by Connie Jarka
A kind thought
has not cost,
A whispered prayer
is never lost;
A quiet step
all that is left,
Along the test of time.
a journey of hope.
Author Archives: editor
Tickets on Sale for Pioneer Resources’ Popular “Hats and Horses” Event
Pioneer Resources presents the 6th annual “Hats and Horses” fundraiser on Saturday, May 6, 2023. Attendees are encouraged to get tickets early and dress in derby attire/hats for this Kentucky Derby-themed party held at the elegant Bella Maria’s Event Center in Norton Shores. The event begins at 5:00PM and will feature the Kentucky Derby Race live! Additional activities include silent auction, live auction, buffet dinner, cash bar, and more!
This year’s proceeds will be used to support Pioneer Trails Camp, the agency’s barrier-free camp location that allows for participants to experience a true camp experience!
The Mission of Pioneer Resources is to help people with disabilities and seniors to attain independence and dignity by creating opportunities for participation in the community.
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. More than 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 and to purchase tickets, please visit www.pioneerresources.org
United Way of the Lakeshore Raises Over $25,000 for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library through its Beards for Books Challenge
submitted by United Way of the Lakeshore
Muskegon, MI – United Way of the Lakeshore (United Way) raised over $25,000 so far through its fundraising campaign, Beards for Books, to support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. This campaign held every March during National Reading Month seeks champions to grow out their beards and raise money for children’s literacy.
“Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library mails a book to children each month from birth to age five for $30 per year,” shares J.J. Lewis, Chief Development Officer at United Way. “Our United Way operates the program in Muskegon and Oceana Counties with over 5,000 children currently receiving a book a month. The money we raise goes directly to purchasing and mailing books to children to ensure it is free to them and their family. It’s such an amazing program to increase children’s literacy; we are grateful to all our community members for supporting it.”
This year, generous donors Kay and Mike Olthoff donated a matching gift of $35,000 for books in Muskegon County, and Donald and Janet Hasselbring donated a matching gift of $5,000 for books in Oceana County.
“Beards for Books is a creative and fun way to give back. Increasing childhood literacy has a huge impact on our long-term ALICE goals,” shares Ryan Bennett, Beards for Books Champion and Business Manager of West Michigan Plumbers, Fitters and Service Trades Local Union No. 174. “The Dolly Parton Imagination Library is a great program and we’re really lucky to have local philanthropists matching the money we raise.”
United Way thanks our champions who put their beard on the line and made it all possible: Matthew Abel, Don Baxter Sr., Ryan Bennett, Walter Christopherson, Jon Covington, AJ Ellsworth, Jason Finch, DJ Hilson, Rich Houtteman, Ken Johnson, Don Kalisz, Bryan Lambert, J.J. Lewis, Immanuel Melchor, Gary Nelund, Michael Ramsey, Jack Russell, James Vander Hulst, Bruce Walters, Joe Zappacosta, and Roger Morgenstern. Learn more about our champions on the Beards for Books webpage.
“There is no better way to support our kids than by giving them a free opportunity to learn how to read,” shares DJ Hilson, Beards for Books Champion and Muskegon County Prosecutor. “Reading is an essential skill to build a foundation of success and growing a beard to help our kids reach their full potential is an easy sacrifice to make.”
United Way is still hoping to raise enough to earn the $41,000 donated in matching gifts and encourages you to support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library! Visit their website at www.unitedwaylakeshore.org or mail a check payable to United Way of the Lakeshore, PO Box 207, Muskegon, MI 49443 to have your gift matched.
“Dolly Parton is an inspiration to me and the way she gives back and builds communities makes me want to be a better person. I am participating again this year to promote not just literacy but philanthropy: an active effort to promote human welfare,” shares Bruce Walters, Beards for Books Champion. “Together let’s make this world a better place!”
United Way of the Lakeshore is uniting to inspire change and build thriving communities. We tackle the toughest issues facing our community by mobilizing every resource, partner, and voice to solve those challenges. Our Bold Goal is to ensure 10,000 more working families meet their basic needs by 2025.
For more information, visit us online at unitedwaylakeshore.org, and follow us on social media via Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
STEAM Along the Lakeshore – Free Family Fun & Learning – May 6th
STEAM Along the Lakeshore takes kids on a STEAM adventure in Downtown Muskegon
Muskegon, MI -Take an adventure around downtown Muskegon on Saturday, May 6, from 10 am – 3 pm to participate in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) activities.
STEAM Along the Lakeshore is a free family fun event in downtown Muskegon, Michigan that promotes STEAM learning in the community. Participants will be given a map to visit activity booths in Hackley Park, Hackley Public Library, Lakeshore Fab Lab of Muskegon Community College, Muskegon Museum of Art, and Muskegon Museum of History and Science. Each STEAM activity is different at every location and is sure to be a fun and educational experience to remember.
Participants will receive STEAM swag bags which consist of a take-home STEAM kit activity, a t-shirt, and a passport to collect stamps for completing each activity at the event. Passports can be turned in for raffle prizes and gifts from each location. Activities begin at all locations at 10 am, however, the swag bags and passports can be picked up in Hackley Park.
Organizers are excited to bring STEAM Along the Lakeshore back for a second year as the event had a great turnout from the community in its first year. Organizers include the Hackley Public Library, Lakeshore Fab Lab, Lakeshore Museum Center, MiSTEM Network, Muskegon Community College, and Muskegon Museum of Art.
The generous sponsors for STEAM Along the Lakeshore are the Howmet Aerospace Foundation, Gentex Corporation, Scherdel Sales and Technology, Webb Chemical, Hines Corporation, Eagle Alloy, Inc. MiSTEM Network of Greater West Michigan Region, and The Mart Dock.
Click the following link for more information: STEAM Along The Lakeshore – Muskegon
Parks & Public Health Team Up to Offer “Step it Up!”
Walking Program free in Ottawa & Allegan counties
Get signed up for Step it Up!, a free, 8-week program created in partnership by Ottawa County’s Parks & Recreation and the Department of Public Health. Step it Up! was designed to help participants get active and visit new parks. All levels of fitness are welcome!
Participants will be able to set activity goals and track their activity through the Step it Up! online platform. Participants can also look forward to:
- Guided group walks and group adventures
- Discovering new parks in Ottawa and Allegan counties
- Meeting new people
- Motivation and accountability by logging activity and setting goals
- Incentive prizes
The program begins May 2! To sign up, visit: miottawa.org/stepitup
👟 >> Click here to sign for Step it Up! today << 👟
Group Walks & Activities
In order to help participants stay active throughout the program, there are weekly walks – lead by a guide – in Ottawa and Allegan Counties! To encourage participants to discover new recreational activities, the program also offers opportunities to try kayaking and orienteering. These activities and necessary equipment are free-of-charge to registered participants.
Click here for the walk and activity schedule.
Step it Up! begins May 2
Sign up today! miOttawa.org/stepitup
Events Happening in Muskegon County – April 17-24, 2023
www.visitmuskegon.org
Our 2023 Muskegon County visitor guides are now available. Stop by and pick yours up or request one to be mailed: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/plan-your-visit/visitor-guide/
Monday, April 17
Northway Lanes Bowler Appreciation Days
8:0am-10:00pm
Northway Lanes 1751 Evanston Ave. $1 games, $1 Nachos, $1 ice cream 231-767-2695
Monopoly Deal Night
7:00pm
Pigeon Hill at Brewers Lounge 895 Fourth St. No partner needed. See you soon!
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Tuesday, April 18
Northway Lanes Bowler Appreciation Days
8:0am-10:00pm
Northway Lanes 1751 Evanston Ave. $1 games, $1 Nachos, $1 ice cream 231-767-2695
Sylvia and Jeffery Norris in Concert
12:15pm-12:45pm
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1006 Third St. Sylvia on harp and Jeffery on baritone. Free event. Bring your lunch and enjoy this concert.
Euchre Night
7:00pm
Pigeon Hill at Brewers Lounge 895 Fourth St. No teams required.
Wine School
6:00pm-8:00pm
Muskegon Country Club 2801 Lakeshore Dr. $50 per person. For tickets 231-755-3737
Pretty Fun Trivia Pizza Party
6:00pm-7:30pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Pizzas are just $8
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
7:00pm-9:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Steve Thielman, Piano
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry Street, Montague. thebooknookjavashop.com
Wednesday, April 19
Northway Lanes Bowler Appreciation Days
8:0am-10:00pm
Northway Lanes 1751 Evanston Ave. $1 games, $1 Nachos, $1 ice cream 231-767-2695
Muskegon Music Trivia
7:00pm-9:00pm
Unruly Brewing Co 360 W. Western Ave. A time to gather and meet new friends!
Muskegon Music Trivia
7:00pm-9:00pm
Salty Pecker 255 Seminole Rd. Bring friends! Win prizes!
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year-Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, FREE Middle & High School Students Registration is not required, but is appreciated! Register at artswhitelake.org
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Thursday, April 20
Northway Lanes Bowler Appreciation Days
8:0am-10:00pm
Northway Lanes 1751 Evanston Ave. $1 games, $1 Nachos, $1 ice cream 231-767-2695
North Muskegon Choirs present Norse Beats 2023
7:30pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W. Western Ave. 200 6th-12th grade singers $12-$16
Thirsty Thursday Nomads Grass Bash
7:00pm
Playhouse at White Lake 304 S. Mears Ave. $20 tickets. For more info call 231-894-4048
Muskegon Museum of Art FREE Tours
11:00am-8:00pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W. Webster Ave. Compliments of the Meijer Foundation.
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year-Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Muskegon Music Trivia
7:00pm-9:00pm
Wonderland Distillery 1989 Lakeshore Dr. Arrive early to nab a good seat
Trivia Night
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Pub One Eleven, 111 W. Colby, Whitehall. General knowledge trivia along with music, fun, great food and beverages. Prizes for the Top 3 teams! pub111.com
Jazz Night
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Featuring Spectacular Trio: Greg Miller,
guitar Justin Wierenga, bass JD Jones, drums.
Friday, April 21
On Tap & Uncorked
6:00pm-9:00pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W. Webster. Ticket includes tokens for beverages and food samples. For questions contact kbrought@muskegonartmuseum.org 231-722-2570
Friday Family Fun Night: Recycling
5:30pm-7:30pm
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Ave. In honor of Earth Day
Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Chicago Steel
Puck Drops at 7:00 pm Last Game of the Season!
Trinity Health Arena 470 W. Western Ave. For tickets www.muskegonlumberjacks.com
Preschool Story Time
10:30am-11:00am
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. For ages 0-5 Free event for everyone
Ted Bounty
7:00pm-9:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Guitar and harmonica + No cover-charge
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year-Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Saturday, April 22
Earth Day Crafts
2:00pm-3:30pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Learn about our pollinators. Ages 3-17
Earth Day Community Event at Dune Harbor Park
10:00am-Noon
Dune Harbor Muskegon County Park 3071 Lincoln St. Celebrate Earth Day by giving back to your community! Plant trees and pick up debris at Dune Harbor Park. Rain or Shine! Meet at the parking lot at 3071 Lincoln St. Bring gloves and shovels if you have them. Dress in warm layers as it’s usually quite windy. klutingkr@co.muskegon.mi.us
West Michigan Concert Winds Presents Angels in the Architecture
7:00pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W. Western Ave. For tickets and price www.frauenthal.org
Mariachi Music with Gabriel Estrada
5:30pm-6:30pm
Hackley Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Free event. Registration is not required
Jigsaw Competition
12:00
Pigeon Hill at Brewers Lounge 895 Fourth St. $20 a team to participate.
Bella Maria’s First Annual Bridal Expo
12:00pm-5:00pm
Bella Maria’s Event Center 530 W. Pontaluna. Free entry for all.
Sensory Saturday
10:00am-Noon
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Register at 231-724-5543
April Saturdays: Fill in the Earth
1:00pm-3:00pm
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay. Craft in honor of Earth Day
Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Chicago Steel
Puck Drops at 7:00pm Last Game of the Season!
Trinity Health Arena 470 W. Western Ave. For tickets www.muskegonlumberjacks.com
The Smiths
7:00pm-9:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. No cover-charge
Heels for Meals and More
6:00pm-11:00pm
Trillium 17246 VanWagoner for a festive fundraising event that will knock your socks & shoes off! All funds raised will help support our aging neighbors in Muskegon, Oceana, and Ottawa counties! $60 per person collen@agewellservices.org
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
11:00am-2:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year-Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/event.
Muskegon Farmers Market
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave. muskegonfarmersmarket.com
Sunday, April 23
Pilates and Pints
11:15am
Pigeon Hill Brewers Lounge 895 Fourth St. $15 drink and class. Bring your mat!
Trash Bash: White Lake Area Clean-Up
1:00pm-4:00pm
White Lake Chamber of Commerce 124 W. Hanson St. No need to RSVP.
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Monday, April 24
Recycled Magazine Beaded Bracelet
3:30pm-4:30pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W Webster. For teens ages 13-17. Free!
Paws and Read with Breezy and Dolly
4:00pm-5:00pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. FREE! Call 231-722-8014 to register for a 20- minute timeslot!
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Please see the complete list of events happening in Muskegon on our website
www.visitmuskegon.org
Muskegon Lumberjacks Upcoming Games & Events
FAN TAILGATE – APR. 22
PRESENTED BY BETTEN BAKER
Join us in downtown Muskegon for the Betten Baker Fan Tailgate on April 22nd from 4-6 pm. Enjoy live music, yard games, axe throwing, and food from Dr. Rolf’s Barbeque! This event is open to the general public, no ticket needed!
Games:
WIZARD NIGHT – APR. 21
”EXPECTO PATRONUM!”
Whip out your magic wands and cast a spell on April 21st for Wizard Night.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET
FAN APPRECIATION NIGHT – APR. 22
PRESENTED BY DTE
Join us for our last home game of the regular season vs. the Chicago Steel for Fan Appreciation Night, where we give back to our awesome fans! Want to win some cool Jacks swag? We’ll be giving away prizes throughout the entire game!
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET
SPONSOR HIGHLIGHT:
FAMILY FINANCIAL CREDIT UNION
The Muskegon Lumberjacks would like to thank Family Financial Credit Union for their continued support!
Join us for the FFCU 20th Annual Charity Golf Outing on June 17th! All proceeds will benefit The Hope Project. The registration deadline is June 2nd.
LEARN MORE
Help Us Honor our Lakeshore’s Grandest Volunteer Heroes
submitted by J.J. Lewis, Chief Development Officer, United Way of the Lakeshore
United Way of the Lakeshore, our Board of Directors and staff, and Live United Heroes Celebration Planning Committee, cordially invites you and your guests to an evening dedicated to honoring our Lakeshore’s grandest volunteers and heroes!
They are your neighbors, your friends, and your coworkers. They sit in our classrooms. They bag your groceries or work in our factories. People who carry on with their daily lives while at the same time touching the lives of others. The person who faces adversity and is inspired to help others. The person who devotes themselves to make life better for someone else. They are the EVERYDAY HEROES who make our Lakeshore a better place to live, work, and play.
Please join us on Thursday, May 4 starting at 5:30 pm at the VanDyke Mortgage Convention Center in downtown Muskegon. Tickets are $35 per person and include heavy hors d’oeuvres. There will also be a cash bar, silent auction, celebration, and jail! Be sure to get your ‘Get Out of Jail Free’ card when you purchase your ticket(s)!
In addition to the electrifying fun, we’ll be celebrating our various awardees, including our Legacy of Caring, Spirit of the Lakeshore, Agency of the Year, Community Impact Leaders, and Volunteers of the Year.
Learn More & Purchase Your Tickets Today!
The deadline to purchase your ticket(s) is Wednesday, April 26. If you have any questions on our Live United Heroes Celebration, please visit https://unitedwaylakeshore.org/celebrate, or email james@unitedwaylakeshore.org.. We are looking forward to celebrating our grandest volunteers and heroes with you!
Tulip Time Announces 2023 Grand Marshals
submitted by the West Michigan Tourist Association
Holland, MI- Tulip Time Festival, Inc. is happy to announce the 2023 grand marshals for its’ parades. The Gentex Kinderparade co-grand marshals will be ODC Network and Gentex. The Quality Car Wash Volksparade co-grand marshals will be Frank Kraai and Judge Juanita Bocanegra.
Continuing with tradition, the 94th annual Tulip Time festival will feature two celebratory parades: the Kinderparade and the Volksparade. Each year, Grand Marshals are selected to lead the parade in recognition of their leadership in our community. Grand Marshals for the 2023 Kinderparade are ODC Network and Gentex. Grand Marshals for the 2023 Volksparade are Mr. Frank Kraai and The Honorable Juanita Bocanegra.
This year’s Grand Marshals carry themes of vision, education, and mentorship woven through all four stories.
Gwen Auwerda, Tulip Time’s Executive Director, said, “We are thrilled to recognize the importance of education, specifically preschool education, and the partnership between ODC Network and Gentex. Frank Kraai is a treasure in this community, and we are honored to celebrate him and his contributions over the years. He had an immense impact on students when he was a teacher at West Ottawa, and Juanita Bocanegra is one of those students.”
The Kinderparade will be Thursday, May 11 at 2:00 pm, after the Tennant Street Scrubbing Parade which starts at 1:30 pm. It features elementary students in traditional Dutch costumes and celebrates Dutch heritage from arts to agriculture.
The Volksparade will be Saturday, May 13 at 2 pm. Many local businesses and nonprofits feature in floats and musical performances.
Experience Tulip Time at the 94th Festival, May 6 – 14, 2023. Detailed program and event information for Tulip Time Festival 2023 and tickets are available at www.TulipTime.com.
Lakeshore Visual Arts Collective – Art for the Parks: Saturday, April 29
Art in Nature at LVAC Pop-Up Art Event to Benefit Ottawa County Parks Foundation
See the Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing County Park transformed into a pop-up art venue in a collaboration hosted by Lakeshore Visual Arts Collective (LVAC) to benefit the Ottawa County Parks Foundation.
Art for the Parks will bring regional artists, art patrons, and nature lovers together in an innovative arts Saturday, April 29, 5-8pm.
The show and sale features work by 40+ regional artists in a wide range of media—painting, photography, jewelry, blown glass, sculpture, ceramics, and more. Much of the work is inspired by nature and natural spaces, including regional parks’ landscapes.
The event is open to all and features live music by Grand Rapids songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Drew Nelson, cash bar, and great eats by the Smoke N Ash food truck.
A $10 suggested donation at the door and 10% of all art sold benefit the Ottawa County Parks Foundation. Guests can avoid the lines and be fast-tracked into the venue by signing up online before the show at https://ottawacountyparksfoundation.org/art-for-the-parks/
“We’re excited about partnering with LVAC to share the amazing talents of West Michigan artists and the beautiful parks and green spaces of Ottawa County,” says Anita Yoder, Ottawa County Parks Foundation president. “Our mission as a foundation is to bridge our community to nature. Proceeds from this event will enable us to continue the improvement of the parks and programs for students, families, and visitors to our county. Together we can weave the experience and joy of nature into everyone’s lives.”
See this and more nature-themed art by regional artists at Art for the Parks
Art for the Parks is organized by the Lakeshore Visual Arts Collective (LVAC). LVAC fosters a sustainable artists’ community while also doing good in the community. Our pop-up art events raise tens of thousands of dollars for area nonprofits and build a community of art patrons along the West Michigan lakeshore.
One-night shows are curated salon style—informal, nonlinear displays that build connection and contrast between works and artists. Door donations and a percentage of artists’ sales at all events go to a designated nonprofit partner in the community.
“Our goal is to partner with businesses, community organizations, and individuals to create a sustainable artist community with benefits that flow in many directions,” says LVAC founder Maggie Bandstra.
The event is made possible by the generosity of the host, Ottawa County Parks. Costs are underwritten by these organizations and individuals: Dr. Barbara Brown & Linda McAffrey, Haworth Helps, D. Baker and Son Lumber, Marushka, The Sandi Gentry Team, and Friends of Ottawa County Parks.
To find out how to become a member, sponsor, or venue for a pop-up show, or to learn more about LVAC, visit www.LakeshoreVAC.com or find us on facebook.
Hackley Public Library Remaining April Programs 2023
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
All Ages Programs:
Mariachi Music with Gabriel Estrada
In-Person at Hackley Public Library
Saturday, April 22 from 5:30-6:30pm
Enjoy a festive, after-hours music performance at Hackley Library!
As Gabriel Estrada shares his talent in the beautiful Mariachi musical tradition, which expresses many cultural influences, he will also showcase a bit of Mariachi history.
Registration preferred, but not required. Register at the online event calendar at hackleylibrary.org. Free.
Youth/Teen Programs:
Paws and Read with Breezy and Dolly
In-person at Hackley Library
Mondays, April 24 from 4:00-5:00 pm
There are two four-legged reading helpers in Hackley Library’s Youth Services! Practice and strengthen literacy skills by reading out loud to our friendly therapy dogs who are calm, non-judgmental listeners. They’re excited to hear all the stories, and receive all the belly rubs! Call 231-722-8014 to register your child for a 20 minute time slot. Free.
Preschool Story time
In-Person at Hackley Public Library
Friday mornings, April 21, 28 at 10:30am
Intended for ages 0-5, our in-person Story Time is designed to teach early literacy skills to parents and caregivers while children enjoy a fun, interactive atmosphere. Join us for stories, songs, and movement activities! Please check Hackley Library’s Facebook page for any cancellations. Free.
Earth Day Crafts!
In-Person at Hackley Public Library
Saturday, April 22 from 2:00-3:30pm
Let’s celebrate Earth Day by supporting our pollinators! Learn about pollinators and how important they are to our planet, make a Bee Hotel, learn about the pollination process with a hands on approach, and build the Lego We Do bee pollinator! Ages 3-17. Free.
Teen Craft – Recycled Magazine Beaded Bracelet
In-Person at Hackley Public Library
Monday, April 24 from 3:30-4:30pm
Wondering what to do with old magazines? Join us in the Hackley Library Teen Room! We’ll learn how to save them from the trash by transforming them into groovy beads for a beautiful bracelet. Ages 13-17. Free.
Little Golden Books Museum Story Time at MMA
In-Person at Muskegon Museum of Art
Thursday, April 27 from 4:00-5:00pm
Join the Muskegon Museum of Art in welcoming Hackley Public Library’s Story Time in MMA’s new exhibition, Golden Legacy: 80 Years of Original Artwork from Golden Books!
Explore the original illustrations from some of your favorite Golden Books, listen to stories, sing songs, and groove to movement activities! This Story Time at MMA is intended for ages 0-5. Free.
Adult Programs:
Braiding Sweetgrass: Muskegon County Community Read Discussion
In-Person at Hackley Public Library
Monday, April 24 from 5:30-6:30pm
Join the discussion on Robin Wall Kimmerer’s best-seller, as we delve into the concepts of the book and how we engage with the natural world. Registration is preferred, but NOT required (register on the events calendar at hackleylibrary.org, or by calling 231-722-8000). Free.
Left to Write – Creative Writing Group
In-person at Hackley Library
Wednesday, April 12 from 3:30-4:30pm
During this relaxed creative writing group, 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. Remember to bring a pen and paper! Left to Write meets at Hackley Library on the second Wednesday of each month from 3:30-4:30pm. Free.
Visit hackleylibrary.org for more information and see what you can discover today!
Don’t forget! Using your Hackley Library card, you can have access to eBooks, audiobooks, movies, music and more, all for FREE.
Link to HPL’s Digital Library: https://www.hackleylibrary.org/books-more/digital-library/
Website: hackleylibrary.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HackleyPL/
Instagram: @hackleypubliclibrary
HPL Teens Instagram: @hackleylibraryteens
Flickr: http://bit.ly/1DSbZ6E
About the Hackley Public Library
The Hackley Public Library is dedicated to 1) promoting knowledge, understanding, and wisdom, 2) combating ignorance, intolerance, and indifference, 3) promoting the free exchange of ideas, and 4) conserving our national and local cultural heritage.
The mission of Hackley Public Library is to provide programs and services to unify the community, promote creativity, and encourage lifelong learning while preserving our storied past and preparing for an ever-changing future.
For more information, please contact Hackley Public Library, 316 W Webster Ave Muskegon MI 49440, at Circulation: 231-722-8000, Youth Services: 231-722-8014, @hackleyref, or askus@hackleylibrary.org.
Rep. Meerman Speaks Out Against Red Flag Laws in Michigan
State Rep. Luke Meerman, R-Coopersville, issued the following statement after the Democrat House Majority approved bills (House Bills 4146-8 and Senate Bill 83) to enact extreme risk protection orders, often called “red flag” orders, in the state of Michigan:
“These firearm reforms violate due process and the personal protection rights of law-abiding citizens.
“We certainly should not be passing legislation that restricts an individual’s second amendment rights when our broken criminal justice system is not properly enforcing the laws already in place to keep dangerous offenders behind bars.
“There is so much about this proposal that was not well thought out. There is nothing stopping a bad actor from reporting their family member or former significant other without any evidence for the sole purpose of causing turmoil in their life.”
Public Comment Sought at Rural Transportation Planning Meeting on April 21, 2023
submitted by Joel Fitzpatrick, Transportation Program Director, WMSRDC
The West Michigan Rural Regional Transportation Task Force (Region 14), which is responsible for rural transportation planning in Lake, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Oceana Counties, is seeking public comment on the transportation planning process, project selection, and amendments at the regional level. The planning and project selection process includes projects being amended in the existing Fiscal Year 2023-2026 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). The STIP lists federally funded transportation projects that are located outside Metropolitan Planning Organization boundaries and 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 the State of Michigan for the next four years.
A public comment period is scheduled at the following meeting:
- The West Michigan Rural Transportation Task Force Meeting on April 21, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission (WMSRDC) offices located at 316 Morris Avenue, Suite 340, Muskegon, Michigan 49440.
Muskegon County Announces the Retirement of County Clerk, Nancy A. Waters
MUSKEGON, MI —Clerk Nancy A. Waters filed her retirement paperwork with Muskegon County earlier this week. Her official last day as Muskegon County Clerk will be Friday, April 28, 2023.
“Clerk Nancy Waters has served as the Clerk for Muskegon County since January 1, 2009” said Mark Eisenbarth, Muskegon County Administrator. “I want to thank Clerk Nancy Waters for her service and commitment to not only Muskegon County but our community as well. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”
Prior to serving as Clerk, she served on the Muskegon County Board as a Commissioner from 2003 to 2007. She won the election as Muskegon County Clerk in November 2008 and officially took office on January 1, 2009. She has held the office ever since.
“On behalf of the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners, I would like to thank Clerk Nancy Waters for her service and dedication to Muskegon County” said Charles Nash, Board Chair. “Between her 4 years serving as Muskegon County Commissioner to the past 14 years as Muskegon County Clerk, Clerk Nancy Waters has made many valuable contributions towards the success of Muskegon County. She has always gone above and beyond to serve the citizens of Muskegon County and will truly be missed.”
Yesterday, the Muskegon County 14th Circuit Court Judges announced that pursuant to their statutory authority Karen Buie has been appointed as the Muskegon County Clerk. Ms. Buie will start Monday, May 1, 2023. “Ms. Buie has significant institutional knowledge about the department and its operations. We are confident she will make a smooth transition into the County Clerk’s office that will allow the office to continue to serve the citizens of Muskegon County” stated Chief Circuit Judge Pro Tem Kenneth Hoopes.
World Ballet Series: Cinderella is Coming to the Frauenthal
Gorskaya-Hartwick Productions Presents
World Ballet Series: 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.
Secure the best seats in the house before anyone else!
Use code MAGIC to purchase presale tickets NOW through Thursday, April 13!
Date: Sunday, October 8, 2023
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Frauenthal Theater
Prices:
Adult $39 / $49 / $69 / $89
Child $29 / $39 / $55 / $72
(Ticket price does not include fees.)
*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.
Events Happening in Muskegon County – April 10-17, 2023
www.visitmuskegon.org
Monday, April 10
Our 2023 Muskegon County visitor guides are now available. Stop by and pick yours up or request one to be mailed: https://www.visitmuskegon.org/plan-your-visit/visitor-guide/
Paws and Read with Breezy and Dolly
4:00pm-5:00pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. FREE! Call 231-722-8014 to register for a 20- minute timeslot!
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Tuesday, April 11
Pretty Fun Trivia Pizza Party
6:00pm-7:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. $8 pizzas. Each week until April 18
Home School Days
10:00am-11:30am
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay $5 for non-residents.
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
7:00pm-9:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Steve Thielman, Piano
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry Street, Montague. thebooknookjavashop.com
Wednesday, April 12
Muskegon Music Trivia
7:00pm-9:00pm
Unruly Brewing Co 360 W. Western Ave. A time to gather and meet new friends!
Muskegon Music Trivia
7:00pm-9:00pm
Salty Pecker 255 Seminole Rd. Bring friends! Win prizes!
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year-Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, FREE Middle & High School Students Registration is not required, but is appreciated! Register at artswhitelake.org
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Thursday, April 13
12 String Guitar with Neil Jacobs
5:30pm-6:30
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Blend of genres, such as jazz, classical, Celtic, and more.
Art Talks Back Ekphrastic Poetry Contest Ceremony
6:00pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W. Webster Ave. Free and open to the public
March of the Bloodsuckers: Ticks and their Expansion
6:00pm-7:15pm
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Ave. Free for residents $5 for others
Little Learners Play & Learn Time
10:00am-11:00am
Muskegon Museum of History & Science 430 W. Clay This is for 0-4 years of age.
Muskegon Museum of Art FREE Tours
11:00am-8:00pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W. Webster Ave. Compliments of the Meijer Foundation.
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year-Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Muskegon Music Trivia
7:00pm-9:00pm
Wonderland Distillery 1989 Lakeshore Dr. Arrive early to nab a good seat
Trivia Night
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Pub One Eleven, 111 W. Colby, Whitehall. General knowledge trivia along with music, fun, great food and beverages. Prizes for the Top 3 teams! pub111.com
Jazz Night
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Featuring Spectacular Trio: Greg Miller,
guitar Justin Wierenga, bass JD Jones, drums.
Friday, April 14
Lakeshore Living Show
4:00pm-7:00pm
VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center 460 W. Western Ave. Meet over 60 exhibitors who are experts in home, garden, outdoor recreation and local cuisine! $10 entrance
Michael J Reed Quartet, Straight – Ahead Jazz
7:30pm-9:30pm
The Block 360 W. Western Ave. $32-$48 Get tickets at www.theblockwestmichigan.org
Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Madison Capitols
Puck Drops at 7:00pm
Trinity Health Arena 470 W. Western Ave. For tickets www.muskegonlumberjacks.com
Preschool Story Time
10:30am-11:00am
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. For ages 0-5 Free event for everyone
Silverado Country Band
7:00pm-9:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. No cover-charge
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year-Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Saturday, April 15
D& D in the Library
5:30pm-8:00pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Everything is provided FREE event!
Crossing the Pond: Music from Both Sides of the Atlantic
7:00pm
Mona Shores Performing Arts Center 1121 Seminole Rd. FREE Admission
Adult Egg Hunt
12:00pm-3:30pm
McGraft Park 2204 Wickham Dr. $20 online $25 at event if tickets are still available. Adults only. Buy your tickets here https://www.mycaamp.org/adult-egg-hunt.html
Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Hockey Game -vs- Madison Capitols
Puck Drops at 7:00pm
Trinity Health Arena 470 W. Western Ave. For tickets www.muskegonlumberjacks.com
Lakeshore Living Show
9:00am-5:00pm
VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center 460 W. Western Ave. Meet over 60 exhibitors who are experts in home, garden, outdoor recreation and local cuisine! $10 entrance
Salsa Competition
1:00pm
Pigeon Hill at Brewers Lounge 895 Fourth St. $15 each to taste all samples
April Saturdays: Wind Chimes
1:00pm-3:00pm
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Ave. Create windchime.
Acoustic Oasis
7:00pm-9:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Boomer night in Montague! No cover-charge
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
11:00am-2:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year-Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/event.
Muskegon Farmers Market
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave. muskegonfarmersmarket.com
Sunday, April 16
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year-Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year-Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Monday, April 17
Monopoly Deal Night
7:00pm
Pigeon Hill at Brewers Lounge 895 Fourth St. No partner needed. See you soon!
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Please see the complete list of events happening in Muskegon on our website
www.visitmuskegon.org
Muskegon Lumberjacks Upcoming Games
RODEO NIGHT – APR. 14
FIRST 500 FANS RECIEVE LUMBERJACKS BANDANA
YEE HAW! We’re turning Trinity Health Arena into the Wild, Wild West! The first 500 fans through the door will receive a Muskegon Lumberjacks bandana! Come for the rodeo, stay for the hockey.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET
TEACHER APPRECIATION NIGHT – APR. 15
PRESENTED BY LITTLE RIVER CASINO RESORT
We will be honoring local teachers on April 15th! The Jacks want to say “thank you”, to our local teachers for all they’ve done for their students this school year.
This year we are sponsoring four deserving teachers during the game. We are asking fans to submit a teacher who they believe is most deserving of recognition. To submit a teacher, please fill out the below form.
CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE A TEACHER
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE YOUR TICKET
PARTY DECKS
GROUP SPACES AVAILABLE APRIL 14TH
Hang out with pals, reward employees, or entertain your clients with a great view of the action! Watching a Lumberjacks game surrounded by good friends while enjoying your own personal service and hospitality makes for a truly memorable experience.
A Thought for Today
by Connie Jarka
It matters only of the moment
The time so many remember as told;
He Died for us and then was put in the tomb
And it was quite for that day of old.
a journey with Him at our side.
Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 04/10/23
AGENDA
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FRUITPORT TOWNSHIP HALL
5865 AIRLINE ROAD, FRUITPORT, MI 49415
APRIL 10, 2023
6:00 P.M. WORK SESSION
7:00 P.M. BOARD MEETING
- Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
- Roll call
- Approval of board minutes: 3/27/23
- Approve / amend agenda
- Correspondence / reports
- Public comments regarding agenda items
- Unfinished Business
none - New Business
A. Sullivan Township Fire Services Contract
B. Deputy Police Chief Employment Contract Renewal
C. Culvert Replacements - 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
Events Happening in Muskegon County – April 3-10, 2023
www.visitmuskegon.org
Our 2023 Muskegon County visitor guides are now available. Stop by and pick yours up or request one to be mailed:
https://www.visitmuskegon.org/plan-your-visit/visitor-guide/
Monday, April 3
Crafty Robot Break
10:00am-6:00pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Stay at the library and craft or take a bag home and do crafts. There will be robot building for in-room use. Ages 3-17 Free
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Tuesday, April 4
STEM Mini Camp
9:00am-Noon
Muskegon Museum of History & Science. For ages 8-15 You must register 231-722-0278
Euchre Night
7:00pm
Brewers Lounge Pigeon Hill 895 Fourth St. Bring or friends or come alone and enjoy!
Pretty Fun Trivia Pizza Party
6:00pm-7:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. $8 pizzas. Each week until April 18
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
7:00pm-9:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Steve Thielman, Piano
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry Street, Montague. thebooknookjavashop.com
Wednesday, April 5
Crafty Robot Break
10:00am-6:00pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Stay at the library and craft or take a bag home and do crafts. There will be robot building for in-room use. Ages 3-17 Free
STEM Mini Camp
9:00am-Noon
Muskegon Museum of History & Science. For ages 8-15 You must register 231-722-0278
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, FREE Middle & High School Students Registration is not required, but is appreciated! Register at artswhitelake.org
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Thursday, April 6
Spring Break PJ Party
4:00pm-7:30pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W. Webster Ave. An evening of activities. FREE event. Register www.eventbrite.com/e/family-night-pj-party-at-the-museum-tickets
Chair YOGA
5:30pm-6:30pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Register is required. 231-722-8000
STEM Mini Camp
9:00am-Noon
Muskegon Museum of History & Science. For ages 8-15 You must register 231-722-0278
Muskegon Museum of Art FREE Tours
11:00am-8:00pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W. Webster Ave. Compliments of the Meijer Foundation.
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Trivia Night
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Pub One Eleven, 111 W. Colby, Whitehall. General knowledge trivia along with music, fun, great food and beverages. Prizes for the Top 3 teams! pub111.com
Jazz Night
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Featuring Spectacular Trio: Greg Miller, guitar Justin Wierenga, bass JD Jones, drums.
Friday, April 7
Spring Break Open House
11:00am-2:00pm
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Ave. Free to residents. $5 for others
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Saturday, April 8
Glenside Annual Easter Egg Hunt
10:00am-11:00am
McGraft Park 2204 Wickham Dr. For youth up to 12 years of age. Bring your own basket
Weesies Bros Easter Egg Hunt
10:00am
Weesies Bros Montague Garden Center 3365 W. Fruitvale Rd. For ages 12 & under.
April Saturdays: Fur Hunt and Trade
1:00pm-3:00pm
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Ave. Free to Muskegon residents.
Super Saturday: Free Family Fun Day
11:00am-2:00pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W. Webster Ave. This is Free and open to the public
Christopher Dragone
11:00am-1:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Chill tunes from a cool guy. No cover-charge
John Piatek
7:00pm-9:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. guitarist, specializing in original music. No cover-charge
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
11:00am-2:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/event.
Muskegon Farmers Market
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave. muskegonfarmersmarket.com
Sunday, April 9
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Monday, April 10
Paws and Read with Breezy and Dolly
4:00pm-5:00pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. FREE! Call 231-722-8014 to register for a 20- minute timeslot!
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Michigan Is Dying, and We Keep Killing It
submitted by Anna-Marie Pluymert, Director of Communication/Education – Right to Life of Michigan
The grim headline from MIRS, a Michigan capital news service: “Birth-Death Ratio Negative In Michigan, Life Expectancy Drops.”
There’s only one way to describe a state that sadly accepts this reality: dying. For the first time in Michigan’s history, more are dying than are being born.
The headline should be familiar, since those numbers were true in 2020. Those numbers should be a topic of everyday discussion, but it seems the headline will be quickly lost in our ridiculous news cycle.
There were 117,756 total deaths in Michigan in 2021, versus 105,022 births, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
Why is Michigan dying? And, perhaps more importantly, why do so few seem to care?
Many causes can be pinpointed. Globalization and the loss of manufacturing. Crime and poor governance. Fentanyl and drug abuse, especially for the drop in life expectancy. A general malaise that leads people into deaths of despair. COVID-19.
But we’re talking about births, so we must talk about abortion. In 2021, we took the lives of 30,074 babies in Michigan. Those numbers alone make the difference. Since 1973, when Roe v. Wade made abortion legal in Michigan, we’ve taken the lives of an estimated 1,570,000 babies here.
But as the vote for Proposal 3 in the November election indicated, Michiganders who aren’t too knowledgeable about abortion thought it was necessary on some limited level—even though Proposal 3 will be taking away any conceivable limits.
In fact, Governor Whitmer is laboring under the delusion that only by aborting more and more babies will we convince people and businesses to move to our suicidal state.
Many people believe humanity is the problem, and that prosperity can only be found by eliminating “dead weight.” This “truth” has been beaten into our heads in the classroom, on the TV, on social media, and everywhere else. A few days ago, CBS’s 60 Minutes wheeled out failed doomsayer Paul Ehrlich to update the overpopulation apocalypse from the 1970s to sometime soon.
Our society is conditioned to demand that everything always progresses for the better. So, perhaps believing the slow death of Michigan is a key to prosperity is just a coping mechanism. But as all experience has shown us, a declining population and declining life expectancy doesn’t mean we’re going to be inheriting and enjoying more riches. It just means more death and economic decline approaching in the rear-view mirror.
2023 Ottawa County Motor Vehicle Permit Updates
Ottawa County Parks & Recreation requires a motor vehicle permit at our Lake Michigan beach parks, as well as the boat launch at Riverside Park, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Beginning this year, we will no longer be offering a physical permit (sticker or hangtag). Digital motor vehicle permits will be available for sale in April.
To receive an email when digital permits are available for sale, click here.
How can I purchase my motor vehicle permit?
When available, there will be two ways you can purchase your digital permit:
- Online – visitors will be able to register their license plate and pay for their annual or daily motor vehicle permit online using a mobile-friendly website. Utilizing this will allow users to verify their residency and birthday, so they are able to receive discounts they are eligible for before visiting the park. This will be the only method to purchase discounted motor vehicle permits!
- On-site – pay stations will be installed at all lakeshore beach parks including the two new parks we will be managing for Port Sheldon Township. Visitors can purchase a digital permit by registering their license plate for a day or a year using the pay station. Annual permits sold at the pay stations will be $25; daily permits will be $8. The fee stations are not able to determine residency, so no discounted permits will be sold at these stations.
Resident and Senior Discounts
Discounted annual motor vehicle permits are still available to Ottawa County residents and seniors. The only way to purchase your discounted permit will be online. Discounts will not be available at the pay stations.
- Ottawa County Residents: $15
- Ottawa County Seniors: $9
- Port Sheldon Township provides a subsidy making their residents eligible for additional discounted rates.
When can I buy a permit?
We are currently implementing the pay stations and mobile website, so we are unable to sell annual motor vehicle permits at this time. When we are able to sell the digital motor vehicle permits, we will share the news via email and social media. You can sign up to receive an email by subscribing here.
Parks that require a motor vehicle permit Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day
- North Beach Park
- Olive Shores
- Kirk Park
- Rosy Mound Natural Area
- Tunnel Park
- Kouw Park*
- Windsnest Park*
- Riverside Park (boat launch only)
*Ottawa County Parks will be managing these township parks as of 2023. Port Sheldon Township residents are eligible for an additional discount provided through a Port Sheldon Township subsidy. An annual motor vehicle permit will be discounted for Port Sheldon Residents (-$5); a Senior discount will also apply for those who qualify.
How will you know that I’ve purchased my permit when I park?
The fee machines and mobile website will sync in real-time to a handheld device used by park staff to verify if a permit has been purchased or not. Vehicles without a valid daily or annual permit will be ticketed.
Stay tuned to this webpage for updates: Park Fees – Ottawa County, Michigan
To receive an email when digital permits are available for sale, click here.
Next Up: Abortion Rituals at Local Pharmacies
submitted by Anna-Marie Pluymert, Director of Communication/Education – Right to Life of Michigan
Picture this: you discuss your decision with your best friend, you set the appointment, and then you clear your schedule, so you have enough time to log in and mentally prepare for your appointment. This sounds like a telehealth appointment to get a prescription for a serious condition, one that would require you to get the opinion of friends or family. It’s describing the actions of a woman obtaining an abortion from the Satanic Temple.
Yes, really.
The Satanic Temple is now promoting a new endeavor on their website. Looking at the context, one would assume maybe a new location for devil worship, or selling red, plastic horns—buy one, get one free. But one would be assuming wrong; for several years now, the Satanic Temple has been deeply involved in advocating against prolife laws. Now, they want to provide abortions.
They are the Satanic Temple, after all. Adding ritual human sacrifice to their news-grabbing antics was only a matter of time.
In light of the FDA’s recent rule changes for distributing abortion pills, this development comes at a rather interesting time. If you have been paying attention, the FDA modified the REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) for the abortion pill on January 3rd. This rule change allowed pharmacies to distribute the drug with very few guidelines and regulations. CVS, Walgreen, and Rite Aid have all announced that they will be welcoming the abortion pill into every corner pharmacy. This means death will be easily found on every city block in America.
But, let’s face it, there’s nothing edgy about a CVS. So, now the Satanists want to get into this business. The Satanic Temple has the announcement that telehealth appointments are “coming soon” on its website. While not all the details have been released, the Satanic Temple has mentioned that they are able to do this by partnering with local abortion facilities.
It also appears that The Satanic Temple is planning to open a facility in New Mexico where women will be able to get abortion pills directly. Desperately needing more attention and clicks, the Satanic Temple plans to name the facility “The Samuel Alito’s Mom’s Satanic Abortion Facility.” This is an attempt to taunt U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito, who wrote the opinion that overturned Roe v. Wade.
It can’t be denied now that abortion is straight from the pit of Hell.
Hiding in Plain Sight: How West Michigan Teens Conceal Substance Use
submitted by Arbor Circle
HOLLAND, Mich. – Today, youth can easily conceal vapes, alcohol, and other substances with everyday objects. At first glance, a parent or teacher might see a hi-liter, but it is a vape pen. A water bottle on the nightstand looks normal but can come apart to stash substances.
Not sure what to look for or even where to begin? That is okay. Parents can take a virtual tour through a teenager’s room staged with 44 different concealment containers, vape pens, and other indicators of youth substance use.
“Many of these items are trending among teens in West Michigan, which is why we placed them in the room,” says Leigh Moerdyke, program director of prevention and advocacy at Arbor Circle. “Keep in mind, not all of these items will be in a teen’s possession, but this will give an idea of different things to look for in a teen’s room or school bag.”
The virtual teen room tour comes through the collaborative efforts of the Ottawa Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition and Allegan County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition, with support from Arbor Circle, OnPoint, and TalkSooner.org.
Since releasing the virtual room in September 2021, over 3,900 individuals have toured the space. Recent updates to the room include facts about current Ottawa County youth substance use and improvements in navigating the room.
Click here to take the tour.
About OSAP: Ottawa Substance Use Prevention (OSAP) works to create change regarding youth substance use in Ottawa County. OSAP consists of community members, human service professionals, businesses, law enforcement, government officials, schools and school personnel who are working together to create change regarding youth substance use.
About ASAP: Allegan County Substance Use Prevention (ASAP) works to prevent and reduce youth substance use in Allegan County through education. ASAP consists of consists of community members, human service professionals, businesses, law enforcement, government officials, schools and school personnel who are working together to create change regarding youth substance use.
About Arbor Circle: Arbor Circle provides mental health counseling, substance use treatment, family development support, adoption and foster care services, prevention programming and quality child care resources and referral services. The organization is well established in the West Michigan area with deep roots in our community and locations in 5 counties (Kent, Muskegon, Newaygo, Allegan, and Ottawa), and serves thousands of children, adults and families each year. Website: https://arborcircle.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arborcircleorg
RLM PAC Rescinds Endorsements of 2 State House Reps
Right to Life of Michigan Political Action Committee Rescinds Endorsements of Two State House Representatives Following Vote for Sweeping Repeal of 1931 Abortion Law
Two First-Term Legislators Failed to Act Consistent with their Commitments to both the Right to Life of Michigan PAC and Prolife Voters Across the State; Neglect Duty to Preserve Reasonable Protections Permitted Under Proposal 3 and In Place Under Roe v. Wade
On March 7th, 2023, the Right to Life of Michigan Political Action Committee (RLM-PAC) announced it has rescinded the endorsements of two first-term state elected officials after their March 2 votes to pass a sweeping repeal of the 1931 abortion law. State Representative Donni Steele of the 54th District and State Representative Thomas Kuhn of the 57th District voted with proabortion Democrats to repeal MCL 750.14, better known as the 1931 abortion law. This law has been in place and partially effective even under Roe v. Wade, containing critical portions that remain constitutional in the wake of Proposal 3.
Proposal 3 states that “the state may regulate the provision of abortion care after fetal viability.” The 1931 abortion law is the only abortion statute that currently regulates post-viable abortions.
Prior to being endorsed by the RLM-PAC, all candidates complete a questionnaire and interview with a panel of local prolife volunteers. A large part of the process focuses on whether the candidate will uphold Michigan’s current prolife laws. By voting to repeal our current abortion law and thus legalize the abortion of children fully capable of living outside the womb, they have broken their pre-election promise to uphold human dignity. For this reason, the RLM-PAC Board has rescinded the previous endorsements of both Representative Kuhn and Representative Steele.
Furthermore, RLM-PAC sincerely thanks each of the 50 Representatives who held firm and voted against House Bill 4006.
Going forward, RLM-PAC will continue to support those individuals who are dedicated to upholding the right to life of all innocent Michiganders and looks forward to the day when basic human rights are once again protected in law.
A Thought for Today
by Connie Jarka
Spring arrives!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We enhance our lives,
with a skip and a look ahead;
Still cold, maple sap done running but like gold,
on to blooms and birds sewn with silky sunny thread.
HAPPY SPRING !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Events Happening in Muskegon County – March 27- April 3, 2023
www.visitmuskegon.org
Our 2023 Muskegon County visitor guides are now available. Stop by and pick yours up or request one to be mailed:
https://www.visitmuskegon.org/plan-your-visit/visitor-guide/
Monday, March 27
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Tuesday, March 28
Composting 101
5:30pm-6:30pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Free event to learn the benefits.
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
7:00pm-9:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Steve Thielman, Piano
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry Street, Montague. thebooknookjavashop.com
Wednesday, March 29
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Muskegon Trivia Night
7:00pm-9:00pm
Salty Pecker 255 Seminole Rd. Free event. All are welcome 21yr.+ suggested.
Muskegon Trivia Night
7:00pm-9:00pm
Unruly Brewing Company 360 W. Western Ave. Free event. All are welcome. 21yr+
Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, FREE Middle & High School Students Registration is not required, but is appreciated! Register at artswhitelake.org
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Eric and Chris, Acoustic Guitar
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry St., Montague. thebooknookjavashop.com
Thursday, March 30
West Michigan Homeschool Threatre Presents “Til We Have Faces”
7:00pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W. Western Ave. $10-$15 www.frauenthal.org for tickets
Muskegon Museum of Art FREE Tours
11:00am-8:00pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W. Webster Ave. Compliments of the Meijer Foundation.
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Muskegon Trivia Night
7:00pm-9:00pm
Wonderland Distilling 1989 Lakeshore Dr. Free event. All are welcome 21 yr. +
Trivia Night
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Pub One Eleven, 111 W. Colby, Whitehall. General knowledge trivia along with music, fun, great food and beverages. Prizes for the Top 3 teams! pub111.com
Jazz Night
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Featuring Spectacular Trio: Greg Miller, guitar Justin Wierenga, bass JD Jones, drums.
Friday, March 31
Nik Veine
7:00pm-9:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. No cover-charge.
West Michigan Homeschool Threatre Presents “Til We Have Faces”
7:00pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W. Western Ave. $10-$15 www.frauenthal.org for tickets
Preschool Story Time
10:30am-11:0am
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Intended for ages 0-5. Free event
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Saturday, April 1
West Michigan Ironmen Home Indoor Football Game -vs-Ohio Blitz
7:05pm
Trinity Health Arena 470 W. Western Ave. Get your tickets at www.etix.com
West Michigan Homeschool Threatre Presents “Til We Have Faces”
2:00pm and 7:00pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W. Western Ave. $10-$15 www.frauenthal.org for tickets
April Saturdays: Handmade craft
1:00pm-3:00pm
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Ave. You create your own craft
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
11:00am-2:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/event.
Muskegon Farmers Market
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave. muskegonfarmersmarket.com
Sunday, April 2
Free Famiy Movie Day: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
3:00pm-5:00pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W. Western Ave. Free! No ticket needed
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Monday, April 3
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
News from Rep. Bill Huizenga, MI 4th District
from The Huizenga Huddle, March 13, 2023 Edition
There has been a flurry of activity in Washington and across Southwest Michigan since the last edition of the Huddle. I encourage you to visit Huizenga.House.Gov for more frequent updates. The website is an excellent source of information that has my social media feeds, voting record, legislative updates and more. With that, let’s Huddle up!
Honoring a Southwest Michigan Hero
On Thursday March 9th, I honored the life and memory of Paw Paw Firefighter Ethan Quillen. Lt. Quillen was a father, a husband, a Marine Corps veteran, and a hero. He consistently put the well-being of his fellow Americans and his neighbors over himself, while asking for nothing in return. On behalf of the people of Paw Paw and the residents of the 4th Congressional District, I thank Lt. Quillen for his service.
Standing Up for Parents
Earlier this month I helped introduce the Parents Bill of Rights Act. This legislation defines protections for parents and lays out guidelines for schools to follow in an effort to encourage positive dialogue and strengthen the education children receive in schools across America.
Parents know their children best. Schools should strive to partner with parents to maximize educational opportunities for students. The Parents Bill of Rights Act empowers parents to work with school officials to achieve the best outcome possible for their children. I will be sure to keep you up to date as this important legislation works its way through the U.S. House.
Holding the Biden Administration Accountable
Earlier this month, I led our first House Financial Services Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee hearing. We had the Inspectors General from the SEC, Federal Reserve/CFPB, and Treasury testify as we examined the Biden Administration’s wasteful spending and regulatory overreach.
In my opening statement, which is available to watch here, I discussed the need for Congress to use its constitutional authority to conduct oversight and hold bureaucrats in Washington accountable to the American people.
Leading a Bipartisan Call to Protect the Great Lakes
I am proud to lead a bipartisan effort with Democrat Brian Higgins of New York for increased protection of the Great Lakes. In our letter to President Biden, we are asking him to press our Canadian friends to increase their commitment to protect and strengthen the Great Lakes.
Joining Rep. Higgins and me on this bipartisan letter are Congressmembers Jack Bergman (R-MI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Mike Gallagher (R-WI), David Joyce (R-OH), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), John Moolenaar (R-MI), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI). You can read our letter to the President below.
I hope you found this edition informative. If you would like to share a comment or make a suggestion, please reach out to me! Thank you for reading the Huddle!
Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 03/27/23
AGENDA
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FRUITPORT TOWNSHIP HALL
5865 AIRLINE ROAD, FRUITPORT, MI 49415
MARCH 27, 2023
6:00 P.M. WORK SESSION
7:00 P.M. BOARD MEETING
- Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
- Roll call
- Approval of board minutes: 3/13/23
- Approve / amend agenda
- Correspondence / reports
- Public comments regarding agenda items
- Unfinished Business
A. 2023/2024 Budget Discussion
B. Budget Amendments - New Business
A. DPW Director Employment Contract Renewal
B. Public Hearing for MDNR Trust Fund Grant Application
C. Resolution for MDNR Trust Fund Grant Application
D. Resolution to Commit Water & Sewer Funds
E. Resolution to Commit Public Safety Fund Balance
F. Budget Public Hearing
G. Adoption of 2023/2024 Budget
H. Banking and Investing Resolution
I. Property and Liability Insurance Renewal
J. 2023/2024 Public Meeting Schedule
K. Fruitport Lions Club Old Fashioned Days Agreement - 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
Composting 101 at the Hackley Library
Events Happening in Muskegon County – March 21-27, 2023
www.visitmuskegon.org
Tuesday, March 21
Feeding the Soul of the City Featuring Travis Swanson Trio
12:15pm-12:45pm
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 1006 Third St. Jazz guitarist. Free concert. Bring your lunch
Euchre Night
7:00pm
Brewers Lounge at Pigeon Hill 895 Fourth St. No partner needed.
Wine School
6:00pm-8:00pm
Lake Bluff Grille 2801 Lakeshore Dr. Flavors of Spain. $50 per person 231-755-3737
Classic Night: Kyle Thompson & Letitia Jap
7:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Cover-charge $10
Board Game Extraordinaire
4:30pm-5:30pm
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Free for everyone. Stop by and play!
Homeschool Days
10:00am-11:30am
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay For more information please visit www.lakeshoremuseum.org. You must register at Eventbrite.com
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
7:00pm-9:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Steve Thielman, Piano
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry Street, Montague. thebooknookjavashop.com
Wednesday, March 22
Lunch n Learn
12:00pm-1:00pm
The Block 360 W. Western Ave.
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Muskegon Trivia Night
7:00pm-9:00pm
Salty Pecker 255 Seminole Rd. Free event. All are welcome 21yr.+ suggested.
Muskegon Trivia Night
7:00pm-9:00pm
Unruly Brewing Company 360 W. Western Ave. Free event. All are welcome. 21yr+
Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Arts Council of White Lake 106 E. Colby St., Whitehall, FREE Middle & High School Students Registration is not required, but is appreciated! Register at artswhitelake.org
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Eric and Chris, Acoustic Guitar
11:00 am – 12:30 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop, 8744 Ferry St., Montague. thebooknookjavashop.com
Thursday, March 23
Little Learners Play and Learn Time
10:00am-11:00am
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Ave. Designed for 0-4 years.
Muskegon Museum of Art FREE Tours
11:00am-8:00pm
Muskegon Museum of Art 296 W. Webster Ave. Compliments of the Meijer Foundation.
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Muskegon Trivia Night
7:00pm-9:00pm
Wonderland Distilling 1989 Lakeshore Dr. Free event. All are welcome 21 yr. +
Trivia Night
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Pub One Eleven, 111 W. Colby, Whitehall. General knowledge trivia along with music, fun, great food and beverages. Prizes for the Top 3 teams! pub111.com
Jazz Night
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Featuring Spectacular Trio: Greg Miller, guitar Justin Wierenga, bass JD Jones, drums.
Friday, March 24
Preschool Story Time
10:30am-11:0am
Hackley Public Library 316 W. Webster Ave. Intended for ages 0-5. Free event
Family Fun Night: Dairy Day
5:30pm-7:30pm
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Ave. Everything you wanted to know about Dairy farms and a treat from Country Dairy afterwards. $5 for non-residents
Chaplin’s Smile
7:30pm-9:30pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W. Western Ave. This multi-media performance combines live music with clips from classic Charlie Chaplin films, photos and selections from Chaplin’s autobiography. Tickets start at $19 www.frauenthal.org
Serita’s Black Rose
7:00pm-9:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. Self-Professed Funkateer No cover-charge
Alley Door Club Brena
7:00pm-10:00pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W. Western Ave. Third Floor. Doors open at 6:00pm $13 per person. Relax and enjoy an evening with friends, music and dance.
Muskegon Lumberjacks Hockey Game-vs- Cedar Rapids RoughRiders
Puck drops at 7:00pm
Trinity Health Arena 470 W. Western Ave. For tickets www.muskegonlumberjacks.com
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Muskegon Museum of History & Science
Open Year-Round
430 W. Clay Ave. This museum is always FREE to Muskegon County residents and just $5 for others. Closed Sunday www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
Saturday, March 25
First Annual Biscuits and Gravy Cook Off Fundraiser
11:00am-3:00pm
Unruly Brewing Co. 360 W. Western Ave. Ten restaurants participating. $10 / ten tastes.
All proceeds go to Kids Food Basket and the Jaeger Foundation.
Women of Accomplishment Breakfast Celebration
9:00am-11:00am
The Greater Woman’s Club 280 W. Webster Ave. For tickets and info call 231-730-0887
March Saturdays: Magnetic Science
1:00pm-3:00pm
Muskegon History & Science Museum 430 W. Clay Ave. $5 for non-residents
West Michigan Symphony Low Brass, Classical Brass Ensemble
7:30pm-9:30pm
The Block 360 W. Western Ave. For tickets visit www.theblockwestmichigan.org
Muskegon Lumberjacks Hockey Game-vs- Cedar Rapids RoughRiders
Puck drops at 7:00pm
Trinity Health Arena 470 W. Western Ave. For tickets www.muskegonlumberjacks.com
10th Annual White Lake Community Business Expo
8:30am-12:00pm
Whitehall High School Gym 3100 W. White Lake Dr. FREE to the public to stop by and see what White Lake area businesses has to offer.
Olivia Van Goor Trio
7:00pm-9:00pm
Book Nook & Java Shop 8744 Ferry St. $10 cover charge. Jazz, Swing, Standards.
Author Book Reading
4:00pm-5:15pm
The Coffee Factory 1402 Hudson St. No cover-charge for more info 231-747-9896
Muskegon Railroad Historical Society Museum
11:00am-2:00pm
2371 Marquette Ave. Open to the public! Stop by to support them. www.mrhsonline.org
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/event.
Muskegon Farmers Market
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market, 242 W. Western Ave. muskegonfarmersmarket.com
Sunday, March 26
Celebrating Glorious Music
6:00pm
Frauenthal Center 425 W. Western Ave. West Michigan Symphony Children’s Choir. For more information and tickets visit www.frauenthal.org
Muskegon Museum of Art
Open Year- Round Tues – Sun
296 W. Webster Ave. Many exhibits. From Glass to Paper, Through our lens & more.
Closed Monday. www.muskegonartmuseum.org 231-720-2570
Silversides Submarine Museum
Open Year Round 5 days a week
1346 Bluff St. Explore the two-story building that builds on the experiences of local heroes to tell the story of World War II. www.silversidesmuseum.org 231-755-1230
Monday, March 27
Youth and Teen Take and Make Crafts
Hackley Public Library, 316 W. Webster Avenue. Craft kits will be available to pick up from the library while supplies last. Free. hackleylibrary.org/events
41st Annual Muskegon Student Art Exhibition, Expressions, Opens March 23
MUSKEGON, MI — Expressions is the annual student art exhibition showcasing the artistic talents of Muskegon County K-12 students. The exhibition opens on March 23 and continues through April 30, with public receptions honoring the student artists on April 26th and 27th.
In its 41st year, Expressions includes two and three-dimensional artworks created in a variety of media from thirteen different Muskegon County school districts. Art teachers from each participating school have carefully selected the student artwork to be included in the exhibition.
Meet The Artists:
The student artists will be honored during public receptions on April 26th and 27st. The public and MMA Members are invited to the receptions. Admission is free.
Middle School & High School Artists
Wednesday, April 26 at 5:30 – 7 PM
Elementary Artists
Thursday, April 27 at 5:30 -7 PM
The Muskegon County schools participating in Expressions this year are Calvary Christian, Fruitport, Holton, Mona Shores, Montague, Muskegon, Muskegon Christian, North Muskegon, Oakridge, Orchard View, Ravenna, Reeths-Puffer, and Whitehall.
Expressions is organized by the Muskegon Museum of Art in partnership with the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District (MAISD).
For more information or questions, contact Kristina Broughton at kbrought@muskegonartmuseum.org or call (231) 720-2574.
Experience the nostalgia of Little Golden Books at the Muskegon Museum of Art
MUSKEGON, MI — The Muskegon Museum of Art is presenting an exhibition featuring over sixty original illustrations from America’s most-loved picture books, Little Golden Books. Golden Legacy: 80 Years of Original Art from Golden Books is on display at the Muskegon Museum of Art from til April 30.
From the Random House Archives, Golden Legacy: 80 Years of Original Art from Golden Books features illustrations from beloved Golden Book classics such as The Poky Little Puppy, Tootle, Home for a Bunny, The Color Kittens, I Can Fly, and more.
Additional free, family-friendly, events throughout the course of the exhibition are posted on the MMA website.
Story Time in the Gallery with Hackley Public Library
Thursday, March 23 | 4-5 PM
Thursday, April 27 | 4-5 PM
Join the Muskegon Museum of Art in welcoming Hackley Public Library’s story time in our new exhibition, Golden Legacy: 80 Years of Original Artwork from Golden Books! Explore the original illustrations from some of your favorite Golden Books, listen to stories, sing songs, and groove to movement activities! Intended for ages 0-5, in-person story time is designed to teach early literacy skills to parents and caregivers while children enjoy a fun, interactive atmosphere.
Super Saturday – Make a Book!
Saturday, April 8 | 11 AM – 2 PM
Enjoy free admission into the museum, visit the Golden Legacy: 80 Years of Original Art from Golden Books exhibition, and make your own book on Super Saturday in April!
Golden Legacy: 80 Years of Original Artwork from Golden Books is organized by the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, Abilene, Texas. This exhibition is underwritten by DTE Energy, Mike & Kay Olthoff, and the David & Carol Folkert Family Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County.
For more information or questions, contact Kristina Broughton at kbrought@muskegonartmuseum.org or call at (231) 720-2574.
Ask Dr. Universe – Immune Cells
Dr. Universe: What is the difference between B cells and T cells in the immune system? – Tanveer, 11, California
Dear Tanveer,
Everyone who heard your question agreed that it’s a sophisticated one. To get my paws around the answer, I talked with my friend Phil Mixter. He’s an immunology professor at Washington State University.
He told me all living things need to protect themselves from microbes that could make them sick. These are called pathogens. They can be bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites.
“Almost every organism I can think of—from plants to animals and beyond—has a defense system to handle the possibility that another organism might sneak in,” Mixter said.
Complex organisms need better defenses. That’s why animals like mammals have two-part immune systems.
The first part is called the innate immune system. It includes physical, chemical and cellular ways to keep pathogens out. It uses patterns to recognize something isn’t part of your body and eliminate it.
The second part is called the adaptive immune system. It includes those B cells and T cells you asked about. They’re both white blood cells called lymphocytes. They work as a team. B cells and T cells have different jobs on the protection team.
B cells produce and release proteins called antibodies. Their job is to grab onto pathogens and not let go. Sometimes the antibody blocks the part of the pathogen that interacts with your cells. These are called neutralizing antibodies.
Antibodies have another job, too. A pathogen with an antibody on it is marked for destruction. It’s like a giant neon X that tells your immune system to gobble up the pathogen or blast it with a chemical defense.
Mixter told me about two kinds of T cells: helper T cells and killer T cells. Helper T cells are in charge. They help B cells by telling them what to do—like what antibodies to make more of and where to send them. Killer T cells are like assassins. Their job is to look for pathogens hiding inside your cells. Then, they eliminate those unhealthy cells before they can spread.
Once the adaptive immune system encounters a pathogen, it’s primed to act if that pathogen shows up again.
“I like to think of it like a fire drill,” Mixter said. “The immune system is not the same after that first encounter.”
In real-life fire drills, you get faster every time you practice. The second time a pathogen shows up, the immune response is faster, too. Helper T cells can give the order to crank out B cells with the right antibodies. That’s called recall response. It’s more efficient to “recall” trained team members than to recruit and train new ones.
You’re a part of the team, too. The stuff you do to stay healthy—like washing your hands—supports your immune system so it can protect you.
Sincerely,
Dr. Universe
Get more questions and answers here!
Submit a question!
Kids, Crafts, and Critters Schedule for Summer of 2023
The Coopersville Farm Museum and Event Center has many opportunities this year for you and/or your company to be involved in events that are free and geared toward children and their families.
Here is our schedule for the Spring and Summer events at the museum.
Please let us know if you would like to participate or sponsor any of these events:
- March 25 10am-1pm (Kids, Crafts, and Critters)
- April 1 10am-1pm (Spring Petting Zoo) (Coopersville Area Community Foundation Youth Grant-pending)
- April 8 10am-1pm (Easter Egg Hunt—larger crowd) (sponsored by The Meadows Apartments)
- April 15 10am-1pm (Spring Petting Zoo) (Coopersville Area Community Foundation Youth Grant-pending)
- April 22 10am-1pm (Spring Petting Zoo) (Coopersville Area Community Foundation Youth Grant-pending)
- April 29 10am-1pm (Kids, Crafts, and Critters) (Coopersville Area Community Foundation Youth Grant-pending)
- May 27 10am-1pm (Kids, Crafts, and Critters)
- June 24 10am-1pm (Kids, Crafts, and Critters)
- July 29 10am-1pm (Kids, Crafts, and Critters)
- August 9 10am-1pm (Wednesday-Summerfest) (sponsored by The Meadows Apartments)
- August 26 10am-1pm (Kids, Crafts, and Critters)
Your company is welcome to participate in any of these events. Perhaps offer a craft? Provide a gift for visitors? Refreshments? Lunch for volunteers?
We always can use extra teen or adult volunteers to help with crafts too. Just let us know.
We are trying to reach a goal of $2,000 to continue and enhance our summer programs. Thousands of kids and their family members will attend these events listed here.
Coopersville Farm Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization honoring farming, agriculture and rural life while serving West Michigan families. Kids, Crafts, and Critters is offered year round, but right now we are focusing on Spring and Summer! Something we can all look forward to, right?!
Can we count on your help to support this program?
Parks Foundation to Sponsor Jigsaw Puzzle Contest
Saturday, March 25, 2023
Noon to 3:30 p.m.
Grand Haven Eagles, 20 North Second Street, Grand Haven
Pre-registration required:
ottawacountyparksfoundation.org/piece-together-parks
What is Piece Together Parks?
The Ottawa County Parks Foundation announces the return of their annual jigsaw puzzle competition “Piece Together Parks,” benefitting Ottawa County Parks. Teams will go head-to-head in a two-round contest with a 300-piece warm-up round and a main event 500-piece puzzle. This year’s theme is “The Healing Power of Nature.”
Competitors are encouraged to register early, as the event sold out quickly last time, and it is limited to only 35 teams. A $50 donation per team will register the entire team, which can consist of 2 to 6 people.
Parks Foundation Board member and co-organizer Bobbi Jones Sabine added “Team names, themes, and even costumes are encouraged. Last time one team called themselves ‘The Nut House’ and wore squirrel tails and hats. Several teams sported matching T-shirts.”
All teams will construct the same puzzles. The first team to complete their puzzle OR the team with the highest percent complete at the end of the competition period wins. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. There will be a puzzle swap table for people to exchange their old puzzles for different ones. The Eagles will provide beverage services. This event is co-sponsored by the Ottawa County Parks Foundation and Grand Haven Eagles.
For more information, visit the Parks Foundation Facebook page or their website at ottawacountyparksfoundation.org Donations support the Ottawa County Parks Foundation.
Artists Invited to Participate in #LAFRocks Public Art Project
Muskegon, MI – The Lakeshore Art Festival, in partnership with the Muskegon Museum of Art, is organizing an exhibition of public art in Downtown Muskegon for the summer of 2023. Artwork will incorporate a small boulder/rock that will be on display beginning June 24. All artists 18 years or older are invited to submit an application to participate in the project no later than March 22.
Accepted artists will receive a stipend and a small boulder/rock. The boulders vary in size, approximately 19”x10”x6”, and are being provided by Preferred Lawn Care & Snowplowing. Designs must be weather resistant. If applicable, sculptural elements must be securely attached to the boulder. Artists will be responsible for picking up their boulder on April 21, and delivering their completed piece no later than June 19. It is anticipated that 5 artists will be selected.
In addition to the exhibition, the general public will be invited to participate in the #LAFRocks project during the festival on June 24 & 25. The Muskegon Museum of Art will be hosting a rock decorating booth in the roundabout on Western Avenue. More information to come.
Co-Director of the Lakeshore Art Festival, Bre McCarthy, comments, “We cannot wait to bring the community together through the multiple components of the #LAFRocks Project. Rock decorating can be done by many ages and degrees of ability, which is the beauty of this project, and aligns well with the mission of Lakeshore Art Festival.”
Click here to view the detailed application form. Artists with questions may contact director@lakeshoreartfestival.org. This project is made possible by Muskegon Museum of Art, Preferred Lawn Care & Snowplowing, and a variety of event sponsors that can be viewed at lakeshoreartfestival.org/support/sponsors.
More about the Lakeshore Art Festival:
Saturday, June 24, 2023 & Sunday, June 25, 2023. The annual art festival brings thousands of guests, hundreds of fine art and craft exhibitors, a multitude of food vendors, children’s activities, live entertainment, and interactive art to Downtown Muskegon, Michigan. The festival ranks as one of the Top 200 in the Country by Sunshine Artist Magazine (multiple years running), has been recognized as People’s Choice Award: #1 Art Festival in West Michigan, and as one of the Best Art Fairs in America by ArtFairCalendar.com. Since 2013, Lakeshore Art Festival has brought in over $9.3 million dollars to the Muskegon lakeshore area and supported a number of local non-profits. If you’re interested in getting involved as a volunteer or local business partner, please contact Bre McCarthy at director@lakeshoreartfestival.org or visit lakeshoreartfestival.org.
Michigan Senate Removes Longstanding Conscience Protections for Employers
Michigan Senate Democrats Vote to Mandate that All Employer Benefit Plans that Cover Pregnancy Now Cover Abortion as Well
Longstanding Conscience Protections for Employers Set to Be Removed
Lansing, MI – Yesterday, in a strict party-line vote (20-17), State Senate Democrats voted to amend the Elliot Larson Civil Right Act to mandate that all employer benefit plans that cover pregnancy now pay for elective abortions. This amendment strips long-standing conscience protections from employers who exercise their right to choose not to pay for abortions.
“State Senate Democrats are pushing through some of the most extreme proabortion legislation in the country, using Proposal 3 as cover for their radical agenda,” stated Genevieve Marnon, Legislative Director, Right to Life of Michigan. “Proponents of Proposal 3 repeatedly stated its passage would simply codify Roe v. Wade in Michigan. However, many of the protections that remained in place under Roe, including conscience protections, are systematically being targeted and stripped away by this new legislature.”
“Proabortion members are ramming extreme legislation through without notice and without allowing full testimony from advocates for life,” added Marnon. “This is really unprecedented from anything we have seen in Michigan.”
Senator Ruth Johnson (R-24) offered a common-sense amendment that would have exempted out employers who have a religious and conscientious objection to abortion benefits. Any attempts to include protections for employers, women, or the unborn are swiftly shut down.
Right to Life of Michigan is calling on all House members to reject this radical attempt to strip common-sense conscience protections from Michigan employers.
With One Voice-Michigan’s Coalition of Suicide Preventionists – Next Meeting March 21st
Mark Your Calendars!
With One Voice is alive and well. We have taken some time to step back, regroup, and look at some new and innovative approaches to helping. Join us for our next meeting when the WOV team will discuss where WOV is at and where we are heading.
We are excited about the future of suicide prevention in the state of Michigan and we hope that by this time next year we can assist many of you in ways that we have not been able to do previously!
OUR NEXT MEETING:
March 21, 2023
2pm-3:15pm
Our meetings are open to everyone.
Agenda:
- Updates from MDHHS
- Update from the Governor’s Commission on Suicide Prevention
- Training opportunities for you and your community
- The State of WOV and our updated strategic plan
We want to be able to assist local coalitions and other groups in a more meaningful way. We believe we have the plan. But, we will also need you!
MEETING ZOOM LINK:
Topic: WOV statewide meeting
Time: Mar 21, 2023 02:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://healthwest.zoom.us/j/91233191022
Meeting ID: 912 3319 1022
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Upcoming Trainings & Events:
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Become a certified safeTALK trainer
As if all of the learning opportunities from Kiersten’s Ride above were not enough they are also offering safeTALK Training for Trainers. You have the opportunity to bring safeTALK to your community.
The 2-day T4T course is the first step toward becoming a registered safeTALK trainer. In the course, you will learn the content and process of safeTALK and the skills needed to conduct it. NOTE: The process of becoming a registered safeTALK trainer requires a significant commitment from you and completion of T4T DOES NOT guarantee your ability for training approval and/or certification.
What: safeTALK T4T
When: July 20-21, 2023 (both full days with evening work on July 20)
Where: The Hampton Inn Gaylord 230 Dickerson Rd. Gaylord, MI 49735
Cost: $800
If you are able to participate please email Lisa Clavier for an application to attend. KierstensRide@outlook.com
Register Today: MPA Roundtable – Animal Abuse Registry
Join us on Monday, March 20 at 6 p.m. EST for our roundtable panel discussion:
“Protect MI Pet: Michigan Animal Abuse Registry & Automatic Forfeiture Process”
Our panel of animal welfare and subject-matter experts will answer your questions LIVE via Zoom!
Panel:
● Christopher R. Swanson, Sheriff, Genesee County
● William Miller, Oakland County Commissioner, 16th District
● Alena M. Clark, Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Genesee County
● Tanya Hilgendorf, President and CEO – Humane Society of Huron Valley and Vice-chair – Michigan Pet Alliance
● Richard Angelo, Legislative Attorney – Best Friends Animal Society and Board Member – Michigan Pet Alliance
Moderator:
● Jim Kiertzner, Retired Investigative Reporter, WXYZ-TV
Can’t attend? Register anyway and we will send you a link to the recording.
REGISTER NOW
We look forward to seeing you!
About Michigan Pet Alliance
Michigan Pet Alliance is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization as defined by the IRS (EIN 20-0399162) and is a Guidestar Exchange Platinum Participant.
MPA Vision:
To achieve the best quality of life for Michigan’s companion animals.
MPA Mission:
To work in collaboration and speak with a single voice to eliminate abuse and neglect of Michigan’s companion animals and to save all healthy and treatable homeless companion animals through training, technical assistance, education, and advocacy.
Members who would like to get more involved with animal welfare in Michigan, please fill out our Volunteer Form
To become a member or to learn more about Michigan Pet Alliance, please visit our website MichiganPet.org
For more information:
313-731-2244
info@michiganpet.org
michiganpet.org