Author Archives: editor

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 02/13/18

PERSONNEL COMMITTEE
Tuesday, February 13, 2018
7:30 a.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

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

1.   A discussion was held regarding the recommended hire of John Winskas to be our new Operations Director.  The recommendation for hire will be placed on the consent agenda of the February Board of Education meeting.

2.   A personnel matter was discussed with no need for action at this point.

3.   Concluding the superintendent evaluation process was discussed and will be placed on the Board agenda for approval.

4.   A bond update was given regarding the bidding process.

 

Adjourned at 8:30 a.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 02/12/18

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

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

1.   Bond Budget
Mark and Bob discussed the bids and how it has impacted the bond budget.

2.   Building and Site Budget
The Building and Site budget was discussed as the bids for the high school are known.

3.   Vehicles
Mark presented an update on our maintenance and ground fleet.

 

Meeting adjourned at 12:40 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Holland Startup Receives Grant to Accelerate Energy Tech

WEST OLIVE, MI – Alternative energy.  This phrase often brings to mind images of large wind farms or expansive solar arrays.  Not for long.  Holland-based startup company Synergy Power LLC has created a device about the size of a kitchen table that has the design intent to power an entire family’s home with little more than hot and cold water.  The SynergineTM is a patent protected, zero emissions energy production system that has the potential to disrupt current methods of power generation, including existing alternative energy devices.

Synergy Power LLC founder, Emil Ureel, pictured in his workshop

Emil Ureel, founder of Synergy Power LLC, explains “I began working on this concept several years ago because I knew there had to be a more cost-effective way to create reliable, emission free power.”  The result of Ureel’s pragmatism is an invention that is starting to garner attention from other engineers, industry experts, and investors.  Most recently, Synergy Power LLC, with the help of ACRE AgTech, applied for and was awarded $10,000 worth of services through the Business Accelerator Fund (BAF).  ACRE AgTech is a non-profit corporation based in West Olive that works with start-up companies to help them launch their businesses.  Doug Huesdash, Business Development Manager for ACRE, explains “The market opportunities for the latest fully-scaled prototype, which has been dubbed the SynergineTM, are numerous, including residential, industrial, agricultural, and humanitarian.”

The BAF grant will pay for the installation of Ureel’s first fully operational test unit at a residential site in West Olive this fall.  The SynergineTM will be connected to a wood boiler that currently provides heat and hot water to the landowner’s home-based machine shop.  Routing that hot water through the SynergineTM will provide continuous power to the shop, and in some cases, could support all of a building’s power needs. According to Huesdash, “At this time, our targeted path to commercialization is the wood boiler furnace market.  Many people that buy wood boilers want to be off-grid.  They want to be self-reliant.  The SynergineTM will allow them to not only heat their homes, but also generate reliable electricity.”

Synergy Power LLC and ACRE AgTech worked closely with staff at Lakeshore Advantage to prepare the application for the BAF grant.  The BAF is administered by Lakeshore Advantage through their Surge program and is supported by a partnership between the Small Business Development Center and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to support small startup businesses.  ACRE AgTech has worked side by side with Ureel since January of 2016 to achieve numerous significant milestones which include securing Synergy Power’s first private investor, building the scaled SynergineTM prototype, and securing grant funding for legal costs through Varnum Law’s MiSpringboard program.

ACRE AgTech has been providing agtech connections and resources to entrepreneurs in Ottawa County and across Michigan since December, 2014.  For more information about ACRE AgTech, please visit our website, www.acreagtech.com, or contact us at 616-994-4745 or info@acreagtech.com.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 02/19/18 – 02/26/18

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


A Raisin in the Sun
Through March 3 @ 7:00 pm

Through March 3, come to the Beardsley Theater for “A Raisin in the Sun,” presented by the Muskegon Civic Theatre!

Set on Chicago’s South Side, the plot revolves around the divergent dreams and conflicts within three generations of the Younger family: son Walter Lee, his wife Ruth, his sister Beneatha, his son Travis, and matriarch Lena.  When her deceased husband’s insurance money comes through, Mama Lena dreams of moving to a new home in a better neighborhood in Chicago.  Walter Lee, a chauffeur, has other plans: buying a liquor store and being his own man.  Beneatha dreams of medical school.  The tensions and prejudice they face form this seminal American drama. The Younger family’s heroic struggle to retain dignity in a harsh and changing world is a searing and timeless document of hope and inspiration. For more information, call 231-727-8001.


The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick
Through April 2 @ 6:00 pm

Monday evenings at 6:00pm through 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.


The Ebony Road Players: The Meeting
February 19 @ 7:00 pm

On Monday, February 19 at 7:00pm, the Norton Shores Library hosts The Ebony Road Players as they perform excerpts from the play “The Meeting.”

This is a fascinating and eloquent play by Jeff Stetson that depicts the supposed meeting of two of the most important men of modern times: Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Differing in their philosophies, but alike in their mutual respect, the two men debate their varying approaches to the same grave social problems, both prepared to die for their beliefs but neither aware of how soon their assassins’ bullets await them.  No registration or tickets required.

This production is designed to tie in with “X: A Novel,” the 2017-2018 Great Michigan Read title.  The Great Michigan Read is intended for young adults to senior citizens, with broad goals of making literature more accessible and appealing while also encouraging residents to learn more about our state and individual identities.  Copies of “X: A Novel” are available at the Library to check out now while supplies last.

This program, funded by the Friends of the Norton Shores Library and the Almeda Boulton Memorial Fund of the Community Foundation of Muskegon County, is free and open to the public with no registration required.   For additional information, contact Alison Purgiel, lead librarian, at 231-780-8844 or apurgiel@madl.org .


Soup for Suits
February 20 @ 11:30 am – 1:00 pm

The 11th annual Soup for Suits luncheon is happening Tuesday, February 20 from 11:30am to 1:00pm at the Fricano Event Center in Muskegon!  Come and have a bowl of soup and bread on Muskegon Rescue Mission, and help them reach the goal of providing 10,000 meals to the community through the proceeds of this event.  Dessert and coffee will be available for purchase from Grand Traverse Pie Company and Starbucks.  For more information, call 231-727-6090.


Cooking with Craft Beer with Chef Jamie
February 20 @ 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm

Tuesday, February 20 from 6:30pm – 9:00pm, Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to the culinary class, “Cooking with Craft Beer with Chef Jamie!”  Beer, especially our local craft beer, can be used in so many ways.  In this class, you will focus on a simple BBQ sauce for ribs, a salad dressing for a side and dessert.  The cost is $40.  For more information, call (231) 769-2202.


Planetarium Show: Faster than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight
Tuesdays and Thursday @ 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.


Dancing with the Local Stars 2018
February 22 – 24

Muskegon’s highly popular charity event, Dancing with the Local Stars, is back for its 10th star-studded year and accepting applications from local food pantries and food programs.

The event, produced by the Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce, benefits food pantries and food programs in Muskegon, upper Ottawa and lower Oceana counties.  The first nine events enabled WDCC to donate more than $755,000 to those food-giving organizations thanks to generous community members and business leaders.

Traditionally, Dancing with the Local Stars pairs local dignitaries, business leaders and people of interest with local dance professionals in four performances. However, this year’s event will feature more than 60 returning cast members in nine dance teams with 11 professional dancers in six performances happening February 16-17 and February 22-24, at the Holiday Inn & Conference Center Downtown Muskegon.  www.womensdivision.org.


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.


Cherry Pastries with Chef Char
February 22 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Thursday, February 22 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to the culinary class, “Cherry Pastries with Chef Char!”  No matter if you believe the story of the President who chopped down the cherry tree, there are awesome things to be made with tart cherries harvested locally.  This class will cover the basics of tasty, tart and sweet cherry sauce folded into strudel, turnovers or tarts for baking in class or taking home for later.  The cost is $35.  For more information, call (231) 769-2202.


Thursday Night Music Club: Jazz with Edye & Mike Hyde
February 22 @ 7:00 pm

The Norton Shores Library hosts “Jazz with Edye & Mike Hyde” on Thursday, February 22 at 7:00pm in the Library’s Community Room!

Edye and Mike Hyde will perform music from the great American songbook in the style of our only true American art form: jazz!  The Hydes will demonstrate and discuss the relationship between musical improvisation and political freedom.  Grand Rapids residents, Edye and Mike both currently teach classes at Hope College in Jazz and Contemporary Music.  Edye also directs the Hope College Gospel Choir and is the founder and executive director of a Grand Rapids theatre company, Ebony Road Players.

This performance is part of the MADL Thursday Night Music Club concert series, where you can join your fellow music lovers at the Norton Shores Library for free live music events.  For additional information, contact Alison Purgiel, lead librarian, at 231-780-8844 or apurgiel@madl.org .


Kaleidoscope of Cultures
February 23 @ 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Friday, February 23 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm, join the Lakeshore Museum Center for their February Family Fun Night as they welcome cultural organizations from around Muskegon County!  Groups such as the Muskegon Polish Festival, Muskegon Public Schools’ Spanish Two-Way Immersion program and the NAACP will share information and activities or crafts that relate to their organizations.  They will also host a Native American presenter who will share both historical and modern customs.  Admission is always free for Muskegon County residents and just $3 for non-residents!

Are you part of an organization that would be interested in participating?  Contact Program Manager, Jackie Huss, at jackie@lakeshoremuseum.org or 231-724-5526.


Learn to Luge Weekend
Friday – Sunday @ 6:00 pm

Every Friday – Sunday at 6:00pm (weather permitting), you can learn to luge at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, offering one of only four publicly accessible luge tracks in the United States!  Although shorter in overall length than the Olympic tracks in New York and Salt Lake City, the Muskegon Luge track provides an Olympic thrill with the safety of the participant in mind.  The track was designed by three-time Olympian Frank Masley and consists of six curves and two starting areas.  For more information, call 1-877-TRY-LUGE.


Muskegon Lumberjacks Home Game
February 23 @ 7:00 pm – February 24 @ 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, February 23 and Saturday, February 24 at 7:15pm as the Jacks take on the Sioux City Musketeers at the L.C. Walker Arena. Purchase tickets by calling 231-724-5225.


Jay Owenhouse the Authentic Illusionist
February 23 @ 7:30 pm

Friday, February 23 at 7:30pm, come to the beautiful Frauenthal Theater for Jay Owenhouse the Authentic Illusionist!  Jay is a legendary escape artists and one of the most awarded illusionists in history!  His one night only new show is called “Dare To Believe!”, an illusion spectacular.  The show has been voted by audiences and critics alike as “One of the Top Live Shows in America”.  Jay has amazed millions on T.V. in “Masters of Illusions” and  ‘Magic on the Edge.’  The Salt Lake Tribune calls him “Simply Amazing!” and The Tokyo Times calls the elaborate production “Truly Magic, a Must See!”  Jay welcomes you into his mysterious world of wonder and the impossible.  You will experience a night of grand illusions with the most amazing magic in the world, Bengal tigers up close, dangerous escapes, and inspiring storytelling.

Proceeds will benefit preventing tigers and cheetahs from extinction through RareSpeciesFund.org.  As a Thank You for your support, VIP Gold Ticket holders receive: Premium Seating, Souvenir Lanyard, Souvenir Program, VIP Badge for Backstage Meet and Greet with Jay and one of the Tigers!   Tickets are $29, $39, VIP $69.  For more information, call 231-727-8001.

http://jayowenhouse.com


Indoor Farmers’ Market
February 24 @ 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.


Kids Cooking: Mighty Mac & Cheese with Chef Char
February 24 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Saturday, February 24 from 10:00am – 12:00pm, Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to the culinary class, “Kids Cooking – Mighty Mac & Cheese with Chef Char!”  Forget the powdered cheese mixes from a box and learn how to make a variety of delicious, creamy roux-based cheese sauces to pour over an assortment of noodles.  You will add extra garnish for three healthy ways to serve the noodles and cheese as a complete meal.  There’ll be plenty for tasting in class and to take home.  Kids ages 7+.  The cost is $35.  For more information, call (231) 769-2202.


In the Tradition Jazz Ensemble
February 24 @ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Saturday, February 24 at 2:00pm, come to Hackley Public Library for live music from the “In the Tradition” jazz ensemble!

In The Tradition began in Detroit in the early 1990’s when 5 members of the Neal Henry Septet formed the Christopher James/Charles Hopkins Quintet.  Over the years they became In the Tradition and found their calling. Through the works of In The Tradition they “seek to educate listeners around the world about the African story, and hook the culturally disenfranchised members of the ‘Diaspora’ back into their heritage, laying on them [the] ensemble’s refined expression of African-American classical music, in as authentic a presentation as they can muster.” (Matt Ward, Detroit Jazz Magazine, 10-16-13)

“This band’s métier is straight-ahead Jazz, unplugged and resplendent in all its acoustic simplicity and textural earthiness, and underpinned by rhythms inspired by all parts of the far-flung reaches of the African Diaspora”…Matt Ward, Detroit Jazz Magazine, 10-16-13.

Brought to the community through a generous bequest from Bess Commodore. WUVS 103.7 “The Community Station” the Beat is the media sponsor.


Art at the Redi
February 24 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Saturday, February 24 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm, it’s “Art at the Redi,” presented by the Lakeshore Visual Arts Collective!   This will be the LVAC’s first pop-up art show, featuring live music, a cash bar and great eats provided by Righteous Cuisine in the urban warehouse space behind Muskegon’s Redi Rental facility.  Enjoy the work of 20 area artists, many of whom are from the Muskegon area.  There will be a $10 suggested donation at the door.  All door donations and 10% of all art sales will benefit the Boys and Girls Club of Muskegon.  Join them for a wonderful evening of art and community and support local artists and art programs for Muskegon area kids at the same time!  For more information, visit the Lakeshore Visual Arts Collective website at www.lakeshorevac.com.


Muskegon Community College 2018 Winter Concert
February 24 @ 7:30 pm

The Muskegon Community College 2018 Winter Concert, which highlights the wide variety of musical and vocal performance groups at the college, will take place at the Frauenthal Center in downtown Muskegon on Saturday, February 24 at 7:00pm.  The MCC Wind Ensemble, conducted by MCC Music Director Daniel M. Meyers, will perform music by John Philip Sousa, Richard Wagner and Ralph Vaughn Williams.  The MCC Jazz Ensemble, directed by Tim Froncek, will play music by Miles Davis, Don Rayder and Paul Baker.  The College Singers, directed by James Hylen, will perform musical selections by John Rutter and Z. Randall Stroope.  The Honors Orchestra, directed by Philip DeYoung, will perform the music of Johannes Brahms and Antonin Dvorak.  Tickets for the event are $7 for adults and $2 for students and may be purchased at the Frauenthal Center Box Office or online at www.startickets.com.  For more information, contact the MCC Arts and Humanities Department at (231) 777-0324.


Spring Film Fest
February 25 @ 2:00 pm

Every Sunday at 2:00pm through March 25, come to the Harbor Theater for the Spring Film Fest to benefit Muskegon’s historic military vessels!  Tickets are only $6.  For more information, call (231) 375-5228.

The Line-Up

•  2/11 Tombstone
•  2/18 African Queen
•  2/25 MASH
•  3/4 Dr. Strangelove
•  3/11 The Quiet Man
•  3/18 The Manchurian Candidate
•  3/25 Dunkirk


West Michigan Lake Hawks Home Game
February 25 @ 5:00 pm

The West Michigan Lake Hawks strive to provide a professional level of sports entertainment and to enrich the lives of student athletes.  Home games are played at Reeths-Puffer High School.  Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 at the door, and season passes are $90 which saves you 25%.  Ages 4 and under are free.  Call 231-769-9617 for group ticket sales.

Catch their next home game Sunday, February 25 at 5:00pm as they take on the Team Network!


The Sweetest Sound: Sherri Winston and the Pathfinders Youth Gospel Choir
February 26 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Monday, February 26 at 6:00pm, come to Hackley Public Library as local Author Sherri Winston hosts a multi-media presentation incorporating an imaginative PowerPoint display, music, lively discussion and Black History trivia.  The program will weave black history’s literary figures and how their presence impacted her life.  Her recent book, “The Sweetest Sound,” has recently been named one of Kirkus magazine’s best books of the year.  It is coming out in January in paperback.


Zucca (Butternut Squash) with Sofia
February 26 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Monday, February 26 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market invites you to the culinary class, “Zucca (Butternut Squash) with Sofia!”  There are so many ways that the Italians use this delicious and versatile vegetable.  Here are four of Sofia’s favorites that you will prepare in this class:

•  zucca and gorgonzola quiche
•  zucca gnocchi
•  zucca flan
•  baked zucca with soy sauce

There’ll be plenty for tasting and to take home.  The cost is $35.  For more information, call (231) 769-2202.

Car Trunk Abortionist Gets Slap on the Wrist for Three Felonies

Lansing, Mich. — On Thursday, December 7, Michigan abortionist Michael Roth received a $798 fine and 18 months of probation for three felony convictions in Macomb County Circuit Court. The convictions stem from his suspected practice of illegal at-home abortions.

Roth pled no contest on October 16 to three counts of larceny in a building. Roth had a person steal drugs and medical equipment from his former employer Angel Ojeda, an abortionist who runs the Eastland Women’s Center in Eastpointe, Michigan.

Right to Life of Michigan President Barbara Listing said, “It’s outrageous that a man with a long record of violations can get off with so little for three felony convictions.”

In September 2015 Roth was involved in an accident when his car struck a 31-year-old man with special needs. Police found several stolen items along with tissue from aborted babies in the trunk of his car. Given Roth’s previous history of performing abortions in women’s homes in 1998 and 1999, it’s likely he was committing illegal at-home abortions.

Roth was facing other criminal charges, including identity theft and possession with intent to deliver the schedule 2 narcotic Fentanyl, but those charges were dismissed in June. The Michigan Board of Medicine suspended Roth’s license on September 13 for a year and fined him $25,000 for unlawful possession of a controlled substance.

Listing said, “We hope Roth’s license to practice medicine will be permanently revoked. He should never practice medicine again, anywhere.”

Lynn Mills is a citizen journalist who attended Roth’s sentencing hearings. Mills has followed the case from the beginning, and said she was frustrated that no media outlets have sent reporters to the hearings to cover this story since Roth’s initial arrest.

Mills said, “In court this man looked oblivious. There were no real consequences, and he will not stop doing it. Where have the reporters been? I guess this story hasn’t been sensational enough.”

Listing said, “Just like the Kermit Gosnell case in Philadelphia, abortionists with long records don’t receive needed public scrutiny. It allows these abortionists to continue to get away with things others couldn’t. Roth is not an outlier, but the face of the abortion industry in Michigan and nationally.”

Right to Life of Michigan released a report in 2012, Abortion Abuses and State Regulatory Agency Failure, including details on several of Roth’s violations. In addition to his at-home abortions, Roth was disciplined in 2002 for drug-related violations, including prescribing drugs without a license. He was disciplined in 2004 for violating patient consent laws and was accused of falsifying medical records by a former employee and performing illegal late-term abortions.

In 2012 Roth received six months of probation and was ordered to pay a $15,000 fine for Public Health Code violations involving botched abortions. Roth’s most recent abortion business, the bizarrely-named Novi Laser and Aesthetic Center, was closed in 2014.

Background information:
Abortion Abuses and State Regulatory Agency Failure report
Criminal charges and case background
Other charges dismissed

Ask Dr. Universe – Cold in the Mountains

Dear Dr. Universe: Why is it so cold up in the mountains if heat rises and it’s closer to the sun? –Andrea, 11 

Dear Andrea,

You’re right. If we took a trip into the mountains, we would find that it felt a lot colder. It all has to do with our atmosphere. We may not always think about it, but we are basically living in a giant ocean of air.

“It’s a big part of what makes Earth livable,” said my friend Shelley Pressley. She’s an environmental engineer at Washington State University’s Laboratory for Atmospheric Research. “Without gravity and our atmosphere, all the oxygen we breathe would fly out into space.”

Our atmosphere contains small building blocks, or gas molecules, that make up the air we breathe, she said. We can’t always see or feel how much gas there is, but we can measure it. We can calculate the mass of gas, or the number of molecules there are in a certain area.

Air is actually pushing down on us all the time, even if we can’t really feel it.

“Imagine you are standing on Earth’s surface,” Pressley said. “There’s a column of air above your head that stretches up to the top of the atmosphere. The column of air is pushing down on your head. This is pressure.”

“Now, climb the tallest mountain you can find and stand on it,” she adds. “The column of air pushing down on your head is shorter. It has less mass than the column in the first spot.”

The air pressure is greater when you are closer to the level of the ocean’s surface. Here, the building blocks or molecules are pretty squished together. When the gas’ pressure is greater, temperature increases.

Maybe you’ve heard people say the air is thinner up in the mountains, where there is less pressure and the molecules or building blocks are more spread out. When the pressure of a gas decreases, so does temperature.

Pressure is a big part of the answer to the first part of your question. The other part of your question involves the sun. Our sun is about 490 billion feet away from the surface of the Earth.

While a mountain might seem tall, it’s pretty puny in comparison to the distance between Earth and our sun. It actually doesn’t make a huge difference in temperature.

Pressley said that pressure and our sun also have a lot to do with weather. When sunlight travels through the atmosphere, it heats the surface of the planet. When the surface gets warmer, it sends heat back up to air molecules near the surface and warms them up. The molecules of air rise. As they do, they expand and cool.

Somewhere else, air over a mountain that is even colder actually starts to sink. This sinking air gets compressed, squished together, and heats up. This mixing of air is called convection and is at the heart of our weather. This system also keeps the surface of our home planet warm enough to live—from the colder mountains to the warmer beaches around our world.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Fruitport Township Planning Commission Meeting Agenda – 02/20/18

AGENDA

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP
5865 AIRLINE RD
FRUITPORT, MI  49415

February 20, 2018
6:30 PM WORK SESSION
7:00 PM BOARD MEETING

WORK SESSION
Continue review of ordinances

BOARD MEETING
01. Roll Call
02. Approval of Planning Commission Minutes:  January 16, 2018
03. Approve / Amend Agenda
04. Correspondence / Reports
05.  Public Comments pertaining to agenda topics

New Business
06. Site Plan Review – Teddy Spaghettis – 3032 Hts. Ravenna Rd.
Parcel: 61-15-530-000-0009-00
Purpose: Addition to existing restaurant

07. Site Plan Review & Special Use – 2963 Hts. Ravenna Rd.
Parcel: 61-15-293-000-0001-00
Purpose: Smokehouse/General Store and Seasonal Outdoor Market

08. Informational – Sternberg/Quarterline Hotel Development

Old Business
None

09. Public Comments
10. Adjournment

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

Fruitport School Board Special Meeting – Agenda – 02/16/18

Fruitport Community Schools
SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
Friday, February 16, 2018 – 11:30 a.m.
Board of Education Meeting Room

AGENDA

I. CALL to ORDER

II. ROLL CALL

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of Board Meeting Minutes of January 22, 2018 (attachment IV-1)
2. High School Bond Work Bid Update

V. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VI. OTHER

VII. ADJOURNMENT

 

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

Fruitport Board of Education Meeting Agenda – 02/19/18

Fruitport Community Schools
BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING
Board of Education Meeting Room
Monday, February 19, 2018 – 7:00 p.m.

I. CALL to ORDER

II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

III. ROLL CALL

IV. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

V. PRESENTATIONS
1. Kickstart to Career – Chris McGuigan and Janelle Mair
2. Science Projects – Kathy Six

VI. COMMUNICATIONS

VII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

VIII. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

IX. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Special Meeting Minutes of February 16, 2018 (attachment IX-1)
2. Approval of Bills (attachment IX-2)
General Fund                         $255,713.60
Other Funds:
•  Early Childhood Center              937.95
•  Food Service                             5,953.00
•  Coop Ed (ISD) Tech Millage    3,118.92
•  Capital Projects (Bond)       190,432.42
Total Bill List                        $456,155.89

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

X. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of High School Bond Project Bids (attachment X-1)
2. Approval of the 2018-19 School of Choice Resolution (attachment X-2)

XI. BUSINESS & FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Elroy Buckner, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held February 12, 2018 (attachment XI-1)

XII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Steve Kelly, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held February 13, 2018 (attachment XII-1)
2. Approval of the Superintendent’s Evaluation (attachment XII-2)

XIII. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
Jill Brott, Chairperson
1. Report of Committee Meeting held February 14, 2018 (attachment XIII-1)
2. Approval of New High School Art Courses (attachment XIII-2)
3. Approval of Overnight Trip Requests (attachment XIII-3)

XIV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS

XV. AGENDA ITEMS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Schedule Business & Finance Committee Meeting
2. Schedule Personnel Committee Meeting
3. Schedule Student Affairs Committee Meeting
4. Re-schedule March Board Meeting from March 19 to March 26, 2018. Roll Call Vote…
5. MCSBA Spring Dinner, May 3, 2018 5:30 – 8:00 pm, The Lake House
6. Schedule Board Workshops (April, June, September and October)

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC*

XVII. ADJOURNMENT

 

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

City of Muskegon Agrees to Produce Taste of Muskegon

MUSKEGON, MI – After building up the highly successful and popular Taste of Muskegon event over the past 11 years, Downtown Muskegon Now and the city of Muskegon have agreed to transfer the local downtown festival to the city.

Muskegon City Manager Frank Peterson and DMN Chairman Andy Maciejewski have signed a “letter of understanding” in passing the Taste of Muskegon event to the city with the goal of sustaining and growing the event celebrating Muskegon food, community and local businesses.

“The Taste of Muskegon over the past few years has outgrown our small agency’s ability to produce and take the risk for such a large annual event in Hackley Park,” Maciejewski said. “The DMN board is grateful for the hard work and dedication of the volunteer team that took a struggling event and created one of the largest gatherings in Hackley Park every year.”

Taste of Muskegon — the third weekend of June in 2017 — drew record crowds both Friday night as a Party in the Park and all day Saturday. The event was a huge boost for the nearly two dozen food vendors who had significant sales and were able to promote their products and restaurants.

After looking for a non-profit to take over the Taste of Muskegon, DMN entered discussions with city officials, who want to keep the event as a kickoff to the downtown Muskegon festival season.

“We want to continue to support and build up downtown events and activities,” Peterson said of the city’s interest in Taste of Muskegon. “We see this event raising funds to support community projects to better the quality of life for everyone in the city.”

Taste of Muskegon proceeds will support programs and events at the city’s Muskegon Farmers Market, Western Market, Hackley Park, Pere Marquette Park and the Smith-Ryerson Playfield among other city facilities, city officials said.

“We hope that longtime Taste of Muskegon sponsors, organizers and volunteers will help us keep building and improving the event that draws a wide variety of people from across the community,” Peterson said of an event slated for the weekend of June 15-16, 2018.

The city of Muskegon has incorporated many of the Taste of Muskegon vendors into its popular Food Truck Rallies this summer at the Muskegon Farmers Market. Next year’s Taste of Muskegon is expected to launch an expanded schedule of Food Truck Rallies at the market for 2018.

Key to the recent success of Taste of Muskegon has been incorporating it into that Friday night’s Party in the Park. Parties in the Park President Ami Gongalski said that the Friday night Taste of Muskegon was its largest and most successful party in 2017.

“Parties in the Park has been thrilled to incorporate Taste of Muskegon into our schedule the past few years,” Gongalski said. “We look forward to reaching out to the city to see how this collaboration can continue in 2018 and future years.”

Ottawa Administrator Delivers the ‘State of the County’ Address

alvanderbergOttawa County is where people want to be. Low property taxes, a flourishing economy, and a region rich in natural beauty are just a few qualities attracting residents to the area. Ottawa County Administrator Al Vanderberg shared this and other Ottawa County highlights from 2017 during January 23rd’s State of the County Address. Other themes in the report include Ottawa County government’s strong financial position; the collaborations and partnerships that enhance services and save tax dollars; exciting park and paved trail developments, and innovative improvement processes.

Vanderberg also listed some of the challenges and projects on the horizon for 2018 including opioid abuse, the increasing need for mental health services and corresponding funding, affordable housing, pension liability, cyber-security, and planning for a new Juvenile Justice Center.

The full speech can be read here.

Workforce Shortage is the Top Concern

from Jodi Kittle, Communications Manager for the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce

If you are looking for work, look no further than Muskegon County! Finding and recruiting workers is the number one concern of area businesses according to Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce members. Each year, the chamber surveys local businesses to find out how to make Muskegon County the best place to live, work, and play. At the end of 2017, 68% percent of the businesses surveyed stated that the workforce shortage was the number one concern.

“It is great to have a strong economy, yet now we must work to develop local talent and recruit new talent to the community,” says Cindy Larsen, President of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. “This means supporting effective workforce training programs like skilled training funds,” says Larsen. Last year, over $700,000 in state training funds was distributed to local businesses according to records from Muskegon Area First, Muskegon County’s economic development agency.

Also important to the business community is infrastructure improvement for roads, waterfront development and the port development. At the same time, more public transportation opportunities including walkable/bikeable pathways rated high on the chamber survey list.

Over 150 businesses responded to the annual survey which is used to determine the chamber advocacy agenda for the following year. The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce will now promote these issues to local and state elected officials for their consideration when determining community needs. Activities that support business and education partnerships will be a high priority in 2018 as well.

The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce is celebrating 125 years as the area’s premier business organization. Click here for further survey results.

Muskegon County Calendar of Events 02/12/18 – 02/19/18

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


The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick
Monday, February 12 @ 6:00 pm

Monday evenings at 6:00pm, January 29 – April 2, come to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, located at 1346 Bluff St. 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.


Planetarium Show: Faster than Light! The Dream of Interstellar Flight
Tuesdays and Thursdays 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.


Muskegon Museum of Art: Postcard Salon
February 1 – February 15

Don’t miss the “Postcard Salon” exhibition happening February 1 – 15 at the Muskegon Museum of Art! Over 1,400 cards from artists from West Michigan and beyond were on display last year, offering a huge range of materials and subject matter to enjoy. Now in its 12th year, the Postcard Salon reflects the Muskegon Museum of Art’s commitment to Michigan artists, a chance for people of all ages and skill levels to share their work with the public.

The exhibition is free to enter and all submitted cards are installed, making the show a true community endeavor. The exhibition is also a great opportunity to support the area arts community by purchasing an original work of art. Join them this year for the first ever juror awards, singling out four remarkable cards.

Beginning at 7:00pm on Thursday, February 15, all of the postcards on display in the Wiener Gallery will be for sale at $30 apiece. Don’t miss this opportunity to own an original artwork by your favorite regional artists. Buyers will be able to take the works directly from the walls and pay for them at several locations throughout the museum. Muskegon Museum of Art members will be given a five-minute head start beginning promptly at 6:55pm. The sale ends at 8:00pm, so don’t miss out! Memberships can be obtained in the Museum Gift Store, or in the gallery on the 15th. For more information, call 231-720-2570.


Movies @ the Library: Hidden Figures
Tuesday, February 13 at 5:30pm

Come to Hackley Public Library for the film “Hidden Figures” (127 mins. PG) as they celebrate Black History Month! This film portrays the true story of how NASA found untapped talent in a group of African-American female mathematicians that served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in U.S. history.“Movies @ the Library” happens first Tuesday of the month. Bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Brought to the community through a generous bequest from Bess Commodore. WUVS 103.7 “The Community Station” the Beat is the media sponsor.


Muskegon Lumberjacks Hockey Home Game
Wednesday, February 14 @ 7:00 pm       

Spend Wednesday February 14 (Valentine’s Day) at Lumberjacks home game. The puck drops at 7:15pm as the Jacks take on the Bloomington Thunder at the L.C. Walker Arena. Purchase tickets by calling 231-724-5225. GO JACKS!


Dining in the Dark
Wednesday, February 14 6:00pm – 9:00pm,

Come to Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market for “Dining in the Dark,” an event that will heighten four of your five senses. Enjoy a fun, out-of-your comfort-zone experience while dining in a whole new way. Enjoy a delicious meal by Chef Jack Page, designed to stimulate the palate and challenge your sense of smell and taste. Of course, all of this will happen while eating completely in the dark! Wearing older clothing is encouraged. There is limited seating and this event will sell out! A cash bar will be available with Happy Hour from 6:00pm – 7:00pm. Dinner begins at 7:00pm. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice. Please indicate any restrictions by emailing ann.meisch@shorelinecity.com. Tickets are $50 and available through www.eventbrite.com. For more information, call (231) 722-3251.


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! Call 231-720-2570.


Learn to Luge Weekend
Friday – Sunday @ 6:00 pm

Every Friday – Sunday at 6:00pm (weather permitting), you can learn to luge at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, offering one of only four publicly accessible luge tracks in the United States! Although shorter in overall length than the Olympic tracks in New York and Salt Lake City, the Muskegon Luge track provides an Olympic thrill with the safety of the participant in mind. The track was designed by three-time Olympian Frank Masley and consists of six curves and two starting areas. For more information, call 1-877-TRY-LUGE or visit the website below to make reservations.

Safe & Easy to Learn:

Safety is the number one priority when teaching new sliders or conducting races with seasoned sliders. All participants must be at least 8 years old at the time of their session. Participants are outfitted with elbow pads, a helmet and a well-maintained luge sled. An instructor carefully goes over each part of the sled with a beginning slider and teaches easy to learn methods of steering the sled. Over three decades, the program has instructed thousands of sliders from age 8 to 80 to safely and successfully luge. While luge is referred to the fastest sport on ice, this track is designed for the novice slider at slower speeds than an Olympic track, where sliders can reach speeds of 90+ mph. The top speeds at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex track are approximately 30 mph on a “good ice” day although to most new sliders it still feels like 90 mph!

Get Some Physical Activity in the Winter:

The sleds weigh between 25-40 lbs. and are transported up a flight of stairs to the top of the luge track by human power…you! Small children will most likely need adult help to get their sled back up the hill. If you have heart troubles or health issues that may be complicated by climbing stairs or participating in adrenaline pumping outdoor thrill sports, this activity may not be recommended.

What to Expect:

The size of each session is limited, so participants can expect to get 3-6 runs depending on weather conditions and efficiency of the group and personal pace. The first 20 minutes of the session you will receive instruction from an experienced luge coach about safety and equipment. During free sliding time, coaches will be positioned along the track to give you instruction throughout the session. The last 15 minutes of each session is set aside for participant certificates and a medals ceremony.


A Raisin in the Sun
Friday, February 16- March 3 @ 7:00 pm – March 3 @ 7:00 pm

Come to the Beardsley Theater for “A Raisin in the Sun,” presented by the Muskegon Civic Theatre! Set on Chicago’s South Side, the plot revolves around the divergent dreams and conflicts within three generations of the Younger family: son Walter Lee, his wife Ruth, his sister Beneatha, his son Travis, and matriarch Lena. When her deceased husband’s insurance money comes through, Mama Lena dreams of moving to a new home in a better neighborhood in Chicago. Walter Lee, a chauffeur, has other plans: buying a liquor store and being his own man. Beneatha dreams of medical school. The tensions and prejudice they face form this seminal American drama. The Younger family’s heroic struggle to retain dignity in a harsh and changing world is a searing and timeless document of hope and inspiration. For more information, call 231-727-8001.


Dancing with the Local Stars 2018
Friday, February 16- Saturday 17 & Feb 22-24

Muskegon’s highly popular charity event, Dancing with the Local Stars, is back for its 10th star-studded year and accepting applications from local food pantries and food programs.The event, produced by the Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce, benefits food pantries and food programs in Muskegon, upper Ottawa and lower Oceana counties. The first nine events enabled WDCC to donate more than $755,000 to those food-giving organizations thanks to generous community members and business leaders. Traditionally, Dancing with the Local Stars pairs local dignitaries, business leaders and people of interest with local dance professionals in four performances. However, this year’s event will feature more than 60 returning cast members in nine dance teams with 11 professional dancers in six performances happening February 16-17 and February 22-24, at the Holiday Inn & Conference Center Downtown Muskegon. To apply for funds from the event, food pantries and food programs should download the WDCC Donation Request Form found under the “Quick Links” on the home page at www.womensdivision.org. Completed applications must be submitted by January 15, 2018 to Women’s Division Chamber of Commerce, Ways & Means Committee, P.O. Box 1665, Muskegon, MI 49443. WDCC will inform donation recipients in April after the event.


Wine Away the Winter Blues
Friday, February 16 @ 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm

Come to SE4SONS and “Wine Away the Winter Blues,” featuring the Rick Hicks Band. Tickets are $20 per person and include four hours of live music, five 2 oz. pours and light appetizers. Se4sons is located in the Muskegon Country Club, 2801 Lakeshore Dr. This is open to the public. Join them for dinner before, during or after at SE4SONS Gastropub. Be sure to make your reservations early by calling 231-759-3405.


Free Fishing Weekend
Saturday, February 17 – February 18

Michigan’s Free Fishing Weekends: An annual tradition. Two days twice a year, families and friends can enjoy one of Michigan’s premiere outdoor activities, Michigan Fishing, for FREE!

All fishing license fees will be waived for two days. Residents and out-of-state visitors may enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes’ waters for all species of fish. All fishing regulations will still apply. For many, the annual Free Fishing Weekend has become a tradition – a time to get together and have some fishing fun. While some may find time to reflect while fishing, there are no limits to variations on a great theme!


Pierogis and Dumplings with Chef Char
Saturday, February 17 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

You’re invited to Kitchen 242 for the culinary class, “Pierogis and Dumplings with Chef Char!” In this class, you’ll work with two similar types of dough to make a classic American comfort food and a traditional Polish treat. Pierogis will be constructed and stuffed with an assortment of fillings before cooked or prepared for your freezer. Fluffy dumplings will also be prepared to make a hearty kettle of chicken and dumplings to try in class or take home. Sign up for classes at Eventbrite.com or call 231-769-2202 for more information. The cost is $40.


Valentine’s Day Murder Mystery Special
Saturday, February 17 @ 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Bring your sweetie to the Back Alley Comedy Club, 1531 W. Sherman Blvd. (in Sherman Bowling Center) for the Valentine’s Day Murder Mystery Special! Your evening begins with a delicious dinner catered by Ryke’s, then it’s Clue style goodness that happens right in front of your table. The moment you walk through the door you will be immersed in a thrilling murder mystery experience, mingling with crazy characters and shady suspects in a game of murder you get to play! As the night continues you will get to interrogate the suspects, gather the clues, and work with your team to help their mystery experts crack the case before the killer gets away! Tickets are $40 when at Sherman Bowling Center or $42 when purchased online. Pre-Show drinks and mingling begin at 7:00pm with dinner at 7:30pm. The show will begin at 8:00pm. For more information, call (231) 755-1258 or visit the website below.


Indoor Farmers’ Market
Saturday @ 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.


Spring Film Fest
Sunday, February 18 @ 2:00 pm

Every Sunday at 2:00pm, February 11 – March 25, come to the Harbor Theater, 1937 Lakeshore Dr. in Lakeside for the Spring Film Fest to benefit Muskegon’s historic military vessels! Tickets are only $6. For more information, call (231) 375-5228. Today you will view “African Queen


Winners and Winds
Sunday, February 18 @ 4:00 pm    

Come to the Frauenthal Center, 425 W. Western Ave. for “Winners and Winds,” presented by the West Michigan Concert Winds! The Winds will honor senior solo scholarship recipients, as well as share the stage with two area high school band members and their conductor. Tickets are $12 for adults and students. Children under 18 are free with a ticketed adult. For more information, call 231-727-8001.


Authentic African Cuisine with Chef Damon
Sunday, February 18 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm      

February is African Heritage Month! Sunday, February 18 from 5:00pm – 8:00pm, Kitchen 242 inside the Muskegon Farmers’ Market, 242 W. Western Ave. will celebrate by exploring the many essences of authentic African Cuisine and prepare a four course meal that you will sit and enjoy at the end of class. This four course meal will utilize local, seasonal market ingredients. The cost is $50. For more information, call (231) 769-2202. The Menu: •Callaloo •Shrimp Piri Piri, •Lamb Curry & Yellow Rice •Banana Fritters & Pure Honey


The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick
Monday, February 19 @ 6:00 pm

Come to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, 1346 Bluff St. for The Vietnam War by Ken Burns! This film 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


The Ebony Road Players: The Meeting
Monday, February 19 @ 7:00 pm   

The Norton Shores Library, 705 Seminole Rd., hosts The Ebony Road Players as they perform excerpts from the play “The Meeting.” This is a fascinating and eloquent play by Jeff Stetson that depicts the supposed meeting of two of the most important men of modern times: Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther. Differing in their philosophies, but alike in their mutual respect, the two men debate their varying approaches to the same grave social problems, both prepared to die for their beliefs but neither aware of how soon their assassins’ bullets await them. No registration or tickets required.

This production is designed to tie in with “X: A Novel,” the 2017-2018 Great Michigan Read title. The Great Michigan Read is intended for young adults to senior citizens, with broad goals of making literature more accessible and appealing while also encouraging residents to learn more about our state and individual identities. Copies of “X: A Novel” are available at the Library to check out now while supplies last.

This program, funded by the Friends of the Norton Shores Library and the Almeda Boulton Memorial Fund of the Community Foundation of Muskegon County, is free and open to the public with no registration required.   For additional information, contact Alison Purgiel, lead librarian, at 231-780-8844 or apurgiel@madl.org .

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SCHA-MI Honors Advocates with Apple, Marilynn Keeslar Awards

Every year, the School-Community Health Alliance of Michigan recognizes advocates who make outstanding contributions to school-based health centers. This year, we received over a dozen nominations from some of the most dedicated supporters of school-based health. They ranged from volunteers and funders, to practitioners and CEOs.

Apple Winner Co-Winners: Mark and Christine Fazakerley; and Linda Juarez

schami

Pictured: Linda Juarez (middle)

Mark and Christine Fazakerley are loyal advocates for the health and wellness of the community they call home.  A few years ago, they noted a critical need for health care in Oakridge Public Schools where their children had graduated and their grandchildren now attend.  They worked with the schools, helped to assess the needs, and provided private funding for a community health worker. This initial philanthropic investment spurred a movement to develop a school-based health center which opened in December 2015.  The Fazakerley family was a key supporter as well as a catalyst for generating community funding for the construction of the clinic.  The compassion, vision, advocacy, and philanthropy of the Fazakerley family was key to the launch of this health center that now serves hundreds of students with medical, dental, and behavioral health care.

Linda Juarez is a champion for school-based health care.  She leads a team of 180 employees at Hackley Community Care which operates two school-based health centers, serves four satellite schools, and supports additional behavioral health centers.  When Oakridge Public Schools Superintendent Tom Livezey was looking to bring health services to his students, Linda and her team joined the effort, brought expertise to the project, and helped to rally community support. Before long the two were celebrating the opening of the Oakridge Teen Health Center at Oakridge Middle and High School campus.  The area had been a healthcare desert, with not one medical or dental practice in the school district and no public transportation to travel to care. These factors left students without access to care. The clinic now provides medical, dental, and behavioral health services to students in a safe and welcoming environment.  Linda’s strong leadership and care for the students has really made a difference in this community.

“Each time someone stands up for an ideal or acts to improve the lot of others… he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.” – Robert Kennedy

A State Of Grace

By Mike Simcik

This last Christmas Eve my wife and I went to church in the early evening. A gentle snow fell, it was indeed a silent night, a holy night and all was calm. Of course, the decorations inside abound with poinsettias, and lighted Christmas trees bordering the altar. This pristine setting was pretty much the same as I remember in years past.

We sat and listened to the sermon about the events of the past. Everyone was quiet except for a few fidgety babies not yet impressed with the liturgy and the point of interest. We sang songs about the Christ Child and the miracle of birth. We listened to how and why he was placed here on earth. After all, it is common knowledge that we are sinners by nature and it would take nothing less than an act of God to save us from ourselves.

A second thought had occurred to me, we know that Christ was born to teach us a better way to live our lives. We know he died to pardon and forgive us our sins. But is it absolutely necessary for us to sin quite so often and in so many ways?

Everything that night in church appeared the same, except me, this time I became acutely aware of my surroundings. It was no secret that I was not a member of this church like my wife is but I attended service with her on all the special occasions throughout the year.

No one took notice of my presence there because I always knew that Christians opened their hearts to all that believe in God and Christ. This year I noticed so many things about the others as they prayed, sang, and knelt in the pews before the altar.

As the parishioners walked up to the altar to receive holy communion, heads bowed in reverence, then returning to their pews, I noticed their faces. It became clear to me that these individuals were in a state of grace. For a brief hour or so, these Christians no feelings of persecution, injustice, or malice towards anyone else.

I had wondered, perhaps we should attend church six days a week for an hour free of sin, anger, and fear and on the seventh day give ourselves a rest from the turbulent world we live in.

Wouldn’t be nice, instead of hearing an irritating alarm clock buzzing every morning, we listen to Louis Armstrong’s old song, What A Wonderful World. Maybe that will put us in a state of grace before getting to that daily workplace.

Caleb Przybylek’s First Buck

by Rich Przybylek

calebsbuck

Caleb Przybylek’s first buck, a 6pt, shot on November 3 with a crossbow at 25 yards out. He has a heck of a story if you want to hear it. He is a 7 th grade student at Fruitport Middle School .

Let me start by telling you that I was not too enthused about hunting this year. That’s until Caleb came home from school about a week before the youth hunt, and told me he wanted to hunt and shoot a deer this year. I am an avid hunter and I have definitely been blessed but just felt like my hunting was missing something. Well I got our crossbow out and we went and sighted it in and let’s just say Caleb only needed to take one practice shot, bullseye first shot at 20 yards. So the youth weekend was here and it was gonna be miserably hot. I warned him that it was probably gonna be too hot to see deer, and we saw none. I was worried, for I just got him to hunt and not seeing deer can be a turn off and he told me he didn’t care to see deer he just wanted to spend time with me😢. It’s now the third week of bow and I can’t get him to come back out with me, but he got me excited about being out and I shot a 5pt. We hunt state land so just seeing bucks at times is tough. I went up on the 27th of October again by myself and I had a real nice 6pt coming in but I could not shoot it but knew my son could and that this might boost his confidence. I came and talked him in to going by telling him I guarantee you’ll shoot a deer, possibly a buck. I convinced him to go with me on Friday nov. 3rd and not 20 minutes in the stand, 4:15 to be exact the 6pt was coming in. I had Caleb pick up the bow, turn the safety off, and get ready. I could see he was getting nervous. He was shaking and breathing hard so I whispered to him over and over to take deep breaths and calm down. I also told him to aim at his shoulder and to not take it off. Caleb had to hold the red dot on him for 10 minutes until he cleared a few trees. He was doing so great being patient letting that buck take his time and he did not speed the shot, I teach him to never take bad shots. Finally the buck turned his head only to look behind him and in doing so he stepped forward a foot giving my son a shot. I was gonna tell him to shoot but before I could he did. Direct hit right through the heart, it only ran 20 yards and dropped. The deer did not suffer, for it was a perfect shot. I look to Caleb and say good shot and grab the crossbow so he doesn’t drop it in excitement. Then I noticed Caleb was in full tears.. I asked if he was crying because he’s sad he killed a deer and he said no. I said why then do you cry, he says to me these are tears of glory dad, I never thought I would ever shoot a buck. He didn’t know but I shed a tear myself, because I knew exactly what I was missing in my hunting, my new hunting partner Caleb. On the way home the fun competition and heckling started toward me, Caleb was teasing by saying I shot a bigger deer than you dad. I smiled and said yes! Yes you did. I so look forward to future hunting with him and my other 3 kids in the future. Thanks for letting me tell you this, Caleb is an amazing 12 year old trying to find who he is like most boys and girls his age and he lacks confidence in himself. After this hunt, I’ve seen a change in him and see him starting to gain confidence.

Fruitport Township Board Meeting Agenda – 02/12/18

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

FEBRUARY 12, 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: 1/22/2018
04. Approve / amend agenda
05. Correspondence / reports
06. Public comments regarding agenda items

07. Unfinished Business
A. Employee handbook
B. Land use fees resolution
C. Trustee appointment
D. Swear-in newly appointed Trustee

08. New Business
A. Swearing in new Firefighters
B. Extrication demonstration and discussion
C. Police Department vacancy
D. Quarterline water main
E. 2018-2019 budget discussion

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

How You Get Norovirus

norovirusHaving direct physical contact with a person who is infected, such as caring for or shaking hands with a sick person and then touching your hands to your mouth.

Eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus.

Touching surfaces or objects with norovirus on them and then putting your hands in your mouth.

People with norovirus illness are most contagious from the moment they begin feeling ill and for the first few days after they recover. Some people may be contagious for even longer.

“We are receiving an increase in stomach virus reporting. Primary outbreaks are within school and childcare settings. To reduce the risk of illness in our community, people need to take preventive measures to stay healthy,” said Marcia Mansaray, epidemiologist.

Protect Yourself and Others from Norovirus
•  Wash hands with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and changing diapers – and always before eating or preparing food. Hand sanitizers are generally not effective for norovirus

•  Handle and prepare food safely. People with norovirus illness should not prepare food for others while they have symptoms and for at least two days after they recover from their illness.

•  Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces (such as toilets, counters and doorknobs). Always clean up the entire area immediately after someone with norovirus vomits or has diarrhea. Put on disposable gloves and disinfect contaminated surfaces using a bleach-based household cleaner as directed on the product label or with a solution of five tablespoons of bleach to a gallon of water.

•  Wash laundry thoroughly. Immediately remove and wash clothing or linens that may be contaminated with vomit or stool. Handle soiled items carefully – try not to shake them – to avoid spreading the virus. If available, wear disposable gloves while handling soiled clothing or linens and wash your hands after handling.

•  Stay home if sick for at least 24 hours after symptoms end to avoid spreading the illness to others.

For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/norovirus.

Ask Dr. Universe – Parasites

Dear Dr. Universe: What can you tell me about parasites? -Brianna, 12, Eastern Wash.

Dear Brianna,

A parasite is an organism that steals resources from another organism in order to survive. Our planet is home to all kinds of parasites and organisms that host them.

My friends Kevin Zobrist and Lisa Shipley, scientists at Washington State University, told me about a few holiday-inspired parasites. After all, ‘tis the season.

The first parasite is a type of plant that people often smooch under around the holidays: mistletoe. There are a lot of species of mistletoe, explains Zobrist, a forester at WSU.

An example in the Pacific Northwest is hemlock dwarf mistletoe, which explosively releases sticky seeds during the summer. The seeds can fly up to 50 feet and stick to tree branches they fall on. When the seeds land on trees like western hemlock (the state tree of Washington), the mistletoe starts to grow.

Some kinds of mistletoe have leaves they can use to take in sunlight and help make food. But they still aren’t able to get enough food on their own. They have to feed off trees. Dwarf mistletoes don’t have any leaves. They get everything they need from their host.

In the process, this little mistletoe parasite causes trees to form weird clumps called “witch’s brooms” that can ultimately end up killing them. While the trees might die and become snags of dead wood, this can actually be a good thing for the forest ecosystems.

Zobrist explained that some animals, including some endangered species, will use witch’s broom branches or the insides of dead trees to make their habitat or nest. Even though the parasite takes life from the tree, it’s not all bad for life in the forest.

While some parasites live off plants, other parasites need animals. Lisa Shipley, a WSU professor who works with animals in the deer family, said some reindeers are host to a parasite that is so small we’d need a microscope to see it. It’s a kind of nematode more commonly called a brain worm.

Before the nematode finds the reindeer host, it lives in a different animal. When it’s young, it will go into the slimy bottom part of a snail, called its foot.

As snails slide along leaves of plants, reindeer that are munching on leaves will sometimes eat a snail, too. When they eat the snail, they eat the young nematode. The young nematodes move through the body and are eventually pooped out. But along the way, they can lay eggs and cause damage to the reindeer’s brain.

“The worm can be treated with parasite medications, so if you have your own reindeer—like some people in the North Pole do—you can give them medicine,” Shipley said.

Mistletoe and nematodes are just two of many parasites. Other parasites like ticks or fleas rely on hosts like us cats to get their food. Parasites can be inconvenient and even deadly, but to them, it’s all about survival.

Sincerely,
Dr. Universe

Missing Dog

titanTitan has been missing since December. He is male one blue eye one brown he is three years old, if you’ve seen him or have any information please contact me at (231)-736-9416

Kira Fisher

United Way of the Lakeshore Announces Free Tax Filing Tool and Personal Support for ALICE

(MUSKEGON, MI) – Today, United Way of the Lakeshore announced two free options for people to file their income taxes. The online system is MyFreeTaxes, a product of H&R Block. It allows most filers to complete their taxes online in under one hour. For those seeking in-person help, Goodwill Industries in the Lakeshore Region administers VITA, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program that uses MyFreeTaxes to file taxes for taxpayers needing assistance. Income eligible people are invited to schedule an appointment by calling 2-1-1.

The United Way has partnered over the past decade with H&R Block and Goodwill Industries of West Michigan to provide free tax filing services for federal and state taxes, the partnerships have helped people file their returns, bringing more refunds back to help their families in our local communities. These resources are a direct benefit to ALICE – Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. These people work across the Lakeshore Region yet struggle to meet their families’ basic needs.

“Tax season is a source of confusion and stress for most Americans,” said Christine J. Robere, President & CEO, United Way of the Lakeshore. “Many are worried they’ll make a mistake, won’t get their full refund or will pay too much. With MyFreeTaxes, filers can get support from IRS-certified specialists and cut down the time it takes to complete their returns online.” Robere added, “Otherwise, income tax filers who want personalized customer service can feel free to call 2-1-1 to schedule an appointment with a VITA specialist to have their taxes prepared in person. Either way, these are two wonderful options to help people file their taxes and put money in their pockets.”

Taxpayers earning less than $66,000 can either call 2-1-1 for a personal appointment, or enter their data through MyFreeTaxes.com. This links to a secure H&R Block website, making it easy to complete their federal and state taxes from home, at work or on mobile devices. It offers unlimited, personalized real-time chat and phone support in English and Spanish from IRS-certified specialists at 1-855-MY-TX-HELP. The helpline operates from January 22 through April 30, 2018 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. EST Monday through Friday, and from noon to 9:00 p.m. EST on Saturdays.

United Way of the Lakeshore is uniting to inspire change and build thriving communities. Our Bold Goal – 10,000 more working families meet their basic needs by 2025. For more information, contact United Way of the Lakeshore at 231-722-3134 or visit www.unitedwaylakeshore.org.

Give Kids a Smile Day

givekidsasmileDr. Robert Kamminga was the dentist on the Ottawa County Department of Public Health’s Miles of Smiles mobile dental unit this past Friday, Feb. 2 for Give Kids a Smile Day. He provided comprehensive dental care for Medicaid insured and financially qualifying uninsured children at Great Lakes Elementary. Every child received a gift bag complete with a toothbrush, toothpaste, prize and oral health education.

“Our Miles of Smiles program is the best example of a community collaborative effort that I could ever envision,” said Debra Bassett, RDH, BHS Ottawa County Department of Public Health Oral Health Supervisor.

Pain from untreated dental disease makes it difficult for children to eat, sleep and concentrate in school. Poor oral health also affects their self-esteem.

Ottawa County Department of Public Health Miles of Smiles mobile dental unit provides dental services for Medicaid insured and financially qualifying uninsured children in Ottawa County. Partners include dental society involvement, dentist and hygienist volunteers, school administration dedication, community support, funder’s generosity, Ottawa County Administration support and Ottawa County Department of Public Health’s commitment to help improve the health of children.

Please call 1-800-467-5905 to schedule an appointment for your child if they are in need of a dentist, have Medicaid or are uninsured and qualify for the free/reduced lunch program.

Scolnik Healing Center of Harbor Hospice Now Accepting Applications for 25th Annual Camp Courage 2018

campcourageHarbor Hospice has been offering Camp Courage for 24 years as a way to help children and their families following the death of a loved one. The emotions of grief can be overwhelming and isolating for children who have not yet developed the verbal and emotional skills to navigate the grief process.

Children grieve differently than adults and need time to just “be kids” as well as time to honor and remember their loved one. Kids often feel alone in their grief and thrive when able to connect with others who understand their unique experience.

Harbor Hospice staff and trained volunteers create a safe, stable environment for children to explore and express their grief, remember their loved one, and connect with others who have experienced a death. Children participate in traditional camp activities such as swimming, hiking and campfires, along with grief-tailored activities that teach healthy coping skills.

Camp Courage, an overnight camping experience for children ages 6-12 and teens 15-19 as Junior Counselors, is held at Pioneer Trails on Big Blue Lake in Muskegon County beginning Friday, June 22, 2018 at 10:00 am through Sunday, June 24, 2018 at 2:00 pm. Application deadline is May 31, 2018. The only cost for camp is a one-time $10 registration fee. For more information or to register, contact Laura Ecker or Melanie Dekkers at 231.728.3442 or 1.800.497.9559 or email info@HarborHospiceMI.org or visit our website at HarborHospiceMI.org.

https://harborhospicemi.org/resources/camp-courage/

Frauenthal Center Presents: Comedian Louie Anderson

louieanderson

Date: March 9, 2018
Time: 7:30 pm
Place: Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $29 – $49

Muskegon, MI — Iconic comedian Louie Anderson takes the Frauenthal stage in a one-night only hilarious stand-up act! The three-time Emmy Award winner is one of the country’s most recognized and adored comics; named by Comedy Central as “One of 100 Greatest Stand-Up Comedians of All Time.”

With a career spanning more than 30 years, Anderson currently co-stars in the hit FX comedy series Baskets, winning the 2016 Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. He is a best-selling author, star of his own stand-up specials and sitcoms and he continues to tour the country performing to standing-room-only crowds worldwide.

Tickets are $29 – $49 and can be purchased at the Frauenthal Box Office via phone at 231.727.8001 or in person, open 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.

Frauenthal Center Presents Richard Dowling: The Music of Scott Joplin

Date: Sunday, March 4, 2018
Time: 3:00 pm
Place: Frauenthal Theater
Tickets: $20 – $30 / $12 Youth

Muskegon, MI — RICHARD DOWLING: THE MUSIC OF SCOTT JOPLIN‘s piano concert features the beloved Scott Joplin ragtime piano works used in the 1973 Academy Award winning movie, “The Sting,” (including The Entertainer) plus many other dazzling, delightful, and rarely-heard Joplin compositions.

The program features an Audience Choice selection — a Joplin work randomly selected by an audience member from the remaining complete Joplin piano repertoire (53 rags, waltzes, marches and cakewalks). Richard Dowling is the first pianist in the world to perform all of Scott Joplin’s piano works in public. On April 1, 2017 — exactly 100 years to the day that Joplin died in New York City — Mr. Dowling performed the complete Joplin cycle in two historic sold-out recitals at Carnegie Hall in New York. Rivermont Records recently released Mr. Dowling’s 3-CD definitive set of The Complete Piano Works of Scott Joplin, recorded on a magnificent Hamburg Steinway concert grand piano.

Tickets are $20 – $30 Adult / $12 Youth (18 and under) and can be purchased at the Frauenthal Box Office via phone at 231.727.8001 or in person, open 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.

Watch Muskegon Beautification

WATCH MUSKEGON… BEAUTIFY

watchusgoThe goal of the Watch Muskegon Campaign is to enhance the overall image of the Muskegon area and to share positive changes both locally and regionally – early data results show that our efforts are working!

As we continue to focus on our three pillars of Education, Beautification, and Marketing, we’d like to share how the Watch Muskegon campaign has made an impact with Beautification!

DID YOU KNOW?

The Watch Muskegon Beautification pillar focuses on Muskegon County with an emphasis on one of our main corridors, Sherman Boulevard. We began our beautification process with a study identifying ways to improve Sherman Boulevard. A complete link to the Beautification Study can be found here. Since the beginning of the campaign, Watch Muskegon has…

verticaltwo• Created and been involved with multiple clean-up projects along Sherman Blvd.
• Coordinated a major clean-up project on Sherman Blvd. which included curb enhancements on a 1.5 mile stretch from Seaway Dr. to Getty St.
• Began an implementation strategy for gateway features in key areas along Sherman Blvd. from US-31 to Lake Michigan.
• Identified multiple locations for pocket parks on Sherman Blvd. and began the approval process for one pocket park.
• Facilitated an Adopt-a-Lot Program.
horizontaltwos• Added permanent trash receptacles in locations with significant foot traffic and debris.
• Worked with organizations to clean-up blighted properties.
• Painted fencing along Sherman Blvd.
• Researched and drafted a proposal for an anti-litter campaign.
• Created relationships with municipalities, local residents and businesses along Sherman Blvd. to implement change.

GET INVOLVED!

The Watch Muskegon campaign is comprised of several local businesses and individuals throughout Muskegon County and is funded 100% by private donations. The “US” in WATCH US GO is everyone, and anyone can be part of the positive change!

SIGN UP FOR THE WATCH MUSKEGON NEWSLETTER

HELP SUPPORT ANOTHER 3 YEAR CAMPAIGN

Have questions? Contact Carla Flanders at cflanders@muskegon.org.

 

Fruitport Township Planning Commission Meeting Agenda – 01/16/18

AGENDA

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP
5865 AIRLINE RD
FRUITPORT, MI 49415

January 16, 2018
6:30 PM WORK SESSION
7:00 PM BOARD MEETING

WORK SESSION
Continue review of ordinances

BOARD MEETING
01. Roll Call
02. Approval of Planning Commission Minutes: December 19th, 2017
03. Approve / Amend Agenda
04. Correspondence / Reports
05. Public Comments pertaining to agenda topics

New Business
06. Special Use: Timothy L. Bakker, 2028 E. Hile Road
Parcel: 61-15-640-000-0001-10
Purpose: Retain Federal Firearms License (FFL)
– No business to be conducted at this address

Old Business
None

07. Public Comments
08. Adjournment

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

Fruitport Township Planning Commission Meeting Minutes – 12/19/17

MINUTES

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP
5865 AIRLINE RD
FRUITPORT, MI 49415

December 19, 2017
6:30 PM WORK SESSION
7:00 PM BOARD MEETING

WORK SESSION 

Continue review of ordinances.42-92, B 1, Change “Ag Agricultural” to “R-4, R6, or the R-1”. Next week start at 42-93.

BOARD MEETING 

Chair Michelli called meeting to order at 7:01.

01. Roll Call: Chair Michelli, Kyle Osterhart, Brett Suchecki, Jason Franklin, Geoff Newmyer, Matthew Farrar, Jeff Jacobs. Staff present, Lela Miller, Supervisor Tice, & Jacob Mason.

02. Approval of Planning Commission Minutes: December 6th, 2017. Motion by Jacobs to accept the minutes as changed. Support by Franklin and carried.

03. Approve / Amend Agenda: Agenda accepted by the chair as presented

04. Correspondence / Reports: Chair Michelli referenced the memo from Lesli Lehner relative to the noise ordinance violation alleged. The PC prefers to let the problem be solved rather than change an ordinance to regulate garbage pick-up times. Board discussed the issue on Pleasantwood that was brought to the PC’s attention in July of 2017 relative to trailers which a resident views as trailer blight. All trailers are in compliance and registered. There is no prohibition against utility trailers in the yard. The PC does not wish to change the ordinance to prohibit utility trailers in the front yard.

05. Public Comments pertaining to agenda topics: None.

New Business 

06. Special Use / Site Plan – LRBOI / All Seasons RV
Parcel: 61-15-115-300-0026-00
Purpose: Storage of non-motorized recreational vehicles

Motion by Osterhart, supported by Newmyer to open public hearing.

Ed Geerlings 4701 Airline Road. Stated they wanted to lease Tribal land to store non- motorized RV’s. The RV’s will be fenced in and stored on existing pavement. They proposed to use 30,000 square feet of the property. This would be overflow of duplicate models so customers would not be on the site. The stored units would not have gas or batteries in them until they are moved across the street.

Motion by Jacobs, supported by Newmyer to close the public hearing. Unanimous.

1. The motion is made by Osterhart to grant the special use request for parcel number 61-15-115-300-0026-00 for the following requested special use:

2. The motion is based upon specific findings by the Township relative to the factors specified in Section 42-157 of the Zoning Chapter.

a. The special use [will/will not] be harmonious with and in accordance with the general objectives or with any specific objections of the Master Plan. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): ______________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

b. The special use [will/will not] be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained so as to be harmonious and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended character of the general vicinity, and it [will/will not] change the essential character of the same area. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): ___________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

c. The special use [will/will not] be hazardous or disturbing to existing or future uses. This finding is based upon the following facts: _______________________ _________________________________________________________________.

d. The special use [will/will not] be a substantial improvement to property in the immediate vicinity and to the Township as a whole. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): ________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

e. The special use [will/will not] be served adequately by essential public facilities and services, or have them adequately provided by the applicant; facilities and services include highways, streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, and schools. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

f. The special use will not create excessive additional requirements at public cost for public facilities and services and [will/will not] be detrimental to the economic welfare of the Township. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): No additional requirements from the Township.

g. The special use will not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, and equipment and conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the general welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, or odors. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): storage for business only and no public or customers will be brought to the site

h. The special use [will/will not] be consistent with the intent and purposes of the Zoning Chapter. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): ____________ _________________________________________________________________.

i. Any other findings regarding any other factors established by the Zoning Chapter for the proposed special use: __________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

3. If the motion is to grant approval, the following conditions are established as authorized by Section 42-158 of the Zoning Chapter.

a. The special use must comply with the site plan, dated 11-13-17, submitted to the Township, as well as any written material submitted by the applicant to the Township.

b. The special use must comply with all federal, state, and Muskegon County laws, rules, regulations, and requirements.

c. The special use must be acquired, developed, and completed in conformance with the Zoning Chapter, as amended, and the rest of the Fruitport Charter Township Code of Ordinances.

d. The construction of the special use must be completed within ____ years. This deadline may be extended by the Township, without going through the entire application process, upon request by the applicant and evidence showing that the applicant is proceeding in good faith toward completion.

e. If the special use approval is contingent upon public water service or public sanitary sewer service or both being provided, then no construction of the special use may begin until all required easements are in place, all required forms have been completed, and all approvals for service have been obtained.

f. A financial guarantee is required as allowed by Section 42-158(d) of the Zoning Chapter. The details of the financial guarantee are: _______________________ _________________________________________________________________.

g. A digital copy of the site plan as approved shall be provided to the Fire Inspector at brian.michelli@mcd911.net, or such other e-mail address as the Fire Inspector may designate.

h. Any other conditions placed by the Township upon the special use: New models only.

Motion was supported by Jacobs. Roll call vote was unanimous.

Old Business 

Motion was made by Jacobs to amend the agenda to include the Journey Church to old business #8.. The motion was supported by Suchecki and carried. 6-1.

08. PC discussed the Journey Church SLU. Staff handed out updated plans from the Consultant/Contractor. General consensus was they met the intent of the elevation changes requested by the PC.

A motion was made by Jacobs to approve the site plan, dated 12-15-17 as submitted. The motion was supported by Newmyer. Motion carried 5-2.

09. Public Comments

10. Adjournment: Chair Michelli adjourned the meeting at 8:20.

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

Fruitport Township Planning Commission Meeting Minutes – 12/06/18

MINUTES
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP
5865 AIRLINE ROAD
FRUITPORT, MI 49415

December 6, 2017
7:00 P.M. BOARD MEETING

BOARD MEETING 

Chair Michelli called the meeting to order at 7:00

1. Roll Call: Present: Jeff Jacobs, Mike Michelli, Kyle Osterhart, Brett Suchecki, Jason Franklin Absent and excused: Matthew Farrar, Geoff Newmyer
2. Approval of Planning Commission Minutes: November 21, 2017 : Chair Michelli corrected athletic in section of New Business item 06. line number 7. to esthetics. Board accepted the minutes with correction.
3. Approve/Amend Agenda: Chair set the meeting agenda as presented.
4. Correspondence/Reports. None.
5. Public comments pertaining to agenda topics.
a. Dale McClain address 432 Farr Rd Norton Shores, MI 49441; owner of 5694 S Quarterline gave the members a letter stating his concerns and pictures; addressing the Journey Church site plan. He suggested a six foot berm in front of parking space 42 to keep the headlights from shining in windows and reduced noise for his renters that are in the Quarterline home. Also concerned that his well is less than 50 foot from proposed drain field. His home has open field and worried that with removal of trees to build, not enough boundary separation. Commissioner Michelli stated the health department would give them the placement of their drain field. Commissioner Jacobs felt a six foot berm may be a bit too high however feels some type of berm there would be prudent.

NEW BUSINESS 

No new business

OLD BUSINESS 

6. Follow up on Special Use / Site Plan – Hughes Builders / Journey Church
Parcel: 61-15-122-100-0020-10
Purpose: Build New House of Worship

Commissioner Franklin would like to see spot elevations on the asphalt. He is concerned the elevations that are given will not retain the water. Stated the retention pond doesn’t calculate for capacity given on the plan, rest of the board agreed. There was much discussion of how the contractors could back up the statement that “all water would remain on the property”.

Representative for Hughes Builders asked if pump for fire suppression can be in the church even though it will hold a small amount of water. Also would like to know if the tank for the system can be buried. Commissioner Jacobs attempted to contact Public Safety Director Brian Michelli, however unable to get through. He then stated they would need to get in touch with Brian and configure it in a way that is approved by him. He also needs to see the materials and specific dimensions and placement of the pump house.

Commissioner Jacobs stated they need to see better detail of the berm, screening at parking spaces 35-42 for water retentions and screening for the neighbors. He stated all trees south of the south drive need to remain for screening purposes; only remove enough for the drive. Commissioner Osterhart agreed either a berm for screening on those parking spaces or omit them.

All Commissioners felt north and south elevations still needed more break up and more plantings. Commissioner Osterhart would like different material on west elevation above the small amount of split block. Suggested to wrap west elevation around to north and south elevation from east. Possible different tones of gray. He was frustrated and felt the Planning Commissioners were having to design the building for Hughes Builders.

Chairman Michelli expressed frustration with the letter from Stephen Parker. He feels the corrections they required at the last meeting were not followed and the reasoning given by Mr. Parker of “no set requirement in the Fruitport Zoning Ordinances” is offensive and inadequate.

Commissioner determined lighting was okay suggested to shine entrance light toward church yet contain on the property. Sign was approved.

Discussion ended with a determination that the site plans needs to come before them again with the changes and corrections.

7. Public Comments: No comments given
8. Work Session: Determined to forego due to time.
9. Adjournment: Chair Michelli adjourned the meeting at 8:45

Fruitport Township Planning Commission Meeting Minutes – 11/21/17

MINUTES

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP
5865 AIRLINE RD
FRUITPORT, MI 49415

November 21st, 2017
6:30 PM WORK SESSION
7:00 PM BOARD MEETING

WORK SESSION

Continuing review of new zoning ordinances. Begin at 42-88.

No change to 42-88

42-89 D: table. Change gravel to “6” of finished compacted MDOT Aggregate. Eliminate 1100t and change 1.75 inches to “minimum 220# per square yard.” I, 1, add “or engineer of the township’s choosing” after the township engineer.

BOARD MEETING 

Chair Michelli called the meeting to order at 7:05 

01. Roll Call: Mike Michelli, Kyle Osterhart, Brett Suchecki, Geoff Newmyer, Matt Farrar, Jeff Jacobs, & Jason Franklin.

02. Approval of Planning Commission Minutes: October 17th, 2017: Motion by Osterhart to accept the minutes with changing the hours of operations of Item H to “8:00am to 7:00 pm. Motion was supported by Newmyer and carried.

03. Approve / Amend Agenda: Agenda was accepted as presented.

04. Correspondence / Reports: Supervisor Tice presented a request to extend its construction period by 6 months. This was granted by the Supervisor.
Tice also reported the status of the Hazekamp noise complaints. Supervisor Tice feels Hazekamp is in compliance with what the planning commission has approved.

05. Public Comments pertaining to agenda topics:

New Business

Motion by Newmyer, supported by Osterhart to open a public hearing. All in favor.

06. Public Hearing on Special Use / Site Plan – Hughes Builders / Journey Church
Parcel: 61-15-122-400-0020-10
Purpose: Build new House of Worship

Matt Lewis, 847 Torrie Circle. Robert Tusk 3279 east Laketon (Hughes Builders).

Dale McLain 5694 Quarterline requested to see a copy of the plans (Hughes Builders gave him a copy of the plans.

Kyle Osterhart:
1. Did not see the storm water calculations or topography on how the water will get to the retention pond.
2. Commented on the landscaping. Would rather see something other than grass in light of the fact that future development will be medium density residential. Would rather see more plantings.
3. Would like to see some sort of landscape/green area buffers between the development and the existing homes.
4. Ingress/egress: suggests looking at a combined curb-cut.
5. Exterior wal packet on the outside of the building but did not see any parking lot lighting. (Pastor Lewis stated most of the use will be during the day).
6. Utility plan: no public water? (There will be a well and a pump with a 20,000 gallon underground storage for domestic and fire suppression. Hughes stated that they will move the storage tank out from under the building structure.)
7. Exterior elevations: The proposed exterior elevations do not seem to blend into the area with other buildings in the area. Since this is a special use, the PC must be cognizant of esthetics. Recommends some architectural elements on south elevation. East elevation is 22’ of sold metal panel. The west elevation facing the road, the roof is also visible which makes for a lot of metal panel. The south elevation split face block looks very similar to the roof. Like to see difference colors in the steel and architectural elements and details to blend better with the immediate area, along with more landscaping.

Jeff Jacobs affirmed Osterhart’s comments and reiterated this area will be residential and supported more architectural elements and landscaping to better blend with current and future development. Because this is a special use, the PC must be aware of the appearance. Wants to see the storm sewer plan including flows, hydraulics, elevation, and the like.

Pastor Lewis stated they planned on leaving the high density forest in the 20’ buffer zone.

Franklin questioned how the water was to convey from the roof to the pond. Hughes stated it will be piped.

Jacobs prefers if changes are made and it comes back that it be approved by the Chair and Osterhart.

Dale is concerned with a landscaping/buffer between his house and the church. Also concerned with lighting bleeding over to his property.

Jacobs/Newmyer to close. Unanimous.

1. The motion is made by Jacobs to grant the special use request for parcel number(s) 61-15- 122-400-0020-10, for the following requested special use: Journey Church

2. The motion is based upon specific findings by the Township relative to the factors specified in Section 42-157 of the Zoning Chapter.

a. The special use [will/will not] be harmonious with and in accordance with the general objectives or with any specific objections of the Master Plan. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): ______________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

b. The special use [will/will not] be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained so as to be harmonious and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended character of the general vicinity, and it [will/will not] change the essential character of the same area. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): ___________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

c. The special use [will/will not] be hazardous or disturbing to existing or future uses. This finding is based upon the following facts: _______________________ _________________________________________________________________.

d. The special use [will/will not] be a substantial improvement to property in the immediate vicinity and to the Township as a whole. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): ________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

e. The special use [will/will not] be served adequately by essential public facilities and services, or have them adequately provided by the applicant; facilities and services include highways, streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, and schools. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

f. The special use [will/will not] create excessive additional requirements at public cost for public facilities and services and [will/will not] be detrimental to the economic welfare of the Township. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): ___________________________________________________________.

g. The special use [will/will not] involve uses, activities, processes, materials, and equipment and conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the general welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, or odors. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): __________________________________________________________.

h. The special use [will/will not] be consistent with the intent and purposes of the Zoning Chapter. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): ____________ _________________________________________________________________.

i. Any other findings regarding any other factors established by the Zoning Chapter for the proposed special use: __________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________.

3. If the motion is to grant approval, the following conditions are established as authorized by Section 42-158 of the Zoning Chapter.

a. The special use must comply with the site plan, dated _______________, submitted to the Township, as well as any written material submitted by the applicant to the Township.

b. The special use must comply with all federal, state, and Muskegon County laws, rules, regulations, and requirements.

c. The special use must be acquired, developed, and completed in conformance with the Zoning Chapter, as amended, and the rest of the Fruitport Charter Township Code of Ordinances.

d. The construction of the special use must be completed within ____ years. This deadline may be extended by the Township, without going through the entire application process, upon request by the applicant and evidence showing that the applicant is proceeding in good faith toward completion.

e. If the special use approval is contingent upon public water service or public sanitary sewer service or both being provided, then no construction of the special use may begin until all required easements are in place, all required forms have been completed, and all approvals for service have been obtained.

f. A financial guarantee is required as allowed by Section 42-158(d) of the Zoning Chapter. The details of the financial guarantee are: _______________________ _________________________________________________________________.

g. A digital copy of the site plan as approved shall be provided to the Fire Inspector at brian.michelli@mcd911.net, or such other e-mail address as the Fire Inspector may designate.

h. Any other conditions placed by the Township upon the special use, to be approved by the PC:

1. Applicant comes back to the PC with the following changes for approval before work begins.
2. Add architectural elements and breakups which can be a color change, design features on the north and west and south elevations suitable for the surrounding area.
3. Detailed water run off plan including roof and parking area including hydraulic calculations
4. Landscape plan that softens the look of the parking lot.
5. Detailed lighting plan.
6. Move suppression tank outside of the building footprint
7. Directional traffic signs shown on plan.
8. Pictures of the natural buffer between the neighbors’ homes,
9. Sign design (this can come back to the chair for approval at a later date).

Motion was supported by Farrar. Roll Call: Unanimous.

07. Site Plan Revision – Walid Jamal (IHOP) – Christian Cini (General Contractor)
Parcel: 61-15-122-100-0009-51
Purpose: Tenant Space Drive Thru

Christian Cini with Newco. Explained they want to add a drive thru to the building (IHOP). Add one window to the south elevation.

They will not lose any parking spaces.

1. The motion is made by Osterhart to grant the site plan request for parcel number(s) 61- 15-122-100-0009-51

2. The motion is based upon specific findings by the Township relative to the factors specified in Section 42-224 of the Zoning Chapter.

a. All elements of the site plan are harmoniously and efficiently organized in relation to topography, the size and type of lot, the character of adjoining property and the type and size of buildings. The site will not impede the normal and orderly development or improvement of surrounding property for permitted uses. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): site plan and building use.

e. Buildings or groups of buildings are arranged as to permit emergency vehicle access. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): Plan will be approved by the public safety department of Fruitport.

f. Every structure or dwelling unit does have access to a public street, walkway, or other area dedicated to common use. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): Site plan

i. Exterior lighting is arranged so that it is deflected away from adjacent properties and will not impede the vision of traffic along adjacent streets. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): site plan

j.

3. If the motion is to grant approval, the following conditions are established.

a. The development must comply with the site plan, dated 1-25-17, submitted to the Township, as well as any written material submitted by the applicant to the Township.

b. The development must comply with all federal, state, and Muskegon County laws, rules, regulations, and requirements.

c. The development must be acquired, developed, and completed in conformance with the Zoning Chapter, as amended, and the rest of the Fruitport Charter Township Code of Ordinances.

d. The development must be completed within 2 years. This deadline may be extended by the Township, without going through the entire application process, upon request by the applicant and evidence showing that the applicant is proceeding in good faith toward completion.

e. If the site plan approval is contingent upon public water service or public sanitary sewer service or both being provided, then no construction of the development may begin until all required easements are in place, all required forms have been completed, and all approvals for service have been obtained.

f. A digital copy of the site plan as approved shall be provided to the Fire Inspector at brian.michelli@mcd911.net, or such other e-mail address as the Fire Inspector may designate.

g. Any other conditions placed by the Township upon the site plan approval: Place internal drive thru signage to divert drive thru traffic shall be placed to the far west isle. 

Supported by Newmyer. Roll call-unanimous

Old Business
None

08. Public Comments

09. Adjournment: 8:34


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

Fruitport Township Planning Commission Meeting Minutes – 10/17/17

MINUTES
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
FRUITPORT CHARTER TOWNSHIP
5865 AIRLINE RD
FRUITPORT, MI 49415

October 17th, 2017
6:30 PM WORK SESSION
7:00 PM BOARD MEETING

BOARD MEETING: call to order at 7:03

01. Roll Call: Mike Michelli, Brett Suchecki, Jason Franklin, Matthew Farrar, Kyle Osterhart, Jeff Jacobs, Geoff Newmyer. Also present, Supervisor Tice, Jacob Mason, Lela Miller, Mr. Tice.

02. Approval of Planning Commission Minutes: September 19th, 2017: chair Michelli accepted the minutes as presented.

03. Approve / Amend Agenda: Chair Michelli accepted the agenda as presented.

04. Correspondence / Reports. Supervisor reported the lions club will be selling trees at the driving ranges as they do each year. Supervisor to make sure the trees do not interfere with the line of sight.

05. Public Comments pertaining to agenda topics. No comments were heard.

New Business
06. Public Hearing on Special Use – Garry M. VanDyke III
Parcel: 61-15-110-300-0018-00
Purpose: Gunsmith (repairs) within residence

Motion by Newmyer\Jacobs to open public hearing. Unanimous.

No shooting of long guns will occur on the property. The work will be done on the main floor.
There will be an electronic security system and a safe for firearms. All firearms stored on site will be in a safe. This type of work requires a federal license and a FFL. Machinery will include a lathe, drill press, grinders, and the like. Customers will have the option to drop off guns or pick up. Hours of operations are proposed to be 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Mr. Kubanek, who lives on Towner on the other site of the site. Concerned if in the future this site could sell guns. Mr. Kubanek is concerned people could target this site due to the future sale of guns. Commissioner Jacobs pointed out that this permit is for working on guns and not for the sale.

Gordon Becklin is concerned about signage and gun sales.

Mr. Tice (8th). Commented on gun shops in general.

Motion by Osterhart/Newmyer to close public hearing. Unanimous.

1. The motion is made by Osterhart to grant the special use request for parcel number(s) 61-15-110-300-0018-00 for the following requested special use: Gunsmith.

2. The motion is based upon specific findings by the Township relative to the factors specified in Section 42-157 of the Zoning Chapter.

b. The special use will be designed, constructed, operated, and maintained so as to be harmonious and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended character of the general vicinity, and it will not change the essential character of the same area. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): No change to the exterior or site.

d. The special use will not be a substantial improvement to property in the immediate vicinity and to the Township as a whole. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): No change to the exterior.

e. The special use will be served adequately by essential public facilities and services, or have them adequately provided by the applicant; facilities and services include highways, streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, and schools. This finding is based upon the following fact(s): No changes to the current site which is adequate.

3. If the motion is to grant approval, the following conditions are established as authorized by Section 42-158 of the Zoning Chapter.

a. The special use must comply with the site plan, dated _______________, submitted to the Township, as well as any written material submitted by the applicant to the Township.

b. The special use must comply with all federal, state, and Muskegon County laws, rules, regulations, and requirements.

c. The special use must be acquired, developed, and completed in conformance with the Zoning Chapter, as amended, and the rest of the Fruitport Charter Township Code of Ordinances.

d. The construction of the special use must be completed within 2 years. This deadline may be extended by the Township, without going through the entire application process, upon request by the applicant and evidence showing that the applicant is proceeding in good faith toward completion.

e. If the special use approval is contingent upon public water service or public sanitary sewer service or both being provided, then no construction of the special use may begin until all required easements are in place, all required forms have been completed, and all approvals for service have been obtained.

f. A financial guarantee is required as allowed by Section 42-158(d) of the Zoning Chapter. The details of the financial guarantee are: _______________________ _________________________________________________________________.

g. A digital copy of the site plan as approved shall be provided to the Fire Inspector at brian.michelli@mcd911.net, or such other e-mail address as the Fire Inspector may designate.

h. Any other conditions placed by the Township upon the special use:
• Licensed FFL specific to gunsmithing,
• No exterior signage,
• Storage and solvents shall reported to and inspected the Fruitport public safety department
• Machining to be separately approved.
• 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. (hours of operations everyday)
• No test firing at the site,
• Electronic security and safes required prior to beginning of operations of business. Safe capacity to cover the number of guns on property.
• No gun sales

Motion supported by Jacobs and carried unanimously on a roll call vote.

Members discussed the animal ordinance.

Old Business
07. Public Comments: None were heard

08. Adjournment: Chair Michelli adjourned the meeting at 8:25

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

FCS – Board Workshop Minutes – 01/10/18

Fruitport Board of Education
Board Workshop
January 10, 2018 6:00 p.m.
Board Room

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

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

III. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 18-001. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to approve the agenda as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

IV. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of Regular Meeting Minutes.
Item 18-002. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Franklin to approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of December 11, 2017.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

2. Superintendent Evaluation Work
•  Board members discussed the superintendent’s evaluation.

3. Schedule Quarterly Board Workshops
•  Board members were asked to select 4 months to hold Board Workshops.
It was decided to schedule workshops for April, June, September and October.

XVI. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

XVII. OTHER
•  Board members were asked to think about grouping all committee meetings into one meeting. No decision was made.

•  An update was given on the football coach search.

XVIII. ADJOURNMENT
Item 18-003. MOTION by Hazekamp, SECOND by Buckner to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0

The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly, Board Secretary

FCS – Student Affairs Committee Meeting Minutes – 01/16/18

STUDENT AFFAIRS
Tuesday, January 16, 2018
4:30 p.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

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

1. The Work-Based Learning high school curricular offering which went through two Instructional Council readings was reviewed and approved for Board action. Implementation to take place the fall of 2018 through the placement of 5 students at work sites.

2. A new Developmental Kindergarten program was reviewed and approved for Board action. Approval at the January Board meeting will allow for continued development of the program toward implementation the fall of 2018.

3. Virtual School for Non-Traditional Students was discussed for informational purposes. Development of the program needs to continue and then be run through Instructional Council for two readings before placed on a Board agenda. Should all go according to plan, the program could be implemented upon Board approval. This would be an on-line program designated for students with health concerns keeping them from school and also for expelled/suspended students.

4. PBIS surveys were discussed and the committee was asked to review the surveys as were presented and offer any feedback before the surveys are implemented. These surveys are primarily for perception and will help drive future PBIS programming.

5. It is being recommended from the committee to no longer count alternative education students in the overall high school student count as reported to the MHSAA for “class” determination.

6. Student behavior was discussed with an emphasis on the importance of fully implementing all the elements of PBIS in order to maximize programming for our most difficult students.

Adjournment at 5:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Personnel Committee Meeting Minutes – 01/17/18

PERSONNEL COMMITTEE
Wednesday, January 17, 2018
7:30 a.m. ~ Superintendent’s Office
MEETING MINUTES

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

1. During the January 22, 2018 Board of Education meeting the superintendent will request in writing that the Board go into closed session for the purposes of superintendent evaluation and then return to open session to approve the 2017 superintendent evaluation.

2. Continued dialogue was held regarding the operations director position.

Meeting adjourned at 8:30 a.m.

Respectfully submitted by Bob Szymoniak

FCS – Business and Finance Committee Meeting Minutes – 01/15/18

Business and Finance Committee
Monday, January 15, 2018
11:30 a.m., Superintendent’s Office
Meeting Minutes

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

1. Budget
Changes from the Original Budget were discussed. The General Fund budget has a $518,742 unassigned budget deficit and a projected ending unassigned fund balance of $1,974,991 (6.68% of total expenditures). The Special Service Funds were also discussed.

Meeting adjourned at 12:23 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Mark Mesbergen

Fruitport Board of Education Regular Monthly Meeting – Minutes – 01/22/18

Fruitport Board of Education
Regular Monthly Meeting
January 22, 2018 7:00 p.m.
Beach Elementary Gym

I. The Regular meeting of the Board of Education was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Superintendent, Bob Szymoniak.

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. ELECTION OF OFFICERS

President
Item 18-004. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Cole to nominate Dave Hazekamp for President. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for Dave Hazekamp for President. Roll Call Vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

Superintendent Szymoniak passed the gavel to President Hazekamp.

Vice President
Item 18-005. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Brott to nominate Kris Cole for Vice-President. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for Kris Cole for Vice-President. Roll Call Vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

Treasurer
Item 18-006. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Brott to nominate Elroy Buckner for Treasurer. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Brott to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for Elroy Buckner for Treasurer. Roll Call Vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

Secretary
Item 18-007. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Cole to nominate Steve Kelly for Secretary. No other nominations were brought forth.

MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to close nominations and cast a unanimous ballot for Steve Kelly for Secretary. Roll Call Vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

V. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item 18-008. MOTION by Cole, SECOND by Brott to approve the agenda with the addition of XI-1 Moving Fiber Due to High School Bond Project and adding “for the Superintendent’s Evaluation” to XVIII Closed Session.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

VI. PRESENTATIONS
Beach teacher, Brian Meagher was presented with an Above and Beyond Award for his help with the Wild For Books bus this summer.

Beach teacher, Amy Carlson and students of the Beach Lego League presented information on their program. They demonstrated how they could problem solve using STEM technology and research. The students shared their “Most Innovative” trophy which they received during their November competition.

High school student, Sydney Bleich presented information on her independent study exploring Cyber Security. Her PowerPoint presentation included a newly designed website, information on Cyber Security and resources to help her followers.

Superintendent, Bob Szymoniak spoke about Board Appreciation Month. He thanked board members for their commitment to Fruitport Community Schools. Art teachers, Dawn Jacobson, Robin Latsch, and Macy King, along with their students presented each board member with a beautifully framed piece of student artwork in honor of Board Appreciation Month.

VII. COMMUNICATIONS
Board Secretary, Steve Kelly read aloud a thank you note from Maribeth Clarke.

VIII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
None.

IX. SUPERINTENDENT/ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Superintendent, Bob Szymoniak gave a bond update explaining the need to add the Fiber Move to the agenda. He stated that ground breaking of the high school project will happen in late March or early April depending on the weather. He also made the Board aware that bids will be awarded at the February Regular board meeting.

X. CONSENT AGENDA
Item 18-009. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Buckner to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.
1. Approval of Workshop Minutes of January 10, 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 Personnel Report
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XI. GENERAL BOARD BUSINESS
1. Approval of the Fiber Move.
Item 18-010. MOTION by Franklin, SECOND by Buckner to approve the expenditure of $31,015 of bond funds to move fiber due to the High School Bond Project as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XII. BUSINESS AND FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held January 15, 2018.
Elroy Buckner reported on a Business and Finance Committee meeting held January 15, 2018. Dave Hazekamp, Elroy Buckner, Kris Cole, Mark Mesbergen, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed the budget.

2. Approval of the 2017-18 General Fund Budget Amendment.
Item 18-011. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to approve the General Fund budget amendment as presented. Roll Call Vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

3. Approval of the 2017-18 School Service Fund Budget Amendment.
Item 18-012. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to approve the School Service Fund budget amendment as presented. Roll Call Vote: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; and Kelly, Yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XIII. PERSONNEL COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held January 17, 2018.
Steve Kelly reported on a Personnel Committee meeting held January 17, 2018. Dave Hazekamp, Steve Kelly, Tim Burgess, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed going into closed session for the superintendent evaluation and the operation director position.

XIV. STUDENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REPORTS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Report of committee meeting held January 16, 2018.
Jill Brott reported on a Student Affairs Committee meeting held January 16, 2018. Dave Hazekamp, Allison Camp, Jill Brott, Susan Franklin, and Bob Szymoniak were present. The committee discussed: Work-Based Learning, Developmental Kindergarten, Virtual School for Non-Traditional Students, PBIS Surveys, MHSAA Class Determination and Student Behavior.

2. Approval of Developmental Kindergarten.
Item 18-013. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Franklin to approve a Developmental Kindergarten program beginning with the 2018/19 school year as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

3. Approval of the MHSAA Student Count for Class Purposes.
Item 18-014. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Kelly to approve eliminating Alternative High School students in the overall Fruitport High School student count as reported to the MHSAA for class determination purposes as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

4. Approval of Fruitport High School Work-Based Learning Curricular Program.
Item 18-015. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Franklin to approve the implementation of a Work-Based Learning curricular program as presented.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

5. Approval of Overnight Trip Requests.
Item 18-016. MOTION by Brott, SECOND by Franklin to approve the following overnight trip requests: Business Professionals of America, March 15-18, 2018, Grand Rapids, MI; Fruitport Bands and Choirs, May 5-6, 2018, Chicago, IL; Fruitport High School Cross Country State Meet, November 2-3, 2018, Brooklyn, MI.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

XV. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS AND DISCUSSIONS
None.

XVI. AGENDA ITEMS for FUTURE MEETINGS & SCHEDULING OF ANY SPECIAL MEETINGS
1. Business and Finance Committee will meet February 12, 2018 at 11:30 a.m.
2. Personnel Committee will meet February 13, 2018 at 7:30 a.m.
3. Student Affairs Committee will meet February 14, 2018 at 4:30 p.m.
4. Board Workshops will be held in April, June, September, and October but no official dates were set.

XVII. REMARKS FROM THE PUBLIC
Community Member, Dave Rutz addressed the board regarding apprenticeship training through the Sheet Metals Worker Union 7 and schools. He suggested that the Board consider companies who offer an apprenticeship training program when awarding bids. Mr. Rutz invited the superintendent and board members to tour his training facility.

Edgewood Principal, Amy Upham spoke about Spellmasters. She explained that after the January 22nd competition, six students would advance to the Regional Spelling Bee held at our middle school on February 27th.

XVIII. CLOSED SESSION FOR THE SUPERINTENDENT’S EVALUATION
Item 18-017. MOTION by Hazekamp, SECOND by Cole to move into Closed Session. Roll call: Brott, Yes; Buckner, Yes; Burgess, Yes; Cole, Yes; Franklin, Yes; Hazekamp, Yes; Kelly, Yes.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

The Board moved into Closed Session at 8:42 p.m.
The Board returned to Regular Session at 9:19 p.m.

XIX. ADJOURNMENT
Item 18-018. MOTION by Buckner, SECOND by Brott to adjourn.
MOTION CARRIED 7-0

The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Steve Kelly
Board Secretary

Maribeth Clarke
Recording Secretary

Village of Fruitport – Council Meeting Minutes – 01/15/18

VILLAGE OF FRUITPORT
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
JANUARY 15, 2018

1. Call to Order
President Roger Vanderstelt called the meeting to order at 7:01pm.

2. Pledge

3. Prayer

4. Roll call
Present: Roger Vanderstelt, Donna Pope, Amy Haack, Carl Rothenberger, Carl Russell, Bill Stone and Will Overkamp, who arrived at 7:05pm.
Also, present: Dave Bossenbroek, Village attorney and Jeremy Statler, DPW Supervisor

5. Approval of previous meeting minutes
Motion made by Amy Haack to approve the December 18, 2017 meeting minutes, supported by Carl Rothenberger. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

6. Approve the agenda for the January 15, 2018 Council meeting
Motion made by Amy Haack to approve the January 15, 2018 council meeting agenda, supported by Carl Rothenberger. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.

7. Public Comments
None

8. Correspondence
None

9. Reports from Officers
Donna reported that the library is doing well. They are still in the process of getting a new director.
Amy will report under Unfinished and New Business later in the meeting.
Carl Rothenberger advised that the Personnel Committee has reviewed a new Compensatory Time Off Policy for DPW full-time employees. Carl gave an overview of the policy. A discussion took place. Motion made by Carl Rothenberger to adopt the new policy, supported by Amy Haack. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.
Will expressed that he would like to join a committee. He is currently part of The Friends of the Park group.
Bill had nothing to report.
Carl Russell gave an update on the Planning Commission’s meeting. The Planning Commission reviewed a survey that will be sent to the community. He discussed ways of advertising and distributing the survey. Ann will send a copy of the survey out to council for review. The survey review and discussion were tabled until the next council meeting.
Roger had nothing to report.

10. Rental Unit Registration Restatement Ordinance
Carl Russell advised that the Planning Commission reviewed the Fruitport Township Rental Registration information. Carl Russell shared the Planning Commission recommendations of giving adequate notice to the landlords and tenants as the Village is discussing whether they will adopt a rental unit registration ordinance. A discussion took place and the item will be tabled until the next council meeting.

11. Honorary Plaque for Park Lighting Project
Roger advised he has been working with Whitehall products on getting the honorary plaque. He will report again at the next council meeting on the status of the plaque order.

12. 270 Pine St. Property Discussion
Roger gave a summary of the request and the diagram received from Mark Oldenberg, 270 Pine Street. Dave Bossenbroek shared additional information with the council. A discussion took place regarding a plat change, an easement or leaving as is. Roger made a motion to leave 270 Pine Street as is, supported by Amy Haack. Dave Bossenbroek will contact Mark Oldenberg to advise.

13. Discussion on Revisions to existing Park Ordinances
Amy discussed a proposal from the Fruitport Village Parks and Recreation group on proposed updates for Pomona Park. She reviewed the related information and proposed rules. Amy worked with Dave Bossenbroek to update sections of Ordinance 92.09. Amy provided a copy of the changes and read the proposed changes. Amy made a motion that we revise the Fruitport Code of Ordinances section 92.09 and post in the Grand Haven Tribune at a cost not to exceed $400.00, supported by Carl Rothenberger. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Stone and Russell. NAYES: None
Note: the sign at Pomona Park will be update at a future date.

14. Discussion on Establishment of Park Hours for Pomona Park
Amy discussed a proposal from Fruitport Village Parks and Recreation group to establish designated park hours for Pomona Park of 7am – 10pm, year-round. A discussion took place about excluding the Boat launch and updating the signs in the park. Amy made a motion to establish park hours of 7am – 10pm year-round except for the Boat Launch, supported by Carl Rothenberger. With a unanimous vote, the motion carried.
Amy made a motion to purchase 7 signs, to display the new park hours and post restricted parking hours for the 4th street parking lot at a cost not to exceed $250.00, supported by Carl Rothenberger. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Stone and Russell. NAYES: None

15. Public Comment
None

16. Warrants
Motion made by Carl Rothenberger to approve the warrants, supported by Bill Stone. Roll call AYES: Vanderstelt, Pope, Haack, Rothenberger, Overkamp, Stone and Russell. NAYES: None

17. Adjourn
Motion made by Bill Stone to adjourn, supported by Carl Rothenberger. With a unanimous vote the motion carried at 9:00pm.

Respectfully submitted by,

Ann LaCroix
Clerk