Author Archives: editor

Ottawa County Department of Public Health Distinguished for Excellence

Health department protects Ottawa County from emergencies and disasters through the national Project Public Health Ready recognition program

The Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH) has been recognized by the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) for its ability to plan for, respond to and recover from public health emergencies. The OCDPH demonstrated these capabilities by meeting the comprehensive preparedness benchmarks required by Project Public Health Ready (PPHR), a unique partnership between NACCHO and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The OCDPH joins a cohort of 500 local health departments across the country that have been distinguished for excellence in preparedness through PPHR, either individually or as part of a region.

FineLine Creative Reaches 15-Year Milestone

Spring Lake, Michigan – FineLine Creative has kicked off a yearlong celebration of their 15th anniversary. Founded in February 2003, the full-service marketing and creative firm has found success by building relationships with clients that focus on results and collaboration.

FineLine Creative works with a variety of clients from the Muskegon area to greater Grand Rapids. Their core services include website design/development, design and branding, strategic planning, print communications, email marketing, and the newest core service offering, interactive strategies.

With the addition of Lisa Kraus in 2016, FineLine now offers clients a full-circle marketing experience with interactive services including Google AdWords/Analytics reporting, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and social media planning/implementation.

“We’re extremely excited to celebrate this milestone,” said Laura Holmes, the company’s co-founder. “The last five years, in particular, has been transformational as marketing has changed dramatically with the growing demand for online and web-based advertising.”

“Each FineLine team member brings volumes of experience to the table and a unique perspective,” said Yvonne McKessy, co-founder and Creative Communication Director. “The advantage at FineLine is team chemistry, integrity, ingenuity and continual drive to create distinct visual solutions that deliver results.”

In 2015, FineLine was recognized as one of 20 Entrepreneurs of Excellence by the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber. In 2013, Laura and Yvonne were one of 25 finalists for the Grand Rapids Business Journal’s Top Women-Owned Businesses.

Learn more about FineLine Creative’s service and their team at www.4FineLine.com.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events April 9-16, 2018

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

Monday:

Vegetarian Doesn’t Mean Flavorless with Sofia
Monday, April 9 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market is offering the culinary class, “Vegetarian Doesn’t Mean Flavorless with Sofia!” The Menu: Minestrone, Baked leek and asiago frittata, Vegetable pie Learn from Sofia Occhialini who moved her four years ago after spending her entire life in Italy and be sure to bring your appetite!  The cost is $35.  For more information call 231-769-2202

Live Jazz with Checkers Morton
Monday, April 9 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
April is Jazz Month!  April 9 from 6:00pm – 7:00pm, Hackley Public Library will celebrate by welcoming Checkers Morton and his band of friends who have been playing together for 40 years, offer amazing, original compositions like “Dan’s Lighthearted Padge” and “Little Raga.”  Their music comes from their heart & soul and features wood, reeds, brass, ivory and primal drums.  This concert is free and open to the public.  For more information, call  231-722-8000.

Muskegon Community College: Wind and Jazz Ensembles Concert
Monday, April 9 @ 7:30 pm
Monday, April 9 at 7:30pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater for the Muskegon Community College Wind and Jazz Ensembles Concert, featuring traditional wind and jazz ensemble music of all styles.  Tickets are $6 or free for students.  For more information, call 231-727-8001.

Roll On Muskegon
Mondays @ 6:30 pm
“Roll on Muskegon” is a fun, community, bicycle ride through the neighborhoods of Muskegon.  Bikers meet every Monday at the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market.  This easy 8 mph, family friendly ride begins at 6:30pm.  For more information, find them on Facebook.

Live Jazz with Checkers Morton
April 9 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
April is Jazz Month! April 9 from 6:00pm – 7:00pm, Hackley Public Library will celebrate by welcoming Checkers Morton and his band of friends who have been playing together for 40 years, offer amazing, original compositions like “Dan’s Lighthearted Padge” and “Little Raga.” Their music comes from their heart & soul and features wood, reeds, brass, ivory and primal drums. This concert is free and open to the public. For more information, call 231-722-8000.

MCC Wind and Jazz Ensembles
April 9 @ 7:30 pm
The Muskegon Community College Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble will perform on Monday, April 9, at 7:30pm in the Frauenthal Theater in downtown Muskegon.  Tickets are $7 for adults and $2 for students and are available at the Star Tickets website: www.startickets.com. Directed by Daniel M. Meyers, the Wind Ensemble will perform four selections.  Following a brief intermission, the Jazz Ensemble, directed by Tim Froncek, will play three pieces.  In honor of the late Leonard Bernstein, an American composer, conductor, author, music lecturer, and pianist whose 100th birthday would have been on August 25, the Wind Ensemble will open with two of his works, “America” and “Somewhere,” from the 1957 Broadway musical “West Side Story.”

Tuesday:

Planetarium Show: Incoming!
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Visit the Carr-Fles Planetarium at Muskegon Community College for the planetarium show, “Incoming!”  Tag along with robot explorers zooming past rocky asteroids and icy comets, all the way to Pluto, and discover how asteroids and comets have collided with our planet throughout history, changing the course of life on Earth.  Narrated by George Takei, this 2016 program gives audiences a closer look at the scientific advances that may allow us to find and track cosmic threats before they reach planet Earth.  This is a 35-minute presentation.  (The campus will be closed May 8-17 for break between semesters).  For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

Wednesday & Thursday:

West Michigan Student Showcase
Come to the Frauenthal Theater for the West Michigan Student Showcase! This is an annual celebration of excellence for high school youth of West Michigan. Students from Mason, Muskegon, Newago, Oceana and Ottawa counties are selected by their respective schools in the areas of academics, athletics, literacy arts, performing arts and visual arts. Show begins at 7:00pm. Tickets are$8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $5 for students, $14 for an adult 2-night pack or $9 at door. Call 231-727-8001 for more information.

Thursday:

Muskegon Museum of Art: Free Tours
Thursdays @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Every Thursday from 4:00pm – 8:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a free tour guided by MMA docents, compliments of Meijer! For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Cast Iron Cookies with Chef Char
 Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to the culinary class, “Cast Iron Cookies with Chef Char!” What a sweet way to use a cast iron skillet! Make your own “giant cookie” and decorate with homemade piped frosting to leave an extra sweet message for someone special or just to decorate for your own enjoyment. This is a great class for all ages and tailored toward beginners in the kitchen. The cost is $35 and is from 6:00pm-8:00pm. For more information, call (231) 769-2202.

Planetarium Show: Incoming!
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Visit the Carr-Fles Planetarium at Muskegon Community College for the planetarium show, “Incoming!”  Tag along with robot explorers zooming past rocky asteroids and icy comets, all the way to Pluto, and discover how asteroids and comets have collided with our planet throughout history, changing the course of life on Earth.  Narrated by George Takei, this 2016 program gives audiences a closer look at the scientific advances that may allow us to find and track cosmic threats before they reach planet Earth.  This is a 35-minute presentation.  (The campus will be closed May 8-17 for break between semesters).  For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

Friday:

MCC Events to Celebrate 2018 Earth Week
From Friday, April 13, through Friday, April 20, a Used Book Giveaway will be held in the MCC Science Center hallway.  The public is encouraged to stop by and pick up the books.  MCC faculty and staff may donate used books by no later than Friday, April 6, to Jennifer Darling in Room 1134.
On Saturday, April 14, MCC’s Phi Theta Kappa honor society chapter is coordinating the clean-up of MCC’s Adopt-a-Highway section along Business 31.  The public is invited to participate.  Those interested should RSVP by email to ptk@muskegoncc.edu.  Participants are asked to meet at 9:45am by the Muskegon Community College sign near the front entrance doors and will carpool to the site.  Volunteers must bring their own gloves and wear closed-toed shoes. Everything else will be provided.
From Wednesday, April 18, through Friday, April 20, a recycling display with information about the various types of recyclable items will be located in the MCC main entrance lobby.  Visitors can register for drawings for refillable water bottle prizes.
From Monday, April 16, through Friday, April 20, Earth Day-inspired paintings by students in MCC Instructor Tim Norris’ Painting I class will be displayed around campus.
“In connection to this year’s Earth Week theme of ‘End Plastic Pollution,’” the students are creating compositions contrasting either one plastic object against several natural ones or vice versa,” explained Norris. “They’re also embedding additive textural materials into the painting surfaces, developing it in relief with actual texture and three-dimensional projections. The idea here is to subtly suggest the contrast between nature and the human-made world without hitting the viewer over the head with a sledgehammer to convey a visual message.”
For more information about the Earth Week events, contact MCC Joint Sustainability Council Chair Tamera Owens at (231) 777-0289.

On Tap & Uncorked: A Michigan Beer, Wine, and Food Tasting Event
April 13 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “On Tap & Uncorked!”  This is a Michigan beer, wine and food tasting event where you can sample exceptional craft brews, wines and delicious food pairings from our area’s fine restaurants while experiencing the Expressions 2018 Student Art Exhibition and other great exhibitions. Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 at the door and $25 for museum members.  Tickets are on sale in the Muskegon Museum of Art Store and at Pigeon Hill, Unruly, and Fetch brewing companies.  Each ticket includes five 4-ounce beverage tasting tickets and food.  Additional tasting tickets will be available for purchase at the event.  For ticket information, call 231-720-2580. Admission is open only to guests 21 years of age and older.  I.D.s will be checked at the door.

The Alley Door Club: Pop Fiction
April 13 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Celebrating its’ 13th season. The Alley Door Club features live music from popular West Michigan bands in a fun environment which includes cash bar and dancing.  Featured 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. Friday, April 13: Pop Fiction – pop & rock. The last event of the season is Friday, April 27: Yard Sale Underwear – self-proclaimed kings of polyester pop & soul.Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the Frauenthal Box Office via phone at 231-727-8001 or in person Monday – Friday from 11:00am to 5:30pm or by calling Star Tickets at 1-800-585-3737.   Tickets can also be purchased at startickets.com.  Tables may be reserved:  $65.00 for a 4-top (included 4 admission tickets) / $100.00 for an 8-top (includes 8 admission tickets).  Limit of 2 4-tops and 2 8-tops reserved for each performance, available on a first come basis.  The Alley Door Club is sponsored by Bayer Crop Science and Hooker DeJonge.

Back Alley Comedy Club: Vince Carone – Don-a-Palooza
April 13 @ 7:00 pm
The Back Alley Comedy Club located at 1531 W. Sherman Blvd. inside Sherman Bowling Center presents Vince Carone!  Tickets are $10.  For more information, call (231) 755-1258 or visit the website below.  Performing since 2001, Carone has become known for his fast-talking, quick-witted, over-the-top rants, combined with a stage presence.

Junk to Jewels Rummage Sale
April 13 – April 14 @ 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Friday, April 13 and Saturday April 14 from 9:00am – 3:00pm both days, come to the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club to find your next treasure at their “Junk to Jewels” event, an indoor rummage sale!  There’ll be a wide variety of furniture, books, home decor, clothes, and much more!  All proceeds will benefit the maintenance of their historic building.  www.muskegonwomansclub.org

Saturday

Express Yourself Super Saturday
April 14 @ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
You’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for an “Express Yourself Super Saturday” free family fun day!  Student artists and visitors are some of their most important VIPs; you are the next generation of art lovers!  So come on in to this Super Saturday and explore art created by Muskegon County student artists.  For more information call 231-720-2570 10:00am & 1:00pm Film: The Brave Little Toaster (90 mins.) 11:00am – 1:00pm Guided Tours:  Visit Expressions Student Art Exhibition with a Museum docent. 11:00 – 2:00 pm Make & Take:  Choose your medium!  Ms. Ronace will have a selection of materials on hand for our budding artists to create with.  What’s your favorite medium?

The Tasting Station: Fusion Ghanaian Cuisine
April 14 @ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Stop by the Tasting Station at the Muskegon Farmers Market as Tacitus Bailey-Yabani returns to share another recipe from his home country of Ghana. Cooking demonstrations will be held at 10:00am, 11:30am and 12:15pm.  Come and learn, taste, shop the market and then have lunch at Just Klassics Roadside Deli!  For more information, call (231) 722-3251.

Streaming Michigan Irish Music Initiative 2018
April 14 @ 3:00 pm
It’s Streaming MIMI 2018!  If you can’t be in Ireland to watch the Michigan Irish Music Initiative, then come to Hennessey’s Irish Pub in downtown Muskegon! What is the MIMI?  Michigan Irish Music Festival will bring together aspiring musicians associated with colleges or organizations, who focus on Irish traditional music.  They will participate in a high level competition taking place at the Spirit Store in Dundalk Co. Louth, Ireland. The winners will have the opportunity to perform on the main stage at The 2018 Michigan Irish Music Festival, receiving round-trip airfare, and accommodations with breakfasts/dinners included.

Cheers and Chocolate 2018
April 14 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
You’re invited to Cheers and Chocolate 2018!  Cheers and Chocolate is West Michigan’s premiere pairing event.  This annual fundraiser pairs sweet and savory culinary delights with fine wines and beers at the state-of-the-art Culinary Institute of Michigan (CIM) in downtown Muskegon.  Proceeds will support services that support domestic and sexual violence, and human trafficking, as well as services to pregnant or parenting teens at Every Woman’s Place.  For more information, call (231) 759-7909.

Indoor Farmers’ Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to come inside their warm barn and shop this winter!  They’re open every Saturday from 9:00am – 2:00pm, November – April.  They will be closed Saturday, December 30.  For more information, call (231) 722-3251.

West Michigan Ironmen Home Game: Indianapolis Enforcers
April 14 @ 7:00 pm
The West Michigan Ironmen is West Michigan’s only professional football team!  They strive to provide the highest level of competition and entertainment at an affordable price for the whole family.  You can catch their home games at 7:15pm at the L.C. Walker Arena.  Tickets start at under $10 and are available through www.startickets.com or at the L.C. Walker Box Office.  Today they take on the Indianapolis Enforcers. call (231) 457-4288.

Benefit Comedy Show: Vince Carone
April 14 @ 6:30 pm
Saturday, April 14, come to the Back Alley Comedy Club for a dinner, silent auction and comedy show to raise funds for Orchard View’s Grad Night!  Doors open at 5:00pm, with dinner at 6:30pm and the comedy show beginning at 8:00pm.  Vince Carone, known for his fast-talking, quick-witted, over-the-top rants, will be performing.  The cost is $25 per person and tickets can be purchased by calling Tammy at 231-670-3704, Chris at 231-557-8208 or through the Back Alley Comedy Club’s website below.

Pigeon Hill Brewing: Cigar Rolling Demonstration
April 14 @ 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Come to Pigeon Hill Brewing Company for a Cigar Rolling Demonstration w/ Jorge’s Cigars!  Learn the art of properly rolling a cigar by hand.  You will have the opportunity to learn everything about the process; from the planting of seeds to the point of enjoying a well-rolled cigar from someone who loves to discuss the passion, history, and culture of the famous Cuban cigar brands.  Cigars will also be available for purchase from Jorge (cash or credit).  For more information, call (231) 375-5184. PLEASE NOTE:  Pigeon Hill Brewery Company is a non-smoking location.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sweetwater Local Foods Market is open year-round, every Saturday from 9:00am-Noon!  Healthy! Humane! Homegrown is their pledge to use NO synthetic fertilizers, NO synthetic chemical pesticides or herbicides, no growth promoting antibiotics and NO GMO’s!  You can find them in the lobby and parking lot of Mercy Health Lakes Village.  For more information, visit www.sweetwaterlocalfoodsmarket.org.

Celtic Woman
April 14 @ 7:00 pm
Celtic Woman, the multi-platinum international music sensation, is returning with a brand new live show for an extensive North American tour beginning spring 2018 with a stop in Muskegon on April 14 at the Frauenthal Center.  The much-anticipated concert, ‘Homecoming,’ will play in more than 90 U.S. and Canadian cities from coast-to-coast.  Tickets go on sale beginning October 13 at Noon.  Tickets range from $33.00 – $106.00 and can be purchased at the Frauenthal Box Office, Monday – Friday from 11:00am – 5:30pm, by calling 231-727-8001 or online at frauenthal.org or startickets.com.

Performances @The Block: Robin Connell
April 14 @ 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm
The Block, 360 W. Western Ave. 2nd Floor
Come to The Block for a live performance by Robin Connell!  Originally from Detroit, Robin is equally at home as a jazz pianist or jazz pianist/vocalist, performing regularly in clubs, concerts and private parties as a solo pianist.  She is also leader of her own trio/jazz quartet.  Call 231-726-3231 x223 for tickets

Sunday

White Lake College Performance Series
April 15 @ 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
You’re invited to Lebanon Lutheran Church for the White Lake College Performance Series featuring top ensembles from Grand Valley State University.  Four ensembles will be featured for this groundbreaking concert; The GVSU Whirlwind Quintet will perform works by Bathe, Pierne, Farkas, and Arnold; a clarinet and bassett horn duo will perform Mendelssohn’s Konzertstück No. 2; a GVSU string quartet will present the Mozart String Quartet in G Major; plus the Mozart Kegelstatt Trio for clarinet, viola, and piano will be featured.  The suggested donation is $5 at the door or free for all students.  More information may be found at www.whitelakemusic.org.

MCC Honors Orchestra and Vocal Ensembles
April 15 @ 7:30 pm
Frauenthal Center, 425 W Western Ave # 200
April 15 at 7:30pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater for the Muskegon Community College Honors Orchestra and Vocal Ensembles, featuring wind and string players as well as collegiate singers from MCC and area schools.  Tickets are $7 or $2 for students.  For more information, call 231-727-8001.

Monday

Roll On Muskegon
Mondays @ 6:30 pm
“Roll on Muskegon” is a fun, community, bicycle ride through the neighborhoods of Muskegon.  Bikers meet every Monday at the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market.  This easy 8 mph, family friendly ride begins at 6:30pm.  For more information, find them on Facebook.

Marketing Mondays: Common Sense in Online Marketing
April 16 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Monday, April 16 from 12:00pm – 1:00pm, come to the Muskegon Innovation Hub for a “Marketing Monday!”  This week’s focus is “Common Sense in Online Marketing,” presented by Tari & Jennifer Follett of Firelight.  Don’t get lost in endless data and trends!  Bring your feet back to the ground, keep your goals firmly in mind, and get ready for some real talk.  Entrepreneurs and small businesses are passionate about the products and services they provide.  Translating that passion to sales requires a strategic focus on marketing and promotion.  Marketing Mondays at the Muskegon Innovation Hub will provide sound tools, techniques and knowledge that every small business owner and entrepreneur needs to know to effectively engage with customers and increase revenue from sales.  RSVP by noon Friday, April 13.  NO WALK-INS, NO EXCEPTIONS.  For further information, please send an e-mail to the Hub at mihubinfo@gvsu.edu.

Edith Maniker, Kindertransport Survivor
April 16 @ 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Edith Maniker, who as a young child was a Kindertransport survivor who escaped Nazi persecution during World War II, will be the guest presenter at the 2018 Shoah Commemoration Service at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 15. The event, which takes place at Samuel Lutheran Church, at the corner of 8th Street and Muskegon Ave. in downtown Muskegon, is organized by the Center for Holocaust & Genocide Studies – Muskegon. Maniker will also speak at a community event on Monday, April 16, from 6:30-8 p.m. in Muskegon Community College’s Sturrus Technology Center, 388 W. Clay Ave., in downtown Muskegon. Both events are free and open to the public. During the day on April 16, Maniker will be participating in an outreach program for Muskegon County High Schools from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The program is sponsored by the Center for Holocaust & Genocide Studies – Muskegon. Born in Leipzig, Germany, Maniker, along with a hundred other children, was placed on a train in 1939 that transported the youngsters from Germany to England and away from the Nazi horrors. A few years ago, Maniker returned to Germany – something she vowed she would never do – for the first time since her remarkable escape. The Kindertransport (German for “children’s transport”) was an organized rescue effort that took place during the nine months prior to the outbreak of the Second World War. The United Kingdom took in nearly 10,000 predominantly Jewish children from Germany, Austria, Czechoslovakia, Poland, and the Free City of Danzig. The children were placed in British foster homes, hostels, schools and farms. Often they were the only members of their families who survived the Holocaust. For more information on the events, please contact Trynette Lottie-Harps at (231) 777-0559.

Grand Valley State University – Fall 2017 Graduate List

More than 1,100 Grand Valley State University students participated in commencement ceremonies on December 9 at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids. A list of the names of Grand Valley’s most recent graduates follows.

Students who graduated at the conclusion of the Fall 2017 semester in December include:

Fruitport: Kendra Bringedahl, BA; Jordan Sayles, MSA

Muskegon (49444): Alyssa Keith, BBA; Mabelle Lawson, BBA

Nunica: Lyvanh Braak, MPA; Catherine Cushway, BS; Samantha Londo, BS

Ravenna: Evan Patterson, MBA; Brett Postema, BBA

Spring Lake: Rebecca Boven, BS; Gabrielle Bunnell, BS; Haylee Coon, BBA; Ian Hewett, BS; Elizabeth Holman, BS; Lauren Homolka, BBA; Dawn Medendorp, MED; Jesse Ruter, BBA; Alicia Ryke, BS; Brittany Thorp, MPH

A Whole New World, Fear It or Embrace It

Predictions for the future
by Mike Simcik

Software disruptions, nanotechnology, power, medicine, food, transportation.

Auto repair shops will just go away. A gasoline engine has 20,000 individual parts. An electrical engine has 20 parts. Electric cars are sold with lifetime guarantees and are only repaired by dealers. It takes only 10 minutes to remove and replace an electric engine. Faulty electric engines are not repaired in the dealership but are sent to a regional repair shop that repairs them with robots.

Your electric engine malfunction light goes on so you drive up to what looks like a Jiffy- auto wash. Your car is towed through while you have a cup of coffee and out comes your car with a new engine.

Gas stations go away. Parking meters are replaced by meters that dispense electricity. All companies install electrical recharging stations.

All major auto manufacturers have already designated 5-6 billion dollars each to start building new plants that only build electric cars. Coal industries go away. Gasoline/oil companies go away. Drilling for oil stops.

Homes will produce and store more electrical energy during the day and then they use and will sell it back to the grid. The grid stores it and dispense it to industries that are high electricity users. A baby born today will see only personal cars in a museum.

More info you’re not prepared for:

In 1998, Kodak had 170,000 employees and sold 85% of all photo paper worldwide. Within just a few years, their business model disappeared and they went bankrupt. What happened to Kodak will happen in a lot of industries in the next 5-10 years and, most people won’t see it coming. Did anyone think in 1998 that 3 years later you would never take pictures on film again?

Yet digital cameras were invented in 1975. The first ones only had 10,000 pixels but followed Moor’s law. So as with all exponential technologies, it was a disappointment for a time, before it became superior and became mainstream in only a few short years. It will now happen again (but much faster) with Artificial Intelligence, health, autonomous and electric cars, education, 3D printing, agriculture, and jobs. Welcome to the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Software disrupting traditional industries in 5-10 years:

Uber is a software tool, they don’t own any cars, but are now the worlds largest taxi company.

Airbnb is now the biggest hotel company in the world, although they don’t own any properties.

Artificial Intelligence: Computers become exponentially better in understanding the world. This year, a computer beat the best Go-player in the world, 10 years earlier than expected.

In the US., young lawyers already don’t get jobs. Because of IBM’s Watson, you can get legal advice (so far for more or less basic stuff) within seconds, with 90% accuracy compared with 70% accuracy when done by humans. So, if you study law, stop immediately. There will be 90% fewer lawyers in the future, only omniscient specialists will remain.

Watson already helps nurses diagnosing cancer, its 4 times more accurate than human nurses. Facebook now has a pattern recognition software that can recognize faces better than humans. In 2030, computers will become more intelligent than humans.

Autonomous cars:

In 2018 the first self-driving cars will appear to the public. Around 2020, the complete industry will start to be disrupted. You don’t want to own a car anymore. You will call a car with your phone, it will show up at your location and drive you to your destination. You will not need to park it you only pay for the driven distance and can be productive while driving. The very young children of today will never get a driver’s license and will never own a car.

It will change the cities because we will need 90-95% fewer cars for that. We can transform former parking spaces into parks.

1.2 million people die each year in car accidents worldwide. We now have one accident every 60,000 mi (100,000 km), with autonomous driving that will drop to 1 accident in 6 million mi (10 million km). That will save a million lives worldwide each year.

Most car companies will doubtless become bankrupt. Traditional car companies try the evolutionary approach and just build a better car, while tech companies (Tesla, Apple, Google) will do the revolutionary approach and build a computer on wheels. Many engineers from Volkswagen and Audi are completely terrified of Tesla. Insurance companies will have massive trouble because, without accidents, the insurance will become 100 x cheaper. The car insurance business model will disappear.

Real estate will change. Because if you can work while you commute, people will move further away to live in a more beautiful neighborhood.

Electric cars will become mainstream in ten years. Cities will be less noisy because all new cars will run on electricity. Electric power will become incredibly cheap and clean: Solar production has been on an exponential curve for 30 years, but you can now see the future impact.

Fossil energy companies are desperately trying to limit access to the grid to prevent competition from home solar installations, but that simply cannot continue, technology will take care of that strategy.

With cheap electricity comes cheap and abundant water. Desalination of salt water will only need minimal expense per cubic meter (@ 0.25 cents). We don’t have scarce water in most places, we have scarce drinking water. Imagine what will be possible if anyone can have as much clean water as he wants, for nearly no cost.

Health Care now:

There are companies who will build a medical device (AKA the “Tricorder” from Star Trek) that works with your phone, the price will be announced this year. It scans your retina, blood sample, and your breath. It will analyze 54 biomarkers that will identify nearly any disease.

Fruitport Charter Township Board Meeting Agenda – 04/09/18

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

APRIL 9, 2018

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

01. Pledge of Allegiance
02. Roll call
03. Approval of board minutes: 3/26/2018
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
A. Second reading- zone change
B. Approval of Fire Department union labor agreement
C. Approval of SEIU labor agreement

08. New Business
A. Approval of water service material supplier
B. Authorization to hire Police Officer
C. Approval to roll Public Safety funds

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

Ask Dr. Universe – Gray Hair

Dear Dr. Universe: Why does hair turn gray? –Darae, 10

Dear Darae,

Hair comes in lots of different colors. There’s black, medium brown, auburn, light brown, strawberry blonde, and copper, to name just a few. But in the end, almost everyone will have hair that’s gray or white.

Ever since you were born, different cells have been working on your hair. Each hair sprouts from a follicle, a sort of little hair-making factory under your skin. Here, some of your cells are making your hair and others are coloring it.

The cells that color your hair are called melanocytes. They produce a pigment, or natural coloring matter, called melanin. This is the same pigment that gives your eyes and skin their color, too.

I decided to visit my friend Cynthia Cooper, a biologist and researcher at Washington State University, for help answering your question.

A close-up look at cells

Cooper and the other scientists in her Vancouver, Wash., lab are really curious about cells. They are investigating questions about how some cells end up becoming the kind that produce skin pigment.

As people get older, she said, the pigment-producing cells in their hair follicles gradually die. They can no longer make enough pigment to keep coloring their hair.

If we took out all the pigment from your hair, it would be totally white.  So when melanocytes stop producing melanin altogether, your hair turns white.

“Why hair follicle melanocytes die over time, and are not replaced, we don’t entirely know,” Cooper said. “Our skin doesn’t turn gray, so the biology is quite different,” she adds.

While Cooper works on pigment in skin, she said some scientists are also working on other big questions about the pigment in hair, too. These scientists are especially curious about the inner-workings of the cells and how gray hair is part of people’s DNA.

Perhaps, you’ve heard someone say their kids are giving them gray hair. But scientifically, if anyone is giving someone gray hair, it’s likely their own parents. Those that come before us pass down their hair color to us through the genes we inherit from them. It’s the same with graying hair.

Scientists have even pinpointed specific genes and parts of cells that are involved in growing gray hair. The new knowledge is helping us put together a better picture of how pigment works. Still, there’s a lot more to discover.

Maybe as you get older and find that first gray hair, you’ll remember some of the science that’s at the root of it all. If you have a cat or dog, maybe you’ll notice that they’ll go gray around their muzzles, too.

I’ve actually had gray and white hair ever since I was a kitten. I think it’s pretty great. Our pigment, or lack of it, help make us all unique.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Mental Health Watchdog Calling for Investigation into Psychiatric Drugging of Millions of Children

Currently 8 million U.S. children are being prescribed psychiatric drugs, with more than 1 million between the ages of zero to five.
from EINPresswire.com

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA, UNITED STATES, December 18, 2017 — The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) of Florida, a non-profit mental health watchdog dedicated to protection of children, is calling for an investigation into the heavy psychiatric drugging of children; especially foster children, in Florida.

adhdchild
“Children are being drugged simply because psychiatry has reclassified normal childhood behaviors and repackaged them as ‘mental disorders’ resulting in the psychiatric drugging of millions of kids.”
— CCHR

A report from the research arm of Florida’s child-protection system released in 2015 showed that foster children are being put on psychotropic medications without caregivers following proper procedures and that 11 percent of the children in foster care had active prescriptions for at least one psychotropic drug. While a review of 140 children’s files showed just 20 percent of these children met all the key requirements for administering such medication.

Following the tragic death of 7-year-old Gabriel Myers in 2009, who was found hanging from a shower fixture in his foster home after having been prescribed two “black box” drugs intended for adults – the Florida policies for using psychotropic drugs on foster kids were updated but this has not solved the problem.

The psychiatric drugging of children is not just confined to the foster care system. In 2011 a two-year investigation concluded that kids in Florida, Massachusetts, Michigan, Oregon and Texas were “prescribed psychotropic drugs at rates 2.7 to 4.5 times higher than other children in Medicaid in 2008.”

Currently 8 million U.S. children are being prescribed psychiatric drugs, with more than 1 million between the ages of zero to five. Children are being drugged simply because psychiatry has pathologized normal childhood behaviors, and repackaged them as “mental disorders.” The result is that millions of children are being drugged for behaviors reclassified by psychiatry as “disease.”

As a result, CCHR is calling for an investigation into the psychiatric drugging of children in the United States. Individuals are invited to the center, located at 109 N. Fort Harrison Avenue in downtown Clearwater, to learn more about the dangers associated with psychiatric drugs as well as alternatives to medication. To learn more, please call 727-442-8820 or visit www.cchrflorida.org.

Fruitport Charter Township Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of March 12, 2018

A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, March 12, 2018, in the township board room.

Members Present: Heidi Tice, Supervisor; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Todd Dunham, Jeff Jacobs, Greg Hulka, and Denise Winebarger
Members Absent: Andrea Anderson, excused

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

Also Present: 3– residents; 7– employees; 0- guests; Director of Public Safety, Brian Michelli; and Director of Public Utilities, Ron Langlois.

The motion by Jeff Jacobs, supported by Greg Hulka, was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of February 26, 2018 as presented.

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

CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS
1. Rose Dillon shared a report on the Whitham Drain assessment.
2. Rose Dillon shared that a budget public hearing will be held at the next meeting.
3. Brian Michelli reported a large drug bust in the Township.
4. Brian Michelli shared that interviews for the open Police Officer position will occur on Thursday.
5. Brian Michelli mentioned that the new extrication equipment that was purchased for the Fire Department will be coming in mid-April.
6. Brian Michelli shared information on the traffic speed sign that Ofc. Andy Hunt secured a grant for.
7. Ron Langlois reported that the Muskegon County Road Commission has contracted with JMC for the repair to Farr Rd.
8. Ron Langlois reported that 28 water service stubs have been completed for Chandy Acres East.
9. Heidi Tice shared that Paul Bowman from the MCRC reported that the Road Commission will be replacing a culvert on Stringer Rd, including curb and apron approach. The project will be done as part of the Farr Rd culvert repair and at no cost to the township.

PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS: none

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

18-023 2018-2019 Budget discussion
Proposed budgets were discussed. Proposed budgets will come to the board for approval at the next meeting.

NEW BUSINESS:

18-024 Approval to purchase lawn tractor for Cemetery Department
The Clerk has requested approval to purchase a new lawn tractor for the cemetery. The purchase was approved by the Cemetery Committee and budgeted for.

Jeff Jacobs moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the Clerk to purchase the requested lawn tractor for the Cemetery Department at the cost of $6,348.

Ayes: Dunham, Jacobs, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

18-025 Approval to purchase turnout gear for the Fire Department
The Public Safety Director requested authorization to purchase 3 sets of turnout gear for the Fire Department. Total cost to equal approximately $6,000. This purchase was budgeted for.

Jeff Jacobs moved, Greg Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to authorize the Public Safety Director to purchase the requested gear.

Ayes: Dunham, Jacobs, Tice, Dillon, Winebarger, Hulka
Nays: None

18-026 Approval for 2018 local road brine program with the Muskegon County Road Commission
The total cost for the program will be $19,581 for 2018.

Jeff Jacobs moved, Rose Dillon seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to participate in the 2018 local road brine program with the Muskegon County Road Commission.

Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Jacobs, Dunham
Nays: none

18-027 Adoption of Federal Poverty Guidelines
The motion by Denise Winebarger, supported by Greg Hulka was carried unanimously, to adopt the Federal Poverty Guidelines that are used in the determination of poverty exemptions for 2018.

18-028 Approval of union labor agreements
Proposed labor union agreements were discussed for Police, Fire, and SEIU unions.
The motion by Jeff Jacobs, supported by Greg Hulka was carried unanimously, to TABLE the labor union contracts.

18-029 DPW Director evaluation and contract renewal
The Supervisor reported on the performance review of the DPW Director, Ron Langlois.

The motion by Greg Hulka, supported by Denise Winebarger was carried unanimously, to TABLE this item.

18-030 Public Safety Director evaluation and contract renewal
The Supervisor reported on the performance review of Public Safety Director, Brian Michelli.

The motion by Rose Dillon, supported by Greg Hulka was carried unanimously, to TABLE this item.

18-031 Parks Department suggestions for improvements
The proposed projects were discussed. The Supervisor will invite the Parks Committee to the next meeting to provide further explanation.

18-032 Letter of support for casino project
It was requested that the current board draft a letter of support for the proposed casino project.

The motion by Rose Dillon, supported by Greg Hulka was carried unanimously, to send a letter of support for the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians Fruitport casino project.

Jeff Jacobs will send the letter that was presented to Heidi for her to complete and send.

18-033 Payment of bills
Jeff Jacobs moved, Greg Hulka seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $5,021.63; Public Safety $12,957.84; Water $63,780.72; Sewer $222.02
Totaling: $81.982.21

Ayes: Hulka, Winebarger, Dillon, Tice, Jacobs, Dunham
Nays: none

ADDITIONAL REPORTS: none

PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II:
1. Rick Tice, 8th Ave, suggested that the Supervisor request the Parks’ minutes be changed if they are incorrect in stating that the Supervisor will get them their normal budget + cell tower funds + $50,000 for improvements, rather than the fact that she will try to make those funds available.

The motion by Greg Hulka, supported by Denise Winebarger was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 10:02pm.

ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK

HEIDI TICE, SUPERVISOR

Schools, Law Enforcement, Emergency Responders Collaborate to Enhance School Safety

Ottawa/Allegan Counties, MI- The Ottawa Area Secure Schools Network (OASSN) —a combined effort between schools, law enforcement, and emergency responders within the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD) to enhance school safety across the region— hosted a Spring Summit March 1 at the Ottawa County Fillmore Administration Building in West Olive.

Over 150 representatives from public, private, and charter schools, law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and other responders and support agencies attended the event to continue to coordinate and share training across all agencies; share practices and plans across the region and between agencies; and develop common safety procedures, protocol and language. These were identified as the top goals of the network during the 2017 fall summit.

“The OASSN summits help everyone hear the most up-to-date school safety answers from those who are experts in each of their respective subject areas,” Cal DeKuiper, superintendent for Zeeland Public Schools, said. “Working together takes regional cooperation to a deeper level resulting in a higher level of preparedness should the unthinkable ever happen in our region.”

2017 Newsmaker of the Year

Muskegon, MI – Cindy Larsen, President of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, accepted the Grand Rapids Business Journal 2017 Newsmaker of the Year award this morning at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. This award recognized Muskegon’s redevelopment over the year which includes over $1 billion in investments.

Over 600 West Michigan business and community leaders were on hand to witness the award recognition. “It is great to see Muskegon being recognized for its economic success,” says Larsen. “The Watch Muskegon campaign was launched at the perfect time to capture the amazing story of Muskegon’s evolution.”

The community engagement strategy formulated by the Watch Muskegon Campaign has tapped the energy of over 100 community stakeholders and thousands of area residents. “From large businesses and small business start-ups to investments by education and government, Muskegon’s resurgence is now unstoppable,” according to the Chamber President.

Also recognized at this event was GE Aviation/Norton Shores facility. They are one of many growing manufacturing companies located along the Muskegon Lakeshore.

newsmakerawardsIn addition to winning the 2017 Newsmaker of the Year award, Larsen and the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber won the Newsmaker award in the economic development category.

Each year, Grand Rapids Business Journal reporters and editors meet to discuss nominees for the upcoming Newsmaker of the Year honors. This year, more than 225 choices were considered before determining the top three nominees in 16 different categories. The top selection from each category was recognized with an industry Newsmaker award, and the 2017 Newsmaker of the Year was selected from among the winners of those 16 categories. The top Newsmaker in each category and the overall Newsmaker of the Year were announced during the event.

About the Chamber – The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce is the premier business membership organization on the lakeshore representing over 1,200 businesses and organizations. The Muskegon Chamber represents businesses of every size and type all over West Michigan. The Chamber is celebrating 125 years in operation working to sustain an environment for business success through community leadership, promotion, inclusive business advocacy and valued member services. The Muskegon Chamber is an award winning Chamber, being named Chamber of the Year for the State of Michigan in 2006, 2010, 2012, and 2015 by the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events April 2-9, 2018

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

The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick
Monday, April 2 @ 6:00 pm
Come to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum for The Vietnam War by Ken Burns! Each episode will be followed by a discussion.  Admission is free with the purchase of museum admission.  Members are free.  For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Super Spring Break Days
April 2 – 5 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Monday – Thursday, April 2 – 5 from 11:00am – 2:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Super Spring Break Days!”  Take an adventure and explore the museum’s awesome art collection.  There is free admission for one adult accompanying a child.

Instructor: Ronace Hogan

•  11:00am – 1:00pm  Docent in the gallery
•  11:00am – 2:00pm  Arts and crafts in the classroom
•  11:30am –  Film in the auditorium

Monday:  Pastels (permanent collection)
Tuesday:  Beading and Weaving (Thunder Boy, Jr.)
Wednesday:  Tooling (The Poetry of Metal)
Thursday:  Paint! (Expressions Student Art Exhibition)

Roll On Muskegon
Mondays @ 6:30 pm
“Roll on Muskegon” is a fun, community, bicycle ride through the neighborhoods of Muskegon.  Bikers meet every Monday at the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market.  This easy 8 mph, family friendly ride begins at 6:30pm.  For more information, find them on Facebook.

Lakeshore Museum Center: Spring Break Open House
April 3 @ 10:30 am – 12:30 pm
It’s a Spring Break Open House at the Lakeshore Museum Center!  Enjoy crafts, wind tunnel science, and more hands-on fun.  For more information, call 231-722-0278.

Planetarium Show: Incoming!
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Visit the Carr-Fles Planetarium at Muskegon Community College for the planetarium show, “Incoming!”  Tag along with robot explorers zooming past rocky asteroids and icy comets, all the way to Pluto, and discover how asteroids and comets have collided with our planet throughout history, changing the course of life on Earth.  Narrated by George Takei, this 2016 program gives audiences a closer look at the scientific advances that may allow us to find and track cosmic threats before they reach planet Earth.  This is a 35-minute presentation.  (The campus will be closed May 8-17 for break between semesters).  For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

Free Family Movie Day:  Where the Wild Things Are
April 4 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Wednesday, April 4 from 3:00pm – 5:00pm, come to the historic Frauenthal Theater for a free family movie day featuring “Where the Wild Things Are!” A young boy named Max has an active imagination, and he will throw fits if others don’t go along with what he wants.  Max, following an incident with his sister and her friends, and following a tantrum which he throws as a result of his Mother paying more attention to her boyfriend than to him, runs away from home.  Wearing his wolf costume at the time, Max not only runs away physically, but runs toward a world in his imagination.  This world, an ocean away, is inhabited by large wild beasts, including one named Carol who is much like Max himself in temperament.  Instead of eating Max like they normally would with creatures of his type, the wild things befriend Max after he proclaims himself a king who can magically solve all their problems. The film is free and no tickets are required.  For more information, call 231-722-9750.

A Taste from the Mountain Regions of Italy with Sofia
April 5 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market is offering the culinary class, “A Taste from the Mountain Regions of Italy with Sofia!” The Menu: Polenta e Frico (fried cheese and potatoes), Canederli (bread gnocchi), Polpette (meatballs), Gelato with warm blueberries Bring your appetite!  Learn from Sofia Occhialini who moved here four years ago from Italy where she spent her entire life.  The cost is $35.  For more information call 231-769-2202.

Pajama Party at the Art Museum
April 5 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
We will see you at the Muskegon Museum of Art for a “Pajama Party at the Museum!”  Wear your jammies (slippers optional) and have some fun as you enjoy an activity with their friends from the Lakeshore Museum Center, story time with their friends from Hackley Public Library, a hot cocoa station, art activity and a movie.  Admission is FREE!  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Muskegon Museum of Art: Free Tours
Thursdays @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Every Thursday from 4:00pm – 8:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a free tour guided by MMA docents, compliments of Meijer!  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Lakeshore Museum Center: Robot Open House
Saturday, April 7 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Come to the Lakeshore Museum Center for a Robot Open House!  Try out many of the newer robots in the Museum’s Science Center.  Program and learn with the Cubelets, Code-a-pillar, Little Bits and more. Lakeshore Museum Center Saturday Programs are open-house style and run from 1:00 – 3:00pm in the main museum building.  Programs and museum admission are free of charge for Muskegon County Residents.  Non-residents are just $3.  www.lakeshoremuseum.org

Indoor Farmers’ Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to come inside their warm barn and shop this winter!  They’re open every Saturday from 9:00am – 2:00pm, November – April.  They will be closed Saturday, December 30.  For more information, call (231) 722-3251.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sweetwater Local Foods Market is open year-round, every Saturday from 9:00am-Noon!  Healthy! Humane! Homegrown is their pledge to use NO synthetic fertilizers, NO synthetic chemical pesticides or herbicides, no growth promoting antibiotics and NO GMO’s!  You can find them in the lobby and parking lot of Mercy Health Lakes Village.  For more information, visit www.sweetwaterlocalfoodsmarket.org.

West Michigan Ironmen Home Game
Saturday, April 7 @ 7:00 pm
The West Michigan Ironmen is West Michigan’s only professional football team!  They strive to provide the highest level of competition and entertainment at an affordable price for the whole family.  You can catch their home games at 7:15pm at the L.C. Walker Arena.  Tickets start at under $10 and are available through www.startickets.com or at the L.C. Walker Box Office.   Saturday, April 7, they take on the Midway Marauders.  For more information, call (231) 457-4288.

The Swan Series
Sunday, April 8 @ 2:00 pm
Join host Robert Swan in a new lecture series entitled “The Swan Series.”  Bob will share many of his insights, experiences, and expertise gleaned from 34 years of performing in the Chicago Symphony Orchestra under such famed conductors as George Solti, Daniel Barenboim, Leonard Bernstein, Leopoldo Stowkowski, Claudio Abbado, and many others.  Lectures will be held at the United Methodist Church in Whitehall.

On April 8 at 2:00pm, The Swan Series continues with “OUTSIDE AGAIN!”  Aaron Copland’s APPALACHIAN SPRING is one of the first uniquely American compositions both in concept and sound.  Bob Swan will explain why it is so “American” and so loved by people everywhere.  Quite selfishly, he hopes that by focusing on this masterpiece, winter’s grip on us will loosen.  The suggested donation is $7 at the door.

The Swan Series is a new program of the White Lake Music Society which produces world-class chamber music concerts, promotes and supports classical music learning opportunities for all ages, and creates awareness of the value and significance of fine music.  More information may be found at www.whitelakemusic.org.

Vegetarian Doesn’t Mean Flavorless with Sofia
Monday, April 9 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market is offering the culinary class, “Vegetarian Doesn’t Mean Flavorless with Sofia!” The Menu: Minestrone, Baked leek and asiago frittata, Vegetable pie Learn from Sofia Occhialini who moved her four years ago after spending her entire life in Italy and be sure to bring your appetite!  The cost is $35.  For more information call 231-769-2202.

Live Jazz with Checkers Morton
Monday, April 9 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
April is Jazz Month!  April 9 from 6:00pm – 7:00pm, Hackley Public Library will celebrate by welcoming Checkers Morton and his band of friends who have been playing together for 40 years, offer amazing, original compositions like “Dan’s Lighthearted Padge” and “Little Raga.”  Their music comes from their heart & soul and features wood, reeds, brass, ivory and primal drums.  This concert is free and open to the public.  For more information, call  231-722-8000.

Muskegon Community College: Wind and Jazz Ensembles Concert
Monday, April 9 @ 7:30 pm
Monday, April 9 at 7:30pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater for the Muskegon Community College Wind and Jazz Ensembles Concert, featuring traditional wind and jazz ensemble music of all styles.  Tickets are $6 or free for students.  For more information, call 231-727-8001.

Grand Valley State University – Fall 2017 Dean’s List

Grand Valley State University announces the names of students who were placed on the dean’s list for the Fall 2017 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. The honor is noted on the students’ official records.

Students honored for the fall semester include:

Fruitport: Kendra Bringedahl; Jade Johnson; Rebeka Johnson; Alyson Rosema; Brianna Routt; Caitlyn Sutton; Courtney Wagasky

Muskegon (49444): Montoya Briggs; Jared Cloutier; Brandy Cumbee; Stephanie Eslick; Alyssa Keith; James Little; Christopher Parisian; Cade Snuffer; Michael Valachovics; Carl Wilson

Nunica: Nickolas Carrier; Catherine Cushway; Lydia Engelsma; Alexandra Gemmen; Noah Strasler

Ravenna: Marissa Aney; Weston Bernath; Lillian Lieffers; Shaina McKinnon; Haley Pearson; Justin Pelham; Nicole Townsend; Brooke VanDonkelaar

Spring Lake: Brandon Aho; Cameron Amaya; Zachary Anderson; Stefanos Apostle; Kevin Boyer; Alexander Brower; Daniel Brower; Lauren Brown; Lance Burt; Hannah Cabala; Arden Clark; Benton Conrad; Haylee Coon; Jacob Drelles; Laurie English; Edgardo Fernandez; Megan Galligan; Margaret Ginocchio; Karlee Hale; Madison Harloff; Alyssa Hartley; Lauren Homolka; Rachel Howard; Anna Huizenga; Jillian Huizenga; Alec Kieft; Zachary Mahan; Emily Marine; Christian Pelke; Joseph Rohloff; Alicia Ryke; Heather Schmitt; Tirzah Schmuker; Dylan Styburski; Victoria Tober; Joshua Tull; Emily Turbett; Kyle VanDenHeuvel; Abby VanOtteren; Samuel Ventocilla; Travis Ward; Jacob Weesies; Leah Wilcox; Natalie Wilson

Ottawa County Honors Employees for Customer Service

Join us in congratulating Amy Brown and Kara Bostrom-Young from the 58th District Court and Jocelyn Garris from the Human Resources Office, who have been recognized as Ottawa County’s Outstanding Customer Service Award recipients for the fourth quarter of 2017. You can read the nominations which earned each recipient an award plus learn more about them at miOttawa.org.

Crisis-Trained Chaplains Minister to Suffering Communities After Recent Shootings

bgeachaplainsThe Billy Graham Rapid Response team deployed crisis-trained chaplains to South Carolina and Kentucky following fatal shootings in January. On Jan. 16, four law enforcement officers in York County, S.C., were shot while searching for a suspect after responding to a domestic violence call. While three of the four officers survived, the attack claimed the life of Det. Mike Doty. One week later, a 15-year-old student opened fire at Marshall County High School in Benton, Ky., killing two and injuring 14.

In both locations, the chaplains were requested by the community to provide emotional and spiritual care. They have had the opportunity to pray with families, local pastors, law enforcement, and many of the survivors.

“Sudden, tragic deaths like we’ve seen in South Carolina and Kentucky are heart-wrenching,” said Jack Munday, international director of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. “They affect not only the survivors and the families of the victims, but the entire community. Lives are forever changed. Join us in praying for those who are broken and mourning, and those who will carry the physical and emotional scars for years to come.”

It’s So Easy: Apply for an Ottawa County Job

February 19, Ottawa County launched a new online job application system that will make applying for Ottawa County employment even easier. Job seekers visiting miOttawa.org will be able to complete user profiles, search for available positions, apply for multiple openings at once and sign-up for notifications about new employment opportunities.

“This is an exciting time as we move towards providing job applicants with a system that is seamless, user-friendly, and creates greater efficiencies across Ottawa County,” said Marcie Ver Beek, HR Director with Ottawa County. “We believe this transition will help us continue to be competitive in terms of talent acquisition and marketing Ottawa County as a great place to work.”

Internally, the technology will allow hiring managers to quickly and strategically assess skill sets, reduce bias and expedite hiring.

Currently, over 20 positions are posted at miOttawa.org and interested applicants can apply online—easily.

Smash Wine Bar & Bistro Expands To Serve Lunch

smashlogoMUSKEGON, MI- Contemporary downtown restaurant, Smash Wine Bar & Bistro, will open for lunch beginning March 1, 2018. The two-story restaurant located in the Historic Frauenthal Center will serve lunch 11:00 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with normal dinner service still starting at 4:00pm daily.

Diners may call ahead to order from a special carry out menu for a quick bite, or order from the full menu when dining in at the restaurant. For those that need an on the go option, Smash will feature a $10 Lunch Box Special.

Smash Phone: (231) 246-7910
Email: Annah@SmashWineBar.com

Missing History During Black History Month

submitted by Chris Gast

Black History Month has a long and venerable tradition. It began with a press release in 1926 celebrating a week to showcase the advancement of the Black community from bondage to freedom. It was set in February to coincide with the birthdays of two great men: Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. These men sacrificed much for the principle that every member of the human race enjoys the same inalienable rights.

While the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments to the U.S. Constitution have done much to protect the inalienable rights of every American, abortion is a gaping hole in the foundation of our inalienable right to life. Millions of lives have disappeared into this hole, and no community has been more affected by abortion than the Black community.

Since 1973 there have been more than an estimated 19 million abortions in the Black community. Today in America there are 43 million Americans who are Black. A third of Black History Month is missing because a third of the people whose stories make up that history are gone.

There are many problems facing the Black community today, but abortion is frequently overlooked. Since 1973 abortion has taken more Black lives than every other cause of death combined. Let’s repeat it, and reflect on this: if you add up every death for every reason for every member of the Black community since 1973, it doesn’t equal the amount of Black abortions.

That’s the bad news. The good news is abortion rates in minority communities are declining, though very slowly. In Michigan additional effort by the prolife movement is being focused on reaching out to communities with high abortion rates, particularly Detroit. Though they don’t get much media attention, many prolife people serve in organizations whose mission is to help women and men in crisis pregnancies.

What more can be done? This is a complex issue. Women have abortions for many reasons, including diverse issues like economics, relationships, and futures. There are many complicated reasons for high Black abortion rates, and these reasons can’t be addressed overnight.

The most important roadblock to addressing this problem is not its complicated nature; it’s the failure of many to even identify there’s a huge problem here.

Facing complex problems is difficult, especially one touching issues that already generate controversy. Yet Black History Month remains a living testament that America has the resolve to face down difficult challenges.

www.RTL.org

Village of Fruitport – Council Meeting Minutes – 03/19/18

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MARCH 19th, 2018

1. Call to order
President Roger Vanderstelt called the meeting to order at 7:02pm

2. Pledge

3. Prayer

4. Roll call
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Donna Pope, Amy Haack, Carl Rothenberger and Will Overkamp
Absent: Bill Stone
Also present: Jeremy Statler, DPW Supervisor and Village attorney Dave Bossenbroek

5. Approval of previous meeting minutes from February 19.
Motion made by Donna to approve the minutes, supported by Amy. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

6. Approve the agenda for the March 19, 2018 Council meeting
Motion made by Amy to approve the agenda, supported by Will. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

7. Public Comment
Mark Oldenburg, 270 Pine, distributed copies of his property showing portions of his home are in the road right of way. A discussion took place about the situation. Dave Bossenbroek, Village attorney, suggested an easement for the encroachment. Mark will provide a survey of the property. Mark is asking for a compromise that works for him and the Village.

8. Correspondence (Ann – 2017-2018 Budget)
Distributed a copy of the “Dancing into the Sunset” schedule to council members.
Carl made a motion to transfer $8,500.00 from the General Fund to Local Streets to cover Equipment Rent and Signs and to amend the 2017-2018 General Fund budget and Local Streets budget accordingly, supported by Amy. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp. NAYES: None

9. Reports from Officers (Each Council Member)
Donna had nothing to report.
Amy will give an update about the Friends of the Park Group meeting under item #14.
Will had nothing to report.
Carl advised that there will be a Personnel Committee meeting on 3-20-18. Carl discussed updating our phone/fax system. Now Connect will provide us with information on it for review.
Carl also discussed a new docking station and 3 screen monitors for the clerk. Motion made by Carl to purchase a docking station and 3 screen monitors for the clerk and not to exceed $1,000.00, supported by Amy. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None
Roger had nothing to report.

10. Compensatory Time Off
Carl advised that the Personnel Committee will not be implementing a CTO policy and that the Village will continue to pay overtime instead of CTO time. Motion made by Carl to abolish the CTO policy, supported by Amy. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

11. Lions Club Old Fashioned Days Fireworks permit, Street Closure and Traffic Order
Motion made by Donna to approve the Lions Club requests for Old Fashioned Days Fireworks permit, Street Closure and Traffic Order, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

12. Garbage fee rate for 2018-2019
Motion made by Carl to set the garbage/recycling rate at $126.27 per year per single family resident and a fee of $157.84 for delinquent accounts, supported by Donna. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

13. Liquor license Local Government Approval for James Pancy
James Pancy addressed the council and requested the council approval to apply for a liquor license.
Motion made by Donna to approve the Liquor License Local Government Approval for James Pancy, supported by Carl. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None

14. Park Reservation Modification Proposal
Amy discussed a new park reservations proposal. Previous reservations will be grandfathered. New rates were discussed. Motion made by Amy to approve the Proposal of two time blocks for park rental on Saturday and Sunday allowing for more people to utilize Pomona Park facilities. Established times block will be 8am to 2:30pm and 3:30pm and 9:00pm and the new fees as presented.

15. Budget Hearing
Motion made by Donna to close the regular meeting at 7:50pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.
Motion made by Donna to open the budget hearing at 7:51pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

16. 2018-2019 Budget Adoption
Motion made by Donna to adopt the 2018-2019 budget as presented, supported by Amy. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None
Roger Vanderstelt read the Budget Resolution and made a motion to authorize Ann LaCroix to pay bills, supported by Carl. (See attachment) Roll call vote: AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp. NAYES: None
Motion made by Donna to close the budget hearing at 7:56pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.
Motion made by Donna to reopen the regular meeting at 7:57pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

17. Public Comments
Jay Bolt, 294 8th Street, questioned the last time we had a millage increase. Roger advised that we had a decrease approximately in 2008. Jay questioned the Village attorney about the difference between rental or permits for the use of the park. Dave advised rental is pay for use. Permit is to give permission to use the park.

18. Closed session to consider possible purchase of real property
Motion made by Carl to close regular meeting at 8:03pm, supported by Will. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None
Motion made by Will to open closed session at 8:04pm, supported by Amy. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None
Motion made by Carl to close the closed session at 8:18pm, supported by Will. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None
Motion made by Carl to open regular meeting at 8:19pm, supported by Donna. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None

Motion made by Amy to approve the Purchase Agreement and authorization for Roger to sign it, supported by Carl. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None
Motion made by Amy to approve sale of securities when they are received from the donor, supported by Carl. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None
Motion made by Carl for Jeremy to have a survey done of the property, supported by Will. Roll Call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None

19. Warrants
Motion made by Carl to approve warrants, supported by Donna. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None

20. Adjourn
Motion made by Donna to adjourn at 8:26pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,

Ann LaCroix, Clerk

Village of Fruitport – Budget Meeting Minutes – 03/19/18

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
BUDGET MEETING
MARCH 19th, 2018

1. Call to Order
President Roger Vanderstelt called the meeting to order at 6:05pm

2. Pledge

3. Prayer

4. Roll Call
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Donna Pope, Amy Haack and Carl Rothenberger
Absent: Bill Stone and Will Overkamp
Also Present: Jeremy Statler, DPW Supervisor

5. Approval of previous meeting minutes (March 12th)
Motion made by Donna to approve the previous meeting minutes, supported by Amy. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

6. Approve the agenda for March 19th Budget Meeting
Motion made by Amy to approve the agenda for the meeting, supported by Donna. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

7. Public Comment
None

8. 2018-2019 Budget Discussion
Ann distributed a copy of discussion items for the 2018-2019 budget. A review of all items took place and a determination was made of which items to include in the 2018-2019 budget. Motion made by Donna to approve the items on the list that the council agreed upon for the 2018-2019 budget, supported by Carl. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack and Rothenberger. NAYES: None

9. Public Comment
Jay Bolt, 294 8th Street, questioned the council about the 2020 3rd street project and ditch maintenance in the Village. Roger and Amy both gave explanations on the subject. Jay also suggested having a community marquee to post any community items. He was advised that we are considering a new marquee in the future. It is currently not in our budget.

10. Adjourn
Motion made by Donna to adjourn at 6:48pm, supported by Carl. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,
Ann LaCroix, Clerk

Village of Fruitport – Budget Meeting Minutes – 03/12/18

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
BUDGET MEETING
MARCH 12, 2018

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

2. Pledge

3. Prayer

4. Roll Call
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Donna Pope, Amy Haack, Carl Rothenberger and Bill Overkamp who arrived at 7:03pm
Absent: Bill Stone
Also Present: Jeremy Statler, DPW Supervisor

5. Approval of previous meeting minutes (February 26th)
Motion made by Amy to approve the February 26th meeting minutes, supported by Bill. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

6. Approve the agenda for March 12th Budget Meeting
Motion made by Amy to approve the agenda for the meeting, supported by Bill. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

7. Public Comment
None

8. Correspondence
None

9. Reports from Officers
Donna reported that the library has hired a new director.
Amy had nothing to report.
Will questioned the paving on Brooks Rd, one side of the street is the Village and the other side the Township. It was explained that the Village is required to take care of both sides of the road.
Carl advised that the Personnel Committee had a meeting and they abolished the current possible employee increase raise process of 0-5%. The Committee will meet again to discuss wages and benefits based on the budget and other factors. They will present their suggestions to council for approval.
Roger advised of a lunch and learn training session for MIOSHA. The cost is $15.00 for the DPW Supervisor to attend. Motion made by Roger to approve the $15.00 fee for Jeremy to attend the lunch and learn on March 20, 2018, supported by Donna. With a unanimous vote,
the motion carried.

10. 2018-2019 Budget Discussion
Ann distributed a revised copy of discussion items for the 2018-2019 budget. A review of all items took place. Ann will add the approved items to the budget for final review at the next meeting.

11. Street Name Sign Discussion
Jeremy presented a quote for new street name signs and available choices.
A discussion took place about the costs and signs. Carl made a motion to meet federal government regulation of replacing all street signs with reflective signs that are white and green in color and first letter of street is capitalized not to exceed $4,500.00, supported by Bill. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger and Overkamp NAYES: None
Amy suggested selling the old signs to raise money for projects.

12. Adjourn
Motion made by Donna to adjourn the meeting at 8:33pm, supported by Amy. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

Respectfully submitted by,

Ann LaCroix
Clerk

Fruitport Board of Education Regular Monthly Meeting – Minutes – 03/26/18

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
March 26, 2018 7:00 p.m.
Shettler Media Center

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

II. The PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited.

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

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 18-036. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Brott to approve the agenda with the addition of Chelly Brown, Dispatcher on the Personnel Report (attachment IX-7)
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

V. PRESENTATIONS
Principal, Janelle Duffey welcomed the Board, staff, and audience to Shettler School. She introduced School Counselor, Kelly Hoekenga.

Under the leadership and direction of Kelly Hoekenga, ten Shettler students presented information on Mindfulness. They took turns describing the brain, how it works, and calming strategies such as: take a short walk, positive self-talk, pressure points, and belly breathing. Mindful kids = happy kids!

Dr. John Severson and Randy Lindquist from the MAISD reviewed their strategic goals, key areas of collaborative focus, and programs specific to the MAISD. They spoke about Project Best, Math Recovery, Early Literacy and Muskegon Made among other things. Their presentation was very insightful highlighting multiple successes over the past few years.

VI. COMMUNICATIONS
Board Secretary, Steve Kelly read aloud a thank you note from the family of Shelley Taylor, Ken Taylor’s mother.

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Mr. Szymoniak addressed the MAISD Budget Review date conflict. He suggested that Mark Mesbergen attend on the Board’s behalf.

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 18-037. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Brott to approve the Consent Agenda with the addition of Chelly Brown, Dispatcher on the Personnel Report.
1. Approval of Special Meeting Minutes of March 1, 2018
2. Acceptance of Bills, Monthly Financial Report, and ACH Transactions
3. Acceptance of Student Activity Summary Report
4. Acceptance of Credit Card and Utilities Report
5. Approval of Capital Projects Progress Report
6. Approval of Personnel Report
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of the First Reading of Board Policies 5610 and 5611.
Item 18-038. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Brott to approve the first reading of board policies 5610 and 5611 as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

2. Approval of Rescinding Pool Repair Bidding.
Item 18-039. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Kelly to rescind the original directive to put the pool repair out to bid in October 2017 as presented. Roll Call: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Kelly, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

3. Ratification of Bond Resolution.
Item 18-040. MOTION by Kelly, SECOND by Brott to adopt the resolution authorizing issuance of bonds, payment schedule, and other matters relating thereto as presented. Roll Call: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Kelly, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XI. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held March 10, 2018.
Elroy Buckner reported on a Business and Finance Committee meeting held March 10, 2018. Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Mark Mesbergen, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed: vehicles and a potential property exchange with Spring Lake. They received updates on: the bond, a lawsuit, and a grievance.

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held March 14, 2018.
Steve Kelly reported on a Personnel Committee meeting held March 14, 2018. Dave Hazekamp, Steve Kelly, Tim Burgess, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed: staffing, rescinding the pool bid, virtual programming and a potential property exchange with Spring Lake. They received updates on: the bond, a lawsuit, and a grievance.

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held March 14, 2018.
Jill Brott reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held March 14, 2018. Jill Brott, Dave Hazekamp, Allison Camp, Susan Franklin, Rob Rogers and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed: transitional kindergarten, rescinding the pool bid, and a potential property exchange with Spring Lake. They received updates on: the bond, a lawsuit, virtual programming, and a grievance.

2. Approval of the Overnight Trip Requests.
Item 18-041. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Cole to approve DECA’s National Conference, April 20 -25, 2018 in Atlanta, GA ~ BPA’s National Conference, May 9 -13, 2018 in Dallas, TX as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
Jill Brott spoke about Black History Month and Quiz Bowl at Shettler. Both were very successful programs that ended with a pizza party. Jill also mentioned a postcard she received from Prosecutor, DJ Hilson inviting the community to a panel discussion on the effects of marijuana.

Steve Kelly commended the Fruitport Competitive Cheer coaches and team who received their highest score at Districts recently. He highlighted many of their accomplishments this year including various sportsmanship acknowledgements. He also mentioned that Winterguard placed 2nd.

Kris Cole gave a ROBOTICS update and mentioned the Team Spirit award they recently won. He was also very proud of GREASE, the musical, performed by students on March 23rd and 24th .

Bob Szymoniak reminded board members of the upcoming MCSBA Spring Dinner on May 3rd.

Dave Hazekamp spoke about a recent Community Business Breakfast. He was pleased with the positive updates happening in our area. Dave complimented Ken Erny and the Fruitport Athletic Hall of Fame committee for another spectacular event!

XV. AGENDA ITEMS for FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF ANY SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Business and Finance Committee will meet April 9, 2018 at 11:30 a.m.
2. Personnel Committee will meet April 11, 2018 at 7:00 a.m.
3. Student Affairs Committee will meet April 11, 2018 at 5:30 p.m.
4. A Board Workshop has been scheduled on April 25, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Item 18-042. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

The meeting adjourned at 8:24 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly
Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 03/14/18

Student Affairs Committee
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
4:00 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

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

1. An update on virtual programming was given citing two high school students that needed a virtual option. More on this as it develops.

2. A brief discussion was held concerning a law suit that had been filed the previous week against the district.

3. The committee was informed that a spreadsheet updating bond expenditures would be part of the monthly Board packet moving forward.

4. An update on progress toward offering a Transitional Kindergarten program for the fall of 2018 was given.

5. A property transfer concerning a lot that was divided between Fruitport Community Schools and Spring Lake Public Schools was discussed.

6. The committee was informed that there would be a Board Action Request on the Board’s upcoming agenda that would request rescinding a directive to put pool repairs out for bid last October.

Adjournment at 5:17 p.m.

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 03/14/18

PERSONNEL COMMITTEE
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
7:00 a.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

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

1. A brief update on a pending lawsuit was presented.

2. A brief update on a pending grievance was presented.

3. Committee members were informed that an updated bond spreadsheet will be part of the financials in every Board packet as we move forward with the bond project.

4. It was discussed that in order to staff the new Transitional Kindergarten program the district would need to hire a paraprofessional, but a hiring a new teacher at this time was not necessary. That said, to staff this position there may be involuntary transfers among elementary teachers.

5. It was discussed that the Board would be asked to rescind an action they approved last summer to go out for bid regarding repairs to the pool. Currently our construction manager is working with our new operations director to get a more comprehensive and accurate picture of the repairs needed and associated cost of bringing the pool back online.

6. A property exchange with Spring Lake was discussed regarding a lot in the Hathaway Lakes subdivision that is part in the Spring Lake school district and part in Fruitport. In order to make the lot completely part of the Spring Lake district, they are willing to give a small parcel of property to Fruitport in exchange.

7. Virtual programming for students unable to attend day school was briefly discussed.

Adjourned at 8:00 a.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 03/12/18

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, March 12, 2018
11:30 a.m., Superintendent’s Office
Meeting Minutes

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

1. Truck/Van Replacement Schedule
Mark discussed a potential replacement schedule that would start this fiscal year and continue from there on.

2. Bond Update
Mark presented options for board reports related to the bond.

3. Law Suit Update
Bob presented an update on the law suit.

4. Grievance Update
Bob presented an update on a grievance.

5. Spring Lake Property Exchange
Bob presented an update on a potential property exchange with Spring Lake.

Meeting adjourned at 12:31 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Announcing the Idema Explorers Trail

Now announcing the Idema Explorers Trail!
The Ottawa Parks Foundation is pleased to announce a landmark $2 million gift from the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation for the development of the Grand River Greenway.

idemalogoThe Ottawa County Parks Foundation appreciates the great passion and support of Bea Idema for nature, education and for the preservation of the environment for future generations. In recognition of this gift and support, the central feature of the Grand River Greenway – the Explorers Trail – will be named in honor of Bill and Bea Idema.

“Bea Idema is a dear friend of mine. She’s a special person with a generous heart,” said Greenway Campaign Co-Chair Peter Secchia. “Through this gift, the Greenway Campaign has turned a corner – we are now much closer to achieving our goal of raising $7.2 million to expand access to the thousands of acres of land along the Grand River, protect additional land, and complete a trail connection between Millennium Park and the Grand Haven beach.”

beaidema“Bea’s spirit – her love of nature, of sharing nature with others, and educating young people – match the spirit and experience we hope to create with the Idema Explorers Trail,” said Greenway Campaign Co-Chair Monica Verplank.

“We are proud to re-name the trail the Idema Explorers Trail. Bea and her family have done so much for the West Michigan community, for Grand Valley State University, and for Ottawa County Parks. The Idema family also has deep ties to the Greenway lands. That is why we feel the name is a perfect fit,” added Greenway Campaign Co-Chair Samantha Verplank.

Bill and Bea Idema provided support for the development of one of the premier Greenway parks: Grand Ravines. This includes providing funding for the Aldrink Ravines Overlook and $350,000 for a 275’ Suspension Bridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the state. Bea’s sister, Joyce Versluis played a strong support role and is especially excited about the Greenway connecting the campuses of Grand Valley State University. “It is wonderful that GVSU students will be able to hike, bike, and kayak between the Allendale and Grand Rapids campuses and enjoy the beautiful nature and environment of the Grand River Valley.”

The Greenway Campaign is the culmination of the 30-year vision to create a vast natural space along the Grand River and connect people to it. Thousands of acres of high quality natural and recreational lands have been protected to-date, but to complete the vision and make needed connections Ottawa County Parks plans to acquire 700 acres of additional land and construct 27 miles of new trail (with 13 miles of the trail along or near the river or other water features) over the next five years. This will require $21 million in funding, with the Parks Foundation seeking $7.2 million in philanthropic gifts to leverage anticipated public funding.

In addition to land acquisition and trail construction, an important component of the Greenway plan is to create a distinctive trail “experience” through wayfinding, interpretive displays, and possibly even artwork in appropriate locations.

“It is really important that there is a strong identity on the Idema Explorers Trail and that the Greenway has sense of place. We want users to be confident of where they are going and know what amenities are available along the way,” said Ottawa County Parks Director John Scholtz. As part of this effort to create an identity, Spring Lake design firm Concept A was hired to develop a logo for the trail.

The planned interpretive experience was an important factor for the Bill and Bea Idema Foundation supporting the Greenway project. “The Grand River is not only important to West Michigan ecologically, but is one of the West Michigan’s defining features historical and culturally. Therefore, everyone feels it is important that we use the Greenway to tell the story of the Grand River from pre-European settlement, through the logging era, and to the current time,” said Myron Aldrink, Greenway Campaign committee member. Ottawa County Parks plans to establish a team to assist with the design and development of the interpretive displays throughout the Greenway.

overlook

Aldrink Ravines Overlook on the Idema Explorers Trail through Grand Ravines

The Times They Are A Changing

by Mike Simcik

There seems to be a lot of talk lately about Senior Centers in the area and most of it not very flattering.

For example; Sometime before the presidential election a notice was sent out in the monthly news bulletin from a local senior center that their computer system database and membership files were hacked into and stolen. I received one of these notices in the mail.

If anyone had a curious or suspicious mind one would wonder what happened to that very private and personal information and how was it illegally used. Of course, everyone knows senior centers are state and federally funded which is enough to make anyone’s eyebrows raise.

Just suppose that information was used in favor of one candidate or the other. It’s just a guess on my part but it is more than possible that a lot of senior citizens in this area voted for someone they did not want to.

For that matter, in these disturbing times, we live in today, our seniors could have voted several times without knowing it. Since hacking never happened before at these places, why now, and just before election time?

Another issue has taken shape and in no way are any conclusions being drawn. But it has been noticed and talked about by many seniors that there is an appalling lack of ethnicity in those same Senior Centers. We know there is a considerable population of retired African Americans and Hispanic in Grand Haven and Muskegon areas that do not go to or are a member of a senior center. Perhaps they feel there is not much offered for them at these centers.

The one thing that sticks in my mind because of recent events is some practical advice for all senior citizens and that is; keep your private life information private and watch your back. These are very disturbing and socially unfriendly times we live in dividing our nation.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 03/26/18 – 04/09/18

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


The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick
Mondays @ 6:00 pm
Monday evenings at 6:00pm, January 29 – April 2, come to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum for The Vietnam War by Ken Burns!  Each episode will be followed by a discussion.  Admission is free with the purchase of museum admission.  Members are free.  For more information, call 231-755-1230.

Authentic Italian Lasagna with Sofia
March 26 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Monday, March 26 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to the culinary class, “Authentic Italian Lasagna with Sofia!”  Come learn how to make the genuine lasagna famous all over the world.  You will make it from scratch just like mom used to make it!  Learn from Sofia Occhialini who moved to Muskegon four years ago from Italy.  Bring your appetite!  The cost is $35.  For more information, call (231) 769-2202.

Feeding the Soul of the City Free Concert
March 27 @ 12:00 pm
Tuesday, March 27 at 12:15pm, you’re invited to the historic St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in downtown Muskegon for the “Feeding the Soul of the City” free lunch time concert featuring excellent classical pianist, Solee Lee-Clark.  Coffee, tea and cookies will be served for free starting at 11:30am.  Attendees may bring a bag lunch to enjoy before or during the concert.  For any questions or more information, feel free to contact the St. Paul’s office at 231-722-2112.

Planetarium Show: Faster than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight
March 27 @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
January 16 – March 29 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, come to Carr-Fles Planetarium for “Faster than Light!  The Dream of Interstellar Flight!”  The impulse to strike out into the unknown, to see what’s over the horizon is as old as humanity.  Today, a whole new horizon beckons.  Scientists now believe that our galaxy is filled with solar systems, including up to 9 billion Sun-like stars with planets similar to Earth.  Astronomers are racing to find habitable worlds, including any that might exist in the neighborhood of our Sun.  But if we find one, how will we ever get there?  How long will it take?  What rocket designs might one day conquer the voids of space?  Faster Than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight will dazzle audiences with virtual rides aboard spacecraft of the future.  This is a 35-minute presentation. (The campus will be closed March 6 and March 8 for College Spring Break)  For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

White Lake Winter Lecture Series: The Art of Taste
March 27 @ 7:00 pm
The White Lake Winter Lecture Series, presented by the White Lake Music Society, comes to a close with a presentation by Chef Jill Hansen on March 27, at 7:00pm.  Ms. Hansen will share on “The Art of Taste” from her many years of experience as a master chef at Cichetti Culinary Studio.  This will take place at the Book Nook and Java Shop.

Join Chef Jill Hansen as the art of food is explored.  Food’s history is as complex as some of the finest French dishes.  Ingredients, preparation, social implications, and a look into the future as our planet faces real challenges.  Take home a new recipe and enjoy some samples.

Admission is $5 at the door.  For more information, please contact Director Sondra Cross at 231-329-3056 or visit us online at www.musicwhitelake.org.

Launch Lecture Series
March 28 @ 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Wednesday, March 28 from 9:00am – 10:00am, come to the Muskegon Innovation Hub to hear Dr. Timothy Syfert speak on “The Importance of Creating Value for Your Customers.”  This lecture will provide insights and ideas to help you grow your business.  Breakfast is provided.  For more information, call  616-331-6900.

Page to Screen Noir: Rear Window
March 28 @ 1:30 pm
Wednesday, March 28 at 1:30pm, the Norton Shores Library hosts Page to Screen Noir, where you can read a classic noir mystery each month and then watch the film it inspired.  For March, participants will read “Rear Window” by Cornell Woolrich and then watch the 1944 movie!

Are hard-boiled detectives and mysterious women among your favorite fictional characters in a book or a movie?  Combine your passion for both with March’s book, Rear Window, which is actually a short story by Cornell Woolrich.  A laid-up magazine photographer witnesses a possible murder from his apartment window and decides to solve the crime himself.  The movie was released in 1954, directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starred Grace Kelly and James Stewart.

Page to Screen Noir includes an informal discussion of both formats, plus popcorn!  You’ll need to bring your own soft drinks!  Copies of the book are available at the Library while supplies last.  This program, funded by the Friends of the Norton Shores Library, is free and open to the public ages 18 and up.  For additional information, contact Alison Purgiel, lead librarian, at 231-780-8844 or apurgiel@madl.org.

Student Reception:  Expressions
March 28 @ 5:30 pm – March 29 @ 7:00 pm
Wednesday, March 28, from 5:30pm – 7:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for the opening reception of “Expressions 2018: 36th Annual Muskegon County Student Art Exhibition!”  This is the annual collaboration between the Muskegon Area Intermediate School District and the MMA that showcases the artistic talents of Muskegon County K-12 students.  Artworks in a variety of media, selected by art specialists from each of the public, charter, and private schools in the county, will be in the show.  Visit the exhibition and attend student receptions to celebrate and support our county’s young student artists and their creative vision.  Refreshments will be served and event admission is free and open to the public.  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Muskegon Museum of Art: Free Thursday Evening Tours
Thursdays @ 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Every Thursday from 4:00pm – 8:00pm, you’re invited to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a free tour guided by MMA docents, compliments of Meijer!  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Swing Dance Lessons at SE4SONS
March 29 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Join Swing Dance Instructor, Becky Biesiada, at SE4SONS for a series of 3 classes in March!  This is a fun opportunity to learn something new! Don’t forget to check out SE4SONS Gastropub after class for great Happy Hour Deals!  This is limited to the first 30 participants. Everyone is welcome and you do not need to be a Muskegon CC Member to participate.  Call 231-755-3737 for reservations today.

East & West Coast Swing
Class Dates: March 15, 22, 29
Class Time: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
Cost: $80 per couple/ $55 per single

Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Game
March 30 @ 7:00 pm – March 31 @ 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, for five years running!

Catch two home games, Friday, March 30 and Saturday, March 31 at 7:15pm as the Jacks take on the Omaha Lancers at the L.C. Walker Arena. Purchase tickets by calling 231-724-5225.

Hamlet
March 30 @ 7:30 pm
March 30 at 7:30pm, come to the Beardsley Theater as the Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company presents, “Hamlet!”  Shakespeare’s masterpiece comes to life in this new production directed by Scott Lange.  Hamlet, prince of Denmark, returns home to mourn his father’s death, and finds that his mother has married his uncle, and his uncle has become the king.  When the old king’s ghost demands revenge for his murder, Hamlet must decide what course he will take in this compelling tragedy.

Tickets are $14 for adults and $7 for students and senior citizens.  For more information, call 231-722-9750.

Indoor Farmers’ Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to come inside their warm barn and shop this winter!  They’re open every Saturday from 9:00am – 2:00pm, November – April.  They will be closed Saturday, December 30.  For more information, call (231) 722-3251.

Sweetwater Local Foods Market
Saturdays @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Sweetwater Local Foods Market is open year-round, every Saturday from 9:00am-Noon!  Healthy! Humane! Homegrown is their pledge to use NO synthetic fertilizers, NO synthetic chemical pesticides or herbicides, no growth promoting antibiotics and NO GMO’s!  You can find them in the lobby and parking lot of Mercy Health Lakes Village.  For more information, visit www.sweetwaterlocalfoodsmarket.org.

Easter Egg Hunt: Glenside
March 31 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Plan now to attend Glenside’s sixth annual Easter Egg Hunt at McGraft Park on Saturday, March 31 from 10:00am – 11:30am!  Enjoy free juice and donuts, meet the Easter Bunny, and enter the free raffle drawing for lots of prizes including two kids’ bicycles!  The hunts are divided into 3 age groups (3 and under, 4-7, and 8-12), so everyone comes away a winner!  For more information, call the Glenside Neighborhood Association at 231-855-8228.

Thanks to the very generous sponsors for contributing to this event, including Coldwell Banker Woodland-Schmidt, The Lube Shop, Great Lakes Fresh Market, Smash Wine Bar & Bistro, Skeetown Tavern, Positively Muskegon and The Camera Shop.

Easter Egg Hunt: Sheldon Park
March 31 @ 10:00 am
Saturday, March 31 at 10:00am, you’re invited to bring your kids ages 4 – 12 to Sheldon Park for an Easter Egg Hunt!  Enjoy a visit with the Easter Bunny and enter a raffle for an adult Easter basket.  The rain location will be Evanston Ave. Baptist Church.  For more information, call Gordon Peterman at 231-724-6646 or 231- 773-0868.

LMC Saturday Program: Easter Craft
March 31 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Saturday, March 31 from 1:00pm – 3:00pm, come to the Lakeshore Museum Center for “Easter Craft.”  Create your very own origami bunny bookmark to take home.

LMC Saturday Programs are open-house style and run from 1:00pm – 3:00pm in the main museum building.  Programs are free of charge and museum admission is free for Muskegon County Residents.  Non-residents are just $3. For more information, call 231-722-0278.

Easter Egg Hunt: L.C. Walker Arena
March 31 @ 1:00 pm
Saturday, March 31 at 1:00pm, RAD DADS’, the City of Muskegon, the Muskegon Lumberjacks, the Ironmen, and the Risers, invite you to the L.C. Walker Arena for the world’s greatest Easter egg hunt!  Come have fun with the family and search for over 5,000 Easter eggs with hunts for three age groups.  There will also be a few Golden Eggs with special surprises!  The event is free, but they will be taking donations for the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon at the door.  For more information, call (231) 327-5290.

Easter Brunch at the Lake House
April 1 @ 10:30 am – 3:30 pm
Sunday, April 1 from 10:30am – 3:30pm, the Lake House is excited to host their Annual Easter Brunch Buffet with Chef Jaime Knudsen!  The brunch will feature Chef Carved Prime Rib, Maple & Bourbon Glazed Ham, Fried Lake Perch, a Fresh Seafood Bar, a Build Your Own Omelet Bar and much more.  Reservations are required by calling 231-722-4461 or e-mail bill@thelakehousemi.com.  The cost is $34.95 for adults.  Kids 4 – 12 are $9.95.

Easter Brunch at SE4SONS
April 1 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Join SE4SONS for their Annual Easter Brunch on Sunday, April 1 from 11:00am – 2:00pm!  They’ve got something for the whole family!  Whether its delicious food for the adults or the Easter Bunny for the kids, SE4SONS has it all.  Please call 231-755-3737 and save your spot soon, as this event fills up quickly.  Please have your party size, preferred time, number of adults & children, and a contact phone number ready when calling.

Adults $29
Kids (7-12) $14
Kids (4-6) $8
3 and under are free.

Easter Brunch at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center
April 1 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
It’s not too early to reserve your table for the Easter Brunch at the Holiday Inn and Conference Center, happening Sunday, April 1 from 11:00am – 3:00pm!  Hop to it and make your reservation to enjoy their slow roasted Prime Rib and Rosemary Ham at their carving station, as well as gourmet sides and desserts!  There is something for everyone!  For reservations, please call 231-720-7105 or email Sarah@himuskegon.com.

Super Spring Break Days
April 2 – 5 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Monday – Thursday, April 2 – 5 from 11:00am – 2:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for “Super Spring Break Days!”  Take an adventure and explore the museum’s awesome art collection.  There is free admission for one adult accompanying a child.

Instructor: Ronace Hogan
• 11:00am – 1:00pm  Docent in the gallery
• 11:00am – 2:00pm  Arts and crafts in the classroom
• 11:30am –  Film in the auditorium

Monday:  Pastels (permanent collection)
Tuesday:  Beading and Weaving (Thunder Boy, Jr.)
Wednesday:  Tooling (The Poetry of Metal)
Thursday:  Paint! (Expressions Student Art Exhibition)

Roll On Muskegon
Mondays @ 6:30 pm
“Roll on Muskegon” is a fun, community, bicycle ride through the neighborhoods of Muskegon.  Bikers meet every Monday at the downtown Muskegon Farmers’ Market.  This easy 8 mph, family friendly ride begins at 6:30pm.  For more information, find them on Facebook.

Lakeshore Museum Center: Spring Break Open House
April 3 @ 10:30 am – 12:30 pm
Tuesday, April 3 from 10:30am – 12:30pm, it’s a Spring Break Open House at the Lakeshore Museum Center!  Enjoy crafts, wind tunnel science, and more hands-on fun. For more information, call 231-722-0278.

Planetarium Show: Incoming!
Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 7:00 pm – 7:35 pm
Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 3 – June 7, come to Carr-Fles Planetarium at Muskegon Community College for the planetarium show, “Incoming!”  Tag along with robot explorers zooming past rocky asteroids and icy comets, all the way to Pluto, and discover how asteroids and comets have collided with our planet throughout history, changing the course of life on Earth.  Narrated by George Takei, this 2016 program gives audiences a closer look at the scientific advances that may allow us to find and track cosmic threats before they reach planet Earth.  This is a 35-minute presentation.  (The campus will be closed May 8-17 for break between semesters).  For more information, call (231) 777-0289.

Free Family Movie Day:  Where the Wild Things Are
April 4 @ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Wednesday, April 4 from 3:00pm – 5:00pm, come to the historic Frauenthal Theater for a free family movie day featuring “Where the Wild Things Are!”

A young boy named Max has an active imagination, and he will throw fits if others don’t go along with what he wants.  Max, following an incident with his sister and her friends, and following a tantrum which he throws as a result of his Mother paying more attention to her boyfriend than to him, runs away from home.  Wearing his wolf costume at the time, Max not only runs away physically, but runs toward a world in his imagination.  This world, an ocean away, is inhabited by large wild beasts, including one named Carol who is much like Max himself in temperament.  Instead of eating Max like they normally would with creatures of his type, the wild things befriend Max after he proclaims himself a king who can magically solve all their problems.

The film is free and no tickets are required.  For more information, call 231-722-9750.

A Taste from the Mountain Regions of Italy with Sofia
April 5 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Thursday, April 5 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market is offering the culinary class, “A Taste from the Mountain Regions of Italy with Sofia!”

The Menu:
• Polenta e Frico (fried cheese and potatoes)
• Canederli (bread gnocchi)
• Polpette (meatballs)
• Gelato with warm blueberries

Bring your appetite!  Learn from Sofia Occhialini who moved here four years ago from Italy where she spent her entire life.  The cost is $35.  For more information call 231-769-2202.

Pajama Party at the Art Museum
April 5 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Thursday, April 5 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, come to the Muskegon Museum of Art for a “Pajama Party at the Museum!”  Wear your jammies (slippers optional) and have some fun as you enjoy an activity with their friends from the Lakeshore Museum Center, story time with their friends from Hackley Public Library, a hot cocoa station, art activity and a movie.  Admission is FREE!  For more information, call 231-720-2570.

Lakeshore Museum Center Saturday Program: Robot Open House
April 7 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Saturday, April 7 from 1:00pm – 3:00pm, come to the Lakeshore Museum Center for a Robot Open House!  Try out many of the newer robots in the Museum’s Science Center.  Program and learn with the Cubelets, Code-a-pillar, Little Bits and more.

LMC Saturday Programs are open-house style and run from 1:00 – 3:00pm in the main museum building.  Programs and museum admission are free of charge for Muskegon County Residents.  Non-residents are just $3.  www.lakeshoremuseum.org

The Swan Series
April 8 @ 2:00 pm
Join host Robert Swan in a new lecture series entitled “The Swan Series.”  Bob will share many of his insights, experiences, and expertise gleaned from 34 years of performing in the Chicago Symphony Orchestra under such famed conductors as George Solti, Daniel Barenboim, Leonard Bernstein, Leopoldo Stowkowski, Claudio Abbado, and many others.  Lectures will be held at the United Methodist Church in Whitehall.

On April 8 at 2:00pm, The Swan Series continues with “OUTSIDE AGAIN!”  Aaron Copland’s APPALACHIAN SPRING is one of the first uniquely American compositions both in concept and sound.  Bob Swan will explain why it is so “American” and so loved by people everywhere.  Quite selfishly, he hopes that by focusing on this masterpiece, winter’s grip on us will loosen.  The suggested donation is $7 at the door.

The Swan Series is a new program of the White Lake Music Society which produces world-class chamber music concerts, promotes and supports classical music learning opportunities for all ages, and creates awareness of the value and significance of fine music.  More information may be found at www.whitelakemusic.org.

Vegetarian Doesn’t Mean Flavorless with Sofia
April 9 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Monday, April 9 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market is offering the culinary class, “Vegetarian Doesn’t Mean Flavorless with Sofia!”

The Menu:
• Minestrone
• Baked leek and asiago frittata
• Vegetable pie

Learn from Sofia Occhialini who moved her four years ago after spending her entire life in Italy and be sure to bring your appetite!  The cost is $35.  For more information call 231-769-2202.

Live Jazz with Checkers Morton
April 9 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
April is Jazz Month!  April 9 from 6:00pm – 7:00pm, Hackley Public Library will celebrate by welcoming Checkers Morton and his band of friends who have been playing together for 40 years, offer amazing, original compositions like “Dan’s Lighthearted Padge” and “Little Raga.”  Their music comes from their heart & soul and features wood, reeds, brass, ivory and primal drums.  This concert is free and open to the public.  For more information, call  231-722-8000.

Muskegon Community College Wind and Jazz Ensembles Concert
April 9 @ 7:30 pm
Monday, April 9 at 7:30pm, come to the Frauenthal Theater for the Muskegon Community College Wind and Jazz Ensembles Concert, featuring traditional wind and jazz ensemble music of all styles.  Tickets are $6 or free for students.  For more information, call 231-727-8001.

A 27th Letter to America

America was again shocked, as it should be, by the latest tragic school shooting in Parkland, Florida.

What has become of respect of God and respect for precious human life and suffering?

One contributing factor is, God was thrown out of our schools and all public places by some Supreme Court Judges.  Judges who found, “posting of God’s Ten Commandments in schools, and even county government public places, unconstitutional.” Judges who also ruled prayer and teaching God ‘s Word in public schools unconstitutional.

Judges who are prohibited from interfering in religious matters by the First Constitutional Amendment!

That Amendment, which ensures freedom of religion, speech, the press, and the right to peaceably assemble, was intended to keep the federal government off these matters.

But now the federal government tentacles reach way down to the toilet places, better known as “restrooms.”

The overreach of the Supreme Court has gone uncontested by our legally elected government public officials.  It is their duty to hold the judges accountable when they violate the Constitution and laws.

It was not just and humane when they ruled in Roe v. Wade and approved the killing of innocent human beings.  The seven judges who voted for, on that tragic decision, should have been impeached.

Our Constitution assigns the making of the laws of the land to our Legislators, not to the non-elected Judges.

The Laws of God, which our forefathers held so dearly, have been replaced by Man’s Law. Now some Americans want us to celebrate what God calls abomination.

The loudest outcry about the latest school shooting of innocent children will come from political hypocrites who support the daily mass killing of thousands of innocent unborn human babies.

REPENT AMERICA, REPENT.

Manuel Ybarra, Jr.
Coalgate, OK
mybarrajr77@outlook.com

Fruitport Township Board Meeting Agenda – March 26, 2018

A G E N D A
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FRUITPORT TOWNSHIP HALL
5865 AIRLINE ROAD, FRUITPORT, MI 49415

MARCH 26, 2018

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

01. Pledge of Allegiance
02. Roll call
03. Approval of board minutes: 3/12/2018
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business

A. 2018-2019 budget discussion
B. DPW Director evaluation and contract renewal
C. Public Safety Director evaluation and contract renewal
D. Approval of Fire Department union labor agreement
E. Approval of SEIU labor agreement
F. Parks Dept. suggestions for improvements
G. Adopt Employee Handbook

08. New Business

A. Approve purchase of traffic speed sign
B. Adopt public meeting schedule for FY 2018-2019
C. Property & Liability insurance
D. Approval of computerized tax roll
E. Budget public hearing
F. Adopt 2018-2019 budget
G. FY 2018-2019 Budget amendments
H. Banking and Investing resolution

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

Wendy’s of Michigan Raises Over $130,000 for Annual Campaign at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital

GRAND RAPIDS, MI— Meritage Hospitality Group’s Wendy’s of Michigan completed their Change a Child’s Life campaign, raising $130,000 for Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital and other local children’s charities. The campaign took place from November 13 to December 31 in 50 west and northern Michigan locations.

“This has been our most successful campaign to date,” said Mike Baldwin, North Director of Operations for Meritage Hospitality Group. “Our managers and teammates are the driving force behind this philanthropic cause and each team’s hard work to assure awareness is what makes this program so successful each year. The generosity of over one hundred thousand local community members and guests is not overlooked either. By selecting to round up their orders and purchase in-store pin-ups at our restaurants, they are also to thank for this program’s success.”

Brain Ellison’s Arm The Homeless Campaign

Michigan US Senate candidate Brian Ellison, launches voluntary campaign to Arm The Homeless
March 13, 2018

Madison Heights, MI – On March 9, 2018, Michigan Libertarian Candidate for US Senate Brian Ellison launched a new initiative to help protect the downtrodden, through his voluntarily funded campaign to Arm The Homeless..

About The Campaign
America’s homeless population is one of the most marginalized and victimized groups in this country. Not only are they constantly under threat from would be criminals, but they are also under threat from governments at various levels that criminalize activities that homeless people rely on for survival.

According to a report published by Springer Publishing Company, LLC entitled Violence and Victims, Volume 29, Number 1, 2014, “Individuals who are homeless have an increased risk of experiencing myriad social problems including victimization and violence.”

The report goes on to explain that “The prevalence of violence victimization in the homeless population has been estimated to range from 14% to 21% and approximately one-third report having witnessed a physical attack on another person who was homeless. This rate of violence is highly disparate when compared to the general population in which only 2% report experiencing a violent crime.”

How long can we as a society sit back and allow peaceful citizens of this great country to be targets for those that view them as weak targets? According to case law in the decision of Warren v. District of Columbia, the police do not owe a specific duty to provide police services to citizens. What this means is that as individuals we can not count on the police to protect us, as they are under no obligation to do so. We saw this recently in the Parkland shooting, when Broward County Sheriff Deputies stood outside while a gunman killed 17 students and teachers. I believe it is time we take a stand against the injustice and victimization of the homeless.

We will start the campaign by fundraising to purchase 20 pump style shotguns. All recipients will be required to pass a background check, be of legal age to own a firearm, and receive proper training on safety and operation of the firearm.

The announcement was made via his facebook page “Brian Ellison for US Senate” (@EllisonforSenate) and linked to a donation site where supporters could help fund the cause. On Sunday morning, the initial donation site was taken down, but was later replaced with another that links through the Candidate website at www.ellison4senate.com/arm-the-homeless

Will You Consider Running For Office?

from Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce’s Action Alert

We need people with business experience running for elected positions. This year, Muskegon County Commission seats are available.

Now is the time to start preparing! Below are resources to help you begin your journey into public office.

The Chamber’s government affairs committee is here to help!

Click here for more resources and ways to get started.

mlcoc

Fruitport Township Board Meeting – Agenda – 02/26/18

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

FEBRUARY 26, 2018

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

01. Pledge of Allegiance
02. Roll call
03. Approval of board minutes: 2/12/2018
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
A. Land use fees resolution
B. 2018-2019 budget discussion

08. New Business
A. Spring clean up
B. Office vacancy

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

Active Shooter & Emergency Trainings Available for Citizens & Churches

In just six months, the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office has trained approximately 375 residents on how to respond during an active shooter event. The popular Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) training is a thought-provoking and engaging class provides strategies, guidance and a plan for surviving an active shooter event. In addition to the training for individuals, an Emergency and Security Worksop for Places of Worship is being offered to prepare church leaders for a variety of crisis situations, such as violence, disruptive visitors, plus medical and weather emergencies. The full agenda is online.

“Our hearts are broken for those who have been touched by the recent widely publicized tragedy in Florida and to those who have ever been victim to similar, senseless violence. It’s unfortunate that these types of educational sessions are even necessary, but they absolutely are and are in high demand among our community members,” said Captain Derek Christensen.

The trainings are free, but the Sheriff’s Office asks that you pre-register to reserve your space due to the popularity of the courses. To attend, you must be at least 18 years of age and bring picture ID such as a driver’s license or state-issued identification. Both CRASE sessions will be held at the Ottawa County Administrative Building in West Olive. The session for Places of Worship will be held at Beechwood Church in Holland.

More Details Registration:

CRASE: April 20, 2018 | 7-10PM | REGISTER

Hats and Horses Fundraiser

hatsandhorsesMuskegon, MI: Pioneer Resources is pleased to announce the “Hats and Horses” fundraiser to be held May 5, 2018, as part of a funding campaign to complete a new group home being built by Pioneer Resources Inc. in Muskegon. We encourage you to get your tickets early and dress in your derby attire for this Kentucky Derby themed party held at the Lake House. The event starts at 5:00 pm with raffles, drinks, and food. After the race, the Westside Soul Surfers will entertain you until 10:00 pm.

Currently under construction, the new group home will be home to six individuals with developmental disabilities and is fully wheelchair accessible. The home is located in a beautiful setting on the east side of Muskegon.

Pioneer Resources began as an unincorporated association of parents and educators in the late 1940s, operating as Pioneer School and providing special education and therapy. 63 years later the agency offers a diverse array of individualized supports and services for persons with disabilities as well as seniors.

For more information or tickets visit: www.pioneerresources.org/events/hats-and-horses/

Spring Lake Public Schools Child Find-Preschool Screening

The Spring Lake School District is conducting its annual Child Find-Preschool Screening on April 27. The purpose of the screening is to assure parents that their preschool child is developing normally and to identify children who have learning needs. All children from the Spring Lake School District who are three years old or who turned four after September 1, 2017  are eligible to be screened.

Parents who live in the Spring Lake School District and would like to set up an appointment for their child can contact Pam Massucci at 846-9240