Monthly Archives: October 2023

Ottawa County ‘Shelter in Place’ Drill – October 6th

shelterinplace

Outdoor sirens: not just for tornados

Lou Hunt, Ottawa’s Emergency Management Director and the County’s ‘official storm chaser’ wants you to know that outdoor warning sirens are not just for tornadoes.

“It’s important that our citizens understand that the outdoor warning sirens can alert for many types of emergencies,” said Hunt. “If you hear the outdoor warning sirens, go inside and seek more information.”

The sirens are often used to alert residents of tornados or high winds, but they could also be used during a chemical hazard or nuclear threat. Sirens are intended to alert people who are outdoors (within about a mile of the sounding location) to seek shelter and further emergency instructions from TV, radio or media technology. The sirens are tested monthly from April through October.

‘Shelter in Place’ Drill

Just days after FEMA sent its own test wireless alert, Ottawa County is holding an emergency test of its own. This Friday, October 6, will be the last test of the outdoor warning siren for 2023. Emergency planners are urging residents to take a moment and simulate a real emergency on Friday. Officials are calling it a Shelter In Place Drill for a Chemical Emergency and here’s what you should do for the simulation:

  • Go inside and close doors and windows. For this drill, we are acting as though a poisonous vapor has been released into the air.
  • Shut down air conditioners, furnaces or fans. The goal is to keep outside air from entering inside.
  • Grab a role of duct tape and simulate taping window and door jams and covering vents.
  • In a real emergency, you would stay in your home or current location (called “shelter in place”) until a message reaches you that it is safe to resume activity.
  • If you cannot physically practice these steps, at least think about them.
  • If you are part of a business or organization, have you designated the responsible party for these steps? Can you discuss these steps with your team?

“In a technological world, a variety of chemicals travel our roads, rails and are even manufactured in Ottawa County. Having the capability to shelter in place during a chemical emergency is a something we need to be prepared for,” said Hunt.

Anyone who participates in the drill can provide feedback online.

For more information visit https://www.miottawa.org/Sheriff/LEPC/shelter-in-place.htm

Public Comment Sought at Ottawa Co. Transportation Committee Meeting on Oct. 5, 2023

The Muskegon and Northern Ottawa County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), which is responsible for transportation planning in the area, is seeking public comment on the transportation planning process. The planning process includes the existing 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), the 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), the Fiscal Year 2023 – 2026 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Program of Projects (POP), and other agenda items.

The TIP is developed in a cooperative effort between federal, state, and local officials and serves as the final link in the transportation planning process. Its primary purpose is to identify transportation programs and projects to be funded with federal aid in accordance with federal law and regulations. This plan is an outline of the transportation needs of Muskegon County and Northern Ottawa County for the next four years. The LRTP is a look at the MPO’s future transportation network and is to be used as a guideline for transportation investment. The FTA POP includes 5307 and 5308 funds for the Muskegon Area Transit System and Harbor Transit. Recommendations for new construction, safety improvements, congestion (traffic) management, air quality, non-motorized, transit, planning, etc. will be accepted.

A public comment period is scheduled at the MPO Technical Committee Meeting on October 5, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. The meeting is being held at the office of the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission, 316 Morris Avenue, Suite 340, Muskegon, Michigan. Meeting materials are available on the event calendar at www.wmsrdc.org and also on the meetings page at  https://wmsrdc.org/policy-meetings/.

You are receiving this correspondence because you, your agency, and/or organization are considered important in the transportation planning process. For more information or to view a hard copy of the meeting materials, contact Joel Fitzpatrick, Transportation Planning Director, WMSRDC, 316 Morris Avenue Suite 340, Muskegon Michigan 49440 (231) 722-7878 ext. 160, or by email at jfitzpatrick@wmsrdc.org. To garner additional outreach, please post this notice on public information boards if applicable.

World Ballet Series: Cinderella at the Frauenthal Theater Oct. 8th

Gorskaya-Hartwick Productions Presents

World Ballet Series: Cinderella

cinderella

Welcome to the magical world of Cinderella, coming to Muskegon this Fall!

Experience an enchanting story for all ages with a wonderful dose of humor, the majesty of classical ballet, and the promise of “happily ever after”. A part of the World Ballet Series, Cinderella is performed live by a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers gathered to bring the most celebrated fairy tale to life.

This visually stunning production is accompanied by Sergei Prokofiev’s passionate celebrated score, featuring over 150 hand-sewn radiant costumes, richly detailed hand-crafted sets, and sparkling choreography by Marina Kesler.

And don’t forget – when the clock strikes midnight…

Date: Sunday, October 8
Time: 6:00PM
Location: Frauenthal Theater
Prices: Adult $39-89 / Child $29-72

*Ticket price does not include fees

SHOW DETAILS

BUY TICKETS

*Etix is the official ticket provider for the Frauenthal Center. Please be aware of third-party ticket scammers and ONLY purchase from frauenthal.org or by calling 231.727.8001.

Flaunt Your Flannel Festival with the Muskegon Lumberjacks Oct. 7th

LIVE MUSIC, AXE THROWING, GAMES, AND HOCKEY!

Come celebrate the start of hockey season! The Lumberjacks want to welcome you to the Flaunt your Flannel Festival on Saturday, Oct. 7th!

Head to downtown Muskegon for yard games, axe throwing, and live music from Electric Red and Fire in the Attic! Enjoy some food from Dr. Rolf’s and The Early Owl. Afterward, head inside Trinity Health Arena to see the Lumberjacks in action against the Chicago Steel!

Flaunt Your Flannel Festival is a free event. There is no fee or ticket needed to come enjoy the street party.

Power of the Purse Fundraiser – October 12, 2023

Muskegon, MI – Every Woman’s Place annual auction gala, Power of the Purse, will be held October 12th from 5-9 PM at the Barclay Place Events Center. This year’s theme is “Glamour,” and will feature local celebrities modeling designer purses to purchase.

The event began in response to domestic and sexual assault survivors arriving at our shelter without the ability to have grabbed their purses. The purse symbolizes opportunities and healing on this night of support and strength. This night of fun, empowerment, and glam is a night you won’t want to miss!

Tickets are on sale now:
Please visit www.everywomansplace.org/power-of-the-purse/ for information and tickets.

“Bras for a Cause Lakeshore” Annual Fundraiser – October 20, 2023

“Bras for a Cause Lakeshore” Aims to Break Records in 2023 with Its Annual Fundraiser
The Women’s Council of REALTORS® Lakeshore leads the charge in community-driven efforts to support breast cancer initiatives.

SPRING LAKE, MI – The Women’s Council of REALTORS® Lakeshore is gearing up for its annual “Bras for a Cause” fundraiser, a standout event in the community’s fight against breast cancer. With a reputation for leading event-driven fundraising, the 2023 edition promises to be the most impactful yet, aiming to break records and change even more lives than in previous years.

Set for Friday, October 20, 2023, at the Trillium Event Center in Spring Lake, doors will open at 5:30 pm. The evening promises an abundance of activities, including a live auction featuring local men modeling custom, creative bras, silent auctions, raffles, a wine pull, gift cards, and more. Guests can indulge in heavy hors d’oeuvres and a full cash bar. For added convenience, special room rates are available at the Holiday Inn Spring Lake, complete with a complimentary shuttle service.

“Our annual ‘Bras for a Cause’ event is not just about fundraising; it’s about community, support, and making a tangible difference,” said Stacey Ruwe of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Lakeshore. “This always sold-out event draws a diverse crowd from all over West Michigan, and we’re excited to see the community come together once again.”

The chosen beneficiary, Bluebird Cancer Retreats of West Michigan, is a hyper-local organization dedicated to providing retreats for those battling breast cancer, their supporters, and survivors. Their mission is clear: “TO ENHANCE THE LIVES OF THOSE EXPERIENCING CANCER.” Their services extend to support groups, assistance in finding the right services, transportation for treatments, lift chairs post-mastectomy, and much more.

Tickets, tables, and sponsorship packages are available for purchase at brasforacauselakeshore.square.site or through the event’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bras4acauselakeshore.

For more information or media inquiries, please contact Tara Mulkey at 813-476-9714 or taram@fivestarlakeshore.com.

About the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Lakeshore:
The Women’s Council of REALTORS® Lakeshore is committed to advancing women as professionals and leaders in business, the industry, and the communities they serve. Their dedication to community service is evident in events like “Bras for a Cause Lakeshore.”

Canadiana Fest: Cultural Extravaganza in Kalamazoo

from the West Michigan Tourist Association

Kalamazoo, MI: Canadiana Fest is set to be at the Arcadia Creek Festival Site in downtown Kalamazoo on Saturday, October 7, 2023, with an electrifying lineup of Canadian musical talent. Presented by The Chef and Cooks Association – Kalamazoo /Battle Creek and Eclectic Events, this event aims to benefit the CCA Educational Fund and the South Michigan Food Bank.

Discover the Soul of Canada Through Music:

  • Gordon Lightfoot Tribute Band: Experience the timeless classics of Gordon Lightfoot, paying tribute to the legendary icon.
  • Andrew Rathbun Ensemble: Enjoy the jazz stylings of the acclaimed saxophonist, proudly presenting his new recording.
  • Henpecked Dawgs: Immerse yourself in early Canadiana sound, delivered by a local quartet with a diverse instrument repertoire.
  • Tom Sawyer: A Tribute to Rush: Relive the golden era of Rush with this powerful trio from Chicagoland.

A Cultural Extravaganza: Canadiana Fest isn’t just about music; it’s a celebration of Canada’s rich culture and heritage. With support from a dedicated team of volunteers and community partners, including The Chef and Cooks Association of Kalamazoo/Battle Creek, Discover Kalamazoo, and more, this event promises an unforgettable experience for all.

Join the Celebration: Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a lover of Canadian culture, or simply seeking a day of fun and festivity, Canadiana Fest welcomes everyone. Visit Canadianafest.fun for tickets and updates. Follow us on Facebook at Canadiana Fest for the latest news.

About Canadiana Fest: Canadiana Fest celebrates the diverse tapestry of Canadian music, culture, and heritage. Presented by The Chef and Cooks Association – Kalamazoo /Battle Creek and Eclectic Events, the festival benefits the CCA Educational Fund and the South Michigan Food Bank. Join us for a day of music, festivities, and a heartfelt celebration of all things Canadian.