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Hackley Public Library – 2021 September Programs

Free to enjoy – Watch for more program details to come!

Hackley Library Main Building Hours:
Mon & Tues: 10-7pm | Wed & Thurs: 10-5pm | Fri & Sat: 10-2pm

Local History & Genealogy Department (Torrent House) Hours:
Tuesday through Friday: 10-2pm

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

Youth Programs:

Preschool Storytime
Fridays, September 10, 17, & 24 at 10:30 am
In-Person
Intended for ages 0-5, our in-person Storytime is designed to teach early literacy skills to parents and caregivers while children enjoy a fun, interactive atmosphere. Join us at Hackley Library for stories, songs, and movement activities! Free.

Lego Building Day
Saturday, September 18 at 12:00 pm
In-Person
Decorate the tops of Hackley Library bookshelves by building some awesome LEGO creations! We’ll bring the bricks – all you need to bring is your imagination. Library staff reserves the right to limit attendees if necessary. Free to enjoy!

Paper Plate Apple Tree Youth Take and Make
Tuesday, September 7
Fall leaves are orange, apples are red, if you don’t have an orchard, make one instead! Pick up an adorable apple tree craft, apples included! Kits are available to pick up from Hackley Library beginning September 7, while supplies last. Free!

Cork Board Apple Teen Take and Make
Tuesday, September 7
Weave your own apple with a cute cork board craft, apple template is included. Kits are available to pick up from Hackley Library beginning September 7, while supplies last. Free!

Adult Programs:

Left to Write – Creative Writing Group
Wednesday, September 8 at 3:30 pm
In-Person
GREAT NEWS, creative writers! Beginning in September, Left to Write will begin meeting in person!
If you enjoy creative writing, join us for Left to Write, HPL’s own creative writing group. Here you can participate in writing exercises, share your own stories, and meet other creative writers. This group provides a low-key atmosphere for writers of all experiences, everyone is welcome! We will begin meeting once a month, on the second Wednesday of each month at 3:30 pm. The September 8 meeting will be held in HPL’s lower level meeting rooms. Remember to bring a pen and paper! During our first couple meetings, we’ll share writings that we’ve all created from the Left to Write prompts that have been shared on HPL’s Facebook page. Free.

Reading Between the Lines: Book Discussion Series
Second Monday of each month (June – November)
Monday, September 13 at 6:00 pm – Barefoot Gen by Keiji Nakazawa
Virtual Zoom
Join Hackley Library every second Monday of the month through November for our book discussion series, Reading Between the Lines! Each month we’ll talk about a book from different genres including (but not limited to) history, memoir, and mystery. Discussion will be casual so, relax, kick back, and let’s talk books! Copies of the books can be found at Hackley Library, as well as other area libraries (available copies are limited). On September 13, we’ll virtually discuss the graphic novel Barefoot Gen, which shares the author’s story of surviving Hiroshima.
To register for this discussion, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by Hackley Library. Free!

Employee to Entrepreneur
Tuesday, September 14 at 6:00 pm
Virtual Zoom
Numerous Americans are facing the reality that layoffs, downsizing, and unemployment have become a way of life. For many, self-employment can be a viable option to staying financially afloat. Join HPL virtually for a webinar with expert Connie Hallinan Lagan! She will explain the entrepreneurial philosophy and present a realistic overview of what self-employment entails and how you can succeed. To register for this virtual program, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by the library. Free.

Back-to-School: Your Healthy Kid Toolkit!
Monday, September 20 at 5:30 pm
In-Person
Dr. Mounir Djemil will be at Hackley Library to share useful information on how to help your kids get back to school, keeping their nutritional health, activity levels, and happiness in mind. Also joining us will be a representative from the Muskegon YMCA to touch on nutrition. Watch for more details to come! To register for this free program, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by Hackley Library. Free!

Intro to Word: Computer Class
Saturday, September 25 at 10:30 am
In-Person
Computer classes are coming back to Hackley Public Library! This fall, join us in the library as De’Ondra Pentecost provides helpful insight and information on how to use computers and computer programs. These classes are great for those that are new to computers! On September 25, we’ll gain insight into the basics of Microsoft Word and word processing, including opening and saving documents, entering text, and making changes. Registration opens August 25. To register, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by Hackley Library. Free.

Other News:

How’s HPL doing? Take our Survey!
We want to hear from you! How do you feel about the services and resources provided by Hackley Library? By taking this short survey, your insight will help us make sure we’re going in the right direction toward serving our community in the best ways possible. After taking the survey, you’ll be entered to win one of three gift cards! Gift cards include $100 Wesco gift card, $100 Walmart gift card, and $100 Amazon gift card. The survey will be available to take through the end of September.
Visit the survey link below to take the survey! Free.
https://bit.ly/3B17ZU7

New Online Catalog and Mobile App!
Hackley Public Library has a brand new online catalog for searching items, as well as a fun and easy mobile app! With this user-friendly online catalog, you can customize your own personalized account with reading lists and book reviews, plus you can renew items, place holds, view your material due dates, and more! For more details, give us a call (231-722-8000), stop by Hackley Library, or visit hackleylibrary.org.

September is Library Card Sign-Up Month!
Did you know? Libraries all over the nation celebrate Library Card Sign-Up Month in September. Library cards provide access to thousands of books, movies, music, and magazines, not to mention wireless hotspots! Library cards are free to get, and are great for all ages to have! Stop by the library to get your very own library card, and see what you can discover.

Ask Dr. Universe – Clams

Dr. Universe: When would a clam open its shell? Why do the shells open? As far as I know, it opens when boiled for food. – Teng, 5, China

Dear Teng,

There are a lot of different reasons why a clam might open its shell. My friend Jonathan Robinson, a marine ecologist at Washington State University, told me all about it.

If we spent some time where the ocean meets the shore, or the intertidal zone, we might observe how clams open their shells when they need to eat, breathe or move around.

One thing most clam species have in common is they can open and close their shells using two super-strong adductor muscles. Some clams will use those muscles to open their shells when they are in search of food.

These filter-feeders eat and breathe through a tube-like part of their body called a siphon, which sticks out from the top of their shells.

A clam will use its siphon to bring a bunch of water into its body for two main reasons. The clam gets some oxygen from the water so it can breathe. It also gets important nutrients, or its food, from the water so it can survive.

If there’s any leftover stuff in the water that the clam doesn’t need, it gets filtered up and out a second tube-like siphon. If you ever have a chance to watch this happen, it will look like the clam is spitting into the air.

When people harvest clams for food, they often use a knife to open the shells, and in the process, they also cut the adductor muscles. That’s why we see clams that are partially open on the dinner table—they can no longer open and close their shells on their own.

Humans aren’t the only ones that sometimes eat clams. Clams are an important food source for critters like sea stars, sea otters, seagulls and fish, too.

Another reason a clam might naturally open its shell is to stick out its foot and dig into the ground. Yes, you read that right: a clam has a foot. Of course, it isn’t quite like a human foot.

“It’s one big muscle, and it kind of looks like a human tongue,” Robinson said.

Some clams will use this foot to dig into the ground and hide away from predators. A cockle clam can use its foot to sort of flip itself over and propel itself forward. It can use its foot to create this hopping-like motion on both land and in the water.

Along with the WSU Beach Watchers, a group of volunteers who help protect the Salish Sea and Puget Sound, Robinson often explores the shores where there are several different kinds of clams, including the kind known as geoducks.

It turns out that not all clams have a shell that can actually open and close. The gooey duck has a foot that is so large it can’t even fit inside the shell. But the big foot helps the gooey duck dig really deep down into the sand or mud to escape any predators.

It’s great to hear you are making observations and asking big questions, Teng. Maybe one day you will help us learn more about the intertidal zones that so many living things call home.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

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Grand River Greenway Campaign Reaches Goal

The Grand River Greenway Campaign was a fundraising effort launched in 2017 with a goal of financing key land acquisitions along the 36.5-mile Idema Explorers Trail. The Campaign recently achieved its fund-raising goal of $7.2 million, which is critical in leveraging public funding as part of the $21 million Grand River Greenway project. The Grand River Greenway project will ultimately establish a public land corridor connecting Grand Haven to the border with Kent County.

The Greenway project is currently ongoing, with over 20 miles of trail in various stages of active design and permitting. It is possible that three segments of trail could be under construction in 2022, which would include over 4.5 miles of new trail construction.

“I am so grateful to be a part of this campaign and community that has supported raising over $7 million,” said Campaign Co-Chair Samantha Verplank, “This funding will have a tremendous impact creating and preserving green space for future generations in West Michigan.”

“Earlier this summer it was wonderful to participate in the dedication of the expanded Bend Area and the opening of the Georgetown Segment of the Idema Explorers Trail” said Co-Chair Monica Verplank, who spoke at the dedication event. “While it has been great to see these new spaces open for public use and for the community to have bicycle/pedestrian access, the exciting thing is that this is really just the beginning.”

The Campaign wraps up just as County Administrator Al Vanderberg prepares to depart Ottawa County to become the Administrator at Kent County. Vanderberg served on the Campaign Committee and was instrumental in recruiting committee members, including campaign co-chair and donor Peter Secchia, who passed away in 2020.

“I recall with great fondness those early discussions with Peter regarding this project,” said Vanderberg, who had a long working relationship with Secchia dating back to the beginnings of the Millennium Park project on the Grand River in Kent County. “Peter was a visionary and this vision of the Greenway grabbed him. One of the amazing things about Peter was his ability to take a vision and make it a reality. I am thrilled that we are now one step closer and look forward to seeing various critical Grand River projects develop and connect across West Michigan.”

Another key milestone in the Campaign was the landmark gift of the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation. This contribution resulted in the Greenway trail being named in honor of Bea Idema, who has a deep family connection to the river in Ottawa County. “The support of the Idema family has been and continues to be so critical to the success of the Grand River Greenway,” said Parks Commission President Kelly Rice. “A place like Grand Ravines, a highlight of the Greenway, has been transformed and became a community destination with their help.”

While fund-raising efforts were slowed by the pandemic, several gifts helped the Campaign achieve its final goal, including major gifts from John and Jim Zevalkink, the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation (through the Greatest Needs Fund), and others.

The Grand River Greenway Campaign was an initiative of the Ottawa County Parks Foundation, which was formed in 2016 with a mission of “Bridging Community to Nature.”

“This funding really has opened new possibilities for the Parks and demonstrates how we can help connect community to the abundant natural spaces within Ottawa County,” said Parks Foundation President Bobbi Jones Sabine. “However, this really required a tireless effort by so many. I would like to acknowledge the dedication of this Campaign Committee.”

Other Campaign Committee members include Myron Aldrink, Dr. Barb Brown, Wendy Creason, Tina Dee, Andy DeVries, Thomas Haas, Tom Jackoboice, Mark Schmidt, and Timothy Stoepker. Tom Werkman was formerly on the campaign. Ottawa County Parks Director Shamblin, as well as his predecessor, John Scholtz, both served on the Campaign Committee.

“This is the culmination of 40 years of effort and has built on the vision and work of so many. This achievement will really have a lasting impact on the community for generations,” said Shamblin. “We are striving to have a celebration at our next trail segment dedication – which we hope will be in 2022.”

“While much has been accomplished, considerable work still needs to be done. However, the Greenway Campaign has put us in a position to be successful,” Shamblin added. “As work continues, there are many additional ways for the community to support the Greenway. Additional naming opportunities exist along the many features and segments of the Idema Explorers Trail as well as other ways for supporters to make an impact.”

If you are interested in supporting the Parks Foundation, please visit the Foundation web site to learn more or to donate.

Public Observatory Groundbreaking Ceremony – 09/11/21

Join us for a groundbreaking ceremony of the public observatory at Hemlock Crossing Park!

September 11, 6:30-7 pm | Hemlock Crossing

Construction will begin this fall on West Michigan’s first public observatory, which will be located at Hemlock Crossing County Park. The facility will be operated in partnership with the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association.

This project has been many years in the making with donors coming together through the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association to fundraise for the 15-foot diameter observatory building with a 16-inch, permanently mounted telescope.

Following the ceremony, the Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association will be offering an Astronomy Basics class at the Nature Center from 7-8 pm. There will be an opportunity for stargazing if the sky is clear from 8-9 pm.

The Shoreline Amateur Astronomical Association is a group of individuals with a common interest in astronomy. They promote science and astronomy in West Michigan through public outreach initiatives in partnership with Ottawa County Parks, the Holland State Park, Hope College, the Holland Museum, local libraries, parks, public schools and other astronomical societies. Learn more: https://www.holland-saaa.org/

MCT’s Wizard of Oz; For Young Performers at the Frauenthal Theater

September 11-12, 2021

7:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m. | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $10.00

A partnership between Muskegon Civic Theatre and No More Sidelines, the Penguin Project of Muskegon Civic Theatre is the first Penguin Project site in the state of Michigan. Artists and mentors will soon take the stage to perform the family classic, The Wizard of Oz; For Young Performers.

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

Taste of Muskegon is Back and Tastier Than Ever

Muskegon, MI – Taste of Muskegon is returning to Hackley Park for a special autumn edition of the festival on September 24 & 25. The 15th year of the event will feature 30 local restaurants and food trucks.

Restaurant Row will have several of the Taste of Muskegon 2020 Taste Plate Award winners, including:

Corine’s Cakes & Catering – People’s Choice Award
Mylan’s Waterfront Grille – Best Taste Award
Abeshi Ghanian Cuisine – Best New Bite Award
Bone Ends – Best Dessert Award

New this year to Taste of Muskegon, though not all are new to Muskegon:

Burl & Sprig
DaKidd Bar-B-Que & Catering
G&L Chili Dogs
Navarro’s Mexican Take-Out

Occidental Eats
OVK BBQ
TasteeBBQ and Chic

There will be many Taste favorites back in the park:

Aloha Hawaiian Shave Ice
Carlson’s Almonds
Curry Kitchen and Naan Pizza
Frank’s Concessions
Hamburger Mikey
Hearthstone Bistro
Hey Sugar
Ice Box Brand Ice Cream Bars
Kuntry Cookin’

Rolling Stone Pizza
Skeetown Tavern
Soul Filled Eatery
The Pizza Cone Trolley
Tiki Boiz
Uncle Bill’s Taco Wagon
Wonderland Distilling Co.
Yodels Frozen Yogurt
Uncle Wayne’s BBQ

“It is so exciting to be back in Hackley Park. We have worked closely with all our restaurants to help them through this challenging year and a half. It is time for all of us to celebrate being back together,” said Lisa Kraus, Marketing Director of Taste of Muskegon. “Everyone knows the best parties have good food. We have amazing food planned for Taste.”

Taste of Muskegon, produced by the Downtown Development Authority, will take place on September 24th and 25th in Hackley Park. On Saturday, United Way’s Ride United will begin and end at Taste of Muskegon. Awards for Taste of Muskegon’s best plates will take place Saturday afternoon and include both judged and public votes. To learn more about the restaurants and events at Taste of Muskegon 2021, visit their website at www.tasteofmuskegon.org.

Kent County Hospitality Association Hosts Industry-wide Job Fair – September 9

Kent County Hospitality Association Says “Let’s Get Back to Work” by hosting an industry-wide Job Fair on Thursday, September 9

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – The Kent County Hospitality Association is hosting a county-wide job fair on Thursday, September 9 from 10am until 6pm at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids. So far, two dozen businesses have signed up to talk with potential employees about jobs in various sectors within the hospitality industry – including hotels, restaurants, breweries, distilleries, attractions, events and those providing goods and services to the industry. There is no charge to attend this event and parking is free in the lot underneath DeVos.

Participating Businesses Include:

Affordable Limousine LLC.
AHC Hospitality
Aimbridge Hospitality
Anna’s House
ASM Global- Grand Rapids
Avflight
BarFly
Best Western Plus Grand Castle Inn & Suites
Bier Distillery
Block by Block
Bluewater Technologies
Brewery Vivant and Broad Leaf Brewery & Spirits
City of Grand Rapids
Culinary Cultivations
Daddy Pete’s BBQ
Danzon Cubano
DK Security
DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Rapids
Ellis Parking Company
Federal Express
Founders Brewing Co
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Gilmore Catering
GLC Live at 20 Monroe
Grand Rapids Harley-Davidson & Fox Powersports
Grand Rapids Public Museum

Grand Valley State University/HTM
Gun Lake Casino
Hertz
HMSHost
Holiday Inn Express Lodge And Suites
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Airport
Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown
Homewood Suites by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
IATSE Local 26
John Ball Zoo
KITCHEN SAGE
Lodgco Hospitality
N&P Hospitality Inc
New Holland Brewing Co
Radisson Hotel Grand Rapids Riverfront & River Rock Dining and Lounge
Railside Golf Club
RedWater Collection
Revel Hospitality Staffing
SAVOR
ShowSpan, Inc. / GR Wine Festival
Spectrum Health
Staffing Inc
Suburban Inns
Texas Roadhouse
The Plaza Hotel Grand Rapids
Tru by Hilton Grand Rapids Airport
Uccello’s Hospitality Group

The list of participating businesses is also posted online at https://fb.me/e/EBxA2S5J.

PANDEMIC SAFETY PROTOCOL
We want to assure everyone that we are very mindful of the current situation and ongoing concerns that have evoked further caution due to the delta variant. We are taking precautions to keep everyone safe during our in-person Job Fair:

We suggest masks be worn during the job fair at all times, except when eating or drinking. This includes any social gatherings and interviews being held on the exhibit floor. As of this writing, masks are required in Grand Rapids; this, however, may change, and we will abide by any restrictions and guidelines that local health authorities impose.
A limited supply of masks will be available at registration, and hand sanitizer stations will be staged throughout DeVos Place, including on the exhibit hall floor’ Please practice social distancing wherever possible. We ask that everyone use their own due diligence and protect each other. Please allow for at least six feet of distance between each other when walking.
If you suspect you may have contracted and are showing symptoms of COVID-19, please do not come to the job fair.
This is the first time we have planned a job fair under these conditions. We ask that everyone continue to be patient as we work through this. Guidelines may change as we get closer to or even during the event.
The convention center and arena have safely and successfully hosted meetings and events over the past several months. We are working closely with our hospitality partners to benefit from their experience as well.
DeVos Place has engaged a sanitation program that includes upgrades to its HVAC air filtration system and disinfection of high-touch areas.

To learn more about these and additional measures at DeVos Place, click here: www.devosplace.org/p/about1/venueshield

About the Kent County Hospitality Association
The mission of the Kent County Hospitality Association is to provide Kent County hospitality related businesses an opportunity to meet professionally with a common interest to better serve our industry and community while furthering the overall tourism landscape of our region.

Annual Remembrance to Honor and Remember Loved Ones

Muskegon, Michigan – The Bob & Merle Scolnik Healing Center of Harbor Hospice invites the community to their Annual Community Remembrance on Monday, September 20 beginning at 6:00 pm. This is a program encompassing beautiful music, readings, and bulb planting to help individuals and families in our community to both mourn the death and honor the life of a loved one.

The program will be held at the Heritage Memorial Garden located at 545 West Western Avenue in downtown Muskegon. This program annually welcomes 80-100 attendees and is open to anyone who has had a loss and need not have had hospice care.

Local community supporter, Pam Babbitt developed the beautiful garden in honor of her late husband; a haven located in downtown Muskegon and an incredible representation of the love that remains even after a person dies.

“I’m so thankful to now have a special place where I can go to remember my loved one any time of the year.”
2020 attendee

Grief counselors for the Scolnik Healing Center, Laura Ecker and Beth Bolthouse, describe “It makes such a difference to come together with others in our community, feel a genuine connection and be supported, knowing we are not alone in our grief. This event provides an opportunity for sharing love and healing in meaningful ways.”

In our culture, mourning is becoming increasingly taboo. Grief is a natural and normal response to loss, and mourning is how one heals. It is our privilege to offer this opportunity to mourn and heal in an environment of acceptance and understanding.

If you would like to participate in this meaningful event, please RSVP by Monday, September 13, by calling the Scolnik Healing Center of Harbor Hospice at 231.728.3442 or 1.800.497.9559.

Newly Discovered Edward Curtis Alaskan Photos will Appear in Muskegon

Muskegon, MI — The Muskegon Museum of Art (MMA) presents Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska, the Lost Photographs September 16, 2021 through January 9, 2022. This first-time public showing features images made from recently discovered original negatives by Edward Sherriff Curtis. Unpublished Alaska features over 100 images along with excerpts from the personal journals of Curtis and his daughter Beth Curtis Magnuson describing their harrowing adventures in the Bering Sea.

Background

On June 8, 1927, Curtis, accompanied by daughter Beth and newly employed Stewart C. Eastwood, set sail on the steamer ship Victoria towards Nome, Alaska. The purpose of their voyage was to complete the photography and research for the final, 20th volume of Curtis’s masterwork, The North American Indian. Begun in 1898, The North American Indian was the defining passion of Curtis’s life, an attempt to record, in writing and photography, the lives of the indigenous peoples of the southwestern, western, and northwestern United States. This trip, planned for a single season, would be the final voyage to complete his epic quest. Curtis took hundreds of images on his journey, only part of which were published. The rest sat, unseen, passed down through the family until today.

The Book

This exhibition accompanies the 2021 publication of the complete journals by Curtis’s descendants John and Coleen Graybill in the book Edward Curtis: Unpublished Alaska. The book is available to purchase at the MMA Store or by phone at 231.720.2580.

Opening Event Sept. 16

Reception 5:00 pm | Book Signing 6:00 pm | Lecture 7:00 pm
The Graybills will visit the MMA on Thursday, September 16 to sign books and to give a lecture as part of an exhibition opening event. The evening starts with a reception at 5:00 pm. The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are not required.

The MMA is open 11:00 am – 5:00 pm daily, 11:00 am – 8:00 am on Thursdays, and closed Mondays. Visit muskegonartmuseum.org for more information.

Edward S. Curtis: Unpublished Alaska is underwritten by Rehmann, Lorin, and Shape Corporation. Additional support is provided by Blue Lake Public Radio, WGVU/PBS/NPR Public Media, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs with the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Michigan Humanities Council with the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Visit www.muskegonartmuseum.org for museum updates, visitor information, and exhibition information.

Cranbrook Fan Favorite Presents Friends of Art Zoom Webinar

Muskegon Friends of Art will present a program entitled, Cranbrook: Architecture as Art, as part of their yearlong, Architecture as Art: Our Past and Future series. The FREE webinar takes place on Wednesday, September 15 at 7:00 PM. Cranbrook’s curator of historic collections and architecture historian, Kevin Adkisson, will give a lively and gorgeously illustrated talk on the esteemed center of art, science, and education.

Adkisson’s weekly “Live at Five” FaceBook tours of Cranbrook were recently voted Best Virtual Museum Experience in the metro Detroit area. One viewer said, “There’s no one like Kevin Adkisson”! He brings such personality, fierce intelligence, and humor to the deep history of our local art, architecture, and human stories.” Kevin’s talk involves close up looks at Cranbrook’s buildings ranging from Arts and Crafts, Art Deco, and Modern in style.

The Cranbrook House, an English Arts and Craft style mansion, owned by newspaper magnate George Booth, and designed by noted architect Albert Kahn will be featured. Booth owned the Muskegon Chronicle, and asked Kahn to design the downtown Muskegon Chronicle building as well.

Registration for this webinar can be found on eventbrite.

5th Annual “Sailor Salute” Returns

After a one-year hiatus, Mona Shores High School’s football game to honor former and active-duty military, veterans, and first responders is back!

On Friday, September 17th, Mona Shores will take on Zeeland West, their opponent for the first-ever Sailor Salute in 2016.

Throughout its history, the Mona Shores football program has dedicated an evening to bring awareness to our military, police, fire, and emergency responders as a way of giving back. In 2016, the event drew national attention, and the 2017 event was recognized by Armed Forces Thanksgiving by receiving the “Thanksgiving in Action” award for recognizing our military (past, present, and future) while providing an invaluable educational opportunity for our students. Since then, the event has continued to grow.

The evening serves three purposes and will have a great deal of activity going on for everyone.

First, the event is meant to HONOR those who serve or have served our country in the military, in our police and fire departments, or as an emergency responder.

Second, the event is meant to EDUCATE our community on issues and needs that exist within these areas of service and remind those in attendance of the freedoms we enjoy.

Finally, the event is meant to CONNECT all of these branches of service with our community. As part of our great and proud Muskegon community, Mona Shores wants to celebrate such service.

Mona Shores Public Schools will raise money throughout the week for VFW post 3195.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Tuesday August 31 – September 7, 2021

Please check our website for a complete listing of events
www.visitmuskegon.org/events

Tuesday August 31:

McGraft Park FREE Summer Concert Series: Legal Rehab
7:00 pm
Tonight a FREE concert at McGraft Park Location: McGraft Park Band-Shell 2204 Wickham Dr near Glen Ave. This is the last concert of the season! Enjoy

Yoga On The Ship ($8) – Rootdown Yoga. Juice. Greens.
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
We’re excited to bring back Yoga on the USS LST 393 located at 560 Mart St. Downtown Muskegon on Tuesday evenings for only $8. Come connect with community and flow with some of the best views in Muskegon. All Levels Welcome! *Pre-registration recommended but not required *Don’t forget your mat, as rentals will not be provided.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
The Getty Drive-In Theatre located at 920 E. Summit Ave. offers a double feature on 4 outdoor screens. Tune your car radio to the cinematic sounds coming from the big screen. Movies begin at dusk. Tickets a can be pre-ordered here bit.ly/GettyDriveInWebsite Adult $11.00 Child (6-12) $6.50 Senior Citizen (60+) $7.00 College Student $7.00 TACO Tuesday Adult $7.50

Unruly Bicycling Group
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Unruly Tuesday will meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company located at 360 W. Western Ave. for a 90 minute bike ride.

Dance Flow
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Goodrich Park, 100 N. Lake Street
Each Tuesday in July & August. Ages 18+ $12 for non-members $10 for ACWL-Nuveen Members OR purchase a month-long pass: $10/class or $9/class for ACWL-Nuveen Members Dance offers the opportunity to be truly present; it connects to the core of self awareness through movements that strengthen and balance the body. Led by experienced dancer and certified Zumba instructor.

Wednesday September 1:

The Unsinkable Comedy Show 3
7:00 pm – 9:15 pm
A night of comedy you will talk about for years! The Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. will leave start boarding at 6:30 pm and from there it is smooth waters and some good deep belly laughs! 3 comics will perform. Tickets are $30 www.aquastarcruises.com

Muskegon Flea Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Every Wednesday May – October 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Swing Dance – Free Event with Chris Sanz
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Olthoff Stage, 425 W.Western, Muskegon,MI, 425 West Western Ave.
Free Swing dance class, beginners level. If you like to dance and want to learn something new, you will love these classes. If you would like to extend your social network, get some very fun exercise, learn some new dance moves, or just want to dance, this is for you! No partner required.

Comedy Night at Burl and Sprig
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fresh Ghost Comedy presents live, FREE admission comedy show at Burl & Sprig Distillery located at 500 W. Western Ave. in downtown Muskegon.

Cruise-ins at Fricano Place
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Cruise-in nights at Fricano Place every Wednesday located at1050 W. Western Ave. Bring your beautiful cars and set up in the shaded, grassy area.

Thursday September 2:

Unruly Irish Music Sessions
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
One of the most time-honored musical traditions in Ireland is the “seisiún”: an informal gathering of amateur musicians, usually at the local pub, playing traditional Irish folk and dance tunes. Continuing their commitment to enriching the Irish cultural heritage of West Michigan, Unruly Brewing has graciously offered to host

Downtown Muskegon Historic Walking Tours
10:00 am – 11:30 am (last tour of the season)
Join the Lakeshore Museum Center for a 90-minute walking tour to explore Muskegon’s rich history as well as it’s exciting present! Learn about the past and current uses and occupants of many of Muskegon’s historic businesses and residences. Learn about the McCracken Building, the story of Charles Hackley’s father, what life was like for the Spaniola family. Tickets are $13-$15 per person

Downtown Muskegon Art and Architecture Tour
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Join Lakeshore Museum Center to walk and learn about the public art installations, murals, and architectural styles of downtown Muskegon. Stops include the statues in Hackley Park, Richardsonian Romanesque buildings, and the recent summer art additions to downtown. Tickets are available on Eventbrite (https://historyandarttour.eventbrite.com) and are $15 per person, museum members $13 Two ticket minimum. www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Queens of the Aquastar – A Sunset Benefit for Every Woman’s Place
7:00 pm – 9:15 pm
Beauty Beyond Drag is back aboard the Aquastar, and this time, we’re raising awareness for EVERY WOMAN’S PLACE. Please arrive 20 minutes before sailing time. LOCATION: Aquastar Cruises – 560 Mart St, Muskegon, MI 49440 PRICE: $30 via Aquastar website OR Ticket Office: (231) 903-0669 Every Woman’s Place

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday until November.

Muskegon Museum of Art: Free Thursdays
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Free museum admission all day every Thursdays at the Muskegon Art museum located at 296 W. Webster Ave., compliments of The Meijer Foundation. Please remember your mask.

Cardio Drumming!
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
A fun workout for all ages, sizes and fitness levels! First timers can rent the needed equipment for $1. Beachwood Park is outdoor location. The class is just $2 per person. Required equipment: Water bottle, available to rent for $1 each are: 17 gallon bucket, 65-75cm yoga ball, Drumsticks. Keep up to date with the Muskegon Drum Crew Facebook Group . Classes are Monday & Thursday.

Friday September 3:

Muskegon Polish Festival
11:00 am – 10:00 pm
The Muskegon Polish Festival happening at Hackley Park located at 350 W. Webster Ave. mission statement: “To produce a Polish heritage festival that provides a memorable cultural experience for the Muskegon residents and visitors” The Board of Directors, along with our volunteers and supporters, provides a weekend full of Polish culture, Polka music, Polish Food, and Polish vendors to make the weekend so memorable. www. Muskegonpolishfest.com

Muskegon South Pierhead Light Tours
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Climb to the top of the 118 year old Muskegon South Pierhead Light located at 1431 Beach St. Visitors can tour the cylindrical, ironclad, 48′ tall Muskegon South Pierhead Light built in 1903. Climb two spiral staircases and a shipman’s ladder to find unparalleled views from the lantern room. Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays from 1-5 p.m.

Aquastar Afternoon Cruise
4:00pm – 6:00pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Latin Dancing Aboard the Aquastar
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Get your Latin groove on with the Muskegon Area Dance Lovers (MADLOS) aboard the Aquastar for a cruise located at 560 Mart St. Enjoy a beautiful sunset and spend some time out on the water with friends. MADLOS will bring the music and experts to get you moving to the beat www.aquastarcruises.com $28 tickets

Outdoor Story Time
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Hey story time friends! Join Hackley Library located at 316 W. Wester Ave. outside on the patio between the art museum and Hackley Library at 10:30 on Fridays! Masks are not required, but social distancing will be encouraged. Don’t forget something soft to sit on! In the event of inclement weather, we will cancel our in-person outdoor story time.

Live Music at Smash Wine Bar Bistro
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Live Music Fridays & Saturdays located at 415 W. Western Ave. 8pm-10pm. Check their website www.smashwinebar.com or FB page for the schedule.

Saturday September 4:

2021 Standup Muskegon In-Person Event!
8:30 am – 2:00 pm
As a part of the 2021 national summer event, a team of Ambassadors and Super Stars in Muskegon, MI are hosting an event at Ross Park located at 82 Randall Rd., Norton Shores. Simply register for our national event and then RSVP for the Standup Muskegon event under the “Special Events” tab.

September Saturdays: Natural History Scavenger Hunt
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Visit the Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay Ave.Follow the riddles and clues to find each Michigan animal in the Museum. See if you can find everything from a Bald Eagle to a tiny Spring Peeper! www.Lakeshoremuseum.org

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Saturdays until November.

Boomtown Market Craft Beer & Wine Tastings
10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Boomtown Market located at 351 W. Western Ave. in Downtown Muskegon invites you to free Draft, Craft Beer & Wine Tastings every Saturday starting at 10 a.m. Sample unique Craft Beers on Tap from all around Michigan!

Aquastar Public Cruise
1:00pm – 3:00pm, 4:00pm-6:00pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Pigeon Hill Hometown Sunset Cruise aboard the Aquastar
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Cruise into Fall with Pigeon Hill! Start the fun at the Pigeon Hill brewing facility at 5:30 p.m. The Aquastar cruise located at 560 Mart St. begins at 7:00 p.m. Enjoy some time out on Muskegon Lake and Lake Michigan with a beautiful sunset and fun with friends. We will feature some of the favorite Pigeon Hill Brewing craft beers. $35 tickets

Live Music at Smash Wine Bar Bistro
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Live Music Fridays & Saturdays located at 415 W. Western Ave. 8pm-10pm. Check their website www.smashwinebar.com or FB page for the schedule.

Muskegon Astronomical Society Star Party
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Muskegon Astronomical Society Star Party located at 702 N. Maple Island Rd. All visitors are welcomed, but please wear a mask and respect social distance. There is no charge, however donations are greatly appreciated. We will be viewing the night sky with our telescopes. If it is cloudy, the event is canceled. www.stargazing.net

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
and one is found here in Muskegon! The Getty Drive-In Theatre located at 920 E. Summit Ave. offers a double feature on 4 outdoor screens. Tune your car radio to the cinematic sounds coming from the big screen. Movies begin at dusk. Tickets a can be pre-ordered here bit.ly/GettyDriveInWebsite Adult $11.00 Child (6-12) $6.50 Senior Citizen (60+) $7.00 College Student $7.00 TACO Tuesday Adult $7.50 231-798-2608

Free Summer Concert: Singing Contractors
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Each year the Maranatha Bible & Missionary Conference Center located at 4759 Lake Harbor Rd. has a free summer concert series open to the public. If you want to purchase dinner before the concert you receive preferred seating! www.vacationwithpurpose.org/summer-concert

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Sweetwater Local Foods Market located at 6401 Harvey St. will be offering a PREORDER ONLY market, out in the parking lot, from 10:00am to 11:00am. Get your order in here: https://tinyletter.com/SweetwaterLocalFoodsMkt or get the list from the website here: sweetwaterlocalfoodsmarket.org Sweetwater Local Foods Market offers healthy, humane, homegrown, local food you can trust!

Sunday September 5:

Muskegons Labor Day Cars for Cancer Show and Cruise
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
16th Annual Muskegon’s Labor Day Cars For Cancer Location change this year will be held at the Lakes Mall. This year Different Strokes Car Club will be picking our top TEN with special trophies, Plus there will still be the the regular classes,3 trophies per class Best Of Show – Young Guns – Peoples Choice Dash Plaques will be given out.

Rootdown Yoga on the LST Ship
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
We’re excited to host yoga classes on the deck of the LST 393, located in the Mart Dock, 560 Mart St.! All Levels Welcome! Recommended $10 donation. 50% of proceeds go to USS LST 393. Cash at door accepted. No pre-registration required. *Don’t forget your mat as rentals will not be provided

unWINEd Aboard the Aquastar
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Join the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. Spend some quality time out on the water enjoying the views while sampling some wines! Cost is just $39 per person You will enjoy 5 samples of great wines, a beautiful sunset cruise and have a commemorative glass to take home. www.aquastarcruises.com

Monday September 6:

Our office is closed today for Labor Day

Muskegons Labor Day Cars for Cancer Show and Cruise
7:00 am – 11:00 am
16th Annual Muskegon’s Labor Day Cars For Cancer Location change this year will be held at the Lakes Mall. This year Different Strokes Car Club will be picking our top TEN with special trophies, Plus there will still be the the regular classes,3 trophies per class Best Of Show – Young Guns – Peoples Choice Dash Plaques will be given out to the first 400 participants.

Roll On Muskegon Community Cruise
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Downtown Muskegon, Western Ave.
Grab your bicycle for an 8 mph bike ride for the purpose of waving to our neighbors and smiling at community members. We meet at the Muskegon Farmers Market every Monday. Wheels turn at 6:30! Helmets are strongly encouraged. You’ll bike through neighborhoods you don’t usually visit, and see public art that can’t be appreciated from an automobile. Additionally, you’ll hear local history and interesting character studies

Wonderland Cruise-In Car Show
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Check out classic cars every Monday this summer! Wonderland Distilling Co. located at 1989 Lakeshore Dr. presents a classic car show in the parking lot across the street from their venue. This is a cruise-in style show with no entry fee. Feel free to hang out, see the cool cars, or show off your own.

Tuesday September 7:

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday until November.

Unruly Bicycling Group
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Unruly Tuesday will meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company located at 360 W. Western Ave. for a 90 minute bike ride.

Kiersten’s Ride Suicide Prevention Conference, September 28-30, 2021

IN PERSON

Dr. Thomas Joiner, a leading academic expert in suicide prevention, is just one the of guests speakers. There will be an opportunity to learn C.A.M.S. (Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidology) and much, much more.

Registration is broken into different categories:
September 28th – 29th – A 2-Day Conference for Community Members (Registration $50; after 31 July – $75)

-A 2-Day Conference for Medical/Mental Health Providers (Registration $100; after 31 July – $150)

September 30th – A 1-Day NSSI for Mental/Medical Health Providers & School Personnel (Registration $50; after 31 July – $75)

Please go to the website and register: kierstensride.org.

Thousands Attend Mountain State Celebration with Will Graham

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s August 4th Newsletter

After a 15-month COVID-related postponement, Fairmont State University hosted the Mountain State Celebration with Will Graham July 23-25. In addition to the in-person audience at FSU’s Duvall-Rosier Field, there were more than 30,000 views (representing some 45 countries) of the event livestream, both during and after the weekend-long outreach.

Graham was joined for the Celebration by a full line-up of award-winning Christian musicians, including multi-platinum selling and Grammy Award-winning band Skillet, hip hop star FLAME, The Afters, Jordan Feliz and Aaron Shust.

Later this fall, Graham will hold four Celebrations over the course of five weeks: Rapid City, South Dakota (Sept. 24-26), Des Moines, Iowa (Oct. 1-3), Sudbury, Ontario, Canada (Oct. 15-17) and London, Ontario, Canada (Oct. 22-24).

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

Ask Dr. Universe – What Funny Jokes Do

Dr. Universe: What happens in our brain and body when we hear a funny joke? – Candace, 13, Irvine, Calif.

Dear Candace,

When we hear a funny joke, there are lots of different things that happen in the brain and body. My friend Paul Bolls, the director of the Media Mind Lab at Washington State University, told me all about it.

Bolls said one part of the brain that gets “tickled” when we hear a joke is called the frontal cortex. This is an area at the front of the brain that helps make sense of the joke and determine if it is funny.

Of course, exactly what someone finds funny depends on everything from culture to experiences they’ve had in life and their own sense of humor.

“When our brains get tickled, regardless of our different backgrounds and beliefs or what divides us, the brain processes involved in humor unite us as humans,” Bolls said.

Bolls said scientists have learned more about how the brain responds to humor with the help of MRI technology, which can capture images of people’s brains.

Scientists have observed that when a person experiences something funny, it also activates the brain’s emotional center. The emotional center includes a structure called the amygdala as well as the limbic system. Together, these different parts of the brain bring about that human experience of humor.

You may have observed that people also often get big smiles on their faces when they laugh. There are 42 muscles in the face, and laughter can give them a great workout.

Meanwhile, there is also a chemical called dopamine at play. It’s a kind of happy hormone that can make us feel good as we watch a silly cat video, read a hilarious meme or hear a funny joke.

The joke might make you chuckle, but if it’s a super funny joke, you might feel your heart beat faster, get tears in your eyes or even have trouble catching your breath. Laughter can be a full-body experience.

It can also be really good for your health. Some research has shown that laughter can decrease the number of molecules in the body that make people stressed. Meanwhile, it can also increase immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies that help protect people from getting sick.

Alright, here’s a challenge for you: Try to write up a few jokes of your own. Or check out a book of jokes from your local library. Next, test them out on friends and family, and see how they react. Bolls said jokes often work best when there is an element of surprise or when a couple of ideas come together in unexpected ways. Here’s one science joke to get you started. Q: How does the moon cut its hair? A: Eclipse it.

Bolls and I want to thank you for helping us take a step back and think about something funny. It’s always fun to investigate the innerworkings of the brain, especially when it’s sparked by a great science question like yours.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Know a kid with a science question?

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

Submit a question!

Food Safety Certified Manager Class – Registration Open

submitted by Ottawa County

Interested in a Food Safety Certified Manager Class?

You are in luck. We are offering our next Certified Manager Class and exam on Tuesday, September 14th, 2021 from 8am – 5pm at 12220 Fillmore St., West Olive, MI 49460.

The fee is $150 (which includes the class, exam, and book).
For an application or more information please email environmentalhealth@miottawa.org

The last day to register is Friday, September 10, 2021. We have a limit of 20 spots available.
View the application here.

Veteran Resource Deployment Fair – September 10th

Resource and Action Fair for Veterans of All Branches of the Military

9:30 AM OPENING CEREMONY WITH SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS:

Attorney General Dana Nessel
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson
Justice Elizabeth T. Clement
Director of Michigan Veterans Affairs Zaneta Adams

This event is a FREE opportunity for veterans and their families to get resources for benefits offered to them through the VA and their local community. Areas will be set up at the event for:

Filling out DD214 applications
Completing voter registration, setting up appointments with the Secretary of State for drivers licenses and state ID’s, etcetera
Applying for health benefits thru the Community Care Network
Information and applications for expungements, some of which may qualify to be completed on the spot and the same day
Engage with community partners who provide services for veterans such as service dogs, equine therapy, VFW membership, etcetera
Employment, food, and housing opportunities specifically for veterans

Click here to Register

Bookmobile Community Open House – Public Invited for Tours

MUSKEGON, MI – Muskegon Area District Library (MADL) will introduce its new Bookmobile service to the community on Saturday, August 28, 3:00 – 5:00 pm, at the Quarter-Apple Mall parking lot, 1910 E. Apple Avenue.

The fully equipped mobile library will offer convenient access for high demand materials, DVDs, video games, CDs and popular library items. Technology services include, computers, Wi-Fi, hotspots, charging stations, and printing.

The custom designed, 36-foot step van vehicle will operate year-round, and serve the greater Muskegon County community. It will target new segments of the population where there is limited access to library services. The distinctive exterior design is a distinctive, eye-catching, bright and fun display.

The public is invited to tour the Bookmobile, sign up for a library card, check out and return materials, enjoy refreshments and also visit the adjacent Muskegon Township Branch Library.

The schedule of dates, hours, and locations will be posted on the website, madl.org. Routes will include local schools, businesses, and community hubs. If you are interested in having the Bookmobile reach your community, you can fill out an online request form or download and print a request form.

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of August 9, 2021

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, August 9, 2021, in the township board room.

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

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

Also Present: 3- residents; 3- employees; 1- guests; Battalion Fire Chief, Dave Mayette; Director of Public Utilities, Steve Biesiada.

The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Andrea Anderson was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of July 12, 2021 as presented with the following change:

Per the Treasurer, it is the desire of Shelby Bank that the authorized signers be mentioned in the motions for the purchase of a police vehicle and fire vehicle-

21-056 add to motion “and to authorize the treasurer and public safety director to execute the necessary paperwork regarding the financial transaction with Shelby Bank.”

21-057 add to motion “and to authorize the treasurer and public safety director to execute the necessary paperwork regarding the financial transaction with Shelby Bank.”

The motion by Andrea Anderson, seconded by Terry Knoll was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented with the following addition requested by the Supervisor:

Add item 8-E: Sale of township owned property on Dangl Rd.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS:
1. Steve Biesiada gave an update on the hiring process for the Administrative Assistant position, the applicants have been narrowed down to 3 that will go through a 2nd interview.
2. Dave Mayette shared that the July Community Day slip & slide was very successful and another will be held on August 28th from 11am-2pm.
3. Heidi Tice shared that the Lion’s Club approved the purchase of the food for the August Community Day event and the youth football club will purchase the cakes; the Senior Power of Produce program that gives seniors $8/week for produce at the farmer’s market had seen a successful turnout this summer.
4. Andrea Anderson reported that Ron Becklin submitted a resignation letter for his position on the Board of Review; shared election results and Election Day turnout report.
5. Rose Dillon reported that Fruitport Township received 100% success on the AMAR testing; shared the recent flag fund donations.
6. Karen Johnson of the Parks Commission asked that the board review the draft 5 year rec plan and submit any questions.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: none

NEW BUSINESS:

21-061 Approval to Hire Kyle Morrow as Full-Time Fire Fighter
Captain Rick Lifer has retired effective August 8, 2021. Five current part-time Fire Fighters were interviewed. Kyle Morrow was selected for the full-time position.

Rose Dillon moved, Terry Knoll seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to hire Kyle Morrow as full-time Fire Fighter.

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

21-062 Performance and Indemnification Resolution
It was brought to the board’s attention that the attorney recommended that the board not adopt this resolution the last time it was presented to them in December 2019. It is the board’s request that this item wait until the attorney is present at the next meeting.

The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Andrea Anderson, was carried unanimously, to table this item until the next meeting when the attorney is present.

21-063 Development and TIF Agreement with Harmony Lake
The agreement was drafted by the township’s attorney and pertains to water and sewer extensions and the development of the Harmony Lake apartment community.

Terry Knoll moved, David Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to accept the Development and TIF agreement with Harmony Lake.

Ayes: Fichtel, Dillon, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll, Markgraf
Nays: Hulka

21-064 MERS 457 Pension Plan
The Treasurer shared that recent changes to the POLC agreement that allows for an employee 3% contribution with at 3% employer match will require an amendment to the current agreement to include the employers 3% match.

Rose Dillon moved, Terry Knoll seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the amended MERS 457 Participation Agreement and to have Treasurer Dillon execute all necessary documents.

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

21-065 Sale of Township Owned Property on Dangl Rd.
A neighbor at 3976 Dangl Rd. would like to purchase the 33’x198’ unbuildable strip of land owned by the township. Parcel 61-15-112-300-0006-00 is leftover land from the Dangl Brook Condos development.

Greg Hulka moved, David Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the sale of parcel 61-15-112-300-0006-00 to Michael Niva for a purchase price of $500.00 along with the Register of Deeds fees, and contingent upon Mr. Niva combining the piece with his property.

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

Mr. Niva is aware of the drain assessment that is attached to that property and that he must combine the property with his existing.

21-066 Payment of Bills
Greg Hulka moved, David Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $102,251.83; Public Safety $33,520.54; Water $284,138.33; Sewer $17,588.01; Trust & Agency $2,275.00
Totaling: $439,773.71

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

Greg Hulka requested that the Treasurer check on the amount charged for private road maintenance and ensure it is being paid for by the assessment from the residents.

ADDITIONAL REPORTS: none

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II:
1. Matt Farrar thanked the board for completing the Harmony Lake Development and TIF Agreement as it is a small step toward important development.

The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by David Markgraf, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 7:43pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK

TODD DUNHAM, SUPERVISOR

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Agenda – 08/26/21

Fruitport Community Schools
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
Thursday, August 26, 2021 – 7:30 a.m.
Board of Ed Meeting Room

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

V. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of the Regular Board Meeting Minutes of August 16, 2021 (attachment V-1)
2. Re-instatement Approval (attachment V-2)
3. Change Order (attachment V-3)
4. Other

VI. ADJOURNMENT

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

Do You Know These Social Security Terms?

by Vonda Van Til, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

Some of the terms and acronyms people use when they talk about Social Security can be a little confusing. We’re here to help you understand.

We strive to explain your benefits using easy-to-understand, plain language. The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires federal agencies to communicate information clearly in a way “the public can understand and use.” This can be particularly challenging when talking about complicated programs like Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicare. If there’s a technical term or acronym that you don’t know, you can find the meaning in our online glossary at www.ssa.gov/agency/glossary.

Here are a few examples. If you’re considering retirement, you may want to know your FRA (full retirement age) and your PIA (primary insurance amount). These terms determine your benefit amount based on when you when you start getting requirement benefits. The PIA is the amount payable for a retired worker who starts his or her benefits at full retirement age. If you start your retirement benefits at your FRA, you’ll receive the full PIA.

Most years, your benefit amount will get a COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment), which usually means extra money in your monthly benefit.

What about DRCs (delayed retirement credits)? DRCs are the gradual increases to your PIA that occur the longer you delay taking retirement benefits after your full retirement age. Every month you delay taking benefits, up to age 70, your monthly benefit will increase.

If one of these terms or acronyms comes up in conversation, you can be the one to help clarify the meaning, using our online glossary. Learning the terminology can deepen your understanding of how Social Security programs work for you.

Vonda Van Til is the Public Affairs Specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at vonda.vantil@ssa.gov.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Tuesday August 24 – August 31, 2021

Please check our website for a complete listing of events
www.visitmuskegon.org/events

Tuesday August 24:

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday until November.

McGraft Park FREE Summer Concert:
“Pan” Franek, Zosia + The Polka Towners
7:00 pm
Tonight a FREE concert at McGraft Park Band-Shell 2204 Wickham Dr near Glen Ave, Start time: 7pm. Funded by McGraft Park Trust Fund.

Unruly Bicycling Group
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Unruly Tuesday will meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company located at 360 W. Western Ave. for a 90 minute bike ride.

Wednesday August 25:

unWINEd Aboard the Aquastar
7:00 pm – 9:15 pm
Aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. spend some quality time out on the water enjoying the views while sampling some favorite wines! Cost is just $39 per person You will enjoy 5 samples of great wines, a beautiful sunset cruise and have a commemorative glass to take home. For tickets www.aquastarcruises.com

Muskegon Flea Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Every Wednesday May – October 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Comedy Night at Burl and Sprig
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fresh Ghost Comedy presents live, FREE admission comedy show at Burl & Sprig Distillery located at 500 W. Western Ave. in downtown Muskegon.

Cruise-ins at Fricano Place
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Cruise-in nights at Fricano Place every Wednesday located at1050 W. Western Ave. Bring your beautiful cars and set up in the shaded, grassy area.

Thursday August 26:

Live Art – Music and Visual Art Presentations
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Live Art: Join us outside for music and live art demonstrations with Musician: Mark Lewis Artist: Sri McCarthy on the Olthoff Stage located at 425 W. Western Ave. around the corner from the City Center Arts on 3rd St. This is a FREE event

Free Family Movie Days – Coco
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Come to the Frauenthal Center located at 425 W. Western Ave. for a free family movie! Showcasing modern box office hits, the series aims to open doors for families in the community to experience the Frauenthal Center together for a free and fun evening. www.frauenthal.org

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday until November.

Aquastar Cruise
4:00pm-6:00pm and 7:30pm – 9:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Friday August 27:

Third Annual Muskegon Muskrat Day
7:00 pm – 7:15 pm
Experience an absurd event — Muskegon’s own version of Groundhog’s Day. Every Aug. 27 the Mayor of Muskegon presents Fierce Frank the Muskrat at Boomtown Market located at 351 W. Western Ave. If he sees his shadow, we get eight more weeks of summer. Following Fierce Frank’s forecast, party up and down Western Ave as many bars celebrate with specialty drinks and more

Motown Sunset Cruise Aboard the Aquastar
7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Join V100 for a Motown Sunset Cruise at 7:30 pm aboard the AquaStar located at 560 Mart St. For just $28 per person, you can enjoy the Best of Motown music – courtesy of DJ’s from STL Entertainment. There will be drinks, dancing and great music – plus a fantastic sunset, courtesy of Mother Nature.

Live Music at Smash Wine Bar Bistro
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Live Music Fridays & Saturdays located at 415 W. Western Ave. 8pm-10pm. Check their website www.smashwinebar.com or FB page for the schedule.

Saturday August 28:

Muskegon CareAffaire, Run for Wings 5K and Lions Pancake Breakfast
8:00 am – 12:00 pm
The Wings of Mercy Muskegon CareAffaire will be held from 8AM to Noon. Please join us at Flyby Air Hangar 1 at the Muskegon County Airport for a morning full of aviation fun including: Fun for the Whole Family – “Touch the Trucks” A fire truck, snow plow, and more. Pancake Breakfast is just $6.50!

Lakeshore Museum Center: Great Lakes Fish
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Do you know which species of fish live in the Great Lakes? Explore specimens of the most common aquatic life we can find in the freshwater lakes of Michigan at the Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay Ave. 231-722-0278.

Mona Lake Paddle Race 2
7:30 am – 5:00 pm
Who’s ready for the 2nd Mona Lake Paddle Race? The race will be held in Muskegon, Michigan at Ross Park located at 82 Randall Rd. The park and lake provide for an interactive paddling experience, where most of the race can be seen from shore (weather dependent). Paddlers of all experience levels are encouraged to join in the fun. https://paddleguru.com/races/MonaLakePaddleRaceII

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Saturdays until November.

Aquastar Public Cruise
1:00pm – 3:00pm, 4:00pm-6:00pm and 7:30pm-9:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Live Music at Smash Wine Bar Bistro
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Live Music Fridays & Saturdays located at 415 W. Western Ave. 8pm-10pm. Check their website www.smashwinebar.com or FB page for the schedule.

Free Summer Concert: Greater Vision
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Each year the Maranatha Bible & Missionary Conference Center located at 4759 Lake Harbor Rd. has a free summer concert series open to the public. If you want to purchase dinner before the concert you receive preferred seating! www.vacationwithpurpose.org/summer-concert

Sunday August 29:

Bugs and Trucks
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Come to the Woman’s Club located at 280 W. Webster.Fun with big trucks (Dump Truck, other construction equipment, fire truck, and more) with photo opportunities and meet & greet with the owners/operators. Snacks inside are all about bugs. RSVP to Nancy 231.730.0887 $10 adults and one child. Each additional child is $5. www.muskegonwomansclub.org

Aquastar Afternoon Cruise
1:00pm-3:00pm, 4:00pm – 6:00pm and 7:30pm-9:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Monday August 30:

Muskegon South Pierhead Light Tours
1:00 pm – 5:00 pm 3:00-3:30 Storytime
Climb to the top of the 118 year old Muskegon South Pierhead Light located at 1431 Beach St. Visitors can tour the cylindrical, ironclad, 48′ tall Muskegon South Pierhead Light built in 1903. Climb two spiral staircases and a shipman’s ladder to find unparalleled views from the lantern room. Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays from 1-5 p.m.

Tuesday August 31:

McGraft Park FREE Summer Concert Series: Legal Rehab
7:00 pm
Tonight a FREE concert at McGraft Park Location: McGraft Park Band-Shell 2204 Wickham Dr near Glen Ave. This is the last concert of the season! Enjoy

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday until November.

Unruly Bicycling Group
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Unruly Tuesday will meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company located at 360 W. Western Ave. for a 90 minute bike ride.

Central Michigan University – Spring Dean’s List 2021

Fruitport:
Nicholas James Klimek, Senior

Muskegon:
Alice Jane Powers, Junior
Bridgette Lyn McKeown, Junior
Carson Andrew Yager, Freshman
Chandler Wilson Nichols, Senior
Elizabeth Liane Nowak, Senior
Emma Elle Simonis, Freshman
Emma Grace Kartes, Sophomore
Ericka Morris, Junior
Gabrielle Jane Hilleary, Senior
Janell Lynn Camphor, Junior
Kara Michelle Paparella, Senior
Kyle Milliron, Senior
Lauren Elizabeth Jensen, Sophomore
Lynsey Kay Mura, Sophomore
Marisa Lyn Stroebe, Senior
Megan Shay Cihak, Freshman
Nicholas M Meston, Senior
Olivia Lynne Alvesteffer, Junior
Shelby Grace Anderson, Junior
Stephanie Kennert, Junior
Taylor Renick, Senior
Taylor Carol DePouw, Junior
Taylor Marie Dibble, Senior

Ravenna:
Chelsea Louise Theile, Junior
Kendall Alexis Parker, Senior
Skyler Jo Conran, Junior

Spring Lake:
Claire D DeBlanc, Sophomore
Danielle Marie Foulkes, Junior
Hannah Renee Firos, Junior
Joseph Molenkamp, Senior
Lauren Delaney Czajka, Junior
Samuel Pranger, Senior
Shianna Joy Woodwyk, Senior

Billy Graham Library Hosts Military Appreciation Day, Todd Starnes Book Signing

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s August 4th Newsletter

Veterans, reservists, active duty service members, and their families converged on the grounds of the Billy Graham Library on July 17 as their service was honored through Military Appreciation Day. More than 300 guests attended the event which included The Journey of Faith tour, a station to write cards for those still in the service, free lunch, music from 106.9 The Light, ministry representatives from the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, Samaritan’s Purse’s U.S. Disaster Relief and Operation Heal Our Patriots, outdoor games, and a place to honor loved ones on an appreciation wall. At the start of the program, each branch of service was recognized and the crowd all stood for a powerful moment to salute during the National Anthem.

Edward Graham offered a compelling message, telling the audience how throughout his time as an Army Ranger he tried to find his identity in the military and God brought Him to a place where he realized that his identity could only be found in Christ. He urged those in the audience to seek the Lord and realize that the gift of Jesus Christ is enough to help them through whatever they are facing. He closed out his message with a Gospel invitation and opportunity to respond.

On July 31, as part of the summer event lineup, the Billy Graham Library hosted a book signing with Todd Starnes, who recently released the new book Our Daily Biscuit: Devotions with a Drawl.

Starnes was inspired to write the book after reading Matthew 6 and hopes that the book will remind people of their need for God’s Word.

To learn about upcoming events at the Billy Graham Library visit billygrahamlibrary.org/events/.

Ask Dr. Universe – Lungs

Dr. Universe: How do lungs work to help keep you alive? – Ellie, 11, North Carolina

Dear Ellie,

Take a deep breath. As air travels through your nose and mouth into your lungs, it brings oxygen into the body. To find out exactly how it all works, I talked to my friend Kim Chiok, a researcher at Washington State University.

In the lab at WSU, she designs experiments to help us learn about diseases that impact the lungs and other parts of the body that help us breathe.

When you breathe in, little hairs in your nose help filter out particles like dust, so they don’t enter the body. The air warms up as it flows into a tube-like structure called the trachea. The trachea leads down to the bronchial tubes and into the pink, spongy lungs.

Chiok said to explore how lungs work, we can also think about them as if they were made up of bubble wrap.

“But imagine that the bubbles don’t pop. Instead, whenever you squeeze the bubbles, they deflate but then go back to their own shape,” she said.

The air sacks in the lungs are like the individual bubbles in the bubble wrap. We call these air sacks alveoli and there can be hundreds of millions of these sacks in the lungs. The alveoli fill up with air and release air all day long.

The air sacks are lined with lots of tiny, living things called cells. These cells may be small, but they have a big job to do. They help bring the oxygen into the blood, so the blood can transport it around the body.

Oxygen in your blood can help do all kinds of things — repair cells, boost the immune system that helps protect you from getting sick, and even give you energy.

Not only do the air sacks bring oxygen to the body, they also help release carbon dioxide, which is a kind of leftover from the work some of your cells do.

When you get the flu or have other respiratory problems, it can sometimes make it hard to breathe. That’s because the alveoli lining becomes thick when fluid and inflammatory cells build up in the thin layer of tissue. The alveoli then have a hard time collapsing and expanding.

This also happens when smoke from wildfires or from smoking cigarettes fills up the lungs. While smoke can make it hard to breathe, it can also kill lung cells.

Lung cells can repair themselves, but it takes a long time for them to get back to normal. In some cases, the cells never fully recover. Chiok said it’s as if the bubbles in our imaginary bubble wrap, those alveoli, get destroyed.

That’s also why it is really important to protect ourselves from smoke and other small particles that might make it hard for the lungs to do their job. When we keep our lungs healthy, it allows life-giving oxygen to flow into our bodies and carbon dioxide to flow out, so we can all live our best lives.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

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New Bookmobile to Begin Mobile Library Service in Muskegon

MUSKEGON, MI – Muskegon Area District Library’s (MADL) new Bookmobile has arrived and will start to provide mobile library services in August. The 36-ft. long, 7-ft. wide, 10-ft tall custom-built Bookmobile is fully equipped with high-demand library materials and is a mobile hotspot with free Wi-Fi. The new Bookmobile design is distinctive, bright and joyful and is all about the Library’s services.

“We’re thrilled to bring this beloved service back to our community in a new flexible and accessible way,” says Kelly Richards, Director. “We look forward to partnering with local organizations to reach new segments of the population who have limited access to library services,” he said. The Bookmobile will visit rural and outlying areas of the county, where library services do not exist.

The inaugural public opening will be at the Norton Shores Arts & Drafts Festival on Saturday, August 21 at Ross Park. It will be located in the Children’s Activity Area with the Norton Shores Library booth. A public open house will be scheduled at a later time.

“We listened to our community during our 2016 millage campaign and planned to resurrect a brand-new Bookmobile service,” says Doug Hughes, MADL Board Chair. “Early literacy and learning opportunities for the public, are our core values in providing library services.”

The last Muskegon Bookmobile ceased to operate in December, 2004 following budget cuts when the Library operated under the County. The first Muskegon County Bookmobile service began in 1940 and there were several different bookmobiles over the years.

Fruitport Board of Education Regular Monthly Meeting Minutes – 08/16/21

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
August 16, 2021 7:00 p.m.
Board Room

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

II. The PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited.

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

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 21-139. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Buckner to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

V. PRESENTATIONS
None.

VI. COMMUNICATIONS
None.

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Parent, Sonia Sellinger addressed board members regarding mandating wearing masks. She asked board members to be pro-active and do their research before implementing a mandatory mask policy.

Parent, Kendra Hansen asked the Board to give parents the choice to mask their children. She suggested they do their homework on what is best for kids.

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Interim-Superintendent, Ron Veldman introduced new middle school principal, Monte Kelly and new middle school assistant principal, Trista Stingle. He also thanked the Board for the opportunity to serve in the interim capacity at Fruitport Community Schools. He expressed his positive thoughts toward the welcoming “community” in the district.

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 21-140. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Burgess to approve the Consent Agenda as listed below:

Approval of Special Meeting Minutes of August 11, 2021
Acceptance of Bills, Monthly Financial Report, and ACH Transactions
Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report
Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report
Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report
Approval of the Personnel Report
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

Superintendent Contract.
Item 21-141. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Buckner to approve a three-year contract with Jason Kennedy effective September 13, 2021 and extending through June 30, 2024 as presented. Roll Call: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; Kelly, Yes. Absent: Brott and Kelly.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0
2021-22 School Calendar.
Item 21-142. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the Fruitport Education Association’s Letter of Agreement for the 2021-22 School Calendar as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

XI. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
None.

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
None.

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
None.

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Tim Burgess reminded board members, staff, and community members that Blue and White night will be August 18, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.

Dave Hazekamp encouraged board members to attend the All Staff Orientation on August 23, 2021.

Kris Cole shared that the Fruitport Middle School will be hosting the Robotics Kickoff on September 18, 2021 in the new Performing Arts Center.

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

Business and Finance Committee will meet September 13, 2021 at 11:30 a.m.
Personnel Committee will meet September 13, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.
Student Affairs Committee will meet September 14, 2021 at 12:00 p.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Beach Principal, Courtney Stahl spoke about the Summer Learning program. She stated that 1/3 of the Beach student population participated in the fun and worked hard over the summer. She looks forward to seeing the data on how impactful it was.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Item 21-143. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

The meeting adjourned at 7:41 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan Franklin
Acting Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 08/23/21

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

AUGUST 23, 2021

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

Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
Roll call
Approval of board minutes: 8/9/21
Approve / amend agenda
Correspondence / reports
Public comments regarding agenda items
Unfinished Business
A. Performance and Indemnification Resolution
New Business
A. Resolution in Recognition of Marjorie Nash
B. Deliver Oath to New Hires- FD
C. Approve Fruitport District Library’s Recommendation for Trustee Appointment
D. Odeno Street Light Request
E. Agreement with Bendzinski & Co. for DDA Bonds
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

QPR Train The Trainer Class Returns To Michigan

Train-The-Trainer QPR
Your community needs you. 2021 is your year to become a trainer of QPR.

$20 million dollars worth of research over the past 20 years show that QPR saves lives. Becoming a trainer means that you can present the 1 to 2 hour QPR class in your workplace, school, church and community. Now is the time.

Four Instructors from across the state will present one class each during suicide prevention month; Scott Teichmer, Kelly Mays, Melissa Tolstyka and Michael Pyne. (It is possible that more dates will be added)!

Two hours of home study and 6 hours in the virtual classroom make this training easier than ever. The cost is $495 per person. (There may be a nominal cost of having materials shipped to you as well).

Now with 4 dates to choose from!
Thursday, September 16 at 8:00 am until 2pm
Friday, September 17 at 8:00 am until 2pm
Tuesday, September 21 at 8:00 am until 2pm
Thursday, September 23 at 8:00 am until 2pm

To register or ask questions contact Jennifer Neamtu jneamtu@hegirahealth.org.

Registration closes on August 31, 2021
Don’t miss out!

Technology To Transformation: Investor Goes From California To The City Of Muskegon

MUSKEGON, MI– Craig Person is an unlikely Muskegon superhero.

He borrows from the Superman storyline to fight for his block on Pine Street in the City of Muskegon’s McLaughlin Neighborhood and foster improvement across the city and community. He has taken his residential redevelopment successes and has become a huge promoter of Muskegon’s ongoing transformation.

“I want to be the kryptonite to negativity and give more than I take so I’m informing folks about Muskegon’s growth to open the door for others … that only seems right,” Person said of taking his housing rehabilitation that has led his company into marketing and promoting the city.

Person has tirelessly worked purchasing and redeveloping a half block of forgotten McLaughlin properties, turning them into the unexpected “smart apartments” and rental units with luxury finishes.

After finding Muskegon from his native California in 2014, he spent seven long years, restoring his flagship building known as “Blue House Manor” on Pine Street and Isabella Avenue to demonstrate that the McLaughlin Neighborhood was worthy of the time and effort it took to restore the property to what it had been in its glory years.

Person even added a private garden called “Blue House Garden” which once was an empty lot where he said he removed more than 10 wheel barrels of broken glass by hand-sifting it along with car parts and broken concrete. The effort made way for beautiful flowers, ornamental trees, cobble stone walk ways and custom-built furniture. It has created a peaceful oasis in an urban setting, he said.

The native Californian started his journey in Silicon Valley as a global risk and compliance manager for a Fortune 500 technology company with no ties to Michigan.

“California was becoming increasingly difficult in which to own a home and sometimes it would take two or more incomes to survive,” he said of the San Jose area.

Person had taught himself how to write software programs early in his career and over time advanced into management, helping to create unique and innovative technology-based solutions. Person said: “I had finally hit the glass ceiling in my career and wanted to do something that would test all of my abilities,” he said.

Person said he connected with his passion for real estate and started a nationwide search for affordable investment properties. He found a Muskegon Heights single-family home on EBay for $3,000, saying he couldn’t believe that was possible.

He eventually purchased a duplex in Muskegon Heights with plans to make improvements. That house created his business identity. Person’s first impulse was to change the duplex from an unattractive blue to a neutral color: “I called my company Blue House instead.”

There’s been no looking back as he then decided sell his California home and move into the original duplex he purchased in 2014 for $5,000. Later the same year, Person purchased a four-unit apartment building in Muskegon’s McLaughlin Neighborhood for another $5,000 and has called the redevelopment “Blue House Manor.”

The grand opening tour of Blue House Manor in late 2020 attracted community and city leaders who welcomed the effort Person put into the property: “As a minority business owner, I wanted to make a visible contribution to improve this area and show others how to do the same.”

Person started a Facebook video blog — “Coffee with Craig” — showing others how to start investing in urban redevelopment. Person plans to eventually release a full documentary regarding Muskegon’s resurgence, saying he is proud to call Muskegon his new home.

“My motto is dream big, think big and make a difference,” Person said of now seeking investment opportunities in the redevelopment of Downtown Muskegon. “I am all in on Muskegon.”

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Wednesday August 18 – August 24, 2021

Please check our website for a complete listing of events
www.visitmuskegon.org/events

Wednesday August 18:

Downtown Dancing and Food Truck Rally
5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Enjoy this family friendly evening of dancing and food assortments at the Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. This event is brought to you by the Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce and the City of Muskegon as a thank you for your support throughout the year. Over 20 food trucks are scheduled

Muskegon Flea Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Every Wednesday May – October 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Swing Dance – Free Event with Chris Sanz
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Olthoff Stage, 425 W.Western, Muskegon,MI, 425 West Western Ave.
Free Swing dance class, beginners level. If you like to dance and want to learn something new, you will love these classes. If you would like to extend your social network, get some very fun exercise, learn some new dance moves, or just want to dance, this is for you! No partner required.

Comedy Night at Burl and Sprig
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Fresh Ghost Comedy presents live, FREE admission comedy show at Burl & Sprig Distillery located at 500 W. Western Ave. in downtown Muskegon.

Cruise-ins at Fricano Place
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Cruise-in nights at Fricano Place every Wednesday located at1050 W. Western Ave. Bring your beautiful cars and set up in the shaded, grassy area.

Comedy Night On The Aquastar with Fresh Ghost Comedy
7:30 pm – 10:00 pm
A amazing night of comedy on the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan aboard the Aquastar Cruise located at 560 Mart St. Cost is $30 per person. Drinks and food will be available for a cost. www.aquastarcruises.com for tickets

Thursday August 19:

Health, Wellness and Recovery Picnic
11:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Annual Health, Wellness & Resource Picnic at Hackley Park located at 350 W. Webster Ave. returns for the 10th year! This FREE community picnic features: – 100 health/wellness exhibitors – FREE lunch for the first 1,000 attendees – Live Music by Plain Jane Glory – Free COVID-19 vaccinations – Children’s activities – Health screenings and demonstrations – AND MORE!

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday until November.

Downtown Muskegon Historic Walking Tours
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Join the Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 Clay Ave. for a 90-minute walking tour to explore Muskegon’s rich history as well as it’s exciting present! Learn about the past and current uses and occupants of many of Muskegon’s historic businesses and residences. Learn about the McCracken Building, the story of Charles Hackley’s father, what life was like for the Spaniola family. $13-$15

Downtown Muskegon Art and Architecture Tour
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Walk and learn about the public art installations, murals, and architectural styles of downtown Muskegon. Stops include the statues in Hackley Park, Richardsonian Romanesque buildings, and the recent summer art additions to downtown. Tickets are available on Eventbrite (https://historyandarttour.eventbrite.com) and are $15 per person, museum members $13 Two ticket minimum.

Aquastar Cruise
4:00pm – 6:00pm and 7:30pm – 9:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Friday August 20:

Parties In The Park: Flexadecibel and The Legal Immigrants
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Parties In The Park in Hackley Park located at 350 W. Webster Ave.. This is a free entrance event presents Flexadecibel and The Legal Immigrants

Aquastar Afternoon Cruise
4:00pm – 6:00pm and 7:30pm-9:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Live Music at Smash Wine Bar Bistro
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Live Music Fridays & Saturdays located at 415 W. Western Ave. 8pm-10pm. Check their website www.smashwinebar.com or FB page for the schedule.

All Access Tours
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Go where no visitor has gone before on this ALL ACCESS tour of the Hackley and Hume Historic Site located at 484 W. Webster Ave. Explore behind closed doors including attics, porches, and basements of both houses. Join us to enjoy learning about various topics such as restoration, preservation and family stories.

Saturday August 21:

Norton Shores Arts & Drafts Festival
August 21
The Arts & Drafts festival is located at 82 Randall Rd. Norton Shores’ beautiful Ross Park. Saturday’s schedule includes the 44th edition of their traditional Art Fair, plus the annual Arts & Dash 5K, the Arts & Wheels, kids activities, live music Noon – 11:00pm and more. www.nortonshores.org

Heritage Museum FREE Community Days
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Heritage Museum located at 561 W. Western Ave. invites you to attend their FREE Community Days once a month throughout the season each featuring a different theme. These are open-house style events from 11am-4pm.

August Saturdays: Dinosaurs: (FREE Event)
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Visit Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay Ave. and investigate the reptiles that lived 100 million years ago. Become a paleontologist for the day and take a look at the skulls, teeth, and claws of the rulers of the Mesozoic Era.

World War 2 Mitchell Bomber
August 21
World War Two B-25 Mitchell Bomber to Visit Muskegon County Airport. Yankee Air Museum is excited to send its prized B-25 bomber “Rosie’s Reply” to Muskegon, a city that knows how to honor its World War Two heritage. Air Adventure rides would begin at approximately 12:00PM and continue into the afternoon. Air Adventures are an experience of about 35 minutes and cost $425.00. An aircrew of four operates the plane carrying up to six passengers. The B-25 cruises at about 160mph at approximately 1200 feet providing spectacular views. Riders are strongly encouraged to buy their tickets in advance at https://yankeeairmuseum.org/fly/.

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Saturdays until November.

Aquastar Public Cruise
1:00pm – 3:00pm and 4:00pm-6:00pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Aquastar Public Cruise: Luau
7:30pm-9:30pm
Get your camera ready and enjoy the breezes while cruising the lake during our cruises aboard the Aquastar located at 560 Mart St. To purchase tickets visit www.aquastarcruises.com for questions please call 231-903-0669

Dog Days of Summer Sale!
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Let’s squeeze a bit more out of summer with a sidewalk sale! Join Pine Street Mercantile, Minty Vintage, Polka Dot Paisley, Harris and Willow and Vintage Redefined for a fabulous day filled with markdowns and great items!

Live Music at Smash Wine Bar Bistro
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Live Music Fridays & Saturdays located at 415 W. Western Ave. 8pm-10pm. Check their website www.smashwinebar.com or FB page for the schedule.

Free Summer Concert: David Pendleton
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Each year the Maranatha Bible & Missionary Conference Center located at 4759 Lake Harbor Rd. has a free summer concert series open to the public. If you want to purchase dinner before the concert you receive preferred seating! www.vacationwithpurpose.org/summer-concert

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
8:00 am – 12:00 am
Sweetwater Local Foods Market, 6401 Harvey St.
Sweetwater Local Foods Market will be offering a PREORDER ONLY market, out in the parking lot, from 10:00am to 11:00am. Sign up for the newsletter to get your order in here: https://tinyletter.com/SweetwaterLocalFoodsMkt or get the list from the website here: sweetwaterlocalfoodsmarket.org Sweetwater Local Foods Market offers healthy, humane, homegrown, local food you can trust!

Sunday August 22:

Monday August 23:

Tuesday August 24:

McGraft Park FREE Summer Concert Series:
“Pan” Franek, Zosia + The Polka Towners –
7:00 pm
Tonight Degrees Don’t Matter will be performing a FREE concert at McGraft Park Location: McGraft Park Band-Shell 2204 Wickham Dr near Glen Ave.

Muskegon Farmers Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. will be open outside Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday until November.

Unruly Bicycling Group
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Unruly Tuesday will meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company located at 360 W. Western Ave. for a 90 minute bike ride.

Save the Hyde Amendment: Contact Congress Today

submitted by Anna-Marie Visser, Director of Communication/Education, RTL.org

The Hyde Amendment has been a part of the federal budget since 1976 and has helped save the lives of millions while protecting the conscience rights of taxpayers. The amendment ensures that Americans are not being forced to pay for other people’s abortions with their own tax dollars. Since this amendment was passed, 2,409,311 lives have been saved nationwide. Michigan created their own ban on tax funded abortions and within the first year, abortions decreased 22%.

With overwhelming bipartisan support, the Hyde Amendment has protected American taxpayers for 45 years. The amendment has been successful through the support of past presidents such as Obama and Clinton. Within this last month of July, President Biden and pro-abortion leaders have sought to threaten the long-standing amendment by failing to include it in the federal budget proposals.

On July 29, U.S. House of Representatives voted 219-208 in a preliminary vote to exclude the Hyde Amendment from the federal budget. This means that pro-abortion leaders and officials are one step closer to forcing taxpayers—you—to pay for other people’s abortions. The vote included multiple prolife appropriation amendments like the Weldon Amendment, the Smith Amendment, and Dornan Amendment.

The Weldon Amendment protects health care providers who don’t want to be involved with or aid in abortions from being discriminated against by agencies that receive federal funding.

The Smith Amendment is another important amendment to take note of being excluded from the budget. This amendment ensures that no funding from the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program is used towards abortions.

The Dornan Amendment prohibits any appropriated funds from the District of Colombia from being used towards abortions. This amendment was also removed from the budget.

Republicans in the U.S. House tried to fight the removal of these essential prolife amendments but failed in another vote of 208-217. Speaker Nancy Pelosi also blocked them from making the Hyde Amendment federal law.

House Representatives are currently on summer recess after this disappointing session, and the U.S. Senate will soon vote on the appropriation packages. There are indications that the Senate may be more willing to listen to the voice of their constituents. A majority of senators have promised to support the Hyde Amendment.

Now more than ever, it is crucial that citizens contact Congress as soon as possible to ensure that they know that a supermajority of people don’t want to pay for other people’s abortions.

Fruitport Village Council Meeting Agenda – 08/16/21

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
AGENDA
AUGUST 16th, 2021
COUNCIL MEETING

Call to Order
Pledge
Prayer
Roll Call
Approval of August 16th Council Meeting Agenda
Approval of June 21st meeting minutes
Public Comments (limited to 3 minutes each)
Correspondence
Reports from Officers

New Business

Salvation Army 2022 Event
Pumpkin Sale
South Brooks Culvert
Catch Basin Cleaning
Greenspace on 3rd Avenue

Old Business

Culverts and Ditch Cleaning
Motto
Master Plan Adoption
Public Comment (Limited to 3 minutes each)
Warrants
Adjournment

Michigan Suicide Prevention Community Meeting, August 26, 2021

VIRTUAL

August 26, 2021 – 9:00am–12:00pm

9am-9:15am: Welcome and Speaker Introductions

9:15am-10am: Michigan Suicide Prevention Commission Overview
Nancy Buyle, MA, LPC, NBCC, ACTP & Corbin J. Standley, MA, Ph.D. Candidate

10am-10:30am: Q&A and Discussion

10:45am-12pm: Breakout Sessions

A: Michigan Suicide Prevention Commission Priorities Deep Dive, Nancy Buyle, MA, LPC, Laurin Jozlin, LMSW, & Corbin J. Standley, MA, Ph.D. Candidate
B: It All Starts With A Plan, Pat Smith, MS
C: Planning to Action: The Importance of Annual Action Plans, Joel Hoepfner, BS, CPC

Click here to register!

There will be two other days of this virtual conference

Save the dates for CTAM session #2 & #3
#2 on September 15, 2021-12pm-3pm
#3 on October 6, 2021 9am-12pm.
Registration for sessions #2 and #3 will be open soon.

Grand Haven Main Street Side Walk Sales Start Friday, August 20

GRAND HAVEN, MI – This week Friday, August 20, marks the return of the biggest and best sidewalk sales event in Grand Haven! Grand Haven Main Street is pleased to see the return of the popular Annual Sidewalk Sales event, August 20th and 21st, 2021. The bargains, great finds, and FUN are right around the corner! Friday from 9AM till 7PM and Saturday from 9AM till 5PM; the deals will be hot, but they might not last long!

Washington Ave will be closed from Harbor to 3rd St, and Centertown businesses will be using sidewalk space to offer visitors a great shopping experience. The tables will be out, stocked full of deals, and local favorite stores will be there. Visitors will find everything from clothing and accessories, to home goods, to gourmet dog treats. Guests can enjoy great savings on jewelry, shoes, toys, games, and more, as there are great deals for the whole family. Shop ‘til you drop then take a break with a coffee, ice cream, beverage, or a relaxing meal. It’s all part of Grand Haven Main Street’s Annual Sidewalk Sales.

“We are so pleased to see this wonderful community event return in full force in 2021. Sidewalk Sales give residents and visitors alike a great opportunity to enjoy our fantastic Downtown and Centertown businesses…and a chance to snag some great bargains. You won’t want to miss the return of Grand Haven Main Street’s Sidewalk Sales in 2021″ said Jeremy Swiftney, Grand Haven Main Street’s Executive Director.

For additional information visit their Facebook page.

About Grand Haven Main Street Downtown
Grand Haven Main Street includes the shopping, dining, and service areas from Beacon to Harbor in downtown Grand Haven. The mission of Grand Haven Main Street Downtown Development Authority is to enhance a vibrant historic business district through community efforts, plus public and private partnerships. Each year Main Street strives to enhance the heart of the Grand Haven community through promotional events, physical improvements and business recruitment and retention activities.

Grand Valley State University Graduate List

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

Students who graduated at the conclusion of the Winter semester ending in April include:

Fruitport: Justin C. Ashford, BS; Matthew C. Davidson, BBA; Ryan E. Oldenburg, BBA; Sarah P. Pasma, BS; Jessica L. Tiefenbach, MED

Muskegon: Emily Amrhein, BS; Courtney D. Bailey, BBA; Jeffery J. Brown, MED; William L. Burrel, BS; Fawn Z. Cruz, BBA; Gabrielle M. Cutler, BS; MaKayla P. Denson, BS; Miles E. DeVoogd, BS; Lauryn H. Doctor, BS; Kylie L. Elwell, BA; Alexandra J. Evans, MED; Alexandria L. Fortenberry, BS; Gillian C. Garton, BSW; Hayden T. Glick, MED; Kayla D. Gottwald, BFA; Alexis I. Juergens, BS; Riina Korhonen, BBA; Robert C. Larson, BS; Ciara E. Leon, BS; Andrew J. Loss, BA; Mason M. Lysiak, BS; Stephanie L. Madison, BS; Lauren E. Malinowski, MSW; Zachary R. Manguem, BSW; Lauren L. Maus, BA; Brooke L. May, BS; Tanner S. Napierala, BS; Allison M. Nieboer, MED; Maddison R. Nyblade, BS; McKenzie R. Nyblade, BS; Brendan S. Peterman, BS; Alexis M. Porter, MPH; Joshua J. Pruitt, BBA; Evan W. Rogalla, BBA; Blake A. Ross, BS; Orlando Q. Santiago, BBA; Max N. Schaab, BS; Taylor K. Sherwood, BS; Eileen G. Taylor, BA; Morgan K. Taylor, BS; Robert L. Tolbert, MED; Kayanna S. Warfield, BBA; McKenna J. Whipple, BA; Carl P. Wilson, MS; Joshua D. Wynn, BS; Jordan D. Yokubonus, BS

Nunica: Alicia J. Chaney, MED; Morgynn M. Reedy, BA; Ross W. Underberg, BA

Ravenna: Taylor A. Carlyle, BS; Marie L. Townsend, BS

Spring Lake: Emerson K. Baumgardner, BFA; Carly E. Brouwers, MS; Hannah M. Cabala, BS; Macayla M. Carrns, BBA; Kourteney L. Clark, BS; Thomas M. Clover, BBA; Sophia A. Conroy, BA; Caitlyn A. Cooling, BS; Nicole R. Davis, BS; Bradley D. Debien, BBA; Ashley C. Franklyn, BS; Konnor A. French, BA; Megan K. Galligan, BBA; Drew A. Henman, BS; Amelie A. Izokaitis, BS; Hannah R. Junglas, BS; Erin J. Keefe, MBA; Jackson K. Klairter, BBA; Miah L. Masvero, BS; Mitchell D. Niewoonder, BS; Matthew A. Schmidt, BS; Veronica M. Schoemer, BFA; Dylan D. Styburski, BBA; Emily M. Turbett, BS; Kyle R. VanDenHeuvel, BS

Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Deploys Twice in July

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s August 4th Newsletter

Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) chaplains deployed to the Detroit, Michigan, area on July 7 as a result of severe flooding. BG-RRT chaplains have deployed a total of 27 times in 2021, with seven of those in response to flooding.

At the request of the police chief, BG-RRT chaplains also served law enforcement officers in Levelland, Texas, providing emotional and spiritual care after a SWAT commander was killed while responding to reports of an armed man in a residential area.

So far in 2021 nearly 600 chaplains have deployed across the country, praying with more than 15,000 people.

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

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Minutes – 08/10/21

Fruitport Board of Education
Special Board Meeting
August 10, 2021 6:00 p.m.
High School Performing Arts Center

This was an in-person meeting. However, the public was invited to connect to Zoom from their computer, tablet, or smartphone to view the board meeting.
https://zoom.us/j/93206589430?pwd=cjFocDg5M1BoQkt6c3VCamlZakVxQT099
Meeting ID: 932 0658 9430
Passcode: 533524

MINUTES

I. The Special Meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 6:01 p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

II. ROLL CALL: Present – Elroy Buckner, Tim Burgess, Kris Cole, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, and Steve Kelly (viewing privileges only via Zoom). Absent – Jill Brott.

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 21-132. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

IV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*
None.

V. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of Special Board Meeting Minutes of August 3, 2021
Item 21-133. MOTION by Burgess, SECOND by Buckner to approve the Special Board Meeting Minutes of August 3, 2021 as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

2. Second Round Superintendent Interviews
Dr. Kyle Corlett and Mr. Jason Kennedy each gave a PowerPoint presentation on how they would improve declining enrollment at Fruitport Community Schools. A Question and Answer session followed. Audience members had the opportunity to submit questions to the candidates and provide feedback on each candidate.

VI. ADJOURNMENT
Item 21-134. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Burgess to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0
The meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan Franklin
Acting Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

Ask Dr. Universe – Astronauts’ Suits

Dr. Universe: Why do astronauts need astronaut suits? -Zamaria, 8, Sioux Falls

Dear Zamaria,

When astronauts leave Earth, a spacesuit can help them stay safe in places that are quite different from their home planet.

I learned all about it from my friends Stasia Kulsa, Lauren Reising and Ian Wells, a few members of a team at Washington State University researching how to clean moon dust from spacesuits.

On Earth, dust can sometimes be annoying, but dust from the moon can cause lots of problems for astronauts. The team is working on a “spacesuit car wash” that will keep astronauts healthy and their equipment clean. They told me that spacesuits help astronauts stay safe in lots of different ways.

Let’s say you were an astronaut heading to the moon. Here on Earth, we breathe oxygen all day, but on the moon there isn’t nearly enough oxygen to breathe. Astronauts may carry oxygen tanks on the back of their suits or use a hose that connects their spacesuits to a space station and delivers oxygen they can breathe.

On the moon, it can also reach about 260 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and -200 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The human body can’t handle those temperatures, so spacesuits are designed with materials that allow astronauts to survive in extreme conditions.

Some of these materials are called insulators, and they work similarly to a sleeping bag. When the astronaut’s body temperature rises, the material absorbs the heat. But when the temperature drops, the material gives off heat. The spacesuit can help astronauts maintain a healthy body temperature.

Another reason astronauts need spacesuits has to do with changes in air pressure. As we go about our day, air is always pressing down on us. We don’t get crushed by this pressure because just as air pushes down on us outside of our body, it’s also pushing from the inside out. These two opposing forces help keep things in balance, or equilibrium.

If you left Earth’s atmosphere and headed to a place like the moon where there was less air pressure around you, that equilibrium would get out of balance. The body would likely start swelling as it tried to find balance again. A spacesuit also helps provide just the right amount of air pressure. It’s not quite as much air pressure as there is on Earth, but it’s enough to keep the astronauts safe.

There are many details that go into an astronaut’s complex spacesuit, but those are just a few. It turns out astronauts even wear a Maximum Absorption Garment which allows them to go to the bathroom in space. They also have helmets that contain a little block of foam they can use to scratch their noses. People who design spacesuits think of everything, don’t they?

Of course, spacesuits have changed quite a bit over the years. Creative people—like my friends at WSU— are always coming up with ways to help improve spacesuits. Who knows, maybe one day you can help design spacesuits or become an astronaut who wears one on a mission.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Know a kid with a science question?

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

Submit a question!

Muskegon County’s Largest Health Resource Fair Returning for its 10th Anniversary in 2021

MUSKEGON — Health, Wellness & Recovery Picnic (HWR), Muskegon County’s largest health resource fair, will be returning to Hackley Park in downtown Muskegon to celebrate its 10^th anniversary on Thursday, Aug. 19.

HWR 2021 is organized by HealthWest and will give residents access to more than 75 local health and human service providers.

“This pandemic has shown just how crucial the work done by our local health and human service organizations is to the wellbeing of Muskegon County residents,” said HealthWest Executive Director Julia Rupp. “The Health, Wellness & Recovery Picnic is an excellent way for any Muskegon County resident to connect with local organizations to find the help they may need.”

HWR 2021 will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 19, in Hackley Park. The event is completely free and includes resource booths from more than 75 local health and human service providers, depression screenings, COVID-19 vaccinations, children’s activities, music from Plain Jane Glory, raffle giveaways and even a free picnic lunch for the first 1,000 attendees.

HealthWest canceled HWR in 2020 due to the pandemic but decided to bring the event back in 2021 after consulting with Public Health – Muskegon County on how it can be done safely despite the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

“We know Muskegon County residents need assistance now more than ever,” said Rupp. “That’s why our team has worked to find a way to host this event as safely as possible.”

Despite the event taking place outdoors, mask usage is being encouraged whenever participants are unable to remain at least 6 feet away from others. Masks and hand sanitizer will be provided for free during the event. Free COVID-19 vaccinations will also be available during the event.

In addition to the traditional picnic favorites, this year’s event will feature resources for job seekers looking for a career in the health or human services field with exhibitors having hiring information on-hand.

This free event is made possible thanks to generous sponsorships from Mercy Health, Blue Cross Complete of Michigan, West Michigan Works, Redi Rental, Molina Healthcare, Call 2-1-1 and others.

HealthWest is the Community Mental Health Service Provider for Muskegon County and is a federal Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic demonstration site. It serves roughly 7,000 people annually with behavioral health needs, intellectual or developmental disabilities, or substance use concerns.

Youth Programs:

Adult Programs:

Other News:

Know a kid with a science question?

September 11-12, 2021

7:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m. | Frauenthal TheaterTickets: $10.00

Background

The Book

Opening Event Sept. 16

Please check our website for a complete listing of eventswww.visitmuskegon.org/events

Tuesday August 31:

Wednesday September 1:

Thursday September 2:

Friday September 3:

Saturday September 4:

Sunday September 5:

Monday September 6:

Our office is closed today for Labor Day

Tuesday September 7:

Know a kid with a science question?

Resource and Action Fair for Veterans of All Branches of the Military

9:30 AM OPENING CEREMONY WITH SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS:

Please check our website for a complete listing of eventswww.visitmuskegon.org/events

Tuesday August 24:

Wednesday August 25:

Thursday August 26:

Friday August 27:

Saturday August 28:

Sunday August 29:

Monday August 30:

Tuesday August 31:

To register or ask questions contact Jennifer Neamtu jneamtu@hegirahealth.org.

Registration closes on August 31, 2021Don’t miss out!

Wednesday August 18:

Thursday August 19:

Friday August 20:

Saturday August 21:

Sunday August 22:

Monday August 23:

Tuesday August 24:

August 26, 2021 – 9:00am–12:00pm

There will be two other days of this virtual conference

Know a kid with a science question?

7:30 p.m. & 3:00 p.m. | Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $10.00

Please check our website for a complete listing of events
www.visitmuskegon.org/events

Please check our website for a complete listing of events
www.visitmuskegon.org/events

Registration closes on August 31, 2021
Don’t miss out!