Author Archives: editor

Local Model Heading to California for Premiere Modeling Event

For Astoria Kolenic, being selected following an audition to attend a four-day modeling development event in Los Angeles, CA in February will move her one step closer to her dream of becoming a full-time, professional model.

“My main goal with this event is to jump-start my modeling career,” said Kolenic, a Muskegon, MI-based fashion model with credits that includes a leading role in the 2018 music video Lady Bug, and the October 2017 Cover Model for Modern Model Magazine. “I just turned 25, and I will not stop until I make modeling more than a hobby – it will be a career.”

After learning about the event, offered by Preview Models, Kolenic said she auditioned and was among a limited number of models selected from Michigan to travel to the event.

“I will be arriving in California February 26th, and attending the event from February 27th through March 1st,” she said, adding that the event features a runway show, a photo session, breakout study sessions, and wraps up with an opportunity for models to meet one-on-one with numerous prominent modeling agencies.

“It’s rare to have a chance to meet with a lot of different agencies all at once,” Kolenic said, adding that while she has covered most of the expected costs to attend the event, she is also reaching out to local sponsors to cover some of the additional expenses. “I do have to pay for my own travel to the event, and I have to pay for my room.”

Modern Model Magazine, which offers sponsorship assistance to help models cover registration fees, travel expenses, and other event fees, was one of the first sponsors to come forward, offering financial assistance.

“It seems that Preview Models is able to provide what they are promising based on past reviews, and beyond that, after working with Astoria, I personally believe that she has what it takes, and just needs to get in front of the right people,” Modern Model Magazine Publisher Brian Thornton explained, encouraging other local sponsors to step forward and support Kolenic as well.

I graduated from Fruitport High School in 2013! I left out with a BANG when I sang the National Anthem for my senior class. This year I was hoping once again Fruitport could support my dreams out of state as well ❤️

Story Of Astoria – storyastoria@gmail.com

Plane Watch Food Park at The Pointes, Norton Shores

The Plane Watch Food Park at The Pointes, Norton Shores, has received unanimous approval from the City of Norton Shores and will commence construction as soon as weather permits. The food park at the shopping/office center on Sternberg Road at US-31, will have utility accommodations including electrical, water, and sewer connections for up to 8 food trucks. Picnic tables, portable bathrooms, and a game area are all included in Phase I. In Phase II, owners plan for permanent restrooms, an outdoor bar, and additional entertainment opportunities.

Food trucks can have access for $30 per day, including utilities with no percentage rent. Commitments can be as short as a week or as long as the season, although the owners are anticipating a rotating offering of a variety of food and drink options for customers. With over 52,000 cars per day on US-31 at Sternberg Road and 28,000 cars on Sternberg Rd at the overpass, the Pointes owners are expecting an enthusiastic reception to the new food park.

‘There are thousands of employees along Grand Haven Road, and many of them have just a half hour to get lunch. They don’t have to wait in line at traffic lights at The Pointes. You can be in and out of the Pointes Center in minutes from the highway without a single traffic light,’ Pointes representative Jeff Zaloga said.

The Pointes has also been working with new tenants at the center including Affordable Appliance Outlet (a scratch & dent appliance wholesaler); Classy Canine Pet Grooming; plus, there is a deposit on a large space for a future restaurant/brewpub. The food park will accomplish one of the goals of The Pointes owners, which is to bring more life into the shopping/office center for the benefit of all the current tenants.

Vendors interested in participating in the seasonal food park can either call 231-799-4801; email to amggo2girl@amgbusinesscenters.com; or message The Pointes Shopping Center Facebook Page.

Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board Recommends $300,000 for Grand River Greenway

The Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) board recommended $300,000 in development funds to be allocated to Ottawa County Parks & Recreation for development and construction of a 1-mile segment of the Idema Explorers Trail in Jenison at their annual meeting in December.

December 18, 2019 — The Idema Explorers Trail is a key feature of the Grand River Greenway which is comprised of 9,000 acres of public land between Grand Haven and Grand Rapids. The preservation of this land provides scenic natural spaces and high quality habitat for both wildlife and recreation. Currently, 13 miles of the 36.5-mile Idema Explorers Trail have been constructed with another 12 being engineered.

This Jenison Mill segment will connect a portion of the Idema Explorers Trail along Cottonwood Drive to existing trail in Kent County. It allows users easier access the Grand River; great recreation areas like Millennium Park, which has 20 miles of paved pathway; and, many miles of regional trail, including seven miles of riverfront trail in Kent County, the Grand Rapids bike lane network, Kent Trails, and the Fred Meijer Standale Trail.

“One of our goals is to connect with neighboring communities and to connect to our waterfront,” said Jim Wierenga, Georgetown Township Supervisor. “We were excited the Idema Explorers Trail created a connection to Allendale last fall and look forward to connecting with Kent County, as well as to the Grand River. We are a community with a river that runs through it and that resource is often overlooked. The more the Grand River Greenway project moves forward, the more this asset in our community begins to capture the attention of our citizens. I get many thanks from the people within our township for the Grand River Greenway,” said Wierenga.

Other partners in the project are thrilled about this news. “We are working hard to raise the funds needed to make the vision of the Grand River Greenway a reality. Having the support of the Trust Fund and the community makes our work that much easier. We believe in what we’re doing, but it is great to hear that they do too,” said Bobbi Jones Sabine, President of the Ottawa County Parks Foundation. “Giving everyone access to the scenic spaces and connected trails along the Grand River Greenway will improve the quality of life for current and future West Michigan residents.”

Recreation Opportunities

In addition to opening up recreation opportunities on land, it also creates more access for anglers. “Connecting Georgetown Township and Ottawa County trails to the Kent County trails on the east side will provide anglers an easy path to access quality shorefishing sites,” said Dr. Dan O’Keefe Michigan Sea Grant Coordinator at MSU Extension in a letter of support for the project. “Certain areas are also wadeable in summer due to the hard substrate. Wading is very popular upstream in Grand Rapids, but virtually unheard of in Ottawa County due to the lack of access to rare hard-bottomed areas such as this.”

Ottawa County Parks Winter News

Pigeon Creek Park

Pigeon Creek Park offers groomed, lit cross-country ski trails, ski and snowshoe rentals for adults and children, ski lessons, sledding hill, and warming lodge with concessions.

Important Reminder: Hiking, dogs, and horses are not allowed at Pigeon Creek Park once winter operations begin.

Not feeling steady on your skis? Join us for a lesson!

Ski Lesson Pricing: $8 for 1½ hour lesson. Skis are not provided but can be rented at the lodge on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the schedule online.

Hemlock Crossing

The Ottawa County Parks Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing offers snowshoe rentals for adults and children (4+) at the Nature Center. Hemlock Crossing does not rent skis, but cross-country skiing is welcome on the trails. Hiking and dogs are allowed on the trails on-leash.

Find a family-friendly winter walk or snowshoe program: miOttawa.org/OCPevents

Riley Trails

Riley Trails offers 10+ miles of ungroomed cross-country ski trails and is a destination for fat tire bikes. Never tried it? Test one with Velo City Cycles on December 14 from 9 am-12 pm. Hiking and dogs are allowed on the trails on-leash

Continuing Education (at Your Own Risk)

December 16, 2019

This is the week before Christmas vacation so high-schoolers are celebrating. I had thoughts of what the school might do: maybe sing some Christmas songs, have time set aside for talking together about various plans the kids have, or maybe just bring in a meaningful item and give a student a chance to explain it. What an old foggy I am!! Have a Pajama Day. the 15 and 16 year future leaders can wear pajamas to school today!!! It never occurs to me to wear my pajamas to work to celebrate an upcoming vacation. Pajama Day! I never would have thunk it! Those who are informed know what snowflakes are. That’s what our wonderful school system is building: Snowflakes.

Secretary Benson Visits Israel with Bipartisan Delegation

December 16, 2019 – Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is currently visiting Israel as part of a bipartisan delegation from the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) that is examining cybersecurity policies and practices to better protect election administration, business services and other areas.

NASS is partnering with the American Jewish Committee’s Project Interchange in the weeklong education seminar, which is also intended to enhance U.S. relations with Israel among state officials. Participants are learning about Israel’s history, culture, challenges and innovations; and meeting leaders from across the nation, including top officials from Israel’s National Cyber Directorate.

“My administration is committed to ensuring our elections are secure, so that all Michiganders can vote with certainty that their vote will be counted and their voice will be heard,” said Benson. “I am honored to have the opportunity to visit Israel during this historic time and to work with my colleagues this week to ensure our efforts to protect our elections in the United States are fully informed and following best practices.

“I look forward to returning to Michigan later this week with a robust understanding of the global challenges facing election security, and the work we can do in our country and internationally to meet them.”

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 01/27/20 – 02/03/20

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.visitmuskegon.org

Bake Sale: Polish Festival Fundraiser
January 27 @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Monday, January 27 from 4:00pm – 8:00pm, the Muskegon Polish Festival invites you to a Bake Sale Festival Fundraiser at the Polish Union Lodge! Support this awesome, burgeoning festival by purchasing sweet treats such as cakes, cookies, pies, bread, Pierogi and much more! For more information, e-mail polka@muskegonpolishfest.com.

Wedo Robotics
January 27 @ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Monday, January 27 from 5:30pm – 6:30pm, come to Hackley Public Library for “Wedo Robotics!” Explore LEGOs and coding with these special WeDo kits. Instructors will be on hand to teach the group and guide individual learning at this free program for kids ages 7-14. For more information call (231) 722-8000.

Team Trivia Game Show
Mondays @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Mondays at 6:30pm, come to Racquet’s Downtown Grill for the Team Trivia Game Show! Groups of any size are invited to play for free with prizes for the top three teams! Categories range from pop culture and entertainment, to sports, history, science, culture and general knowledge. Your live host will also offer many genres of music throughout the game, plus, you’ll enjoy food and drink specials each week. For more information, call (231) 726-4007.

Storytime at The Coffee Factory
January 28 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Hackley Public Library and The Coffee Factory in Muskegon are teaming up for special Story Times! They’ll have fun with reading books and singing songs. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. These special Story Times will occur on January 14 and January 28, from 10:00am – 10:45am and are free to the public. For more information call (231) 722-8000.

Ancestry Basics
January 28 @ 1:00 pm
Tuesday, January 28 at 1:00pm, come to the Muskegon Township Library for “Ancestry Basics!” Get going on your genealogy journey with an introduction to US Census records. You’ll get an overview of the rich family detail these sources contain and how to search for them on MADL’s newest online genealogy resource: Ancestry.com. Hands-on experience using Ancestry included. Bring family names and dates to help you get started. Call 231-760-4329 to register.

Black History Month Kick-Off Event
January 28 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Tuesday, January 28 at 6:00pm, join Hackley Library for an evening of inspirational music and some Black History as they kick-off their Black History Month events! The Kingdom Embassy Covenant Church Praise Team will share their singing talent that is sure to warm the heart. There will also be a special Praise Dance performed by Tiffany and Triniti Jones. This free event is recommended for all ages. For more information call 231-722-8000.

We Are Stars
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm
January 14 – February 27, and March 10 – March 26, (no shows on March 3 and 5) come to the Carr-Fles Planetarium at Muskegon Community College for the free show, “We Are Stars!” What are we made of? Where did it all come from? Explore the secrets of our cosmic chemistry and our explosive origins. Connect life on Earth to the evolution of the Universe by following the formation of Hydrogen atoms to the synthesis of Carbon, and the molecules for life. Narrated by Andy Serkis. This is a 35-minute presentation. For more information call 231-777-0289.

White Lake Music Society’s Winter 2020 Lecture Series: Jack Ridl “Saint Peter and the Goldfinch”
January 28 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The White Lake Music Society’s Winter 2020 Lecture Series will feature engaging and stimulating presentations! The last Tuesday of the month, from January through March, will showcase a wide variety of expertise and talent. All presentations will take place at 7:00pm at the Book Nook & Java Shop. Admission is $7 at the door. For more information, please contact Director Sondra Cross at 231-329-3056 or visit www.musicwhitelake.org.

On January 28, Jack Ridl will present “Saint Peter and the Goldfinch: A Reading with Commentary and Invited Questions.” An early reader of Saint Peter and the Goldfinch said it best: “Ridl’s books are all treasures, as is he, and his poetry has always been trout-quick, alternately funny and wondrous, instantly intimate, and free of pretense. All these characteristics can be found in this book, and there is something else, something extraordinary: at an age where most poets are content to roll out an imagined posterity, he’s decided to push and refine the art, to see out the day and live it fully, because art and life settle for no less.”

Jack Ridl taught at Hope from 1971 until retiring in 2006. He is the author of several collections of poetry, and has also published more than 300 poems in journals and has work included in numerous anthologies. He has given readings of his work and led workshops at colleges, universities, art colonies and other venues around the country.

Before the Blues with the Reverend Robert B. Jones Sr.
January 28 @ 7:00 pm
Tuesday, January 28 at 7:00pm, join the Norton Shores Library for “Before the Blues!” 2018 Kresge Arts Fellow, Rev. Robert B. Jones, shares the amazing variety of music that existed before traditional African American music became the cliché of 12 bar guitar blues. Rev. Jones plays guitar, harmonica, mandolin, banjo, and fiddle using folk, blues, spirituals, and other American Roots music to champion the history, beauty, and power of our shared culture. For more information call (231) 780-8844.

Muskegon Heights Library Open House
January 29 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Wednesday, January 20 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, the Friends of the Muskegon Heights Library invite you to a free community open house to see recent improvements made to the library. A light dinner will be served and there will also be a silent auction. For more information call 616-844-3066.

Ice Breaker Wednesdays
Wednesdays @ 6:00 pm
Every Wednesday, January 8 – February 26 at 6:00pm, enjoy “Ice Breaker Wednesdays” at the Muskegon Luge & Adventure Sports Park! This is your chance to learn how to skate and cross country ski with free skate and ski lessons for beginners. Whether young or old, all beginners are welcome to participate. A $5 rink or trail pass is required for each activity. Rental equipment is also available for $5 inside the lodge. Lessons begin promptly at 6:00pm. All participants should arrive early enough to purchase a pass and get equipment on. For more information, visit www.msports.org.

Before the Blues with the Reverend Robert B. Jones Sr.
January 29 @ 6:30 pm
Wednesday, January 29 at 6:30pm, come to the North Muskegon Library for “Before the Blues!” 2018 Kresge Arts Fellow, Rev. Robert B. Jones, shares the amazing variety of music that existed before traditional African American music became the cliche of 12 bar guitar blues. Rev. Jones plays guitar, harmonica, mandolin, banjo, and fiddle using folk, blues, spirituals, and other American Roots music to champion the history, beauty, and power of our shared culture. For more information call (231) 744-6080.

Comedy Night at Smash
January 30 @ 8:00 pm
Thursday, January 30 at 8:00pm, it’s Comedy Night at Smash!” There’s no cover as Fresh Ghost Comedy and Smash Wine Bar & Bistro present Gerrit Elzinga! Reservations are recommended by calling (231) 246-7910.

Growing up in various small towns outside of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Gerrit Elzinga had nowhere else to turn besides stand-up comedy. At 14, he began writing and performing around school in classrooms and at talent shows. Upon graduating, he frequented local comedy clubs, bars, restaurants and any other location with a microphone to craft his jokes. Social commentary, clever observations, and personal stories are featured throughout Elzinga’s act.

Gerrit has been seen on Laughs on FOX, at Gilda’s LaughFest in Grand Rapids, MI opening for Nate Bargatze, competing in the Laughing Devil Comedy Festival in New York City, is the cohost of the “This Better Be Good,” podcast and to date, has one comedy album, “Perspective,” recorded and released in 2015. His follow-up release entitled, “Bullet-Biter,” dropped on December 20, 2019.

Learn to Luge Weekends
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, December 27 – March 8, enjoy “Learn to Luge Weekends” at the Muskegon Luge & Sports Complex inside Muskegon State Park! They offer one of only four luge tracks in the United States. Although shorter in overall length than the Olympic tracks in New York and Salt Lake City, the Muskegon Luge track provides an Olympic thrill for first timers. The track was designed by three-time Olympian Frank Masley and consists of six curves and speeds around 30 mph. www.msports.org

Black & White Show
January 31 @ 6:00 pm
City Center Arts, LLC (formerly known as The Red Lotus Gallery) presents the Black & White Show featuring the best classic art! It’s a new year, a new gallery and a new audience! They’re kicking it off with the bold, the beautiful, the stunning and the very best of art in every medium, from photography to 3D pieces. Come see what the new City Center Arts, LLC has for you. The exhibit opens January 29 and runs until March 7, 2020.
Be sure to be part of the Black & White Gala Reception, happening Friday, January 31 at 6:00pm! This fab event is free to the public and is a wonderful chance to dress up, go out on the town, meet artists, and talk art with others as you purchase locally-made pieces. For more information, call (231) 981-8525.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Games
January 31 @ 7:00 pm – February 1 @ 7:00 pm
The Muskegon Lumberjacks are proud and dedicated members of the United States Hockey League (USHL), the nation’s only Tier I junior hockey league and leading producer of NCAA players and National Hockey League draft picks in the United States. Catch home games Friday, January 31 and Saturday, February 1 at 7:05pm at the L.C. Walker Arena as they take on the Lincoln Stars. Friday, it’s “Jacks Sackpack Night” with free Sackpacks to the first 500 kids and Saturday is “Arconic Night!” Tickets range from $10 – $17. For more information call (231) 724-5225.

West Michigan Symphony: Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo
January 31 @ 7:30 pm
Friday, January 31 at 7:30pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater as the West Michigan Symphony presents “Frank Vignola & Vinny Raniolo!” Acoustic Guitar Music like you’ve never heard before!” is the best description of a concert with Frank Vignola and Vinny Raniolo. From Bizet and Rimsky-Korsakov to Led Zeppelin and The Police, Frank and Vinny take the audience on a journey of jaw-dropping guitar virtuosity. Tickets are $12 for students and $29 – $66 for adults. For more information, call the box office at 231-727-8001.

35th Annual Greater Muskegon Jaycees Snowfest
February 1
The Greater Muskegon Jaycees Annual Snowfest will return to downtown Muskegon Saturday, February 1, 2020! This downtown winter festival features a jam-packed Saturday including popular events such as the “Battle of the Bowls Chili Cook-Off,” a Cornhole Tournament and much more! “Bowls & Brews” will be added to this year’s Snowfest 2020 lineup! Over 20 breweries from all over the state of Michigan will be at the Mercy Health Arena to offer tastings of their unique craft brews. They’ll also be serving up local soup & chili from Muskegon’s favorites. For more details, keep an eye on their website at www.jcimuskegon.org/snowfest.

Black History Month Trivia Contest
February 1 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Do you know your Black History? Participate in Hackley Library’s annual Black History Month Trivia Contest! Form a group with your friends and family (up to 4 per team) and pit your knowledge against other teams. There’ll be prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place teams, as well as some consolation prizes. Not interested in participating? Come cheer on your friends and family! Please register your team for this free event by calling 231-722-8011, or by visiting HPL’s online events calendar.

The Greatest Showman Sing-a-Long
February 1 @ 7:30 pm
Saturday, February 1 from 7:30pm – 10:30pm, the Playhouse at White Lake presents The Greatest Showman Sing-a-Long! This is a special sing-a-long screening, featuring subtitles for all of the songs. Hugh Jackman returns to his musical roots in a holiday biopic that tells the story of American showman P.T. Barnum. Sacked from a conventional job, Jackman’s family man, Barnum, devises a new idea for making a living. Along with a company of extraordinary individuals he recruits from all walks of life, Barnum creates a showcase of talent that eventually becomes the traveling Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Highlighting the notion that what makes every person and their story different is what makes them all unique and special; Barnum becomes one of the first pioneers of the concept and universal appeal of “show business.”
You are invited, even encouraged, to come in costume! Tickets are $10 + $1 fee with all proceeds benefiting the Playhouse. For more information call (231) 894-4048.

Back Alley Comedy Club: Dwayne Gill wsg Rebekah Gibson
February 1 @ 8:00 pm
Saturday, February 1 at 8:00pm, come to the Back Alley Comedy Club for comedian Dwayne Gill with special guest Rebekah Gibson! Tickets are $7 and available through Eventbrite.com. For more information call (616) 570-8765.

Dwayne Gill: Feeling his job as a cop was way too serious for someone considered funny since birth, Dwayne found an outlet for his humor when he first stepped onto a comedy stage at the Ann Arbor Comedy Showcase in 1993. After only two more performances, he joined the ranks of professional comedians with his first paid booking. Dwayne’s topics range from current events, men and women relationships to the crazy situations he’s encountered as a police officer. Dwayne was voted “Best of the Fest” at the San Luis Obispo Comedy Festival 2013 and was the Wildcard Winner in the Stand Up its Miller Time National Comedy Contest with Kevin Hart 2012. So, if you have never met a cop with a sense of humor, then it’s obvious you haven’t met Dwayne!

Rebekah Gibson: Raised in Wisconsin, Rebekah Gibson started performing stand up in local Wisconsin bars and coffee shops. Now residing in Chicago, she is quickly making a name for herself performing in local Chicago bars and coffee shops. Movin’ on up, she recently opened for Gilbert Gottfried. Her comedy and style have often been called “very Midwest” so you know you’re bound to have a good time.

Winter Try-Athlon
February 2 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sunday, February 2 from 10:00am-4:00pm, come to the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex for your opportunity to try three Winter Olympic sports; luge, ice speedskating and cross country skiing. This event is family friendly and geared toward those who may have never done at least one of these sports. Of course, serious competitors are welcome as well. The MWSC recognizes that many people may have very little experience in some of these sports and will teach you everything you need to know in continuous 20 minute clinics at each venue. For more information, call 231-828-4627.

Poetry Open Mic Night & Black History Month Calendar Awards
February 3 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Enjoy an evening of poetry at Hackley Public Library. Read your own poetry, or read works from your favorite Black History/Black Experience/African American poet. If you wish to share a poem/piece, please register by calling 231-722-8011, or by visiting HPL’s online events calendar. Walk-ins are also welcome! Additionally, from 6:00pm – 6:30pm, those who have been selected for the annual Black History Month Calendar will be honored and the calendar will be distributed. All ages welcome!

Beware of Social Security Scams

by Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist

There’s a widespread telephone scam involving callers claiming they’re from Social Security. The caller ID may even show a government number. These callers may tell you there’s a problem with your Social Security number. They may also threaten to arrest you unless you pay a fine or fee using gift cards, pre-paid debit cards, a wire transfer, or cash. That call is not from us.

If you receive a suspicious call from someone alleging to be from Social Security, please:

• Hang up right away.
• Never give your personal information, money, or retail gift cards.
• Report the scam at oig.ssa.gov/ to Social Security’s law enforcement team at the Office of the Inspector General.

Social Security will not:

• Threaten you.
• Tell you that your Social Security Number has been suspended.
• Call you to demand an immediate payment.
• Ask you for credit or debit card numbers over the phone.
• Require a specific means of debt repayment, like a prepaid debit card, a retail gift card, or cash.
• Demand that you pay a Social Security debt without the ability to appeal the amount you owe.
• Promise a Social Security benefit approval, or increase, in exchange for information or money.
• Request personal or financial information through email, text messages, or social media.

Social Security will:

• Sometimes call you to confirm you filed for a claim or to discuss other ongoing business you have with them.
• Mail you a letter if there is a problem.
• Mail you a letter if you need to submit payments that will have detailed information about options to make payments and the ability to appeal the decision.
• Use emails, text messages, and social media to provide general information (not personal or financial information) on its programs and services if you have signed up to receive these messages.

Benson Announces Adam Reames as Legislative Policy Director

LANSING — December 23, 2019 – Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today announced that Adam Reames will serve as the Michigan Department of State’s legislative policy director starting Jan. 6. Reames has been the assistant secretary of the Michigan Senate for more than 10 years.

“Adam’s years of experience and tremendous knowledge of the Legislature, combined with his passion for our work, will be of great benefit to our team,” said Benson. “The relationships and respect he’s built on both sides of the aisle will be a great asset as we continue to work with the Legislature to strengthen Michigan’s democracy and modernize the way we serve and support the millions of Michiganders who do business with us each year.”

At the Michigan Senate, Reames oversaw legislative procedures, training for new members and daily operations of the nonpartisan staff. Prior to that work, he held several policy and lobbying positions with organizations including Dykema Gossett, the Michigan House of Representatives, and the Michigan Department of Transportation. Reames also has a law degree from Wayne State University, a Master of Public Policy degree from Claremont Graduate University and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, where he studied political science.

“I am excited to be joining Secretary Benson and her administration,” said Reames. “I look forward to putting my knowledge of the Legislature in support of the Secretary’s vision to benefit the citizens of Michigan.”

Reames replaces Jonathan Brater as the department’s legislative policy director. Brater will take over as director of the Michigan Bureau of Elections on Jan. 2.

379,418 Signatures Submitted to End Dismemberment Abortions

December 23, 2019, Lansing, MI — The Michigan Values Life coalition submitted 379,418 signatures believed to be valid to the Michigan Bureau of Elections today to initiate legislation to ban dismemberment abortions in Michigan.

Right to Life of Michigan President Barbara Listing said, “This is a wonderful Christmas present to the unborn. Michigan values life, and it’s time for an end to these violent late-term dismemberment abortions.”

The legal signature requirement for citizen-initiated legislation in Michigan is 340,047, based on the total votes for governor in the previous election.

Listing said, “Our committed all-volunteer force persevered through significant obstacles that kept being put in their path this year. We’ve received more than 400,000 signatures, but after thorough checking, we’ve whittled it down to our final total of valid signatures.”

A change in the petition law in 2018 required a change in Right to Life of Michigan’s time-tested validation process. Each petition received has been checked at least four times.

Listing said, “We set a state record for the highest signature validity rate with our 2004 petition drive to ban partial-birth abortions. We hope our dismemberment ban meets or exceeds that validity rate of 97 percent.”

The Bureau of Elections will take several weeks to determine the validity of the submitted signatures, and once enough signatures are confirmed the legislation will be sent to the Michigan Legislature. The Legislature will have 40 days to consider the dismemberment ban, which after successful majority votes will become law without Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s signature. Initiated legislation that isn’t passed into law is placed on the general election ballot for a public vote.

Listing said, “The 379,418 people who signed their names on this life-saving dismemberment ban should be confident that our prolife majorities in the Michigan Legislature will pass the bill again, just like they did back in May.”

The dismemberment abortion procedure is the most frequently used late-term abortion procedure. The procedure works exactly like it sounds; an unborn child is dismembered and removed from her mother’s womb, one limb at a time. In 2018, there were 1,908 dismemberment abortions in Michigan reported to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

The dismemberment ban bills include an exception if the mother’s life is in danger. However, in published research on reasons women have abortions, the pro-abortion Alan Guttmacher Institute has stated that most late-term abortions are done for economic or social reasons.

Department of State Collegiate Student Advisory Task Force Delivers Recommendations on Youth Engagement

Nonpartisan group calls for voter education and increased access

LANSING — December 18, 2019 – Members of the Department of State Student Advisory Task Force today delivered preliminary recommendations to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson on how to improve voter engagement among young people and college students.

The Department of State formed this first-of-its-kind nonpartisan task force of college, community college and university students this past fall. The task force includes 32 students from 23 colleges, community colleges and universities throughout Michigan with hometowns across the state.

Historically, students in Michigan have faced significant barriers to voting and participated in elections at lower rates than other age groups. The task force was established to combat this historic participation gap and to advise the Department of State on the barriers and solutions to youth engagement in Michigan.

“I’m proud of the work our student task force did this year to identify barriers and offer solutions for students and young people across the state of Michigan.” Secretary Jocelyn Benson said. “They call on all of us to do our part, and I look forward to working with leaders across the state to level barriers for young voters.”

The report catalogs numerous barriers impacting youth and student voters at the state, local, university and individual levels. For each barrier, the students recommend solutions. Suggested best practices and recommendations are included at the end of the report.

The report details many different solutions to improve student engagement in our democracy, including the following highlights:

1. Voter Education – The importance of youth voter education on both how to vote and why voting matters repeatedly came up in task force discussions. Members recommend that all leaders at the local, K-12, higher education and state government levels consider how they could more effectively educate students about their voting rights through various reforms or initiatives.

2. On-Campus Resources – Students on the task force recommend each school and university should feature either satellite clerk offices or on-campus polling location(s), and the Department of State should increase the use of the mobile Secretary of State branch office on campuses. This was the single category of recommendations most students voted on as their top priority.

3. Absentee Voting – Task force members also recommend a number of absentee voter ballot-related solutions, all with the intention of creating more convenient avenues for both requesting and returning an AV ballot. Recommendations include creating an online AV ballot application, pre-paid postage, on-campus drop boxes, and requiring a permanent AV ballot application list.

Task force members met three times in person and several times via conference call between September and November 2019. In 2020, they will continue to work with the Secretary of State’s Office as student engagement liaisons on their respective campuses. Learn more about the task force at Michigan.gov/SOSStudentTaskForce.

Task Force on Women in Sports to be Funded Independently

Michigan Women Forward to serve as fiscal agent

LANSING — December 17, 2019 – Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today announced that the Task Force on Women in Sports will partner with Michigan Women Forward to seek independent funding in 2020. The task force is chaired by Secretary Benson and housed within the Department of State. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer created the panel by executive order in June.

“Our first-of-its-kind task force, focused on the expanding opportunities for women in all aspects of sports, has enormous potential to move the needle in Michigan and nationally,” Benson said. “And this is everybody’s fight. Partnering with Michigan Women Forward will enable us to build public private partnerships, expand our reach, and engage the philanthropic community in supporting our work.”

The task force – the first of its kind at a state government level – brings together local and national leaders to develop strategies that support and promote opportunities in Michigan for girls and women in sports. Through the partnership with Michigan Women Forward, the 501c3 organization will serve as fiscal agent and receive and administer all funds donated to the task force.

“I am thrilled that Michigan Women Forward can continue to support the important work of this task force,” said Carolyn Cassin, president and CEO of Michigan Women Forward and a member of the task force. “I applaud Secretary Benson’s leadership in helping level the playing field for Michigan women and girls.”

The new partnership with Michigan Women Forward is in addition to an ongoing collaboration between the task force and the Women’s Sports Foundation. In addition to Secretary Benson, the task force is comprised of 14 members and 16 advisory members. More information, including a list of all members, is available in the About section of the Michigan.gov/SOS website.

Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events

There is space in the Sheriff Office’s Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events sessions on the following days. The Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) course provides strategies, guidance, and a plan for surviving an active shooter event.

Participants must be at least 18 years of age; please bring picture ID such as a driver’s license or state-issued identification.

Sessions are available on:
February 25 | Register
April 21 | Register

Contact:
Sergeant Ryan DeVries
rdevries@miottawa.org
(616) 738-4038

Lakeshore Restaurant Week Coming to the Muskegon Area February 21-29th, 2020

(Muskegon, MI) – A promotion designed to bring more people into local eateries in Muskegon and on the Lakeshore is planned for February 21st through February 29th.

The promotion, called Lakeshore Restaurant Week, is being organized and promoted by the Muskegon branch of Cumulus Broadcasting, which consists of four radio stations: 98.3 WLCS; V-100 WVIB; Sunny 92.5 WWSN; and 97.5 NASH Icon WLAW.

The idea is to band together a group of restaurants that will offer discounts and other promotions to entice couples and families to try restaurants that they otherwise have not tried before.

“Our idea is simple,” explained Rich Berry, from the Cumulus – Muskegon Radio Group. “We are promoting that there are a lot of really good area restaurants on the Lakeshore. By offering special deals and discounts between February 21st and February 29th, we want people to do some experimenting and try new places.

“It’s amazing how many great places there are to eat in the Muskegon and the Lakeshore area,” said Berry. “We want to promote that while also offering the consumer a great deal. It is our hope to make the Lakeshore Restaurant Week an annual event that residents and travelers will look forward to each year.

Restaurants who are members of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce will receive a discount to participate.

A list of participating restaurants will be released in the next several weeks. A special web page, muskegonlakeshorerestaurantweek.com, is being designed to list the restaurants and their discounts. A Facebook page is also being designed according to Berry.

“We are moving quickly to get this started,” said Berry, “I think that everyone is going to love this idea.”

The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other Eric Carle Favorites

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Saturday, February 15, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Enter a magical world of enchantment as three beloved stories by award-winning children’s book author Eric Carle come to life right before your very eyes! This world-class touring show by the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia has been seen by millions in over 13 countries across the globe and is coming to Muskegon for 2 shows only!

Through the magic of black light and amazing full-scale puppetry, you will journey along with THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR as he eats his way through an amazing variety of foods on his path to becoming a beautiful butterfly! Meanwhile, high up in the sky, LITTLE CLOUD playfully transforms into a variety of creatures, including a sheep, an airplane, a shark and more! This triplebill hit also includes THE MIXED-UP CHAMELEON, who is bored with his life of changing color all day until he takes a trip to the zoo. His hilarious attempts to emulate the beautiful animals he sees conclude with his discovery that there is value in his own unique self.

These world-famous, whimsical tales have enchanted several generations! Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience them come to life live on stage!

Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children 17 and under. Click here to purchase tickets or for more information.

Saving Community Cats in Michigan with $5,000 Grant

Through funding provided by Humane Society of Macomb Foundation, Michigan Pet Fund Alliance (MPFA) has received $5,000 to fund one Community Cats TNR Grant. The grant opportunity is open to Michigan animal shelters and rescue organizations to launch a new Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program to save outdoor cats.

“Michigan Pet Fund Alliance is committed to ending outdated and inhumane ‘catch and kill’ policies to control cat populations,” said Deborah Schutt, MPFA founder and chairperson. “Although Michigan shelters achieved an overall save rate 90 percent in 2018, 7092 cats were killed in our shelters.”

Research shows that when free-roaming or feral outdoor cats are sterilized, vaccinated and returned to their neighborhoods with shelter and a food source, they can live nearly as long as indoor cats. Community cats can be beneficial to the neighborhood by keeping other cats away and controlling rodent populations.

The Community Cats TNR Grant cycle runs January 6 through February 14. Grant funds must be used to launch a new program to TNR a minimum of 20 cats before November 30, 2020. All cats must be sterilized, vaccinated for rabies, and ear-tipped prior to being returned to the location from where they were picked up. The grant can also be used to build outdoor cat shelters and create TNR kits, including traps and other supplies. To see a full list of requirements and to apply – click here.

After the Community Cats TNR Grant is awarded, MPFA plans to offer additional grant opportunities to fund existing Community Cats programs. Details will be announced in early spring, just prior to “kitten season”, when unaltered outdoor cats typically have their first litter of the year.

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 01/27/20

AGENDA

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

JANUARY 27, 2020

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

01. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
02. Roll call
03. Approval of board minutes: 1/13/19
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
none

08. New Business
A. Prosecutor presentation regarding senior services
B. Resolution for George Lakatos’ 100th Birthday
C. Library Board Appointment
D. Resolution for West Michigan Water Authority
E. Local Road Project Contract with MCRC
F. AT&T Local Franchise Renewal
G. Resolution for Board of Review dates

09. 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

Fruitport Board of Education Organizational Meeting Minutes – 01/20/20

Fruitport Board of Education
Organizational Meeting
January 20, 2020 7:00 p.m.
Shettler Elementary Library

I. Per Board Policy 0151, Bob Szymoniak, Superintendent, called the January 20th Organizational Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

II. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

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

IV. Election of Officers

President
Item 20-001. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Burgess to nominate Dave Hazekamp for President. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to close nominations and cast a ballot for Dave Hazekamp for President.
Roll call vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; Kelly, Yes.
Absent – Franklin.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

Superintendent Szymoniak passed the gavel to President Hazekamp.

Vice President
Item 20-002. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Brott to nominate Kris Cole for Vice-President. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Brott to close nominations and cast a ballot for Kris Cole for Vice-President.
Roll call vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; Kelly, Yes.
Absent – Franklin.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

Treasurer
Item 20-003. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Brott to nominate Elroy Buckner for Treasurer. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Brott to close nominations and cast a ballot for Elroy Buckner for Treasurer.
Roll call vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; Kelly, Yes.
Absent – Franklin.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

Secretary
Item 20-004. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Buckner to nominate Steve Kelly for Secretary. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Buckner to close nominations and cast a ballot for Steve Kelly for Secretary.
Roll call vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; Kelly, Yes.
Absent – Franklin.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

V. Adjournment
Item 20-005. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to adjourn the Organizational Meeting.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The Organizational Meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Maribeth Clarke, Recording Secretary

Fruitport Board of Education Regular Monthly Meeting Minutes – 01/20/20

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
January 20, 2020 7:00 p.m.
Shettler Elementary Library

I. The Regular meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 7:05 p.m. by Board President, Dave Hazekamp.

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

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 20-006. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

IV. PRESENTATIONS
Art Teachers, Karrn Middleman, Robin Latsch, Jason Avery, and Dawn Jacobson along with their students presented School Board members with student artwork in honor of Board Appreciation Month. Thank you cards, and gifts were also presented to the Board.

Shettler Principal, Janelle Duffey, staff members, and students spoke about a new program in their school. “Shettler Families” was created to bring students from all grade levels together a couple times per month to work on positive behavior curriculum and various projects as a “family”. Each family is led by a staff member, has a family name, and a secret handshake. The families will stay together until they leave the building, adding new kindergartners each year.

V. COMMUNICATIONS
None.

VI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
John Winskas advised the Board that Consumer’s Energy would be presenting a check to the district on 1/23/20. He also spoke about lockers and kitchen equipment having been sold to a neighboring district.

VII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Superintendent, Bob Szymoniak mentioned a committee survey to board members. He asked that it be completed and returned to Dave Hazekamp.

Bob also spoke about the Hackley Community Care counselor located at Edgewood. Her caseload is full and a potential grant is being sought for a second counselor.

Lauren Chesney commented on the success of opening the new academic wing of the high school on January 6th.

VIII. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 20-007. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Buckner to approve the Consent Agenda as presented:
1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of December 9, 2019
2. Approval of Bills
3. Acceptance of Monthly Financial Report and ACH Transactions
4. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report
5. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report
6. Approval of the Capital Projects Progress Report
7. Approval of Personnel Report
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

IX. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
None.

X. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held January 13, 2020.
Elroy Buckner reported on a Business and Finance Committee meeting held January 13, 2020. Elroy Buckner, Dave Hazekamp, Mark Mesbergen, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed: Replacing the High School Gymnasium Sound System and a Facilities Committee.

XI. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held January 13, 2020.
Steve Kelly reported on a Personnel Committee meeting held January 13, 2020. Dave Hazekamp, Tim Burgess, Mark Mesbergen and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed: using the MAISD for payroll assistance during a maternity leave, the 2020-21 School Calendar, a Facilities Committee, and the Social/Emotional Support Team changes.

2. MAISD Payroll Service.
Item 20-008. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Cole to approve contracting with the MAISD for payroll assistance during Katie Shawl’s maternity leave.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

XII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held January 14, 2020.
Jill Brott reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held January 14, 2020. Jill Brott, Susan Franklin, Dave Hazekamp, Allison Camp, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed: a Comfort Dog, the Social/Emotional Support Team changes, a Facilities Committee, Email Communications, A New High School Course, Early Childhood Center Raises, and the Impact Significant Behavioral Issues have on Teachers.

2. New High School Course.
Item 20-009. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Kelly to approve the high school Musical Theatre course as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

3. ECC Pay Increase.
Item 20-010. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Cole to approve the Early Childhood Center pay increases. The cost of these raises will be handled by the Early Childhood Center budget so that there will be no impact on the district’s general fund.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

4. Overnight Trip Requests.
Item 20-011. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Buckner to approve the overnight trip requests as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

XIII. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Kris Cole mentioned that the Middle School Robotics team recently took 2nd place at State competition.

Steve Kelly said the Superhero/Musical Pancake breakfast was a huge success! He gave kudos to all. Steve also mentioned the recent success of the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams.

XIV. AGENDA ITEMS for FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF ANY SPECIAL
MEETINGS
1. Business and Finance Committee will meet February 10, 2020 at 11:30 a.m.
2. Personnel Committee will meet February 10, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.
3. Student Affairs Committee will meet February 11, 2020 at 12:00 p.m.

XV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Media Specialist, Pam Gustafson thanked Kris Cole for his work with the Shettler Robotic team, thanked the Board for their dedication to the district, and commented on the great group of staff members at Shettler.

XVI. ADJOURNMENT
Item 20-012. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 6-0

The meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly, Board Secretary
Maribeth Clarke, Recording Secretary

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 01/13/20

Personnel
Monday, January 13, 2020
5:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

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

1. Mark presented the plan to contract with the MAISD for payroll services during our current payroll officer’s maternity leave. The Board will be asked to take action on this agreement at their upcoming meeting.

2. Mark discussed various considerations with the 2020-21 school calendar. He is currently in discussions with the FEA and MAISD to develop a mutually beneficial calendar. Of note is that the 2020-21 school year will likely begin before Labor Day, thus creating an earlier end to the school year in June of 2021.

3. The committee was asked to make recommendations of community members to sit on the upcoming facilities committee.

4. An update was given on Social/Emotional Support Team changes. Of note is the change from a shared counselor and social worker who split their time between Beach and Shettler, to hiring two social workers who will not have to travel between the buildings, but can be assigned to one building and better serve those students accordingly.

Meeting adjourned at 5:40 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 01/14/20

Student Affairs
Tuesday, January 14, 2020
12:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

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

1. It was shared that because Kelly Hoekenga, who owns the comfort dog that has been working at Beach and Shettler, has gotten a new job at the ISD, we will be losing that comfort dog with Kelly’s departure. Middle/high school social worker, Shannon Coe, has expressed interest in getting a comfort dog. She is working on funding for the necessary training and certification for the dog she is soon to purchase.

2. Changes to the Social/Emotional Support Team were discussed. Of note was that we are shifting from an elementary counselor/social worker model to a completely social work model so that Beach and Shettler each have their own staff person in this capacity. This is in place of our current model consisting of a counselor and a social worker split between these two buildings which is necessary to meet the requirements of special education programming, but not ideal in supporting the needs of these two buildings.

3. The committee was asked for suggestions of community members to sit on the upcoming Facilities Committee which will meet for the first time in March should all go according to plan.

4. Email communications with Board members was discussed to help eliminate the possibility of an Open Meetings Violation.

5. A new proposed high school course, Musical Theatre, was presented. This course received support from Instructional Council and will be placed on the Board agenda for consideration.

6. Early Childhood Director, Pam Bergey, has recommended a pay raise for her staff. Because of an oversight, this matter was not presented to the Personnel Committee at their meeting on January 13, 2020. Therefore, the Student Affairs Committee reviewed the request and will make the recommendation to the full Board to approve these raises as presented. The cost of these raises will be handled by the Early Childhood Center budget so that there will be no impact on the district’s general fund.

7. General discussion was held on students with significant behavioral issues and their impact on teachers.

Meeting adjourned at 12:58 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 01/13/20

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, January 13, 2020
11:30 a.m., Superintendent’s Office
Meeting Minutes

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

1. High School Gymnasium Sound System*
Mark discussed a recommendation to replace the high school’s main gym sound system as it is starting to fail during events. Mark presented a quote from Dakronics for $30,424. A team of people from Fruitport saw a pilot of the system and the appropriate equipment. There will be a board action request on the upcoming board meeting.

2. Facilities Committee
Bob talked about creating a facilities committee to determine the direction for the future facilities needs along with how to finish the 2017 capital projects fund.

Meeting adjourned at 12:10 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

*An addendum is below.

Addendum for Business and Finance Committee Minutes

During the days following the Business and Finance Committee meeting, more questions came up regarding the high school gym equipment and system. Therefore, to ensure Fruitport gets the proper equipment and system for the main gym, the request for the gym sound system is being removed from the January board meeting agenda.

During the next couple of weeks, the team will get back together and ensure the needs of the district are met. Once the team is good with the recommendation, Mark will bring that recommendation to a future Business and Finance Committee meeting.

Ask Dr. Universe – Evergreen Trees

Dr. Universe: Why are evergreen trees green all year? – Emily, 10, Silverdale, Wash.

Dear Emily,

Whenever I go for a hike in the woods, I can’t help but admire the tall evergreen trees. No matter what time of year it is, the pines, hemlocks, cedars, and spruces are usually all green.

My friend Bert Cregg is also very curious about the lives of trees. He graduated from Washington State University and is a professor at Michigan State University.

Cregg told me that evergreens have lots of needles, which are their leaves. We have even seen some trees, such as bristlecone pines, that have had the same needles for more than 16 years.

Each tiny needle on a great big evergreen is working hard to make food for the tree. It all happens through a process called photosynthesis. Here’s how it works:

The tree’s needles contain something called chlorophyll that gives them their green color. But the chlorophyll also has another important job. The chlorophyll absorbs sunlight which the tree can use to turn carbon dioxide from the air and water into sugars. It is these sugars that help the tree grow and stay green.

But while some trees, such as maples, stop doing photosynthesis in the colder months, evergreens keep on photosynthesizing (pho-toe-synth-uh-size-ing). In addition to sugars, evergreen trees also need something called mineral nutrients to help them grow.

In fact, humans also need mineral nutrients, such as calcium, potassium, and iron to help them grow. But while humans get their nutrients from food, trees get a lot of their own kinds of nutrients from the soil.

Cregg said that evergreens are really good at living in cold places where there aren’t a lot of nutrients in the soil.

“Once you have worked hard to take up those nutrients,” Cregg said, “you want to hang on them.”

Evergreens store up all those nutrients and can use them through the winter months. These types of trees are also good at storing up water in their needles which can help them stay green, too.

The nutrients help trees to do all kinds of things, including go through photosynthesis. But I also found out that some even evergreens do lose at least some of their green color. We might see some of their needles at the bottom of the tree start to turn orange. That means those needles are at the end of their lifespan.

“They drop their needles but they don’t do it all at one time,” Cregg said.

We have quite a lot of evergreen trees in Washington state, as you can tell from the state’s nickname “The Evergreen State.” The next time you look up to an evergreen, think about how each little needle is doing the job of keeping the tree green and growing. What kinds of evergreen tree species are growing in your state or neighborhood? Can you find some of their needles or pinecones Or do you have other kinds of trees in your part of the world? Tell us about what you see some time at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Calvary Christian School Recognized as Michigan Heart Safe School

Calvary Christian School Representative Samantha Anhalt receives the Michigan Heart Safe School Award

Calvary Christian School has met all the qualifications and has been recognized as a Michigan Heart Safe School. We have received a banner for this award, and we are proudly flying it in our Gym above our score-board. This award involves training our staff in CPR and AED awareness and placing AED’s in key locations in the school. We are proud to say that Calvary Christian Schools is a Michigan Heart Safe School!

EWP Welcomes New Executive Director

“My goal is to create an environment that not only meets the immediate needs of those in crisis, but to also provide the resources to move forward, heal, and build a thriving life of self-sufficiency that is free from violence.”

Following a national search, Every Woman’s Place, Inc. is pleased to announce that a new Executive Director has assumed that role as of Wednesday, October 30, 2019.

Kimberly Dimmett has worked in several capacities at the Resource and Crisis Center of Galveston County (RCCGC) in Texas. Previous employment experiences in the non-profit and government sectors have given her preparation needed to lead Every Woman’s Place.

Kim is an avid community volunteer, which was the conduit to her role as both the Director of Development and Capital Campaign Manager at RCCGC.

While with RCCGC, she was responsible for the organization’s annual budget of nearly $2,000,000 and, in time, a $5.6 million capital campaign effort that resulted in the development of a campus devoted to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Over the span of five years at the RCCGC, Kim worked to meet client needs and their attainment of economic self-sufficiency.

Kim brings that strength of vision to Muskegon and EWP.

“My goal is to create an environment that not only meets the immediate needs of those in crisis, but to also provide the resources to move forward, heal, and build a thriving life of self-sufficiency that is free from violence.” She adds, “I’m gratified to have a Board of Directors of Every Woman’s Place that is engaged and vision-driven as a partner in this endeavor. Together, with EWP’s professional and passionate staff, we will be here for survivors in our community.”

Every Woman’s Place, founded in 1975 and currently located at 1221 W. Laketon Avenue in Muskegon, Michgan, provides services to strengthen individuals’ lives by providing shelter, counseling and advocacy for those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault or human trafficking. In her new role, Ms. Dimmett will represent the agency in the community as well as provide leadership to a staff of thirty to ensure the agency’s success.

Since Lori Rasmussen, the agency’s previous Executive Director, left EWP to pursue other employment opportunities, the agency has been ably led by Interim Executive Director, Penny Englerth, who served as Executive Director for many years at the Michigan Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons/Michigan State Medical Society, in East Lansing, Michigan.

Kim is relocating from Texas to Michigan, but the weather of the Midwest isn’t a complete shock to her system, having grown up in Wisconsin. Her three dogs, two cats, a parrot and new husband will be joining Kim soon.

See more EWP updates at bit.ly/EWP-Updates

Fruitport Board of Education Annual Organizational Meeting Agenda – 01/20/20

Fruitport Board of Education
Annual Organizational Meeting
January 20, 2020 – 7:00 p.m.
Shettler Elementary

I. Call to Order – Bob Szymoniak, Superintendent (attachment #I-1)

II. Pledge of Allegiance

III. Roll Call (by recording secretary)

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

V. Adjournment

– Recess –

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 01/20/20

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Shettler Elementary
2187 Shettler Rd. Muskegon, MI 49444
Monday, January 20, 2020 – 7:00 p.m.

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. PRESENTATIONS
Board Appreciation Presentation – Art Department
Welcome and Shettler Families – Janelle Duffey

V. COMMUNICATIONS

VI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

VIII. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Regular Board Meeting Minutes of December 9, 2019 (attachment VIII-1)
2. Approval of Bills (attachment VIII -2)
General Fund                     $238,537.51
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center             219.02
Food Service                           77,839.57
Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage   7,764.00
Capital Projects (Bond)      359,142.55
Total Bill List                    $683,502.65

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

IX. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Other

X. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Elroy Buckner, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held January 13, 2020 (attachment X-1)

XI. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held January 13, 2020 (attachment XI-1)
2. MAISD Payroll Service (attachment XI-2)

XII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Jill Brott, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held January 14, 2020 (attachment XII-1)
2. New Course – Musical Theatre (attachment XII-2)
3. ECC Pay Increase (attachment XII-3)
4. Overnight Trip Requests (attachment XII-4)

XIII. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

XIV. 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

XV. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVI. ADJOURNMENT

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

Denial of Veteran’s Peddler State License

My name is David R Padecky. I am a Vietnam Era Veteran (Coast Guard).

I own a State Licensed STFU Food Wagon. I am SafeServ Certified. I have Food Vendor’s Insurance, I have been issued a Veteran’s Peddler License by the State of Michigan, through our Muskegon County Clerk’s Office.

Brian Werscham (zoning) of Muskegon Charter Township and the Township Attorney, Mr. Hughes, are denying me , and other Veterans who may come forth in the future, our State given Right to Vend Food in Muskegon Charter Township, for more than 30 days. At Brian’s discretion, he may allow an additional 30 days.

To stand for the Veteran Right, I had to hire my Attorney Brianna T. Scott. However, since this is new to her and her firm, we are in need of addition help by other Veterans and anyone else who is interested in engaging into this battle, to protect the Right of Veteran Peddlers and Vendors.

Please respond.

Thank-you,

David R Padecky
HotDogs In A Hurry
231-288-3337

Don’t Lose Your Health Care Coverage

Do you have Medicaid coverage through the Healthy Michigan Plan?
Starting January 2020, there is a new work requirement. Many will have to take a moment to report 80 hours a month of work or other activities like job search to keep coverage. Some will be excused if they are unable to work due to health or other reasons.

Will this change affect you? Get the details at HealthyMichiganPlan.org.
1-800-642-3195 (TTY: 1-866-501-5656)

Franklin Graham’s Decision America Tour to Florida

Franklin Graham hit the road early in 2020, sharing the Gospel in six Florida cities from the Panhandle to Key West. Starting Jan. 11 in Jacksonville Beach, the Decision America Sunshine State Tour travelled to Plant City, Panama City Beach, Key West, Boca Raton and Fort Myers. Christian music artists Jeremy Camp and Dennis Agajanian shared testimonies of Jesus’ love and led the crowd in worship.

In November, more than 1,900 people attended kickoff prayer events for the upcoming tour. During a gathering in southwest Florida, Christ-followers learned how to get involved with the tour and reach their neighbors for Christ.

Florida is where Billy Graham felt God calling him to a lifetime of ministry. The evangelist studied at Florida Bible Institute and preached on the streets of Tampa.

Now his son, Franklin Graham, is following God’s lead in taking the Gospel across America and around the world.

“We need a spiritual awakening in Florida,” said Franklin Graham. “We all face crossroads in our lives—moments when we need to make important decisions. Through this event, people will have the opportunity to make a decision that can impact their lives for eternity.”

Graham brought a message of hope at each stop on the Sunshine State Tour.
To learn more about the Decision America Sunshine State Tour, visit DecisionAmerica.com.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 1/20/20 – 1/27/20

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.visitmuskegon.org

Monday, January 20
*Visit Muskegon office is closed Monday, January 20:

Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the Museum
10:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art located at 296 W. Webster Ave. will open their doors for free in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visitors can enjoy the galleries, films in the auditorium, crafts in the classroom, and mini tours led by docents and Muskegon High School art students. For more information call 231-720-2570.Schedule: 10:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm – Film: “Black Man” by Jon Covington 10:00am – 1:00pm – Tours led by MMA docents 11:00am – 2:00pm – Craft in the classroom

Team Trivia Game Show
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Come to Racquet’s Downtown Grill located 446 W. Western Ave. Groups of any size are invited to play for free with prizes for the top three teams! Categories range from pop culture and entertainment, to sports, history, science, culture and general knowledge. Your live host will also offer many genres of music throughout the game, plus, you’ll enjoy food and drink specials each week. For more information, call (231) 726-4007.

Tuesday, January 21

Art Exhibit: A House Divided
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
“A House Divided,” an exhibition of artwork by Muskegon Community College art faculty member Erin Hoffman, will be on shown from January 21 – February 28 in the Overbrook Art Gallery! Overbrook Gallery located at 221 Quarterline Rd. hours are 9:00am – 4:00pm, Monday – Friday, with special weekend and evening hours during performances and concerts in the adjacent Overbrook Theater. Call (231) 777-0324 for more information.

Interactive Movie: The Wizard of Oz
4:00 pm
Join the Norton Shores Library located at 705 Seminole Rd., for an interactive screening of the classic movie, “Wizard of Oz!” You can take part in this action with props, sounds effects, and fun or just relax and enjoy the movie. This free event is for ages 11-18. For more information call (231) 780-8844.

We Are Stars Planetarium Show: FREE
7:00 pm
January 14 – February 27, and March 10 – March 26, (no shows on March 3 and 5) come to the Carr-Fles Planetarium at Muskegon Community College located at 221 Quarterline Rd., for the free show, “We Are Stars!” What are we made of? Where did it all come from? Explore the secrets of our cosmic chemistry and our explosive origins. Connect life on Earth to the evolution of the Universe by following the formation of Hydrogen atoms to the synthesis of Carbon, and the molecules for life. Narrated by Andy Serkis. This is a 35-minute presentation. For more information call 231-777-0289.

Wednesday, January 22

Ice Breaker Wednesdays
6:00 pm
Every Wednesday, January 8 – February 26 at 6:00pm, enjoy “Ice Breaker Wednesdays” at the Muskegon Luge & Adventure Sports Park located at 462 Scenic Dr. This is your chance to learn how to skate and cross country ski with free skate and ski lessons for beginners. Whether young or old, all beginners are welcome to participate. A $5 rink or trail pass is required for each activity. Rental equipment is also available for $5 inside the lodge. Lessons begin promptly at 6:00pm. All participants should arrive early enough to purchase a pass and get equipment on. For more information, visit www.msports.org.

The Winningest High School Football Team in Michigan
6:30 pm
Come to the Norton Shores Library located at 705 Seminole Rd., as local historian Ron Pesch, co-author of “100 Years of Muskegon Big Red Football,” shares the storied history of Muskegon High School’s Big Reds football program along with the team’s modern-day accomplishments. For more information call (231) 780-8844.

Thursday, January 23

Muskegon Civic Theatre presents: Fun Home
7:30pm
The Muskegon Civic Theatre presents, “Fun Home” on the Frauenthal stage located at 425 W. Western Ave.! Tickets are $26.50. For more information call the box office at 231-727-8001.
When her father dies unexpectedly, graphic novelist Alison dives deep into her past to tell the story of the volatile, brilliant, one-of-a-kind man whose temperament and secrets defined her family and her life. Moving between past and present, Alison relives her unique childhood playing at the family’s Bechdel Funeral Home, her growing understanding of her own sexuality, and the looming, unanswerable questions about her father’s hidden desires. Fun Home is refreshingly honest, wholly original musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes.

Exhibit Tour: Cheers! A History of Brewing in Muskegon
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Check out the Lakeshore Museum Center located at 430 W. Clay Ave., for “Cheers! A History of Brewing in Muskegon” Exhibit Tour! Join Michael Brower, co-founder of Pigeon Hill Brewing Co., and exhibit project manager, Aaron Mace, for a guided tour of their newest exhibit. Get a deeper history behind many of the items on display, and learn even more about Muskegon’s brewing heritage. Tickets are $5, or free for Museum members. Please RSVP via Eventbrite.com or by calling 231-722-0278.

Friday, January 24

The Alley Door Club: Root Doctor
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Celebrating its 15th season, The Alley Door Club at the Frauenthal Center located at 425 W. Western Ave., kicks off January 10, 2020 with live performances from an array of local bands! Performing on select Friday nights through April, The Alley Door Club features live music from popular West Michigan bands in a fun environment which includes a cash bar and dancing in the Ballroom located on the 3rd Floor of the Hilt Building. The doors open at 6:00pm for Happy Hour ($1 off all drinks), with live music from 7:00pm – 10:00pm. Tickets are $10 per person. Tables may be reserved at $75.00 for a 4-top or $115.00 for an 8-top. For more information, call the Box Office at 231-727-8001.

Comedian Josh Blue
6:30pm & 9:30pm
Comedian Josh Blue will perform two shows at 6:30pm and 9:30pm at the Back Alley Comedy Club located at 1531 W. Sherman Blvd. Perhaps best known as the comedian who puts the cerebral in Cerebral Palsy, Josh Blue centers much of his self-deprecating act around his disability. He exploded onto the national comedy scene by capturing the attention and endearment of the country as the winner of NBC’s Last Comic Standing. Having already established himself as one of the most sought after comedians on the college circuit, his weekly appearances on Last Comic expanded his fan base exponentially. Tickets are $20 General Admission or $25 VIP includes preferred seating and meet and greet. For more information call (616) 570-8765 or visit the website below.

ESME, Classical Crossover @ The Block
7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Visit The Block located at 360 W. Western Ave., second floor for “ESME, classical crossover!” This concert features West Michigan Symphony Associate Concertmaster Gene Hahn and Detroit Symphony cellist Jeremy Crosmer. ESME (Eclectic String Music Ensemble) arranges and performs their own covers and mashups of classical and popular music from Ravel, Bach and Beethoven to Katy Perry, Taylor Swift and Led Zeppelin. Tickets are $25 – $35. Students are $10. For more information call (231) 726-3231.

Learn to Luge Weekends: Weather Permitting
Friday * Saturday * Sunday
The Muskegon Luge & Sports Complex inside Muskegon State Park located at 462 Scenic Dr. offers one of only four luge tracks in the United States. Although shorter in overall length than the Olympic tracks in New York and Salt Lake City, the Muskegon Luge track provides an Olympic thrill for first timers. The track was designed by three-time Olympian Frank Masley and consists of six curves and speeds around 30 mph.
THEY WILL TEACH YOU HOW TO LUGE
Their coaching staff enjoys sharing their knowledge of the sport with others and teaching new sliders steering and form techniques. While luge is referred to as the fastest sport on ice, their track is designed for the first time slider at slower speeds than an Olympic track where sliders can reach speeds of 90+ mph. The top speed on this track from the public start is approximately 30 mph on a “good ice” day, although to most new sliders this still feels like 90 mph! Each “Learn to Luge” sliding session is 2.5 hours and is limited to a maximum of 30 participants which allows 3-5 runs depending on efficiency of group. Since 1984 our program has provided a “Olympic” type luge experience to tens of thousands of sliders visiting from across the globe.
EQUIPMENT
Participants are outfitted with elbow pads and a helmet. Participants will share an authentic luge training sled, handcrafted by the Gasser family, 3rd generation luge sled builders in Austria.
PARTICIPANT AGE
All participants must be at least 8 years old at the time of their session. An instructor will explain the components of the sled and teach how to control the sled.
GET SOME PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN THE WINTER
The most strenuous part of the luge experience is carrying your sled to the top of the luge track. Sleds weigh between 25-40 lbs. and are transported up a flight of stairs to the top of the luge track by human power…you! Small children will most likely need adult help to get their sled back up the hill. If you have heart troubles or health issues that may be complicated by climbing stairs or participating in adrenaline pumping outdoor thrill sports, this activity may not be recommended.
OTHER THINGS TO EXPECT
All participants must complete a waiver and provide proof of health insurance at check in for the luge session. Participants under the age of 18 must have a waiver signed by a legal guardian. After purchasing your tickets you will receive a downloaded waiver that can be filled out in advance of your visit. For more information call (231) 744-9629

Saturday, January 25

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sweetwater Local Foods Market located at 6401 Harvey St., offers healthy, humane, homegrown, local food you can trust! They are open year-round; summer markets are held in the parking lot; winter markets are inside the lobby.

Winter Farmers Market
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market located at 242 W. Western Ave., invites you to their Winter Farmers Market! Vendors will be there offering produce and other hand made goods. For more information visit the website below.

2020 Muskegon Polar Plunge
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
It’s the 2020 Muskegon Polar Plunge at Fricano’s Muskegon Lake located at 1050 W. Western Ave. This event will benefit Special Olympics Michigan. Registration takes place in the Hideaway Lounge from 12:00pm – 2:00pm Fricano’s. Participants will be bused down to Hartshorn Marina to Plunge from 2:00pm – 4:00pm and bused back to the Event Center for the Awards and After Splash Bash immediately following. Register to Plunge for free! Plungers must raise a minimum of $75 to receive the 2020 Polar Plunge Event T-shirt. Individuals on a team need to average $75 per person to receive the T-shirt. Additional higher level Polar Plunge incentive items are available the more money you raise! For more information call (989) 774-3911.

Hot Rod Harley-Davidson 13th Annual Chili Cook-Off
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
It’s the Hot Rod Harley-Davidson 13th Annual Chili Cook-Off located at 149 Shoreline Dr. Get free samples and vote for your favorite (while supplies last). Get a bowl of your favorite for a donation to Pioneer Trails Camp. Also, “Pick your Pepper” for a sizzling hot deal of 15% – 25% off officially licensed products. The discount will be drawn at time of purchase and applied to regularly priced items. This discount cannot be combined with any other offers. Motorcycles, labor and select special orders are excluded. For more information call (231) 722-0000.

Minecraft at Hackley Library: FREE
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Come to Hackley Public Library located at 316 Webster Ave., to play Minecraft! Kick your creative mind into overdrive and craft something new on the Minecraft server. This computer-based activity is open to the first 20 participants. Registration is required, so visit hackleylibrary.org, call 231-722-8014, or stop into Hackley Public Library to reserve your spot. This free event is for ages 7-12.

Sunday, January 26

Monday, January 27

Wedo Robotics: FREE
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Come to Hackley Public Library located at 316 Webster Ave. for “Wedo Robotics!” Explore LEGOs and coding with these special WeDo kits. Instructors will be on hand to teach the group and guide individual learning for kids ages 7-14. For more information call (231) 722-8000.

Smash Wine Bar & Bistro: DIY Floral Workshop
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Chase away the winter blahs with a Do-It-Yourself Floral Workshop at the Smash Wine Bar & Bistro located at 415 W. Western Ave., in beautiful Downtown Muskegon! This will be a fun night of flower arranging as you learn, step by step, how to create a beautiful floral arrangement that you’ll take home with you at the end of the night. All supplies are provided, as well as lots of tips and tricks to arranging and keeping fresh cut flowers. Make sure to come early for a bite to eat. Happy hour is from 4:00pm – 6:0pm and “Manic Monday” drink specials are available all day including 1/2 off bottles of wine! Seating is limited and tickets are $59 (+tax) through Eventbrite.com. The registration deadline is January 22 at 9:00pm.

Ask Dr. Universe – Snow Globes

Dr. Universe: How do you make a snow globe? – Alexa, 10, Salem, MO

Dear Alexa,

If you have a long winter break ahead and are looking for a great way to spend the afternoon, you might just want to make your very own snow globe. There are a few different ways to build a snow globe, but the first thing you’ll need is the perfect container.

To make a small snow globe, you might use something like an empty baby food jar. Or maybe if you want to make a bigger snow globe, you could choose an empty spaghetti sauce jar.

An empty water bottle could also work well for a snow globe. This is a great project to do if you have a few old items you want to make into something new. Once you have your perfect container, you’ll want to fill it up with certain kinds of liquids.

My friend Lindsay Lightner, a Ph.D. student at Washington State University, teaches people how to become science teachers and knows lots of great science activities to try. Her students make lava lamps to learn about something called viscosity. A lava lamp actually isn’t too different from a snow globe when it comes to viscosity.

Viscosity is a property, or characteristic, of liquids. We often use the word viscosity to describe how fast or slow a liquid flows. If you stuck a spoon into a jar of peanut butter, it would probably stick to the spoon. It’s really thick and has a high viscosity—it behaves almost like a solid.

But if we heated some peanut butter in the microwave, it would move around much more freely and have a much thinner consistency. It now has a much lower viscosity. For your snow globe, you will want to figure out how viscous to make your liquid. You can try it out with an experiment.

You can fill up one jar with water. Then fill another jar with water and a teaspoon of something called glycerin. Glycerin is what we sometimes use to make bubbles and it can make water more viscous. It’s easy to find in many stores. You might even make a third jar with a tablespoon of glycerin. You can adjust the amount, as needed.

Finally, you can add your “snow.” There are all kinds of different things you can use for snow. You might make your snow out of aluminum foil. You can use a hole punch to create some tiny flakes that will reflect the light.

If you want to re-use a material, Lightner said you can also use eggshells to make your snow. You could wash out the eggshells and then crush them up with a rolling pin into snowflake-sized pieces. No matter what solid object you decide to use, you will want to make sure it doesn’t dissolve in liquid. Lightner adds that you could also add little toys, like old Lego people, to decorate the inside of your snow globe.

Finally, you’ll want to put the lids on your containers tightly and give them a shake. Which of your snow globes has snow that falls the slowest or fastest? Tell us about what you created sometime at Dr.Universe@wsu.edu.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of December 23, 2019

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, December 23, 2019, in the township board room.

Members Present: Heidi Tice, Supervisor; Andrea Anderson, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Greg Hulka, Jeff Jacobs, Terry Knoll
Members Absent: Denise Winebarger, excused

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

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

The motion by Heidi Tice, supported by Rose Dillon, was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of December 9, 2019 as presented.

The motion by Heidi Tice, supported by Terry Knoll, was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1. Brian Michelli reported that he is following up on date for the proposed Truck Route Ordinance; the Merle Boes agreement has been signed and tanks will be placed soon.
2. Steve Biesiada is anticipating a professional recommendation to help with the erosion problem affecting the water main in Lake Michigan.
3. Heidi Tice would like to form a committee to handle the funds allocated from the Senior Millage; several entities have developed proposals and requested that municipalities dedicate their Senior Millage funding to them; the Village of Fruitport acquired a $125,000 grant for the kayak launch.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

19-152 Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce
The general feeling of the Board was not to join the Chamber.

19-153 Muskegon County Road Commission Performance and Indemnification Resolution
Per the township Attorney’s advice, the Board chose not to adopt the Muskegon County Road Commission Performance and Indemnification Resolution, staying with the application and permit process and following the terms and conditions for each project going forward.

NEW BUSINESS:

19-154 Recognition of Ethan Selle
Brian Michelli thanked Ethan Selle for his work to spruce up the area around the Public Safety Department sign at the Police/Fire Station. Ethan shared that the project helped him achieve his Eagle Scout and he thanked the volunteers who helped him complete the project.

19-155 Insurance matters
Andrea Anderson moved, Terry Knoll seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the solution for increased amount to meet required insurance deductible.
Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Hulka
Nays: none

19-156 FDL recommendation to appoint Library Board Trustees
The Fruitport District Library Board recommends the reappointment of Rose Dillon and the appointment of Junella (June) Rule to the FDL Board for a two year term to expire on December 31, 2021. Letters of interest were taken and interviews performed by the FDL Board.
Jeff Jacobs moved, Greg Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to appoint Junella Rule and reappoint Rose Dillon to the FDL Board for a two year term to expire on December 31, 2021.
Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Hulka
Nays: none

19-157 Everstream Metro Act permit
Everstream GLC Holdings LLC is looking to provide telecommunications services within Fruitport Township and has requested a 15 year bilateral agreement with 3 5 year extensions. Attorney, Ron Bultje, recommends approving a 5 year unilateral agreement to provide more flexibility if needed in the future.
The motion by Heidi Tice, seconded by Jeff Jacobs, was carried unanimously, to approve a 5 year unilateral Metro Act Permit for Everstream GLC Holdings LLC and authorize the Clerk to submit the paperwork.

19-158 Payment of bills
Terry Knoll moved, Heidi Tice seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts:
General Fund           $9,141.40;
Public Safety          $22,567.17;
Water                     $77,420.81;
Sewer                     $21,934.93;
street lights           $28,266.34;
Trust & Agency        $9,683.55;
Revolving Road           $398.72
Totaling:               $169,412.92
Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Hulka
Nays: none

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:
1. Jeff Jacobs asked what timeline is for budgets to be presented for review, Heidi said they should be expected by the end of January.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II:
1. Jay Bolt presented updates for the Village of Fruitport: grants have been issued in the amounts of $125,000 for the kayak launch, $115,000 for the 3rd Avenue resurfacing project, and $90,000 for traffic signal updates; storm drain issues are being looked at; the 3rd Avenue resurfacing project bidding is moving along and the project is anticipated to begin in June 2020; land use codes have been updated; the zoning map has been updated; the Village is hoping to form committees for different areas in regards to the master plan update that they hope to have updated by the end of 2020; DeVere Bendixen was recognized for his many years of service to the Village of Fruitport.
2. Greg Hulka recommended the possibility of using the road millings from 3rd Avenue to dump on local gravel roads.

The motion by Terry Knoll, supported by Rose Dillon, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 7:50pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK
HEIDI TICE, SUPERVISOR

20 for 20 Michigan Illustrators Round Out Winter Season at Muskegon Art Museum

Muskegon, MI—The Muskegon Museum of Art completes the launch of its winter season on January 16, 2020, with the opening of 20 for 20: Celebrating Michigan Illustrators, an exhibition of original artwork created by 20 children’s book illustrators from across the state.

20 for 20 brings together paintings, drawings, collages, and digital artwork by nationally recognized and emerging Michigan children’s book illustrators. MMA Curator of Education Courtney Jackson comments that “the exhibition celebrates the diversity found amongst illustrators here in Michigan and sets a precedent for beyond.” The show was organized by the MMA and runs through April 19, 2020.

Voters Use New Rights to Make Voices Heard

More than 1,000 registered on Election Day for Nov. 5 election

LANSING – Preliminary data from the Nov. 5 election shows Michiganders taking advantage of their new voting rights to make their voices heard in local elections.

Under the “Promote the Vote” constitutional amendment, voters can now register within 14 days of an election (up to and including Election Day) by going to their city or township clerk’s office with residency verification.

Within 14 days of the Nov. 5 election, more than 2,000 Michiganders registered to vote and were eligible to participate. More than 1,000 of these registrations took place on Election Day itself.

“I am excited to see such great new participation in our democracy,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “My office will continue to work with our Bureau of Elections and clerks across the state to ensure voters are educated on and able to take advantage of their new rights.”

Young voters took particular advantage of the new registration opportunities: About one-third of those registering on Election Day were 18-21 years old, and more than half were 30 years old or younger. This was true both of voters registering on Election Day and within the 14-day period. Voters of all ages took advantage of the new opportunities to vote, however, as more than 300 voters aged 60 or older registered to vote.

The registration numbers are a significant increase from May, when about 600 voters registered in the 14-day period, and August, when about 700 voters registered.

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Agenda – 01/14/20

Student Affairs
Tuesday, January 14, 2020
12:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING AGENDA

1. Comfort Dog
2. New High School Course
3. Update on Social/Emotional Support Team changes
4. Facilities Committee
5. School Board Email Interaction
6. Other
7. Public Comment
8. Adjournment

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 01/13/20 – 01/20/20

Presented by the Muskegon County Convention & Visitors Bureau
www.visitmuskegon.org

Team Trivia Game Show
January 13 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Mondays at 6:30pm, come to Racquet’s Downtown Grill for the Team Trivia Game Show! Groups of any size are invited to play for free with prizes for the top three teams! Categories range from pop culture and entertainment, to sports, history, science, culture and general knowledge. Your live host will also offer many genres of music throughout the game, plus, you’ll enjoy food and drink specials each week. For more information, call (231) 726-4007.

Storytime at The Coffee Factory
January 14 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Hackley Public Library and The Coffee Factory in Muskegon are teaming up for special Story Times! They’ll have fun with reading books and singing songs. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. These special Story Times will occur on January 14 and January 28, from 10:00am – 10:45am and are free to the public. For more information call (231) 722-8000.

Live Music at the Library
January 14 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Tuesday, January 14 at 6:00pm, come to Hackley Public Library for live music from classical guitarist, Kyle Thompson! Kyle first picked up the guitar at age thirteen and became fascinated by it. Now a Professor of Guitar at Grand Valley State University, he is sharing his skills and talent with you! This free musical performance is recommended for all ages. For more information call (231) 722-8000.

Trivia Night
January 14 @ 6:00 pm
The North Muskegon Library invites you to Trivia Night! Are you a wise guy? A smarty pants? Go head to head against others and prove it. Refreshments will be served and prizes will be awarded. Test your knowledge and exercise your mind. This event is open to anyone 16 and older. Call 231-744-6080 to register.

Open Mic Night
January 14 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Tuesday, January 14 at 6:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for Open Mic Night! Bring a poem, song or reading and share it with a friendly audience. For more information call 231-894-5333.

We Are Stars
January 14 & 16 @ 7:00 pm
January 14 – February 27, and March 10 – March 26, (no shows on March 3 and 5) come to the Carr-Fles Planetarium at Muskegon Community College for the free show, “We Are Stars!” What are we made of? Where did it all come from? Explore the secrets of our cosmic chemistry and our explosive origins. Connect life on Earth to the evolution of the Universe by following the formation of Hydrogen atoms to the synthesis of Carbon, and the molecules for life. Narrated by Andy Serkis. This is a 35-minute presentation. For more information call 231-777-0289.

Ice Breaker Wednesdays
January 15 @ 6:00 pm
Every Wednesday, January 8 – February 26 at 6:00pm, enjoy “Ice Breaker Wednesdays” at the Muskegon Luge & Adventure Sports Park! This is your chance to learn how to skate and cross country ski with free skate and ski lessons for beginners. Whether young or old, all beginners are welcome to participate. A $5 rink or trail pass is required for each activity. Rental equipment is also available for $5 inside the lodge. Lessons begin promptly at 6:00pm. All participants should arrive early enough to purchase a pass and get equipment on. For more information, visit www.msports.org.

Movies + Music @TheBlock
January 15 @ 7:00 pm
Wednesday, January 15 at 7:00pm, it’s “Movies + Music @TheBlock!” This popular series is back, and this time the theme centers on music from around the world integrated masterfully into films that explore the art of animation.
Join The Block for casual evenings as you explore the creative marriage of movies and music through a series of three acclaimed films. A panel discussion will follow. Doors and bar open at 6:30pm. General admission is $8. For more information call 231-726-3231.
Film: Allegro non troppo (Fantasy/Romance)
A “gorgeous send-up of Fantasia” with a sly sense of humor. Six animation shorts synchronized with six iconic classical music pieces, and several bizarre black and white intermezzi featuring a sleazy promoter, a bully conductor, a harried artist, and an all-female geriatric orchestra. (Films contain adult themes and are intended for mature audiences.)
Panelists:
• Julie Goldstein, Animation Chair, GVSU Film & Visual Arts
• Andy Buelow, Executive Director, West Michigan Symphony

After Hours Tours at Hackley Library
January 16 @ 4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Thursday, January 16 from 4:30pm – 6:00pm, dive into history and learn details about Hackley Public Library during an ‘After-Hours’ guided tour! Visitors are asked to arrive at 4:45pm to gather in HPL’s lower level meeting rooms. The tours will begin at 5:00pm. Please park in the rear parking lot as the front doors will be locked. Tours will be approximately 1 hour. Call (231) 722-8000 with any questions.

Opening Reception – 20 for 20: Celebrating Michigan Illustrators
January 16 @ 5:30 pm
The Muskegon Museum of Art completes the launch of its winter season on January 16, 2020, with the opening of “20 for 20: Celebrating Michigan Illustrators,” an exhibition of original artwork created by 20 children’s book illustrators from across the state.
20 for 20 brings together paintings, drawings, collages, and digital artwork by nationally recognized and emerging Michigan children’s book illustrators. MMA Curator of Education, Courtney Jackson, comments that “the exhibition celebrates the diversity found amongst illustrators here in Michigan and sets a precedent for beyond.” The show was organized by the MMA and runs through April 19, 2020.
OPENING RECEPTION
The public is invited to a free, family-friendly reception to celebrate the 20 for 20 opening on Thursday, January 16, from 5:30pm – 7:30pm. Light snacks will be provided at the event and reservations are not needed. For more information call 231-720-2580.

Jazz Night: Checkers Morton
January 16 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Thursday, January 16 from 7:00pm – 9:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for Jazz Night featuring Checkers Morton! For more information call 231-894-5333.

Muskegon Civic Theatre presents: Fun Home
January 17 – 19 & January 23 – 25
Beginning January 17, the Muskegon Civic Theatre presents, “Fun Home” on the Frauenthal stage! Tickets are $26.50. For more information call the box office at 231-727-8001.
When her father dies unexpectedly, graphic novelist Alison dives deep into her past to tell the story of the volatile, brilliant, one-of-a-kind man whose temperament and secrets defined her family and her life. Moving between past and present, Alison relives her unique childhood playing at the family’s Bechdel Funeral Home, her growing understanding of her own sexuality, and the looming, unanswerable questions about her father’s hidden desires. Fun Home is refreshingly honest, wholly original musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes.

Learn to Luge Weekends
January 17 – 19
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, December 27 – March 8, enjoy “Learn to Luge Weekends” at the Muskegon Luge & Sports Complex inside Muskegon State Park! They offer one of only four luge tracks in the United States. Although shorter in overall length than the Olympic tracks in New York and Salt Lake City, the Muskegon Luge track provides an Olympic thrill for first timers. The track was designed by three-time Olympian Frank Masley and consists of six curves and speeds around 30 mph. www.msports.org

Friday Family Fun Night: Do You Want to Build a Snowman?
January 17 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
January 17 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm, come to the Lakeshore Museum Center for the Friday Family Fun Night: Do You Want to Build a Snowman? Its cold outside, but that does not mean you can’t have fun! Join them for their Friday Family Fun Night dedicated to snow. Participate in the snowman-building contest, see what is really in the snow you eat, warm up with hot cocoa in the museum and enjoy more fun snow-themed activities. The cost is $5, or free for Muskegon County residents. No RSVP is required. For more information call 231-722-0278.

Tim O’s No-Cook Friday
January 17 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
January 17 at 6:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for “Tim O’s No-Cook Friday!” Enjoy slow-cooked Pork Marsala, mashed potatoes and salad for only $10. Come for dinner, stay for music. There will also be a full bar. For more information call 231-894-5333.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Game
January 17 @ 7:00 pm
The Muskegon Lumberjacks are proud and dedicated members of the United States Hockey League (USHL), the nation’s only Tier I junior hockey league and leading producer of NCAA players and National Hockey League draft picks in the United States. Catch home gamed Friday, January 17 and Saturday, January 18 at 7:05pm at the L.C. Walker Arena as they take on the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. Friday, it’s “13 On Your Side” Night featuring $2 beers and Saturday, it’s Star Wars Night! Tickets range from $10 – $17. For more information call (231) 724-5225.

Live Comedy at SE4SONS
January 17 @ 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Friday, January 17 at 7:00pm, join SE4SONS Banquet Center and Fresh Ghost Comedy in welcoming Ricarlo Winston and Mike Geeter for a fun night of live comedy! Tickets are $20 and include the show and pre-show appetizers from 7:00pm – 8:00pm. The show begins at 8:00pm. Tickets are $20 and must be purchased in advance at SE4SONS bar during restaurant hours. For more information call 231-759-3405.
A little more about Mike:
As an Ivy League dropout and community college graduate from Pontiac, MI, Mike brings a pointed look at life, family, and relationships that few others can…or should. From his upbringing in a family with 17 children to discussing his life as a father, Mike’s comedy is jagged wit mixed with a smooth delivery. Mike has headlined some of the finest comedy venues in the country and has worked with such outstanding comedians as Kevin Hart, Hannibal Burress, Natasha Leggero, Jim Norton, and Rickey Smiley, to name a few. Mike was featured on Fox Television’s comedy showcase “Laughs” (Season 1) and the Detroit episode of “Kevin Hart Presents: Hart of the City 2” on Comedy Central (Season 2).

Live Music: Carl Webb Band
January 17 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Friday, January 17 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for live music from the Carl Webb Band. For more information call 231-894-5333.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
January 18 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sweetwater Local Foods Market offers healthy, humane, homegrown, local food you can trust! They are open year-round, Saturdays from 9:00am – 12:00pm. Summer markets are held in the parking lot; winter markets are inside the lobby. For more information visit www.sweetwaterlocalfoodsmarket.org.

Winter Farmers Market
January 18 @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers Market invites you to their Winter Farmers Market! Vendors will be there offering produce and other hand made goods. Come visit on Saturdays from 9:00am – 2:00pm. For more information, visit www.muskegonfarmersmarket.com.

C.O.O.K. Kids Culinary Competition with Chef Jack Page
January 18 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Saturday, January 18, from 9:00am – 12:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers Market for the C.O.O.K. Kids Culinary Competition with Chef Jack Page! Teams of kids are paired with local chefs to create dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients along with a mystery ingredient. Common cooking ingredients will also be available to all teams. Teams will be given tokens to shop in the Muskegon Farmers Market then return to Kitchen 242 to prepare their masterpieces with the guidance of their chef. Local celebrities will judge the dishes and present the winners with a prize. Participation is limited and the cost is $40 to enter. This event is for ages 7 – 13. For more information call (231) 769-2202. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.com.

ASD Sensory Saturday
January 18 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Saturday, January 18, 2020 from 10:00am – 12:00pm, come to the Lakeshore Museum Center for an ASD Sensory Saturday! Families whose children have ASD, or sensory disorders, are invited to attend this free, special event. A variety of accommodations have been put into place to create an inclusive, welcoming, and safe place for the children and families where you can visit the museum’s exhibits, work on a craft, and have the option to visit the quiet area to relax and unwind.
Sensory bags with items like noise canceling headphones, visors, and fidget toys will also be available for families to check out. Visit the Lakeshore Museum Center website to download a “Sensory Story” to read with your child before your visit.
To Register contact Jackie at jackie@lakeshoremuseum.org, call (231) 724-5526, or register with Eventbrite.com. For more information call 231-722-0278.

Hot Rod Harley-Davidson Cornhole Tournament
January 18 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Saturday, January 18 from 10:00am – 3:00pm, Hot Rod Harley-Davidson is having a Cornhole Tournament! So, you think you’re good at Cornhole? Come out and compete for the top spot. Hot Rod Harley is letting YOU decide what the PRIZES are for this 2-man team, bracket style tournament happening in the Deal Dungeon! For more information call (231) 722-0000.
• 15 Teams = $100 Gift Card for 1st Place
• 10 Teams = $50 Gift Card for 1st Place
• 5 Teams = $25 Gift Card for 1st Place
• Hot Rod T-Shirts for 2nd place

Alcohol Ink Glass Gem Necklaces
January 18 @ 11:00 am
Saturday, January 18 at 11:00am, come to the North Muskegon Library to create Alcohol Ink Glass Gem Necklaces! Use alcohol ink on glass gems to make your own one of a kind necklace. Call 231-744-6080 to register. This event is geared toward children ages 11-18.

Murder by the Book: A Library Murder Mystery
January 18 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Saturday, January 18 from 12:00pm – 2:00pm, come to Hackley Public Library for “Murder by the Book: A Library Murder Mystery!” During a seemingly normal day at the library, a librarian is found dead in the stacks. Whodunnit? There are plenty of suspects with a motive for murder. Will you be able to help the detective crack this case? This is a free, ticketed event. Free tickets are available to pick up at Hackley Library. For more information call (231) 722-8000.

Books and Bookbinding at Hackley Library
January 18 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Did you know Hackley Library has a special collection of historical books in glass cases? Saturday, January 18 at 2:00pm, HPL will present a program where you’ll learn the history of bookbinding, interact with a few books normally off-display, and make a book of your own to take home. Registration is required and open to the first 35 participants. Please register at hackleylibrary.org, by calling 231-722-8014, or stop into HPL to reserve your spot for this free event geared toward children 8 and above.

Essential Oils 101
January 18 @ 2:00 pm
Saturday, January 18 at 2:00pm, come to Norton Shores Library to discover essential oil basics, why quality matters, and how to safely use them to enhance your home, wellness, beauty and balance. Brittany of Clever Care Essentials will teach you how to make a synergy blend to take home. Call 231-780-8844 to register.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Game
January 18 @ 7:00 pm
The Muskegon Lumberjacks are proud and dedicated members of the United States Hockey League (USHL), the nation’s only Tier I junior hockey league and leading producer of NCAA players and National Hockey League draft picks in the United States. Catch home gamed Friday, January 17 and Saturday, January 18 at 7:05pm at the L.C. Walker Arena as they take on the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. Friday, it’s “13 On Your Side” Night featuring $2 beers and Saturday, it’s Star Wars Night! Tickets range from $10 – $17. For more information call (231) 724-5225.

Live Music: John Nowak
January 18 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Saturday, January 18 at 7:00pm, come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for live music from John Nowak! John is a Michigan musician in the nationally-touring band Desmond Jones. When not playing drums or guitar for Desmond Jones, Nowak can be found playing solo shows on guitar and piano, with his side project Semis Passing Semis, or spinning vinyl dance parties at venues and festivals across the state. While Desmond Jones is known for their high-energy funk, rock and jazz fusion- Nowak’s singer-songwriter approach to his solo original music errs on the side of Americana and folk rock. Instrumental piano music, flowing and easy to listen to is also a component of John Nowak’s solo repertoire. For more information call 231-894-5333.

MLK Day at the Museum
January 20 @ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Monday, January 20 from 10:00am – 5:00pm, the Muskegon Museum of Art will open their doors for free in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Visitors can enjoy the galleries, films in the auditorium, crafts in the classroom, and mini tours led by docents and Muskegon High School art students. For more information call 231-720-2570.
Schedule:
• 10:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm – Film: “Black Man” by Jon Covington
• 10:00am – 1:00pm – Tours led by MMA docents
• 11:00am – 2:00pm – Craft in the classroom

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Agenda – 01/13/20

Personnel
Monday, January 13, 2020
5:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING AGENDA

1. MAISD Payroll Service
2. 2020-21 Calendar
3. Facilities Committee
4. Update on Social/Emotional Support Team Changes
5. Other
6. Public Comment
7. Adjournment

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Agenda – 01/13/20

Business and Finance
Monday, January 13, 2020
11:30 a.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING AGENDA

1. Gym Sound System
2. Facilities Committee
3. Other
4. Public Comment
5. Adjournment

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 01/13/20

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

JANUARY 13, 2020

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

01. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States
02. Roll call
03. Approval of board minutes: 12/23/19
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
A. Public Hearing: Mt. Garfield Special Assessment District Roll
B. Second Reading: Truck Route Ordinance

08. New Business
A. Prosecutor presentation regarding senior services
B. Reappoint Board of Review members
C. Street light at Park ‘n Ride
D. Approval of Bendzinski & Co document

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