. Brennen’s campaign addresses:

  • Implementation of Non-Monetary Bail & a Pre-Trial Services Dept.
  • Reimagination of K-12 Education Funding in Michigan
  • Increased investments to support local infrastructure, environment, and residents
  • Implementation of Pharmacist Prescribed Birth Control
  • Codification LGBTQIA2S+ Rights in Statute
  • Creation of Michigan’s Own Family Medical Leave Act
  • Increased Youth Participation in Elections

“I am running for State Representative because I feel powerless and overwhelmed by the number of injustices, barriers, and divisions facing our community. While easier to be crippled by indecision and anxiety – I have stepped forward because the only place where each of these issues intersect is in government,” shares Gorman.

Brennen is a practicing attorney at Brower Vander Veen, PLC and is an Adjunct Faculty Member at Muskegon Community College in its Business Department. He received his Bachelor of Science in Political Science as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Writing from Grand Valley State University and earned his Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law.

Brennen is a Board Member of the Foundation for Muskegon Community College, Parties in the Park, and is a past president of the Greater Muskegon Jaycees. Brennen lives in Nelson Neighborhood, Muskegon with his wife Muskegon City Commissioner Rachel Gorman.

More information about the platform of the Gorman Campaign is available in a video series format on the campaign website www.brennengorman.com with Brennen addressing each of these topics – hear from him directly why each of these issues are real and relevant issues facing our community.

“Government is not a magic cure all, but it holds a special position within our society as the place with the greatest propensity for growth and change. I am running to be your next State Representative because I want to face these challenges head-on and bring a new voice to address the institutional barriers plaguing our friends and neighbors.”

Lake Michigan Credit Union’s Shred Your Stuff Day is Back

Muskegon, MI – Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU) is pleased to announce their spring Shred Your Stuff Day.

On Saturday, April 23, members and non-members can bring up to six boxes of sensitive or personal documents to LMCU’s Norton Shores branch, located at 1619 Mount Garfield Rd in Muskegon, from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. and West Michigan Document Shredding will shred and dispose of them for free. LMCU has offered this service for many years, and it’s just one of the many ways LMCU protects their members from identity theft.

Attendees must remain in their vehicles for the health and safety of staff and participants. Event details are subject to change. Any changes to the event schedule will be posted on LMCU.org and LMCU social media pages.

For information on other Shred Your Stuff Day events, visit LMCU.org/Events.

Lake Michigan Credit Union (LMCU), established in 1933, is the largest credit union in Michigan. Employing a staff of over 1,550 and serving over 520,000 members, LMCU’s assets exceed $11.5 billion, with a mortgage servicing portfolio of over $13 billion. LMCU has 66 convenient branch locations overall, including 19 in southwest Florida. LMCU members have access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs worldwide. LMCU provides a full range of financial services, from high interest-bearing checking accounts to personal loans, mortgages, investments, and commercial banking.

To find out more, visit LMCU.org.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

The wind along the fence row
 where snow insists to stay,
blows old and cold
mighty and bold,
but spring’s dreams
will not be delayed.
Spring is coming
  get ready….

Shady Side Farm Awarded MDARD Farmland Preservation Funds

Olive Township grower is one step closer to preserving 123 acres; applications for PDR program being accepted through end of April

WEST OLIVE – Mike Bronkema, co-owner and operator of Shady Side Farm in Olive Township, is no stranger to the idea of farmland preservation. “In ’92 we bought the farm that we’re on,” said the Holland-area native. “The farmer that sold me the land that I’m on wanted to see it preserved. He wanted me to buy the farm because he knew I was going to farm it instead of subdividing it.” Years later, Bronkema was part of the committee that helped push for the Agriculture Preservation Board he sits on today. “I realized that preserving farmland in Ottawa County was important, and that whatever we did had to benefit the farmers.”

Now, with a $168,750 grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Bronkemas will be able to rest easy knowing the farm they’ve built over 30 years will continue to produce long after they’ve shorn their last sheep. These funds will help pay for an agricultural easement to permanently protect five parcels totaling 123 acres.

bronkemafarm
Shady Side Farm as seen from above in Olive Township. Run by the Bronkema family, their 123-acre operation is now one step closer to preservation thanks to a $168,750 grant from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. [Ottawa County photos]

But getting to this point wasn’t easy. Supporting the program and qualifying to protect your own operation are two very different things. “(Sitting on the board) has nothing to do with it,” Bronkema mused. “Put it this way. It’s all the practices that you put in, in your farming, on your farm – in things that you’re doing to improve sustainability in your farm is what gets you approved for farmland preservation.”

The Bronkemas will be the sixth farming family to protect their land through Ottawa County’s Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program. This program uses a combination of state and/or federal grant funding, private donations, and landowner contributions to purchase the development rights to farmland, creating a permanent agricultural conservation easement.

Creating easements through the sale of development rights guarantees the land is used for ag purposes or remains in a natural state in perpetuity. Landowners are compensated for lost development potential, yet still own the land and retain all other rights associated with it. The Bronkema easement brings the total number of acres protected by the PDR program to 566. This is in addition to 654 acres permanently preserved by the State of Michigan.

PDR applications being accepted through April 30

Interested in protecting your own farm, or know someone who might? Now through April 30, farmers and other landowners can apply to preserve their eligible, agriculturally zoned property by selling its development rights. Start the process today by completing a preapplication at bit.ly/OCPDRapp.

For more information on the Purchase of Development Rights Program, and other County efforts to ensure our vibrant local agricultural industry continues to thrive for generations, visit www.MiOttawa.org/Farmland.

About the Ottawa County Farmland Preservation Program

With area farmers producing more than $506 million in products annually (2017 Ag Census), Ottawa County is an agricultural powerhouse. Ottawa is also the fastest growing county in the state and has a low unemployment rate. But this positive growth comes at a cost to agriculture: between 2012 and 2017, Ottawa County lost 8 percent of its farmed acreage and 17 percent of its farms. Ottawa County’s Farmland Preservation Program seeks to protect this vital industry and slow the loss of farms and farmland through programmatic efforts, including the Purchase of Development Rights Program.

Funded through a combination of private donations and state and federal grants, the PDR program preserves farmland through the purchase and donation of development rights for actively farmed property. This voluntary program allows participating landowners to receive compensation for the development potential of their land, yet still retain ownership and other rights associated with it through a permanent easement.

To learn more, visit MiOttawa.org/Farmland.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – April 11-18, 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 April 11:

World WWII in the Pacific Lecture Series
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm 

USS Silversides Museum 1346 Bluff St. $7.50 per person 231-755-1230

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 April 12:

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.

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! www.nonamemuskegon.org 231-375-5717

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 April 13:

Open Studio
8:00 am – 5:00 pm 

Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St. FREE for middle and high school students Middle and High School students are invited to the ACWL-Nuveen for Open Studio sessions. Bring an item you are working on 231-893-2524

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

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

Youth Take and Make Craft
Hackley Public Library

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

Thursday April 14:

Muskegon Friends of Art Presents: Lighthouses Along the Rivers of Steel: A Collection of Train Depot Stories
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Muskegon Museum of Art 296 West Webster Ave. Authors and AIA Preservation Architects Ron Campbell and Jackie Hoist will share pictures, interesting facts and tales of the railroads that changed Michigan. Tickets in advance: 231-720-2570

Little Learners: STEAM Play & Learn
April 14 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am 

Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave. You are invited to join a special Play and Learn program at the Lakeshore Museum Center. 231-722-0278

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.

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

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.231-894-8269

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 15:

Open Mic Night
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Sing a song and/or play an instrument. Bring your band, your pals, the mic is open to all varieties of talents.

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

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 16:

Easter Egg Hunt
2:00pm-4:00pm

Chance Stables located at 700 N. Hilton Park Rd., will hold an egg hunt with 900 stuffed eggs. For more information search Chance Stables on Facebook.

The Hoppening Easter Egg Hunt
12:00pm-3:00pm

Free egg hunt, crafts and a photo with the Easter Bunny will take place at the Montague Township Park located at Whitbeck Rd. Bring a non-perishable food donation for Lebanon Lutheran Food Pantry of White Lake to be entered in to win one of seven bikes! Questions call 231-894-5608

Glenside Easter Egg Hunt
10:00am-11:00am

Located at McGraft Park located at 2204 Wickham Dr. for youth up to 12 years of age. Bring your own basket. Each child will receive raffle tickets to enter for prizes. There will be a photo station, balloons, donuts, coffee and juice

April Saturdays: Easter Craft
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave. Preparing for Easter, we’re going to decorate paper eggs with crayon designs and paint them to reveal their patterns. $5

A Day of Talent and Fashion Show!
2:00 PM

Tickets:  $5 Kids $8 Adults $25 Families (up to six members of the same family)
The Playhouse at White Lake located at 304 S. Mears, is hosting their first-ever Talent Show. This event is meant to offer an afternoon of fun and excitement while displaying the many talents of individuals. It will also feature an Earth Day-Inspired Recycled Fashion Show by local chapters of Girl Scouts.

The Smiths
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Montague husband and wife duo present a night of beautiful original tunes and eclectic favorites.

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

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!

Easter Sunday, April 17:

Bella Maria’s Easter Day Brunch
10:30 am – 2:30 pm

Bella Maria’s Event Center 513 W. Pontaluna Rd. Easter Day Brunch with entrees, carving station, breakfast buffet, children’s buffet, sides, dessert bar and live music from the Rick Hicks Trio! Call for prices and reservations 231-563-6914

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

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 18:

Core Strength, Cardio & Craft Beer: Jazzercise with Becky J at Pigeon Hill
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

The Brewer’s Lounge At Pigeon Hill 895 4th St. Join us for a Jazzercise class with FitPro & PH beertender Becky J.! $15 For more information 231-375-5184

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

Ask Dr. Universe – Hiccups

Dear Dr. Universe: Why do we get hiccups? – William, 9, Indiana
 
Dear William,
 
When you get hiccups, it might seem like they are coming out of nowhere—and before you know it, they’re gone.
 
To find out exactly why hiccups happen, I talked to my friend Dr. Luisita Francis, a professor of medicine at Washington State University.
 
She told me part of the reason humans get hiccups has to do with a very important muscle in the abdomen: the diaphragm (DYE-UH-FRAM).
 
This dome-shaped muscle sits near the top of your stomach and intestines, but underneath your lungs. When you breathe in, it contracts and flattens. This motion of contraction helps pull air into the lungs.
 
When you breathe out, the diaphragm returns to its usual shape and helps push air out of the lungs. This happens all day long and helps you keep breathing. But sometimes the diaphragm gets a little irritated.
 
“When you have hiccups, what happens is you get some irritation of that diaphragm,” Francis said. “The muscle just contracts, and you end up taking in a whole bunch of air very quickly.”   
 
The body gets a signal that all this air is coming in quickly, and that it needs to keep even more air from coming in, so the vocal cords close up.
 
“The vocal cords snap together really quickly and that makes the hiccup sound,” Francis said.  
 
I was curious to know what exactly can irritate the diaphragm and cause that squeaky hiccup sound. Francis said sometimes when a person eats or drinks too much, it can make the stomach extend, which can irritate the diaphragm.
 
Sometimes when the body experiences stress, the diaphragm will get tight and that can make it harder for someone to take a deep breath. Some people have noted that when they experience stress, along with irregular breathing that it can irritate the diagram, too.
 
You know, humans have come up with a bunch of different remedies to try and stop hiccups. Maybe you’ve heard of trying things like holding your breath, counting to ten, having someone scare you or other kinds of tricks. I was curious if any of them really work.
 
Francis said there aren’t exactly any research-based cures for hiccups. But some patients have reported that blowing into a paper bag helps them control their breath and decreases irritation. Other patients have reported that drinking a cold glass of water helps.
 
Hiccups can serve as a signal to be mindful of eating habits or to check in on our stress levels. While they don’t tend to stick around very long, there are some exceptions.
 
According to the Guinness World Records, the longest bout of hiccups on record lasted 68 years. If someone has hiccups for more than 48 hours, it’s best to talk to a doctor. But generally, hiccups are a normal part of life.
 
The next time you get a bout of hiccups, see how many you can count—and remember you can always blame them on your diaphragm.
 
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Spring brings warm
Sometimes storms,
Like life,
 we never know
  when or if;
So we sign on good or bad
 grateful for what we have,
  hang on and try
   to enjoy the trip.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

Maybe it is not always what you see
Or even what you hear;
Life can just be down right long,
As you wait for the fog to clear.
Journey on….

Governor Whitmer’s Pro-abortion Advancements

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

Governor Whitmer announced yesterday that she is filing a lawsuit asking the Michigan Supreme Court to find a right to abortion within the state constitution. Governor Whitmer has executive authority that allows her to make requests or file a brief that goes directly to the Michigan Supreme Court.

The lawsuit asks the Court to find a right to abortion within our constitution. This is an interesting development as Governor Whitmer was supporting the Reproductive Freedom for All petition that is trying to create a right to abortion.

So, which is it? Is there already a right that has been hiding all these years and no Michigan court has been able to find or does the right need to be created and established?

The Michigan Supreme Court has the obligation to deny this case as it is manipulative and dishonest. The Michigan Supreme Court already decided that there was no abortion right in the constitution in 1997 in the case Mahaffey v. Attorney General. The Court refused to hear it and ruled that they agree with the lower Court of Appeals of Michigan that there was no such right.

Right to Life of Michigan President Barb Listing stated:

This is a frivolous lawsuit that should be immediately dismissed by the Michigan Supreme Court. Governor Whitmer is ignoring the voices of Michiganders by bypassing all lower courts and court precedent just as the U.S. Supreme Court did when they decided on Roe v. Wade.

Governor Whitmer is up for reelection this year so this seems to be a political move to ensure that she will get the pro-abortion vote. Governor Whitmer also sent out a fundraising letter yesterday. Is it a coincidence that it happens to be on the same day as the lawsuit?

The Governor is ignoring the wishes of Michiganders who are not going to get a chance to vote, sign, or voice their opinion.

We knew that they would sue, just not before Roe v. Wade decision was announced so the timing is shocking. Nevertheless, we must keep fighting and be prepared as this year is monumental for so many reasons.

Please visit the Citizens to Support Michigan Women and Children coalition website to learn how to fight against the anything-goes abortion amendment. There are resources available for educating the public, your families, churches, and communities.