Author Archives: editor

Hackley Public Library – 2021 June Programs

For more details on programs, visit hackleylibrary.org or HPL’s Facebook page.
For the latest HPL updates and services available, visit hackleylibrary.org and click on the “NEWS” page, or give us a call (231-722-8000)!

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

Ongoing Programs:

Annual Summer Reading Program
June 14 – August 14
Hackley Library’s annual Summer Reading Program is around the corner! This ongoing program is fun for ALL AGES to enjoy. In addition to reading, there will be exciting activities to complete, and cool prizes that you can win! Check back for more details at hackleylibrary.org, on HPL’s Facebook page, call 231-722-8000, or visit the library!

Summer Photo Challenge
June 14 – August 14
Facebook
Duration of Challenge: June 14 – Aug 14, 2021
When prompts come out: Every Monday for 9 weeks beginning June 14
How to Submit: Watch for Hackley Library to post picture prompts, and then post/submit 1 picture a week to the HPL Facebook page with the tag #HPLSummerPhotoChallenge1 (for week 1)
#HPLSummerPhotoChallenge2 (for week 2) etc.
Each week, for 9 weeks, Hackley Library will post picture prompts on the HPL Facebook page. Submitted pictures will be gathered into folders for each prompt, and the public will be able to vote for their favorite pictures from each week by “liking” them. At the end of the challenge, winners of each prompt will have their picture framed and displayed at HPL! Free.

Reading Between the Lines: A Book Discussion Series
6:00 pm, second Monday of each month (June – November)
Join us every second Monday of the month through November for our new book discussion series, Reading Between the Lines. Each month we will gather to discuss a book from different genres including (but not limited to) history, memoir, and mystery. This series will begin as virtual, but may transition as times goes on – watch for more information to come! Details on the books we’ll discuss can be found at hackleylibrary.org or HPL’s Facebook page. Copies of the books can be found at Hackley Library, as well as other area libraries (available copies are limited).
To register, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by the library. Discussion will be casual so, relax, kick back, and let’s talk books! Free.

Left to Write Prompts – Creative Writing Group (Virtual Facebook)
2:00 pm, every Wednesday – Posted to Facebook
Hackley Public Library has a creative writing group called Left to Write! For the time being, we’re bringing “Left to Write” to you virtually! We’ll be posting online writing prompts to HPL’s Facebook page every Wednesday at 2 pm. Anyone can participate by using the prompt to inspire your writing! Once the library is hosting programs inside the library, we will have a special meeting to read over what you’ve written at home. Free.

Facebook Live Story Time Bites
10:30 am, Thursday and Friday mornings in June
Virtual Facebook
Enjoy all the best parts of short live Story Time from the convenience of your home! Join Hackley Library virtually for songs, stories, and movement activities on Thursday and Friday mornings at 10:30 am. Free.

Adult Programs:

Taking Better Pictures
6:00 pm, Tuesday, June 1
Virtual Zoom
Summertime is a great time for pictures: sun, sand, surf! However, not all of us have fancy cameras or the experience to get that perfect shot, so give yourself the advantage of learning from a professional photographer during a virtual class! Emily Baldus, owner of Box of Light Photography, LLC in Muskegon, will explain some of the basics of photography. She will show examples of how to take pictures in different lighting and how to edit photos to create beautiful images. There will be time at the end for questions! To register, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by the library. Free.

Writing Workshop with Moheb Soliman
5:30 pm, Monday, June 21
In Person
Join Great Lakes writer and artist Moheb Soliman for an outdoor nature-writing workshop, followed by a public reading of his new poetry book HOMES (Coffee House Press, 2021) and an informal talk with other local special guests.
Workshop participants will engage in on-site writing prompts and discussion about the connections between nature, language, identity, and modern life.
The reading will present his collection of poems–part postmodern nature poetry and part immigrant travelogue, and the talk will further explore the diverse intersections and narratives of the Great Lakes region.
To register, visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8011, or stop by the library.
This program will take place in-person at Heritage Landing Park: 1050 7th St, Muskegon, MI 49440 (free parking, meet at the stage). The program will begin with the workshop at 5:30pm, a reading at 6pm reading, and a talk at 6:30pm. Free.

Youth Services Programs:

Youth Take and Make Craft – Yarn Owl
Instructional video will be posted to HPL’s Facebook page at 3:00 pm on June 1 and 14.
Craft kits will be available to pick up beginning June 1.
Whooo doesn’t love a fun owl craft? These knit critters will be available to pick up from Hackley Library beginning June 1 and through the end of the month while supplies last. Instructional video will be posted to Facebook on Tuesday, June 1 and Monday, June 14 at 3:00 pm. Free.

Teen Take and Make Craft – Perler Bead Owl Magnet
Instructional video will be posted to HPL’s Facebook page at 3:00 pm on June 1 and 14.
Craft kits will be available to pick up beginning June 1.
Whoooo wants another Perler bead craft? Yooouuuu! Craft kits will be available June 1 and through the end of the month while supplies last. Instructional video will be posted on Tuesday, June 1 and Monday, June 14 at 3:00 pm. Free.

John Ball Zoo Virtual Animal Program
3:00 pm, Thursday, June 10
Virtual Zoom
John Ball Zoo will be hosting a live virtual program giving us an up-close look at the amazing physical and behavioral adaptations animals use to survive. Watch Hackley Library’s Facebook page for more information on how to register for this Zoom program. Free.

All Ages Take and Disassemble Owl Pellets
3:00 pm, Monday, June 14
Virtual Facebook
Put on your scientist hat and grab an owl pellet from the library! These fascinating masses are one of the ways that scientists have been able to discover the different diets of owls and other birds. Dissecting owl pellets can tell us much about where they live, what they eat, and who they are. Craft kits will be available to pick up from Hackley Library beginning June 14 and through the end of the month while supplies last. Instructional video will be posted to Facebook on Monday, June 14 at 3:00 pm. Free.

Drawing Mythical Creatures with Corinne Roberts
3:00 pm, Tuesday, June 15
Virtual Zoom
You won’t be draggin’ your feet to attend this virtual class! Learn how to draw dragons, a phoenix, and much more. Watch Hackley Library’s Facebook page for more information on how to register for this Zoom program. Free.

Things That Go “Who” in the Night
3:00 pm, Tuesday, June 22
Virtual Zoom
Owls capture the attention of almost anyone who is lucky enough to encounter them in the wild. This program will highlight several common owl species and show participants how they can encourage them to live in their backyard. Watch Hackley Library’s Facebook page for more information on how to register for this Zoom program. Free.

Abortion Meets a Fork in the Road

submitted by Chris Gast, Director of Communication/Education, Right to Life of Michigan

As America’s major political parties have polarized, the issue of abortion has become more polarized. It shouldn’t surprise, because of the broader worldview assumptions underlying each position—though there are plenty of dissenters still to be found on both sides.

This polarization exists alongside the current reality that most Americans are in the “mushy middle” when it comes their abortion views. About a quarter of us believe in absolute unlimited abortion, a quarter believes in the absolute right to life of every child, and those in between are uncomfortable with abortion to varying degrees; they can’t bring themselves to totally end it or embrace it.

Pro-abortion states have recently moved aggressively to shore up their abortion laws in case Roe v. Wade is overturned—and states and voters once again can decide on abortion. They not only endorse abortion, but celebrate it. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo lit up the One World Trade Center pink to celebrate passage of their unlimited abortion bill in 2018. The symbolism is undeniable: a beacon built on the resting place of nearly 3,000 lives lost on one day in 2001 transformed into celebrating the ongoing deaths of nearly 3,000 lives every day in America’s abortion facilities.

America experiences abortion whiplash with every new federal administration. President Biden’s Food & Drug Administration is using the pandemic as an excuse to remove safety regulations on the abortion pill, allowing death to be distributed through the mail. Even though Britain’s recent experience with abortion-by-mail showed dire consequences for women’s health, nothing must stop abortions. Contrast that with President Trump’s policies, including nominating rule of law judges.

Prolife states continue to legislate against abortion at a fast pace. President Trump’s judicial nominees on the 6th U.S. Circuit just sealed a victory for Ohio, allowing them to ban abortion targeted at children with Down syndrome. Other states—including Michigan—are working on expanded versions that ban abortions targeted by race, sex, or any disability.

What will the Supreme Court do? Roe v. Wade means there is no escape valve for this pressure; one side cheated to allow 25% of the country to manufacture absolute legal dominance over the abortion issue. Sadly, the issue is seldom framed this way, because media and academia tend to side with unlimited abortion.

How long can Roe v. Wade continue to survive—after half a century of failing to manufacture the expected pro-abortion consensus?

Fearless with Cissie Graham Lynch Encourages Listeners to Hope in God

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association February 9 newsletter

Cissie Graham Lynch released three new episodes of the Fearless podcast in January, centered on facing today’s obstacles with confidence and hope in God.

“We are not to conform to the world, but we are to walk with God,” Lynch said during her first Fearless podcast of the year. “We are to teach our children the stories that God’s Word is truth, the foundation that we are to stand on, the solid rock that we are to stand on in the days we will face.”

Leading up to the March for Life on Jan. 29, Lynch recorded a podcast episode featuring Jeanne Mancini, the president of March for Life and a fierce pro-life advocate. The two discussed the mission behind March for Life, as well as the theme for the 2021 march, Together Strong: Life Unites! “We’re so much stronger… when we’re working together on [advocating for life],” said Mancini. “Giving witness to the life that’s being lost on a regular basis is important in the public square.”

On episode 40 of her Fearless podcast, Lynch explores the question, is unity possible? “Like a lot of words in our culture, unity has lost its meaning and purpose,” Lynch said. She added that when considering unity, “You have to ask the question, what are we unifying with?”

Lynch referenced the book of Romans, where Christians are encouraged to live peaceably with all if possible. “That doesn’t mean that there’s not going to be times where you’re going to have to stand for [biblical] truth… We only have peace when we have truth.”

Concluding that unity cannot be reached without the love and peace of Jesus Christ, Lynch encouraged Christians that it is possible to live in unity with one another. “Unity, fellowship, and love with one another are so important in the body of Christ,” Lynch said. “As Christians, we have more in common than we don’t, and that’s Jesus.”

To listen to these episodes and more, visit www.CissieGrahamLynch.com/category/podcast/.

Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Deploys to North Carolina, California, and Alabama

from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association February 9 newsletter

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) deployed to four new locations in January. The first two weeks of the New Year saw chaplains travel to Lenoir, North Carolina, and Lancaster, California, to serve at Samaritan’s Purse Emergency Field Hospitals that were set up to treat coronavirus patients as numbers increased and overwhelmed the local hospital systems.

“As the virus is spiking at the beginning of 2021, we consider it a privilege to offer emotional and spiritual support in our ministries’ home state of North Carolina, as well as in California where the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team has such a long history of serving—primarily after devastating wildfires,” said Josh Holland, assistant director of the BG-RRT.

On Jan. 26, less than 12 hours after an EF-3 tornado swept through Jefferson County, Alabama, BG-RRT chaplains were already on the ground in the area to provide emotional and spiritual support to the community. The tornado damaged more than 400 homes and resulted in one death.

“As we learned of the devastation and loss of life in the aftermath of a tornado, our hearts were broken for those in central Alabama who have had great loss,” said Jack Munday, international director of the BG-RRT. “Our crisis-trained chaplains are there in the midst of this tragedy to provide emotional and spiritual care as the area grieves and begins the recovery process.”

In February, chaplains were continuing to serve in Louisiana where they have been since August 2020 when multiple hurricanes hit the area.

Since the beginning of 2021, more than 70 chaplains have deployed to disaster sites, praying with more than 2,600 people. The BG-RRT served at 50 locations in 2020, offering more than 44,000 prayers on behalf of those who were impacted by disasters.

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

Ask Dr. Universe – Horses and Feelings

Dr. Universe: How do horses sense how you feel? –Taylor, 11, New Zealand

Dear Taylor,

When I got your question, I called up my friend and veterinarian Dr. Macarena Sanz who had just finished checking up on the horses at the Washington State University Teaching Hospital. She was happy to help.

“It’s a hard question to assess scientifically,” Sanz said. “But I think everybody who has worked with horses can tell you that horses really do have a certain sense about humans.”

One part of the answer to your question is that horses may be able to respond to a situation using clues from both a person’s facial expression and the emotion in their voice.

In a study from Japan, researchers showed horses some photos of humans with different expressions on their faces, such as happiness or sadness. Along with the photos, the horses also listened to recordings of human voices.

Sometimes the voice and facial expression matched, for example, a happy face with a happy voice. But other times the horse might have seen a photo of a happy expression but heard a sad voice.

“Horses were able to pick on that,” Sanz said. “When the horse didn’t feel like things matched, they would stare at the screen a lot longer.”

It kind of makes you wonder what exactly the horses must have been thinking. These kinds of studies will help researchers start to put together a better picture of how horses respond to humans.

You know, your question also made me curious about the ways humans figure out what horses are feeling. It turns out that horses have 17 expressions they can use to communicate, such as puckering their lips or dropping their jaw. Some expressions communicate they are in pain.

If you’ve ever stubbed your toe or broken a bone, maybe you know that feeling that makes you scrunch up your face in pain. That’s a kind of expression called a grimace.

Sanz said veterinarians use a scale called a grimace scale, which includes photos and information about different horse expressions and behaviors, like when they hold back their ears. It’s a tool many veterinarians who work with horses will use in their careers.

“I remember when I was starting my career, my boss would come in and say, ‘Oh, this horse has –that look–and it’s going to need surgery’ and she was right. The horse needed the surgery. And now I can see that look too,” she said.

While humans and horses have been a part of each other’s lives for thousands of years, there is still a lot to learn. Sanz said it’s likely we will continue to learn even more about the way humans and horses interact, especially as many studies have been showing that these interactions can have lots of health benefits.

Perhaps one day you’ll be a veterinarian who helps us provide the best care for horses or a researcher who helps us better understand the ways in which horses sense the world.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

P.S. Do you want to support science education and find out how to get an Ask Dr. Universe face masks? Visit askDrUniverse.wsu.edu/masks

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!

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Agenda – 05/24/21

Fruitport Community Schools
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
Monday, May 24, 2021 – 6:00 p.m.
Board Room/Virtual

Connect to Zoom from your computer, tablet, or smartphone at:
https://zoom.us/j/97558223575?pwd=MTFRVCtOdHlGaEZadWw1OE9ocEd6UT09
Meeting ID: 975 5822 3575
Passcode: 533524

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

Approval of the Regular Board Meeting Minutes of May 17, 2021 (attachment IV-1)
Approve Superintendent Candidate Profile/Selection Criteria
Other

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VI. ADJOURNMENT

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

United Way Of The Lakeshore Ends Baby Product Drive With Baby Shower

MUSKEGON, MI – United Way of the Lakeshore celebrated the end of the Baby Product Drive held during April with a community Baby Shower. Families visiting Salvation Army in Muskegon were given packages of donations.

13,000 items were donated
87 families received donation packages
156 children were helped

“It was inspiring to watch as families received the thoughtful donations,” says UWL Community Engagement Director, Dominique Bunker. “We received wipes, ointments, baby bottles, formulas, clothes, teethers, thermometers…all the important and expensive items every parent needs to care for their young children. Because of these donations, mothers went home with a little weight lifted off their shoulders, knowing that they had the items they needed to keep their children healthy.”

The Baby Shower was held at the Salvation Army in Muskegon, on Saturday, May 15th from 2 pm to 4:30. Volunteers met in the morning to organize the variety of items donated into packages for each family.

“Many families simply do not have the resources to provide clean diapers and products for basic care for their babies. Not every family has access to washers and dryers to use cloth diapers. Since the pandemic, millions of Americans have lost their jobs, especially women and low-wage workers (according to the Washington Post). Families in our community our especially vulnerable right now. These mothers face difficult decisions trying to keep their children healthy while living near or at the poverty line. Being able to provide clean diapers, healthy formula, check their baby’s temperature…these donations bring pride and relief to caring mothers in Muskegon, Oceana, and Newaygo counties, especially during the pandemic.”

United Way of the Lakeshore is uniting to inspire change and build thriving communities.
Our Bold Goal – 10,000 more working families meet their basic needs by 2025.
For more information, contact United Way of the Lakeshore at 231-332-4047 or visit www.unitedwaylakeshore.org

Vintage Train Rides Return to West Michigan

Coopersville & Marne Railway announces 2021 opening

COOPERSVILLE, MI – After primarily operating freight trains during the COVID-19 pandemic the Coopersville & Marne Railway announces the return of its popular passenger trains. A tentative schedule has been set for reopening in June; including EnterTRAINment excursions on Saturdays June 5th and 26th; as well as Wednesday June 16th. These train rides, featuring local musicians, depart the Coopersville station at 1:30 PM.

According to Operations Manager, Nick Anderson, “We look forward to again offering our popular Vintage Train rides, while also assuring the safety of our passengers and volunteers.” In resuming passenger service, the railroad will follow all current CDC, MDHHS, and Ottawa County Health Department guidelines. Train capacities will be reduced to accommodate social distancing. Train crews and passengers over 2 years of age are required to wear masks; as mandated by the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA). All ticketing will be handled electronically, and passengers will be subject to temperature checks and COVID-19 screening before boarding the train.

Additional information regarding our June train schedule can be found on our website at mitrain.net. The website also features our COVID-19 protocols and procedures.

The Coopersville & Marne Railway is an ‘all volunteer’ vintage railroad located midway between Grand Rapids and Muskegon, offering 90-minute train rides between our namesake towns. Our train includes coaches dating to the 1920’s along with 1950’s era locomotives. And the route we follow originated with an 1848 charter for the Oakland and Ottawa Railroad. The Coopersville & Marne Railway offers EnterTRAINment Excursions, specialty Theme Trains and group charters during our normal operating season.

RedWater Collection Acquires Muskegon Country Club

The RedWater Collection has Signed Agreement to Acquire Muskegon Country Club as a New Addition to Their Collection of Outstanding Golf Clubs and Restaurants in West Michigan

GRAND RAPIDS, MI –The RedWater Collection (recently rebranded from Watermark Properties) announced that they have signed a purchase agreement to acquire the historic Muskegon Country Club located at 2801 Lakeshore Drive in Muskegon. Muskegon Country Club was designed by Donald Ross, world renowned golf course architect, and has had the honor of hosting numerous championship level golf tournaments including the Regional Qualifying Rounds for the U.S. Open, the Michigan Amateur Championships and many more. Muskegon Country Club was originally founded in 1908 on 130 acres of virgin dunes that run between Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake. It still sits on the original acreage and continues to thrive as an integral part of the Muskegon community as a highly respected private golf club with public dining facilities.

The prestigious Muskegon Country Club features an 18-hole private course (members only) offering 6,697 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. Wonderfully manicured and beautifully set between Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake, the course is built on the secondary dunes that border Lake Michigan. Muskegon Country Club member services include a golf shop, practice facility, pool, and clubhouse.

In addition, the facilities include a restaurant (previously called SE4SONS Gastropub) that closed last year due to COVID-19 restrictions. RedWater plans to rebrand and reopen the restaurant by Summer 2021. The restaurant will be open to both members and the public and is situated on the bluff overlooking Muskegon Lake with outstanding views of the lake and the golf course.

RedWater will rehire the existing staff including Director of Golf Stephany Pawlowski and Course Superintendent Jeff Hopkins. The professional staff at Muskegon Country Club, according to RedWater’s management, “have done a fabulous job of providing members and guests with an exceptional experience and will continue to do so”.

MCC Partners, LLC own and are selling Muskegon Golf Club to RedWater. Two of the members, Steve Olsen and Trip Johnson say “On behalf of our ownership group, we are all so excited to have RedWater as the new owners of our historic club and this illustrious property. We have known RedWater for years and have been impressed with how they operate their business. We knew that when it came time to sell, they were the team we wanted to run and manage our golf, food, and beverage operations here at Muskegon Country Club. We are confident that they will take great care of our members and will take this great golf club to a whole new level.”

RedWater owners and staff are thrilled for Muskegon Country Club to join their distinguished collection of golf properties and restaurants within West Michigan. RedWater is excited to soon be able to welcome everyone to experience golf membership and public dining at their newest property.

RedWater COO Craig Smith says, “As we add great clubs to our organization, we want to ensure that the additions continue to enhance the value of membership for all RedWater members, as well as provide outstanding dining for our members and the public at all of our golf clubs and other restaurant locations.”

The RedWater Collection
Muskegon Country Club will be one of five private golf clubs and three public golf clubs owned and operated by RedWater. RedWater’s private clubs include Muskegon Country Club, StoneWater Country Club, Sunnybrook Country Club, Thousand Oaks Golf Club, and Watermark Country Club. Macatawa Golf Club, Ravines Golf Club, and The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe are also part of the collection and operate as public facilities with golf memberships available if desired.

SE4SONS Gastropub at Muskegon Country Club will be rebranded and reopen sometime this spring. Outdoor dining with spectacular views will be available all summer long. RedWater restaurants, all open to the public, include RedRock Grille at Macatawa Golf Club and Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant in Holland; and Cork Wine & Grille & Vintage Prime & Seafood at Watermark Country Club, FireRock Grille at StoneWater Country Club, Rush Creek Bistro at Sunnybrook Country Club, Reds at Thousand Oaks Golf Club, and Gravity Taphouse Grille in Grand Rapids.

In addition to offering numerous quality public dining establishments, RedWater offers event spaces for large and small business meetings, private events, and wedding receptions at all of their locations.

For more information about RedWater email csmith@redwatercollection.com or lstoll@redwatercollection.com, or call 616.719.4940.

For membership information, contact Tom Holmes at tholmes@redwatergolf.com or call 616.254.8159

RedWater’s mission is committed to delivering exceptional and unique experiences to our members and guests through our people-first culture.

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of April 12, 2021

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, April 12, 2021, in the township board room.

Members Present: Andrea Anderson, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Jim Fichtel, Greg Hulka, Terry Knoll, David Markgraf
Members Absent: Todd Dunham, excused

At 7:00pm, Rose Dillon opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Also Present: 1- residents; 1- employees; 0- guests; Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli.

The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Greg Hulka was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of March 22, 2021 as presented.

The motion by Andrea Anderson, seconded by Rose Dillon was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented with the following addition:

Item 7-B: Second Reading and Adoption: Zone Change- Hts. Ravenna

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS:

Brian Michelli shared that Officer Atkinson saved a dog on a recent shift; the Police Department has been busy with vehicle break-ins, he gave reminders to lock your vehicles; the Fire Department had a house fire on Easter and the crew did a great job; an ISO rating audit was completed and rated Fruitport at ISO class 4 and 10, which is the lowest that we can realistically achieve; the Lions Club is still pushing forward with Old Fashioned Days although he advises against it.
The Parks Department shared that they are working with youth clubs on following COVID guidelines.
Andrea Anderson shared that the township is seeking donations for the flag fund to replace the roadway flags.
Rose Dillon shared that the township received approval to use a computerized tax roll for another 3 years.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS:

Dave Henry asked if the board will be sharing an opinion on the County’s succession attempt.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

21-036 Approval of POLC Collective Bargaining Agreement
The agreement was negotiated by the Public Safety Committee.
Changes are to be made to sections 9.2, 12.6, 15.1, Article 30 will be flipped around, and Appendix A will exclude all except #5.

Andrea Anderson moved, David Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to ratify the proposed POLC labor agreement with the proposed changes.

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

20-137 Second Reading and Adoption: Zone Change Amendment Ordinance- Hts. Ravenna
Andrea Anderson moved, Terry Knoll seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt ordinance #825 to amend the Township’s zoning map by changing the zoning classification from B-2 General Business District to R-2 Single Family Residential/Duplex District for parcel number 61-15-101-300-0013-60 or vacant land on Hts. Ravenna Rd., Muskegon, MI 49444 as recommended by the Planning Commission.

At a public hearing on March 16, 2021, the Planning Commission gave the following reasons supporting the zone change:

The requested rezoning will not result in spot zoning.
The requested rezoning will not be inconsistent with the surrounding property.
The property does not have to be rezoned in order to be reasonably used.
The requested rezoning would be consistent with the general trend of future building and population growth in the area.
The requested rezoning would be consistent with the Master Plan.

This constitutes the second and final reading of Amendment Ordinance No. 825.
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

NEW BUSINESS:

21-038 Discussion on County Commissioners’ Succession Attempt
A motion to remove Fruitport Township from Muskegon County was supported by Zach Lahring who represents Fruitport Township. This concept had not been discussed by or presented to the township board.
Discussion occurred and the board is unanimously against this action. Terry Knoll offered to present the thoughts of the board to the county board of commissioners.
The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Rose Dillon, was carried unanimously, to have the board members submit their opinions and comments to be presented to the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners.

21-039 Senior Services Revenue Discussion
The Treasurer shared that the township will receive $43,987 in funding from the senior millage this year. She hopes to bring Kris Collee from Agewell Services and an option for snow plowing to a meeting to discuss service options. If there are any other thoughts or ideas Rose would like to hear.

21-040 Agreement to Share Tax Increment Financing Revenue from Muskegon County Millage
Terry Knoll moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the Supervisor to sign the agreement on behalf of the Township.
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

21-041 Payment of bills
Rose Dillon moved, Andrea Anderson seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $61,163.22; Public Safety $87,761.38; Water $93,813.75; Sewer $71,434.67; Trust & Agency $2,360.00; Street Lights $15,181.37
Totaling: $331,714.39
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:

Todd Dunham called WZZM13 to do a story on the abandoned hotels.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none

The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Terry Knoll, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 7:37pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK
TODD DUNHAM, SUPERVISOR

Fruitport Township Board Meeting Agenda – 05/24/21

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

MAY 24, 2021

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

1. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
2. Roll call
3. Approval of board minutes: 5/10/21
4. Approve / amend agenda
5. Correspondence / reports
6. Public comments regarding agenda items

7. Unfinished Business
none

8. New Business
A. Presentation Regarding Senior Services Funding: Kris Collee and Chris Cross
B. Discussion on Proposed Sand Borrow Pit- Dangl Rd.
C. Local Road Project Contract- Sheridan Rd.
D. DPW Purchase of Brass, Meters, Copper, and Iron
E. Fire Department Equipment Donation

9. Approval of Bills
10. Reports
11. Public Comments
12. Adjournment

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

FCS – Board of Education Regular Monthly Meeting Minutes – 05/17/21

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
May 17, 2021 7:00 p.m.
Board Room and Virtual

Connect to Zoom from your computer, tablet, or smartphone at:
https://zoom.us/j/95578158376?pwd=SnZpV2VOU0ZNM3owTStaU3ltOHNxZz09
Meeting ID: 955 7815 8376
Passcode: 533524

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 (virtual), Kris Cole, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, and Steve Kelly (virtual). Absent – Jill Brott.

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 21-062. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Franklin to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

V. PRESENTATIONS
None.

VI. COMMUNICATIONS
None.

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
None.

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 21-063. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Buckner to approve the Consent Agenda as listed below:
1. Approval of Special Meeting Minutes of May 3, 2021
2. Acceptance of Bills, Monthly Financial Report, and ACH Transactions
3. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report
4. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report
5. Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report
6. Approval of the Personnel Report
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Continuation of the Instructional Plan.
Item 21-064. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to approve the recommended Continuation of Learning Plan as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

2. Nominate and Approve an Acting Secretary of the Board.
Item 21-065. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to nominate and approve Susan Franklin as Acting Secretary of the Fruitport Board of Education in the absence of Steve Kelly.
Roll Call: Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes. Absent: Brott
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

3. MAISD 2021-22 General Fund Budget Resolution.
Item 21-066. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Buckner to adopt the MAISD 2021-22 General Fund Budget Resolution as presented. Roll Call: Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes. Absent: Brott.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

4. MAISD Biennial Election Resolution.
Item 21-067. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to adopt the MAISD Biennial Election Resolution naming Dave Hazekamp as the Fruitport Community Schools’ election representative and Tim Burgess as the alternate to support candidate: Lisa Tyler for a six year term expiring June 30, 2027 at the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District’s Biennial Election to be held June 7, 2021. Roll Call: Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes. Absent: Brott.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

5. Resolution Authorizing the Issuance and Delegating the Sale of Bonds.
Item 21-068. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to adopt the Resolution Authorizing Issuance of Bonds, Payment Schedule, and Other Matters Relating Thereto as presented. Roll Call: Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes. Absent: Brott.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

6. MHSAA 2021-22 Membership.
Item 21-069. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Cole to adopt the 2021-22 Membership Resolution as prepared by MHSAA for participation as presented. Roll Call: Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes. Absent: Brott.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

XI. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Nothing to report.

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Nothing to report.

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held May 12, 2021.
Susan Franklin reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held May 12, 2021. Dave Hazekamp, Allison Camp, Susan Franklin, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed: The Virtual Program for 2021-22, the Read by Third Grade law, and the School Resource Officer position.

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Kris Cole spoke about the success of both middle school Robotics’ teams.

Dave Hazekamp expressed his positive thoughts on the Senior Awards Banquet. He also commented on the impressive new high school commons area.

Steve Kelly complimented the Color Guard performance. He thought the team did well.

XV. AGENDA ITEMS for FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF ANY SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Business and Finance Committee will meet June 21, 2021 at 11:30 a.m.
2. Personnel Committee will meet June 21, 2021 at 5:30 p.m.
3. Student Affairs Committee will meet June 23, 2021 at 5:30 p.m.
4. Special Meeting, Monday, May 24th @ 6:00 p.m.
5. Retirement Celebration, June 1st – High School Cafeteria @ 4:30 p.m.
6. High School Graduation, June 4 – Doc Pierce Field @ 6:30 p.m.
7. Special Meeting, Monday, June 21st @ 6:00 p.m.
8. Special Meeting, Wednesday, June 23rd @ 6:00 p.m.
9. Special Meeting, Thursday, June 24th @ 6:00 p.m.
10. Truth and Taxation Special Board Meeting, Monday, June 28th @ 6:30 p.m.
11. June Regular Board Meeting, Monday, June 28th @ 7:00 p.m.
12. Special Meeting, Tuesday, June 29th @ 6:00 p.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Item 21-070. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan Franklin
Acting Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

Free Chronic Pain PATH Workshop Series – June & July

Registrations are Open for a Free MSU Extension ONLINE Chronic Pain PATH Workshop

Chronic Pain PATH (Personal Action Towards Health) provides information and techniques to cope with the challenges associated with chronic pain management. A variety of self-management tools, such as communicating with healthcare professionals, managing medications, and stress reduction are explored. This 6-session series is for adults living with chronic pain and their family caregivers. To achieve the full benefit of the workshop, please plan to attend all sessions.*Please note: This workshop is online, so participants must be able to fully participate by using device audio and video features.

Online Chronic Pain PATH Workshop
Location: Zoom Meeting (Instructions sent upon registration)
Dates: June 17, 24, July 1, 8, 15, 22
Day/Time: Thursdays, from 1:00-3:00 p.m.
To register: https://bit.ly/3wBFOZS

*A 30-minute informational session will be offered on June 3rd. MSU Extension Educators will provide an overview of the program and you will have the opportunity to ask questions and troubleshoot Zoom features. You can register for the information session here: https://bit.ly/3muv1fb

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. For more information or to register by phone, please contact Naomi Hyso at 231-845-3362 or hysonaom@msu.edu

Free Diabetes PATH Workshop Series – June & July

Are You Going Through the Motions & Emotions of Diabetes Self-Management?

Join MSU Extension Online for a Diabetes PATH Workshop!

Diabetes PATH is a self-management workshop where you learn tools to manage diabetes. Over the course of 7 weeks, you will learn strategies to help you improve your diabetes self-management. This class is free and open to all Michigan residents. *Please note: This workshop is online, so participants must be able to fully participate by using device audio and video features.

Topics Discussed:
• dealing with difficult emotions,
• how to develop a healthy eating and exercise plan,
• goal setting,
• problem solving, monitoring, and
• a variety of other diabetes self-management strategies.

Where: ONLINE via Zoom Meeting (Instructions sent upon registration)
Date: June 15, June 22, June 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27
Day/Time: Tuesdays, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
To Register: https://bit.ly/3sLQwL9

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration is open through June 29. For more information or to register by phone, please contact Naomi Hyso at 231-845-3362 or hysonaom@msu.edu This series is funded by MSUE and The Lions Club International.

Free SLEEP Online Program – July & August

SLEEP(Sleep Education for Everyone Program) Thursdays, July 1 – Aug. 5, 2021 from 12-12:30 p.m. 

SLEEP is a FREE six-week online program designed to help you get more and better sleep.  We are very excited to be able to offer this program.

To Register: https://events.anr.msu.edu/sleep3/

Turtles Come to Lakeshore Museum Center

MUSKEGON, MI – If you think you know about turtles, you’ve got plenty to learn when Lakeshore Museum Center opens Turtle Travels, a fun-filled, interactive exhibit that gives visitors a turtle’s-eye view of life in the “slow lane.”

Research shows turtles actually live in and travel through a surprising diversity of habitats. Their journeys are filled with challenges! These findings— and many other turtle studies—come from the use of radio telemetry that tracks how animals move around their habitats. You’ll have a chance to check out this science and see how it works.

You’ll start your journey at the exhibition entrance, where kids can pose as a turtle in front of a marsh habitat backdrop. There’s a child’s bench to sit on and take a photo. After all, you’ll need to rest up for your journey! Once you step onto the giant board game, follow the instructions and you’ll be detoured to interactive games. Find out what it’s like for a turtle trying to cross a road or traverse changing habitats. Be a turtle tracker and see how real field biologists track animals in the wild. The lively setting has plenty to keep children busy as they play the game. For example, an underwater video shows how a sea turtle swims. Trek along this turtle terrain and you’ll find out that slow and steady not only wins the race, but takes turtles on some amazing journeys!

You’ll also discover cool turtle and tortoise facts— how their bodies and shells have adapted to many different habitats, why they need shells, the hazards they encounter in the wild, how they are important to many different cultures, and more. Turtle Travels provides unusual perspectives on these amazing reptiles.

Does your child want a pet turtle? Wait! First find out what kind of care they need— and how the pet trade isn’t always the best deal for the turtle.

The exhibition has a variety of family-friendly components, including:

● A Swiss Army turtle with moveable feet illustrating how turtles’ limbs are adapted to fit their environment
● A station to build the arch of a turtle’s shell
● A restful spot to lounge on a turtle and discover the many turtles that star in children’s tales

Admission for the Turtle Travels exhibit is free for Muskegon County residents and Museum members. Non-residents ages 3 and up admission is $5.

You can visit the Turtle Travels exhibit starting May 21 through September 4 at the Lakeshore Museum Center at 430 W. Clay Ave in Muskegon.

For more information, visit the Lakeshore Museum Center online at https://lakeshoremuseum.org/

About Turtle Travels
Turtle Travels is an exhibition created by the Environmental Exhibit Collaborative (EEC!), a group of natural science museums founded by the EcoTarium in Massachusetts; Vermont’s ECHO; and Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in New Hampshire.

About Lakeshore Museum Center
Since 1937, the Lakeshore Museum Center has explored, preserved, and interpreted the history of Muskegon County through historic exhibits, education and cultural-based programs, and special events and presentations for all ages. The Center is comprised of multiple sites and buildings including the Hackley & Hume Historic Site, the Fire Barn Museum, the Scolnik House of the Depression Era and the Muskegon Heritage Museum.

Fourth Annual Ottawa County Art Trust Exhibition

Ottawa County and the Holland Area Arts Council invite local artists to enter their Ottawa County themed works in a juried exhibition located in the County’s Administration Building. This is the fourth annual exhibition to build the Ottawa County Art Trust. The Ottawa County Art Trust will build a permanent library of artwork created by resident artists.

Artist Christi Dreese will serve as juror and will select the works which will select from the exhibition and be purchased to become part of the permanent art collection of the Ottawa County Art Trust. Individuals and businesses can also purchase art from the exhibition to donate to the Art Trust in honor of others.

A selection of works in the Ottawa County Art Trust Collection on display.

Artists must be 18 years of age or older and reside or own property or work in Ottawa County. The complete prospectus including entry deadlines, fees and more is online at miOttawa.org/ArtTrust.

The exhibit will open to the public for viewing following a reception on June 15 from 4:30 to 5:30PM. (Subject to change and limitations based upon COVID-19 restrictions.) The exhibit will remain installed at the Ottawa County Fillmore Administration Building until August 20. The purchase awards will be announced at the reception.

Culture and creativity are important to Ottawa County leaders. As a government organization, the County has taken what may be considered a unique position for government, forging a creativity and innovation program. Establishing an Art Trust is a very tangible way to demonstrate the importance of culture and creativity. At the same time, the trust will preserve a legacy of art for generations of residents to come.

Historically, government has taken an active role in preserving and promoting the arts. Art preservations and trusts were at one time considered a civic responsibility. Experts know that art

• stimulates business and tourism;
• cultivates imagination and creativity among young minds, enhancing academic achievement;
• fosters mental and emotional health, contributing to overall well-being; and
• creates a sense of place and a desirable quality of life.

“We know that that the Ottawa County Art Trust alone will not achieve all these benefits of art, but we do believe that the Art Trust will contribute to the vision of Ottawa County being a welcoming place. A place where everyone can belong, ” said Shannon Felgner, Communications Manager.

Ottawa County leaders plan to hold the exhibition annually to grow the County’s fine art collection. As the collection grows, the works will be on display in various county locations.

Village of Fruitport Council Meeting Agenda – 05/17/21

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
AGENDA
MAY 17th, 2021
COUNCIL MEETING

Call to Order
Roll Call
Approval of May 17th Council Meeting Agenda
Approval of April 19th meeting minutes
Public Comments (limited to 3 minutes each)
Correspondence
Reports from Officers

New Business

Garbage
a. Add delinquent bills to taxes
b. Rate for 2021-2022 billing
Master Plan Review and Resolution
End of South Brooks
Park Street Drain

Old Business

Motto
7th & Peach

Public Comment (Limited to 3 minutes each)
Warrants
Adjournment

Fruitport Village’s Kayak Launch Project

In 2020, the Village of Fruitport was excited to learn that the Village’s application for a grant to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to build an all accessible kayak launch was awarded funding. All accessible means Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance and is built to be reached or entered by people who have a disability. This kayak launch is in the mid stage of development and will be located on the shores of Spring Lake in the Village of Fruitport’s beautiful Pomona Park. The kayak launch will increase recreational opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages and abilities and will be the only dedicated launch for kayaks on Spring Lake.

The project in its application stage received letters of support from many including Muskegon County, Fruitport Township, Fruitport Community Schools, and the Disability Network of West Michigan. The Village’s ADA accessible kayak launch coincides with the overall county goal of expanding recreational opportunities for everyone especially senior citizens and those with disabilities. This is a truly special project for Fruitport Village, and everyone is excited about it.

While the Village did receive state grant funding for this project, local match dollars totally $75,000 still must be contributed as part of the grant agreement. Anyone who is able and wants to help towards the required local match for this important project is encouraged to do so. Local support is key to not only help fund the kayak launch, but to get the word out to everyone about the development of this exciting project.

A donation of any size will have an impact on the entire community, especially seniors and those with disabilities, and will be used to offset funds that would otherwise come out of the village’s general budget. You can donate by sending a check to the Village of Fruitport office at 45 N. Second Avenue, Fruitport, Michigan 49415. Please do not hesitate to call with any questions to (231) 865-3577. Your generous pledge will be recognized on a special donor display that will be located near the kayak launch once developed.

Look for the new all accessible kayak launch and expanded parking area to be constructed on the east side of the boat launch in late summer or early fall of this year.

FCS – Board of Education Special Meeting Minutes – 05/03/21

Fruitport Board of Education
Special Board Meeting
May 3, 2021 6:00 p.m.
Board Room

I. The Special Meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 6:00p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

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

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 21-059. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Burgess to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of April 19, 2021
Item 21-060. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of April 19, 2021.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

2. MASB Discussion Regarding Superintendent Search
MASB representative Mark Dobias led a discussion on the upcoming superintendent search.

3. Schedule Special Board Meetings
A Special Meeting has been scheduled for Monday, May 24, 2021 @ 6:00 pm (Board Room)
A Special Meeting has been scheduled for Monday, June 21, 2021 @ 6:00 pm (Board Room)
A Special Meeting has been scheduled for Monday, June 23, 2021 @ 6:00 pm (Board Room)
A Special Meeting has been scheduled for Monday, June 24, 2021 @ 6:00 pm (Board Room)
A Special Meeting has been scheduled for Monday, June 29, 2021 @ 6:00 pm (Board Room)

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Parent, Tracy VanderVelde read aloud a letter written by Tracy Staal regarding concerns with COVID-19 student quarantines.

COVID Response Team member, Amy Upham spoke to the letter and explained updated quarantine rules.

VI. ADJOURNMENT
Item 21-061. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

The meeting adjourned at 7:14 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Maribeth Clarke, Recording Secretary

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 05/12/21

Student Affairs Committee
Wednesday, May 12, 2021
12:00 p.m. ~ Boardroom and Google Meet: meet.google.com/xmm-bddy-ywv

Attendance via Google Meet: Allison Camp, Bob Szymoniak, Susan Franklin and Dave Hazekamp

1. Fall 2021 Virtual Learning
The committee discussed the fully virtual program for next year – who the program would be offered to, how long the application would be open for the program, and ideas for how to provide appropriate levels of support for students and families that qualify for the program.

2. Other
Additionally, the committee discussed the Read by Third Grade law that is still in effect for this school year based upon M-Step results.

The school resource officer position was briefly discussed.

3. Public Comment
None.

Meeting adjourned at 12:37 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Allison Camp

In Person Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday May 17, – Sunday May 23, 2021

Please call event before attending for any changes.
Remember to wear your mask to all events
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday May 17:

Hackley Library Crafts
Visit Hackley Library website daily to see what take home crafts they have for you. www.hackleylibrary.org 231-722-8000 Limited Supply of crafts.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Open seven days a week! Only 9 drive-in theaters remain scattered throughout the state of Michigan, 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

Outdoors 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.

Tuesday May 18:

JCI Greater Muskegon Hike at Hoffmaster
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Join JCI Greater Muskegon for a fun, socially distanced hike at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park located at 6585 Lake Harbor Rd.! Connect with young professionals in the Muskegon community at a family-friendly outing. Meet at the Visitor Center.

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. For COVID19 safety measures, the market will have a different look and feel this year: Please wear your mask and walk within the direction arrows.

Movies at the Getty Drive-In Theatre
8:30 pm – 11:30 pm
Only 9 drive-in theaters remain scattered throughout the state of Michigan, 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

Wednesday May 19:

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.

Middle and High School Students Open Studio
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Middle & High School Students FREE at Art Council of White Lake located at 106 E. Colby St. 231-893-2524 Registration is required! Visit www.artswhitelake.org/upcoming-classes to register
Middle and High School students are invited to the ACWL-Nuveen for Open Studio sessions on Wednesdays between 2:00 and 5:00, p.m. ACWL-Nuveen staff will be available to help students with both art and music projects. Art students are welcome to bring in projects they are already working on or just an idea for something new. They will be able to use the numerous supplies we have on hand, as well as receive help from ACWL-Nuveen Assistant Director Susan Wink. Music students are invited to bring in the pieces they are currently studying and receive practice and musicality tips from ACWL-Nuveen Director Erin Peyer.

Muskegon Flea Market Opens for the Season
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Flea Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. opens Wednesday, May 5, at 8:00 AM. Flea Market open every Wednesday, May – October.

Crochet Basics: Cup Cozy
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
In this CROCHET BASICS: CUP COZY class at Art Council of White Lake located at 106 E. Colby, you’ll learn the basics and beyond! This class is designed for people who have little-to-no crochet experience. Ambitious beginners are Welcome! All supplies will be provided for you. Each project will use approximately 3 oz of yarn, a 5mm crochet hook, a yarn needle, and a button. All of these supplies will be yours to keep!
● Crocheting is good for mental health because it requires mindfulness. As you crochet, you need to pay attention to each stitch, the movement of your hook or needle, your breath, your stitch count.
● “When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future”
Registration is required. Register here: https://www.artswhitelake.org/…/crochet-basics-cup-cozy-2 Class is $50 per person. $45 if members.

Street Dancing ~ Cumbia Style
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Come to Olthoff Stage located on the corner of Third and Western in downtown Muskegon. Free Cumbia dance lesson from 6:00 -7:30 pm. We will keep the music on until at least 8:00. No experience or partner needed. Let’s make it a party! Take the lesson and then stay and practice what you’ve learned. If you don’t need a lesson and just want to dance, dance to the side of the lesson or join us at 7:00 for the only opportunity in Muskegon for this venue. No cost for the lesson or dance, but we will accept donations. Bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.
We will be working on Cumbia all of May.

Thursday May 20:

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.

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.

Friday May 21:

Junk to Jewels Rummage Sale
9:00 am -3:00 pm
Visit the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club located at 280 W. Webster Ave. sale of gently used items including artwork, furniture, household items, jewelry, clothing, books, and tools. Proceeds support preservation of this historic building.

Hackley Hume Historic Homes 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. Enjoy learning about various topics such as restoration, preservation and family stories.

Turtle Travels Exhibit Opening and Friday Family Fun Night
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay has a new interactive exhibit for kids, Turtle Travels. Families will enjoy several hands-on stations throughout the exhibit while learning how to help protect turtles. Exhibit features include a life-sized board game, a Swiss Army turtle, and two fun photo-ops! We will also have turtle-themed activities set-up outside on our side lawn. Free for Muskegon County residents & Museum Members, non-residents ages 3 and up are $5. Open-house style event, advanced registration not required.

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.

Fire Pit Follies – Fundraising Concerts
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
We’re bringing the show to your place! Muskegon Civic Theatre invites you, your friends and family to enjoy a Broadway concert in your own driveway, backyard, or patio – performed by the actors you’ve come to know and love at Civic Theatre! For $250, you can host up to 25 people, and enjoy a 40-minute show at your own home – complete with Broadway standards you know by heart. Performers will arrive in groups via car to sing their hearts out for you. Hosts will also receive a free gift basket filled with s’mores kit, and concession favorites. Email info@muskegoncivictheatre.org or call 231-722-3852 to make reservations.

Plane Watch Food Park Opening Day!
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Join us for Plane Watch Food Parks Opening Day located at 1100 E. Sternberg Rd.! We have an awesome line up and can’t wait to share it with you!

Linocut Relief Printmaking and Chine Collé
May 21 @ 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
Ages 16+ $140 $126 for ACWL-Nuveen Members located at 106 E. Colby St.
Come explore the graphic process of relief printmaking using linoleum! A relief print is inking the raised surface of the linoleum after areas have been carved away. We will cover the steps of how to transfer a drawing or photograph to the block, carving and inking the block, simple registration, printing to paper and using a press. We will also explore the addition of color. Participants will be able to take what they learn and print at home. From novice to experienced, printmaking holds an age-old process that continues to engage the imagination and always holds the element of surprise. You are welcome to bring a sack lunch

Saturday May 22:

ForeShore Adventure Run
May 22
Held at Pere Marquette Beach located at 3510 Channel Dr. the Muskegon Rescue Mission’s ForeShore Adventure Run is presented by Huntington Bank! This is the lakeshore’s premier 5k obstacle course run, you hardly notice the pain in your legs as you take on the course with the gorgeous views of Lake Michigan beside you. ForeShore features 25 obstacles suited for anyone and everyone to conquer. Every donation helps Muskegon Rescue Mission provide nutritious meals, safe shelter and life changing services to homeless men, women and children in West Michigan. For more information call 231-727-6090.

Child Abuse Council Softball Tournament
2:00 pm – 8:30 pm
The Child Abuse Council will host a slow pitch tournament at Softball World in Muskegon. Teams can be COED and must consist of 9 people, a 50/50 raffle will be taking place during the event. All proceeds will go toward the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon. $150 per Team For more information, call Macey Balavitch at 231-728-6410 or email mbalavitch@childabusecouncil.org.

Faithful to Felines Yard Sale + Succulent Bar
8:00am -2:00pm
Stop by for their sale located at 2525 Hall Rd. to benefit fuzzy paws friends!

Hackley Day Community Celebration and FREE Tours to Muskegon County Residents
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
The Hackley & Hume Historic Sites located at 484 W. Webster Ave. are open for extended hours to celebrate Hackley Day and the kickoff to the 2021 season with FREE tours for Muskegon County residents. When you arrive, check-in at the City Barn (carriage house) between the Hackley and Hume Houses. Free Parking on Webster Ave. & 6th St.

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. For COVID19 safety measures, the market will have a different look and feel this year: Please wear your mask and walk within the direction arrows. Thank you

Sweetwater Local Foods Market Sweetwater Local Foods Market – OFFERING PREORDERS FOR PICKUP
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
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! They are open year-round.

Boomtown Market Craft Beer & Wine Tastings
10:00 am – 7:00 pm
BoomTown Market, 351 W. Western Ave
Boomtown Market 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! If you like it, we’ll can a 32 ounce-er for you right then and there!

West Michigan Ironmen Cornhole Tournament
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
West Michigan Cornhole is partnering with the West Michigan Ironmen to run an indoor tournament on the field at the Mercy Health Arena on May 22 prior to the Ironmen’s home game! The event will be run with Scoreholio. Please add the app to your phone prior to arriving at the event. At 10:00AM we will open up for check-in and warm-ups. Starting at 11:00AM we will be running a minimum 3 game round-robin event with all participants. $40 per team
Players can bring their own bags to use. Bags will be available for use for those who don’t have them. All teams receive two tickets to the Ironmen game following the cornhole event and are guaranteed at least six games! Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Please, no outside food or drinks.

Sunday May 23:

Ottawa County Leaders Honor Deputies and Corrections Officers

In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as “National Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the calendar week in which May 15 falls, as “National Police Week.” In 1984, President Reagan proclaimed the week beginning May 6, 1984, as “National Correctional Officers Week.”

Since then, these two weeks have been allocated to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty, law enforcement officers actively protecting our community, and corrections officers who serve in and secure our facilities.

Roger Bergman, Board Chairman, poses with representative from the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, Zeeland Police Department, Holland Police Department, Michigan State Police and GVSU Department of Public Safety.

At the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners Meeting on May 11, the leaders honored West Michigan’s police officers, corrections and sheriff’s deputies. The board signed a resolution recognizing National Corrections Week, May 2-8, and National Police Week, May 9-15. Every single day, 24 hours a day, sheriff’s and corrections deputies and police officers, risk their lives to safeguard our communities. Their dedication, professionalism and unwavering assistance when called upon does not go unnoticed.

The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office also held private honor guard ceremonies and set a wreath in memoriam of those who have died in the line of duty in Ottawa County:

Office William Glerum – Zeeland Police Department – End of Watch: 07/18/1933
Res. Deputy Arlyn Lee Gort – Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office – End of Watch: 08/22/1989
Officer Scott Anthony Flahive – Grand Haven Dept. of Public Safety – End of Watch: 12/13/1994
Officer Trevor Parker Slot – Walker Police Department – End of Watch: 10/13/2011

Bike Time is Back in 2021

MUSKEGON, Mich. – After cancellation in 2020, due to COVID-19 restrictions, Muskegon Bike Time is set to welcome back motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country to downtown Muskegon.

Muskegon Bike Time promotes Muskegon and the lakeshore as a great place for motorcyclists and the general public to gather and enjoy the spectacle, attractions, entertainment and food offered during this four day event.

The event takes place annually the third weekend in July. This year’s dates will be July 15th through the 18th, 2021.

“Over the years, Muskegon Bike Time has been an economic boon to hotels, restaurants, bars, gas stations, local retailers and other local tourist attractions”, said Tim Lipan, spokesperson for Muskegon Bike Time. “All of the events surrounding this special motorcycle weekend provide a huge economic impact to the local economy and showcases all we have to offer in Muskegon and along the lakeshore.”

Muskegon’s New “Social District”
Downtown establishments in conjunction with the City of Muskegon have created this district to provide a year-round, festival atmosphere in Downtown Muskegon. The Downtown Muskegon Social District provides common areas in the downtown in which alcoholic beverages from participating establishments can be carried and consumed outside and along the streets. This added feature to downtown will add a new dimension to the event experience.

SCHEDULED EVENTS
With activities and events occurring in the downtown Muskegon area and throughout the county, the focal point of Bike Time activities will be at the Hot Rod Harley Davidson property in downtown Muskegon. Activities include:

MUSIC
Music is everywhere! Live concerts, beer tents, street performers and local bars & brewery’s provide music of all genres.

Bike Time Concerts
All concerts are free and presented by Little River Casino & Resort on the main stage.

Thursday, July 15, 2021.
5pm – 7pm: CHAD FLORES – Nashville recording artist, performing hard rocking country.
7:30pm – 11:30pm: GROUP THERAPY BAND – Super hits and dance tunes from the ages

Friday, July 16, 2021
4pm – 7:30pm: MR. WHOOHA – Party Band playing 80’s, 90’s and Top 40 Pop Rock
8:00pm – Midnight: PROJECT 90 – All 90’s All Night – Selected the #2 Best Band In West Michigan

Saturday, July 17, 2021
7:00pm – 9:00pm: THE ROCKETQUEEN – Guns & Roses Tribute Band
9:30pm – 11:30pm: LET THERE BE ROCK – The Ultimate AC/DC Tribute Band Experience.

EVENTS
Bike Time provides all forms of attractions and contests including:

• Harley-Davidson Demo Truck on Friday and Saturday (times TBD).
Take a spin on a new 2021 Motorcycle when the Harley-Davidson Demo Truck visits Muskegon Bike Time. There will be 17 models of bikes to choose from including a Trike. Riders will be able to test ride any model they wish at their leisure and on their own. A valid driver’s license with motorcycle endorsement and proper riding attire is required.

• West Michigan Arm Wrestling Championships.
The 2021 West Michigan Arm Wrestling Championships. Saturday, July 17, 2021. Weigh-ins and registrations from 10am to 12pm. Competition begins at 1pm.

• Best Bikini Competition
Hey ladies, here’s your chance to show off that new bikini. $1,000 cash prize. Winner take all. Saturday, July 17, 2021 from 3:00pm – 4:30 pm. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required.

• Dad Bod Contest
Hey Guys. We know you got it going on. Strut your stuff after the Bikini Contest for a chance at $250 cash. Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm.

• Hot Babe Bike Wash
Get that road dust off your ride at our Hot Babe Bike Wash Station on Friday and Saturday at Hot Rod Harley Davidson.

• Corn Hole Shootout Competition
Bikes & Bags Cornhole Tournament with cash prizes. Anyone can play. Anyone can win. Friday, July 16, 2021 at 5:30 pm – 10pm at Hot Rod Harley Davidson.

• Bike Time Rally
Ride the lakeshore and visit participating bars and restaurants to win prizes. Thursday, July 15 – Saturday, July 17, 2021. Sponsored by Hometown Hospitality, the awards ceremony will be held on Saturday, July 17, 2021 at 6:30pm at the Bike Time Main Stage.

• Ride-In Bike Show
Saturday, July 17, 2021 from 1pm – 3pm. $10 entry fee. Cash prizes and trophies for Best Paint Job, Best Custom Bike, and Most Unique Bike.

RIDES
Experience a variety of scenic rides along the beautiful West Michigan shoreline with stunning views of Lake Michigan, pristine rivers, and massive sand dunes, as well as winding roads through picturesque forests and interesting small towns.

Muskegon Bike Time promotes a variety of scenic rides, throughout the West Michigan shoreline, for visiting bikers. They include:

• Patriot Ride – Take a self guided scenic ride of the area with over 200 of your closest friends. Ride is generally 1.5 hours long. A $10 donation per person supports a local charity. Sunday, July 21, 2019. Registration starts at 10am. Kick stands up at 11am.

• 7 Lakes Northern Ride – scenic ride showcasing 7 different lakes and many interesting small towns in West Michigan.

• Hot Rod Harley & Downtown – leaving Hot Rod Harley Davidson in downtown Muskegon, cruise the strip of Western Avenue, which is open to motorcycle traffic only, which includes beer tents, brewery’s, restaurants, vendors and other activities.

• Pere Marquette Beach – visit one of the most beautiful sugar sand beaches in the country right on Lake Michigan.

• Lake Shore Drive Southern Ride – this ride takes you along the Lakeshore to resort town of Grand Haven and the Dutch village of Holland and several lakes and rivers.

ACTIVITIES
During the event, you will experience spectacular bikes, great people watching, shopping, a variety of food options, giant jenga, giant beer pong, and corn hole all while enjoying adult beverages and craft brews of all kinds.

The area also provides a variety of other must see sites that appeal to every taste, including expansive beaches, WWII ships, military museums, historic homes, beautiful parks and museums of all kinds – right in the center of all the action.

CAMPING AND LODGING
Camp in the middle of the party at Hot Rod Harley-Davidson during Muskegon Bike Time. RV and tent spaces available.

A variety of other lodging options are available including, hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, Airbnb, beach cottages and boutique hotels.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES
A variety of food options will be available from several food trucks. Enjoy ice cold Budweiser products and local craft brews.

BIKE TIME MERCHANDISE
Official Bike Time merchandise will be available.

LITTLE RIVER CASINO RESORT INFORMATION
Information from Bike Time signature sponsor, Little River Casino Resort will be available.

HOT ROD HARLEY DAVIDSON
Most activities occur in and around the Hot Rod Harley Davidson dealership in downtown Muskegon. A visit to one of the premier Harley dealerships is a must!

COME VISIT US IN MUSKEGON AND JOIN THE SPECTACLE!

For more information on Muskegon Bike Time, please visit our website at www.muskegonbiketime.com or follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

Annual Bands at Blandford Outdoor Concert Series Expands to Six Days

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Live music is back at Blandford Nature Center. Music-lovers of all ages are encouraged to come and enjoy a night of live music in nature with their loved ones. This year’s Bands at Blandford Outdoor Concert Series will be expanding to six Saturdays throughout the summer with shows from 7-9 pm at Blandford Nature Center located at 1715 Hillburn Ave NW. Grand Rapids, MI 49504.

This series will highlight several musical genres by local bands in the Grand Rapids area each night. The lineup for this year’s series is as follows: The Bootstrap Boys on June 12th, Patty PerShayla & The Mayhaps on June 26th, Cabildo on July 10th, Last Gasp Collective on July 24th, Peace to Mateo on September 11th, and MOLLY on September 25th.

The Diatribe will also be providing live poetry at the second show in July as well as both shows in September. The Diatribe uses performing arts to empower young people to share their stories, raise awareness of social issues, and create change within their communities.

“Bands at Blandford connects people with both music and nature, and this year we are excited to be adding poetry to several of the shows by partnering with The Diatribe,” said Volunteer Manager, Katie Clouse. “Our intent is to provide a safe and beautiful space to engage our community during these difficult and uncertain times. It’s so important to continue this series and support these local musicians who have been greatly affected by the pandemic this past year. We’re glad we can safely provide a stage to amplify these voices within our community.”

Guests can bring blankets and chairs to unwind with an adult-beverage on these warm summer nights. Concessions will be available for purchase from local businesses such as Brewery Vivant, Sacred Springs Kombucha, and more. Guests are welcome to bring their own food to this event, but no outside alcoholic beverages are permitted.

This year’s concerts were planned with the safety of the community in mind. A few of the precautions include limited capacity pre-sale ticketing and socially distanced circles throughout the event space for guests to safely spread out and enjoy the show. Guests will be required to wear a mask when outside of their circle, while purchasing drinks, or checking in.

Tickets are $20 per member and $25 per non-member. Tickets go on sale for June shows on May 3rd, for July shows on June 3rd, and for September shows on August 3rd. This event is open to the public and available for all ages. All tickets must be purchased prior to the show, no additional tickets will be available at the door. To learn more about the bands or purchase tickets, attendees can visit: blandfordnaturecenter.org/experiences/community-calendar/

About Blandford Nature Center: Blandford Nature Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose job and passion is to invite our community to enjoy, explore, and learn in nature. We make this happen by allowing our visitors to get their hands dirty—whether that be standing knee-high in water to learn about stream ecology or planting squash seeds to start a garden. This is accomplished through an active outdoor environmental lab, a team of passionate, knowledgeable people, and a strong link from past to future promoting sustainability. Blandford offers a wide variety of experiences to support our mission and vision through dynamic partnerships and innovative programming for all ages. For more information, visit www.blandfordnaturecenter.org.

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 05/17/21

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Monday, May 17, 2021 – 7:00 p.m.
Board Room and via Zoom

Connect to Zoom from your computer, tablet, or smartphone at:
https://zoom.us/j/95578158376?pwd=SnZpV2VOU0ZNM3owTStaU3ltOHNxZz09
Meeting ID: 955 7815 8376
Passcode: 533524

I. CALL to ORDER

II. PLEDGE of ALLEGIANCE

III. ROLL CALL

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

V. PRESENTATIONS

VI. COMMUNICATIONS

VII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

VIII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

IX. CONSENT AGENDA

Approval of Special Meeting Minutes of May 3, 2021 (attachment IX-1)
Approval of Bills (attachment IX-2)
General Fund $318,732.95
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center 687.59
Food Service 1,772.50
Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage 185,518.94
Capital Projects (Bond) 52,407.16
Total Bill List $559,119.14
Acceptance of Monthly Financial Report and ACH Transactions (attachment IX-3)
Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report (attachment IX-4)
Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report (attachment IX-5)
Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report (attachment IX-6)
Approval of Personnel Report (includes confirmation of new hires, resignations, retirees, and transfers) (attachment IX-7)

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS

Continuation of the Instructional Plan (attachment X-1)
Nominate and Approve an Acting Secretary of the Board (attachment X-2)
MAISD 2021-22 General Fund Budget Resolution (attachment (attachment X-3)
MAISD Biennial Election Resolution (attachment X-4)
Resolution Authorizing the Issuance and Delegating the Sale of Bonds (attachment X-5)
MHSAA 2021-22 Membership Resolution (attachment X-6)

XI. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Elroy Buckner, Chairperson

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Jill Brott, Chairperson

Report of Committee Meeting held May 12, 2021 (attachment XIII-1)

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

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

Schedule Business & Finance Committee Meeting
Schedule Personnel Committee Meeting
Schedule Student Affairs Committee Meeting
Special Meeting, Monday, May 24th @ 6:00 pm
Retirement Celebration, June 1st – High School Cafeteria @ 4:30 p.m.
High School Graduation – Doc Pierce Field @ 6:30 p.m.
Special Meeting, Monday, June 21st @ 6:00 p.m.
Special Meeting, Wednesday, June 23rd @ 6:00 p.m.
Special Meeting, Thursday, June 24th @ 6:00 p.m.
Truth and Taxation Special Board Meeting, Monday, June 28th @ 6:30 p.m.
June Regular Board Meeting, Monday, June 28th @ 7:00 p.m.
Special Meeting, Tuesday, June 29th @ 6:00 p.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVII. ADJOURNMENT

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

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson Recognizes May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

Motorcyclists are Hard to See. Look Twice. Save a Life.

In recognition of May as national Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is encouraging drivers to exercise extra caution when driving as motorcyclists take to the road during warm weather months.

“As motorcycle traffic increases across the state, all drivers should take extra care to prevent crashes every time they get behind the wheel,” Benson said. “The simple act of taking a second look before making a turn or double-checking your blind spots can prevent crashes and save lives.”

A rider and motorcycle present a smaller profile compared to the size of most cars and trucks, meaning many drivers overlook them or do not immediately recognize them as part of traffic flow. Though it is commonly thought that motorcyclist crashes occur most often on highways, 84 percent of motorcycle-vehicle crashes actually happen on city streets. Michigan motorists are urged to remain aware of motorcyclists at all times, and especially in high-risk situations, including when changing lanes or making a left turn.

The Secretary of State’s “Look Twice — Save a Life” program aims to promote motorcycle awareness, safety and education for motorists. Drivers are encouraged to visit Michigan.gov/LookTwice for more information and safety tips.

Ask Dr. Universe – Worms

Dr. Universe: How do worms help protect the dirt? -Fisher, 7, Palouse, WA

Dear Fisher,

Worms can help the soil in a few different ways. One helpful thing worms do is move around different materials, such as leaves and grasses, and make holes in the soil.

That’s what I found out from my friend Lynne Carpenter-Boggs, a soil scientist at Washington State University, who was happy to help with your question.

“Worms are actually very strong,” Carpenter-Boggs said. “They can break through soil and make holes that allow air, water and plant roots to follow those channels.”

As the worms wriggle down into the earth, sometimes they also pull leaves and dead grass down into their burrows. These materials can break down and add important nutrients to the soil.

Meanwhile, worms sometimes bring leaves and grasses down into their burrows to save as a snack for later. For earthworms, soil is almost always what’s on the menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Worms eat all kinds of things in the soil. Scientists often call these things organic materials. This includes grasses, leaves, roots and other materials that make up the soil.

After worms digest their food, they poop. It turns out there is a particular word scientists use when they talk about earthworm poop: castings. These castings look pretty much like the dark soil and blend right into the mix. Castings are also a kind of natural fertilizer that can help plants grow.

We also find another important thing in the castings that help the soil: bacteria. Bacteria are so small we’d likely need a microscope to see them, but they also help with soil health. Different bacteria have different jobs in the soil.

Some bacteria help break down—or decompose— different organic materials. There are even some bacteria that give off the very chemicals that create that earthy soil smell. Just as various types of bacteria live in your gut, a range of bacteria also live in the guts of worms.

“We can see that there is this incredible diversity of bacteria in the earthworm stomach,” Carpenter-Boggs said.

Through digging holes, moving materials around, eating and dropping their castings, worms do a lot to help protect the soil.

When you think about it, the soil is a pretty amazing material. Soil gives worms what they need to survive, and the worms help give the soil what it needs to thrive. That’s great for animals and humans who eat plants that grow in soil, too.

The next time I go outside, I’m going to take a closer look at the soil. Maybe you can try it out, too. Perhaps you will see some rocks, roots, grasses or maybe even a wriggling earthworm. If you have a magnifying glass, you might be able to get an even closer look. Take some time to think about how important the health of the soil is to all the life that lives in it—and how important soil is to all life on our planet.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

P.S. Dr. Universe is looking for questions for an upcoming Northwest Public Broadcasting program! Do you have a science question about plants, fruits, or flowers? Or a question about rocks, volcanoes, or earthquakes? Guardians can send an e-mail to Dr.Universe@wsu.edu with the subject: Meet the Scientists to find out more!

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!

Hackley Community Care School Based Health Programs Site Closure

Behavioral Health Services Discontinued at Muskegon Covenant Academy

MUSKEGON Mich. — Hackley Community Care (HCC) School Based Health Programs behavioral health services at Muskegon Covenant Academy, ended on May 7, 2021.

HCC’s School Based Programs provided behavioral health counseling to students at Covenant Academy who are pursuing high school completion in a more flexible, non-traditional education environment, for the past 5 years.

HCC’s School Based Health Programs is committed to continuing services to Covenant Academy students and their families at one of our other locations listed below.

Students also have the option to receive services at one of our other convenient locations within Muskegon County.

Muskegon Teen Health Center (231.733.6680) offers medical, dental and mental health services. This site is located at 80 W. Southern Ave., Muskegon, MI 49441
HCC Clinton Site (231.737.1335) offers NowCare medical and mental health services. The Clinton site is located at 1550 Clinton Street, Muskegon, MI 49442
HCC Leahy Site (231.737.1335) offers medical, and mental health services. The Leahy site is located at 1675 Leahy St., Suite 103, Muskegon, MI 49442
HCC Baker Site (231.737.1335) offers medical, dental, mental health, OB and pharmacy services. The Baker site is located at 2700 Baker St., Muskegon, MI 49444

Our staff at the Muskegon Teen Health Center are available to help coordinate continued and or new services for students and their family. Appointments can be scheduled by calling the Muskegon Teen Health Center at 231.733.6680.

It has been a privilege working with the students, families and staff at Muskegon Covenant Academy. We look forward to providing continued service to you at one of the above listed HCC locations.

Ottawa County Parks & Recreation is Hiring

Ottawa County Parks & Recreation is searching for candidates interested in working outside this summer!

The opportunities are perfect for students (18+) who are home on break, retirees who want to spend more time outside, or anyone interested in parks who would like to earn extra money during the summer months.

“Ottawa County Parks has received far fewer applications than in past years and we are in urgent need of qualified candidates that have the availability to work the whole summer,” said Parks spokesperson, Jessica VanGinhoven.

Opportunities exist at parks in Holland, Grand Haven, Ferrysburg, Spring Lake, West Olive, and Jenison (near Allendale and Hudsonville). Seasonal employees that return for the next season are guaranteed a pay raise every year for the first four years.Interested candidates should review open positions and apply online.

Current Open Positions

Grounds Attendant (Seasonal, non-benefited) – $11.40 Hourly
Park Attendant (Seasonal, non-benefited) – $10.90 Hourly

miottawa.org/apply

Free Flight Experiences for Local Students at the Air Zoo

The Air Zoo Partners with STEM Flights to Offer Free Flight Experiences for Local Students.

PORTAGE, MI – The Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Center has partnered with a fellow nonprofit to deliver free educational flight experiences for middle and high school students in the greater Kalamazoo area. The flights are administered by STEM Flights’ volunteer Pilot Mentors and are designed to ignite and inspire interest in aviation and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) careers, which coupled with art (STEAM) is an ongoing initiative of the Air Zoo.

The flights utilize the cockpit of a small aircraft to highlight STEM concepts and learning while introducing youth to aviation focused careers. Because of the generosity of the volunteer Pilot Mentors and the free meeting space provided by the Air Zoo, there is no cost to the students for this incredible flight experience. A group of five area students have been selected to receive the first scheduled STEM Flight program on Saturday, May 15^th at the Air Zoo’s Flight Discovery Center.

Troy Thrash, President & CEO of Air Zoo, feels that aviation is an excellent pathway to STEM careers. “When we can inspire students with the wonders of flight, we can show them that anything is possible. Including an aviation or STEM career” Thrash noted.

STEM Flights currently has Pilot Mentors throughout the state of Michigan, and the May 15th mini event is the kickoff for a permanent program in the area. Participating students learn STEM curriculum online and are provided follow-up resources for pursuing careers in STEM and aviation after the completion of their flight.

Local students and Pilots are encouraged to sign up online with STEM Flights to participate in future flight experiences.

About STEM Flights
STEM Flights is a non-profit organization that provides customized aviation education and flight experiences to facilitate learning in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Their mission is to create positive experiences in general aviation, and inspire America’s youth to pursue STEM careers.

About the Air Zoo
Located at 6151 Portage Rd., Portage, MI 49002, the Air Zoo is a Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace & science experience with over 100 rare air & space craft, inspiring interactive exhibits, indoor amusement park rides, full-motion flight simulators, hands-on science-based education programs, and more. The Air Zoo is a not-for-profit organization and is open 360+ days per year.

For hours, tickets, safety policies and procedures as well as temporarily altered experiences due to COVID-19, visit airzoo.org/plan-your-visit.

Road Closure: 48th Ave., Fillmore St. to Bauer Rd., Starts May 17

from the Ottawa County Road Commission

WHEN: Starting on Monday, May 17, 2021

WHERE: 48th Ave., between Fillmore St. and Bauer Rd.

WHY: Culvert Replacement

BACKGROUND: Starting on Monday, May 17, 2021, the Ottawa County Road Commission (OCRC) will begin a culvert replacement project on 48th Avenue between Fillmore Street and Bauer Road in Georgetown Township.

There are 3 culverts being replaced. The 1st location is about 1,000 feet south of Fillmore St. can be reached from the north to address 9441 and 9421 from the south. This closure will be from May 17 to May 21.

The 2nd location can be reached from the north to address 8701 and the Riverstone Apartments, and can be reached from either direction. This will happen May 24 to May 27.

The 3rd location can be reached from the north to address 8840 and from the south to 8701 and Riverstone Apartments. This will happen June 1 to June 4.

DETOUR: The detour route for all three replacements is Fillmore St. to 56th Ave. to Bauer Rd.

Whitecaps Walk-Off for First Home Win Since 2019

COMSTOCK PARK, MI – The West Michigan Whitecaps were unable to hold a 7-0 lead but managed to rally for a 9-8 walkoff victory over the Great Lakes Loons Wednesday night at LMCU Ballpark – marking the ‘Caps first home victory since August 25, 2019.

Daniel Cabrera’s game-tying RBI-double in the ninth set up a wild pitch that scored the Tigers 2020 second round pick from third base to win the contest in the first walkoff victory for West Michigan since May of 2019.

The Whitecaps took advantage of poor pitching early, plating seven runs through the first three innings as the Loons committed two errors while walking six as Parker Meadows, Andre Lipcius, and Dillon Dingler combined for four RBIs to take a commanding 7-0 advantage. ‘Caps starting pitcher Garrett Hill, and bullpen arms, Zach Hess and Brendan White held down the fort for West Michigan on the mound – punching out 10 Great Lakes hitters through the first six innings while only allowing two hits – both of them solo home runs – holding the West Michigan advantage at 7-2. Great Lakes began their comeback push in the eighth as Miguel Vargas and Deacon Liput both drove in runs – narrowing the West Michigan lead to 7-4.

In the top of the ninth, the Loons loaded the bases with none out before single and a hit-by-pitch allowed a pair of Great Lakes runners to cross – ending ‘Caps closer Ruben Garcia’s night and cutting the lead to just one, 7-6. Yaya Chentouf came on in relief for the Whitecaps with the bases loaded and still none out, striking out two Great Lakes batters before two critical West Michigan fielding errors forged Great Lakes out in front by a score of 8-7. The ‘Caps responded in the bottom half, as Daniel Cabrera pulled off some late-game heroics, lacing a game-tying RBI-double before scoring on a wild pitch to send the home crowd into hysterics and put the finishing touches on a 9-8 victory, and the first Whitecaps win in West Michigan in almost two years.

Chentouf (2-0) captured his second win of the season with one inning while allowing no earned runs on a pair of strikeouts in the victory. Loons reliever, Morgan Cooper (0-1), lasted only 1.2 frames while allowing a pair of runs on two hits in his first defeat of the 2021 campaign. The Whitecaps improve to 3-4 on the season while the Loons fall to 2-6. Six West Michigan pitchers combined to strike out 13 Loons hitters – the most in a single game so far this season – while every Whitecaps hitter was able to reach base in the seesaw victory.

~UP NEXT~

This six-game series against the Great Lakes Loons continues Thursday at 6:35 pm. The Whitecaps send pitcher Chance Kirby to the mound against lefty Alec Gamboa for Great Lakes. Broadcast coverage with Dan Hasty begins on the Whitecaps Baseball Network at 6:20 pm. A limited number of tickets are available for select Whitecaps 2021 home contests by calling the Whitecaps front office at 616-784-4131 or visiting www.whitecapsbaseball.com.

Hackley Community Care NowCare Services Open at Clinton Street

MUSKEGON Mich. – Hackley Community Care (HCC) has opened NowCare Medical and Mental Health counseling services at 1550 Clinton Street. NowCare medical services include treatment for acute symptoms that require immediate care such as allergies, bites and stings, headaches, pink eye, pain, rash, insomnia, sprains, toothaches, and so on. Mental health services will include counseling for depression, anxiety, recovery from sexual abuse or childhood abuse and neglect, and other specialized physical and emotional outpatient therapy.

HCC’s expanded NowCare services are located in the 30,000 sq. ft. former Mercy Health Hackley Campus Emergency Department. “We understand that our community and particularly the surrounding downtown neighborhoods, need a healthcare resource that is closer to home, accessible via public transportation, and within walking distance. HCC is committed to continuously meeting the health care needs of the residents of Muskegon County as we have done for almost 30 years,” said Linda Juarez, Chief Executive Officer of Hackley Community Care.

NowCare medical services at 1550 Clinton Street will be provided Monday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Mental Health services hours will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Patients can make an appointment by calling 231.737.1335. Walk-ins are welcomed, and services are available to all Muskegon County residents.

“Our humble beginnings began on the Hackley Hospital campus in a little brown house,” said Juarez. “We have come full-circle, and we are humbled to be returning to our first home, to continue and enhance the health of our community.”

Hackley Community Care (HCC) is a Federally Qualified Health Center that has been providing quality, comprehensive medical, dental, mental health and pharmacy (Community Care Pharmacy) services since 1992. HCC also operates two adolescent health centers at Muskegon High School and Oakridge Middle School, and school-based health services in multiple school districts throughout the county.

Hackley Community Care Center receives federal funding from the 330 grant for health care services. For Federal Fiscal Year 2020, the program received a grant of $2,213,404 in federal funds, which constitutes 8.3% of the program budget.

Learn more at www.hackleycommunitycare.org

Major Step in Nugent Sand Acquisition Expected this Week

Phase One of Muskegon County’s Dune Harbor Park project hits milestone

Muskegon, MI – Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed off May 6 on the MDNR Trust Fund grant for Phase I of Muskegon County’s Nugent Sand acquisition after both houses of the Michigan legislature approved the Trust Fund Board’s grant recommendations on April 26.

“This is a significant step in the development of Dune Harbor Park,” said Robert Scolnik, Chairman of the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners. “This new, 377-acre recreational facility with two inland lakes and Lake Michigan access will be a popular spot for county residents and visitors alike.”

Closing for Phase I will happen in late summer 2021, at which time the County Parks Department will have 90 days to open the South Lake portion of the facility to recreational activities.

Commissioner Doug Brown, Chair of the County Board’s Community Development and Strategic Planning Committee, said, “The County has been a strong proponent of acquiring and improving lands for public recreational use. The development of the Dune Harbor Park/Nugent Sand property continues that commitment, while at the same time developing a plan to improve and promote Dune Harbor Park and the seven other parks in the Muskegon County park system.”

In late March 2021, Muskegon County submitted a grant application to the Michigan DNR for another Trust Fund grant to complete Phase II of the project, the North Lake portion of the property.

The grant proposal will be considered by the Trust Fund Board this fall and the announcement of approved grants will be in December 2021. If approved by the Trust Fund Board, Phase II will close in the late fall of 2022. Master planning for the entire Dune Harbor Park property – Phases I & II – will begin in 2022.

“We’d like to thank the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund Board, the legislature, and the Governor for advancing this project to the benefit of our community, all Michiganders, and visitors to our great state,” said County Administrator Mark Eisenbarth. “Dune Harbor Park will be a major asset to our county and provide additional recreation options for everyone.”

On Monday, May 17 at 6:00 p.m. Muskegon County Administration and the Parks Department will present a public meeting via Zoom to provide an update on the acquisition and development of the Nugent Sand/Dune Harbor Park project. A link to the meeting can be found on the Muskegon County website at www.co.muskegon.mi.us.

Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission Launches Online Portal for Public Comment

Beginning May 5, 2021, Michigan residents have a new way to participate in the Michigan Independent Redistricting Committee’s (MICRC) work with the launch of a public comment portal that will make it easy for residents to submit written comments, draw or upload maps and more.

“Robust public input is vital to the MICRC’s work of drawing fair districts representative of all Michiganders”, said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “The MICRC is making it easy for anyone in Michigan to be a part of history and participate in this citizen-led redistricting effort.”

The public comment portal is a one-stop shop for members of the public to engage in the redistricting process. This comprehensive tool was developed in partnership with the MGGG Redistricting Lab, a nonpartisan research group at Tisch College of Tufts University and procured by the Michigan Department of State (MDOS). The public comment portal enables members of the public to easily do the following:

• Submit written public comments
• Draw and submit a Community of Interest map
• Draw and submit a complete or partial district map (Congressional, Michigan House and Michigan Senate)
• Upload or link to a map/shapefile or document
• Comment on other maps or submissions

Commissioners and the public will be able to see submissions and comments in real time. The public comment portal can be found at Michigan.gov/MICRC by selecting the “Visit the Public Comment Portal” button.

Members of the public are encouraged to use the public comment portal to submit materials, however, the Commission will continue to receive email, mail and/or paper submissions and comments from the public. MDOS will continue to provide these comments to the Commission and upload them to the website for public viewing regularly.

More information about upcoming meetings and public hearings of the MICRC can be found at Michigan.gov/MICRC.

Ottawa Conservation District Receives Federal Funding

Regional Conservation Partnership Program funds will jumpstart Farmland and Water Quality Conservation Initiative, which aims to address regional natural resource concerns

WEST OLIVE — In a win for West Michigan, the Ottawa Conservation District (OCD) has been awarded project funding through the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) for their Farmland and Water Quality Conservation Initiative.

This project aims to benefit the long-term economic, social, and environmental health of Ottawa County and the surrounding area by protecting surface and groundwater quality, improving aquatic and wildlife habitat, and preserving manageable farmland in the Macatawa, Lower Grand, and Pigeon River watersheds. Along with NRCS, the OCD will be partnering with Ottawa County’s Farmland Preservation Program, the Ottawa County Groundwater Sustainability Initiative, the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council, Ottawa County Farm Bureau, neighboring conservation districts, and local townships.

This project will leverage nearly 7 million federal, state, and local dollars over the next 5 years to address the unique natural resource concerns in West Michigan, and simultaneously addresses an objective of the Groundwater Sustainability Initiative’s Proactive Strategy Index, an action plan to achieve water sustainability in Ottawa County.

Through RCPP, conservation partners such as OCD work in collaboration with NRCS to help farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners throughout the nation to implement systems that conserve water and soil resources, improve the health of wildlife habitats, and increase climate resilience. OCD and partners will offer value-added contributions to amplify the impact of RCPP funding. These projects offer impactful and measurable outcomes. Throughout its history, RCPP has leveraged partner contributions of more than $1 for every $1 invested by USDA, resulting in nearly $3 billion collectively invested in natural resource conservation on private lands.

“The Regional Conservation Partnership Program is public-private partnership working at its best,” said Terry Cosby, Acting Chief for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. “These new projects will harness the power of partnership to help bring about solutions to natural resource concerns across the country while supporting our efforts to combat the climate crisis.”

This is the first time OCD will be partnering with NRCS on an RCPP project. The project is expected to begin in the fall of 2021 and will involve numerous other partners throughout Ottawa, Kent, Muskegon, Newaygo, and Allegan counties. OCD is thankful and excited for this new opportunity to continue its mission of helping people conserve, maintain and improve natural resources and the environment for future generations.

About the Ottawa Conservation District
Ottawa Conservation District is a locally controlled resource management District created by concerned landowners and administered by a publicly elected board of directors. It was organized as a local unit of State government on May 9, 1938, under Michigan Law. The District provides local coordination for many State and Federal land and water management programs, cooperates with local government units to positively influence private land management decisions, and provides management assistance to landowners in Ottawa County. To learn more about the Ottawa Conservation District, visit ottawacd.org.

Ottawa County Partners with Merit Network to Launch Phase I of Digital Inclusion Strategy

Research and educational network will assist in data collection and analysis of broadband landscape

WEST OLIVE — It’s not surprising that high-speed internet has become a necessity. But in Ottawa County, broadband service remains inconsistent. Members of the public regularly report difficulties with connectivity, reliability, and affordability.

Ottawa County remains committed to tackling these persistent issues – and is partnering with Merit Network, a research and educational organization owned and run by Michigan’s public universities, to thoroughly understand the County’s broadband landscape. This vital first step is part of a larger, four-phase Comprehensive Digital Inclusion Strategy, a new initiative to ultimately establish universal access to affordable, reliable broadband across all areas of the County.

“Following a thorough interview process with multiple organizations that responded to a Request For Proposal issued by the County, it was clear Merit was the right choice to launch our Phase I effort,” said Paul Sachs, Ottawa County Planning & Performance Improvement Department director.

The County anticipates the extensive data collection process to commence as early as June 2021, with the analysis and reporting completed by the end of the year. With Merit’s collected data, the County can move on to the next three phases of its Digital Inclusion Strategy.

“Communities have been struggling with the ‘digital divide’ for decades, and while some progress has been made in closing the gap, inequities persist across the country. We are excited to partner with Ottawa County to take the next step in helping underserved (residents) achieve broadband internet success,” said Charlotte Bewersdorff, vice president of Marketing and Member Engagement for Merit Network.

To help cover the costs associated with Phase I, Ottawa County is being supported by a diverse group of partners from the local business, education, municipal, and nonprofit sectors.

“Our broadband strategy has to start with better data,” said Sachs. “The financial support from these community stakeholders has provided the boost we need to get started.”

The Data Problem

Why are Ottawa County and its partners taking the lead? Because state and federal regulators, as well as national providers, are under the mistaken impression that reliable, high-speed broadband service is consistently available in nearly all corners of the County.

The source of the data problem is inaccurate maps. The Federal Communications Commission maintains maps that illustrate broadband coverage across the U.S. based on Census blocks. But Census blocks vary widely in size based on population density. For example, a Census block in the city of Holland can be dramatically smaller than a block in a less densely populated township.

No matter the square mileage, if one home in a Census block has access, FCC maps record the entire block as having access, skewing the data. Additionally, the FCC relies upon internet providers to self-report where they have coverage. If a provider completes just one hookup in a given community, it is deemed the community is fully covered by that provider. These inaccurate maps have delayed and in some cases disqualified Ottawa County from qualifying for grants to improve service.

‘A grass-roots effort’

Ottawa County is developing a true public/private partnership to achieve its broadband goals. Post-pandemic, communities can no longer wait for federal and state governments to act.

“Taking steps now to improve broadband access will ensure all Ottawa County families and businesses have the tools to compete now and in the future,” said Sachs.

In addition to Phase I financial partners, the County is collaborating with an array of area businesses and public organizations, such as:
• OAISD, which has been involved from the project’s inception;
• Urban Wireless Solutions and KLA Laboratories, which are aiding to strategize and develop the broadband system;
• Representatives from the City of Holland Board of Public Works; Lakeshore Advantage; Spectrum Health; and community leaders and strategists

The County is also planning to share resources and methods with neighboring counties during this effort. Planning & Performance Improvement Director Sachs recently discussed these opportunities with the Allegan County Board of Commissioners.

“This Digital Inclusion Strategy is unique because it’s a grass-roots effort – we’re taking this on locally,” said Douglas Weber, president of Urban Wireless Solutions. “Ottawa County officials grew tired of simply talking about the problem and realized that it was time to take meaningful action. They have sought assistance from all corners of the community to develop a plan. Data collection is just the first step.”

New web page offers strategy insights

Concurrently with the kickoff of the Phase I data collection effort, Ottawa County has created an all-new web page that thoroughly breaks down the local broadband situation and the comprehensive Digital Inclusion Strategy.

Through a series of tabs, visitors can review past initiatives, walk through each phase of the strategy, and connect with resources. And, to increase transparency, phase updates will be posted periodically under the ‘Taking Action’ section of the Digital Inclusion Strategy tab. Explore the initiative today at miottawa.org/broadband.

FCS – Student Affairs Meeting Agenda – 05/12/21

Student Affairs
Wednesday, May 12, 2021
12:00 p.m. ~ via Google
meet.google.com/xmm-bddy-ywv

MEETING AGENDA

1. Fall 2021 Virtual Learning

2. Other

3. Public Comment

4. Adjournment

In Person Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday May 10, – Sunday May 16, 2021

*Please call event before attending for any changes.
Remember to wear your mask to all events*
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday May 10:

Hackley Library Crafts
Visit Hackley Library website daily to see what take home crafts they have for you. www.hackleylibrary.org 231-722-8000 Limited Supply of crafts.

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 Lakeshore Sports Arena 4470 Airline Rd. Muskegon, MI 49444 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. Social distance is required.

Tuesday May 11:

Wednesday May 12:

Art Class at City Center Arts!
1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Creative Work is Play: Express yourself with collage, acrylics, gel medium and graphite at City Center Arts located at 356 W. Western Ave. 231-571-9101.
Have some fun with Christi Dreese while creating these whimsical hearts using gel medium, acrylics, collage and graphite. Christi will have everything you need for the class but paintings tend to be more meaningful when they are created with your own collage such as family written notes, letters, old handwritten recipes, etc. Christi’s paintings have her grandmother’s old handwritten recipes from when she cooked for the schools. Bring what speaks to you! Join us for this playful class packed with mixed media techniques that will allow you to create paintings from your heart. Beginners are welcomed and great for the experienced who want a fresh approach, working towards a looser style. $80 per person.

Muskegon Flea Market Opens for the Season
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Flea Market located at 242 W. Western Ave. opens Wednesday, May 5, at 8:00 AM. Flea Market open every Wednesday, May – October.

Crochet Basics: Cup Cozy
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
In this CROCHET BASICS: CUP COZY class at Art Council of White Lake located at 106 E. Colby, you’ll learn the basics and beyond! This class is designed for people who have little-to-no crochet experience. Ambitious beginners are Welcome! All supplies will be provided for you. Each project will use approximately 3 oz of yarn, a 5mm crochet hook, a yarn needle, and a button. All of these supplies will be yours to keep!
● Crocheting is good for mental health because it requires mindfulness. As you crochet, you need to pay attention to each stitch, the movement of your hook or needle, your breath, your stitch count.
●“When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future”
Registration is required. Register here: https://www.artswhitelake.org/…/crochet-basics-cup-cozy-2 Class is $50 per person. $45 if members.

Thursday May 13:

Friday May 14:

Hackley Attic Escape Room
5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Experience the Hackley House located at 484 W. Webster phone is 231-722-7578 as you never have before! For many years, the Hackley Attic has been a mysterious place for visitors. Now it is up to you and your closest friends to escape a Victorian storage room filled with puzzles, locks, and riddles. Brush up on your Muskegon history and escape the attic in 80 minutes! $20 for members & $25 for non-members Purchase tickets via Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hackley-attic-escape-room-tickets-136840424393 Space is limited to 10 people per session, so be sure to order your tickets quickly!

Sangria’s and Sidewalk Sales
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Join Bellasimi Boutique located at 1989 Lakeshore Dr. and Sip on sangria’s & shop their sidewalk sales, (Spring/Summer items, Seasonal & Last One Items)
We will be launching new arrivals in-store & offering a few in-store promotions in addition to the sale.

Saturday May 15:

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 Day once a month throughout the season each featuring a different theme. These are open-house style events from 11am-4pm. No RSVP required.

White Lake Community Business Expo
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Take a first-hand look at the diverse products and services offered by White Lake Area businesses at the 8th Annual White Lake Community Business Expo, OUTSIDE at the Whitehall Football Stadium (541 East Slocum Street) . The Expo, presented by the White Lake Area Chamber, is FREE to the public!

Sangria’s and Sidewalk Sales
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Join Bellasimi Boutique located at 1989 Lakeshore Dr. and Sip on sangria’s & shop their sidewalk sales, (Spring/Summer items, Seasonal & Last One Items)
We will be launching new arrivals in-store & offering a few in-store promotions in addition to the sale.

Art Council of White Lake -Nuveen Artisan Market
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Shop for artwork located at 8660 Water St. created by local artisans! Work will include pottery, home decor, macrame, soaps, greeting cards, and more. There will also be either an on-site craft activity or take-home art kits, sponsored by the City of Montague. For questions please call 231-893-1155

Boomtown Market Craft Beer & Wine Tastings
10:00 am – 7:00 pm
BoomTown Market, 351 W. Western Ave
Boomtown Market 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! If you like it, we’ll can a 32 ounce-er for you right then and there!

Ongoing Programs:

Adult Programs:

Youth Services Programs:

Know a kid with a science question?

*Please call event before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events* Please check our website for virtual events happening www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday May 17:

Tuesday May 18:

Wednesday May 19:

Thursday May 20:

Friday May 21:

Saturday May 22:

Sunday May 23:

Know a kid with a science question?

Current Open Positions

The Data Problem

‘A grass-roots effort’

New web page offers strategy insights

Monday May 10:

Tuesday May 11:

Wednesday May 12:

Thursday May 13:

Friday May 14:

Saturday May 15:

Sunday May 16:

Please call event before attending for any changes.
Remember to wear your mask to all events
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org