Author Archives: editor

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday Jan. 4, – Sunday Jan. 10, 2021

Please call 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 January 4:

Visit Muskegon Winter Contest
January 1 – February 26
Visit Muskegon invites you to join our inaugural winter contest; filled with outdoor adventure, amusement, art…and prizes!
• Instructions to Enter
∙ Snap a photo of one of the designated stops or suggested activities listed on the map
∙ Share the photo on Facebook with the hashtag #SnowMuchFunInMuskegon
∙ Make sure the setting is “public” so we can find your post.
∙ The more stops and activities you share, the more entries you receive
∙ Send one Facebook message to Visit Muskegon; simply say “Snow Much Fun” (this way we can contact you if you are a winner!)
∙ Entries will be collected and numbered in a Visit Muskegon photo album
∙ Every Friday between Jan 8 – Feb 26, 2021 Visit Muskegon will use Random.org to choose a number from the album of collected photos (the more photos you share, the more chances you have to win!)
∙ Once a photo is selected as a winner it may not qualify for further prizes. However, the same entrant may win with a different photo(s)
∙ If a prize is not claimed within 5 days, it will be added to the next week’s drawing

Coat, Hat & Winter Gear Drive
January 4 @ 8:00 am – January 21 @ 5:00 pm
You can free up closet space in your home while helping community members stay warm through winter by donating your gently used or new Coats*Hats*Gloves*Boots* Scarves! Donations will be provided to local United Way partners that provide assistance to individuals and families facing adversity. For additional information, visit their website www.unitedwaylakeshore.org, or you can give them a call at (231) 332-4006. Visit Muskegon has a collection box during the hours Monday – Thursday 10-3 and Friday 10-2. You can bring your donations to us at 610 W. Western Ave. Muskegon. Thank you

Hackley Park Holiday Light Display
Ongoing until January 11, 2021
Bring the family to Hackley Park to enjoy festive lights and decorations that include Santa, polar bears, toy soldiers, reindeer, a nativity, music makers, a Christmas train and more! There’s a lot of holly jolly photo opportunities for you and your family. Watch the 2020 Lighting of the Christmas Tree here: bit.ly/TreeLightingMKGchannel (Thanks MuskegonChannel!)

‘Who is Rosie Lee Wilkins? Piecing Together Her History’ Exhibit
In her lifetime, Rosie created over 100 quilts and unfortunately, her story was left unfinished. Along with highlighting some of her quilts—which are only a part of her legacy—visitors to the exhibit will get a behind the scenes look at how the museum staff worked to research and piece together the history of Rosie’s life. www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278

Tuesday January 5:

Coat, Hat & Winter Gear Drive
January 5 @ 8:00 am – January 21 @ 5:00 pm
You can free up closet space in your home while helping community members stay warm through winter by donating your gently used or new Coats*Hats*Gloves*Boots* Scarves! Donations will be provided to local United Way partners that provide assistance to individuals and families facing adversity. For additional information, visit their website www.unitedwaylakeshore.org, or you can give them a call at (231) 332-4006. Visit Muskegon has a collection box during the hours Monday – Thursday 10-3 and Friday 10-2. You can bring your donations to us at 610 W. Western Ave. Muskegon. Thank you

The Art of the People: Contemporary Anishinaabe Artists Exhibit
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W. Webster Ave. is featuring nationally recognized and early career Native American artists, artworks in a wide array of media that combine cultural traditions and imagery with contemporary sensibilities and themes. Open daily 11-4 and closed Monday. 231-720-2570

Russell Prather: Layers and Light Exhibit
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
At the Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W Webster you will see Russell Prather Layers and Light features the work of artist Russell Prather in this solo installation-style exhibition of his most recent works. Open daily 11-4 and closed Monday 231-720-2570

‘Who is Rosie Lee Wilkins? Piecing Together Her History’ Exhibit
Quilts are made from an endless combination of patterns, colors, fabrics, and techniques. Along with highlighting some of her quilts—which are only a part of her legacy—visitors to the exhibit will get a behind the scenes look at how the museum staff worked to research and piece together the history of Rosie’s life. www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278

Wednesday January 6:

Coat, Hat & Winter Gear Drive
January 6 @ 8:00 am – January 21 @ 5:00 pm
You can free up closet space in your home while helping community members stay warm through winter by donating your gently used or new Coats*Hats*Gloves*Boots* Scarves! Donations will be provided to local United Way partners that provide assistance to individuals and families facing adversity. For additional information, visit their website www.unitedwaylakeshore.org, or you can give them a call at (231) 332-4006. Visit Muskegon has a collection box during the hours Monday – Thursday 10-3 and Friday 10-2. You can bring your donations to us at 610 W. Western Ave. Muskegon. Thank you

Thursday January 7:

Coat, Hat & Winter Gear Drive
January 7 @ 8:00 am – January 21 @ 5:00 pm
You can free up closet space in your home while helping community members stay warm through winter by donating your gently used or new Coats*Hats*Gloves*Boots* Scarves! Donations will be provided to local United Way partners that provide assistance to individuals and families facing adversity. For additional information, visit their website www.unitedwaylakeshore.org, or you can give them a call at (231) 332-4006. Visit Muskegon has a collection box during the hours Monday – Thursday 10-3 and Friday 10-2. You can bring your donations to us at 610 W. Western Ave. Muskegon. Thank you

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

Friday January 8:

Coat, Hat & Winter Gear Drive
January 8 @ 8:00 am – January 21 @ 5:00 pm
You can free up closet space in your home while helping community members stay warm through winter by donating your gently used or new Coats*Hats*Gloves*Boots* Scarves! Donations will be provided to local United Way partners that provide assistance to individuals and families facing adversity. For additional information, visit their website www.unitedwaylakeshore.org, or you can give them a call at (231) 332-4006. Visit Muskegon has a collection box during the hours Monday – Thursday 10-3 and Friday 10-2. You can bring your donations to us at 610 W. Western Ave. Muskegon. Thank you

Hike the Lights – Naturally Socially Distanced
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Michigan’s source for winter fun, the Muskegon Luge & Adventure Sports Park located at 462 Scenic Drive is having their trail lights on each night for you to hike, run, skip, or walk on your hands! Stay healthy with fresh air and social distance. The lodge will not be open at this time. There is a restroom at the east end of the parking lot. Dogs are welcome on a 6’ leash please. www.msports.org

Saturday January 9:

Coat, Hat & Winter Gear Drive
January 9 @ 8:00 am – January 21 @ 5:00 pm
You can free up closet space in your home while helping community members stay warm through winter by donating your gently used or new Coats*Hats*Gloves*Boots* Scarves! Donations will be provided to local United Way partners that provide assistance to individuals and families facing adversity. For additional information, visit their website www.unitedwaylakeshore.org, or you can give them a call at (231) 332-4006. Visit Muskegon has a collection box during the hours Monday – Thursday 10-3 and Friday 10-2. You can bring your donations to us at 610 W. Western Ave. Muskegon. Thank you

Show Us Your Shanty
January 9 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Pigeon Hill Brewing is having a party and YOUR ice shanty is invited!
Itching to go fishing but there’s no ice? Practice setting up your ice shanty in the The Brewer’s Lounge at Pigeon Hill parking lot located at 895 Fourth St., and make a fun filled afternoon of being outdoors with friends and family.
They’ll be serving beer and Righteous Cuisine food truck will be on site serving delicious burritos, nachos and tacos from 12-5! To participate, RSVP by Thursday, January 7th. All participants will be emailed on Friday, January 8th with instructions for set up. Each Ice Shanty is limited to 6 people max and masks must be worn at all times except when in your ice shanty. Questions: 231-375-5184
To participate, RSVP here: https://forms.gle/SpqW5WhZyBeEtjwK6

Lakeshore Museum Center Second Saturdays
January 9 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Join Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay as they open their doors the second Saturday of the month for guests to enjoy all the museum has to offer! The STEM Center will be open by registration for 30-minute time slots, and the hands-on Science Center will be open throughout the afternoon. Scavenger hunt sheets will be available and kids will receive a take-and-make activity related to one of the exhibits to complete at home. Masks are required to enter the museum. Be sure to check back the day of your visit for any last minute safety updates or changes. 231-722-0278 www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Muskegon Farmers Indoor Winter Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market,
242 W. Western Ave.
The Muskegon Farmers Market will be open indoors Saturdays until May. Hours are 8 am to 2 pm 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 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!

Sunday January 10:

Coat, Hat & Winter Gear Drive
January 10 @ 8:00 am – January 21 @ 5:00 pm
You can free up closet space in your home while helping community members stay warm through winter by donating your gently used or new Coats*Hats*Gloves*Boots* Scarves! Donations will be provided to local United Way partners that provide assistance to individuals and families facing adversity. For additional information, visit their website www.unitedwaylakeshore.org, or you can give them a call at (231) 332-4006. Visit Muskegon has a collection box during the hours Monday – Thursday 10-3 and Friday 10-2. You can bring your donations to us at 610 W. Western Ave. Muskegon. Thank you

The Art of the People: Contemporary Anishinabek Artists Exhibit
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W. Webster Ave. is featuring nationally recognized and early career Native American artists, artworks in a wide array of media that combine cultural traditions and imagery with contemporary sensibilities and themes. Open daily 11-4 and closed Monday. 231-720-2570

At the Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W Webster you will see Russell Prather Layers and Light features the work of artist Russell Prather in this solo installation-style exhibition of his most recent works. Open daily 11-4 and closed Monday 231-720-2570

Ask Dr. Universe – Tree Sap

Dr. Universe: Why do trees have sap? -Aliyah, 8, Kirkland, WA

Dear Aliyah,

Just as blood moves important stuff around the human body, sugary sap moves important things around a tree.

My friend Nadia Valverdi told me all about it. She’s a researcher at Washington State University who studies how apple and cherry trees survive in different environments.

When we eat food, like a delicious apple or a handful of cherries, we get important nutrients.

Along with some help from the digestive system, our blood helps carry nutrients to different parts of the body to keep us strong.

Trees need nutrients, too. They use their roots to suck up nutrients and water from soil. They also have the ability to make their own food: sugars.

Trees absorb sunlight through their leaves and can use this energy from the sun to make sugars from water, carbon dioxide gas from the air and a few other ingredients.

A lot of sugars are made in the leaves, but they don’t do the tree much good if they just stay in one spot. The sugars have to get to other parts of the tree to help it survive. That’s where the sap comes in.

“Its main task is to make sure that every organ is well-fed and growing,” Valverdi said.

While our blood moves through tube-like veins and arteries, sap flows through two different tube-like parts of the tree.

One part, called xylem, moves important stuff like water and nutrients from the bottom of the tree to the top—from its roots to its leaves.

The other part, called phloem, moves important stuff from the leaves to other parts of the tree, such as the branches, roots and fruit.

I asked Valverdi how a sticky, gooey liquid like sap could move through these tubes. After all, sap doesn’t seem to move on its own.

It turns out that some liquids, such as sap, can move through a narrow space without any help from gravity or other outside forces.

This can happen in plants or trees when sap escapes through tiny, microscopic holes in the leaves. When sap molecules escape the leaf, more sap molecules move in to fill the empty space and keep the sap flowing upwards through the tree.

It’s a phenomenon we find happening everywhere from house plants to big apple trees to celery stalks.

“All trees and plants have sap,” Valverdi said. “The difference is that sometimes in big trees, we can see it with our eyes because it is more gooey.”

One really gooey kind of sap you might have seen before comes from sugar maple trees. You may even put it on your pancakes or waffles. You guessed it, maple syrup is a kind of sap.

Just like us, trees have systems that help them move important stuff around. These systems help the plants survive. When trees do well, that’s good for us, too. They do so many things for us from making the oxygen we all breathe to giving us delicious fruit to eat.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

You can learn more about the xylem and phloem in this simple activity using food coloring, water and some celery. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIug9Foou3s

Know a kid with a science question?

With help from my friends at Washington State University, we’re investigating tough and smart questions from curious kids around the world.

Submit a question!

Ask Dr. Universe – Stained Glass

Dr. Universe: How do people stain glass to make it all the colors it can be? – Emily, 10, Edmonds, WA

Dear Emily,

Ever since humans discovered they could use sand to make glass, they’ve been experimenting with it. They even learned how to control the colors.

My friend Dustin Regul is a stained glass artist and painter who teaches fine arts at Washington State University. He told me more about where glass gets its color.

“It’s actually metals that help change the color of the glass,” he said.

We can add these metals to glass in the form of a compound. A compound is a combination of one or more elements. For example, table salt is a compound made up of the elements sodium and chloride.

Yellow glass can be made using a compound called cadmium sulfide. Red glass can come from adding gold chloride. Manganese dioxide can make glass purple. Blue glass comes from adding the compound cobalt oxide.

Glassmakers add in compounds when they melt the sand. The temperature has to be just right for everything to work. They heat the sand to about 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit—that’s even hotter than lava. As the melted sand cools, it becomes glass.

It turns out, glass made from melted sand doesn’t always instantly become transparent. The glass sometimes has its own natural color.

“You can imagine really old glass bottles,” Regul said. “They kind of have that bluish or greenish tinge.”

Glassmakers also figured out that a compound called sodium nitrate could help clear up the glass.

Regul said glass is a pretty unusual material. It’s not a solid or a liquid. Scientists call it an amorphous solid, which means a state somewhere in the middle of those two states of matter. It’s also a very fragile material.

Regul must be very careful when he works on stained glass projects. Before he gets started, he makes a plan and draws out his design on paper.

Next, he cuts up the paper drawing into pieces. It’s a guide that will help him as he cuts pieces of glass into shapes with a special glass cutting tool. Finally, he uses copper tape to connect the pieces together and applies heat to seal it all up.

In medieval times, when stained glass first became really popular, people used a different technique. The glass pieces were held together with long strips of a bendy material made of lead. On each side of the lead strip was a little channel where the edge of glass could be tucked in. And like the technique Regul uses, adding heat to the strip helped keep the glass in place.

Humans can use these really small pieces of glass—in all sorts of colors—to form a bigger picture or story. Whether you are in the lab or the studio, it’s amazing what you can create and discover when you set your mind to it.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

P.S. Be sure to check out the Ask Dr. Universe podcast on Spotify, iTunes, or at https://askdruniverse.buzzsprout.com/.

Know a kid with a science question?

With help from my friends at Washington State University, we’re investigating tough and smart questions from curious kids around the world.

Submit a question!

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Sunday Dec. 27, 2020 to Monday Jan. 4, 2021

Our office will be closed Dec. 24-Jan. 3
Please call before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Sunday December 27:

Getty Drive-In Theatre
5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
The Getty Drive-In Theatre has continued to stay open Friday, Saturday and Sunday to serve our community with holiday shows. www.celebrationcinema.com and shows will begin each evening beginning at 5:30. See shows like Frozen, Santa Clause with Tim Allen. Other showings might be Freaky and Vanguard. They are located at 920 E. Summit Ave. 231-798-2608 for what is showing this week

Taste of Muskegon Restaurant Bingo
Ongoing until December 31
Support Muskegon’s restaurants and you could win!
How to Play: Pick up a bingo card at the visitors bureau or www.tasteofmuskegon.org/tastemkgbingo
1. Visit a restaurant in each column of the Taste of Muskegon bingo card (they don’t need to be in the same row).
2. Make a purchase of food, drinks, gift cards or holiday gifts at each of the 5 restaurants between December 7 and December 31, 2020.
3. Post a picture of your purchase on social media with #TasteMkgBingo.
4. Submit your entry on tasteofmuskegon.org by January 2, 2021 at Noon.
5. Winners of $25 restaurant gift cards will be announced on the Taste of Muskegon Facebook page on January 4-8. You’ll earn an entry for every set of five restaurants (one in each column) that you visit!

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
5:30 pm -11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 5:30 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Monday December 28

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
5:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 5:30 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Who is Rosie Lee Wilkins? Piecing Together Her History’ Exhibit
In her lifetime, Rosie created over 100 quilts and unfortunately, her story was left unfinished. Along with highlighting some of her quilts—which are only a part of her legacy—visitors to the exhibit will get a behind the scenes look at how the museum staff worked to research and piece together the history of Rosie’s life. www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278

Tuesday December 29

Wednesday December 30

Thursday December 31

Celebrate NYE – Farewell to 2020 Hotel Room Package
December 31, 2020 – January 3, 2021
New Year’s Eve Delta Hotel Package
You are invited to ring in the New Year with a loved one at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Muskegon Lakeshore Convention Center. Package Includes: – Bottle of Champagne and two champagne flutes – NYE Party Favors for two – Overnight Accommodations in our spacious, redesigned guest rooms with HDTV’s to watch the ball drop at midnight – Late checkout of 1pm
Celebrate all weekend long and take advantage of our “Stay and Save” Special!
Stay the weekend and you will receive 30% off on your second – or even third night with us! to book www.marriott.com/reservation/rateListMenu.mi

Shoreline Inn New Year’s Eve Package
December 31, 2020 @ 4:00 pm – January 1, 2021 @ 1:00 pm
Book our New Year’s Eve Package and enjoy 1 bottle of sparkling wine, 2 champagne flutes & hats/favors for two – plus the room type of your choice!
Rates vary based on the room type. Sleep in and have late check out at 1:00pm . For rates & availability call us at (231) 727 – 8483!

Friday January 1

Happy New Year!

Lakeshore Antique Trail Sales
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Don’t miss this huge sale on the trail January 1, 2021. Go along the shoreline from Muskegon to South Haven and visit the antique stores and malls http://www.lakeshoreantiquetrail.com/ 616-836-6553

Snow Much Fun Outdoor Discovery Tour Contest
Jan 1-Feb 28
Pick up your Discovery map at Visit Muskegon located at 610 W. Western Ave. or download from our website www.visitmuskegon.org. Check-In at any or all of the outdoor, fun locations on the map, take a photo and #SnowMuchFunInMuskegon on Facebook. Those that participate have an opportunity to win weekly prizes along with discounts at Hanks Tavern, Walkers, Bellacino’s and Dr. Rolf’s when you show your map. The stops on the map are all FREE and fun family activities to enjoy winter in Muskegon! (You will need a recreation pass to enter parks)

Saturday January 2

Sunday January 3

Monday January 4

Coat, Hat & Winter Gear Drive
January 4, 2021 @ 8:00 am – January 21, 2021 @ 5:00 pm
You can free up closet space in your home while helping community members stay warm through winter by donating your gently used or new coats! Coats*Hats*Gloves*Boots*Scarves! Donations will be provided to local United Way partners that provide assistance to individuals and families facing adversity. For additional information, visit their website www.unitedwaylakeshore.org, or you can give them a call at (231) 332-4006. Visit Muskegon has a collection box during the hours Monday – Thursday 10-3 and Friday 10-2. You can bring your donations to us at 610 W. Western Ave. Muskegon. Thank you

Instructions for Participating in the December 28th Fruitport Village Special Council Meeting

The Village Council meeting will be held on Monday December 28th at 6pm. Due to COVID-19 it will be done as a teleconference call. To participate you will need to call 1-844-474-0925 and use a passcode of 57182580 followed by the # sign. The meeting will start at 6pm but the phone line will be open at 5:45pm to allow for you to join prior to the opening of the council meeting. Just like a regular meeting the public will be given an opportunity to talk during the Public Comment portion of the meeting. If possible, please mute your phone if you participate and only unmute if you make a public comment. Thank you.

Fruitport Village Special Council Meeting Agenda – 12/28/20

SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
MONDAY DECEMBER 28TH, 2020
6PM

1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
3. PUBLIC COMMENT

OLD BUSINESS
4. REDUCING COUNCIL SIZE

5. PUBLIC COMMENT
6. WARRANTS

7. ADJOURNMENT

Village of Fruitport Council Meeting Minutes – 11/16/20

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
COUNCIL MEETING
NOVEMBER 16TH, 2020

1. Call to Order
President Roger Vanderstelt called the meeting to order at 7:05pm.

2. Roll Call
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Amy Haack, Carl Rothenberger, Jeff Guiles, Ann LaCroix
Absent: Bill Overkamp (excused)

3. Approval of November 16th Meeting Agenda
Motion made by Amy to approve the November 16th meeting agenda, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

4. Approval of the October 19th and October 26th Council meeting minutes
Motion made by Amy to approve the October 18th and October 26th meeting minutes, supported by Roger. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

5. Public Comment
None

6. Correspondence
None

7. Reports from Officers
Amy advised that we wait until after the Master Plan is complete to apply for the MSU Sustainable Built Environment Initiative. Amy also reported on the business that contacted Jay to set up a summer business in the park. She checked with our attorney regarding liability issues. Ann reached out to the business asking for more specific information and they have not responded.
Carl had nothing to report.
Jeff had nothing to report.
Roger had nothing to report.

8. Oath of Office
Roger took the President oath of office. Jeff took the council member oath of office.

9. ZBA Appointment
Roger made a motion to appoint Matt Slagle to the Zoning Board of Appeals Committee, supported by Amy. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS None
Absent: Overkamp

10. WMSRDC Appointment
Roger advised that due to the resignation of Jay Bolt and appointment needs to be made to the MPO Technical Committee. Amy gave a brief background of the Committee. Roger made a motion to appoint Justin Clish, DPW Supervisor to the WMSRDC MPO Technical Committee, supported by Amy. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS None
Absent: Overkamp

11. Reducing Council Size
Amy suggested that the council consider reducing its size from 7 to 5. She advised it would be easier to fill seats in the council or other committees. There would be a cost savings of about $4000.00 per year. She spoke to our attorney about it and explained that we would need a 2/3rd affirmative vote, public hearing, and resolution. Council discussed the idea. It will be tabled until the December meeting.

12. Planning Commission open council position
Roger advised that due to the resignation of Jay Bolt there is an open position on the Planning Commission. A discussion took place. Roger made a motion to appoint Jeff to the Planning Commission, supported by Carl. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS None
Absent: Overkamp

13. 7th & Peach
Roger advised that he spoke to Brenda Moore, Muskegon County Drain Commissioner regarding 7th & Peach. She advised it is not a county drain. He will investigate more and report back to council on the possible process for clean-up.

14. End of Brooks repair
Roger described the issue at the end of Brooks Road. Quotes were reviewed. Motion made by Roger to accept the bid from Tiles in the amount of $7464.00 paid out of the Major Streets fund, supported by Jeff. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS None
Absent: Overkamp

15. Sidewalks to be removed
Roger advised he would like to table this item until next spring.

16. Catch Basin repair issue
The recent repair of the Catch basins had issue and needs to be fixed. Bids were reviewed. Motion made by Amy to accept the bid from Christian Concrete in the amount of $432.50 to repair the catch basins, supported by Carl. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS None
Absent: Overkamp

17. 2020 3rd Ave Project
Amy and Roger both discussed a recent walk through of the project with representatives from the parties involved. A punch list of 45 items was determined. Amy will send the punch list to the council. The Engineer will make sure all items are corrected. The process may go through next spring.

18. Kayak Launch
Amy advised that she along with Roger participated in a Zoom meeting about finalizing details of the kayak launch.

19. Playground
Amy advised that the committee is continuing to work with Sinclair Recreation on 2 design concepts and 2 locations to present to council soon.

20. Village Logo/Motto
Amy asked that everyone refer to the email she sent out with logo designs received from our consultant. A discussion took place on which designs the council preferred. A couple of suggestions were made. Amy will check back with the consultant to make the changes and review again at the next council meeting.

21. Public Comment
None

22. Warrants
Ann added another warrant of $505.00 from Christian Concrete to the warrants. Motion made to approve all warrants, including the added warrant of $505.00, supported by Carl. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS None
Absent: Overkamp

23. Adjournment
Motion made by Amy to adjourn the meeting at 8:09pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,

Ann LaCroix
Clerk

Village of Fruitport Special Council Meeting Minutes – 10/26/20

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 26th, 2020

1. Call to Order
President Roger Vanderstelt called the meeting to order at 6:03pm.

2. Roll Call
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Amy Haack, Carl Rothenberger, Bill Overkamp and Ann LaCroix
Absent: Donna Pope, Jay Bolt and Jeff Guiles (excused).

3. Approval of October 26th Meeting Agenda
Motion made by Amy to approve the meeting agenda, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

4. Public Comment
None

5. Sidewalk & Cath Basin Quotes
Roger advised of an error in the quotes voted on at the last council meeting. The low bid was Christian Concrete not RA Holmes. Carl made a motion to grant the bid to Christian Concrete in the amount of $2835.00 instead of RA Holmes bid of $3475.00, supported by Roger. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None
Absent: Pope, Bolt and Guiles.

6. 8th Avenue Quotes
Roger reviewed 2 bids for the work on 8th Avenue. Motion made by Bill to accept the bid from Dirt Works in the amount of $11,657.97 and the cost to be split between the Major and Local Streets fund, supported by Carl. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None
Absent: Pope, Bolt and Guiles.

7. Public Comment
None

8. Adjournment
Motion made by Amy to adjourn the meeting at 6:12pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,

Ann LaCroix
Clerk

Village of Fruitport Council Meeting Minutes – 10/19/20

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
COUNCIL MEETING
OCTOBER 19TH, 2020

1. Call to Order
President Roger Vanderstelt called the meeting to order at 7:00pm.

2. Roll Call
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Amy Haack, Carl Rothenberger, Jay Bolt, Jeff Guiles, Ann LaCroix and Bill Overkamp (arrived at 7:12 excused)
Absent: Donna Pope (excused)

3. Approval of October 19th Meeting Agenda
Roger asked to add Site Plan for Waypoint Dock & Deli to the agenda under New Business and 8th Avenue Drain. Motion made by Jay to approve the agenda with the requested additions, supported by Jeff. Amy stated that items as important as these should not be added when requiring review, the afternoon of the meeting. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

4. Approval of the September 29th Council meeting minutes
Motion made by Amy to approve the September 29th minutes, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

5. Public Comment
None

6. Correspondence
None

7. Reports from Officers
Amy will report under agenda items.
Carl discussed the adopted plan of limiting visits to the DPW and wearing of masks. He spoke about council members entering the DPW without masks and recent issues of COVID exposure. Carl questioned if the council wants to adhere to the requirement of limiting access to the DPW unless absolutely necessary, requiring a mask at all times, temperature taking and social distancing. Council supports this plan.
Bill gave an update on the power boxes and photo eyes on 3rd Avenue.
Jay discussed a letter received from a business asking to set up a summer business in the park. This will be on next months agenda and contact will be made with our attorney regarding it.
Jay advised that the Planning Commission sent their recommendations to the Planning Consultant for the initial Master Plan update.
Jeff asked council if we should cancel Halloween. Amy shared what local communities are doing. It is left up to the parents and residents to make their own decision about trick or treating since the Village doesn’t host any type of event.
Roger advised that he receive a report regarding 7th & Peach water issue. He would like to add this to next month’s agenda. The DPW crew is researching the cost of an aerator for the Park. He hopes to have quotes for the next council meeting.

8. Reimbursing Council for Expenses
A discussion took place about reimbursing Roger for an ink cartridge. Motion made by Carl to reimburse Roger $40.27 for an ink cartridge, supported by Jeff. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Bolt, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None
Absent: Pope
Due to COVID other expenses may come up for council members. A policy may need to be established for future procedures for reimbursements.

9. Catch Basins
Roger reviewed the bids for both the sidewalks and catch basins. He suggested the work go to one contractor to be completed. Council agreed. Motion made by Bill to contract RA Holmes at a cost of $3475.00 to complete the sidewalk work and 3 spillways on 6th Avenue, supported by Jeff. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Bolt, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None
Absent: Pope

10. Sidewalk on 6th Avenue
This was addressed under the above agenda item.

11. Waypoint Dock & Deli Site Plan
Jay advised that the Planning Commission reviewed the site plan for Waypoint Dock & Deli. The Commission recommends approval of the site plan since it has complied with the zoning ordinance. The parcel owner the parcel owner and the Village president suggested that rip rap be constructed between the new garage structure and the sidewalk. The parcel owner agreed to work with the Village to make this happen at the time of construction. Roger to approve the site plan with the understanding the parcel owner will work with council on the rip rap, supported by Bill Motion made by. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Bolt, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None
Absent: Pope
Council member Amy stated that items as important as this should not be added to the agenda the day of the meeting and should be on the agenda that is available for public viewing prior to the meeting.

12. 2020 3rd Avenue Project
Jay advised that 99% of the paving is completed and that the contractors are on track to complete the new traffic signal work.

13. MSU Sustainable Built Environment Initiative
Amy gave an overview of the initiative. This is something to pursue after the Master Plan update has been completed. Amy advised the $7500.00 cost may be reduced and/or a 3-payment plan could be put in place.

14. Village Logo/Motto
She shared the council input with David Jirousek. His designer is working on five concepts for review by council.

15. Kayak Launch
Amy has been in recent contact with Matt Levandoski, Prein & Newhof. Matt would like to meet with Roger and Amy about the launch, signs, and benches. Soon donation letters for the kayak launch will be sent to potential donors.

16. Playground
Amy gave a recap of the meetings with the playground consultant. Input was provided to the consultant and they are currently designing a few concept drawings.

17. 8th Street Quote
Roger advised that the work to fix the culvert on 8th Street is more involved. The previous quote was $3935.00 the new quote is $12,067.00. Roger made a motion to put in back out for bid, supported by Jeff. Roll call
AYES: Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Bolt, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYS: None
Absent: Pope
A special council meeting will be scheduled for Monday October 26th at 6pm to review new bids.

18. Public Comment
None

19. Warrants
Motion made by Amy to approve the warrants, supported by Jeff. Roll Call
AYES: Rothenberger, Haack, Overkamp, Bolt, Guiles and Vanderstelt
NAYS: None
Absent: Pope

20. Adjournment
Motion made by Jeff to adjourn the meeting at 8:12pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,

Ann LaCroix
Clerk

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday Dec. 21, 2020 to Saturday Dec. 26, 2020

Our office will be closed Dec. 24-Jan. 3
Please call 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 December 21:

Tuesday December 22:

Who is Rosie Lee Wilkins? Piecing Together Her History’ Exhibit
Quilts are made from an endless combination of patterns, colors, fabrics, and techniques. Along with highlighting some of her quilts—which are only a part of her legacy—visitors to the exhibit will get a behind the scenes look at how the museum staff worked to research and piece together the history of Rosie’s life. www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278

Wednesday December 23:

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
5:30 pm-11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 5:30 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Thursday December 24:

Little Learners STEM Playgroup
10:00 am – 11:00 am
You are invited to join a special Play and Learn program at the Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay 231-722-0278 on the fourth Thursday of each month. (note Nov & Dec are on the third Thursday due to holidays). During this program participants will be invited into one of two rooms for a story time inside. Then both groups will head outside for socially distanced playtime. Registration via Eventbrite is required but there is no charge for this program. All attendees must register including caregivers & siblings. Due to the current restrictions 10 people will be allowed in each story room. Registration link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/little-learners-stem-playgroup-tickets-119465268835. Also in consideration of current health concerns we will temp check everyone at the door, and while inside the museum everyone over 2 years of age will need to wear a mask according to our current policy. Outside we kindly ask that adults wear masks, but children are not required to. This program will run for 50-60 minutes, 15-20 inside and the rest outside. During this program adults and children will have fun learning through songs, stories, sensory stations, motor skills stations, art and more, all with a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) theme! Every two months we will feature a new theme and book for participants to take home for free! Themes: Nov/Dec: Bones Jan/Feb: Snakes Mach/April: Volcanoes & Earth Science May/June: Turtles

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
5:30 pm-11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 5:30 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Friday December 25:

Happy Holidays

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
5:30 pm-11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 5:30 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Saturday December 26:

Getty Drive-In Theatre
5:30 pm-9:00 pm
The Getty Drive-In Theatre has continued to stay open Friday, Saturday and Sunday to serve our community with holiday shows. www.celebrationcinema.com and shows will begin each evening beginning at 5:30. See shows like Frozen, Santa Clause with Tim Allen. Other showings might be Freaky and Vanguard. They are located at 920 E. Summit Ave. 231-798-2608 for what is showing this week

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
5:30 pm – December 31 @ 11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 5:30 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Holiday Artist Market
Ongoing until December 19 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Give the gift of art and support local artists at City Center Arts located at the lower level of Century Club Retail Center 231-571-9101 Artists will be on hand on Friday and Saturday from November 27th through December 19th showcasing locally made, unique gift items. www.citycenterarts.com

Sweetwater Local Foods MarketSweetwater 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 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!

Village of Fruitport Council Meeting Agenda – 12/21/20

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
AGENDA
DECEMBER 21ST, 2020
COUNCIL MEETING

1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approval of December 21st Council Meeting Agenda
4. Approval of November 16th meeting minutes
5. Public Comments (limited to 3 minutes each)
6. Correspondence
7. Reports from Officers

New Business
8. Planning Commission appointment
9. Commemorative bench

Old Business
10. Reducing Council Size
11. 7th & Peach
12. 2020 3rd Ave Project
13. Kayak Launch Update and Approval of Purchases
14. Playground
15. Village Logo/Motto

16. Public Comment (Limited to 3 minutes each)
17. Warrants
18. Adjournment

Instructions for Participating in the December 21st Fruitport Village Council Meeting

The Village Council meeting will be held on Monday December 21st at 7pm. Due to COVID-19 it will be done as a teleconference call. To participate you will need to call 1-844-474-0925 and use a passcode of 57182580 followed by the # sign. The meeting will start at 7pm but the phone line will be open at 6:45pm to allow for you to join prior to the opening of the council meeting. Just like a regular meeting the public will be given an opportunity to talk during the Public Comment portion of the meeting. If possible, please mute your phone if you participate and only unmute if you make a public comment. Thank you.

Ask Dr. Universe – Exercise

Dr. Universe: Along with many others, we are at home during the coronavirus pandemic and Layla (5 1/2) has been learning new exercises to stay healthy. Layla would like to ask: WHY and HOW does exercise help our bodies? She would also like to know what the best exercise is for our bodies.

Dear Layla,

When we exercise, it helps the body and mind in so many different ways.

One important muscle that benefits from exercise is the heart. Maybe you’ve felt your heart beat harder and faster when you run or climb at the playground.

As the heart gets stronger, it also gets better at pumping blood around the body. That’s really important because your blood is full of oxygen you need to help fuel all your body’s systems.

That’s what I found out from my friend Chris Connolly, an associate professor at Washington State University who knows a lot about the science of exercise.

“Exercise is good for the systems inside your body. Your heart, your lungs and your digestive system,” Connolly said. “It’s also really good for your mind.”

When you are active, you are improving your memory, creativity and even critical thinking skills.

Many studies have found that kids who exercise before a test get better scores. Tests can be stressful, but exercising can help reduce all kinds of nervousness. It’s a great way to help us calm down.

>From the heart to the mind, exercise is one way we can care for our bodies. And with so many different kinds of exercises to try, I just had to find out which one was best.

“The best exercise we can do is the one we are going to do consistently the rest of our lives,” Connolly said.

He reminded me humans have different abilities and interests, so how we exercise will look a little different for each person. Find the exercise that’s just right for you and stick with it.

Connolly likes to lift weights and go running. He and his family sometimes build obstacle courses in their yard, too. I don’t know about you, but I think that sounds like a fun way to help stay fit. As for me, I like to explore the outdoors, stretch and climb trees.

Like you, I enjoy trying out new ways of exercising. The question you asked inspired me to try these different exercises that had me hopping like a frog, crawling like a crab, waddling like a duck and stretching out my arms and legs like a starfish. Maybe you can try them, too.

It turns out people need different amounts of exercise as they get older. A lot of kids ages three to five get all the exercise they need just from playing. For kids who are older than five, an hour of physical activity a day can help strengthen bones and build muscle. Meanwhile, adults need about 150 minutes of exercise a week.

It’s important to stay active throughout our entire life, so it’s good to hear you are learning some new exercises. You’re off to a great start. Next time you do your favorite exercises, think about all the wonderful things you are doing for your body and all the things your body does for you.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Know a kid with a science question?

With help from my friends at Washington State University, we’re investigating tough and smart questions from curious kids around the world.

Submit a question!

Fruitport Board of Education Regular Monthly Meeting Minutes – 12/14/20

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
December 14, 2020 7:00 p.m.
Virtual via Zoom

Zoom Conference Log-In:
https ://zoom.us /j/97271624201?pwd=YzdvMGJ 2cit2Z2xpS 3QrUi82elBLdz09

I. The Regular meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 7:06 p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

II. The PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited.

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

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 20-138. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Buckner to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

V. PRESENTATIONS
None.

VI. COMMUNICATIONS
None.

VII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Superintendent, Bob Szymoniak gave a COVID-19 report. He shared information on the vaccine schedule, the positivity rate in our area, mitigation strategies, the district’s return to school decision making process, the extreme sub shortage, Michigan’s quarantine law vs. CDC recommendation, and our new contact tracer, Amy Upham.

Board member, Jill Brott spoke about her concerns regarding the sub shortage.

Curriculum Director, Allison Camp advised additional “premium” subs had been hired.

VIII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Edgewood teacher, Lisa Dirkse addressed the board regarding concerns she and some of her co-workers shared with regard to working in the classroom during the COVID-19 pandemic.

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 20-139. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Franklin to approve the Consent Agenda as listed below:
1. Approval of Special Board Meeting Minutes of November 18, 2020
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 7-0

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Reconfirmation of the Instructional Plan.
Item 20-140. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Franklin to approve the proposed Instructional Plan which begins December 15, 2020 an ends January 18, 2021 as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

2. May 2021 Bond Application.
Item 20-141. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to approve the Bond Application as presented and instruct Board Secretary, Steve Kelly to sign it.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XI. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of a committee meeting held virtually December 7, 2020.
Elroy Buckner reported on a Business and Finance Committee meeting held virtually December 7, 2020. Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Mark Mesbergen, Jeff Grossenbacher and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed an ECC Rate Increase, the Technology Servers, a Chromebook Purchase, and the Instructional Plan.

2. Early Childhood Center Tuition Increase.
Item 20-142. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the $5.00 per week, per child increase to the Early Childhood Center daycare rate.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

3. Server and SAN Replacement.
Item 20-143. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the recommendation to replace the district’s server and Storage Area Network as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

4. Chromebook Purchase.
Item 20-144. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the purchase of 890 Chromebooks as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of a committee meeting held virtually December 7, 2020.
Steve Kelly reported on a Personnel Committee meeting held virtually December 7, 2020. Steve Kelly, Tim Burgess, Mark Mesbergen, Dave Hazekamp, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed Hazard Pay for ECC, a Pay Increase for ECC, and the Instructional Plan.

2. Early Childhood Center Hazard Pay.
Item 20-145. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Brott to approve a salary increase and one-time bonus for the early childhood staff as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of a committee meeting held virtually December 9, 2020.
Jill Brott reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held virtually on December 9, 2020. Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, Allison Camp, Jill Brott, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed the Learning Plan and “StudySync”, a curricular resource.

2. StudySync.
Item 20-146. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Franklin to approve “StudySync” textbooks for 6th – 11th grade ELA as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Kris Cole reported that the high school Robotics team will be moving into their new lab as soon as it is safe to do so. He also mentioned that the middle school robotics team was meeting virtually and working on their machine.

XV. AGENDA ITEMS for FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF ANY SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Business and Finance Committee will meet January 11, 2021 at 11:30 a.m.
2. Personnel Committee will meet January 11, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.
3. Student Affairs Committee will meet January 13, 2021 at 12:00 p.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Item 20-147. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0
The meeting adjourned at 8:13 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly
Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of November 23, 2020

This meeting was held virtually via Zoom.com due to COVID-19.

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, November 23, 2020, via Zoom electronic meeting.

Members Present: Todd Dunham, Supervisor; Andrea Anderson, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Jim Fichtel, Greg Hulka, Terry Knoll, David Markgraf (All members participating remotely from Fruitport, Michigan)
Members Absent: none

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

Also Present: 6- residents; 5- employees; 0- guests; Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli; Director of Public Utilities, Steve Biesiada; Attorney, Ron Bultje.

Rose Dillon moved, Greg Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the minutes of November 9, 2020 as presented.
Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dillon, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll, Markgraf
Nays: None

Andrea Anderson moved, Jim Fichtel seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the agenda as presented with the following addition:

Item 8-G: Resolution for Temporary Emergency Measures

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

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1. Brian Michelli COVID has caused issues with staffing the Public Safety departments; the departments are following current COVID policies and directives; new Police Officer Zandi is on the road now, helping to reduce overtime.
2. Steve Biesiada shared that the DPW is finishing the annual valve turning program; construction will be happening on Airline Rd. for the new Nesson Cable building.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS:
1. Travis Nadeau from the Parks Commission shared why he would like to recommend Karen Johnson to fill the Parks Commission vacancy.
2. Rick Tice shared that he is interested in the Parks Commission seat.
3. Karen Johnson shared that she would like to be appointed back onto the Parks Commission and she believes consistency and the knowledge of the parks history would be beneficial.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: none

NEW BUSINESS:

20-121 Committee Appointments
Todd Dunham: Public Safety, DPW
Andrea Anderson: Cemetery, Elections
Rose Dillon: Public Safety
Jim Fichtel: Cemetery, Elections
Greg Hulka: DPW, Elections
Terry Knoll: Public Safety, Cemetery
David Markgraf: DPW, Planning Commission Liaison

Terry Knoll moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the appointments to the Public Safety, DPW, Cemetery, Elections, and Planning Commission committees.

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

20-122 Open Parks Seat Discussion
The Township Board has 45 days after the election to appoint a member to fill the open seat.
Todd Dunham moved, Terry Knoll seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to TABLE the appointment until the next meeting.
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

20-123 Anti-Blight and Junk Vehicles Ordinance Discussion
This would be an enforcement ordinance, therefore there is no option to be grandfathered. Our current ordinance pertaining to junk vehicles is within a zoning ordinance and would be better suited as an enforcement ordinance.

20-124 Quarterline Rd. Cell Tower Lease Agreement Changes
American Tower Corporation proposed changes pertaining to term length, non-compete, and the tax section.
Terry Knoll moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to not accept any changes to the current lease agreement.
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

20-125 Public Safety Director Evaluation and Contract Renewal
Supervisor Tice gave Brian Michelli a review before her term ended and that review was shared. Brian requested a 2% salary increase and an additional year be added to the length of the contract.
Terry Knoll moved, Greg Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to increase the salary of the Public Safety Director, Brian Michelli, 2% to $98,851.00, and approve the requested changes, and extend his contract with changes as presented for one year.
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

20-126 Defined Contribution Plan Agreement Addendum
The Township’s pension program is through MERS. The update is to include that part-time Fire Fighters shall receive 5% pension after 4 years of continual service.
Rose Dillon moved, Andrea Anderson seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution to complete the Defined Contribution Plan Adoption Agreement Addendum.
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

20-127 Resolution for Temporary Emergency Measures
The resolution would allow the Supervisor, Clerk, and Treasurer together to make decisions regarding the cancellations of meetings, the issuance of checks in payment of invoices, office hours or closures, etc in accordance with public safety and emergency directives that surround the COVID-19 virus.
Andrea Anderson moved, Davis Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the Resolution for Temporary Emergency Measures as presented with an expiration date of May 1, 2021.
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None

20-128 Payment of bills
Terry Knoll moved, Andrea Anderson seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $57,277.37; Public Safety $23,440.50; Water $14,371.44; Sewer $1,792.26; Trust & Agency $651.00; Street Lights $14,249.39
Totaling: $111,781.96
Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dillon, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll, Markgraf
Nays: None

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:
1. A letter from the Muskegon County Drain Commissioner that was distributed to residents along the Kuis Drain was shared.
2. Todd Dunham thanked Heidi Tice for a smooth transition in the Supervisor’s office.
3. Travis Nadeau would like closure with a decision on the open Parks Commissioner seat and asked what the Parks Commission could bring to the Board.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none

Terry Knoll moved, David Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adjourn the meeting at 8:12pm.
Ayes: Fichtel, Hulka, Dillon, Dunham, Anderson, Knoll, Markgraf
Nays: None

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK
HEIDI TICE, SUPERVISOR

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday Dec. 14 to Sunday Dec. 20

Please call 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 December 14:

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 6:00 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

‘Who is Rosie Lee Wilkins? Piecing Together Her History’ Exhibit
Quilts are made from an endless combination of patterns, colors, fabrics, and techniques. The maker stitches these different parts to one another to create a one-of-a-kind quilt. Like a quilt, our lives are made of strips that must be sewn together to create a story with a lasting legacy. Details, stories, and objects are all pieces of our lives that can be combined in endless ways. Even one missing piece leaves the story incomplete and the quilt unfinished. In her lifetime, Rosie created over 100 quilts and unfortunately, her story was left unfinished. Along with highlighting some of her quilts—which are only a part of her legacy—visitors to the exhibit will get a behind the scenes look at how the museum staff worked to research and piece together the history of Rosie’s life. www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278

Tuesday December 15:

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
6:00 pm -11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 6:00 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Wednesday December 16:

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
6:00 pm-11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 6:00 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Thursday December 17:

Little Learners STEM Playgroup
10:00 am – 11:00 am
You are invited to join a special Play and Learn program at the Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay 231-722-0278 on the fourth Thursday of each month. (note Nov & Dec are on the third Thursday due to holidays). During this program participants will be invited into one of two rooms for a story time inside. Then both groups will head outside for socially distanced playtime. Registration via Eventbrite is required but there is no charge for this program. All attendees must register including caregivers & siblings. Due to the current restrictions 10 people will be allowed in each story room. Registration link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/little-learners-stem-playgroup-tickets-119465268835. Also in consideration of current health concerns we will temp check everyone at the door, and while inside the museum everyone over 2 years of age will need to wear a mask according to our current policy. Outside we kindly ask that adults wear masks, but children are not required to. This program will run for 50-60 minutes, 15-20 inside and the rest outside. During this program adults and children will have fun learning through songs, stories, sensory stations, motor skills stations, art and more, all with a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) theme! Every two months we will feature a new theme and book for participants to take home for free!
Themes:
• Nov/Dec: Bones
• Jan/Feb: Snakes
• March/April: Volcanoes & Earth Science
• May/June: Turtles

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
6:00 pm-11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 6:00 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Friday December 18:

Muskegon Polish Festival GRAB BAG Fundraiser
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Stop by the Polish Falcons, located at 1014 W. Hackley Ave. for the Muskegon Polish Festival GRAB BAG Fundraiser. Make a $10 doanation and recieve a cooler bag filled with assorted goodies. Each bag is filled with lots of surprises. You just might pick a lucky one and win some nice prizes! These also make make fun gifts for family and friends during the holiday season. This is a two day fundraiser taking place Friday December 18 from 7:00pm – 8:00pm and Saturday December 19 from 10:00am – Noon

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
6:00 pm-11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 6:00 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

Saturday December 19:

Muskegon Polish Festival GRAB BAG Fundraiser
10:00am – Noon
Stop by the Polish Falcons, located at 1014 W. Hackley Ave. for the Muskegon Polish Festival GRAB BAG Fundraiser. Make a $10 doanation and recieve a cooler bag filled with assorted goodies. Each bag is filled with lots of surprises. You just might pick a lucky one and win some nice prizes! These also make make fun gifts for family and friends during the holiday season. This is a two day fundraiser taking place Friday December 18 & 19

Bat’n Club Christmas Light Show
November 30 @ 6:00 pm – December 31 @ 11:00 pm
Bat’n Club is pleased to announce that the Christmas light show will begin at 6:00 PM and run until 11:00 PM every night. This is our way of giving back to the community who has supported us now for over 36 years. Please simple rules, no parking right in front of the fence, please think of others wanting to get a spot and not social distance your vehicle, just stay in it. Take you headlights off auto on. There is a grass area in the front, if needed feel free to park on it. Each show is 25 minutes long with new shows starting every hour and half hour. Tune your radio to 88.1 to hear the music. Please enjoy and protect yourself and those you love. Location address is 2544 Barclay St. & Sherman Blvd.

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!

Sunday December 20:

Please remember to check our website www.visitmuskegon.org for the virtual events happening every day.

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 12/14/20

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

DECEMBER 14, 2020

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

This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.com in order to fight the spread of COVID-19 and comply with current gathering limitations.
Information to access the meeting:
Meeting ID: 977 3468 8695
Passcode: 138228
Join by phone: 1-312-626-6799 US Toll

1. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
2. Roll call
3. Approval of board minutes: 11/23/20
4. Approve / amend agenda
5. Correspondence / reports
6. Public comments regarding agenda items

7. Unfinished Business
A. Appoint Parks Commissioner
B. First Reading: Anti-Blight and Junk Vehicles Ordinance

8. New Business
A. Budget Amendments
B. DDA Board and Citizen’s Council
C. Reappoint Steve Paul to ZBA
D. Reappoint BOR Members
E. December 28th Meeting
F. Senior Services Mileage Funding- Kathy Moore

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

Board member email addresses for which the public may use to make contact prior to the meeting:
Todd Dunham, Supervisor: tdunham@fruitporttownship.com
Andrea Anderson, Clerk: aanderson@fruitporttownship.com
Rose Dillon, Treasurer: rdillon@fruitporttownship.com
Greg Hulka, Trustee: ghulka@fruitporttownship.com
James Fichtel, Trustee: jfichtel@fruitporttownship.com
Terry Knoll, Trustee: tknoll@fruitporttownship.com
Dave Markgraf, Trustee: dmarkgraf@fruitporttownship.com

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 12/09/20

Student Affairs Committee
Wednesday, December 9, 2020
12:00 p.m. ~via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86348946255?pwd=WHl1NU1GTEZ6UlhISnVDYWhwbGdUUT09
MEETING MINUTES

Attendance: Allison Camp, Susan Franklin, Jill Brott, Dave Hazekamp, Bob Szymoniak

1. Reconfirmation of the Instructional Plan was discussed.

2. The committee approved the curricular resource “StudySync” to be placed on the Board agenda for action.

Meeting adjourned at 12:53 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 12/07/20

Personnel Committee
Monday, December 7, 2020
5:00 p.m. ~ via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84090815186?pwd=bHg0T2xsRDFCS3RhUmtRWFBHbFJlQT09
MEETING MINUTES

Attendance: Tim Burgess, Steve Kelly, Dave Hazekamp, Mark Mesbergen, Bob Szymoniak

1. A hazard pay opportunity for Early Childhood Center staff was discussed.

2. A pay increase for Early Childhood Center staff was discussed due to changes to minimum wage.

3. The reconfirmation of the instructional plan was discussed.

Meeting adjourned at 5:17 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 12/07/20

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, December 7, 2020
11:30 a.m., Board Room and via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81268918785?pwd=dGVpTE4wN3hmMkVxZUkvQjU2WmVJQT09
Meeting Minutes

Attendance: Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Bob Szymoniak, Jeff Grossenbacher, and Mark Mesbergen

1. ECC Rate Increase
Mark presented a recommendation from Pam Bergey to increase the tuition. The increase in tuition is to cover minimum wage increasing and an increase for her staff.

2. Technology Servers
Mark and Jeff presented a recommendation to replace our servers and storage. The servers are starting to get old (aging from 8 to 12 years) and there was just an issue that could have potentially caused Fruitport to be closed due to the issue. The cost of the complete replacement is $27,411 coming out of the Technology Fund.

3. Chromebook Purchase for 2022
Mark and Jeff presented the chromebook purchases for the upcoming school year. The lead time is around 6 months so we need to order them soon in order for them to get here before the next school year. Jeff is recommending to purchase 890 chromebooks for a total cost of $213,705.90 ($29,527.20 will come out of Title 1 and the rest will come out of the Technology fund).

4. Reconfirmation of the Instructional Plan
Bob presented an update regarding the educational plan.

Meeting adjourned at 12:04 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 12/14/20

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Virtual via Zoom
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/97271624201?pwd=YzdvMGJ2cit2Z2xpS3QrUi82elBLdz09
Monday, December 14, 2020 – 7:00 p.m.

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
1. Approval of Special Board Meeting Minutes of November 18, 2020 (attachment IX-1)
2. Approval of Bills (attachment IX-2)
General Fund $106,812.41
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center -1,729.20
Food Service 65,091.78
Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage 497.50
Capital Projects (Bond) 30,906.35
Total Bill List $201,578.84

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

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Reconfirmation of Instructional Plan (attachment X-1)
2. May 2021 Bond Application (attachment X-2)

XI. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Elroy Buckner, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held December 7, 2020 (attachment XI-1)
2. Early Childhood Center Tuition Increase (attachment XI-2)
3. Server and SAN Replacement (attachment XI-3)
4. Chromebook Purchase (attachment XI-4)

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held December 7, 2020 (attachment XII-1)
2. Early Childhood Center Hazard Pay (attachment XII-2)

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Jill Brott, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held December 9, 2020 (attachment XIII-1)
2. StudySync (attachment XIII-2)

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

XV. AGENDA ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Schedule Business & Finance Committee Meeting
2. Schedule Personnel Committee Meeting
3. Schedule Student Affairs Committee Meeting

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.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Tuesday Dec. 8 to Sunday Dec. 13

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

Tuesday December 8:

Taste of Muskegon Restaurant Bingo
December 7 – December 31
Support Muskegon’s restaurants and you could win!
How to Play: Pick up a bingo card at the visitors bureau or www.tasteofmuskegon.org/tastemkgbingo
1. Visit a restaurant in each column of the Taste of Muskegon bingo card (they don’t need to be in the same row).
2. Make a purchase of food, drinks, gift cards or holiday gifts at each of the 5 restaurants between December 7 and December 31, 2020.
3. Post a picture of your purchase on social media with #TasteMkgBingo.
4. Submit your entry on tasteofmuskegon.org by January 2, 2021 at Noon.
5. Winners of $25 restaurant gift cards will be announced on the Taste of Muskegon Facebook page on January 4-8. You’ll earn an entry for every set of five restaurants (one in each column) that you visit!

Hackley Park Holiday Light Display
November 26, 2020 – January 11, 2021
Bring the family to Hackley Park to enjoy festive lights and decorations that include Santa, polar bears, toy soldiers, reindeer, a nativity, music makers, a Christmas train and more! There’s a lot of holly jolly photo opportunities for you and your family. Watch the 2020 Lighting of the Christmas Tree here: bit.ly/TreeLightingMKGchannel (Thanks MuskegonChannel!)

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570 1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Who is Rosie Lee Wilkins? Piecing Together Her History’ Exhibit
Quilts are made from an endless combination of patterns, colors, fabrics, and techniques. The maker stitches these different parts to one another to create a one-of-a-kind quilt. Like a quilt, our lives are made of strips that must be sewn together to create a story with a lasting legacy. Details, stories, and objects are all pieces of our lives that can be combined in endless ways. Even one missing piece leaves the story incomplete and the quilt unfinished. In her lifetime, Rosie created over 100 quilts and unfortunately, her story was left unfinished. Along with highlighting some of her quilts—which are only a part of her legacy—visitors to the exhibit will get a behind the scenes look at how the museum staff worked to research and piece together the history of Rosie’s life. www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278

Wednesday December 9:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Thursday December 10:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Friday December 11:

Holiday Artist Market
November 27- December 19 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Give the gift of art and support local artists at City Center Arts located at the lower level of Century Club Retail Center 231-571-9101 Artists will be on hand on Friday and Saturday from November 27th through December 19th showcasing locally made, unique gift items. www.citycenterarts.com

Saturday December 12:

Coconut Bath Bomb Christmas Ornaments Workshop
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Join Artist Sabryna Benmark as she teaches students how to make natural coconut oil bath bombs. $15 per person. Each registration fee includes all the materials to make 3 bath bomb ornaments and the class instruction. Additional bath bombs can be made for $10 per each set of 3. You will also get to keep the molds. 25% of the proceeds from this workshop will go to the McLaughlin Community Fellowship, where it is hosted and located at 1198 Spring St. Website:
https://slbenmark.wixsite.com/naturalcreations/store/Coconut-Bath-Bomb-Christmas-Ornaments-Workshop-p125479533

Cookie Crawl Downtown Muskegon
9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Come to our annual cookie crawl in Downtown Muskegon! Get a cute tin for $25 and fill it with cookies /treats from our participating vendors. Begin by picking up your tin from the Muskegon Farmers Market during our designated times which will be emailed to you after signing up. On December 12, visit the participating businesses during the times provided. (Don’t worry we will be sending you a map and list of participating hours.) It’s going to be so fun and you’ll walk away with an amazing tin full of cookies to enjoy. Tickets available online at: http://www.eventbrite.com/…/downtown-muskegon-cookie…
Participating Businesses: Rake Beer Project,18th Amendment, United Way of the Lakeshore, Morat’s Bakery, Subway, The Crue, The Cheese Lady, The Front Porch, Hackley Public Library, City Center Arts, Hot Rod Harley-Davidson,
Forrest Tax & Accounting Services, West Michigan Injury Lawyers, Harris and Willow, Lemon Blossom, McDonald’s Candies, Muskegon Farmers Market,
Y Knot Embroidery, Skee Tee’s, Thrive Pop, Soap Dudes, Muskegon Inspired &
Underground Cookie Club. If the event is canceled, refunds will be issued. Refunds will not be issued if you are unable to attend.

Sweetwater Local Foods MarketSweetwater 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 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!

Sunday December 13:

Please remember to check our website www.visitmuskegon.org for the virtual events happening every day.

Ask Dr. Universe – Down Internet

Dr. Universe: Why does the internet go down? -Mia, 11, Sheridan, Wyoming

Dear Mia,

The internet has helped many people connect with classmates, friends and family during the pandemic. But you’re right, sometimes the connection gets lost.

My friend Dingwen Tao, an assistant professor of computer science at Washington State University, said we can think about the internet like a highway of information.

You may remember from our question about how the internet works that information, like the data that makes up your favorite cat video or science website, travels through electronic signals we cannot see with our eyes.

Tao said these electrical signals can also move through a system of underground wires and cables. The cables and wires run from where you are using the internet to a local internet office to a regional internet office.

One reason the internet might go down is that there is a broken link between these locations. Or these links might get overloaded with information.

“You and your neighbors can share the same link connected to the central office,” Tao said. “It’s like people are sharing the same road, but sometimes if too many people are using the same road, there will be a lot of traffic.”

When there is more information than the links—like those cables or the electrical signals— can handle, then the internet might go down.

Tao said there are few other things that can get in the way of electrical signals.

For example, even a thick wall can block Wi-Fi signals that carry information delivering, say, your favorite podcast. If you are in one room and the router—a device that picks up signals and pushes them to their destination—is in another room, you may lose the signal.

Nature can also play a part in making your internet go down, said Tao. A tree may fall down and knock out some wires during a big storm, or a fire may cause damage to cables.

The disaster could even be hundreds of miles away from you and closer to the regional internet office. But because you are connected to the central office, you and your neighbors might still lose your internet service.

The connections we can make online are important, so many people around the world are helping bring internet to places that don’t have internet access or where the internet is really slow.

Here in Washington, some of my friends at the university are working on a project to help people across the state get access to the internet, including in rural places. The work is helping students get the technology they need to go to school online, so they can keep learning.

As you learn more in school, you may discover more about the innerworkings of the internet. Whenever the internet goes down, there are people who use their deep knowledge of the technology and great problem-solving skills to help us figure out what might be wrong.

They help us get back on the information highway, so we can stay connected—even when we are stuck at home.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Know a kid with a science question?

With help from my friends at Washington State University, we’re investigating tough and smart questions from curious kids around the world.

Submit a question!

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of November 9, 2020

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, November 9, 2020, in the township board room.

This meeting was also held virtually via Webex due to COVID-19 and gathering limitations.

Members Present: Heidi Tice, Supervisor; Andrea Anderson, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Greg Hulka, Jeff Jacobs, Terry Knoll, Denise Winebarger
Members Absent: none

At 7:00pm, Heidi Tice opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a prayer.

Also Present: 8- residents; 0- employees; 2- guests; Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli; Director of Public Utilities, Steve Biesiada.

Terry Knoll moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the minutes of October 26, 2020 as presented.

Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: None

Heidi Tice moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the agenda as presented.

Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: None

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1. Brian Michelli reported that Covid-19 cases are on the rise and encouraged practicing safety measures.
2. Steve Biesiada shared that the DPW is working to winterize hydrants; 2005 Chevy 2500 DPW truck has been sold by closed bid.
3. Heidi Tice shared a letter received from a resident on Sheridan Rd. regarding a storm water problem; Shared a letter from Fruitport Community Schools stating that the School Board has opted out of participation in the DDA; Shared that she sent the letter of support for the casino project; Gave update on the Safe Routes to School Project- stalled by Covid, few people willing to give easement; Reported that there was an emergency culvert replacement on Brooks Rd. costing approximately $4,500.00.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS:
1. Ron Cooper of Fruitport in regards to the DDA he feels that water and sewer extensions should be paid for by hookup fees; does not want tax payer money to be used for development.
2. Denny Cherete of Grand Haven stated that the advantages of a DDA would not be exclusive to his property.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

20-115 Second Reading and Adoption: Downtown Development Authority Ordinance
The Supervisor gave an update from the Muskegon County Commissioners’ meeting that they have not opted out at this time. The Supervisor also strongly encouraged the in-coming Board to adopt a plan with a 15 year term in order to work to align with the County’s wishes. The Board was in favor of a 10-15 year plan. It was made clear that the DDA plan must be approved by the Township Board and that the DDA cannot use funds for things outside of the plan.

Terry Knoll moved, Heidi Tice seconded, MOTION CARRIED to adopt the Downtown Development Authority Ordinance, as presented to the Board with the boundary of the District as described in Exhibit A.

This constitutes the second and final reading of Ordinance No. 822.

Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon
Nays: Winebarger, Hulka

20-116 Second Reading and Adoption: Zone Change Amendment Ordinance- Hts. Ravenna
Andrea Anderson moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt ordinance #823 to amend the Township’s zoning map by changing the zoning classification from R-4 Residential-Agricultural District to B-2 General Business District for parcel number 61-15-112-100-0026-00 or 3523 Hts. Ravenna Rd., Muskegon, MI 49444 as recommended by the Planning Commission.

At a public hearing on October 20, 2020, the Planning Commission gave the following reasons supporting the zone change:

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

This constitutes the second and final reading of Amendment Ordinance No. 823.

Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

NEW BUSINESS:

20-117 Resolution Appointing a Designated Assessor
The Township must appoint a designated Assessor every 5 years.

Denise Winebarger moved, Greg Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution to appoint Donna VanderVries as the designated Assessor.

Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: None

20-118 Speed Limit Sign Request- Trailside
A resident has requested that the Township provide a speed limit sign be placed in Trailside subdivision.

No motion was made.

20-119 Approval to Increase Assistant Assessor Pay Per Contract
Heidi Tice moved, Greg Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve the pay increase of the Assistant Assessor per the collective bargaining agreement once she completes the required assessing classes.

Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: None

20-120 Payment of bills
Jeff Jacobs moved, Andrea Anderson seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $6,824.89; Public Safety $1,734.96; Water $279,891.71; Sewer $980.01; Trust & Agency $1,695.00
Totaling: $297,126.57

Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: None

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:
1. Denise Winebarger asked for an update on the truck route signs. Heidi Tice replied that they are on order.
2. Heidi Tice shared that a bid for new “Welcome to Fruitport” signs will be coming.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none

Terry Knoll moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adjourn the meeting at 7:41pm.

Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK
HEIDI TICE, SUPERVISOR

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Agenda – 12/09/20

Student Affairs
Wednesday, December 9, 2020
12:00 p.m. ~ via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86348946255?pwd=WHl1NU1GTEZ6UlhISnVDYWhwbGdUUT09

MEETING AGENDA

1. Reconfirmation of the Instructional Plan
2. Textbook Adoption: StudySync
3. Other
4. Public Comment
5. Adjournment

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Agenda – 12/07/20

Personnel Committee
Monday, December 7, 2020
5:00 p.m. ~ via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84090815186?pwd=bHg0T2xsRDFCS3RhUmtRWFBHbFJlQT09

MEETING AGENDA

1. Reconfirmation of the Instructional Plan
2. Other
3. Public Comment
4. Adjournment

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Agenda – 12/07/20

Business and Finance
Monday, December 7, 2020
11:30 a.m. ~ via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81268918785?pwd=dGVpTE4wN3hmMkVxZUkvQjU2WmVJQT09

MEETING AGENDA

1. ECC Rate Increase
2. Technology Servers
3. Chromebook Purchase for 2022
4. Reconfirmation of the Instructional Plan
5. Other
6. Public Comment
7. Adjournment

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday Nov.-30 to Sunday Dec.-6

Please call 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 November 30:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Tuesday December 1:

Wednesday December 2:

Festival of Wreaths Downtown Muskegon Wreath Walk
November 24 – December 6
The Muskegon Museum of Art in collaboration with downtown businesses and organizations, is organizing a new version of its annual Festival of Trees to a Wreath Walk event that people can enjoy from the sidewalk or street. Each participating downtown business or organization will host a designer wreath provided by the art museum in a window facing the street or sidewalk from November 24 – December 6. The MMA will also have a small gallery display of decor during the run of the Festival. A walking map with the location of all the wreaths will be available at the MMA Store and at participating businesses starting November 24. A digital version of the map will be available at www.muskegonartmuseum.org. 231-720-2570

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Thursday December 3:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Friday December 4:

Saturday December 5:

Holidays in Lakeside
December 5
Get in the spirit of the season with “Holidays in Lakeside”, a fun family event featuring visits with Santa, carriage rides, a bake sale, tree lighting, holiday shopping and a myriad of other merry making activities. It’s happening December 5 in the Lakeside District. Please remember to social distance and wear your face mask to protect you and others. For more information, visit www.lakesidedistrict.com.

Tree Lighting in Lakeside
6:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Join the Tree Lighting in Lakeside’s Pocket Park with a socially distanced drive by or drive in (parking across the street) celebration this year. Saturday, December 5, 6:00pm in Pocket Park on Lakeshore Dr

Hackley and Hume Home Holiday Tours
2:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Experience the Hackley and Hume homes this holiday season in candlelight. Please call before going to make sure event is still happening. 231-722-7578 Visitors can experience the houses decorated for Christmas. No registration
required. The homes are located at 484 W. Webster Ave. Members get free admission during all of the holiday tour days/hours. Admission Prices for non members: Adults $15 Seniors (65 +) $12 Kids (2-12) $5

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Sweetwater Local Foods MarketSweetwater 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 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!

Sunday December 6:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Please remember to check our website www.visitmuskegon.org for the many virtual events happening every day.

Ask Dr. Universe – Pins and Needles

Dr. Universe: Why do we get pins and needles when we don’t move for a long time? -Jocelyn, 9

Dear Jocelyn,

If you’ve ever had a leg or an arm “fall asleep,” the nerves in your brain and body were sending you an important message.

That’s what I found out from my friend Darrell Jackson, a researcher at Washington State University who studies how drugs affect the nervous system.

The nervous system is made up of bundles of nerve fibers that help humans think, feel and navigate the world. These nerves also help people sense things like temperature, vibrations, pressure and pain.

Jackson said you may feel pins and needles when your nerves get too compressed or squished down. We call this experience paresthesia (pear-ES-theesha).

It takes something called mechanical energy to compress the nerves. This energy might be the pressure from your head resting against your hand during a nap or the pressure on your legs while sitting crisscross applesauce.

When the nerves feel this pressure, they activate a kind of electrical energy. That’s right, you are full of electricity. The body and brain use electrical signals to send information to each other.

The nerves in your tingling leg, arm, foot or hand, can send information along your spinal cord which stretches from the lower back to the brainstem.

“From there, you are relaying the message from the spinal cord to an area of the brain called the diencephalon,” Jackson said.

The message continues on to a section of your brain called the somatosensory cortex. It’s here that you actually become aware, or perceive, that your leg is tingling or that your hand feels like it’s full of sand.

“Once you get up and you start moving around, you’ll get information immediately,” Jackson said.

All of this information moves through the brain and body really fast—about 11,679 feet per second. That’s like running nine laps around a standard running track in a single second.

When the body senses this tingling pain, it activates another pathway in the body. The brainstem helps send information back down to the spinal cord to make the body less painful and less tingly.

If you compress your nerves for too long, it can damage your ability to sense the world. The pins-and-needles feeling can be a useful strategy to protect your nerves and keep you healthy.

Our nerves are really important, and there are more than 7 trillion in the human body. Jackson reminded me our nerves not only help us sense pain but also play a big role in the reason why we have memories.

Jackson said one unsolved mystery about the brain is exactly how humans store their memories. Scientists are still really curious about it. But that’s a question for another time.

The next time you experience paresthesia, maybe you will remember something you learned from investigating this very question. Maybe you will take a moment to remember all the amazing things your body and brain do for you each day.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Know a kid with a science question?

With help from my friends at Washington State University, we’re investigating tough and smart questions from curious kids around the world.

Submit a question!

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Monday Nov.-23 to Sunday Nov.-29

Please call 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 November 23:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Tuesday November 24:

Shop for A Cause-Support Agewell Services at Art Cats Gallery
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Art Cats Gallery will be donating a portion of sales to AgeWell Services of West Michigan. Be an Agewell Angel and help support this great local non profit in their quest to keep our senior citizens healthy – both emotionally and physically. Want to shop privately? Mondays are dedicated to this! Call Art Cats Gallery at (231) 755-7606 or leave a Facebook message. www.artcatsgallery.com 1845 Lakeshore Dr.

Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market,
242 W. Western Ave.
The Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from May 2 through November 30, 2020. Hours are 8 am to 2 pm 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

Wednesday November 25:

Getty Drive-In Theatre Encore
November 25 @ 5:00 pm – November 28 @ 9:00 pm
The Getty Drive-In Theatre has opened for an encore and will open the entire holiday weekend. www.celebrationcinema.com and shows will begin each evening at 5:30. See shows like Frozen, Santa Clause with Tim Allen. Other showings are Freaky and Vanguard. They are located at 920 E. Summit Ave. 231-798-2608

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Thursday November 26:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market,
242 W. Western Ave.
The Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from May 2 through November 30, 2020. Hours are 8 am to 2 pm 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

Friday November 27:

Saturday November 28:

Hot Cocoa Hop Outdoor Event and Food Drive
November 28 @ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Festival of Wreaths Socially Distanced Outdoor Event:
Stop by the Muskegon Museum of Art parking for free hot cocoa on Small Business Saturday, November 28. The MMA will host a socially distanced Hot Cocoa Hop, serving free hot cocoa in the MMA parking lot from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The event will encourage participants to check out all the downtown Muskegon Wreath Walk displays and to shop at and visit local downtown Muskegon businesses and attractions. Wreath Walk maps will be available at the event. The MMA galleries and store will be open 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on November 28.
Food Drive:
We’re also holding a one-day food drive on November 28 to support our neighbors. Enjoy a free hot cocoa at the Hop and share the warmth with a donation of canned and packaged groceries to help stock the shelves of the Harbor of Grace food pantry. You will receive a ticket for free museum admission to use on any day you like with your donation.

Shop Lakeside on Small Business Saturday
November 28 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Join the brick and mortar businesses of Lakeside located on Lakeshore Dr. as we celebrate LOCAL! Many businesses will offer in-store specials. Lakeside looks forward to seeing your merry, smiling eyes. 231-755-6113

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Muskegon Market and Mercantile Shop Small Event
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Here it is! Shop Small Saturday. The WHOLE store will be 10% off! Small business needs your support now more than ever. Muskegon Market and Mercantile are located at 1447 W. Sherman Blvd. Due to COVID numbers rising, Muskegon Market and Mercantile are doing their part by limiting the number of shoppers allowed in at one time. So please dress warm; you might be waiting in line. Thank you for being patient, the line moves fast so don’t be discouraged. But hey, what’s a holiday sale without lines? It’s a tradition! 231-246-7704

Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market,
242 W. Western Ave.
The Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from May 2 through November 30, 2020. Hours are 8 am to 2 pm 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 MarketSweetwater 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 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!

Sunday November 29:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

~

Please remember to check our website www.visitmuskegon.org for the many virtual events happening every day.

Ask Dr. Universe – Apple Cider

Dr. Universe: How do you make cider? -Julianna, 7

Dear Julianna,

We can make cider with juice from apples. There are many different kinds of apples and a few different ways to squeeze out the juice.

My friend Bri Ewing Valliere told me all about it. She’s a food scientist at Washington State University who knows a lot about cider.

The first step is to pick out the apples. Honeycrisp apples will make a sweet cider. Granny Smiths are more acidic and will make a tart cider.

“We could make a single batch of one kind, or we could mix different kinds of apples together and see how it turns out,” she said. “No matter what, it’s going to taste good.”

It’s important to wash the apples to remove any dirt or bacteria. Next, it’s time to squeeze out the juice.

“It’s not like oranges or grapes where you can just squeeze them and the juice comes out,” Valliere said. “We need to get the apples into smaller pieces.”

After a grown-up helps cut the apples into quarters, the slices can go into a juice press. One kind of press is a basket press, which is like a small barrel with a device to grind up apples.

There’s also a wooden plate that goes inside the barrel on top of the ground-up apples. As we push down on the wooden plate, the force squeezes out the juice from the fruit.

The juice flows out the bottom of the press, which works a bit like a pasta strainer. It separates the apple solids from the liquids. As the juice flows from the press, we can catch it in a jug or bucket.

Valliere said another kind of press is called a bladder press, which has a balloon-like device that pushes against the fruit to squeeze out the juice.

While you may not have a basket or bladder press at home, with the help of a grown-up you can find a recipe online that uses similar steps: use small pieces of fruit, press the fruit to make some juice, and pasteurize it.

When we pasteurize the juice, it helps kill any harmful bacteria that could possibly make us sick. All we have to do is heat up the juice up to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, it’s time to enjoy the cider.

While some cider comes from small farms or our kitchens, there are also machines in factories that produce thousands of gallons of juice.

Valliere told me that juice processors sometimes will add something called enzymes to the pressed juice. The enzymes help turn the light brown, cloudy cider-looking juice into the clear, golden liquid we know as apple juice.

A big part of the reason we have apple juice and apple cider is also because of the hardworking farmers and farmworkers who take care of our apple orchards—and we have a lot of orchards here in Washington State.

The next time you take a sip of cider, think of all the people who helped make it and all the science in your cup.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Are you curious to learn more about how basket presses work? Check out this video from the Cedar Creek Grist Mill. This historical mill in Woodland, Washington is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXTH6uhDAGQ&feature=emb_title&ab_channel=ClarkCountyToday

Know a kid with a science question?

With help from my friends at Washington State University, we’re investigating tough and smart questions from curious kids around the world.

Submit a question!

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Minutes – 11/18/20

Fruitport Board of Education
Special Board Meeting
November 18, 2020 6:00 p.m.
Virtual via Zoom
https://zoom.us/j/96227140719?pwd=U3pXL1BQZzlGd2h2b2hIaUt0YVRPZz09

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

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

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 20-134. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Brott to approve the agenda.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of November 16, 2020
Item 20-135. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Franklin to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of November 16, 2020.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

2. Bulletin 18
Item 20-136. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Cole to approve moving forward with the items listed in Bulletin 18 as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

3. High School Virtual Instruction
A discussion was held regarding meaningful work during virtual learning.

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Teacher, Barbara Briggs addressed the Board regarding COVID-19 safety concerns in her building.

Teacher, Deeann Skov expressed her appreciation to the Board for their understanding and support. She invited the Board to see how teachers have adapted to virtual learning.

VI. ADJOURNMENT
Item 20-137. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Brott to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The meeting adjourned at 6:23 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,
Steve Kelly, Board Secretary
Maribeth Clarke, Recording Secretary

Fruitport Board of Education Regular Monthly Meeting Minutes – 11/16/20

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
November 16, 2020 7:00 p.m.
Board Room and virtual via Zoom

Zoom Conference Log-In:
https://zoom.us/j/94798418972?pwd=N2VINlBuZ2NiT0Z5TWpTbU52QTlKQT09

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 – Jill Brott, Tim Burgess, Kris Cole, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, and Steve Kelly.
Absent – Elroy Buckner.

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 20-127. MOTION by Burgess, SECOND by Cole to approve the agenda with the following additions: TowerPinkster Check Presentation V-4 and XV-4 to include Working Virtual Expectations.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

V. PRESENTATIONS
Dave Hazekamp read aloud an Above and Beyond Award recognizing Kay Bowen and the Fruitport Grads Giving Back group for their outstanding efforts supporting the community when and where there is a need.

Dave Hazekamp read aloud an Above and Beyond Award recognizing Julia Kolbe for her efforts in organizing and leading Zoom meetings with the Emotional Support Team to determine additional types of mental health supports that may be needed by both students and staff during the COVID pandemic.

Rehmann Robson, LLC representative, Will Love presented the 2019-20 financial audit report. He stated the audit was performed in accordance with Government Auditing Standards. Fruitport Community Schools received a clean audit with no difficulties or findings. Will Love commended Mark Mesbergen and his staff for a job well done!

Curriculum Director, Allison Camp gave an update on the District’s Learning Plan.

TowerPinkster Architect, Matt Slagle presented the district with an Energy Act 2019 Rebate Check in the amount of $46,000.

VI. COMMUNICATIONS
None.

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Girl Scout Troop #4257 members Valerie Pollock and Grace Oleen asked the Board to consider making the district a more inclusive school community. They believe in their motto and making the World a Better Place.

High school teacher, Deeann Skov spoke about adapting to the hybrid schedule and teaching strategies during the pandemic.

High school teacher, Becky Moleski explained her Wednesday Outreach program for students needing extra help. She also stated that IEPs were being done virtually with great success.

High school teacher, Jay Stebelton explained how he has “flipped” his classroom instruction. Students are able to watch his lectures online during their virtual days and can then work in the lab on their face-to-face instructional days.

High school teacher, Elizabeth Grimm spoke about her online strategies to keep her homebound students moving forward. She has implemented Zoom meetings during her class time which allows students to join online.

High school teacher, Deeann Skov believes that the number one student issue impacting virtual learning is the ability to adjust to the online learning schedule.

Community member, Dianne Beckstrom addressed the Board regarding her land proposal.

Community member, Brooke Thorns described her week as a Muskegon Public Schools third grade teacher teaching remotely.

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
None.

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 20-128. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Cole to approve the Consent Agenda as listed below:
1. Approval of Workshop Minutes of October 21, 2020
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. Sale of District Property.
Item 20-129. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Cole to deny the sale of district property to Diane Beckstrom as requested.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

2. District Learning Plan.
Item 20-130. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Kelly to stay with the current Learning Plan as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

XI. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of a committee meeting held November 9, 2020.
Kris Cole reported on a Business and Finance Committee meeting held November 9, 2020. Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Mark Mesbergen, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed a land proposal, Bulletin 18, a Salary Formula Update, Collecting Summer Tax, and the COVID Learning Plan.

2. 2019-20 Annual Financial Report.
Item 20-131. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Burgess to approve the 2019-20 Annual Financial Report as presented by Rehmann.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

3. Summer Tax Collection.
Item 20-132. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Brott to adopt the Annual Resolution allowing Fruitport Community Schools to collect summer taxes as presented.
Roll Call: Brott, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; Kelly, Yes.
Absent – Buckner.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of a committee meeting held November 9, 2020.
Steve Kelly reported on a Personnel Committee meeting held November 9, 2020. Steve Kelly, Dave Hazekamp, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed a land proposal, and the COVID Learning Plan.

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of a committee meeting held November 11, 2020.
Susan Franklin reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held virtually on November 11, 2020. Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, and Bob Szymoniak (remotely) were present. The committee discussed a land proposal, and the COVID Learning Plan.

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Jill Brott mentioned the Shettler Leadership Team Meeting.

Kris Cole spoke about Robotics and the success he recently had with online conferences. He stated that communicating with teachers is going well.

Steve Kelly thanked Courtney Stahl and Beach students for sending handmade cards to Mercy’s ICU staff.

Dave Hazekamp shared his appreciation to staff for all of the hard work and dedication to the district during this difficult time.

XV. AGENDA ITEMS for FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF ANY SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Business and Finance Committee will meet virtually December 7, 2020 at 11:30 a.m.
2. Personnel Committee will meet virtually December 7, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.
3. Student Affairs Committee will meet virtually December 9, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.
4. A Special Board Meeting will be held virtually November 18, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Principals, Courtney Stahl, Tim Tiefenbach, Janelle Duffey and Lauren Chesney addressed the Board regarding face-to-face instruction. Collectively, they agreed that it is a very anxious and hectic time for staff in their buildings. They expressed their appreciation for Allison Camp’s hard work and support.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Item 20-133. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Brott to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The meeting adjourned at 8:52 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly
Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 11/23/20

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

NOVEMBER 23, 2020

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

This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.com in order to fight the spread of COVID-19 and comply with current gathering limitations.
Information to access the meeting:
Meeting ID: 245 547 1320
Passcode: 107357
Join by phone: 1-312-626-6799 US Toll

1. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
2. Roll call
3. Approval of board minutes: 11/9/20
4. Approve / amend agenda
5. Correspondence / reports
6. Public comments regarding agenda items

7. Unfinished Business
none

8. New Business
A. Committee Appointments
B. Open Parks Seat Discussion
C. Anti-Blight and Junk Vehicles Ordinance Discussion
D. Quarterline Rd. Cell Tower Lease Agreement Changes
E. Public Safety Director Evaluation and Contract Renewal
F. Defined Contribution Plan Agreement Addendum

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

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 11/11/20

Student Affairs Committee
Wednesday, November 11, 2020
12:00 p.m. Board Room and via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86238923480?pwd=RjlJSnRFRE5LK2FTYk1qZG9BTmJYQT09
Meeting ID: 862 3892 3480
Passcode: FW2638
Meeting Minutes

Attendance: Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, Bob Szymoniak

1. Reconfirmation of our district’s learning plan was discussed.

2. The sale of a 100 ft. strip of property to a resident near Beach Elementary was discussed.

Adjournment at 12:10 p.m.

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 11/09/20

Personnel Committee
Monday, November 9, 2020
Boardroom ~ 5:00 p.m.

Attendance: Steve Kelly, Dave Hazekamp, Bob Szymoniak

1. A request by a resident to buy 100 feet of district property near Beach Elementary was discussed.

2. The reconfirmation of learning plan was discussed.

Meeting was adjourned at 5:20 p.m.

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 11/09/20

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, November 9, 2020
11:30 a.m., Board Room
Meeting Minutes

Attendance: Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Bob Szymoniak, and Mark Mesbergen

1. Land Proposal
Bob discussed a land proposal.

2. Bulletin 18
Bob and Mark presented bulletin 18 to replace the exterior bricks at the high school. The bricks that would be replaced are by the old kitchen. There were some additional questions that needed to be answered so there will be a future board meeting to discuss this action item.

3. Salary Formula Update
Mark presented an update with what the projected salary formula would look like.

4. Summer Property Tax Update
Mark presented a resolution to allow Fruitport to levy summer property taxes in Spring Lake and Fruitport township.

5. Covid – Education Plan
Bob presented an update regarding the educational plan.

Meeting adjourned at 12:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Fruitport Board of Education Special Meeting Agenda – 11/18/20

Fruitport Community Schools
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING
Wednesday, November 18, 2020 – 6:00 p.m.
Virtual via Zoom
https://zoom.us/j/96227140719?pwd=U3pXL1BQZzlGd2h2b2hIaUt0YVRPZz09

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of November 16, 2020 (attachment IV-1)
2. Bulletin 18 (attachment IV-2)
3. High School Virtual Instruction
4. 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.

Events Happening in Muskegon County – Tuesday Nov.-17 to Sunday Nov.-22

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

Tuesday November 17:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Who is Rosie Lee Wilkins? Piecing Together Her History’ Exhibit Opening
Quilts are made from an endless combination of patterns, colors, fabrics, and techniques. The maker stitches these different parts to one another to create a one-of-a-kind quilt. Like a quilt, our lives are made of strips that must be sewn together to create a story with a lasting legacy. Details, stories, and objects are all pieces of our lives that can be combined in endless ways. Even one missing piece leaves the story incomplete and the quilt unfinished. In her lifetime, Rosie created over 100 quilts and unfortunately, her story was left unfinished. Along with highlighting some of her quilts—which are only a part of her legacy—visitors to the exhibit will get a behind the scenes look at how the museum staff worked to research and piece together the history of Rosie’s life. www.lakeshoremuseum.org 231-722-0278

Wednesday November 18:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Intro to Crochet: Textured Slouch Hat
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Ages 12+ $50 for the 2-week class and all materials. Crochet is creative and fun! Keeping up with the trends is easy once you know the basic techniques. In this class, you’ll learn the basics and beyond (chain st, single crochet, double crochet, slip st); enough to start your first project. You will also learn how to do textures, ridges and work in the round to further your crochet skills. You’ll make a fashionable beanie for any age!
This class is designed for people who have NO crochet experience whatsoever. Ambitious beginners are welcome! All materials, including yarn and a crochet hook, will be provided. We have 7 different yarn colors to choose from, but only 1 skein of each color, so once a color is claimed, it will no longer be available. View the colors we have available here: https://www.artswhitelake.org/intro-to-crochet-yarn Tickets are listed according to the color of yarn, so when you select your ticket, you will choose your yarn color! Class Outline November 11: crochet terminology, how to hold the crochet hook and yarn, chain stitch, single crochet stitch, double crochet stitch
November 18: crocheting in front and back post, creating textures, ridges and working in the round and learning final touch techniques
Registration is required. Register here: https://www.artswhitelake.org/…/intro-to-crochet… COVID-19 Considerations: Class size is limited to 7 students. Each student will get their own table which will be 6 ft from the neighboring tables. Students will have their own set of supplies that will be sanitized before class. Students should wear masks, use the provided hand sanitizer, and abide by social distancing mandates.
ACWL-Nuveen classes are supported in part by grants from the Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs, the National Endowment for the Arts and the Nuveen Benevolent Trust.

Kids Acrylic Paint Pouring: Dirty Flip Cup
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Come create with Sabryna at the McLaughlin Community Fellowship located at 1198 Spring St. 25% of the proceeds from this workshop will go to the McLaughlin Community Fellowship, where it is hosted. Acrylic Paint Pouring is fun, a bit messy, and a little unpredictable too. We all know kids love to make messes. Students will learn about the materials, tools and techniques needed in this form of paint pouring and each participant will create their own 8″ x 10″ beautiful mess. Tools and materials provided. This class is for ages 5-16 (5-11 with adult supervision) and materials and tools will be provided. Class size is limited, so please register ahead of time. Adults can also take this class with their kids (please, no adults that are not accompanying kids), just keep in mind that it is geared toward kids and there will be kids in the class. Fees apply per canvas created: 1 Canvas = $10.00 and one registration. 231-736-6642 text for questions

Thursday November 19:

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Little Learners STEM Playgroup
10:00 am – 11:00 am
You are invited to join a special Play and Learn program at the Lakeshore Museum Center on the fourth Thursday of each month. (note Nov & Dec are on the third Thursday due to holidays). During this program participants will be invited into one of two rooms for a story time inside. Then both groups will head outside for socially distanced playtime. Registration via Eventbrite is required but there is no charge for this program. All attendees must register including caregivers & siblings. Due to the current restrictions 10 people will be allowed in each story room. Registration link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/little-learners-stem-playgroup-tickets-119465268835
Also in consideration of current health concerns we will temp check everyone at the door, and while inside the museum everyone over 2 years of age will need to wear a mask according to our current policy. Outside we kindly ask that adults wear masks, but children are not required to.
This program will run for 50-60 minutes, 15-20 inside and the rest outside. During this program adults and children will have fun learning through songs, stories, sensory stations, motor skills stations, art and more, all with a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) theme!

Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market,
242 W. Western Ave.
The Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from May 2 through November 30, 2020. Hours are 8 am to 2 pm 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

Friday November 20:

Gingerbread House Building!
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Build your own gingerbread house at the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club located at 280 W. Webster Ave. Instructions and all the fun materials are included to create your own masterpiece! Due to COVID, 1 family or group per table. $15 per house OR $20 per take-home kit, pre-order is strongly suggested. RSVP to nancy.f.b2020@gmail.com phone 231-730-0887

Dangle Earrings Workshop by Sabryna’s Natural Creations
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Come and learn how to make dangle earrings with us at McLaughlin Community Fellowship located at 1198 Spring St. Learn the materials, tools and techniques used in order to make dangle earrings. Each student will make one pair of earrings that feature genuine semi-precious stones. For ages 10+ (Students aged 10-12 require adult supervision.) 25% of the proceeds from this workshop will go to the McLaughlin Community Center, where it is hosted. Text 231-736-6642

White Lake Area Holiday Walk 2020
2:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Visit the Whitehall and Montague to enjoy the 26th Annual White Lake Area Holiday Walk! Enjoy Christmas Open Houses, featuring gift guides, discounts & special sales, and delicious refreshments. Visit with Santa Claus and see if you made the nice list this year (fingers-crossed). Participating merchants and Santa’s time and locations are located on the Holiday Walk Star Map/Entry Form, which can be picked up at the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce or any participating Holiday Walk stop (look for the big blue sign in the window). Submit your completed Holiday Walk Map/Entry Form and enter the drawing to win a $50 White Lake Gift Certificate. (Maps will be available soon).
TWINKLE, TWINKLE LITTLE TREE: Whitehall again hosts the White Lake Area “Tree Lighting Ceremony” Friday at 6:30pm, culminating with the tree lighting on North Mears Ave. at 7:00pm. Children of all ages are invited to help decorate the Community Christmas Tree by bringing their own ornaments or create make-and-take ornaments from participating stores. Gather at the north end of Mears Ave.and enjoy the festive voices of the members of the Whitehall High School with friends and family, while the aroma of roasted chestnuts fills the air and hundreds of holiday luminaries line the sidewalks.
ENJOY THE SEASON OF GIVING: Friday from 5:00pm – 8:00pm, and Saturday from 12:00pm – 3:00pm, enjoy old-fashioned carriage rides in both Montague and Whitehall and trolley rides transport you to any of our participating merchants throughout Montague and Whitehall Saturday from 11:00am – 3:00pm courtesy of Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt. Share in the spirit of Christmas with holiday caroling and a visit with Santa Claus as you stroll along our downtown areas. Again, visit and shop local area stores and take part in their special discounts and offers this weekend only!
For more information on the Annual Holiday Walk, contact the White Lake Area Chamber at 231-893-4585 or visit www.whitelake.org.

Saturday November 21:

Gingerbread House Building!
9:30 am – 1:00 pm
Build your own gingerbread house at the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club located at 280 W. Webster Ave. Instructions and all the fun materials are included to create your own masterpiece! Due to COVID, 1 family or group per table. $15 per house OR $20 per take-home kit, pre-order is strongly suggested. RSVP to nancy.f.b2020@gmail.com phone 231-730-0887

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Muskegon Farmers Market,
242 W. Western Ave.
The Muskegon Farmers Outdoor Market will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from May 2 through November 30, 2020. Hours are 8 am to 2 pm 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 MarketSweetwater 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 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!

White Lake Area Holiday Walk 2020
10:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Visit the Whitehall and Montague to enjoy the 26th Annual White Lake Area Holiday Walk! Enjoy Christmas Open Houses, featuring gift guides, discounts & special sales, and delicious refreshments. Visit with Santa Claus and see if you made the nice list this year (fingers-crossed). Participating merchants and Santa’s time and locations are located on the Holiday Walk Star Map/Entry Form, which can be picked up at the White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce or any participating Holiday Walk stop (look for the big blue sign in the window). Submit your completed Holiday Walk Map/Entry Form and enter the drawing to win a $50 White Lake Gift Certificate. (Maps will be available soon).
TWINKLE, TWINKLE LITTLE TREE: Whitehall again hosts the White Lake Area “Tree Lighting Ceremony” Friday at 6:30pm, culminating with the tree lighting on North Mears Ave. at 7:00pm. Children of all ages are invited to help decorate the Community Christmas Tree by bringing their own ornaments or create make-and-take ornaments from participating stores. Gather at the north end of Mears Ave.and enjoy the festive voices of the members of the Whitehall High School with friends and family, while the aroma of roasted chestnuts fills the air and hundreds of holiday luminaries line the sidewalks.
ENJOY THE SEASON OF GIVING: Friday from 5:00pm – 8:00pm, and Saturday from 12:00pm – 3:00pm, enjoy old-fashioned carriage rides in both Montague and Whitehall and trolley rides transport you to any of our participating merchants throughout Montague and Whitehall Saturday from 11:00am – 3:00pm courtesy of Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt. Share in the spirit of Christmas with holiday caroling and a visit with Santa Claus as you stroll along our downtown areas. Again, visit and shop local area stores and take part in their special discounts and offers this weekend only!
For more information on the Annual Holiday Walk, contact the White Lake Area Chamber at 231-893-4585 or visit www.whitelake.org.

Sunday November 22:

Gingerbread House Building!
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Build your own gingerbread house at the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club located at 280 W. Webster Ave. Instructions and all the fun materials are included to create your own masterpiece! Due to COVID, 1 family or group per table. $15 per house OR $20 per take-home kit, pre-order is strongly suggested. RSVP to nancy.f.b2020@gmail.com phone 231-730-0887

Christmas Postcard Drive
November 9 – December 10
Spread joy throughout the holiday season with a Christmas themed postcard drive for our friends at Sanctuary at McAuley in Muskegon. If you’d like get your family involved in the Christmas Postcard Drive you can do so with three easy steps: Questions call 231-720-2570
1. Stop into the Art Museum store to pick up FREE blank postcards, or feel free to use your own. 2. Have your family decorate the postcards with festive imagery and messages at home. 3. Drop your finished postcards off at the Museum located at 296 W. Webster by December 10, and enjoy FREE admission into our galleries and Festival of Wreaths for participating.

Please remember to check our website www.visitmuskegon.org for the many virtual events happening every day.

Ask Dr. Universe – Gummies

Dr. Universe: How are gummies made? -Hayden, 11, Webb City, MO

Dear Hayden,

Gummies can come in all different shapes and flavors. Maybe you’ve had gummy worms, gummy bears, or peach rings.

It turns out that gummies require just a few simple ingredients. That’s what I found out from my friend Connie Remsberg, a pharmacist at Washington State University.

She said making gummies requires a little gelatin, water, a mold, and some help from a grown-up.

If you want to make gummies at home, you can warm up about ½ c. of water on the stove. Add a 3 oz. package of flavored gelatin (which contains sugar). Then add one tablespoon of unflavored gelatin.

Mix it all together until it is dissolved and ready to come off the stovetop. It’s very important to ask a grown up for help and to be super careful when working around hot surfaces. A good scientist—or gummy maker—always puts safety first.

The gelatin is a made up of things called proteins and peptides. They come from animal bones or cartilage. When you dissolve gelatin in water, the tiny proteins act kind of like spaghetti and get all tangled up together. Between the tangles, there is space to hold sugar and water.

Next, you will need something to shape your gummies. A silicone mold is handy because it won’t melt when you pour in the warm mixture. Some stores sell molds with shapes like little bears built right in. Be sure to spray the silicone mold with nonstick cooking spray before filling in the shapes.

If you don’t have a silicone mold, you can spray the bottom of a metal pan and pour the mix into a thin layer. Later, you can use cookie cutters to cut different shapes from the gummy slab. If you have some extra plastic straws laying around, you can follow these instructions to make gummy worms.

After you have your mix in the mold, put it in the fridge until the gummies form. Oh, and if you want to make a vegan version of gummies, you might use agar agar powder, which comes from seaweed and works as an alternative to gelatin.

Remsberg is very curious about compounding—or how pharmacists can combine different ingredients together to create a medication that’s just right for a patient.

She told me that sometimes pharmacists will create gummies that contain a person’s medicine to make it easier to take. Gummy vitamins are just one example. The body needs 13 different vitamins so some people will take a vitamin gummy in addition to eating fruits and vegetables.

One other fun way to experiment with gummy bears—even the kind you buy from the store—is to soak them in different liquids, or solutions, such as water, saltwater, vinegar, or bubbly soda water. Let them sit for a few hours, or overnight, and observe what happens.

Do they shrink? Get bigger? Explode? Okay, spoiler alert, they won’t explode. But tell us what you discover and why you think it all happened at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Know a kid with a science question?

With help from my friends at Washington State University, we’re investigating tough and smart questions from curious kids around the world.

*Please call 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 January 4:

Tuesday January 5:

Wednesday January 6:

Thursday January 7:

Friday January 8:

Saturday January 9:

Sunday January 10:

Know a kid with a science question?

Know a kid with a science question?

**Our office will be closed Dec. 24-Jan. 3** *Please call before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events* Please check our website for virtual events happening www.visitmuskegon.org

Sunday December 27:

Monday December 28

Tuesday December 29

Wednesday December 30

Thursday December 31

Friday January 1

Happy New Year!

Saturday January 2

Sunday January 3

Monday January 4

**Our office will be closed Dec. 24-Jan. 3** *Please call before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events* Please check our website for virtual events happening www.visitmuskegon.org

Happy Holidays

Know a kid with a science question?

*Please call 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 December 14:

Tuesday December 15:

Wednesday December 16:

Thursday December 17:

Friday December 18:

Saturday December 19:

Sunday December 20:

Tuesday December 8:

Wednesday December 9:

Thursday December 10:

Friday December 11:

Saturday December 12:

Sunday December 13:

Please remember to check our website www.visitmuskegon.org for the virtual events happening every day.

Know a kid with a science question?

*Please call 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 November 30:

Tuesday December 1:

Wednesday December 2:

Thursday December 3:

Friday December 4:

Saturday December 5:

Sunday December 6:

Please remember to check our website www.visitmuskegon.org for the many virtual events happening every day.

Know a kid with a science question?

*Please call 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 November 23:

Tuesday November 24:

Wednesday November 25:

Thursday November 26:

Friday November 27:

Saturday November 28:

Sunday November 29:

~

Please remember to check our website www.visitmuskegon.org for the many virtual events happening every day.

Know a kid with a science question?

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

Tuesday November 17:

Wednesday November 18:

Thursday November 19:

Friday November 20:

Saturday November 21:

Sunday November 22:

Please remember to check our website www.visitmuskegon.org for the many virtual events happening every day.

Know a kid with a science question?

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

Our office will be closed Dec. 24-Jan. 3
Please call before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

Our office will be closed Dec. 24-Jan. 3
Please call before attending for any changes. Remember to wear your mask to all events
Please check our website for virtual events happening
www.visitmuskegon.org

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

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

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

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