Author Archives: editor

Impressions of Hope: Group Art Class – March 18th, 2022

Friday, March 18. 2022
1 pm – 3 pm
Rescue Mission Ministry Center on Apple Ave.
Reserve Your Seat

Welcome Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce 2022 Board of Directors

from the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce

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

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

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

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

View All Board of Directors

Fruitport Township Downtown Development Authority Meeting Minutes

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

——–

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

CALL TO ORDER – 6:04 pm

ROLL CALL-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meeting Adjourned 6:40 pm

——–

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

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

We become the sunshine
On this cloudy day;
A smile to the other
Will help chase the clouds away.
as we go

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Major Gift for Idema Explorers Camp at Ottawa Sands

from the Ottawa County Parks Foundation

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

Landmark Gift

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

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

Ottawa Sands Master Plan

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

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

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

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

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

Visit miottawa.org for more information.

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

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

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

Taste of Muskegon Moves to Second Week of June

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

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

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

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

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

How to make your reservation and participate:

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

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

www.visitmuskegon.org

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

Tuesday January 18:

Unruly Irish Session
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Unruly Brewing Company 360 W. Western Ave., One of the most time-honored musical traditions in Ireland is the “seisiún”: an informal gathering of amateur musicians, usually at the local pub, playing traditional Irish folk and dance tunes.

Take it Make it: Valentine’s Cards FREE
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Muskegon Area District Library – All Locations! All Locations! Visit any branch to pick up your free craft kit and make valentine cards for family and friends.

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

Play Taste Bingo
January 3 – January 29!
Visit one restaurant in each column and scan their Taste Bingo QR code to check-in. For every row or column of 5 across you complete, you are entered to win a gift card to one of the participating restaurants. www.tasteofmuskegon.org for details

Live Trivia Tuesdays at No Name Saloon
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
No Name Saloon 609 W Western Ave. Every Tuesday, Prizes for the Top 3 teams! Free to play!

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-9:00pm
Currently snowshoeing and cross country skiing are available. Please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

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

Wednesday January 19:

Thursday January 20:

Trivia Night
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Pub One Eleven 111 W. Colby St., Whitehall, General knowledge trivia along with music, fun, great food and beverages. It’s a team thing, so even if your knowledge is limited to specific things, you can still help contribute.

FREE TOURS: Muskegon Museum of Art
11:00am – 8:0pm
This is a great opportunity to visit the Muskegon Art Museum located at 296 W. Webster Ave. and bring the kiddos! This FREE tour time is compliments of the Meijer Foundation. www.muskegonartmuseum.org

Friday January 21:

Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park
10:00am-10:00pm
Currently snowshoeing and cross country skiing are available. Please check their website weather conditions page daily for changes and fees. The park is located at 462 Scenic Dr. www.msports.org

Josh Brady
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Montague, Josh Brady’s sound is a mix of many genres including Rock, Pop, Hip Hop, Indie, psychedelic, grunge, and country music. He plays a 50/50 mix of originals and covers

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Youngstown
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Check out the Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey game at Muskegon Mercy Health Arena located at 470 W. Western Ave., in downtown Muskegon!

Karaoke Fridays at Full Moon Diner and Saloon
9:00 pm – 11:50 pm
Full Moon Diner and Saloon 3408 Whitehall Rd., Come to the Full Moon Diner and Saloon for a fun evening of Karaoke with DJ Noodle.

Saturday January 22:

January Saturdays: Sensory Bottle
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave., Pop in to the Lakeshore Museum Center where they will be creating take-home sensory bottles.

The Smiths
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague, invites you to discover this favorite local husband and wife guitar and vocal duo

Muskegon Voyagers Home Hockey Game – vs – Warhawks
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Check out the Muskegon Voyagers for their home game -vs- Warhawks. Puck drops at 7:30pm at the Lakeshore Sports Centre located at 4470 Airline Rd. General admission tickets are $10

Indoor Farmers Market
8:00am-2:00pm
Muskegon Farmers Market is the same location 242 W. Western Ave. for the winter months only they are inside the building so stop by!

Sunday January 23:

Free Country Rock Dance Lessons with Chris Sanz!
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
5571 E Apple Ave., Do you like country music? Learn some new steps to make it even more fun! Chris will teach us beginner and intermediate moves, dancing to country music. All dance levels are welcome!

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Green Bay
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Check out the Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey game at Muskegon Mercy Health Arena located at 470 W. Western Ave., in downtown Muskegon!

Monday January 24 :

FDA Approving Mail-Order Abortions

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

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

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

Complications Reported

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

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

Prevalence

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

Future Problems

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

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

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

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

be as the chickadee flies
but right side up ..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ottawa County Courts Pause Jury Trials

Jury trials expected to resume in February

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

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

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
AGENDA
JANUARY 17TH, 2022
COUNCIL MEETING

Call to Order
Pledge
Prayer
Roll Call
Approval of January 17th Council Meeting Agenda
Approval of December 20th meeting minutes
Public Comments (Limited to 3 minutes each)
Correspondence
Reports from Officers

Old Business

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

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

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

I. Call to Order – Jason Kennedy, Superintendent

II. Pledge of Allegiance

III. Roll Call (by recording secretary)

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

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

VI. Adjournment

– Recess –

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

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Board Room
3255 E. Pontaluna Rd, Fruitport 49415
Monday, January 17, 2022 – 7:00 p.m.

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. PRESENTATIONS
1. Board Appreciation Presentation

V. COMMUNICATIONS

VI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

XIII. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

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

XV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVI. ADJOURNMENT

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

Will Graham Shares Christmas Message of Hope Online

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

For a second year, Will Graham shared a message of hope during an online Celebration. Recorded at the Billy Graham Library, the Christmas program premiered on multiple sites and Facebook pages on Dec. 20.

Graham was joined for the Christmas Celebration by his sister, Cissie Graham Lynch, who served as the host of the program, and award-winning artist Ellie Holcomb, who performed Christmas classics and favorites. Together the three reminisced about Christmas memories and traditions, while reflecting on the hope of Jesus Christ.

“True peace only comes through Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God who took away the sin of the world,” said Graham during his message. “That Baby that changed the world 2,000 years ago wants to come into your life tonight.”

Visit the BGEA website to learn more about the ministry’s evangelism and outreach plans.

Franklin Graham Serves Christmas Eve Meal in Mayfield, Kentucky

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

Franklin Graham joined Billy Graham Rapid Response chaplains and disaster relief teams from Samaritan’s Purse over the Christmas weekend in Mayfield, Kentucky, after tornadoes ripped through the community.

Together with food services teams from BGEA and Samaritan’s Purse, Graham helped serve meals on Christmas Eve and offered words of encouragement to the crowd.

“This community has lost a lot and what makes it especially tough is there has been so much loss of life,” said Graham. “I think it was important to let these people know that we aren’t going to abandon them. Even on Christmas, we are going to stay with them and help them.”

See more photos from the Christmas Eve meal in Kentucky on the BGEA website.

Ask Dr. Universe – COVID-19 & Pets

Dear Dr. Universe: How does COVID-19 affect our household pets? – Kolton, 11, Michigan

Dear Kolton,

A lot of researchers around the world are investigating this very question. While we don’t know everything about how the SARS-CoV-2 virus affects household pets, there are some things we do know.

My friend Dr. Raelynn Farnsworth, a veterinarian at Washington State University, told me all about it.

The risk of household pets spreading the SARS-CoV-2 virus to humans currently seems to be very low, she said. But a human who has the virus could potentially spread it to an animal, like a cat or dog, if they’ve been in close contact.

At the beginning of the pandemic, scientists at WSU and the University of Washington wanted to investigate a similar question to the one you’ve asked. They visited with pets that were living in households where the owners had COVID-19, the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

They tested the cats and dogs for the virus by putting a little swab up the animals’ noses. Maybe you or someone you know has had a test like this, too. Farnsworth said it’s a bit harder to do a swab test in cats, just because they have such tiny nostrils. Veterinarians sometimes give the cats a little throat swab instead.

In the communities they studied, none of the pets showed symptoms of COVID-19. Those symptoms can often include sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes or fever.

Some cats and dogs didn’t show any symptoms, but they did have something else. The researchers found antibodies. Antibodies are a substance the body makes when it responds to a foreign substance in the body, like SARS-CoV-2. The antibodies develop to help fight off any future disease.

This was just one of many studies on pets and COVID-19 in our world. Scientists continue to look for cases of COVID-19 in animals. For example, in September 2021, the first U.S. case of a ferret with COVID-19 was reported in Florida.

Farnsworth told me that one animal related to the ferret is the mink. Early in the pandemic, researchers learned that humans can pass the virus onto mink and that mink can also pass it back to humans.

Scientists have also found COVID-19 in animals including tigers, lions, otters, non-human primates, hippos and white-tailed deer. We are still learning exactly how transmission between humans and other animals happens.

If you have more questions about COVID-19 in household pets or if you are curious about COVID-19 in other kinds of animals, you can visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and their “Healthy Pets, Healthy People” website at cdc.gov/healthypets/covid-19.

Thanks for your thoughtful question, Kolton. While there’s still a lot more research to do around COVID-19, including how it affects our pets, it’s great to know there are smart and caring researchers in our world who are helping us learn more about it. They work hard so people and their pets can be safe and healthy.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Ask Dr. Universe – Yellowstone Hot Springs

Dr. Universe: Why do bacteria in the Yellowstone hot springs make the water different colors? – Ava, 9, Kennewick, WA

Dear Ava,

One of the most eye-catching hot springs in Yellowstone National Park is the bright and colorful Grand Prismatic Spring. It’s blue in the middle with bands of colors ranging from green and yellow to orange and reddish-brown.

My friend Peter Larson is a geologist at Washington State University who is very curious about hot springs. He spent much of his research career in Yellowstone National Park.

Larson said that when we look into the hot spring, we are seeing the colors of tiny living things called cyanobacteria.

In the middle of the hot spring, there aren’t any cyanobacteria. The water is nearly boiling, and they can’t survive the high temperatures.

But as we move out from the middle of the hot spring, the water gets a bit cooler. We find a lot of cyanobacteria showing off their green and yellow colors.

These colors come from something called pigments. In fact, a lot of the colors we find in nature come from pigments. You even have pigments in your hair, eyes and skin. Pigments absorb certain waves of light from the sun and reflect others, which helps to give us the colors we see.

One very important pigment that cyanobacteria have is called chlorophyll. It not only gives them their yellow and green colors but also helps them survive.

Cyanobacteria can use their chlorophyll molecules to absorb energy from sunlight—an important ingredient they need to make their own food. When we see a lot of green or yellow in the hot spring, we know that the cyanobacteria are alive and well.

Some cyanobacteria also make pigments such as carotenoids, which help them use chlorophyll. Carotenoids can also provide them with some protection from the sun. When we see orangish parts of the hot springs, there are likely some carotenoid-making cyanobacteria in the water.

At the very edge of some hot springs, we can also see some reddish-brown colors. This is the coolest part of the spring and home to a diverse community of cyanobacteria and other kinds of bacteria that give off red and brown colors. Even though this is the coolest part of the hot spring, it’s still really hot—around 131 degrees Fahrenheit.

Organisms that live in extreme environments, including some of the cyanobacteria in hot spring, are called extremophiles. Larson said hot springs and these extremophiles often get a lot of attention when scientists are wondering about the origins of life on Earth.

Larson and I want to thank you for your great science question. It’s a good reminder that a single question can take us into many different scientific fields. From geology to biology to astrophysics and beyond, it sure is an amazing world to explore.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Celebrate and Honor MLK Day at the Muskegon Museum of Art

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

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

Late Night Friday Charity Bingo Games

submitted by Catrice Robinson, WM Lake Hawks in Flight Foundation

West Michigan Lake Hawks would like to invite everyone to join us for a little excitement every Friday night. Doors open @9:30pm.

Check out the Lake Hawks in Flight Facebook Page to stay up to date on all their community events!

Or click here for more information on Late Night Bingo!

A Thought for Today

by Connie Jarka

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

Ballot Proposal Filed to Repeal Michigan’s 1931 Abortion Ban

submitted by Right to Life of Michigan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

from the Muskegon County Court Administrators

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

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

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

Events Happening in Muskegon County – January 11 – 17, 2022

www.visitmuskegon.org

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

Tuesday January 11:

Teen Club FREE for everyone
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Muskegon Area District Library – Norton Shores Branch 705 Seminole Rd.,
Join us at Teen Club for crafts, trivia, book discussions and more each second Tuesday of each month. FREE for everyone!

Live Trivia Tuesdays at No Name Saloon
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
No Name Saloon 609 W Western Ave. Every Tuesday, Prizes for the Top 3 teams! Free to play!

Wednesday January 12:

Teen Dragon Eye Necklace
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Muskegon Area District Library-North Muskegon Branch 1522 Ruddiman Dr.,
Are you excited for the Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon or do you just love dragons? Make a dragon eye necklace with us using nail polish. Registration is required for this craft 231-737-6248 www.madl.org

Dungeons and Dragons in the Stacks
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Muskegon Area District Library – Norton Shores Branch 705 Seminole Rd.,
Maybe you’ve heard of a strange and mythical game involving many sided dice and fighting monsters. You’re intrigued but don’t know where to start. Never fear! Staff from The Griffin’s rest will teach you. Registration is required for this free event for ages 13+. www.madl.org

Thursday January 13:

Friday January 14:

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- U17
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Check out the Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey game at Muskegon Mercy Health Arena located at 470 W. Western Ave., in downtown Muskegon!

Silverado Country Band
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St., Montague, Favorite Country Standards – a bit of dancing perhaps

Paper Creations
4:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Muskegon Area District Library – Muskegon Heights Branch 2808 Sanford St.,
Make a 3-D model of popular characters from TV, video games, and anime using a piece of paper. This is a FREE event!

Karaoke Fridays at Full Moon Diner and Saloon
9:00 pm – 11:50 pm
Full Moon Diner and Saloon 3408 Whitehall Rd., Come to the Full Moon Diner and Saloon for a fun evening of Karaoke with DJ Noodle.

Saturday January 15:

Plain Jane Glory Live at Wonderland Distilling Co.
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Wonderland Distilling 1989 Lakeshore Dr. Americana/Folk/Indie Plain Jane Glory are excited to be playing their first show of 2022 as they make their debut at the critically acclaimed Wonderland Distilling Co. No admission charge.

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

Acoustic Oasis
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry Street Montague, Phil Petersen and Glen Miller, AKA Acoustic Oasis, are two guys who love playing music.

January Saturdays: Petoskey Stone History
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Lakeshore Museum Center 430 W. Clay Ave. Rock and roll and learn the story/history behind the naming of our state stone. May take home your very own Petoskey stone, too! www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Indoor Farmers Market
8:00am-2:00pm
Muskegon Farmers Market is the same location 242 W. Western Ave. for the winter months only they are inside the building so stop by!

Sunday January 16:

Monday January 17 :

Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Our Office is Closed

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

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

MEETING AGENDA

Student Issue
Student Affairs Board Policy Updates
Update on Student Discipline – Threats Against School
District Strategic Planning Discussion
Days and Hours of Instruction – Update on Forgiven Days
Other
Public Comment
Adjournment

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

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

Employment Resignation/Termination of Transportation Employee
Update on Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS)
Update on Contract Negotiations – Administrators
Personnel Board Policy Updates
Superintendent Out of State Travel – No Expense to District
Other
Public Comment
Adjournment

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

Business and Finance
Monday, January 10, 2022
11:30 a.m. ~ Central Office

MEETING AGENDA

Update on Contract Negotiations – Administrators
Business and Finance Board Policy Updates
Other
Public Comment
Adjournment

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

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

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

V. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

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

VI. ADJOURNMENT

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

Muskegon County Commissioners Elect Vice-Chairperson

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

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

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

These are the committee leaders:

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

Ottawa County Commissioners Elect Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson

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

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

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

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

Alley Door Club 2022 Season at the Frauenthal Center

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

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

The 2022 Alley Door Club performance schedule is as follows:

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

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

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

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

Franklin Graham Announces Rescheduled God Loves You Tour – UK

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

Much has changed since the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) announced in mid-2020 that the Graham Tour UK with Franklin Graham would be postponed in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges in the United Kingdom. Even through these unprecedented circumstances, BGEA has remained committed to the goal of proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ and in doing so has rescheduled the God Loves You Tour – UK.

The essence of the message that BGEA shares is found in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, said, “We want all people to know that God loves them and everlasting life is available to anyone. This remains the purpose for every BGEA event, and it is why we have named the rescheduled tour the God Loves You Tour – UK.”

DATES AND LOCATIONS FOR THE 2022 GOD LOVES YOU TOUR – UK
Liverpool: 14 May – Exhibition Centre
South Wales: 21 May – ICC Wales (Newport)
Sheffield: 25 May – Sheffield Arena
London: 16 July – ExCeL London

The tour will be free of charge and everyone is welcome. Additional details for the events scheduled in 2022 will be made available soon.

For more information, visit GodLovesYouTour.org.uk.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calling Cast & Crew!

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

An INVITATION: be part of the community COLLABORATION!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MPS Website

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

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

JANUARY 10, 2022

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

Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
Roll call
Approval of board minutes: 12/13/21
Approve / amend agenda
Correspondence / reports
Public comments regarding agenda items
Unfinished Business
A. Resolution: Health Insurance Coverage for Dependents
New Business
A. Re-appointment of Joe DeMarco and Russ Stressman to the ZBA
B. Mt Garfield Lift Station Pump Repair
Approval of Bills
Reports
Public Comments
Adjournment

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

Friday, March 18. 20221 pm – 3 pmRescue Mission Ministry Center on Apple Ave.Reserve Your Seat

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

Landmark Gift

Ottawa Sands Master Plan

Visit miottawa.org for more information.

How to make your reservation and participate:

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

Tuesday January 18:

Wednesday January 19:

Thursday January 20:

Friday January 21:

Saturday January 22:

Sunday January 23:

Monday January 24 :

Check out the Lake Hawks in Flight Facebook Page to stay up to date on all their community events!

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

Tuesday January 11:

Wednesday January 12:

Thursday January 13:

Friday January 14:

Saturday January 15:

Sunday January 16:

Monday January 17 :

Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Our Office is Closed

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

Calling Cast & Crew!

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

An INVITATION: be part of the community COLLABORATION!

Friday, March 18. 2022
1 pm – 3 pm
Rescue Mission Ministry Center on Apple Ave.
Reserve Your Seat

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

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

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