Author Archives: editor

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 04/10/19

STUDENT AFFAIRS
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
12:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

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

1. The new course, Spanish 5, was discussed. It received support from Instructional Council and will be placed on the Board agenda for consideration to be added to the high school course offerings.

2. Counseling
• a. Muskegon Made as it relates to counseling was discussed.
• b. An update on Hackely Community Care placing a counselor in Edgewood Elementary was given.

3. It was reported that an old course, Coding, was being resurrected and offered to high school students this coming fall.

4. Music Department assignments and leadership where discussed in that we are preparing the foundation to grow and expand programming in the future.

5. Susan mentioned that May 1 was Law Day and encouraged teachers to bring students to the Ottawa County Courthouse for related programming.

6. Allison invited Student Affairs Committee members to join district school improvement teams for a work session at the MAISD on April 25 from 4-7:30 p.m.

7. A discussion was held on Instructional Assistant turnover.

Meeting adjourned at 12:53 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 04/10/19

Personnel Committee
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
5:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

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

1. Muskegon Made as it applies to counseling and the pending counseling office that will be placed in Edgewood by Hackley Community Care were discussed.

2. An update on the music program was given with special note given to the Choir Director posting that would be put out in the very near future.

3. An update was given on expanding ESU supervisors from two to three. This has been agreed upon by the ESU superintendents from Orchard View, Oakridge, Ravenna, and Fruitport.

4. An update on teacher retirements was given.

5. An update on a 3rd grade teacher posting was given.

6. Implications of staffing in high school English and Health/Home and Family were discussed.

7. Potential auditoriums directorship was discussed as we prepare to open the new high school auditorium in 2020 along with maintaining the current middle school auditorium.

Meeting adjourned at 5:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 04/08/19

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, April 8, 2019
11:30 a.m., Superintendent’s Office
Meeting Minutes

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

1. Bus Replacement Recommendation
Mark presented a three year replacement plan for buses. A recommendation for the 2019-2020 year will be on the board agenda for approval. The recommendation will be to purchase one new special education bus and three buses that are coming off lease from other districts. The total cost will be roughly $330,814 paid out of the capital projects fund.

2. Bus Camera RFP
Mark presented a sample request for proposal that will be going out in the next couple of weeks. The RFP is for a new bus camera system as Fruitport’s system is over 9 years old. Once the bids come in, Mark will present the recommendation.

3. Bond Investment Update
Mark presented an update on the bond investment income.

4. Spring Count Update
Mark presented our spring count numbers. Fruitport is down 45.70 FTE’s from the Fall which is roughly a 1.67% decrease.

Meeting adjourned at 12:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 04/15/19

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Board Room
Monday, April 15, 2019 – 7:00 p.m.

I. CALL to ORDER

II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

III. ROLL CALL

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

V. PRESENTATIONS
1. Linked Program – Brenda Baker and Jill Stamison
2. School Resource Officer – Officer Dan Butler

VI. COMMUNICATIONS

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes of March 18, 2019 (attachment IX-1)
2. Approval of Bills (attachment IX-2)
General Fund                           $216,680.23
Other Funds:
Early Childhood Center                39,837.21
Food Service                                    3,324.45
Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage           5,337.42
2017 Debt Retirement                       500.00
Capital Projects (Bond)                 22,254.22
Total Bill List                         $287,933.53

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

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. MAISD Biennial Election Resolution for Consideration (attachment X-1)

XI. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Elroy Buckner, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held April 8, 2019 (attachment XI-1)
2. Bus Purchases (attachment XI-2)

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held April 10, 2019 (attachment XII-1)

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Jill Brott, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held April 10, 2019 (attachment XIII-1)
2. New High School Course Offering (attachment XIII-2)
3. Overnight Trip Requests (attachment XIII-3)

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

XV. AGENDA ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Schedule Business & Finance Committee Meeting
2. Schedule Personnel Committee Meeting
3. Schedule Student Affairs Committee Meeting
4. Board Workshop Monday, April 22, 2019 @ 6:00 p.m.
5. MAISD Annual Budget Review Wednesday, April 24, 2019 @ 5:30 p.m.
6. MCSBA Spring Dinner, May 2, 2019 5:30 – 8:00 pm, The Lake House
7. Community Open House, High School, May 4, 2019 9:00 – 11:00 a.m.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVII. ADJOURNMENT

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

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 04/22/19

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

APRIL 22, 2019

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: 4/8/19
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
A. Second Reading: Business Registration Ordinance

08. New Business
A. Approval to hire Director of Public Utilities
B. Reappoint ZBA members: John Winskas and Joe DeMarco
C. Approval of water service material supplier
D. AT&T Metro Act Right of Way Permit Extension
E. Police Special Assessment discussion
F. Discussion of foreclosure property

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

Secretary Benson Welcomes Era of No-reason Mail-in Voting in Michigan

Convenient option available to every registered voter

No-reason mail-in voting has launched in Michigan, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced today, explaining it will make voting easier for people across the state.

“If you want to fill out your ballot at home, you should be able to do so. And if you want to avoid the stress of finding time to get to the polls on Election Day, you should be able to do that, too,” Benson said. “The era of no-reason mail-in voting has begun in Michigan, and I’m excited about the potential it has to engage more of our fellow citizens in our democracy.”

She called no-reason mail-in voting a common-sense reform that can save administrative costs and headaches, increase turnout and reduce lines during elections. The reform also removes Michigan from the ranks of the relatively few states that haven’t offered voters the ability to mail-in their vote for no reason.

Benson held a news conference with Flint Township Clerk Kathy Funk at township offices on the first day registered voters can request a mail-in ballot for the May 7 election. They were joined by other local officials and two area residents – a small business owner and an employee of a business with nontraditional hours – who couldn’t previously use a mail-in ballot but now will have that convenient option in their busy lives.

On Nov. 6, Michigan voters overwhelmingly approved Proposal 3, which contained many measures to make voting more accessible and secure, including a provision that allows voters to obtain a mail-in ballot without providing a reason. Before that, voters in Michigan could only request a mail-in ballot if they could meet one of six criteria as an “absent voter,” such as being 60 years or older or expecting to be out of town on Election Day.

“No-reason mail-in voting is a convenience that will help many people at election time,” Benson said. “Last November, the people of this state decided to make voting easier, and their change for the better begins today.”

Benson encouraged residents to visit Michigan.gov/Vote, where they can download a mail-in ballot application and find a wealth of election-related information.

Ottawa County Department of Public Health Annual Report

miOttawa Department of Public Health
“Our Vision – Healthy People”
February 26, 2019 | Annual Report

Stories to Share Public Health

Annual reports showcase the impact of local public health. We gathered photos, conducted interviews, wrote articles and so much more to create a magazine-style annual report. We compiled stories that link public health issues to people in our community to give you an insight into what we do.

For the latest report, visit www.miOttawa.org/Health2018
or previous reports at www.miOttawa.org/AnnualHealthReports

Click cover to view full report.

Featured Stories

HOMEMADE QUILTS FOR BABIES
Quilters from the Grand Haven Lighthouse Quilt Guild donate beautiful, lovingly made pieces of art to moms and babies.

TURNING TRAGEDY INTO AWARENESS AND GIVING TO OTHERS
Medical Examiners Program works with Gif t of Life to help turn tragedies into hope for other people and families.

A LOOK AT THE PEOPLE’S HEALTH OF OTTAWA COUNTY
New to the study: Experts identify eight adverse childhood
experiences that affect a person’s health and well-being.

HOW TO DONATE FRESH PRODUCE
Local solutions to the cost of fresh fruits and vegetables.

The Huizenga Huddle: January 11, 2019

It’s Past Time to Secure the Border

For years, elected officials in Washington from both sides of the aisle have discussed the need for border security and then failed to actually deliver on that promise. Now that there is an effort to properly secure the border, some in Washington refuse to acknowledge a problem even exists. The fact remains that our country is facing a humanitarian and national security crisis along our southern border. Our nation’s immigration system is broken and is in desperate need of the crucial resources necessary to protect our communities.

Each day, the brave men and women that serve as our first line of defense are challenged by thousands of inadmissible migrants who arrive at our border. In the last two years alone, Immigration and Customs Enforcement has arrested 266,000 undocumented immigrants with criminal records. Immigration courts are facing a backlog of over 800,000 open cases. To make matters worse, drugs are flowing across our borders, contributing to our nation’s drug epidemic and taking far too many American lives. Each week, 300 Americans die from heroin overdoses, 90 percent of which comes across our southern border by legal and illegal points of entry.

Recognizing the crisis at hand, President Trump has asked for funds to address the enormous challenges we face. We cannot keep our communities and our country safe without adequate funding for border security. It means improving existing facilities by deploying new technology, adding additional law enforcement and judicial personnel, and implementing new security measures along our border. This also means properly providing funds for physical barriers where Customs and Border Patrol say they will be effective. If we can successfully land rovers on Mars, we can equip our ports of entry and areas along the border with technology to stem the flow of heroin, fentanyl, and other dangerous drugs that have hurt families in West Michigan and across the nation.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 04/15/19 – 04/22/19

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

Visit with the Easter Bunny
Through April 21 @ 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Saturday, April 6^th – Easter Sunday, April 21, bring the kids to The Lakes Mall to meet the Easter Bunny! Cherry Hill photography will be there to take photos. The hours are Monday – Saturday, 11:00am – 8:00pm, and Sunday from 12:00pm-6:00pm. For more information call 231-798-7104.

Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy
Mondays @ 6:00 pm
The “Arsenal of Democracy” was a slogan used by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in a radio broadcast delivered on December 29, 1940. The phrase was used to arouse popular support for aiding nations in the war prior to the US entry into WWII and continued until the end of the war. During that time, the US provided the Allies with millions of rounds of ammunition, as well as weapons, trucks, tanks and ships. The Americans who worked in countless factories throughout the country truly helped the US manufacture victory in WWII. Join the USS Silversides Submarine Museum most Mondays through May 13 for the lecture series, “Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy!”

All lectures begin at 6:00pm at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. The cost is $5.00 per person or free with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership. For more information call (231) 755-1230.

• April 15: The History of Willow Run presented by the Yankee Air Museum.
• April 22: Shipbuilding in WWII presented by Karen Duvalle, Submarine Curator at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum.
• April 29: The Future of Military Manufacturing presented by Fred Johnson.
• May 6: The Cost of Manufacturing for WWII presented by George Maniates.

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.

Back Alley Comedy Club: Chris Kattan & Friends
April 15 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Monday, April 15 from 7:00pm – 8:30pm, come to the Back Alley Comedy Club for Chris Kattan & Friends! Tickets are only $25 plus a $2 service charge if purchased online at www.backalleycomedyclub.com. For more information call (616) 570-8765.

Chris Kattan is best known as one of the longest serving cast members on NBC’s ‘Saturday Night Live.’ In the 8 years Chris starred in the landmark late night program, he became best known for his characters ‘Mango,’ ‘Mr. Peepers,’ and one of the ‘Butabi Brothers’ opposite Will Ferrell which was such a hit that the sketch was adapted into the 1998 cult classic, “Night at the Roxbury.” Kattan went on to star in Corky Romano where he plays the black sheep son in a family of mobsters and played the villain in the Malcolm D. Lee film, “Undercover Brother,” opposite Eddie Griffin. Kattan also starred as a series regular in the ABC hit series, “The Middle,” and recently had some memorable appearances in the Adam Sandler films “Hotel Transylvania” and “The Ridiculous 6.” Kattan trained at Los Angeles’ The Groundlings Theater and is one of its most famous alumni. He currently tours the country with his extremely popular stand-up act.

Chris Kattan will be here and bringing a few friends with him. Come out and join them!

Italian Easter Classic with Sofia
April 16 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Tuesday, April 16 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for the culinary class “Italian Easter Classic with Sofia!” A classic Easter menu in the Italian tradition with Sofia Verdure pastellate (deep fry vegetable), gnocchi alla romana, Mediterranean salmon (baked salmon with cherry tomatoes, olives and capers), peas with pancetta, lemon sorbet. The cost is $45. Sign up at Eventbrite.com or call (231) 769-2202 for more information.

Group Bicycle Tour
Tuesdays @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company every Tuesday at 6:00pm for a 90 minute group bike ride! There are five different groups to fit your biking needs and abilities and helmets are strongly encouraged. Loaner helmets are always available at City Hub Cyclery (585 W. Clay Ave., Downtown Muskegon). Unruly Brewing Co. is offering $1 off your first post-ride beer! For more information call Raymond at 231-206-6182.

Planetarium Show: Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Visit West Michigan’s only free planetarium! Carr-Fles Planetarium on the main campus of Muskegon Community College is showing “Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight,” April 2 – June 13 (no shows on May 7 – 16) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00pm – 7:35pm. Be dazzled with virtual rides aboard the spacecraft of the future and see how far our technology can take us. For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

Jazz at the Watermark
April 16 @ 7:30 pm
The Watermark 920 and the Truth in Jazz Orchestra invite you to Jazz at the Watermark! Tuesdays at 7:30pm, March 19, April 16 and May 21 there’ll be dancing, a cash bar and good food from Fatty Lumpkins. The Truth in Jazz Orchestra is led by Muskegon legend and drummer Tim Froncek and has been a Muskegon institution for the past 12 years. The cover is only $5 or $2 for students. For more information call (231) 578-0469.

Paint Your Pet!
April 17 @ 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Wednesday, April 17 from 5:30pm – 8:30pm, come to the Muskegon Farmers’ Market and Paint Your Pet! Enjoy drinks and friends while you paint a custom piece of your pet. After you register, please email a picture of your pet by April 3 to jacqui.erny@shorelinecity.com. Your photo will be pre-drawn onto a canvas ready for finishing touches the day of the event. There are only 25 spaces available so time is of the essence! Cost is $40 and will include heavy snacks. Beverages will be available for purchase. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.com.

Spring Into Action: A Self-Advocacy Conference
April 18 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Spring Into Action Self- Advocacy Conference will be a local one-day event for and about people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) happening at the Holiday Inn/Muskegon Harbor. The Arc Muskegon has long supported people with I/DD to advocate for themselves, and this conference will give you further tools, resources, education and support to do so. For more information call (231) 777-2006.

• You will learn more about the basics of self-advocacy that will open many new doors!
• You will learn how to share your opinions and speak up about what is important to you!
• You will learn how to make a difference for yourself and others!
• You will meet new people and gain new skills at the same time!

Art Talks Back Poetry Reading & Award Ceremony
April 18 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Thursday, April 18 from 6:00pm – 7:30pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the Art Talks Back Poetry Reading & Award Ceremony! Celebrate the winning poets of this year’s Art Talks Back: Regional Ekphrastic Poetry Contest! This event is free and open to the public. For more information call 231-720-2570.

Crazy About Curry with Chef Char
April 18 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Thursday, April 18 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class, “Crazy About Curry with Chef Char!” Are you ready to spice up your dinner time and incorporate more vegetables and seasonings into your dishes? Learn to make an Indian Butter Chicken Curry, a Thai Coconut Chicken Curry and a Vegetarian Chickpea curry for healthy, hearty meals you can easily make at home. The cost is $45. For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company: Richard III
April 18 @ 7:30 pm
Thursdays, April 18 at 7:30pm, come to the Beardsley Theater as the Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company presents Richard III! Tickets are $14.00 for adults and $7.00 for students and seniors. For more information call 231-727-8001.
Richard III follows the story of one of England’s most notorious kings, who aspires to the throne and plots to eliminate all who stand in his way. The play is action-packed, and bounces between humor and tragedy. The character of Richard is a charismatic villain who shares his plots with the audience, making them his co-conspirators.

Getty Drive-In Opens for the Season
April 19 @ 7:00 pm
Friday, April 19 at 7:00pm, one of the last remaining drive-in theaters in Michigan will open for the season! Getty Drive-In Theatre offers 4 screens with double features all summer long. Films for opening night will be announced soon. Keep an eye on their Facebook page or call 231-733-1813 for more information.

Hennessy’s Comedy Night
April 19 @ 8:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Select Fridays from 8:30pm – 10:00pm, come to Hennessey’s Irish Pub for live stand-up Comedy! Hosted by Tim Locke, Hennessey’s features various stand-up comedians from all over Michigan! The cover is free! For more information call (231) 728-3333.

Winter Farmers’ Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
November 24 – April 27, visit the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market on Saturdays from 9:00am – 2:00pm. For more information call (231)722-3251 or visit www.muskegonfarmersmarket.com.

Fruitport Network: Community Easter Egg Hunt
April 20 @ 9:00 am – 10:30 am
Saturday, April 20 from 9:15am – 10:30am, bring the kids to Pomona Park for an Easter Egg Hunt! For more information call 231-799-8010.

Ravenna First Reformed Church: Easter Egg Hunt
April 20 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Saturday, April 20 from 10:00am – 1:00pm, Ravenna First Reformed Church invites you to join them for an Easter Egg Hunt! Join them for a morning full of fun, community and fun activities! For more information call (231) 853-6621.

Glenside 7th Annual Easter Egg Hunt
April 20 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Saturday, April 20 from 10:00am – 11:30am, the Glenside Neighborhood Association invites you and your family to join them for the Glenside 7th Annual Easter Egg Hunt happening at McGraft Park! For more information call 231-855-8228.

Sensory Friendly Movies: Where “Shhhhh!” isn’t allowed!
April 20 @ 10:30 am
Family Hope Foundation and Cinema Carousel present a unique movie experience for individuals with special needs and their families. Select Saturdays; enjoy a disability-friendly environment where everyone is welcome to be who they are! For more information, call Family Hope Foundation at 616-729-8833.
With an audience of your peers, special families can enjoy something fun together that you might not typically be able to do. Brighter lights, lower sound, limited previews and a group of people who understand your child’s disability will make this family outing enjoyable for everyone!

These special event films feature:

• 10:30am showings
• Regular Matinee Pricing
• All movies in 2D and Open Caption
• Seating questions can be directed to the box office

Films:

• April 20 – “Missing Link”
• May 11 – “Ugly Dolls”
• May 18 “Polemon: Detective Pikachu”
• June 1 – “Aladdin”
• June 15 – “The Secret Life of Pets”
• June 29 – “Toy Story 4”
• July 27 – “The Lion King”

Cream Puffs & Eclairs for the Beginning Baker with Chef Char
April 20 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
April 20 from 11:00am – 1:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class, “Cream Puffs & Eclairs for the Beginning Baker with Chef Char!” Learn the basics to a simple French pastry, pate a choux, and the two types of creamy fillings that separate cream puffs from eclairs. Top your goodies with a homemade chocolate ganache or utilize fresh strawberries for a bakery-style dessert to take home and share with friends. The cost is $45. For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

White Lake Young Adult Solo Performance 2019
April 20 @ 1:00 pm
The top 10 of some of the best college-age musicians from schools across the state of Michigan will perform on Saturday, April 20, at 1:00pm at Ferry Memorial Church! The Young Artist Solo Performance will feature these young adults performing live with an accompanist. Awards totaling $1000 will be given to the top three winners based on the ruling of professional judges. The audience will also be able to vote and an additional $125 will be given to the audience favorite.
This is part of the White Lake Chamber Music Festival, committed to encouraging and fostering excellence and hard work in young adult musicians. For more information, please visit www.whitelakemusic.org or call Sondra Cross at 231-329-3056.

The top finalists are:

• Kelly Avila, viola – Interlochen Arts Academy
• Kayla Cieslak, flute – Eastern Michigan University
• Lauren Glomb, oboe – Grand Valley State University
• Gabrielle Karel, piano – Hope College
• Linus Guerra, sax – Grand Valley State University
• Samuel Musser, piano – Hillsdale College
• Xinyu Zhu, violin – Central Michigan University
• Matteo Generani, piano – Central Michigan University
• Stephanie Sowers, clarinet – Michigan State University
• Samantha Kao, piano – University of Michigan

Pizza for Paws
April 20 @ 6:00 pm
April 20^th at 6:00pm, come to the Fricano Event Center for Pizza for Paws! Enjoy dinner, raffles, auctions, music and fundraising for the Muskegon Humane Society. Tickets are $40 per person or $250 for a table of eight. For more information call (231) 773-8689.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Playoff Games
April 20 & 21
Tickets for the first two Muskegon Lumberjacks confirmed playoff games at the L.C. Walker Arena are on sale now!

• PLAYOFF GAME 1 – Saturday, April 20 at 7:15pm
• PLAYOFF GAME 2 – Sunday, April 21 at 5:15pm

It’s never too late to become a Season Ticket Holder! For single game tickets and playoff shirts, visit or call the Box Office at 231-726-2400. For group or Club tickets, visit or call the Business Office at 231-799-7000.

Back Alley Comedy Club: Comedian Zach Martina wsg Nick Leydorf
April 20 @ 8:00 pm
Saturday, April 20 from 8:00pm – 9:30pm, come to the Back Alley Comedy Club for comedian Zach Martina with Nick Leydorf!

A supportive family, a loving relationship and kids who adore him, that’s the American Dream. Unless you’re Zach Martina, then it’s a recipe for skepticism and anxiety. Using his sarcastic wit, creative wordplay and a loveable arrogance, Zach brings his big personality to crowds across America as they wonder: “I don’t know what he’s freaking out about, but it’s pretty funny.”
Blessed with a quick wit and a third nipple, Nick Leydorf is a left-handed comedian born and raised in rural Michigan. A criminal defense lawyer by day, comedian by night and a human the rest of the time, Nick takes his own observations of the world, peppers them with silliness and delivers them with a clinically diagnosed awkwardness that leaves audiences where he found them.

Tickets available at the door for only $10! Call (616) 570-8765 for more information.

Easter Brunch at Bella Maria’s Event Center
April 21
Sunday, April 21 at 11:00am, 12:45pm and 2:15pm, come to Bella Maria’s Event Center for Easter Brunch! Enjoy a Belgian Waffle Bar, eggs, bacon fruit and more at the breakfast station or the Honey Ham Carving Station, Beef Carving Station, Chicken Parmesan, Smoked Salmon and much more! The cost is $30 for adults and $10 for kids ages 5 – 10. Kids 4 and under are free. Reservations are required by calling 231-563-6914.

Easter Day Brunch Buffet at Verdoni’s Event Center
April 21 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Sunday, April 21 from 10:00am – 3:00pm, bring the family to the Easter Day Brunch Buffet at Verdoni’s Event Center catered by Harris Hospitality. This brunch features over five fresh salads, large raw bar, breakfast station with build your own omelets, build your own waffles, The Deck’s famous brisket, chef’s carving stations, large dessert station and much more! A full bar will be available for purchase including a build your own Bloody Mary bar, Mimosa bar and Moscow Mule bar! The cost is $31.99 for adults, $13.99 for children 4-12. Kids under 4 eat free. Call 231-780-7636 today for reservations.

Easter Brunch at The Lake House Waterfront Grille
April 21 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sunday, April 21 from 10:00am – 4:00pm, bring your family to the Easter Brunch Buffet at The Lake House Waterfront Grille! Reservations are strongly recommended. To secure your table, please call 231-722-4461. Adults – $34.95, Children 4-10 – $10.95, 3 and under are free!
Celebrate with a delicious array of Easter favorites including:

• Chef Carved Prime Rib
• Maple and Bourbon Glazed Ham
• Fried Lake Perch
• Fresh Seafood Bar
• Build Your Own Omelet Station
• Mustard Citrus Glazed Salmon
• Bananas Foster French Toast
• Sweet Belgian Waffles
• Smoked Gouda Macaroni & Cheese
• Tuscan Dip
• Roasted Caprese Chicken
• Green Bean Almandine
• Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
• Bacon and Sausage
• Herb Roasted Redskin Potatoes
• Fresh Seasonal Soup
• Garden Salad Bar
• Fresh Fruit Display
• Assorted House Made Desserts

Easter Brunch at the Holiday Inn Muskegon-Harbor
April 21 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Sunday, April 21 from 11:00am – 2:00pm, come to the Holiday Inn Muskegon-Harbor for a delicious Easter Brunch! Highlights include:

• Chef carved Slow Roasted Prime Rib w/ Horseradish Sauce and Natural Au Jus
• Rosemary Ham
• Chef attended pasta station featuring Mushroom Ravioli w/ Pancetta and Parmesan, Roasted Boneless Chicken Thigh w/ Creole Shrimp and Sausage, Creamy Garlic Bacon Brussel Sprouts, Cauliflower Au Gratin, Green Beans, Garlic Redskin Mashed Potatoes w/ Gravy and Wild Rice Pilaf.
• Deluxe Salad Bar featuring Fresh Baked Bread, Shrimp Cocktail, Smoked Salmon Platter, Spinach Artichoke Dip, Ancient Grain Salad, Caprese Platter, Potato Corn Chowder, Garden Pasta Salad, Fruit Salad and a Vegetable Platter w/ Ranch Dip.
• Chef Attended Omelet Station featuring Made to Order Waffle Bar, Crisp Bacon, Biscuits and Gravy and a Fresh Fruit Display w/ Raspberry Dip.
• A Mimosa & Bloody Mary Station will be available for an additional charge.

It’s not too early to reserve your table! Hop to it and make your reservation for the Easter Brunch Buffet today by calling 231-720-7105 or e-mailing Sarah@himuskegon.com.

The Greater Pangasinan-Metro Manila Celebration with Will Graham

Evangelist Will Graham returned to the Philippines in February to hold an eight-day, nine-event evangelistic campaign that took place in multiple locations in and around Manila. The Greater Pangasinan-Metro Manila Celebration with Will Graham was held Feb. 9-17.

All told, 149,656 people attended the events, and more than 19,400 responded to the invitation to make a commitment to Jesus.

“Jesus, the Son of God, came for one reason: to transform your life by dying on the cross for your sin and my sin,” said Graham from the stage during one of the outreaches. “Everything points to the cross. The cross is the most significant event in human history. It can change your life tonight.”

This Celebration marked the first time that all three generations of Graham evangelists have preached from the same venue in the same city. Will’s grandfather, Billy Graham, preached a Crusade at Rizal Park in 1977 and Will’s father, Franklin Graham, held an evangelistic Festival in 2006 in the same location.

For more information on upcoming events at the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, visit billygraham.org.

BGEA Films Now Available on Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime is offering 17 digital movies produced by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA). It will also carry 12 historical sermons from Billy Graham. These 30-minute Billy Graham Classics episodes present timeless messages of hope from the late world-renowned preacher, with topics ranging from daily living to eternal salvation.

Amazon Prime subscribers can view the movies and Billy Graham Classics for free. The films are available to non-subscribers for rent or digital purchase; the Billy Graham Classic sermons are available for purchase. Some of the more popular films include The Hiding Place, The Restless Ones, and Last Flight Out.

Additionally, several BGEA films are currently available on the Pure Flix streaming platform, in both English and Spanish.

For more information, visit billygraham.org.

Ask Dr. Universe – Morning Breath

Dr. Universe: Why do we get morning breath? -Stephanie, 10

Dear Stephanie,

If you’ve ever caught a whiff of someone’s stinky morning breath, or even your own, you know it can be pretty rotten. We can trace the smell back to tiny culprits that live in our mouths. They are called microbes and they live around your gums, between your teeth, and on your tongue.

“They like to eat what you eat,” said my friend Claire Burbick, a veterinarian and microbiologist at Washington State University.

The microbes feed on leftover bits of food in your mouth. They not only help break down your food, but they also get energy from it. As they eat, grow, and multiply, they also release some smelly gases that might remind you of rotten eggs.

When microbes eat foods rich in protein, such as meat or dairy, they tend to grow and multiply pretty fast, Burbick said. In fact, sometimes meat eaters get more stinky breath than plant eaters. Something else that adds to the stink is leftover food. If large pieces or food are stuck between teeth or in your gums, it becomes a kind of playground where microbes can grow.

The mouth can get kind of gross, but it also has a way to clean itself out. One way it does this is with saliva, or your spit. It’s mostly made out of water and contains a few chemicals that help fight off bad bacteria. Saliva is kind of like a built-in cleaning system. Of course, it isn’t perfect, so brushing your teeth also helps. Not to mention, your family and friends will thank you for it.

Whether snoring or just breathing deeply, animals and humans sometimes sleep with their mouths open. When air moves in, it can dry out the saliva in your mouth and create an environment that makes the stinky bacteria go wild.

In the morning, you might wake up with particularly bad breath. You’ll probably want to brush your teeth again, sending those stinky microbes down the drain and leaving your breath fresh.

Bad breath isn’t just a people problem either. Cats, horses, cows, and of course dogs, get bad breath for many of the same reasons. Brushing teeth is also recommended for your pets, and they even have their own special toothpaste, said Burbick.

It turns out humans have been battling bad breath for thousands of years—and they’ve come up with some creative ideas. Some researchers have found evidence that Ancient Egyptians mixed together spices and honey to create a kind of breath freshener. They also used thin twigs with frayed edges to scrub their teeth.

One of the first toothbrushes in human history was made in China. It had bristles made of hog hair and inspired the plastic toothbrushes humans use today. Humans will also use floss, which helps get rid of bacteria in places where a toothbrush might not be able to reach. There’s also gum and mouthwash to help mask morning breath—or garlic breath, or onion breath, or whatever kind of stinky breath might come your way.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Submit a question!

Site Selection Magazine, Muskegon Tied for the #10 Top Metro

Muskegon Area First (MAF), the Muskegon County private, non-profit economic development corporation, has been notified that the Muskegon Metro area has tied for the #10 spot in Site Selection Magazine’s Top Ten Metro Areas for 2018. They have made the list for the first time for cities with populations less than 200,000. “What an exciting time for the Muskegon metro area,” said Darryl Todd, MAF Interim President/CEO. To be named in the top 10 on our very first time being listed speaks to the tremendous success we’ve had working cooperatively as a team to ensure that Muskegon is a great place to live, work, play, and succeed in business!”

Environmental Awards, National Accolades and a Call for Artists

MUSKEGON, MI – The Lakeshore Art Festival takes art and environmental stewardship to the next level each and every year.

The newly released 2018 Sustainability Report outlines the ways the festival continues to make progress towards a zero waste event. Over the last five years, the festival has diverted 7,510 pounds of material from landfills, achieving a diversion rate of 21.5% – the best of any festival in Muskegon County! Many factors play into this accomplishment, including compostable serving-ware requirements, multi-purpose recycling containers scattered throughout the festival, and the use of free refillable water stations. To review the complete report, visit bit.ly/LAFSustainability.

The festival continues to increase the number of exhibitors and move up in national rankings each year. Sunshine Artist Magazine, known for high-quality fine art and craft content, ranked the Lakeshore Art Festival #11 in the nation. Art Fair Calendar, an outlet promoting attendance at art fairs, just announced the Lakeshore Art Festival as the 5th best Art Fair in the country!

“This recognition shows us that exhibitors and guests are talking about the show on a national level. These efforts are rooted in the dedication to excellence from our talented team, quality art exhibitors and an amazing guest experience. All of these factors not only generate a buzz for Muskegon County, but have a direct impact on the local economy, both of which are major priorities for the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce,” commented Carla Flanders, Lakeshore Art Festival Director.

Exhibitor applications will be accepted until Friday, February 1, for the festival taking place Friday, July 5 and Saturday, July 6, 2019. Artists who create original works of art in either the fine art or craft categories are encouraged to apply online via Zapplications: bit.ly/LAF2019.

About Lakeshore Art Festival
The Lakeshore Art Festival is always the first Friday and Saturday in July. The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of 350+ fine art and craft exhibitors, street performers, specialty food booths, interactive art stations, children’s activities and so much more in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan. Local businesses interested in supporting this locally and nationally recognized festival through sponsorship can contact Carla Flanders at artfest@muskegon.org. For more information visit lakeshoreartfestival.org.

New Park Property – Stearns Creek

February 26, 2019

The Ottawa County Parks and Recreation Commission and Ottawa County Parks Foundation reached an important landmark today in its effort to create a new ecologically important park along the Grand River Greenway.

Agreements were reached with three landowners to sell 118 acres of land in Robinson Township at the south end of Stearns Bayou. This land includes 6,350 feet of frontage along Stearns Creek and will protect nearly 27 acres of high quality wetland. The acquisition helps accomplish the goal of adding 700 acres of park land to the Grand River Greenway over the next five years; a donation to the campaign is a key part of the funding for the purchase.

The Grand River Greenway Campaign Committee is part of the Parks Foundation and is co-chaired by Peter Secchia, Monica Verplank, and Samantha Verplank.

The purchases are expected to be completed in March and are funded by a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program (CELCP) grant, a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant, and a gift from the estate of John J. Helstrom. In honor of the gift, the new park will feature the Helstrom Family Trail System.

“Land acquisition is a priority for completing the Greenway and for the Parks Foundation,” said Parks Commission President and Foundation Board Member David VanGinhoven.” Donations like the one from the John J. Helstrom estate are so important to helping the County Parks protect critical properties and have an impact that goes well beyond the amount given, because they can leverage other public funding sources. In this case, the impact of the gift was multiplied over tenfold.”

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of March 25, 2019

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, March 25, 2019, in the township board room.

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

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

Also Present: 1- residents; 0- employees; 0- guests; Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli; Director of Public Utilities, Ron Langlois; Attorney Ron Bultje.

The motion by Terry Knoll, supported by Denise Winebarger, was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of March 11, 2019 as presented

The motion by Andrea Anderson, supported by Rose Dillon, was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented.

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1. Ron Langlois shared a letter with the Board announcing his retirement effective July 1, 2019 and thanking the Township for many years of employment.
2. Heidi Tice shared that she attended a seminar in Lansing for Financially Responsible Communities.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

19-040 2019/2020 Budget Review
Discussion occurred. Any changes from the last meeting were reviewed.

Attorney Ron Bultje arrived at 7:20pm, during budget discussion.

19-041 Business Registration review and discussion
A proposed Business Registration Ordinance will be presented and available for first reading at the next meeting.

19-042 Annexation for City of Muskegon Development
No new information or discussion. Item TABLED.

19-043 First Reading: Marihuana Establishments and Sale and Consumption in Public Places Ordinance
The ordinance would prohibit marihuana establishments and would conform to Michigan law prohibiting the sale and consumption of marihuana in public places within Fruitport Township.

This constitutes the first reading. Final action will take place at the next regular scheduled board meeting on April 8, 2019.

NEW BUSINESS:

19-044 Budget Public Hearing
—(a.) Andrea Anderson moved, supported by Terry Knoll MOTION CARRIED, to open the Budget Public Hearing at 8:10pm.
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

—(b.) Public Hearing: The Supervisor announced the proposed millage rates as follows: General Fund at the millage rate of .9962 mills, Public Safety at 1.50 mills, Police at 1.00 mills, and Street Lights at .40 mills.

There were no comments heard.

—(c.) The motion by Terry Knoll, supported by Rose Dillon, was carried unanimously to close the Public Hearing at 8:12pm and return to open session.

19-045 2019/2020 Budget Adoption
Rose Dillon moved, supported by Greg Hulka, MOTION CARRIED to adopt the April 1, 2019- March 31, 2020 draft budget as revised and to approve the millage rate and millage levies. Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees shall cause the listed millages to be levied and collected on all real and personal property within the township upon the 2019 general property tax roll an amount equal to the above shown mills as authorized under state law and approved by the electorate.
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

19-046 Final 2018/2019 FY Budget Amendments
Rose Dillon moved, supported by Terry Knoll, MOTION CARRIED, to accept the budget amendments as presented and to allow the Supervisor and Treasurer to make minor inter account adjustments which will have no effect on the overall account balances prior to year-end.
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

19-047 Banking and Investing Resolution
Heidi Tice moved, supported by Rose Dillon, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution approving the use of financial institutions and investments for the 2019-2020 FY.
Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

19-048 Nonpartisan Offices Resolution
Andrea Anderson moved, supported by Jeff Jacobs, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution to support legislation that would allow Township Boards the option to have its elected officers appear as nonpartisan on the ballot.
Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Anderson, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

The Clerk will execute the resolution and return to Michigan Townships Association.

19-049 Casino support discussion
Discussion regarding further support of the Casino project occurred.

19-050 Payment of bills
Terry Knoll moved, Heidi Tice seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $24,164.77; Public Safety $33,203.29; Water $34,018.46; Sewer $4,221.83; T&A $648.00; Street Lights 15,106.05
Totaling: $111,362.40
Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Anderson, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

ADDITIONAL REPORTS:
1. The Little River Band of Ottawa Indians is expected to be at the next Michigan Townships Association meeting.
2. The Board discussed the proposed kayak launch for Pomona Park in the Village of Fruitport.

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none

The motion by Terry Knoll, supported by Greg Hulka, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 8:35pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK

HEIDI TICE, SUPERVISOR

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson Takes Steps to Strengthen Voter File Accuracy

Chief election officer requests membership in ERIC

As chief election officer, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today announced she has taken steps to ensure the accuracy of Michigan’s voter file by formally requesting membership in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC).

“In November, Michigan voters made it clear: Like me, they believe it should be easier to vote and harder to cheat,” Benson said today. “We’re taking the first step toward achieving that goal by ensuring the accuracy of our voter registration file.”

Benson said once Michigan is a member of ERIC – a self-governing, multistate partnership dedicated to the accuracy of the nation’s voter files – the state will have unprecedented insight into the integrity of its voter rolls thanks to the collaboration of participating states, key federal databases and the use of sophisticated and secure data-matching technology.

“In terms of election security, this is an important first step,” she said.

Established in 2012, ERIC uses encrypted voter information from partnering states along with death records from the Social Security Administration to red flag deceased voters, duplicate voter registrations, voters who move and eligible voters not yet registered so states can reach out to them. ERIC also provides resources previously unavailable to the state of Michigan for maintaining the accuracy of its voter list, including the availability of encrypted driver information from other states and data from the National Change of Address database maintained by the U.S. Postal Service.

States already participating in ERIC are Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Also participating is the District of Columbia.

Benson, who has a long track record of supporting Michigan’s membership in ERIC, reiterated her support in June. The partnership’s effectiveness is well documented. Between 2013 and 2017, ERIC identified nearly 10 million out-of-date voter records for its members. Currently, Michigan has no system in place to verify the accuracy of its voter file against those of other states.

Muskegon News

from Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce’s Newsletter, “The Insider eNEWS”
March 2019

Biggest Show Yet!

Nearly 1,800 guests made their way through 51 exhibitor booths at the 2019 Muskegon Lakeshore Home, Garden + DIY Show.

This year brought a new gallery level and more elaborate displays than ever before! Highlights included 14 heavily attended DIY seminars, a special decor space designed by Blended Furniture and Wasserman’s Flowers & Gifts, and craft beer and wine tastings courtesy of Tyler Sales.

The event was held at the Fricano Place Event Center and resulted in an extremely high level of exhibitor and guest satisfaction. One exhibitor mentioned it was the best show they have ever attended in their 30+ year career!

“We are happy to feature local businesses and provide new ideas for our guests! We look forward to offering even more in 2020!” says Kristin Knop, Event Director.

Run for Office!

Are you interesting in helping your community grow? Positive people can make a difference.

During these transformative West Michigan times, you may want to consider running for city commission. There will be multiple open seats in various cities for the upcoming election period. Contact your local city clerk for candidate information and more details.

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Agenda – 04/10/19

Student Affairs Committee
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
12:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING AGENDA

1. Spanish 5

2. Counseling
–a. Muskegon Made
–b. Hackley Community Care

3. HS Coding

4. Music Department Update

5. Other

6. Public Comment

7. Adjournment

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Agenda – 04/10/19

Personnel Committee
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
5:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING AGENDA

1. Counseling
–a. High School
–b. Hackley Community Care

2. Posting Choir Director
3. ESU Supervisor
4. Retirements
5. 3rd Grade Posting
6. Potential HS Part-Time
7. Other
8. Public Comment
9. Adjournment

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Agenda – 04/08/19

Business/Finance Committee
Monday, April 8, 2019
11:30 a.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING AGENDA

1. Bus Replacement Recommendation
2. Bus Camera RFP
3. Bond Investment Update
4. Spring Count update
5. Other
6. Public Comment
7. Adjournment

Village of Fruitport Budget Meeting Minutes – 03/25/19

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
BUDGET MEETING
March 25, 2019

1. Call to Order
President Roger Vanderstelt called the meeting to order at 5:56pm

2. Pledge

3. Prayer

4. Roll call
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Donna Pope, Jeff Guiles, Carl Rothenberger, Amy Haack, Bill Overkamp and Ann LaCroix

5. Approval of February 18th Council meeting minutes and March 11th budget meeting minutes
Motion made by Bill to approve the February 18th minutes, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried. Motion made by Amy to approve the March 11th budget meeting, supported by Donna. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

6. Approve the agenda for the March 25th budget meeting
Motion made by Amy to approve the March 25th agenda, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

7. Public Comment
None

8. 2019-2020 Budget Discussion
a. Community Development Planner/Coordinator Position
Amy referred the council to the job description for the Community Development Planner/ Coordinator position that Jay created. Amy proposes that the position is for up to 20 hours per week at a rate of $20.00 – $25.00 per hour. Motion made by Amy to hire the contract person at the hours and rate discussed, supported by Carl.
Roll call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt
NAYES None
Amy advised will work with Ann to get the position posted the first week in April then defer to the Personnel Committee for the hiring process.

b. Advanced Pavement Markings
Roger advised that APM has offered to do the yearly paving prior to Old Fashioned Days at the 2018 rate if notified by April 1, 2019. Motion made by Roger to contract APM to do the markings at a cost not to exceed $5100.00 to do the paving, supported by Jeff.
Roll call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt
NAYES None
A discussion took place about asking APM to mark the basketball court as a contribution to the Village. Ann agreed to contact them to confirm the paving for 2019 and to ask about marking the basketball court as a contribution.
Ann went over the 2019-2020 Budget and council was satisfied with the budget as presented.

9. 2018-2019 Budget Amendments
Ann reviewed the 2018-2019 budget. Motion made by Carl regarding the General Fund budget to add $17050.00 to General Government from the extra money included with the park donation to reimburse the GF for fees associated with the acquisition of the park property ($13050.00) also adding the Clerk/Treasurer computer ($2000.00) and the Public Safety trailer donation ($2000.00). Add $3850.00 to Parks Special Projects (this is remainder of the parks donation to be used on the new property). Add $31,300 to Public Works for the additional charge for the tractor ($8300.00), the new doors ($7000.00) at the park and DPW and Street Lights (15,000.00). Add the following revenue 22,400.00 to Other revenue. Lastly, to amend the Major Street budget to decrease the transfer to other funds from $75,000.00 to $25,000.00 and to change Capital Outlay from $76,000.00 to $26000.00. This is to leave projected 2020 3rd Ave Road project funds in the MS account. Supported by Jeff.
Roll call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt
NAYES None

10. Public Comment
None

11. Adjourn
Motion made by Donna to adjourn at 6:57pm, supported by Amy. With a unanimous vote the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Ann LaCroix Clerk

Muskegon County Calendar of Events April 8 – 15, 2019

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

Visit with the Easter Bunny
April 8 -21
Saturday, April 6th – Easter Sunday, April 21, bring the kids to The Lakes Mall to meet the Easter Bunny! Cherry Hill photography will be there to take photos. The hours are Monday – Saturday, 11:00am – 8:00pm, and Sunday from 12:00pm-6:00pm. For more information call 231-798-7104.

Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy
April 8 & 15 @ 6:00 pm
The “Arsenal of Democracy” was a slogan used by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in a radio broadcast delivered on December 29, 1940. The phrase was used to arouse popular support for aiding nations in the war prior to the US entry into WWII and continued until the end of the war. During that time, the US provided the Allies with millions of rounds of ammunition, as well as weapons, trucks, tanks and ships. The Americans who worked in countless factories throughout the country truly helped the US manufacture victory in WWII. Join the USS Silversides Submarine Museum most Mondays through May 13 for the lecture series, “Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy!”

• April 8: Ford Buildup in WWI; a precursor to WWII presented by author Timothy O’Callaghan. His book is available for purchase in the Gift Store.
• April 15: The History of Willow Run presented by the Yankee Air Museum.
• April 22: Shipbuilding in WWII presented by Karen Duvalle, Submarine Curator at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum.
• April 29: The Future of Military Manufacturing presented by Fred Johnson.
• May 6: The Cost of Manufacturing for WWII presented by George Maniates.

Bird House Painting for Kids
April 9 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Tuesday, April 9 from 5:00pm – 6:30pm, bring the kids (ages 6 – 11) to the Arts Council of White Lake’s Nuveen Center to paint a birdhouse! Welcome the birds home with a beautiful bird house. All materials will be provided and students will take their bird houses home at the end of class. For more information call (231) 893-2524.

Family Fun Night: Harry Potter
April 9 @ 6:00 pm
Tuesday, April 9 at 6:00pm, bring the kids to the Holton Library for a Family Fun Night with Harry Potter! Join them for a magical evening of Harry Potter trivia, games, crafts and food while learning about British culture. Come dressed as your favorite character and enter the costume contest. For more information call 231-821-0268.

West Michigan Student Showcase 2019
April 10 & 11 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Wednesday, April 10 and Thursday, April 11 at 7:00pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater for the West Michigan Student Showcase! Celebrate the best high school talent that West Michigan has to offer in the areas of Academics, Athletics, Digital Media, Literary, Performing, and Visual Arts. Tickets are $8 for adults or $5 for students. All tickets are $10 at the door. For more information call the Muskegon Area ISD at (231) 777-2637.

Introduction to Loose Tea and Health
April 10 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Wednesday, April 10 from 7:00pm – 8:00pm, come to the Norton Shores Library for an Introduction to Loose Tea and Health! The staff from Banana Dog Tea in Muskegon will share their expertise in their craft, including the origin and types of tea, benefits of loose tea, proper brewing and steeping techniques and a tasting sample. Visit the Norton Shores Library, call 231-780-8844 or email apurgiel@madl.org for more information or to register.

Friends of Hackley Public Library Used Book Sale
April 11 – April 14
The 2019 Friends of Hackley Public Library Used Book Sale is on April 11 – 14! There are thousands of books of all genres to choose from in both hardbound and paperback editions as well as, CD’s, DVD’s, audio books, and a selection of antique, rare and collectible books! Prices range from $0.50 to $2.00 for most items; rare and special collectors’ items may have special pricing as marked. You won’t want to miss this fantastic sale where you’ll find so many treasures! All proceeds help to fund projects that benefit Hackley Public Library!

Do you have items to donate? Donations are welcome all year round at Hackley Public Library. If you have lots of books, please call the library at 231-722-8000 for special drop-off instructions.

MEMBERS ONLY PRE-SALE: 5:00pm – 7:00pm, Thursday, April 11 (Not a member? You can join at the door!)

PUBLIC SALE: 10:00am – 5:00pm, Friday, April 12 and Saturday, April 13

SUNDAY “BAG” SALE: 12:00pm – 3:00pm, Sunday, April 14 (Fill a bag for $3! They provide the bags!)

Tag…You’re It: Outside Art Moves In
April 11 @ 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
“Tag…You’re It: Outside Art Moves In,” a travelling exhibit of 21 panels, each 4 × 7 feet in size and painted in 2017 by street artists from the Detroit/Dearborn area, will be on exhibit in Muskegon Community College’s Overbrook Galley from March 18 through April 19. The title references the idea that graffiti artists are often referred to as “taggers.”
On Thursday, April 11, a public reception will take place from 3:30pm – 5:00pm in the Overbrook Gallery. Refreshments will be served. At 4:00pm, in Stevenson Center Room 1100, Steven Glazer, an instructor of art at Henry Ford College since 2004, will discuss the process of putting the exhibition together. This event and the gallery are free and open to the public.
The Overbrook Art Gallery hours are Monday-Friday, from 9:00am – 4:00pm, with special weekend and evening hours during performances in the adjacent Overbrook Theater. For more information, call (231) 777-0324.

Sunset Wine
April 11 @ 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Thursday, April 11 from 5:30pm – 8:00pm, come to Oceana Winery in downtown Muskegon for the wine & canvas event, “Sunset Wine!” Create this “Sunset Wine” masterpiece for only $25 per artist. Wine tasting is available for an addition $5. Pricing includes an 11×14 canvas, all necessary supplies, and step-by-step instruction from a professional artist. Payment is collected at the event. Space is limited, so reserve your easel today with an e-mail to createaframeshows@yahoo.com.

Culinary Class: Girls Night – Out Cupcakes & Cocktails
April 11 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
April 11 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class, “Girls Night – Out Cupcakes & Cocktails!” Gather your favorite lady friends 21 years and over for a fun night of sweet treat making. Fill cupcakes with a tempting ganache and decorate with buttercream frosting from scratch while experimenting with different professional piping tips and techniques. Pair the cupcakes with a boozy coffee combination or a creamy layered martini. You must be 21 with valid ID to participate. The cost is $55. For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Family Fun Night: Harry Potter
April 11 @ 6:00 pm
Thursday, April 11 at 6:00pm, bring the kids to the Montague Library for a Family Fun Night with Harry Potter! Join them for a magical evening of Harry Potter trivia, games, crafts and food while learning about British culture. Come dressed as your favorite character and enter the costume contest. For more information call 231-893-2675.

Beer & Cheese Pairing: The Cheese Lady at Pigeon Hill Brewing
April 11 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Thursday, April 11 from 6:30pm – 8:30pm, come to Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. and get ready for some handcrafted and hand selected beer and cheese pairings! They’re welcoming the Cheese Lady to their taproom to host a Beer & Cheese Tasting! Tickets are $25 a seat and include 5 beer pairings with a total of 10 different cheeses. The Cheese Lady will be there to educate you on the craft of cheese-making and how easy (and delicious) it is to pair cheese and beer! Call the taproom at (231)375-5184 to reserve your seat today! Seats are limited!

Pine Street Mercantile Spring Vintage Sale
April 12 – April 13
Friday, April 12 from 4:00pm – 7:00pm and Saturday, April 13 from 9:00am – 3:00pm, come to the Pine Street Mercantile’s Spring Sale! This event features reimagined, vintage and antique pieces at this “occasional junk collective.” You’ll also find plenty of rusty, crusty and found items to complement your spring/summer décor or perhaps the perfect thing for a wedding or graduation. For more information call (231) 830-4255.

Fish Fry Fridays
Fridays @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Every Friday during Lent, the Ravenna community invites you to join them at St. Catherine’s Hall for delicious fish fry dinners! All dinners are from 5:00pm – 7:30pm and the cost is $10 for adults and $5 for kids 5 – 12. Kids 5 and under are free! Your meal includes your choice of a baked potato or fries, green beans, cole slaw, pike perch, garlic bread and dessert. Get an extra 2 filets for only $1. Proceeds will benefit the organizations hosting each week including St. Catherine’s, the American Legion and the Ravenna Fire Department. For more information call (231) 853-6743.

The Alley Door Club
April 12 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Celebrating its’ 14th season, The Alley Door Club at the Frauenthal Center kicks off January 11, 2019 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.

The 2019 Alley Door Club performance schedule is as follows:
• April 12 – Swinging Stem Cells (Rock)
• April 26 – Yard Sale Underwear (The Self-proclaimed King of Polyester, Pop & Soul)

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.

On Tap & Uncorked
April 12 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Friday, April 12 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm, you’re invited to the beautiful Muskegon Museum of Art for their annual event, On Tap & Uncorked! Enjoy beer from craft breweries up and down the coast of West Michigan, wine tasting, and food pairing samples from our fine area restaurants, all while experiencing art in the Muskegon Museum of Art galleries.
Tickets are limited, so be sure to get yours early. Tickets are on sale in the MMA Store. Each ticket is $35 in advance ($30 for members) or $40 at the door and includes five 4–oz. beverage tasting tickets and food. Additional tasting tickets will be available for purchase at the event. For ticket information call 231-720-2580.

Muskegon Dance Movement Performance
April 12 @ 7:30 pm – April 13 @ 9:00 pm
Muskegon Dance Movement, the Muskegon Community College resident dance company under the artistic direction of Melissa Brunsting, will perform at 7:30pm on Friday and Saturday, April 12-13, in Overbrook Theater! The shows will feature guest performances by Deavondrea Jones, founder of DanceSpire.

“We will be presenting both new and revisited works this year,” said Brunsting, a native of western New York who received her Bachelor’s in Dance from Hope College “The dance works range from socially conscious to musically driven.”

“This year we will be including a Talk-Back session between the company and our audience following each performance. I strive to make dance a part of the culture in our city, and center my choreography around that goal as much as possible.”

Tickets, which go on sale April 8, are $10 for the general public and $5 for MCC students and children ages 12 and under. For more information, contact the Overbrook Box Office at (231) 777-0324.

This year’s Muskegon Dance Movement members, all MCC students, are: Brea Beckley, Briona Bower, Taylor DePouw, Taylor Freed, Melanie Lamrock, Erika Larson, and Makenzie Nordstrom

Guest artist Deavondre Jones has touched thousands of lives as a speaker, performer and instructor throughout the Midwest. In Michigan, he is best known for his commitment and consistency behind the weekly drop-in class: #DropInWednesdays. A Benton Harbor Promise student, he earned degrees from Grand Rapids Community College and Columbia College in Illinois.

Hennessy’s Comedy Night
April 12 @ 8:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Select Fridays from 8:30pm – 10:00pm, come to Hennessey’s Irish Pub for live stand-up Comedy! Hosted by Tim Locke, Hennessey’s features various stand-up comedians from all over Michigan! The cover is free! For more information call (231) 728-3333.

Craft-Life Concert Series: Original Music Rock Show
April 12 @ 8:30 pm
Friday, April 12 from 8:30pm – midnight, come to Unruly Brewing Co. for the Craft – Life Concert series featuring The Loose Nukes, The Shift and THE JETTS! This is an Original Music Rock Show with some of the top acts from the Original Music Showcase. Come down and support local original music! For more information call Unruly at (231) 288-1068.

Winter Farmers’ Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Through April 27, visit the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market on Saturdays from 9:00am – 2:00pm. For more information call (231)722-3251 or visit www.muskegonfarmersmarket.com.

2019 Marching into Spring Craft & Vendor Show
April 13 @ 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Saturday, April 13 from 9:00am – 3:00pm, come to the Moss Ridge Golf Club & Wedding Venue for 2019 Marching into Spring Craft & Vendor Show! There will be over 50 vendors & crafters and raffle drawings, too! Proceeds will benefit the MARS food pantry. For more information call (231) 853-5665.

Record Store Day 2019 at Third Coast Vinyl
April 13 @ 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday, April 13 from 9:00am – 7:00pm, join Third Coast Vinyl as they celebrate the independent record store and vinyl culture with Record Store Day 2019! They will have RSD exclusive titles, a great selection of other new and used items, giveaways, a bunch of stuff on sale, and a whole lot more! For more information call (231) 288-1871.
Record Store Day was conceived in 2007 at a gathering of independent record store owners and employees as a way to celebrate and spread the word about the unique culture surrounding nearly 1400 independently owned record stores in the US and thousands of similar stores internationally. The first Record Store Day took place on April 19, 2008. Today there are Record Store Day participating stores on every continent except Antarctica. https://recordstoreday.com

Full Service Saturday
April 13 @ 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
The Muskegon County Clerk’s Office and the 60th District Court will open their doors from 9:30am – 1:30pm on Saturday, April 13! Both offices are located on the first floor of the Michael E. Kobza Hall of Justice, also known as the Muskegon County Building, with parking available on Pine St. Most services require a photo ID. To schedule a wedding ceremony with the County Clerk, call 231-724-6221.

4th Annual Pooches & People Picnic
April 13 @ 10:00 am
Saturday, April 13 beginning at 10:00am, you’re invited to Fricano Place for the 4th Annual Pooches & People Picnic! This is a furry and festive event raising funds and awareness for the Harbor Hospice Foundation. Pet parents and their fur-babies will enjoy a picnic, raffles, “barks & crafts,” the Pooch Costume Parade, auction and more! Pound Buddies of Muskegon will be having adoptions so you can rescue a new family member! Follow the Scolnik Healing Center on Facebook for more information. Tickets are $15 – $20 and available through www.eventbrite.com.

The Bob & Merle Scolnik Healing Center of Harbor Hospice is the only grief and loss center in Muskegon County which offers free grief support (groups and counseling services) to children, teens and adults who are dealing with a loss of any kind. If there is a way they can serve you, please contact them at 231-728-3442, 1-800-497-9559 or email info@HarborHospiceMI.org.

Teachers Super Saturday
April 13 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
April 13 from 10:00am – 3:00pm, bring the kids to a Teachers Super Saturday at the Muskegon Museum of Art! This event celebrating teachers is absolutely free! For more information call 231-720-2580 or visit the website below.
• 11:00am & 1:00pm – Family Film
• 11:00am – 1:00pm – Guided Look: Walk with a docent through Patricia Polacco’s “A+ for Educators” exhibition
• 11:00am – 2:00pm – Make & Take: Paint a rock paperweight for your favorite teacher

Pad Thai & Spring Rolls with Chef Char
April 13 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Saturday, April 13 from 11:00am – 1:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for the culinary class “Pad Thai & Spring Rolls with Chef Char!” Enjoy rice noodles and rice wraps with your choice of spicy or mild sauces and a variety of vegetables. Enjoy shrimp, chicken or tofu. Since you will be making your own dishes, the recipes can accommodate special dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegetarian diets. The cost is $45. Sign up at Eventbrite.com or call (231) 769-2202 for more information.

Annual Egg-Stravaganza
April 13 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Saturday, April 13 from 12:00pm – 2:00pm, it’s the Annual Egg-Stravaganza in the parking lot of Muskegon Family Care! The kids will enjoy free Easter egg hunts grouped by age as well as lots of other fun, activities and prizes! For more information call 231-739-9315.

Get Up and Dance: A Figure Skating Show to Bring People Together
April 13 @ 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Saturday, April 13 from 3:00pm – 4:00pm, come to the L. C. Walker Arena for Get Up and Dance: A Figure Skating Show to Bring People Together, performed by the Muskegon Lakeshore Figure Skating Club! Watch local skaters perform to dance music such as Conga (Miami Sound Machine), September (Earth Wind & Fire), Dancing Queen (ABBA) You Can’t Stop the Beat (Ariana Grande), the Cha Cha Slide (DJ Casper) and more! A suggested donation of $5 helps cover show production costs and put money back into the community, but please join them regardless of ability to pay. For more information e-mail sk8mlfsc@gmail.com.

Cheers & Chocolate
April 13 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Saturday, April 13 from 5:00pm – 8:00pm, come to Cheers & Chocolate at the Michigan Culinary Institute! April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and an ideal time to come together in support of services to survivors. Attendees must be 21 or older to attend, and photo ID is required for admittance. Tickets are on sale now. For more information call Every Woman’s Place at 231-759-7909.

Cheers and Chocolate is an event pairing sweet and savory culinary delights with fine wines and beers at the state-of-the-art Culinary Institute of Michigan. Each year, student chefs create the entire menu featuring incredible chocolates, desserts and hors d’oeuvres. Students also research and present wines from all over the world. Michigan Wines will be featured in the Michigan Room located on the third floor. Michigan micro brews will also be presented in the Beer Garden located in Courses Restaurant. Silent Auction items will be displayed on several floors of the event and raffle tickets will be sold for a variety of gifts including a wine refrigerator filled with wine donated by the board of directors of Every Woman’s Place!

Heels for Meals
April 13 @ 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Saturday, April 13 from 6:00pm – 11:00pm, come to Bella Maria’s Event Center for Heels for Meals! This is AgeWell Services of West Michigan’s 6th annual fundraiser to raise money for the Meals on Wheels program in Muskegon, Oceana and Ottawa counties. Enjoy an excellent dinner and various auctions. For more information call (231) 755-0434.

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Game
April 13 @ 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.
Saturday, April 13 at 7:15pm, come to the L.C. Walker Arena for a Lumberjacks’ home game as they take on the Chicago Steel! For ticket information, contact asponaas@MuskegonLumberjacks.com or call 231-724-5225, ext. 259.

MCC Wind & Jazz Ensemble with Whoopee Kat
April 13 @ 7:30 pm
Saturday, April 13 at 7:30pm, the new Downtown Live Concert Series at the Frauenthal Center will feature the MCC Wind & Jazz Ensemble with Whoopee Kat!

This concert series features every Muskegon Community College music ensemble, as well as the Shoreline Symphony and West Michigan Concert WINDS which are affiliated with MCC. The 14-concert series, which includes two groups that have performed at Carnegie Hall in recent years, continues through May 2019.

Tickets are $8.00 for adults and $2.00 for students and children. For more information call the box office at 231-727-8001.

Back Alley Comedy Club: DJ Dangler wsg Chelsea Hood
April 13 @ 8:00 pm
Saturday, April 13 from 8:00pm – 9:30pm, come to the Back Alley Comedy Club for comedian DJ Dangler with special guest Chelsea Hood! Tickets are available at the door for only $10. For more information call (616) 570-8765.

DJ Dangler’s show is a balance of energy and intellect. Equally comfortable in barrooms and classrooms; DJ firmly believes that humor is universal, and nothing is off limits so long as it’s funny. DJ is the Head Writer for The Comedy Circus, and an accomplished stand-up comedian. A Midwestern transplant to NYC, DJ blends East Coast cynicism with genuine Midwestern charm to create an approachable and hilarious take on humans and other idiot species. DJ understands that people are pretty much the same everywhere, and if you can get enough of those people to laugh, you don’t have to get a real job.

Chelsea Hood is a stand-up comedian living in Chicago by way of the comedy scenes in both Dallas, TX and Brooklyn, NY. You may have seen her on The CW Network’s Eye Opener, or CW33’s Nightcap. She was also featured on Stand Up Records’ “Texas Mess” album recorded at SXSW. Chelsea’s style of humor is observational, feminist, and pleasantly self-deprecating. Some of the comics she has been delighted to open for include; Jay Mohr, Donnell Rawlings, Maria Bamford, Ralphie May, Richard Lewis, Pauly Shore, JB Smoove, Paul Rodriguez, Tom Green, Michael Winslow, Bobby Lee and many more.

Out of this World
April 14 @ 3:00 pm
Sunday, April 14 at 3:00pm, the new Downtown Live Concert Series at the Frauenthal Center will feature the MCC Wind & Jazz Ensemble’s presentation of Out of this World!

Tickets are $8.00 for adults and $2.00 for students and children. For more information call the box office at 231-727-8001.

Free Latin Dance Party
April 14 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Every other Sunday, March 3 – May 13 from 5:00pm – 7:00pm, come to Unruly Brewing Co. in downtown Muskegon for bi-monthly, free Latin Dance Classes offered by the Facebook group MADLOS! They will cover simple steps, turns and spins that are easy to learn and fun to do. No partner or experience is needed to participate. The lesson is from 5:00pm – 6:00pm with music continuing until 7:00pm so you can practice what you’ve learned or show off what you know. If you don’t need a lesson and just want to dance, join them at 6:00pm. There is no cost for the lesson, but they are accepting donations that will go to support the Child Abuse Counsel of Muskegon County. MADLOS offers different dance styles, including Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, and more. Keep an eye on their Facebook page to see what they’re up to next. Instructor: Florencia Manon Colella from Argentina

Chris Kattan is best known as one of the longest serving cast members on NBC’s ‘Saturday Night Live.’ In the 8 years Chris starred in the landmark late night program, he became best known for his characters ‘Mango,’ ‘Mr. Peepers,’ and one of the ‘Butabi Brothers’ opposite Will Ferrell which was such a hit that the sketch was adapted into the 1998 cult classic, “Night at the Roxbury.” Kattan went on to star in Corky Romano where he plays the black sheep son in a family of mobsters and played the villain in the Malcolm D. Lee film, “Undercover Brother,” opposite Eddie Griffin. Kattan also starred as a series regular in the ABC hit series, “The Middle,” and recently had some memorable appearances in the Adam Sandler films “Hotel Transylvania” and “The Ridiculous 6.” Kattan trained at Los Angeles’ The Groundlings Theater and is one of its most famous alumni. He currently tours the country with his extremely popular stand-up act.

Chris Kattan will be here and bringing a few friends with him. Come out and join them!

Grand Valley State University’s Fall 2018 Dean’s List

Grand Valley State University announces the names of students who were placed on the dean’s list for the Fall 2018 semester concluding in December. The list includes those students who have maintained a 3.5 grade point average and been enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits.

Fruitport: Emily M. Kubasiak; Alyson J. Rosema; Gabrielle A. Schaub; Rachel M. Weiland; Kyle J. Yates

Muskegon (49444): Kay Leigh M. Bates Snippe; Collin R. Cribley; Brandy M. Cumbee; Stephanie R. Eslick; Megan L. Harken; Madelynn F. Kelly; Nicklas W. Koeller; Stephanie A. Langlois; Lauren L. Maus; Carrie A. Ross; Cade B. Snuffer; Nathan A. Strand; Logan R. Vanderlaan

Nunica: Annemieke K. Engelsma; Morgynn M. Reedy; Taylor J. Stanton; Jenna M. Visniski

Ravenna: Marissa Aney; Erica J. Austin; Alicia R. Cole; Lillian R. Lieffers; Gabrielle B. Postema; Brooke M. Potes

Spring Lake: Brandon M. Aho; Carley E. Bench; Carsen D. Boyink; Alexander C. Brower; Lance L. Burt; Hannah M. Cabala; Seth S. Carrier; Matthew D. Cassar; Arden M. Clark; Sophia A. Conroy; Aylissa M. Curry; Bradley D. Debien; Hannah M. Dursema; Michael T. Farwig; Eli L. Flores; Madeline J. Foster; Megan K. Galligan; Clare E. Galloway; Jillian F. Garzelloni; Karlee N. Hale; Madison S. Harloff; Christopher M. Hillman; Anna M. Huizenga; Jillian C. Huizenga; Jacob D. Kugler; Kyle C. Layson; Jeremiah B. Masvero; Lori A. Mitchell; Rylan L. Peets; Christian L. Pelke; Matthew A. Schmidt; Veronica M. Schoemer; Ryan S. Strandberg; Dylan D. Styburski; Madison R. Terpstra; Abby K. VanOtteren; Hannah J. Walling; Jacob T. Weesies; Leah J. Wilcox; Paige N. Wilds

Crisis-trained Chaplains on the Ground in Alabama Following Deadly Tornados

On March 4, the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team deployed to Lee County, Ala., where at least 23 lives were taken by a powerful tornado that tore through the area.

“Tornadoes are unique in that they will strike with very little notice, changing your whole world in a matter of minutes. The trauma being experienced throughout this area—especially with the families who lost loved ones—is intense and heartbreaking,” said Jack Munday, international director of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. “Our goal is to come alongside them, bringing the hope and comfort of Jesus.”

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team is deploying in coordination with Samaritan’s Purse, the Christian disaster relief organization also headed by Franklin Graham. Together the two ministries will address the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those who have been affected.

For more information on the ministry, including videos, photos, news articles and an interactive map of former and current deployments, visit billygraham.org/rrt.

New Honesty From Abortion Supporters

On January 22, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a horrific bill into law. On the 46th memorial of Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton, Governor Cuomo made several changes to state abortion law, including formally legalizing abortion through all nine months of pregnancy for any reason.

This new law has prolife people everywhere heartbroken. On the very same day of mourning for the 59 million lives lost over tragic U.S. Supreme Court decisions 46 years ago, New York embraced abortion-on-demand with open arms. Days later, a similar bill failed to pass in Virginia. In defense of the bill’s sponsor, embattled Virginia Governor Ralph Northam made a statement condoning infanticide, saying that disabled babies can be born alive and left to die.

Other states with pro-abortion majorities are following suit. Governor Gretchen Whitmer promised to do the same in Michigan, but our prolife majorities in the Legislature prevent that—for now.

These opinions are nothing new. Abortion through all nine months of pregnancy—until the day of birth—is what Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton originally legalized. Roe v. Wade stated that abortions in the third trimester could be banned as long as an exception existed if the woman’s health was in danger, but Doe v. Bolton defined “health” to mean whatever reasons the woman or abortionist wanted: “physical, emotional, psychological, familial, and the woman’s age—relevant to the well-being of the patient.”

Put simply, the Supreme Court legalized abortion at any time and for any reason; states can ban late-term abortions as long as they allow them for any reason.

The purpose of the New York’s new law was simply to ensure that unlimited abortions will continue to be legal in New York when Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton are finally overturned. These laws are simply a defense of the barbaric status quo.

Poor media coverage, elected officials in both parties unwilling to broadly engage the abortion debate, and the refusal of most pro-abortion advocates to plainly state their radical beliefs have blinded many Americans to the gravity of the abortion issue and the extent of its grip on our culture.

How will abortion’s grip be loosened? Only when people look clearly at this life and death issue. Perhaps the silver lining in the recent events in Virginia, New York, and elsewhere is that abortion supporters now must be somewhat more honest than usual.

Ask Dr. Universe – Sheep’s Brains

Dr. Universe: What’s inside a sheep’s brain? – Aiden, 11

Dear Aiden,

A sheep brain is about the size of a human fist and is squishy like Jell-O. In some ways, a sheep brain is very similar to a human brain. In other ways, it is quite different.

I learned about sheep brains from my friend Craig McConnel, a researcher at Washington State University who is very curious about ruminants, a group of animals that includes cattle, giraffes, deer, antelopes, and of course, sheep.

Like a lot of mammal brains, a sheep brain is made up of grey and white matter. It has folds and grooves, but not quite as many as a human brain. It’s also a little smoother.

A human brain is about ten times as heavy as a sheep brain. Of course, just because an animal has a bigger brain doesn’t mean it is necessarily smarter. A sperm whale, for example, has a brain that is about five times heavier than a human brain.

Just like you and many other mammals, sheep have a part of the brain called the cerebrum. It is important for controlling movement, the senses, and thinking. Even though sheep might seem like they just stare off into space and chew grass all day, they do use their brains to think, just not on the same level as humans, McConnel said.

You and a sheep also have a brain stem which helps control the flow of messages between the brain and the rest of the body. There is also a cerebellum, which mainly helps with muscle functions and more movement—including the ability to move around with your flock.

Like us, sheep are social animals. When they graze together, they often eat in groups of five or so and keep an eye on each other. One sheep usually leads the way and the rest follow. It’s an instinct or a behavior that an animal has from birth.

One major difference between sheep and human brains has to do with the sense of smell. In sheep, the brain’s olfactory bulb is two or three times the size of the human olfactory bulb. It provides the sheep with a strong sense of smell which is key for survival.

A mother can use her sense of smell to find her baby in a flock. A baby can smell its way back to its mother if it gets lost. The leader of the herd can sniff out a predator like a wolf and that sense of smell will allow it to warn the other sheep.

Some sheep, like bighorn sheep, even have strong horns and thick skulls that help protect their heads and soft brains. Some scientists are studying them to learn about concussions. While a lot of mammals have similar things going on in their brains, each brain is little different, and sometimes it’s those differences that can help an animal survive, whether they are out on a farm or out in the wild.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Submit a question!

Fruitport Township Board of Trustees Meeting Agenda – 04/08/19

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

APRIL 8, 2019

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: 3/25/19
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
A. First Reading: Business Registration Ordinance
B. Second Reading: Marihuana Establishments & Sale & Consumption in Public Places Ordinance
C. Annexation for City of Muskegon development

08. New Business
A. Bob Szymoniak with a School Resource Officer report
B. Patrick Finnegan to present a new online civil infraction mediation platform
C. Local Road Project Contract

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

Secretary Benson Convenes Election Modernization Advisory Committee to Advance Election Reforms

Consortium of local election officials, voting rights advocates, experts to provide counsel on Proposal 3 voter reforms

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced today an Election Modernization Advisory Committee to advise her administration and the Department of State’s Bureau of Elections on the implementation of Proposal 3 and further election reforms.

Members of the committee include county, city and township clerks from across the state, Michigan-based voting rights advocates, and local and national election experts.

“The results of last November’s election are clear: Michigan voters want to make it easier to vote and harder to cheat,” Benson said. “I am grateful to the local and national experts who have agreed to come together to ensure we do just that, modernizing our elections, applying best practices and making Michigan a national model for clean, efficient and secure elections.”

Passed overwhelmingly by voters in November, Proposal 3 involves significant changes to Michigan’s election laws, including the institution of absentee voting for any reason, automatic voter registration and the ability to register up to and on Election Day.

The advisory committee will provide input, suggestions and feedback on the execution of these reforms. Other topics slated for consultation by the committee include the launch of online voter registration passed by the Legislature last year along with poll worker recruitment training, as well as solutions to current challenges involving elections.

Benson has named former Michigan Director of Elections Christopher Thomas to lead the newly formed advisory committee. The committee will be staffed and facilitated by the Michigan Bureau of Elections and other staff from the Secretary of State’s office.

Noah Webster

submitted by Arline Helms

Noah Webster, the Father of American Education, was a revolutionary soldier, judge, legislator, American Founder, and the creator of Webster’s Dictionary. He served served nine terms in the Connecticut General Assembly, three terms in the Massachusetts Legislature, and four years as a judge.

One of the first Founding Fathers to call for a Constitutional Convention, he was also one of the most active in the ratification of the Constitution. He was responsible for the copyright and patent protection clause of the Constitution and wrote textbooks.

He strongly believed that all Americans should speak the same language, and he was quite concerned about spelling and pronunciation. Hence, he compiled the first American dictionary. His first edition was published in 1806 with 37,000 words. He published two more the following year.

He spent the rest of his life cataloguing words. In 1828, he completed his final dictionary, one with 70,000 words. He used words like “color” instead of “colour,” and “magic” instead of “magick” and added uniquely American words such as “skunk,” “hickory,” and “chowder.”

In December, 1808, he wrote in a letter to Thomas Dawes:
“About a year ago, an unusual revival of religion took place in New Haven…and I was led by a spontaneous impulse of repentance, prayer, and entire submission of myself to my Maker and Redeemer. In the month of April last, I made a profession of faith.”. This unusual revival was a part of the Great Awakening that shook America in the early 19th Century.”

As evidenced in his textbook, “History of the United States, published in 1832, he believed that Christianity and government could not and should not be separated:
“The religion which has introduced civil liberty is the religion of Christ and His apostles, which enjoins humility, piety, and benevolence; which acknowledges in every person, a brother or a sister, and a citizen with equal rights. This is genuine Christianity, and to this we owe our free constitutions of government.”

“Every civil government is based upon some religion or philosophy of life. Education in a nation will propagate the religion of that nation. In America, the foundational religion was Christianity. And it was sown in the hearts of Americans through the home and private and public schools for centuries. Our liberty, growth, and prosperity was the result of a Biblical philosophy of life. Our continued freedom and success is dependent on our educating the youth of America in the principles of Christianity.”

Whether or not you believe in Noah’s philosophy of government, one thing can’t be argued; he was man of deep, abiding faith in God and appeared to be a Christian.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events April 1-8, 2019

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

Happy Spring Break Kiddos!

Monday April 1:

So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box
April 1
The Muskegon Area District Library invites kids 8 – 16 to be part of the “So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box!” Search for clues, solve the puzzles, unlock the box and win a prize. This program is free, but you do need to register by calling your preferred library branch.
• Monday, April 1 at 10:30am – Norton Shores Branch 231-790-8844
• Monday, April 1 at 2:00pm – Muskegon Township Branch 231-760-4329

Spring Break Escape Camp
April 1 @ 9:00 am – April 5 @ 5:00 pm
Kids in grades K – 6 are invited to attend the Spring Break Escape Camp at Camp Pendalouan! Transportation and before/after care are also available. For more information or to register, visit www.pendalouan.org or call 231-894-4538.

STEM Mini Camp
April 1 @ 9:00 am – April 2 @ 12:00 pm
Monday and Tuesday, April 1 – 2 from 9:00am – 12:00pm, kids ages 8 – 13 can come to the Lakeshore Museum Center for the STEM Mini Camp! This mini-camp will give children the opportunity to get the first look at the brand new STEM Center and experience what it has to offer! Over the 2-day camp, children will make airfoils, modify matchbox cars and race them, puzzle through mazes with a robot, and construct structures like bridges. Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite.com and are $20 or $15 for museum members. For more information call 231-722-0278.

Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy
April 1 @ 6:00 pm
The “Arsenal of Democracy” was a slogan used by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in a radio broadcast delivered on December 29, 1940. The phrase was used to arouse popular support for aiding nations in the war prior to the US entry into WWII and continued until the end of the war. During that time, the US provided the Allies with millions of rounds of ammunition, as well as weapons, trucks, tanks and ships. The Americans who worked in countless factories throughout the country truly helped the US manufacture victory in WWII. Join the USS Silversides Submarine Museum most Mondays through May 13 for the lecture series, “Manufacturing Victory: The Arsenal of Democracy!”
All lectures begin at 6:00pm at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. The cost is $5.00 per person or free with your USS Silversides Submarine Museum membership. For more information call (231) 755-1230.April 1: The real topic is Combat Propulsion presented by L-3 Engineering Specialists. Information on further lectures will be provided as it becomes available!

Culinary Class: Retro and Classic Casserole Night
April 1 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Monday, April 1 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class, “Retro and Classic Casserole Night with Chef Char!” Do you wish you could recreate some of your favorite casseroles from childhood? Want to know how your mom and grandma made their “one dish wonder” that fed the whole family? Join Kitchen 242 for this special class that puts together all your favorite taste bud memories into classic dishes. If you have a favorite vintage/retro casserole dish/jello mold, bring it to class. It will be a fun evening that will serve up some wine to go with your creations! The cost is $50. For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Team Trivia Game Show
April 1 @ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
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.

Tuesday April 2:

So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box
April 2
The Muskegon Area District Library invites kids 8 – 16 to be part of the “So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box!” Search for clues, solve the puzzles, unlock the box and win a prize. This program is free, but you do need to register by calling your preferred library branch.
• Tuesday, April 2 at 1:00pm – Dalton Branch 231-828-4188
• Tuesday April 2 at 4:30pm – Muskegon Heights Branch 231-739-6075

Gillette Nature Center: Spring Break Programs
April 2 @ 10:30 am – April 6 @ 10:30 am
Tuesday, April 2 – Saturday, April 6, the Gillette Visitor Center at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is offering spring break programs for children. A state park passport is required to enter the park. To learn more, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport. For more information about programs at Gillette, call 231-798-3573.10:30am Cottontails and Other Hoppers – Learn about the lagomorph group and rodents that move in a hopping pattern. Take a hike to find tracks!

Spring Break Art Camp: Stone Stories
April 2 @ 1:00 pm – April 4 @ 2:00 pm
Be part of Spring Break Art Camp at the Nuveen Center! You will make 6 picture stones using paint, markers and decoupage that will help tell a story of your choice. You will also make a fabric bag to hold your stones. Stones will be provided, but students are asked to bring in smooth flat stones to paint on for extra if you have them. The cost is $10. For more information e-mail Nuveen@artswhitelake.org or call 231-893-2524.

Spring Break Art Camp: Design from Nature
April 2 @ 3:00 pm – April 4 @ 4:30 pm
Come to the Nuveen Center for the Spring Break Art Camp Program, “Design from Nature!” Sixth through twelfth graders can welcome spring by starting their artwork with a plant, bird or insect, and then explore abstraction as you experiment with materials and layers to create a contemporary artwork. This class will focus on simplification of form, creating a background, layering through collage, drawing, and more. The cost is $10. For more information e-mail Nuveen@artswhitelake.org or call 231-893-2524.

Culinary Class: Not the Usual Pasta With Sofia
April 2 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class,You’ll make four different tasty sauces and four different shapes of pasta. Dishes include Spaghetti with Walnuts, Fusilli with Gorgonzola Cheese and Sun Dried Tomato, Tagliatelle Bell Peppers and Mascarpone and Penne alla Vodka. The cost is $45. For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Group Bicycle Tour
April 2 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Meet in the parking lot behind Unruly Brewing Company every Tuesday at 6:00pm for a 90 minute group bike ride! There are five different groups to fit your biking needs and abilities and helmets are strongly encouraged. Loaner helmets are always available at City Hub Cyclery (585 W. Clay Ave., Downtown Muskegon). Unruly Brewing Co. is offering $1 off your first post-ride beer! For more information call Raymond at 231-206-6182.

Planetarium Show: Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight
April 2 @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Visit West Michigan’s only free planetarium! Carr-Fles Planetarium on the main campus of Muskegon Community College is showing “Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight,” April 2 – June 13 (no shows on May 7 – 16) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00pm – 7:35pm. Be dazzled with virtual rides aboard the spacecraft of the future and see how far our technology can take us. For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

White Lake Classical Series: David Rogers on Guitar
April 2 @ 7:00 pm
Come to the Book Nook & Java Shop for David Rogers on guitar as part of the White Lake Classical Series! Recently termed ‘a prominent guitarist’ by the New York Times, David Rogers fuses classical, jazz, early, and world music elements into powerful, moving and virtuosic performances based on both original and traditional repertoires. The cover is $5. Come early for dinner at 6:15pm to enjoy Lemon Rosemary Garlic Roasted Turkey Breast, roasted sweet potatoes, spring vegetable sauté, glass of house wine and rhubarb custard bars for only $17. For more information or to RSVP, call 231-894-5333.

Open Irish Jam Session
April 2 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The first Tuesday of every month from 7:00pm – 9:00pm, all musicians are welcome at Hennessey’s Irish Pub for their open Irish Jam session! Whether participating or just watching it is always a fun time and admission is free. For more information call (231) 728-3333.

Wednesday April 3:

So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box
April 1 – April 6
April 1 – 6, the Muskegon Area District Library invites kids 8 – 16 to be part of the “So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box!” Search for clues, solve the puzzles, unlock the box and win a prize. This program is free, but you do need to register by calling your preferred library branch. Wednesday, April 3 at 2:00pm – Montague Branch 231-893-2675

Spring Break Nerf Battle
April 3 @ 11:00 am
Wednesday, April 3 at 11:00am, players ages 8-16 will try to out-wit and out-blast the competition during this epic battle at the Egelston Branch of the Muskegon District Library! They provide all the equipment including blasters, darts, vests, safety goggles and obstacles along with a friendly referee for all the exciting Nerf action at this free event. Snacks will be provided and registration required. 11:00am Egelston Branch 231-788-6477, 3:00pm Norton Shores branch call 231-780-8844 to register. April 4 North Muskegon @ 11:00am, call 231-744-6080 to register and 3:00pm at Dalton Branch call 231-828-4188 to register. Space is limited, so call today at 231-828-4188.

Gillette Nature Center: Spring Break Programs
April 3 @ 10:30 am – April 6 @ 10:30 am
Tuesday, April 3 – Saturday, April 6, the Gillette Visitor Center at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is offering spring break programs for children. A state park passport is required to enter the park. To learn more, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport. For more information about programs at Gillette, call 231-798-3573. 10:30am Signs of Spring Hike – Take a short hike and explore spring signs. 2:00pm Peeps of Spring – A closer look at frogs and toads.

Free Family Movie Day: Mary Poppins Returns
April 3 @ 3:00 pm
Wednesday, April 3 at 3:00pm, bring the kids to the beautiful Frauenthal Theater for a Free Family Movie Day featuring “Mary Poppins Returns!” No tickets are required. For more information call 231-727-8001.

Thursday April 4:

Gillette Nature Center: Spring Break Programs
April 4 @ 10:30am
Tuesday, April 2 – Saturday, April 6, the Gillette Visitor Center at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is offering spring break programs for children. A state park passport is required to enter the park. To learn more, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport. For more information about programs at Gillette, call 231-798-3573.10:30am Nests: Nature’s Egg Cartons – Hands on program to explore the different nest styles. 11:30am Bird Beak Buffet – A complete look at how birds eat. Hands-on activities and a snack included.

Spring Break Nerf Battle
April 4 @ 11:00 am
Players ages 8-16 will try to out-wit and out-blast the competition during this epic battle at branches of the Muskegon District Library! They provide all the equipment including blasters, darts, vests, safety goggles and obstacles along with a friendly referee for all the exciting Nerf action at this free event. Snacks will be provided and registration required. April 4 North Muskegon @ 11:00am, call 231-744-6080 to register and 3:00pm at Dalton Branch call 231-828-4188 to register. Space is limited, so call today at 231-828-4188.

Planetarium Show: Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight
April 4 @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Visit West Michigan’s only free planetarium! Carr-Fles Planetarium on the main campus of Muskegon Community College is showing “Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight,” April 2 – June 13 (no shows on May 7 – 16) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00pm – 7:35pm. Be dazzled with virtual rides aboard the spacecraft of the future and see how far our technology can take us. For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box
April 4
April 1 – 6, the Muskegon Area District Library invites kids 8 – 16 to be part of the “So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box!” Search for clues, solve the puzzles, unlock the box and win a prize. This program is free, but you do need to register by calling your preferred library branch. Thursday, April 4 at 1:00pm – Ravenna Branch 231-893-6975

Pajama Party at the Muskegon Museum of Art: FREE
April 4 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Join the Muskegon Museum of Art for a Pajama Party! Show up in your jammies (slippers optional) for some fun at the museum! Enjoy storytime in the “A+ for Educators: The Illustrations of Patricia Polacco” exhibition gallery, creative snack making in the classroom, a hot cocoa station and a family film in the auditorium! Bring your favorite stuffed animal and friend for a pajama party at the art museum! This event is free and open to the public. For more information call 231-720-2570 or visit the website. 6:00pm – Craft Activity 6:15pm – Story Time 6:30pm – Family Film 8:00pm – Closing

Culinary Class: Chef Char Kitchen Skills 101 – The Basics
April 4 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class. Be nervous with a knife no more and learn how to properly utilize your staple kitchen tools. You will cover various knife cuts with different vegetables and fruits and talk about the right knife for the right job and which knives to use for specific culinary duties in the kitchen. You will cook up whatever you cut up, so a simple lesson on sauté and a recipe for pan tossed veggies will follow all cutting, dicing and chopping done in class. The cost is $45. For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Friday April 5:

STEM Center: Sneak Peek
April 5 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Join the Lakeshore Museum Center over Spring Break to get a sneak peek of the new STEM Center they have been working on. This interactive room will be a creative space to learn about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Hands-on activities will include building bridges, constructing hoop gliders, racing hot wheels and much more! Admission is $3. Kids 2 and under, members and Muskegon residents are free. For more information call 231-722-0278.

So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box
April 5 11:00am and 2:00pm
The Muskegon Area District Library invites kids 8 – 16 to be part of the “So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box!” Search for clues, solve the puzzles, unlock the box and win a prize. This program is free, but you do need to register by calling your preferred library branch.
• Friday, April 5 at 11:00am – Egelston Branch 231-788-6477
• Friday, April 5 at 2:00pm – Holton Branch 231-821-0268

Gillette Nature Center: Spring Break Programs
April 5 @ 10:30 am
April 5, the Gillette Visitor Center at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is offering spring break programs for children. A state park passport is required to enter the park. To learn more, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport. For more information about programs at Gillette, call 231-798-3573. 10:30am A Good Home is Hard to Find – Puppet show!

Fish Fry Fridays
April 5 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Every Friday during Lent, the Ravenna community invites you to join them at St. Catherine’s Hall for delicious fish fry dinners! All dinners are from 5:00pm – 7:30pm and the cost is $10 for adults and $5 for kids 5 – 12. Kids 5 and under are free! Your meal includes your choice of a baked potato or fries, green beans, cole slaw, pike perch, garlic bread and dessert. Get an extra 2 filets for only $1. Proceeds will benefit the organizations hosting each week including St. Catherine’s, the American Legion and the Ravenna Fire Department. (231) 853-6743.

Concert: Pegboard Nerds wsg Flexadecibel
April 5 @ 6:30 pm
Come to the L.C. Walker Arena for Danish-Norwegian electronic music group, Pegboard Nerds with special guest Flexadecibel! This will be the first concert held at the arena since their 1.7 million dollar renovation. You must be 18 or older to attend. For more information call (231) 726-2939 or visit the website below.

Main Street Dueling Pianos
April 5 @ 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Buy tickets for the Watermark 920 Main Street Dueling Pianos! The entertainers have an impressive repertoire of 1,000+ songs, giving the audience an unforgettable experience and night of singing, hand-clapping and dancing! Please be advised this show may contain adult content, mature subject matter and strong language. This show is for those 21+ (no exceptions). Tickets are $15 and available online or at The Coffee Factory. If you would like to reserve a table, reservations must be made via e-mail at laurel@watermarkcenter.com. Table placement is not guaranteed. There will be a full service bar featuring Michigan beer and wine options as well as coffee and food from Fatty Lumpkins. For more information call (231) 578-0469

Hennessy’s Comedy Night
April 5 @ 8:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Select Fridays from 8:30pm – 10:00pm, come to Hennessey’s Irish Pub for live stand-up Comedy! Hosted by Tim Locke, Hennessey’s features various stand-up comedians from all over Michigan! The cover is free! For more information call (231) 728-3333.

Saturday, April 6:

So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box
April 6
The Muskegon Area District Library invites kids 8 – 16 to be part of the “So You Want to Be an Astronaut: Spring Break Escape Box!” Search for clues, solve the puzzles, unlock the box and win a prize. This program is free, but you do need to register by calling your preferred library branch. Saturday, April 6 at 12:00pm – North Muskegon Branch 231-744-6080

Spring Birding Tour
April 6 @ 9:00 am
Nothing says spring like the “conk-a-ree” call of a red-winged blackbird or the raucous sounds of a Sandhill Crane. Celebrate spring and explore Muskegon’s wetlands with a birding tour at the Muskegon County Wastewater System, Saturday, April 6 at 9:00am! Department of Natural Resources wildlife biologists and technicians, Audubon Great Lakes staffers, and volunteers from Ducks Unlimited and local Audubon Clubs will lead the tour. Meet at the Muskegon State Game Area Office (7600 E. Messinger Rd., Twin Lake). Please dress for the weather and bring binoculars. Spotting scopes also are helpful for long-range viewing. The ground may be quite muddy and wet, so plan to wear boots. For more information call the Muskegon County Wastewater System at 231-788-5055

Gillette Nature Center: Spring Break Programs
April 6 @ 10:30 am
The Gillette Visitor Center at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park is offering spring break programs for children. A state park passport is required to enter the park. To learn more, visit www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport. For more information about programs at Gillette, call 231-798-3573. 10:30 am Wiggly Worms – Learn all about worms and dissect a gummy worm.

Winter Farmers’ Market
April 6 @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Visit the downtown indoor winter Muskegon Farmers’ Market on Saturdays from 9:00am – 2:00pm. For more information call (231)722-3251

Sensory Friendly Movies: Where “Shhhhh!” isn’t allowed!
April 6 @ 10:30 am April 6 – “Dumbo”
Family Hope Foundation and Cinema Carousel present a unique movie experience for individuals with special needs and their families. Select Saturdays, enjoy a disability-friendly environment where everyone is welcome to be who they are! For more information, call Family Hope Foundation at 616-729-8833. With an audience of your peers, special families can enjoy something fun together that you might not typically be able to do. Brighter lights, lower sound, limited previews and a group of people who understand your child’s disability will make this family outing enjoyable for everyone! These special event films feature: Regular Matinee Pricing, All movies in 2D and Open Caption,Seating questions can be directed to the box office

Culinary Class: Sous Vide Cooking with Chef Char
April 6 @ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Saturday, April 6 from 11:00am – 1:00pm, come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmer’s Market for the culinary class, “Sous Vide Cooking with Chef Char!” Sous Vide is a French culinary term meaning “under vacuum” and is a method of cooking in which food is placed in a plastic bag or glass jar and cooked under carefully controlled water or steam temperatures. The intent is to cook the food items evenly, ensuring that the inside is properly cooked while retaining moisture and without overcooking the outside. Four different recipes will be explained, demonstrated, sampled and enjoyed in the class. Sample various sous vide vegetables, chicken and steak. The cost is $50. For more information or to register visit www.eventbrite.com and search for Muskegon Farmers Market or you can see a full list of classes on the Kitchen 242 Facebook Event Page. For more information call (231) 769-2202.

Back Alley Comedy Club: Cliff Cash wsg Michael Greeter
April 6 @ 8:00 pm – 9:30pm
Come to the Back Alley Comedy Club inside Sherman Bowling Center for comedian Cliff Cash with special guest Michael Geeter! Tickets are available at the door for only $10! Call (616) 570-8765 for more information.

KOP 64 Presented By KnockOut Promotions
April 6 @ 7:00 pm – 10:30 pm
$25 – $35
It’s Live MMA at the LC Walker Arena! This will be KnockOut Promotions 64th show featuring Pro-Am Mixed Martial Arts action. The cost is $25 – $35. For more information call the arena box office at (231) 726-2400.

Delicious Demise
April 6 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Amanda’s Bequest, a heritage farm-stay bed & breakfast, and Bygone Basics, a heritage farm to fork cooking school and bakery, offer special “Murder Mystery” events! Participants learn about cultural food differences and experience dishes that are authentic to the country or place the theme is based on. You get food discovery, dinner, and “DEMISE!” You will be emailed more detailed information about the event prior to arrival, including your role assignment and costume suggestions. The activities last from 5:00pm – 8:00pm on Saturdays, with dinner served in courses. These are themed murder mysteries based on the season, month and number of guests. All are different, so keep coming back for the next one! A minimum of 6 people are required. Murder mystery dinners are adult themed and not suitable for those under 17 years of age. (Not fully suitable for special diets. Some foods are naturally gluten free or vegetarian and these are present, but no separate dishes can be prepared.) For more information, please call (231) 740-4065 or e-mail ICan@bygonebasics.com. You can request no role, or small role if you are a little shy. Conversely, do request a big role if you are excited about doing this! They reserve the right to change the posted theme to adjust to group sizes. Please call or e-mail to register or visit the website below. The cost is $45, or $35 if you’re staying at Amanda’s Bequest Bed & Breakfast.

Cheerio Bird Feeders
April 6 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Bring the kids to Hackley Public Library to make Cheerio Bird Feeders! Keep your feathered friends happy with this easy to assemble bird feeder. Just take a few pipe cleaners, Cheerios, and some string to hang up your masterpiece outdoors. This program is free and recommended for all ages. For more information call 231-822-8000.

Science of Colors
April 6 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Come to the Lakeshore Museum Center for the “Science of Colors!” Did you know that there is science behind your favorite colors? Find out why you like certain colors and dislike others. This will be your last chance to see the Collections by Color exhibit before it comes down! Admission is $3. Kids 2 and under, museum members and Muskegon residents are free. For more information call 231-722-0278.

Seeing Your Environment through Drawing: FREE
April 6 @ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Visit the Hackley Public Library for this FREE class. Are you ready for an enriching and artistic experience? This class invites participants to use sketching as a tool to help shape their perception of the world, enhance self-awareness and guide themselves to more positive experiences. Join Corinne Roberts for this excellent practice in art therapy. This event is free to public and all materials are provided. No prior drawing experience is needed. No registration needed. For more information call (231) 722-8000.

Sunday, April 7

Reminder: Easter is Sunday April 21st

Monday, April 8:

Marketing Monday: Bold Branding
April 8 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Come the Muskegon Innovation Hub for “Marketing Monday: Bold Branding!” Creating a strong brand is just as much about knowing who you aren’t as who you are. This session, presented by Velarde Marketing, will review strategies to prioritize messaging and create a brand that will make your business stand out from your competition. The cost is $10 and tickets are available through Eventbrite. For more information call 616-331-7370.

Missing Women’s History

Women’s history month was instituted to celebrate the important role women have had in building history. This month celebrates women who have made famous impacts in fighting for justice and equality like Susan B. Anthony and Harriet Tubman, as well as the many unrecognized efforts of women throughout history whose names are unknown.

During this month, we cannot forget the group of women who have been by far the most unrecognized and undervalued in all of history: the nearly 30 million women in America whose lives were taken from them in the womb since 1973.

Many speak about abortion as if it liberates women. In truth, abortion is a tool for discriminating against women. According to one estimate, more than 160 million women around the globe were denied the chance to impact the world because of sex-selection abortions and infanticides in recent decades. Women’s organizations should be outraged; it’s alarmingly unjust that tens of millions of women’s lives ended simply because they were female instead of male.

Sadly, this is not new. For many years before abortion became widely available, baby girls would often be tragically left to die by many parents who decided they wanted a boy instead. This still occurs in some countries today with alarming regularity. The problem has become so stark it’s a crime in some nations to use an ultrasound to learn the sex of your unborn child.

Some may see infanticide as more horrifying than having an abortion, but both options end the child’s life.

In recent weeks, many U.S. politicians including 44 U.S. Senators have sent the message that they see no difference between ending a child’s life in the womb or after birth. If the child is unwanted by the birth parents and targeted for abortion—as is the case for many millions of baby girls around the world—they would ignore infanticide through neglect if the abortion fails and results in a live birth instead.

So many politicians, celebrities—and of course, Planned Parenthood—widely praise abortion as the foundation of women’s rights, but by doing so they ignore the stories of hundreds of millions of women who were denied the most basic right to life. Abortion is a tool used over and over for discrimination and targeting of vulnerable lives deemed “unwanted.” So much more women’s history would be made if we simply valued the life of every little girl.

Trending Towards Life

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently released their annual report on abortion statistics, showing that abortion rates are lower than ever. Though it is unacceptable that abortion should claim the lives of any number of children, it is encouraging to see this improving trend.

Looking at the CDC report is helpful for understanding the dynamics driving the abortion issue. However, it is important to note that the accuracy of the CDC data is not perfect. For example, California, Maryland, and New Hampshire all fail to report annual abortion data to the CDC.

The total number of abortions reported to the CDC in the U.S. decreased 2% from 652,639 in 2014 to 638,169 in 2015. According to the Guttmacher Institute—which polls abortion facilities directly—the total national figure for all 50 states was an estimated 926,200 in 2014. Both sources agree abortion is in decline.

Women in their 20s remain the largest demographic of those who have abortions. However, the average age of a woman having an abortion has been slowly increasing. Teen abortions continue to plummet, with their abortion rate decreasing by 54% since 2006.

The abortion ratio decreased from 2007 to 2015 for the three largest race/ethnicity groups. The ratio is the number of abortions compared to live births, meaning more women are choosing life. There are still large disparities between these groups. The ratio for non-Hispanic white women is 108 abortions per 1,000 live births, 152 for Hispanic women, and 403 for non-Hispanic black women.

A majority of women having abortions already have a child. The repeat abortion rate is high, with 43.6% of abortions being performed on women who have already had at least one prior abortion.

The steady decrease in abortions is encouraging; the hard work of the prolife movement is paying off and more women are choosing life. However, the numbers paint a tragic picture of many 20-something urban minorities who already have one child and believe abortion is their only viable option. Perhaps they are at the abortion facility for the second or third time.

While the prolife movement continues to enhance legal protection for unborn children, we will continue to reach women in desperate situations or trapped in a downward spiral. In order to see a day in which abortion is both illegal and unthinkable, we must educate more people about our supreme value that every human life is valuable.

Chris Gast
Director of Communication/Education
cgast@rtl.org

Active Shooter. What Would You Do?

Though we hope you are never faced with the situation, would you know what to do in the case of an active shooter? Hide? Evacuate?

Doing the right things can increase your odds of getting through alive. Nearly 1,000 residents have attended a “Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events” class held by the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office. This thought-provoking and engaging class provides strategies, guidance, and a plan for surviving an active shooter event.

Sessions are available on:

April 12 | Register | Share Facebook Event

May 8 | Register | Share Facebook Event

June 15 | Register | Share Facebook Event

There is no cost for the class, but registration is required. Time of the sessions vary. See the registration page for details. All classes are held at the Ottawa County Fillmore Street Administration Building, 12220 Fillmore, West Olive.

Secretary Benson Shares Ideas on Restoring Public Trust in State Government

More announcements planned for Sunshine Week

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson today shared her ideas on how to make Michigan a leader in transparency and accountability and restore public trust in state government.

According to the Center for Public Integrity, the state has the weakest transparency and ethics laws in the nation.

“It’s important for citizens to simply have all the information they need and deserve so they can hold all of their elected officials accountable,” Benson said.

Benson announced her ideas (see overview document) on improving transparency while speaking at the Michigan Nonprofit Association’s Nonprofit Legislative Day in Lansing. She then provided testimony including those proposals to the House Committee on Elections and Ethics.

Benson wants to work with members of the Legislature toward full disclosure of all money in politics through stronger reporting requirements and by closing loopholes and exceptions. Among her other ideas, she is interested in expanding the Freedom of Information Act so it applies to the governor and Legislature, requiring personal financial disclosures from elected officials and instituting a two-year “cooling off” period between leaving office as a legislator and working as a lobbyist. Benson plans to have conversations with residents at town hall meetings across the state to hear their feedback on transparency and other issues.

Muskegon Area CTC HOSA students compete to save and heal lives

Students from Muskegon Area CTC competed in the first-ever Gift of Life HOSA Challenge, a statewide competition to register organ and tissue donors. Through the challenge, Michigan HOSA students helped to add 793 new donors to the Michigan Organ Donor Registry. There are currently more than 3,000 Michigan residents on the waiting list for a lifesaving organ transplant.

4th Annual Pooches & People Picnic April 13 to Benefit The Bob & Merle Scolnik Healing Center

[Muskegon, MI] Do you love dogs? You don’t want to miss this furry-festive event!

The much-anticipated fourth annual Pooches & People Picnic will be held Saturday, April 13, 2019 beginning at 10:00 AM on the grounds of Fricanos Place on Muskegon Lake. Proceeds will help fund the community programs of The Bob & Merle Scolnik Healing Center, the only grief and loss center in Muskegon county. The center provides group or individual grief support to family and care givers, so they can celebrate the life of their loved one while they learn how to cope with heartache and loss. Grief support services are free of charge and available to anyone in the communities of Muskegon, Oceana, Mason, Ottawa, and Newaygo counties.

The picnic fundraiser features an auction, raffle, yummy themed food, and four-legged fun! Past years have included a dog walk on the ruff ruff route, on-site nail clipping and micro-chipping, doggie cake walk, and paw-print painting booth. In addition, this year you can also enjoy a canine costume parade, smooches with pooches kissing booth, and so much more!

“The Scolnik Healing Center of Harbor Hospice serves on average over 1,000 children, teens and adults who have experienced many types of losses including deaths due to health issues, violence, suicide, drug or alcohol dependency, accidental and pet-related losses,” says Beth Bolthouse, Grief Counselor at Harbor Hospice. “Most families suffer some type of financial hardship because of one or more of these losses, making it difficult to obtain the professional help needed to begin healing and finding their way in life again. The Pooches & People Picnic is a fun event for people and their dogs (or just people who love dogs!) that raises funds to help defray some of the costs of continuing to offer grief support to our West Michigan community at no charge.”

Pawsome level sponsorships/vendors and auction donations are welcome now through April 5.

For more information on grief support services, contact Beth Bolthouse or Laura Ecker at 231.728.3442 or 1.800.497.9559 or email info@HarborHospiceMI.org. The Harbor Hospice website is www.harborhospicemi.org.

Village of Fruitport Regular Council Meeting Minutes – 03/25/19

Click the image above for the Village of Fruitport’s March 25, 2019, Regular Council Meeting minutes‒recently released with its attachments (PDF format).

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARCH 25, 2019

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

2. Pledge

3. Prayer

4. Roll call
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Donna Pope, Amy Haack, Jeff Guiles, Carl Rothenberger and Bill Overkamp.
Absent: Jay Bolt
Also, present Dave Bossenbroek, Village attorney and Matt Hulst, Engineer from Prein & Newhof

5. Approve the agenda for the March 25th Council meeting
Motion made by Jeff to approve the March 25th agenda, supported by Amy. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

6. Public Comment
Eli Cooper, 142 N 3rd, questioned the sewer project status he was advised it will be discussed later in the meeting.

7. Correspondence (Ann)
None

8. Reports from Officers (Each Council Member)
Donna advised the library is doing well.

Jeff will start working on reviewing the sidewalk and trees with our DPW Staff

Amy has been working on the road project and kayak launch project that will be discussed later in the meeting.

Bill had nothing to report.

Carl gave an update on the hiring of the DPW Supervisor. The interviews took place last week. Carl, Bill, Roger and Matt Farrar, Muskegon County DPW Director interviewed the candidates. The Personnel Committee is recommending the hiring of current employee Justin Clish to the position of DPW Supervisor. The recommended salary is $19.00 per hour to start and after a 120-day probation period will be raised to $19.50 per hour. He will receive a stipend of $50.00 per month for his cell phone. Carl made a motion to hire Justin at the rates suggested, supported by Bill.
Roll call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt
NAYES: None
Carl made an additional motion to post a DPW Worker job on Indeed and the MML web-site with a pay range of $13.00 to $16.00 per hour, supported by Amy.
Roll call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYES: None

Roger had nothing to report.

9. 2020 3rd Avenue Project
a. Sewer petition
Dave Bossenbroek, Village attorney discussed the petition received in favor of sewers for the 2020 3rd Ave Project. The numbers show that there is not enough support in favor of the sewers. Motion made by Amy to continue the road project without sewers, supported by Jeff.
Roll call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt
NAYES: None
Amy and Carl both thanked Jim Pancy for his efforts in the sewer petition.

b. Engineering Cost Projection
Amy directed the council to review the new probable costs sheets for both the road restructuring and resurfacing. She also went over a breakdown of current Village funds allocated for the project and potential additional Village funds in the upcoming fiscal years.
Amy asked Matt Hulst, Engineer from Prein and Newhof to discuss the options. Matt explained why it would be beneficial to the Village to make a decision within the next month so that Prein & Newhof could start the process. Matt discussed both options. The council asked multiple questions and a discussion took place. A discussion took place about the application for Cat B funding. At a previous meeting a resolution was passed to apply for Cat B funding for the total reconstruction with sewers. Motion made by Amy to amend the Category B funding resolution to authorize Prein & Newhof to make a grant application for the Category B funding up to $250,000.00 for road resurfacing on Third Avenue and to authorize Roger Vanderstelt and Ann LaCroix to sign the application, supported by Carl.
Roll call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYES: None
(See attached revised Resolution 2019-2)

10. Lions Club Old Fashioned Days Fireworks permit, Street Closure and Traffic Order
Roger reviewed the 3 requests from the Lions Club. A discussion took place about Street Closure dates. The council agreed to hold off on approving Street Closures and the Traffic Order until the next meeting and discussing with the Lions’ Club. Motion made by Roger to approve the Lions’ Club Request for a Fireworks permit, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

11. Resolution for Decertification of a portion of Lake Street
Roger explained that 225 feet of Lake Street needs to be decertified. Resolution offered by Roger, supported by Jeff.
Roll Call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYES: None
(See attached copy of resolution.)

12. Pomona Park Kayak Launch & Parking Concept Public Hearing
Motion made by Carl to close the regular meeting at 7:40pm, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Motion made by Carl to open the Pomona Park Kayak Launch & Parking Concept Public Hearing at 7:41pm, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Matt Hulst gave a presentation of the approved concept for the Pomona Park Kayak Launch & Parking Concept. It is part of the Water Trail Network. The total cost is 200,000.00. The Village contribution is $75,000.00.

Public Comment made by Eli Cooper, 142 N 3rd, who questioned if the new entrance will be closer to the Bridge. He was directed to the diagram and said it looks good.

Motion made by Bill to close the hearing at 7:52pm, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Motion made by Carl to open the regular meeting at 7:52pm, supported by Bill. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

13. Resolution for the MNTRF Trust Fund Grant
Resolution made by Carl for the MNTRF Grant (See attached), supported by Bill.
Roll Call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYES: None

14. Budget Hearing
Motion made by Carl to close the regular meeting at 7:57pm, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Motion made by Carl to open the Budget Hearing at 7:58pm, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Roger asked council if there were any questions about the 2019-2020 budget that was discussed in the budget meeting. There were none. He asked if there is any Public Comment. There was none.

Motion made by Jeff to close the Budget Hearing at 8:04pm, supported by Bill. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Motion made by Jeff to open the regular meeting at 8:05pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

15. 2019-2020 Budget Adoption
Motion made by Roger to approve the budget as presented, supported by Carl.
Roll Call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYES: None

Budget resolution offered by Roger (See attached), supported by Carl.
Roll Call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYES: None

16. Public Comment
Jerry Lundberg, 88 S. 3rd, questioned the sewer petition changing from one vote per parcel to square footage of the property being a determining factor. The council and attorney responded to the question. Jerry thanked the Council.

17. Warrants
Motion made by Amy to approve the warrants with the exception of the Fruitport Township attorney bill, supported by Donna.
Roll Call AYES: Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Guiles and Vanderstelt.
NAYES: None

18. Adjournment
Donna made a motion to adjourn at 8:16pm, supported by Jeff. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,

Ann LaCroix
Clerk

Ask Dr. Universe – Fish Pee

Dr. Universe: Do fish pee? – J.P., 9 ½ , Texas

Dear J.P.,

Not only do fish pee, but their pee gives other animals in the ocean what they need to survive.

That’s what I found out from my friend, Cori Kane, a marine biologist at Oregon State University who got her Ph.D. at Washington State University. She knows a lot about coral reefs in our oceans. Coral reefs look like a ridge made of rock, but they are actually made up of living things.

Corals need a few things to survive. They need clear, warm water, sunlight, and nutrients, a kind of food that helps them grow. There aren’t usually a lot of nutrients in water near coral reefs. Luckily, there are a lot of nutrients in fish pee—and a lot of fish in the reef.

Like you, fish have kidneys. Kidneys help the body make urine. The shape and size of kidneys can be different depending on the species. Some kidneys are really long, like those in eels. Others are shorter and closer together like in an anglerfish.

A lot of fish get rid of the pee through an tiny opening, called a pore, that’s near their rear ends—and in some fish, waste also goes out through the skin or the gills.

When a fish pees in a coral reef, the corals wave their tentacles around like tiny arms to grab nutrients from the pee and absorb them.

Pretty much all living things—from plants to mushrooms to humans to cats—need nutrients to grow and survive. Humans get a lot of nutrients like minerals, fats, vitamins and carbohydrates from their food.

Corals get nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from the pee. It turns out, fish pee is pretty important to some marine ecosystems.

The nutrients will help the coral grow— slowly, but surely. In a year, the reef will grow anywhere from less than an inch to 8 inches. It will bloom in beautiful colors like red, purple, and blue.

Scientists have discovered thousands of fish that live in coral reefs. One of them is the clownfish. When clownfish pee, they can also help anemones— which look kind of like flowers but are actually animals closely related to jellyfish— grow.

Another organism called algae also lives in anemones. The algae take in nutrients from clownfish pee. The algae can then make sugars that feed the anemone. They are pretty good at helping each other out.

While we’re on the subject, fish also poop. Believe it or not, some of the corals will even grab onto fish poop to get some nutrients.

Kane also told me about the neon-colored parrotfish. It’s a fish that lives in tropical reefs around the world and has a mouth that looks like a parrot’s beak.

“Parrotfish are really famous for their pooping abilities because they eat dead coral and other things,” she said. “When they munch it up, they poop out sand.”

>From sardines to sharks, pretty much all of the animals in the ocean have to go to the bathroom.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of March 11, 2019

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, March 11, 2019, in the township board room.

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

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

Also Present: 3- residents; 0- employees; 0- guests; Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli; Director of Public Utilities, Ron Langlois.

The motion by Denise Winebarger, supported by Heidi Tice, was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of February 25, 2019 as presented, with the following addition:

It shall be noted that Jeff Jacobs requested the Supervisor to seek comparisons for the Non-union, Boards, and administrative wages spread sheet.

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

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1. Pastor Bob Davies discussed the relocation of Calvary Church into the former Bethel Baptist Church building across the street from Fruitport High School.
2. Brian Michelli shared that the Public Safety Departments will again be participating in the charity basketball event with No More Sidelines at Calvary Christian School on March 26th at 6:00pm; Central Dispatch’s request for a 911 surcharge has been updated with a 13 year sundown clause.
3. Ron Langlois shared that the Motion Dynamics expansion project is expected to be complete June 1st and a new lift station will be placed at the corner of Dangl and Mt Garfield.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

19-029 Business Registration review and discussion
The motion by Jeff Jacobs, seconded by Terry Knoll, was carried unanimously to TABLE this topic.

19-030 Planning Commission fee schedule revision
Terry Knoll moved, Jeff Jacobs seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution for land use fees with the requested changes.
Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger
Nays: None

19-031 Annexation for City of Muskegon Development
The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Denise Winebarger, was carried unanimously to approve Supervisor Tice’s request for Jeff Jacobs be included in future meetings with the City of Muskegon regarding the proposed annexation.

19-032 Second Reading: Zone Text Amendment Ordinance for Solar Energy Regulation
Jeff Jacobs moved, Terry Knoll seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the Solar Energy Regulation Ordinance as written. Said ordinance will outline the allowance of and regulations for solar energy production in particular zoning districts.

This constitutes the second and final reading of Amendment Ordinance No. 806.

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

NEW BUSINESS:

19-033 2019/2020 Budget Review
Budget discussion occurred. Regarding the Parks Department budget, the Board discussed beginning their budget at $120,000 for fiscal year 4/1/19 – 3/31/20 and potentially allowing them to carry unused monies from the previous year (determined after the audit).

19-034 Review of Marihuana Establishments Ordinance
Jeff Jacobs moved, Denise Winebarger seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to send the zoning text amendment ordinance through the Planning Commission.

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

The regulatory ordinance will be put on the next agenda for a first reading.

19-035 Approval for Local Road Brine Program
The cost for the local roads will be $18,837.00 and the cost for additional roads (Cline, Wolf Lake, and Mt Garfield) will be $1,386.00.

The total cost for the program will be $20,223.00 for 2019.

Jeff Jacobs moved, Denise Winebarger seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to participate in the 2019 local road brine program with the Muskegon County Road Commission.

Ayes: Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

19-036 Old Fashioned Days Agreement
Jeff Jacobs moved, Denise Winebarger seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the Supervisor to execute the Fruitport Lions Old Fashioned Days agreement.
Ayes: Knoll, Jacobs, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger
Nays: None

19-037 Frontier Communications Metro Act Right of Way Permit Extension
Jeff Jacobs moved, Denise Winebarger seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve a 5 (five) year unilateral Metro Act Permit with Frontier Communications. The purpose for the permit is for access to and on-going use of public rights-of-way within the Township of Fruitport for the purpose of providing telecommunication services to its customers.
Ayes: Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

19-038 ACD (KEPS Technologies) Metro Act Right of Way Permit Extension
Jeff Jacobs moved, Denise Winebarger seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve a 5 (five) year unilateral Metro Act Permit with ACD (KEPS Technologies). The purpose for the permit is for access to and on-going use of public rights-of-way within the Township of Fruitport for the purpose of providing telecommunication services to its customers.
Ayes: Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

19-039 Payment of bills
Terry Knoll moved, Jeff Jacobs seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $25,070.52; Public Safety $33,066.00; Water $40,513.45; Sewer $19,862.13; T&A $1,295.00
Totaling: $119,807.10
Ayes: Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Jacobs, Knoll
Nays: none

ADDITIONAL REPORTS: none

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none

The motion by Terry Knoll, supported by Jeff Jacobs, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 8:42pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK

HEIDI TICE, SUPERVISOR